Site-specific recombination for precise and clean transgene integration in plant genome. In: Touraev, A., Citovsky, V., Tzfira, T., Editors of book. Plant Transformation Technologies.

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Plant Transformation Technologies is a comprehensive, authoritative book focusing on cutting-edge plant biotechnologies, offering in-depth, forward-looking information on methods for controlled and accurate genetic engineering. In response to ever-increasing pressure for precise and efficient integr...

Problems, challenges and promises: perspectives on precision medicine.

PubMed

Duffy, David J

2016-05-01

The 'precision medicine (systems medicine)' concept promises to achieve a shift to future healthcare systems with a more proactive and predictive approach to medicine, where the emphasis is on disease prevention rather than the treatment of symptoms. The individualization of treatment for each patient will be at the centre of this approach, with all of a patient's medical data being computationally integrated and accessible. Precision medicine is being rapidly embraced by biomedical researchers, pioneering clinicians and scientific funding programmes in both the European Union (EU) and USA. Precision medicine is a key component of both Horizon 2020 (the EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation) and the White House's Precision Medicine Initiative. Precision medicine promises to revolutionize patient care and treatment decisions. However, the participants in precision medicine are faced with a considerable central challenge. Greater volumes of data from a wider variety of sources are being generated and analysed than ever before; yet, this heterogeneous information must be integrated and incorporated into personalized predictive models, the output of which must be intelligible to non-computationally trained clinicians. Drawing primarily from the field of 'oncology', this article will introduce key concepts and challenges of precision medicine and some of the approaches currently being implemented to overcome these challenges. Finally, this article also covers the criticisms of precision medicine overpromising on its potential to transform patient care. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Estimation of suspended-sediment rating curves and mean suspended-sediment loads

USGS Publications Warehouse

Crawford, Charles G.

1991-01-01

A simulation study was done to evaluate: (1) the accuracy and precision of parameter estimates for the bias-corrected, transformed-linear and non-linear models obtained by the method of least squares; (2) the accuracy of mean suspended-sediment loads calculated by the flow-duration, rating-curve method using model parameters obtained by the alternative methods. Parameter estimates obtained by least squares for the bias-corrected, transformed-linear model were considerably more precise than those obtained for the non-linear or weighted non-linear model. The accuracy of parameter estimates obtained for the biascorrected, transformed-linear and weighted non-linear model was similar and was much greater than the accuracy obtained by non-linear least squares. The improved parameter estimates obtained by the biascorrected, transformed-linear or weighted non-linear model yield estimates of mean suspended-sediment load calculated by the flow-duration, rating-curve method that are more accurate and precise than those obtained for the non-linear model.

Integrated Power Adapter: Isolated Converter with Integrated Passives and Low Material Stress

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

None

2010-09-01

ADEPT Project: CPES at Virginia Tech is developing an extremely efficient power converter that could be used in power adapters for small, lightweight laptops and other types of mobile electronic devices. Power adapters convert electrical energy into useable power for an electronic device, and they currently waste a lot of energy when they are plugged into an outlet to power up. CPES at Virginia Tech is integrating high-density capacitors, new magnetic materials, high-frequency integrated circuits, and a constant-flux transformer to create its efficient power converter. The high-density capacitors enable the power adapter to store more energy. The new magnetic materialsmore » also increase energy storage, and they can be precisely dispensed using a low-cost ink-jet printer which keeps costs down. The high-frequency integrated circuits can handle more power, and they can handle it more efficiently. And, the constant-flux transformer processes a consistent flow of electrical current, which makes the converter more efficient.« less

Precise charge measurement for laser plasma accelerators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakamura, Kei; Gonsalves, Anthony; Lin, Chen; Sokollik, Thomas; Shiraishi, Satomi; van Tilborg, Jeroen; Smith, Alan; Rodgers, Dave; Donahue, Rick; Byrne, Warren; Leemans, Wim

2011-10-01

A comprehensive study of charge diagnostics was conducted to verify their validity for measuring electron beams produced by laser plasma accelerators (LPAs). The electron energy dependence of a scintillating screen (Lanex Fast) was studied with sub-nanosecond electron beams ranging from 106 MeV to 1522 MeV at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Advanced Light Source (ALS) synchrotron booster accelerator. Using an integrating current transformer as a calibration reference, the sensitivity of the Lanex Fast was found to decrease by 1% per 100 MeV increase of the energy. By using electron beams from LPA, cross calibrations of the charge were carried out with an integrating current transformer, scintillating screen (Lanex from Kodak), and activation based measurement. The diagnostics agreed within ~8%, showing that they all can provide accurate charge measurements for LPAs provided necessary cares. Work supported by the Office of Science, Office of High Energy Physics, of the U.S. Department of Energy under Contract No. DE-AC02-05CH11231.

Validating data analysis of broadband laser ranging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rhodes, M.; Catenacci, J.; Howard, M.; La Lone, B.; Kostinski, N.; Perry, D.; Bennett, C.; Patterson, J.

2018-03-01

Broadband laser ranging combines spectral interferometry and a dispersive Fourier transform to achieve high-repetition-rate measurements of the position of a moving surface. Telecommunications fiber is a convenient tool for generating the large linear dispersions required for a dispersive Fourier transform, but standard fiber also has higher-order dispersion that distorts the Fourier transform. Imperfections in the dispersive Fourier transform significantly complicate the ranging signal and must be dealt with to make high-precision measurements. We describe in detail an analysis process for interpreting ranging data when standard telecommunications fiber is used to perform an imperfect dispersive Fourier transform. This analysis process is experimentally validated over a 27-cm scan of static positions, showing an accuracy of 50 μm and a root-mean-square precision of 4.7 μm.

Tracing Acetylene Dissolved in Transformer Oil by Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectrum.

PubMed

Ma, Guo-Ming; Zhao, Shu-Jing; Jiang, Jun; Song, Hong-Tu; Li, Cheng-Rong; Luo, Ying-Ting; Wu, Hao

2017-11-02

Dissolved gas analysis (DGA) is widely used in monitoring and diagnosing of power transformer, since the insulation material in the power transformer decomposes gases under abnormal operation condition. Among the gases, acetylene, as a symbol of low energy spark discharge and high energy electrical faults (arc discharge) of power transformer, is an important monitoring parameter. The current gas detection method used by the online DGA equipment suffers from problems such as cross sensitivity, electromagnetic compatibility and reliability. In this paper, an optical gas detection system based on TDLAS technology is proposed to detect acetylene dissolved in transformer oil. We selected a 1530.370 nm laser in the near infrared wavelength range to correspond to the absorption peak of acetylene, while using the wavelength modulation strategy and Herriott cell to improve the detection precision. Results show that the limit of detection reaches 0.49 ppm. The detection system responds quickly to changes of gas concentration and is easily to maintenance while has no electromagnetic interference, cross-sensitivity, or carrier gas. In addition, a complete detection process of the system takes only 8 minutes, implying a practical prospect of online monitoring technology.

Software designs of image processing tasks with incremental refinement of computation.

PubMed

Anastasia, Davide; Andreopoulos, Yiannis

2010-08-01

Software realizations of computationally-demanding image processing tasks (e.g., image transforms and convolution) do not currently provide graceful degradation when their clock-cycles budgets are reduced, e.g., when delay deadlines are imposed in a multitasking environment to meet throughput requirements. This is an important obstacle in the quest for full utilization of modern programmable platforms' capabilities since worst-case considerations must be in place for reasonable quality of results. In this paper, we propose (and make available online) platform-independent software designs performing bitplane-based computation combined with an incremental packing framework in order to realize block transforms, 2-D convolution and frame-by-frame block matching. The proposed framework realizes incremental computation: progressive processing of input-source increments improves the output quality monotonically. Comparisons with the equivalent nonincremental software realization of each algorithm reveal that, for the same precision of the result, the proposed approach can lead to comparable or faster execution, while it can be arbitrarily terminated and provide the result up to the computed precision. Application examples with region-of-interest based incremental computation, task scheduling per frame, and energy-distortion scalability verify that our proposal provides significant performance scalability with graceful degradation.

Precision calculations of the cosmic shear power spectrum projection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kilbinger, Martin; Heymans, Catherine; Asgari, Marika; Joudaki, Shahab; Schneider, Peter; Simon, Patrick; Van Waerbeke, Ludovic; Harnois-Déraps, Joachim; Hildebrandt, Hendrik; Köhlinger, Fabian; Kuijken, Konrad; Viola, Massimo

2017-12-01

We compute the spherical-sky weak-lensing power spectrum of the shear and convergence. We discuss various approximations, such as flat-sky, and first- and second-order Limber equations for the projection. We find that the impact of adopting these approximations is negligible when constraining cosmological parameters from current weak-lensing surveys. This is demonstrated using data from the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope Lensing Survey. We find that the reported tension with Planck cosmic microwave background temperature anisotropy results cannot be alleviated. For future large-scale surveys with unprecedented precision, we show that the spherical second-order Limber approximation will provide sufficient accuracy. In this case, the cosmic-shear power spectrum is shown to be in agreement with the full projection at the sub-percent level for ℓ > 3, with the corresponding errors an order of magnitude below cosmic variance for all ℓ. When computing the two-point shear correlation function, we show that the flat-sky fast Hankel transformation results in errors below two percent compared to the full spherical transformation. In the spirit of reproducible research, our numerical implementation of all approximations and the full projection are publicly available within the package NICAEA at http://www.cosmostat.org/software/nicaea.

Diagnostic segregation of human brain tumours using Fourier-transform infrared and/or Raman spectroscopy coupled with discriminant analysis†

PubMed Central

Gajjar, Ketan; Heppenstall, Lara D.; Pang, Weiyi; Ashton, Katherine M.; Trevisan, Júlio; Patel, Imran I.; Llabjani, Valon; Stringfellow, Helen F.; Martin-Hirsch, Pierre L.; Dawson, Timothy; Martin, Francis L.

2013-01-01

The most common initial treatment received by patients with a brain tumour is surgical removal of the growth. Precise histopathological diagnosis of brain tumours is to some extent subjective. Furthermore, currently available diagnostic imaging techniques to delineate the excision border during cytoreductive surgery lack the required spatial precision to aid surgeons. We set out to determine whether infrared (IR) and/or Raman spectroscopy combined with multivariate analysis could be applied to discriminate between normal brain tissue and different tumour types (meningioma, glioma and brain metastasis) based on the unique spectral “fingerprints” of their biochemical composition. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue blocks of normal brain and different brain tumours were de-waxed, mounted on low-E slides and desiccated before being analyzed using attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform IR (ATR-FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. ATR-FTIR spectroscopy showed a clear segregation between normal and different tumour subtypes. Discrimination of tumour classes was also apparent with Raman spectroscopy. Further analysis of spectral data revealed changes in brain biochemical structure associated with different tumours. Decreased tentatively-assigned lipid-to-protein ratio was associated with increased tumour progression. Alteration in cholesterol esters-to-phenylalanine ratio was evident in grade IV glioma and metastatic tumours. The current study indicates that IR and/or Raman spectroscopy have the potential to provide a novel diagnostic approach in the accurate diagnosis of brain tumours and have potential for application in intra-operative diagnosis. PMID:24098310

Optical joint correlator for real-time image tracking and retinal surgery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Juday, Richard D. (Inventor)

1991-01-01

A method for tracking an object in a sequence of images is described. Such sequence of images may, for example, be a sequence of television frames. The object in the current frame is correlated with the object in the previous frame to obtain the relative location of the object in the two frames. An optical joint transform correlator apparatus is provided to carry out the process. Such joint transform correlator apparatus forms the basis for laser eye surgical apparatus where an image of the fundus of an eyeball is stabilized and forms the basis for the correlator apparatus to track the position of the eyeball caused by involuntary movement. With knowledge of the eyeball position, a surgical laser can be precisely pointed toward a position on the retina.

Performance Evaluation of Frequency Transform Based Block Classification of Compound Image Segmentation Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Selwyn, Ebenezer Juliet; Florinabel, D. Jemi

2018-04-01

Compound image segmentation plays a vital role in the compression of computer screen images. Computer screen images are images which are mixed with textual, graphical, or pictorial contents. In this paper, we present a comparison of two transform based block classification of compound images based on metrics like speed of classification, precision and recall rate. Block based classification approaches normally divide the compound images into fixed size blocks of non-overlapping in nature. Then frequency transform like Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) and Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) are applied over each block. Mean and standard deviation are computed for each 8 × 8 block and are used as features set to classify the compound images into text/graphics and picture/background block. The classification accuracy of block classification based segmentation techniques are measured by evaluation metrics like precision and recall rate. Compound images of smooth background and complex background images containing text of varying size, colour and orientation are considered for testing. Experimental evidence shows that the DWT based segmentation provides significant improvement in recall rate and precision rate approximately 2.3% than DCT based segmentation with an increase in block classification time for both smooth and complex background images.

Analysis of de-noising methods to improve the precision of the ILSF BPM electronic readout system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shafiee, M.; Feghhi, S. A. H.; Rahighi, J.

2016-12-01

In order to have optimum operation and precise control system at particle accelerators, it is required to measure the beam position with the precision of sub-μm. We developed a BPM electronic readout system at Iranian Light Source Facility and it has been experimentally tested at ALBA accelerator facility. The results show the precision of 0.54 μm in beam position measurements. To improve the precision of this beam position monitoring system to sub-μm level, we have studied different de-noising methods such as principal component analysis, wavelet transforms, filtering by FIR, and direct averaging method. An evaluation of the noise reduction was given to testify the ability of these methods. The results show that the noise reduction based on Daubechies wavelet transform is better than other algorithms, and the method is suitable for signal noise reduction in beam position monitoring system.

Calculation of the confidence intervals for transformation parameters in the registration of medical images

PubMed Central

Bansal, Ravi; Staib, Lawrence H.; Laine, Andrew F.; Xu, Dongrong; Liu, Jun; Posecion, Lainie F.; Peterson, Bradley S.

2010-01-01

Images from different individuals typically cannot be registered precisely because anatomical features within the images differ across the people imaged and because the current methods for image registration have inherent technological limitations that interfere with perfect registration. Quantifying the inevitable error in image registration is therefore of crucial importance in assessing the effects that image misregistration may have on subsequent analyses in an imaging study. We have developed a mathematical framework for quantifying errors in registration by computing the confidence intervals of the estimated parameters (3 translations, 3 rotations, and 1 global scale) for the similarity transformation. The presence of noise in images and the variability in anatomy across individuals ensures that estimated registration parameters are always random variables. We assume a functional relation among intensities across voxels in the images, and we use the theory of nonlinear, least-squares estimation to show that the parameters are multivariate Gaussian distributed. We then use the covariance matrix of this distribution to compute the confidence intervals of the transformation parameters. These confidence intervals provide a quantitative assessment of the registration error across the images. Because transformation parameters are nonlinearly related to the coordinates of landmark points in the brain, we subsequently show that the coordinates of those landmark points are also multivariate Gaussian distributed. Using these distributions, we then compute the confidence intervals of the coordinates for landmark points in the image. Each of these confidence intervals in turn provides a quantitative assessment of the registration error at a particular landmark point. Because our method is computationally intensive, however, its current implementation is limited to assessing the error of the parameters in the similarity transformation across images. We assessed the performance of our method in computing the error in estimated similarity parameters by applying that method to real world dataset. Our results showed that the size of the confidence intervals computed using our method decreased – i.e. our confidence in the registration of images from different individuals increased – for increasing amounts of blur in the images. Moreover, the size of the confidence intervals increased for increasing amounts of noise, misregistration, and differing anatomy. Thus, our method precisely quantified confidence in the registration of images that contain varying amounts of misregistration and varying anatomy across individuals. PMID:19138877

Applications of RNA Indexes for Precision Oncology in Breast Cancer.

PubMed

Ma, Liming; Liang, Zirui; Zhou, Hui; Qu, Lianghu

2018-05-09

Precision oncology aims to offer the most appropriate treatments to cancer patients mainly based on their individual genetic information. Genomics has provided numerous valuable data on driver mutations and risk loci; however, it remains a formidable challenge to transform these data into therapeutic agents. Transcriptomics describes the multifarious expression patterns of both mRNAs and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), which facilitates the deciphering of genomic codes. In this review, we take breast cancer as an example to demonstrate the applications of these rich RNA resources in precision medicine exploration. These include the use of mRNA profiles in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtyping to inform corresponding candidate targeted therapies; current advancements and achievements of high-throughput RNA interference (RNAi) screening technologies in breast cancer; and microRNAs as functional signatures for defining cell identities and regulating the biological activities of breast cancer cells. We summarize the benefits of transcriptomic analyses in breast cancer management and propose that unscrambling the core signaling networks of cancer may be an important task of multiple-omic data integration for precision oncology. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Surface Brightness-color Relations Based on Eclipsing Binary Stars: Toward Precision Better than 1% in Angular Diameter Predictions

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

Graczyk, Dariusz; Gieren, Wolfgang; Konorski, Piotr

In this study we investigate the calibration of surface brightness–color (SBC) relations based solely on eclipsing binary stars. We selected a sample of 35 detached eclipsing binaries with trigonometric parallaxes from Gaia DR1 or Hipparcos whose absolute dimensions are known with an accuracy better than 3% and that lie within 0.3 kpc from the Sun. For the purpose of this study, we used mostly homogeneous optical and near-infrared photometry based on the Tycho-2 and 2MASS catalogs. We derived geometric angular diameters for all stars in our sample with a precision better than 10%, and for 11 of them with amore » precision better than 2%. The precision of individual angular diameters of the eclipsing binary components is currently limited by the precision of the geometric distances (∼5% on average). However, by using a subsample of systems with the best agreement between their geometric and photometric distances, we derived the precise SBC relations based only on eclipsing binary stars. These relations have precisions that are comparable to the best available SBC relations based on interferometric angular diameters, and they are fully consistent with them. With very precise Gaia parallaxes becoming available in the near future, angular diameters with a precision better than 1% will be abundant. At that point, the main uncertainty in the total error budget of the SBC relations will come from transformations between different photometric systems, disentangling of component magnitudes, and for hot OB stars, the main uncertainty will come from the interstellar extinction determination. We argue that all these issues can be overcome with modern high-quality data and conclude that a precision better than 1% is entirely feasible.« less

Sensor-less pseudo-sinusoidal drive for a permanent-magnet brushless ac motor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Li-Hsiang; Chern, Tzuen-Lih; Pan, Ping-Lung; Huang, Tsung-Mou; Tsay, Der-Min; Kuang, Jao-Hwa

2012-04-01

The precise rotor-position information is required for a permanent-magnet brushless ac motor (BLACM) drive. In the conventional sinusoidal drive method, either an encoder or a resolver is usually employed. For position sensor-less vector control schemes, the rotor flux estimation and torque components are obtained by complicated coordinate transformations. These computational intensive methods are susceptible to current distortions and parameter variations. To simplify the method complexity, this work presents a sensor-less pseudo-sinusoidal drive scheme with speed control for a three-phase BLACM. Based on the sinusoidal drive scheme, a floating period of each phase current is inserted for back electromotive force detection. The zero-crossing point is determined directly by the proposed scheme, and the rotor magnetic position and rotor speed can be estimated simultaneously. Several experiments for various active angle periods are undertaken. Furthermore, a current feedback control is included to minimize and compensate the torque fluctuation. The experimental results show that the proposed method has a competitive performance compared with the conventional drive manners for BLACM. The proposed scheme is straightforward, bringing the benefits of sensor-less drive and negating the need for coordinate transformations in the operating process.

A simple structure wavelet transform circuit employing function link neural networks and SI filters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mu, Li; Yigang, He

2016-12-01

Signal processing by means of analog circuits offers advantages from a power consumption viewpoint. Implementing wavelet transform (WT) using analog circuits is of great interest when low-power consumption becomes an important issue. In this article, a novel simple structure WT circuit in analog domain is presented by employing functional link neural network (FLNN) and switched-current (SI) filters. First, the wavelet base is approximated using FLNN algorithms for giving a filter transfer function that is suitable for simple structure WT circuit implementation. Next, the WT circuit is constructed with the wavelet filter bank, whose impulse response is the approximated wavelet and its dilations. The filter design that follows is based on a follow-the-leader feedback (FLF) structure with multiple output bilinear SI integrators and current mirrors as the main building blocks. SI filter is well suited for this application since the dilation constant across different scales of the transform can be precisely implemented and controlled by the clock frequency of the circuit with the same system architecture. Finally, to illustrate the design procedure, a seventh-order FLNN-approximated Gaussian wavelet is implemented as an example. Simulations have successfully verified that the designed simple structure WT circuit has low sensitivity, low-power consumption and litter effect to the imperfections.

Axial U(1) current in Grabowska and Kaplan's formulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamada, Yu; Kawai, Hikaru

2017-06-01

Recently, Grabowska and Kaplan [Phys. Rev. Lett. 116, 211602 (2016); Phys. Rev. D 94, 114504 (2016)] suggested a nonperturbative formulation of a chiral gauge theory, which consists of the conventional domain-wall fermion and a gauge field that evolves by gradient flow from one domain wall to the other. We introduce two sets of domain-wall fermions belonging to complex conjugate representations so that the effective theory is a 4D vector-like gauge theory. Then, as a natural definition of the axial-vector current, we consider a current that generates simultaneous phase transformations for the massless modes in 4 dimensions. However, this current is exactly conserved and does not reproduce the correct anomaly. In order to investigate this point precisely, we consider the mechanism of the conservation. We find that this current includes not only the axial current on the domain wall but also a contribution from the bulk, which is nonlocal in the sense of 4D fields. Therefore, the local current is obtained by subtracting the bulk contribution from it.

Messenger RNA Delivery for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Applications.

PubMed

Patel, Siddharth; Athirasala, Avathamsa; Menezes, Paula P; Ashwanikumar, N; Zou, Ting; Sahay, Gaurav; Bertassoni, Luiz E

2018-06-07

The ability to control cellular processes and precisely direct cellular reprogramming has revolutionized regenerative medicine. Recent advances in in vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNA technology with chemical modifications have led to development of methods that control spatiotemporal gene expression. Additionally, there is a current thrust toward the development of safe, integration-free approaches to gene therapy for translational purposes. In this review, we describe strategies of synthetic IVT mRNA modifications and nonviral technologies for intracellular delivery. We provide insights into the current tissue engineering approaches that use a hydrogel scaffold with genetic material. Furthermore, we discuss the transformative potential of novel mRNA formulations that when embedded in hydrogels can trigger controlled genetic manipulation to regenerate tissues and organs in vitro and in vivo. The role of mRNA delivery in vascularization, cytoprotection, and Cas9-mediated xenotransplantation is additionally highlighted. Harmonizing mRNA delivery vehicle interactions with polymeric scaffolds can be used to present genetic cues that lead to precise command over cellular reprogramming, differentiation, and secretome activity of stem cells-an ultimate goal for tissue engineering.

Basic research and data analysis for the National Geodetic Satellite program and for the Earth Surveys program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

Current research is reported on precise and accurate descriptions of the earth's surface and gravitational field and on time variations of geophysical parameters. A new computer program was written in connection with the adjustment of the BC-4 worldwide geometric satellite triangulation net. The possibility that an increment to accuracy could be transferred from a super-control net to the basic geodetic (first-order triangulation) was investigated. Coordinates of the NA9 solution were computed and were transformed to the NAD datum, based on GEOS 1 observations. Normal equations from observational data of several different systems and constraint equations were added and a single solution was obtained for the combined systems. Transformation parameters with constraints were determined, and the impact of computers on surveying and mapping is discussed.

New knowledge and insights about the malignant transformation of endometriosis.

PubMed

Taniguchi, Fuminori

2017-07-01

Endometriosis may be a definitive risk factor for ovarian cancer, the most fatal gynecological cancer. The ability of endometriosis to transform into malignancy, first described by Dr. Sampson in 1925, is considered a rare occurrence, affecting approximately 1% of ovarian endometriomas. Recently we conducted a retrospective study regarding the malignant transformation of endometriosis in Japanese women. Many studies have reported a consistent correlation between endometriosis and ovarian cancer according to histological subtypes. However, the existing epidemiological evidence linking this association is insufficient to define the role of endometriosis as a cause of ovarian cancer and to influence changes to current clinical practice. Prospective cohort studies are therefore needed to clarify this issue. Additionally, the results of many molecular studies are conflicting, and earlier studies showing the molecular aberrations involved in genomic instability and mutation that enable malignant transformation have not been replicated in later studies. Careful long-term observation of a patient with endometrioma is required to detect possible subsequent incidence of malignant transformation. More importantly, a precise strategy should be set up for better prevention, early detection, specific diagnosis and treatment targeting molecular pathogenesis to understand the mechanisms of endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer. Clinicians need to be aware of the increased ovarian cancer risk in women with endometriosis. © 2017 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Analysis of the orbit distortion by the use of the wavelet transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsushita, T.; Agui, A.; Yoshigoe, A.; Takao, M.; Aoyagi, H.; Takeuchi, M.; Nakatani, T.; Tanaka, H.

2004-05-01

We have adopted matching pursuit algorithm of discrete wavelet transform (DWT) for the analysis of the beam position shift correlated with the motion of insertion device(ID). The beam position data measured by the rf beam position monitors have included high-frequency `noises' and fluctuation of background level. Precise evaluation of the electron beam position shift correlated with the motion of the ID is required for estimation of the steering magnet currents in order to suppress the closed orbit distortion (COD). The DWT is a powerful tool for frequency analysis and data processing. The analysis of DWT was applied to the beam position shift correlated with the phase motion of APPLE-2 type undulator (ID23) in SPring-8. The result of the analysis indicated that `noises' are mainly composed of the components of 50 ˜ 6.25Hz and < 0.1Hz. We carried out the data processing to remove the `noises' by the matching pursuit algorithm. Then we have succeeded in suppressing the COD within 2 μm by the use of the steering magnet currents calculated from the processed data.

Precise Determination of the Absorption Maximum in Wide Bands

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eriksson, Karl-Hugo; And Others

1977-01-01

A precise method of determining absorption maxima where Gaussian functions occur is described. The method is based on a logarithmic transformation of the Gaussian equation and is suited for a mini-computer. (MR)

An Era of Precision Astrophysics for Exoplanets, Stars, and the Milky Way

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stassun, Keivan G.; Kilodegree Extremely Little Telescope (KELT); Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS); Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS)

2018-06-01

While observing stars teaches us about the physical properties of the stars themselves, that knowledge also is the key to measuring the properties of nearly all exoplanets, and also the history of the Galaxy. Combining data from current and upcoming all-sky surveys, including Gaia, TESS, and the fifth Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS-V), will enable accurate, empirical measurements of fundamental properties for millions of stars throughout the Milky Way—including an increase by four orders of magnitude in the number of stars with reliable parallaxes, two orders of magnitude in the number with ultraprecise light curves, and two orders of magnitude in the number with detailed chemical abundances. We demonstrate that stellar masses, radii, temperatures, distances, space motions, and detailed chemical abundances can now be measured with precisions of order 1%, and with systematics better than ∼5% in most cases. We discuss the transformational advances that such precise stellar measurements promise for exoplanet science, including studies of planetary system architectures, forensic analyses of planet evolution pathways, testing planet formation theories, and even efforts to infer the mineralogy of planets. We also discuss the similarly transformational advances at hand for Galactic archaeology, including studies of stellar micro-populations, testing theories of star formation and of galaxy assembly, and even efforts to trace the chemical "family tree" of the Galaxy through stellar phylogenics. Finally, we discuss the revolution in stellar astrophysics represented by ultraprecise light curves of stars, specifically as probes of stellar interiors and therefore as stress-tests of stellar theory across the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram.

High-Speed Scanning Interferometer Using CMOS Image Sensor and FPGA Based on Multifrequency Phase-Tracking Detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ohara, Tetsuo

2012-01-01

A sub-aperture stitching optical interferometer can provide a cost-effective solution for an in situ metrology tool for large optics; however, the currently available technologies are not suitable for high-speed and real-time continuous scan. NanoWave s SPPE (Scanning Probe Position Encoder) has been proven to exhibit excellent stability and sub-nanometer precision with a large dynamic range. This same technology can transform many optical interferometers into real-time subnanometer precision tools with only minor modification. The proposed field-programmable gate array (FPGA) signal processing concept, coupled with a new-generation, high-speed, mega-pixel CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) image sensor, enables high speed (>1 m/s) and real-time continuous surface profiling that is insensitive to variation of pixel sensitivity and/or optical transmission/reflection. This is especially useful for large optics surface profiling.

The optimal digital filters of sine and cosine transforms for geophysical transient electromagnetic method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yun-wei; Zhu, Zi-qiang; Lu, Guang-yin; Han, Bo

2018-03-01

The sine and cosine transforms implemented with digital filters have been used in the Transient electromagnetic methods for a few decades. Kong (2007) proposed a method of obtaining filter coefficients, which are computed in the sample domain by Hankel transform pair. However, the curve shape of Hankel transform pair changes with a parameter, which usually is set to be 1 or 3 in the process of obtaining the digital filter coefficients of sine and cosine transforms. First, this study investigates the influence of the parameter on the digital filter algorithm of sine and cosine transforms based on the digital filter algorithm of Hankel transform and the relationship between the sine, cosine function and the ±1/2 order Bessel function of the first kind. The results show that the selection of the parameter highly influences the precision of digital filter algorithm. Second, upon the optimal selection of the parameter, it is found that an optimal sampling interval s also exists to achieve the best precision of digital filter algorithm. Finally, this study proposes four groups of sine and cosine transform digital filter coefficients with different length, which may help to develop the digital filter algorithm of sine and cosine transforms, and promote its application.

Numerical Algorithms for Precise and Efficient Orbit Propagation and Positioning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bradley, Ben K.

Motivated by the growing space catalog and the demands for precise orbit determination with shorter latency for science and reconnaissance missions, this research improves the computational performance of orbit propagation through more efficient and precise numerical integration and frame transformation implementations. Propagation of satellite orbits is required for astrodynamics applications including mission design, orbit determination in support of operations and payload data analysis, and conjunction assessment. Each of these applications has somewhat different requirements in terms of accuracy, precision, latency, and computational load. This dissertation develops procedures to achieve various levels of accuracy while minimizing computational cost for diverse orbit determination applications. This is done by addressing two aspects of orbit determination: (1) numerical integration used for orbit propagation and (2) precise frame transformations necessary for force model evaluation and station coordinate rotations. This dissertation describes a recently developed method for numerical integration, dubbed Bandlimited Collocation Implicit Runge-Kutta (BLC-IRK), and compare its efficiency in propagating orbits to existing techniques commonly used in astrodynamics. The BLC-IRK scheme uses generalized Gaussian quadratures for bandlimited functions. It requires significantly fewer force function evaluations than explicit Runge-Kutta schemes and approaches the efficiency of the 8th-order Gauss-Jackson multistep method. Converting between the Geocentric Celestial Reference System (GCRS) and International Terrestrial Reference System (ITRS) is necessary for many applications in astrodynamics, such as orbit propagation, orbit determination, and analyzing geoscience data from satellite missions. This dissertation provides simplifications to the Celestial Intermediate Origin (CIO) transformation scheme and Earth orientation parameter (EOP) storage for use in positioning and orbit propagation, yielding savings in computation time and memory. Orbit propagation and position transformation simulations are analyzed to generate a complete set of recommendations for performing the ITRS/GCRS transformation for a wide range of needs, encompassing real-time on-board satellite operations and precise post-processing applications. In addition, a complete derivation of the ITRS/GCRS frame transformation time-derivative is detailed for use in velocity transformations between the GCRS and ITRS and is applied to orbit propagation in the rotating ITRS. EOP interpolation methods and ocean tide corrections are shown to impact the ITRS/GCRS transformation accuracy at the level of 5 cm and 20 cm on the surface of the Earth and at the Global Positioning System (GPS) altitude, respectively. The precession-nutation and EOP simplifications yield maximum propagation errors of approximately 2 cm and 1 m after 15 minutes and 6 hours in low-Earth orbit (LEO), respectively, while reducing computation time and memory usage. Finally, for orbit propagation in the ITRS, a simplified scheme is demonstrated that yields propagation errors under 5 cm after 15 minutes in LEO. This approach is beneficial for orbit determination based on GPS measurements. We conclude with a summary of recommendations on EOP usage and bias-precession-nutation implementations for achieving a wide range of transformation and propagation accuracies at several altitudes. This comprehensive set of recommendations allows satellite operators, astrodynamicists, and scientists to make informed decisions when choosing the best implementation for their application, balancing accuracy and computational complexity.

An Improved Harmonic Current Detection Method Based on Parallel Active Power Filter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Zhiwu; Xie, Yunxiang; Wang, Yingpin; Guan, Yuanpeng; Li, Lanfang; Zhang, Xiaoyu

2017-05-01

Harmonic detection technology plays an important role in the applications of active power filter. The accuracy and real-time performance of harmonic detection are the precondition to ensure the compensation performance of Active Power Filter (APF). This paper proposed an improved instantaneous reactive power harmonic current detection algorithm. The algorithm uses an improved ip -iq algorithm which is combined with the moving average value filter. The proposed ip -iq algorithm can remove the αβ and dq coordinate transformation, decreasing the cost of calculation, simplifying the extraction process of fundamental components of load currents, and improving the detection speed. The traditional low-pass filter is replaced by the moving average filter, detecting the harmonic currents more precisely and quickly. Compared with the traditional algorithm, the THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) of the grid currents is reduced from 4.41% to 3.89% for the simulations and from 8.50% to 4.37% for the experiments after the improvement. The results show the proposed algorithm is more accurate and efficient.

Experimental study of trajectory planning and control of a high precision robot manipulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Charles C.; Antrazi, Sami S.

1991-01-01

The kinematic and trajectory planning is presented for a 6 DOF end-effector whose design was based on the Stewart Platform mechanism. The end-effector was used as a testbed for studying robotic assembly of NASA hardware with passive compliance. Vector analysis was employed to derive a closed-form solution for the end-effector inverse kinematic transformation. A computationally efficient numerical solution was obtained for the end-effector forward kinematic transformation using Newton-Raphson method. Three trajectory planning schemes, two for fine motion and one for gross motion, were developed for the end-effector. Experiments conducted to evaluate the performance of the trajectory planning schemes showed excellent tracking quality with minimal errors. Current activities focus on implementing the developed trajectory planning schemes on mating and demating space-rated connectors and using the compliant platform to acquire forces/torques applied on the end-effector during the assembly task.

Non-symbolic halving in an Amazonian indigene group

PubMed Central

McCrink, Koleen; Spelke, Elizabeth S.; Dehaene, Stanislas; Pica, Pierre

2014-01-01

Much research supports the existence of an Approximate Number System (ANS) that is recruited by infants, children, adults, and non-human animals to generate coarse, non-symbolic representations of number. This system supports simple arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, and ordering of amounts. The current study tests whether an intuition of a more complex calculation, division, exists in an indigene group in the Amazon, the Mundurucu, whose language includes no words for large numbers. Mundurucu children were presented with a video event depicting a division transformation of halving, in which pairs of objects turned into single objects, reducing the array's numerical magnitude. Then they were tested on their ability to calculate the outcome of this division transformation with other large-number arrays. The Mundurucu children effected this transformation even when non-numerical variables were controlled, performed above chance levels on the very first set of test trials, and exhibited performance similar to urban children who had access to precise number words and a surrounding symbolic culture. We conclude that a halving calculation is part of the suite of intuitive operations supported by the ANS. PMID:23587042

Independent Manipulation of Heat and Electrical Current via Bifunctional Metamaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moccia, Massimo; Castaldi, Giuseppe; Savo, Salvatore; Sato, Yuki; Galdi, Vincenzo

2014-04-01

Spatial tailoring of the material constitutive properties is a well-known strategy to mold the local flow of given observables in different physical domains. Coordinate-transformation-based methods (e.g., transformation optics) offer a powerful and systematic approach to design anisotropic, spatially inhomogeneous artificial materials (metamaterials) capable of precisely manipulating wave-based (electromagnetic, acoustic, elastic) as well as diffusion-based (heat) phenomena in a desired fashion. However, as versatile as these approaches have been, most designs have thus far been limited to serving single-target functionalities in a given physical domain. Here, we present a step towards a "transformation multiphysics" framework that allows independent and simultaneous manipulation of multiple physical phenomena. As a proof of principle of this new scheme, we design and synthesize (in terms of realistic material constituents) a metamaterial shell that simultaneously behaves as a thermal concentrator and an electrical "invisibility cloak." Our numerical results open up intriguing possibilities in the largely unexplored phase space of multifunctional metadevices, with a wide variety of potential applications to electrical, magnetic, acoustic, and thermal scenarios.

The Course of Innovation: Using Technology to Transform Higher Education. Education Sector Reports

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, Ben

2010-01-01

The National Center for Academic Transformation (NCAT), a small nonprofit considered to be the intellectual center of the technology-based course transformation movement, has labored mightily and with much success to help more colleges bring their undergraduate courses into the modern age. But it has labored precisely because colleges have yet to…

Algorithm Diversity for Resilent Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-27

data structures. 15. SUBJECT TERMS computer security, software diversity, program transformation 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF 18...systematic method for transforming Datalog rules with general universal and existential quantification into efficient algorithms with precise complexity...worst case in the size of the ground rules. There are numerous choices during the transformation that lead to diverse algorithms and different

Wire-positioning algorithm for coreless Hall array sensors in current measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Wenli; Zhang, Huaiqing; Chen, Lin; Gu, Shanyun

2018-05-01

This paper presents a scheme of circular-arrayed, coreless Hall-effect current transformers. It can satisfy the demands of wide dynamic range and bandwidth current in the distribution system, as well as the demand of AC and DC simultaneous measurements. In order to improve the signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the sensor, a wire-positioning algorithm is proposed, which can improve the measurement accuracy based on the post-processing of measurement data. The simulation results demonstrate that the maximum errors are 70%, 6.1% and 0.95% corresponding to Ampère’s circuital method, approximate positioning algorithm and precise positioning algorithm, respectively. It is obvious that the accuracy of the positioning algorithm is significantly improved when compared with that of the Ampère’s circuital method. The maximum error of the positioning algorithm is smaller in the experiment.

Space-time domain solutions of the wave equation by a non-singular boundary integral method and Fourier transform.

PubMed

Klaseboer, Evert; Sepehrirahnama, Shahrokh; Chan, Derek Y C

2017-08-01

The general space-time evolution of the scattering of an incident acoustic plane wave pulse by an arbitrary configuration of targets is treated by employing a recently developed non-singular boundary integral method to solve the Helmholtz equation in the frequency domain from which the space-time solution of the wave equation is obtained using the fast Fourier transform. The non-singular boundary integral solution can enforce the radiation boundary condition at infinity exactly and can account for multiple scattering effects at all spacings between scatterers without adverse effects on the numerical precision. More generally, the absence of singular kernels in the non-singular integral equation confers high numerical stability and precision for smaller numbers of degrees of freedom. The use of fast Fourier transform to obtain the time dependence is not constrained to discrete time steps and is particularly efficient for studying the response to different incident pulses by the same configuration of scatterers. The precision that can be attained using a smaller number of Fourier components is also quantified.

Fourier transform spectroscopy of cotton and cotton trash

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Fourier Transform techniques have been shown to have higher signal-to-noise capabilities, higher throughput, negligible stray light, continuous spectra, and higher resolution. In addition, FT spectroscopy affords for frequencies in spectra to be measured all at once and more precise wavelength calib...

Fully Nonlinear Modeling and Analysis of Precision Membranes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pai, P. Frank; Young, Leyland G.

2003-01-01

High precision membranes are used in many current space applications. This paper presents a fully nonlinear membrane theory with forward and inverse analyses of high precision membrane structures. The fully nonlinear membrane theory is derived from Jaumann strains and stresses, exact coordinate transformations, the concept of local relative displacements, and orthogonal virtual rotations. In this theory, energy and Newtonian formulations are fully correlated, and every structural term can be interpreted in terms of vectors. Fully nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODES) governing the large static deformations of known axisymmetric membranes under known axisymmetric loading (i.e., forward problems) are presented as first-order ODES, and a method for obtaining numerically exact solutions using the multiple shooting procedure is shown. A method for obtaining the undeformed geometry of any axisymmetric membrane with a known inflated geometry and a known internal pressure (i.e., inverse problems) is also derived. Numerical results from forward analysis are verified using results in the literature, and results from inverse analysis are verified using known exact solutions and solutions from the forward analysis. Results show that the membrane theory and the proposed numerical methods for solving nonlinear forward and inverse membrane problems are accurate.

Singularity detection in FOG-based pavement data by wavelet transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Dandan; Wang, Lixin; Hu, Wenbin; Zhang, Zhen; Fu, Jinghua; Gan, Weibing

2017-04-01

The angular velocity data of Fiber-Optic Gyro (FOG) has been analyzed to locate the singularity by the wavelet transform (WT) method. By using WT analysis method to decompose and reconstruct the signal of pavement data collecting by the FOG, the different types of pavement singularities can be extracted. The experiments are conducted on different road surfaces. The experimental results show that the locations of bumps and expansion joints have been obtained, with a relative precision of 0.5 m and an absolute precision of 2 m over 2.4 km. The characteristic of the pavement roughness can also be identified.

Experience of 12 kA / 16 V SMPS during the HTS Current Leads Test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panchal, P.; Christian, D.; Panchal, R.; Sonara, D.; Purwar, G.; Garg, A.; Nimavat, H.; Singh, G.; Patel, J.; Tanna, V.; Pradhan, S.

2017-04-01

As a part of up gradation plans in SST-1 Tokamak, one pair of 3.3 kA rated prototype hybrid current leads were developed using Di-BSCCO as High Temperature Superconductors (HTS) and the copper heat exchanger. In order to validate the manufacturing procedure prior to go for series production of such current leads, it was recommended to test these current leads using dedicated and very reliable DC switch mode power supply (SMPS). As part of test facility, 12 kA, 16 VDC programmable SMPS was successfully installed, commissioned and tested. This power supply has special features such as modularity, N+1 redundancy, very low ripple voltage, precise current measurements with Direct Current Current Transformer, CC/CV modes with auto-crossover and auto-sequence programming. As a part of acceptance of this converter, A 5.8 mΩ water-cooled resistive dummy load and PLC based SCADA system is designed, developed for commissioning of power supply. The same power supply was used for the testing of the prototype HTS current leads. The paper describes the salient features and experience of state-of-art of power supply and results obtained from this converter during the HTS current leads test.

On the use of multi-dimensional scaling and electromagnetic tracking in high dose rate brachytherapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Götz, Th I.; Ermer, M.; Salas-González, D.; Kellermeier, M.; Strnad, V.; Bert, Ch; Hensel, B.; Tomé, A. M.; Lang, E. W.

2017-10-01

High dose rate brachytherapy affords a frequent reassurance of the precise dwell positions of the radiation source. The current investigation proposes a multi-dimensional scaling transformation of both data sets to estimate dwell positions without any external reference. Furthermore, the related distributions of dwell positions are characterized by uni—or bi—modal heavy—tailed distributions. The latter are well represented by α—stable distributions. The newly proposed data analysis provides dwell position deviations with high accuracy, and, furthermore, offers a convenient visualization of the actual shapes of the catheters which guide the radiation source during the treatment.

A CRISPR view of development

PubMed Central

Harrison, Melissa M.; Jenkins, Brian V.; O’Connor-Giles, Kate M.

2014-01-01

The CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat)–Cas9 (CRISPR-associated nuclease 9) system is poised to transform developmental biology by providing a simple, efficient method to precisely manipulate the genome of virtually any developing organism. This RNA-guided nuclease (RGN)-based approach already has been effectively used to induce targeted mutations in multiple genes simultaneously, create conditional alleles, and generate endogenously tagged proteins. Illustrating the adaptability of RGNs, the genomes of >20 different plant and animal species as well as multiple cell lines and primary cells have been successfully modified. Here we review the current and potential uses of RGNs to investigate genome function during development. PMID:25184674

Transform Methods for Precision Nonlinear Wave Models of Flexible space Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-08-20

developed, each of which has motivated a structural control methodology in a natural way. The Transform Element Modelling (TEM) approach uses the Laplace...IEk A L 2 = -, c G= ( C .3 a ,b ) Talng the Laplace transfor-m (neglecting initial conditions) )ields [1+tjSZ-(,s) +S ((X’S) + al2a~ pS4 (X’S) j(X’s) (04

What's Next for Particle Physics?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

White, Martin

2017-10-01

Following the discovery of the Higgs boson in 2012, particle physics has entered its most exciting and crucial period for over 50 years. In this book, I first summarise our current understanding of particle physics, and why this knowledge is almost certainly incomplete. We will then see that the Large Hadron Collider provides the means to search for the next theory of particle physics by performing precise measurements of the Higgs boson, and by looking directly for particles that can solve current cosmic mysteries such as the nature of dark matter. Finally, I will anticipate the next decade of particle physics by placing the Large Hadron Collider within the wider context of other experiments. The results expected over the next ten years promise to transform our understanding of what the Universe is made of and how it came to be.

Fusion of 4D echocardiography and cine cardiac magnetic resonance volumes using a salient spatio-temporal analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atehortúa, Angélica; Garreau, Mireille; Romero, Eduardo

2017-11-01

An accurate left (LV) and right ventricular (RV) function quantification is important to support evaluation, diagnosis and prognosis of cardiac pathologies such as the cardiomyopathies. Currently, diagnosis by ultrasound is the most cost-effective examination. However, this modality is highly noisy and operator dependent, hence prone to errors. Therefore, fusion with other cardiac modalities may provide complementary information and improve the analysis of the specific pathologies like cardiomyopathies. This paper proposes an automatic registration between two complementary modalities, 4D echocardiography and Magnetic resonance images, by mapping both modalities to a common space of salience where an optimal registration between them is estimated. The obtained matrix transformation is then applied to the MRI volume which is superimposed to the 4D echocardiography. Manually selected marks in both modalities are used to evaluate the precision of the superimposition. Preliminary results, in three evaluation cases, show the distance between these marked points and the estimated with the transformation is about 2 mm.

Digital pathology in nephrology clinical trials, research, and pathology practice.

PubMed

Barisoni, Laura; Hodgin, Jeffrey B

2017-11-01

In this review, we will discuss (i) how the recent advancements in digital technology and computational engineering are currently applied to nephropathology in the setting of clinical research, trials, and practice; (ii) the benefits of the new digital environment; (iii) how recognizing its challenges provides opportunities for transformation; and (iv) nephropathology in the upcoming era of kidney precision and predictive medicine. Recent studies highlighted how new standardized protocols facilitate the harmonization of digital pathology database infrastructure and morphologic, morphometric, and computer-aided quantitative analyses. Digital pathology enables robust protocols for clinical trials and research, with the potential to identify previously underused or unrecognized clinically useful parameters. The integration of digital pathology with molecular signatures is leading the way to establishing clinically relevant morpho-omic taxonomies of renal diseases. The introduction of digital pathology in clinical research and trials, and the progressive implementation of the modern software ecosystem, opens opportunities for the development of new predictive diagnostic paradigms and computer-aided algorithms, transforming the practice of renal disease into a modern computational science.

60. VIEW OF THE CURRENT TRANSFORMER VAULT. THIS CURRENT TRANSFORMER ...

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

60. VIEW OF THE CURRENT TRANSFORMER VAULT. THIS CURRENT TRANSFORMER WAS USED TO SENSE HIGH CURRENT BEING GENERATED ON GENERATOR NUMBER 3 AND REDUCE IT TO A LOWER, EXACT ANALOG VALUE THAT COULD BE SAFELY HANDLED AND MONITORED WITH THE CONTROL CIRCUITRY. THE CURRENT TRANSFORMER IS LOCATED IN THE CENTER OF THE PHOTOGRAPH. THE CONNECTING BUS ABOVE THE TRANSFORMER WAS REMOVED FOR SALVAGE. - New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, Cos Cob Power Plant, Sound Shore Drive, Greenwich, Fairfield County, CT

Towards precision medicine; a new biomedical cosmology.

PubMed

Vegter, M W

2018-02-10

Precision Medicine has become a common label for data-intensive and patient-driven biomedical research. Its intended future is reflected in endeavours such as the Precision Medicine Initiative in the USA. This article addresses the question whether it is possible to discern a new 'medical cosmology' in Precision Medicine, a concept that was developed by Nicholas Jewson to describe comprehensive transformations involving various dimensions of biomedical knowledge and practice, such as vocabularies, the roles of patients and physicians and the conceptualisation of disease. Subsequently, I will elaborate my assessment of the features of Precision Medicine with the help of Michel Foucault, by exploring how precision medicine involves a transformation along three axes: the axis of biomedical knowledge, of biomedical power and of the patient as a self. Patients are encouraged to become the managers of their own health status, while the medical domain is reframed as a data-sharing community, characterised by changing power relationships between providers and patients, producers and consumers. While the emerging Precision Medicine cosmology may surpass existing knowledge frameworks; it obscures previous traditions and reduces research-subjects to mere data. This in turn, means that the individual is both subjected to the neoliberal demand to share personal information, and at the same time has acquired the positive 'right' to become a member of the data-sharing community. The subject has to constantly negotiate the meaning of his or her data, which can either enable self-expression, or function as a commanding Superego.

Rapid deletion production in fungi via Agrobacterium mediated transformation of OSCAR deletion contructs.

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Precise deletion of gene(s) of interest, while leaving the rest of the genome unchanged, provides the ideal product to determine that particular gene’s function in the living organism. In this protocol we describe the OSCAR method of precise and rapid deletion plasmid construction. OSCAR relies on t...

[Non-rigid medical image registration based on mutual information and thin-plate spline].

PubMed

Cao, Guo-gang; Luo, Li-min

2009-01-01

To get precise and complete details, the contrast in different images is needed in medical diagnosis and computer assisted treatment. The image registration is the basis of contrast, but the regular rigid registration does not satisfy the clinic requirements. A non-rigid medical image registration method based on mutual information and thin-plate spline was present. Firstly, registering two images globally based on mutual information; secondly, dividing reference image and global-registered image into blocks and registering them; then getting the thin-plate spline transformation according to the shift of blocks' center; finally, applying the transformation to the global-registered image. The results show that the method is more precise than the global rigid registration based on mutual information and it reduces the complexity of getting control points and satisfy the clinic requirements better by getting control points of the thin-plate transformation automatically.

Hough transform as a tool support building roof detection. (Polish Title: Transformata Hough'a jako narzędzie wspomagające wykrywanie dachów budynków)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borowiec, N.

2013-12-01

Gathering information about the roof shapes of the buildings is still current issue. One of the many sources from which we can obtain information about the buildings is the airborne laser scanning. However, detect information from cloud o points about roofs of building automatically is still a complex task. You can perform this task by helping the additional information from other sources, or based only on Lidar data. This article describes how to detect the building roof only from a point cloud. To define the shape of the roof is carried out in three tasks. The first step is to find the location of the building, the second is the precise definition of the edge, while the third is an indication of the roof planes. First step based on the grid analyses. And the next two task based on Hough Transformation. Hough transformation is a method of detecting collinear points, so a perfect match to determine the line describing a roof. To properly determine the shape of the roof is not enough only the edges, but it is necessary to indicate roofs. Thus, in studies Hough Transform, also served as a tool for detection of roof planes. The only difference is that the tool used in this case is a three-dimensional.

Transformers: the changing phases of low-dimensional vanadium oxide bronzes.

PubMed

Marley, Peter M; Horrocks, Gregory A; Pelcher, Kate E; Banerjee, Sarbajit

2015-03-28

In this feature article, we explore the electronic and structural phase transformations of ternary vanadium oxides with the composition MxV2O5 where M is an intercalated cation. The periodic arrays of intercalated cations ordered along quasi-1D tunnels or layered between 2D sheets of the V2O5 framework induce partial reduction of the framework vanadium atoms giving rise to charge ordering patterns that are specific to the metal M and stoichiometry x. This periodic charge ordering makes these materials remarkably versatile platforms for studying electron correlation and underpins the manifestation of phenomena such as colossal metal-insulator transitions, quantized charge corrals, and superconductivity. We describe current mechanistic understanding of these emergent phenomena with a particular emphasis on the benefits derived from scaling these materials to nanostructured dimensions wherein precise ordering of cations can be obtained and phase relationships can be derived that are entirely inaccessible in the bulk. In particular, structural transformations induced by intercalation are dramatically accelerated due to the shorter diffusion path lengths at nanometer-sized dimensions, which cause a dramatic reduction of kinetic barriers to phase transformations and facilitate interconversion between the different frameworks. We conclude by summarizing numerous technological applications that have become feasible due to recent advances in controlling the structural chemistry and both electronic and structural phase transitions in these versatile frameworks.

Electromagnetic properties of thin-film transformer-coupled superconducting tunnel junctions

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

Finnegan, T.F.; Lacquaniti, V.; Vaglio, R.

1981-09-01

Multisection superconducting microstrip transformers with designed output impedances below 0.1 ..cap omega.. have been fabricated via precise photolithographic techniques to investigate the electromagnetic properties of Nb-Nb oxide-Pb tunnel junctions. The low-impedance transformer sections incorporate a rf sputtered thin-film Ta-oxide dielectric, and the reproducible external coupling achievable with this type of geometry makes possible the systematic investigation of electromagnetic device parameters as a function of tunneling oxide thickness.

Electropherogram of capillary zone electrophoresis with effective mobility axis as a transverse axis and its analytical utility. I. Transformation applying the hypothetical electroosmotic flow.

PubMed

Ikuta, N; Yamada, Y; Hirokawa, T

2000-01-01

For capillary zone electrophoresis, a new method of transformation from migration time to effective mobility was proposed, in which the mobility increase due to Joule heating and the relaxation effect of the potential gradient were eliminated successfully. The precision of the mobility evaluated by the proposed transformation was discussed in relation to the analysis of rare earth ions. By using the transformation, almost the same pherograms could be obtained even from the pherograms obtained originally at different applied voltages.

Dielectric properties of transformer paper impregnated by mineral oil based magnetic fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Timko, M.; Kopčanský, P.; Marton, K.; Tomčo, L.; Koneracká, M.

2010-01-01

The influence of combined magnetic and electric field on permittivity of transformer paper used in power transformers was observed. Transformer paper was impregnated by pure transformer oil ITO 100 and magnetic fluids based on transformer oil ITO 100 with different concentrations of magnetite nanoparticles. The measurements were carried out with help of high precision capacitance bridge. The electric intensity between circular planar electrodes was in the region of weak electric field (E > 106 V/m). The increase of electric permittivity of transformer paper impregnated by magnetic fluid opposite pure transformer paper was observed. The experiments showed that permittivity of insulator system consisting of pure transformer paper and impregnated transformer paper naturally depends on number of paper layers. The magnetodielectric effect was found to be dependent on magnetite nanoparticles concentration in magnetic fluids.

On the action of Heisenberg's uncertainty principle in discrete linear methods for calculating the components of the deflection of the vertical

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazurova, Elena; Lapshin, Aleksey

2013-04-01

The method of discrete linear transformations that can be implemented through the algorithms of the Standard Fourier Transform (SFT), Short-Time Fourier Transform (STFT) or Wavelet transform (WT) is effective for calculating the components of the deflection of the vertical from discrete values of gravity anomaly. The SFT due to the action of Heisenberg's uncertainty principle indicates weak spatial localization that manifests in the following: firstly, it is necessary to know the initial digital signal on the complete number line (in case of one-dimensional transform) or in the whole two-dimensional space (if a two-dimensional transform is performed) in order to find the SFT. Secondly, the localization and values of the "peaks" of the initial function cannot be derived from its Fourier transform as the coefficients of the Fourier transform are formed by taking into account all the values of the initial function. Thus, the SFT gives the global information on all frequencies available in the digital signal throughout the whole time period. To overcome this peculiarity it is necessary to localize the signal in time and apply the Fourier transform only to a small portion of the signal; the STFT that differs from the SFT only by the presence of an additional factor (window) is used for this purpose. A narrow enough window is chosen to localize the signal in time and, according to Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, it results in have significant enough uncertainty in frequency. If one chooses a wide enough window it, according to the same principle, will increase time uncertainty. Thus, if the signal is narrowly localized in time its spectrum, on the contrary, is spread on the complete axis of frequencies, and vice versa. The STFT makes it possible to improve spatial localization, that is, it allows one to define the presence of any frequency in the signal and the interval of its presence. However, owing to Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, it is impossible to tell precisely, what frequency is present in the signal at the current moment of time: it is possible to speak only about the range of frequencies. Besides, it is impossible to specify precisely the time moment of the presence of this or that frequency: it is possible to speak only about the time frame. It is this feature that imposes major constrains on the applicability of the STFT. In spite of the fact that the problems of resolution in time and frequency result from a physical phenomenon (Heisenberg's uncertainty principle) and exist independent of the transform applied, there is a possibility to analyze any signal, using the alternative approach - the multiresolutional analysis (MRA). The wavelet-transform is one of the methods for making a MRA-type analysis. Thanks to it, low frequencies can be shown in a more detailed form with respect to time, and high ones - with respect to frequency. The paper presents the results of calculating of the components of the deflection of the vertical, done by the SFT, STFT and WT. The results are presented in the form of 3-d models that visually show the action of Heisenberg's uncertainty principle in the specified algorithms. The research conducted allows us to recommend the application of wavelet-transform to calculate of the components of the deflection of the vertical in the near-field zone. Keywords: Standard Fourier Transform, Short-Time Fourier Transform, Wavelet Transform, Heisenberg's uncertainty principle.

Improved blood velocity measurements with a hybrid image filtering and iterative Radon transform algorithm

PubMed Central

Chhatbar, Pratik Y.; Kara, Prakash

2013-01-01

Neural activity leads to hemodynamic changes which can be detected by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The determination of blood flow changes in individual vessels is an important aspect of understanding these hemodynamic signals. Blood flow can be calculated from the measurements of vessel diameter and blood velocity. When using line-scan imaging, the movement of blood in the vessel leads to streaks in space-time images, where streak angle is a function of the blood velocity. A variety of methods have been proposed to determine blood velocity from such space-time image sequences. Of these, the Radon transform is relatively easy to implement and has fast data processing. However, the precision of the velocity measurements is dependent on the number of Radon transforms performed, which creates a trade-off between the processing speed and measurement precision. In addition, factors like image contrast, imaging depth, image acquisition speed, and movement artifacts especially in large mammals, can potentially lead to data acquisition that results in erroneous velocity measurements. Here we show that pre-processing the data with a Sobel filter and iterative application of Radon transforms address these issues and provide more accurate blood velocity measurements. Improved signal quality of the image as a result of Sobel filtering increases the accuracy and the iterative Radon transform offers both increased precision and an order of magnitude faster implementation of velocity measurements. This algorithm does not use a priori knowledge of angle information and therefore is sensitive to sudden changes in blood flow. It can be applied on any set of space-time images with red blood cell (RBC) streaks, commonly acquired through line-scan imaging or reconstructed from full-frame, time-lapse images of the vasculature. PMID:23807877

An iterative inversion of weighted Radon transforms along hyperplanes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goncharov, F. O.

2017-12-01

We propose iterative inversion algorithms for weighted Radon transforms R W along hyperplanes in {R}3 . More precisely, expanding the weight W=W(x, θ), x\\in {R}^3, θ\\in {S}^2, into the series of spherical harmonics in θ and assuming that the zero order term w0, 0(x)\

Sequencing the Connectome

PubMed Central

Zador, Anthony M.; Dubnau, Joshua; Oyibo, Hassana K.; Zhan, Huiqing; Cao, Gang; Peikon, Ian D.

2012-01-01

Connectivity determines the function of neural circuits. Historically, circuit mapping has usually been viewed as a problem of microscopy, but no current method can achieve high-throughput mapping of entire circuits with single neuron precision. Here we describe a novel approach to determining connectivity. We propose BOINC (“barcoding of individual neuronal connections”), a method for converting the problem of connectivity into a form that can be read out by high-throughput DNA sequencing. The appeal of using sequencing is that its scale—sequencing billions of nucleotides per day is now routine—is a natural match to the complexity of neural circuits. An inexpensive high-throughput technique for establishing circuit connectivity at single neuron resolution could transform neuroscience research. PMID:23109909

Blue light-mediated transcriptional activation and repression of gene expression in bacteria

PubMed Central

Jayaraman, Premkumar; Devarajan, Kavya; Chua, Tze Kwang; Zhang, Hanzhong; Gunawan, Erry; Poh, Chueh Loo

2016-01-01

Light-regulated modules offer unprecedented new ways to control cellular behavior in precise spatial and temporal resolution. The availability of such tools may dramatically accelerate the progression of synthetic biology applications. Nonetheless, current optogenetic toolbox of prokaryotes has potential issues such as lack of rapid and switchable control, less portable, low dynamic expression and limited parts. To address these shortcomings, we have engineered a novel bidirectional promoter system for Escherichia coli that can be induced or repressed rapidly and reversibly using the blue light dependent DNA-binding protein EL222. We demonstrated that by modulating the dosage of light pulses or intensity we could control the level of gene expression precisely. We show that both light-inducible and repressible system can function in parallel with high spatial precision in a single cell and can be switched stably between ON- and OFF-states by repetitive pulses of blue light. In addition, the light-inducible and repressible expression kinetics were quantitatively analysed using a mathematical model. We further apply the system, for the first time, to optogenetically synchronize two receiver cells performing different logic behaviors over time using blue light as a molecular clock signal. Overall, our modular approach layers a transformative platform for next-generation light-controllable synthetic biology systems in prokaryotes. PMID:27353329

Frequency analysis of DC tolerant current transformers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mlejnek, P.; Kaspar, P.

2013-09-01

This article deals with wide frequency range behaviour of DC tolerant current transformers that are usually used in modern static energy meters. In this application current transformers must comply with European and International Standards in their accuracy and DC tolerance. Therefore, the linear DC tolerant current transformers and double core current transformers are used in this field. More details about the problems of these particular types of transformers can be found in our previous works. Although these transformers are designed mainly for power distribution network frequency (50/60 Hz), it can be interesting to understand their behaviour in wider frequency range. Based on this knowledge the new generations of energy meters with measuring quality of electric energy will be produced. This solution brings better measurement of consumption of nonlinear loads or measurement of non-sinusoidal voltage and current sources such as solar cells or fuel cells. The determination of actual power consumption in such energy meters is done using particular harmonics component of current and voltage. We measured the phase and ratio errors that are the most important parameters of current transformers, to characterize several samples of current transformers of both types.

Small serine recombination systems ParA-MRS and CinH-RS2 perform precise excision of plastid DNA

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Selectable marker genes (SMGs) are necessary for selection of transgenic plants. However, once stable transformants have been identified, the marker gene is no longer needed. In this study, we demonstrate the use of the small serine recombination systems, ParA-MRS and CinH-RS2, to precisely excise ...

Numerical model estimating the capabilities and limitations of the fast Fourier transform technique in absolute interferometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Talamonti, James J.; Kay, Richard B.; Krebs, Danny J.

1996-05-01

A numerical model was developed to emulate the capabilities of systems performing noncontact absolute distance measurements. The model incorporates known methods to minimize signal processing and digital sampling errors and evaluates the accuracy limitations imposed by spectral peak isolation by using Hanning, Blackman, and Gaussian windows in the fast Fourier transform technique. We applied this model to the specific case of measuring the relative lengths of a compound Michelson interferometer. By processing computer-simulated data through our model, we project the ultimate precision for ideal data, and data containing AM-FM noise. The precision is shown to be limited by nonlinearities in the laser scan. absolute distance, interferometer.

Precise time and time interval applications to electric power systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, Robert E.

1992-01-01

There are many applications of precise time and time interval (frequency) in operating modern electric power systems. Many generators and customer loads are operated in parallel. The reliable transfer of electrical power to the consumer partly depends on measuring power system frequency consistently in many locations. The internal oscillators in the widely dispersed frequency measuring units must be syntonized. Elaborate protection and control systems guard the high voltage equipment from short and open circuits. For the highest reliability of electric service, engineers need to study all control system operations. Precise timekeeping networks aid in the analysis of power system operations by synchronizing the clocks on recording instruments. Utility engineers want to reproduce events that caused loss of service to customers. Precise timekeeping networks can synchronize protective relay test-sets. For dependable electrical service, all generators and large motors must remain close to speed synchronism. The stable response of a power system to perturbations is critical to continuity of electrical service. Research shows that measurement of the power system state vector can aid in the monitoring and control of system stability. If power system operators know that a lightning storm is approaching a critical transmission line or transformer, they can modify operating strategies. Knowledge of the location of a short circuit fault can speed the re-energizing of a transmission line. One fault location technique requires clocks synchronized to one microsecond. Current research seeks to find out if one microsecond timekeeping can aid and improve power system control and operation.

Spatial distribution, sampling precision and survey design optimisation with non-normal variables: The case of anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) recruitment in Spanish Mediterranean waters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tugores, M. Pilar; Iglesias, Magdalena; Oñate, Dolores; Miquel, Joan

2016-02-01

In the Mediterranean Sea, the European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) displays a key role in ecological and economical terms. Ensuring stock sustainability requires the provision of crucial information, such as species spatial distribution or unbiased abundance and precision estimates, so that management strategies can be defined (e.g. fishing quotas, temporal closure areas or marine protected areas MPA). Furthermore, the estimation of the precision of global abundance at different sampling intensities can be used for survey design optimisation. Geostatistics provide a priori unbiased estimations of the spatial structure, global abundance and precision for autocorrelated data. However, their application to non-Gaussian data introduces difficulties in the analysis in conjunction with low robustness or unbiasedness. The present study applied intrinsic geostatistics in two dimensions in order to (i) analyse the spatial distribution of anchovy in Spanish Western Mediterranean waters during the species' recruitment season, (ii) produce distribution maps, (iii) estimate global abundance and its precision, (iv) analyse the effect of changing the sampling intensity on the precision of global abundance estimates and, (v) evaluate the effects of several methodological options on the robustness of all the analysed parameters. The results suggested that while the spatial structure was usually non-robust to the tested methodological options when working with the original dataset, it became more robust for the transformed datasets (especially for the log-backtransformed dataset). The global abundance was always highly robust and the global precision was highly or moderately robust to most of the methodological options, except for data transformation.

Minimizing Interpolation Bias and Precision Error in In Vivo μCT-based Measurements of Bone Structure and Dynamics

PubMed Central

de Bakker, Chantal M. J.; Altman, Allison R.; Li, Connie; Tribble, Mary Beth; Lott, Carina; Tseng, Wei-Ju; Liu, X. Sherry

2016-01-01

In vivo μCT imaging allows for high-resolution, longitudinal evaluation of bone properties. Based on this technology, several recent studies have developed in vivo dynamic bone histomorphometry techniques that utilize registered μCT images to identify regions of bone formation and resorption, allowing for longitudinal assessment of bone remodeling. However, this analysis requires a direct voxel-by-voxel subtraction between image pairs, necessitating rotation of the images into the same coordinate system, which introduces interpolation errors. We developed a novel image transformation scheme, matched-angle transformation (MAT), whereby the interpolation errors are minimized by equally rotating both the follow-up and baseline images instead of the standard of rotating one image while the other remains fixed. This new method greatly reduced interpolation biases caused by the standard transformation. Additionally, our study evaluated the reproducibility and precision of bone remodeling measurements made via in vivo dynamic bone histomorphometry. Although bone remodeling measurements showed moderate baseline noise, precision was adequate to measure physiologically relevant changes in bone remodeling, and measurements had relatively good reproducibility, with intra-class correlation coefficients of 0.75-0.95. This indicates that, when used in conjunction with MAT, in vivo dynamic histomorphometry provides a reliable assessment of bone remodeling. PMID:26786342

Minimizing Interpolation Bias and Precision Error in In Vivo µCT-Based Measurements of Bone Structure and Dynamics.

PubMed

de Bakker, Chantal M J; Altman, Allison R; Li, Connie; Tribble, Mary Beth; Lott, Carina; Tseng, Wei-Ju; Liu, X Sherry

2016-08-01

In vivo µCT imaging allows for high-resolution, longitudinal evaluation of bone properties. Based on this technology, several recent studies have developed in vivo dynamic bone histomorphometry techniques that utilize registered µCT images to identify regions of bone formation and resorption, allowing for longitudinal assessment of bone remodeling. However, this analysis requires a direct voxel-by-voxel subtraction between image pairs, necessitating rotation of the images into the same coordinate system, which introduces interpolation errors. We developed a novel image transformation scheme, matched-angle transformation (MAT), whereby the interpolation errors are minimized by equally rotating both the follow-up and baseline images instead of the standard of rotating one image while the other remains fixed. This new method greatly reduced interpolation biases caused by the standard transformation. Additionally, our study evaluated the reproducibility and precision of bone remodeling measurements made via in vivo dynamic bone histomorphometry. Although bone remodeling measurements showed moderate baseline noise, precision was adequate to measure physiologically relevant changes in bone remodeling, and measurements had relatively good reproducibility, with intra-class correlation coefficients of 0.75-0.95. This indicates that, when used in conjunction with MAT, in vivo dynamic histomorphometry provides a reliable assessment of bone remodeling.

Campanile Near-Field Probes Fabricated by Nanoimprint Lithography on the Facet of an Optical Fiber

DOE PAGES

Calafiore, Giuseppe; Koshelev, Alexander; Darlington, Thomas P.; ...

2017-05-10

One of the major challenges to the widespread adoption of plasmonic and nano-optical devices in real-life applications is the difficulty to mass-fabricate nano-optical antennas in parallel and reproducible fashion, and the capability to precisely place nanoantennas into devices with nanometer-scale precision. In this study, we present a solution to this challenge using the state-of-the-art ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography (UV-NIL) to fabricate functional optical transformers onto the core of an optical fiber in a single step, mimicking the 'campanile' near-field probes. Imprinted probes were fabricated using a custom-built imprinter tool with co-axial alignment capability with sub < 100 nm position accuracy, followedmore » by a metallization step. Scanning electron micrographs confirm high imprint fidelity and precision with a thin residual layer to facilitate efficient optical coupling between the fiber and the imprinted optical transformer. The imprinted optical transformer probe was used in an actual NSOM measurement performing hyperspectral photoluminescence mapping of standard fluorescent beads. The calibration scans confirmed that imprinted probes enable sub-diffraction limited imaging with a spatial resolution consistent with the gap size. This novel nano-fabrication approach promises a low-cost, high-throughput, and reproducible manufacturing of advanced nano-optical devices.« less

Campanile Near-Field Probes Fabricated by Nanoimprint Lithography on the Facet of an Optical Fiber

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

Calafiore, Giuseppe; Koshelev, Alexander; Darlington, Thomas P.

One of the major challenges to the widespread adoption of plasmonic and nano-optical devices in real-life applications is the difficulty to mass-fabricate nano-optical antennas in parallel and reproducible fashion, and the capability to precisely place nanoantennas into devices with nanometer-scale precision. In this study, we present a solution to this challenge using the state-of-the-art ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography (UV-NIL) to fabricate functional optical transformers onto the core of an optical fiber in a single step, mimicking the 'campanile' near-field probes. Imprinted probes were fabricated using a custom-built imprinter tool with co-axial alignment capability with sub < 100 nm position accuracy, followedmore » by a metallization step. Scanning electron micrographs confirm high imprint fidelity and precision with a thin residual layer to facilitate efficient optical coupling between the fiber and the imprinted optical transformer. The imprinted optical transformer probe was used in an actual NSOM measurement performing hyperspectral photoluminescence mapping of standard fluorescent beads. The calibration scans confirmed that imprinted probes enable sub-diffraction limited imaging with a spatial resolution consistent with the gap size. This novel nano-fabrication approach promises a low-cost, high-throughput, and reproducible manufacturing of advanced nano-optical devices.« less

Transformation formulas relating geodetic coordinates to a tangent to Earth, plane coordinate system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Credeur, L.

1981-01-01

Formulas and their approximation were developed to map geodetic position to an Earth tangent plane with an airport centered rectangular coordinate system. The transformations were developed for use in a terminal area air traffic model with deterministic aircraft traffic. The exact configured vehicle's approximation equations used in their precision microwave landing system navigation experiments.

Army Communicator (Volume 37, Number 4, Winter 2012)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

support of DOTMLPF [Doctrine, Organization, Training, Materiel, Leader Development, Personnel, and Facilities]. We are innovating , transforming and...network assurance (cyber security). This personnel alignment maps precisely with the documented organizational structure for the corps/division G-6s...precision. •A team oriented on and engaged with commanders and Soldiers •A transparent, flexible, innovative and agile com- mand – focused on improving

Measurement of whole tire profile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Yongyue; Jiao, Wenguang

2010-08-01

In this paper, a precision measuring device is developed for obtaining characteristic curve of tire profile and its geometric parameters. It consists of a laser displacement measurement unit, a closed-loop precision two-dimensional coordinate table, a step motor control system and a fast data acquisition and analysis system. Based on the laser trigonometry, a data map of tire profile and coordinate values of all points can be obtained through corresponding data transformation. This device has a compact structure, a convenient control, a simple hardware circuit design and a high measurement precision. Experimental results indicate that measurement precision can meet the customer accuracy requirement of +/-0.02 mm.

7 CFR 1767.20 - Plant accounts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 367Underground Conductors and Devices 368Line Transformers 369Services 370Meters 371Installations on Customers... and interlocks, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays, isolated panels and..., compensators, resistors, starting transformers, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays...

7 CFR 1767.20 - Plant accounts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 367Underground Conductors and Devices 368Line Transformers 369Services 370Meters 371Installations on Customers... and interlocks, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays, isolated panels and..., compensators, resistors, starting transformers, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays...

7 CFR 1767.20 - Plant accounts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 367Underground Conductors and Devices 368Line Transformers 369Services 370Meters 371Installations on Customers... and interlocks, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays, isolated panels and..., compensators, resistors, starting transformers, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays...

7 CFR 1767.20 - Plant accounts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 367Underground Conductors and Devices 368Line Transformers 369Services 370Meters 371Installations on Customers... and interlocks, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays, isolated panels and..., compensators, resistors, starting transformers, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays...

7 CFR 1767.20 - Plant accounts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 367Underground Conductors and Devices 368Line Transformers 369Services 370Meters 371Installations on Customers... and interlocks, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays, isolated panels and..., compensators, resistors, starting transformers, current transformers, potential transformers, protective relays...

Evaluation of a telerobotic system to assist surgeons in microsurgery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Das, H.; Zak, H.; Johnson, J.; Crouch, J.; Frambach, D.

1999-01-01

A tool was developed that assists surgeons in manipulating surgical instruments more precisely than is possible manually. The tool is a telemanipulator that scales down the surgeon's hand motion and filters tremor in the motion. The signals measured from the surgeon's hand are transformed and used to drive a six-degrees-of-freedom robot to position the surgical instrument mounted on its tip. A pilot study comparing the performance of the telemanipulator system against manual instrument positioning was conducted at the University of Southern California School of Medicine. The results show that a telerobotic tool can improve the performance of a microsurgeon by increasing the precision with which he can position surgical instruments, but this is achieved at the cost of increased time in performing the task. We believe that this technology will extend the capabilities of microsurgeons and allow more surgeons to perform highly skilled procedures currently performed only by the best surgeons. It will also enable performance of new surgical procedures that are beyond the capabilities of even the most skilled surgeons. Copyright 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

WFIRST: Astrometry with the Wide-Field Imager

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bellini, Andrea; WFIRST Astrometry Working Group

2018-01-01

The wide field of view and stable, sharp images delivered by WFIRST's Wide-Field Imager make it an excellent instrument for astrometry, one of five major discovery areas identified in the 2010 Decadal Survey. Compared to the Hubble Space Telescope, WFIRST's wider field of view with similar image quality will provide hundreds more astrometric targets per image as well as background galaxies and stars with precise positions in the Gaia catalog. In addition, WFIRST will operate in the infrared, a wavelength regime where the most precise astrometry has so far been achieved with adaptive optics images from large ground-based telescopes. WFIRST will provide at least a factor of three improvement in astrometry over the current state of the art in this wavelength range, while spanning a field of view thousands of times larger. WFIRST is thus poised to make major contributions to multiple science topics in which astrometry plays an important role, without major alterations to the planned mission or instrument. We summarize a few of the most compelling science cases where WFIRST astrometry could prove transformational.

In-situ detection of convection and rotation striations by growth interface electromotive force spectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yunzhong; Tang, Feng; Yang, Xin; Yang, Mingming; Ma, Decai; Zhang, Xiaoyue; Liu, Yang; Lin, Shaopeng; Wang, Biao

2018-04-01

Nanoscale growth striations, induced by the crystal rotation and melt convection, are in-situ detected by the growth interface electromotive force (GEMF) spectrum during Czochralski (CZ) crystal growth. Specifically, the intensity and period of rotation and convection striations could be precisely revealed under different rotation rates. This is because the GEMF spectrum is affected by the combination effort of temperature difference in crystal rotation path and the melt flow in growth interface. Furthermore, the spectrum analysis (Fourier transform) reveals remarkable characteristics of periodic flow oscillation. More interestingly, in different rotation rates, the corresponding convection period and intensity show particular regularity that could barely be observed in semitransparent and high-temperature melt. Therefore, the GEMF spectrum reflects the subtle changes of a growing crystal that is far beyond the detecting precision of sensors in current CZ equipment. On the basis of this paper and our previous work, the real-time feedback of multiscale striations is established. GEMF spectrum could be a promising approach to reveal striation formation mechanism and optimize crystal quality.

Vector disformal transformation of cosmological perturbations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Papadopoulos, Vassilis; Zarei, Moslem; Firouzjahi, Hassan; Mukohyama, Shinji

2018-03-01

We study disformal transformations of cosmological perturbations by vector fields in theories invariant under U (1 ) gauge transformations. Three types of vector disformal transformations are considered: (i) disformal transformations by a single timelike vector; (ii) disformal transformations by a single spacelike vector; and (iii) disformal transformations by three spacelike vectors. We show that transformations of type (i) do not change either curvature perturbation or gravitational waves; that those of type (ii) do not change curvature perturbation but change gravitational waves; and that those of type (iii) change both curvature perturbation and gravitational waves. Therefore, coupling matter fields to the metric after disformal transformations of type (ii) or (iii) in principle have observable consequences. While the recent multi-messenger observation of binary neutron stars has singled out a proper disformal frame at the present epoch with a high precision, the result of the present paper may thus help distinguishing disformal frames in the early universe.

Precision Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Hunting Elephants.

PubMed

Joyner, Michael J

2016-01-01

Precision medicine postulates improved prediction, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease based on patient specific factors especially DNA sequence (i.e., gene) variants. Ideas related to precision medicine stem from the much anticipated "genetic revolution in medicine" arising seamlessly from the human genome project (HGP). In this essay I deconstruct the concept of precision medicine and raise questions about the validity of the paradigm in general and its application to cardiovascular disease. Thus far precision medicine has underperformed based on the vision promulgated by enthusiasts. While niche successes for precision medicine are likely, the promises of broad based transformation should be viewed with skepticism. Open discussion and debate related to precision medicine are urgently needed to avoid misapplication of resources, hype, iatrogenic interventions, and distraction from established approaches with ongoing utility. Failure to engage in such debate will lead to negative unintended consequences from a revolution that might never come. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Impact of ambiguity resolution and application of transformation parameters obtained by regional GNSS network in Precise Point Positioning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gandolfi, S.; Poluzzi, L.; Tavasci, L.

2012-12-01

Precise Point Positioning (PPP) is one of the possible approaches for GNSS data processing. As known this technique is faster and more flexible compared to the others which are based on a differenced approach and constitute a reliable methods for accurate positioning of remote GNSS stations, even in some remote area such as Antarctica. Until few years ago one of the major limits of the method was the impossibility to resolve the ambiguity as integer but nowadays many methods are available to resolve this aspect. The first software package permitting a PPP solution was the GIPSY OASIS realized, developed and maintained by JPL (NASA). JPL produce also orbits and files ready to be used with GIPSY. Recently, using these products came possible to resolve ambiguities improving the stability of solutions. PPP permit to estimate position into the reference frame of the orbits (IGS) and when coordinate in others reference frames, such al ITRF, are needed is necessary to apply a transformation. Within his products JPL offer, for each day, a global 7 parameter transformation that permit to locate the survey into the ITRF RF. In some cases it's also possible to create a costumed process and obtain analogous parameters using local/regional reference network of stations which coordinates are available also in the desired reference frame. In this work some tests on accuracy has been carried out comparing different PPP solutions obtained using the same software packages (GIPSY) but considering the ambiguity resolution, the global and regional transformation parameters. In particular two test area have been considered, first one located in Antarctica and the second one in Italy. Aim of the work is the evaluation of the impact of ambiguity resolution and the use of local/regional transformation parameter in the final solutions. Tests shown how the ambiguity resolution improve the precision, especially in the EAST component with a scattering reduction about 8%. And the use of global transformation parameter permit to improve the accuracy of about 59%, 63% and 29% in the three components N E U, but other tests shown how is possible to improve the accuracy of 67% 71% and 53% using regional transformation parameters. Example of the impact of global vs regional parameters transformation in a GPS time series

Optimality of general lattice transformations with applications to the Bain strain in steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koumatos, K.; Muehlemann, A.

2016-04-01

This article provides a rigorous proof of a conjecture by E. C. Bain in 1924 on the optimality of the so-called Bain strain based on a criterion of least atomic movement. A general framework that explores several such optimality criteria is introduced and employed to show the existence of optimal transformations between any two Bravais lattices. A precise algorithm and a graphical user interface to determine this optimal transformation is provided. Apart from the Bain conjecture concerning the transformation from face-centred cubic to body-centred cubic, applications include the face-centred cubic to body-centred tetragonal transition as well as the transformation between two triclinic phases of terephthalic acid.

Optimality of general lattice transformations with applications to the Bain strain in steel

PubMed Central

Koumatos, K.

2016-01-01

This article provides a rigorous proof of a conjecture by E. C. Bain in 1924 on the optimality of the so-called Bain strain based on a criterion of least atomic movement. A general framework that explores several such optimality criteria is introduced and employed to show the existence of optimal transformations between any two Bravais lattices. A precise algorithm and a graphical user interface to determine this optimal transformation is provided. Apart from the Bain conjecture concerning the transformation from face-centred cubic to body-centred cubic, applications include the face-centred cubic to body-centred tetragonal transition as well as the transformation between two triclinic phases of terephthalic acid. PMID:27274692

High-precision terahertz frequency modulated continuous wave imaging method using continuous wavelet transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Yu; Wang, Tianyi; Dai, Bing; Li, Wenjun; Wang, Wei; You, Chengwu; Wang, Kejia; Liu, Jinsong; Wang, Shenglie; Yang, Zhengang

2018-02-01

Inspired by the extensive application of terahertz (THz) imaging technologies in the field of aerospace, we exploit a THz frequency modulated continuous-wave imaging method with continuous wavelet transform (CWT) algorithm to detect a multilayer heat shield made of special materials. This method uses the frequency modulation continuous-wave system to catch the reflected THz signal and then process the image data by the CWT with different basis functions. By calculating the sizes of the defects area in the final images and then comparing the results with real samples, a practical high-precision THz imaging method is demonstrated. Our method can be an effective tool for the THz nondestructive testing of composites, drugs, and some cultural heritages.

Leukaemia cell of origin identified by chromatin landscape of bulk tumour cells

PubMed Central

George, Joshy; Uyar, Asli; Young, Kira; Kuffler, Lauren; Waldron-Francis, Kaiden; Marquez, Eladio; Ucar, Duygu; Trowbridge, Jennifer J.

2016-01-01

The precise identity of a tumour's cell of origin can influence disease prognosis and outcome. Methods to reliably define tumour cell of origin from primary, bulk tumour cell samples has been a challenge. Here we use a well-defined model of MLL-rearranged acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) to demonstrate that transforming haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and multipotent progenitors results in more aggressive AML than transforming committed progenitor cells. Transcriptome profiling reveals a gene expression signature broadly distinguishing stem cell-derived versus progenitor cell-derived AML, including genes involved in immune escape, extravasation and small GTPase signal transduction. However, whole-genome profiling of open chromatin reveals precise and robust biomarkers reflecting each cell of origin tested, from bulk AML tumour cell sampling. We find that bulk AML tumour cells exhibit distinct open chromatin loci that reflect the transformed cell of origin and suggest that open chromatin patterns may be leveraged as prognostic signatures in human AML. PMID:27397025

Renal geology (quantitative renal stone analysis) by 'Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy'.

PubMed

Singh, Iqbal

2008-01-01

To prospectively determine the precise stone composition (quantitative analysis) by using infrared spectroscopy in patients with urinary stone disease presenting to our clinic. To determine an ideal method for stone analysis suitable for use in a clinical setting. After routine and a detailed metabolic workup of all patients of urolithiasis, stone samples of 50 patients of urolithiasis satisfying the entry criteria were subjected to the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis after adequate sample homogenization at a single testing center. Calcium oxalate monohydrate and dihydrate stone mixture was most commonly encountered in 35 (71%) followed by calcium phosphate, carbonate apatite, magnesium ammonium hexahydrate and xanthine stones. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy allows an accurate, reliable quantitative method of stone analysis. It also helps in maintaining a computerized large reference library. Knowledge of precise stone composition may allow the institution of appropriate prophylactic therapy despite the absence of any detectable metabolic abnormalities. This may prevent and or delay stone recurrence.

High-Precision Registration of Point Clouds Based on Sphere Feature Constraints.

PubMed

Huang, Junhui; Wang, Zhao; Gao, Jianmin; Huang, Youping; Towers, David Peter

2016-12-30

Point cloud registration is a key process in multi-view 3D measurements. Its precision affects the measurement precision directly. However, in the case of the point clouds with non-overlapping areas or curvature invariant surface, it is difficult to achieve a high precision. A high precision registration method based on sphere feature constraint is presented to overcome the difficulty in the paper. Some known sphere features with constraints are used to construct virtual overlapping areas. The virtual overlapping areas provide more accurate corresponding point pairs and reduce the influence of noise. Then the transformation parameters between the registered point clouds are solved by an optimization method with weight function. In that case, the impact of large noise in point clouds can be reduced and a high precision registration is achieved. Simulation and experiments validate the proposed method.

High-Precision Registration of Point Clouds Based on Sphere Feature Constraints

PubMed Central

Huang, Junhui; Wang, Zhao; Gao, Jianmin; Huang, Youping; Towers, David Peter

2016-01-01

Point cloud registration is a key process in multi-view 3D measurements. Its precision affects the measurement precision directly. However, in the case of the point clouds with non-overlapping areas or curvature invariant surface, it is difficult to achieve a high precision. A high precision registration method based on sphere feature constraint is presented to overcome the difficulty in the paper. Some known sphere features with constraints are used to construct virtual overlapping areas. The virtual overlapping areas provide more accurate corresponding point pairs and reduce the influence of noise. Then the transformation parameters between the registered point clouds are solved by an optimization method with weight function. In that case, the impact of large noise in point clouds can be reduced and a high precision registration is achieved. Simulation and experiments validate the proposed method. PMID:28042846

Three-axis electron-beam test facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dayton, J. A., Jr.; Ebihara, B. T.

1981-01-01

An electron beam test facility, which consists of a precision multidimensional manipulator built into an ultra-high-vacuum bell jar, was designed, fabricated, and operated at Lewis Research Center. The position within the bell jar of a Faraday cup which samples current in the electron beam under test, is controlled by the manipulator. Three orthogonal axes of motion are controlled by stepping motors driven by digital indexers, and the positions are displayed on electronic totalizers. In the transverse directions, the limits of travel are approximately + or - 2.5 cm from the center with a precision of 2.54 micron (0.0001 in.); in the axial direction, approximately 15.0 cm of travel are permitted with an accuracy of 12.7 micron (0.0005 in.). In addition, two manually operated motions are provided, the pitch and yaw of the Faraday cup with respect to the electron beam can be adjusted to within a few degrees. The current is sensed by pulse transformers and the data are processed by a dual channel box car averager with a digital output. The beam tester can be operated manually or it can be programmed for automated operation. In the automated mode, the beam tester is controlled by a microcomputer (installed at the test site) which communicates with a minicomputer at the central computing facility. The data are recorded and later processed by computer to obtain the desired graphical presentations.

Transforming Cancer Prevention through Precision Medicine and Immune-oncology.

PubMed

Kensler, Thomas W; Spira, Avrum; Garber, Judy E; Szabo, Eva; Lee, J Jack; Dong, Zigang; Dannenberg, Andrew J; Hait, William N; Blackburn, Elizabeth; Davidson, Nancy E; Foti, Margaret; Lippman, Scott M

2016-01-01

We have entered a transformative period in cancer prevention (including early detection). Remarkable progress in precision medicine and immune-oncology, driven by extraordinary recent advances in genome-wide sequencing, big-data analytics, blood-based technologies, and deep understanding of the tumor immune microenvironment (TME), has provided unprecedented possibilities to study the biology of premalignancy. The pace of research and discovery in precision medicine and immunoprevention has been astonishing and includes the following clinical firsts reported in 2015: driver mutations detected in circulating cell-free DNA in patients with premalignant lesions (lung); clonal hematopoiesis shown to be a premalignant state; molecular selection in chemoprevention randomized controlled trial (RCT; oral); striking efficacy in RCT of combination chemoprevention targeting signaling pathway alterations mechanistically linked to germline mutation (duodenum); molecular markers for early detection validated for lung cancer and showing promise for pancreatic, liver, and ovarian cancer. Identification of HPV as the essential cause of a major global cancer burden, including HPV16 as the single driver of an epidemic of oropharyngeal cancer in men, provides unique opportunities for the dissemination and implementation of public health interventions. Important to immunoprevention beyond viral vaccines, genetic drivers of premalignant progression were associated with increasing immunosuppressive TME; and Kras vaccine efficacy in pancreas genetically engineered mouse (GEM) model required an inhibitory adjuvant (Treg depletion). In addition to developing new (e.g., epigenetic) TME regulators, recent mechanistic studies of repurposed drugs (aspirin, metformin, and tamoxifen) have identified potent immune activity. Just as precision medicine and immune-oncology are revolutionizing cancer therapy, these approaches are transforming cancer prevention. Here, we set out a brief agenda for the immediate future of cancer prevention research (including a "Pre-Cancer Genome Atlas" or "PCGA"), which will involve the inter-related fields of precision medicine and immunoprevention - pivotal elements of a broader domain of personalized public health. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Good practices in free-energy calculations.

PubMed

Pohorille, Andrew; Jarzynski, Christopher; Chipot, Christophe

2010-08-19

As access to computational resources continues to increase, free-energy calculations have emerged as a powerful tool that can play a predictive role in a wide range of research areas. Yet, the reliability of these calculations can often be improved significantly if a number of precepts, or good practices, are followed. Although the theory upon which these good practices rely has largely been known for many years, it is often overlooked or simply ignored. In other cases, the theoretical developments are too recent for their potential to be fully grasped and merged into popular platforms for the computation of free-energy differences. In this contribution, the current best practices for carrying out free-energy calculations using free energy perturbation and nonequilibrium work methods are discussed, demonstrating that at little to no additional cost, free-energy estimates could be markedly improved and bounded by meaningful error estimates. Monitoring the probability distributions that underlie the transformation between the states of interest, performing the calculation bidirectionally, stratifying the reaction pathway, and choosing the most appropriate paradigms and algorithms for transforming between states offer significant gains in both accuracy and precision.

A novel method for identification of lithium-ion battery equivalent circuit model parameters considering electrochemical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xi; Lu, Jinling; Yuan, Shifei; Yang, Jun; Zhou, Xuan

2017-03-01

This paper proposes a novel parameter identification method for the lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery equivalent circuit model (ECM) considering the electrochemical properties. An improved pseudo two-dimension (P2D) model is established on basis of partial differential equations (PDEs), since the electrolyte potential is simplified from the nonlinear to linear expression while terminal voltage can be divided into the electrolyte potential, open circuit voltage (OCV), overpotential of electrodes, internal resistance drop, and so on. The model order reduction process is implemented by the simplification of the PDEs using the Laplace transform, inverse Laplace transform, Pade approximation, etc. A unified second order transfer function between cell voltage and current is obtained for the comparability with that of ECM. The final objective is to obtain the relationship between the ECM resistances/capacitances and electrochemical parameters such that in various conditions, ECM precision could be improved regarding integration of battery interior properties for further applications, e.g., SOC estimation. Finally simulation and experimental results prove the correctness and validity of the proposed methodology.

High voltage power supply with modular series resonant inverters

DOEpatents

Dreifuerst, Gary R.; Merritt, Bernard T.

1995-01-01

A relatively small and compact high voltage, high current power supply for a laser utilizes a plurality of modules containing series resonant half bridge inverters. A pair of reverse conducting thyristors are incorporated in each series resonant inverter module such that the series resonant inverter modules are sequentially activated in phases 360.degree./n apart, where n=number of modules for n>2. Selective activation of the modules allows precise output control reducing ripple and improving efficiency. Each series resonant half bridge inverter module includes a transformer which has a cooling manifold for actively circulating a coolant such as water, to cool the transformer core as well as selected circuit elements. Conductors connecting and forming various circuit components comprise hollow, electrically conductive tubes such as copper. Coolant circulates through the tubes to remove heat. The conductive tubes act as electrically conductive lines for connecting various components of the power supply. Where it is desired to make electrical isolation breaks, tubes comprised of insulating material such as nylon are used to provide insulation and continue the fluid circuit.

High voltage power supply with modular series resonant inverters

DOEpatents

Dreifuerst, G.R.; Merritt, B.T.

1995-07-18

A relatively small and compact high voltage, high current power supply for a laser utilizes a plurality of modules containing series resonant half bridge inverters. A pair of reverse conducting thyristors are incorporated in each series resonant inverter module such that the series resonant inverter modules are sequentially activated in phases 360{degree}/n apart, where n=number of modules for n>2. Selective activation of the modules allows precise output control reducing ripple and improving efficiency. Each series resonant half bridge inverter module includes a transformer which has a cooling manifold for actively circulating a coolant such as water, to cool the transformer core as well as selected circuit elements. Conductors connecting and forming various circuit components comprise hollow, electrically conductive tubes such as copper. Coolant circulates through the tubes to remove heat. The conductive tubes act as electrically conductive lines for connecting various components of the power supply. Where it is desired to make electrical isolation breaks, tubes comprised of insulating material such as nylon are used to provide insulation and continue the fluid circuit. 11 figs.

Capturing Structural Snapshots during Photochemical Reactions with Ultrafast Raman Spectroscopy: From Materials Transformation to Biosensor Responses.

PubMed

Fang, Chong; Tang, Longteng; Oscar, Breland G; Chen, Cheng

2018-06-21

Chemistry studies the composition, structure, properties, and transformation of matter. A mechanistic understanding of the pertinent processes is required to translate fundamental knowledge into practical applications. The current development of ultrafast Raman as a powerful time-resolved vibrational technique, particularly femtosecond stimulated Raman spectroscopy (FSRS), has shed light on the structure-energy-function relationships of various photosensitive systems. This Perspective reviews recent work incorporating optical innovations, including the broad-band up-converted multicolor array (BUMA) into a tunable FSRS setup, and demonstrates its resolving power to watch metal speciation and photolysis, leading to high-quality thin films, and fluorescence modulation of chimeric protein biosensors for calcium ion imaging. We discuss advantages of performing FSRS in the mixed time-frequency domain and present strategies to delineate mechanisms by tracking low-frequency modes and systematically modifying chemical structures with specific functional groups. These unique insights at the chemical-bond level have started to enable the rational design and precise control of functional molecular machines in optical, materials, energy, and life sciences.

Direct-Current Monitor With Flux-Reset Transformer Coupling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Canter, Stanley

1993-01-01

Circuit measures constant or slowly-varying unidirectional electrical current using flux-reset transformer coupling. Measurement nonintrusive in sense that no need for direct contact with wire that carries load current to be measured, and no need to install series resistive element in load-current path. Toroidal magnetic core wrapped with coil of wire placed around load-current-carrying wire, acts as transformer core, load-current-carrying wire acts as primary winding of transformer, and coil wrapped on core acts as secondary winding.

The I/O transform of a chemical sensor

PubMed Central

Katta, Nalin; Meier, Douglas C.; Benkstein, Kurt D.; Semancik, Steve; Raman, Baranidharan

2016-01-01

A number of sensing technologies, using a variety of transduction principles, have been proposed for non-invasive chemical sensing. A fundamental problem common to all these sensing technologies is determining what features of the transducer's signal constitute a chemical fingerprint that allows for precise analyte recognition. Of particular importance is the need to extract features that are robust with respect to the sensor's age or stimulus intensity. Here, using pulsed stimulus delivery, we show that a sensor's operation can be modeled as a linear input-output (I/O) transform. The I/O transform is unique for each analyte and can be used to precisely predict a temperature-programmed chemiresistor's response to the analyte given the recent stimulus history (i.e. state of an analyte delivery valve being open or closed). We show that the analyte specific I/O transforms are to a certain degree stimulus intensity invariant and can remain consistent even when the sensor has undergone considerable aging. Significantly, the I/O transforms for a given analyte are highly conserved across sensors of equal manufacture, thereby allowing training data obtained from one sensor to be used for recognition of the same set of chemical species with another sensor. Hence, this proposed approach facilitates decoupling of the signal processing algorithms from the chemical transducer, a key advance necessary for achieving long-term, non-invasive chemical sensing. PMID:27932855

Infrared Photometry for Automated Telescopes: Passband Selection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milone, Gene; Young, Andrew T.

2011-03-01

The high precision that photometry in the near and intermediate infrared region can provide has not been achieved, partly because of technical challenges (including cryogenics, which most IR detectors require), and partly because the filters in common use are not optimized to avoid water-vapor absorptions, which are the principal impediment to precise ground-based IR photometry. We review the IRWG filters that achieve this goal, and the trials that were undertaken to demonstrate their superiority. We focus especially on the near IR set and, for high elevation sites, the passbands in the N window. We also discuss the price to be paid for the improved precision, in the form of lower throughput, and why it should be paid: to achieve not only higher precision (i.e., improved signal-to-noise ratio), but also lower extinction, thus producing higher accuracy in extra-atmospheric magnitudes. The edges of the IRWG passbands are not defined by the edges of the atmospheric windows: therefore, they admit no flux from these (constantly varying) edges. The throughput cost and the lack of a large body of data already obtained in these passbands are principal reasons why the IRWG filters are not in wide use at observatories around the world that currently do IR work. Yet a measure of the signal-to-noise ratio varies inversely with both extinction and with a measure of the Forbes effect. So, the small loss of raw throughput is recouped in signal-to-noise gain. We illustrate these points with passbands of both near and intermediate IR passbands. There is also the matter of cost for small production runs of these filters; reduced costs can be realized through bulk orders with uniform filter specifications. As a consequence, the near-IR IRWG passbands offer the prospect of being able to do photometry in those passbands at both high and low elevation sites that are capable of supporting precise photometry, thereby freeing infrared photometry from the need to access exclusively high and dry elevation sites, although photometry done at those sites can also benefit from improved accuracy and transformability. We suggest that if the IRWG passbands are made available, they will be used! New automated systems making use of these passbands have the advantage of establishing the system more widely, creating a larger body of data to which future observations will be fully transformable, and will be cheaper to purchase. This work has been supported in part by grants to EFM by the Canadian Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.

Intelligent technologies in process of highly-precise products manufacturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vakhidova, K. L.; Khakimov, Z. L.; Isaeva, M. R.; Shukhin, V. V.; Labazanov, M. A.; Ignatiev, S. A.

2017-10-01

One of the main control methods of the surface layer of bearing parts is the eddy current testing method. Surface layer defects of bearing parts, like burns, cracks and some others, are reflected in the results of the rolling surfaces scan. The previously developed method for detecting defects from the image of the raceway was quite effective, but the processing algorithm is complicated and lasts for about 12 ... 16 s. The real non-stationary signals from an eddy current transducer (ECT) consist of short-time high-frequency and long-time low-frequency components, therefore a transformation is used for their analysis, which provides different windows for different frequencies. The wavelet transform meets these conditions. Based on aforesaid, a methodology for automatically detecting and recognizing local defects in bearing parts surface layer has been developed on the basis of wavelet analysis using integral estimates. Some of the defects are recognized by the amplitude component, otherwise an automatic transition to recognition by the phase component of information signals (IS) is carried out. The use of intelligent technologies in the manufacture of bearing parts will, firstly, significantly improve the quality of bearings, and secondly, significantly improve production efficiency by reducing (eliminating) rejections in the manufacture of products, increasing the period of normal operation of the technological equipment (inter-adjustment period), the implementation of the system of Flexible facilities maintenance, as well as reducing production costs.

Power enhancement of piezoelectric transformers by adding heat transfer equipment.

PubMed

Su, Yu-Hao; Liu, Yuan-Ping; Vasic, Dejan; Wu, Wen-Jong; Costa, François; Lee, Chih-Kung

2012-10-01

It is known that piezoelectric transformers have several inherent advantages compared with conventional electromagnetic transformers. However, the maximum power capacity of piezoelectric transformers is not as large as electromagnetic transformers in practice, especially in the case of high output current. The theoretical power density of piezoelectric transformers calculated by stress boundary can reach 330 W/cm(3), but no piezoelectric transformer has ever reached such a high power density in practice. The power density of piezoelectric transformers is limited to 33 W/cm(3) in practical applications. The underlying reason is that the maximum passing current of the piezoelectric material (mechanical current) is limited by the temperature rise caused by heat generation. To increase this current and the power capacity, we proposed to add a thermal pad to the piezoelectric transformer to dissipate heat. The experimental results showed that the proposed techniques can increase by 3 times the output current of the piezoelectric transformer. A theoretical-phenomenological model which explains the relationship between vibration velocity and generated heat is also established to verify the experimental results.

Improving probabilistic prediction of daily streamflow by identifying Pareto optimal approaches for modeling heteroscedastic residual errors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McInerney, David; Thyer, Mark; Kavetski, Dmitri; Lerat, Julien; Kuczera, George

2017-03-01

Reliable and precise probabilistic prediction of daily catchment-scale streamflow requires statistical characterization of residual errors of hydrological models. This study focuses on approaches for representing error heteroscedasticity with respect to simulated streamflow, i.e., the pattern of larger errors in higher streamflow predictions. We evaluate eight common residual error schemes, including standard and weighted least squares, the Box-Cox transformation (with fixed and calibrated power parameter λ) and the log-sinh transformation. Case studies include 17 perennial and 6 ephemeral catchments in Australia and the United States, and two lumped hydrological models. Performance is quantified using predictive reliability, precision, and volumetric bias metrics. We find the choice of heteroscedastic error modeling approach significantly impacts on predictive performance, though no single scheme simultaneously optimizes all performance metrics. The set of Pareto optimal schemes, reflecting performance trade-offs, comprises Box-Cox schemes with λ of 0.2 and 0.5, and the log scheme (λ = 0, perennial catchments only). These schemes significantly outperform even the average-performing remaining schemes (e.g., across ephemeral catchments, median precision tightens from 105% to 40% of observed streamflow, and median biases decrease from 25% to 4%). Theoretical interpretations of empirical results highlight the importance of capturing the skew/kurtosis of raw residuals and reproducing zero flows. Paradoxically, calibration of λ is often counterproductive: in perennial catchments, it tends to overfit low flows at the expense of abysmal precision in high flows. The log-sinh transformation is dominated by the simpler Pareto optimal schemes listed above. Recommendations for researchers and practitioners seeking robust residual error schemes for practical work are provided.

An accuracy improvement method for the topology measurement of an atomic force microscope using a 2D wavelet transform.

PubMed

Yoon, Yeomin; Noh, Suwoo; Jeong, Jiseong; Park, Kyihwan

2018-05-01

The topology image is constructed from the 2D matrix (XY directions) of heights Z captured from the force-feedback loop controller. For small height variations, nonlinear effects such as hysteresis or creep of the PZT-driven Z nano scanner can be neglected and its calibration is quite straightforward. For large height variations, the linear approximation of the PZT-driven Z nano scanner fail and nonlinear behaviors must be considered because this would cause inaccuracies in the measurement image. In order to avoid such inaccuracies, an additional strain gauge sensor is used to directly measure displacement of the PZT-driven Z nano scanner. However, this approach also has a disadvantage in its relatively low precision. In order to obtain high precision data with good linearity, we propose a method of overcoming the low precision problem of the strain gauge while its feature of good linearity is maintained. We expect that the topology image obtained from the strain gauge sensor showing significant noise at high frequencies. On the other hand, the topology image obtained from the controller output showing low noise at high frequencies. If the low and high frequency signals are separable from both topology images, the image can be constructed so that it is represented with high accuracy and low noise. In order to separate the low frequencies from high frequencies, a 2D Haar wavelet transform is used. Our proposed method use the 2D wavelet transform for obtaining good linearity from strain gauge sensor and good precision from controller output. The advantages of the proposed method are experimentally validated by using topology images. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Simulative design in macroscale for prospective application to micro-catheters.

PubMed

Ha, Cheol Woo

2018-02-09

In this paper, a motion-transforming element is applied to the development of a new catheter device. The motion-transforming element structure allows a reduction of linear movement and converts linear movement to rotational movement. The simulative design of micro-catheters is based on a proposed structure called the Operating Mini Station (OMS). OMS is operated by movement of a motion-transforming element. A new motion-transforming element is designed using multiple links that are connected by hinged joints based on an elastic design. The design of the links and the hinges are optimized for precise and reliable movement of the motion-transforming element. Because of the elastic design, it is possible to realize a catheter that allows various movements in small spaces like capillaries.

The Angular Velocity of Nubia Relative to Somalia and the Location of the Nubia-Somalia-Antarctica Triple Junction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horner-Johnson, B. C.; Gordon, R. G.; Cowles, S. M.; Argus, D. F.

2003-12-01

A new analysis of geologically current plate motion across the Southwest Indian Ridge and of the current location of the Nubia-Antarctica-Somalia triple junction is presented. We estimate spreading rates averaged over the past 3.2 Myr from 103 well-distributed, nearly ridge-perpendicular profiles crossing the Southwest Indian Ridge. We evaluate all available bathymetric data to estimate the azimuths and uncertainties of transform faults; six are estimated from multi-beam data and twelve from precision depth recorder data. If the Nubia-Somalia boundary is narrow where it intersects the Southwest Indian Ridge, that intersection lies between about 26° E and 32° E. This places it either along the spreading ridge segment just west of the Andrew Bain transform fault complex or along the transform fault complex itself. These limits are narrower than, and contained within, limits of about 24° E to 33° E previously found by Lemaux et al. (2002) from an analysis of the locations of magnetic anomaly 5. The data are consistent with a narrow boundary, but also consistent with a diffuse boundary as wide as about 700 km. The new Nubia-Somalia pole of rotation lies southwest of southern Africa and differs significantly from previously estimated poles, including that from data in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The new pole indicates displacement rates of Somalia relative to Nubia of 3.4 +/- 1.3\\ mm yr-1 (95% confidence limits) towards 176.8° between Somalia and Nubia near the Southwest Indian Ridge, and of 8.4 +/- 1.3\\ mm yr-1 (95% confidence limits) towards 118.5° near Afar.

The weight and angle of depression detection and control system of a large portal crane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Lian-Wen; Xie, Hongxia; Wang, Meijing; Guan, Yankui; Leng, Gengxin

2008-12-01

In order to prevent overturning accidents, the lifted weight and the angle of depression should be detected when a large portal crane is working in a shipyard. However, the locations of the weight sensor and the angle of depression detection part are far away from the central control room. The long signal transmitting distance is so long that it results in a lot of interferences, even the breaking down of the system. In order to solve the above mentioned problems, a high precision analog signal amplifier and a voltage / current (V / I) transforming circuit is set at the place of the sensor to detect the weight. After the sensor signals have been amplified, they will be transformed into 4 to 20 mA current signals for transmission. Thus the interferences in the long transmitting process can be overcome. A WXJ-3 potentiometer is applied to detect the angle of depression. This device has the advantages of a high accuracy of repeated positions, a good stability and a strong anti-fatigue property. After processed by the current-strengthened circuit, the transmitted signals representing voltage value can have the characteristics of transmitting currents because of the large current value. Then the anti-jamming capability is stronger. Send the weight and the angle of depression detection signals to A/D converter, then the signals turn into digital representation and are sent to the control system composed of a PLC. The PLC calculates the current rated lifting weight depending on the different angles of depression, and when the weight is greater than the rated one, the PLC sends control signals to stop the lifting; hence the crane can only put down the weights. So the safety of the large portal crane is effectively guaranteed. At present ,the system has been applied to the 70-ton large portal cranes of the Tianjin Xingang Shipyard with a safe operation of 10 years.

30 CFR 75.814 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... protection must not be dependent upon control power and may consist of a current transformer and overcurrent... restarting of the equipment. (b) Current transformers used for the ground-fault protection specified in... series with ground-fault current transformers. (c) Each ground-fault current device specified in...

30 CFR 75.814 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... protection must not be dependent upon control power and may consist of a current transformer and overcurrent... restarting of the equipment. (b) Current transformers used for the ground-fault protection specified in... series with ground-fault current transformers. (c) Each ground-fault current device specified in...

30 CFR 75.814 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... protection must not be dependent upon control power and may consist of a current transformer and overcurrent... restarting of the equipment. (b) Current transformers used for the ground-fault protection specified in... series with ground-fault current transformers. (c) Each ground-fault current device specified in...

30 CFR 75.814 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... protection must not be dependent upon control power and may consist of a current transformer and overcurrent... restarting of the equipment. (b) Current transformers used for the ground-fault protection specified in... series with ground-fault current transformers. (c) Each ground-fault current device specified in...

30 CFR 75.814 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... protection must not be dependent upon control power and may consist of a current transformer and overcurrent... restarting of the equipment. (b) Current transformers used for the ground-fault protection specified in... series with ground-fault current transformers. (c) Each ground-fault current device specified in...

Analytical Analysis and Case Study of Transient Behavior of Inrush Current in Power Transformer for Designing of Efficient Circuit Breakers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harmanpreet, Singh, Sukhwinder; Kumar, Ashok; Kaur, Parneet

2010-11-01

Stability & security are main aspects in electrical power systems. Transformer protection is major issue of concern to system operation. There are many mall-trip cases of transformer protection are caused by inrush current problems. The phenomenon of transformer inrush current has been discussed in many papers since 1958. In this paper analytical analysis of inrush current in a transformer switched on dc and ac supply has been done. This analysis will help in design aspects of circuit breakers for better performance.

An accurate system for onsite calibration of electronic transformers with digital output.

PubMed

Zhi, Zhang; Li, Hong-Bin

2012-06-01

Calibration systems with digital output are used to replace conventional calibration systems because of principle diversity and characteristics of digital output of electronic transformers. But precision and unpredictable stability limit their onsite application even development. So fully considering the factors influencing accuracy of calibration system and employing simple but reliable structure, an all-digital calibration system with digital output is proposed in this paper. In complicated calibration environments, precision and dynamic range are guaranteed by A/D converter with 24-bit resolution, synchronization error limit is nanosecond by using the novelty synchronization method. In addition, an error correction algorithm based on the differential method by using two-order Hanning convolution window has good inhibition of frequency fluctuation and inter-harmonics interference. To verify the effectiveness, error calibration was carried out in the State Grid Electric Power Research Institute of China and results show that the proposed system can reach the precision class up to 0.05. Actual onsite calibration shows that the system has high accuracy, and is easy to operate with satisfactory stability.

An accurate system for onsite calibration of electronic transformers with digital output

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

Zhi Zhang; Li Hongbin; State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Engineering and Technology, Wuhan 430074

Calibration systems with digital output are used to replace conventional calibration systems because of principle diversity and characteristics of digital output of electronic transformers. But precision and unpredictable stability limit their onsite application even development. So fully considering the factors influencing accuracy of calibration system and employing simple but reliable structure, an all-digital calibration system with digital output is proposed in this paper. In complicated calibration environments, precision and dynamic range are guaranteed by A/D converter with 24-bit resolution, synchronization error limit is nanosecond by using the novelty synchronization method. In addition, an error correction algorithm based on the differentialmore » method by using two-order Hanning convolution window has good inhibition of frequency fluctuation and inter-harmonics interference. To verify the effectiveness, error calibration was carried out in the State Grid Electric Power Research Institute of China and results show that the proposed system can reach the precision class up to 0.05. Actual onsite calibration shows that the system has high accuracy, and is easy to operate with satisfactory stability.« less

An accurate system for onsite calibration of electronic transformers with digital output

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhi, Zhang; Li, Hong-Bin

2012-06-01

Calibration systems with digital output are used to replace conventional calibration systems because of principle diversity and characteristics of digital output of electronic transformers. But precision and unpredictable stability limit their onsite application even development. So fully considering the factors influencing accuracy of calibration system and employing simple but reliable structure, an all-digital calibration system with digital output is proposed in this paper. In complicated calibration environments, precision and dynamic range are guaranteed by A/D converter with 24-bit resolution, synchronization error limit is nanosecond by using the novelty synchronization method. In addition, an error correction algorithm based on the differential method by using two-order Hanning convolution window has good inhibition of frequency fluctuation and inter-harmonics interference. To verify the effectiveness, error calibration was carried out in the State Grid Electric Power Research Institute of China and results show that the proposed system can reach the precision class up to 0.05. Actual onsite calibration shows that the system has high accuracy, and is easy to operate with satisfactory stability.

STATs in NK-Cells: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.

PubMed

Gotthardt, Dagmar; Sexl, Veronika

2016-01-01

Natural killer (NK)-cells are major players in the fight against viral infections and transformed cells, but there is increasing evidence attributing a disease-promoting role to NK-cells. Cytokines present in the tumor microenvironment shape NK-cell maturation, function, and effector responses. Many cytokines signal via the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway that is also frequently altered and constitutively active in a broad range of tumor cells. As a consequence, there are currently major efforts to develop therapeutic strategies to target this pathway. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to understand the role and contributions of JAK-STAT molecules in NK-cell biology-only this knowledge will allow us to predict effects of JAK-STAT inhibition for NK-cell functions and to successfully apply precision medicine. We will review the current knowledge on the role of JAK-STAT signaling for NK-cell functions and discuss conditions involved in the switch from NK-cell tumor surveillance to disease promotion.

Precision CMB Measurements from Long Duration Stratospheric Balloons: Towards B-modes and Inflation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, William C.

2013-01-01

Observations of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) have played a leading role in establishing an understanding of the structure and evolution of the Universe on the largest scales. This achievement has been enabled by a series of extremely successful experiments, coupled with the simplicity of the relationship between the cosmological theory and data. Antarctic experiments, including both balloon-borne telescopes and instruments at the South Pole, have played a key role in realizing the scientific potential of the CMB, from the characterization of the temperature anisotropies to the detection and study of the polarized component. Current and planned Antarctic long duration balloon experiments will extend this heritage of discovery to test theories of cosmic genesis through sensitive polarized surveys of the millimeter-wavelength sky. In this paper we will review the pivotal role that Antarctic balloon borne experiments have played in transforming our understanding of the Universe, and describe the scientific goals and technical approach of current and future missions.

Study of the precision guided communication of digital television

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lun

2012-04-01

Along with the progress and development of the digital technology, there produced the transmission of the new media by medium of such as the network, mobile phones and the digital television, while among them digital TV has the superiority of other media. The appearance and development of digital TV will induce a profound change in the broadcasting and television industry chain. This paper started with discussing the transformation of digital television in profit model, mode of operation and mode of transmission to construct the precision-guided communication theory; And then analyzes the properties and marketing nature of the precision-guided communication to make the construction of the precision-guided communication marketing mode; And put forward the implementing of the precision-guided communication marketing strategies and concrete steps; At the end of the article the author summarized four conclusions.

High-precision measurement of phenylalanine δ15N values for environmental samples: a new approach coupling high-pressure liquid chromatography purification and elemental analyzer isotope ratio mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Broek, Taylor A B; Walker, Brett D; Andreasen, Dyke H; McCarthy, Matthew D

2013-11-15

Compound-specific isotope analysis of individual amino acids (CSI-AA) is a powerful new tool for tracing nitrogen (N) source and transformation in biogeochemical cycles. Specifically, the δ(15)N value of phenylalanine (δ(15)N(Phe)) represents an increasingly used proxy for source δ(15)N signatures, with particular promise for paleoceanographic applications. However, current derivatization/gas chromatography methods require expensive and relatively uncommon instrumentation, and have relatively low precision, making many potential applications impractical. A new offline approach has been developed for high-precision δ(15)N measurements of amino acids (δ(15)N(AA)), optimized for δ(15)N(Phe) values. Amino acids (AAs) are first purified via high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), using a mixed-phase column and automated fraction collection. The δ(15)N values are determined via offline elemental analyzer-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EA-IRMS). The combined HPLC/EA-IRMS method separated most protein AAs with sufficient resolution to obtain accurate δ(15)N values, despite significant intra-peak isotopic fractionation. For δ(15)N(Phe) values, the precision was ±0.16‰ for standards, 4× better than gas chromatography/combustion/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC/C/IRMS; ±0.64‰). We also compared a δ(15)N(Phe) paleo-record from a deep-sea bamboo coral from Monterey Bay, CA, USA, using our method versus GC/C/IRMS. The two methods produced equivalent δ(15)N(Phe) values within error; however, the δ(15)N(Phe) values from HPLC/EA-IRMS had approximately twice the precision of GC/C/IRMS (average stdev of 0.27‰ ± 0.14‰ vs 0.60‰ ± 0.20‰, respectively). These results demonstrate that offline HPLC represents a viable alternative to traditional GC/C/IMRS for δ(15)N(AA) measurement. HPLC/EA-IRMS is more precise and widely available, and therefore useful in applications requiring increased precision for data interpretation (e.g. δ(15)N paleoproxies). Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A simplified Integer Cosine Transform and its application in image compression

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Costa, M.; Tong, K.

1994-01-01

A simplified version of the integer cosine transform (ICT) is described. For practical reasons, the transform is considered jointly with the quantization of its coefficients. It differs from conventional ICT algorithms in that the combined factors for normalization and quantization are approximated by powers of two. In conventional algorithms, the normalization/quantization stage typically requires as many integer divisions as the number of transform coefficients. By restricting the factors to powers of two, these divisions can be performed by variable shifts in the binary representation of the coefficients, with speed and cost advantages to the hardware implementation of the algorithm. The error introduced by the factor approximations is compensated for in the inverse ICT operation, executed with floating point precision. The simplified ICT algorithm has potential applications in image-compression systems with disparate cost and speed requirements in the encoder and decoder ends. For example, in deep space image telemetry, the image processors on board the spacecraft could take advantage of the simplified, faster encoding operation, which would be adjusted on the ground, with high-precision arithmetic. A dual application is found in compressed video broadcasting. Here, a fast, high-performance processor at the transmitter would precompensate for the factor approximations in the inverse ICT operation, to be performed in real time, at a large number of low-cost receivers.

Bäcklund Transformations in 10D SUSY Yang-Mills Theories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gervais, Jean-Loup

A Bäcklund transformation is derived for the Yang's type (super) equations previously derived (hep-th/9811108) by M. Saveliev and the author, from the ten-dimensional super-Yang-Mills field equations in an on-shell light cone gauge. It is shown to be based upon a particular gauge transformation satisfying nonlinear conditions which ensure that the equations retain the same form. These Yang's type field equations are shown to be precisely such that they automatically provide a solution of these conditions. This Bäcklund transformation is similar to the one proposed by A. Leznov for self-dual Yang-Mills in four dimensions. In the introduction a personal recollection on the birth of supersymmetry is given.

Influence of Ni on Martensitic Phase Transformations in NiTi Shape Memory Alloys

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

Frenzel, J.; George, Easo P; Dlouhy, A.

High-precision data on phase transformation temperatures in NiTi, including numerical expressions for the effect of Ni on M{sub S}, M{sub F}, A{sub S}, A{sub F} and T{sub 0}, are obtained, and the reasons for the large experimental scatter observed in previous studies are discussed. Clear experimental evidence is provided confirming the predictions of Tang et al. 1999 regarding deviations from a linear relation between the thermodynamic equilibrium temperature and Ni concentration. In addition to affecting the phase transition temperatures, increasing Ni contents are found to decrease the width of thermal hysteresis and the heat of transformation. These findings are rationalizedmore » on the basis of the crystallographic data of Prokoshkin et al. 2004 and the theory of Ball and James. The results show that it is important to document carefully the details of the arc-melting procedure used to make shape memory alloys and that, if the effects of processing are properly accounted for, precise values for the Ni concentration of the NiTi matrix can be obtained.« less

Magnetically Controlled Variable Transformer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kleiner, Charles T.

1994-01-01

Improved variable-transformer circuit, output voltage and current of which controlled by use of relatively small current supplied at relatively low power to control windings on its magnetic cores. Transformer circuits of this type called "magnetic amplifiers" because ratio between controlled output power and power driving control current of such circuit large. This ratio - power gain - can be as large as 100 in present circuit. Variable-transformer circuit offers advantages of efficiency, safety, and controllability over some prior variable-transformer circuits.

Representations of time coordinates in FITS. Time and relative dimension in space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rots, Arnold H.; Bunclark, Peter S.; Calabretta, Mark R.; Allen, Steven L.; Manchester, Richard N.; Thompson, William T.

2015-02-01

Context. In a series of three previous papers, formulation and specifics of the representation of world coordinate transformations in FITS data have been presented. This fourth paper deals with encoding time. Aims: Time on all scales and precisions known in astronomical datasets is to be described in an unambiguous, complete, and self-consistent manner. Methods: Employing the well-established World Coordinate System (WCS) framework, and maintaining compatibility with the FITS conventions that are currently in use to specify time, the standard is extended to describe rigorously the time coordinate. Results: World coordinate functions are defined for temporal axes sampled linearly and as specified by a lookup table. The resulting standard is consistent with the existing FITS WCS standards and specifies a metadata set that achieves the aims enunciated above.

Beyond DNA origami: A look on the bright future of nucleic acid nanotechnology

PubMed Central

Michelotti, Nicole; Johnson-Buck, Alexander; Manzo, Anthony J.

2012-01-01

Nucleic acid nanotechnology exploits the programmable molecular recognition properties of natural and synthetic nucleic acids to assemble structures with nanometer-scale precision. In 2006, DNA origami transformed the field by providing a versatile platform for self-assembly of arbitrary shapes from one long DNA strand held in place by hundreds of short, site-specific (spatially addressable) DNA ”staples”. This revolutionary approach has led to the creation of a multitude of 2D and 3D scaffolds that form the basis for functional nanodevices. Not limited to nucleic acids, these nanodevices can incorporate other structural and functional materials, such as proteins and nanoparticles, making them broadly useful for current and future applications in emerging fields such as nanomedicine, nanoelectronics, and alternative energy. PMID:22131292

Precision and manufacturing at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saito, Theodore T.; Wasley, Richard J.; Stowers, Irving F.; Donaldson, Robert R.; Thompson, Daniel C.

1994-01-01

Precision Engineering is one of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's core strengths. This paper discusses the past and present current technology transfer efforts of LLNL's Precision Engineering program and the Livermore Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Productivity (LCAMP). More than a year ago the Precision Machine Commercialization project embodied several successful methods of transferring high technology from the National Laboratories to industry. Currently, LCAMP has already demonstrated successful technology transfer and is involved in a broad spectrum of current programs. In addition, this paper discusses other technologies ripe for future transition including the Large Optics Diamond Turning Machine.

Precision and manufacturing at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Theodore T.; Wasley, Richard J.; Stowers, Irving F.; Donaldson, Robert R.; Thompson, Daniel C.

1994-02-01

Precision Engineering is one of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's core strengths. This paper discusses the past and present current technology transfer efforts of LLNL's Precision Engineering program and the Livermore Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Productivity (LCAMP). More than a year ago the Precision Machine Commercialization project embodied several successful methods of transferring high technology from the National Laboratories to industry. Currently, LCAMP has already demonstrated successful technology transfer and is involved in a broad spectrum of current programs. In addition, this paper discusses other technologies ripe for future transition including the Large Optics Diamond Turning Machine.

Precision control of multiple quantum cascade lasers for calibration systems

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

Taubman, Matthew S., E-mail: Matthew.Taubman@pnnl.gov; Myers, Tanya L.; Pratt, Richard M.

We present a precision, 1-A, digitally interfaced current controller for quantum cascade lasers, with demonstrated temperature coefficients for continuous and 40-kHz full-depth square-wave modulated operation, of 1–2 ppm/ °C and 15 ppm/ °C, respectively. High precision digital to analog converters (DACs) together with an ultra-precision voltage reference produce highly stable, precision voltages, which are selected by a multiplexer (MUX) chip to set output currents via a linear current regulator. The controller is operated in conjunction with a power multiplexing unit, allowing one of three lasers to be driven by the controller, while ensuring protection of controller and all lasers during operation, standby,more » and switching. Simple ASCII commands sent over a USB connection to a microprocessor located in the current controller operate both the controller (via the DACs and MUX chip) and the power multiplexer.« less

Analysis and modeling of leakage current sensor under pulsating direct current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Kui; Dai, Yihua; Wang, Yao; Niu, Feng; Chen, Zhao; Huang, Shaopo

2017-05-01

In this paper, the transformation characteristics of current sensor under pulsating DC leakage current is investigated. The mathematical model of current sensor is proposed to accurately describe the secondary side current and excitation current. The transformation process of current sensor is illustrated in details and the transformation error is analyzed from multi aspects. A simulation model is built and a sensor prototype is designed to conduct comparative evaluation, and both simulation and experimental results are presented to verify the correctness of theoretical analysis.

Foundations for Streaming Model Transformations by Complex Event Processing.

PubMed

Dávid, István; Ráth, István; Varró, Dániel

2018-01-01

Streaming model transformations represent a novel class of transformations to manipulate models whose elements are continuously produced or modified in high volume and with rapid rate of change. Executing streaming transformations requires efficient techniques to recognize activated transformation rules over a live model and a potentially infinite stream of events. In this paper, we propose foundations of streaming model transformations by innovatively integrating incremental model query, complex event processing (CEP) and reactive (event-driven) transformation techniques. Complex event processing allows to identify relevant patterns and sequences of events over an event stream. Our approach enables event streams to include model change events which are automatically and continuously populated by incremental model queries. Furthermore, a reactive rule engine carries out transformations on identified complex event patterns. We provide an integrated domain-specific language with precise semantics for capturing complex event patterns and streaming transformations together with an execution engine, all of which is now part of the Viatra reactive transformation framework. We demonstrate the feasibility of our approach with two case studies: one in an advanced model engineering workflow; and one in the context of on-the-fly gesture recognition.

From "~" to Precision Science: Cosmology from 1995 to 2025

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamionkowski, Marc; Spergel, David N.

2016-01-01

Over the past decade and a half, astronomical measurements, primarily of fluctuations in the cosmic microwave background, have transformed cosmology from an order-of-magnitude game into a paragon of precision science. From these measurements has emerged a 6-parameter cosmological "standard model": a flat universe filled with dark matter and dark energy and seeded by a nearly scale-invariant spectrum of Gaussian random-phase density perturbations. The striking resemblance between these perturbations and those expected from inflation motivates the search for a unique "B-mode" signature of inflation in the polarization of the cosmic microwave background. While the fluctuation spectrum is close to scale invariant, WMAP, Planck and ground-based CMB experiments now have strong evidence for a departure from scale invariance in primordial perturbations. This suggests, in simple models of inflation that these B modes should be within striking distance within the next 5-10 years. The advent of a new generation of galaxy surveys will, over similar timescales, shed additional light not only on the physics of inflation, but also the nature of the dark matter and dark energy required by the current cosmological standard model, and perhaps on the new physics that determines the baryon density.

MicroRNA applications for prostate, ovarian and breast cancer in the era of precision medicine

PubMed Central

Smith, Bethany; Agarwal, Priyanka

2017-01-01

The high degree of conservation in microRNA from Caenorhabditis elegans to humans has enabled relatively rapid implementation of findings in model systems to the clinic. The convergence of the capacity for genomic screening being implemented in the prevailing precision medicine initiative and the capabilities of microRNA to address these changes holds significant promise. However, prostate, ovarian and breast cancers are heterogeneous and face issues of evolving therapeutic resistance. The transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) signaling axis plays an important role in the progression of these cancers by regulating microRNAs. Reciprocally, microRNAs regulate TGFβ actions during cancer progression. One must consider the expression of miRNA in the tumor microenvironment a source of biomarkers of disease progression and a viable target for therapeutic targeting. The differential expression pattern of microRNAs in health and disease, therapeutic response and resistance has resulted in its application as robust biomarkers. With two microRNA mimetics in ongoing restorative clinical trials, the paradigm for future clinical studies rests on the current observational trials to validate microRNA markers of disease progression. Some of today’s biomarkers can be translated to the next generation of microRNA-based therapies. PMID:28289080

Rouleaux red blood cells splitting in microscopic thin blood smear images via local maxima, circles drawing, and mapping with original RBCs.

PubMed

Rehman, Amjad; Abbas, Naveed; Saba, Tanzila; Mahmood, Toqeer; Kolivand, Hoshang

2018-04-10

Splitting the rouleaux RBCs from single RBCs and its further subdivision is a challenging area in computer-assisted diagnosis of blood. This phenomenon is applied in complete blood count, anemia, leukemia, and malaria tests. Several automated techniques are reported in the state of art for this task but face either under or over splitting problems. The current research presents a novel approach to split Rouleaux red blood cells (chains of RBCs) precisely, which are frequently observed in the thin blood smear images. Accordingly, this research address the rouleaux splitting problem in a realistic, efficient and automated way by considering the distance transform and local maxima of the rouleaux RBCs. Rouleaux RBCs are splitted by taking their local maxima as the centres to draw circles by mid-point circle algorithm. The resulting circles are further mapped with single RBC in Rouleaux to preserve its original shape. The results of the proposed approach on standard data set are presented and analyzed statistically by achieving an average recall of 0.059, an average precision of 0.067 and F-measure 0.063 are achieved through ground truth with visual inspection. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Direct current transformer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khanna, S. M.; Urban, E. W. (Inventor)

1979-01-01

A direct current transformer in which the primary consists of an elongated strip of superconductive material, across the ends of which is direct current potential is described. Parallel and closely spaced to the primary is positioned a transformer secondary consisting of a thin strip of magnetoresistive material.

Precise and fast spatial-frequency analysis using the iterative local Fourier transform.

PubMed

Lee, Sukmock; Choi, Heejoo; Kim, Dae Wook

2016-09-19

The use of the discrete Fourier transform has decreased since the introduction of the fast Fourier transform (fFT), which is a numerically efficient computing process. This paper presents the iterative local Fourier transform (ilFT), a set of new processing algorithms that iteratively apply the discrete Fourier transform within a local and optimal frequency domain. The new technique achieves 2¹⁰ times higher frequency resolution than the fFT within a comparable computation time. The method's superb computing efficiency, high resolution, spectrum zoom-in capability, and overall performance are evaluated and compared to other advanced high-resolution Fourier transform techniques, such as the fFT combined with several fitting methods. The effectiveness of the ilFT is demonstrated through the data analysis of a set of Talbot self-images (1280 × 1024 pixels) obtained with an experimental setup using grating in a diverging beam produced by a coherent point source.

A result about scale transformation families in approximation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Apprato, Dominique; Gout, Christian

2000-06-01

Scale transformations are common in approximation. In surface approximation from rapidly varying data, one wants to suppress, or at least dampen the oscillations of the approximation near steep gradients implied by the data. In that case, scale transformations can be used to give some control over overshoot when the surface has large variations of its gradient. Conversely, in image analysis, scale transformations are used in preprocessing to enhance some features present on the image or to increase jumps of grey levels before segmentation of the image. In this paper, we establish the convergence of an approximation method which allows some control over the behavior of the approximation. More precisely, we study the convergence of an approximation from a data set of , while using scale transformations on the values before and after classical approximation. In addition, the construction of scale transformations is also given. The algorithm is presented with some numerical examples.

Clinical proteomics-driven precision medicine for targeted cancer therapy: current overview and future perspectives.

PubMed

Zhou, Li; Wang, Kui; Li, Qifu; Nice, Edouard C; Zhang, Haiyuan; Huang, Canhua

2016-01-01

Cancer is a common disease that is a leading cause of death worldwide. Currently, early detection and novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed for more effective management of cancer. Importantly, protein profiling using clinical proteomic strategies, with spectacular sensitivity and precision, offer excellent promise for the identification of potential biomarkers that would direct the development of targeted therapeutic anticancer drugs for precision medicine. In particular, clinical sample sources, including tumor tissues and body fluids (blood, feces, urine and saliva), have been widely investigated using modern high-throughput mass spectrometry-based proteomic approaches combined with bioinformatic analysis, to pursue the possibilities of precision medicine for targeted cancer therapy. Discussed in this review are the current advantages and limitations of clinical proteomics, the available strategies of clinical proteomics for the management of precision medicine, as well as the challenges and future perspectives of clinical proteomics-driven precision medicine for targeted cancer therapy.

The Soldier-Cyborg Transformation: A Framework for Analysis of Social and Ethical Issues of Future Warfare

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-05-26

attitude about the use of chemical and biologic weapons , one must question the deterrent value of WMD. With perhaps the 19 exception of nuclear...ENHANCING, TRANSFORMING AND TRANSCENDING 1 TRENDS AND PREDICTIONS ABOUT FUTURE WARFARE 3 CHANGING DEMOGRAPHICS 8 THE BIOLOGIC SHIFT 10 STRATEGIC...without widespread loss of life. Thus, low lethality weapons and distant applications of precisely- applied force are mandatory to make future

High level continuity for coordinate generation with precise controls

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eiseman, P. R.

1982-01-01

Coordinate generation techniques with precise local controls have been derived and analyzed for continuity requirements up to both the first and second derivatives, and have been projected to higher level continuity requirements from the established pattern. The desired local control precision was obtained when a family of coordinate surfaces could be uniformly distributed without a consequent creation of flat spots on the coordinate curves transverse to the family. Relative to the uniform distribution, the family could be redistributed from an a priori distribution function or from a solution adaptive approach, both without distortion from the underlying transformation which may be independently chosen to fit a nontrivial geometry and topology.

The emergence of precision therapeutics: New challenges and opportunities for Canada's health leaders.

PubMed

Slater, Jim; Shields, Laura; Racette, Ray J; Juzwishin, Donald; Coppes, Max

2015-11-01

In the era of personalized and precision medicine, the approach to healthcare is quickly changing. Genetic and other molecular information are being increasingly demanded by clinicians and expected by patients for prevention, screening, diagnosis, prognosis, health promotion, and treatment of an increasing number of conditions. As a result of these developments, Canadian health leaders must understand and be prepared to lead the necessary changes associated with these disruptive technologies. This article focuses on precision therapeutics but also provides background on the concepts and terminology related to personalized and precision medicine and explores Canadian health leadership and system issues that may pose barriers to their implementation. The article is intended to inspire, educate, and mobilize Canadian health leaders to initiate dialogue around the transformative changes necessary to ready the healthcare system to realize the benefits of precision therapeutics. © 2015 Collège canadien des leaders en santé

Security Analysis of Image Encryption Based on Gyrator Transform by Searching the Rotation Angle with Improved PSO Algorithm.

PubMed

Sang, Jun; Zhao, Jun; Xiang, Zhili; Cai, Bin; Xiang, Hong

2015-08-05

Gyrator transform has been widely used for image encryption recently. For gyrator transform-based image encryption, the rotation angle used in the gyrator transform is one of the secret keys. In this paper, by analyzing the properties of the gyrator transform, an improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm was proposed to search the rotation angle in a single gyrator transform. Since the gyrator transform is continuous, it is time-consuming to exhaustedly search the rotation angle, even considering the data precision in a computer. Therefore, a computational intelligence-based search may be an alternative choice. Considering the properties of severe local convergence and obvious global fluctuations of the gyrator transform, an improved PSO algorithm was proposed to be suitable for such situations. The experimental results demonstrated that the proposed improved PSO algorithm can significantly improve the efficiency of searching the rotation angle in a single gyrator transform. Since gyrator transform is the foundation of image encryption in gyrator transform domains, the research on the method of searching the rotation angle in a single gyrator transform is useful for further study on the security of such image encryption algorithms.

Rapid measurement of human milk macronutrients in the neonatal intensive care unit: accuracy and precision of fourier transform mid-infrared spectroscopy.

PubMed

Smilowitz, Jennifer T; Gho, Deborah S; Mirmiran, Majid; German, J Bruce; Underwood, Mark A

2014-05-01

Although it is well established that human milk varies widely in macronutrient content, it remains common for human milk fortification for premature infants to be based on historic mean values. As a result, those caring for premature infants often underestimate protein intake. Rapid precise measurement of human milk protein, fat, and lactose to allow individualized fortification has been proposed for decades but remains elusive due to technical challenges. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy and precision of a Fourier transform (FT) mid-infrared (IR) spectroscope in the neonatal intensive care unit to measure human milk fat, total protein, lactose, and calculated energy compared with standard chemical analyses. One hundred sixteen breast milk samples across lactation stages from women who delivered at term (n = 69) and preterm (n = 5) were analyzed with the FT mid-IR spectroscope and with standard chemical methods. Ten of the samples were tested in replicate using the FT mid-IR spectroscope to determine repeatability. The agreement between the FT mid-IR spectroscope analysis and reference methods was high for protein and fat and moderate for lactose and energy. The intra-assay coefficients of variation for all outcomes were less than 3%. The FT mid-IR spectroscope demonstrated high accuracy in measurement of total protein and fat of preterm and term milk with high precision.

Double Arm Linkage precision Linear motion (DALL) Carriage, a simplified, rugged, high performance linear motion stage for the moving mirror of an Fourier Transform Spectrometer or other system requiring precision linear motion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Kendall B.; Hopkins, Greg

2017-08-01

The Double Arm Linkage precision Linear motion (DALL) carriage has been developed as a simplified, rugged, high performance linear motion stage. Initially conceived as a moving mirror stage for the moving mirror of a Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS), it is applicable to any system requiring high performance linear motion. It is based on rigid double arm linkages connecting a base to a moving carriage through flexures. It is a monolithic design. The system is fabricated from one piece of material including the flexural elements, using high precision machining. The monolithic design has many advantages. There are no joints to slip or creep and there are no CTE (coefficient of thermal expansion) issues. This provides a stable, robust design, both mechanically and thermally and is expected to provide a wide operating temperature range, including cryogenic temperatures, and high tolerance to vibration and shock. Furthermore, it provides simplicity and ease of implementation, as there is no assembly or alignment of the mechanism. It comes out of the machining operation aligned and there are no adjustments. A prototype has been fabricated and tested, showing superb shear performance and very promising tilt performance. This makes it applicable to both corner cube and flat mirror FTS systems respectively.

Comparison of the quench and fault current limiting characteristics of the flux-coupling type SFCL with single and three-phase transformer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Byung Ik; Cho, Yong Sun; Park, Hyoung Min; Chung, Dong Chul; Choi, Hyo Sang

2013-01-01

The South Korean power grid has a network structure for the flexible operation of the system. The continuously increasing power demand necessitated the increase of power facilities, which decreased the impedance in the power system. As a result, the size of the fault current in the event of a system fault increased. As this increased fault current size is threatening the breaking capacity of the circuit breaker, the main protective device, a solution to this problem is needed. The superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) has been designed to address this problem. SFCL supports the stable operation of the circuit breaker through its excellent fault-current-limiting operation [1-5]. In this paper, the quench and fault current limiting characteristics of the flux-coupling-type SFCL with one three-phase transformer were compared with those of the same SFCL type but with three single-phase transformers. In the case of the three-phase transformers, both the superconducting elements of the fault and sound phases were quenched, whereas in the case of the single-phase transformer, only that of the fault phase was quenched. For the fault current limiting rate, both cases showed similar rates for the single line-to-ground fault, but for the three-wire earth fault, the fault current limiting rate of the single-phase transformer was over 90% whereas that of the three-phase transformer was about 60%. It appears that when the three-phase transformer was used, the limiting rate decreased because the fluxes by the fault current of each phase were linked in one core. When the power loads of the superconducting elements were compared by fault type, the initial (half-cycle) load was great when the single-phase transformer was applied, whereas for the three-phase transformer, its power load was slightly lower at the initial stage but became greater after the half fault cycle.

30 CFR 75.824 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... transformer and over-current relay in the neutral grounding resistor circuit. (vi) A single window-type current transformer that encircles all three-phase conductors must be used to activate the ground-fault... current transformer. (vii) A test circuit for the ground-fault device must be provided. The test circuit...

30 CFR 75.824 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... transformer and over-current relay in the neutral grounding resistor circuit. (vi) A single window-type current transformer that encircles all three-phase conductors must be used to activate the ground-fault... current transformer. (vii) A test circuit for the ground-fault device must be provided. The test circuit...

30 CFR 75.824 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... transformer and over-current relay in the neutral grounding resistor circuit. (vi) A single window-type current transformer that encircles all three-phase conductors must be used to activate the ground-fault... current transformer. (vii) A test circuit for the ground-fault device must be provided. The test circuit...

30 CFR 75.824 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... transformer and over-current relay in the neutral grounding resistor circuit. (vi) A single window-type current transformer that encircles all three-phase conductors must be used to activate the ground-fault... current transformer. (vii) A test circuit for the ground-fault device must be provided. The test circuit...

30 CFR 75.824 - Electrical protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... transformer and over-current relay in the neutral grounding resistor circuit. (vi) A single window-type current transformer that encircles all three-phase conductors must be used to activate the ground-fault... current transformer. (vii) A test circuit for the ground-fault device must be provided. The test circuit...

Real topological entropy versus metric entropy for birational measure-preserving transformations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abarenkova, N.; Anglès d'Auriac, J.-Ch.; Boukraa, S.; Maillard, J.-M.

2000-10-01

We consider a family of birational measure-preserving transformations of two complex variables, depending on one parameter for which simple rational expressions for the dynamical zeta function have been conjectured, together with an equality between the topological entropy and the logarithm of the Arnold complexity (divided by the number of iterations). Similar results have been obtained for the adaptation of these two concepts to dynamical systems of real variables, yielding to introduce a “real topological entropy” and a “real Arnold complexity”. We try to compare, here, the Kolmogorov-Sinai metric entropy and this real Arnold complexity, or real topological entropy, on this particular example of a one-parameter dependent birational transformation of two variables. More precisely, we analyze, using an infinite precision calculation, the Lyapunov characteristic exponents for various values of the parameter of the birational transformation, in order to compare these results with the ones for the real Arnold complexity. We find a quite surprising result: for this very birational example, and, in fact, for a large set of birational measure-preserving mappings generated by involutions, the Lyapunov characteristic exponents seem to be equal to zero or, at least, extremely small, for all the orbits we have considered, and for all values of the parameter. Birational measure-preserving transformations, generated by involutions, could thus allow to better understand the difference between the topological description and the probabilistic description of discrete dynamical systems. Many birational measure-preserving transformations, generated by involutions, seem to provide examples of discrete dynamical systems which can be topologically chaotic while they are metrically almost quasi-periodic. Heuristically, this can be understood as a consequence of the fact that their orbits seem to form some kind of “transcendental foliation” of the two-dimensional space of variables.

59. VIEW OF FUSES AND A CURRENT TRANSFORMER LOCATED IN ...

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

59. VIEW OF FUSES AND A CURRENT TRANSFORMER LOCATED IN THE SIGNAL POWER CONDITIONING ROOM. THE CURRENT TRANSFORMER (UPPER RIGHT) IS AN INDUCTION COUPLED SENSOR WHICH IS USED TO REDUCE HIGH CURRENT TO ANALOGOUS LOW VALUES SAFE TO USE IN CONTROL ROOM CIRCUITRY. - New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, Cos Cob Power Plant, Sound Shore Drive, Greenwich, Fairfield County, CT

UV Spectrophotometric Simultaneous Determination of Paracetamol and Ibuprofen in Combined Tablets by Derivative and Wavelet Transforms

PubMed Central

Hoang, Vu Dang; Ly, Dong Thi Ha; Tho, Nguyen Huu; Minh Thi Nguyen, Hue

2014-01-01

The application of first-order derivative and wavelet transforms to UV spectra and ratio spectra was proposed for the simultaneous determination of ibuprofen and paracetamol in their combined tablets. A new hybrid approach on the combined use of first-order derivative and wavelet transforms to spectra was also discussed. In this application, DWT (sym6 and haar), CWT (mexh), and FWT were optimized to give the highest spectral recoveries. Calibration graphs in the linear concentration ranges of ibuprofen (12–32 mg/L) and paracetamol (20–40 mg/L) were obtained by measuring the amplitudes of the transformed signals. Our proposed spectrophotometric methods were statistically compared to HPLC in terms of precision and accuracy. PMID:24949492

UV spectrophotometric simultaneous determination of paracetamol and ibuprofen in combined tablets by derivative and wavelet transforms.

PubMed

Hoang, Vu Dang; Ly, Dong Thi Ha; Tho, Nguyen Huu; Nguyen, Hue Minh Thi

2014-01-01

The application of first-order derivative and wavelet transforms to UV spectra and ratio spectra was proposed for the simultaneous determination of ibuprofen and paracetamol in their combined tablets. A new hybrid approach on the combined use of first-order derivative and wavelet transforms to spectra was also discussed. In this application, DWT (sym6 and haar), CWT (mexh), and FWT were optimized to give the highest spectral recoveries. Calibration graphs in the linear concentration ranges of ibuprofen (12-32 mg/L) and paracetamol (20-40 mg/L) were obtained by measuring the amplitudes of the transformed signals. Our proposed spectrophotometric methods were statistically compared to HPLC in terms of precision and accuracy.

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to monitor the cellular impact of newly synthesized platinum derivatives.

PubMed

Berger, Gilles; Gasper, Régis; Lamoral-Theys, Delphine; Wellner, Anja; Gelbcke, Michel; Gust, Ronald; Nève, Jean; Kiss, Robert; Goormaghtigh, Erik; Dufrasne, François

2010-09-01

Platinum complexes remain widely used to combat various types of cancers. Three platinum complexes, cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin, are marketed for various oncological purposes. Additionally, nedaplatin, lobaplatin and heptaplatin have gained regionally limited approval for oncology purposes. Furthermore, various platinum derivatives are currently under clinical trials. More than 40 years after their discovery, however, the precise mechanism of action of platinum antitumor complexes remains elusive, partly because these compounds display numerous intracellular targets. Structure-activity-relationship analyses are therefore difficult to conduct to optimize the synthesis of novel platinum derivatives. The aim of the present study is to illustrate the potential of using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analyses to monitor the cellular modifications induced by the new platinum derivatives that we have synthesized. We show in the present study the advantages of combining an in vitro assay to determine the IC50 growth inhibition concentrations of a series of compounds belonging to a given chemical series and FTIR analyses carried out at the IC50 concentrations for each compound to identify potential hits within this series of compounds. The original pharmacological approach proposed here could, therefore, avoid large-scale pharmacological experiments to find hits within a given chemical series.

Determination of the continuous cooling transformation diagram of a high strength low alloyed steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Hun Chul; Park, Bong June; Jang, Ji Hun; Jang, Kwang Soon; Lee, Kyung Jong

2016-11-01

The continuous cooling transformation diagram of a high strength low alloyed steel was determined by a dilatometer and microscopic analysis (OM, SEM) as well as thermodynamic analysis. As expected, Widmanstätten ferrite, bainite and martensite coexisted for most cooling rates, which made it difficult to determine the transformation kinetics of individual phases. However, peaks were clearly observed in the dilatometric {d( {LVDT} )}/{dT} curves. By overlapping the {d( {LVDT} )}/{dT} curves, which were determined using various cooling rates, peaks were separated and the peak rate temperatures, as well as the temperature at the start of transformation (5%) and the end of transformation (95%) of an individual phase, were determined. A SEM analysis was also conducted to identify which phase existed and to quantify the volume fraction of each phase. It was confirmed that the additional {d( {LVDT} )}/{dT} curve analysis described the transformation behavior more precisely than the conventional continuous cooling transformation diagram, as determined by the volume measured from the microstructure analysis.

Modeling and simulation, and their validation of three-phase transformers with three legs under DC bias

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

Fuchs, E.F.; You, Y.; Roesler, D.J.

This paper proposes a new model for three-phase transformers with three legs with and without tank under DC bias based on electric and magnetic circuit theory. For the calculation of the nonsinusoidal no-load currents, a combination of time and frequency domains is used. The analysis shows that (1) asymmetric three-phase transformers with three legs generate magnetizing currents with triplen harmonics not being of the zero-sequence type. (2) The wave shapes of the three magnetizing currents of (asymmetric) transformers are dependent on the phase sequence. (3) The magnetic history of transformer magnetization -- due to residual magnetization and hysteresis of themore » tank -- cannot be ignored if a DC bias is present and the magnetic influence of the tank is relatively strong, e.g., for oil-cooled transformers. (4) Symmetric three-phase transformers with three legs generate no-load currents without triplen harmonics. (5) The effects of DC bias currents (e.g., reactive power demand, harmonic distortion) can be suppressed employing symmetric three-phase transformers with three legs including tank. Measurements corroborate computational results; thus this nonlinear model is valid and accurate.« less

Real-time line matching from stereo images using a nonparametric transform of spatial relations and texture information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Jonghee; Yoon, Kuk-Jin

2015-02-01

We propose a real-time line matching method for stereo systems. To achieve real-time performance while retaining a high level of matching precision, we first propose a nonparametric transform to represent the spatial relations between neighboring lines and nearby textures as a binary stream. Since the length of a line can vary across images, the matching costs between lines are computed within an overlap area (OA) based on the binary stream. The OA is determined for each line pair by employing the properties of a rectified image pair. Finally, the line correspondence is determined using a winner-takes-all method with a left-right consistency check. To reduce the computational time requirements further, we filter out unreliable matching candidates in advance based on their rectification properties. The performance of the proposed method was compared with state-of-the-art methods in terms of the computational time, matching precision, and recall. The proposed method required 47 ms to match lines from an image pair in the KITTI dataset with an average precision of 95%. We also verified the proposed method under image blur, illumination variation, and viewpoint changes.

Understanding the Effectiveness of Performance Management Practices

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-03-01

clarity and precision focus defining accomplishments and practices. Jones (1995) research on organizational transformation in the Monsanto Company...Performance managment in a changing context: Monsanto Pioneers a competency-based, developmental approach. Human Resource Management , 34 (3), 425-442

Quantifying team cooperation through intrinsic multi-scale measures: respiratory and cardiac synchronization in choir singers and surgical teams.

PubMed

Hemakom, Apit; Powezka, Katarzyna; Goverdovsky, Valentin; Jaffer, Usman; Mandic, Danilo P

2017-12-01

A highly localized data-association measure, termed intrinsic synchrosqueezing transform (ISC), is proposed for the analysis of coupled nonlinear and non-stationary multivariate signals. This is achieved based on a combination of noise-assisted multivariate empirical mode decomposition and short-time Fourier transform-based univariate and multivariate synchrosqueezing transforms. It is shown that the ISC outperforms six other combinations of algorithms in estimating degrees of synchrony in synthetic linear and nonlinear bivariate signals. Its advantage is further illustrated in the precise identification of the synchronized respiratory and heart rate variability frequencies among a subset of bass singers of a professional choir, where it distinctly exhibits better performance than the continuous wavelet transform-based ISC. We also introduce an extension to the intrinsic phase synchrony (IPS) measure, referred to as nested intrinsic phase synchrony (N-IPS), for the empirical quantification of physically meaningful and straightforward-to-interpret trends in phase synchrony. The N-IPS is employed to reveal physically meaningful variations in the levels of cooperation in choir singing and performing a surgical procedure. Both the proposed techniques successfully reveal degrees of synchronization of the physiological signals in two different aspects: (i) precise localization of synchrony in time and frequency (ISC), and (ii) large-scale analysis for the empirical quantification of physically meaningful trends in synchrony (N-IPS).

Real-time and high accuracy frequency measurements for intermediate frequency narrowband signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Jing; Meng, Xiaofeng; Nie, Jing; Lin, Liwei

2018-01-01

Real-time and accurate measurements of intermediate frequency signals based on microprocessors are difficult due to the computational complexity and limited time constraints. In this paper, a fast and precise methodology based on the sigma-delta modulator is designed and implemented by first generating the twiddle factors using the designed recursive scheme. This scheme requires zero times of multiplications and only half amounts of addition operations by using the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) and the combination of the Rife algorithm and Fourier coefficient interpolation as compared with conventional methods such as DFT and Fast Fourier Transform. Experimentally, when the sampling frequency is 10 MHz, the real-time frequency measurements with intermediate frequency and narrowband signals have a measurement mean squared error of ±2.4 Hz. Furthermore, a single measurement of the whole system only requires approximately 0.3 s to achieve fast iteration, high precision, and less calculation time.

SPARQL Query Re-writing Using Partonomy Based Transformation Rules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, Prateek; Yeh, Peter Z.; Verma, Kunal; Henson, Cory A.; Sheth, Amit P.

Often the information present in a spatial knowledge base is represented at a different level of granularity and abstraction than the query constraints. For querying ontology's containing spatial information, the precise relationships between spatial entities has to be specified in the basic graph pattern of SPARQL query which can result in long and complex queries. We present a novel approach to help users intuitively write SPARQL queries to query spatial data, rather than relying on knowledge of the ontology structure. Our framework re-writes queries, using transformation rules to exploit part-whole relations between geographical entities to address the mismatches between query constraints and knowledge base. Our experiments were performed on completely third party datasets and queries. Evaluations were performed on Geonames dataset using questions from National Geographic Bee serialized into SPARQL and British Administrative Geography Ontology using questions from a popular trivia website. These experiments demonstrate high precision in retrieval of results and ease in writing queries.

Fourier Transform Fringe-Pattern Analysis of an Absolute Distance Michelson Interferometer for Space-Based Laser Metrology.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Talamonti, James Joseph

1995-01-01

Future NASA proposals include the placement of optical interferometer systems in space for a wide variety of astrophysical studies including a vastly improved deflection test of general relativity, a precise and direct calibration of the Cepheid distance scale, and the determination of stellar masses (Reasenberg et al., 1988). There are also plans for placing large array telescopes on the moon with the ultimate objective of being able to measure angular separations of less than 10 mu-arc seconds (Burns, 1990). These and other future projects will require interferometric measurement of the (baseline) distance between the optical elements comprising the systems. Eventually, space qualifiable interferometers capable of picometer (10^{-12}m) relative precision and nanometer (10^{ -9}m) absolute precision will be required. A numerical model was developed to emulate the capabilities of systems performing interferometric noncontact absolute distance measurements. The model incorporates known methods to minimize signal processing and digital sampling errors and evaluates the accuracy limitations imposed by spectral peak isolation using Hanning, Blackman, and Gaussian windows in the Fast Fourier Transform Technique. We applied this model to the specific case of measuring the relative lengths of a compound Michelson interferometer using a frequency scanned laser. By processing computer simulated data through our model, the ultimate precision is projected for ideal data, and data containing AM/FM noise. The precision is shown to be limited by non-linearities in the laser scan. A laboratory system was developed by implementing ultra-stable external cavity diode lasers into existing interferometric measuring techniques. The capabilities of the system were evaluated and increased by using the computer modeling results as guidelines for the data analysis. Experimental results measured 1-3 meter baselines with <20 micron precision. Comparison of the laboratory and modeling results showed that the laboratory precisions obtained were of the same order of magnitude as those predicted for computer generated results under similar conditions. We believe that our model can be implemented as a tool in the design for new metrology systems capable of meeting the precisions required by space-based interferometers.

Proposal for the creation of a national strategy for precision medicine in cancer: a position statement of SEOM, SEAP, and SEFH.

PubMed

Garrido, P; Aldaz, A; Vera, R; Calleja, M A; de Álava, E; Martín, M; Matías-Guiu, X; Palacios, J

2018-04-01

Precision medicine is an emerging approach for disease treatment and prevention that takes into account individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle for each person. Precision medicine is transforming clinical and biomedical research, as well as health care itself from a conceptual, as well as a methodological viewpoint, providing extraordinary opportunities to improve public health and lower the costs of the healthcare system. However, the implementation of precision medicine poses ethical-legal, regulatory, organizational, and knowledge-related challenges. Without a national strategy, precision medicine, which will be implemented one way or another, could take place without the appropriate planning that can guarantee technical quality, equal access of all citizens to the best practices, violating the rights of patients and professionals, and jeopardizing the solvency of the healthcare system. With this paper from the Spanish Societies of Medical Oncology, Pathology, and Hospital Pharmacy, we highlight the need to institute a consensual national strategy for the development of precision medicine in our country, review the national and international context, comment on the opportunities and challenges for implementing precision medicine, and outline the objectives of a national strategy on precision medicine in cancer.

Equations For Rotary Transformers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salomon, Phil M.; Wiktor, Peter J.; Marchetto, Carl A.

1988-01-01

Equations derived for input impedance, input power, and ratio of secondary current to primary current of rotary transformer. Used for quick analysis of transformer designs. Circuit model commonly used in textbooks on theory of ac circuits.

A CU-Level Rate and Distortion Estimation Scheme for RDO of Hardware-Friendly HEVC Encoders Using Low-Complexity Integer DCTs.

PubMed

Lee, Bumshik; Kim, Munchurl

2016-08-01

In this paper, a low complexity coding unit (CU)-level rate and distortion estimation scheme is proposed for High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) hardware-friendly implementation where a Walsh-Hadamard transform (WHT)-based low-complexity integer discrete cosine transform (DCT) is employed for distortion estimation. Since HEVC adopts quadtree structures of coding blocks with hierarchical coding depths, it becomes more difficult to estimate accurate rate and distortion values without actually performing transform, quantization, inverse transform, de-quantization, and entropy coding. Furthermore, DCT for rate-distortion optimization (RDO) is computationally high, because it requires a number of multiplication and addition operations for various transform block sizes of 4-, 8-, 16-, and 32-orders and requires recursive computations to decide the optimal depths of CU or transform unit. Therefore, full RDO-based encoding is highly complex, especially for low-power implementation of HEVC encoders. In this paper, a rate and distortion estimation scheme is proposed in CU levels based on a low-complexity integer DCT that can be computed in terms of WHT whose coefficients are produced in prediction stages. For rate and distortion estimation in CU levels, two orthogonal matrices of 4×4 and 8×8 , which are applied to WHT that are newly designed in a butterfly structure only with addition and shift operations. By applying the integer DCT based on the WHT and newly designed transforms in each CU block, the texture rate can precisely be estimated after quantization using the number of non-zero quantized coefficients and the distortion can also be precisely estimated in transform domain without de-quantization and inverse transform required. In addition, a non-texture rate estimation is proposed by using a pseudoentropy code to obtain accurate total rate estimates. The proposed rate and the distortion estimation scheme can effectively be used for HW-friendly implementation of HEVC encoders with 9.8% loss over HEVC full RDO, which much less than 20.3% and 30.2% loss of a conventional approach and Hadamard-only scheme, respectively.

DC-Compensated Current Transformer.

PubMed

Ripka, Pavel; Draxler, Karel; Styblíková, Renata

2016-01-20

Instrument current transformers (CTs) measure AC currents. The DC component in the measured current can saturate the transformer and cause gross error. We use fluxgate detection and digital feedback compensation of the DC flux to suppress the overall error to 0.15%. This concept can be used not only for high-end CTs with a nanocrystalline core, but it also works for low-cost CTs with FeSi cores. The method described here allows simultaneous measurements of the DC current component.

Application of Least-Squares Adjustment Technique to Geometric Camera Calibration and Photogrammetric Flow Visualization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Fang-Jenq

1997-01-01

Flow visualization produces data in the form of two-dimensional images. If the optical components of a camera system are perfect, the transformation equations between the two-dimensional image and the three-dimensional object space are linear and easy to solve. However, real camera lenses introduce nonlinear distortions that affect the accuracy of transformation unless proper corrections are applied. An iterative least-squares adjustment algorithm is developed to solve the nonlinear transformation equations incorporated with distortion corrections. Experimental applications demonstrate that a relative precision on the order of 40,000 is achievable without tedious laboratory calibrations of the camera.

Research on Harmonic Characteristic of Electronic Current Transformer Based on the Rogowski Coil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Diqiu; Hu, Bei; Wang, Xufeng; Zhu, Mingdong; Wang, Liang; Lu, Wenxing

2017-05-01

The nonlinear load present in the power system will cause the distortion of AC sine wave and generate the harmonic, which havea severe impact on the accuracy of energy metering and reliability of relay protection. Tosatisfy the requirements of energy metering and relay protection for the new generation of intelligent substation, based on the working principle of Rogowski coil current transformer, mathematical model and transfer characteristics of Rogowski coil sensors were studied in this paper, and frequency response characteristics of Rogowski coil current transformer system were analysed. Finally, the frequency response characteristics of the Rogowski coil current transformer at 2 to 13 harmonics was simulated and experimented. Simulation and experiments show that Rogowski coil current transformer couldmeet 0.2 accuracy requirements of harmonic power measurement of power system, and measure the harmonic components of the grid reliably.

High precision locating control system based on VCM for Talbot lithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, Jingwei; Zhao, Lixin; Deng, Qian; Hu, Song

2016-10-01

Aiming at the high precision and efficiency requirements of Z-direction locating in Talbot lithography, a control system based on Voice Coil Motor (VCM) was designed. In this paper, we built a math model of VCM and its moving characteristic was analyzed. A double-closed loop control strategy including position loop and current loop were accomplished. The current loop was implemented by driver, in order to achieve the rapid follow of the system current. The position loop was completed by the digital signal processor (DSP) and the position feedback was achieved by high precision linear scales. Feed forward control and position feedback Proportion Integration Differentiation (PID) control were applied in order to compensate for dynamic lag and improve the response speed of the system. And the high precision and efficiency of the system were verified by simulation and experiments. The results demonstrated that the performance of Z-direction gantry was obviously improved, having high precision, quick responses, strong real-time and easily to expend for higher precision.

Charting a Course for Precision Oncology

DOE PAGES

Kusnezov, Dimitri; Paragas, Jason

2017-02-09

Here, the fields of science have undergone dramatic reorganizations as they have come to terms with the realities of the growing complexities of their problem set, the costs, and the breadth of skills needed to make major progress. A field such as particle physics transformed from principal investigator-driven research supported by an electron synchrotron in the basement of your physics building in the 1950s, to regional centers when costs became prohibitive to refresh technology everywhere, driving larger teams of scientists to cooperate in the 1970s, to international centers where multinational teams work together to achieve progress. The 2013 Nobel Prizemore » winning discovery of the Higgs boson would have been unlikely without such team science. Other fields such as the computational sciences are well on their way through such a transformation. Today, we see precision medicine as a field that will need to come to terms with new organizational principles in order to make major progress, including everyone from individual medical researchers to pharma. Interestingly, the Cancer Moonshot has helped move thinking in that direction for part of the community and now the initiative has been transformed into law.« less

Charting a Course for Precision Oncology

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

Kusnezov, Dimitri; Paragas, Jason

Here, the fields of science have undergone dramatic reorganizations as they have come to terms with the realities of the growing complexities of their problem set, the costs, and the breadth of skills needed to make major progress. A field such as particle physics transformed from principal investigator-driven research supported by an electron synchrotron in the basement of your physics building in the 1950s, to regional centers when costs became prohibitive to refresh technology everywhere, driving larger teams of scientists to cooperate in the 1970s, to international centers where multinational teams work together to achieve progress. The 2013 Nobel Prizemore » winning discovery of the Higgs boson would have been unlikely without such team science. Other fields such as the computational sciences are well on their way through such a transformation. Today, we see precision medicine as a field that will need to come to terms with new organizational principles in order to make major progress, including everyone from individual medical researchers to pharma. Interestingly, the Cancer Moonshot has helped move thinking in that direction for part of the community and now the initiative has been transformed into law.« less

A surface spherical harmonic expansion of gravity anomalies on the ellipsoid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Claessens, S. J.; Hirt, C.

2015-10-01

A surface spherical harmonic expansion of gravity anomalies with respect to a geodetic reference ellipsoid can be used to model the global gravity field and reveal its spectral properties. In this paper, a direct and rigorous transformation between solid spherical harmonic coefficients of the Earth's disturbing potential and surface spherical harmonic coefficients of gravity anomalies in ellipsoidal approximation with respect to a reference ellipsoid is derived. This transformation cannot rigorously be achieved by the Hotine-Jekeli transformation between spherical and ellipsoidal harmonic coefficients. The method derived here is used to create a surface spherical harmonic model of gravity anomalies with respect to the GRS80 ellipsoid from the EGM2008 global gravity model. Internal validation of the model shows a global RMS precision of 1 nGal. This is significantly more precise than previous solutions based on spherical approximation or approximations to order or , which are shown to be insufficient for the generation of surface spherical harmonic coefficients with respect to a geodetic reference ellipsoid. Numerical results of two applications of the new method (the computation of ellipsoidal corrections to gravimetric geoid computation, and area means of gravity anomalies in ellipsoidal approximation) are provided.

Nitrogenase Cofactor: Inspiration for Model Chemistry.

PubMed

Djurdjevic, Ivana; Einsle, Oliver; Decamps, Laure

2017-07-04

The cofactor of nitrogenase is the largest and most intricate metal cluster known in nature. Its reactivity, mode of action and even the precise binding site of substrate remain a matter of debate. For decades, synthetic chemists have taken inspiration from the exceptional structural, electronic and catalytic features of the cofactor and have tried to either mimic the unique topology of the entire site, or to extract its functional principles and build them into novel catalysts that achieve the same-or very similar-astounding transformations. We review some of the available model chemistry as it represents the various approaches that have been taken from studying the cofactor, to eventually summarize the current state of knowledge on catalysis by nitrogenase and highlight the mutually beneficial role of model chemistry and enzymology in bioinorganic chemistry. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Mammalian synthetic biology for studying the cell

PubMed Central

Mathur, Melina; Xiang, Joy S.

2017-01-01

Synthetic biology is advancing the design of genetic devices that enable the study of cellular and molecular biology in mammalian cells. These genetic devices use diverse regulatory mechanisms to both examine cellular processes and achieve precise and dynamic control of cellular phenotype. Synthetic biology tools provide novel functionality to complement the examination of natural cell systems, including engineered molecules with specific activities and model systems that mimic complex regulatory processes. Continued development of quantitative standards and computational tools will expand capacities to probe cellular mechanisms with genetic devices to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the cell. In this study, we review synthetic biology tools that are being applied to effectively investigate diverse cellular processes, regulatory networks, and multicellular interactions. We also discuss current challenges and future developments in the field that may transform the types of investigation possible in cell biology. PMID:27932576

An ultra-stable voltage source for precision Penning-trap experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Böhm, Ch.; Sturm, S.; Rischka, A.; Dörr, A.; Eliseev, S.; Goncharov, M.; Höcker, M.; Ketter, J.; Köhler, F.; Marschall, D.; Martin, J.; Obieglo, D.; Repp, J.; Roux, C.; Schüssler, R. X.; Steigleder, M.; Streubel, S.; Wagner, Th.; Westermann, J.; Wieder, V.; Zirpel, R.; Melcher, J.; Blaum, K.

2016-08-01

An ultra-stable and low-noise 25-channel voltage source providing 0 to -100 V has been developed. It will supply stable bias potentials for Penning-trap electrodes used in high-precision experiments. The voltage source generates all its supply voltages via a specially designed transformer. Each channel can be operated either in a precision mode or can be dynamically ramped. A reference module provides reference voltages for all the channels, each of which includes a low-noise amplifier to gain a factor of 10 in the output stage. A relative voltage stability of δV / V ≈ 2 ×10-8 has been demonstrated at -89 V within about 10 min.

Transformer miniaturization for transcutaneous current/voltage pulse applications.

PubMed

Kolen, P T

1999-05-01

A general procedure for the design of a miniaturized step up transformer to be used in the context of surface electrode based current/voltage pulse generation is presented. It has been shown that the optimum secondary current pulse width is 4.5 tau, where tau is the time constant associated with the pulse forming network associated with the transformer/electrode interaction. This criteria has been shown to produce the highest peak to average current ratio for the secondary current pulse. The design procedure allows for the calculation of the optimum turns ratio, primary turns, and secondary turns for a given electrode load/tissue and magnetic core parameters. Two design examples for transformer optimization are presented.

DC-Compensated Current Transformer †

PubMed Central

Ripka, Pavel; Draxler, Karel; Styblíková, Renata

2016-01-01

Instrument current transformers (CTs) measure AC currents. The DC component in the measured current can saturate the transformer and cause gross error. We use fluxgate detection and digital feedback compensation of the DC flux to suppress the overall error to 0.15%. This concept can be used not only for high-end CTs with a nanocrystalline core, but it also works for low-cost CTs with FeSi cores. The method described here allows simultaneous measurements of the DC current component. PMID:26805830

Fourier-transform optical microsystems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Collins, S. D.; Smith, R. L.; Gonzalez, C.; Stewart, K. P.; Hagopian, J. G.; Sirota, J. M.

1999-01-01

The design, fabrication, and initial characterization of a miniature single-pass Fourier-transform spectrometer (FTS) that has an optical bench that measures 1 cm x 5 cm x 10 cm is presented. The FTS is predicated on the classic Michelson interferometer design with a moving mirror. Precision translation of the mirror is accomplished by microfabrication of dovetailed bearing surfaces along single-crystal planes in silicon. Although it is miniaturized, the FTS maintains a relatively high spectral resolution, 0.1 cm-1, with adequate optical throughput.

Discerning some Tylenol brands using attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared data and multivariate analysis techniques.

PubMed

Msimanga, Huggins Z; Ollis, Robert J

2010-06-01

Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were used to classify acetaminophen-containing medicines using their attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FT-IR) spectra. Four formulations of Tylenol (Arthritis Pain Relief, Extra Strength Pain Relief, 8 Hour Pain Relief, and Extra Strength Pain Relief Rapid Release) along with 98% pure acetaminophen were selected for this study because of the similarity of their spectral features, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.9857 to 0.9988. Before acquiring spectra for the predictor matrix, the effects on spectral precision with respect to sample particle size (determined by sieve size opening), force gauge of the ATR accessory, sample reloading, and between-tablet variation were examined. Spectra were baseline corrected and normalized to unity before multivariate analysis. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to study spectral precision. The large particles (35 mesh) showed large variance between spectra, while fine particles (120 mesh) indicated good spectral precision based on the F-test. Force gauge setting did not significantly affect precision. Sample reloading using the fine particle size and a constant force gauge setting of 50 units also did not compromise precision. Based on these observations, data acquisition for the predictor matrix was carried out with the fine particles (sieve size opening of 120 mesh) at a constant force gauge setting of 50 units. After removing outliers, PCA successfully classified the five samples in the first and second components, accounting for 45.0% and 24.5% of the variances, respectively. The four-component PLS-DA model (R(2)=0.925 and Q(2)=0.906) gave good test spectra predictions with an overall average of 0.961 +/- 7.1% RSD versus the expected 1.0 prediction for the 20 test spectra used.

High-Precision Measurement of the Ne19 Half-Life and Implications for Right-Handed Weak Currents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Triambak, S.; Finlay, P.; Sumithrarachchi, C. S.; Hackman, G.; Ball, G. C.; Garrett, P. E.; Svensson, C. E.; Cross, D. S.; Garnsworthy, A. B.; Kshetri, R.; Orce, J. N.; Pearson, M. R.; Tardiff, E. R.; Al-Falou, H.; Austin, R. A. E.; Churchman, R.; Djongolov, M. K.; D'Entremont, R.; Kierans, C.; Milovanovic, L.; O'Hagan, S.; Reeve, S.; Sjue, S. K. L.; Williams, S. J.

2012-07-01

We report a precise determination of the Ne19 half-life to be T1/2=17.262±0.007s. This result disagrees with the most recent precision measurements and is important for placing bounds on predicted right-handed interactions that are absent in the current standard model. We are able to identify and disentangle two competing systematic effects that influence the accuracy of such measurements. Our findings prompt a reassessment of results from previous high-precision lifetime measurements that used similar equipment and methods.

High-precision measurement of the 19Ne half-life and implications for right-handed weak currents.

PubMed

Triambak, S; Finlay, P; Sumithrarachchi, C S; Hackman, G; Ball, G C; Garrett, P E; Svensson, C E; Cross, D S; Garnsworthy, A B; Kshetri, R; Orce, J N; Pearson, M R; Tardiff, E R; Al-Falou, H; Austin, R A E; Churchman, R; Djongolov, M K; D'Entremont, R; Kierans, C; Milovanovic, L; O'Hagan, S; Reeve, S; Sjue, S K L; Williams, S J

2012-07-27

We report a precise determination of the (19)Ne half-life to be T(1/2)=17.262±0.007 s. This result disagrees with the most recent precision measurements and is important for placing bounds on predicted right-handed interactions that are absent in the current standard model. We are able to identify and disentangle two competing systematic effects that influence the accuracy of such measurements. Our findings prompt a reassessment of results from previous high-precision lifetime measurements that used similar equipment and methods.

46 CFR 111.30-17 - Protection of instrument circuits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... circuit of a current transformer must not be fused, and the circuit from a current transformer to a device that is not in the switchboard must have a high voltage protector to short the transformer during an...

46 CFR 111.30-17 - Protection of instrument circuits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... circuit of a current transformer must not be fused, and the circuit from a current transformer to a device that is not in the switchboard must have a high voltage protector to short the transformer during an...

46 CFR 111.30-17 - Protection of instrument circuits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... circuit of a current transformer must not be fused, and the circuit from a current transformer to a device that is not in the switchboard must have a high voltage protector to short the transformer during an...

46 CFR 111.30-17 - Protection of instrument circuits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... circuit of a current transformer must not be fused, and the circuit from a current transformer to a device that is not in the switchboard must have a high voltage protector to short the transformer during an...

46 CFR 111.30-17 - Protection of instrument circuits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... circuit of a current transformer must not be fused, and the circuit from a current transformer to a device that is not in the switchboard must have a high voltage protector to short the transformer during an...

Phase transformation in the alumina-titania system during flash sintering experiments

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

Jha, S. K.; Lebrun, J. M.; Raj, R.

2016-02-01

We show that phase transformation in the alumina–titania system, which produces aluminum-titanate, follows an unusual trajectory during flash sintering. The experiments begin with mixed powders of alumina–titania and end in dense microstructures that are transformed into aluminum-titanate. The sintering and the phase transformation are separated in time, with the sintering occurs during Stage II, and phase transformation during Stage III of the flash sintering experiment. Stage III is the steady-state condition of flash activated state that is established under current control, while Stage II is the period of transition from voltage to current control. The extent of phase transformation increasesmore » with the current density and the hold time in Stage III.« less

Modular coils and finite-β operation of a quasi-axially symmetric tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drevlak, M.

1998-09-01

Quasi-axially symmetric tokamaks (QA tokamaks) are an extension of the conventional tokamak concept. In these devices the magnetic field strength is independent of the generalized toroidal magnetic co-ordinate even though the cross-sectional shape changes. An optimized plasma equilibrium belonging to the class of QA tokamaks has been proposed by Nührenberg. It features the small aspect ratio of a tokamak while allowing part of the rotational transform to be generated by the external field. In this article, two particular aspects of the viability of QA tokamaks are explored, namely the feasibility of modular coils and the possibility of maintaining quasi-axial symmetry in the free-boundary equilibria obtained with the coils found. A set of easily feasible modular coils for the configuration is presented. It was designed using the extended version of the NESCOIL code (Merkel, P., Nucl. Fusion 27 (1987) 867). Using this coil system, free-boundary calculations of the plasma equilibrium were carried out using the NEMEC code (Hirshman, S.P., Van Rij, W.I., Merkel, P., Comput. Phys. Commun. 43 (1986) 143). It is observed that the effects of finite β and net toroidal plasma current can be compensated for with good precision by applying a vertical magnetic field and by separately adjusting the currents of the modular coils. A set of fully three dimensional (3-D) auxiliary coils is proposed to exert control on the rotational transform in the plasma. Deterioration of the quasi-axial symmetry induced by the auxiliary coils can be avoided by adequate adjustment of the currents in the primary coils. Finally, the neoclassical transport properties of the configuration are examined. It is observed that optimization with respect to confinement of the alpha particles can be maintained at operation with finite toroidal current if the aforementioned corrective measures are used. In this case, the neoclassical behaviour is shown to be very similar to that of a conventional tokamak.

Research on the winding losses based on finite element method for transformer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Wenpeng; Lai, Wenqing; Ye, Ligang; Luo, Hanwu; Luo, Changjiang; Cui, Shigang; Wang, Yongqiang

2018-04-01

Transformer loss can cause the transformer to overheat. Under the action of high frequency current, the loss of transformer windings will be aggravated due to proximity effect and skin effect. In this paper, a three-dimensional model of high frequency transformer windings is established. Considering of the proximity effect and skin effect, the eddy current effects loss in the transformer windings are simulated based on finite element method. And the winding losses of the transformer windings are obtained under different arrangements. The influence of the winding layout on the winding losses is given. Finally, the trend of winding loss with current frequency, winding thickness and inter layer spacing is obtained through calculation. The winding loss initially decreases as the thickness of the winding increases, but when it reaches a certain level, this reduction becomes insignificant.

Precision Control of Multiple Quantum Cascade Lasers for Calibration Systems

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

Taubman, Matthew S.; Myers, Tanya L.; Pratt, Richard M.

We present a precision, digitally interfaced current controller for quantum cascade lasers, with demonstrated DC and modulated temperature coefficients of 1- 2 ppm/ºC and 15 ppm/ºC respectively. High linearity digital to analog converters (DACs) together with an ultra-precision voltage reference, produce highly stable, precision voltages. These are in turn selected by a low charge-injection multiplexer (MUX) chip, which are then used to set output currents via a linear current regulator. The controller is operated in conjunction with a power multiplexing unit, allowing one of three lasers to be driven by the controller while ensuring protection of controller and all lasersmore » during operation, standby and switching. Simple ASCII commands sent over a USB connection to a microprocessor located in the current controller operate both the controller (via the DACs and MUX chip) and the power multiplexer.« less

Dual Transformer Model based on Standard Circuit Elements for the Study of Low- and Mid-frequency Transients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jazebi, Saeed

This thesis is a step forward toward achieving the final objective of creating a fully dual model for transformers including eddy currents and nonlinearities of the iron core using the fundamental electrical components already available in the EMTP-type programs. The model is effective for the study of the performance of transformers during power system transients. This is very important for transformer designers, because the insulation of transformers is determined with the overvoltages caused by lightning or switching operations. There are also internally induced transients that occur when a switch is actuated. For example switching actions for reconfiguration of distribution systems that offers economic advantages, or protective actions to clear faults and large short-circuit currents. Many of the smart grid concepts currently under development by many utilities rely heavily on switching to optimize resources that produce transients in the system. On the other hand, inrush currents produce mechanical forces which deform transformer windings and cause malfunction of the differential protection. Also, transformer performance under ferroresonance and geomagnetic induced currents are necessary to study. In this thesis, a physically consistent dual model applicable to single-phase two-winding transformers is proposed. First, the topology of a dual electrical equivalent circuit is obtained from the direct application of the principle of duality. Then, the model parameters are computed considering the variations of the transformer electromagnetic behavior under various operating conditions. Current modeling techniques use different topological models to represent diverse transient situations. The reversible model proposed in this thesis unifies the terminal and topological equivalent circuits. The model remains invariable for all low-frequency transients including deep saturation conditions driven from any of the two windings. The very high saturation region of the iron core magnetizing characteristic is modified with the accurate measurement of the air-core inductance. The air-core inductance is measured using a non-ideal low-power rectifier. Its dc output serves to drive the transformer into deep saturation, and its ripple provides low-amplitude variable excitation. The principal advantage of this method is its simplicity. To model the eddy current effects in the windings, a novel equivalent circuit is proposed. The circuit is derived from the principle of duality and therefore, matches the electromagnetic physical behavior of the transformer windings. It properly models the flux paths and current distribution from dc to MHz. The model is synthesized from a non-uniform concentric discretization of the windings. Concise guidelines are given to optimally calculate the width of the sub-divisions for various transient simulations. To compute the circuit parameters only information about the geometry of the windings and about their material properties is needed. The calculation of the circuit parameters does not require an iterative process. Therefore, the parameters are always real, positive, and free from convergence problems. The proposed model is tested with single-phase transformers for the calculation of magnetizing inrush currents, series ferroresonance, and Geomagnetic Induced Currents (GIC). The electromagnetic transient response of the model is compared to laboratory measurements for validation. Also, 3D finite element simulations are used to validate the electromagnetic behavior of the transformer model. Large manufacturer of transformers, power system designers, and electrical utility companies can benefit from the new model. It simplifies the design and optimization of the transformers' insulation, thereby reducing cost, and enhancing reliability of the system. The model could also be used for inrush current and differential protection studies, geomagnetic induced current studies, harmonic penetration studies, and switching transient studies.

Reconstruction of human brain spontaneous activity based on frequency-pattern analysis of magnetoencephalography data

PubMed Central

Llinás, Rodolfo R.; Ustinin, Mikhail N.; Rykunov, Stanislav D.; Boyko, Anna I.; Sychev, Vyacheslav V.; Walton, Kerry D.; Rabello, Guilherme M.; Garcia, John

2015-01-01

A new method for the analysis and localization of brain activity has been developed, based on multichannel magnetic field recordings, over minutes, superimposed on the MRI of the individual. Here, a high resolution Fourier Transform is obtained over the entire recording period, leading to a detailed multi-frequency spectrum. Further analysis implements a total decomposition of the frequency components into functionally invariant entities, each having an invariant field pattern localizable in recording space. The method, addressed as functional tomography, makes it possible to find the distribution of magnetic field sources in space. Here, the method is applied to the analysis of simulated data, to oscillating signals activating a physical current dipoles phantom, and to recordings of spontaneous brain activity in 10 healthy adults. In the analysis of simulated data, 61 dipoles are localized with 0.7 mm precision. Concerning the physical phantom the method is able to localize three simultaneously activated current dipoles with 1 mm precision. Spatial resolution 3 mm was attained when localizing spontaneous alpha rhythm activity in 10 healthy adults, where the alpha peak was specified for each subject individually. Co-registration of the functional tomograms with each subject's head MRI localized alpha range activity to the occipital and/or posterior parietal brain region. This is the first application of this new functional tomography to human brain activity. The method successfully provides an overall view of brain electrical activity, a detailed spectral description and, combined with MRI, the localization of sources in anatomical brain space. PMID:26528119

Roadmap on transformation optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCall, Martin; Pendry, John B.; Galdi, Vincenzo; Lai, Yun; Horsley, S. A. R.; Li, Jensen; Zhu, Jian; Mitchell-Thomas, Rhiannon C.; Quevedo-Teruel, Oscar; Tassin, Philippe; Ginis, Vincent; Martini, Enrica; Minatti, Gabriele; Maci, Stefano; Ebrahimpouri, Mahsa; Hao, Yang; Kinsler, Paul; Gratus, Jonathan; Lukens, Joseph M.; Weiner, Andrew M.; Leonhardt, Ulf; Smolyaninov, Igor I.; Smolyaninova, Vera N.; Thompson, Robert T.; Wegener, Martin; Kadic, Muamer; Cummer, Steven A.

2018-06-01

Transformation optics asks, using Maxwell’s equations, what kind of electromagnetic medium recreates some smooth deformation of space? The guiding principle is Einstein’s principle of covariance: that any physical theory must take the same form in any coordinate system. This requirement fixes very precisely the required electromagnetic medium. The impact of this insight cannot be overestimated. Many practitioners were used to thinking that only a few analytic solutions to Maxwell’s equations existed, such as the monochromatic plane wave in a homogeneous, isotropic medium. At a stroke, transformation optics increases that landscape from ‘few’ to ‘infinity’, and to each of the infinitude of analytic solutions dreamt up by the researcher, there corresponds an electromagnetic medium capable of reproducing that solution precisely. The most striking example is the electromagnetic cloak, thought to be an unreachable dream of science fiction writers, but realised in the laboratory a few months after the papers proposing the possibility were published. But the practical challenges are considerable, requiring meta-media that are at once electrically and magnetically inhomogeneous and anisotropic. How far have we come since the first demonstrations over a decade ago? And what does the future hold? If the wizardry of perfect macroscopic optical invisibility still eludes us in practice, then what compromises still enable us to create interesting, useful, devices? While three-dimensional (3D) cloaking remains a significant technical challenge, much progress has been made in two dimensions. Carpet cloaking, wherein an object is hidden under a surface that appears optically flat, relaxes the constraints of extreme electromagnetic parameters. Surface wave cloaking guides sub-wavelength surface waves, making uneven surfaces appear flat. Two dimensions is also the setting in which conformal and complex coordinate transformations are realisable, and the possibilities in this restricted domain do not appear to have been exhausted yet. Beyond cloaking, the enhanced electromagnetic landscape provided by transformation optics has shown how fully analytic solutions can be found to a number of physical scenarios such as plasmonic systems used in electron energy loss spectroscopy and cathodoluminescence. Are there further fields to be enriched? A new twist to transformation optics was the extension to the spacetime domain. By applying transformations to spacetime, rather than just space, it was shown that events rather than objects could be hidden from view; transformation optics had provided a means of effectively redacting events from history. The hype quickly settled into serious nonlinear optical experiments that demonstrated the soundness of the idea, and it is now possible to consider the practical implications, particularly in optical signal processing, of having an ‘interrupt-without-interrupt’ facility that the so-called temporal cloak provides. Inevitable issues of dispersion in actual systems have only begun to be addressed. Now that time is included in the programme of transformation optics, it is natural to ask what role ideas from general relativity can play in shaping the future of transformation optics. Indeed, one of the earliest papers on transformation optics was provocatively titled ‘General Relativity in Electrical Engineering’. The answer that curvature does not enter directly into transformation optics merely encourages us to speculate on the role of transformation optics in defining laboratory analogues. Quite why Maxwell’s theory defines a ‘perfect’ transformation theory, while other areas of physics such as acoustics are not apparently quite so amenable, is a deep question whose precise, mathematical answer will help inform us of the extent to which similar ideas can be extended to other fields. The contributors to this Roadmap, who are all renowned practitioners or inventors of transformation optics, will give their perspectives into the field’s status and future development.

Fixed-Rate Compressed Floating-Point Arrays.

PubMed

Lindstrom, Peter

2014-12-01

Current compression schemes for floating-point data commonly take fixed-precision values and compress them to a variable-length bit stream, complicating memory management and random access. We present a fixed-rate, near-lossless compression scheme that maps small blocks of 4(d) values in d dimensions to a fixed, user-specified number of bits per block, thereby allowing read and write random access to compressed floating-point data at block granularity. Our approach is inspired by fixed-rate texture compression methods widely adopted in graphics hardware, but has been tailored to the high dynamic range and precision demands of scientific applications. Our compressor is based on a new, lifted, orthogonal block transform and embedded coding, allowing each per-block bit stream to be truncated at any point if desired, thus facilitating bit rate selection using a single compression scheme. To avoid compression or decompression upon every data access, we employ a software write-back cache of uncompressed blocks. Our compressor has been designed with computational simplicity and speed in mind to allow for the possibility of a hardware implementation, and uses only a small number of fixed-point arithmetic operations per compressed value. We demonstrate the viability and benefits of lossy compression in several applications, including visualization, quantitative data analysis, and numerical simulation.

Delivery of Formulated Industrial Enzymes with Acoustic Technology.

PubMed

Hwang, Jennifer Dorcas; Ortiz-Maldonado, Mariliz; Paramonov, Sergey

2016-02-01

Industrial enzymes are instrumental in many applications, including carbohydrate processing, fabric and household care, biofuels, food, and animal nutrition, among others. Enzymes have to be active and stable not only in harsh application conditions, but also during shipment and storage. In protein stability studies, formulated concentrated enzyme solutions are frequently diluted gravimetrically prior to enzyme activity measurements, making it challenging to move toward more high-throughput techniques using conventional robotic equipment. Current assay methods pose difficulties when measuring highly concentrated proteins. For example, plastic pipette tips can introduce error because proteins adsorb to the tip surface, despite the presence of detergents, decreasing precision and overall efficiency of protein activity assays. Acoustic liquid handling technology, frequently used for various dilute small-molecule assays, may overcome such problems. Originally shown to effectively deliver dilute solutions of small molecules, this technology is used here as an effective alternative to the aforementioned challenge with viscous concentrated protein solutions. Because the acoustic liquid handler transfers nanoliter quantities of liquids without using pipette tips and without sample loss, it rapidly and uniformly prepares assay plates for enzyme activity measurements within minutes. This increased efficiency transforms the nature of enzyme stability studies toward high precision and throughput. © 2015 Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening.

Mass-sheet degeneracy, power-law models and external convergence: Impact on the determination of the Hubble constant from gravitational lensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneider, Peter; Sluse, Dominique

2013-11-01

The light travel time differences in strong gravitational lensing systems allows an independent determination of the Hubble constant. This method has been successfully applied to several lens systems. The formally most precise measurements are, however, in tension with the recent determination of H0 from the Planck satellite for a spatially flat six-parameters ΛCDM cosmology. We reconsider the uncertainties of the method, concerning the mass profile of the lens galaxies, and show that the formal precision relies on the assumption that the mass profile is a perfect power law. Simple analytical arguments and numerical experiments reveal that mass-sheet like transformations yield significant freedom in choosing the mass profile, even when exquisite Einstein rings are observed. Furthermore, the characterization of the environment of the lens does not break that degeneracy which is not physically linked to extrinsic convergence. We present an illustrative example where the multiple imaging properties of a composite (baryons + dark matter) lens can be extremely well reproduced by a power-law model having the same velocity dispersion, but with predictions for the Hubble constant that deviate by ~20%. Hence we conclude that the impact of degeneracies between parametrized models have been underestimated in current H0 measurements from lensing, and need to be carefully reconsidered.

Directionality fields generated by a local Hilbert transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, W. W.; Herrero, R.; Botey, M.; Hayran, Z.; Kurt, H.; Staliunas, K.

2018-03-01

We propose an approach based on a local Hilbert transform to design non-Hermitian potentials generating arbitrary vector fields of directionality, p ⃗(r ⃗) , with desired shapes and topologies. We derive a local Hilbert transform to systematically build such potentials by modifying background potentials (being either regular or random, extended or localized). We explore particular directionality fields, for instance in the form of a focus to create sinks for probe fields (which could help to increase absorption at the sink), or to generate vortices in the probe fields. Physically, the proposed directionality fields provide a flexible mechanism for dynamical shaping and precise control over probe fields leading to novel effects in wave dynamics.

Application of the Undifferenced GNSS Precise Positioning in Determining Coordinates in National Reference Frames

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krzan, Grzegorz; Stępniak, Katarzyna

2017-09-01

In high-accuracy positioning using GNSS, the most common solution is still relative positioning using double-difference observations of dual-frequency measurements. An increasingly popular alternative to relative positioning are undifferenced approaches, which are designed to make full use of modern satellite systems and signals. Positions referenced to global International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF2008) obtained from Precise Point Positioning (PPP) or Undifferenced (UD) network solutions have to be transformed to national (regional) reference frame, which introduces additional bases related to the transformation process. In this paper, satellite observations from two test networks using different observation time series were processed. The first test concerns the positioning accuracy from processing one year of dual-frequency GPS observations from 14 EUREF Permanent Network (EPN) stations using NAPEOS 3.3.1 software. The results were transformed into a national reference frame (PL-ETRF2000) and compared to positions from an EPN cumulative solution, which was adopted as the true coordinates. Daily observations were processed using PPP and UD multi-station solutions to determine the final accuracy resulting from satellite positioning, the transformation to national coordinate systems and Eurasian intraplate plate velocities. The second numerical test involved similar processing strategies of post-processing carried out using different observation time series (30 min., 1 hour, 2 hours, daily) and different classes of GNSS receivers. The centimeter accuracy of results presented in the national coordinate system satisfies the requirements of many surveying and engineering applications.

Design and realization of assessment software for DC-bias of transformers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Chang; Liu, Lian-guang; Yuan, Zhong-chen

2013-03-01

The transformer working at the rated state will partically be saturated, and its mangetic current will be distorted accompanying with various of harmonic, increasing reactive power demand and some other affilicated phenomenon, which will threaten the safe operation of power grid. This paper establishes a transformer saturation circuit model of DCbias under duality principle basing on J-A theory which can reflect the hysteresis characteristics of iron core, and develops an software can assess the effects of transformer DC-bias using hybrid programming technology of C#.net and MATLAB with the microsoft.net platform. This software is able to simulate the mangnetizing current of different structures and assess the Saturation Level of transformers and the influnces of affilicated phenomenon accroding to the parameter of transformers and the DC equivalent voltage. It provides an effective method to assess the influnces of transformers caused by magnetic storm disaster and the earthing current of the HVDC project.

Pressure Sounding of the Middle Atmosphere from ATMOS Solar Occultation Measurements of Atmospheric CO(sub 2) Absorption Lines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abrams, M.; Gunson, M.; Lowes, L.; Rinsland, C.; Zander, R.

1994-01-01

A method for retrieving the atmospheric pressure corresponding to the tangent point of an infrared spectrum recorded in the solar occultation mode is described and applied to measurements made by the Atmospheric Trace Molecule Spectroscopy (ATMOS) Fourier transform spectrometer. Tangent pressure values are inferred from measurements of isolated CO(sub 2) lines with temperature-insensitive intensities. Tangent pressures are determined with a spectroscopic precision of 1-3%, corresponding to a tangent point height precision, depending on the scale height, of 70-210 meters.

Culture, Education, Anthropology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Varenne, Herve

2008-01-01

This article argues that the anthropology of education must focus on what people do to educate themselves outside the constraints constituting the problematics of schooling. Anthropologists must do this precisely to fulfill their public role as legitimate participants in the conversations about understanding and transforming schooling. When…

APPLICATION OF MULTISPECTRAL TECHNIQUES TO THE PRECISE IDENTIFICATION OF ALDEHYDES IN THE ENVIRONMENT

EPA Science Inventory

By using gas chromatography coupled with low- and high-resolution electron impact mass spectrometry, low- and high-resolution chemical ionization mass spectrometry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, eight straight-chain aldehydes were identified in a water sample taken...

Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment (ACE) Measurements of Tropospheric and Stratospheric Chemistry and Long-Term Trends

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rinsland, Curtis P.; Bernath, Peter; Boone, Chris; Nassar, Ray

2007-01-01

We highlight chemistry and trend measurement results from the Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment (ACE) which is providing precise middle troposphere to the lower thermosphere measurements with a 0.02/cm resolution Fourier transform spectrometer covering 750-4400/cm

The neuromechanics of hearing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Araya, Mussie K.; Brownell, William E.

2015-12-01

Hearing requires precise detection and coding of acoustic signals by the inner ear and equally precise communication of the information through the auditory brainstem. A membrane based motor in the outer hair cell lateral wall contributes to the transformation of sound into a precise neural code. Structural, molecular and energetic similarities between the outer hair cell and auditory brainstem neurons suggest that a similar membrane based motor may contribute to signal processing in the auditory CNS. Cooperative activation of voltage gated ion channels enhances neuronal temporal processing and increases the upper frequency limit for phase locking. We explore the possibility that membrane mechanics contribute to ion channel cooperativity as a consequence of the nearly instantaneous speed of electromechanical signaling and the fact that membrane composition and mechanics modulate ion channel function.

Carrier-separating demodulation of phase shifting self-mixing interferometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Yufeng; Wang, Ming; Xia, Wei

2017-03-01

A carrier separating method associated with noise-elimination had been introduced into a sinusoidal phase-shifting self-mixing interferometer. The conventional sinusoidal phase shifting self-mixing interferometry was developed into a more competitive instrument with high computing efficiency and nanometer accuracy of λ / 100 in dynamical vibration measurement. The high slew rate electro-optic modulator induced a sinusoidal phase carrier with ultralow insertion loss in this paper. In order to extract phase-shift quickly and precisely, this paper employed the carrier-separating to directly generate quadrature signals without complicated frequency domain transforms. Moreover, most noises were evaluated and suppressed by a noise-elimination technology synthesizing empirical mode decomposition with wavelet transform. The overall laser system was described and inherent advantages such as high computational efficiency and decreased nonlinear errors of the established system were demonstrated. The experiment implemented on a high precision PZT (positioning accuracy was better than 1 nm) and compared with laser Doppler velocity meter. The good agreement of two instruments shown that the short-term resolution had improved from 10 nm to 1.5 nm in dynamic vibration measurement with reduced time expense. This was useful in precision measurement to improve the SMI with same sampling rate. The proposed signal processing was performed in pure time-domain requiring no preprocessing electronic circuits.

Optical frequency comb Fourier transform spectroscopy with sub-nominal resolution and precision beyond the Voigt profile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rutkowski, Lucile; Masłowski, Piotr; Johansson, Alexandra C.; Khodabakhsh, Amir; Foltynowicz, Aleksandra

2018-01-01

Broadband precision spectroscopy is indispensable for providing high fidelity molecular parameters for spectroscopic databases. We have recently shown that mechanical Fourier transform spectrometers based on optical frequency combs can measure broadband high-resolution molecular spectra undistorted by the instrumental line shape (ILS) and with a highly precise frequency scale provided by the comb. The accurate measurement of the power of the comb modes interacting with the molecular sample was achieved by acquiring single-burst interferograms with nominal resolution matched to the comb mode spacing. Here we describe in detail the experimental and numerical steps needed to achieve sub-nominal resolution and retrieve ILS-free molecular spectra, i.e. with ILS-induced distortion below the noise level. We investigate the accuracy of the transition line centers retrieved by fitting to the absorption lines measured using this method. We verify the performance by measuring an ILS-free cavity-enhanced low-pressure spectrum of the 3ν1 + ν3 band of CO2 around 1575 nm with line widths narrower than the nominal resolution. We observe and quantify collisional narrowing of absorption line shape, for the first time with a comb-based spectroscopic technique. Thus retrieval of line shape parameters with accuracy not limited by the Voigt profile is now possible for entire absorption bands acquired simultaneously.

The Geomorphological Effects of Old Routes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martinek, Jan; Bíl, Michal

2017-04-01

The communication network in rural areas in the historical Czech Lands predominantly consisted of unpaved routes prior to the eighteenth century. Certain parts of the network were transformed gradually into the current roads and are now being used by motor traffic. The majority of the old routes form, however, an abandoned network the remnants of which (abandoned during the Middle Ages or even earlier) are currently being discovered. Certain segments of used unpaved routes were, over the course of time, transformed into holloways (sunken lanes) and consequently also abandoned. The degree of incision of the holloway into the soil was determined by local geological conditions. Routes, which were abandoned due to more difficult transport in holloways, have distinct linear forms and can often be found as a grouping of parallel holloways. This indicates that these routes were frequently used or localized on low-resistant ground. Analyses of the precise digital elevation models, derived from LIDAR data, can reveal the distinct pattern of an old route network quite often interacting with other geomorphological phenomena (e.g., landslides, streams) or old human constructions (e.g., fortified settlements). We will present several cases where old paths interacted with landslides. These facts can consequently be used for dating the purposes of both the landslides and the old path sections. General erosion impacts, the degree of incision of the old transportation lines, can also be quantified through analyses of digital elevation models taking into consideration the former and new, incised, surface. We will demonstrate the methodology used for these analyses and the preliminary results.

The benefits of improved national elevation data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Snyder, Gregory I.

2013-01-01

This article describes how the National Enhanced Elevation Assessment (NEEA) has identified substantial benefits that could come about if improved elevation data were publicly available for current and emerging applications and business uses such as renewable energy, precision agriculture, and intelligent vehicle navigation and safety. In order to support these diverse needs, new national elevation data with higher resolution and accuracy are needed. The 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) initiative was developed to meet the majority of these needs and it is expected that 3DEP will result in new, unimagined information services that would result in job growth and the transformation of the geospatial community. Private-sector data collection companies are continuously evolving sensors and positioning technologies that are needed to collect improved elevation data. An initiative of this scope might also provide an opportunity for companies to improve their capabilities and produce even higher data quality and consistency at a pace that might not have otherwise occurred.

Mammalian synthetic biology for studying the cell.

PubMed

Mathur, Melina; Xiang, Joy S; Smolke, Christina D

2017-01-02

Synthetic biology is advancing the design of genetic devices that enable the study of cellular and molecular biology in mammalian cells. These genetic devices use diverse regulatory mechanisms to both examine cellular processes and achieve precise and dynamic control of cellular phenotype. Synthetic biology tools provide novel functionality to complement the examination of natural cell systems, including engineered molecules with specific activities and model systems that mimic complex regulatory processes. Continued development of quantitative standards and computational tools will expand capacities to probe cellular mechanisms with genetic devices to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the cell. In this study, we review synthetic biology tools that are being applied to effectively investigate diverse cellular processes, regulatory networks, and multicellular interactions. We also discuss current challenges and future developments in the field that may transform the types of investigation possible in cell biology. © 2017 Mathur et al.

Oral submucous fibrosis: An update on current theories of pathogenesis.

PubMed

Arakeri, Gururaj; Rai, Kirthi Kumar; Hunasgi, Santosh; Merkx, M A W; Gao, Shan; Brennan, Peter A

2017-07-01

Over the last 40 years, many theories linking oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) to various risk factors have been proposed. Spicy, pungent foods and irritants such as supari (areca nut), paan (betel leaves), tobacco (through chewing or smoking)-the common Asian habits of chewing the aforementioned agents-have all been incriminated as causative agents. Systemic factors such as nutritional deficiency, genetic predisposition and autoimmunity have also been proposed in the pathogenesis of OSMF. However, the precise aetiology of OSMF is still unknown, and no conclusive evidence has been found despite many extensive investigations on implicated factors. Most of the ideas proposed have been derived from the existing clinical and epidemiological data. We present a comprehensive review of the various theories regarding the pathogenesis of the condition, but have not concentrated on malignant transformation in this article. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Study on Huizhou architecture of point cloud registration based on optimized ICP algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Runmei; Wu, Yulu; Zhang, Guangbin; Zhou, Wei; Tao, Yuqian

2018-03-01

In view of the current point cloud registration software has high hardware requirements, heavy workload and moltiple interactive definition, the source of software with better processing effect is not open, a two--step registration method based on normal vector distribution feature and coarse feature based iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm is proposed in this paper. This method combines fast point feature histogram (FPFH) algorithm, define the adjacency region of point cloud and the calculation model of the distribution of normal vectors, setting up the local coordinate system for each key point, and obtaining the transformation matrix to finish rough registration, the rough registration results of two stations are accurately registered by using the ICP algorithm. Experimental results show that, compared with the traditional ICP algorithm, the method used in this paper has obvious time and precision advantages for large amount of point clouds.

NEUROSCIENCE. Natural light-gated anion channels: A family of microbial rhodopsins for advanced optogenetics.

PubMed

Govorunova, Elena G; Sineshchekov, Oleg A; Janz, Roger; Liu, Xiaoqin; Spudich, John L

2015-08-07

Light-gated rhodopsin cation channels from chlorophyte algae have transformed neuroscience research through their use as membrane-depolarizing optogenetic tools for targeted photoactivation of neuron firing. Photosuppression of neuronal action potentials has been limited by the lack of equally efficient tools for membrane hyperpolarization. We describe anion channel rhodopsins (ACRs), a family of light-gated anion channels from cryptophyte algae that provide highly sensitive and efficient membrane hyperpolarization and neuronal silencing through light-gated chloride conduction. ACRs strictly conducted anions, completely excluding protons and larger cations, and hyperpolarized the membrane of cultured animal cells with much faster kinetics at less than one-thousandth of the light intensity required by the most efficient currently available optogenetic proteins. Natural ACRs provide optogenetic inhibition tools with unprecedented light sensitivity and temporal precision. Copyright © 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Phase space manipulation in high-brightness electron beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rihaoui, Marwan M.

Electron beams have a wide range of applications, including discovery science, medicine, and industry. Electron beams can also be used to power next-generation, high-gradient electron accelerators. The performances of some of these applications could be greatly enhanced by precisely tailoring the phase space distribution of the electron beam. The goal of this dissertation is to explore some of these phase space manipulations. We especially focus on transformations capable of tailoring the beam current distribution. Specifically, we investigate a beamline exchanging phase space coordinates between the horizontal and longitudinal degrees of freedom. The key components necessary for this beamline were constructed and tested. The preliminary beamline was used as a singleshot phase space diagnostics and to produce a train of picoseconds electron bunches. We also investigate the use of multiple electron beams to control the transverse focusing. Our numerical and analytical studies are supplemented with experiments performed at the Argonne Wakefield Accelerator.

Toward clinical genomics in everyday medicine: perspectives and recommendations.

PubMed

Delaney, Susan K; Hultner, Michael L; Jacob, Howard J; Ledbetter, David H; McCarthy, Jeanette J; Ball, Michael; Beckman, Kenneth B; Belmont, John W; Bloss, Cinnamon S; Christman, Michael F; Cosgrove, Andy; Damiani, Stephen A; Danis, Timothy; Delledonne, Massimo; Dougherty, Michael J; Dudley, Joel T; Faucett, W Andrew; Friedman, Jennifer R; Haase, David H; Hays, Tom S; Heilsberg, Stu; Huber, Jeff; Kaminsky, Leah; Ledbetter, Nikki; Lee, Warren H; Levin, Elissa; Libiger, Ondrej; Linderman, Michael; Love, Richard L; Magnus, David C; Martland, AnneMarie; McClure, Susan L; Megill, Scott E; Messier, Helen; Nussbaum, Robert L; Palaniappan, Latha; Patay, Bradley A; Popovich, Bradley W; Quackenbush, John; Savant, Mark J; Su, Michael M; Terry, Sharon F; Tucker, Steven; Wong, William T; Green, Robert C

2016-01-01

Precision or personalized medicine through clinical genome and exome sequencing has been described by some as a revolution that could transform healthcare delivery, yet it is currently used in only a small fraction of patients, principally for the diagnosis of suspected Mendelian conditions and for targeting cancer treatments. Given the burden of illness in our society, it is of interest to ask how clinical genome and exome sequencing can be constructively integrated more broadly into the routine practice of medicine for the betterment of public health. In November 2014, 46 experts from academia, industry, policy and patient advocacy gathered in a conference sponsored by Illumina, Inc. to discuss this question, share viewpoints and propose recommendations. This perspective summarizes that work and identifies some of the obstacles and opportunities that must be considered in translating advances in genomics more widely into the practice of medicine.

Toward clinical genomics in everyday medicine: perspectives and recommendations

PubMed Central

Delaney, Susan K.; Hultner, Michael L.; Jacob, Howard J.; Ledbetter, David H.; McCarthy, Jeanette J.; Ball, Michael; Beckman, Kenneth B.; Belmont, John W.; Bloss, Cinnamon S.; Christman, Michael F.; Cosgrove, Andy; Damiani, Stephen A.; Danis, Timothy; Delledonne, Massimo; Dougherty, Michael J.; Dudley, Joel T.; Faucett, W. Andrew; Friedman, Jennifer R.; Haase, David H.; Hays, Tom S.; Heilsberg, Stu; Huber, Jeff; Kaminsky, Leah; Ledbetter, Nikki; Lee, Warren H.; Levin, Elissa; Libiger, Ondrej; Linderman, Michael; Love, Richard L.; Magnus, David C.; Martland, AnneMarie; McClure, Susan L.; Megill, Scott E.; Messier, Helen; Nussbaum, Robert L.; Palaniappan, Latha; Patay, Bradley A.; Popovich, Bradley W.; Quackenbush, John; Savant, Mark J.; Su, Michael M.; Terry, Sharon F.; Tucker, Steven; Wong, William T.; Green, Robert C.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Precision or personalized medicine through clinical genome and exome sequencing has been described by some as a revolution that could transform healthcare delivery, yet it is currently used in only a small fraction of patients, principally for the diagnosis of suspected Mendelian conditions and for targeting cancer treatments. Given the burden of illness in our society, it is of interest to ask how clinical genome and exome sequencing can be constructively integrated more broadly into the routine practice of medicine for the betterment of public health. In November 2014, 46 experts from academia, industry, policy and patient advocacy gathered in a conference sponsored by Illumina, Inc. to discuss this question, share viewpoints and propose recommendations. This perspective summarizes that work and identifies some of the obstacles and opportunities that must be considered in translating advances in genomics more widely into the practice of medicine. PMID:26810587

Design and Experimental Study of a Current Transformer with a Stacked PCB Based on B-Dot.

PubMed

Wang, Jingang; Si, Diancheng; Tian, Tian; Ren, Ran

2017-04-10

An electronic current transformer with a B-dot sensor is proposed in this study. The B-dot sensor can realize the current measurement of the transmission line in a non-contact way in accordance with the principle of magnetic field coupling. The multiple electrodes series-opposing structure is applied together with differential input structures and active integrating circuits, which can allow the sensor to operate in differential mode. Maxwell software is adopted to model and simulate the sensor. Optimization of the sensor structural parameters is conducted through finite-element simulation. A test platform is built to conduct the steady-state characteristic, on-off operation, and linearity tests for the designed current transformer under the power-frequency current. As shown by the test results, in contrast with traditional electromagnetic CT, the designed current transformer can achieve high accuracy and good phase-frequency; its linearity is also very good at different distances from the wire. The proposed current transformer provides a new method for electricity larceny prevention and on-line monitoring of the power grid in an electric system, thereby satisfying the development demands of the smart power grid.

Design and Experimental Study of a Current Transformer with a Stacked PCB Based on B-Dot

PubMed Central

Wang, Jingang; Si, Diancheng; Tian, Tian; Ren, Ran

2017-01-01

An electronic current transformer with a B-dot sensor is proposed in this study. The B-dot sensor can realize the current measurement of the transmission line in a non-contact way in accordance with the principle of magnetic field coupling. The multiple electrodes series-opposing structure is applied together with differential input structures and active integrating circuits, which can allow the sensor to operate in differential mode. Maxwell software is adopted to model and simulate the sensor. Optimization of the sensor structural parameters is conducted through finite-element simulation. A test platform is built to conduct the steady-state characteristic, on-off operation, and linearity tests for the designed current transformer under the power-frequency current. As shown by the test results, in contrast with traditional electromagnetic CT, the designed current transformer can achieve high accuracy and good phase-frequency; its linearity is also very good at different distances from the wire. The proposed current transformer provides a new method for electricity larceny prevention and on-line monitoring of the power grid in an electric system, thereby satisfying the development demands of the smart power grid. PMID:28394298

Proceedings of the Workshop on Improvements to Photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Borucki, W. J. (Editor); Young, A. T. (Editor)

1984-01-01

The purposes of the workshop were to determine what astronomical problems would benefit by increased photometric precision, determine the current level of precision, identify the processes limiting the precision, and recommend approaches to improving photometric precision. Twenty representatives of the university, industry, and government communities participated. Results and recommendations are discussed.

Creative brains: designing in the real world†

PubMed Central

Goel, Vinod

2014-01-01

The process of designing artifacts is a creative activity. It is proposed that, at the cognitive level, one key to understanding design creativity is to understand the array of symbol systems designers utilize. These symbol systems range from being vague, imprecise, abstract, ambiguous, and indeterminate (like conceptual sketches), to being very precise, concrete, unambiguous, and determinate (like contract documents). The former types of symbol systems support associative processes that facilitate lateral (or divergent) transformations that broaden the problem space, while the latter types of symbol systems support inference processes facilitating vertical (or convergent) transformations that deepen of the problem space. The process of artifact design requires the judicious application of both lateral and vertical transformations. This leads to a dual mechanism model of design problem-solving comprising of an associative engine and an inference engine. It is further claimed that this dual mechanism model is supported by an interesting hemispheric dissociation in human prefrontal cortex. The associative engine and neural structures that support imprecise, ambiguous, abstract, indeterminate representations are lateralized in the right prefrontal cortex, while the inference engine and neural structures that support precise, unambiguous, determinant representations are lateralized in the left prefrontal cortex. At the brain level, successful design of artifacts requires a delicate balance between the two hemispheres of prefrontal cortex. PMID:24817846

Light, Molecules, Action: Using Ultrafast Uv-Visible and X-Ray Spectroscopy to Probe Excited State Dynamics in Photoactive Molecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sension, R. J.

2017-06-01

Light provides a versatile energy source capable of precise manipulation of material systems on size scales ranging from molecular to macroscopic. Photochemistry provides the means for transforming light energy from photon to process via movement of charge, a change in shape, a change in size, or the cleavage of a bond. Photochemistry produces action. In the work to be presented here ultrafast UV-Visible pump-probe, and pump-repump-probe methods have been used to probe the excited state dynamics of stilbene-based molecular motors, cyclohexadiene-based switches, and polyene-based photoacids. Both ultrafast UV-Visible and X-ray absorption spectroscopies have been applied to the study of cobalamin (vitamin B_{12}) based compounds. Optical measurements provide precise characterization of spectroscopic signatures of the intermediate species on the S_{1} surface, while time-resolved XANES spectra at the Co K-edge probe the structural changes that accompany these transformations.

Low complexity 1D IDCT for 16-bit parallel architectures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bivolarski, Lazar

2007-09-01

This paper shows that using the Loeffler, Ligtenberg, and Moschytz factorization of 8-point IDCT [2] one-dimensional (1-D) algorithm as a fast approximation of the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) and using only 16 bit numbers, it is possible to create in an IEEE 1180-1990 compliant and multiplierless algorithm with low computational complexity. This algorithm as characterized by its structure is efficiently implemented on parallel high performance architectures as well as due to its low complexity is sufficient for wide range of other architectures. Additional constraint on this work was the requirement of compliance with the existing MPEG standards. The hardware implementation complexity and low resources where also part of the design criteria for this algorithm. This implementation is also compliant with the precision requirements described in MPEG IDCT precision specification ISO/IEC 23002-1. Complexity analysis is performed as an extension to the simple measure of shifts and adds for the multiplierless algorithm as additional operations are included in the complexity measure to better describe the actual transform implementation complexity.

Comparison of Ultra-Rapid Orbit Prediction Strategies for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou.

PubMed

Geng, Tao; Zhang, Peng; Wang, Wei; Xie, Xin

2018-02-06

Currently, ultra-rapid orbits play an important role in the high-speed development of global navigation satellite system (GNSS) real-time applications. This contribution focuses on the impact of the fitting arc length of observed orbits and solar radiation pressure (SRP) on the orbit prediction performance for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou. One full year's precise ephemerides during 2015 were used as fitted observed orbits and then as references to be compared with predicted orbits, together with known earth rotation parameters. The full nine-parameter Empirical Center for Orbit Determination in Europe (CODE) Orbit Model (ECOM) and its reduced version were chosen in our study. The arc lengths of observed fitted orbits that showed the smallest weighted root mean squares (WRMSs) and medians of the orbit differences after a Helmert transformation fell between 40 and 45 h for GPS and GLONASS and between 42 and 48 h for Galileo, while the WRMS values and medians become flat after a 42 h arc length for BeiDou. The stability of the Helmert transformation and SRP parameters also confirmed the similar optimal arc lengths. The range around 42-45 h is suggested to be the optimal arc length interval of the fitted observed orbits for the multi-GNSS joint solution of ultra-rapid orbits.

Vision-based measurement for rotational speed by improving Lucas-Kanade template tracking algorithm.

PubMed

Guo, Jie; Zhu, Chang'an; Lu, Siliang; Zhang, Dashan; Zhang, Chunyu

2016-09-01

Rotational angle and speed are important parameters for condition monitoring and fault diagnosis of rotating machineries, and their measurement is useful in precision machining and early warning of faults. In this study, a novel vision-based measurement algorithm is proposed to complete this task. A high-speed camera is first used to capture the video of the rotational object. To extract the rotational angle, the template-based Lucas-Kanade algorithm is introduced to complete motion tracking by aligning the template image in the video sequence. Given the special case of nonplanar surface of the cylinder object, a nonlinear transformation is designed for modeling the rotation tracking. In spite of the unconventional and complex form, the transformation can realize angle extraction concisely with only one parameter. A simulation is then conducted to verify the tracking effect, and a practical tracking strategy is further proposed to track consecutively the video sequence. Based on the proposed algorithm, instantaneous rotational speed (IRS) can be measured accurately and efficiently. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is verified on a brushless direct current motor test rig through the comparison with results obtained by the microphone. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can extract accurately rotational angles and can measure IRS with the advantage of noncontact and effectiveness.

Comparison of Ultra-Rapid Orbit Prediction Strategies for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou

PubMed Central

Zhang, Peng; Wang, Wei; Xie, Xin

2018-01-01

Currently, ultra-rapid orbits play an important role in the high-speed development of global navigation satellite system (GNSS) real-time applications. This contribution focuses on the impact of the fitting arc length of observed orbits and solar radiation pressure (SRP) on the orbit prediction performance for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou. One full year’s precise ephemerides during 2015 were used as fitted observed orbits and then as references to be compared with predicted orbits, together with known earth rotation parameters. The full nine-parameter Empirical Center for Orbit Determination in Europe (CODE) Orbit Model (ECOM) and its reduced version were chosen in our study. The arc lengths of observed fitted orbits that showed the smallest weighted root mean squares (WRMSs) and medians of the orbit differences after a Helmert transformation fell between 40 and 45 h for GPS and GLONASS and between 42 and 48 h for Galileo, while the WRMS values and medians become flat after a 42 h arc length for BeiDou. The stability of the Helmert transformation and SRP parameters also confirmed the similar optimal arc lengths. The range around 42–45 h is suggested to be the optimal arc length interval of the fitted observed orbits for the multi-GNSS joint solution of ultra-rapid orbits. PMID:29415467

Biopsy applications of Ti50Ni41Cu9 shape memory films for wireless capsule endoscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Hejun; Fu, Yongqing; Zhang, S.; Luo, Jack K.; Flewitt, Andrew J.; Milne, William I.

2004-02-01

Wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) is a new technology to evaluate the patient with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. However, there is still some deficiency existing in the current WCE, for example, lack of ability to biopsy and precisely locate the pathology. This study aimed to prepare and characterize TiNiCu shape memory alloy thin films for developing microgripper for biopsy (tissue sampling and tagging) applications. Ti50Ni41Cu9 thin films were prepared by co-sputtering of TiNi and Cu targets, and their transformation temperatures were slightly above that of human body. Results from differential scanning calorimetry, in-situ X-ray diffraction, curvature and electrical resistance measurement revealed clearly martensitic transformation of the deposited TiNiCu films upon heating and cooling. The biocompatibility of the TiNiCu films in the simulated gastric and intestinal solutions was also studied. Results showed the release of Ni and Cu ions is much less than the toxic level and the film did not lose shape memory effect even after 10-day immersion in the simulated solutions. TiNiCu/Si micro-cantilevers with and without electrodes were fabricated using the conventional micromachining methods and apparent shape memory effect upon heating and cooling was demonstrated.

Analysis and Countermeasure Study on DC Bias of Main Transformer in a City

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, PengChao; Wang, Hongtao; Song, Xinpu; Gu, Jun; Liu, yong; Wu, weili

2017-07-01

According to the December 2015 Guohua Beijing thermal power transformer DC magnetic bias phenomenon, the monitoring data of 24 hours of direct current is analyzed. We find that the maximum DC current is up to 25 and is about 30s for the trend cycle, on this basis, then, of the geomagnetic storm HVDC and subway operation causes comparison of the mechanism, and make a comprehensive analysis of the thermal power plant’s geographical location, surrounding environment and electrical contact etc.. The results show that the main reason for the DC bias of Guohua thermal power transformer is the operation of the subway, and the change of the DC bias current is periodic. Finally, of Guohua thermal power transformer DC magnetic bias control method is studied, the simulation results show that the method of using neutral point with small resistance or capacitance can effectively inhibit the main transformer neutral point current.

Simplifying HL7 Version 3 messages.

PubMed

Worden, Robert; Scott, Philip

2011-01-01

HL7 Version 3 offers a semantically robust method for healthcare interoperability but has been criticized as overly complex to implement. This paper reviews initiatives to simplify HL7 Version 3 messaging and presents a novel approach based on semantic mapping. Based on user-defined definitions, precise transforms between simple and full messages are automatically generated. Systems can be interfaced with the simple messages and achieve interoperability with full Version 3 messages through the transforms. This reduces the costs of HL7 interfacing and will encourage better uptake of HL7 Version 3 and CDA.

Personalized medicine and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PubMed

Wouters, E F M; Wouters, B B R A F; Augustin, I M L; Franssen, F M E

2017-05-01

The current review summarizes ongoing developments in personalized medicine and precision medicine in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Our current approach is far away of personalized management algorithms as current recommendations for COPD are largely based on a reductionist disease description, operationally defined by results of spirometry. Besides precision medicine developments, a personalized medicine approach in COPD is described based on a holistic approach of the patient and considering illness as the consequence of dynamic interactions within and between multiple interacting and self-adjusting systems. Pulmonary rehabilitation is described as a model of personalized medicine. Largely based on current understanding of inflammatory processes in COPD, targeted interventions in COPD are reviewed. Augmentation therapy for α-1-antitrypsine deficiency is described as model of precision medicine in COPD based in profound understanding of the related genetic endotype. Future developments of precision medicine in COPD require identification of relevant endotypes combined with proper identification of phenotypes involved in the complex and heterogeneous manifestations of COPD.

Transforming nursing education: a review of current curricular practices in relation to Benner's latest work.

PubMed

Handwerker, Sarah M

2012-09-12

Current societal and healthcare system trends highlight the need to transform nursing education to prepare nurses capable of outstanding practice in the 21st century. Patricia Benner and colleagues urged nurse educators to transform their practice in the 2010 publication Educating Nurses, A Call to Radical Transformation. Frequently utilized pedagogical frameworks in nursing education include behaviorism and constructivism. Much of the structure and basis for instruction and evaluation can be found rooted in these philosophies. By first exploring both behaviorism and constructivism and then relating their use in nursing education to the call to transform, educators can be encourage to examine current practice and possibly modify aspects to include more rich experiential learning.

Transformer coupling for transmitting direct current through a barrier

DOEpatents

Brown, Ralph L.; Guilford, Richard P.; Stichman, John H.

1988-01-01

The transmission system for transmitting direct current from an energy source on one side of an electrical and mechanical barrier to a load on the other side of the barrier utilizes a transformer comprising a primary core on one side of the transformer and a secondary core on the other side of the transformer. The cores are magnetically coupled selectively by moving a magnetic ferrite coupler in and out of alignment with the poles of the cores. The direct current from the energy source is converted to a time varying current by an oscillating circuit, which oscillating circuit is optically coupled to a secondary winding on the secondary core to interrupt oscillations upon the voltage in the secondary winding exceeding a preselected level.

Transformer coupling for transmitting direct current through a barrier

DOEpatents

Brown, R.L.; Guilford, R.P.; Stichman, J.H.

1987-06-29

The transmission system for transmitting direct current from an energy source on one side of an electrical and mechanical barrier to a load on the other side of the barrier utilizes a transformer comprising a primary core on one side of the transformer and a secondary core on the other side of the transformer. The cores are magnetically coupled selectively by moving a magnetic ferrite coupler in and out of alignment with the poles of the cores. The direct current from the energy source is converted to a time varying current by an oscillating circuit, which oscillating circuit is optically coupled to a secondary winding on the secondary core to interrupt oscillations upon the voltage in the secondary winding exceeding a preselected level. 4 figs.

The Effects of Different Electrode Types for Obtaining Surface Machining Shape on Shape Memory Alloy Using Electrochemical Machining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, S. G.; Kim, S. H.; Choi, W. K.; Moon, G. C.; Lee, E. S.

2017-06-01

Shape memory alloy (SMA) is important material used for the medicine and aerospace industry due to its characteristics called the shape memory effect, which involves the recovery of deformed alloy to its original state through the application of temperature or stress. Consumers in modern society demand stability in parts. Electrochemical machining is one of the methods for obtained these stabilities in parts requirements. These parts of shape memory alloy require fine patterns in some applications. In order to machine a fine pattern, the electrochemical machining method is suitable. For precision electrochemical machining using different shape electrodes, the current density should be controlled precisely. And electrode shape is required for precise electrochemical machining. It is possible to obtain precise square holes on the SMA if the insulation layer controlled the unnecessary current between electrode and workpiece. If it is adjusting the unnecessary current to obtain the desired shape, it will be a great contribution to the medical industry and the aerospace industry. It is possible to process a desired shape to the shape memory alloy by micro controlling the unnecessary current. In case of the square electrode without insulation layer, it derives inexact square holes due to the unnecessary current. The results using the insulated electrode in only side show precise square holes. The removal rate improved in case of insulated electrode than others because insulation layer concentrate the applied current to the machining zone.

Precision Medicine in Gastrointestinal Pathology.

PubMed

Wang, David H; Park, Jason Y

2016-05-01

-Precision medicine is the promise of individualized therapy and management of patients based on their personal biology. There are now multiple global initiatives to perform whole-genome sequencing on millions of individuals. In the United States, an early program was the Million Veteran Program, and a more recent proposal in 2015 by the president of the United States is the Precision Medicine Initiative. To implement precision medicine in routine oncology care, genetic variants present in tumors need to be matched with effective clinical therapeutics. When we focus on the current state of precision medicine for gastrointestinal malignancies, it becomes apparent that there is a mixed history of success and failure. -To present the current state of precision medicine using gastrointestinal oncology as a model. We will present currently available targeted therapeutics, promising new findings in clinical genomic oncology, remaining quality issues in genomic testing, and emerging oncology clinical trial designs. -Review of the literature including clinical genomic studies on gastrointestinal malignancies, clinical oncology trials on therapeutics targeted to molecular alterations, and emerging clinical oncology study designs. -Translating our ability to sequence thousands of genes into meaningful improvements in patient survival will be the challenge for the next decade.

Long Open Path Fourier Transform Spectroscopy Measurements of Greenhouse Gases in the Near Infrared

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Griffith, D. W. T.

2015-12-01

Atmospheric composition measurements are an important tool to quantify local and regional emissions and sinks of greenhouse gases. Most in situ measurements are made at a point, but how representative are such measurements in an inhomogeneous environment? Open path Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FTS) measurements potentially offer spatial averaging and continuous measurements of several trace gases (including CO2, CH4, CO and N2O) simultaneously in the same airmass. Spatial averaging over kilometre scales is a better fit to the finest scale atmospheric models becoming available, and helps bridge the gap between models and in situ measurements. In this paper we assess the precision, accuracy and reliability of long open path measurements by Fourier Transform Spectroscopy in the near infrared from a 5-month continuous record of measurements over a 1.5 km pathlength. Direct open-atmosphere measurements of trace gases CO2, CH4, CO and N2O as well as O2 were retrieved from several absorption bands between 4000 and 8000 cm-1 (2.5 - 1.25 micron). At one end of the path an in situ FTIR analyser simultaneously collected well calibrated measurements of the same species for comparison with the open path-integrated measurements. The measurements ran continuously from June - November 2014. We introduce the open path FTS measurement system and present an analysis of the results, including assessment of precision, accuracy relative to co-incident in situ measurements, reliability. Short term precision of the open path measurement of CO2 was better than 1 ppm for 5 minute averages and thus sufficient for studies in urban and other non-background environments. Measurement bias relative to calibrated in situ measurements was stable across the measurement period. The system operated reliably with data losses mainly due to weather events such as rain and fog preventing transmission of the IR beam. In principle the system can be improved to provide longer pathlengths and higher precision, and we present recent progress in improving the original measurements.

A frequency-based window width optimized two-dimensional S-Transform profilometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Min; Chen, Feng; Xiao, Chao

2017-11-01

A new scheme is proposed to as a frequency-based window width optimized two-dimensional S-Transform profilometry, in which parameters pu and pv are introduced to control the width of a two-dimensional Gaussian window. Unlike the standard two-dimensional S-transform using the Gaussian window with window width proportional to the reciprocal local frequency of the tested signal, the size of window width for the optimized two-dimensional S-Transform varies with the pu th (pv th) power of the reciprocal local frequency fx (fy) in x (y) direction. The paper gives a detailed theoretical analysis of optimized two-dimensional S-Transform in fringe analysis as well as the characteristics of the modified Gauss window. Simulations are applied to evaluate the proposed scheme, the results show that the new scheme has better noise reduction ability and can extract phase distribution more precise in comparison with the standard two-dimensional S-transform even though the surface of the measured object varies sharply. Finally, the proposed scheme is demonstrated on three-dimensional surface reconstruction for a complex plastic cat mask to show its effectiveness.

Short-term data forecasting based on wavelet transformation and chaos theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yi; Li, Cunbin; Zhang, Liang

2017-09-01

A sketch of wavelet transformation and its application was given. Concerning the characteristics of time sequence, Haar wavelet was used to do data reduction. After processing, the effect of “data nail” on forecasting was reduced. Chaos theory was also introduced, a new chaos time series forecasting flow based on wavelet transformation was proposed. The largest Lyapunov exponent was larger than zero from small data sets, it verified the data change behavior still met chaotic behavior. Based on this, chaos time series to forecast short-term change behavior could be used. At last, the example analysis of the price from a real electricity market showed that the forecasting method increased the precision of the forecasting more effectively and steadily.

EnvironmentalWaveletTool: Continuous and discrete wavelet analysis and filtering for environmental time series

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galiana-Merino, J. J.; Pla, C.; Fernandez-Cortes, A.; Cuezva, S.; Ortiz, J.; Benavente, D.

2014-10-01

A MATLAB-based computer code has been developed for the simultaneous wavelet analysis and filtering of several environmental time series, particularly focused on the analyses of cave monitoring data. The continuous wavelet transform, the discrete wavelet transform and the discrete wavelet packet transform have been implemented to provide a fast and precise time-period examination of the time series at different period bands. Moreover, statistic methods to examine the relation between two signals have been included. Finally, the entropy of curves and splines based methods have also been developed for segmenting and modeling the analyzed time series. All these methods together provide a user-friendly and fast program for the environmental signal analysis, with useful, practical and understandable results.

A Framework for Action: Intervening to Increase Adoption of Transformative Web 2.0 Learning Resources

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hughes, Joan E.; Guion, James M.; Bruce, Kama A.; Horton, Lucas R.; Prescott, Amy

2011-01-01

Web 2.0 tools have emerged as conducive for innovative pedagogy and transformative learning opportunities for youth. Currently,Web 2.0 is often adopted into teachers' practice to simply replace or amplify traditional instructional approaches rather than to promote or facilitate transformative educational change. Current models of innovation…

Exact solution and precise asymptotics of a Fisher-KPP type front

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berestycki, Julien; Brunet, Éric; Derrida, Bernard

2018-01-01

The present work concerns a version of the Fisher-KPP equation where the nonlinear term is replaced by a saturation mechanism, yielding a free boundary problem with mixed conditions. Following an idea proposed in Brunet and Derrida (2015 J. Stat. Phys. 161 801), we show that the Laplace transform of the initial condition is directly related to some functional of the front position μt . We then obtain precise asymptotics of the front position by means of singularity analysis. In particular, we recover the so-called Ebert and van Saarloos correction (Ebert and van Saarloos 2000 Physica D 146 1), we obtain an additional term of order log t /t in this expansion, and we give precise conditions on the initial condition for those terms to be present.

Department of Defense Precise Time and Time Interval program improvement plan

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bowser, J. R.

1981-01-01

The United States Naval Observatory is responsible for ensuring uniformity in precise time and time interval operations including measurements, the establishment of overall DOD requirements for time and time interval, and the accomplishment of objectives requiring precise time and time interval with minimum cost. An overview of the objectives, the approach to the problem, the schedule, and a status report, including significant findings relative to organizational relationships, current directives, principal PTTI users, and future requirements as currently identified by the users are presented.

Precision control of high temperature furnaces using an auxiliary power supply and charged practice current flow

DOEpatents

Pollock, George G.

1997-01-01

Two power supplies are combined to control a furnace. A main power supply heats the furnace in the traditional manner, while the power from the auxiliary supply is introduced as a current flow through charged particles existing due to ionized gas or thermionic emission. The main power supply provides the bulk heating power and the auxiliary supply provides a precise and fast power source such that the precision of the total power delivered to the furnace is improved.

[Affine transformation-based automatic registration for peripheral digital subtraction angiography (DSA)].

PubMed

Kong, Gang; Dai, Dao-Qing; Zou, Lu-Min

2008-07-01

In order to remove the artifacts of peripheral digital subtraction angiography (DSA), an affine transformation-based automatic image registration algorithm is introduced here. The whole process is described as follows: First, rectangle feature templates are constructed with their centers of the extracted Harris corners in the mask, and motion vectors of the central feature points are estimated using template matching technology with the similarity measure of maximum histogram energy. And then the optimal parameters of the affine transformation are calculated with the matrix singular value decomposition (SVD) method. Finally, bilinear intensity interpolation is taken to the mask according to the specific affine transformation. More than 30 peripheral DSA registrations are performed with the presented algorithm, and as the result, moving artifacts of the images are removed with sub-pixel precision, and the time consumption is less enough to satisfy the clinical requirements. Experimental results show the efficiency and robustness of the algorithm.

Heat storage in alloy transformations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Birchenall, C. E.; Gueceri, S. I.; Farkas, D.; Labdon, M. B.; Nagaswami, N.; Pregger, B.

1981-01-01

The feasibility of using metal alloys as thermal energy storage media was determined. The following major elements were studied: (1) identification of congruently transforming alloys and thermochemical property measurements; (2) development of a precise and convenient method for measuring volume change during phase transformation and thermal expansion coefficients; (3) development of a numerical modeling routine for calculating heat flow in cylindrical heat exchangers containing phase change materials; and (4) identification of materials that could be used to contain the metal alloys. Several eutectic alloys and ternary intermetallic phases were determined. A method employing X-ray absorption techniques was developed to determine the coefficients of thermal expansion of both the solid and liquid phases and the volume change during phase transformation from data obtained during one continuous experimental test. The method and apparatus are discussed and the experimental results are presented. The development of the numerical modeling method is presented and results are discussed for both salt and metal alloy phase change media.

Intelligent Automatic Classification of True and Counterfeit Notes Based on Spectrum Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsunaga, Shohei; Omatu, Sigeru; Kosaka, Toshohisa

The purpose of this paper is to classify bank notes into “true” or “counterfeit” ones faster and more precisely compared with a conventional method. We note that thin lines are represented by direct lines in the images of true notes while they are represented in the counterfeit notes by dotted lines. This is due to properties of dot printers or scanner levels. To use the properties, we propose two method to classify a note into true or counterfeited one by checking whether there exist thin lines or dotted lines of the note. First, we use Fourier transform of the note to find quantity of features for classification and we classify a note into true or counterfeit one by using the features by Fourier transform. Then we propose a classification method by using wavelet transform in place of Fourier transform. Finally, some classification results are illustrated to show the effectiveness of the proposed methods.

A comparison of technical replicate (cuts) effect on lamb Warner-Bratzler shear force measurement precision.

PubMed

Holman, B W B; Alvarenga, T I R C; van de Ven, R J; Hopkins, D L

2015-07-01

The Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF) of 335 lamb m. longissimus lumborum (LL) caudal and cranial ends was measured to examine and simulate the effect of replicate number (r: 1-8) on the precision of mean WBSF estimates and to compare LL caudal and cranial end WBSF means. All LL were sourced from two experimental flocks as part of the Information Nucleus slaughter programme (CRC for Sheep Industry Innovation) and analysed using a Lloyd Texture analyser with a Warner-Bratzler blade attachment. WBSF data were natural logarithm (ln) transformed before statistical analysis. Mean ln(WBSF) precision improved as r increased; however the practical implications support an r equal to 6, as precision improves only marginally with additional replicates. Increasing LL sample replication results in better ln(WBSF) precision compared with increasing r, provided that sample replicates are removed from the same LL end. Cranial end mean WBSF was 11.2 ± 1.3% higher than the caudal end. Crown Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Proposal for the Creation of a National Strategy for Precision Medicine in Cancer: a position statement of SEOM, SEAP and SEFH.

PubMed

Garrido, Pilar; Aldaz, Azucena; Calleja, Miguel Ángel; De Álava, Enrique; Lamas, María Jesús; Martín, Miguel; Matías-Guiu, Xavier; Palacios, José; Vera, Ruth

2017-11-01

Precision medicine is an emerging approach for disease treatment and prevention that takes into account individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle for each person. Precision medicine is transforming clinical and biomedical research, as well as health care itself from a conceptual, as well as a methodological viewpoint, providing extraordinary opportunities to improve public health and lower the costs of the healthcare system. However, the implementation of precision medicine poses ethical-legal, regulatory, organizational and knowledge-related challenges. Without a national strategy, precision medicine, which will be implemented one way or another, could take place without the appropriate planning that can guarantee technical quality, equal access of all citizens to the best practices, violating the rights of patients and professionals and jeopardizing the solvency of the healthcare system. With this paper from the Spanish Societies of Medical Oncology (SEOM), Pathology (SEAP), and Hospital Pharmacy (SEFH) we highlight the need to institute a consensual national strategy for the development of precision medicine in our country, review the national and international context, comment on the opportunities and challenges for implementing precision medicine, and outline the objectives of a national strategy on precision medicine in cancer. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Precision Mass Property Measurements Using a Five-Wire Torsion Pendulum

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swank, Aaron J.

2012-01-01

A method for measuring the moment of inertia of an object using a five-wire torsion pendulum design is described here. Typical moment of inertia measurement devices are capable of 1 part in 10(exp 3) accuracy and current state of the art techniques have capabilities of about one part in 10(exp 4). The five-wire apparatus design shows the prospect of improving on current state of the art. Current measurements using a laboratory prototype indicate a moment of inertia measurement precision better than a part in 10(exp 4). In addition, the apparatus is shown to be capable of measuring the mass center offset from the geometric center. Typical mass center measurement devices exhibit a measurement precision up to approximately 1 micrometer. Although the five-wire pendulum was not originally designed for mass center measurements, preliminary results indicate an apparatus with a similar design may have the potential of achieving state of the art precision.

Design optimization of high frequency transformer with controlled leakage inductance for current fed dual active bridge converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Tae-Uk; Kim, Myung-Hwan; Yoo, Jin-Hyung

2018-05-01

Current fed dual active bridge converters for photovoltaic generation may typically require a given leakage or extra inductance in order to provide proper control of the currents. Therefore, the many researches have been focused on the leakage inductance control of high frequency transformer to integrate an extra inductor. In this paper, an asymmetric winding arrangement to get the controlled leakage inductance for the high frequency transformer is proposed to improve the efficiency of the current fed dual active bridge converter. In order to accurate analysis, a coupled electromagnetic analysis model of transformer connected with high frequency switching circuit is used. A design optimization procedure for high efficiency is also presented using design analysis model, and it is verified by the experimental result.

Development of a novel low frequency GPR system for ultra-deep detection in Mine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Xianlei; Peng, Suping; Yang, Feng

2016-04-01

Mine disasters sources is the main source of the underground coal mine accidents in China. This paper describes the development of a novel explosion proof ground penetrating radar (GPR) for mine disasters sources detection, aiming to solve the current problems of the small detection range and low precision in the mine advanced detection in China. A high performance unipolar pulse transmitting unit is developed by using avalanche transistors, and an effective pulse excitation source network. And a new pluggable combined low-frequency antenna involving three frequencies with 12.5MHz, 25 MHz and 50MHz, is designed and developed. The plate-type structure is designed, aiming to enhance the directivity of the antenna, and the achievement of the antenna impedance matching is implemented in the feed point based on the extensions interface design, enhancing the antenna bandwidth and reducing the standing wave interference. Moreover, a high precision stepper delay circuit is designed by transforming the number of the operational amplifier step and using the differential compensation between the metal-oxide semiconductor field effect transistors, aiming to improve the accuracy of the signal acquisition system. In order to adapt to the mine environment, the explosion-proof design is implemented for the GPR system, including the host, transmitter, receiver, battery box, antenna, and other components.Mine detection experiments is carried out and the results show: the novel GPR system can effectively detect the location and depth of the geological disasters source with the depth greater than30 m and the diameter greater than 3m, the maximum detection depth can be up to 80m, which break the current detection depth limitations within 30m, providing an effective technical support for the ultra-deep mine disasters detection and the safety problems in coal mine production.

Augmented reality technology for preoperative planning and intraoperative navigation during hepatobiliary surgery: A review of current methods.

PubMed

Tang, Rui; Ma, Long-Fei; Rong, Zhi-Xia; Li, Mo-Dan; Zeng, Jian-Ping; Wang, Xue-Dong; Liao, Hong-En; Dong, Jia-Hong

2018-04-01

Augmented reality (AR) technology is used to reconstruct three-dimensional (3D) images of hepatic and biliary structures from computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging data, and to superimpose the virtual images onto a view of the surgical field. In liver surgery, these superimposed virtual images help the surgeon to visualize intrahepatic structures and therefore, to operate precisely and to improve clinical outcomes. The keywords "augmented reality", "liver", "laparoscopic" and "hepatectomy" were used for searching publications in the PubMed database. The primary source of literatures was from peer-reviewed journals up to December 2016. Additional articles were identified by manual search of references found in the key articles. In general, AR technology mainly includes 3D reconstruction, display, registration as well as tracking techniques and has recently been adopted gradually for liver surgeries including laparoscopy and laparotomy with video-based AR assisted laparoscopic resection as the main technical application. By applying AR technology, blood vessels and tumor structures in the liver can be displayed during surgery, which permits precise navigation during complex surgical procedures. Liver transformation and registration errors during surgery were the main factors that limit the application of AR technology. With recent advances, AR technologies have the potential to improve hepatobiliary surgical procedures. However, additional clinical studies will be required to evaluate AR as a tool for reducing postoperative morbidity and mortality and for the improvement of long-term clinical outcomes. Future research is needed in the fusion of multiple imaging modalities, improving biomechanical liver modeling, and enhancing image data processing and tracking technologies to increase the accuracy of current AR methods. Copyright © 2018 First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine in China. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Project: Transformation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Danko, James M.

2010-01-01

"Commerce" and "finance" are not the broadest or most dynamic words in the lexicon of business. And yet, when this author became dean of the business school at Villanova University in 2005, that was precisely the language the school was using to advertise itself to the world. The Villanova College of Commerce & Finance, as…

Breaking new ground in the mind: an initial study of mental brittle transformation and mental rigid rotation in science experts.

PubMed

Resnick, Ilyse; Shipley, Thomas F

2013-05-01

The current study examines the spatial skills employed in different spatial reasoning tasks, by asking how science experts who are practiced in different types of visualizations perform on different spatial tasks. Specifically, the current study examines the varieties of mental transformations. We hypothesize that there may be two broad classes of mental transformations: rigid body mental transformations and non-rigid mental transformations. We focus on the disciplines of geology and organic chemistry because different types of transformations are central to the two disciplines: While geologists and organic chemists may both confront rotation in the practice of their profession, only geologists confront brittle transformations. A new instrument was developed to measure mental brittle transformation (visualizing breaking). Geologists and organic chemists performed similarly on a measure of mental rotation, while geologists outperformed organic chemists on the mental brittle transformation test. The differential pattern of skill on the two tests for the two groups of experts suggests that mental brittle transformation and mental rotation are different spatial skills. The roles of domain general cognitive resources (attentional control, spatial working memory, and perceptual filling in) and strategy in completing mental brittle transformation are discussed. The current study illustrates how ecological and interdisciplinary approaches complement traditional cognitive science to offer a comprehensive approach to understanding the nature of spatial thinking.

Digital Signal Processing and Generation for a DC Current Transformer for Particle Accelerators

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

Zorzetti, Silvia

2013-01-01

The thesis topic, digital signal processing and generation for a DC current transformer, focuses on the most fundamental beam diagnostics in the field of particle accelerators, the measurement of the beam intensity, or beam current. The technology of a DC current transformer (DCCT) is well known, and used in many areas, including particle accelerator beam instrumentation, as non-invasive (shunt-free) method to monitor the DC current in a conducting wire, or in our case, the current of charged particles travelling inside an evacuated metal pipe. So far, custom and commercial DCCTs are entirely based on analog technologies and signal processing, whichmore » makes them inflexible, sensitive to component aging, and difficult to maintain and calibrate.« less

Apparatus including a plurality of spaced transformers for locating short circuits in cables

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cason, R. L.; Mcstay, J. J. (Inventor)

1978-01-01

A cable fault locator is described for sensing faults such as short circuits in power cables. The apparatus includes a plurality of current transformers strategically located along a cable. Trigger circuits are connected to each of the current transformers for placing a resistor in series with a resistive element responsive to an abnormally high current flowing through that portion of the cable. By measuring the voltage drop across the resistive element, the location of the fault can be determined.

High-precision comparison of the antiproton-to-proton charge-to-mass ratio.

PubMed

Ulmer, S; Smorra, C; Mooser, A; Franke, K; Nagahama, H; Schneider, G; Higuchi, T; Van Gorp, S; Blaum, K; Matsuda, Y; Quint, W; Walz, J; Yamazaki, Y

2015-08-13

Invariance under the charge, parity, time-reversal (CPT) transformation is one of the fundamental symmetries of the standard model of particle physics. This CPT invariance implies that the fundamental properties of antiparticles and their matter-conjugates are identical, apart from signs. There is a deep link between CPT invariance and Lorentz symmetry--that is, the laws of nature seem to be invariant under the symmetry transformation of spacetime--although it is model dependent. A number of high-precision CPT and Lorentz invariance tests--using a co-magnetometer, a torsion pendulum and a maser, among others--have been performed, but only a few direct high-precision CPT tests that compare the fundamental properties of matter and antimatter are available. Here we report high-precision cyclotron frequency comparisons of a single antiproton and a negatively charged hydrogen ion (H(-)) carried out in a Penning trap system. From 13,000 frequency measurements we compare the charge-to-mass ratio for the antiproton (q/m)p- to that for the proton (q/m)p and obtain (q/m)p-/(q/m)p − 1 =1(69) × 10(-12). The measurements were performed at cyclotron frequencies of 29.6 megahertz, so our result shows that the CPT theorem holds at the atto-electronvolt scale. Our precision of 69 parts per trillion exceeds the energy resolution of previous antiproton-to-proton mass comparisons as well as the respective figure of merit of the standard model extension by a factor of four. In addition, we give a limit on sidereal variations in the measured ratio of <720 parts per trillion. By following the arguments of ref. 11, our result can be interpreted as a stringent test of the weak equivalence principle of general relativity using baryonic antimatter, and it sets a new limit on the gravitational anomaly parameter of |α − 1| < 8.7 × 10(-7).

An accurate online calibration system based on combined clamp-shape coil for high voltage electronic current transformers.

PubMed

Li, Zhen-hua; Li, Hong-bin; Zhang, Zhi

2013-07-01

Electronic transformers are widely used in power systems because of their wide bandwidth and good transient performance. However, as an emerging technology, the failure rate of electronic transformers is higher than that of traditional transformers. As a result, the calibration period needs to be shortened. Traditional calibration methods require the power of transmission line be cut off, which results in complicated operation and power off loss. This paper proposes an online calibration system which can calibrate electronic current transformers without power off. In this work, the high accuracy standard current transformer and online operation method are the key techniques. Based on the clamp-shape iron-core coil and clamp-shape air-core coil, a combined clamp-shape coil is designed as the standard current transformer. By analyzing the output characteristics of the two coils, the combined clamp-shape coil can achieve verification of the accuracy. So the accuracy of the online calibration system can be guaranteed. Moreover, by employing the earth potential working method and using two insulating rods to connect the combined clamp-shape coil to the high voltage bus, the operation becomes simple and safe. Tests in China National Center for High Voltage Measurement and field experiments show that the proposed system has a high accuracy of up to 0.05 class.

Precise 3D Lug Pose Detection Sensor for Automatic Robot Welding Using a Structured-Light Vision System

PubMed Central

Park, Jae Byung; Lee, Seung Hun; Lee, Il Jae

2009-01-01

In this study, we propose a precise 3D lug pose detection sensor for automatic robot welding of a lug to a huge steel plate used in shipbuilding, where the lug is a handle to carry the huge steel plate. The proposed sensor consists of a camera and four laser line diodes, and its design parameters are determined by analyzing its detectable range and resolution. For the lug pose acquisition, four laser lines are projected on both lug and plate, and the projected lines are detected by the camera. For robust detection of the projected lines against the illumination change, the vertical threshold, thinning, Hough transform and separated Hough transform algorithms are successively applied to the camera image. The lug pose acquisition is carried out by two stages: the top view alignment and the side view alignment. The top view alignment is to detect the coarse lug pose relatively far from the lug, and the side view alignment is to detect the fine lug pose close to the lug. After the top view alignment, the robot is controlled to move close to the side of the lug for the side view alignment. By this way, the precise 3D lug pose can be obtained. Finally, experiments with the sensor prototype are carried out to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed sensor. PMID:22400007

Research on registration algorithm for check seal verification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Shuang; Liu, Tiegen

2008-03-01

Nowadays seals play an important role in China. With the development of social economy, the traditional method of manual check seal identification can't meet the need s of banking transactions badly. This paper focus on pre-processing and registration algorithm for check seal verification using theory of image processing and pattern recognition. First of all, analyze the complex characteristics of check seals. To eliminate the difference of producing conditions and the disturbance caused by background and writing in check image, many methods are used in the pre-processing of check seal verification, such as color components transformation, linearity transform to gray-scale image, medium value filter, Otsu, close calculations and labeling algorithm of mathematical morphology. After the processes above, the good binary seal image can be obtained. On the basis of traditional registration algorithm, a double-level registration method including rough and precise registration method is proposed. The deflection angle of precise registration method can be precise to 0.1°. This paper introduces the concepts of difference inside and difference outside and use the percent of difference inside and difference outside to judge whether the seal is real or fake. The experimental results of a mass of check seals are satisfied. It shows that the methods and algorithmic presented have good robustness to noise sealing conditions and satisfactory tolerance of difference within class.

[The search for a precise method of measurement in psychical experiments].

PubMed

Borck, Cornelius

2002-06-01

In a series of three brief case studies, it is reconstructed how cognition and psychic activity were explored as energetic and economic transformations in a variety of experimental settings. 1. In the 1870s, the German psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin started his search for an objective measurement of cognitive performance in which he engaged over several decades. His investigations resulted in a graphic representation of cognitive efficiency, the "arbeitscurve", delineating the numbers of additions per time interval in close resemblance to representations of machine efficiency. 2. At the turn of the century, the American nutrition scientist and agronomist Wilbur Olin Atwater convinced himself in a series of precision measurements that the human motor was a so perfectly closed input-output system that he rejected any mental surplus in the form of cognitive energy transformations as contradictions to the principle of the conservation of energy. 3. At the beginning of the twentieth century and on the basis of Atwater's results, the German psychiatrist Hans Berger stipulated a special form of psychic energy for mediating between the principle of the conservation of energy and mental causality. Berger attempted to quantify psychic energy as one factor of brain metabolism. In the three cases of precision investigations into psychic life presented here, the experimental space of psychophysiology turned mental activity into a form of machine-like behavior.

Ethical aspects of transformational leadership.

PubMed

Cassidy, V R; Koroll, C J

1994-10-01

The requirements of leadership in the current environment of health care reform necessitate a clear distinction between leadership and management, an alteration in traditional leadership roles, and an evaluation of the knowledge and skills needed to address the ethical issues that arise from such reform. Transformational leadership is well suited to the current climate in health care because of the manner in which it actively embraces and encourages innovation and change. The article explores the elements of transformational leadership, describes the need for transformational leaders to be cognizant of the ethical aspects of their roles, and outlines the responsibilities of transformational leaders as moral agents.

Robust double gain unscented Kalman filter for small satellite attitude estimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Lu; Yang, Weiwei; Li, Hengnian; Zhang, Zhidong; Shi, Jianjun

2017-08-01

Limited by the low precision of small satellite sensors, the estimation theories with high performance remains the most popular research topic for the attitude estimation. The Kalman filter (KF) and its extensions have been widely applied in the satellite attitude estimation and achieved plenty of achievements. However, most of the existing methods just take use of the current time-step's priori measurement residuals to complete the measurement update and state estimation, which always ignores the extraction and utilization of the previous time-step's posteriori measurement residuals. In addition, the uncertainty model errors always exist in the attitude dynamic system, which also put forward the higher performance requirements for the classical KF in attitude estimation problem. Therefore, the novel robust double gain unscented Kalman filter (RDG-UKF) is presented in this paper to satisfy the above requirements for the small satellite attitude estimation with the low precision sensors. It is assumed that the system state estimation errors can be exhibited in the measurement residual; therefore, the new method is to derive the second Kalman gain Kk2 for making full use of the previous time-step's measurement residual to improve the utilization efficiency of the measurement data. Moreover, the sequence orthogonal principle and unscented transform (UT) strategy are introduced to robust and enhance the performance of the novel Kalman Filter in order to reduce the influence of existing uncertainty model errors. Numerical simulations show that the proposed RDG-UKF is more effective and robustness in dealing with the model errors and low precision sensors for the attitude estimation of small satellite by comparing with the classical unscented Kalman Filter (UKF).

Around the world with professor Vening Meinesz onboard the submarine K-XVIII

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Root, Bart; Hanssen, Ramon; Vermeersen, Bert; Munnik, Michiel; Vlijm, Rozemarijn

2015-04-01

In November 1934, Den Helder, The Netherlands, the start of a remarkable voyage commenced. The Hr. Ms. K-XVIII, a Dutch submarine, was about to set sail to Soerabaya, Indonesia. Onboard was a Dutch professor, Felix Andries Vening Meinesz. He was able to measure the Earth's gravity field with similar precision as on land for the first time in history using his innovative pendulum apparatus. His ground breaking data and systematic way of working changed the way of performing scientific expeditions. With the Library of the TUDelft and "Stichting Academisch Erfgoed" (Academic Heritage Foundation), we revisit this particular expedition and use it as a stepping stone to web-based geodetic and geophysical education for students and the public. The K-XVIII sailed over spreading ridges, transform faults, hotspot volcanos, subduction zones and many more interesting geological structures, which are discussed in this application. The importance of geodetic research is heavily present along the complete voyage in the form of global geoid determination. Moreover, the precision of the observations onboard the K-XVIII are compared with current satellite gravimetry and prove to be remarkable accurate. The goal of the project is to make the several datasets of Vening Meinesz, his measurements, articles, media, old foto's and other objects of the K-XVIII voyage, accessible for the public. The user can follow the famous voyage from Den Helder to Soerabaya in an interactive web application, stopping at interesting geophysical or historical places in space and time. The user can learn about plate tectonics and its historical findings, study the equipment that Vening Meinesz used to observe the gravity field with extreme precision, and learn about the important collaboration between science and the Navy. Dive into the adventure of the geo-scientific research of professor Vening Meinesz.

Improved efficiency and precise temperature control of low-frequency induction-heating pure iron vapor source on ECR ion source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kato, Y.; Takenaka, T.; Yano, K.; Kiriyama, R.; Kurisu, Y.; Nozaki, D.; Muramatsu, M.; Kitagawa, A.; Uchida, T.; Yoshida, Y.; Sato, F.; Iida, T.

2012-11-01

Multiply charged ions to be used prospectively are produced from solid pure material in an electron cyclotron resonance ion source (ECRIS). Recently a pure iron source is also required for the production of caged iron ions in the fullerene in order to control cells in vivo in bio-nano science and technology. We adopt directly heating iron rod by induction heating (IH) because it has non-contact with insulated materials which are impurity gas sources. We choose molybdenum wire for the IH coils because it doesn't need water cooling. To improve power efficiency and temperature control, we propose to the new circuit without previously using the serial and parallel dummy coils (SPD) for matching and safety. We made the circuit consisted of inductively coupled coils which are thin-flat and helix shape, and which insulates the IH power source from the evaporator. This coupling coils circuit, i.e. insulated induction heating coil transformer (IHCT), can be move mechanically. The secondary current can be adjusted precisely and continuously. Heating efficiency by using the IHCT is much higher than those of previous experiments by using the SPD, because leakage flux is decreased and matching is improved simultaneously. We are able to adjust the temperature in heating the vapor source around melting point. And then the vapor pressure can be controlled precisely by using the IHCT. We can control ±10K around 1500°C by this method, and also recognize to controlling iron vapor flux experimentally in the extreme low pressures. Now we come into next stage of developing induction heating vapor source for materials with furthermore high temperature melting points above 2000K with the IHCT, and then apply it in our ECRIS.

The One to Multiple Automatic High Accuracy Registration of Terrestrial LIDAR and Optical Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Y.; Hu, C.; Xia, G.; Xue, H.

2018-04-01

The registration of ground laser point cloud and close-range image is the key content of high-precision 3D reconstruction of cultural relic object. In view of the requirement of high texture resolution in the field of cultural relic at present, The registration of point cloud and image data in object reconstruction will result in the problem of point cloud to multiple images. In the current commercial software, the two pairs of registration of the two kinds of data are realized by manually dividing point cloud data, manual matching point cloud and image data, manually selecting a two - dimensional point of the same name of the image and the point cloud, and the process not only greatly reduces the working efficiency, but also affects the precision of the registration of the two, and causes the problem of the color point cloud texture joint. In order to solve the above problems, this paper takes the whole object image as the intermediate data, and uses the matching technology to realize the automatic one-to-one correspondence between the point cloud and multiple images. The matching of point cloud center projection reflection intensity image and optical image is applied to realize the automatic matching of the same name feature points, and the Rodrigo matrix spatial similarity transformation model and weight selection iteration are used to realize the automatic registration of the two kinds of data with high accuracy. This method is expected to serve for the high precision and high efficiency automatic 3D reconstruction of cultural relic objects, which has certain scientific research value and practical significance.

Current status and future trends of precision agricultural aviation technologies

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Modern technologies and information tools can be used to maximize agricultural aviation productivity allowing for precision application of agrochemical products. This paper reviews and summarizes the state-of-the-art in precision agricultural aviation technology highlighting remote sensing, aerial s...

Towards a High-resolution Time Scale for the Early Devonian

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dekkers, M. J.; da Silva, A. C.

2017-12-01

High-resolution time scales are crucial to understand Earth's history in detail. The construction of a robust geological time scale, however, inevitably becomes increasingly harder further back in time. Uncertainties associated with anchor radiometric ages increase in size, not speaking of the mere presence of suitable datable strata. However, durations of stages can be tightly constrained by making use of cyclic expressions in sediments, an approach that revolutionized the Cenozoic time scale. When precisely determined durations are stitched together, ultimately, a very precise time scale is the result. For the Mesozoic and Paleozoic an astronomical solution as a tuning target is not available but the dominant periods of eccentricity, obliquity and precession are reasonably well constrained for the entire Phanerozoic which enables their detection by means of spectral analysis. Eccentricity is time-invariant and is used as the prime building block. Here we focus on the Early Devonian, on its lowermost three stages: the Lochkovian, Pragian and Emsian. The uncertainties on the Devonian stage boundaries are currently in the order of several millions of years. The preservation of climatic cycles in diagenetically or even anchimetamorphically affected successions, however, is essential. The fit of spectral peak ratios with those calculated for orbital cycles, is classically used as a strong argument for a preserved climatic signal. Here we use primarily the low field magnetic susceptibility (MS) as proxy parameter, supported by gamma-ray spectrometry to test for consistency. Continuous Wavelet Transform, Evolutive Harmonic Analysis, Multitaper Method, and Average Spectral Misfit are used to reach an optimal astronomical interpretation. We report on classic Early Devonian sections from the Czech Republic: the Pozar-CS (Lochkovian and Pragian), Pod Barrandovem (Pragian and Lower Emsian), and Zlichov (Middle-Upper Emsian). Also a Middle-Upper Emsian section from the US (Road 199 section, Kingston, New York) will be targeted. Strata display Milankovitch cycles to a varying visible degree but spectral analysis of MS with supporting magnetic property tests enables to constrain durations up to an order of magnitude more precise than in the current (2012) Geological Time Scale.

Statistical inference for the within-device precision of quantitative measurements in assay validation.

PubMed

Liu, Jen-Pei; Lu, Li-Tien; Liao, C T

2009-09-01

Intermediate precision is one of the most important characteristics for evaluation of precision in assay validation. The current methods for evaluation of within-device precision recommended by the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guideline EP5-A2 are based on the point estimator. On the other hand, in addition to point estimators, confidence intervals can provide a range for the within-device precision with a probability statement. Therefore, we suggest a confidence interval approach for assessment of the within-device precision. Furthermore, under the two-stage nested random-effects model recommended by the approved CLSI guideline EP5-A2, in addition to the current Satterthwaite's approximation and the modified large sample (MLS) methods, we apply the technique of generalized pivotal quantities (GPQ) to derive the confidence interval for the within-device precision. The data from the approved CLSI guideline EP5-A2 illustrate the applications of the confidence interval approach and comparison of results between the three methods. Results of a simulation study on the coverage probability and expected length of the three methods are reported. The proposed method of the GPQ-based confidence intervals is also extended to consider the between-laboratories variation for precision assessment.

Quantitative determination of dimethicone in commercial tablets and capsules by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and antifoaming activity test.

PubMed

Torrado, G; García-Arieta, A; de los Ríos, F; Menéndez, J C; Torrado, S

1999-03-01

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and antifoaming activity test have been employed for the quantitative analysis of dimethicone. Linearity, accuracy and precision are presented for both methods. These methods have been also used to compare different dimethicone-containing proprietary medicines. FTIR spectroscopy has shown to be adequate for quantitation of dimethicone in commercial tablets and capsules in order to comply with USP requirements. The antifoaming activity test is able to detect incompatibilities between dimethicone and other constituents. The presence of certain enzymes in some medicinal products increases the defoaming properties of these formulations.

Expanding and reprogramming the genetic code.

PubMed

Chin, Jason W

2017-10-04

Nature uses a limited, conservative set of amino acids to synthesize proteins. The ability to genetically encode an expanded set of building blocks with new chemical and physical properties is transforming the study, manipulation and evolution of proteins, and is enabling diverse applications, including approaches to probe, image and control protein function, and to precisely engineer therapeutics. Underpinning this transformation are strategies to engineer and rewire translation. Emerging strategies aim to reprogram the genetic code so that noncanonical biopolymers can be synthesized and evolved, and to test the limits of our ability to engineer the translational machinery and systematically recode genomes.

Precise and heritable genome editing in evolutionarily diverse nematodes using TALENs and CRISPR/Cas9 to engineer insertions and deletions.

PubMed

Lo, Te-Wen; Pickle, Catherine S; Lin, Steven; Ralston, Edward J; Gurling, Mark; Schartner, Caitlin M; Bian, Qian; Doudna, Jennifer A; Meyer, Barbara J

2013-10-01

Exploitation of custom-designed nucleases to induce DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) at genomic locations of choice has transformed our ability to edit genomes, regardless of their complexity. DSBs can trigger either error-prone repair pathways that induce random mutations at the break sites or precise homology-directed repair pathways that generate specific insertions or deletions guided by exogenously supplied DNA. Prior editing strategies using site-specific nucleases to modify the Caenorhabditis elegans genome achieved only the heritable disruption of endogenous loci through random mutagenesis by error-prone repair. Here we report highly effective strategies using TALE nucleases and RNA-guided CRISPR/Cas9 nucleases to induce error-prone repair and homology-directed repair to create heritable, precise insertion, deletion, or substitution of specific DNA sequences at targeted endogenous loci. Our robust strategies are effective across nematode species diverged by 300 million years, including necromenic nematodes (Pristionchus pacificus), male/female species (Caenorhabditis species 9), and hermaphroditic species (C. elegans). Thus, genome-editing tools now exist to transform nonmodel nematode species into genetically tractable model organisms. We demonstrate the utility of our broadly applicable genome-editing strategies by creating reagents generally useful to the nematode community and reagents specifically designed to explore the mechanism and evolution of X chromosome dosage compensation. By developing an efficient pipeline involving germline injection of nuclease mRNAs and single-stranded DNA templates, we engineered precise, heritable nucleotide changes both close to and far from DSBs to gain or lose genetic function, to tag proteins made from endogenous genes, and to excise entire loci through targeted FLP-FRT recombination.

Targeted mutagenesis using zinc-finger nucleases in perennial fruit trees.

PubMed

Peer, Reut; Rivlin, Gil; Golobovitch, Sara; Lapidot, Moshe; Gal-On, Amit; Vainstein, Alexander; Tzfira, Tzvi; Flaishman, Moshe A

2015-04-01

Targeting a gene in apple or fig with ZFN, introduced by transient or stable transformation, should allow genome editing with high precision to advance basic science and breeding programs. Genome editing is a powerful tool for precise gene manipulation in any organism; it has recently been shown to be of great value for annual plants. Classical breeding strategies using conventional cross-breeding and induced mutations have played an important role in the development of new cultivars in fruit trees. However, fruit-tree breeding is a lengthy process with many limitations. Efficient and widely applied methods for targeted modification of fruit-tree genomes are not yet available. In this study, transgenic apple and fig lines carrying a zinc-finger nuclease (ZFNs) under the control of a heat-shock promoter were developed. Editing of a mutated uidA gene, following expression of the ZFN genes by heat shock, was confirmed by GUS staining and PCR product sequencing. Finally, whole plants with a repaired uidA gene due to deletion of a stop codon were regenerated. The ZFN-mediated gene modifications were stable and passed onto regenerants from ZFN-treated tissue cultures. This is the first demonstration of efficient and precise genome editing, using ZFN at a specific genomic locus, in two different perennial fruit trees-apple and fig. We conclude that targeting a gene in apple or fig with a ZFN introduced by transient or stable transformation should allow knockout of a gene of interest. Using this technology for genome editing allows for marker gene-independent and antibiotic selection-free genome engineering with high precision in fruit trees to advance basic science as well as nontransgenic breeding programs.

Precision control of high temperature furnaces using an auxiliary power supply and charged particle current flow

DOEpatents

Pollock, G.G.

1997-01-28

Two power supplies are combined to control a furnace. A main power supply heats the furnace in the traditional manner, while the power from the auxiliary supply is introduced as a current flow through charged particles existing due to ionized gas or thermionic emission. The main power supply provides the bulk heating power and the auxiliary supply provides a precise and fast power source such that the precision of the total power delivered to the furnace is improved. 5 figs.

Toward a real-time in vivo dosimetry system using plastic scintillation detectors

PubMed Central

Archambault, Louis; Briere, Tina M.; Pönisch, Falk; Beaulieu, Luc; Kuban, Deborah A.; Lee, Andrew; Beddar, Sam

2010-01-01

Purpose In this work, we present and validate a plastic scintillation detector (PSD) system designed for real-time multi-probe in vivo measurements. Methods and Materials The PSDs were built with a dose-sensitive volume of 0.4 mm3. PSDs were assembled into modular detector patches, each containing 5 closely packed PSDs. Continuous dose readings were performed every 150 ms, with a gap between consecutive readings of less than 0.3 ms. We first studied the effect of electron multiplication. We then assessed system performance in acrylic and anthropomorphic pelvic phantoms. Results The PSDs are compatible with clinical rectal balloons and are easily inserted into the anthropomorphic phantom. With an electron multiplication average gain factor of 40, a twofold increase in the signal-to-noise ratio was observed, making near real-time dosimetry feasible. Under calibration conditions, the PSDs agreed with ion chamber measurements to 0.08%. Precision, evaluated as a function of the total dose delivered, ranged from 2.3% at 2 cGy to 0.4% at 200 cGy. Conclusion Real-time PSD measurements are highly accurate and precise. These PSDs can be mounted onto rectal balloons, transforming these clinical devices into in vivo dose detectors without modifying current clinical practice. Real-time monitoring of the dose delivered near the rectum during prostate radiation therapy should help radiation oncologists protect this sensitive normal structure. PMID:20231074

History of psychosurgery: a psychiatrist's perspective.

PubMed

Lapidus, Kyle A B; Kopell, Brian H; Ben-Haim, Sharona; Rezai, Ali R; Goodman, Wayne K

2013-01-01

Interest in using neuromodulation to treat psychiatric disorders is rapidly increasing. The development of novel tools and techniques, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS), increases precision and minimizes risk. This article reviews the history of psychosurgical interventions and recent developments of DBS to provide a framework for understanding current options and future goals. We begin by discussing early approaches to psychosurgery, focusing on the widespread use of lobotomy and the subsequent backlash from the public and professionals in the field. Next, we discuss the development of stereotaxis. This technique allows for more targeted, precise interventions that produce discrete subcortical lesions. We focus on four stereotactic procedures that were developed using this technique: cingulotomy, capsulotomy, subcaudate tractotomy, and limbic leucotomy. We subsequently review contemporary theory and approaches with relevance to psychosurgery. We discuss the systems and neurocircuitry that are thought to be involved in psychiatric illness and provide targets for intervention. This discussion includes presentation of basal ganglia thalamocortical pathophysiology including cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical loops. We focus the discussion on two psychiatric disorders that have been targets of neurosurgical interventions: obsessive-compulsive disorder and mood disorders such as major depressive disorder. Evidence from studies of DBS in psychiatric disorders, including efficacy and tolerability, is reviewed. Finally, we look to the future, exploring the possibilities for these approaches to increase understanding, transform societal views of mental illness, and improve treatment. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Precision medicine: In need of guidance and surveillance.

PubMed

Lin, Jian-Zhen; Long, Jun-Yu; Wang, An-Qiang; Zheng, Ying; Zhao, Hai-Tao

2017-07-28

Precision medicine, currently a hotspot in mainstream medicine, has been strongly promoted in recent years. With rapid technological development, such as next-generation sequencing, and fierce competition in molecular targeted drug exploitation, precision medicine represents an advance in science and technology; it also fulfills needs in public health care. The clinical translation and application of precision medicine - especially in the prevention and treatment of tumors - is far from satisfactory; however, the aims of precision medicine deserve approval. Thus, this medical approach is currently in its infancy; it has promising prospects, but it needs to overcome numbers of problems and deficiencies. It is expected that in addition to conventional symptoms and signs, precision medicine will define disease in terms of the underlying molecular characteristics and other environmental susceptibility factors. Those expectations should be realized by constructing a novel data network, integrating clinical data from individual patients and personal genomic background with existing research on the molecular makeup of diseases. In addition, multi-omics analysis and multi-discipline collaboration will become crucial elements in precision medicine. Precision medicine deserves strong support, and its development demands directed momentum. We propose three kinds of impetus (research, application and collaboration impetus) for such directed momentum toward promoting precision medicine and accelerating its clinical translation and application.

Precision medicine: In need of guidance and surveillance

PubMed Central

Lin, Jian-Zhen; Long, Jun-Yu; Wang, An-Qiang; Zheng, Ying; Zhao, Hai-Tao

2017-01-01

Precision medicine, currently a hotspot in mainstream medicine, has been strongly promoted in recent years. With rapid technological development, such as next-generation sequencing, and fierce competition in molecular targeted drug exploitation, precision medicine represents an advance in science and technology; it also fulfills needs in public health care. The clinical translation and application of precision medicine - especially in the prevention and treatment of tumors - is far from satisfactory; however, the aims of precision medicine deserve approval. Thus, this medical approach is currently in its infancy; it has promising prospects, but it needs to overcome numbers of problems and deficiencies. It is expected that in addition to conventional symptoms and signs, precision medicine will define disease in terms of the underlying molecular characteristics and other environmental susceptibility factors. Those expectations should be realized by constructing a novel data network, integrating clinical data from individual patients and personal genomic background with existing research on the molecular makeup of diseases. In addition, multi-omics analysis and multi-discipline collaboration will become crucial elements in precision medicine. Precision medicine deserves strong support, and its development demands directed momentum. We propose three kinds of impetus (research, application and collaboration impetus) for such directed momentum toward promoting precision medicine and accelerating its clinical translation and application. PMID:28811702

Anion Exchange in II-VI Semiconducting Nanostructures via Atomic Templating.

PubMed

Agarwal, Rahul; Krook, Nadia M; Ren, Ming-Liang; Tan, Liang Z; Liu, Wenjing; Rappe, Andrew M; Agarwal, Ritesh

2018-03-14

Controlled chemical transformation of nanostructures is a promising technique to obtain precisely designed novel materials, which are difficult to synthesize otherwise. We report high-temperature vapor-phase anion-exchange reactions to chemically transform II-VI semiconductor nanostructures (100-300 nm length scale) while retaining the single crystallinity, crystal structure, morphology, and even defect distribution of the parent material via atomic templating. The concept of atomic templating is employed to obtain kinetically controlled, thermodynamically metastable structural phases such as zincblende CdSe and CdS from zincblende CdTe upon complete chemical replacement of Te with Se or S. The underlying transformation mechanisms are explained through first-principles density functional theory calculations. Atomic templating is a unique path to independently tune materials' phase and composition at the nanoscale, allowing the synthesis of novel materials.

Soft computing methods for geoidal height transformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akyilmaz, O.; Özlüdemir, M. T.; Ayan, T.; Çelik, R. N.

2009-07-01

Soft computing techniques, such as fuzzy logic and artificial neural network (ANN) approaches, have enabled researchers to create precise models for use in many scientific and engineering applications. Applications that can be employed in geodetic studies include the estimation of earth rotation parameters and the determination of mean sea level changes. Another important field of geodesy in which these computing techniques can be applied is geoidal height transformation. We report here our use of a conventional polynomial model, the Adaptive Network-based Fuzzy (or in some publications, Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy) Inference System (ANFIS), an ANN and a modified ANN approach to approximate geoid heights. These approximation models have been tested on a number of test points. The results obtained through the transformation processes from ellipsoidal heights into local levelling heights have also been compared.

Learning to predict where human gaze is using quaternion DCT based regional saliency detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Ting; Xu, Yi; Zhang, Chongyang

2014-09-01

Many current visual attention approaches used semantic features to accurately capture human gaze. However, these approaches demand high computational cost and can hardly be applied to daily use. Recently, some quaternion-based saliency detection models, such as PQFT (phase spectrum of Quaternion Fourier Transform), QDCT (Quaternion Discrete Cosine Transform), have been proposed to meet real-time requirement of human gaze tracking tasks. However, current saliency detection methods used global PQFT and QDCT to locate jump edges of the input, which can hardly detect the object boundaries accurately. To address the problem, we improved QDCT-based saliency detection model by introducing superpixel-wised regional saliency detection mechanism. The local smoothness of saliency value distribution is emphasized to distinguish noises of background from salient regions. Our algorithm called saliency confidence can distinguish the patches belonging to the salient object and those of the background. It decides whether the image patches belong to the same region. When an image patch belongs to a region consisting of other salient patches, this patch should be salient as well. Therefore, we use saliency confidence map to get background weight and foreground weight to do the optimization on saliency map obtained by QDCT. The optimization is accomplished by least square method. The optimization approach we proposed unifies local and global saliency by combination of QDCT and measuring the similarity between each image superpixel. We evaluate our model on four commonly-used datasets (Toronto, MIT, OSIE and ASD) using standard precision-recall curves (PR curves), the mean absolute error (MAE) and area under curve (AUC) measures. In comparison with most state-of-art models, our approach can achieve higher consistency with human perception without training. It can get accurate human gaze even in cluttered background. Furthermore, it achieves better compromise between speed and accuracy.

Electrostatic shielding of transformers

DOEpatents

De Leon, Francisco

2017-11-28

Toroidal transformers are currently used only in low-voltage applications. There is no published experience for toroidal transformer design at distribution-level voltages. Toroidal transformers are provided with electrostatic shielding to make possible high voltage applications and withstand the impulse test.

Genetic Mutations and Epigenetic Modifications: Driving Cancer and Informing Precision Medicine

PubMed Central

Coyle, Krysta Mila; Boudreau, Jeanette E.

2017-01-01

Cancer treatment is undergoing a significant revolution from “one-size-fits-all” cytotoxic therapies to tailored approaches that precisely target molecular alterations. Precision strategies for drug development and patient stratification, based on the molecular features of tumors, are the next logical step in a long history of approaches to cancer therapy. In this review, we discuss the history of cancer treatment from generic natural extracts and radical surgical procedures to site-specific and combinatorial treatment regimens, which have incrementally improved patient outcomes. We discuss the related contributions of genetics and epigenetics to cancer progression and the response to targeted therapies and identify challenges and opportunities for the success of precision medicine. The identification of patients who will benefit from targeted therapies is more complex than simply identifying patients whose tumors harbour the targeted aberration, and intratumoral heterogeneity makes it difficult to determine if a precision therapy is successful during treatment. This heterogeneity enables tumors to develop resistance to targeted approaches; therefore, the rational combination of therapeutic agents will limit the threat of acquired resistance to therapeutic success. By incorporating the view of malignant transformation modulated by networks of genetic and epigenetic interactions, molecular strategies will enable precision medicine for effective treatment across cancer subtypes. PMID:28685150

Conservation of Mechanical and Electric Energy: Simple Experimental Verification

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ponikvar, D.; Planinsic, G.

2009-01-01

Two similar experiments on conservation of energy and transformation of mechanical into electrical energy are presented. Both can be used in classes, as they offer numerous possibilities for discussion with students and are simple to perform. Results are presented and are precise within 20% for the version of the experiment where measured values…

End-point detection in potentiometric titration by continuous wavelet transform.

PubMed

Jakubowska, Małgorzata; Baś, Bogusław; Kubiak, Władysław W

2009-10-15

The aim of this work was construction of the new wavelet function and verification that a continuous wavelet transform with a specially defined dedicated mother wavelet is a useful tool for precise detection of end-point in a potentiometric titration. The proposed algorithm does not require any initial information about the nature or the type of analyte and/or the shape of the titration curve. The signal imperfection, as well as random noise or spikes has no influence on the operation of the procedure. The optimization of the new algorithm was done using simulated curves and next experimental data were considered. In the case of well-shaped and noise-free titration data, the proposed method gives the same accuracy and precision as commonly used algorithms. But, in the case of noisy or badly shaped curves, the presented approach works good (relative error mainly below 2% and coefficients of variability below 5%) while traditional procedures fail. Therefore, the proposed algorithm may be useful in interpretation of the experimental data and also in automation of the typical titration analysis, specially in the case when random noise interfere with analytical signal.

Non-Destructive Detection of Wire Rope Discontinuities from Residual Magnetic Field Images Using the Hilbert-Huang Transform and Compressed Sensing

PubMed Central

Zhang, Juwei; Tan, Xiaojiang; Zheng, Pengbo

2017-01-01

Electromagnetic methods are commonly employed to detect wire rope discontinuities. However, determining the residual strength of wire rope based on the quantitative recognition of discontinuities remains problematic. We have designed a prototype device based on the residual magnetic field (RMF) of ferromagnetic materials, which overcomes the disadvantages associated with in-service inspections, such as large volume, inconvenient operation, low precision, and poor portability by providing a relatively small and lightweight device with improved detection precision. A novel filtering system consisting of the Hilbert-Huang transform and compressed sensing wavelet filtering is presented. Digital image processing was applied to achieve the localization and segmentation of defect RMF images. The statistical texture and invariant moment characteristics of the defect images were extracted as the input of a radial basis function neural network. Experimental results show that the RMF device can detect defects in various types of wire rope and prolong the service life of test equipment by reducing the friction between the detection device and the wire rope by accommodating a high lift-off distance. PMID:28300790

An Improved Image Matching Method Based on Surf Algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, S. J.; Zheng, S. Z.; Xu, Z. G.; Guo, C. C.; Ma, X. L.

2018-04-01

Many state-of-the-art image matching methods, based on the feature matching, have been widely studied in the remote sensing field. These methods of feature matching which get highly operating efficiency, have a disadvantage of low accuracy and robustness. This paper proposes an improved image matching method which based on the SURF algorithm. The proposed method introduces color invariant transformation, information entropy theory and a series of constraint conditions to increase feature points detection and matching accuracy. First, the model of color invariant transformation is introduced for two matching images aiming at obtaining more color information during the matching process and information entropy theory is used to obtain the most information of two matching images. Then SURF algorithm is applied to detect and describe points from the images. Finally, constraint conditions which including Delaunay triangulation construction, similarity function and projective invariant are employed to eliminate the mismatches so as to improve matching precision. The proposed method has been validated on the remote sensing images and the result benefits from its high precision and robustness.

Generation of the displacement current by the transformation of J-aggregates in spreading monolayers of squarylium dye

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iwamoto, Mitsumasa; Majima, Yutaka; Hirayama, Fuminori; Furuki, Makoto; Pu, Lyong Sun

1992-07-01

Maxwell displacement currents generated from monolayers of squarylium dye with propyl groups (SQ) and from mixed monolayers with arachidic acid were investigated during the course of monolayer compression in connection with the formation of J-aggregates in the monolayers. Abrupt changes in the generation of displacement current were observed for monolayers of SQ due to the transformation between two types of J-aggregates with different absorption spectra. In contrast, for mixed monolayers with arachidic acid which show no transition of J-aggregates, abrupt changes in the displacement current were not observed. It was concluded that displacement current measurement is effective in the detection of the transformation of the molecular arrangement in aggregates.

Precision Strike Training in Lean Manufacturing: A Workplace Literacy Guidebook [and] Final Report on Precision Strike Workplace Literacy Training at CertainTeed Corporation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Alliance of Business, Inc., Washington, DC.

CertainTeed's Precision Strike training program was designed to close the gaps between the current status of its workplace and where that work force needed to be to compete successfully in global markets. Precision Strike included Skills and Knowledge in Lifelong Learning (SKILL) customized, computerized lessons in basic skills, one-on-one…

A Wavelet-based Fast Discrimination of Transformer Magnetizing Inrush Current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kitayama, Masashi

Recently customers who need electricity of higher quality have been installing co-generation facilities. They can avoid voltage sags and other distribution system related disturbances by supplying electricity to important load from their generators. For another example, FRIENDS, highly reliable distribution system using semiconductor switches or storage devices based on power electronics technology, is proposed. These examples illustrates that the request for high reliability in distribution system is increasing. In order to realize these systems, fast relaying algorithms are indispensable. The author proposes a new method of detecting magnetizing inrush current using discrete wavelet transform (DWT). DWT provides the function of detecting discontinuity of current waveform. Inrush current occurs when transformer core becomes saturated. The proposed method detects spikes of DWT components derived from the discontinuity of the current waveform at both the beginning and the end of inrush current. Wavelet thresholding, one of the wavelet-based statistical modeling, was applied to detect the DWT component spikes. The proposed method is verified using experimental data using single-phase transformer and the proposed method is proved to be effective.

Realistic Analytical Polyhedral MRI Phantoms

PubMed Central

Ngo, Tri M.; Fung, George S. K.; Han, Shuo; Chen, Min; Prince, Jerry L.; Tsui, Benjamin M. W.; McVeigh, Elliot R.; Herzka, Daniel A.

2015-01-01

Purpose Analytical phantoms have closed form Fourier transform expressions and are used to simulate MRI acquisitions. Existing 3D analytical phantoms are unable to accurately model shapes of biomedical interest. It is demonstrated that polyhedral analytical phantoms have closed form Fourier transform expressions and can accurately represent 3D biomedical shapes. Theory The derivations of the Fourier transform of a polygon and polyhedron are presented. Methods The Fourier transform of a polyhedron was implemented and its accuracy in representing faceted and smooth surfaces was characterized. Realistic anthropomorphic polyhedral brain and torso phantoms were constructed and their use in simulated 3D/2D MRI acquisitions was described. Results Using polyhedra, the Fourier transform of faceted shapes can be computed to within machine precision. Smooth surfaces can be approximated with increasing accuracy by increasing the number of facets in the polyhedron; the additional accumulated numerical imprecision of the Fourier transform of polyhedra with many faces remained small. Simulations of 3D/2D brain and 2D torso cine acquisitions produced realistic reconstructions free of high frequency edge aliasing as compared to equivalent voxelized/rasterized phantoms. Conclusion Analytical polyhedral phantoms are easy to construct and can accurately simulate shapes of biomedical interest. PMID:26479724

High precision triangular waveform generator

DOEpatents

Mueller, Theodore R.

1983-01-01

An ultra-linear ramp generator having separately programmable ascending and descending ramp rates and voltages is provided. Two constant current sources provide the ramp through an integrator. Switching of the current at current source inputs rather than at the integrator input eliminates switching transients and contributes to the waveform precision. The triangular waveforms produced by the waveform generator are characterized by accurate reproduction and low drift over periods of several hours. The ascending and descending slopes are independently selectable.

High-precision triangular-waveform generator

DOEpatents

Mueller, T.R.

1981-11-14

An ultra-linear ramp generator having separately programmable ascending and decending ramp rates and voltages is provided. Two constant current sources provide the ramp through an integrator. Switching of the current at current source inputs rather than at the integrator input eliminates switching transients and contributes to the waveform precision. The triangular waveforms produced by the waveform generator are characterized by accurate reproduction and low drift over periods of several hours. The ascending and descending slopes are independently selectable.

An accurate online calibration system based on combined clamp-shape coil for high voltage electronic current transformers

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

Li, Zhen-hua; Li, Hong-bin; Zhang, Zhi

Electronic transformers are widely used in power systems because of their wide bandwidth and good transient performance. However, as an emerging technology, the failure rate of electronic transformers is higher than that of traditional transformers. As a result, the calibration period needs to be shortened. Traditional calibration methods require the power of transmission line be cut off, which results in complicated operation and power off loss. This paper proposes an online calibration system which can calibrate electronic current transformers without power off. In this work, the high accuracy standard current transformer and online operation method are the key techniques. Basedmore » on the clamp-shape iron-core coil and clamp-shape air-core coil, a combined clamp-shape coil is designed as the standard current transformer. By analyzing the output characteristics of the two coils, the combined clamp-shape coil can achieve verification of the accuracy. So the accuracy of the online calibration system can be guaranteed. Moreover, by employing the earth potential working method and using two insulating rods to connect the combined clamp-shape coil to the high voltage bus, the operation becomes simple and safe. Tests in China National Center for High Voltage Measurement and field experiments show that the proposed system has a high accuracy of up to 0.05 class.« less

Module Ten: Transformers; Basic Electricity and Electronics Individualized Learning System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bureau of Naval Personnel, Washington, DC.

The module introduces a very important electrical device, the transformer. The module is divided into six lessons: transformer construction, transformer theory and operation, turns and voltage ratios, power and current, transformer efficiency, and semiconductor rectifiers. Each lesson consists of an overview, a list of study resources, lesson…

A new wavelet transform to sparsely represent cortical current densities for EEG/MEG inverse problems.

PubMed

Liao, Ke; Zhu, Min; Ding, Lei

2013-08-01

The present study investigated the use of transform sparseness of cortical current density on human brain surface to improve electroencephalography/magnetoencephalography (EEG/MEG) inverse solutions. Transform sparseness was assessed by evaluating compressibility of cortical current densities in transform domains. To do that, a structure compression method from computer graphics was first adopted to compress cortical surface structure, either regular or irregular, into hierarchical multi-resolution meshes. Then, a new face-based wavelet method based on generated multi-resolution meshes was proposed to compress current density functions defined on cortical surfaces. Twelve cortical surface models were built by three EEG/MEG softwares and their structural compressibility was evaluated and compared by the proposed method. Monte Carlo simulations were implemented to evaluate the performance of the proposed wavelet method in compressing various cortical current density distributions as compared to other two available vertex-based wavelet methods. The present results indicate that the face-based wavelet method can achieve higher transform sparseness than vertex-based wavelet methods. Furthermore, basis functions from the face-based wavelet method have lower coherence against typical EEG and MEG measurement systems than vertex-based wavelet methods. Both high transform sparseness and low coherent measurements suggest that the proposed face-based wavelet method can improve the performance of L1-norm regularized EEG/MEG inverse solutions, which was further demonstrated in simulations and experimental setups using MEG data. Thus, this new transform on complicated cortical structure is promising to significantly advance EEG/MEG inverse source imaging technologies. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ground roll attenuation by synchrosqueezed curvelet transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zhao; Chen, Yangkang; Ma, Jianwei

2018-04-01

Ground roll is a type of coherent noise in land seismic data that has low frequency, low velocity and high amplitude. It damages reflection events that contain important information about subsurface structures, hence the removal of ground roll is a crucial step in seismic data processing. A suitable transform is needed for removal of ground roll. Curvelet transform is an effective sparse transform that optimally represents seismic events. In addition, the curvelets can provide a multiscale and multidirectional decomposition of the input data in time-frequency and angular domain, which can help distinguish between ground roll and useful signals. In this paper, we apply synchrosqueezed curvelet transform (SSCT) for ground roll attenuation. The synchrosqueezing technique in SSCT is used to precisely reallocate the energy of local wave vectors in order to separate ground roll from the original data with higher resolution and higher fidelity. Examples of synthetic and field seismic data reveal that SSCT performs well in the suppression of aliased and non-aliased ground roll while preserving reflection waves, in comparison with high-pass filtering, wavelet and curvelet methods.

Alternative Shapes and Shaping Techniques for Enhanced Transformer Ratios in Beam Driven Techniques

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

Lemery, F.; Piot, P.

The transformer ration of collinear beam-driven techniques can be significantly improved by shaping the current profile of the drive bunch. To date, several current shapes have been proposed to increase the transformer ratio and produce quasi-uniform energy loss within the drive bunch. Some of these tailoring techniques are possible as a results of recent beam-dynamics advances, e.g., transverse-to-longitudinal emittance exchanger. In ths paper, we propose an alternative class of longitudinal shapes that enable high transformer ratio and uniform energy loss across the drive bunch. We also suggest a simple method based on photocathode-laser shaping and passive shaping in wakefield structuremore » to realize shape close to the theoretically optimized current profiles.« less

Precision Optics Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reid, Robert L.; And Others

This guide outlines the competency-based, two-year precision optics curriculum that the American Precision Optics Manufacturers Association has proposed to fill the void that it suggests will soon exist as many of the master opticians currently employed retire. The model, which closely resembles the old European apprenticeship model, calls for 300…

[Measurements of the concentration of atmospheric CO2 based on OP/FTIR method and infrared reflecting scanning Fourier transform spectrometry].

PubMed

Wei, Ru-Yi; Zhou, Jin-Song; Zhang, Xue-Min; Yu, Tao; Gao, Xiao-Hui; Ren, Xiao-Qiang

2014-11-01

The present paper describes the observations and measurements of the infrared absorption spectra of CO2 on the Earth's surface with OP/FTIR method by employing a mid-infrared reflecting scanning Fourier transform spectrometry, which are the first results produced by the first prototype in China developed by the team of authors. This reflecting scanning Fourier transform spectrometry works in the spectral range 2 100-3 150 cm(-1) with a spectral resolution of 2 cm(-1). Method to measure the atmospheric molecules was described and mathematical proof and quantitative algorithms to retrieve molecular concentration were established. The related models were performed both by a direct method based on the Beer-Lambert Law and by a simulating-fitting method based on HITRAN database and the instrument functions. Concentrations of CO2 were retrieved by the two models. The results of observation and modeling analyses indicate that the concentrations have a distribution of 300-370 ppm, and show tendency that going with the variation of the environment they first decrease slowly and then increase rapidly during the observation period, and reached low points in the afternoon and during the sunset. The concentrations with measuring times retrieved by the direct method and by the simulating-fitting method agree with each other very well, with the correlation of all the data is up to 99.79%, and the relative error is no more than 2.00%. The precision for retrieving is relatively high. The results of this paper demonstrate that, in the field of detecting atmospheric compositions, OP/FTIR method performed by the Infrared reflecting scanning Fourier transform spectrometry is a feasible and effective technical approach, and either the direct method or the simulating-fitting method is capable of retrieving concentrations with high precision.

Marker-free registration of forest terrestrial laser scanner data pairs with embedded confidence metrics

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

Van Aardt, Jan; Romanczyk, Paul; van Leeuwen, Martin

Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) has emerged as an effective tool for rapid comprehensive measurement of object structure. Registration of TLS data is an important prerequisite to overcome the limitations of occlusion. However, due to the high dissimilarity of point cloud data collected from disparate viewpoints in the forest environment, adequate marker-free registration approaches have not been developed. The majority of studies instead rely on the utilization of artificial tie points (e.g., reflective tooling balls) placed within a scene to aid in coordinate transformation. We present a technique for generating view-invariant feature descriptors that are intrinsic to the point cloud datamore » and, thus, enable blind marker-free registration in forest environments. To overcome the limitation of initial pose estimation, we employ a voting method to blindly determine the optimal pairwise transformation parameters, without an a priori estimate of the initial sensor pose. To provide embedded error metrics, we developed a set theory framework in which a circular transformation is traversed between disjoint tie point subsets. This provides an upper estimate of the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) confidence associated with each pairwise transformation. Output RMSE errors are commensurate with the RMSE of input tie points locations. Thus, while the mean output RMSE=16.3cm, improved results could be achieved with a more precise laser scanning system. This study 1) quantifies the RMSE of the proposed marker-free registration approach, 2) assesses the validity of embedded confidence metrics using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves, and 3) informs optimal sample spacing considerations for TLS data collection in New England forests. Furthermore, while the implications for rapid, accurate, and precise forest inventory are obvious, the conceptual framework outlined here could potentially be extended to built environments.« less

Marker-free registration of forest terrestrial laser scanner data pairs with embedded confidence metrics

DOE PAGES

Van Aardt, Jan; Romanczyk, Paul; van Leeuwen, Martin; ...

2016-04-04

Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) has emerged as an effective tool for rapid comprehensive measurement of object structure. Registration of TLS data is an important prerequisite to overcome the limitations of occlusion. However, due to the high dissimilarity of point cloud data collected from disparate viewpoints in the forest environment, adequate marker-free registration approaches have not been developed. The majority of studies instead rely on the utilization of artificial tie points (e.g., reflective tooling balls) placed within a scene to aid in coordinate transformation. We present a technique for generating view-invariant feature descriptors that are intrinsic to the point cloud datamore » and, thus, enable blind marker-free registration in forest environments. To overcome the limitation of initial pose estimation, we employ a voting method to blindly determine the optimal pairwise transformation parameters, without an a priori estimate of the initial sensor pose. To provide embedded error metrics, we developed a set theory framework in which a circular transformation is traversed between disjoint tie point subsets. This provides an upper estimate of the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) confidence associated with each pairwise transformation. Output RMSE errors are commensurate with the RMSE of input tie points locations. Thus, while the mean output RMSE=16.3cm, improved results could be achieved with a more precise laser scanning system. This study 1) quantifies the RMSE of the proposed marker-free registration approach, 2) assesses the validity of embedded confidence metrics using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves, and 3) informs optimal sample spacing considerations for TLS data collection in New England forests. Furthermore, while the implications for rapid, accurate, and precise forest inventory are obvious, the conceptual framework outlined here could potentially be extended to built environments.« less

Good Practices in Free-energy Calculations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pohorille, Andrew; Jarzynski, Christopher; Chipot, Christopher

2013-01-01

As access to computational resources continues to increase, free-energy calculations have emerged as a powerful tool that can play a predictive role in drug design. Yet, in a number of instances, the reliability of these calculations can be improved significantly if a number of precepts, or good practices are followed. For the most part, the theory upon which these good practices rely has been known for many years, but often overlooked, or simply ignored. In other cases, the theoretical developments are too recent for their potential to be fully grasped and merged into popular platforms for the computation of free-energy differences. The current best practices for carrying out free-energy calculations will be reviewed demonstrating that, at little to no additional cost, free-energy estimates could be markedly improved and bounded by meaningful error estimates. In energy perturbation and nonequilibrium work methods, monitoring the probability distributions that underlie the transformation between the states of interest, performing the calculation bidirectionally, stratifying the reaction pathway and choosing the most appropriate paradigms and algorithms for transforming between states offer significant gains in both accuracy and precision. In thermodynamic integration and probability distribution (histogramming) methods, properly designed adaptive techniques yield nearly uniform sampling of the relevant degrees of freedom and, by doing so, could markedly improve efficiency and accuracy of free energy calculations without incurring any additional computational expense.

Characterization and application of Shape Memory Alloy wires for micro and meso positioning systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Afzal

The properties of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) wires are determined by experimentation, and previously used experimental equipment contributes to measurement errors in data. In this study, various characterization experiments are designed and carried out using a precision characterization instrument for shape memory alloy wires to determine the properties and parameters of the alloy. These experiments demonstrate the behavior of SMA wires under different thermal and loading conditions as they occur in actuation applications. As SMA wires go through phase transformation, a significant amount of contraction force is produced. This actuation force has been used in bias spring actuators and differential actuators. In this dissertation, the force generated during the twinning of martensite is used to actuate positioning systems with small displacements at the micrometer level. A micropositioning system is designed and tested that has a positioning accuracy of about +/-0.15 mum. A relation between the current input and the displacement output is determined for the specific preload. The transformation force generated during the phase change from martensite to austenite is used as an actuation force for a second positioning system that uses linear bearing with a displacement range of about a millimeter. This positioning system actuated with a single nitinol wire and guided by symmetric parallel diaphragm flexures, was designed and tested. The actuation is repeatable to about +/-15 mum with variation of about +/-5 mum in postion at steady temperature.

Precise montaging and metric quantification of retinal surface area from ultra-widefield fundus photography and fluorescein angiography.

PubMed

Croft, Daniel E; van Hemert, Jano; Wykoff, Charles C; Clifton, David; Verhoek, Michael; Fleming, Alan; Brown, David M

2014-01-01

Accurate quantification of retinal surface area from ultra-widefield (UWF) images is challenging due to warping produced when the retina is projected onto a two-dimensional plane for analysis. By accounting for this, the authors sought to precisely montage and accurately quantify retinal surface area in square millimeters. Montages were created using Optos 200Tx (Optos, Dunfermline, U.K.) images taken at different gaze angles. A transformation projected the images to their correct location on a three-dimensional model. Area was quantified with spherical trigonometry. Warping, precision, and accuracy were assessed. Uncorrected, posterior pixels represented up to 79% greater surface area than peripheral pixels. Assessing precision, a standard region was quantified across 10 montages of the same eye (RSD: 0.7%; mean: 408.97 mm(2); range: 405.34-413.87 mm(2)). Assessing accuracy, 50 patients' disc areas were quantified (mean: 2.21 mm(2); SE: 0.06 mm(2)), and the results fell within the normative range. By accounting for warping inherent in UWF images, precise montaging and accurate quantification of retinal surface area in square millimeters were achieved. Copyright 2014, SLACK Incorporated.

Integrating image processing and classification technology into automated polarizing film defect inspection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuo, Chung-Feng Jeffrey; Lai, Chun-Yu; Kao, Chih-Hsiang; Chiu, Chin-Hsun

2018-05-01

In order to improve the current manual inspection and classification process for polarizing film on production lines, this study proposes a high precision automated inspection and classification system for polarizing film, which is used for recognition and classification of four common defects: dent, foreign material, bright spot, and scratch. First, the median filter is used to remove the impulse noise in the defect image of polarizing film. The random noise in the background is smoothed by the improved anisotropic diffusion, while the edge detail of the defect region is sharpened. Next, the defect image is transformed by Fourier transform to the frequency domain, combined with a Butterworth high pass filter to sharpen the edge detail of the defect region, and brought back by inverse Fourier transform to the spatial domain to complete the image enhancement process. For image segmentation, the edge of the defect region is found by Canny edge detector, and then the complete defect region is obtained by two-stage morphology processing. For defect classification, the feature values, including maximum gray level, eccentricity, the contrast, and homogeneity of gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) extracted from the images, are used as the input of the radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) and back-propagation neural network (BPNN) classifier, 96 defect images are then used as training samples, and 84 defect images are used as testing samples to validate the classification effect. The result shows that the classification accuracy by using RBFNN is 98.9%. Thus, our proposed system can be used by manufacturing companies for a higher yield rate and lower cost. The processing time of one single image is 2.57 seconds, thus meeting the practical application requirement of an industrial production line.

Modernisation of the Narod fluxgate electronics at Budkov Geomagnetic Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vlk, Michal

2013-04-01

From the signal point of view, fluxgate unit is a low-frequency parametric up-convertor where the output signal is picked up in bands near second harmonic of the pump frequency fp (sometimes called idler for historic reasons) and purity of idler is augmented by orthogonal construction of the pump and pick-up coil. In our concept, the pump source uses Heegner quartz oscillator near 8 MHz, synchronous divider to 16 kHz (fp) and switched current booster. Rectangular pulse is used for feeding the original ferroresonant pump source with neutralizing transformer in the case of symmetric shielded cabling. Input transformer has split primary winding for using symmetrical shielded input cabling and secondary winding tuned by polystyrol capacitor and loaded by inverting integrator bridged by capacitor. This structure behaves like resistor cooled to low temperature. Next stage is bandpass filter (derivator) with a gain tuned to 2 fp with leaky FDNRs followed by current booster. Another part of the system is low-noise peak elimination and bias circuit. Heart of the system is a 120-V precision source which uses 3.3-V Zener diode chain - thermistor bridge in the feedback. Peak elimination circuit logics consists of the envelope detector, comparators, asynchronous counter in hardwired logics, set of weighted resistor chains and discrete MOS switches in current-mode. All HV components use airy montage to prevent the ground-leak. After 200 m long coaxial line, the signal is galvanically separated by transformer and fed into A/D converter, which is ordinary HD audio (96 kHz) soundcard. Real sample rate is constructed by a-posteriori data processing when statistic properties of the incoming sample are known. The sampled signal is band-pass filtered with a 200-Hz filter centered at 2 fp. The signal is then fed through a first-order allpass centered at 2 fp. The result approximates Hilbert transform sufficiently good for detecting the envelope via square sum-root rule. The signal is further decimated via IIR filters to sample-rate 187.5 Hz. Raw instrument data files are saved hourly in floating-point binary files and are marked by time stamps obtained from NTP server. A-posteriory processing of (plesiochronous) instrument data consists of downsampling by IIRs to 12 Hz, irrational (time-mark driven) upsampling to 13 Hz and then using the INTERMAGNET standard FIR filter (5 sec to 1 min) to obtain 1-min data. Because the range of the signal processing system is about 60 nT (range of the peak elimination circuit is 3.8 uT), the resulting magnetograms look like the La Cour ones.

Fast algorithms for transforming back and forth between a signed permutation and its equivalent simple permutation.

PubMed

Gog, Simon; Bader, Martin

2008-10-01

The problem of sorting signed permutations by reversals is a well-studied problem in computational biology. The first polynomial time algorithm was presented by Hannenhalli and Pevzner in 1995. The algorithm was improved several times, and nowadays the most efficient algorithm has a subquadratic running time. Simple permutations played an important role in the development of these algorithms. Although the latest result of Tannier et al. does not require simple permutations, the preliminary version of their algorithm as well as the first polynomial time algorithm of Hannenhalli and Pevzner use the structure of simple permutations. More precisely, the latter algorithms require a precomputation that transforms a permutation into an equivalent simple permutation. To the best of our knowledge, all published algorithms for this transformation have at least a quadratic running time. For further investigations on genome rearrangement problems, the existence of a fast algorithm for the transformation could be crucial. Another important task is the back transformation, i.e. if we have a sorting on the simple permutation, transform it into a sorting on the original permutation. Again, the naive approach results in an algorithm with quadratic running time. In this paper, we present a linear time algorithm for transforming a permutation into an equivalent simple permutation, and an O(n log n) algorithm for the back transformation of the sorting sequence.

Neurotechnology for intelligence analysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kruse, Amy A.; Boyd, Karen C.; Schulman, Joshua J.

2006-05-01

Geospatial Intelligence Analysts are currently faced with an enormous volume of imagery, only a fraction of which can be processed or reviewed in a timely operational manner. Computer-based target detection efforts have failed to yield the speed, flexibility and accuracy of the human visual system. Rather than focus solely on artificial systems, we hypothesize that the human visual system is still the best target detection apparatus currently in use, and with the addition of neuroscience-based measurement capabilities it can surpass the throughput of the unaided human severalfold. Using electroencephalography (EEG), Thorpe et al1 described a fast signal in the brain associated with the early detection of targets in static imagery using a Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP) paradigm. This finding suggests that it may be possible to extract target detection signals from complex imagery in real time utilizing non-invasive neurophysiological assessment tools. To transform this phenomenon into a capability for defense applications, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) currently is sponsoring an effort titled Neurotechnology for Intelligence Analysts (NIA). The vision of the NIA program is to revolutionize the way that analysts handle intelligence imagery, increasing both the throughput of imagery to the analyst and overall accuracy of the assessments. Successful development of a neurobiologically-based image triage system will enable image analysts to train more effectively and process imagery with greater speed and precision.

In Vivo Precision of Digital Topological Skeletonization Based Individual Trabecula Segmentation (ITS) Analysis of Trabecular Microstructure at the Distal Radius and Tibia by HR-pQCT.

PubMed

Zhou, Bin; Zhang, Zhendong; Wang, Ji; Yu, Y Eric; Liu, Xiaowei Sherry; Nishiyama, Kyle K; Rubin, Mishaela R; Shane, Elizabeth; Bilezikian, John P; Guo, X Edward

2016-06-01

Trabecular plate and rod microstructure plays a dominant role in the apparent mechanical properties of trabecular bone. With high-resolution computed tomography (CT) images, digital topological analysis (DTA) including skeletonization and topological classification was applied to transform the trabecular three-dimensional (3D) network into surface and curve skeletons. Using the DTA-based topological analysis and a new reconstruction/recovery scheme, individual trabecula segmentation (ITS) was developed to segment individual trabecular plates and rods and quantify the trabecular plate- and rod-related morphological parameters. High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) is an emerging in vivo imaging technique to visualize 3D bone microstructure. Based on HR-pQCT images, ITS was applied to various HR-pQCT datasets to examine trabecular plate- and rod-related microstructure and has demonstrated great potential in cross-sectional and longitudinal clinical applications. However, the reproducibility of ITS has not been fully determined. The aim of the current study is to quantify the precision errors of ITS plate-rod microstructural parameters. In addition, we utilized three different frequently used contour techniques to separate trabecular and cortical bone and to evaluate their effect on ITS measurements. Overall, good reproducibility was found for the standard HR-pQCT parameters with precision errors for volumetric BMD and bone size between 0.2%-2.0%, and trabecular bone microstructure between 4.9%-6.7% at the radius and tibia. High reproducibility was also achieved for ITS measurements using all three different contour techniques. For example, using automatic contour technology, low precision errors were found for plate and rod trabecular number (pTb.N, rTb.N, 0.9% and 3.6%), plate and rod trabecular thickness (pTb.Th, rTb.Th, 0.6% and 1.7%), plate trabecular surface (pTb.S, 3.4%), rod trabecular length (rTb.ℓ, 0.8%), and plate-plate junction density (P-P Junc.D, 2.3%) at the tibia. The precision errors at the radius were similar to those at the tibia. In addition, precision errors were affected by the contour technique. At the tibia, precision error by the manual contour method was significantly different from automatic and standard contour methods for pTb.N, rTb.N and rTb.Th. Precision error using the manual contour method was also significantly different from the standard contour method for rod trabecular number (rTb.N), rod trabecular thickness (rTb.Th), rod-rod and plate-rod junction densities (R-R Junc.D and P-R Junc.D) at the tibia. At the radius, the precision error was similar between the three different contour methods. Image quality was also found to significantly affect the ITS reproducibility. We concluded that ITS parameters are highly reproducible, giving assurance that future cross-sectional and longitudinal clinical HR-pQCT studies are feasible in the context of limited sample sizes.

Driving forces of redistribution of elements during quasicrystalline phase formation under heating of mechanically alloyed Al65Cu23Fe12 powder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tcherdyntsev, V. V.; Kaloshkin, S. D.; Shelekhov, E. V.; Principi, G.; Rodin, A. O.

2008-02-01

Al65Cu23Fe12 alloys were prepared by ball milling of the elemental powders mixture. Phase and structural transformations at heating of as-milled powders were investigated by X-ray diffraction analysis. Precision analysis of Mössbauer spectra was performed to check the adequacy of the fitting of X-ray diffraction patterns. The results were compared with the data of differential scanning and solution calorimetry, as well as with the thermodynamic literature data, in order to estimate the driving forces of redistribution of elements that preceded the formation of single-phase quasicrystalline structure. The heat of elements mixing, which is positive for Cu-Fe system and negative for Al-Fe and Al-Cu systems, was supposed to be a decisive factor for phase transformations during heating of the alloy. The correlation between sequence of phase transformations during heating and the thermodynamic data was discussed and the scheme describing phase transformations observed was proposed.

On Similarity Transformation and Geodetic Network Distortions Based on Doppler Satellite Observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leick, Alfred; Vangelder, Boudewijn H. W.

1975-01-01

Models used in geodesy to transform two sets of coordinates are studied and distortions in geodetic networks are investigated. Commonly used transformation models are first reviewed and most of them are interpreted. Differences between various models are discussed. Pitfalls in partial solutions are then considered. It is shown that only as many chords and/or directional elements can be used in the computation as are needed to completely determine the size or shape of the polyhedron implied in the set of Cartesian coordinates. Each additional element causes the normal matrix to be singular provided that all correlations between the chords are used. A number of tables and maps indicating distortions in the NAD 27, Precise Traverse M-R '72, AUS, and SAD 69 geodetic datums are also included. The residuals of the coordinates are scanned for systematic patterns after transforming each geodetic system to the NWL9D Doppler system. Also, an attempt is made to show scale distortions in the NAD 27.

Iris Location Algorithm Based on the CANNY Operator and Gradient Hough Transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, L. H.; Meng, K.; Wang, Y.; Dai, Z. Q.; Li, S.

2017-12-01

In the iris recognition system, the accuracy of the localization of the inner and outer edges of the iris directly affects the performance of the recognition system, so iris localization has important research meaning. Our iris data contain eyelid, eyelashes, light spot and other noise, even the gray transformation of the images is not obvious, so the general methods of iris location are unable to realize the iris location. The method of the iris location based on Canny operator and gradient Hough transform is proposed. Firstly, the images are pre-processed; then, calculating the gradient information of images, the inner and outer edges of iris are coarse positioned using Canny operator; finally, according to the gradient Hough transform to realize precise localization of the inner and outer edge of iris. The experimental results show that our algorithm can achieve the localization of the inner and outer edges of the iris well, and the algorithm has strong anti-interference ability, can greatly reduce the location time and has higher accuracy and stability.

[Farnesyl transferase inhibitors (anti-Ras). A new class of anticancer agents].

PubMed

Levy, R

Ras genes are frequently activated in human tumours. The role of their product, the P21 proteins, in the transduction of the mitogenic signal makes them attractive targets for an anti-neoplastic therapy. The p21 ras proteins are linked to the plasma membrane and transformed into an active form for signal transmission. Their effect is to mediate the effects of growth factors. Two drug families, the Benzodiazepine peptidomimetics and the CAAX tetrapeptides which inhibit the farnesylation of P21-Ras proteins abolish the transforming properties of mutated P21. These promising drugs could rapidly have clinical applications. They have been shown to be highly active at precise concentrations on ras-transformed cells but at the same concentrations are not toxic for untransformed cells. They do not effect other similar enzyme systems within the cell, underlining their selective capacity. Theoretically anti-ras therapy could only suspend cell transformation although it might be possible that if given long enough, a lethal threshold could be reached.

Pursuing optimal electric machines transient diagnosis: The adaptive slope transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pons-Llinares, Joan; Riera-Guasp, Martín; Antonino-Daviu, Jose A.; Habetler, Thomas G.

2016-12-01

The aim of this paper is to introduce a new linear time-frequency transform to improve the detection of fault components in electric machines transient currents. Linear transforms are analysed from the perspective of the atoms used. A criterion to select the atoms at every point of the time-frequency plane is proposed, taking into account the characteristics of the searched component at each point. This criterion leads to the definition of the Adaptive Slope Transform, which enables a complete and optimal capture of the different components evolutions in a transient current. A comparison with conventional linear transforms (Short-Time Fourier Transform and Wavelet Transform) is carried out, showing their inherent limitations. The approach is tested with laboratory and field motors, and the Lower Sideband Harmonic is captured for the first time during an induction motor startup and subsequent load oscillations, accurately tracking its evolution.

Toward precision medicine in primary biliary cholangitis.

PubMed

Carbone, Marco; Ronca, Vincenzo; Bruno, Savino; Invernizzi, Pietro; Mells, George F

2016-08-01

Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic, cholestatic liver disease characterized by a heterogeneous presentation, symptomatology, disease progression and response to therapy. In contrast, clinical management and treatment of PBC is homogeneous with a 'one size fits all' approach. The evolving research landscape, with the emergence of the -omics field and the availability of large patient cohorts are creating a unique opportunity of translational epidemiology. Furthermore, several novel disease and symptom-modifying agents for PBC are currently in development. The time is therefore ripe for precision medicine in PBC. In this manuscript we describe the concept of precision medicine; review current approaches to risk-stratification in PBC, and speculate how precision medicine in PBC might develop in the near future. Copyright © 2016 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ion current as a precise measure of the loading rate of a magneto-optical trap

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

Jiang, W.; Bailey, K.; Lu, Z. -T.

2014-01-01

We have demonstrated that the ion current resulting from collisions between metastable krypton atoms in a magneto-optical trap can be used to precisely measure the trap loading rate. We measured both the ion current of the abundant isotope Kr-83 (isotopic abundance = 11%) and the single-atom counting rate of the rare isotope Kr-85 (isotopic abundance similar to 1 x 10(-11)), and found the two quantities to be proportional at a precision level of 0.9%. This work results in a significant improvement in using the magneto-optical trap as an analytical tool for noble-gas isotope ratio measurements, and will benefit both atomicmore » physics studies and applications in the earth sciences. (C) 2014 Optical Society of America« less

Protection relay of phase-shifting device with thyristor switch for high voltage power transmission lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lachugin, V. F.; Panfilov, D. I.; Akhmetov, I. M.; Astashev, M. G.; Shevelev, A. V.

2014-12-01

Problems of functioning of differential current protection systems of phase shifting devices (PSD) with mechanically changed coefficient of transformation of shunt transformer are analyzed. Requirements for devices of protection of PSD with thyristor switch are formulated. Based on use of nonlinear models of series-wound and shunt transformers of PSD modes of operation of major protection during PSD, switching to zero load operation and to operation under load and during short circuit operation were studied for testing PSD with failures. Use of the principle of duplicating by devices of differential current protection (with realization of functions of breaking) of failures of separate pares of PSD with thyristor switch was substantiated. To ensure protection sensitivity to the shunt transformer winding short circuit, in particular, to a short circuit that is not implemented in the current differential protection for PSD with mechanical switch, the differential current protection reacting to the amount of primary ampere-turns of high-voltage and low-voltage winding of this transformer was designed. Studies have shown that the use of differential current cutoff instead of overcurrent protection for the shunt transformer wndings allows one to provide the sensitivity during thyristor failure with the formation of a short circuit. The results of simulation mode for the PSD with switch thyristor designed to be installed as switching point of Voskhod-Tatarskaya-Barabinsk 220 kV transmission line point out the efficiency of the developed solutions that ensure reliable functioning of the PSD.

Development of ultra-precision micro-cavity measurement technique in HIT-UOI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Jiwen; Li, Lei; Tan, Jiubin

2010-08-01

Micro cavities with high aspect ratio are widely used in different fields including aerospace and defense industries with the development of manufacturing technology. So how to measure the dimension of these cavities has become one of the major research subjects in the field of measurement and instrument. This paper describes some activities of the precision micro cavity measurement technique in Center of Ultra-precision Optoelectronic Instrument (UOI), Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT). The key issue of micro cavity measurement in UOI is called touch-trigger measurement method. The first scheme is double optical fiber coupling, in which light coming from the incident optical fiber is transmitted in the reversal direction via the optical fiber coupling into the effluent optical fiber, the lateral displacement of the touch-trigger sensor is transformed into the deflexion of light coming out from the effluent optical fiber, and the deflexion is transformed into an image signal by the object lens and CCD capturing system. And the second scheme is micro focal-length collimation, in which a fiber stem with a ball mounted on its end is used as a probe and a small segment of it is used as a cylindrical lens to collimate a point light source and image it to a camera, the deflection of the fiber stem can be inferred from the change in image acquired by the camera with ultrahigh displacement sensitivity. Experiments for these activities will be given with a focus on the measurement results and repeatability uncertainty.

Sequential Linker Installation: Precise Placement of Functional Groups in Multivariate Metal-Organic Frameworks

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

Yuan, S; Lu, WG; Chen, YP

2015-03-11

A unique strategy, sequential linker installation (SLI), has been developed to construct multivariate MOFs with functional groups precisely positioned. PCN-700, a Zr-MOF with eight-connected Zr6O4(OH)(8)(H2O)(4) clusters, has been judiciously designed; the Zr-6 clusters in this MOF are arranged in such a fashion that, by replacement of terminal OH-/H2O ligands, subsequent insertion of linear dicarboxylate linkers is achieved. We demonstrate that linkers with distinct lengths and functionalities can be sequentially installed into PCN-700. Single-crystal to single-crystal transformation is realized so that the positions of the subsequently installed linkers are pinpointed via single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. This methodology provides a powerful toolmore » to construct multivariate MOFs with precisely positioned functionalities in the desired proximity, which would otherwise be difficult to achieve.« less

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

Sun, Rongyu; Zhao, Changyin; Zhang, Xiaoxiang, E-mail: cyzhao@pmo.ac.cn

The data reduction method for optical space debris observations has many similarities with the one adopted for surveying near-Earth objects; however, due to several specific issues, the image degradation is particularly critical, which makes it difficult to obtain precise astrometry. An automatic image reconstruction method was developed to improve the astrometry precision for space debris, based on the mathematical morphology operator. Variable structural elements along multiple directions are adopted for image transformation, and then all the resultant images are stacked to obtain a final result. To investigate its efficiency, trial observations are made with Global Positioning System satellites and themore » astrometry accuracy improvement is obtained by comparison with the reference positions. The results of our experiments indicate that the influence of degradation in astrometric CCD images is reduced, and the position accuracy of both objects and stellar stars is improved distinctly. Our technique will contribute significantly to optical data reduction and high-order precision astrometry for space debris.« less

A rapid radiative transfer model for reflection of solar radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Xiang, X.; Smith, E. A.; Justus, C. G.

1994-01-01

A rapid analytical radiative transfer model for reflection of solar radiation in plane-parallel atmospheres is developed based on the Sobolev approach and the delta function transformation technique. A distinct advantage of this model over alternative two-stream solutions is that in addition to yielding the irradiance components, which turn out to be mathematically equivalent to the delta-Eddington approximation, the radiance field can also be expanded in a mathematically consistent fashion. Tests with the model against a more precise multistream discrete ordinate model over a wide range of input parameters demonstrate that the new approximate method typically produces average radiance differences of less than 5%, with worst average differences of approximately 10%-15%. By the same token, the computational speed of the new model is some tens to thousands times faster than that of the more precise model when its stream resolution is set to generate precise calculations.

Distinguishing Provenance Equivalence of Earth Science Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tilmes, Curt; Yesha, Ye; Halem, M.

2010-01-01

Reproducibility of scientific research relies on accurate and precise citation of data and the provenance of that data. Earth science data are often the result of applying complex data transformation and analysis workflows to vast quantities of data. Provenance information of data processing is used for a variety of purposes, including understanding the process and auditing as well as reproducibility. Certain provenance information is essential for producing scientifically equivalent data. Capturing and representing that provenance information and assigning identifiers suitable for precisely distinguishing data granules and datasets is needed for accurate comparisons. This paper discusses scientific equivalence and essential provenance for scientific reproducibility. We use the example of an operational earth science data processing system to illustrate the application of the technique of cascading digital signatures or hash chains to precisely identify sets of granules and as provenance equivalence identifiers to distinguish data made in an an equivalent manner.

Fundamental Challenges in Mechanistic Enzymology: Progress toward Understanding the Rate Enhancements of Enzymes

PubMed Central

Herschlag, Daniel; Natarajan, Aditya

2013-01-01

Enzymes are remarkable catalysts that lie at the heart of biology, accelerating chemical reactions to an astounding extent with extraordinary specificity. Enormous progress in understanding the chemical basis of enzymatic transformations and the basic mechanisms underlying rate enhancements over the past decades is apparent. Nevertheless, it has been difficult to achieve a quantitative understanding of how the underlying mechanisms account for the energetics of catalysis, because of the complexity of enzyme systems and the absence of underlying energetic additivity. We review case studies from our own work that illustrate the power of precisely defined and clearly articulated questions when dealing with such complex and multi-faceted systems, and we also use this approach to evaluate our current ability to design enzymes. We close by highlighting a series of questions that help frame some of what remains to be understood, and we encourage the reader to define additional questions and directions that will deepen and broaden our understanding of enzymes and their catalysis. PMID:23488725

Genome-editing Technologies for Gene and Cell Therapy.

PubMed

Maeder, Morgan L; Gersbach, Charles A

2016-03-01

Gene therapy has historically been defined as the addition of new genes to human cells. However, the recent advent of genome-editing technologies has enabled a new paradigm in which the sequence of the human genome can be precisely manipulated to achieve a therapeutic effect. This includes the correction of mutations that cause disease, the addition of therapeutic genes to specific sites in the genome, and the removal of deleterious genes or genome sequences. This review presents the mechanisms of different genome-editing strategies and describes each of the common nuclease-based platforms, including zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), meganucleases, and the CRISPR/Cas9 system. We then summarize the progress made in applying genome editing to various areas of gene and cell therapy, including antiviral strategies, immunotherapies, and the treatment of monogenic hereditary disorders. The current challenges and future prospects for genome editing as a transformative technology for gene and cell therapy are also discussed.

Genome-editing Technologies for Gene and Cell Therapy

PubMed Central

Maeder, Morgan L; Gersbach, Charles A

2016-01-01

Gene therapy has historically been defined as the addition of new genes to human cells. However, the recent advent of genome-editing technologies has enabled a new paradigm in which the sequence of the human genome can be precisely manipulated to achieve a therapeutic effect. This includes the correction of mutations that cause disease, the addition of therapeutic genes to specific sites in the genome, and the removal of deleterious genes or genome sequences. This review presents the mechanisms of different genome-editing strategies and describes each of the common nuclease-based platforms, including zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), meganucleases, and the CRISPR/Cas9 system. We then summarize the progress made in applying genome editing to various areas of gene and cell therapy, including antiviral strategies, immunotherapies, and the treatment of monogenic hereditary disorders. The current challenges and future prospects for genome editing as a transformative technology for gene and cell therapy are also discussed. PMID:26755333

Fast and sensitive taxonomic classification for metagenomics with Kaiju

PubMed Central

Menzel, Peter; Ng, Kim Lee; Krogh, Anders

2016-01-01

Metagenomics emerged as an important field of research not only in microbial ecology but also for human health and disease, and metagenomic studies are performed on increasingly larger scales. While recent taxonomic classification programs achieve high speed by comparing genomic k-mers, they often lack sensitivity for overcoming evolutionary divergence, so that large fractions of the metagenomic reads remain unclassified. Here we present the novel metagenome classifier Kaiju, which finds maximum (in-)exact matches on the protein-level using the Burrows–Wheeler transform. We show in a genome exclusion benchmark that Kaiju classifies reads with higher sensitivity and similar precision compared with current k-mer-based classifiers, especially in genera that are underrepresented in reference databases. We also demonstrate that Kaiju classifies up to 10 times more reads in real metagenomes. Kaiju can process millions of reads per minute and can run on a standard PC. Source code and web server are available at http://kaiju.binf.ku.dk. PMID:27071849

Fast and sensitive taxonomic classification for metagenomics with Kaiju.

PubMed

Menzel, Peter; Ng, Kim Lee; Krogh, Anders

2016-04-13

Metagenomics emerged as an important field of research not only in microbial ecology but also for human health and disease, and metagenomic studies are performed on increasingly larger scales. While recent taxonomic classification programs achieve high speed by comparing genomic k-mers, they often lack sensitivity for overcoming evolutionary divergence, so that large fractions of the metagenomic reads remain unclassified. Here we present the novel metagenome classifier Kaiju, which finds maximum (in-)exact matches on the protein-level using the Burrows-Wheeler transform. We show in a genome exclusion benchmark that Kaiju classifies reads with higher sensitivity and similar precision compared with current k-mer-based classifiers, especially in genera that are underrepresented in reference databases. We also demonstrate that Kaiju classifies up to 10 times more reads in real metagenomes. Kaiju can process millions of reads per minute and can run on a standard PC. Source code and web server are available at http://kaiju.binf.ku.dk.

Stochastic approach to error estimation for image-guided robotic systems.

PubMed

Haidegger, Tamas; Gyõri, Sándor; Benyo, Balazs; Benyó, Zoltáán

2010-01-01

Image-guided surgical systems and surgical robots are primarily developed to provide patient safety through increased precision and minimal invasiveness. Even more, robotic devices should allow for refined treatments that are not possible by other means. It is crucial to determine the accuracy of a system, to define the expected overall task execution error. A major step toward this aim is to quantitatively analyze the effect of registration and tracking-series of multiplication of erroneous homogeneous transformations. First, the currently used models and algorithms are introduced along with their limitations, and a new, probability distribution based method is described. The new approach has several advantages, as it was demonstrated in our simulations. Primarily, it determines the full 6 degree of freedom accuracy of the point of interest, allowing for the more accurate use of advanced application-oriented concepts, such as Virtual Fixtures. On the other hand, it becomes feasible to consider different surgical scenarios with varying weighting factors.

A general contact mechanical formulation of multilayered structures and its application to deconvolute thickness/mechanical properties of glue used in surface force apparatus.

PubMed

Math, Souvik; Horn, Roger; Jayaram, Vikram; Biswas, Sanjay Kumar

2007-04-15

Currently data obtained from surface force apparatus experiments are convoluted with the mechanical response of glue of unknown thickness, used to bond mica sheets to the substrates. This paper describes a formulation to precisely deconvolute out the forces between the mica sheets by determining the thickness of glue, knowing the mechanical properties of the glue. The formulation consists of a general solution based on the noniterative Hankel transform of the Laplace equation. The generality is achieved by treating all the layers except the one in contact as an effective lumped system consisting of a set of springs in series, where each spring represents a layer. The solution is validated by nanoindentation of trilayer systems consisting of layers with widely diverse mechanical properties, some differing from each other by three orders of magnitude. SFA experiments are done with carefully metered slabs of glue. The proposed method is validated by comparing the actual glue thicknesses with those determined using the present analysis.

Fundamental challenges in mechanistic enzymology: progress toward understanding the rate enhancements of enzymes.

PubMed

Herschlag, Daniel; Natarajan, Aditya

2013-03-26

Enzymes are remarkable catalysts that lie at the heart of biology, accelerating chemical reactions to an astounding extent with extraordinary specificity. Enormous progress in understanding the chemical basis of enzymatic transformations and the basic mechanisms underlying rate enhancements over the past decades is apparent. Nevertheless, it has been difficult to achieve a quantitative understanding of how the underlying mechanisms account for the energetics of catalysis, because of the complexity of enzyme systems and the absence of underlying energetic additivity. We review case studies from our own work that illustrate the power of precisely defined and clearly articulated questions when dealing with such complex and multifaceted systems, and we also use this approach to evaluate our current ability to design enzymes. We close by highlighting a series of questions that help frame some of what remains to be understood, and we encourage the reader to define additional questions and directions that will deepen and broaden our understanding of enzymes and their catalysis.

A method to identify and analyze biological programs through automated reasoning

PubMed Central

Yordanov, Boyan; Dunn, Sara-Jane; Kugler, Hillel; Smith, Austin; Martello, Graziano; Emmott, Stephen

2016-01-01

Predictive biology is elusive because rigorous, data-constrained, mechanistic models of complex biological systems are difficult to derive and validate. Current approaches tend to construct and examine static interaction network models, which are descriptively rich, but often lack explanatory and predictive power, or dynamic models that can be simulated to reproduce known behavior. However, in such approaches implicit assumptions are introduced as typically only one mechanism is considered, and exhaustively investigating all scenarios is impractical using simulation. To address these limitations, we present a methodology based on automated formal reasoning, which permits the synthesis and analysis of the complete set of logical models consistent with experimental observations. We test hypotheses against all candidate models, and remove the need for simulation by characterizing and simultaneously analyzing all mechanistic explanations of observed behavior. Our methodology transforms knowledge of complex biological processes from sets of possible interactions and experimental observations to precise, predictive biological programs governing cell function. PMID:27668090

High-resolution Interferometer Sounder (HIS), phase 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

The High-resolution Interferometer Sounder (HIS) was successfully built, tested, and flight proven on the NASA U-2/ER-2 high altitude aircraft. The HIS demonstration has shown that, by using the technology of Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FTS), it is possible to measure the spectrum of upwelling infrared radiance needed for temperature and humidity sounding with high spectral resolution and high radiometric precision. By resolving individual carbon dioxide lines, the retrieved temperature profiles have vertical resolutions of 1 to 2 km and RMS errors less than 1 C, about 2 to 4 times better than possible with current sounders. Implementing this capability on satellite sounders will greatly enhance the dynamical information content of temperature measurements from space. The aircraft model HIS is now a resource which should be used to support field experiments in mesoscale meteorology, to monitor trace gas concentrations and to better understand their effects on climate, to monitor the surface radiation budget and the radiative effects of clouds, and to collect data for research into retrieval techniques, especially under partially cloudy conditions.

8-Channel Broadband Laser Ranging Hardware Development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bennett, Corey; La Lone, Brandon; Younk, Patrick; Daykin, Ed; Rhodes, Michelle; Perry, Daniel; Tran, Vu; Miller, Edward

2017-06-01

Broadband Laser Ranging (BLR) is a new diagnostic being developed to precisely measure the position vs. time of surfaces, shock break out, particle clouds, jets, and debris moving at kilometers per second speeds. The instrument uses interferometry to encode distance into a modulation in the spectrum of pulses from a mode-locked fiber laser and uses a dispersive Fourier transformation to map the spectral modulation into time. Range information is thereby recorded on a fast oscilloscope at the repetition rate of the laser, approximately every 50 ns. Current R&D is focused on developing a compact 8-channel system utilizing one laser and one high-speed oscilloscope. This talk will emphasize the hardware being developed for applications at the Contained Firing Facility at LLNL, but has a common architecture being developed in collaboration with NSTec and LANL for applications at multiple other facilities. Prepared by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344, by LANL under Contract DE-AC52-06NA25396, and by NSTec Contract DE-AC52-06NA25946.

Image Retrieval using Integrated Features of Binary Wavelet Transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agarwal, Megha; Maheshwari, R. P.

2011-12-01

In this paper a new approach for image retrieval is proposed with the application of binary wavelet transform. This new approach facilitates the feature calculation with the integration of histogram and correlogram features extracted from binary wavelet subbands. Experiments are performed to evaluate and compare the performance of proposed method with the published literature. It is verified that average precision and average recall of proposed method (69.19%, 41.78%) is significantly improved compared to optimal quantized wavelet correlogram (OQWC) [6] (64.3%, 38.00%) and Gabor wavelet correlogram (GWC) [10] (64.1%, 40.6%). All the experiments are performed on Corel 1000 natural image database [20].

From experimental systems to evolutionary biology: an impossible journey?

PubMed

Morange, Michel

2013-01-01

The historical approach to the sciences has undergone a sea change during recent decades. Maybe the major contribution of Hans-Jörg Rheinberger to this movement was his demonstration of the importance of experimental systems, and of their transformations, in the development of the sciences. To describe these transformations, Hans-Jörg borrows metaphors from evolutionary biology. I want to argue that evolutionary biologists can find in these recent historical studies plenty of models and concepts to address unresolved issues in their discipline. At a time when transdisciplinarity is highly praised, it is useful to provide a precise description of the obstacles that have so far prevented this exchange.

Factors affecting the output pulse flatness of the linear transformer driver cavity systems with 5th harmonics

DOE PAGES

Alexeenko, V. M.; Mazarakis, M. G.; Kim, A. A.; ...

2016-09-19

Here, we describe the study we have undertaken to evaluate the effect of component tolerances in obtaining a voltage output flat top for a linear transformer driver (LTD) cavity containing 3rd and 5th harmonic bricks [A. A. Kim et al., in Proc. IEEE Pulsed Power and Plasma Science PPPS2013 (San Francisco, California, USA, 2013), pp. 1354–1356.] and for 30 cavity voltage adder. Our goal was to define the necessary component value precision in order to obtain a voltage output flat top with no more than ±0.5% amplitude variation.

Factors affecting the output pulse flatness of the linear transformer driver cavity systems with 5th harmonics

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

Alexeenko, V. M.; Mazarakis, M. G.; Kim, A. A.

Here, we describe the study we have undertaken to evaluate the effect of component tolerances in obtaining a voltage output flat top for a linear transformer driver (LTD) cavity containing 3rd and 5th harmonic bricks [A. A. Kim et al., in Proc. IEEE Pulsed Power and Plasma Science PPPS2013 (San Francisco, California, USA, 2013), pp. 1354–1356.] and for 30 cavity voltage adder. Our goal was to define the necessary component value precision in order to obtain a voltage output flat top with no more than ±0.5% amplitude variation.

Transform methods for precision continuum and control models of flexible space structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lupi, Victor D.; Turner, James D.; Chun, Hon M.

1991-01-01

An open loop optimal control algorithm is developed for general flexible structures, based on Laplace transform methods. A distributed parameter model of the structure is first presented, followed by a derivation of the optimal control algorithm. The control inputs are expressed in terms of their Fourier series expansions, so that a numerical solution can be easily obtained. The algorithm deals directly with the transcendental transfer functions from control inputs to outputs of interest, and structural deformation penalties, as well as penalties on control effort, are included in the formulation. The algorithm is applied to several structures of increasing complexity to show its generality.

Study on Heat Transfer Agent Models of Transmission Line and Transformer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, B.; Zhang, P. P.

2018-04-01

When using heat transfer simulation to study the dynamic overload of transmission line and transformer, it needs to establish the mathematical expression of heat transfer. However, the formula is a nonlinear differential equation or equation set and it is not easy to get general solutions. Aiming at this problem, some different temperature change processes caused by different initial conditions are calculated by differential equation and equation set. New agent models are developed according to the characteristics of different temperature change processes. The results show that the agent models have high precision and can solve the problem that the original equation cannot be directly applied in some practical engineers.

Homographic Patch Feature Transform: A Robustness Registration for Gastroscopic Surgery.

PubMed

Hu, Weiling; Zhang, Xu; Wang, Bin; Liu, Jiquan; Duan, Huilong; Dai, Ning; Si, Jianmin

2016-01-01

Image registration is a key component of computer assistance in image guided surgery, and it is a challenging topic in endoscopic environments. In this study, we present a method for image registration named Homographic Patch Feature Transform (HPFT) to match gastroscopic images. HPFT can be used for tracking lesions and augmenting reality applications during gastroscopy. Furthermore, an overall evaluation scheme is proposed to validate the precision, robustness and uniformity of the registration results, which provides a standard for rejection of false matching pairs from corresponding results. Finally, HPFT is applied for processing in vivo gastroscopic data. The experimental results show that HPFT has stable performance in gastroscopic applications.

Dissolution of NTO, DNAN, and Insensitive Munitions Formulations and Their Fates in Soils

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

3 2 Mass loss measured by high precision liquid chromatography (HPLC) versus measured mass loss by... Liquid Chromatography IM Insensitive Munitions IMX Insensitive Munitions eXplosive k First-Order Transformation Rate Constant kphoto First...Performance Liquid Chromatography U.S. EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency WMRD Weapons and Materials Research Directorate ERDC/CRREL

Recovery in Context: Bereavement, Culture, and the Transformation of the Therapeutic Self

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Paletti, Robin

2008-01-01

The concept of recovery is integral to the work of bereavement professionals, though there remains considerable debate as to the precise definition and applicability of the term. A number of factors have contributed to the controversy; competing bereavement models, for instance, have given rise to fundamental differences in the way that recovery…

Web 2.0 for the Invigoration and Participation of Families and Communities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marín Díaz, Verónica; Sampedro Requena, Begoña Esther

2016-01-01

The societies of the 21st century have experienced a technological and societal transformation that calls for the precise collaboration between families and education centers, as well as the inclusion of new professionals to invigorate this cooperation to favor a type of education that is adapted to today's needs. This article presents the more…

Partial discharge localization in power transformers based on the sequential quadratic programming-genetic algorithm adopting acoustic emission techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Hua-Long; Liu, Hua-Dong

2014-10-01

Partial discharge (PD) in power transformers is one of the prime reasons resulting in insulation degradation and power faults. Hence, it is of great importance to study the techniques of the detection and localization of PD in theory and practice. The detection and localization of PD employing acoustic emission (AE) techniques, as a kind of non-destructive testing, plus due to the advantages of powerful capability of locating and high precision, have been paid more and more attention. The localization algorithm is the key factor to decide the localization accuracy in AE localization of PD. Many kinds of localization algorithms exist for the PD source localization adopting AE techniques including intelligent and non-intelligent algorithms. However, the existed algorithms possess some defects such as the premature convergence phenomenon, poor local optimization ability and unsuitability for the field applications. To overcome the poor local optimization ability and easily caused premature convergence phenomenon of the fundamental genetic algorithm (GA), a new kind of improved GA is proposed, namely the sequence quadratic programming-genetic algorithm (SQP-GA). For the hybrid optimization algorithm, SQP-GA, the sequence quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm which is used as a basic operator is integrated into the fundamental GA, so the local searching ability of the fundamental GA is improved effectively and the premature convergence phenomenon is overcome. Experimental results of the numerical simulations of benchmark functions show that the hybrid optimization algorithm, SQP-GA, is better than the fundamental GA in the convergence speed and optimization precision, and the proposed algorithm in this paper has outstanding optimization effect. At the same time, the presented SQP-GA in the paper is applied to solve the ultrasonic localization problem of PD in transformers, then the ultrasonic localization method of PD in transformers based on the SQP-GA is proposed. And localization results based on the SQP-GA are compared with some algorithms such as the GA, some other intelligent and non-intelligent algorithms. The results of calculating examples both stimulated and spot experiments demonstrate that the localization method based on the SQP-GA can effectively prevent the results from getting trapped into the local optimum values, and the localization method is of great feasibility and very suitable for the field applications, and the precision of localization is enhanced, and the effectiveness of localization is ideal and satisfactory.

Transformer-rectifier flux pump using inductive current transfer and thermally controlled Nb(3)Sn cryotrons.

PubMed

Atherton, D L; Davies, R

1979-10-01

Transformer-rectifier flux pumps using thermally switched Nb(3)Sn cryotrons are being investigated as a loss make-up device for the proposed isochorically operated (sealed) superconducting magnets for the Canadian Maglev vehicle. High currents (1000 A) were obtained in an experimental flux pump using inductive current transfer and operating at 2 Hz.

[Progress in precision medicine: a scientific perspective].

PubMed

Wang, B; Li, L M

2017-01-10

Precision medicine is a new strategy for disease prevention and treatment by taking into account differences in genetics, environment and lifestyles among individuals and making precise diseases classification and diagnosis, which can provide patients with personalized, targeted prevention and treatment. Large-scale population cohort studies are fundamental for precision medicine research, and could produce best evidence for precision medicine practices. Current criticisms on precision medicine mainly focus on the very small proportion of benefited patients, the neglect of social determinants for health, and the possible waste of limited medical resources. In spite of this, precision medicine is still a most hopeful research area, and would become a health care practice model in the future.

Precision medicine and precision therapeutics: hedgehog signaling pathway, basal cell carcinoma and beyond.

PubMed

Mohan, Shalini V; Chang, Anne Lynn S

2014-06-01

Precision medicine and precision therapeutics is currently in its infancy with tremendous potential to improve patient care by better identifying individuals at risk for skin cancer and predict tumor responses to treatment. This review focuses on the Hedgehog signaling pathway, its critical role in the pathogenesis of basal cell carcinoma, and the emergence of targeted treatments for advanced basal cell carcinoma. Opportunities to utilize precision medicine are outlined, such as molecular profiling to predict basal cell carcinoma response to targeted therapy and to inform therapeutic decisions.

Taking Control of Castleman Disease: Leveraging Precision Medicine Technologies to Accelerate Rare Disease Research.

PubMed

Newman, Samantha Kass; Jayanthan, Raj K; Mitchell, Grant W; Carreras Tartak, Jossie A; Croglio, Michael P; Suarez, Alexander; Liu, Amy Y; Razzo, Beatrice M; Oyeniran, Enny; Ruth, Jason R; Fajgenbaum, David C

2015-12-01

Castleman disease (CD) is a rare and heterogeneous disorder characterized by lymphadenopathy that may occur in a single lymph node (unicentric) or multiple lymph nodes (multicentric), the latter typically occurring secondary to excessive proinflammatory hypercytokinemia. While a cohort of multicentric Castleman disease (MCD) cases are caused by Human Herpes Virus-8 (HHV-8), the etiology of HHV-8 negative, idiopathic MCD (iMCD), remains unknown. Breakthroughs in "omics" technologies that have facilitated the development of precision medicine hold promise for elucidating disease pathogenesis and identifying novel therapies for iMCD. However, in order to leverage precision medicine approaches in rare diseases like CD, stakeholders need to overcome several challenges. To address these challenges, the Castleman Disease Collaborative Network (CDCN) was founded in 2012. In the past 3 years, the CDCN has worked to transform the understanding of the pathogenesis of CD, funded and initiated genomics and proteomics research, and united international experts in a collaborative effort to accelerate progress for CD patients. The CDCN's collaborative structure leverages the tools of precision medicine and serves as a model for both scientific discovery and advancing patient care.

Unscented predictive variable structure filter for satellite attitude estimation with model errors when using low precision sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Lu; Li, Hengnian

2016-10-01

For the satellite attitude estimation problem, the serious model errors always exist and hider the estimation performance of the Attitude Determination and Control System (ACDS), especially for a small satellite with low precision sensors. To deal with this problem, a new algorithm for the attitude estimation, referred to as the unscented predictive variable structure filter (UPVSF) is presented. This strategy is proposed based on the variable structure control concept and unscented transform (UT) sampling method. It can be implemented in real time with an ability to estimate the model errors on-line, in order to improve the state estimation precision. In addition, the model errors in this filter are not restricted only to the Gaussian noises; therefore, it has the advantages to deal with the various kinds of model errors or noises. It is anticipated that the UT sampling strategy can further enhance the robustness and accuracy of the novel UPVSF. Numerical simulations show that the proposed UPVSF is more effective and robustness in dealing with the model errors and low precision sensors compared with the traditional unscented Kalman filter (UKF).

Improving the precision of linear optics measurements based on turn-by-turn beam position monitor data after a pulsed excitation in lepton storage rings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malina, L.; Coello de Portugal, J.; Persson, T.; Skowroński, P. K.; Tomás, R.; Franchi, A.; Liuzzo, S.

2017-08-01

Beam optics control is of critical importance for machine performance and protection. Nowadays, turn-by-turn (TbT) beam position monitor (BPM) data are increasingly exploited as they allow for fast and simultaneous measurement of various optics quantities. Nevertheless, so far the best documented uncertainty of measured β -functions is of about 10‰ rms. In this paper we compare the β -functions of the ESRF storage ring measured from two different TbT techniques—the N-BPM and the Amplitude methods—with the ones inferred from a measurement of the orbit response matrix (ORM). We show how to improve the precision of TbT techniques by refining the Fourier transform of TbT data with properly chosen excitation amplitude. The precision of the N-BPM method is further improved by refining the phase advance measurement. This represents a step forward compared to standard TbT measurements. First experimental results showing the precision of β -functions pushed down to 4‰ both in TbT and ORM techniques are reported and commented.

Experimental Demonstration of Higher Precision Weak-Value-Based Metrology Using Power Recycling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yi-Tao; Tang, Jian-Shun; Hu, Gang; Wang, Jian; Yu, Shang; Zhou, Zong-Quan; Cheng, Ze-Di; Xu, Jin-Shi; Fang, Sen-Zhi; Wu, Qing-Lin; Li, Chuan-Feng; Guo, Guang-Can

2016-12-01

The weak-value-based metrology is very promising and has attracted a lot of attention in recent years because of its remarkable ability in signal amplification. However, it is suggested that the upper limit of the precision of this metrology cannot exceed that of classical metrology because of the low sample size caused by the probe loss during postselection. Nevertheless, a recent proposal shows that this probe loss can be reduced by the power-recycling technique, and thus enhance the precision of weak-value-based metrology. Here we experimentally realize the power-recycled interferometric weak-value-based beam-deflection measurement and obtain the amplitude of the detected signal and white noise by discrete Fourier transform. Our results show that the detected signal can be strengthened by power recycling, and the power-recycled weak-value-based signal-to-noise ratio can surpass the upper limit of the classical scheme, corresponding to the shot-noise limit. This work sheds light on higher precision metrology and explores the real advantage of the weak-value-based metrology over classical metrology.

Seismic signal time-frequency analysis based on multi-directional window using greedy strategy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yingpin; Peng, Zhenming; Cheng, Zhuyuan; Tian, Lin

2017-08-01

Wigner-Ville distribution (WVD) is an important time-frequency analysis technology with a high energy distribution in seismic signal processing. However, it is interfered by many cross terms. To suppress the cross terms of the WVD and keep the concentration of its high energy distribution, an adaptive multi-directional filtering window in the ambiguity domain is proposed. This begins with the relationship of the Cohen distribution and the Gabor transform combining the greedy strategy and the rotational invariance property of the fractional Fourier transform in order to propose the multi-directional window, which extends the one-dimensional, one directional, optimal window function of the optimal fractional Gabor transform (OFrGT) to a two-dimensional, multi-directional window in the ambiguity domain. In this way, the multi-directional window matches the main auto terms of the WVD more precisely. Using the greedy strategy, the proposed window takes into account the optimal and other suboptimal directions, which also solves the problem of the OFrGT, called the local concentration phenomenon, when encountering a multi-component signal. Experiments on different types of both the signal models and the real seismic signals reveal that the proposed window can overcome the drawbacks of the WVD and the OFrGT mentioned above. Finally, the proposed method is applied to a seismic signal's spectral decomposition. The results show that the proposed method can explore the space distribution of a reservoir more precisely.

Molecular Diagnostics for Precision Medicine in Colorectal Cancer: Current Status and Future Perspective.

PubMed

Chen, Guoli; Yang, Zhaohai; Eshleman, James R; Netto, George J; Lin, Ming-Tseh

2016-01-01

Precision medicine, a concept that has recently emerged and has been widely discussed, emphasizes tailoring medical care to individuals largely based on information acquired from molecular diagnostic testing. As a vital aspect of precision cancer medicine, targeted therapy has been proven to be efficacious and less toxic for cancer treatment. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers and among the leading causes for cancer related deaths in the United States and worldwide. By far, CRC has been one of the most successful examples in the field of precision cancer medicine, applying molecular tests to guide targeted therapy. In this review, we summarize the current guidelines for anti-EGFR therapy, revisit the roles of pathologists in an era of precision cancer medicine, demonstrate the transition from traditional "one test-one drug" assays to multiplex assays, especially by using next-generation sequencing platforms in the clinical diagnostic laboratories, and discuss the future perspectives of tumor heterogeneity associated with anti-EGFR resistance and immune checkpoint blockage therapy in CRC.

Prospects for Precision Neutrino Cross Section Measurements

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

Harris, Deborah A.

2016-01-28

The need for precision cross section measurements is more urgent now than ever before, given the central role neutrino oscillation measurements play in the field of particle physics. The definition of precision is something worth considering, however. In order to build the best model for an oscillation experiment, cross section measurements should span a broad range of energies, neutrino interaction channels, and target nuclei. Precision might better be defined not in the final uncertainty associated with any one measurement but rather with the breadth of measurements that are available to constrain models. Current experience shows that models are better constrainedmore » by 10 measurements across different processes and energies with 10% uncertainties than by one measurement of one process on one nucleus with a 1% uncertainty. This article describes the current status of and future prospects for the field of precision cross section measurements considering the metric of how many processes, energies, and nuclei have been studied.« less

Switching power supply

DOEpatents

Mihalka, A.M.

1984-06-05

The invention is a repratable capacitor charging, switching power supply. A ferrite transformer steps up a dc input. The transformer primary is in a full bridge configuration utilizing power MOSFETs as the bridge switches. The transformer secondary is fed into a high voltage, full wave rectifier whose output is connected directly to the energy storage capacitor. The transformer is designed to provide adequate leakage inductance to limit capacitor current. The MOSFETs are switched to the variable frequency from 20 to 50 kHz to charge a capacitor from 0.6 kV. The peak current in a transformer primary and secondary is controlled by increasing the pulse width as the capacitor charges. A digital ripple counter counts pulses and after a preselected desired number is reached an up-counter is clocked.

Transformational leadership in sport: current status and future directions.

PubMed

Arthur, Calum A; Bastardoz, Nicolas; Eklund, Robert

2017-08-01

Borrowed from organizational psychology, the concept of transformational leadership has now been applied to a sport context for a decade. Our review covers and critically discusses empirical articles published on this growing topic. However, because the majority of studies used cross-sectional designs and single-source questionnaires to tap what has been a fuzzy construct, current theoretical and methodological issues impede understanding of whether transformational leadership matters for sport outcomes. To make a difference to applied practice and policy, the transformational leadership construct requires a refined definition and stronger empirical tests allowing for robust causal inference. We highlight avenues for advancing research on transformational leadership in the sport context. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

In- Situ Synchrotron Diffraction Studies on Transformation Strain Development in a High-Strength Quenched and Tempered Structural Steel—Part II. Martensitic Transformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutta, R. K.; Huizenga, R. M.; Petrov, R. H.; Amirthalingam, M.; King, A.; Gao, H.; Hermans, M. J. M.; Richardson, I. M.

2014-01-01

In-situ synchrotron diffraction studies on the kinetics of phase transformation and transformation strain development during bainitic transformation were presented in part I of the current article. In the current article, in-situ phase transformation behavior of a high-strength (830 MPa yield stress) quenched and tempered S690QL1 [Fe-0.16C-0.2Si-0.87Mn-0.33Cr-0.21Mo (wt. pct)] structural steel, during continuous cooling and under different mechanical loading conditions to promote martensitic transformation, has been studied. Time-temperature-load resolved 2D synchrotron diffraction patterns were recorded and used to calculate the phase fractions and lattice parameters of the phases during heating and cooling cycles under different loading conditions. In addition to the thermal expansion behavior, the effects of the applied stress on the elastic strains during the martensitic transformation were calculated. The results show that small tensile stresses applied at the transformation temperature do not change the kinetics of the phase transformation. The start temperature for the martensitic transformation increases with the increasing applied tensile stress. The elastic strains are not affected significantly with the increasing tensile stress. The variant selection during martensitic transformation under small applied loads (in the elastic region) is weak.

Simulation study and experimental results for detection and classification of the transient capacitor inrush current using discrete wavelet transform and artificial intelligence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patcharoen, Theerasak; Yoomak, Suntiti; Ngaopitakkul, Atthapol; Pothisarn, Chaichan

2018-04-01

This paper describes the combination of discrete wavelet transforms (DWT) and artificial intelligence (AI), which are efficient techniques to identify the type of inrush current, analyze the origin and possible cause on the capacitor bank switching. The experiment setup used to verify the proposed techniques can be detected and classified the transient inrush current from normal capacitor rated current. The discrete wavelet transforms are used to detect and classify the inrush current. Then, output from wavelet is acted as input of fuzzy inference system for discriminating the type of switching transient inrush current. The proposed technique shows enhanced performance with a discrimination accuracy of 90.57%. Both simulation study and experimental results are quite satisfactory with providing the high accuracy and reliability which can be developed and implemented into a numerical overcurrent (50/51) and unbalanced current (60C) protection relay for an application of shunt capacitor bank protection in the future.

Seamless Insert-Plasmid Assembly at High Efficiency and Low Cost

PubMed Central

Benoit, Roger M.; Ostermeier, Christian; Geiser, Martin; Li, Julia Su Zhou; Widmer, Hans; Auer, Manfred

2016-01-01

Seamless cloning methods, such as co-transformation cloning, sequence- and ligation-independent cloning (SLIC) or the Gibson assembly, are essential tools for the precise construction of plasmids. The efficiency of co-transformation cloning is however low and the Gibson assembly reagents are expensive. With the aim to improve the robustness of seamless cloning experiments while keeping costs low, we examined the importance of complementary single-stranded DNA ends for co-transformation cloning and the influence of single-stranded gaps in circular plasmids on SLIC cloning efficiency. Most importantly, our data show that single-stranded gaps in double-stranded plasmids, which occur in typical SLIC protocols, can drastically decrease the efficiency at which the DNA transforms competent E. coli bacteria. Accordingly, filling-in of single-stranded gaps using DNA polymerase resulted in increased transformation efficiency. Ligation of the remaining nicks did not lead to a further increase in transformation efficiency. These findings demonstrate that highly efficient insert-plasmid assembly can be achieved by using only T5 exonuclease and Phusion DNA polymerase, without Taq DNA ligase from the original Gibson protocol, which significantly reduces the cost of the reactions. We successfully used this modified Gibson assembly protocol with two short insert-plasmid overlap regions, each counting only 15 nucleotides. PMID:27073895

Insulin-IGF signaling affects cell transformation in the BALB/c 3T3 cell model

PubMed Central

Poburski, Doerte; Leovsky, Christiane; Boerner, Josefine Barbara; Szimmtenings, Luisa; Ristow, Michael; Glei, Michael; Thierbach, René

2016-01-01

The increased cancer mortality of diabetes type 2 patients is most likely an evidence of the tight connection between tumor development and energy metabolism. A major focus of today’s research is still the identification of key proteins of both diseases and the development of corresponding inhibitors. In this study we combined the two-stage BALB/c-3T3 cell transformation assay (BALB-CTA) with the IR/IGF-1R inhibitor OSI-906 (linsitinib) and analyzed alterations in protein activity and energy parameters in non-transformed as well as transformed cells. OSI-906 successfully inhibited the phosphorylation of IR/IGF-1R and decreased cell growth in non-transformed cells. In the BALB-CTA, a permanent treatment with OSI-906 reduced cellular transformation dose-dependently, whereas a temporary treatment gave evidence for a preventive effect in the promotion phase. Furthermore, even though several key proteins were affected, it was possible to show that the phosphorylation of GSK3, Erk 1/2 and the S6 protein are not crucial for the cell foci reducing effect of OSI-906. Taken together, the BALB-CTA confirmed results of OSI-906 from animal studies and enhanced the knowledge of its mode of action. Therefore, the BALB-CTA offers the opportunity to analyze alterations in the transformation process more precisely and will be helpful to identify effective cancer treatments. PMID:27849005

Insulin-IGF signaling affects cell transformation in the BALB/c 3T3 cell model.

PubMed

Poburski, Doerte; Leovsky, Christiane; Boerner, Josefine Barbara; Szimmtenings, Luisa; Ristow, Michael; Glei, Michael; Thierbach, René

2016-11-16

The increased cancer mortality of diabetes type 2 patients is most likely an evidence of the tight connection between tumor development and energy metabolism. A major focus of today's research is still the identification of key proteins of both diseases and the development of corresponding inhibitors. In this study we combined the two-stage BALB/c-3T3 cell transformation assay (BALB-CTA) with the IR/IGF-1R inhibitor OSI-906 (linsitinib) and analyzed alterations in protein activity and energy parameters in non-transformed as well as transformed cells. OSI-906 successfully inhibited the phosphorylation of IR/IGF-1R and decreased cell growth in non-transformed cells. In the BALB-CTA, a permanent treatment with OSI-906 reduced cellular transformation dose-dependently, whereas a temporary treatment gave evidence for a preventive effect in the promotion phase. Furthermore, even though several key proteins were affected, it was possible to show that the phosphorylation of GSK3, Erk 1/2 and the S6 protein are not crucial for the cell foci reducing effect of OSI-906. Taken together, the BALB-CTA confirmed results of OSI-906 from animal studies and enhanced the knowledge of its mode of action. Therefore, the BALB-CTA offers the opportunity to analyze alterations in the transformation process more precisely and will be helpful to identify effective cancer treatments.

Precision medicine needs pioneering clinical bioinformaticians.

PubMed

Gómez-López, Gonzalo; Dopazo, Joaquín; Cigudosa, Juan C; Valencia, Alfonso; Al-Shahrour, Fátima

2017-10-25

Success in precision medicine depends on accessing high-quality genetic and molecular data from large, well-annotated patient cohorts that couple biological samples to comprehensive clinical data, which in conjunction can lead to effective therapies. From such a scenario emerges the need for a new professional profile, an expert bioinformatician with training in clinical areas who can make sense of multi-omics data to improve therapeutic interventions in patients, and the design of optimized basket trials. In this review, we first describe the main policies and international initiatives that focus on precision medicine. Secondly, we review the currently ongoing clinical trials in precision medicine, introducing the concept of 'precision bioinformatics', and we describe current pioneering bioinformatics efforts aimed at implementing tools and computational infrastructures for precision medicine in health institutions around the world. Thirdly, we discuss the challenges related to the clinical training of bioinformaticians, and the urgent need for computational specialists capable of assimilating medical terminologies and protocols to address real clinical questions. We also propose some skills required to carry out common tasks in clinical bioinformatics and some tips for emergent groups. Finally, we explore the future perspectives and the challenges faced by precision medicine bioinformatics. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Terrain matching image pre-process and its format transform in autonomous underwater navigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Xuejun; Zhang, Feizhou; Yang, Dongkai; Yang, Bogang

2007-06-01

Underwater passive navigation technology is one of the important development orientations in the field of modern navigation. With the advantage of high self-determination, stealth at sea, anti-jamming and high precision, passive navigation is completely meet with actual navigation requirements. Therefore passive navigation has become a specific navigating method for underwater vehicles. The scientists and researchers in the navigating field paid more attention to it. The underwater passive navigation can provide accurate navigation information with main Inertial Navigation System (INS) for a long period, such as location and speed. Along with the development of micro-electronics technology, the navigation of AUV is given priority to INS assisted with other navigation methods, such as terrain matching navigation. It can provide navigation ability for a long period, correct the errors of INS and make AUV not emerge from the seabed termly. With terrain matching navigation technique, in the assistance of digital charts and ocean geographical characteristics sensors, we carry through underwater image matching assistant navigation to obtain the higher location precision, therefore it is content with the requirement of underwater, long-term, high precision and all-weather of the navigation system for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles. Tertian-assistant navigation (TAN) is directly dependent on the image information (map information) in the navigating field to assist the primary navigation system according to the path appointed in advance. In TAN, a factor coordinative important with the system operation is precision and practicability of the storable images and the database which produce the image data. If the data used for characteristics are not suitable, the system navigation precision will be low. Comparing with terrain matching assistant navigation system, image matching navigation system is a kind of high precision and low cost assistant navigation system, and its matching precision directly influences the final precision of integrated navigation system. Image matching assistant navigation is spatially matching and aiming at two underwater scenery images coming from two different sensors matriculating of the same scenery in order to confirm the relative displacement of the two images. In this way, we can obtain the vehicle's location in fiducial image known geographical relation, and the precise location information given from image matching location is transmitted to INS to eliminate its location error and greatly enhance the navigation precision of vehicle. Digital image data analysis and processing of image matching in underwater passive navigation is important. In regard to underwater geographic data analysis, we focus on the acquirement, disposal, analysis, expression and measurement of database information. These analysis items structure one of the important contents of underwater terrain matching and are propitious to know the seabed terrain configuration of navigation areas so that the best advantageous seabed terrain district and dependable navigation algorithm can be selected. In this way, we can improve the precision and reliability of terrain assistant navigation system. The pre-process and format transformation of digital image during underwater image matching are expatiated in this paper. The information of the terrain status in navigation areas need further study to provide the reliable data terrain characteristic and underwater overcast for navigation. Through realizing the choice of sea route, danger district prediction and navigating algorithm analysis, TAN can obtain more high location precision and probability, hence provide technological support for image matching of underwater passive navigation.

Investigation of scale effects in the TRF determined by VLBI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wahl, Daniel; Heinkelmann, Robert; Schuh, Harald

2017-04-01

The improvement of the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) is of great significance for Earth sciences and one of the major tasks in geodesy. The translation, rotation and the scale-factor, as well as their linear rates, are solved in a 14-parameter transformation between individual frames of each space geodetic technique and the combined frame. In ITRF2008, as well as in the current release ITRF2014, the scale-factor is provided by Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) and Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) in equal shares. Since VLBI measures extremely precise group delays that are transformed to baseline lengths by the velocity of light, a natural constant, VLBI is the most suitable method for providing the scale. The aim of the current work is to identify possible shortcomings in the VLBI scale contribution to ITRF2008. For developing recommendations for an enhanced estimation, scale effects in the Terrestrial Reference Frame (TRF) determined with VLBI are considered in detail and compared to ITRF2008. In contrast to station coordinates, where the scale is defined by a geocentric position vector, pointing from the origin of the reference frame to the station, baselines are not related to the origin. They are describing the absolute scale independently from the datum. The more accurate a baseline length, and consequently the scale, is estimated by VLBI, the better the scale contribution to the ITRF. Considering time series of baseline length between different stations, a non-linear periodic signal can clearly be recognized, caused by seasonal effects at observation sites. Modeling these seasonal effects and subtracting them from the original data enhances the repeatability of single baselines significantly. Other effects influencing the scale strongly, are jumps in the time series of baseline length, mainly evoked by major earthquakes. Co- and post-seismic effects can be identified in the data, having a non-linear character likewise. Modeling the non-linear motion or completely excluding affected stations is another important step for an improved scale determination. In addition to the investigation of single baseline repeatabilities also the spatial transformation, which is performed for determining parameters of the ITRF2008, are considered. Since the reliability of the resulting transformation parameters is higher the more identical points are used in the transformation, an approach where all possible stations are used as control points is comprehensible. Experiments that examine the scale-factor and its spatial behavior between control points in ITRF2008 and coordinates determined by VLBI only showed that the network geometry has a large influence on the outcome as well. Introducing an unequally distributed network for the datum configuration, the correlations between translation parameters and the scale-factor can become remarkably high. Only a homogeneous spatial distribution of participating stations yields a maximally uncorrelated scale-factor that can be interpreted independent from other parameters. In the current release of the ITRF, the ITRF2014, for the first time, non-linear effects in the time series of station coordinates are taken into account. The present work shows the importance and the right direction of the modification of the ITRF calculation. But also further improvements were found which lead to an enhanced scale determination.

Endocannabinoids in Body Weight Control.

PubMed

Horn, Henrike; Böhme, Beatrice; Dietrich, Laura; Koch, Marco

2018-05-30

Maintenance of body weight is fundamental to maintain one's health and to promote longevity. Nevertheless, it appears that the global obesity epidemic is still constantly increasing. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are lipid messengers that are involved in overall body weight control by interfering with manifold central and peripheral regulatory circuits that orchestrate energy homeostasis. Initially, blocking of eCB signaling by first generation cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1) inverse agonists such as rimonabant revealed body weight-reducing effects in laboratory animals and men. Unfortunately, rimonabant also induced severe psychiatric side effects. At this point, it became clear that future cannabinoid research has to decipher more precisely the underlying central and peripheral mechanisms behind eCB-driven control of feeding behavior and whole body energy metabolism. Here, we will summarize the most recent advances in understanding how central eCBs interfere with circuits in the brain that control food intake and energy expenditure. Next, we will focus on how peripheral eCBs affect food digestion, nutrient transformation and energy expenditure by interfering with signaling cascades in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas, fat depots and endocrine glands. To finally outline the safe future potential of cannabinoids as medicines, our overall goal is to address the molecular, cellular and pharmacological logic behind central and peripheral eCB-mediated body weight control, and to figure out how these precise mechanistic insights are currently transferred into the development of next generation cannabinoid medicines displaying clearly improved safety profiles, such as significantly reduced side effects.

Gene targeting in mosquito cells: a demonstration of 'knockout' technology in extrachromosomal gene arrays

PubMed Central

Eggleston, Paul; Zhao, Yuguang

2001-01-01

Background Gene targeting would offer a number of advantages over current transposon-based strategies for insect transformation. These include freedom from both position effects associated with quasi-random integration and concerns over transgene instability mediated by endogenous transposases, independence from phylogenetic restrictions on transposon mobility and the ability to generate gene knockouts. Results We describe here our initial investigations of gene targeting in the mosquito. The target site was a hygromycin resistance gene, stably maintained as part of an extrachromosomal array. Using a promoter-trap strategy to enrich for targeted events, a neomycin resistance gene was integrated into the target site. This resulted in knockout of hygromycin resistance concurrent with the expression of high levels of neomycin resistance from the resident promoter. PCR amplification of the targeted site generated a product that was specific to the targeted cell line and consistent with precise integration of the neomycin resistance gene into the 5' end of the hygromycin resistance gene. Sequencing of the PCR product and Southern analysis of cellular DNA subsequently confirmed this molecular structure. Conclusions These experiments provide the first demonstration of gene targeting in mosquito tissue and show that mosquito cells possess the necessary machinery to bring about precise integration of exogenous sequences through homologous recombination. Further development of these procedures and their extension to chromosomally located targets hold much promise for the exploitation of gene targeting in a wide range of medically and economically important insect species. PMID:11513755

Research on application of photoelectric rotary encoder in space optical remote sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Jun; Qi, Shao-fan; Wang, Yuan-yuan; Zhang, Zhan-dong

2016-11-01

For space optical remote sensor, especially wide swath detecting sensor, the focusing control system for the focal plane should be well designed to obtain the best image quality. The crucial part of this system is the measuring instrument. For previous implements, the potentiometer, which is essentially a voltage divider, is usually introduced to conduct the position in feedback closed-loop control process system. However, the performances of both electro-mechanical and digital potentiometers is limited in accuracy, temperature coefficients, and scale range. To have a better performance of focal plane moving detection, this article presents a new measuring implement with photoelectric rotary encoder, which consists of the photoelectric conversion system and the signal process system. In this novel focusing control system, the photoelectric conversion system is fixed on main axis, which can transform the angle information into a certain analog signal. Through the signal process system, after analog-to-digital converting and data format processing of the certain analog signal, the focusing control system can receive the digital precision angle position which can be used to deduct the current moving position of the focal plane. For utilization of space optical remote sensor in aerospace areas, the reliability design of photoelectric rotary encoder system should be considered with highest priority. As mentioned above, this photoelectric digital precision angle measurement device is well designed for this real-time control and dynamic measurement system, because its characters of high resolution, high accuracy, long endurance, and easy to maintain.

Ethylene resistance in flowering ornamental plants – improvements and future perspectives

PubMed Central

Olsen, Andreas; Lütken, Henrik; Hegelund, Josefine Nymark; Müller, Renate

2015-01-01

Various strategies of plant breeding have been attempted in order to improve the ethylene resistance of flowering ornamental plants. These approaches span from conventional techniques such as simple cross-pollination to new breeding techniques which modify the plants genetically such as precise genome-editing. The main strategies target the ethylene pathway directly; others focus on changing the ethylene pathway indirectly via pathways that are known to be antagonistic to the ethylene pathway, e.g. increasing cytokinin levels. Many of the known elements of the ethylene pathway have been addressed experimentally with the aim of modulating the overall response of the plant to ethylene. Elements of the ethylene pathway that appear particularly promising in this respect include ethylene receptors as ETR1, and transcription factors such as EIN3. Both direct and indirect approaches seem to be successful, nevertheless, although genetic transformation using recombinant DNA has the ability to save much time in the breeding process, they are not readily used by breeders yet. This is primarily due to legislative issues, economic issues, difficulties of implementing this technology in some ornamental plants, as well as how these techniques are publically perceived, particularly in Europe. Recently, newer and more precise genome-editing techniques have become available and they are already being implemented in some crops. New breeding techniques may help change the current situation and pave the way toward a legal and public acceptance if products of these technologies are indistinguishable from plants obtained by conventional techniques. PMID:26504580

Reference interval computation: which method (not) to choose?

PubMed

Pavlov, Igor Y; Wilson, Andrew R; Delgado, Julio C

2012-07-11

When different methods are applied to reference interval (RI) calculation the results can sometimes be substantially different, especially for small reference groups. If there are no reliable RI data available, there is no way to confirm which method generates results closest to the true RI. We randomly drawn samples obtained from a public database for 33 markers. For each sample, RIs were calculated by bootstrapping, parametric, and Box-Cox transformed parametric methods. Results were compared to the values of the population RI. For approximately half of the 33 markers, results of all 3 methods were within 3% of the true reference value. For other markers, parametric results were either unavailable or deviated considerably from the true values. The transformed parametric method was more accurate than bootstrapping for sample size of 60, very close to bootstrapping for sample size 120, but in some cases unavailable. We recommend against using parametric calculations to determine RIs. The transformed parametric method utilizing Box-Cox transformation would be preferable way of RI calculation, if it satisfies normality test. If not, the bootstrapping is always available, and is almost as accurate and precise as the transformed parametric method. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Detecting the spatial chirp signals by fractional Fourier lens with transformation materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, J.; Hu, J.

2018-02-01

Fractional Fourier transform (FrFT) is the general form of the Fourier transform and is an important tool in signal processing. As one typical application of FrFT, detecting the chirp rate (CR, or known as the rate of frequency change) of a chirp signal is important in many optical measurements. The optical FrFT that based on graded index lens fails to detect the high CR chirp because the short wave propagation distance of the impulse in the lens will weaken the paraxial approximation condition. With the help of transformation optics, the improved FrFT lens is proposed to adjust the high CR as well as the impulse location of the given input chirp signal. The designed transformation materials can implement the effect of space compression, making the input chirp signal is equivalent to have lower CR, therefore the system can satisfy the paraxial approximation better. As a result, this lens can improve the detection precision for the high CR. The numerical simulations verified the design. The proposed device may have both theoretical and practical values, and the design demonstrates the ability and flexibility of TO in spatial signal processing.

Nonuniform fast Fourier transform method for numerical diffraction simulation on tilted planes.

PubMed

Xiao, Yu; Tang, Xiahui; Qin, Yingxiong; Peng, Hao; Wang, Wei; Zhong, Lijing

2016-10-01

The method, based on the rotation of the angular spectrum in the frequency domain, is generally used for the diffraction simulation between the tilted planes. Due to the rotation of the angular spectrum, the interval between the sampling points in the Fourier domain is not even. For the conventional fast Fourier transform (FFT)-based methods, a spectrum interpolation is needed to get the approximate sampling value on the equidistant sampling points. However, due to the numerical error caused by the spectrum interpolation, the calculation accuracy degrades very quickly as the rotation angle increases. Here, the diffraction propagation between the tilted planes is transformed into a problem about the discrete Fourier transform on the uneven sampling points, which can be evaluated effectively and precisely through the nonuniform fast Fourier transform method (NUFFT). The most important advantage of this method is that the conventional spectrum interpolation is avoided and the high calculation accuracy can be guaranteed for different rotation angles, even when the rotation angle is close to π/2. Also, its calculation efficiency is comparable with that of the conventional FFT-based methods. Numerical examples as well as a discussion about the calculation accuracy and the sampling method are presented.

Model compilation: An approach to automated model derivation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keller, Richard M.; Baudin, Catherine; Iwasaki, Yumi; Nayak, Pandurang; Tanaka, Kazuo

1990-01-01

An approach is introduced to automated model derivation for knowledge based systems. The approach, model compilation, involves procedurally generating the set of domain models used by a knowledge based system. With an implemented example, how this approach can be used to derive models of different precision and abstraction is illustrated, and models are tailored to different tasks, from a given set of base domain models. In particular, two implemented model compilers are described, each of which takes as input a base model that describes the structure and behavior of a simple electromechanical device, the Reaction Wheel Assembly of NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. The compilers transform this relatively general base model into simple task specific models for troubleshooting and redesign, respectively, by applying a sequence of model transformations. Each transformation in this sequence produces an increasingly more specialized model. The compilation approach lessens the burden of updating and maintaining consistency among models by enabling their automatic regeneration.

Efficient direct solar-to-hydrogen conversion by in situ interface transformation of a tandem structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

May, Matthias M.; Lewerenz, Hans-Joachim; Lackner, David; Dimroth, Frank; Hannappel, Thomas

2015-09-01

Photosynthesis is nature's route to convert intermittent solar irradiation into storable energy, while its use for an industrial energy supply is impaired by low efficiency. Artificial photosynthesis provides a promising alternative for efficient robust carbon-neutral renewable energy generation. The approach of direct hydrogen generation by photoelectrochemical water splitting utilizes customized tandem absorber structures to mimic the Z-scheme of natural photosynthesis. Here a combined chemical surface transformation of a tandem structure and catalyst deposition at ambient temperature yields photocurrents approaching the theoretical limit of the absorber and results in a solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 14%. The potentiostatically assisted photoelectrode efficiency is 17%. Present benchmarks for integrated systems are clearly exceeded. Details of the in situ interface transformation, the electronic improvement and chemical passivation are presented. The surface functionalization procedure is widely applicable and can be precisely controlled, allowing further developments of high-efficiency robust hydrogen generators.

Application of wavelet and Fuorier transforms as powerful alternatives for derivative spectrophotometry in analysis of binary mixtures: A comparative study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hassan, Said A.; Abdel-Gawad, Sherif A.

2018-02-01

Two signal processing methods, namely, Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) and the second was Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) were introduced as alternatives to the classical Derivative Spectrophotometry (DS) in analysis of binary mixtures. To show the advantages of these methods, a comparative study was performed on a binary mixture of Naltrexone (NTX) and Bupropion (BUP). The methods were compared by analyzing laboratory prepared mixtures of the two drugs. By comparing performance of the three methods, it was proved that CWT and DFT methods are more efficient and advantageous in analysis of mixtures with overlapped spectra than DS. The three signal processing methods were adopted for the quantification of NTX and BUP in pure and tablet forms. The adopted methods were validated according to the ICH guideline where accuracy, precision and specificity were found to be within appropriate limits.

Highway traffic estimation of improved precision using the derivative-free nonlinear Kalman Filter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rigatos, Gerasimos; Siano, Pierluigi; Zervos, Nikolaos; Melkikh, Alexey

2015-12-01

The paper proves that the PDE dynamic model of the highway traffic is a differentially flat one and by applying spatial discretization its shows that the model's transformation into an equivalent linear canonical state-space form is possible. For the latter representation of the traffic's dynamics, state estimation is performed with the use of the Derivative-free nonlinear Kalman Filter. The proposed filter consists of the Kalman Filter recursion applied on the transformed state-space model of the highway traffic. Moreover, it makes use of an inverse transformation, based again on differential flatness theory which enables to obtain estimates of the state variables of the initial nonlinear PDE model. By avoiding approximate linearizations and the truncation of nonlinear terms from the PDE model of the traffic's dynamics the proposed filtering methods outperforms, in terms of accuracy, other nonlinear estimators such as the Extended Kalman Filter. The article's theoretical findings are confirmed through simulation experiments.

Coordinate transformations and gauges in the relativistic astronomical reference systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, J.-H.; Huang, T.-Y.; Han, C.-H.

2000-11-01

This paper applies a fully post-Newtonian theory (Damour et al. 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994) to the problem of gauge in relativistic reference systems. Gauge fixing is necessary when the precision of time measurement and application reaches 10-16 or better. We give a general procedure for fixing the gauges of gravitational potentials in both the global and local coordinate systems, and for determining the gauge functions in all the coordinate transformations. We demonstrate that gauge fixing in a gravitational N-body problem can be solved by fixing the gauge of the self-gravitational potential of each body and the gauge function in the coordinate transformation between the global and local coordinate systems. We also show that these gauge functions can be chosen to make all the coordinate systems harmonic or any as required, no matter what gauge is chosen for the self-gravitational potential of each body.

Efficient direct solar-to-hydrogen conversion by in situ interface transformation of a tandem structure

PubMed Central

May, Matthias M.; Lewerenz, Hans-Joachim; Lackner, David; Dimroth, Frank; Hannappel, Thomas

2015-01-01

Photosynthesis is nature's route to convert intermittent solar irradiation into storable energy, while its use for an industrial energy supply is impaired by low efficiency. Artificial photosynthesis provides a promising alternative for efficient robust carbon-neutral renewable energy generation. The approach of direct hydrogen generation by photoelectrochemical water splitting utilizes customized tandem absorber structures to mimic the Z-scheme of natural photosynthesis. Here a combined chemical surface transformation of a tandem structure and catalyst deposition at ambient temperature yields photocurrents approaching the theoretical limit of the absorber and results in a solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 14%. The potentiostatically assisted photoelectrode efficiency is 17%. Present benchmarks for integrated systems are clearly exceeded. Details of the in situ interface transformation, the electronic improvement and chemical passivation are presented. The surface functionalization procedure is widely applicable and can be precisely controlled, allowing further developments of high-efficiency robust hydrogen generators. PMID:26369620

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

Sypek, John T.; Yu, Hang; Dusoe, Keith J.

Shape memory materials have the ability to recover their original shape after a significant amount of deformation when they are subjected to certain stimuli, for instance, heat or magnetic fields. But, their performance is often limited by the energetics and geometry of the martensitic-austenitic phase transformation. We report a unique shape memory behavior in CaFe 2As 2, which exhibits superelasticity with over 13% recoverable strain, over 3 GPa yield strength, repeatable stress–strain response even at the micrometer scale, and cryogenic linear shape memory effects near 50 K. These properties are acheived through a reversible uni-axial phase transformation mechanism, the tetragonal/orthorhombic-to-collapsed-tetragonalmore » phase transformation. These results offer the possibility of developing cryogenic linear actuation technologies with a high precision and high actuation power per unit volume for deep space exploration, and more broadly, suggest a mechanistic path to a class of shape memory materials, ThCr 2Si 2-structured intermetallic compounds.« less

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

Bates, Robert; McConnell, Elizabeth

Machining methods across many industries generally require multiple operations to machine and process advanced materials, features with micron precision, and complex shapes. The resulting multiple machining platforms can significantly affect manufacturing cycle time and the precision of the final parts, with a resultant increase in cost and energy consumption. Ultrafast lasers represent a transformative and disruptive technology that removes material with micron precision and in a single step manufacturing process. Such precision results from athermal ablation without modification or damage to the remaining material which is the key differentiator between ultrafast laser technologies and traditional laser technologies or mechanical processes.more » Athermal ablation without modification or damage to the material eliminates post-processing or multiple manufacturing steps. Combined with the appropriate technology to control the motion of the work piece, ultrafast lasers are excellent candidates to provide breakthrough machining capability for difficult-to-machine materials. At the project onset in early 2012, the project team recognized that substantial effort was necessary to improve the application of ultrafast laser and precise motion control technologies (for micromachining difficult-to-machine materials) to further the aggregate throughput and yield improvements over conventional machining methods. The project described in this report advanced these leading-edge technologies thru the development and verification of two platforms: a hybrid enhanced laser chassis and a multi-application testbed.« less

Artificial intelligence, physiological genomics, and precision medicine.

PubMed

Williams, Anna Marie; Liu, Yong; Regner, Kevin R; Jotterand, Fabrice; Liu, Pengyuan; Liang, Mingyu

2018-04-01

Big data are a major driver in the development of precision medicine. Efficient analysis methods are needed to transform big data into clinically-actionable knowledge. To accomplish this, many researchers are turning toward machine learning (ML), an approach of artificial intelligence (AI) that utilizes modern algorithms to give computers the ability to learn. Much of the effort to advance ML for precision medicine has been focused on the development and implementation of algorithms and the generation of ever larger quantities of genomic sequence data and electronic health records. However, relevance and accuracy of the data are as important as quantity of data in the advancement of ML for precision medicine. For common diseases, physiological genomic readouts in disease-applicable tissues may be an effective surrogate to measure the effect of genetic and environmental factors and their interactions that underlie disease development and progression. Disease-applicable tissue may be difficult to obtain, but there are important exceptions such as kidney needle biopsy specimens. As AI continues to advance, new analytical approaches, including those that go beyond data correlation, need to be developed and ethical issues of AI need to be addressed. Physiological genomic readouts in disease-relevant tissues, combined with advanced AI, can be a powerful approach for precision medicine for common diseases.

An Update on Transformative Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baumgartner, Lisa M.

2001-01-01

Transformative learning can be conceptualized in emancipatory, cognitive-rational, developmental, and spiritual approaches. Current research is examining transformative learning in groups and organizations, ways to foster it in learners, and ethical considerations for adult educators. (Contains 41 references.) (SK)

Beyond Reason

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Grabar, Mary

2012-01-01

The agenda of "A Crucible Moment: College Learning & Democracy's Future," "commissioned," "funded," and "nurtured" by the U.S. Department of Education, is nothing less than an attempt to implement a "transformation" of America by "transform[ing] current academic norms about what counts as…

'Intelligent' system's cost-cutting power.

PubMed

Dodge, Jeremy

2010-05-01

Jeremy Dodge, business manager at Marshall Tufflex Energy Management, explains how a voltage optimisation system that, in a claimed industry first, uses "auto-transformers" to reduce incoming mains electricity voltage so that electrical equipment receives precisely the "outgoing feed" it needs to function optimally and no more, thus significantly reducing wastage, can help major electricity users cut their bills "by as much as 25%".

Transforming the University through Community Engagement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yapa, Lakshman

2009-01-01

The universal belief that poverty is a matter of low income and correctable through economic growth, more jobs, and increased income is precisely why poverty has persisted in the United States and elsewhere. We view the poor as those not yet in the middle class, but it can be shown that not all the poor can join the middle class, even in the…

Quantum metrology with a transmon qutrit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shlyakhov, A. R.; Zemlyanov, V. V.; Suslov, M. V.; Lebedev, A. V.; Paraoanu, G. S.; Lesovik, G. B.; Blatter, G.

2018-02-01

Making use of coherence and entanglement as metrological quantum resources allows us to improve the measurement precision from the shot-noise or quantum limit to the Heisenberg limit. Quantum metrology then relies on the availability of quantum engineered systems that involve controllable quantum degrees of freedom which are sensitive to the measured quantity. Sensors operating in the qubit mode and exploiting their coherence in a phase-sensitive measurement have been shown to approach the Heisenberg scaling in precision. Here, we show that this result can be further improved by operating the quantum sensor in the qudit mode, i.e., by exploiting d rather than two levels. Specifically, we describe the metrological algorithm for using a superconducting transmon device operating in a qutrit mode as a magnetometer. The algorithm is based on the base-3 semiquantum Fourier transformation and enhances the quantum theoretical performance of the sensor by a factor of 2. Even more, the practical gain of our qutrit implementation is found in a reduction of the number of iteration steps of the quantum Fourier transformation by the factor ln(2 )/ln(3 )≈0.63 compared to the qubit mode. We show that a two-tone capacitively coupled radio-frequency signal is sufficient for implementation of the algorithm.

Evaluation of graphical and statistical representation of analytical signals of spectrophotometric methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lotfy, Hayam Mahmoud; Fayez, Yasmin Mohammed; Tawakkol, Shereen Mostafa; Fahmy, Nesma Mahmoud; Shehata, Mostafa Abd El-Atty

2017-09-01

Simultaneous determination of miconazole (MIC), mometasone furaoate (MF), and gentamicin (GEN) in their pharmaceutical combination. Gentamicin determination is based on derivatization with of o-phthalaldehyde reagent (OPA) without any interference of other cited drugs, while the spectra of MIC and MF are resolved using both successive and progressive resolution techniques. The first derivative spectrum of MF is measured using constant multiplication or spectrum subtraction, while its recovered zero order spectrum is obtained using derivative transformation. Beside the application of constant value method. Zero order spectrum of MIC is obtained by derivative transformation after getting its first derivative spectrum by derivative subtraction method. The novel method namely, differential amplitude modulation is used to get the concentration of MF and MIC, while the novel graphical method namely, concentration value is used to get the concentration of MIC, MF, and GEN. Accuracy and precision testing of the developed methods show good results. Specificity of the methods is ensured and is successfully applied for the analysis of pharmaceutical formulation of the three drugs in combination. ICH guidelines are used for validation of the proposed methods. Statistical data are calculated, and the results are satisfactory revealing no significant difference regarding accuracy and precision.

BLAS- BASIC LINEAR ALGEBRA SUBPROGRAMS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krogh, F. T.

1994-01-01

The Basic Linear Algebra Subprogram (BLAS) library is a collection of FORTRAN callable routines for employing standard techniques in performing the basic operations of numerical linear algebra. The BLAS library was developed to provide a portable and efficient source of basic operations for designers of programs involving linear algebraic computations. The subprograms available in the library cover the operations of dot product, multiplication of a scalar and a vector, vector plus a scalar times a vector, Givens transformation, modified Givens transformation, copy, swap, Euclidean norm, sum of magnitudes, and location of the largest magnitude element. Since these subprograms are to be used in an ANSI FORTRAN context, the cases of single precision, double precision, and complex data are provided for. All of the subprograms have been thoroughly tested and produce consistent results even when transported from machine to machine. BLAS contains Assembler versions and FORTRAN test code for any of the following compilers: Lahey F77L, Microsoft FORTRAN, or IBM Professional FORTRAN. It requires the Microsoft Macro Assembler and a math co-processor. The PC implementation allows individual arrays of over 64K. The BLAS library was developed in 1979. The PC version was made available in 1986 and updated in 1988.

Modeling of grain-oriented Si-steel and amorphous alloy iron core under ferroresonance using Jiles-Atherton hysteresis method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sima, Wenxia; Zou, Mi; Yang, Ming; Yang, Qing; Peng, Daixiao

2018-05-01

Amorphous alloy is increasingly widely used in the iron core of power transformer due to its excellent low loss performance. However, its potential harm to the power system is not fully studied during the electromagnetic transients of the transformer. This study develops a simulation model to analyze the effect of transformer iron core materials on ferroresonance. The model is based on the transformer π equivalent circuit. The flux linkage-current (ψ-i) Jiles-Atherton reactor is developed in an Electromagnetic Transients Program-Alternative Transients Program and is used to represent the magnetizing branches of the transformer model. Two ferroresonance cases are studied to compare the performance of grain-oriented Si-steel and amorphous alloy cores. The ferroresonance overvoltage and overcurrent are discussed under different system parameters. Results show that amorphous alloy transformer generates higher voltage and current than those of grain-oriented Si-steel transformer and significantly harms the power system safety.

Method for sputtering with low frequency alternating current

DOEpatents

Timberlake, John R.

1996-01-01

Low frequency alternating current sputtering is provided by connecting a low frequency alternating current source to a high voltage transformer having outer taps and a center tap for stepping up the voltage of the alternating current. The center tap of the transformer is connected to a vacuum vessel containing argon or helium gas. Target electrodes, in close proximity to each other, and containing material with which the substrates will be coated, are connected to the outer taps of the transformer. With an applied potential, the gas will ionize and sputtering from the target electrodes onto the substrate will then result. The target electrodes can be copper or boron, and the substrate can be stainless steel, aluminum, or titanium. Copper coatings produced are used in place of nickel and/or copper striking.

Method for sputtering with low frequency alternating current

DOEpatents

Timberlake, J.R.

1996-04-30

Low frequency alternating current sputtering is provided by connecting a low frequency alternating current source to a high voltage transformer having outer taps and a center tap for stepping up the voltage of the alternating current. The center tap of the transformer is connected to a vacuum vessel containing argon or helium gas. Target electrodes, in close proximity to each other, and containing material with which the substrates will be coated, are connected to the outer taps of the transformer. With an applied potential, the gas will ionize and sputtering from the target electrodes onto the substrate will then result. The target electrodes can be copper or boron, and the substrate can be stainless steel, aluminum, or titanium. Copper coatings produced are used in place of nickel and/or copper striking. 6 figs.

Beyond Passwords: Usage and Policy Transformation

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

case scenario for lost productivity due to users leaving their CAC at work, in their computer, is costing 261 work years per year with an estimated ...one for your CAC) are you currently using? ..................................................................................................... 43...PASSWORDS: USAGE AND POLICY TRANSFORMATION I. Introduction Background Currently , the primary method for network authentication on the

Current-day precision oncology: from cancer prevention, screening, drug development, and treatment - have we fallen short of the promise?

PubMed

Morgan, Gilberto; Aftimos, Philippe; Awada, Ahmad

2016-09-01

Precision oncology has been a strategy of prevention, screening, and treatment. Although much has been invested, have the results fallen so far short of the promise? The advancement of technology and research has opened new doors, yet a variety of pitfalls are present. This review presents the successes, failures, and opportunities of precision oncology in the current landscape. The use of targeted gene sequencing and the overwhelming results of superresponders have generated much excitement and support for precision oncology from the medical community. Despite notable successes, many challenges still pave the way of precision oncology: intratumoral heterogeneity, the need for serial biopsies, availability of treatments, target prioritization, ethical issues with germline incidental findings, medical education, clinical trial design, and costs. Precision oncology shows much potential through the use of next-generation sequencing and molecular advances, but does this potential warrant the investment? There are many obstacles on the way of this technology that should make us question if the investment (both monetary and man-hours) will live up to the promise. The review aims to not criticize this technology, but to give a realistic view of where we are, especially regarding cancer treatment and prevention.

Superordinate Precision: An Examination of Academic Writing Among Bilingual Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students.

PubMed

Scott, Jessica A; Hoffmeister, Robert J

2018-04-01

Academic English is an essential literacy skill area for success in post-secondary education and in many work environments. Despite its importance, academic English is understudied with deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) students. Nascent research in this area suggests that academic English, alongside American Sign Language (ASL) fluency, may play an important role in the reading proficiency of DHH students in middle and high school. The current study expands this research to investigate academic English by examining student proficiency with a sub-skill of academic writing called superordinate precision, the taxonomical categorization of a term. Currently there is no research that examines DHH students' proficiency with superordinate precision. Middle and high school DHH students enrolled in bilingual schools for the deaf were assessed on their ASL proficiency, academic English proficiency, reading comprehension, and use of superordinate precision in definitions writing. Findings indicate that student use of superordinate precision in definitions writing was correlated with ASL proficiency, reading comprehension, and academic English proficiency. It is possible that degree of mastery of superordinate precision may indicate a higher overall level of proficiency with academic English. This may have important implications for assessment of and instruction in academic English literacy.

The Use of Continuous Wavelet Transform Based on the Fast Fourier Transform in the Analysis of Multi-channel Electrogastrography Recordings.

PubMed

Komorowski, Dariusz; Pietraszek, Stanislaw

2016-01-01

This paper presents the analysis of multi-channel electrogastrographic (EGG) signals using the continuous wavelet transform based on the fast Fourier transform (CWTFT). The EGG analysis was based on the determination of the several signal parameters such as dominant frequency (DF), dominant power (DP) and index of normogastria (NI). The use of continuous wavelet transform (CWT) allows for better visible localization of the frequency components in the analyzed signals, than commonly used short-time Fourier transform (STFT). Such an analysis is possible by means of a variable width window, which corresponds to the scale time of observation (analysis). Wavelet analysis allows using long time windows when we need more precise low-frequency information, and shorter when we need high frequency information. Since the classic CWT transform requires considerable computing power and time, especially while applying it to the analysis of long signals, the authors used the CWT analysis based on the fast Fourier transform (FFT). The CWT was obtained using properties of the circular convolution to improve the speed of calculation. This method allows to obtain results for relatively long records of EGG in a fairly short time, much faster than using the classical methods based on running spectrum analysis (RSA). In this study authors indicate the possibility of a parametric analysis of EGG signals using continuous wavelet transform which is the completely new solution. The results obtained with the described method are shown in the example of an analysis of four-channel EGG recordings, performed for a non-caloric meal.

Precision measurement and modeling of superconducting magnetic bearings for the satellite test of the equivalence principle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sapilewski, Glen Alan

The Satellite Test of the Equivalence Principle (STEP) is a modern version of Galileo's experiment of dropping two objects from the leaning tower of Pisa. The Equivalence Principle states that all objects fall with the same acceleration, independent of their composition. The primary scientific objective of STEP is to measure a possible violation of the Equivalence Principle one million times better than the best ground based tests. This extraordinary sensitivity is made possible by using cryogenic differential accelerometers in the space environment. Critical to the STEP experiment is a sound fundamental understanding of the behavior of the superconducting magnetic linear bearings used in the accelerometers. We have developed a theoretical bearing model and a precision measuring system with which to validate the model. The accelerometers contain two concentric hollow cylindrical test masses, of different materials, each levitated and constrained to axial motion by a superconducting magnetic bearing. Ensuring that the bearings satisfy the stringent mission specifications requires developing new testing apparatus and methods. The bearing is tested using an actively-controlled table which tips it relative to gravity. This balances the magnetic forces from the bearing against a component of gravity. The magnetic force profile of the bearing can be mapped by measuring the tilt necessary to position the test mass at various locations. An operational bearing has been built and is being used to verify the theoretical levitation models. The experimental results obtained from the bearing test apparatus were inconsistent with the previous models used for STEP bearings. This led to the development of a new bearing model that includes the influence of surface current variations in the bearing wires and the effect of the superconducting transformer. The new model, which has been experimentally verified, significantly improves the prediction of levitation current, accurately estimates the relationship between tilting and translational modes, and predicts the dependence of radial mode frequencies on the bearing current. In addition, we developed a new model for the forces produced by trapped magnetic fluxons, a potential source of imperfections in the bearing. This model estimates the forces between magnetic fluxons trapped in separate superconducting objects.

The transformation of targeted killing and international order.

PubMed

Senn, Martin; Troy, Jodok

2017-05-04

This article introduces the special issue's question of whether and how the current transformation of targeted killing is transforming the global international order and provides the conceptual ground for the individual contributions to the special issue. It develops a two-dimensional concept of political order and introduces a theoretical framework that conceives the maintenance and transformation of international order as a dynamic interplay between its behavioral dimension in the form of violence and discursive processes and its institutional dimension in the form of ideas, norms, and rules. The article also conceptualizes targeted killing and introduces a typology of targeted-killing acts on the basis of their legal and moral legitimacy. Building on this conceptual groundwork, the article takes stock of the current transformation of targeted killing and summarizes the individual contributions to this special issue.

Comparing Parameter Estimation Techniques for an Electrical Power Transformer Oil Temperature Prediction Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morris, A. Terry

1999-01-01

This paper examines various sources of error in MIT's improved top oil temperature rise over ambient temperature model and estimation process. The sources of error are the current parameter estimation technique, quantization noise, and post-processing of the transformer data. Results from this paper will show that an output error parameter estimation technique should be selected to replace the current least squares estimation technique. The output error technique obtained accurate predictions of transformer behavior, revealed the best error covariance, obtained consistent parameter estimates, and provided for valid and sensible parameters. This paper will also show that the output error technique should be used to minimize errors attributed to post-processing (decimation) of the transformer data. Models used in this paper are validated using data from a large transformer in service.

A Combined SRTM Digital Elevation Model for Zanjan State of Iran Based on the Corrective Surface Idea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiamehr, Ramin

2016-04-01

One arc-second high resolution version of the SRTM model recently published for the Iran by the US Geological Survey database. Digital Elevation Models (DEM) is widely used in different disciplines and applications by geoscientist. It is an essential data in geoid computation procedure, e.g., to determine the topographic, downward continuation (DWC) and atmospheric corrections. Also, it can be used in road location and design in civil engineering and hydrological analysis. However, a DEM is only a model of the elevation surface and it is subject to errors. The most important parts of errors could be comes from the bias in height datum. On the other hand, the accuracy of DEM is usually published in global sense and it is important to have estimation about the accuracy in the area of interest before using of it. One of the best methods to have a reasonable indication about the accuracy of DEM is obtained from the comparison of their height versus the precise national GPS/levelling data. It can be done by the determination of the Root-Mean-Square (RMS) of fitting between the DEM and leveling heights. The errors in the DEM can be approximated by different kinds of functions in order to fit the DEMs to a set of GPS/levelling data using the least squares adjustment. In the current study, several models ranging from a simple linear regression to seven parameter similarity transformation model are used in fitting procedure. However, the seven parameter model gives the best fitting with minimum standard division in all selected DEMs in the study area. Based on the 35 precise GPS/levelling data we obtain a RMS of 7 parameter fitting for SRTM DEM 5.5 m, The corrective surface model in generated based on the transformation parameters and included to the original SRTM model. The result of fitting in combined model is estimated again by independent GPS/leveling data. The result shows great improvement in absolute accuracy of the model with the standard deviation of 3.4 meter.

Automated geographic registration and radiometric correction for UAV-based mosaics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomasson, J. Alex; Shi, Yeyin; Sima, Chao; Yang, Chenghai; Cope, Dale A.

2017-05-01

Texas A and M University has been operating a large-scale, UAV-based, agricultural remote-sensing research project since 2015. To use UAV-based images in agricultural production, many high-resolution images must be mosaicked together to create an image of an agricultural field. Two key difficulties to science-based utilization of such mosaics are geographic registration and radiometric calibration. In our current research project, image files are taken to the computer laboratory after the flight, and semi-manual pre-processing is implemented on the raw image data, including ortho-mosaicking and radiometric calibration. Ground control points (GCPs) are critical for high-quality geographic registration of images during mosaicking. Applications requiring accurate reflectance data also require radiometric-calibration references so that reflectance values of image objects can be calculated. We have developed a method for automated geographic registration and radiometric correction with targets that are installed semi-permanently at distributed locations around fields. The targets are a combination of black (≍5% reflectance), dark gray (≍20% reflectance), and light gray (≍40% reflectance) sections that provide for a transformation of pixel-value to reflectance in the dynamic range of crop fields. The exact spectral reflectance of each target is known, having been measured with a spectrophotometer. At the time of installation, each target is measured for position with a real-time kinematic GPS receiver to give its precise latitude and longitude. Automated location of the reference targets in the images is required for precise, automated, geographic registration; and automated calculation of the digital-number to reflectance transformation is required for automated radiometric calibration. To validate the system for radiometric calibration, a calibrated UAV-based image mosaic of a field was compared to a calibrated single image from a manned aircraft. Reflectance values in selected zones of each image were strongly linearly related, and the average error of UAV-mosaic reflectances was 3.4% in the red band, 1.9% in the green band, and 1.5% in the blue band. Based on these results, the proposed physical system and automated software for calibrating UAV mosaics show excellent promise.

Plasma Gradient Piston: a new approach to precision pulse shaping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prisbrey, Shon T.

2011-10-01

We have successfully developed a method to create shaped pressure drives from large shocks that can be applied to a wide variety of experimental platforms. The method consists of transforming a large shock or blast wave into a ramped pressured drive by utilizing a graded density reservoir that unloads across a gap and stagnates against the sample being studied. The utilization of a graded density reservoir, different materials, and a gap transforms the energy in the initial large shock into a quasi-isentropic ramped compression. Control of the ramp history is via the size of the initial shock, the chosen reservoir materials, their densities, the thickness of each density layer, and the gap size. There are two keys to utilizing this approach to create ramped drives: the ability to produce a large shock, and making the layered density reservoir. A number of facilities can produce the strong initial shock (Z, Omega, NIF, Phoenix, high explosives, NIKE, LMJ, pulsed power,...). We have demonstrated ramped drives from 0.5 to 1.5 Mbar utilizing a large shock created at the Omega laser facility. We recently concluded a pair of NIF drive shots where we successfully converted a hohlraum-generated shock into a stepped, ramped pressure drive with a peak pressure of ~4 - 5 Mbar in a Ta sample. We will explain the basic concepts needed for producing a ramped pressure drive, compare experimental data with simulations from Omega (Pmax ~ 1 Mbar) and NIF (Pmax ~ 5-10 Mbar), and present designs for ramped, staged-shock designs up to Pmax ~ 30 Mbar. The approach that we have developed enables precision pulse shaping of the drive (applied pressure vs. time) via target characteristics, as opposed to tailoring laser power vs time or Z-pinch facility current vs time. This enables ramped, quasi-isentropic materials studies to be performed on a wide variety of HED facilities. This work performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344. LLNL-ABS-490532.

BOOK REVIEW: The Current Comparator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petersons, Oskars

1989-01-01

This 120-page book is a concise, yet comprehensive, clearly-written and well-illustrated monograph that covers the subject matter from basic principles through design, construction and calibration details to the principal applications. The book will be useful, as a primer, to the uninitiated and, as a reference book to the practitioner involved with transformer-type ratio devices. The length of the book and the style of presentation will not overburden any informed reader. The described techniques and the cited references are primarily from the work at the National Research Council, Canada (NRC). Any omissions, however, are not serious with respect to coverage of the subject matter, since most of the development work has been done at NRC. The role of transformers and transformer-like devices for establishing accurate voltage and current ratios has been recognized for over half a century. Transformer techniques were much explored and developed in the fifties and sixties for accuracy levels suitable for standards laboratories. Three-winding voltage transformers were developed for scaling of impedances in connection with the calculable Thompson Lampard capacitor; three-winding current transformers or current comparators were initially explored for the calibration of current transformers and later for specialized impedance measurements. Extensive development of the current comparator and its applications has been and is still being conducted at the NRC by a team that was started and, until his retirement, led by N L Kusters. The team is now led by W J M Moore. He and P N Miljanic, the authors of this book, have had the principal roles in the development of the current comparator. It is fortunate for the field of metrology that considerabe resources and a talented group of researchers were available to do this development along with mechanisms that were available to transfer this technology to a private sector instrument manufacturer and, thus, disseminate it world wide. One would hardly find a standards laboratory today without an instrument employing a current comparator. The NRC program, now nearing the end of its third decade, has resulted in a large number of papers in technical journals. The fact that the results of the current-comparator program are now documented in a well-written book is a most welcome development. The material in the book is well organized and divided into seven chapters. Chapter 1 deals very briefly with the historical aspects of the development, including related work in other organizations. Chapter 2 is the longest, occupying one third of the book. It presents the background theory; the definitions and origins of the errors; and the related concepts and devices including two-stage current transformers, electronic methods for improving the performance of current transformers, and null detectors. The idea of the current comparator is developed starting from Ampere's law; and then progressing to the practical realization of measuring the line integral of the magnetic field surrounding an electric current. Such an approach, as opposed to the more common methods of analyzing transformers, has a tutorial value in explaining how the current balance is achieved. Such analysis is intuitive for air-core sensing coils with infinitesimal cross-sections and uniform winding densities. The intuitive understanding, however, becomes less obvious when high-permeability magnetic cores are used. The subject of errors is discussed thoroughly. For errors of magnetic origin, ample experimental data are provided to support the hypothesis for the cause of such errors. The cause is discussed in a macroscopic sense (non-uniform effective permeability along the torus) without going into design and processing details which could be responsible for the non-uniformities. For capacitive errors, equations have been developed to compute them from geometrical considerations. Techniques are presented to reduce both types of errors shielding techniques for magnetic errors and magnetic-shield excitation for capacitive errors. The magnetic-shield-excitation technique leads naturally to two-stage transformer approaches, described in a small subchapter. Sensitivity of current comparators is discussed in terms of available signal levels for given excitations and current-comparator characteristics. The discussion, however, does not cover more basic limitations, such as inherent noise. A subchapter is devoted to electronically-aided current transformers. Although electronically-aided transformers are not in a strict sense current comparators, many of the design considerations and error sources are the same. Seven different circuits are presented with a brief qualitative discussion. The third chapter, covering design and construction, will be exceptionally valuable for someone needing basic information on how to construct a current comparator quickly. Indeed, all the necessary design, construction, and testing steps are presented in a well-illustrated 15-page chapter. The tests for shielding effectiveness discussed in this chapter and the knowledge of interwinding capacitances calculable from the equations in the previous chapter should enable one also to predict the limits of errors without an exhaustive and complete calibration. Chapter 4 is devoted to current-transformer calibration—the original objective for the current-comparator development work. The principal tool for this is the compensated current comparator, in effect a two-stage transformer operated in the current-comparator mode. The compensated current comparator is not only accurate but is also an extremely versatile device and, hence, deserves the attention that it receives in this book. Considerable space is devoted to the calibration of current comparators themselves using other current comparators in ratio-buildup (bootstrap) techniques. This information is more than most of the users will want since the pre-eminent feature of a current comparator is that errors can be made inherently negligible with proper construction techniques. Proper functioning can be verified by spot checks on a few ratios, and by indirect means. Complete calibration is useful, however, to verify the original design. A number of circuits incorporating compensated current comparators for current-transformer calibration are presented. Such circuits cover the calibration of current transformers normally encountered in electric-power transmission and distribution, from several amperes to several thousand amperes; cascaded circuits for very large currents up to 60,000 A; and special cases involving less-than-unity ratio (step-up) current transformers. Peripheral equipment such as ratio-sets and burdens are also discussed. This entire chapter is of great practical interest since much of the world's current-transformer calibration is performed using equipment described therein. The next two chapters, 5 and 6, deal with current-comparator applications in impedance-bridge circuits. High-voltage applications (described in Chapter 5) have been of great practical importance and indeed are the techniques of choice for a number of measurements. High-voltage bridge circuits are described for capacitance, inductance, voltage transformer ratio, and low-power-factor power measurements. Without going into much detail, the book mentions the particular characteristics required of current comparators in high-voltage bridge applications. Other components making up the bridge circuits are also described, as well as the calibration technique for the bridge. Limited in application but important in basic metrology is one particular low-voltage bridge, described in Chapter 6, for realization of ac power in terms of more basic SI units. Applications to ac resistance measurements and to realization of transconductance amplifiers are also included. Chapter 7, consisting of only eight pages, is devoted to direct-current comparators, although specific topics applicable to dc use are covered in earlier chapters. In relation to the number of dc vs ac instruments in use, the length of this chapter presents something of an imbalance. Nevertheless, in the limited number of pages, the authors have covered the principal direct-current comparator applications—the ratio device (dc comparator), the resistance bridge, and the potentiometer. More specialized instruments such as the differential voltmeter and the digital-to-analog converter are also mentioned. The unique feature of the dc comparator is the modulator-type balance detector. It is covered in Chapter 3 with current-comparator construction details. In conclusion, the technical depth and style of discussion, the material covered, the size of the volume, and the ample references suggest that the authors should satisfy most of the audience interested in current comparators. A possible exception might be those interested in extremely high accuracies (errors in the 10-8 to 10-9 range). The authors have selected the overall approach of presentation that is predominantly pragmatic rather than analytical. Metrologists unfamiliar with current comparators should be able, after a day's reading, to embark upon the construction of their own devices or upon the application of current comparators to their own measurement needs. The serious practioner will find the book valuable for the complete coverage of the subject and the bibliography. Also, most practitioners should find in the book a number of useful design, construction, or application tricks for their own use. At the present time, development activity on transformer-type ratio devices, including the current comparator, has subsided in comparison with the peak level of the sixties. For many applications, however, these devices remain the most accurate and sometimes the only viable instruments for scaling current and voltage. The applications include factory test systems and instruments for absolute electrical measurements. This situation is likely to continue for at least one more generation of metrologists. Thus, not only present but also future generations of metrologists will benefit from the book by not having to spend countless hours in "reinventing the wheel" or in searching scattered journal literature. One only wishes that other specialized fields of metrology could benefit from similar endeavors.

Linear and Nonlinear Molecular Spectroscopy with Laser Frequency Combs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Picque, Nathalie

2013-06-01

The regular pulse train of a mode-locked femtosecond laser can give rise to a comb spectrum of millions of laser modes with a spacing precisely equal to the pulse repetition frequency. Laser frequency combs were conceived a decade ago as tools for the precision spectroscopy of atomic hydrogen. They are now becoming enabling tools for an increasing number of applications, including molecular spectroscopy. Recent experiments of multi-heterodyne frequency comb Fourier transform spectroscopy (also called dual-comb spectroscopy) have demonstrated that the precisely spaced spectral lines of a laser frequency comb can be harnessed for new techniques of linear absorption spectroscopy. The first proof-of-principle experiments have demonstrated a very exciting potential of dual-comb spectroscopy without moving parts for ultra-rapid and ultra-sensitive recording of complex broad spectral bandwidth molecular spectra. Compared to conventional Michelson-based Fourier transform spectroscopy, recording times could be shortened from seconds to microseconds, with intriguing prospects for spectroscopy of short lived transient species. The resolution improves proportionally to the measurement time. Therefore longer recordings allow high resolution spectroscopy of molecules with extreme precision, since the absolute frequency of each laser comb line can be known with the accuracy of an atomic clock. Moreover, since laser frequency combs involve intense ultrashort laser pulses, nonlinear interactions can be harnessed. Broad spectral bandwidth ultra-rapid nonlinear molecular spectroscopy and imaging with two laser frequency combs is demonstrated with coherent Raman effects and two-photon excitation. Real-time multiplex accessing of hyperspectral images may dramatically expand the range of applications of nonlinear microscopy. B. Bernhardt et al., Nature Photonics 4, 55-57 (2010); A. Schliesser et al. Nature Photonics 6, 440-449 (2012); T. Ideguchi et al. arXiv:1201.4177 (2012) T. Ideguchi et al., Optics letters 37, 4498-4500 (2012); T. Ideguchi et al. arXiv:1302.2414 (2013)

Stellar Astrophysics with a Dispersed Fourier Transform Spectrograph. II. Orbits of Double-lined Spectroscopic Binaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Behr, Bradford B.; Cenko, Andrew T.; Hajian, Arsen R.; McMillan, Robert S.; Murison, Marc; Meade, Jeff; Hindsley, Robert

2011-07-01

We present orbital parameters for six double-lined spectroscopic binaries (ι Pegasi, ω Draconis, 12 Boötis, V1143 Cygni, β Aurigae, and Mizar A) and two double-lined triple star systems (κ Pegasi and η Virginis). The orbital fits are based upon high-precision radial velocity (RV) observations made with a dispersed Fourier Transform Spectrograph, or dFTS, a new instrument that combines interferometric and dispersive elements. For some of the double-lined binaries with known inclination angles, the quality of our RV data permits us to determine the masses M 1 and M 2 of the stellar components with relative errors as small as 0.2%.

Molecular Structure and Transformation of the Glucose Dehydrogenase Gene in Drosophila Melanogaster

PubMed Central

Whetten, R.; Organ, E.; Krasney, P.; Cox-Foster, D.; Cavener, D.

1988-01-01

We have precisely mapped and sequenced the three 5' exons of the Drosophila melanogaster Gld gene and have identified the start sites for transcription and translation. The first exon is composed of 335 nucleotides and does not contain any putative translation start codons. The second exon is separated from the first exon by 8 kb and contains the Gld translation start codon. The inferred amino acid sequence of the amino terminus contains two unusual features: three tandem repeats of serine-alanine, and a relatively high density of cysteine residues. P element-mediated transformation experiments demonstrated that a 17.5-kb genomic fragment contains the functional and regulatory components of the Gld gene. PMID:3143620

Comparison of solvent extraction and solid-phase extraction for the determination of polychlorinated biphenyls in transformer oil.

PubMed

Mahindrakar, A N; Chandra, S; Shinde, L P

2014-01-01

Solid-phase extraction (SPE) of nine polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from transformer oil samples was evaluated using octadecyl (CI8)-bonded porous silica. The efficiency of SPE of these PCBs was compared with those obtained by solvent extraction with DMSO and hexane. Average recoveries exceeding 95% for these PCBs were obtained via the SPE method using small cartridges containing 100mg of 40 pm CI8-bonded porous silica. The average recovery by solvent extraction with DMSO and hexane exceeded 83%. It was concluded that the recoveries and precision for the solvent extraction of PCBs were poorer than those for the SPE. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Study of cross-shaped ultrasonic array sensor applied to partial discharge location in transformer oil.

PubMed

Li, Jisheng; Xin, Xiaohu; Luo, Yongfen; Ji, Haiying; Li, Yanming; Deng, Junbo

2013-11-01

A conformal combined sensor is designed and it is used in Partial Discharge (PD) location experiments in transformer oil. The sensor includes a cross-shaped ultrasonic phased array of 13 elements and an ultra-high-frequency (UHF) electromagnetic rectangle array of 2 × 2 elements. Virtual expansion with high order cumulants, the ultrasonic array can achieve the effect of array with 61 elements. This greatly improves the aperture and direction sharpness of original array and reduces the cost of follow-up hardware. With the cross-shaped ultrasonic array, the results of PD location experiments are precise and the maximum error of the direction of arrival (DOA) is less than 5°.

One- and two-center ETF-integrals of first order in relativistic calculation of NMR parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slevinsky, R. M.; Temga, T.; Mouattamid, M.; Safouhi, H.

2010-06-01

The present work focuses on the analytical and numerical developments of first-order integrals involved in the relativistic calculation of the shielding tensor using exponential-type functions as a basis set of atomic orbitals. For the analytical development, we use the Fourier integral transformation and practical properties of spherical harmonics and the Rayleigh expansion of the plane wavefunctions. The Fourier transforms of the operators were derived in previous work and they are used for analytical development. In both the one- and two-center integrals, Cauchy's residue theorem is used in the final developments of the analytical expressions, which are shown to be accurate to machine precision.

Optical head tracking for functional magnetic resonance imaging using structured light.

PubMed

Zaremba, Andrei A; MacFarlane, Duncan L; Tseng, Wei-Che; Stark, Andrew J; Briggs, Richard W; Gopinath, Kaundinya S; Cheshkov, Sergey; White, Keith D

2008-07-01

An accurate motion-tracking technique is needed to compensate for subject motion during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) procedures. Here, a novel approach to motion metrology is discussed. A structured light pattern specifically coded for digital signal processing is positioned onto a fiduciary of the patient. As the patient undergoes spatial transformations in 6 DoF (degrees of freedom), a high-resolution CCD camera captures successive images for analysis on a computing platform. A high-speed image processing algorithm is used to calculate spatial transformations in a time frame commensurate with patient movements (10-100 ms) and with a precision of at least 0.5 microm for translations and 0.1 deg for rotations.

Superallowed Fermi β-Decay Studies with SCEPTAR and the 8π Gamma-Ray Spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koopmans, K. A.

2005-04-01

The 8π Gamma-Ray Spectrometer, operating at TRIUMF in Vancouver Canada, is a high-precision instrument for detecting the decay radiations from exotic nuclei. In 2003, a new beta-scintillating array called SCEPTAR was installed within the 8π Spectrometer. With these two systems, precise measurements of half-lives and branching ratios can be made, specifically on certain nuclei which exhibit Superallowed Fermi 0+ → 0+ β-decay. These data can be used to determine the value of δC, an isospin symmetry-breaking (Coulomb) correction factor to good precision. As this correction factor is currently one of the leading sources of error in the unitarity test of the CKM matrix, a precise determination of its value could help to eliminate any possible "trivial" explanation of the seeming departure of current experimental data from Standard Model predictions.

A precision analogue integrator system for heavy current measurement in MFDC resistance spot welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Yu-Jun; Zhang, Zhong-Dian; Xia, Zhen-Xin; Zhu, Shi-Liang; Zhang, Rui

2016-02-01

In order to control and monitor the quality of middle frequency direct current (MFDC) resistance spot welding (RSW), precision measurement of the welding current up to 100 kA is required, for which Rogowski coils are the only viable current transducers at present. Thus, a highly accurate analogue integrator is the key to restoring the converted signals collected from the Rogowski coils. Previous studies emphasised that the integration drift is a major factor that influences the performance of analogue integrators, but capacitive leakage error also has a significant impact on the result, especially in long-time pulse integration. In this article, new methods of measuring and compensating capacitive leakage error are proposed to fabricate a precision analogue integrator system for MFDC RSW. A voltage holding test is carried out to measure the integration error caused by capacitive leakage, and an original integrator with a feedback adder is designed to compensate capacitive leakage error in real time. The experimental results and statistical analysis show that the new analogue integrator system could constrain both drift and capacitive leakage error, of which the effect is robust to different voltage levels of output signals. The total integration error is limited within  ±0.09 mV s-1 0.005% s-1 or full scale at a 95% confidence level, which makes it possible to achieve the precision measurement of the welding current of MFDC RSW with Rogowski coils of 0.1% accuracy class.

Precision and Deviation Comparison Between Icesat and Envisat in Typical Ice Gaining and Losing Regions of Antarctica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, W.; Chen, L.; Xie, H.; Hai, G.; Zhang, S.; Tong, X.

2017-09-01

This paper analyzes the precision and deviation of elevations acquired from Envisat and The Ice, Cloud and Land Elevation Satellite (ICESat) over typical ice gaining and losing regions, i.e. Lambert-Amery System (LAS) in east Antarctica, and Amundsen Sea Sector (ASS) in west Antarctica, during the same period from 2003 to 2008. We used GLA12 dataset of ICESat and Level 2 data of Envisat. Data preprocessing includes data filtering, projection transformation and track classification. Meanwhile, the slope correction is applied to Envisat data and saturation correction for ICESat data. Then the crossover analysis was used to obtain the crossing points of the ICESat tracks, Envisat tracks and ICESat-Envisat tracks separately. The two tracks we chose for cross-over analysis should be in the same campaign for ICESat (within 33 days) or the same cycle for Envisat (within 35 days).The standard deviation of a set of elevation residuals at time-coincident crossovers is calculated as the precision of each satellite while the mean value is calculated as the deviation of ICESat-Envisat. Generally, the ICESat laser altimeter gets a better precision than the Envisat radar altimeter. For Amundsen Sea Sector, the ICESat precision is found to vary from 8.9 cm to 17 cm and the Envisat precision varies from 0.81 m to 1.57 m. For LAS area, the ICESat precision is found to vary from 6.7 cm to 14.3 cm and the Envisat precision varies from 0.46 m to 0.81 m. Comparison result between Envisat and ICESat elevations shows a mean difference of 0.43 ±7.14 m for Amundsen Sea Sector and 0.53 ± 1.23 m over LAS.

Forback DC-to-DC converter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lukemire, Alan T. (Inventor)

1995-01-01

A pulse-width modulated DC-to-DC power converter including a first inductor, i.e. a transformer or an equivalent fixed inductor equal to the inductance of the secondary winding of the transformer, coupled across a source of DC input voltage via a transistor switch which is rendered alternately conductive (ON) and nonconductive (OFF) in accordance with a signal from a feedback control circuit is described. A first capacitor capacitively couples one side of the first inductor to a second inductor which is connected to a second capacitor which is coupled to the other side of the first inductor. A circuit load shunts the second capacitor. A semiconductor diode is additionally coupled from a common circuit connection between the first capacitor and the second inductor to the other side of the first inductor. A current sense transformer generating a current feedback signal for the switch control circuit is directly coupled in series with the other side of the first inductor so that the first capacitor, the second inductor and the current sense transformer are connected in series through the first inductor. The inductance values of the first and second inductors, moreover, are made identical. Such a converter topology results in a simultaneous voltsecond balance in the first inductance and ampere-second balance in the current sense transformer.

A DC Transformer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Youngquist, Robert C.; Ihlefeld, Curtis M.; Starr, Stanley O.

2013-01-01

A component level dc transformer is described in which no alternating currents or voltages are present. It operates by combining features of a homopolar motor and a homopolar generator, both de devices, such that the output voltage of a de power supply can be stepped up (or down) with a corresponding step down (or up) in current. The basic theory for this device is developed, performance predictions are made, and the results from a small prototype are presented. Based on demonstrated technology in the literature, this de transformer should be scalable to low megawatt levels, but it is more suited to high current than high voltage applications. Significant development would be required before it could achieve the kilovolt levels needed for de power transmission.

Multiple pathways in pressure-induced phase transition of coesite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Wei; Wu, Xuebang; Liang, Yunfeng; Liu, Changsong; Miranda, Caetano R.; Scandolo, Sandro

2017-12-01

High-pressure single-crystal X-ray diffraction method with precise control of hydrostatic conditions, typically with helium or neon as the pressure-transmitting medium, has significantly changed our view on what happens with low-density silica phases under pressure. Coesite is a prototype material for pressure-induced amorphization. However, it was found to transform into a high-pressure octahedral (HPO) phase, or coesite-II and coesite-III. Given that the pressure is believed to be hydrostatic in two recent experiments, the different transformation pathways are striking. Based on molecular dynamic simulations with an ab initio parameterized potential, we reproduced all of the above experiments in three transformation pathways, including the one leading to an HPO phase. This octahedral phase has an oxygen hcp sublattice featuring 2 × 2 zigzag octahedral edge-sharing chains, however with some broken points (i.e., point defects). It transforms into α-PbO2 phase when it is relaxed under further compression. We show that the HPO phase forms through a continuous rearrangement of the oxygen sublattice toward hcp arrangement. The high-pressure amorphous phases can be described by an fcc and hcp sublattice mixture.

Image Tiling for Profiling Large Objects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Venkataraman, Ajit; Schock, Harold; Mercer, Carolyn R.

1992-01-01

Three dimensional surface measurements of large objects arc required in a variety of industrial processes. The nature of these measurements is changing as optical instruments arc beginning to replace conventional contact probes scanned over the objects. A common characteristic of the optical surface profilers is the trade off between measurement accuracy and field of view. In order to measure a large object with high accuracy, multiple views arc required. An accurate transformation between the different views is needed to bring about their registration. In this paper, we demonstrate how the transformation parameters can be obtained precisely by choosing control points which lie in the overlapping regions of the images. A good starting point for the transformation parameters is obtained by having a knowledge of the scanner position. The selection of the control points arc independent of the object geometry. By successively recording multiple views and obtaining transformation with respect to a single coordinate system, a complete physical model of an object can be obtained. Since all data arc in the same coordinate system, it can thus be used for building automatic models for free form surfaces.

Combined Synchrotron X-ray Diffraction and Digital Image Correlation Technique for Measurement of Austenite Transformation with Strain in TRIP-assisted Steels

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

Poling, Whitney A.; Savic, Vesna; Hector, Louis G.

2016-04-05

The strain-induced, diffusionless shear transformation of retained austenite to martensite during straining of transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) assisted steels increases strain hardening and delays necking and fracture leading to exceptional ductility and strength, which are attractive for automotive applications. A novel technique that provides the retained austenite volume fraction variation with strain in TRIP-assisted steels with improved precision is presented. Digital images of the gauge section of tensile specimens were first recorded up to selected plastic strains with a stereo digital image correlation (DIC) system. The austenite volume fraction was measured by synchrotron X-ray diffraction from small squares cut frommore » the gage section. Strain fields in the squares were then computed by localizing the strain measurement to the corresponding region of a given square during DIC post-processing of the images recorded during tensile testing. Results obtained for a QP980 steel are used to study the influence of initial volume fraction of austenite and the austenite transformation with strain on tensile mechanical behavior.« less

SSAW: A new sequence similarity analysis method based on the stationary discrete wavelet transform.

PubMed

Lin, Jie; Wei, Jing; Adjeroh, Donald; Jiang, Bing-Hua; Jiang, Yue

2018-05-02

Alignment-free sequence similarity analysis methods often lead to significant savings in computational time over alignment-based counterparts. A new alignment-free sequence similarity analysis method, called SSAW is proposed. SSAW stands for Sequence Similarity Analysis using the Stationary Discrete Wavelet Transform (SDWT). It extracts k-mers from a sequence, then maps each k-mer to a complex number field. Then, the series of complex numbers formed are transformed into feature vectors using the stationary discrete wavelet transform. After these steps, the original sequence is turned into a feature vector with numeric values, which can then be used for clustering and/or classification. Using two different types of applications, namely, clustering and classification, we compared SSAW against the the-state-of-the-art alignment free sequence analysis methods. SSAW demonstrates competitive or superior performance in terms of standard indicators, such as accuracy, F-score, precision, and recall. The running time was significantly better in most cases. These make SSAW a suitable method for sequence analysis, especially, given the rapidly increasing volumes of sequence data required by most modern applications.

The beneficial pleiotropic effects of tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) within the vasculature: A review of the evidence.

PubMed

Forde, Hannah; Harper, Emma; Davenport, Colin; Rochfort, Keith D; Wallace, Robert; Murphy, Ronan P; Smith, Diarmuid; Cummins, Philip M

2016-04-01

Tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a type II transmembrane protein that belongs to the tumour necrosis factor (TNF) cytokine superfamily. TRAIL is expressed by numerous cell types including vascular cells, immune cells and adipocytes. Although originally thought to induce apoptosis in malignant or transformed cells only, it is now known that TRAIL can bind up to 5 distinct receptors to activate complex signalling pathways, and is capable of exerting pleiotropic effects in non-transformed cells. In this respect, a number of clinical and animal studies point to the potential vasoprotective influence of TRAIL, with TRAIL deficiency being linked to accelerated atherosclerosis and vascular calcification. Moreover, exogenous TRAIL administration has been shown to exhibit anti-atherosclerotic activity in-vivo. In-vitro studies on TRAIL in this context have yielded conflicting results however, with evidence of both pro-atherogenic and vasoprotective effects ascribed to TRAIL. Notwithstanding these various studies, mechanistic information on the precise nature of TRAIL-mediated injury/protection within the vasculature, as well as the identity of the downstream molecular/cellular targets of TRAIL, is still quite limited. In this review, we will summarize our current knowledge of TRAIL regulation, signalling mechanisms, and its apparent involvement in CVD pathogenesis as a prelude to examining the existing evidence for TRAIL-mediated vasoprotection. To this end, extensive in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies will be reviewed and critical findings highlighted. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Transverse anisotropic magnetoresistance effects in pseudo-single-crystal γ'-Fe4N thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabara, Kazuki; Tsunoda, Masakiyo; Kokado, Satoshi

2016-05-01

Transverse anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) effects, for which magnetization is rotated in an orthogonal plane to the current direction, were investigated at various temperatures, in order to clarify the structural transformation from a cubic to a tetragonal symmetry in a pseudo-single-crystal Fe4N film, which is predicted from the usual in-plane AMR measurements by the theory taking into account the spin-orbit interaction and crystal field splitting of 3d bands. According to a phenomenological theory of AMR, which derives only from the crystal symmetry, a cos 2θ component ( C2 tr ) exists in transverse AMR curves for a tetragonal system but does not for a cubic system. In the Fe4N film, the C2 tr shows a positive small value (0.12%) from 300 K to 50 K. However, the C2 t r increases to negative value below 50 K and reaches to -2% at 5 K. The drastic increasing of the C2 tr demonstrates the structural transformation from a cubic to a tetragonal symmetry below 50 K in the Fe4N film. In addition, the out-of-plane and in-plane lattice constants (c and a) were precisely determined with X-ray diffraction at room temperature using the Nelson-Riely function. As a result, the positive small C2 t r above 50 K is attributed to a slightly distorted Fe4N lattice (c/a = 1.002).

The Cognitive Spectrum of Transformative Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dix, Michael

2016-01-01

Although different transformative learning theories have been described in the literature, a detailed integrative theory is yet to emerge. I argue that unduly intellectualist assumptions regarding cognition have hampered current understandings and have obscured transformative learning's cognitive and metacognitive essence. Firstly, Mezirow's…

Clarifying concepts and gaining a deeper understanding of ideal transformers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ng, Chiu-King

2018-05-01

Even in ideal transformers, the input and output powers are never exactly equal, thereby causing the familiar ratio between the primary and secondary currents, namely I p :I s = N s :N p, to be slightly incorrect. In this paper, we explain why this is so and derive the correct ratio, as well as clarifying the related prevailing concepts. We conclude that a theory of an ideal transformer without a magnetising current is deficient and self-contradictory. Further, methods to locate the two black (phase) dots in a transformer symbol are elucidated. This paper is suitable for those who are pursuing a deeper understanding on this subject after learning the basics from the literature.

Influence of local topography on precision irrigation management

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Precision irrigation management is currently accomplished using spatial information about soil properties through soil series maps or electrical conductivity (EC measurements. Crop yield, however, is consistently influenced by local topography, both in rain-fed and irrigated environments. Utilizing ...

Molecular Diagnostics for Precision Medicine in Colorectal Cancer: Current Status and Future Perspective

PubMed Central

Chen, Guoli; Yang, Zhaohai; Eshleman, James R.; Netto, George J.

2016-01-01

Precision medicine, a concept that has recently emerged and has been widely discussed, emphasizes tailoring medical care to individuals largely based on information acquired from molecular diagnostic testing. As a vital aspect of precision cancer medicine, targeted therapy has been proven to be efficacious and less toxic for cancer treatment. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers and among the leading causes for cancer related deaths in the United States and worldwide. By far, CRC has been one of the most successful examples in the field of precision cancer medicine, applying molecular tests to guide targeted therapy. In this review, we summarize the current guidelines for anti-EGFR therapy, revisit the roles of pathologists in an era of precision cancer medicine, demonstrate the transition from traditional “one test-one drug” assays to multiplex assays, especially by using next-generation sequencing platforms in the clinical diagnostic laboratories, and discuss the future perspectives of tumor heterogeneity associated with anti-EGFR resistance and immune checkpoint blockage therapy in CRC. PMID:27699178

Monitoring transients in low inductance circuits

DOEpatents

Guilford, Richard P.; Rosborough, John R.

1987-01-01

A pair of flat cable transmission lines are monitored for transient current spikes by using a probe connected to a current transformer by a pickup loop and monitoring the output of the current transformer. The approach utilizes a U-shaped pickup probe wherein the pair of flat cable transmission lines are received between the legs of the U-shaped probe. The U-shaped probe is preferably formed of a flat coil conductor adhered to one side of a flexible substrate. On the other side of the flexible substrate there is a copper foil shield. The copper foil shield is connected to one end of the flat conductor coil and connected to one leg of the pickup loop which passes through the current transformer. The other end of the flat conductor coil is connected to the other leg of the pickup loop.

Evaluation of Wavelet Denoising Methods for Small-Scale Joint Roughness Estimation Using Terrestrial Laser Scanning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bitenc, M.; Kieffer, D. S.; Khoshelham, K.

2015-08-01

The precision of Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) data depends mainly on the inherent random range error, which hinders extraction of small details from TLS measurements. New post processing algorithms have been developed that reduce or eliminate the noise and therefore enable modelling details at a smaller scale than one would traditionally expect. The aim of this research is to find the optimum denoising method such that the corrected TLS data provides a reliable estimation of small-scale rock joint roughness. Two wavelet-based denoising methods are considered, namely Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) and Stationary Wavelet Transform (SWT), in combination with different thresholding procedures. The question is, which technique provides a more accurate roughness estimates considering (i) wavelet transform (SWT or DWT), (ii) thresholding method (fixed-form or penalised low) and (iii) thresholding mode (soft or hard). The performance of denoising methods is tested by two analyses, namely method noise and method sensitivity to noise. The reference data are precise Advanced TOpometric Sensor (ATOS) measurements obtained on 20 × 30 cm rock joint sample, which are for the second analysis corrupted by different levels of noise. With such a controlled noise level experiments it is possible to evaluate the methods' performance for different amounts of noise, which might be present in TLS data. Qualitative visual checks of denoised surfaces and quantitative parameters such as grid height and roughness are considered in a comparative analysis of denoising methods. Results indicate that the preferred method for realistic roughness estimation is DWT with penalised low hard thresholding.

BAC-recombineering for studying plant gene regulation: developmental control and cellular localization of SnRK1 kinase subunits.

PubMed

Bitrián, Marta; Roodbarkelari, Farshad; Horváth, Mihály; Koncz, Csaba

2011-03-01

Recombineering, permitting precise modification of genes within bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) through homologous recombination mediated by lambda phage-encoded Red proteins, is a widely used powerful tool in mouse, Caenorhabditis and Drosophila genetics. As Agrobacterium-mediated transfer of large DNA inserts from binary BACs and TACs into plants occurs at low frequency, recombineering is so far seldom exploited in the analysis of plant gene functions. We have constructed binary plant transformation vectors, which are suitable for gap-repair cloning of genes from BACs using recombineering methods previously developed for other organisms. Here we show that recombineering facilitates PCR-based generation of precise translational fusions between coding sequences of fluorescent reporter and plant proteins using galK-based exchange recombination. The modified target genes alone or as part of a larger gene cluster can be transferred by high-frequency gap-repair into plant transformation vectors, stably maintained in Agrobacterium and transformed without alteration into plants. Versatile application of plant BAC-recombineering is illustrated by the analysis of developmental regulation and cellular localization of interacting AKIN10 catalytic and SNF4 activating subunits of Arabidopsis Snf1-related (SnRK1) protein kinase using in vivo imaging. To validate full functionality and in vivo interaction of tagged SnRK1 subunits, it is demonstrated that immunoprecipitated SNF4-YFP is bound to a kinase that phosphorylates SnRK1 candidate substrates, and that the GFP- and YFP-tagged kinase subunits co-immunoprecipitate with endogenous wild type AKIN10 and SNF4. © 2011 The Authors. The Plant Journal © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Detection of inter-turn faults in transformer winding using the capacitor discharge method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michna, Michał; Wilk, Andrzej; Ziółko, Michał; Wołoszyk, Marek; Swędrowski, Leon; Szwangruber, Piotr

2017-12-01

The paper presents results of an analysis of inter-turn fault effects on the voltage and current waveforms of a capacitor discharge through transformer windings. The research was conducted in the frame of the Facility of Antiproton and Ion Research project which goal is to build a new international accelerator facility that utilizes superconducting magnets. For the sake of electrical quality assurance of the superconducting magnet circuits, a measurement and diagnostic system is currently under development at Gdansk University of Technology (GUT). Appropriate measurements and simulations of the special transformer system were performed to verify the proposed diagnostic method. In order to take into account the nonlinearity and hysteresis of the magnetic yoke, a novel mathematical model of the transformer was developed. A special test bench was constructed to emulate the inter-turn faults within transformer windings.

The transformation of targeted killing and international order

PubMed Central

Senn, Martin; Troy, Jodok

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT This article introduces the special issue’s question of whether and how the current transformation of targeted killing is transforming the global international order and provides the conceptual ground for the individual contributions to the special issue. It develops a two-dimensional concept of political order and introduces a theoretical framework that conceives the maintenance and transformation of international order as a dynamic interplay between its behavioral dimension in the form of violence and discursive processes and its institutional dimension in the form of ideas, norms, and rules. The article also conceptualizes targeted killing and introduces a typology of targeted-killing acts on the basis of their legal and moral legitimacy. Building on this conceptual groundwork, the article takes stock of the current transformation of targeted killing and summarizes the individual contributions to this special issue. PMID:29097903

Comparison between wavelet and wavelet packet transform features for classification of faults in distribution system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arvind, Pratul

2012-11-01

The ability to identify and classify all ten types of faults in a distribution system is an important task for protection engineers. Unlike transmission system, distribution systems have a complex configuration and are subjected to frequent faults. In the present work, an algorithm has been developed for identifying all ten types of faults in a distribution system by collecting current samples at the substation end. The samples are subjected to wavelet packet transform and artificial neural network in order to yield better classification results. A comparison of results between wavelet transform and wavelet packet transform is also presented thereby justifying the feature extracted from wavelet packet transform yields promising results. It should also be noted that current samples are collected after simulating a 25kv distribution system in PSCAD software.

78 FR 44247 - Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-23

... (energy efficiency standards) Distribution Transformers (energy efficiency standards) Residential... Sequence No. Title Identifier No. 130 Energy Efficiency 1904-AC04 Standards for Distribution Transformers... Transformers Legal Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6317(a); 42 U.S.C. 6313(a)(6)(C) Abstract: The current distribution...

Present situation and trend of precision guidance technology and its intelligence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shang, Zhengguo; Liu, Tiandong

2017-11-01

This paper first introduces the basic concepts of precision guidance technology and artificial intelligence technology. Then gives a brief introduction of intelligent precision guidance technology, and with the help of development of intelligent weapon based on deep learning project in foreign: LRASM missile project, TRACE project, and BLADE project, this paper gives an overview of the current foreign precision guidance technology. Finally, the future development trend of intelligent precision guidance technology is summarized, mainly concentrated in the multi objectives, intelligent classification, weak target detection and recognition, intelligent between complex environment intelligent jamming and multi-source, multi missile cooperative fighting and other aspects.

[Current situation and thoughts on precision medicine about the treatment of tumor in China].

PubMed

Guo, J C; Yuan, D

2016-07-01

With United States starting"precision medical plan", it is widespread all over the world and opens a new direction to the development of medicine. Our country also starts the plan, trying to take the opportunity. At present, tumor threats human health with high incidence and mortality. In China, the incidence and mortality of tumor has been on the rise.So the tumor has become one of the most important fields of precision medicine.Precision medicine, hoping to reveal the Chinese characteristics of precision medicine, and getting the personal and social maximize health benefits are discussed in the paper.

Accurate Singular Values and Differential QD Algorithms

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-07-01

of the Cholesky Algorithm 5 4 The Quotient Difference Algorithm 8 5 Incorporation of Shifts 11 5.1 Shifted qd Algorithms...Effects of Finite Precision 18 7.1 Error Analysis - Overview ........ ........................... 18 7.2 High Relative Accuracy in the Presence of...showing that it was preferable to replace the DK zero-shift QR transform by two steps of zero-shift LR implemented in a qd (quotient- difference ) format

Testing the Crystalline Integrity of Baddeleyite: A Systematic EBSD and Confocal Laser-Raman Spectroscopy Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

DesOrmeau, J. W.; Ibanez-Mejia, M.; Lafuente Valverde, B.; Eddy, M. P.; Trail, D.; Wang, Y.

2017-12-01

The accessory mineral baddeleyite (monoclinic ZrO2) has great potential as a high-precision U-Pb geochronometer in silica-undersaturated rocks. However, due to a lack of understanding of alpha-recoil damage to the crystal structure and the influences on chemical diffusion properties and closed-system behavior, limitations still exist. Studies have shown phase transformations in baddeleyite (monoclinic to tetragonal) resulting from radiation damage due to ion bombardment [e.g., 1], but the effects of self-irradiation on the baddeleyite crystal structure over geologic timescales remain poorly understood. A recent study reported confocal laser-Raman spectra suggesting the presence of a tetragonal phase in a Phalaborwa baddeleyite [2], which has crucial implications for Pb mobility and high-precision U-Pb results. To better understand the physical effects of self-irradiation in baddeleyite over geologic timescales, samples of various ages (ca. 2060-32 Ma) and calculated alpha-doses (0.001-0.901 x 1016 α/mg) were imaged by cathodoluminescence (CL) and subsequently analyzed via electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and confocal laser-Raman spectroscopy. Synthetic baddeleyite grown in a one-atmosphere furnace was also analyzed to allow a comparison of EBSD and Raman results of the pure monoclinic phase and the natural unknown samples. Whole grain EBSD maps (n=75) of baddeleyite from the Phalabowra and Kovdor carbonatites, the Ammänpelto sill, and the Duluth, Ogden and Yinmawanshan gabbros show complex twinning that is loosely correlated to CL zoning and identification of the monoclinic phase only, suggesting no evidence for phase transformations within grains of contrasting age and amounts of alpha-doses. Preliminary Raman results show evidence of systematic shifts in the vibrational modes of Phalabowra baddeleyite with respect to the younger crystals, which may be the result of radiation-induced damage accumulation rather than phase transformation. These results aim to better characterize the poorly known effects of radiation damage in natural baddeleyite and assist in improving methods for high-precision U-Pb dating of mafic systems on Earth and other planetary bodies. [1] Valdez et al. (2008), J. Nucl. Mater. 381, pp. 259-266. [2[ Schaltegger and Davies (2017), RIMG 83, pp.297-328.

The precision-processing subsystem for the Earth Resources Technology Satellite.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapelle, W. E.; Bybee, J. E.; Bedross, G. M.

1972-01-01

Description of the precision processor, a subsystem in the image-processing system for the Earth Resources Technology Satellite (ERTS). This processor is a special-purpose image-measurement and printing system, designed to process user-selected bulk images to produce 1:1,000,000-scale film outputs and digital image data, presented in a Universal-Transverse-Mercator (UTM) projection. The system will remove geometric and radiometric errors introduced by the ERTS multispectral sensors and by the bulk-processor electron-beam recorder. The geometric transformations required for each input scene are determined by resection computations based on reseau measurements and image comparisons with a special ground-control base contained within the system; the images are then printed and digitized by electronic image-transfer techniques.

The Azimuth Structure of Nuclear Collisions — I

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trainor, Thomas A.; Kettler, David T.

We describe azimuth structure commonly associated with elliptic and directed flow in the context of 2D angular autocorrelations for the purpose of precise separation of so-called nonflow (mainly minijets) from flow. We extend the Fourier-transform description of azimuth structure to include power spectra and autocorrelations related by the Wiener-Khintchine theorem. We analyze several examples of conventional flow analysis in that context and question the relevance of reaction plane estimation to flow analysis. We introduce the 2D angular autocorrelation with examples from data analysis and describe a simulation exercise which demonstrates precise separation of flow and nonflow using the 2D autocorrelation method. We show that an alternative correlation measure based on Pearson's normalized covariance provides a more intuitive measure of azimuth structure.

A novel shape-changing haptic table-top display

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jiabin; Zhao, Lu; Liu, Yue; Wang, Yongtian; Cai, Yi

2018-01-01

A shape-changing table-top display with haptic feedback allows its users to perceive 3D visual and texture displays interactively. Since few existing devices are developed as accurate displays with regulatory haptic feedback, a novel attentive and immersive shape changing mechanical interface (SCMI) consisting of image processing unit and transformation unit was proposed in this paper. In order to support a precise 3D table-top display with an offset of less than 2 mm, a custommade mechanism was developed to form precise surface and regulate the feedback force. The proposed image processing unit was capable of extracting texture data from 2D picture for rendering shape-changing surface and realizing 3D modeling. The preliminary evaluation result proved the feasibility of the proposed system.

KamLAND's precision neutrino oscillation measurements

DOE PAGES

Decowski, M. P.

2016-04-13

The KamLAND experiment started operation in the Spring of 2002 and is operational to this day. The experiment observes signals from electron antineutrinos from distant nuclear reactors. The program, spanning more than a decade, allowed the determination of LMA-MSW as the solution to the solar neutrino transformation results (under the assumption of CPT invariance) and the measurement of various neutrino oscillation parameters. In particular, the solar mass-splitting Δm 2 21 was determined to high precision. Besides the study of neutrino oscillation, KamLAND started the investigation of geologically produced antineutrinos (geo- ν¯ e). As a result, the collaboration also reported onmore » a variety of other topics related to particle and astroparticle physics.« less

Production of zinc oxide nanowires power with precisely defined morphology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mičová, Júlia; Remeš, Zdeněk; Chan, Yu-Ying

2017-12-01

The interest about zinc oxide is increasing thanks to its unique chemical and physical properties. Our attention has focused on preparation powder of 1D nanostructures of ZnO nanowires with precisely defined morphology include characterization size (length and diameter) and shape controlled in the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We have compared results of SEM with dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique. We have found out that SEM method gives more accurate results. We have proposed transformation process from ZnO nanowires on substrates to ZnO nanowires powder by ultrasound peeling to colloid followed by lyophilization. This method of the mass production of the ZnO nanowires powder has some advantages: simplicity, cost effective, large-scale and environment friendly.

Scanner imaging systems, aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ungar, S. G.

1982-01-01

The causes and effects of distortion in aircraft scanner data are reviewed and an approach to reduce distortions by modelling the effect of aircraft motion on the scanner scene is discussed. With the advent of advanced satellite borne scanner systems, the geometric and radiometric correction of aircraft scanner data has become increasingly important. Corrections are needed to reliably simulate observations obtained by such systems for purposes of evaluation. It is found that if sufficient navigational information is available, aircraft scanner coordinates may be related very precisely to planimetric ground coordinates. However, the potential for a multivalue remapping transformation (i.e., scan lines crossing each other), adds an inherent uncertainty, to any radiometric resampling scheme, which is dependent on the precise geometry of the scan and ground pattern.

Dual current readout for precision plating

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Iceland, W. F.

1970-01-01

Bistable amplifier prevents damage in the low range circuitry of a dual scale ammeter. It senses the current and switches automatically to the high range circuitry as the current rises above a preset level.

Modeling and testing of ethernet transformers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bowen, David

2011-12-01

Twisted-pair Ethernet is now the standard home and office last-mile network technology. For decades, the IEEE standard that defines Ethernet has required electrical isolation between the twisted pair cable and the Ethernet device. So, for decades, every Ethernet interface has used magnetic core Ethernet transformers to isolate Ethernet devices and keep users safe in the event of a potentially dangerous fault on the network media. The current state-of-the-art Ethernet transformers are miniature (<5mm diameter) ferrite-core toroids wrapped with approximately 10 to 30 turns of wire. As small as current Ethernet transformers are, they still limit further Ethernet device miniaturization and require a separate bulky package or jack housing. New coupler designs must be explored which are capable of exceptional miniaturization or on-chip fabrication. This dissertation thoroughly explores the performance of the current commercial Ethernet transformers to both increase understanding of the device's behavior and outline performance parameters for replacement devices. Lumped element and distributed circuit models are derived; testing schemes are developed and used to extract model parameters from commercial Ethernet devices. Transfer relation measurements of the commercial Ethernet transformers are compared against the model's behavior and it is found that the tuned, distributed models produce the best transfer relation match to the measured data. Process descriptions and testing results on fabricated thin-film dielectric-core toroid transformers are presented. The best results were found for a 32-turn transformer loaded with 100Ω, the impedance of twisted pair cable. This transformer gave a flat response from about 10MHz to 40MHz with a height of approximately 0.45. For the fabricated transformer structures, theoretical methods to determine resistance, capacitance and inductance are presented. A special analytical and numerical analysis of the fabricated transformer inductance is presented. Planar cuts of magnetic slope fields around the dielectric-core toroid are shown that describe the effect of core height and winding density on flux uniformity without a magnetic core.

Real-time polarization imaging algorithm for camera-based polarization navigation sensors.

PubMed

Lu, Hao; Zhao, Kaichun; You, Zheng; Huang, Kaoli

2017-04-10

Biologically inspired polarization navigation is a promising approach due to its autonomous nature, high precision, and robustness. Many researchers have built point source-based and camera-based polarization navigation prototypes in recent years. Camera-based prototypes can benefit from their high spatial resolution but incur a heavy computation load. The pattern recognition algorithm in most polarization imaging algorithms involves several nonlinear calculations that impose a significant computation burden. In this paper, the polarization imaging and pattern recognition algorithms are optimized through reduction to several linear calculations by exploiting the orthogonality of the Stokes parameters without affecting precision according to the features of the solar meridian and the patterns of the polarized skylight. The algorithm contains a pattern recognition algorithm with a Hough transform as well as orientation measurement algorithms. The algorithm was loaded and run on a digital signal processing system to test its computational complexity. The test showed that the running time decreased to several tens of milliseconds from several thousand milliseconds. Through simulations and experiments, it was found that the algorithm can measure orientation without reducing precision. It can hence satisfy the practical demands of low computational load and high precision for use in embedded systems.

Solid matrix transformation and tracer addition using molten ammonium bifluoride salt as a sample preparation method for laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Grate, Jay W; Gonzalez, Jhanis J; O'Hara, Matthew J; Kellogg, Cynthia M; Morrison, Samuel S; Koppenaal, David W; Chan, George C-Y; Mao, Xianglei; Zorba, Vassilia; Russo, Richard E

2017-09-08

Solid sampling and analysis methods, such as laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), are challenged by matrix effects and calibration difficulties. Matrix-matched standards for external calibration are seldom available and it is difficult to distribute spikes evenly into a solid matrix as internal standards. While isotopic ratios of the same element can be measured to high precision, matrix-dependent effects in the sampling and analysis process frustrate accurate quantification and elemental ratio determinations. Here we introduce a potentially general solid matrix transformation approach entailing chemical reactions in molten ammonium bifluoride (ABF) salt that enables the introduction of spikes as tracers or internal standards. Proof of principle experiments show that the decomposition of uranium ore in sealed PFA fluoropolymer vials at 230 °C yields, after cooling, new solids suitable for direct solid sampling by LA. When spikes are included in the molten salt reaction, subsequent LA-ICP-MS sampling at several spots indicate that the spikes are evenly distributed, and that U-235 tracer dramatically improves reproducibility in U-238 analysis. Precisions improved from 17% relative standard deviation for U-238 signals to 0.1% for the ratio of sample U-238 to spiked U-235, a factor of over two orders of magnitude. These results introduce the concept of solid matrix transformation (SMT) using ABF, and provide proof of principle for a new method of incorporating internal standards into a solid for LA-ICP-MS. This new approach, SMT-LA-ICP-MS, provides opportunities to improve calibration and quantification in solids based analysis. Looking forward, tracer addition to transformed solids opens up LA-based methods to analytical methodologies such as standard addition, isotope dilution, preparation of matrix-matched solid standards, external calibration, and monitoring instrument drift against external calibration standards.

Precision medicine for nurses: 101.

PubMed

Lemoine, Colleen

2014-05-01

To introduce the key concepts and terms associated with precision medicine and support understanding of future developments in the field by providing an overview and history of precision medicine, related ethical considerations, and nursing implications. Current nursing, medical and basic science literature. Rapid progress in understanding the oncogenic drivers associated with cancer is leading to a shift toward precision medicine, where treatment is based on targeting specific genetic and epigenetic alterations associated with a particular cancer. Nurses will need to embrace the paradigm shift to precision medicine, expend the effort necessary to learn the essential terminology, concepts and principles, and work collaboratively with physician colleagues to best position our patients to maximize the potential that precision medicine can offer. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Review on the progress of ultra-precision machining technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Julong; Lyu, Binghai; Hang, Wei; Deng, Qianfa

2017-06-01

Ultra-precision machining technologies are the essential methods, to obtain the highest form accuracy and surface quality. As more research findings are published, such technologies now involve complicated systems engineering and been widely used in the production of components in various aerospace, national defense, optics, mechanics, electronics, and other high-tech applications. The conception, applications and history of ultra-precision machining are introduced in this article, and the developments of ultra-precision machining technologies, especially ultra-precision grinding, ultra-precision cutting and polishing are also reviewed. The current state and problems of this field in China are analyzed. Finally, the development trends of this field and the coping strategies employed in China to keep up with the trends are discussed.

Forming Mandrels for X-Ray Mirror Substrates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blake, Peter N.; Saha. To,p; Zhang, Will; O'Dell, Stephen; Kester, Thomas; Jones, William

2011-01-01

Precision forming mandrels are one element in X-ray mirror development at NASA. Current mandrel fabrication process is capable of meeting the allocated precision requirements for a 5 arcsec telescope. A manufacturing plan is outlined for a large IXO-scale program.

Calculation of four-particle harmonic-oscillator transformation brackets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Germanas, D.; Kalinauskas, R. K.; Mickevičius, S.

2010-02-01

A procedure for precise calculation of the three- and four-particle harmonic-oscillator (HO) transformation brackets is presented. The analytical expressions of the four-particle HO transformation brackets are given. The computer code for the calculations of HO transformation brackets proves to be quick, efficient and produces results with small numerical uncertainties. Program summaryProgram title: HOTB Catalogue identifier: AEFQ_v1_0 Program summary URL:http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/AEFQ_v1_0.html Program obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen's University, Belfast, N. Ireland Licensing provisions: Standard CPC licence, http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/licence/licence.html No. of lines in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 1247 No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 6659 Distribution format: tar.gz Programming language: FORTRAN 90 Computer: Any computer with FORTRAN 90 compiler Operating system: Windows, Linux, FreeBSD, True64 Unix RAM: 8 MB Classification: 17.17 Nature of problem: Calculation of the three-particle and four-particle harmonic-oscillator transformation brackets. Solution method: The method is based on compact expressions of the three-particle harmonics oscillator brackets, presented in [1] and expressions of the four-particle harmonics oscillator brackets, presented in this paper. Restrictions: The three- and four-particle harmonic-oscillator transformation brackets up to the e=28. Unusual features: Possibility of calculating the four-particle harmonic-oscillator transformation brackets. Running time: Less than one second for the single harmonic-oscillator transformation bracket. References:G.P. Kamuntavičius, R.K. Kalinauskas, B.R. Barret, S. Mickevičius, D. Germanas, Nuclear Physics A 695 (2001) 191.

A method to analyze molecular tagging velocimetry data using the Hough transform.

PubMed

Sanchez-Gonzalez, R; McManamen, B; Bowersox, R D W; North, S W

2015-10-01

The development of a method to analyze molecular tagging velocimetry data based on the Hough transform is presented. This method, based on line fitting, parameterizes the grid lines "written" into a flowfield. Initial proof-of-principle illustration of this method was performed to obtain two-component velocity measurements in the wake of a cylinder in a Mach 4.6 flow, using a data set derived from computational fluid dynamics simulations. The Hough transform is attractive for molecular tagging velocimetry applications since it is capable of discriminating spurious features that can have a biasing effect in the fitting process. Assessment of the precision and accuracy of the method were also performed to show the dependence on analysis window size and signal-to-noise levels. The accuracy of this Hough transform-based method to quantify intersection displacements was determined to be comparable to cross-correlation methods. The employed line parameterization avoids the assumption of linearity in the vicinity of each intersection, which is important in the limit of drastic grid deformations resulting from large velocity gradients common in high-speed flow applications. This Hough transform method has the potential to enable the direct and spatially accurate measurement of local vorticity, which is important in applications involving turbulent flowfields. Finally, two-component velocity determinations using the Hough transform from experimentally obtained images are presented, demonstrating the feasibility of the proposed analysis method.

“Agrolistic” transformation of plant cells: Integration of T-strands generated in planta

PubMed Central

Hansen, Geneviève; Chilton, Mary-Dell

1996-01-01

We describe a novel plant transformation technique, termed “agrolistic,” that combines the advantages of the Agrobacterium transformation system with the high efficiency of biolistic DNA delivery. Agrolistic transformation allows integration of the gene of interest without undesired vector sequence. The virulence genes virD1 and virD2 from Agrobacterium tumefaciens that are required in bacteria for excision of T-strands from the tumor-inducing plasmid were placed under the control of the CaMV35S promoter and codelivered with a target plasmid containing border sequences flanking the gene of interest. Transient expression assays in tobacco and in maize cells indicated that vir gene products caused strand-specific nicking in planta at the right border sequence, similar to VirD1/VirD2-catalyzed T-strand excision observed in Agrobacterium. Agrolistically transformed tobacco calli were obtained after codelivery of virD1 and virD2 genes together with a selectable marker flanked by border sequences. Some inserts exhibited right junctions with plant DNA that corresponded precisely to the sequence expected for T-DNA (portion of the tumor-inducing plasmid that is transferred to plant cells) insertion events. We designate these as “agrolistic” inserts, as distinguished from “biolistic” inserts. Both types of inserts were found in some transformed lines. The frequency of agrolistic inserts was 20% that of biolistic inserts. PMID:8962167

Influence of the transition width on the magnetocaloric effect across the magnetostructural transition of Heusler alloys

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

We report a complete structural and magneto-thermodynamic characterization of four samples of the Heusler alloy Ni-Co-Mn-Ga-In, characterized by similar compositions, critical temperatures and high inverse magnetocaloric effect across their metamagnetic transformation, but different transition widths. The object of this study is precisely the sharpness of the martensitic transformation, which plays a key role in the effective use of materials and which has its origin in both intrinsic and extrinsic effects. The influence of the transition width on the magnetocaloric properties has been evaluated by exploiting a phenomenological model of the transformation built through geometrical considerations on the entropy versus temperature curves. A clear result is that a large temperature span of the transformation is unfavourable to the magnetocaloric performance of a material, reducing both isothermal entropy change and adiabatic temperature change obtainable in a given magnetic field and increasing the value of the maximum field needed to fully induce the transformation. The model, which is based on standard magnetometric and conventional calorimetric measurements, turns out to be a convenient tool for the determination of the optimum values of transformation temperature span in a trade-off between sheer performance and amplitude of the operating range of a material. This article is part of the themed issue ‘Taking the temperature of phase transitions in cool materials’. PMID:27402934

Electromagnetic analysis of a superconducting transformer for high current characterization of cable in conduit conductors in background magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Xiangyang; Tan, Yunfei; Fang, Zhen; Jiang, Donghui; Chen, Zhiyou; Chen, Wenge; Kuang, Guangli

2017-10-01

A large cable-in-conduit-conductor (CICC) test facility has been designed and fabricated at the High Magnetic Field Laboratory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CHMFL) in order to meet the test requirement of the conductors which are applied to the future fusion reactor. The critical component of the test facility is an 80 kA superconducting transformer which consists of a multi-turn primary coil and a minor-turn secondary coil. As the current source of the conductor samples, the electromagnetic performance of the superconducting transformer determines the stability and safety of the test facility. In this paper, the key factors and parameters, which have much impact on the performance of the transformer, are analyzed in detail. The conceptual design and optimizing principles of the transformer are discussed. An Electromagnetic-Circuit coupled model built in ANSYS Multiphysics is successfully used to investigate the electromagnetic characterization of the transformer under the dynamic operation condition.

A study on improvement of discharge characteristic by using a transformer in a capacitively coupled plasma

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

Kim, Young-Cheol; Kim, Hyun-Jun; Lee, Hyo-Chang

In a plasma discharge system, the power loss at powered line, matching network, and other transmission line can affect the discharge characteristics such as the power transfer efficiency, voltage and current at powered electrode, and plasma density. In this paper, we propose a method to reduce power loss by using a step down transformer mounted between the matching network and the powered electrode in a capacitively coupled argon plasma. This step down transformer decreases the power loss by reducing the current flowing through the matching network and transmission line. As a result, the power transfer efficiency was increased about 5%–10%more » by using a step down transformer. However, the plasma density was dramatically increased compared to no transformer. This can be understood by the increase in ohmic heating and the decrease in dc-self bias. By simply mounting a transformer, improvement of discharge efficiency can be achieved in capacitively coupled plasmas.« less

Alternative Solvents and Technologies for Precision Cleaning of Aerospace Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grandelli, Heather; Maloney, Phillip; DeVor, Robert; Hintze, Paul

2014-01-01

Precision cleaning solvents for aerospace components and oxygen fuel systems, including currently used Vertrel-MCA, have a negative environmental legacy, high global warming potential, and have polluted cleaning sites. Thus, alternative solvents and technologies are being investigated with the aim of achieving precision contamination levels of less than 1 mg/sq ft. The technologies being evaluated are ultrasonic bath cleaning, plasma cleaning and supercritical carbon dioxide cleaning.

Effects of synchronous irradiance monitoring and correction of current-voltage curves on the outdoor performance measurements of photovoltaic modules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hishikawa, Yoshihiro; Doi, Takuya; Higa, Michiya; Ohshima, Hironori; Takenouchi, Takakazu; Yamagoe, Kengo

2017-08-01

Precise outdoor measurement of the current-voltage (I-V) curves of photovoltaic (PV) modules is desired for many applications such as low-cost onsite performance measurement, monitoring, and diagnosis. Conventional outdoor measurement technologies have a problem in that their precision is low when the solar irradiance is unstable, hence, limiting the opportunity of precise measurement only on clear sunny days. The purpose of this study is to investigate an outdoor measurement procedure, that can improve both the measurement opportunity and precision. Fast I-V curve measurements within 0.2 s and synchronous measurement of irradiance using a PV module irradiance sensor very effectively improved the precision. A small standard deviation (σ) of the module’s maximum output power (P max) in the range of 0.7-0.9% is demonstrated, based on the basis of a 6 month experiment, that mainly includes partly sunny days and cloudy days, during which the solar irradiance is unstable. The σ was further improved to 0.3-0.5% by correcting the curves for the small variation of irradiance. This indicates that the procedure of this study enables much more reproducible I-V curve measurements than a conventional usual procedure under various climatic conditions. Factors that affect measurement results are discussed, to further improve the precision.

Toward the use of precision medicine for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Gong, Wang; Xiao, Yandi; Wei, Zihao; Yuan, Yao; Qiu, Min; Sun, Chongkui; Zeng, Xin; Liang, Xinhua; Feng, Mingye; Chen, Qianming

2017-01-10

Precision medicine is a new strategy that aims at preventing and treating human diseases by focusing on individual variations in people's genes, environment and lifestyle. Precision medicine has been used for cancer diagnosis and treatment and shows evident clinical efficacy. Rapid developments in molecular biology, genetics and sequencing technologies, as well as computational technology, has enabled the establishment of "big data", such as the Human Genome Project, which provides a basis for precision medicine. Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an aggressive cancer with a high incidence rate and low survival rate. Current therapies are often aggressive and carry considerable side effects. Much research now indicates that precision medicine can be used for HNSCC and may achieve improved results. From this perspective, we present an overview of the current status, potential strategies, and challenges of precision medicine in HNSCC. We focus on targeted therapy based on cell the surface signaling receptors epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2), and on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, JAK/STAT3 and RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK cellular signaling pathways. Gene therapy for the treatment of HNSCC is also discussed.

Toward the use of precision medicine for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

PubMed Central

Gong, Wang; Xiao, Yandi; Wei, Zihao; Yuan, Yao; Qiu, Min; Sun, Chongkui; Zeng, Xin; Liang, Xinhua; Feng, Mingye; Chen, Qianming

2017-01-01

Precision medicine is a new strategy that aims at preventing and treating human diseases by focusing on individual variations in people's genes, environment and lifestyle. Precision medicine has been used for cancer diagnosis and treatment and shows evident clinical efficacy. Rapid developments in molecular biology, genetics and sequencing technologies, as well as computational technology, has enabled the establishment of “big data”, such as the Human Genome Project, which provides a basis for precision medicine. Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an aggressive cancer with a high incidence rate and low survival rate. Current therapies are often aggressive and carry considerable side effects. Much research now indicates that precision medicine can be used for HNSCC and may achieve improved results. From this perspective, we present an overview of the current status, potential strategies, and challenges of precision medicine in HNSCC. We focus on targeted therapy based on cell the surface signaling receptors epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2), and on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, JAK/STAT3 and RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK cellular signaling pathways. Gene therapy for the treatment of HNSCC is also discussed. PMID:27924064

Breakthrough in current-in-plane tunneling measurement precision by application of multi-variable fitting algorithm.

PubMed

Cagliani, Alberto; Østerberg, Frederik W; Hansen, Ole; Shiv, Lior; Nielsen, Peter F; Petersen, Dirch H

2017-09-01

We present a breakthrough in micro-four-point probe (M4PP) metrology to substantially improve precision of transmission line (transfer length) type measurements by application of advanced electrode position correction. In particular, we demonstrate this methodology for the M4PP current-in-plane tunneling (CIPT) technique. The CIPT method has been a crucial tool in the development of magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) stacks suitable for magnetic random-access memories for more than a decade. On two MTJ stacks, the measurement precision of resistance-area product and tunneling magnetoresistance was improved by up to a factor of 3.5 and the measurement reproducibility by up to a factor of 17, thanks to our improved position correction technique.

A copper-coated fiber Bragg grating current sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Danping; Zhao, Limin; Lin, Yingwen

2005-01-01

Conventional current transformer (CT) is based on the principles of electric magnetic induction with copper wire windings and iron cores, it is widely used in power systems. But it emerges more weakness as the applied voltage and power capacity more and more increase. Over the past 20 years optical current sensors have received significant attention by a number of groups around the world as next generation high voltage measurement devices, with a view to replacing iron-corn current transformers in the electric power industry. In the opposite side of conventional current transformer, optical fiber current sensor provides a solution of the existed problems. It brings the significant advantages that they are non-conductive and lightweight, which can allow for much simpler insulation and mounting designs as the application voltage increase to1000kV or more to day. In addition, optical sensors do not exhibit hysteresis and provide a much large dynamic range and frequency response than iron-core CT. Optical fiber Bragg grating current sensor is the most potential important one among the optical current sensors, but its current transferred sensibility and the capability of anti-variance of temperature and stress still in a lower level. In this paper, a copper coated Bragg grating current sensor are described. The sensibility is improved significantly.

Capacitor charging FET switcher with controller to adjust pulse width

DOEpatents

Mihalka, Alex M.

1986-01-01

A switching power supply includes an FET full bridge, a controller to drive the FETs, a programmable controller to dynamically control final output current by adjusting pulse width, and a variety of protective systems, including an overcurrent latch for current control. Power MOSFETS are switched at a variable frequency from 20-50 kHz to charge a capacitor load from 0 to 6 kV. A ferrite transformer steps up the DC input. The transformer primary is a full bridge configuration with the FET switches and the secondary is fed into a high voltage full wave rectifier whose output is connected directly to the energy storage capacitor. The peak current is held constant by varying the pulse width using predetermined timing resistors and counting pulses. The pulse width is increased as the capacitor charges to maintain peak current. A digital ripple counter counts pulses, and after the desired number is reached, an up-counter is clocked. The up-counter output is decoded to choose among different resistors used to discharge a timing capacitor, thereby determining the pulse width. A current latch shuts down the supply on overcurrent due to either excessive pulse width causing transformer saturation or a major bridge fault, i.e., FET or transformer failure, or failure of the drive circuitry.

Precision Medicine and a Patient-Orientated Approach: Is this the Future for Tracking Cardiovascular Disorders?

PubMed

Pretorius, Etheresia

2017-01-01

The latest statistics from the 2016 heart disease and stroke statistics update shows that cardiovascular disease is the leading global cause of death, currently accounting for more than 17.3 million deaths per year. Type II diabetes is also on the rise with out-of-control numbers. To address these pandemics, we need to treat patients using an individualized patient care approach, but simultaneously gather data to support the precision medicine initiative. Last year the NIH announced the precision medicine initiative to generate novel knowledge regarding diseases, with a near-term focus on cancers, followed by a longer-term aim, applicable to a whole range of health applications and diseases. The focus of this paper is to suggest a combined effort between the latest precision medicine initiative, researchers and clinicians; whereby novel techniques could immediately make a difference in patient care, but long-term add to knowledge for use in precision medicine. We discuss the intricate relationship between individualized patient care and precision medicine and the current thoughts regarding which data is actually suitable for the precision medicine data gathering. The uses of viscoelastic techniques in precision medicine are discussed and how these techniques might give novel perspectives on the success of treatment regimes of cardiovascular patients are explored. Thrombo-embolic stroke, rheumathoid arthritis and type II diabetes are used as examples of diseases where precision medicine and a patient-orientated approach can possibly be implemented. In conclusion it is suggested that if all role players work together by embracing a new way of thought in treating and managing cardiovascular disease and diabetes will we be able to adequately address these out-ofcontrol conditions. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Long-Term Geomagnetically Induced Current Observations From New Zealand: Peak Current Estimates for Extreme Geomagnetic Storms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodger, Craig J.; Mac Manus, Daniel H.; Dalzell, Michael; Thomson, Alan W. P.; Clarke, Ellen; Petersen, Tanja; Clilverd, Mark A.; Divett, Tim

2017-11-01

Geomagnetically induced current (GIC) observations made in New Zealand over 14 years show induction effects associated with a rapidly varying horizontal magnetic field (dBH/dt) during geomagnetic storms. This study analyzes the GIC observations in order to estimate the impact of extreme storms as a hazard to the power system in New Zealand. Analysis is undertaken of GIC in transformer number six in Islington, Christchurch (ISL M6), which had the highest observed currents during the 6 November 2001 storm. Using previously published values of 3,000 nT/min as a representation of an extreme storm with 100 year return period, induced currents of 455 A were estimated for Islington (with the 95% confidence interval range being 155-605 A). For 200 year return periods using 5,000 nT/min, current estimates reach 755 A (confidence interval range 155-910 A). GIC measurements from the much shorter data set collected at transformer number 4 in Halfway Bush, Dunedin, (HWB T4), found induced currents to be consistently a factor of 3 higher than at Islington, suggesting equivalent extreme storm effects of 460-1,815 A (100 year return) and 460-2,720 A (200 year return). An estimate was undertaken of likely failure levels for single-phase transformers, such as HWB T4 when it failed during the 6 November 2001 geomagnetic storm, identifying that induced currents of 100 A can put such transformer types at risk of damage. Detailed modeling of the New Zealand power system is therefore required to put this regional analysis into a global context.

Magnetic bead detection using nano-transformers.

PubMed

Kim, Hyung Kwon; Hwang, Jong Seung; Hwang, Sung Woo; Ahn, Doyeol

2010-11-19

A novel scheme to detect magnetic beads using a nano-scale transformer with a femtoweber resolution is reported. We have performed a Faraday's induction experiment with the nano-transformer at room temperature. The transformer shows the linear output voltage responses to the sinusoidal input current. When magnetic beads are placed on the transformer, the output responses are increased by an amount corresponding to the added magnetic flux from the beads when compared with the case of no beads on the transformer. In this way, we could determine whether magnetic beads are on top of the transformer in a single particle level.

Naval Observatory Vector Astrometry Software (NOVAS) Version 3.1:Fortran, C, and Python Editions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaplan, G. H.; Bangert, J. A.; Barron, E. G.; Bartlett, J. L.; Puatua, W.; Harris, W.; Barrett, P.

2012-08-01

The Naval Observatory Vector Astrometry Software (NOVAS) is a source - code library that provides common astrometric quantities and transformations to high precision. The library can supply, in one or two subroutine or function calls, the instantaneous celestial position of any star or planet in a variety of coordinate systems. NOVAS also provides access to all of the building blocks that go into such computations. NOVAS is used for a wide variety of applications, including the U.S. portions of The Astronomical Almanac and a number of telescope control systems. NOVAS uses IAU recommended models for Earth orientation, including the IAU 2006 precession theory, the IAU 2000A and 2000B nutation series, and diurnal rotation based on the celestial and terrestrial intermediate origins. Equinox - based quantities, such as sidereal time, are also supported. NOVAS Earth orientation calculations match those from SOFA at the sub - microarcsecond level for comparable transformations. NOVAS algorithms for aberration an d gravitational light deflection are equivalent, at the microarcsecond level, to those inherent in the current consensus VLBI delay algorithm. NOVAS can be easily connected to the JPL planetary/lunar ephemerides (e.g., DE405), and connections to IMCCE and IAA planetary ephemerides are planned. NOVAS Version 3.1 introduces a Python edition alongside the Fortran and C editions. The Python edition uses the computational code from the C edition and currently mimics the function calls of the C edition. Future versions will expand the functionality of the Python edition to exploit the object - oriented features of Python. In the Version 3.1 C edition, the ephemeris - access functions have been revised for use on 64 - bit systems and for improved performance in general. NOVAS source code, auxiliary files, and documentation are available from the USNO website (http://aa.usno.navy.mil/software/novas/novas_info.php).

The Lethality Test System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parsons, W. M.; Sims, J. R.; Parker, J. V.

1986-11-01

The Lethality Test System (LTS) under construction at Los Alamos is an electromagnetic launcher facility designed to perform impact experiments at velocities up to 15 km/sec. The launcher is a 25 mm round bore, plasma armature railgun 22 m in length. Preinjection is accomplished with a two-stage light gas gun capable of 7 km/sec. The railgun power supply utilizes traction motors, vacuum interrupters, and pulse transformers. An assembly of 28 traction motors, equipped with flywheels, stores approximately 80 MJ at 92 percent of full speed and energizes the primary windings of three pulse transformers at a current of 50 kA. At peak current an array of vacuum interrupters disconnects the transformer primary windings and forces the current to flow in the secondary windings. The secondary windings are connected to the railgun, and by staging the vacuum interrupter openings, a 1-1.3 MA ramped current waveform will be delivered to the railgun.

Estimating leaf nitrogen accumulation in maize based on canopy hyperspectrum data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gu, Xiaohe; Wang, Lizhi; Song, Xiaoyu; Xu, Xingang

2016-10-01

Leaf nitrogen accumulation (LNA) has important influence on the formation of crop yield and grain protein. Monitoring leaf nitrogen accumulation of crop canopy quantitively and real-timely is helpful for mastering crop nutrition status, diagnosing group growth and managing fertilization precisely. The study aimed to develop a universal method to monitor LNA of maize by hyperspectrum data, which could provide mechanism support for mapping LNA of maize at county scale. The correlations between LNA and hyperspectrum reflectivity and its mathematical transformations were analyzed. Then the feature bands and its transformations were screened to develop the optimal model of estimating LNA based on multiple linear regression method. The in-situ samples were used to evaluate the accuracy of the estimating model. Results showed that the estimating model with one differential logarithmic transformation (lgP') of reflectivity could reach highest correlation coefficient (0.889) with lowest RMSE (0.646 g·m-2), which was considered as the optimal model for estimating LNA in maize. The determination coefficient (R2) of testing samples was 0.831, while the RMSE was 1.901 g·m-2. It indicated that the one differential logarithmic transformation of hyperspectrum had good response with LNA of maize. Based on this transformation, the optimal estimating model of LNA could reach good accuracy with high stability.

On the Transformation Behavior of NiTi Shape-Memory Alloy Produced by SLM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Speirs, Mathew; Wang, X.; Van Baelen, S.; Ahadi, A.; Dadbakhsh, S.; Kruth, J.-P.; Van Humbeeck, J.

2016-12-01

Selective laser melting has been applied as a production technique of nickel titanium (NiTi) parts. In this study, the scanning parameters and atmosphere control used during production were varied to assess the effects on the final component transformation criteria. Two production runs were completed: one in a high ( 1800 ppm O2) and one in a low-oxygen ( 220 ppm O2) environment. Further solution treatment was applied to analyze precipitation effects. It was found that the transformation temperature varies greatly even at identical energy densities highlighting the need for further in-depth investigations. In this respect, it was observed that oxidation was the dominating factor, increased with higher laser power adapted to higher scanning velocity. Once the atmospheric oxygen content was lowered from 1800 to about 220 ppm, a much smaller variation of transformation temperatures was obtained. In addition to oxidation, other contributing factors, such as nickel depletion (via evaporation during processing) as well as thermal stresses and textures, are further discussed and/or postulated. These results demonstrated the importance of processing and material conditions such as O2 content, powder composition, and laser scanning parameters. These parameters should be precisely controlled to reach desired transformation criteria for functional components made by SLM.

Spherical harmonic analysis of a harmonic function given on a spheroid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Claessens, S. J.

2016-07-01

A new analytical method for the computation of a truncated series of solid spherical harmonic coefficients (HCs) from data on a spheroid (i.e. an oblate ellipsoid of revolution) is derived, using a transformation between surface and solid spherical HCs. A two-step procedure is derived to extend this transformation beyond degree and order (d/o) 520. The method is compared to the Hotine-Jekeli transformation in a numerical study based on the EGM2008 global gravity model. Both methods are shown to achieve submicrometre precision in terms of height anomalies for a model to d/o 2239. However, both methods result in spherical harmonic models that are different by up to 7.6 mm in height anomalies and 2.5 mGal in gravity disturbances due to the different coordinate system used. While the Hotine-Jekeli transformation requires the use of an ellipsoidal coordinate system, the new method uses only spherical polar coordinates. The Hotine-Jekeli transformation is numerically more efficient, but the new method can more easily be extended to cases where (a linear combination of) normal derivatives of the function under consideration are given on the surface of the spheroid. It therefore provides a solution to many types of ellipsoidal boundary-value problems in the spectral domain.

The Radon cumulative distribution transform and its application to image classification

PubMed Central

Kolouri, Soheil; Park, Se Rim; Rohde, Gustavo K.

2016-01-01

Invertible image representation methods (transforms) are routinely employed as low-level image processing operations based on which feature extraction and recognition algorithms are developed. Most transforms in current use (e.g. Fourier, Wavelet, etc.) are linear transforms, and, by themselves, are unable to substantially simplify the representation of image classes for classification. Here we describe a nonlinear, invertible, low-level image processing transform based on combining the well known Radon transform for image data, and the 1D Cumulative Distribution Transform proposed earlier. We describe a few of the properties of this new transform, and with both theoretical and experimental results show that it can often render certain problems linearly separable in transform space. PMID:26685245

The Relationship among Transformational Teaching and Student Motivation and Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Noland, Aaron; Richards, Keith

2014-01-01

Transformational leadership is a well-documented and validated leadership perspective studied in management and organizational contexts that has recently been applied to the instructional context. The current study predicted a positive relationship between teacher transformational leadership and learning, and motivation. A population of 273…

Temperature-sensitive junction transformations for mid-wavelength HgCdTe photovoltaic infrared detector arrays by laser beam induced current microscope

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

Qiu, Weicheng; National Laboratory for Infrared Physics, Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200083; Hu, Weida, E-mail: wdhu@mail.sitp.ac.cn

2014-11-10

In this paper, we report on the disappearance of the photosensitive area extension effect and the unusual temperature dependence of junction transformation for mid-wavelength, n-on-p HgCdTe photovoltaic infrared detector arrays. The n-type region is formed by B{sup +} ion implantation on Hg-vacancy-doped p-type HgCdTe. Junction transformations under different temperatures are visually captured by a laser beam induced current microscope. A physical model of temperature dependence on junction transformation is proposed and demonstrated by using numerical simulations. It is shown that Hg-interstitial diffusion and temperature activated defects jointly lead to the p-n junction transformation dependence on temperature, and the weaker mixedmore » conduction compared with long-wavelength HgCdTe photodiode contributes to the disappearance of the photosensitive area extension effect in mid-wavelength HgCdTe infrared detector arrays.« less

The Impact of Transformer Winding Connections of A Grid-Connected PV on Voltage Quality Improvement

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

Muljadi, Eduard; Tumbelaka, Hanny H.; Gao, Wenzhong

In this paper, the high-power PV plant is connected to the weak grid by means of a three-phase power transformer. The selection of transformer winding connection is critical especially when the PV inverter has a reactive power controller. In general, transformer winding connection can be arranged in star-star (with neutral earthed) or star-delta. The reactive power controller supports voltage regulation of the power system particularly under transient faults. Its control strategy is based on utilizing the grid currents to make a three-phase reactive unbalanced current with a small gain. The gain is determined by the system impedance. Simulation results exhibitmore » that the control strategy works very well particularly under disturbance conditions when the transformer winding connection is star-star with both neutrals grounded. The power quality in terms of the voltage quality is improved.« less

Research and simulation of the decoupling transformation in AC motor vector control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Jiaojiao; Zhao, Zhongjie; Liu, Ken; Zhang, Yongping; Yao, Tuozhong

2018-04-01

Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) is a nonlinear, strong coupling, multivariable complex object, and transformation decoupling can solve the coupling problem of permanent magnet synchronous motor. This paper gives a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) mathematical model, introduces the permanent magnet synchronous motor vector control coordinate transformation in the process of modal matrix inductance matrix transform through the matrix related knowledge of different coordinates of diagonalization, which makes the coupling between the independent, realize the control of motor current and excitation the torque current coupling separation, and derived the coordinate transformation matrix, the thought to solve the coupling problem of AC motor. Finally, in the Matlab/Simulink environment, through the establishment and combination between the PMSM ontology, coordinate conversion module, built the simulation model of permanent magnet synchronous motor vector control, introduces the model of each part, and analyzed the simulation results.

An Integrated Multilevel Converter with Sigma Delta Control for LED Lighting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gerber, Daniel L.

High brightness LEDs have become a mainstream lighting technology due to their efficiency, life span, and environmental benefits. As such, the lighting industry values LED drivers with low cost, small form factor, and long life span. Additional specifications that define a high quality LED driver are high efficiency, high power factor, wide-range dimming, minimal flicker, and a galvanically isolated output. The flyback LED driver is a popular topology that satisfies all these specifications, but it requires a bulky and costly flyback transformer. In addition, its passive methods for cancelling AC power ripple require electrolytic capacitors, which have been known to have life span issues. This dissertation details the design, construction, and verification of a novel LED driver that satisfies all the specifications. In addition, it does not require a flyback transformer or electrolytic capacitors, thus marking an improvement over the flyback driver on size, cost, and life span. This dissertation presents an integrated circuit (IC) LED driver, which features a pair of generalized multilevel converters that are controlled via sigma-delta modulation. The first is a multilevel rectifier responsible for power factor correction (PFC) and dimming. The PFC rectifier employs a second order sigma-delta loop to precisely control the input current harmonics and amplitude. The second is a bidirectional multilevel inverter used to cancel AC power ripple from the DC bus. This ripple-cancellation module transfers energy to and from a storage capacitor. It uses a first order sigma-delta loop with a preprogrammed waveform to swing the storage capacitor voltage. The system also contains an output stage that powers the LEDs with DC and provides for galvanic isolation. The output stage consists of an H-bridge stack that connects to the output through a small toroid transformer. The IC LED driver was simulated and prototyped on an ABCD silicon test chip. Testing and verification indicates functional performance for all the modules in the LED driver. The driver exhibits moderate efficiency at half voltage. Although the part was only testable to half voltage, loss models predict that its efficiency would be much higher at full voltage. The driver also meets specifications on the line current harmonics and ripple cancellation. This dissertation introduces multilevel circuit techniques to the IC and LED research space. The prototype's functional performance indicates that integrated multilevel converters are a viable topology for lighting and other similar applications.

Are Currently Available Wearable Devices for Activity Tracking and Heart Rate Monitoring Accurate, Precise, and Medically Beneficial?

PubMed Central

El-Amrawy, Fatema

2015-01-01

Objectives The new wave of wireless technologies, fitness trackers, and body sensor devices can have great impact on healthcare systems and the quality of life. However, there have not been enough studies to prove the accuracy and precision of these trackers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy, precision, and overall performance of seventeen wearable devices currently available compared with direct observation of step counts and heart rate monitoring. Methods Each participant in this study used three accelerometers at a time, running the three corresponding applications of each tracker on an Android or iOS device simultaneously. Each participant was instructed to walk 200, 500, and 1,000 steps. Each set was repeated 40 times. Data was recorded after each trial, and the mean step count, standard deviation, accuracy, and precision were estimated for each tracker. Heart rate was measured by all trackers (if applicable), which support heart rate monitoring, and compared to a positive control, the Onyx Vantage 9590 professional clinical pulse oximeter. Results The accuracy of the tested products ranged between 79.8% and 99.1%, while the coefficient of variation (precision) ranged between 4% and 17.5%. MisFit Shine showed the highest accuracy and precision (along with Qualcomm Toq), while Samsung Gear 2 showed the lowest accuracy, and Jawbone UP showed the lowest precision. However, Xiaomi Mi band showed the best package compared to its price. Conclusions The accuracy and precision of the selected fitness trackers are reasonable and can indicate the average level of activity and thus average energy expenditure. PMID:26618039

Are Currently Available Wearable Devices for Activity Tracking and Heart Rate Monitoring Accurate, Precise, and Medically Beneficial?

PubMed

El-Amrawy, Fatema; Nounou, Mohamed Ismail

2015-10-01

The new wave of wireless technologies, fitness trackers, and body sensor devices can have great impact on healthcare systems and the quality of life. However, there have not been enough studies to prove the accuracy and precision of these trackers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy, precision, and overall performance of seventeen wearable devices currently available compared with direct observation of step counts and heart rate monitoring. Each participant in this study used three accelerometers at a time, running the three corresponding applications of each tracker on an Android or iOS device simultaneously. Each participant was instructed to walk 200, 500, and 1,000 steps. Each set was repeated 40 times. Data was recorded after each trial, and the mean step count, standard deviation, accuracy, and precision were estimated for each tracker. Heart rate was measured by all trackers (if applicable), which support heart rate monitoring, and compared to a positive control, the Onyx Vantage 9590 professional clinical pulse oximeter. The accuracy of the tested products ranged between 79.8% and 99.1%, while the coefficient of variation (precision) ranged between 4% and 17.5%. MisFit Shine showed the highest accuracy and precision (along with Qualcomm Toq), while Samsung Gear 2 showed the lowest accuracy, and Jawbone UP showed the lowest precision. However, Xiaomi Mi band showed the best package compared to its price. The accuracy and precision of the selected fitness trackers are reasonable and can indicate the average level of activity and thus average energy expenditure.

Quality specification and status of internal quality control of cardiac biomarkers in China from 2011 to 2016.

PubMed

Li, Tingting; Wang, Wei; Zhao, Haijian; He, Falin; Zhong, Kun; Yuan, Shuai; Wang, Zhiguo

2017-09-07

This study aimed to investigate the status of internal quality control (IQC) for cardiac biomarkers from 2011 to 2016 so that we can have overall knowledge of the precision level of measurements in China and set appropriate precision specifications. Internal quality control data of cardiac biomarkers, including creatinine kinase MB (CK-MB) (μg/L), CK-MB(U/L), myoglobin (Mb), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), cardiac troponin T (cTnT), and homocysteines (HCY), were collected by a web-based external quality assessment (EQA) system. Percentages of laboratories meeting five precision quality specifications for current coefficient of variations (CVs) were calculated. Then, appropriate precision specifications were chosen for these six analytes. Finally, the CVs and IQC practice were further analyzed with different grouping methods. The current CVs remained nearly constant for 6 years. cTnT had the highest pass rates every year against five specifications, whereas HCY had the lowest pass rates. Overall, most analytes had a satisfactory performance (pass rates >80%), except for HCY, if one-third TEa or the minimum specification were employed. When the optimal specification was applied, the performance of most analytes was frustrating (pass rates < 60%) except for cTnT. The appropriate precision specifications of Mb, cTnI, cTnT and HCY were set as current CVs less than 9.20%, 9.90%, 7.50%, 10.54%, 7.63%, and 6.67%, respectively. The data of IQC practices indicated wide variation and substantial progress. The precision performance of cTnT was already satisfying, while the other five analytes, especially HCY, were still frustrating; thus, ongoing investigation and continuous improvement for IQC are still needed. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Critical Care and Personalized or Precision Medicine: Who needs whom?

PubMed

Sugeir, Shihab; Naylor, Stephen

2018-02-01

The current paradigm of modern healthcare is a reactive response to patient symptoms, subsequent diagnosis and corresponding treatment of the specific disease(s). This approach is predicated on methodologies first espoused by the Cnidean School of Medicine approximately 2500years ago. More recently escalating healthcare costs and relatively poor disease treatment outcomes have fermented a rethink in how we carry out medical practices. This has led to the emergence of "P-Medicine" in the form of Personalized and Precision Medicine. The terms are used interchangeably, but in fact there are significant differences in the way they are implemented. The former relies on an "N-of-1" model whereas the latter uses a "1-in-N" model. Personalized Medicine is still in a fledgling and evolutionary phase and there has been much debate over its current status and future prospects. A confounding factor has been the sudden development of Precision Medicine, which has currently captured the imagination of policymakers responsible for modern healthcare systems. There is some confusion over the terms Personalized versus Precision Medicine. Here we attempt to define the key differences and working definitions of each P-Medicine approach, as well as a taxonomic relationship tree. Finally, we discuss the impact of Personalized and Precision Medicine on the practice of Critical Care Medicine (CCM). Practitioners of CCM have been participating in Personalized Medicine unknowingly as it takes the protocols of sepsis, mechanical ventilation, and daily awakening trials and applies it to each individual patient. However, the immediate next step for CCM should be an active development of Precision Medicine. This developmental process should break down the silos of modern medicine and create a multidisciplinary approach between clinicians and basic/translational scientists. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Transition dipole-moment of the ν1 +ν3 band of acetylene measured with dual-comb Fourier-transform spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okubo, Sho; Iwakuni, Kana; Yamada, Koichi M. T.; Inaba, Hajime; Onae, Atsushi; Hong, Feng-Lei; Sasada, Hiroyuki

2017-11-01

The ν1 +ν3 vibration band of acetylene (C2H2) in the near infrared region was recorded with a dual-comb Fourier-transform spectrometer. We observed 56 transitions from P (26) to R (29) at six different column densities. The integral line intensity was determined for each recorded absorption line by fitting the line profile to Lambert-Beer's law with a Voigt function. Thanks to the outstanding capability of dual-comb spectroscopy to cover a broad spectrum in a relatively short time with high resolution and high frequency precision, we determined the reliable line strength for each ro-vibrational transition as well as the transition dipole moment for this band.

Transforming fragments into candidates: small becomes big in medicinal chemistry.

PubMed

de Kloe, Gerdien E; Bailey, David; Leurs, Rob; de Esch, Iwan J P

2009-07-01

Fragment-based drug discovery (FBDD) represents a logical and efficient approach to lead discovery and optimisation. It can draw on structural, biophysical and biochemical data, incorporating a wide range of inputs, from precise mode-of-binding information on specific fragments to wider ranging pharmacophoric screening surveys using traditional HTS approaches. It is truly an enabling technology for the imaginative medicinal chemist. In this review, we analyse a representative set of 23 published FBDD studies that describe how low molecular weight fragments are being identified and efficiently transformed into higher molecular weight drug candidates. FBDD is now becoming warmly endorsed by industry as well as academia and the focus on small interacting molecules is making a big scientific impact.