Advanced surface-enhanced Raman gene probe systems and methods thereof

DOEpatents

Vo-Dinh, Tuan

2001-01-01

The subject invention is a series of methods and systems for using the Surface-Enhanced Raman (SER)-labeled Gene Probe for hybridization, detection and identification of SER-labeled hybridized target oligonucleotide material comprising the steps of immobilizing SER-labeled hybridized target oligonucleotide material on a support means, wherein the SER-labeled hybridized target oligonucleotide material comprise a SER label attached either to a target oligonucleotide of unknown sequence or to a gene probe of known sequence complementary to the target oligonucleotide sequence, the SER label is unique for the target oligonucleotide strands of a particular sequence wherein the SER-labeled oligonucleotide is hybridized to its complementary oligonucleotide strand, then the support means having the SER-labeled hybridized target oligonucleotide material adsorbed thereon is SERS activated with a SERS activating means, then the support means is analyzed.

Solar converter system with thermal overload protection

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

Popovich, J.M.; Thornbury, T.R.

1979-10-02

A solar energy conversion system comprises: (a) a solar converter in which liquid absorbs solar radiation, the liquid being solar energy absorptive; (b) first means to circulate said liquid for flow through the converter; and (c) means to effect removal of liquid from the converter in response to an undesirable operation condition in said system. 12 claims.

Electrochemical sensor/detector system and method

DOEpatents

Glass, Robert S.; Perone, Sam P.; Ciarlo, Dino R.; Kimmons, James F.

1992-01-01

An electrochemical detection system is described comprising in combination: (a) a multielement, microelectrode array detector containing means for acquiring a plurality of signals; (b) electronic means for receiving said signals and converting said signals into a readout or display providing information with respect to the nature and concentration of elements present in a solution being tested. Also described is the means of making the above described microelectrode detector.

Electrochemical sensor/detector system and method

DOEpatents

Glass, Robert S.; Perone, Sam P.; Ciarlo, Dino R.; Kimmons, James F.

1994-01-01

An electrochemical detection system is described comprising in combination: (a) a multielement, microelectrode array detector containing means for acquiring a plurality of signals; (b) electronic means for receiving said signals and converting said signals into a readout or display providing information with respect to the nature and concentration of elements present in a solution being tested. Also described is the means of making the above described microelectrode detector.

40 CFR 202.10 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... exhaust system gas flow so as to discharge the exhaust gas and acoustic energy to the atmosphere without passing through the entire length of the exhaust system, including all exhaust system sound attenuation... system means the system comprised of a combination of components which provides for enclosed flow of...

Position feedback control system

DOEpatents

Bieg, Lothar F.; Jokiel, Jr., Bernhard; Ensz, Mark T.; Watson, Robert D.

2003-01-01

Disclosed is a system and method for independently evaluating the spatial positional performance of a machine having a movable member, comprising an articulated coordinate measuring machine comprising: a first revolute joint; a probe arm, having a proximal end rigidly attached to the first joint, and having a distal end with a probe tip attached thereto, wherein the probe tip is pivotally mounted to the movable machine member; a second revolute joint; a first support arm serially connecting the first joint to the second joint; and coordinate processing means, operatively connected to the first and second revolute joints, for calculating the spatial coordinates of the probe tip; means for kinematically constraining the articulated coordinate measuring machine to a working surface; and comparator means, in operative association with the coordinate processing means and with the movable machine, for comparing the true position of the movable machine member, as measured by the true position of the probe tip, with the desired position of the movable machine member.

Control system for fluid heated steam generator

DOEpatents

Boland, J.F.; Koenig, J.F.

1984-05-29

A control system for controlling the location of the nucleate-boiling region in a fluid heated steam generator comprises means for measuring the temperature gradient (change in temperature per unit length) of the heating fluid along the steam generator; means for determining a control variable in accordance with a predetermined function of temperature gradients and for generating a control signal in response thereto; and means for adjusting the feedwater flow rate in accordance with the control signal.

Control system for fluid heated steam generator

DOEpatents

Boland, James F.; Koenig, John F.

1985-01-01

A control system for controlling the location of the nucleate-boiling region in a fluid heated steam generator comprises means for measuring the temperature gradient (change in temperature per unit length) of the heating fluid along the steam generator; means for determining a control variable in accordance with a predetermined function of temperature gradients and for generating a control signal in response thereto; and means for adjusting the feedwater flow rate in accordance with the control signal.

Ultra-low field nuclear magnetic resonance and magnetic resonance imaging to discriminate and identify materials

DOEpatents

Matlashov, Andrei Nikolaevich; Urbaitis, Algis V.; Savukov, Igor Mykhaylovich; Espy, Michelle A.; Volegov, Petr Lvovich; Kraus, Jr., Robert Henry

2013-03-05

Method comprising obtaining an NMR measurement from a sample wherein an ultra-low field NMR system probes the sample and produces the NMR measurement and wherein a sampling temperature, prepolarizing field, and measurement field are known; detecting the NMR measurement by means of inductive coils; analyzing the NMR measurement to obtain at least one measurement feature wherein the measurement feature comprises T1, T2, T1.rho., or the frequency dependence thereof; and, searching for the at least one measurement feature within a database comprising NMR reference data for at least one material to determine if the sample comprises a material of interest.

40 CFR 98.308 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... GREENHOUSE GAS REPORTING Electrical Transmission and Distribution Equipment Use § 98.308 Definitions. Except... Air Act and subpart A of this part. Facility, with respect to an electric power system, means the electric power system as defined in this paragraph. An electric power system is comprised of all electric...

40 CFR 98.308 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... GREENHOUSE GAS REPORTING Electrical Transmission and Distribution Equipment Use § 98.308 Definitions. Except... Air Act and subpart A of this part. Facility, with respect to an electric power system, means the electric power system as defined in this paragraph. An electric power system is comprised of all electric...

40 CFR 98.308 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... GREENHOUSE GAS REPORTING Electrical Transmission and Distribution Equipment Use § 98.308 Definitions. Except... Air Act and subpart A of this part. Facility, with respect to an electric power system, means the electric power system as defined in this paragraph. An electric power system is comprised of all electric...

40 CFR 98.308 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... GREENHOUSE GAS REPORTING Electrical Transmission and Distribution Equipment Use § 98.308 Definitions. Except... Air Act and subpart A of this part. Facility, with respect to an electric power system, means the electric power system as defined in this paragraph. An electric power system is comprised of all electric...

Method of analyzing multiple sample simultaneously by detecting absorption and systems for use in such a method

DOEpatents

Yeung, Edward S.; Gong, Xiaoyi

2004-09-07

The present invention provides a method of analyzing multiple samples simultaneously by absorption detection. The method comprises: (i) providing a planar array of multiple containers, each of which contains a sample comprising at least one absorbing species, (ii) irradiating the planar array of multiple containers with a light source and (iii) detecting absorption of light with a detetion means that is in line with the light source at a distance of at leaat about 10 times a cross-sectional distance of a container in the planar array of multiple containers. The absorption of light by a sample indicates the presence of an absorbing species in it. The method can further comprise: (iv) measuring the amount of absorption of light detected in (iii) indicating the amount of the absorbing species in the sample. Also provided by the present invention is a system for use in the abov metho.The system comprises; (i) a light source comrnpising or consisting essentially of at leaat one wavelength of light, the absorption of which is to be detected, (ii) a planar array of multiple containers, and (iii) a detection means that is in line with the light source and is positioned in line with and parallel to the planar array of multiple contiainers at a distance of at least about 10 times a cross-sectional distance of a container.

Thermal ignition combustion system

DOEpatents

Kamo, R.; Kakwani, R.M.; Valdmanis, E.; Woods, M.E.

1988-04-19

The thermal ignition combustion system comprises means for providing walls defining an ignition chamber, the walls being made of a material having a thermal conductivity greater than 20 W/m C and a specific heat greater than 480 J/kg C with the ignition chamber being in constant communication with the main combustion chamber, means for maintaining the temperature of the walls above a threshold temperature capable of causing ignition of a fuel, and means for conducting fuel to the ignition chamber. 8 figs.

Thermal ignition combustion system

DOEpatents

Kamo, Roy; Kakwani, Ramesh M.; Valdmanis, Edgars; Woods, Melvins E.

1988-01-01

The thermal ignition combustion system comprises means for providing walls defining an ignition chamber, the walls being made of a material having a thermal conductivity greater than 20 W/m.degree. C. and a specific heat greater than 480 J/kg.degree. C. with the ignition chamber being in constant communication with the main combustion chamber, means for maintaining the temperature of the walls above a threshold temperature capable of causing ignition of a fuel, and means for conducting fuel to the ignition chamber.

X-ray laser system, x-ray laser and method

DOEpatents

London, Richard A.; Rosen, Mordecai D.; Strauss, Moshe

1992-01-01

Disclosed is an x-ray laser system comprising a laser containing generating means for emitting short wave length radiation, and means external to said laser for energizing said generating means, wherein when the laser is in an operative mode emitting radiation, the radiation has a transverse coherence length to width ratio of from about 0.05 to 1. Also disclosed is a method of adjusting the parameters of the laser to achieve the desired coherence length to laser width ratio.

NUCLEAR CONVERSION APPARATUS

DOEpatents

Seaborg, G.T.

1960-09-13

A nuclear conversion apparatus is described which comprises a body of neutron moderator, tubes extending therethrough, uranium in the tubes, a fluid- circulating system associated with the tubes, a thorium-containing fluid coolant in the system and tubes, and means for withdrawing the fluid from the system and replacing it in the system whereby thorium conversion products may be recovered.

Explosive destruction system for disposal of chemical munitions

DOEpatents

Tschritter, Kenneth L [Livermore, CA; Haroldsen, Brent L [Manteca, CA; Shepodd, Timothy J [Livermore, CA; Stofleth, Jerome H [Albuquerque, NM; DiBerardo, Raymond A [Baltimore, MD

2005-04-19

An explosive destruction system and method for safely destroying explosively configured chemical munitions. The system comprises a sealable, gas-tight explosive containment vessel, a fragment suppression system positioned in said vessel, and shaped charge means for accessing the interior of the munition when the munition is placed within the vessel and fragment suppression system. Also provided is a means for treatment and neutralization of the munition's chemical fills, and means for heating and agitating the contents of the vessel. The system is portable, rapidly deployable and provides the capability of explosively destroying and detoxifying chemical munitions within a gas-tight enclosure so that there is no venting of toxic or hazardous chemicals during detonation.

X-ray tomographic image magnification process, system and apparatus therefor

DOEpatents

Kinney, J.H.; Bonse, U.K.; Johnson, Q.C.; Nichols, M.C.; Saroyan, R.A.; Massey, W.N.; Nusshardt, R.

1993-09-14

A computerized three-dimensional x-ray tomographic microscopy system is disclosed, comprising: (a) source means for providing a source of parallel x-ray beams, (b) staging means for staging and sequentially rotating a sample to be positioned in the path of the (c) x-ray image magnifier means positioned in the path of the beams downstream from the sample, (d) detecting means for detecting the beams after being passed through and magnified by the image magnifier means, and (e) computing means for analyzing values received from the detecting means, and converting the values into three-dimensional representations. Also disclosed is a process for magnifying an x-ray image, and apparatus therefor. 25 figures.

X-ray tomographic image magnification process, system and apparatus therefor

DOEpatents

Kinney, John H.; Bonse, Ulrich K.; Johnson, Quintin C.; Nichols, Monte C.; Saroyan, Ralph A.; Massey, Warren N.; Nusshardt, Rudolph

1993-01-01

A computerized three-dimensional x-ray tomographic microscopy system is disclosed, comprising: a) source means for providing a source of parallel x-ray beams, b) staging means for staging and sequentially rotating a sample to be positioned in the path of the c) x-ray image magnifier means positioned in the path of the beams downstream from the sample, d) detecting means for detecting the beams after being passed through and magnified by the image magnifier means, and e) computing means for analyzing values received from the detecting means, and converting the values into three-dimensional representations. Also disclosed is a process for magnifying an x-ray image, and apparatus therefor.

48 CFR 3452.247-70 - Foreign travel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 7 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Foreign travel. 3452.247-70 Section 3452.247-70 Federal Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ACQUISITION... travel” means travel outside the fifty States comprising the United States, the District of Columbia, and...

The Semiotic Structure of Geometry Diagrams: How Textbook Diagrams Convey Meaning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dimmel, Justin K.; Herbst, Patricio G.

2015-01-01

Geometry diagrams use the visual features of specific drawn objects to convey meaning about generic mathematical entities. We examine the semiotic structure of these visual features in two parts. One, we conduct a semiotic inquiry to conceptualize geometry diagrams as mathematical texts that comprise choices from different semiotic systems. Two,…

Apparatus for monitoring crystal growth

DOEpatents

Sachs, Emanual M.

1981-01-01

A system and method are disclosed for monitoring the growth of a crystalline body from a liquid meniscus in a furnace. The system provides an improved human/machine interface so as to reduce operator stress, strain and fatigue while improving the conditions for observation and control of the growing process. The system comprises suitable optics for forming an image of the meniscus and body wherein the image is anamorphic so that the entire meniscus can be viewed with good resolution in both the width and height dimensions. The system also comprises a video display for displaying the anamorphic image. The video display includes means for enhancing the contrast between any two contrasting points in the image. The video display also comprises a signal averager for averaging the intensity of at least one preselected portions of the image. The value of the average intensity, can in turn be utilized to control the growth of the body. The system and method are also capable of observing and monitoring multiple processes.

Method of monitoring crystal growth

DOEpatents

Sachs, Emanual M.

1982-01-01

A system and method are disclosed for monitoring the growth of a crystalline body from a liquid meniscus in a furnace. The system provides an improved human/machine interface so as to reduce operator stress, strain and fatigue while improving the conditions for observation and control of the growing process. The system comprises suitable optics for forming an image of the meniscus and body wherein the image is anamorphic so that the entire meniscus can be viewed with good resolution in both the width and height dimensions. The system also comprises a video display for displaying the anamorphic image. The video display includes means for enhancing the contrast between any two contrasting points in the image. The video display also comprises a signal averager for averaging the intensity of at least one preselected portions of the image. The value of the average intensity, can in turn be utilized to control the growth of the body. The system and method are also capable of observing and monitoring multiple processes.

Optical system for determining physical characteristics of a solar cell

DOEpatents

Sopori, Bhushan L.

2001-01-01

The invention provides an improved optical system for determining the physical characteristics of a solar cell. The system comprises a lamp means for projecting light in a wide solid-angle onto the surface of the cell; a chamber for receiving the light through an entrance port, the chamber having an interior light absorbing spherical surface, an exit port for receiving a beam of light reflected substantially normal to the cell, a cell support, and an lower aperture for releasing light into a light absorbing baffle; a means for dispersing the reflection into monochromatic components; a means for detecting an intensity of the components; and a means for reporting the determination.

Radioactive materials shipping cask anticontamination enclosure

DOEpatents

Belmonte, Mark S.; Davis, James H.; Williams, David A.

1982-01-01

An anticontamination device for use in storing shipping casks for radioactive materials comprising (1) a seal plate assembly; (2) a double-layer plastic bag; and (3) a water management system or means for water management.

Methods of defining ontologies, word disambiguation methods, computer systems, and articles of manufacture

DOEpatents

Sanfilippo, Antonio P [Richland, WA; Tratz, Stephen C [Richland, WA; Gregory, Michelle L [Richland, WA; Chappell, Alan R [Seattle, WA; Whitney, Paul D [Richland, WA; Posse, Christian [Seattle, WA; Baddeley, Robert L [Richland, WA; Hohimer, Ryan E [West Richland, WA

2011-10-11

Methods of defining ontologies, word disambiguation methods, computer systems, and articles of manufacture are described according to some aspects. In one aspect, a word disambiguation method includes accessing textual content to be disambiguated, wherein the textual content comprises a plurality of words individually comprising a plurality of word senses, for an individual word of the textual content, identifying one of the word senses of the word as indicative of the meaning of the word in the textual content, for the individual word, selecting one of a plurality of event classes of a lexical database ontology using the identified word sense of the individual word, and for the individual word, associating the selected one of the event classes with the textual content to provide disambiguation of a meaning of the individual word in the textual content.

Electric Fuel Pump Condition Monitor System Using Electricalsignature Analysis

DOEpatents

Haynes, Howard D [Knoxville, TN; Cox, Daryl F [Knoxville, TN; Welch, Donald E [Oak Ridge, TN

2005-09-13

A pump diagnostic system and method comprising current sensing probes clamped on electrical motor leads of a pump for sensing only current signals on incoming motor power, a signal processor having a means for buffering and anti-aliasing current signals into a pump motor current signal, and a computer having a means for analyzing, displaying, and reporting motor current signatures from the motor current signal to determine pump health using integrated motor and pump diagnostic parameters.

Sensor-guided threat countermeasure system

DOEpatents

Stuart, Brent C.; Hackel, Lloyd A.; Hermann, Mark R.; Armstrong, James P.

2012-12-25

A countermeasure system for use by a target to protect against an incoming sensor-guided threat. The system includes a laser system for producing a broadband beam and means for directing the broadband beam from the target to the threat. The countermeasure system comprises the steps of producing a broadband beam and directing the broad band beam from the target to blind or confuse the incoming sensor-guided threat.

Real-time combustion controls and diagnostics sensors (CCADS)

DOEpatents

Thornton, Jimmy D.; Richards, George A.; Dodrill, Keith A.; Nutter, Jr., Roy S.; Straub, Douglas

2005-05-03

The present invention is directed to an apparatus for the monitoring of the combustion process within a combustion system. The apparatus comprises; a combustion system, a means for supplying fuel and an oxidizer, a device for igniting the fuel and oxidizer in order to initiate combustion, and a sensor for determining the current conducted by the combustion process. The combustion system comprises a fuel nozzle and an outer shell attached to the combustion nozzle. The outer shell defines a combustion chamber. Preferably the nozzle is a lean premix fuel nozzle (LPN). Fuel and an oxidizer are provided to the fuel nozzle at separate rates. The fuel and oxidizer are ignited. A sensor positioned within the combustion system comprising at least two electrodes in spaced-apart relationship from one another. At least a portion of the combustion process or flame is between the first and second electrodes. A voltage is applied between the first and second electrodes and the magnitude of resulting current between the first and second electrodes is determined.

Global meaning in people with stroke: Content and changes

PubMed Central

Littooij, Elsbeth; Dekker, Joost; Vloothuis, Judith; Leget, Carlo JW; Widdershoven, Guy AM

2016-01-01

After a traumatic event like a stroke, people need to find meaning and control again. This study enhances knowledge on one of the driving principles behind meaning-making processes: global meaning. Global meaning refers to individuals’ general orienting systems, comprising fundamental beliefs and life goals. Little is known about global meaning in people with stroke and whether global meaning changes after stroke. In this qualitative study, five aspects of global meaning were found: core values, relationships, worldview, identity and inner posture. Continuity in all aspects was reported, but worldview, identity and inner posture were also subjected to change. PMID:28815054

Global meaning in people with stroke: Content and changes.

PubMed

Littooij, Elsbeth; Dekker, Joost; Vloothuis, Judith; Leget, Carlo Jw; Widdershoven, Guy Am

2016-07-01

After a traumatic event like a stroke, people need to find meaning and control again. This study enhances knowledge on one of the driving principles behind meaning-making processes: global meaning. Global meaning refers to individuals' general orienting systems, comprising fundamental beliefs and life goals. Little is known about global meaning in people with stroke and whether global meaning changes after stroke. In this qualitative study, five aspects of global meaning were found: core values, relationships, worldview, identity and inner posture. Continuity in all aspects was reported, but worldview, identity and inner posture were also subjected to change.

Development of a Space Station Operations Management System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brandli, A. E.; Mccandless, W. T.

1988-01-01

To enhance the productivity of operations aboard the Space Station, a means must be provided to augment, and frequently to supplant, human effort in support of mission operations and management, both on the ground and onboard. The Operations Management System (OMS), under development at the Johnson Space Center, is one such means. OMS comprises the tools and procedures to facilitate automation of station monitoring, control, and mission planning tasks. OMS mechanizes, and hence rationalizes, execution of tasks traditionally performed by mission planners, the mission control center team, onboard System Management software, and the flight crew.

Development of a Space Station Operations Management System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brandli, A. E.; McCandless, W. T.

To enhance the productivity of operations aboard the Space Station, a means must be provided to augment, and frequently to supplant, human effort in support of mission operations and management, both on the ground and onboard. The Operations Management System (OMS), under development at the Johnson Space Center, is one such means. OMS comprises the tools and procedures to facilitate automation of station monitoring, control, and mission planning tasks. OMS mechanizes, and hence rationalizes, execution of tasks traditionally performed by mission planners, the mission control center team, onboard System Management software, and the flight crew.

High-field double-pancake superconducting coils and a method of winding

DOEpatents

Materna, P.A.

1984-01-31

A double-pancake coil having first and second pancakes may comprise a plurality of conductor means, each conductor means having a different grade and having one or more conductors, wherein each pancake of said double-pancake coil is comprised of inner and outer turns; wherein said inner turns are comprised of at least one of said conductor means wound about an axis and nested within one another; wherein said outer turns are comprised of said inner conductor means and at least one other conductor means co-wound about said inner turns and nested within one another; wherein each of said conductor means is wound along said axis from said first pancake to said second pancake at a different turn.

High-field double-pancake superconducting coils and a method of winding

DOEpatents

Materna, Peter A.

1985-01-01

A double-pancake coil having first and second pancakes may comprise a plurality of conductor means, each conductor means having a different grade and having one or more conductors, wherein each pancake of said double-pancake coil is comprised of inner and outer turns; wherein said inner turns are comprised of at least one of said conductor means wound about an axis and nested within one another; wherein said outer turns are comprised of said inner conductor means and at least one other conductor means co-wound about said inner turns and nested within one another; wherein each of said conductor means is wound along said axis from said first pancake to said second pancake at a different turn.

Laser based analysis using a passively Q-switched laser employing analysis electronics and a means for detecting atomic optical emission of the laser media

DOEpatents

Woodruff, Steven D.; Mcintyre, Dustin L.

2016-03-29

A device for Laser based Analysis using a Passively Q-Switched Laser comprising an optical pumping source optically connected to a laser media. The laser media and a Q-switch are positioned between and optically connected to a high reflectivity mirror (HR) and an output coupler (OC) along an optical axis. The output coupler (OC) is optically connected to the output lens along the optical axis. A means for detecting atomic optical emission comprises a filter and a light detector. The optical filter is optically connected to the laser media and the optical detector. A control system is connected to the optical detector and the analysis electronics. The analysis electronics are optically connected to the output lens. The detection of the large scale laser output production triggers the control system to initiate the precise timing and data collection from the detector and analysis.

Air conditioning system and component therefore distributing air flow from opposite directions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Obler, H. D.; Bauer, H. B. (Inventor)

1974-01-01

The air conditioning system comprises a plurality of separate air conditioning units coupled to a common supply duct such that air may be introduced into the supply duct in two opposite flow directions. A plurality of outlets such as registers or auxiliary or branch ducts communicate with the supply duct and valve means are disposed in the supply duct at at least some of the outlets for automatically channelling a controllable amount of air from the supply duct to the associated outlet regardless of the direction of air flow within the supply duct. The valve means comprises an automatic air volume control apparatus for distribution within the air supply duct into which air may be introduced from two opposite directions. The apparatus incorporates a freely swinging movable vane in the supply duct to automatically channel into the associated outlet only the deflected air flow which has the higher relative pressure.

Vehicle fuel system

DOEpatents

Risse, John T.; Taggart, James C.

1976-01-01

A vehicle fuel system comprising a plurality of tanks, each tank having a feed and a return conduit extending into a lower portion thereof, the several feed conduits joined to form one supply conduit feeding fuel to a supply pump and using means, unused fuel being returned via a return conduit which branches off to the several return conduits.

Potential means of cost reduction in grade crossing automatic gate systems. volume I : overview and low cost railroad/highway grade crossing gate systems

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1977-02-28

This report, Volume I of a two-volume study, examines the potential for reduction of the cost of installing and maintaining automatic gates at railroad-highway grade crossings. It comprises a general overview; a review of current practices, equipment...

Biological conversion system

DOEpatents

Scott, C.D.

A system for bioconversion of organic material comprises a primary bioreactor column wherein a biological active agent (zymomonas mobilis) converts the organic material (sugar) to a product (alcohol), a rejuvenator column wherein the biological activity of said biological active agent is enhanced, and means for circulating said biological active agent between said primary bioreactor column and said rejuvenator column.

Highly accurate articulated coordinate measuring machine

DOEpatents

Bieg, Lothar F.; Jokiel, Jr., Bernhard; Ensz, Mark T.; Watson, Robert D.

2003-12-30

Disclosed is a highly accurate articulated coordinate measuring machine, comprising a revolute joint, comprising a circular encoder wheel, having an axis of rotation; a plurality of marks disposed around at least a portion of the circumference of the encoder wheel; bearing means for supporting the encoder wheel, while permitting free rotation of the encoder wheel about the wheel's axis of rotation; and a sensor, rigidly attached to the bearing means, for detecting the motion of at least some of the marks as the encoder wheel rotates; a probe arm, having a proximal end rigidly attached to the encoder wheel, and having a distal end with a probe tip attached thereto; and coordinate processing means, operatively connected to the sensor, for converting the output of the sensor into a set of cylindrical coordinates representing the position of the probe tip relative to a reference cylindrical coordinate system.

Forum Guide to Metadata: The Meaning behind Education Data. NFES 2009-805

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Forum on Education Statistics, 2009

2009-01-01

The purpose of this guide is to empower people to more effectively use data as information. To accomplish this, the publication explains what metadata are; why metadata are critical to the development of sound education data systems; what components comprise a metadata system; what value metadata bring to data management and use; and how to…

Micronized coal burner facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calfo, F. D.; Lupton, M. W. (Inventor)

1984-01-01

A combustor or burner system in which the ash resulting from burning a coal in oil mixture is of submicron particle size is described. The burner system comprises a burner section, a flame exit nozzle, a fuel nozzle section, and an air tube by which preheated air is directed into the burner section. Regulated air pressure is delivered to a fuel nozzle. Means are provided for directing a mixture of coal particles and oil from a drum to a nozzle at a desired rate and pressure while means returns excess fuel to the fuel drum. Means provide for stable fuel pressure supply from the fuel pump to the fuel nozzle.

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

Nekoogar, Faranak; Reynolds, Matthew; Lefton, Scott

A secure optionally passive RFID tag or sensor system comprises a passive RFID tag having means for receiving radio signals from at least one base station and for transmitting radio signals to at least one base station, where the tag is capable of being powered exclusively by received radio energy, and an external power and data logging device having at least one battery and electronic circuitry including a digital memory configured for storing and recalling data. The external power and data logging device has a means for powering the tag, and also has a means.

The University Münster Model Surgery System for Orthognathic Surgery. Part II -- KD-MMS.

PubMed

Ehmer, Ulrike; Joos, Ulrich; Ziebura, Thomas; Flieger, Stefanie; Wiechmann, Dirk

2013-01-04

Model surgery is an integral part of the planning procedure in orthognathic surgery. Most concepts comprise cutting the dental cast off its socket. The standardized spacer plates of the KD-MMS provide for a non-destructive, reversible and reproducible means of maxillary and/or mandibular plaster cast separation. In the course of development of the system various articulator types were evaluated with regard to their capability to provide a means of realizing the concepts comprised of the KD-MMS. Special attention was dedicated to the ability to perform three-dimensional displacements without cutting of plaster casts. Various utilities were developed to facilitate maxillary displacement in accordance to the planning. Objectives of this development comprised the ability to implement the values established in the course of two-dimensional ceph planning. The system - KD-MMS comprises a set of hardware components as well as a defined procedure. Essential hardware components are red spacer and blue mounting plates. The blue mounting plates replace the standard yellow SAM mounting elements. The red spacers provide for a defined leeway of 8 mm for three-dimensional movements. The non-destructive approach of the KD-MMS makes it possible to conduct different model surgeries with the same plaster casts as well as to restore the initial, pre-surgical situation at any time. Thereby, surgical protocol generation and gnathologic splint construction are facilitated. The KD-MMS hardware components in conjunction with the defined procedures are capable of increasing efficiency and accuracy of model surgery and splint construction. In cases where different surgical approaches need to be evaluated in the course of model surgery, a significant reduction of chair time may be achieved.

Metal halogen battery system with multiple outlet nozzle for hydrate

DOEpatents

Bjorkman, Jr., Harry K.

1983-06-21

A metal halogen battery system, including at least one cell having a positive electrode and a negative electrode contacted by aqueous electrolyte containing the material of said metal and halogen, store means whereby halogen hydrate is formed and stored as part of an aqueous material, means for circulating electrolyte through the cell and to the store means, and conduit means for transmitting halogen gas formed in the cell to a hydrate former whereby the hydrate is formed in association with the store means, said store means being constructed in the form of a container which includes a filter means, said filter means being inoperative to separate the hydrate formed from the electrolyte, said system having, a hydrate former pump means associated with the store means and being operative to intermix halogen gas with aqueous electrolyte to form halogen hydrate, said hydrate former means including, multiple outlet nozzle means connected with the outlet side of said pump means and being operative to minimize plugging, said nozzle means being comprised of at least one divider means which is generally perpendicular to the rotational axes of gears within the pump means, said divider means acting to divide the flow from the pump means into multiple outlet flow paths.

Droplet monitoring probe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baughman, J. R.; Thys, P. C.

1973-01-01

A droplet monitoring system is disclosed for analysis of mixed-phase fluid flow in development of gas turbines. The system uses a probe comprising two electrical wires spaced a known distance apart and connected at one end to means for establishing a dc potential between the wires. A drop in the fluid stream momentarily contacting both wires simultaneously causes and electrical signal which is amplified, detected and counted.

Frequency mixing crystal

DOEpatents

Ebbers, Christopher A.; Davis, Laura E.; Webb, Mark

1992-01-01

In a laser system for converting infrared laser light waves to visible light comprising a source of infrared laser light waves and means of harmoic generation associated therewith for production of light waves at integral multiples of the frequency of the original wave, the improvement of said means of harmonic generation comprising a crystal having the chemical formula X.sub.2 Y(NO.sub.3).sub.5 .multidot.2 nZ.sub.2 o wherein X is selected from the group consisting of Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, and Tl; Y is selected from the group consisting of Sc, Y, La, Ce, Nd, Pr, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, Al, Ga, and In; Z is selected from the group consisting of H and D; and n ranges from 0 to 4.

Counter-balanced, multiple cable construction crane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mikulas, Martin M., Jr.; Yang, Li-Farn

1991-11-01

The invention is a counter-balanced, multiple cable construction crane. The apparatus for hoisting payloads comprises a crane having a lifting means, the lifting means comprising an end effector means and three suspension means or cables. One end of each cable attaches to a different winding means located on the lifting means, and the other end of each cable attaches to a different point on the end effector, such that the three cables have a theoretical point of convergence with this point corresponding to the center of mass of the payload. Three controls command rotation of the winding means to a predetermined position. Accordingly, the crane provides precise and autonomous positioning of the payload without human guidance. The crane further comprises a counter-balancing means. Two controls position the counter-balancing means to offset the overturning moment which arises during the lifting of heavy payloads.

Counter-balanced, multiple cable construction crane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mikulas, Martin M., Jr.; Yang, Li-Farn

1993-10-01

The invention is a counter-balanced, multiple cable construction crane. The apparatus for hoisting payloads comprises a crane having a lifting means, the lifting means comprising an end effector means and three suspension means or cables. One end of each cable attaches to a different winding means located on the lifting means, and the other end of each cable attaches to a different point on the end effector, such that the three cables have a theoretical point of convergence with this point corresponding to the center of mass of the payload. Three controls command rotation of the winding means to a predetermined position. Accordingly, the crane provides precise and autonomous positioning of the payload without human guidance. The crane further comprises a counter-balancing means. Two controls position the counter-balancing means to offset the overturning moment which arises during the lifting of heavy payloads.

Counter-balanced, multiple cable construction crane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mikulas, Martin M., Jr. (Inventor); Yang, Li-Farn (Inventor)

1993-01-01

The invention is a counter-balanced, multiple cable construction crane. The apparatus for hoisting payloads comprises a crane having a lifting means, the lifting means comprising an end effector means and three suspension means or cables. One end of each cable attaches to a different winding means located on the lifting means, and the other end of each cable attaches to a different point on the end effector, such that the three cables have a theoretical point of convergence with this point corresponding to the center of mass of the payload. Three controls command rotation of the winding means to a predetermined position. Accordingly, the crane provides precise and autonomous positioning of the payload without human guidance. The crane further comprises a counter-balancing means. Two controls position the counter-balancing means to offset the overturning moment which arises during the lifting of heavy payloads.

Ground potential rise monitor

DOEpatents

Allen, Zachery Warren; Zevenbergen, Gary Allen

2012-07-17

A device and method for detecting ground potential rise (GPR) comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, and a voltage attenuator. The first electrode and the second electrode are both electrically connected to the voltage attenuator. A means for determining the presence of a dangerous ground potential is connected to the voltage attenuator. The device and method further comprises a means for enabling one or more alarms upon the detection of the dangerous ground potential. Preferably, a first transmitter/receiver is connected to the means for enabling one or more alarms. Preferably, a second transmitter/receiver, comprising a button, is electromagnetically connected to the first transmitter/receiver. Preferably, the means for determining the presence of a dangerous ground potential comprises a means for determining the true RMS voltage at the output of the voltage attenuator, a transient detector connected to the output of the voltage attenuator, or a combination thereof.

Spark ignition timing control system for internal combustion engine with feature of suppression of jerking during engine acceleration

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

Tomisawa, N.

1989-07-04

This patent describes a spark ignition timing control system for an internal combustion engine, it comprises: sensor means monitoring preselected parameters for producing a sensor signal; first means for deriving a spark ignition timing on the basis of data contained in the sensor signal; second means for detecting an engine acceleration demand for producing an accelerating condition indicative signal; and third means, responsive to the accelerating condition indicative signal, for modifying the spark ignition timing derived by the first means after expiration of a first predetermined period of time of occurence of the accelerating condition indicative signal, in such amore » manner that the spark ignition timing is advanced and retarded for suppressing cycle-to-cycle fluctuation of engine speed and for smoothly increasing engine speed.« less

Dual axis translation apparatus and system for translating an optical beam and related method

DOEpatents

Cassidy, Kelly

1991-01-01

A dual axis translation device and system in accordance with this invention, for translating an optical beam along both an x-axis and a y-axis which are perpendicular to one another, has a beam directing means acting on said optical beam for directing the beam along a particular path transverse to said x and y axes. An arrangement supporting said beam directing means for movement in the x and y direction within a given plane is provided. The arrangement includes a first means for translating said beam directing means along the x-axis in said given plane in order to translate the beam along said x-axis. The arrangement comprises a second means for translating said beam directing means along the y-axis in said given plane in order to translate the beam along said y-axis.

Pattern Analysis of Suicide Mortality Surveillance Data in Urban South Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burrows, Stephanie; Laflamme, Lucie

2008-01-01

The typical circumstances of suicide occurrence in post-apartheid urban South Africa are described. Data comprise suicide cases from all geographical locations (urban municipalities) where an injury surveillance system has full coverage. Typical patterns were identified by means of a classification technique applied to eight variables descriptive…

Charge control microcomputer device for vehicles

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

Morishita, M.; Kouge, S.

1986-10-14

This patent describes a charge control microcomputer device for a vehicle, comprising: speed changing means for transmitting the output torque of an engine. The speed changing means includes a slip clutch means having an output with a variable slippage amount with respect to its input and controlled in accordance with an operating instruction. The speed changing means further includes a speed change gear for changing the rotational speed input thereto at an output thereto, the speed change gear receiving the output of the slip clutch means; a charging generator driven by the output of the speed change gear; a batterymore » charged by an output voltage of the charging generator; a voltage regulator for controlling the output voltage of the charging generator to a predetermined value; an engine controlling microcomputer for receiving data from the engine, to control the engine, the engine data comprising at least an engine speed signal; a charge control microcomputer for processing engine data from the engine controlling microcomputer and charge system data including terminal voltage data from the battery and generated voltage data from the changing generator; and a display unit for displaying detection data, including fault detection data, form the charge control microcomputer.« less

Power recovery system for coal liquefaction process

DOEpatents

Horton, J.R.; Eissenberg, D.M.

A flow work exchanger for use in feeding a reactant material to a high-pressure reactor vessel comprises an outer shell, an inner shell concentrically disposed within said outer shell, means for conducting said reactant into the lower end of said lower shell and thence to said reactor vessel, and means for conducting a hotter product effluent from said reactor vessel into the upper end of said inner shell and out of the annulus between said inner and outer shells.

Fuel cell assembly with electrolyte transport

DOEpatents

Chi, Chang V.

1983-01-01

A fuel cell assembly wherein electrolyte for filling the fuel cell matrix is carried via a transport system comprising a first passage means for conveying electrolyte through a first plate and communicating with a groove in a second plate at a first point, the first and second plates together sandwiching the matrix, and second passage means acting to carry electrolyte exclusively through the second plate and communicating with the groove at a second point exclusive of the first point.

Power recovery system for coal liquefaction process

DOEpatents

Horton, Joel R.; Eissenberg, David M.

1985-01-01

A flow work exchanger for use in feeding a reactant material to a high-pressure reactor vessel comprises an outer shell, an inner shell concentrically disposed within said outer shell, means for conducting said reactant into the lower end of said lower shell and then to said reactor vessel, and means for conducting a hotter product effluent from said reactor vessel into the upper end of said inner shell and out of the annulus between said inner and outer shells.

Heat recovery system employing a temperature controlled variable speed fan

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

Jones, W.T.

1986-05-20

A heat recovery system is described for use in recovering heat from an industrial process producing a heated fluid comprising: a source of inlet air; a housing coupled to the source and including a heat exchanger; means for passing the heated fluid through the heat exchanger; the housing including means for moving a variable volume of air adjustable over a continuous range from the source through the heat exchanger; air discharge means communicating with the housing for discharging air which has passed through the heat exchanger; a control system including first temperature sensing means for sensing the discharge temperature ofmore » the discharge air moving through the discharge means and a control circuit coupled to the first temperature sensing means and to the moving means for varying the volume of air moved in response to the sensed discharge temperature to control the temperature of discharge air passing through the discharge means at a first predetermined value; and the control system including second temperature sensing means for sensing the temperature of the source of inlet air and valve means coupled to and controlled by the control circuit to cause liquid to bypass the heat exchanger when the inlet air temperature rises above a second predetermined value.« less

Travel guidance system for vehicles

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

Takanabe, K.; Yamamoto, M.; Ito, K.

1987-02-24

A travel guidance system is described for vehicles including: a heading sensor for detecting a direction of movement of a vehicle; a distance sensor for detecting a distance traveled by the vehicle; a map data storage medium preliminarily storing map data; a control unit for receiving a heading signal from the heading sensor and a distance signal from the distance sensor to successively compute a present position of the vehicle and for generating video signals corresponding to display data including map data from the map data storage medium and data of the present position; and a display having first andmore » second display portions and responsive to the video signals from the control unit to display on the first display portion a map and a present portion mark, in which: the map data storage medium comprises means for preliminarily storing administrative division name data and landmark data; and the control unit comprises: landmark display means for: (1) determining a landmark closest to the present position, (2) causing a position of the landmark to be displayed on the map and (3) retrieving a landmark massage concerning the landmark from the storage medium to cause the display to display the landmark message on the second display portion; division name display means for retrieving the name of an administrative division to which the present position belongs from the storage medium and causing the display to display a division name message on the second display portion; and selection means for selectively actuating at least one of the landmark display means and the division name display means.« less

Integration of Diagnostics into Ground Equipment Study. Volume 2

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-10-21

systems forum comprised of a consortium of companies that use or supply CBM technology-Machinery Information Management Open Systems Alliance (MIMOSA...maintenance Tele-maintenance, which means collecting of on-board vehicle health data and transrritting it via long-range corrmunication media to a...level are B2C (e-business) and B2B . Middleware offers transparency across networks, applications, and platforms by enabling linkages among multiple

Vct system having closed loop control employing spool valve actuated by a stepper motor

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

Quin, S.B. Jr.; Siemon, E.C.

1993-06-15

An internal combustion engine is described comprising: a crankshaft, the crankshaft being rotable about an axis; a cam shaft, the cam shaft being rotatable about a second axis, the second axis being parallel to the axis, the cam shaft being subject to torque reversals during the rotation thereof; a vane, the vane having at least one lobe, the vane being attached to the cam shaft, being rotatable with the cam shaft and being non-oscillatable with respect to the cam shaft; a housing, the housing being rotatable with the cam shaft and being oscillatable with respect to the cam shaft, themore » housing having at least one recess, the recess receiving the lobe, the lobe being oscillatable within the recess; rotary movement transmitting means for transmitting rotary movement from the crankshaft to the housing; actuating means for varying the position of the housing relative to the cam shaft in reaction to torque reversals in the cam shaft, the actuating means comprising a stepper motor, a lead screw and a proportional spool valve, the position of the spool valve being controlled by the position of the lead screw driven by the stepper motor, the actuating means also delivering hydraulic fluid to the vane; and processing means for controlling the position of the actuating means.« less

Infrared laser system

DOEpatents

Cantrell, Cyrus D.; Carbone, Robert J.; Cooper, Ralph S.

1977-01-01

An infrared laser system and method for isotope separation may comprise a molecular gas laser oscillator to produce a laser beam at a first wavelength, Raman spin flip means for shifting the laser to a second wavelength, a molecular gas laser amplifier to amplify said second wavelength laser beam to high power, and optical means for directing the second wavelength, high power laser beam against a desired isotope for selective excitation thereof in a mixture with other isotopes. The optical means may include a medium which shifts the second wavelength high power laser beam to a third wavelength, high power laser beam at a wavelength coincidental with a corresponding vibrational state of said isotope and which is different from vibrational states of other isotopes in the gas mixture.

Infrared laser system

DOEpatents

Cantrell, Cyrus D.; Carbone, Robert J.; Cooper, Ralph

1982-01-01

An infrared laser system and method for isotope separation may comprise a molecular gas laser oscillator to produce a laser beam at a first wavelength, Raman spin flip means for shifting the laser to a second wavelength, a molecular gas laser amplifier to amplify said second wavelength laser beam to high power, and optical means for directing the second wavelength, high power laser beam against a desired isotope for selective excitation thereof in a mixture with other isotopes. The optical means may include a medium which shifts the second wavelength high power laser beam to a third wavelength, high power laser beam at a wavelength coincidental with a corresponding vibrational state of said isotope and which is different from vibrational states of other isotopes in the gas mixture.

System to quantify gamma-ray radial energy deposition in semiconductor detectors

DOEpatents

Kammeraad, Judith E.; Blair, Jerome J.

2001-01-01

A system for measuring gamma-ray radial energy deposition is provided for use in conjunction with a semiconductor detector. The detector comprises two electrodes and a detector material, and defines a plurality of zones within the detecting material in parallel with the two electrodes. The detector produces a charge signal E(t) when a gamma-ray interacts with the detector. Digitizing means are provided for converting the charge signal E(t) into a digitized signal. A computational means receives the digitized signal and calculates in which of the plurality of zones the gamma-ray deposited energy when interacting with the detector. The computational means produces an output indicating the amount of energy deposited by the gamma-ray in each of the plurality of zones.

Aristotelian Elements in Nietzsche's Work Related to the Philosophy of Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Triantari, Sotiria A.

2011-01-01

In the author's opinion Nietzsche has adopted the three Aristotelian factors, i.e., logic, learning and experience, showing the nihilistic element in the educational system of his days. By means of the term "formal education", Nietzsche implies the education comprises the development of the intellectual faculties of the learner. According to…

Droplet actuator analyzer with cartridge

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sturmer, Ryan A. (Inventor); Paik, Philip Y. (Inventor); Srinivasan, Vijay (Inventor); Brafford, Keith R. (Inventor); West, Richard M. (Inventor); Smith, Gregory F. (Inventor); Pollack, Michael G. (Inventor); Pamula, Vamsee K. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A droplet actuator with cartridge is provided. According to one embodiment, a sample analyzer is provided and includes an analyzer unit comprising electronic or optical receiving means, a cartridge comprising self-contained droplet handling capabilities, and a wherein the cartridge is coupled to the analyzer unit by a means which aligns electronic and/or optical outputs from the cartridge with electronic or optical receiving means on the analyzer unit. According to another embodiment, a sample analyzer is provided and includes a sample analyzer comprising a cartridge coupled thereto and a means of electrical interface and/or optical interface between the cartridge and the analyzer, whereby electrical signals and/or optical signals may be transmitted from the cartridge to the analyzer.

Idling speed control system of an internal combustion engine

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

Miyazaki, M.; Ishii, M.; Kako, H.

1986-09-16

This patent describes an idling speed control system of an internal combustion engine comprising: a valve device which controls the amount of intake air for the engine; an actuator which includes an electric motor for variably controlling the opening of the value device; rotation speed detector means for detecting the rotation speed of the engine; idling condition detector means for detecting the idling condition of the engine; feedback control means responsive to the detected output of the idling condition detector means for generating feedback control pulses to intermittently drive the electric motor so that the detected rotation speed of themore » engine under the idling condition may converge into a target idling rotation speed; and control means responsive to the output of detector means that detects an abnormally low rotation speed of the engine detected by the rotation speed detector means for generating control pulses that do not overlap the feedback control pulses to drive the electric motor in a predetermined direction.« less

Method for generating a plasma wave to accelerate electrons

DOEpatents

Umstadter, D.; Esarey, E.; Kim, J.K.

1997-06-10

The invention provides a method and apparatus for generating large amplitude nonlinear plasma waves, driven by an optimized train of independently adjustable, intense laser pulses. In the method, optimal pulse widths, interpulse spacing, and intensity profiles of each pulse are determined for each pulse in a series of pulses. A resonant region of the plasma wave phase space is found where the plasma wave is driven most efficiently by the laser pulses. The accelerator system of the invention comprises several parts: the laser system, with its pulse-shaping subsystem; the electron gun system, also called beam source, which preferably comprises photo cathode electron source and RF-LINAC accelerator; electron photo-cathode triggering system; the electron diagnostics; and the feedback system between the electron diagnostics and the laser system. The system also includes plasma source including vacuum chamber, magnetic lens, and magnetic field means. The laser system produces a train of pulses that has been optimized to maximize the axial electric field amplitude of the plasma wave, and thus the electron acceleration, using the method of the invention. 21 figs.

Some evidence for the usefulness of an optimal foraging theory perspective on goal conflict and goal facilitation.

PubMed

Tomasik, Martin J; Knecht, Michaela; Freund, Alexandra M

2017-12-01

Based on optimal foraging theory, we propose a metric that allows evaluating the goodness of goal systems, that is, systems comprising multiple goals with facilitative and conflicting interrelations. This optimal foraging theory takes into account expectancy and value, as well as opportunity costs, of foraging. Applying this approach to goal systems provides a single index of goodness of a goal system for goal striving. Three quasi-experimental studies (N = 277, N = 145, and N = 210) provide evidence for the usefulness of this approach for goal systems comprising between 3 to 10 goals. Results indicate that persons with a more optimized goal-system are more conscientious and open to new experience, are more likely to represent their goals in terms of means (i.e., adopt a process focus), and are more satisfied and engaged with their goals. Persons with a suboptimal goal system tend to switch their goals more often and thereby optimize their goal system. We discuss limitations as well as possible future directions of this approach. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Method for generating a plasma wave to accelerate electrons

DOEpatents

Umstadter, Donald; Esarey, Eric; Kim, Joon K.

1997-01-01

The invention provides a method and apparatus for generating large amplitude nonlinear plasma waves, driven by an optimized train of independently adjustable, intense laser pulses. In the method, optimal pulse widths, interpulse spacing, and intensity profiles of each pulse are determined for each pulse in a series of pulses. A resonant region of the plasma wave phase space is found where the plasma wave is driven most efficiently by the laser pulses. The accelerator system of the invention comprises several parts: the laser system, with its pulse-shaping subsystem; the electron gun system, also called beam source, which preferably comprises photo cathode electron source and RF-LINAC accelerator; electron photo-cathode triggering system; the electron diagnostics; and the feedback system between the electron diagnostics and the laser system. The system also includes plasma source including vacuum chamber, magnetic lens, and magnetic field means. The laser system produces a train of pulses that has been optimized to maximize the axial electric field amplitude of the plasma wave, and thus the electron acceleration, using the method of the invention.

Testing of the X-33 umbilical system at KSC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

At the Launch Equipment Test Facility, , Will Reaves and Mike Solomon (kneeling), both with Lockheed Martin Technical Operations, observe parts of the X-33 umbilical system during testing. A team of Kennedy Space Center experts developed the umbilical system, comprising panels, valves and hoses that provide the means to load the X-33 with super-cold propellant. The X-33, under construction at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, Calif., is a half-scale prototype of the planned operational reusable launch vehicle dubbed VentureStar.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING RADIATION

DOEpatents

Reeder, S.D.

1962-04-17

A chemical dosimeter for measuring the progress of a radiation-induced oxidation-reduction reaction is described. The dosimeter comprises a container filled with an aqueous chemical oxidation-reduction system which reacts quantitatively to the radiation. An anode of the group consisting of antimony and tungsten and a cathode of the group consisting of gold and platnium are inserted into the system. Means are provided to stir the system and a potential sensing device is connected across the anode and cathode to detect voltage changes. (AEC)

Smart tunnel: Docking mechanism

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schliesing, John A. (Inventor); Edenborough, Kevin L. (Inventor)

1989-01-01

A docking mechanism is presented for the docking of a space vehicle to a space station comprising a flexible tunnel frame structure which is deployable from the space station. The tunnel structure comprises a plurality of series connected frame sections, one end section of which is attached to the space station and the other end attached to a docking module of a configuration adapted for docking in the payload bay of the space vehicle. The docking module is provided with trunnions, adapted for latching engagement with latches installed in the vehicle payload bay and with hatch means connectable to a hatch of the crew cabin of the space vehicle. Each frame section comprises a pair of spaced ring members, interconnected by actuator-attenuator devices which are individually controllable by an automatic control means to impart relative movement of one ring member to the other in six degrees of freedom of motion. The control means includes computer logic responsive to sensor signals of range and attitude information, capture latch condition, structural loads, and actuator stroke for generating commands to the onboard flight control system and the individual actuator-attenuators to deploy the tunnel to effect a coupling with the space vehicle and space station after coupling. A tubular fluid-impervious liner, preferably fabric, is disposed through the frame sections of a size sufficient to accommodate the passage of personnel and cargo.

Universal collisional activation ion trap mass spectrometry

DOEpatents

McLuckey, S.A.; Goeringer, D.E.; Glish, G.L.

1993-04-27

A universal collisional activation ion trap comprises an ion trapping means containing a bath gas and having connected thereto a noise signal generator. A method of operating a universal collisional activation ion trap comprises the steps of: providing an ion trapping means; introducing into the ion trapping means a bath gas; and, generating a noise signal within the ion trapping means; introducing into the ion trapping means a substance that, when acted upon by the noise signal, undergoes collisional activation to form product ions.

Universal collisional activation ion trap mass spectrometry

DOEpatents

McLuckey, Scott A.; Goeringer, Douglas E.; Glish, Gary L.

1993-01-01

A universal collisional activation ion trap comprises an ion trapping means containing a bath gas and having connected thereto a noise signal generator. A method of operating a universal collisional activation ion trap comprises the steps of: providing an ion trapping means; introducing into the ion trapping means a bath gas; and, generating a noise signal within the ion trapping means; introducing into the ion trapping means a substance that, when acted upon by the noise signal, undergoes collisional activation to form product ions.

Real-time simulation clock

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bennington, Donald R. (Inventor); Crawford, Daniel J. (Inventor)

1990-01-01

The invention is a clock for synchronizing operations within a high-speed, distributed data processing network. The clock is actually a distributed system comprising a central clock and multiple site clock interface units (SCIUs) which are connected by means of a fiber optic star network and which operate under control of separate clock software. The presently preferred embodiment is a part of the flight simulation system now in current use at the NASA Langley Research Center.

Gaseous diffusion system

DOEpatents

Garrett, George A.; Shacter, John

1978-01-01

1. A gaseous diffusion system comprising a plurality of diffusers connected in cascade to form a series of stages, each of said diffusers having a porous partition dividing it into a high pressure chamber and a low pressure chamber, and means for combining a portion of the enriched gas from a succeeding stage with a portion of the enriched gas from the low pressure chamber of each stage and feeding it into one extremity of the high pressure chamber thereof.

Fully automatic lesion segmentation in breast MRI using mean-shift and graph-cuts on a region adjacency graph.

PubMed

McClymont, Darryl; Mehnert, Andrew; Trakic, Adnan; Kennedy, Dominic; Crozier, Stuart

2014-04-01

To present and evaluate a fully automatic method for segmentation (i.e., detection and delineation) of suspicious tissue in breast MRI. The method, based on mean-shift clustering and graph-cuts on a region adjacency graph, was developed and its parameters tuned using multimodal (T1, T2, DCE-MRI) clinical breast MRI data from 35 subjects (training data). It was then tested using two data sets. Test set 1 comprises data for 85 subjects (93 lesions) acquired using the same protocol and scanner system used to acquire the training data. Test set 2 comprises data for eight subjects (nine lesions) acquired using a similar protocol but a different vendor's scanner system. Each lesion was manually delineated in three-dimensions by an experienced breast radiographer to establish segmentation ground truth. The regions of interest identified by the method were compared with the ground truth and the detection and delineation accuracies quantitatively evaluated. One hundred percent of the lesions were detected with a mean of 4.5 ± 1.2 false positives per subject. This false-positive rate is nearly 50% better than previously reported for a fully automatic breast lesion detection system. The median Dice coefficient for Test set 1 was 0.76 (interquartile range, 0.17), and 0.75 (interquartile range, 0.16) for Test set 2. The results demonstrate the efficacy and accuracy of the proposed method as well as its potential for direct application across different MRI systems. It is (to the authors' knowledge) the first fully automatic method for breast lesion detection and delineation in breast MRI.

Electric field controlled emulsion phase contactor

DOEpatents

Scott, Timothy C.

1995-01-01

A system for contacting liquid phases comprising a column for transporting a liquid phase contacting system, the column having upper and lower regions. The upper region has a nozzle for introducing a dispersed phase and means for applying thereto a vertically oriented high intensity pulsed electric field. This electric field allows improved flow rates while shattering the dispersed phase into many micro-droplets upon exiting the nozzle to form a dispersion within a continuous phase. The lower region employs means for applying to the dispersed phase a horizontally oriented high intensity pulsed electric field so that the dispersed phase undergoes continuous coalescence and redispersion while being urged from side to side as it progresses through the system, increasing greatly the mass transfer opportunity.

Method of using an electric field controlled emulsion phase contactor

DOEpatents

Scott, Timothy C.

1993-01-01

A system for contacting liquid phases comprising a column for transporting a liquid phase contacting system, the column having upper and lower regions. The upper region has a nozzle for introducing a dispersed phase and means for applying thereto a vertically oriented high intensity pulsed electric field. This electric field allows improved flow rates while shattering the dispersed phase into many micro-droplets upon exiting the nozzle to form a dispersion within a continuous phase. The lower region employs means for applying to the dispersed phase a horizontally oriented high intensity pulsed electric field so that the dispersed phase undergoes continuous coalescence and redispersion while being urged from side to side as it progresses through the system, increasing greatly the mass transfer opportunity.

Electric field controlled emulsion phase contactor

DOEpatents

Scott, T.C.

1995-01-31

A system is described for contacting liquid phases comprising a column for transporting a liquid phase contacting system, the column having upper and lower regions. The upper region has a nozzle for introducing a dispersed phase and means for applying thereto a vertically oriented high intensity pulsed electric field. This electric field allows improved flow rates while shattering the dispersed phase into many micro-droplets upon exiting the nozzle to form a dispersion within a continuous phase. The lower region employs means for applying to the dispersed phase a horizontally oriented high intensity pulsed electric field so that the dispersed phase undergoes continuous coalescence and redispersion while being urged from side to side as it progresses through the system, increasing greatly the mass transfer opportunity. 5 figs.

Heat insulating system for a fast reactor shield slab

DOEpatents

Kotora Jr., James; Groh, Edward F.; Kann, William J.; Burelbach, James P.

1986-04-01

Improved thermal insulation for a nuclear reactor deck comprising many helical coil springs disposed in generally parallel, side-by-side laterally overlapping or interfitted relationship to one another so as to define a three-dimensional composite having both metal and voids between the metal, and enclosure means for holding the composite to the underside of the deck.

Heat insulating system for a fast reactor shield slab

DOEpatents

Kotora, Jr., James; Groh, Edward F.; Kann, William J.; Burelbach, James P.

1986-01-01

Improved thermal insulation for a nuclear reactor deck comprising many helical coil springs disposed in generally parallel, side-by-side laterally overlapping or interfitted relationship to one another so as to define a three-dimensional composite having both metal and voids between the metal, and enclosure means for holding the composite to the underside of the deck.

Heat insulating system for a fast reactor shield slab

DOEpatents

Kotora, J. Jr.; Groh, E.F.; Kann, W.J.; Burelbach, J.P.

1984-04-10

Improved thermal insulation for a nuclear reactor deck comprises many helical coil springs disposed in generally parallel, side-by-side laterally overlapping or interfitted relationship to one another so as to define a three-dimensional composite having both metal and voids between the metal, and enclosure means for holding the composite to the underside of the deck.

Scratching the surface: A sentinel exploration of sea louse infestations in Cobscook Bay, Maine

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cobscook Bay is a tidally energetic system (tidal range ~5.7 m and tidal velocities >2 m s-1) comprised of cool waters (annual mean of 10') capable of supporting marine aquaculture. The bay has three active Atlantic salmon Salmo salar farms in close proximity to Passamaquoddy Bay and New Brunswick, ...

Triboluminescent indicator system

DOEpatents

Goods, Steven H.; Dentinger, Paul M.; Whinnery, Jr., Leroy L.

2003-06-24

There is provided a light emitting device comprising a plurality of triboluminescent particles dispersed throughout a low density, frangible body and activated by rapidly crushing the body in order to transfer mechanical energy to some portion of the particles. The light emitted by these mechanically excited particles is collected and directed into a light conduit and transmitted to a detector/indicator means.

Aircraft body-axis rotation measurement system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cowdin, K. T. (Inventor)

1983-01-01

A two gyro four gimbal attitude sensing system having gimbal lock avoidance is provided with continuous azimuth information, rather than roll information, relative to the magnetic cardinal headings while in near vertical attitudes to allow recovery from vertical on a desired heading. The system is comprised of a means for stabilizing an outer roll gimbal that is common to a vertical gyro and a directional gyro with respect to the aircraft platform which is being angularly displaced about an axis substantially parallel to the outer roll gyro axis. A means is also provided for producing a signal indicative of the magnitude of such displacement as an indication of aircraft heading. Additional means are provided to cause stabilization of the outer roll gimbal whenever the pitch angle of the aircraft passes through a threshold prior to entering vertical flight and destabilization of the outer roll gimbal upon passing through the threshold when departing vertical flight.

Ultra High Mass Range Mass Spectrometer System

DOEpatents

Reilly, Peter T. A. [Knoxville, TN

2005-12-06

Applicant's present invention comprises mass spectrometer systems that operate in a mass range from 1 to 10.sup.16 DA. The mass spectrometer system comprising an inlet system comprising an aerodynamic lens system, a reverse jet being a gas flux generated in an annulus moving in a reverse direction and a multipole ion guide; a digital ion trap; and a thermal vaporization/ionization detector system. Applicant's present invention further comprises a quadrupole mass spectrometer system comprising an inlet system having a quadrupole mass filter and a thermal vaporization/ionization detector system. Applicant's present invention further comprises an inlet system for use with a mass spectrometer system, a method for slowing energetic particles using an inlet system. Applicant's present invention also comprises a detector device and a method for detecting high mass charged particles.

Guided earth boring tool

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

Mc Donald, W.J.; Pittard, G.T.; Maurer, W.C.

A controllable tool for drilling holes in the earth is described comprising a hollow elongated rigid supporting drill pipe having a forward end for entering the earth, means supporting the drill pipe for earth boring or piercing movement, including means for moving the drill pipe longitudinally for penetrating the earth, the drill pipe moving means being constructed to permit addition and removal of supporting drill pipe during earth penetrating operation, a boring mole supported on the forward end of the hollow low drill pipe comprising a cylindrical housing supported on and open to the forward end of the drill pipe,more » a first means on the front end for applying a boring force to the soil comprising an anvil having a striking surface inside the housing and a boring surface outside the housing, a second means comprising a reciprocally movable hammer positioned in the housing to apply a percussive force to the anvil striking surface for transmitting a percussive force to the boring force applying means, and means permitting introduction of air pressure supplied through the hollow pipe into the housing for operating the hammer and for discharging spent air from the housing to the hole being bored, and the tool being operable to penetrate the earth upon longitudinal movement of the drill rod by the longitudinal rod moving means and operation of the mole by reciprocal movement of the hammer.« less

Suitability of DCPs with screw locking elements to allow sufficient interfragmentary motion to promote secondary bone healing of osteoporotic fractures.

PubMed

Cuadrado, A; Yánez, A; Carta, J A; Garcés, G

2013-06-01

This paper analyses the suitability of a system comprising a Dynamic Compression Plate (DCP) and Screw Locking Elements (SLEs) to allow sufficient interfragmentary motion to promote secondary bone healing in osteoporotic fractures. Four fixation systems were mounted on bone-simulating reinforced epoxy bars filled with solid rigid polyurethane foam. Group 1, used for comparison purposes, represents a system comprised of a Locking Compression Plate (LCP) and eight locking screws. Groups 2 and 3 represent a system comprised of a DCP plate with eight cortical screws and two SLEs placed on the screws furthest from (group 2) and nearest to (group 3) the fracture. Group 4 represents the system comprised of a DCP plate with SLEs placed on all eight cortical screws. Cyclic compression tests of up to 10,000 load cycles were performed in order to determine the parameters of interest, namely the stiffnesses and the interfragmentary motion of the various configurations under consideration. Tukey's multiple comparison test was used to analyse the existence or otherwise of significant differences between the means of the groups. At 10,000 cycles, interfragmentary motion at the far cortex for group 2 was 0.60±0.04 mm and for group 3 0.59±0.03 mm (there being no significant differences: p=0.995). The mean interfragmentary motion at the far cortex of the LCP construct was 70% less than that of the two groups with 2SLEs (there being significant differences: p=1.1×10(-8)). In the case of group 4 this figure was 45% less than in groups 2 and 3 (there being significant differences: p=5.6×10(-6)). At 10,000 cycles, interfragmentary motion at the near cortex for group 2 was 0.24±0.06 mm and for group 3 0.24±0.03 mm (there being no significant differences: p=1.000). The mean interfragmentary motion at the near cortex of the LCP construct was 70.8% less than that of the two groups with 2SLEs (there being significant differences: p=0.011). In the case of group 4 this figure was 66.7% less than in groups 2 and 3 (there being significant differences: p=0.016). The mean stiffness at 10,000 cycles was 960±110 N mm(-1) for group 2 and 969±53 N mm(-1) for group 3 (there being no significant differences: p=1.000). For group 1 (the LCP construct) the mean stiffness at 10,000 cycles was 3144±446 N mm(-1), 3.25 times higher than that of groups 2 and 3 (there being significant differences: p=0.00002), and 1.6 times higher than that of the DCP+8SLEs construct (1944±408 N mm(-1), there being significant differences: p=0.007). It is concluded that using the DCP+2SLEs construct sufficient interfragmentary motion is ensured to promote secondary bone healing. However, if too many SLEs are used the result may be, as with the LCP, an excessively rigid system for callus formation. Copyright © 2012 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Method and apparatus for two-dimensional absolute optical encoding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leviton, Douglas B. (Inventor)

2004-01-01

This invention presents a two-dimensional absolute optical encoder and a method for determining position of an object in accordance with information from the encoder. The encoder of the present invention comprises a scale having a pattern being predetermined to indicate an absolute location on the scale, means for illuminating the scale, means for forming an image of the pattern; and detector means for outputting signals derived from the portion of the image of the pattern which lies within a field of view of the detector means, the field of view defining an image reference coordinate system, and analyzing means, receiving the signals from the detector means, for determining the absolute location of the object. There are two types of scale patterns presented in this invention: grid type and starfield type.

MEANS FOR CONTROLLING REACTIONS

DOEpatents

Nordheim, L.W.; Wigner, E.P.

1961-06-27

The patented means is described for controlling a nuclear reactor which comprises a tank containing a dispersion of a thermally fissionable material in a liquid moderator and a material convertible to a thermally fissionable material in a container disposed about the tank. The control means comprises a control rod chamber, containing only a liquid moderator, disposed within the container and adjacent to the tank and a control rod designed to be inserted into the chamber.

Testing of the X-33 umbilical system at KSC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

At the Launch Equipment Test Facility, Mike Solomon, with Lockheed Martin Technical Operations, studies a part of the X-33 umbilical system during testing. Pointing to the part is Will Reaves, also with Lockheed Martin Technical Operations. A team of Kennedy Space Center experts developed the umbilical system, comprising panels, valves and hoses that provide the means to load the X-33 with super-cold propellant. The X-33, under construction at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, Calif., is a half-scale prototype of the planned operational reusable launch vehicle dubbed VentureStar.

Testing of the X-33 umbilical system at KSC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

At the Launch Equipment Test Facility, Mike Solomon (left) and Will Reaves (right), both with Lockheed Martin Technical Operations, move in for a close look at part of the X-33 umbilical system. A team of Kennedy Space Center experts developed the umbilical system, comprising panels, valves and hoses that provide the means to load the X-33 with super-cold propellant. The X-33, under construction at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, Calif., is a half-scale prototype of the planned operational reusable launch vehicle dubbed VentureStar.

Using Video Modeling to Teach Complex Social Sequences to Children with Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nikopoulos, Christos K.; Keenan, Mickey

2007-01-01

This study comprised of two experiments was designed to teach complex social sequences to children with autism. Experimental control was achieved by collecting data using means of within-system design methodology. Across a number of conditions children were taken to a room to view one of the four short videos of two people engaging in a simple…

VLSI Microsystem for Rapid Bioinformatic Pattern Recognition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fang, Wai-Chi; Lue, Jaw-Chyng

2009-01-01

A system comprising very-large-scale integrated (VLSI) circuits is being developed as a means of bioinformatics-oriented analysis and recognition of patterns of fluorescence generated in a microarray in an advanced, highly miniaturized, portable genetic-expression-assay instrument. Such an instrument implements an on-chip combination of polymerase chain reactions and electrochemical transduction for amplification and detection of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).

Method of using an electric field controlled emulsion phase contactor

DOEpatents

Scott, T.C.

1993-11-16

A system is described for contacting liquid phases comprising a column for transporting a liquid phase contacting system, the column having upper and lower regions. The upper region has a nozzle for introducing a dispersed phase and means for applying thereto a vertically oriented high intensity pulsed electric field. This electric field allows improved flow rates while shattering the dispersed phase into many micro-droplets upon exiting the nozzle to form a dispersion within a continuous phase. The lower region employs means for applying to the dispersed phase a horizontally oriented high intensity pulsed electric field so that the dispersed phase undergoes continuous coalescence and redispersion while being urged from side to side as it progresses through the system, increasing greatly the mass transfer opportunity. 5 figures.

General purpose architecture for intelligent computer-aided training

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loftin, R. Bowen (Inventor); Wang, Lui (Inventor); Baffes, Paul T. (Inventor); Hua, Grace C. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

An intelligent computer-aided training system having a general modular architecture is provided for use in a wide variety of training tasks and environments. It is comprised of a user interface which permits the trainee to access the same information available in the task environment and serves as a means for the trainee to assert actions to the system; a domain expert which is sufficiently intelligent to use the same information available to the trainee and carry out the task assigned to the trainee; a training session manager for examining the assertions made by the domain expert and by the trainee for evaluating such trainee assertions and providing guidance to the trainee which are appropriate to his acquired skill level; a trainee model which contains a history of the trainee interactions with the system together with summary evaluative data; an intelligent training scenario generator for designing increasingly complex training exercises based on the current skill level contained in the trainee model and on any weaknesses or deficiencies that the trainee has exhibited in previous interactions; and a blackboard that provides a common fact base for communication between the other components of the system. Preferably, the domain expert contains a list of 'mal-rules' which typifies errors that are usually made by novice trainees. Also preferably, the training session manager comprises an intelligent error detection means and an intelligent error handling means. The present invention utilizes a rule-based language having a control structure whereby a specific message passing protocol is utilized with respect to tasks which are procedural or step-by-step in structure. The rules can be activated by the trainee in any order to reach the solution by any valid or correct path.

Assessing the performance of regional landslide early warning models: the EDuMaP method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calvello, M.; Piciullo, L.

2016-01-01

A schematic of the components of regional early warning systems for rainfall-induced landslides is herein proposed, based on a clear distinction between warning models and warning systems. According to this framework an early warning system comprises a warning model as well as a monitoring and warning strategy, a communication strategy and an emergency plan. The paper proposes the evaluation of regional landslide warning models by means of an original approach, called the "event, duration matrix, performance" (EDuMaP) method, comprising three successive steps: identification and analysis of the events, i.e., landslide events and warning events derived from available landslides and warnings databases; definition and computation of a duration matrix, whose elements report the time associated with the occurrence of landslide events in relation to the occurrence of warning events, in their respective classes; evaluation of the early warning model performance by means of performance criteria and indicators applied to the duration matrix. During the first step the analyst identifies and classifies the landslide and warning events, according to their spatial and temporal characteristics, by means of a number of model parameters. In the second step, the analyst computes a time-based duration matrix with a number of rows and columns equal to the number of classes defined for the warning and landslide events, respectively. In the third step, the analyst computes a series of model performance indicators derived from a set of performance criteria, which need to be defined by considering, once again, the features of the warning model. The applicability, potentialities and limitations of the EDuMaP method are tested and discussed using real landslides and warning data from the municipal early warning system operating in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil).

KSC-99pp1072

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-06-18

At the Launch Equipment Test Facility, , Will Reaves and Mike Solomon (kneeling), both with Lockheed Martin Technical Operations, observe parts of the X-33 umbilical system during testing. A team of Kennedy Space Center experts developed the umbilical system, comprising panels, valves and hoses that provide the means to load the X-33 with super-cold propellant. The X-33, under construction at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, Calif., is a half-scale prototype of the planned operational reusable launch vehicle dubbed VentureStar

KSC-99pp1073

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-06-18

At the Launch Equipment Test Facility, Mike Solomon (left) and Will Reaves (right), both with Lockheed Martin Technical Operations, move in for a close look at part of the X-33 umbilical system. A team of Kennedy Space Center experts developed the umbilical system, comprising panels, valves and hoses that provide the means to load the X-33 with super-cold propellant. The X-33, under construction at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, Calif., is a half-scale prototype of the planned operational reusable launch vehicle dubbed VentureStar

NEUTRONIC REACTOR FUEL ELEMENT AND CORE SYSTEM

DOEpatents

Moore, W.T.

1958-09-01

This patent relates to neutronic reactors and in particular to an improved fuel element and a novel reactor core system for facilitating removal of contaminating fission products, as they are fermed, from association with the flssionable fuel, so as to mitigate the interferent effects of such fission products during reactor operation. The fuel elements are comprised of tubular members impervious to fluid and contatning on their interior surfaces a thin layer of fissionable material providing a central void. The core structure is comprised of a plurality of the tubular fuel elements arranged in parallel and a closed manifold connected to their ends. In the reactor the core structure is dispersed in a water moderator and coolant within a pressure vessel, and a means connected to said manifuld is provided for withdrawing and disposing of mobile fission product contamination from the interior of the feel tubes and manifold.

T-cell epitope prediction and immune complex simulation using molecular dynamics: state of the art and persisting challenges

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Atomistic Molecular Dynamics provides powerful and flexible tools for the prediction and analysis of molecular and macromolecular systems. Specifically, it provides a means by which we can measure theoretically that which cannot be measured experimentally: the dynamic time-evolution of complex systems comprising atoms and molecules. It is particularly suitable for the simulation and analysis of the otherwise inaccessible details of MHC-peptide interaction and, on a larger scale, the simulation of the immune synapse. Progress has been relatively tentative yet the emergence of truly high-performance computing and the development of coarse-grained simulation now offers us the hope of accurately predicting thermodynamic parameters and of simulating not merely a handful of proteins but larger, longer simulations comprising thousands of protein molecules and the cellular scale structures they form. We exemplify this within the context of immunoinformatics. PMID:21067546

Tunable resonant sensing means to sense a particular frequency in a high energy charged particle beam and generate a frequency-domain signal in response

DOEpatents

Nakamura, Michiyuki; Nolan, Marvin L.

1988-01-01

A frequency domain sensing system is disclosed for sensing the position of a high energy beam of charged particles traveling within a housing which comprises a plurality of sensors positioned in the wall of the housing radially around the axis of the beam. Each of the sensors further comprises a first electrode of predetermined shape received in a bore in the housing to define a fixed capacitance and an inductance structure attached to the electrode to provide an inductance for the sensing means which will provide an LC circuit which will resonate at a predetermined frequency known to exist in the beam of charged particles. The sensors are further provided with tuning apparatus associated with the inductance structure to vary the amount of the inductance to thereby tune the sensors to the predetermined frequency prior to transmission of the signal to signal detection circuitry.

Exponential integration algorithms applied to viscoplasticity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Freed, Alan D.; Walker, Kevin P.

1991-01-01

Four, linear, exponential, integration algorithms (two implicit, one explicit, and one predictor/corrector) are applied to a viscoplastic model to assess their capabilities. Viscoplasticity comprises a system of coupled, nonlinear, stiff, first order, ordinary differential equations which are a challenge to integrate by any means. Two of the algorithms (the predictor/corrector and one of the implicits) give outstanding results, even for very large time steps.

Snowmelt hydrograph interpretation: Revealing watershed scale hydrologic characteristics of the Yellowstone volcanic plateau

USGS Publications Warehouse

Payton, Gardner W.; Susong, D.D.; Kip, Solomon D.; Heasler, H.

2010-01-01

Snowmelt hydrograph analysis and groundwater age dates of cool water springs on the Yellowstone volcanic plateau provide evidence of high volumes of groundwater circulation in watersheds comprised of quaternary Yellowstone volcanics. Ratios of maximum to minimum mean daily discharge and average recession indices are calculated for watersheds within and surrounding the Yellowstone volcanic plateau. A model for snowmelt recession is used to separate groundwater discharge from overland runoff, and compare groundwater systems. Hydrograph signal interpretation is corroborated with chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) and tritium concentrations in cool water springs on the Yellowstone volcanic plateau. Hydrograph parameters show a spatial pattern correlated with watershed geology. Watersheds comprised dominantly of quaternary Yellowstone volcanics are characterized by slow streamflow recession, low maximum to minimum flow ratios. Cool springs sampled within the Park contain CFC's and tritium and have apparent CFC age dates that range from about 50 years to modern. Watersheds comprised of quaternary Yellowstone volcanics have a large volume of active groundwater circulation. A large, advecting groundwater field would be the dominant mechanism for mass and energy transport in the shallow crust of the Yellowstone volcanic plateau, and thus control the Yellowstone hydrothermal system. ?? 2009 Elsevier B.V.

Hardware-in-the-loop tow missile system simulator

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

Waldman, G.S.; Wootton, J.R.; Hobson, G.L.

1993-07-06

A missile system simulator is described for use in training people for target acquisition, missile launch, and missile guidance under simulated battlefield conditions comprising: simulating means for producing a digital signal representing a simulated battlefield environment including at least one target movable therewithin, the simulating means generating an infrared map representing the field-of-view and the target; interface means for converting said digital signals to an infrared image; missile system hardware including the missile acquisition, tracking, and guidance portions thereof, said hardware sensing the infrared image to determine the location of the target in a field-of-view; and, image means for generatingmore » an infrared image of a missile launched at the target and guided thereto, the image means imposing the missile image onto the field-of-view for the missile hardware to acquire the image of the missile in addition to that of the target, and to generate guidance signals to guide the missile image to the target image, wherein the interfacing means is responsive to a guidance signal from the hardware to simulate, in real-time, the response of the missile to the guidance signal, the image means including a blackbody, laser means for irradiating the blackbody to heat it to a temperature at which it emits infrared radiation, and optic means for integrating the radiant image produced by heating the blackbody into the infrared map.« less

System for measuring radioactivity of labelled biopolymers

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

Gross, V.

1980-07-08

A system is described for measuring radioactivity of labelled biopolymers, comprising: a set of containers adapted for receiving aqueous solutions of biological samples containing biopolymers which are subsequently precipitated in said containers on particles of diatomite in the presence of a coprecipitator, then filtered, dissolved, and mixed with a scintillator; radioactivity measuring means including a detection chamber to which is fed the mixture produced in said set of containers; an electric drive for moving said set of containers in a stepwise manner; means for proportional feeding of said coprecipitator and a suspension of diatomite in an acid solution to saidmore » containers which contain the biological sample for forming an acid precipitation of biopolymers; means for the removal of precipitated samples from said containers; precipitated biopolymer filtering means for successively filtering the precipitate, suspending the precipitate, dissolving the biopolymers mixed with said scintillator for feeding of the mixture to said detection chamber; a system of pipelines interconnecting said above-recited means; and said means for measuring radioactivity of labelled biopolymers including, a measuring cell arranged in a detection chamber and communicating with said means for filtering precipitated biopolymers through one pipeline of said system of pipelines; a program unit electrically connected to said electric drive, said means for acid precipatation of biopolymers, said means for the removal of precipitated samples from said containers, said filtering means, and said radioactivity measuring device; said program unit adapted to periodically switch on and off the above-recited means and check the sequence of the radioactivity measuring operations; and a control unit for controlling the initiation of the system and for selecting programs.« less

Transparent selective illumination means suitable for use in optically activated electrical switches and optically activated electrical switches constructed using same

DOEpatents

Wilcox, R.B.

1991-09-10

A planar transparent light conducting means and an improved optically activated electrical switch made using the novel light conducting means are disclosed. The light conducting means further comprise light scattering means on one or more opposite planar surfaces thereof to transmit light from the light conducting means into adjacent media and reflective means on other surfaces of the light conducting means not containing the light scattering means. The optically activated electrical switch comprises at least two stacked photoconductive wafers, each having electrodes formed on both surfaces thereof, and separated by the planar transparent light conducting means. The light scattering means on the light conducting means face surfaces of the wafers not covered by the electrodes to transmit light from the light conducting means into the photoconductive wafers to uniformly illuminate and activate the switch. 11 figures.

Transparent selective illumination means suitable for use in optically activated electrical switches and optically activated electrical switches constructed using same

DOEpatents

Wilcox, Russell B.

1991-01-01

A planar transparent light conducting means and an improved optically activated electrical switch made using the novel light conducting means are disclosed. The light conducting means further comprise light scattering means on one or more opposite planar surfaces thereof to transmit light from the light conducting means into adjacent media and reflective means on other surfaces of the light conducting means not containing the light scattering means. The optically activated electrical switch comprises at least two stacked photoconductive wafers, each having electrodes formed on both surfaces thereof, and separated by the planar transparent light conducting means. The light scattering means on the light conducting means face surfaces of the wafers not covered by the electrodes to transmit light from the light conducting means into the photoconductive wafers to uniformly illuminate and activate the switch.

Method and apparatus for detection of chemical vapors

DOEpatents

Mahurin, Shannon Mark [Knoxville, TN; Dai, Sheng [Knoxville, TN; Caja, Josip [Knoxville, TN

2007-05-15

The present invention is a gas detector and method for using the gas detector for detecting and identifying volatile organic and/or volatile inorganic substances present in unknown vapors in an environment. The gas detector comprises a sensing means and a detecting means for detecting electrical capacitance variance of the sensing means and for further identifying the volatile organic and volatile inorganic substances. The sensing means comprises at least one sensing unit and a sensing material allocated therein the sensing unit. The sensing material is an ionic liquid which is exposed to the environment and is capable of dissolving a quantity of said volatile substance upon exposure thereto. The sensing means constitutes an electrochemical capacitor and the detecting means is in electrical communication with the sensing means.

Reciprocating down-hole sand pump

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

Ruhle, J.L.

1987-04-28

This patent describes the invention of a continuously-operated reciprocating down-hole sand pump comprising: a steel polished plunger pipe that strokes back and forth within a steel honed pump barrel, and is equipped with a self-lubricating fluorocarbon V-ring system that is pressure-actuated during compression strokes; the self-lubricating fluorocarbon V-ring system also is self-actuated by means of coil springs to provide wiping action to the polished plunger pipe during suction strokes; the self-lubricating fluorocarbons V-ring system also self-adjusts by means of coil springs located adjacent the fluorocarbon V-ring so as to automatically compensate for V-ring wear; and the self-lubricating fluorocarbon V-ring systemmore » also is designed in such a manner so as to eliminate voids and discourage the extrusion of V-rings in high temperature and high-pressure applications.« less

Aternating current photovoltaic building block

DOEpatents

Bower, Ward Issac; Thomas, Michael G.; Ruby, Douglas S.

2004-06-15

A modular apparatus for and method of alternating current photovoltaic power generation comprising via a photovoltaic module, generating power in the form of direct current; and converting direct current to alternating current and exporting power via one or more power conversion and transfer units attached to the module, each unit comprising a unitary housing extending a length or width of the module, which housing comprises: contact means for receiving direct current from the module; one or more direct current-to-alternating current inverters; an alternating current bus; and contact means for receiving alternating current from the one or more inverters.

Note: Three wavelengths near-infrared spectroscopy system for compensating the light absorbance by water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhutta, M. Raheel; Hong, Keum-Shik; Kim, Beop-Min; Hong, Melissa Jiyoun; Kim, Yun-Hee; Lee, Se-Ho

2014-02-01

Given that approximately 80% of blood is water, we develop a wireless functional near-infrared spectroscopy system that detects not only the concentration changes of oxy- and deoxy-hemoglobin (HbO and HbR) during mental activity but also that of water (H2O). Additionally, it implements a water-absorption correction algorithm that improves the HbO and HbR signal strengths during an arithmetic task. The system comprises a microcontroller, an optical probe, tri-wavelength light emitting diodes, photodiodes, a WiFi communication module, and a battery. System functionality was tested by means of arithmetic-task experiments performed by healthy male subjects.

Note: three wavelengths near-infrared spectroscopy system for compensating the light absorbance by water.

PubMed

Bhutta, M Raheel; Hong, Keum-Shik; Kim, Beop-Min; Hong, Melissa Jiyoun; Kim, Yun-Hee; Lee, Se-Ho

2014-02-01

Given that approximately 80% of blood is water, we develop a wireless functional near-infrared spectroscopy system that detects not only the concentration changes of oxy- and deoxy-hemoglobin (HbO and HbR) during mental activity but also that of water (H2O). Additionally, it implements a water-absorption correction algorithm that improves the HbO and HbR signal strengths during an arithmetic task. The system comprises a microcontroller, an optical probe, tri-wavelength light emitting diodes, photodiodes, a WiFi communication module, and a battery. System functionality was tested by means of arithmetic-task experiments performed by healthy male subjects.

Electric circuit breaker comprising a plurality of vacuum interrupters simultaneously operated by a common operator

DOEpatents

Barkan, Philip; Imam, Imdad

1980-01-01

This circuit breaker comprises a plurality of a vacuum-type circuit interrupters, each having a movable contact rod. A common operating device for the interrupters comprises a linearly-movable operating member. The interrupters are mounted at one side of the operating member with their movable contact rods extending in a direction generally toward the operating member. Means is provided for mechanically coupling the operating member to the contact rods, and this means comprises a plurality of insulating operating rods, each connected at one end to the operating member and at its opposite end to one of the movable contact rods. The operating rods are of substantially equal length and have longitudinal axes that converge and intersect at substantially a common point.

Automatic calibration and control system for a combined oxygen and combustibles analyzer

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

Woolbert, G.D.; Jewett, S.Y.; Robertson, J.W. Jr.

1989-08-01

This patent describes an automatic, periodically calibrating system for continuous output of calibrated signals from a combined oxygen and combustibles analyzer. It comprises: a combined oxygen and combustibles analyzer for sensing a level of oxygen and a level of combustibles in a volatile atmosphere and for producing a first sample signal indicative of the oxygen level and a second sample signal indicative of the combustibles level; means for introducing zero and span calibration test gases into the analyzer; means for periodically calibrating the analyzer. This including: a data control unit; a timer unit; a mechanical unit, means for calculating zeromore » and span values for oxygen and combustibles, means for comparing the calculated zero and span values for oxygen and combustibles to the preset alarm limits for oxygen and combustibles, means for activating an operator alarm, means for calculating oxygen and combustibles drift adjustments, a memory unit; and means for applying the oxygen and combustibles drift adjustments concurrently to the first and second sample signals, according to predetermined mathematical relationship, to obtain calibrated output signals indicative of the oxygen and combustibles level in the volatile atmosphere.« less

Light Emitting, Photovoltaic or Other Electronic Apparatus and System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blanchard, Richard A. (Inventor); Lewandowski, Mark Allan (Inventor); Lowenthal, Mark D. (Inventor); Fuller, Kirk A. (Inventor); Frazier, Donald Odell (Inventor); Shotton, Neil O. (Inventor); Ray, William Johnstone (Inventor)

2016-01-01

The present invention provides an electronic apparatus, such as a lighting device comprised of light emitting diodes (LEDs) or a power generating apparatus comprising photovoltaic diodes, which may be created through a printing process, using a semiconductor or other substrate particle ink or suspension and using a lens particle ink or suspension. An exemplary apparatus comprises a base; at least one first conductor; a plurality of diodes coupled to the at least one first conductor; at least one second conductor coupled to the plurality of diodes; and a plurality of lenses suspended in a polymer deposited or attached over the diodes. The lenses and the suspending polymer have different indices of refraction. In some embodiments, the lenses and diodes are substantially spherical, and have a ratio of mean diameters or lengths between about 10:1 and 2:1. The diodes may be LEDs or photovoltaic diodes, and in some embodiments, have a junction formed at least partially as a hemispherical shell or cap.

Light Emitting, Photovoltaic or Other Electronic Apparatus and System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shotton, Neil O. (Inventor); Lewandowski, Mark Allan (Inventor); Lowenthal, Mark D. (Inventor); Ray, William Johnstone (Inventor); Blanchard, Richard A. (Inventor); Fuller, Kirk A. (Inventor); Frazier, Donald Odell (Inventor)

2018-01-01

The present invention provides an electronic apparatus, such as a lighting device comprised of light emitting diodes (LEDs) or a power generating apparatus comprising photovoltaic diodes, which may be created through a printing process, using a semiconductor or other substrate particle ink or suspension and using a lens particle ink or suspension. An exemplary apparatus comprises a base; at least one first conductor; a plurality of diodes coupled to the at least one first conductor; at least one second conductor coupled to the plurality of diodes; and a plurality of lenses suspended in a polymer deposited or attached over the diodes. The lenses and the suspending polymer have different indices of refraction. In some embodiments, the lenses and diodes are substantially spherical, and have a ratio of mean diameters or lengths between about 10:1 and 2:1. The diodes may be LEDs or photovoltaic diodes, and in some embodiments, have a junction formed at least partially as a hemispherical shell or cap.

Light Emitting, Photovoltaic or Other Electronic Apparatus and System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, William Johnstone (Inventor); Shotton, Neil O. (Inventor); Lewandowski, Mark Allan (Inventor); Lowenthal, Mark D. (Inventor); Blanchard, Richard A. (Inventor); Fuller, Kirk A. (Inventor); Frazier, Donald Odell (Inventor)

2016-01-01

The present invention provides an electronic apparatus, such as a lighting device comprised of light emitting diodes (LEDs) or a power generating apparatus comprising photovoltaic diodes, which may be created through a printing process, using a semiconductor or other substrate particle ink or suspension and using a lens particle ink or suspension. An exemplary apparatus comprises a base; at least one first conductor; a plurality of substantially spherical or optically resonant diodes coupled to the at least one first conductor; at least one second conductor coupled to the plurality of diodes; and a plurality of substantially spherical lenses suspended in a polymer attached or deposited over the diodes. The lenses and the suspending polymer have different indices of refraction. In some embodiments, the lenses and diodes have a ratio of mean diameters or lengths between about 10:1 and 2:1. The diodes may be LEDs or photovoltaic diodes, and in some embodiments, have a junction formed at least partially as a hemispherical shell or cap.

Light emitting, photovoltaic or other electronic apparatus and system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, William Johnstone (Inventor); Lowenthal, Mark D. (Inventor); Shotton, Neil O. (Inventor); Blanchard, Richard A. (Inventor); Lewandowski, Mark Allan (Inventor); Fuller, Kirk A. (Inventor); Frazier, Donald Odell (Inventor)

2013-01-01

The present invention provides an electronic apparatus, such as a lighting device comprised of light emitting diodes (LEDs) or a power generating apparatus comprising photovoltaic diodes, which may be created through a printing process, using a semiconductor or other substrate particle ink or suspension and using a lens particle ink or suspension. An exemplary apparatus comprises a base; at least one first conductor; a plurality of diodes coupled to the at least one first conductor; at least one second conductor coupled to the plurality of diodes; and a plurality of lenses suspended in a polymer deposited or attached over the diodes. The lenses and the suspending polymer have different indices of refraction. In some embodiments, the lenses and diodes are substantially spherical, and have a ratio of mean diameters or lengths between about 10:1 and 2:1. The diodes may be LEDs or photovoltaic diodes, and in some embodiments, have a junction formed at least partially as a hemispherical shell or cap.

Light emitting, photovoltaic or other electronic apparatus and system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lowenthal, Mark D. (Inventor); Blanchard, Richard A. (Inventor); Lewandowski, Mark Allan (Inventor); Frazier, Donald Odell (Inventor); Shotton, Neil O. (Inventor); Ray, William Johnstone (Inventor); Fuller, Kirk A. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

The present invention provides an electronic apparatus, such as a lighting device comprised of light emitting diodes (LEDs) or a power generating apparatus comprising photovoltaic diodes, which may be created through a printing process, using a semiconductor or other substrate particle ink or suspension and using a lens particle ink or suspension. An exemplary apparatus comprises a base; at least one first conductor; a plurality of substantially spherical or optically resonant diodes coupled to the at least one first conductor; at least one second conductor coupled to the plurality of diodes; and a plurality of substantially spherical lenses suspended in a polymer attached or deposited over the diodes. The lenses and the suspending polymer have different indices of refraction. In some embodiments, the lenses and diodes have a ratio of mean diameters or lengths between about 10:1 and 2:1. The diodes may be LEDs or photovoltaic diodes, and in some embodiments, have a junction formed at least partially as a hemispherical shell or cap.

PT-symmetry of coupled fiber lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smirnov, Sergey V.; Churkin, Dmitry V.; Makarenko, Maxim; Vatnik, Ilya; Suchkov, Sergey V.; Sukhorukov, Andrey A.

2017-10-01

In this work, we propose a concept of a coupled fiber laser exhibiting PT-symmetry properties. We consider a system operated via Raman gain. The scheme comprises two identical fiber loops (ring cavities) connected by means of two fiber couplers with variable phase shift between them. We show that by changing the phase shift one can switch between generation regimes, realizing either PT-symmetric or PT-broken solution. Furthermore, the paper investigates some peculiarities of the system such as power oscillations and the role of nonlinear phase shift in fiber rings.

Control methods and valve arrangement for start-up and shutdown of pressurized combustion and gasification systems integrated with a gas turbine

DOEpatents

Provol, Steve J.; Russell, David B.; Isaksson, Matti J.

1994-01-01

A power plant having a system for converting coal to power in a gas turbine comprises a coal fed pressurized circulating bed for converting coal to pressurized gases, a gas turbine having a compressor for pressurizing air for the pressurized circulating bed and expander for receiving and expanding hot combustion gases for powering a generator, a first fast acting valve for controlling the pressurized air, a second fast acting valve means for controlling pressurized gas from the compressor to the expander.

Ion thrusting system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartley, Frank T. (Inventor)

2007-01-01

An ion thrusting system is disclosed comprising an ionization membrane having at least one area through which a gas is passed, and which ionizes the gas molecules passing therethrough to form ions and electrons, and an accelerator element which accelerates the ions to form thrust. In some variations, a potential is applied to the ionization membrane may be reversed to thrust ions in an opposite direction. The ionization membrane may also include an opening with electrodes that are located closer than a mean free path of the gas being ionized. Methods of manufacture and use are also provided.

KSC-99pp1074

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-06-18

At the Launch Equipment Test Facility, Mike Solomon, with Lockheed Martin Technical Operations, studies a part of the X-33 umbilical system during testing. Pointing to the part is Will Reaves, also with Lockheed Martin Technical Operations. A team of Kennedy Space Center experts developed the umbilical system, comprising panels, valves and hoses that provide the means to load the X-33 with super-cold propellant. The X-33, under construction at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in Palmdale, Calif., is a half-scale prototype of the planned operational reusable launch vehicle dubbed VentureStar

CONTROL LIMITER DEVICE

DOEpatents

DeShong, J.A.

1960-03-01

A control-limiting device for monltoring a control system is described. The system comprises a conditionsensing device, a condition-varying device exerting a control over the condition, and a control means to actuate the condition-varying device. A control-limiting device integrates the total movement or other change of the condition-varying device over any interval of time during a continuum of overlapping periods of time, and if the tothl movement or change of the condition-varying device exceeds a preset value, the control- limiting device will switch the control of the operated apparatus from automatic to manual control.

Magnetic confinement system using charged ammonia targets

DOEpatents

Porter, Gary D.; Bogdanoff, Anatoly

1979-01-01

A system for guiding charged laser targets to a predetermined focal spot of a laser along generally arbitrary, and especially horizontal, directions which comprises a series of electrostatic sensors which provide inputs to a computer for real time calculation of position, velocity, and direction of the target along an initial injection trajectory, and a set of electrostatic deflection means, energized according to a calculated output of said computer, to change the target trajectory to intercept the focal spot of the laser which is triggered so as to illuminate the target of the focal spot.

Guidance system for laser targets

DOEpatents

Porter, Gary D.; Bogdanoff, Anatoly

1978-01-01

A system for guiding charged laser targets to a predetermined focal spot of a laser along generally arbitrary, and especially horizontal, directions which comprises a series of electrostatic sensors which provide inputs to a computer for real time calculation of position, velocity, and direction of the target along an initial injection trajectory, and a set of electrostatic deflection means, energized according to a calculated output of said computer, to change the target trajectory to intercept the focal spot of the laser which is triggered so as to illuminate the target of the focal spot.

Apparatus for consolidating a pre-impregnated, filament-reinforced polymeric prepreg material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sandusky, Donald A. (Inventor)

1995-01-01

An apparatus and method were developed for providing a uniform, consolidated, unidirectional, continuous, fiber-reinforced polymeric material. The apparatus comprises a supply means, a forming means, a shaping means, and a take-up means. The forming means further comprises a pre-melting chamber and a stationary bar assembly. The shaping means is a loaded cooled nip-roller apparatus. Forming takes place by heating a polymeric prepreg material to a temperature where the polymer becomes viscous and applying pressure gradients at separate locations along the prepreg material. Upon exiting the forming means, the polymeric prepreg material is malleable, consolidated, and flattened. Shaping takes place by passing the malleable, consolidated, flattened prepreg material through a shaped, matched groove in a loaded, cooled nip-roller apparatus to provide the final solid product.

Face recognition system and method using face pattern words and face pattern bytes

DOEpatents

Zheng, Yufeng

2014-12-23

The present invention provides a novel system and method for identifying individuals and for face recognition utilizing facial features for face identification. The system and method of the invention comprise creating facial features or face patterns called face pattern words and face pattern bytes for face identification. The invention also provides for pattern recognitions for identification other than face recognition. The invention further provides a means for identifying individuals based on visible and/or thermal images of those individuals by utilizing computer software implemented by instructions on a computer or computer system and a computer readable medium containing instructions on a computer system for face recognition and identification.

Biocentrifuge system capable of exchanging specimen cages while in operational mode

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Belew, R. R. (Inventor)

1981-01-01

The centrifuge comprises a generally circular, rotatably mounted frame carrying a plurality of removable and replaceable cages for the animal specimens. Pairs of opposing cages may be removed from the frame while it is rotating by means of a cage exchanger which rotates concentrically within the centrifuge and the speed of which is controlled independently of the frame speed. An image rotator is provided for selective observation of the rotating animals. The system further includes a waste conveyor system, a food supply system, and a water supply system for each cage for creating a life sustaining environment so that the animals can live in the rotating centrifuge for extended periods.

Method for treating a nuclear process off-gas stream

DOEpatents

Pence, Dallas T.; Chou, Chun-Chao

1984-01-01

Disclosed is a method for selectively removing and recovering the noble gas and other gaseous components typically emitted during nuclear process operations. The method is adaptable and useful for treating dissolver off-gas effluents released during reprocessing of spent nuclear fuels whereby to permit radioactive contaminant recovery prior to releasing the remaining off-gases to the atmosphere. Briefly, the method sequentially comprises treating the off-gas stream to preliminarily remove NO.sub.x, hydrogen and carbon-containing organic compounds, and semivolatile fission product metal oxide components therefrom; adsorbing iodine components on silver-exchanged mordenite; removing water vapor carried by said stream by means of a molecular sieve; selectively removing the carbon dioxide components of said off-gas stream by means of a molecular sieve; selectively removing xenon in gas phase by passing said stream through a molecular sieve comprising silver-exchanged mordenite; selectively separating krypton from oxygen by means of a molecular sieve comprising silver-exchanged mordenite; selectively separating krypton from the bulk nitrogen stream using a molecular sieve comprising silver-exchanged mordenite cooled to about -140.degree. to -160.degree. C.; concentrating the desorbed krypton upon a molecular sieve comprising silver-exchange mordenite cooled to about -140.degree. to -160.degree. C.; and further cryogenically concentrating, and the recovering for storage, the desorbed krypton.

Fluorescent lamp unit with magnetic field generating means

DOEpatents

Grossman, Mark W.; George, William A.

1989-01-01

A fluorescent lamp unit having a magnetic field generating means for improving the performance of the fluorescent lamp is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment the fluorescent lamp comprises four longitudinally extending leg portions disposed in substantially quadrangular columnar array and joined by three generally U-shaped portions disposed in different planes. In another embodiment of the invention the magnetic field generating means comprises a plurality of permanent magnets secured together to form a single columnar structure disposed within a centrally located region defined by the shape of lamp envelope.

Fluorescent lamp unit with magnetic field generating means

DOEpatents

Grossman, M.W.; George, W.A.

1989-08-08

A fluorescent lamp unit having a magnetic field generating means for improving the performance of the fluorescent lamp is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment the fluorescent lamp comprises four longitudinally extending leg portions disposed in substantially quadrangular columnar array and joined by three generally U-shaped portions disposed in different planes. In another embodiment of the invention the magnetic field generating means comprises a plurality of permanent magnets secured together to form a single columnar structure disposed within a centrally located region defined by the shape of lamp envelope. 4 figs.

Bent shaft motor

DOEpatents

Benavides, Gilbert L.

1998-01-01

A nonelectromagnetic motor comprising a base, a bent shaft which is rotable relative to the base wherein the bent shaft comprises a straight portion aligned with a main axis and an offset portion that is offset with respect to the main axis; and a drive means for driving the offset portion of the bent shaft along a generally circular path in a plane perpendicular to the main axis to rotate the bent shaft. The bent shaft and drive means for driving the bent shaft can be selected from piezoelectric, magnetostrictive, rheological and shape memory alloys. The drive means of the nonelectromagnetic motor can additionally comprise a shell which shell surrounds and houses the bent shaft and precesses or gyrates which in turn causes the bent drive shaft to rotate. The nonelectromagnetic motor does not rely on friction for the application of torque upon a rotor.

Bent shaft motor

DOEpatents

Benavides, G.L.

1998-05-05

A nonelectromagnetic motor comprising a base, a bent shaft which is rotatable relative to the base wherein the bent shaft comprises a straight portion aligned with a main axis and an offset portion that is offset with respect to the main axis; and a drive means for driving the offset portion of the bent shaft along a generally circular path in a plane perpendicular to the main axis to rotate the bent shaft. The bent shaft and drive means for driving the bent shaft can be selected from piezoelectric, magnetostrictive, rheological and shape memory alloys. The drive means of the nonelectromagnetic motor can additionally comprise a shell which shell surrounds and houses the bent shaft and precesses or gyrates which in turn causes the bent drive shaft to rotate. The nonelectromagnetic motor does not rely on friction for the application of torque upon a rotor. 11 figs.

Method of measurement in biological systems

DOEpatents

Turteltaub, K.W.; Vogel, J.S.; Felton, J.S.; Gledhill, B.L.: Davis, J.C.; Stanker, L.H.

1993-05-11

A method is disclosed of quantifying molecules in biological substances, comprising: selecting a biological host in which radioisotopes are present in concentrations equal to or less than those in the ambient biosphere; preparing a long-lived radioisotope labeled reactive chemical specie; administering the chemical specie to the biological host in doses sufficiently low to avoid significant overt damage to the biological system; allowing a period of time to elapse sufficient for dissemination and interaction of the chemical specie with the host throughout the biological system of the host; isolating a reacted fraction of the biological substance from the host in a manner sufficient to avoid contamination of the substance from extraneous sources; converting the fraction of biological substance by suitable means to a material which efficiently produces charged ions in at least one of several possible ion sources without introduction of significant isotopic fractionation; and measuring the radioisotope concentration in the material by means of direct isotopic counting.

Method of producing molybdenum-99

DOEpatents

Pitcher, Eric John

2013-05-28

Method of producing molybdenum-99, comprising accelerating ions by means of an accelerator; directing the ions onto a metal target so as to generate neutrons having an energy of greater than 10 MeV; directing the neutrons through a converter material comprising techentium-99 to produce a mixture comprising molybdenum-99; and, chemically extracting the molybdenum-99 from the mixture.

Electrochemical energy storage device based on carbon dioxide as electroactive species

DOEpatents

Nemeth, Karoly; van Veenendaal, Michel Antonius; Srajer, George

2013-03-05

An electrochemical energy storage device comprising a primary positive electrode, a negative electrode, and one or more ionic conductors. The ionic conductors ionically connect the primary positive electrode with the negative electrode. The primary positive electrode comprises carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) and a means for electrochemically reducing the CO.sub.2. This means for electrochemically reducing the CO.sub.2 comprises a conductive primary current collector, contacting the CO.sub.2, whereby the CO.sub.2 is reduced upon the primary current collector during discharge. The primary current collector comprises a material to which CO.sub.2 and the ionic conductors are essentially non-corrosive. The electrochemical energy storage device uses CO.sub.2 as an electroactive species in that the CO.sub.2 is electrochemically reduced during discharge to enable the release of electrical energy from the device.

Emergency core cooling system

DOEpatents

Schenewerk, William E.; Glasgow, Lyle E.

1983-01-01

A liquid metal cooled fast breeder reactor provided with an emergency core cooling system includes a reactor vessel which contains a reactor core comprising an array of fuel assemblies and a plurality of blanket assemblies. The reactor core is immersed in a pool of liquid metal coolant. The reactor also includes a primary coolant system comprising a pump and conduits for circulating liquid metal coolant to the reactor core and through the fuel and blanket assemblies of the core. A converging-diverging venturi nozzle with an intermediate throat section is provided in between the assemblies and the pump. The intermediate throat section of the nozzle is provided with at least one opening which is in fluid communication with the pool of liquid sodium. In normal operation, coolant flows from the pump through the nozzle to the assemblies with very little fluid flowing through the opening in the throat. However, when the pump is not running, residual heat in the core causes fluid from the pool to flow through the opening in the throat of the nozzle and outwardly through the nozzle to the assemblies, thus providing a means of removing decay heat.

Method and apparatus for continuously referenced analysis of reactive components in solution

DOEpatents

Bostick, W.D.; Denton, M.S.; Dinsmore, S.R.

1979-07-31

A continuously referenced apparatus for measuring the concentration of a reactive chemical species in solution comprises in combination conduit means for introducing a sample solution, means for introducing one or more reactants into a sample solution, and a stream separator disposed within the conduit means for separating the sample solution into a first sample stream and a second sample stream. A reactor is disposed in fluid communication with the first sample stream. A reaction takes place between the reactants introduced and the reactive chemical species of interest, causing the consumption or production of an indicator species in the first sample stream. Measurement means such as a photometric system are disposed in communication with the first and second sample streams, and the outputs of the measurement means are compared to provide a blanked measurement of the concentration of indicator species. The apparatus is particularly suitable for measurement of isoenzymes in body tissues or fluids.

Rim-drive cable-aligned heliostat collector system

DOEpatents

Dolan, J.E.; Sands, T.D.

1982-09-30

Disclosed is a heliostat collector apparatus comprising at least one heliostat suspended from a plurality of longitudinally extending linkage means. An enclosure structure is disposed adjacent the heliostat and provides a means for allowing the heliostat to be substantially protected from weathering. A first drive means is operatively connected to the heliostat to effect steering thereof in at least one of first and second predetermined directions. Finally, a frame member is adapted for supporting the heliostat at an inner portion thereof. The frame includes a plurality of outer expandable portions. Each one of the expandable portions is adapted to slidably engage a corresponding one of the plurality of linkage means. The expandable portions are further adapted to allow the heliostat to be slidably moved along the linkage means in directions away from and towards the enclosure structure and to substantially reduce stress acting on the heliostat during steering.

Rim-drive cable-aligned heliostat collector system

DOEpatents

Dolan, James E.; Sands, Timothy D.

1984-01-01

Disclosed is a heliostat collector apparatus comprising at least one heliostat suspended from a plurality of longitudinally extending linkage means. An enclosure structure is disposed adjacent the heliostat and provides a means for allowing the heliostat to be substantially protected from weathering. A first drive means is operatively connected to the heliostat to effect steering thereof in at least one of first and second predetermined directions. Finally, a frame member is adapted for supporting the heliostat at an inner portion thereof. The frame includes a plurality of outer expandable portions. Each one of the expandable portions is adapted to slidably engage a corresponding one of the plurality of linkage means. The expandable portions are further adapted to allow the heliostat to be slidably moved along the linkage means in directions away from and towards the enclosure structure and to substantially reduce stress acting on the heliostat during steering.

Apparatus for testing for infection by a retrovirus

DOEpatents

Layne, Scott P.; Beugelsdijk, Tony J.

1999-01-01

An apparatus for testing specimens for infection by a retrovirus is described. The apparatus comprises a process controller including a communications module for translating user commands into test instrument suite commands and a means for communicating specimen test results to a user. The apparatus further comprises a test instrument suite including a means for treating the specimen to manifest an observable result and a detector for measuring the observable result.

Docking system for spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kahn, Jon B. (Inventor)

1988-01-01

A mechanism is disclosed for the docking of a spacecraft to a space station where a connection for transfer of personnel and equipment is desired. The invention comprises an active docking structure on a spacecraft and a passive docking structure on the station. The passive structure includes a docking ring mounted on a tunnel structure fixed to the space station. The active structure includes a docking ring carried by an actuator-attenuator devices, each attached at one end to the ring and at its other end in the spacecraft payload bay. The devices respond to command signals for moving the docking ring between a stowed position in the spacecraft to a deployed position suitable for engagement with the docking ring. The devices comprise means responsive to signals of sensed loadings to absorb impact energy and retraction means for drawing the coupled spacecraft and station into final docked configuration and moving the tunnel structure to a berthed position in the spacecraft. Latches couple the spacecraft and space station upon contact of the docking rings and latches establish a structural tie between the spacecraft when retracted.

Quality of life of Pakistani medical students studying in a private institution.

PubMed

Naseem, Sajida; Orooj, Fizza; Ghazanfar, Haider; Ghazanfar, Ali

2016-05-01

To find the quality of life of medical students using a World Health Organisation questionnaire. The cross-sectional study was conducted in February 2015 at Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad, Pakistan, and comprised students studying in an integrated medical education system. The shortened version of World Health Organisation Quality of Life questionnaire comprising 26 items was used. Consecutive non-probability sampling was used to collect data which was analysed using SPSS 21. Out of 417 medical students, 185(44.4%) were male and 232(55.6%) were female. Of them, 165(39.6%) were in pre-clinical years, while 252(60.4%) were in clinical years. Overall, 347(83.2%) students rated their quality of life as "good" or "very good". Environmental domain had the highest mean score of 70.43±16.38 while Psychological Health domain had the lowest mean score of 66.48±15.64. Medical education affects students' health, thus their quality of life varies. Identification of this is very important, since long-term stress can induce some permanent personality changes in individuals.

Self-Assembly in Systems Containing Silicone Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferreira, Maira Silva; Loh, Watson

2009-01-01

Chemical systems formed by silicone solvents and surfactants have potential applications in a variety of industrial products. In spite of their technological relevance, there are few reports on the scientific literature that focus on characterizing such ternary systems. In this work, we have aimed to develop a general, structural investigation on the phase diagram of one system that typically comprises silicone-based chemicals, by means of the SAXS (small-angle X-ray scattering) technique. Important features such as the presence of diverse aggregation states in the overall system, either on their own or in equilibrium with other structures, have been detected. As a result, optically isotropic chemical systems (direct and/or reversed microemulsions) and liquid crystals with lamellar or hexagonal packing have been identified and characterized.

Data Management System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

CENTRA 2000 Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Auto-trol technology, obtained permission to use software originally developed at Johnson Space Center for the Space Shuttle and early Space Station projects. To support their enormous information-handling needs, a product data management, electronic document management and work-flow system was designed. Initially, just 33 database tables comprised the original software, which was later expanded to about 100 tables. This system, now called CENTRA 2000, is designed for quick implementation and supports the engineering process from preliminary design through release-to-production. CENTRA 2000 can also handle audit histories and provides a means to ensure new information is distributed. The product has 30 production sites worldwide.

Consanguineous Marriage as a Risk Factor for Developing Keratoconus

PubMed Central

JAMALI, Hossein; BEIGI, Vahid; SADEGHI-SARVESTANI, Ali

2018-01-01

Heredity plays an important role in keratoconus (KC). Consanguineous marriage (CM) can affect the transmission of recessively inherited conditions. We aimed to investigate the role of consanguineous marriage in the development of KC. This study included two groups: the first group comprised 415 patients who underwent surgery for KC for the first time at Khalili University Hospital (Shiraz, Iran), between 2010 and 2014; the second group comprised 415 healthy individuals who served as age- and sex-matched controls for the patient group. All study subjects were from the Fars province in Iran. CM type was evaluated by a standard checklist in both groups. The mean inbreeding coefficient (α) was evaluated and compared between the two groups. The percentage of parental first-cousin marriages was 35.4% in the patient group and 18.3% in the control group. The mean inbreeding coefficient (α) was 0.0291 in the patient group and 0.0135 in the control group. Patients with KC had a significantly higher mean inbreeding coefficient (α) than controls (T = 8, df = 828, P < 0.001). Our study suggests that CM can play a role in the pathogenesis of KC. As this disease is among the most frequent ocular disorders in our country, CM should be considered by health care systems within their screening programs. PMID:29644240

Automatic insulation resistance testing apparatus

DOEpatents

Wyant, Francis J.; Nowlen, Steven P.; Luker, Spencer M.

2005-06-14

An apparatus and method for automatic measurement of insulation resistances of a multi-conductor cable. In one embodiment of the invention, the apparatus comprises a power supply source, an input measuring means, an output measuring means, a plurality of input relay controlled contacts, a plurality of output relay controlled contacts, a relay controller and a computer. In another embodiment of the invention the apparatus comprises a power supply source, an input measuring means, an output measuring means, an input switching unit, an output switching unit and a control unit/data logger. Embodiments of the apparatus of the invention may also incorporate cable fire testing means. The apparatus and methods of the present invention use either voltage or current for input and output measured variables.

An investigation into the kinematics of 2 cervical manipulation techniques.

PubMed

Williams, Jonathan M; Cuesta-Vargas, Antonio I

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to quantify the kinematics of the premanipulative position, the angular displacement, and velocity of thrust of 2 commonly used cervical spine manipulative procedures using inertial sensor technology. Thirteen asymptomatic subjects (7 females; mean age, 25.3 years; mean height, 170.9 cm; mean weight, 65.3 kg) received a right-handed and left-handed downslope and upslope manipulation, aimed at C4/5 while cervical kinematics were measured using an inertial sensor mounted on the forehead of the subject. One therapist used the upslope, and another therapist, the downslope, as was their preferred method. t tests were used to compare techniques and handiness. The results demonstrated differences in the kinematics between the 2 techniques. The downslope manipulation was associated with a mean premanipulative position of 24.8° side bending and 2.7° rotation, thrust displacement magnitude comprising of 4.5° side bending and 5.4° rotation with thrust velocity comprising, on average, of 57.5°/s side bending and 74.8°/s rotation. Upslope premanipulation was on average comprised of 30.1° side bending and 8.4° rotation, thrust displacement comprised of 4.5° side bending and 12.7° rotation with thrust velocity comprising of 75.9°/s side bending and 194.7°/s rotation. The results of this study demonstrate that there are different kinematic patterns for these 2 manipulative techniques. Copyright © 2013 National University of Health Sciences. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Control System for Bearingless Motor-generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kascak, Peter E. (Inventor); Jansen, Ralph H. (Inventor); Dever, Timothy P. (Inventor)

2008-01-01

A control system for an electromagnetic rotary drive for bearingless motor-generators comprises a winding configuration comprising a plurality of individual pole pairs through which phase current flows, each phase current producing both a lateral force and a torque. A motor-generator comprises a stator, a rotor supported for movement relative to the stator, and a control system. The motor-generator comprises a winding configuration supported by the stator. The winding configuration comprises at least three pole pairs through which phase current flows resulting in three three-phase systems. Each phase system has a first rotor reference frame axis current that produces a levitating force with no average torque and a second rotor reference frame axis current that produces torque.

Control system for bearingless motor-generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jansen, Ralph H. (Inventor); Dever, Timothy P. (Inventor); Kascak, Peter E. (Inventor)

2010-01-01

A control system for an electromagnetic rotary drive for bearingless motor-generators comprises a winding configuration comprising a plurality of individual pole pairs through which phase current flows, each phase current producing both a lateral force and a torque. A motor-generator comprises a stator, a rotor supported for movement relative to the stator, and a control system. The motor-generator comprises a winding configuration supported by the stator. The winding configuration comprises at least three pole pairs through which phase current flows resulting in three three-phase systems. Each phase system has a first rotor reference frame axis current that produces a levitating force with no average torque and a second rotor reference frame axis current that produces torque.

Fluidics platform and method for sample preparation

DOEpatents

Benner, Henry W.; Dzenitis, John M.

2016-06-21

Provided herein are fluidics platforms and related methods for performing integrated sample collection and solid-phase extraction of a target component of the sample all in one tube. The fluidics platform comprises a pump, particles for solid-phase extraction and a particle-holding means. The method comprises contacting the sample with one or more reagents in a pump, coupling a particle-holding means to the pump and expelling the waste out of the pump while the particle-holding means retains the particles inside the pump. The fluidics platform and methods herein described allow solid-phase extraction without pipetting and centrifugation.

Lock-up control system for an automatic transmission

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

Higashi, H.; Yashiki, S.; Waki, K.

A lock-up control system is described for an automatic transmission including a torque converter coupled with the output portion on an engine, and a power transmitting gear arrangement coupled with the output portion of the torque converter and controlled to vary the transmitting gear ratio therein by gear ratio control means in accordance with a shifting up or down command supplied to the latter. A lock-up clutch is provided for locking up the output portion of the torque converter to the output portion of the engine. The lock-up control system comprises: lock-up operation control means for controlling the lock-up clutchmore » to be in its operative state and in its inoperative state selectively, and for causing the lock-up clutch to be in the inoperative state thereof when the gear ratio control means performs the control with the shifting up or down command, and lock-up command means for preventing the lock-up operation control means from causing the lock-up clutch to be in the inoperative state thereof until a predetermined reductive variation in the speed of the output portion of the torque converter arises after the shifting up command is supplied to the gear ratio control means under the condition in which the lock-up clutch is in operation to hold a lock-up state.« less

Mean circulatory filling pressure: its meaning and measurement.

PubMed

Rothe, C F

1993-02-01

The volume-pressure relationship of the vasculature of the body as a whole, its vascular capacitance, requires a measurement of the mean circulatory filling pressure (Pmcf). A change in vascular capacitance induced by reflexes, hormones, or drugs has physiological consequences similar to a rapid change in blood volume and thus strongly influences cardiac output. The Pmcf is defined as the mean vascular pressure that exists after a stop in cardiac output and redistribution of blood, so that all pressures are the same throughout the system. The Pmcf is thus related to the fullness of the circulatory system. A change in Pmcf provides a uniquely useful index of a change in overall venous smooth muscle tone if the blood volume is not concomitantly changed. The Pmcf also provides an estimate of the distending pressure in the small veins and venules, which contain most of the blood in the body and comprise most of the vascular compliance. Thus the Pmcf, which is normally independent of the magnitude of the cardiac output, provides an estimate of the upstream pressure that determines the rate of flow returning to the heart.

Outcome of facial physiotherapy in patients with prolonged idiopathic facial palsy.

PubMed

Watson, G J; Glover, S; Allen, S; Irving, R M

2015-04-01

This study investigated whether patients who remain symptomatic more than a year following idiopathic facial paralysis gain benefit from tailored facial physiotherapy. A two-year retrospective review was conducted of all symptomatic patients. Data collected included: age, gender, duration of symptoms, Sunnybrook facial grading system scores pre-treatment and at last visit, and duration of treatment. The study comprised 22 patients (with a mean age of 50.5 years (range, 22-75 years)) who had been symptomatic for more than a year following idiopathic facial paralysis. The mean duration of symptoms was 45 months (range, 12-240 months). The mean duration of follow up was 10.4 months (range, 2-36 months). Prior to treatment, the mean Sunnybrook facial grading system score was 59 (standard deviation = 3.5); this had increased to 83 (standard deviation = 2.7) at the last visit, with an average improvement in score of 23 (standard deviation = 2.9). This increase was significant (p < 0.001). Tailored facial therapy can improve facial grading scores in patients who remain symptomatic for prolonged periods.

Power transmission device for four wheel drive vehicle

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

Iwatsuki, T.; Kawamoto, M.; Kano, T.

This patent describes a power transmission device with an improved differential motion limiting mechanism for a four wheel drive vehicle having automatic transmission means, front wheel differential gear means, differential motion limiting means and transfer unit means including center differential gear means, comprising: a first gear mount casing having a gear adapted to mesh with an output of a transmission; a differential motion limiting device arranged together with a front wheel differential gear in the first gear mount casing. The front wheel differential gear having a first diff-carrier and the differential motion limiting device comprising a hydraulic friction clutch formore » engaging and disengaging the first gear mount casing with the first diff-carrier of the front wheel differential gear; a second gear mount casing disposed coaxially with respect to the first gear mount casing; and a transfer unit including a center differential gear arranged in the second gear mount casing, the center differential gear comprising a second diff-carrier coupled with the first gear mount casing, a first side gear coupled with the first diff-carrier of the front wheel differential gear, and a second side gear coupled with the second gear mount casing for transmitting power to the rear wheels.« less

Boiler using combustible fluid

DOEpatents

Baumgartner, H.; Meier, J.G.

1974-07-03

A fluid fuel boiler is described comprising a combustion chamber, a cover on the combustion chamber having an opening for introducing a combustion-supporting gaseous fluid through said openings, means to impart rotation to the gaseous fluid about an axis of the combustion chamber, a burner for introducing a fluid fuel into the chamber mixed with the gaseous fluid for combustion thereof, the cover having a generally frustro-conical configuration diverging from the opening toward the interior of the chamber at an angle of between 15/sup 0/ and 55/sup 0/; means defining said combustion chamber having means defining a plurality of axial hot gas flow paths from a downstream portion of the combustion chamber to flow hot gases into an upstream portion of the combustion chamber, and means for diverting some of the hot gas flow along paths in a direction circumferentially of the combustion chamber, with the latter paths being immersed in the water flow path thereby to improve heat transfer and terminating in a gas outlet, the combustion chamber comprising at least one modular element, joined axially to the frustro-conical cover and coaxial therewith. The modular element comprises an inner ring and means of defining the circumferential, radial, and spiral flow paths of the hot gases.

In situ measurement system

DOEpatents

Lord, D.E.

1980-11-24

A multipurpose in situ underground measurement system comprising a plurality of long electrical resistance elements in the form of rigid reinforcing bars, each having an open loop hairpin configuration of shorter length than the other resistance elements. The resistance elements are arranged in pairs in a unitized structure, and grouted in place in the underground volume. Measurement means are provided for obtaining for each pair the electrical resistance of each element and the difference in electrical resistance of the paired elements, which difference values may be used in analytical methods involving resistance as a function of temperature. A scanner means sequentially connects the resistance-measuring apparatus to each individual pair of elements. A source of heating current is also selectively connectable for heating the elements to an initial predetermined temperature prior to electrical resistance measurements when used as an anemometer.

Variable frequency microprocessor clock generator

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

Branson, C.N.

A microprocessor-based system is described comprising: a digital central microprocessor provided with a clock input and having a rate of operation determined by the frequency of a clock signal input thereto; memory means operably coupled to the central microprocessor for storing programs respectively including a plurality of instructions and addressable by the central microprocessor; peripheral device operably connected to the central microprocessor, the first peripheral device being addressable by the central microprocessor for control thereby; a system clock generator for generating a digital reference clock signal having a reference frequency rate; and frequency rate reduction circuit means connected between themore » clock generator and the clock input of the central microprocessor for selectively dividing the reference clock signal to generate a microprocessor clock signal as an input to the central microprocessor for clocking the central microprocessor.« less

Passive fetal monitoring sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuckerwar, Allan J.; Hall, Earl T.; Baker, Donald A.; Bryant, Timothy D.

1992-08-01

An ambulatory, passive sensor for use in a fetal monitoring system is discussed. The invention is comprised of a piezoelectric polymer film, combined with a metallic mounting plate fastened to a belt, and electrically connected to a signal processing unit by means of a shielded cable. The purpose of the sensor is to receive pressure pulses emitted by a fetus inside an expectant mother. Additionally, the monitor will filter out pressure pulses arising from other sources, such as the maternal heart.

High specific surface area aerogel cryoadsorber for vacuum pumping applications

DOEpatents

Hill, Randal M.; Fought, Eric R.; Biltoft, Peter J.

2000-01-01

A cryogenic pumping system is provided, comprising a vacuum environment, an aerogel sorbent formed from a carbon aerogel disposed within the vacuum environment, and cooling means for cooling the aerogel sorbent sufficiently to adsorb molecules from the vacuum environment onto the aerogel sorbent. Embodiments of the invention include a liquid refrigerant cryosorption pump, a compressed helium cryogenic pump, a cryopanel and a Meissner coil, each of which uses carbon aerogel as a sorbent material.

Passive fetal monitoring sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zuckerwar, Allan J. (Inventor); Hall, Earl T. (Inventor); Baker, Donald A. (Inventor); Bryant, Timothy D. (Inventor)

1992-01-01

An ambulatory, passive sensor for use in a fetal monitoring system is discussed. The invention is comprised of a piezoelectric polymer film, combined with a metallic mounting plate fastened to a belt, and electrically connected to a signal processing unit by means of a shielded cable. The purpose of the sensor is to receive pressure pulses emitted by a fetus inside an expectant mother. Additionally, the monitor will filter out pressure pulses arising from other sources, such as the maternal heart.

Control of bed height in a fluidized bed gasification system

DOEpatents

Mehta, Gautam I.; Rogers, Lynn M.

1983-12-20

In a fluidized bed apparatus a method for controlling the height of the fdized bed, taking into account variations in the density of the bed. The method comprises taking simultaneous differential pressure measurements at different vertical elevations within the vessel, averaging the differential pressures, determining an average fluidized bed density, then periodically calculating a weighting factor. The weighting factor is used in the determination of the actual bed height which is used in controlling the fluidizing means.

INHIBITION OF CORROSION

DOEpatents

Atherton, J.E. Jr.; Gurinsky, D.H.

1958-06-24

A method is described for preventing corrosion of metallic container materials by a high-temperature liquid bismuth flowing therein. The method comprises fabricating the containment means from a steel which contains between 2 and 12% chromium, between 0.5 and 1.5% of either molybdenum and silicon, and a minimum of nickel and manganese, and maintaining zirconium dissolved in the liquid bismuth at a concentration between 50 parts per million and its saturation value at the lowest temperature in the system.

Metallization of Large Silicon Wafers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pryor, R. A.

1978-01-01

A metallization scheme was developed which allows selective plating of silicon solar cell surfaces. The system is comprised of three layers. Palladium, through the formation of palladium silicide at 300 C in nitrogen, makes ohmic contact to the silicon surface. Nickel, plated on top of the palladium silicide layer, forms a solderable interface. Lead-tin solder on the nickel provides conductivity and allows a convenient means for interconnection of cells. To apply this metallization, three chemical plating baths are employed.

Pattern of relapse in paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in a tertiary care unit.

PubMed

Siddiqui, Emad Uddin; Kazi, Sayyeda Ghazala; Habib, Muhammad Irfan; Ahmed Khan, Khalid Mehmood; Zia, Nukhba

2016-08-01

To determine the frequency, site and time to relapse from diagnosis, and to see the relationship of relapse with important prognostic factors. The prospective descriptive observational study was conducted at the National Institute of Child Health, Karachi, June 2005 to May 2007, and comprised newly-diagnosed cases of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Bone marrow aspiration was done on reappearance of blast cells in peripheral smear and cerebrospinal fluid. Detailed report was done each time when intra-thecal chemotherapy was given or there were signs and symptoms suggestive of central nervous system relapse. SPSS 12 was used for data analysis. Of the 60 patients enrolled, 4(6.6%) expired and 1(1.7%) was lost to follow-up. Of the 55(91.6%) who comprised the study sample, 35(58%) were males and 25(42%) females. Mean age of relapse was 6.8±3.27 years. Mean time to relapse from diagnosis was 1.3±0.54 years; 12(20%) patients suffered relapse, and of them 5(14%) were boys. Central nervous system relapse in 8(67%) patients was the most common site, with 3(25%) bone-marrow relapses. Out of 12 patient with relapses, 9(75%) had white blood cell count less than 50,000/cm. Relapse in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia was common, although treatment modalities are improving day by day.

User-friendly cognitive training for the elderly: a technical report.

PubMed

Boquete, Luciano; Rodríguez-Ascariz, José Manuel; Amo-Usanos, Carlos; Martínez-Arribas, Alejandro; Amo-Usanos, Javier; Otón, Salvador

2011-01-01

This article presents a system that implements a cognitive training program in users' homes. The system comprises various applications designed to create a daily brain-fitness regime. The proposed mental training system uses television and a remote control specially designed for the elderly. This system integrates Java applications to promote brain-fitness training in three areas: arithmetic, memory, and idea association. The system comprises the following: Standard television set, simplified wireless remote control, black box (system's core hardware and software), brain-fitness games (language Java), and Wi-Fi-enabled Internet-connected router. All data from the user training sessions are monitored through a control center. This control center analyzes the evolution of the user and the proper performance of the system during the test. The implemented system has been tested by six healthy volunteers. The results for this user group demonstrated the accessibility and usability of the system in a controlled real environment. The impressions of the users were very favorable, and they reported high adaptability to the system. The mean score for usability and accessibility assigned by the users was 3.56 out of 5 points. The operation stress test (over 200 h) was successful. The proposed system was used to implement a cognitive training program in users' homes, which was developed to be a low-cost tool with a high degree of user interactivity. The results of this preliminary study indicate that this user-friendly system could be adopted as a form of cognitive training for the elderly.

Extending the Functionality of Behavioural Change-Point Analysis with k-Means Clustering: A Case Study with the Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor)

PubMed Central

Zhang, Jingjing; Dennis, Todd E.

2015-01-01

We present a simple framework for classifying mutually exclusive behavioural states within the geospatial lifelines of animals. This method involves use of three sequentially applied statistical procedures: (1) behavioural change point analysis to partition movement trajectories into discrete bouts of same-state behaviours, based on abrupt changes in the spatio-temporal autocorrelation structure of movement parameters; (2) hierarchical multivariate cluster analysis to determine the number of different behavioural states; and (3) k-means clustering to classify inferred bouts of same-state location observations into behavioural modes. We demonstrate application of the method by analysing synthetic trajectories of known ‘artificial behaviours’ comprised of different correlated random walks, as well as real foraging trajectories of little penguins (Eudyptula minor) obtained by global-positioning-system telemetry. Our results show that the modelling procedure correctly classified 92.5% of all individual location observations in the synthetic trajectories, demonstrating reasonable ability to successfully discriminate behavioural modes. Most individual little penguins were found to exhibit three unique behavioural states (resting, commuting/active searching, area-restricted foraging), with variation in the timing and locations of observations apparently related to ambient light, bathymetry, and proximity to coastlines and river mouths. Addition of k-means clustering extends the utility of behavioural change point analysis, by providing a simple means through which the behaviours inferred for the location observations comprising individual movement trajectories can be objectively classified. PMID:25922935

Extending the Functionality of Behavioural Change-Point Analysis with k-Means Clustering: A Case Study with the Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor).

PubMed

Zhang, Jingjing; O'Reilly, Kathleen M; Perry, George L W; Taylor, Graeme A; Dennis, Todd E

2015-01-01

We present a simple framework for classifying mutually exclusive behavioural states within the geospatial lifelines of animals. This method involves use of three sequentially applied statistical procedures: (1) behavioural change point analysis to partition movement trajectories into discrete bouts of same-state behaviours, based on abrupt changes in the spatio-temporal autocorrelation structure of movement parameters; (2) hierarchical multivariate cluster analysis to determine the number of different behavioural states; and (3) k-means clustering to classify inferred bouts of same-state location observations into behavioural modes. We demonstrate application of the method by analysing synthetic trajectories of known 'artificial behaviours' comprised of different correlated random walks, as well as real foraging trajectories of little penguins (Eudyptula minor) obtained by global-positioning-system telemetry. Our results show that the modelling procedure correctly classified 92.5% of all individual location observations in the synthetic trajectories, demonstrating reasonable ability to successfully discriminate behavioural modes. Most individual little penguins were found to exhibit three unique behavioural states (resting, commuting/active searching, area-restricted foraging), with variation in the timing and locations of observations apparently related to ambient light, bathymetry, and proximity to coastlines and river mouths. Addition of k-means clustering extends the utility of behavioural change point analysis, by providing a simple means through which the behaviours inferred for the location observations comprising individual movement trajectories can be objectively classified.

Position sensor for a fuel injection element in an internal combustion engine

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

Fulkerson, D.E.; Geske, M.L.

1987-08-18

This patent describes an electronic circuit for dynamically sensing and processing signals representative of changes in a magnet field, the circuit comprising: means for sensing a change in a magnetic field external to the circuit and providing an output representative of the change; circuit means electronically coupled with the output of the sensing means for providing an output indicating the presence of the magnetic field change; and a nulling circuit coupled with the output of the sensing means and across the indicating circuit means for nulling the electronic circuit responsive to the sensing means output, to thereby avoid ambient magneticmore » fields temperature and process variations, and wherein the nulling circuit comprises a capacitor coupled to the output of the nulling circuit, means for charging and discharging the capacitor responsive to any imbalance in the input to the nulling circuit, and circuit means coupling the capacitor with the output of the sensing means for nulling any imbalance during the charging or discharging of the capacitor.« less

Production of MHD fluid

DOEpatents

Lacey, James J.; Kurtzrock, Roy C.; Bienstock, Daniel

1976-08-24

A hot gaseous fluid of low ash content, suitable for use in open-cycle MHD (magnetohydrodynamic) power generation, is produced by means of a three-stage process comprising (1) partial combustion of a fossil fuel to produce a hot gaseous product comprising CO.sub.2 CO, and H.sub.2 O, (2) reformation of the gaseous product from stage (1) by means of a fluidized char bed, whereby CO.sub.2 and H.sub.2 O are converted to CO and H.sub.2, and (3) combustion of CO and H.sub.2 from stage (2) to produce a low ash-content fluid (flue gas) comprising CO.sub.2 and H.sub.2 O and having a temperature of about 4000.degree. to 5000.degree.F.

Separator for electrochemical cells

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

Griffin, R.A.

1988-12-27

An electrochemical cell is described comprising a sealed casing; an anode, a cathode, a separator positioned between the anode and the cathode, and a non-aqueous electrolyte sealed in the casing; a pair of electrical terminals on the casing; means for electrically isolating the electrical terminals from each other; and means for electrically connecting the anode to one terminal and the cathode to the other terminal; wherein the anode is comprised of lithium foil, the cathode is comprised of manganese dioxide, and the separator consists essentially of a microporous polypropylene film having a thickness of about 1.5 mils and internal voidsmore » of about 60% by volume; wherein the anode, cathode, and separator are spirally wound together in a jelly roll configuration.« less

Laser-Based Acousto-Optic Uplink Communications Technique

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-08-18

An apparatus for enabling acousto - optic communication comprising an in-water platform comprising means for emitting an acoustic signal to an acousto ...portion of the first interrogation beam and a second laser beam formed from the reflection of the first interrogation beam off of the acousto - optic interaction... optic interaction zone, an in-air platform comprising the ability for transmitting a first optical interrogation beam, the ability for receiving a

Orthogonal system of fractural and integrated diagnostic features in vibration analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kostyukov, V. N.; Boychenko, S. N.

2017-08-01

The paper presents the results obtained in the studies of the orthogonality of the vibration diagnostic features system comprising the integrated features, particularly - root mean square values of vibration acceleration, vibration velocity, vibration displacement and fractal feature (Hurst exponent). To diagnose the condition of the equipment by the vibration signal, the orthogonality of the vibration diagnostic features is important. The fact of orthogonality shows that the system of features is not superfluous and allows the maximum coverage of the state space of the object being diagnosed. This, in turn, increases reliability of the machinery condition monitoring results. The studies were carried out on the models of vibration signals using the programming language R.

Fluidizing a mixture of particulate coal and char

DOEpatents

Green, Norman W.

1979-08-07

Method of mixing particulate materials comprising contacting a primary source and a secondary source thereof whereby resulting mixture ensues; preferably at least one of the two sources has enough motion to insure good mixing and the particulate materials may be heat treated if desired. Apparatus for such mixing comprising an inlet for a primary source, a reactor communicating therewith, a feeding means for supplying a secondary source to the reactor, and an inlet for the secondary source. Feeding means is preferably adapted to supply fluidized materials.

Mixing method and apparatus

DOEpatents

Green, Norman W.

1982-06-15

Method of mixing particulate materials comprising contacting a primary source and a secondary source thereof whereby resulting mixture ensues; preferably at least one of the two sources has enough motion to insure good mixing and the particulate materials may be heat treated if desired. Apparatus for such mixing comprising an inlet for a primary source, a reactor communicating therewith, a feeding means for supplying a secondary source to the reactor, and an inlet for the secondary source. Feeding means is preferably adapted to supply fluidized materials.

Container for reprocessing and permanent storage of spent nuclear fuel assemblies

DOEpatents

Forsberg, Charles W.

1992-01-01

A single canister process container for reprocessing and permanent storage of spent nuclear fuel assemblies comprising zirconium-based cladding and fuel, which process container comprises a collapsible container, having side walls that are made of a high temperature alloy and an array of collapsible support means wherein the container is capable of withstanding temperature necessary to oxidize the zirconium-based cladding and having sufficient ductility to maintain integrity when collapsed under pressure. The support means is also capable of maintaining their integrity at temperature necessary to oxide the zirconium-based cladding. The process container also has means to introduce and remove fluids to and from the container.

Magnetic field generated by lightning protection system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geri, A.; Veca, G. M.

1988-04-01

A lightning protection system for today's civil buildings must be electromagnetically compatible with the electronic equipment present in the building. This paper highlights a mathematic model which analyzes the electromagnetic effects in the environment in which the lightning protection system is. This model is developed by means of finite elements of an electrical circuit where each element is represented by a double pole circuit according to the trapezoidal algorithm developed using the finite difference method. It is thus possible to analyze the electromagnetic phenomena associated with the transient effects created by the lightning stroke even for a high-intensity current. Referring to an elementary system comprised of an air terminal, a down conductor, and a ground terminal, numerical results are here laid out.

[Louis Braille (1809-1852)--inventor of raised dots system].

PubMed

Maciejewicz, Piotr; Kopacz, Dorota

2005-01-01

Louis Braille was born on January 4th 1809 in Coupvray, France. An injury to his eye at the age of three, resulted in total loss of vision. In 1819 he entered the Institute for Blind Youth in Paris. There he would live, study, and later teach. When he was fifteen, he developed system of reading and writing by means of raised dots, which is known today as Braille. The basis of the Braille system is known as a Braille cell. The cell is comprised of six dots numbered in a specific order. Each dot or combination of dots represents a letter of the alphabet. This Braille system has established itself internationally and formed the basic Braille for all languages.

Associations Among Meaning in Life, Body Image, Psychopathology, and Suicide Ideation in Spanish Participants With Eating Disorders.

PubMed

Marco, José H; Cañabate, Montserrat; Pérez, Sandra; Llorca, Ginés

2017-12-01

The aims of this study were to (a) analyze whether participants with eating disorders have lower meaning in life than the nonclinical population; (b) discover whether participants with eating disorders with low meaning in life have more body image disturbances, more psychopathology, and higher suicide ideation than participants with high meaning in life; (c) analyze whether meaning in life is associated with eating disorder psychopathology; and (d) analyze whether meaning in life is able to predict eating disorder psychopathology and suicide ideation, when body image is controlled. The clinical sample comprised 247 Spanish participants diagnosed with eating disorders, and the nonclinical sample comprised Spanish 227 participants. Participants with eating disorders had lower meaning in life than the nonclinical population. Patients with low meaning in life had higher psychopathology and suicide ideation than participants with high meaning in life. Meaning in life was a significant predictor of the eating disorder psychopathology and suicide ideation. Low meaning in life is associated with eating disorder psychopathology in a Spanish sample with eating disorders. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Electrochemical nitridation of metal surfaces

DOEpatents

Wang, Heli; Turner, John A.

2015-06-30

Electrochemical nitridation of metals and the produced metals are disclosed. An exemplary method of electrochemical nitridation of metals comprises providing an electrochemical solution at low temperature. The method also comprises providing a three-electrode potentiostat system. The method also comprises stabilizing the three-electrode potentiostat system at open circuit potential. The method also comprises applying a cathodic potential to a metal.

SNAP-8 electrical generating system development program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1971-01-01

The SNAP-8 program has developed the technology base for one class of multikilowatt dynamic space power systems. Electrical power is generated by a turbine-alternator in a mercury Rankine-cycle loop to which heat is transferred and removed by means of sodium-potassium eutectic alloy subsystems. Final system overall criteria include a five-year operating life, restartability, man rating, and deliverable power in the 90 kWe range. The basic technology was demonstrated by more than 400,000 hours of major component endurance testing and numerous startup and shutdown cycles. A test system, comprised of developed components, delivered up to 35 kWe for a period exceeding 12,000 hours. The SNAP-8 system baseline is considered to have achieved a level of technology suitable for final application development for long-term multikilowatt space missions.

Dual nozzle single pump fuel injection system

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

Gonzalez, C.

1992-02-25

This patent describes an improvement in a fuel injection system in a stratified charge hybrid internal combustion engine including a main combustion chamber, a precombustion chamber connected with the main chamber, fuel injectors in the main combustion chamber and precombustion chamber which open at higher and lower pressure levels respectively to sequentially inject fuel into the prechamber and the main chamber, timed spark ignition means in the prechamber for ignition of the fuel-air mixture therein, and an engine driven and timed fuel injection pump having a variable output capacity that varies with power level position, the injection pump is suppliedmore » by a low pressure charging pump. The improvement comprises: a shuttle valve including a bore therein; a shuttle spool means positioned within the bore defining a prechamber supply chamber on one side thereof and a spool activation chamber on the opposite side thereof the spool means having a first and second position; biasing means urging the spool towards it first position with the spool actuation chamber at its minimum volume; first conduit means connecting charging pressure to the prechamber supply camber in the first position oil the spool means; second conduit means connecting the injection pump to spool actuation chamber; third conduit means connecting the spool actuating chamber with the main injector; forth conduit means connecting the prechamber supply chamber with the prechamber injector; the initial charge from the injection pump actuates the spool means from its fir to its second position.« less

Electromagnetic fields produced by incubators influence heart rate variability in newborns.

PubMed

Bellieni, C V; Acampa, M; Maffei, M; Maffei, S; Perrone, S; Pinto, I; Stacchini, N; Buonocore, G

2008-07-01

Incubators are largely used to preserve preterm and sick babies from postnatal stressors, but their motors produce high electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Newborns are chronically exposed to these EMFs, but no studies about their effects on the fragile developing neonatal structure exist. To verify whether the exposure to incubator motor electric power may alter autonomous nervous system activity in newborns. Heart rate variability (HRV) of 43 newborns in incubators was studied. The study group comprised 27 newborns whose HRV was studied throughout three 5-minute periods: with incubator motor on, off, and on again, respectively. Mean HRV values obtained during each period were compared. The control group comprised 16 newborns with constantly unrecordable EMF and exposed to changes in background noise, similar to those provoked by the incubator motor. Mean (SD) total power and the high-frequency (HF) component of HRV increased significantly (from 87.1 (76.2) ms2 to 183.6 (168.5) ms2) and the mean low-frequency (LF)/HF ratio decreased significantly (from 2.0 (0.5) to 1.5 (0.6)) when the incubator motor was turned off. Basal values (HF = 107.1 (118.1) ms2 and LF/HF = 1.9 (0.6)) were restored when incubators were turned on again. The LF spectral component of HRV showed a statistically significant change only in the second phase of the experiment. Changes in background noise did not provoke any significant change in HRV. EMFs produced by incubators influence newborns' HRV, showing an influence on their autonomous nervous system. More research is needed to assess possible long-term consequences, since premature newborns may be exposed to these high EMFs for months.

Space thermostat for the sight handicapped

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

Odom, J.A. Jr.; Wolfe, N.T.

1986-04-15

A space thermostat is described for the sight handicapped comprising a base member adapted to be mounted on a wall of a space, temperature responsive control means mounted on the base member adapted to control temperature conditioning apparatus supplying temperature conditioned medium to a space, temperature control point adjusting means attached to the base member and connected to the temperature responsive control means for adjusting the temperature to be maintained in the space, the adjusting means having a raised control temperature reference portion, indicia support means attached to the base member and cooperating with the reference portion, raised indicia meansmore » on the indicia support means corresponding with temperature whereby a person with sight handicap can feel the reference portion and the indicia means to position the reference portion to the desired temperature control set point, the indicia support means comprises a cover ring mounted on the base member and surrounding the adjusting means, and raised indication marks on the cover ring between raised reference temperature numbers, the marks corresponding to two temperature degree steps in the movement of the adjusting means.« less

Near-infrared radiation curable multilayer coating systems and methods for applying same

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

Bowman, Mark P; Verdun, Shelley D; Post, Gordon L

2015-04-28

Multilayer coating systems, methods of applying and related substrates are disclosed. The coating system may comprise a first coating comprising a near-IR absorber, and a second coating deposited on a least a portion of the first coating. Methods of applying a multilayer coating composition to a substrate may comprise applying a first coating comprising a near-IR absorber, applying a second coating over at least a portion of the first coating and curing the coating with near infrared radiation.

Docking system for spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kahn, Jon B. (Inventor)

1990-01-01

A mechanism for the docking of a space vehicle to a space station where a connection for transfer of personnel and equipment is desired. The invention comprises an active docking structure on a space vehicle 10 and a passive docking structure on a station 11. The passive structure includes a docking ring 50 mounted on a tunnel structure 35 fixed to the space station. The active structure including a docking ring 18 carried by actuator-attenuator devices 20, each attached at one end to the ring 18 and at its other end in the vehicle's payload bay 12. The devices 20 respond to command signals for moving the docking ring 18 between a stowed position in the space vehicle to a deployed position suitable for engagement with the docking ring 50. The devices 20 comprise means responsive to signals of sensed loadings to absorb impact energy and retraction means for drawing the coupled space vehicle and station into final docked configuration and moving the tunnel structure to a berthed position in the space vehicle 10. Latches 60 couple the space vehicle and space station upon contact of docking rings 18 and 50 and latches 41-48 establish a structural tie between the spacecraft when retracted.

Method of measurement in biological systems

DOEpatents

Turteltaub, K.W.; Vogel, J.S.; Felton, J.S.; Gledhill, B.L.; Davis, J.C.

1994-12-27

Disclosed is a method of quantifying molecules in biological substances comprising: a. selecting a biological host in which radioisotopes are present in concentrations equal to or less than those in the ambient biosphere, b. preparing a long-lived radioisotope labeled reactive chemical specie, c. administering the chemical specie to the biological host in doses sufficiently low to avoid significant overt damage to the biological system, d. allowing a period of time to elapse sufficient for dissemination and interaction of the chemical specie with the host throughout the biological system of the host, e. isolating a reacted fraction of the biological substance from the host in a manner sufficient to avoid contamination of the substance from extraneous sources, f. converting the fraction of biological substance by suitable means to a material which efficiently produces charged ions in at least one of several possible ion sources without introduction of significant isotopic fractionation, and, g. measuring the radioisotope concentration in the material by means of direct isotopic counting. 5 figures.

System for creating on site, remote from a sterile environment, parenteral solutions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finley, Mike (Inventor); Scharf, Mike (Inventor); Packard, Jeff (Inventor); Kipp, Jim (Inventor); Dudar, Tom (Inventor); Owens, Jim (Inventor); Bindokas, Al (Inventor)

1996-01-01

The present invention provides a system and method for creating on site, remote from a sterile environment, parenteral solutions in large volume parenteral containers for intravenous administration to a patient. In an embodiment, this system comprises an empty large volume container including at least one port for accessing an interior of the container. The port includes a sterilizing filter for sterilizing a fluid fed through the port into the container. A second container is provided including a solute and having means for coupling the second container to the large volume container and thereby providing fluid communication therebetween allowing the solute to be received within the interior of the container. A sterile water source is also provided including means for placing the sterile water source in fluid communication with the port and allowing water to flow from the sterile water source into the interior of the container. This allows the solute, and sterile water that has been fed through the filter, to create a parenteral solution in the large volume parenteral container.

Method of measurement in biological systems

DOEpatents

Turteltaub, Kenneth W.; Vogel, John S.; Felton, James S.; Gledhill, Barton L.; Davis, Jay C.; Stanker, Larry H.

1993-05-11

Disclosed is a method of quantifying molecules in biological substances, comprising: a. selecting a biological host in which radioisotopes are present in concentrations equal to or less than those in the ambient biosphere, b. preparing a long-lived radioisotope labeled reactive chemical specie, c. administering said chemical specie to said biological host in doses sufficiently low to avoid significant overt damage to the biological system thereof, d. allowing a period of time to elapse sufficient for dissemination and interaction of said chemical specie with said host throughout said biological system of said host, e. isolating a reacted fraction of the biological substance from said host in a manner sufficient to avoid contamination of said substance from extraneous sources, f. converting said fraction of biological substance by suitable means to a material which efficiently produces charged ions in at least one of several possible ion sources without introduction of significant isotopic fractionation, and, g. measuring the radioisotope concentration in said material by means of direct isotopic counting.

Method of measurement in biological systems

DOEpatents

Turteltaub, Kenneth W.; Vogel, John S.; Felton, James S.; Gledhill, Barton L.; Davis, Jay C.

1994-01-01

Disclosed is a method of quantifying molecules in biological substances comprising: a. selecting a biological host in which radioisotopes are present in concentrations equal to or less than those in the ambient biosphere, b. preparing a long-lived radioisotope labeled reactive chemical specie, c. administering said chemical specie to said biological host in doses sufficiently low to avoid significant overt damage to the biological system thereof, d. allowing a period of time to elapse sufficient for dissemination and interaction of said chemical specie with said host throughout said biological system of said host, e. isolating a reacted fraction of the biological substance from said host in a manner sufficient to avoid contamination of said substance from extraneous sources, f. converting said fraction of biological substance by suitable means to a material which efficiently produces charged ions in at least one of several possible ion sources without introduction of significant isotopic fractionation, and, g. measuring the radioisotope concentration in said material by means of direct isotopic counting.

Synthetic analogs of bacterial quorum sensors

DOEpatents

Iyer, Rashi [Los Alamos, NM; Ganguly, Kumkum [Los Alamos, NM; Silks, Louis A [Los Alamos, NM

2011-12-06

Bacterial quorum-sensing molecule analogs having the following structures: ##STR00001## and methods of reducing bacterial pathogenicity, comprising providing a biological system comprising pathogenic bacteria which produce natural quorum-sensing molecule; providing a synthetic bacterial quorum-sensing molecule having the above structures and introducing the synthetic quorum-sensing molecule into the biological system comprising pathogenic bacteria. Further is provided a method of targeted delivery of an antibiotic, comprising providing a synthetic quorum-sensing molecule; chemically linking the synthetic quorum-sensing molecule to an antibiotic to produce a quorum-sensing molecule-antibiotic conjugate; and introducing the conjugate into a biological system comprising pathogenic bacteria susceptible to the antibiotic.

Synthetic analogs of bacterial quorum sensors

DOEpatents

Iyer, Rashi S.; Ganguly, Kumkum; Silks, Louis A.

2013-01-08

Bacterial quorum-sensing molecule analogs having the following structures: ##STR00001## and methods of reducing bacterial pathogenicity, comprising providing a biological system comprising pathogenic bacteria which produce natural quorum-sensing molecule; providing a synthetic bacterial quorum-sensing molecule having the above structures and introducing the synthetic quorum-sensing molecule into the biological system comprising pathogenic bacteria. Further is provided a method of targeted delivery of an antibiotic, comprising providing a synthetic quorum-sensing molecule; chemically linking the synthetic quorum-sensing molecule to an antibiotic to produce a quorum-sensing molecule-antibiotic conjugate; and introducing the conjugate into a biological system comprising pathogenic bacteria susceptible to the antibiotic.

MULTIPLE ELECTRON BEAM ION PUMP AND SOURCE

DOEpatents

Ellis, R.E.

1962-02-27

A vacuum pump is designed which operates by ionizing incoming air and by withdrawing the ions from the system by means of electrical fields. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical housing communicable with the vessel to be evacuated and having a thin wall section in one end. Suitable coils provide a longitudinal magnetic field within the cylinder. A broad cathode and an anode structure is provided to establish a plurality of adjacent electron beams which are parallel to the cylinder axis. Electron reflector means are provided so that each of the beams constitutes a PIG or reflex discharge. Such structure provides a large region in which incoming gas molecules may be ionized by electron bombardment. A charged electrode assembly accelerates the ions through the thin window, thereby removing the gas from the system. The invention may also be utilized as a highly efficient ion source. (AEC)

Cluster analysis of novel isometric strength measures produces a valid and evidence-based classification structure for wheelchair track racing.

PubMed

Connick, Mark J; Beckman, Emma; Vanlandewijck, Yves; Malone, Laurie A; Blomqvist, Sven; Tweedy, Sean M

2017-11-25

The Para athletics wheelchair-racing classification system employs best practice to ensure that classes comprise athletes whose impairments cause a comparable degree of activity limitation. However, decision-making is largely subjective and scientific evidence which reduces this subjectivity is required. To evaluate whether isometric strength tests were valid for the purposes of classifying wheelchair racers and whether cluster analysis of the strength measures produced a valid classification structure. Thirty-two international level, male wheelchair racers from classes T51-54 completed six isometric strength tests evaluating elbow extensors, shoulder flexors, trunk flexors and forearm pronators and two wheelchair performance tests-Top-Speed (0-15 m) and Top-Speed (absolute). Strength tests significantly correlated with wheelchair performance were included in a cluster analysis and the validity of the resulting clusters was assessed. All six strength tests correlated with performance (r=0.54-0.88). Cluster analysis yielded four clusters with reasonable overall structure (mean silhouette coefficient=0.58) and large intercluster strength differences. Six athletes (19%) were allocated to clusters that did not align with their current class. While the mean wheelchair racing performance of the resulting clusters was unequivocally hierarchical, the mean performance of current classes was not, with no difference between current classes T53 and T54. Cluster analysis of isometric strength tests produced classes comprising athletes who experienced a similar degree of activity limitation. The strength tests reported can provide the basis for a new, more transparent, less subjective wheelchair racing classification system, pending replication of these findings in a larger, representative sample. This paper also provides guidance for development of evidence-based systems in other Para sports. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Competitive dynamics of lexical innovations in multi-layer networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Javarone, Marco Alberto

2014-04-01

We study the introduction of lexical innovations into a community of language users. Lexical innovations, i.e. new term added to people's vocabulary, plays an important role in the process of language evolution. Nowadays, information is spread through a variety of networks, including, among others, online and offline social networks and the World Wide Web. The entire system, comprising networks of different nature, can be represented as a multi-layer network. In this context, lexical innovations diffusion occurs in a peculiar fashion. In particular, a lexical innovation can undergo three different processes: its original meaning is accepted; its meaning can be changed or misunderstood (e.g. when not properly explained), hence more than one meaning can emerge in the population. Lastly, in the case of a loan word, it can be translated into the population language (i.e. defining a new lexical innovation or using a synonym) or into a dialect spoken by part of the population. Therefore, lexical innovations cannot be considered simply as information. We develop a model for analyzing this scenario using a multi-layer network comprising a social network and a media network. The latter represents the set of all information systems of a society, e.g. television, the World Wide Web and radio. Furthermore, we identify temporal directed edges between the nodes of these two networks. In particular, at each time-step, nodes of the media network can be connected to randomly chosen nodes of the social network and vice versa. In doing so, information spreads through the whole system and people can share a lexical innovation with their neighbors or, in the event they work as reporters, by using media nodes. Lastly, we use the concept of "linguistic sign" to model lexical innovations, showing its fundamental role in the study of these dynamics. Many numerical simulations have been performed to analyze the proposed model and its outcomes.

Solar receiver heliostat reflector having a linear drive and position information system

DOEpatents

Horton, Richard H.

1980-01-01

A heliostat for a solar receiver system comprises an improved drive and control system for the heliostat reflector assembly. The heliostat reflector assembly is controllably driven in a predetermined way by a light-weight drive system so as to be angularly adjustable in both elevation and azimuth to track the sun and efficiently continuously reflect the sun's rays to a focal zone, i.e., heat receiver, which forms part of a solar energy utilization system, such as a solar energy fueled electrical power generation system. The improved drive system includes linear stepping motors which comprise low weight, low cost, electronic pulse driven components. One embodiment comprises linear stepping motors controlled by a programmed, electronic microprocessor. Another embodiment comprises a tape driven system controlled by a position control magnetic tape.

Position determination systems. [using orbital antenna scan of celestial bodies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shores, P. W. (Inventor)

1976-01-01

A system for an orbital antenna, operated at a synchronous altitude, to scan an area of a celestial body is disclosed. The antenna means comprises modules which are operated by a steering signal in a repetitive function for providing a scanning beam over the area. The scanning covers the entire area in a pattern and the azimuth of the scanning beam is transmitted to a control station on the celestial body simultaneous with signals from an activated ground beacon on the celestial body. The azimuth of the control station relative to the antenna is known and the location of the ground beacon is readily determined from the azimuth determinations.

Human portable preconcentrator system

DOEpatents

Linker, Kevin L.; Bouchier, Francis A.; Hannum, David W.; Rhykerd, Jr., Charles L.

2003-01-01

A preconcentrator system and apparatus suited to human portable use wherein sample potentially containing a target chemical substance is drawn into a chamber and through a pervious screen. The screen is adapted to capture target chemicals and then, upon heating, to release those chemicals into the chamber. Chemicals captured and then released in this fashion are then carried to a portable chemical detection device such as a portable ion mobility spectrometer. In the preferred embodiment, the means for drawing sample into the chamber comprises a reversible fan which, when operated in reverse direction, creates a backpressure that facilitates evolution of captured target chemicals into the chamber when the screen is heated.

HYDRAULIC SERVO CONTROL MECHANISM

DOEpatents

Hussey, R.B.; Gottsche, M.J. Jr.

1963-09-17

A hydraulic servo control mechanism of compact construction and low fluid requirements is described. The mechanism consists of a main hydraulic piston, comprising the drive output, which is connected mechanically for feedback purposes to a servo control piston. A control sleeve having control slots for the system encloses the servo piston, which acts to cover or uncover the slots as a means of controlling the operation of the system. This operation permits only a small amount of fluid to regulate the operation of the mechanism, which, as a result, is compact and relatively light. This mechanism is particuiarly adaptable to the drive and control of control rods in nuclear reactors. (auth)

Security System Responsive to Optical Fiber Having Bragg Grating

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gary, Charles K. (Inventor); Ozcan, Meric (Inventor)

1997-01-01

An optically responsive electronic lock is disclosed comprising an optical fiber serving as a key and having Bragg gratings placed therein. Further, an identification system is disclosed which has the optical fiber serving as means for tagging and identifying an object. The key or tagged object is inserted into a respective receptacle and the Bragg gratings cause the optical fiber to reflect a predetermined frequency spectra pattern of incident light which is detected by a decoder and compared against a predetermined spectrum to determine if an electrical signal is generated to either operate the lock or light a display of an authentication panel.

48 CFR 52.227-20 - Rights in Data-SBIR Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... series of operations; and (ii) Recorded information comprising source code listings, design details...) Means (i) Computer programs that comprise a series of instructions, rules, routines, or statements... small business innovation research contract issued under the authority of 15 U.S.C. 638, which data are...

48 CFR 52.227-20 - Rights in Data-SBIR Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... series of operations; and (ii) Recorded information comprising source code listings, design details...) Means (i) Computer programs that comprise a series of instructions, rules, routines, or statements... small business innovation research contract issued under the authority of 15 U.S.C. 638, which data are...

48 CFR 52.227-20 - Rights in Data-SBIR Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... series of operations; and (ii) Recorded information comprising source code listings, design details...) Means (i) Computer programs that comprise a series of instructions, rules, routines, or statements... small business innovation research contract issued under the authority of 15 U.S.C. 638, which data are...

48 CFR 52.227-20 - Rights in Data-SBIR Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... series of operations; and (ii) Recorded information comprising source code listings, design details...) Means (i) Computer programs that comprise a series of instructions, rules, routines, or statements... small business innovation research contract issued under the authority of 15 U.S.C. 638, which data are...

48 CFR 52.227-20 - Rights in Data-SBIR Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... series of operations; and (ii) Recorded information comprising source code listings, design details...) Means (i) Computer programs that comprise a series of instructions, rules, routines, or statements... small business innovation research contract issued under the authority of 15 U.S.C. 638, which data are...

Container for reprocessing and permanent storage of spent nuclear fuel assemblies

DOEpatents

Forsberg, C.W.

1992-03-24

A single canister process container is described for reprocessing and permanent storage of spent nuclear fuel assemblies comprising zirconium-based cladding and fuel, which process container comprises a collapsible container, having side walls that are made of a high temperature alloy and an array of collapsible support means wherein the container is capable of withstanding temperature necessary to oxidize the zirconium-based cladding and having sufficient ductility to maintain integrity when collapsed under pressure. The support means is also capable of maintaining its integrity at a temperature necessary to oxidize the zirconium-based cladding. The process container also has means to introduce and remove fluids to and from the container. 10 figs.

System and method for underwater radiography

DOEpatents

Hunter, James; Keck, Danny Lee; Sims, Jr., James Rae; Watson, Scott Avery

2015-01-20

A system for subsea imaging comprises a first plate having an inner surface, an outer surface, and a cavity formed in the inner surface. In addition, the system comprises a phosphor imaging plate disposed in the cavity. Further, the system comprises a second plate having an inner surface facing the inner surface of the first plate and an outer surface facing away from the outer surface of the first plate. Still further, the system comprises a seal member disposed between the inner surface of the first plate and the inner surface of the second plate. The seal member extends around the perimeter of the cavity and is configured to seal the phosphor imaging plate and the cavity from intrusion water.

SIMPLIFIED SODIUM GRAPHITE REACTOR SYSTEM

DOEpatents

Dickinson, R.W.

1963-03-01

This patent relates to a nuclear power reactor comprising a reactor vessel, shielding means positioned at the top of said vessel, means sealing said reactor vessel to said shielding means, said vessel containing a quantity of sodium, a core tank, unclad graphite moderator disposed in said tank, means including a plurality of process tubes traversing said tank for isolating said graphite from said sodium, fuel elements positioned in said process tubes, said core tank being supported in spaced relation to the walls and bottom of said reactor vessel and below the level of said sodium, neutron shielding means positioned adjacent said core tank between said core tank and the walls of said vessel, said neutron shielding means defining an annuiar volume adjacent the inside wall of said reactor vessel, inlet plenum means below said core tank for providing a passage between said annular volume and said process tubes, heat exchanger means removably supported from the first-named shielding means and positioned in said annular volume, and means for circulating said sodium over said neutron shielding means down through said heat exchanger, across said inlet plenum and upward through said process tubes, said last-named means including electromagnetic pumps located outside said vessel and supported on said vessel wall between said heat exchanger means and said inlet plenum means. (AEC)

Fuel cell generator

DOEpatents

Makiel, Joseph M.

1985-01-01

A high temperature solid electrolyte fuel cell generator comprising a housing means defining a plurality of chambers including a generator chamber and a combustion products chamber, a porous barrier separating the generator and combustion product chambers, a plurality of elongated annular fuel cells each having a closed end and an open end with the open ends disposed within the combustion product chamber, the cells extending from the open end through the porous barrier and into the generator chamber, a conduit for each cell, each conduit extending into a portion of each cell disposed within the generator chamber, each conduit having means for discharging a first gaseous reactant within each fuel cell, exhaust means for exhausting the combustion product chamber, manifolding means for supplying the first gaseous reactant to the conduits with the manifolding means disposed within the combustion product chamber between the porous barrier and the exhaust means and the manifolding means further comprising support and bypass means for providing support of the manifolding means within the housing while allowing combustion products from the first and a second gaseous reactant to flow past the manifolding means to the exhaust means, and means for flowing the second gaseous reactant into the generator chamber.

Safety control circuit for a neutronic reactor

DOEpatents

Ellsworth, Howard C.

2004-04-27

A neutronic reactor comprising an active portion containing material fissionable by neutrons of thermal energy, means to control a neutronic chain reaction within the reactor comprising a safety device and a regulating device, a safety device including means defining a vertical channel extending into the reactor from an aperture in the upper surface of the reactor, a rod containing neutron-absorbing materials slidably disposed within the channel, means for maintaining the safety rod in a withdrawn position relative to the active portion of the reactor including means for releasing said rod on actuation thereof, a hopper mounted above the active portion of the reactor having a door disposed at the bottom of the hopper opening into the vertical channel, a plurality of bodies of neutron-absorbing materials disposed within the hopper, and means responsive to the failure of the safety rod on actuation thereof to enter the active portion of the reactor for opening the door in the hopper.

Living in Health, Harmony, and Beauty: The Diné (Navajo) Hózhó Wellness Philosophy

PubMed Central

Koithan, Mary

2015-01-01

Hózhó is the complex wellness philosophy and belief system of the Diné (Navajo) people, comprised of principles that guide one's thoughts, actions, behaviors, and speech. The alignment of integrative nursing principles and the Hózhó Wellness Philosophy illustrates the power that integrative nursing offers as a meta-theoretical perspective that can transform our healthcare system so that it is inclusive and responsive to the needs of our varied populations. Integrative nursing offers the opportunity to re-introduce cultural wellness wisdom, such as Hózhó, as a means to improve whole-person/whole-systems wellbeing and resilience. Integrative nursing, through the acceptance and validation of indigenous health-sustaining wisdom, contributes to the delivery of effective, authentic, culturally tailored, whole-person/whole-system, patient-centered, relationship-based healthcare. Highlighting the Diné Hózhó philosophy re-introduces this philosophy to the Diné, other American Indian/Alaska Native nations, global indigenous cultures, and even nonindigenous people of the world as a means to promote and sustain global health and wellbeing. PMID:25984415

Hydrogen separation process

DOEpatents

Mundschau, Michael [Longmont, CO; Xie, Xiaobing [Foster City, CA; Evenson, IV, Carl; Grimmer, Paul [Longmont, CO; Wright, Harold [Longmont, CO

2011-05-24

A method for separating a hydrogen-rich product stream from a feed stream comprising hydrogen and at least one carbon-containing gas, comprising feeding the feed stream, at an inlet pressure greater than atmospheric pressure and a temperature greater than 200.degree. C., to a hydrogen separation membrane system comprising a membrane that is selectively permeable to hydrogen, and producing a hydrogen-rich permeate product stream on the permeate side of the membrane and a carbon dioxide-rich product raffinate stream on the raffinate side of the membrane. A method for separating a hydrogen-rich product stream from a feed stream comprising hydrogen and at least one carbon-containing gas, comprising feeding the feed stream, at an inlet pressure greater than atmospheric pressure and a temperature greater than 200.degree. C., to an integrated water gas shift/hydrogen separation membrane system wherein the hydrogen separation membrane system comprises a membrane that is selectively permeable to hydrogen, and producing a hydrogen-rich permeate product stream on the permeate side of the membrane and a carbon dioxide-rich product raffinate stream on the raffinate side of the membrane. A method for pretreating a membrane, comprising: heating the membrane to a desired operating temperature and desired feed pressure in a flow of inert gas for a sufficient time to cause the membrane to mechanically deform; decreasing the feed pressure to approximately ambient pressure; and optionally, flowing an oxidizing agent across the membrane before, during, or after deformation of the membrane. A method of supporting a hydrogen separation membrane system comprising selecting a hydrogen separation membrane system comprising one or more catalyst outer layers deposited on a hydrogen transport membrane layer and sealing the hydrogen separation membrane system to a porous support.

Change Blindness as a Means of Studying Expertise in Physics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Feil, Adam; Mestre, Jose P.

2010-01-01

Previous studies examining expertise have used a wide range of methods. Beyond characterizing expert and novice behavior in different contexts and circumstances, many studies have examined the processes that comprise the behavior itself and, more recently, processes that comprise training and practice that develop expertise. Other studies, dating…

Triple loop heat exchanger for an absorption refrigeration system

DOEpatents

Reimann, Robert C.

1984-01-01

A triple loop heat exchanger for an absorption refrigeration system is disclosed. The triple loop heat exchanger comprises portions of a strong solution line for conducting relatively hot, strong solution from a generator to a solution heat exchanger of the absorption refrigeration system, conduit means for conducting relatively cool, weak solution from the solution heat exchanger to the generator, and a bypass system for conducting strong solution from the generator around the strong solution line and around the solution heat exchanger to an absorber of the refrigeration system when strong solution builds up in the generator to an undesirable level. The strong solution line and the conduit means are in heat exchange relationship with each other in the triple loop heat exchanger so that, during normal operation of the refrigeration system, heat is exchanged between the relatively hot, strong solution flowing through the strong solution line and the relatively cool, weak solution flowing through the conduit means. Also, the strong solution line and the bypass system are in heat exchange relationship in the triple loop heat exchanger so that if the normal flow path of relatively hot, strong solution flowing from the generator to an absorber is blocked, then this relatively, hot strong solution which will then be flowing through the bypass system in the triple loop heat exchanger, is brought into heat exchange relationship with any strong solution which may have solidified in the strong solution line in the triple loop heat exchanger to thereby aid in desolidifying any such solidified strong solution.

Development of an Intelligent Monitoring and Control System for a Heterogeneous Numerical Propulsion System Simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reed, John A.; Afjeh, Abdollah A.; Lewandowski, Henry; Homer, Patrick T.; Schlichting, Richard D.

1996-01-01

The NASA Numerical Propulsion System Simulation (NPSS) project is exploring the use of computer simulation to facilitate the design of new jet engines. Several key issues raised in this research are being examined in an NPSS-related research project: zooming, monitoring and control, and support for heterogeneity. The design of a simulation executive that addresses each of these issues is described. In this work, the strategy of zooming, which allows codes that model at different levels of fidelity to be integrated within a single simulation, is applied to the fan component of a turbofan propulsion system. A prototype monitoring and control system has been designed for this simulation to support experimentation with expert system techniques for active control of the simulation. An interconnection system provides a transparent means of connecting the heterogeneous systems that comprise the prototype.

Downhole transmission system

DOEpatents

Hall, David R [Provo, UT; Fox, Joe [Spanish Fork, UT

2008-01-15

A transmission system in a downhole component comprises a data transmission element in both ends of the downhole component. Each data transmission element houses an electrically conducting coil in a MCEI circular trough. An electrical conductor connects both the transmission elements. The electrical conductor comprises at least three electrically conductive elements insulated from each other. In the preferred embodiment the electrical conductor comprises an electrically conducting outer shield, an electrically conducting inner shield and an electrical conducting core. In some embodiments of the present invention, the electrical conductor comprises an electrically insulating jacket. In other embodiments, the electrical conductor comprises a pair of twisted wires. In some embodiments, the electrical conductor comprises semi-conductive material.

Ionization-chamber smoke detector system

DOEpatents

Roe, Robert F.

1976-10-19

This invention relates to an improved smoke-detection system of the ionization-chamber type. In the preferred embodiment, the system utilizes a conventional detector head comprising a measuring ionization chamber, a reference ionization chamber, and a normally non-conductive gas triode for discharging when a threshold concentration of airborne particulates is present in the measuring chamber. The improved system is designed to reduce false alarms caused by fluctuations in ambient temperature. Means are provided for periodically firing the gas discharge triode and each time recording the triggering voltage required. A computer compares each triggering voltage with its predecessor. The computer is programmed to energize an alarm if the difference between the two compared voltages is a relatively large value indicative of particulates in the measuring chamber and to disregard smaller differences typically resulting from changes in ambient temperature.

Remote Adaptive Motor Resistance Training Exercise Apparatus and Method of Use Thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reich, Alton (Inventor); Shaw, James (Inventor)

2017-01-01

The invention comprises a method and/or an apparatus using a computer configured exercise system equipped with an electric motor to provide physical resistance to user motion in conjunction with means for sharing exercise system related data and/or user performance data with a secondary user, such as a medical professional, a physical therapist, a trainer, a computer generated competitor, and/or a human competitor. For example, the exercise system is used with a remote trainer to enhance exercise performance, with a remote medical professional for rehabilitation, and/or with a competitor in a competition, such as in a power/weightlifting competition or in a video game. The exercise system is optionally configured with an intelligent software assistant and knowledge navigator functioning as a personal assistant application.

Remote Adaptive Motor Resistance Training Exercise Apparatus and Method of Use Thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shaw, James (Inventor); Reich, Alton (Inventor)

2016-01-01

The invention comprises a method and/or an apparatus using a computer configured exercise system equipped with an electric motor to provide physical resistance to user motion in conjunction with means for sharing exercise system related data and/or user performance data with a secondary user, such as a medical professional, a physical therapist, a trainer, a computer generated competitor, and/or a human competitor. For example, the exercise system is used with a remote trainer to enhance exercise performance, with a remote medical professional for rehabilitation, and/or with a competitor in a competition, such as in a power/weightlifting competition or in a video game. The exercise system is optionally configured with an intelligent software assistant and knowledge navigator functioning as a personal assistant application.

Apparatus for continuously referenced analysis of reactive components in solution

DOEpatents

Bostick, William D.; Denton, Mark S.; Dinsmore, Stanley R.

1981-01-01

A continuously referenced apparatus for measuring the concentration of a reactive chemical species in solution comprises in combination conduit means for introducing a sample solution, means for introducing one or more reactants into a sample solution, a reaction zone in fluid communication with said conduit means wherein a first chemical reaction occurs between said species and reactants, and a stream separator disposed within the conduit means for separating the sample solution into a sample stream and a reference stream. An enzymatic reactor is disposed in fluid communication with only the sample stream wherein a second reaction takes place between the said reactants, species, and reactor enzymes causing the consumption or production of an indicator species in just the sample stream. Measurement means such as a photometric system are disposed in communication with the sample and reference streams, and the outputs of the measurement means are compared to provide a blanked measurement of the concentration of indicator species. A peristaltic pump is provided to equalize flow through the apparatus by evacuation. The apparatus is particularly suitable for measurement of isoenzymes in body tissues or fluids.

Catalyst systems and uses thereof

DOEpatents

Ozkan, Umit S [Worthington, OH; Holmgreen, Erik M [Columbus, OH; Yung, Matthew M [Columbus, OH

2012-07-24

A method of carbon monoxide (CO) removal comprises providing an oxidation catalyst comprising cobalt supported on an inorganic oxide. The method further comprises feeding a gaseous stream comprising CO, and oxygen (O.sub.2) to the catalyst system, and removing CO from the gaseous stream by oxidizing the CO to carbon dioxide (CO.sub.2) in the presence of the oxidation catalyst at a temperature between about 20 to about 200.degree. C.

Study on figure-eight-shaped coil electrodynamic suspension magnetic levitation systems without cross-connection

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

Ribani, P.L.; Urbano, N.

2000-01-01

Two figure-eight-shaped coils for electrodynamic suspension (EDS) magnetic levitation (MAGLEV) systems without cross-connection are proposed and analyzed. The guideway coils are positioned under the MAGLEV vehicle; they are parallel to the horizontal plane. The interaction of a magnetic module on the vehicle, composed of three or four superconducting (SC) coils, with a guideway module, comprised of two figure-eight coils, is studied by means of the dynamic circuit theory. The currents in the SC coils are supposed to be constant in time while they move as a rigid body, with a constant velocity. Some results are presented and compared with thosemore » for a standard side-wall cross-connected system.« less

Fiber Grating Environmental Sensing System

DOEpatents

Schulz, Whitten L.; Udd, Eric

2003-07-29

Fiber grating environmental measurement systems are comprised of sensors that are configured to respond to changes in moisture or chemical content of the surrounding medium through the action of coatings and plates inducing strain that is measured. These sensors can also be used to monitor the interior of bonds for degradation due to aging, cracking, or chemical attack. Means to multiplex these sensors at high speed and with high sensitivity can be accomplished by using spectral filters placed to correspond to each fiber grating environmental sensor. By forming networks of spectral elements and using wavelength division multiplexing arrays of fiber grating sensors may be processed in a single fiber line allowing distributed high sensitivity, high bandwidth fiber optic grating environmental sensor systems to be realized.

Stereoscopic optical viewing system

DOEpatents

Tallman, C.S.

1986-05-02

An improved optical system which provides the operator with a stereoscopic viewing field and depth of vision, particularly suitable for use in various machines such as electron or laser beam welding and drilling machines. The system features two separate but independently controlled optical viewing assemblies from the eyepiece to a spot directly above the working surface. Each optical assembly comprises a combination of eye pieces, turning prisms, telephoto lenses for providing magnification, achromatic imaging relay lenses and final stage pentagonal turning prisms. Adjustment for variations in distance from the turning prisms to the workpiece, necessitated by varying part sizes and configurations and by the operator's visual accuity, is provided separately for each optical assembly by means of separate manual controls at the operator console or within easy reach of the operator.

Stereoscopic optical viewing system

DOEpatents

Tallman, Clifford S.

1987-01-01

An improved optical system which provides the operator a stereoscopic viewing field and depth of vision, particularly suitable for use in various machines such as electron or laser beam welding and drilling machines. The system features two separate but independently controlled optical viewing assemblies from the eyepiece to a spot directly above the working surface. Each optical assembly comprises a combination of eye pieces, turning prisms, telephoto lenses for providing magnification, achromatic imaging relay lenses and final stage pentagonal turning prisms. Adjustment for variations in distance from the turning prisms to the workpiece, necessitated by varying part sizes and configurations and by the operator's visual accuity, is provided separately for each optical assembly by means of separate manual controls at the operator console or within easy reach of the operator.

Internal combustion engine with compressed air collection system

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

Brown, P.W.

1988-08-23

This patent describes an internal combustion engine comprising cylinders respectively including a pressure port, pistons respectively movable in the cylinders through respective compression strokes, fuel injectors respectively connected to the cylinders and operative to supply, from a fuel source to the respective cylinders, a metered quantity of fuel conveyed by compressed gas in response to fuel injector operation during the compression strokes of the respective cylinders, a storage tank for accumulating and storing compressed gas, means for selectively connecting the pressure ports to the storage tank only during the compression strokes of the respective cylinders, and duct means connecting themore » storage tank to the fuel injectors for supplying the fuel injectors with compressed gas in response to fuel injector operation.« less

Patents -- Georges Charpak (1981-1988)

Science.gov Websites

to the sheet and means to measure the charges induced on this probe. In addition, by means of charges induced on said probe. This electronic circuit comprises an operational transimpedance amplifier

SNAP-8 electrical generating system development program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1971-01-01

The SNAP-8 program has developed the technology base for one class of multikilowatt dynamic space power systems. Electrical power is generated by a turbine-alternator in a mercury Rankine-cycle loop to which heat is transferred and removed by means of sodium-potassium eutectic alloy subsystems. Final system overall criteria include a five-year operating life, restartability, man rating, and deliverable power in the 90 kWe range. The basic technology has been demonstrated by more than 400,000 hours of major component endurance testing and numerous startup and shutdown cycles. A test system, comprised of developed components, delivered up to 35 kWe for a period exceeding 12,000 hours. The SNAP-8 system baseline is considered to have achieved a level of technology suitable for final application development for long-term multikilowatt space missions.

System for loading executable code into volatile memory in a downhole tool

DOEpatents

Hall, David R.; Bartholomew, David B.; Johnson, Monte L.

2007-09-25

A system for loading an executable code into volatile memory in a downhole tool string component comprises a surface control unit comprising executable code. An integrated downhole network comprises data transmission elements in communication with the surface control unit and the volatile memory. The executable code, stored in the surface control unit, is not permanently stored in the downhole tool string component. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the downhole tool string component comprises boot memory. In another embodiment, the executable code is an operating system executable code. Preferably, the volatile memory comprises random access memory (RAM). A method for loading executable code to volatile memory in a downhole tool string component comprises sending the code from the surface control unit to a processor in the downhole tool string component over the network. A central processing unit writes the executable code in the volatile memory.

Erosion resistant elbow for solids conveyance

DOEpatents

Everett, J.W.

1984-10-23

An elbow and process for fabrication for use in particulate material conveyancing comprises a curved outer pipe, a curved inner pipe having the same radius of curvature as the outer pipe, concentric with and internal to the outer pipe, comprising an outer layer comprised of a first material and an inner layer comprised of a second material wherein said first material is characterized by high erosion resistance when impinged by particulate material and wherein said second material is characterized by high tensile strength and flexibility, and an inner pipe supporting means for providing support to said inner pipe, disposed between said inner pipe and said outer pipe. 4 figs.

Erosion resistant elbow for solids conveyance

DOEpatents

Everett, James W.

1984-10-23

An elbow and process for fabrication for use in particulate material conveyancing comprising a curved outer pipe, a curved inner pipe having the same radius of curvature as the outer pipe, concentric with and internal to the outer pipe, comprising an outer layer comprised of a first material and an inner layer comprised of a second material wherein said first material is characterized by high erosion resistance when impinged by particulate material and wherein said second material is characterized by high tensile strength and flexibility, and an inner pipe supporting means for providing support to said inner pipe, disposed between said inner pipe and said outer pipe.

Erosion resistant elbow for solids conveyance

DOEpatents

Not Available

An elvow and process for fabrication for use in particulate material conveying comprising a curved outer pipe, a curved inner pipe having the same radius of curvature as the outer pipe, concentric with and internal to the outer pipe, comprising an outer layer comprised of a first material and an inner layer comprised of a second material wherein said first material is characterized by high erosion resistance when impinged by particulate material and wherein said second material is characterized by high tensile strength and flexibility, and an inner pipe supporting means for providing support to said inner pipe, disposed between said inner pipe and said outer pipe. 4 figures.

Percutaneous Direct Needle Puncture and Transcatheter N-butyl Cyanoacrylate Injection Techniques for the Embolization of Pseudoaneurysms and Aneurysms of Arteries Supplying the Hepato-pancreato-biliary System and Gastrointestinal Tract

PubMed Central

Yadav, Rajanikant R; Boruah, Deb K; Bhattacharyya, Vishwaroop; Prasad, Raghunandan; Kumar, Sheo; Saraswat, V A; Kapoor, V K; Saxena, Rajan

2016-01-01

Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and clinical efficacy of percutaneous direct needle puncture and transcatheter N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) injection techniques for the embolization of pseudoaneurysms and aneurysms of arteries supplying the hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) system and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Subjects and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted, where the study group comprised 11 patients with pseudoaneurysms/aneurysms of arteries supplying the HPB system and GI tract presenting to a tertiary care center from January 2015 to June 2016. Four patients (36.4%) underwent percutaneous direct needle puncture of pseudoaneurysms with NBCA injection, 3 patients (27.3%) underwent transcatheter embolization with NBCA as sole embolic agent, and in 4 patients (36.4%), transcatheter NBCA injection was done along with coil embolization. Results: This retrospective study comprised 11 patients (8 males and 3 females) with mean age of 35.8 years ± 1.6 (standard deviation [SD]). The mean volume of NBCA: ethiodized oil (lipiodol) mixture injected by percutaneous direct needle puncture was 0.62 ml ± 0.25 (SD) (range = 0.5–1 ml), and by transcatheter injection, it was 0.62 ml ± 0.37 (SD) (range = 0.3–1.4 ml). Embolization with NBCA was technically and clinically successful in all patients (100%). No recurrence of bleeding or recurrence of pseudoaneurysm/aneurysm was noted in our study. Conclusions: Percutaneous direct needle puncture of visceral artery pseudoaneurysms and NBCA glue injection and transcatheter NBCA injection for embolization of visceral artery pseudoaneurysms and aneurysms are cost-effective techniques that can be used when coil embolization is not feasible or has failed. PMID:28123838

Method and apparatus for an increased output for a pumped laser using a moving aperture

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

LaPlante, M.J.; Bender, H.A. III; Carbaugh, W.D. Jr.

1993-08-03

An enhanced pumped laser system is described comprising: (a) at least one laser medium for forming a laser beam, said laser beam having a laser beam axis, (b) at least one means for pumping at least a portion of said at least one laser medium, wherein said pumping causes a population inversion in at least a portion of said at least one laser medium, (c) at least one means for defining an allowable laser beam path, wherein said allowable laser beam path is smaller than the cross-section of said at least one laser medium, (d) at least one means formore » sweeping said allowable laser beam path through said population inverted region of said at least one laser medium, (e) at least one first mirror to reflect at least a portion of said laser beam,« less

Zinc electrode and rechargeable zinc-air battery

DOEpatents

Ross, Jr., Philip N.

1989-01-01

An improved zinc electrode is disclosed for a rechargeable zinc-air battery comprising an outer frame and a porous foam electrode support within the frame which is treated prior to the deposition of zinc thereon to inhibit the formation of zinc dendrites on the external surface thereof. The outer frame is provided with passageways for circulating an alkaline electrolyte through the treated zinc-coated porous foam. A novel rechargeable zinc-air battery system is also disclosed which utilizes the improved zinc electrode and further includes an alkaline electrolyte within said battery circulating through the passageways in the zinc electrode and an external electrolyte circulation means which has an electrolyte reservoir external to the battery case including filter means to filter solids out of the electrolyte as it circulates to the external reservoir and pump means for recirculating electrolyte from the external reservoir to the zinc electrode.

Method of measuring cross-flow vortices by use of an array of hot-film sensors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Agarwal, Aval K. (Inventor); Maddalon, Dal V. (Inventor); Mangalam, Siva M. (Inventor)

1993-01-01

The invention is a method for measuring the wavelength of cross-flow vortices of air flow having streamlines of flow traveling across a swept airfoil. The method comprises providing a plurality of hot-film sensors. Each hot-film sensor provides a signal which can be processed, and each hot-film sensor is spaced in a straight-line array such that the distance between successive hot-film sensors is less than the wavelength of the cross-flow vortices being measured. The method further comprises determining the direction of travel of the streamlines across the airfoil and positioning the straight-line array of hot film sensors perpendicular to the direction of travel of the streamlines, such that each sensor has a spanwise location. The method further comprises processing the signals provided by the sensors to provide root-mean-square values for each signal, plotting each root-mean-square value as a function of its spanwise location, and determining the wavelength of the cross-flow vortices by noting the distance between two maxima or two minima of root-mean-square values.

Cross-bedding set thickness and stratigraphic architecture of aeolian systems: An example from the Upper Permian Pirambóia Formation (Paraná Basin), southern Brazil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dias, Kayo Delorenzo Nardi; Scherer, Claiton M. S.

2008-05-01

The Pirambóia Formation comprises an unconformity-bounded aeolian succession essentially composed of three facies associations: aeolian sand sheet, aeolian dune and interdune facies associations. The lower portion of the Pirambóia Formation is characterised by aeolian sand sheet deposits, which are overlain by aeolian dune and interdune strata, hence pointing to an overall increase in sand availability within the paleoerg. The dune and interdune successions can be further subdivided into two distinct stratigraphic intervals in terms of their mean set thickness. Intervals 1 and 2 display mean set thicknesses of 2.9 and 6.19 m, respectively. This increase in the mean set thickness reflects an increase of the angle of climb and/or dune size. In addition to improve the stratigraphic subdivision, the recognition and correlation of intervals with distinct mean set thicknesses provides a tool for reconstructing aeolian erg architecture from drill cores.

Method and apparatus for vapor detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lerner, Melvin (Inventor); Hood, Lyal V. (Inventor); Rommel, Marjorie A. (Inventor); Pettitt, Bruce C. (Inventor); Erikson, Charles M. (Inventor)

1980-01-01

The method disclosed herein may be practiced by passing the vapors to be sampled along a path with halogen vapor, preferably chlorine vapor, heating the mixed vapors to halogenate those of the sampled vapors subject to halogenation, removing unreacted halogen vapor, and then sensing the vapors for organic halogenated compounds. The apparatus disclosed herein comprises means for flowing the vapors, both sample and halogen vapors, into a common path, means for heating the mixed vapors to effect the halogenation reaction, means for removing unreacted halogen vapor, and a sensing device for sensing halogenated compounds. By such a method and means, the vapors of low molecular weight hydrocarbons, ketones and alcohols, when present, such as methane, ethane, acetone, ethanol, and the like are converted, at least in part, to halogenated compounds, then the excess halogen removed or trapped, and the resultant vapors of the halogenated compounds sensed or detected. The system is highly sensitive. For example, acetone in a concentration of 30 parts per billion (volume) is readily detected.

The new interactive CESAR

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

Fox, P.B.; Yatabe, M.

1987-01-01

In this report the Nuclear Criticality Safety Analytical Methods Resource Center describes a new interactive version of CESAR, a critical experiments storage and retrieval program available on the Nuclear Criticality Information System (NCIS) database at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The original version of CESAR did not include interactive search capabilities. The CESAR database was developed to provide a convenient, readily accessible means of storing and retrieving code input data for the SCALE Criticality Safety Analytical Sequences and the codes comprising those sequences. The database includes data for both cross section preparation and criticality safety calculations. 3 refs., 1 tab.

New interactive CESAR

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

Fox, P.B.; Yatabe, M.

1987-01-01

The Nuclear Criticality Safety Analytical Methods Resource Center announces the availability of a new interactive version of CESAR, a critical experiments storage and retrieval program available on the Nuclear Criticality Information System (NCIS) data base at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The original version of CESAR did not include interactive search capabilities. The CESAR data base was developed to provide a convenient, readily accessible means of storing and retrieving code input data for the SCALE criticality safety analytical sequences and the codes comprising those sequences. The data base includes data for both cross-section preparation and criticality safety calculations.

Figures of merit for microwave photonic phase shifters based on semiconductor optical amplifiers.

PubMed

Sancho, Juan; Lloret, Juan; Gasulla, Ivana; Sales, Salvador; Capmany, José

2012-05-07

We theoretically and experimentally compare the performance of two fully tunable phase shifter structures based on semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOA) by means of several figures of merit common to microwave photonic systems. A single SOA stage followed by a tailored notch filter is compared with a cascaded implementation comprising three SOA-based phase shifter stages. Attention is focused on the assessment of the RF net gain, noise figure and nonlinear distortion. Recommendations on the performance optimization of this sort of approaches are detailed.

Silicon photonic integrated circuit for fast and precise dual-comb distance metrology.

PubMed

Weimann, C; Lauermann, M; Hoeller, F; Freude, W; Koos, C

2017-11-27

We demonstrate an optical distance sensor integrated on a silicon photonic chip with a footprint of well below 1 mm 2 . The integrated system comprises a heterodyne receiver structure with tunable power splitting ratio and on-chip photodetectors. The functionality of the device is demonstrated in a synthetic-wavelength interferometry experiment using frequency combs as optical sources. We obtain accurate and fast distance measurements with an unambiguity range of 3.75 mm, a root-mean-square error of 3.4 µm and acquisition times of 14 µs.

Creating Accountable Care Organizations: The Extended Hospital Medical Staff

PubMed Central

Fisher, Elliott S.; Staiger, Douglas O.; Bynum, Julie P.W.; Gottlieb, Daniel J.

2007-01-01

Many current policies and approaches to performance measurement and payment reform focus on individual providers; they risk reinforcing the fragmented care and lack of coordination experienced by patients with serious illness. In this paper we show that Medicare beneficiaries receive most of their care from relatively coherent local delivery systems comprising physicians and the hospitals where they work or admit their patients. Efforts to create accountable care organizations at this level—the extended hospital medical staff—deserve consideration as a potential means of improving the quality and lowering the cost of care. PMID:17148490

French Modular Impoundment: Final Cost and Performance Evaluation

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

Drown, Peter; French, Bill

This report comprises the Final Cost and Performance Report for the Department of Energy Award # EE0007244, the French Modular Impoundment (aka the “French Dam”.) The French Dam is a system of applying precast modular construction to water control structures. The “French Dam” is a term used to cover the construction means/methods used to construct or rehabilitate dams, diversion structures, powerhouses, and other hydraulic structures which impound water and are covered under FDE’s existing IP (Patents # US8414223B2; US9103084B2.)

Method for transporting impellent gases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Papst, H.

1975-01-01

The described system DAL comprises a method and a device for transportation of buoyant impellent gases, without the need for expensive pipes and liquid tankers. The gas is self air-lifted from its source to a consignment point by means of voluminous, light, hollow bodies. Upon release of the gas at the consignment point, the bodies are filled with another cheap buoyant gas (steam or heated air) for the return trip to the source. In both directions substantial quantities of supplementary freight goods can be transported. Requirements and advantages are presented.

Optical panel system including stackable waveguides

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

DeSanto, Leonard; Veligdan, James T.

An optical panel system including stackable waveguides is provided. The optical panel system displays a projected light image and comprises a plurality of planar optical waveguides in a stacked state. The optical panel system further comprises a support system that aligns and supports the waveguides in the stacked state. In one embodiment, the support system comprises at least one rod, wherein each waveguide contains at least one hole, and wherein each rod is positioned through a corresponding hole in each waveguide. In another embodiment, the support system comprises at least two opposing edge structures having the waveguides positioned therebetween, whereinmore » each opposing edge structure contains a mating surface, wherein opposite edges of each waveguide contain mating surfaces which are complementary to the mating surfaces of the opposing edge structures, and wherein each mating surface of the opposing edge structures engages a corresponding complementary mating surface of the opposite edges of each waveguide.« less

Optical panel system including stackable waveguides

DOEpatents

DeSanto, Leonard; Veligdan, James T.

2007-03-06

An optical panel system including stackable waveguides is provided. The optical panel system displays a projected light image and comprises a plurality of planar optical waveguides in a stacked state. The optical panel system further comprises a support system that aligns and supports the waveguides in the stacked state. In one embodiment, the support system comprises at least one rod, wherein each waveguide contains at least one hole, and wherein each rod is positioned through a corresponding hole in each waveguide. In another embodiment, the support system comprises at least two opposing edge structures having the waveguides positioned therebetween, wherein each opposing edge structure contains a mating surface, wherein opposite edges of each waveguide contain mating surfaces which are complementary to the mating surfaces of the opposing edge structures, and wherein each mating surface of the opposing edge structures engages a corresponding complementary mating surface of the opposite edges of each waveguide.

Apparatus for the pulverization and burning of solid fuels

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

Sayler, W.H.; White, J.C.

1988-06-07

This patent describes an apparatus for pulverizing coarsely-divided, solid fuel, such as coal, and for feeding the pulverized fuel to a burner. It comprises an upstanding housing having side, bottom and top walls; an upstanding shaft axially mounted for rotation within the housing; means for rotating the shaft; a slinger having an annular opening therethrough concentric with and closely encircling the shaft; fan means secured to the shaft immediately below the top wall of the housing; air-turbulating means comprising a pair of spiders; air-inlet means in the housing below the slinger so that air will flow upwardly through the annularmore » opening as well as peripherally of the slinger, entraining fine solid fuel particles during passage through the housing interior for further pulverization by size attrition between the spiders; outlet means provided through the side of the housing adjacent to the fan means; and outlet means being adapted for connection with the burner; and solid fuel input mans leading into the housing and positioned to feed coarsely-divided solid fuel onto the slinger.« less

Feasibility of satellite interferometry for surveillance, navigation, and traffic control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gopalapillai, S.; Ruck, G. T.; Mourad, A. G.

1976-01-01

The feasibility of using a satellite borne interferometry system for surveillance, navigation, and traffic control applications was investigated. The evaluation was comprised of: (1) a two part systems analysis (software and hardware); (2) a survey of competitive navigation systems (both experimental and planned); (3) a comparison of their characteristics and capabilities with those of an interferometry system; and (4) a limited survey of potential users to determine the variety of possible applications for the interferometry system and the requirements which it would have to meet. Five candidate or "strawman" interferometry systems for various applications with various capabilities were configured (on a preliminary basis) and were evaluated. It is concluded that interferometry in conjunction with a geostationary satellite has an inherent ability to provide both a means for navigation/position location and communication. It offers a very high potential for meeting a large number of user applications and requirements for navigation and related functions.

Measurement of Temperature and Relative Humidity with Polymer Optical Fiber Sensors Based on the Induced Stress-Optic Effect

PubMed Central

Pontes, Maria José

2018-01-01

This paper presents a system capable of measuring temperature and relative humidity with polymer optical fiber (POF) sensors. The sensors are based on variations of the Young’s and shear moduli of the POF with variations in temperature and relative humidity. The system comprises two POFs, each with a predefined torsion stress that resulted in a variation in the fiber refractive index due to the stress-optic effect. Because there is a correlation between stress and material properties, the variation in temperature and humidity causes a variation in the fiber’s stress, which leads to variations in the fiber refractive index. Only two photodiodes comprise the sensor interrogation, resulting in a simple and low-cost system capable of measuring humidity in the range of 5–97% and temperature in the range of 21–46 °C. The root mean squared errors (RMSEs) between the proposed sensors and the reference were 1.12 °C and 1.36% for the measurements of temperature and relative humidity, respectively. In addition, fiber etching resulted in a sensor with a 2 s response time for a relative humidity variation of 10%, which is one of the lowest recorded response times for intrinsic POF humidity sensors. PMID:29558387

Measurement of Temperature and Relative Humidity with Polymer Optical Fiber Sensors Based on the Induced Stress-Optic Effect.

PubMed

Leal-Junior, Arnaldo; Frizera-Neto, Anselmo; Marques, Carlos; Pontes, Maria José

2018-03-20

This paper presents a system capable of measuring temperature and relative humidity with polymer optical fiber (POF) sensors. The sensors are based on variations of the Young's and shear moduli of the POF with variations in temperature and relative humidity. The system comprises two POFs, each with a predefined torsion stress that resulted in a variation in the fiber refractive index due to the stress-optic effect. Because there is a correlation between stress and material properties, the variation in temperature and humidity causes a variation in the fiber's stress, which leads to variations in the fiber refractive index. Only two photodiodes comprise the sensor interrogation, resulting in a simple and low-cost system capable of measuring humidity in the range of 5-97% and temperature in the range of 21-46 °C. The root mean squared errors (RMSEs) between the proposed sensors and the reference were 1.12 °C and 1.36% for the measurements of temperature and relative humidity, respectively. In addition, fiber etching resulted in a sensor with a 2 s response time for a relative humidity variation of 10%, which is one of the lowest recorded response times for intrinsic POF humidity sensors.

Devices, systems, and methods for imaging

DOEpatents

Appleby, David; Fraser, Iain; Watson, Scott

2008-04-15

Certain exemplary embodiments comprise a system, which can comprise an imaging plate. The imaging plate can be exposable by an x-ray source. The imaging plate can be configured to be used in digital radiographic imaging. The imaging plate can comprise a phosphor-based image storage device configured to convert an image stored therein into light.

Tube support for moisture separator reheater

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

Sabatino, R.A.

1987-08-11

In combination with a moisture separator reheater for a nuclear steam generating power plant, a reheater is described comprising: a sealed elongated substantially horizontal tubular shell member, a cycle fluid inlet passing through the shell member in predetermined position, mositure separator means positioned within the shell member proximate the bottom portion thereof, heat exchanger means comprising a plurality of elongated metallic U-shaped members disposed substantially within the shell member, a tube sheet member supporing the U-shaped tube members at one end thereof. The improvement consists of: the tube support member means proximate the U-bend portion of the U-shaped tube membersmore » each comprising an upper movable tube support member and a lower immovable tube support member, the remainder of the tube support means being immovable, the upper movable tube support member spacing and supporting the top leg portions of the U-shaped tube members, the lower immovable tube support member spacing and supporting the bottom leg portions of the U-shaped tube members, whereby the top leg portions of the U-shaped tube members proximate the U-bend are permitted to move to compensate for any increase in radius in the U-bend portion of the U-shaped tube member due to thermal expansion.« less

Electrical condition monitoring method for polymers

DOEpatents

Watkins, Jr. Kenneth S.; Morris, Shelby J.; Masakowski, Daniel D.; Wong, Ching Ping; Luo, Shijian

2010-02-16

An electrical condition monitoring method utilizes measurement of electrical resistivity of a conductive composite degradation sensor to monitor environmentally induced degradation of a polymeric product such as insulated wire and cable. The degradation sensor comprises a polymeric matrix and conductive filler. The polymeric matrix may be a polymer used in the product, or it may be a polymer with degradation properties similar to that of a polymer used in the product. The method comprises a means for communicating the resistivity to a measuring instrument and a means to correlate resistivity of the degradation sensor with environmentally induced degradation of the product.

32 CFR 179.3 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... remedial action is required. Munitions response area (MRA) means any area on a defense site that is known... MRA comprises one or more munitions response sites. Munitions response site (MRS) means a discrete location within an MRA that is known to require a munitions response. Operational range means a range that...

32 CFR 179.3 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... remedial action is required. Munitions response area (MRA) means any area on a defense site that is known... MRA comprises one or more munitions response sites. Munitions response site (MRS) means a discrete location within an MRA that is known to require a munitions response. Operational range means a range that...

32 CFR 179.3 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... remedial action is required. Munitions response area (MRA) means any area on a defense site that is known... MRA comprises one or more munitions response sites. Munitions response site (MRS) means a discrete location within an MRA that is known to require a munitions response. Operational range means a range that...

Mass Gauging Demonstrator for Any Gravitational Conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Korman, Valentin (Inventor); Pedersen, Kevin W. (Inventor); Witherow, William K. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

The present invention is a mass gauging interferometry system used to determine the volume contained within a tank. By using an optical interferometric technique to determine gas density and/or pressure a much smaller compression volume or higher fidelity measurement is possible. The mass gauging interferometer system is comprised of an optical source, a component that splits the optical source into a plurality of beams, a component that recombines the split beams, an optical cell operatively coupled to a tank, a detector for detecting fringes, and a means for compression. A portion of the beam travels through the optical cell operatively coupled to the tank, while the other beam(s) is a reference.

Reliability study of an emerging fire suppression system

DOE PAGES

Miller, David A.; Rossati, Lyric M.; Fritz, Nathan K.; ...

2015-11-01

Self-contained fire extinguishers are a robust, reliable and minimally invasive means of fire suppression for gloveboxes. Plutonium gloveboxes are known to present harsh environmental conditions for polymer materials, these include radiation damage and chemical exposure, both of which tend to degrade the lifetime of engineered polymer components. The primary component of interest in self-contained fire extinguishers is the nylon 6-6 machined tube that comprises the main body of the system.Thermo-mechanical modeling and characterization of nylon 6-6 for use in plutonium glovebox applications has been carried out. Data has been generated regarding property degradation leading to poor, or reduced, engineering performancemore » of nylon 6-6 components. In this study, nylon 6-6 tensile specimens conforming to the casing of self-contained fire extinguisher systems have been exposed to hydrochloric, nitric, and sulfuric acids. This information was used to predict the performance of a load bearing engineering component comprised of nylon 6-6 and designed to operate in a consistent manner over a specified time period. The study provides a fundamental understanding of the engineering performance of the fire suppression system and the effects of environmental degradation due to acid exposure on engineering performance. Data generated help identify the limitations of self-contained fire extinguishers. No critical areas of concern for plutonium glovebox applications of nylon 6-6 have been identified when considering exposure to mineral acid.« less

Reliability study of an emerging fire suppression system

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

Miller, David A.; Rossati, Lyric M.; Fritz, Nathan K.

Self-contained fire extinguishers are a robust, reliable and minimally invasive means of fire suppression for gloveboxes. Plutonium gloveboxes are known to present harsh environmental conditions for polymer materials, these include radiation damage and chemical exposure, both of which tend to degrade the lifetime of engineered polymer components. The primary component of interest in self-contained fire extinguishers is the nylon 6-6 machined tube that comprises the main body of the system.Thermo-mechanical modeling and characterization of nylon 6-6 for use in plutonium glovebox applications has been carried out. Data has been generated regarding property degradation leading to poor, or reduced, engineering performancemore » of nylon 6-6 components. In this study, nylon 6-6 tensile specimens conforming to the casing of self-contained fire extinguisher systems have been exposed to hydrochloric, nitric, and sulfuric acids. This information was used to predict the performance of a load bearing engineering component comprised of nylon 6-6 and designed to operate in a consistent manner over a specified time period. The study provides a fundamental understanding of the engineering performance of the fire suppression system and the effects of environmental degradation due to acid exposure on engineering performance. Data generated help identify the limitations of self-contained fire extinguishers. No critical areas of concern for plutonium glovebox applications of nylon 6-6 have been identified when considering exposure to mineral acid.« less

Fuel cell sub-assembly

DOEpatents

Chi, Chang V.

1983-01-01

A fuel cell sub-assembly comprising a plurality of fuel cells, a first section of a cooling means disposed at an end of the assembly and means for connecting the fuel cells and first section together to form a unitary structure.

Steering mechanism for a subsoil boring apparatus

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

Kinnan, F.R.

This paper describes a subsoil boring apparatus. It comprises: a rotatable, steerable boring assembly; motor means for producing rotary motion; pipe string means coupled to the motor means and the boring assembly to import rotation thereto; and impacting means coupled to the motor means to apply impact forces to the pipe string means to improve the steerability of the boring assembly wherein only on of the motor means and the impact means can be applied to the k pipe string means at one time.

Systems and methods for detection of blowout precursors in combustors

DOEpatents

Lieuwen, Tim C.; Nair, Suraj

2006-08-15

The present invention comprises systems and methods for detecting flame blowout precursors in combustors. The blowout precursor detection system comprises a combustor, a pressure measuring device, and blowout precursor detection unit. A combustion controller may also be used to control combustor parameters. The methods of the present invention comprise receiving pressure data measured by an acoustic pressure measuring device, performing one or a combination of spectral analysis, statistical analysis, and wavelet analysis on received pressure data, and determining the existence of a blowout precursor based on such analyses. The spectral analysis, statistical analysis, and wavelet analysis further comprise their respective sub-methods to determine the existence of blowout precursors.

Energy resolution in semiconductor gamma radiation detectors using heterojunctions and methods of use and preparation thereof

DOEpatents

Nikolic, Rebecca J.; Conway, Adam M.; Nelson, Art J.; Payne, Stephen A.

2012-09-04

In one embodiment, a system comprises a semiconductor gamma detector material and a hole blocking layer adjacent the gamma detector material, the hole blocking layer resisting passage of holes therethrough. In another embodiment, a system comprises a semiconductor gamma detector material, and an electron blocking layer adjacent the gamma detector material, the electron blocking layer resisting passage of electrons therethrough, wherein the electron blocking layer comprises undoped HgCdTe. In another embodiment, a method comprises forming a hole blocking layer adjacent a semiconductor gamma detector material, the hole blocking layer resisting passage of holes therethrough. Additional systems and methods are also presented.

Ion conducting polymers and polymer blends for alkali metal ion batteries

DOEpatents

DeSimone, Joseph M.; Pandya, Ashish; Wong, Dominica; Vitale, Alessandra

2017-08-29

Electrolyte compositions for batteries such as lithium ion and lithium air batteries are described. In some embodiments the compositions are liquid compositions comprising (a) a homogeneous solvent system, said solvent system comprising a perfluropolyether (PFPE) and polyethylene oxide (PEO); and (b) an alkali metal salt dissolved in said solvent system. In other embodiments the compositions are solid electrolyte compositions comprising: (a) a solid polymer, said polymer comprising a crosslinked product of a crosslinkable perfluropolyether (PFPE) and a crosslinkable polyethylene oxide (PEO); and (b) an alkali metal ion salt dissolved in said polymer. Batteries containing such compositions as electrolytes are also described.

Apparatus for automated testing of biological specimens

DOEpatents

Layne, Scott P.; Beugelsdijk, Tony J.

1999-01-01

An apparatus for performing automated testing of infections biological specimens is disclosed. The apparatus comprise a process controller for translating user commands into test instrument suite commands, and a test instrument suite comprising a means to treat the specimen to manifest an observable result, and a detector for measuring the observable result to generate specimen test results.

Tunnel junction multiple wavelength light-emitting diodes

DOEpatents

Olson, Jerry M.; Kurtz, Sarah R.

1992-01-01

A multiple wavelength LED having a monolithic cascade cell structure comprising at least two p-n junctions, wherein each of said at least two p-n junctions have substantially different band gaps, and electrical connector means by which said at least two p-n junctions may be collectively energized; and wherein said diode comprises a tunnel junction or interconnect.

Near real-time stereo vision system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, Charles H. (Inventor); Matthies, Larry H. (Inventor)

1993-01-01

The apparatus for a near real-time stereo vision system for use with a robotic vehicle is described. The system is comprised of two cameras mounted on three-axis rotation platforms, image-processing boards, a CPU, and specialized stereo vision algorithms. Bandpass-filtered image pyramids are computed, stereo matching is performed by least-squares correlation, and confidence ranges are estimated by means of Bayes' theorem. In particular, Laplacian image pyramids are built and disparity maps are produced from the 60 x 64 level of the pyramids at rates of up to 2 seconds per image pair. The first autonomous cross-country robotic traverses (of up to 100 meters) have been achieved using the stereo vision system of the present invention with all computing done onboard the vehicle. The overall approach disclosed herein provides a unifying paradigm for practical domain-independent stereo ranging.

Non-intrusive cooling system

DOEpatents

Morrison, Edward F.; Bergman, John W.

2001-05-22

A readily replaceable heat exchange cooling jacket for applying fluid to a system conduit pipe. The cooling jacket comprises at least two members, separable into upper and lower portions. A chamber is formed between the conduit pipe and cooling jacket once the members are positioned about the pipe. The upper portion includes a fluid spray means positioned above the pipe and the bottom portion includes a fluid removal means. The heat exchange cooling jacket is adaptable with a drain tank, a heat exchanger, a pump and other standard equipment to provide a system for removing heat from a pipe. A method to remove heat from a pipe, includes the steps of enclosing a portion of the pipe with a jacket to form a chamber between an outside surface of the pipe and the cooling jacket; spraying cooling fluid at low pressure from an upper portion of the cooling jacket, allowing the fluid to flow downwardly by gravity along the surface of the pipe toward a bottom portion of the chamber; and removing the fluid at the bottom portion of the chamber.

System for inspection of stacked cargo containers

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

Derenzo, Stephen

The present invention relates to a system for inspection of stacked cargo containers. One embodiment of the invention generally comprises a plurality of stacked cargo containers arranged in rows or tiers, each container having a top, a bottom a first side, a second side, a front end, and a back end; a plurality of spacers arranged in rows or tiers; one or more mobile inspection devices for inspecting the cargo containers, wherein the one or more inspection devices are removeably disposed within the spacers, the inspection means configured to move through the spacers to detect radiation within the containers. Themore » invented system can also be configured to inspect the cargo containers for a variety of other potentially hazardous materials including but not limited to explosive and chemical threats.« less

Analysis, simulation and visualization of 1D tapping via reduced dynamical models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blackmore, Denis; Rosato, Anthony; Tricoche, Xavier; Urban, Kevin; Zou, Luo

2014-04-01

A low-dimensional center-of-mass dynamical model is devised as a simplified means of approximately predicting some important aspects of the motion of a vertical column comprised of a large number of particles subjected to gravity and periodic vertical tapping. This model is investigated first as a continuous dynamical system using analytical, simulation and visualization techniques. Then, by employing an approach analogous to that used to approximate the dynamics of a bouncing ball on an oscillating flat plate, it is modeled as a discrete dynamical system and analyzed to determine bifurcations and transitions to chaotic motion along with other properties. The predictions of the analysis are then compared-primarily qualitatively-with visualization and simulation results of the reduced continuous model, and ultimately with simulations of the complete system dynamics.

Compact imaging spectrometer utilizing immersed gratings

DOEpatents

Lerner, Scott A.

2005-12-20

A compact imaging spectrometer comprising an entrance slit for directing light, lens means for receiving the light, refracting the light, and focusing the light; an immersed diffraction grating that receives the light from the lens means and defracts the light, the immersed diffraction grating directing the detracted light back to the lens means; and a detector that receives the light from the lens means.

Rim inertial measuring system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Groom, N. J.; Anderson, W. W.; Phillips, W. H. (Inventor)

1981-01-01

The invention includes an angular momentum control device (AMCD) having a rim and several magnetic bearing stations. The AMCD is in a strapped down position on a spacecraft. Each magnetic bearing station comprises means, including an axial position sensor, for controlling the position of the rim in the axial direction; and means, including a radial position sensor, for controlling the position of the rim in the radial direction. A first computer receives the signals from all the axial position sensors and computes the angular rates about first and second mutually perpendicular axes in the plane of the rim and computes the linear acceleration along a third axis perpendicular to the first and second axes. A second computer receives the signals from all the radial position sensors and computes the linear accelerations along the first and second axes.

Mesoporous carbons and polymers

DOEpatents

Bell, William; Dietz, Steven

2004-05-18

A polymer is prepared by polymerizing a polymerizable component from a mixture containing the polymerizable component and a surfactant, the surfactant and the polymerizable component being present in the mixture in a molar ratio of at least 0.2:1, having an average pore size greater than 4 nm and a density greater than 0.1 g/cc. The polymerizable component can comprise a resorcinol/formaldehyde system and the mixture can comprise an aqueous solution or the polymerizable component can comprise a divinylbenzene/styrene system and the mixture can comprise an organic solution. Alternatively, the polymerizable component can comprise vinylidene chloride or a vinylidene chloride/divinylbenzene system. The polymer may be monolithic, have a BET surface area of at least about 50 m.sup.2 /g., include a quantity of at least one metal powder, or have an electrical conductivity greater than 10 Scm.sup.-1.

Systemic sclerosis in Sarawak: a profile of patients treated in the Sarawak General Hospital.

PubMed

Teh, C L; Kuan, Y C; Wong, J S

2009-08-01

We performed a cross-sectional study of the demography, clinical and laboratory features of patients with systemic sclerosis patients followed up in our centre from 1984 to 2007. There were 23 cases with the majority of them (96%) being female. They have a mean age of 50.3 years and a mean disease duration of 6.02 (SD 5.82) years. Our patients comprised of multi-ethnic groups with predominantly Chinese (52%), Sarawak natives (35%) and Malays (13%). They have a mean lag time to diagnosis of 24.8 (SD 34.8) months. All the patients have sclerodermatous skin changes with 16(70%) having diffuse scleroderma and 7(30%) having limited scleroderma. The common clinical manifestations found in our patients were Raynaud's phenomenon (91%), sclerodactyly (65%), digital ulcers (52%) and pulmonary fibrosis (52%). There was low incidence of pulmonary hypertension (13%) and renal involvement (4%). The majority of our patients (67%) have positive ANA with 33% positive Scl-70. The majority received calcium channel blockers (87%), aspirin (48%) and low-dose prednisolone (48%). One patient developed adenocarcinoma of the lung on follow-up. This study demonstrated the rarity of systemic sclerosis in our centre with considerable lag time to diagnosis in our patients. Diffuse cutaneous systemic scleroderma is more common in our centre with rare pulmonary hypertension and renal involvement.

Selective catalytic reduction system and process for treating NOx emissions using a zinc or titanium promoted palladium-zirconium catalyst

DOEpatents

Sobolevskiy, Anatoly [Orlando, FL; Rossin, Joseph A [Columbus, OH; Knapke, Michael J [Columbus, OH

2011-08-02

A process and system (18) for reducing NO.sub.x in a gas using hydrogen as a reducing agent is provided. The process comprises contacting the gas stream (29) with a catalyst system (38) comprising sulfated zirconia washcoat particles (41), palladium, a pre-sulfated zirconia binder (44), and a promoter (45) comprising at least one of titanium, zinc, or a mixture thereof. The presence of zinc or titanium increases the resistance of the catalyst system to a sulfur and water-containing gas stream.

Utilizing feedback in adaptive SAR ATR systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horsfield, Owen; Blacknell, David

2009-05-01

Existing SAR ATR systems are usually trained off-line with samples of target imagery or CAD models, prior to conducting a mission. If the training data is not representative of mission conditions, then poor performance may result. In addition, it is difficult to acquire suitable training data for the many target types of interest. The Adaptive SAR ATR Problem Set (AdaptSAPS) program provides a MATLAB framework and image database for developing systems that adapt to mission conditions, meaning less reliance on accurate training data. A key function of an adaptive system is the ability to utilise truth feedback to improve performance, and it is this feature which AdaptSAPS is intended to exploit. This paper presents a new method for SAR ATR that does not use training data, based on supervised learning. This is achieved by using feature-based classification, and several new shadow features have been developed for this purpose. These features allow discrimination of vehicles from clutter, and classification of vehicles into two classes: targets, comprising military combat types, and non-targets, comprising bulldozers and trucks. The performance of the system is assessed using three baseline missions provided with AdaptSAPS, as well as three additional missions. All performance metrics indicate a distinct learning trend over the course of a mission, with most third and fourth quartile performance levels exceeding 85% correct classification. It has been demonstrated that these performance levels can be maintained even when truth feedback rates are reduced by up to 55% over the course of a mission.

12 CFR 219.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... to a customer's relationship with the financial institution. Government authority means any agency or... this subpart, the following definitions shall apply: Customer means any person or authorized.... Customer does not include corporations or partnerships comprised of more than five persons. Financial...

42 CFR 421.404 - Assignment of providers and suppliers to MACs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... section— Chain provider means a group of two or more providers under common ownership or control. Common..., prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) means the types of services specified in § 421.210(b). Eligible....202 of this chapter. Qualified chain provider means a chain provider comprised of— (1) 10 or more...

42 CFR 421.404 - Assignment of providers and suppliers to MACs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... section— Chain provider means a group of two or more providers under common ownership or control. Common..., prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) means the types of services specified in § 421.210(b). Eligible....202 of this chapter. Qualified chain provider means a chain provider comprised of— (1) 10 or more...

42 CFR 421.404 - Assignment of providers and suppliers to MACs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... section— Chain provider means a group of two or more providers under common ownership or control. Common..., prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) means the types of services specified in § 421.210(b). Eligible....202 of this chapter. Qualified chain provider means a chain provider comprised of— (1) 10 or more...

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

40 CFR 63.1402 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... properties may vary with time. For a unit operation operated in a batch mode (i.e., batch unit operation... means a unit operation operated in a batch mode. Block means the time period that comprises a single batch cycle. Combustion device burner means a device designed to mix and ignite fuel and air to provide...

42 CFR 421.404 - Assignment of providers and suppliers to MACs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...— Chain provider means a group of two or more providers under common ownership or control. Common control..., prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) means the types of services specified in § 421.210(b). Eligible....202 of this chapter. Qualified chain provider means a chain provider comprised of— (1) 10 or more...

42 CFR 421.404 - Assignment of providers and suppliers to MACs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...— Chain provider means a group of two or more providers under common ownership or control. Common control..., prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) means the types of services specified in § 421.210(b). Eligible....202 of this chapter. Qualified chain provider means a chain provider comprised of— (1) 10 or more...

Method for detection of long-lived radioisotopes in small biochemical samples

DOEpatents

Turteltaub, K.W.; Vogel, J.S.; Felton, J.S.; Gledhill, B.L.; Davis, J.C.

1994-11-22

Disclosed is a method for detection of long-lived radioisotopes in small biochemical samples, comprising: a. selecting a biological host in which radioisotopes are present in concentrations equal to or less than those in the ambient biosphere, b. preparing a long-lived radioisotope labeled reactive chemical specie, c. administering the chemical specie to the biologist host in doses sufficiently low to avoid significant overt damage to the biological system, d. allowing a period of time to elapse sufficient for dissemination and interaction of the chemical specie with the host throughout the biological system of the host, e. isolating a reacted fraction of the biological substance from the host in a manner sufficient to avoid contamination of the substance from extraneous sources, f. converting the fraction of biological substance by suitable means to a material which efficiently produces charged ions in at least one of several possible ion sources without introduction of significant isotopic fractionation, and, g. measuring the radioisotope concentration in the material by means of direct isotopic counting. 5 figs.

Method for detection of long-lived radioisotopes in small biochemical samples

DOEpatents

Turteltaub, Kenneth W.; Vogel, John S.; Felton, James S.; Gledhill, Barton L.; Davis, Jay C.

1994-01-01

Disclosed is a method for detection of long-lived radioisotopes in small bio-chemical samples, comprising: a. selecting a biological host in which radioisotopes are present in concentrations equal to or less than those in the ambient biosphere, b. preparing a long-lived radioisotope labeled reactive chemical specie, c. administering said chemical specie to said biologist host in doses sufficiently low to avoid significant overt damage to the biological system thereof, d. allowing a period of time to elapse sufficient for dissemination and interaction of said chemical specie with said host throughout said biological system of said host, e. isolating a reacted fraction of the biological substance from said host in a manner sufficient to avoid contamination of said substance from extraneous sources, f. converting said fraction of biological substance by suitable means to a material which efficiently produces charged ions in at least one of several possible ion sources without introduction of significant isotopic fractionation, and, g. measuring the radioisotope concentration in said material by means of direct isotopic counting.

Method and system for capturing carbon dioxide and/or sulfur dioxide from gas stream

DOEpatents

Chang, Shih-Ger; Li, Yang; Zhao, Xinglei

2014-07-08

The present invention provides a system for capturing CO.sub.2 and/or SO.sub.2, comprising: (a) a CO.sub.2 and/or SO.sub.2 absorber comprising an amine and/or amino acid salt capable of absorbing the CO.sub.2 and/or SO.sub.2 to produce a CO.sub.2- and/or SO.sub.2-containing solution; (b) an amine regenerator to regenerate the amine and/or amino acid salt; and, when the system captures CO.sub.2, (c) an alkali metal carbonate regenerator comprising an ammonium catalyst capable catalyzing the aqueous alkali metal bicarbonate into the alkali metal carbonate and CO.sub.2 gas. The present invention also provides for a system for capturing SO.sub.2, comprising: (a) a SO.sub.2 absorber comprising aqueous alkali metal carbonate, wherein the alkali metal carbonate is capable of absorbing the SO.sub.2 to produce an alkali metal sulfite/sulfate precipitate and CO.sub.2.

Crank angle detecting system for engines

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

Yuzawa, H.; Nishiyama, M.; Nakamura, K.

1988-05-31

An ignition system for a multi-cylinder internal combustion engine is described comprising: (a) engine cylinders in which spark plugs are installed respectively, (b) indicating means disposed so as to synchronize with an engine crankshaft and formed with a large number of slits and a small number of slits, the large number of slits being provided for indicating crankshaft angular positions and the small number of slits being provided for indicating predetermined piston strokes and wherein the small number of slits have mutually different widths from each other to distinguish between piston strokes of at least the groups of cylinders; (c)more » sensing means for sensing crankshaft angular positions in cooperation with the large number of slits of the indicating means and outputting a crank angle signal representing the crankshaft angular position and for sensing the predetermined piston strokes in cooperation with the small number of slits and outputting different width piston stroke signals corresponding to the different width slits; (d) discriminating means for identifying each cylinder group and outputting cylinder group identification signals on the basis of the different width stroke signals derived from the sensing means; (e) ignition timing determining means for generating an ignition timing signal on the basis of the crank angle signal; (f) ignition coil controlling means for generating ignition coil current signals corresponding to the cylinder group identification signals; and (g) ignition timing controlling means for generating cylinder group ignition signals in response to the ignition coil current signals and ignition timing signal so that the spark plugs of each cylinder group are ignited at a proper time.« less

HyFIS: adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems and their application to nonlinear dynamical systems.

PubMed

Kim, J; Kasabov, N

1999-11-01

This paper proposes an adaptive neuro-fuzzy system, HyFIS (Hybrid neural Fuzzy Inference System), for building and optimising fuzzy models. The proposed model introduces the learning power of neural networks to fuzzy logic systems and provides linguistic meaning to the connectionist architectures. Heuristic fuzzy logic rules and input-output fuzzy membership functions can be optimally tuned from training examples by a hybrid learning scheme comprised of two phases: rule generation phase from data; and rule tuning phase using error backpropagation learning scheme for a neural fuzzy system. To illustrate the performance and applicability of the proposed neuro-fuzzy hybrid model, extensive simulation studies of nonlinear complex dynamic systems are carried out. The proposed method can be applied to an on-line incremental adaptive learning for the prediction and control of nonlinear dynamical systems. Two benchmark case studies are used to demonstrate that the proposed HyFIS system is a superior neuro-fuzzy modelling technique.

Catalyst for microelectromechanical systems microreactors

DOEpatents

Morse, Jeffrey D [Martinez, CA; Sopchak, David A [Livermore, CA; Upadhye, Ravindra S [Pleasanton, CA; Reynolds, John G [San Ramon, CA; Satcher, Joseph H [Patterson, CA; Gash, Alex E [Brentwood, CA

2010-06-29

A microreactor comprising a silicon wafer, a multiplicity of microchannels in the silicon wafer, and a catalyst coating the microchannels. In one embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises a nanostructured material. In another embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises an aerogel. In another embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises a solgel. In another embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises carbon nanotubes.

Catalyst for microelectromechanical systems microreactors

DOEpatents

Morse, Jeffrey D [Martinez, CA; Sopchak, David A [Livermore, CA; Upadhye, Ravindra S [Pleasanton, CA; Reynolds, John G [San Ramon, CA; Satcher, Joseph H [Patterson, CA; Gash, Alex E [Brentwood, CA

2011-11-15

A microreactor comprising a silicon wafer, a multiplicity of microchannels in the silicon wafer, and a catalyst coating the microchannels. In one embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises a nanostructured material. In another embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises an aerogel. In another embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises a solgel. In another embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises carbon nanotubes.

Tunnel junction multiple wavelength light-emitting diodes

DOEpatents

Olson, J.M.; Kurtz, S.R.

1992-11-24

A multiple wavelength LED having a monolithic cascade cell structure comprising at least two p-n junctions, wherein each of said at least two p-n junctions have substantially different band gaps, and electrical connector means by which said at least two p-n junctions may be collectively energized; and wherein said diode comprises a tunnel junction or interconnect. 5 figs.

Multi-stage catalyst systems and uses thereof

DOEpatents

Ozkan, Umit S [Worthington, OH; Holmgreen, Erik M [Columbus, OH; Yung, Matthew M [Columbus, OH

2009-02-10

Catalyst systems and methods provide benefits in reducing the content of nitrogen oxides in a gaseous stream containing nitric oxide (NO), hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide (CO), and oxygen (O.sub.2). The catalyst system comprises an oxidation catalyst comprising a first metal supported on a first inorganic oxide for catalyzing the oxidation of NO to nitrogen dioxide (NO.sub.2), and a reduction catalyst comprising a second metal supported on a second inorganic oxide for catalyzing the reduction of NO.sub.2 to nitrogen (N.sub.2).

Application of microturbines to control emissions from associated gas

DOEpatents

Schmidt, Darren D.

2013-04-16

A system for controlling the emission of associated gas produced from a reservoir. In an embodiment, the system comprises a gas compressor including a gas inlet in fluid communication with an associated gas source and a gas outlet. The gas compressor adjusts the pressure of the associated gas to produce a pressure-regulated associated gas. In addition, the system comprises a gas cleaner including a gas inlet in fluid communication with the outlet of the gas compressor, a fuel gas outlet, and a waste product outlet. The gas cleaner separates at least a portion of the sulfur and the water from the associated gas to produce a fuel gas. Further, the system comprises a gas turbine including a fuel gas inlet in fluid communication with the fuel gas outlet of the gas cleaner and an air inlet. Still further, the system comprises a choke in fluid communication with the air inlet.

Compact Refractive Imaging Spectrometer Designs Utilizing Immersed Gratings

DOEpatents

Lerner, Scott A.; Bennett, Charles L.; Bixler, Jay V.; Kuzmenko, Paul J.; Lewis, Isabella T.

2005-07-26

A compact imaging spectrometer comprising an entrance slit for directing light, a first means for receiving the light and focusing the light, an immersed diffraction grating that receives the light from the first means and defracts the light, a second means for receiving the light from the immersed diffraction grating and focusing the light, and an image plane that receives the light from the second means

[Reviewing the shared strategy health bill: further measures to meet the structural challenges of the health system].

PubMed

Lombrail, Pierre

2014-01-01

This article reviews the draft health bill entitled "Federate health professionals around a shared strategy", currently submitted for consultation in the context of the national health strategy in France. This bill comprises innovative measures for prevention and health care in France. In particular, it is designed to develop, strengthen and structure the prevention sector, especially in children and young people. It is also designed to organize health care trajectories and acquire the necessary tools to promote their development. However, the bill sometimes presents limited ambitions in terms of objectives and means. In particular, the project comprises almost none of the necessary actions on the social determinants of health. Overall, the orientations of this bill represent a first major step towards a health policy in France beyond the field of health care. However, we must remain vigilant concerning application of these orientations in the process of elaboration of the bill and its related regulations, and implementation of the national health strategy.

Total petroleum systems of the Illizi Province, Algeria and Libya; Tanezzuft-Illizi

USGS Publications Warehouse

Klett, T.R.

2000-01-01

Undiscovered conventional oil and gas resources were assessed within a total petroleum system of the Illizi Province (2056) as part of the U.S. Geological Survey World Petroleum Assessment 2000. The Illizi Province is in eastern Algeria and a small portion of western Libya. The province and its total petroleum system coincide with the Illizi Basin. Although several total petroleum systems may exist within the Illizi Province, only one “composite” total petroleum system is identified. This total petroleum system comprises a single assessment unit. The main source rocks are the Silurian Tanezzuft Formation (or lateral equivalents) and Middle to Upper Devonian mudstone. The total petroleum system was named after the oldest major source rock and the basin in which it resides. The estimated means of the undiscovered conventional petroleum volumes in the Tanezzuft-Illizi Total Petroleum System are 2,814 million barrels of oil (MMBO), 27,785 billion cubic feet of gas (BCFG), and 873 million barrels of natural gas liquids (MMBNGL).

Comparison of three artificial intelligence techniques for discharge routing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khatibi, Rahman; Ghorbani, Mohammad Ali; Kashani, Mahsa Hasanpour; Kisi, Ozgur

2011-06-01

SummaryThe inter-comparison of three artificial intelligence (AI) techniques are presented using the results of river flow/stage timeseries, that are otherwise handled by traditional discharge routing techniques. These models comprise Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Adaptive Nero-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and Genetic Programming (GP), which are for discharge routing of Kizilirmak River, Turkey. The daily mean river discharge data with a period between 1999 and 2003 were used for training and testing the models. The comparison includes both visual and parametric approaches using such statistic as Coefficient of Correlation (CC), Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Mean Square Relative Error (MSRE), as well as a basic scoring system. Overall, the results indicate that ANN and ANFIS have mixed fortunes in discharge routing, and both have different abilities in capturing and reproducing some of the observed information. However, the performance of GP displays a better edge over the other two modelling approaches in most of the respects. Attention is given to the information contents of recorded timeseries in terms of their peak values and timings, where one performance measure may capture some of the information contents but be ineffective in others. Thus, this makes a case for compiling knowledge base for various modelling techniques.

A minimal model of self-sustaining turbulence

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

Thomas, Vaughan L.; Gayme, Dennice F.; Farrell, Brian F.

2015-10-15

In this work, we examine the turbulence maintained in a Restricted Nonlinear (RNL) model of plane Couette flow. This model is a computationally efficient approximation of the second order statistical state dynamics obtained by partitioning the flow into a streamwise averaged mean flow and perturbations about that mean, a closure referred to herein as the RNL{sub ∞} model. The RNL model investigated here employs a single member of the infinite ensemble that comprises the covariance of the RNL{sub ∞} dynamics. The RNL system has previously been shown to support self-sustaining turbulence with a mean flow and structural features that aremore » consistent with direct numerical simulations (DNS). Regardless of the number of streamwise Fourier components used in the simulation, the RNL system’s self-sustaining turbulent state is supported by a small number of streamwise varying modes. Remarkably, further truncation of the RNL system’s support to as few as one streamwise varying mode can suffice to sustain the turbulent state. The close correspondence between RNL simulations and DNS that has been previously demonstrated along with the results presented here suggest that the fundamental mechanisms underlying wall-turbulence can be analyzed using these highly simplified RNL systems.« less

Coolant effectiveness in dental cutting with air-turbine handpieces.

PubMed

Leung, Brian T W; Dyson, John E; Darvell, Brian W

2012-03-01

To establish a strategy for evaluating coolant effectiveness and to compare typical cooling conditions used in dental cutting. A test system comprising a resistive heat source and an array of four type K thermocouples was used to compare the cooling effectiveness of air alone, water stream alone, and an air-water spray, as delivered by representative air-turbine handpieces. Mean temperature change at the four sites was recorded for a range of water flow rates in the range 10 to 90 mL min(-1), with and without air, and with and without the turbine running. The thermal resistance of the system, R, was calculated as the temperature change per watt (KW(-1)). For wet cooling (water stream and air-water spray), R was 5.1 to 11.5 KW(-1), whereas for air coolant alone the range was 18.5 to 30.7 KW(-1). R for air-water spray was lower than for water stream cooling at the same flow rate. The thermal resistivity approach is a viable means of comparative testing of cooling efficacy in simulated dental cutting. It may provide a reliable means of testing handpiece nozzle design, thus enabling the development of more efficient cooling.

The results of bone deformity correction using a spider frame with web-based software for lower extremity long bone deformities.

PubMed

Tekin, Ali Çağrı; Çabuk, Haluk; Dedeoğlu, Süleyman Semih; Saygılı, Mehmet Selçuk; Adaş, Müjdat; Esenyel, Cem Zeki; Büyükkurt, Cem Dinçay; Tonbul, Murat

2016-03-22

To present the functional and radiological results and evaluate the effectiveness of a computer-assisted external fixator (spider frame) in patients with lower extremity shortness and deformity. The study comprised 17 patients (14 male, 3 female) who were treated for lower extremity long bone deformity and shortness between 2012 and 2015 using a spider frame. The procedure's level of difficulty was determined preoperatively using the Paley Scale. Postoperatively, the results for the patients who underwent tibial operations were evaluated using the Paley criteria modified by ASAMI, and the results for the patients who underwent femoral operations were evaluated according to the Paley scoring system. The evaluations were made by calculating the External Fixator and Distraction indexes. The mean age of the patients was 24.58 years (range, 5-51 years). The spider frame was applied to the femur in 10 patients and to the tibia in seven. The mean follow-up period was 15 months (range, 6-31 months) from the operation day, and the mean amount of lengthening was 3.0 cm (range, 1-6 cm). The mean duration of fixator application was 202.7 days (range, 104-300 days). The mean External Fixator Index was 98 days/cm (range, 42-265 days/cm). The mean Distraction Index was 10.49 days/cm (range, 10-14 days/cm). The computer-assisted external fixator system (spider frame) achieves single-stage correction in cases of both deformity and shortness. The system can be applied easily, and because of its high-tech software, it offers the possibility of postoperative treatment of the deformity.

Cost comparison of centralized and decentralized wastewater management systems using optimization model.

PubMed

Jung, Youngmee Tiffany; Narayanan, N C; Cheng, Yu-Ling

2018-05-01

There is a growing interest in decentralized wastewater management (DWWM) as a potential alternative to centralized wastewater management (CWWM) in developing countries. However, the comparative cost of CWWM and DWWM is not well understood. In this study, the cost of cluster-type DWWM is simulated and compared to the cost of CWWM in Alibag, India. A three-step model is built to simulate a broad range of potential DWWM configurations with varying number and layout of cluster subsystems. The considered DWWM scheme consists of cluster subsystems, that each uses simplified sewer and DEWATS (Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems). We consider CWWM that uses conventional sewer and an activated sludge plant. The results show that the cost of DWWM can vary significantly with the number and layout of the comprising cluster subsystems. The cost of DWWM increased nonlinearly with increasing number of comprising clusters, mainly due to the loss in the economies of scale for DEWATS. For configurations with the same number of comprising cluster subsystems, the cost of DWWM varied by ±5% around the mean, depending on the layout of the cluster subsystems. In comparison to CWWM, DWWM was of lower cost than CWWM when configured with fewer than 16 clusters in Alibag, with significantly less operation and maintenance requirement, but with higher capital and land requirement for construction. The study demonstrates that cluster-type DWWM using simplified sewer and DEWATS may be a cost-competitive alternative to CWWM, when carefully configured to lower the cost. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

48 CFR 52.227-14 - Rights in Data-General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... software. Computer software—(1) Means (i) Computer programs that comprise a series of instructions, rules... or computer software documentation. Computer software documentation means owner's manuals, user's... medium, that explain the capabilities of the computer software or provide instructions for using the...

Ion mobility analysis of lipoproteins

DOEpatents

Benner, W Henry [Danville, CA; Krauss, Ronald M [Berkeley, CA; Blanche, Patricia J [Berkeley, CA

2007-08-21

A medical diagnostic method and instrumentation system for analyzing noncovalently bonded agglomerated biological particles is described. The method and system comprises: a method of preparation for the biological particles; an electrospray generator; an alpha particle radiation source; a differential mobility analyzer; a particle counter; and data acquisition and analysis means. The medical device is useful for the assessment of human diseases, such as cardiac disease risk and hyperlipidemia, by rapid quantitative analysis of lipoprotein fraction densities. Initially, purification procedures are described to reduce an initial blood sample to an analytical input to the instrument. The measured sizes from the analytical sample are correlated with densities, resulting in a spectrum of lipoprotein densities. The lipoprotein density distribution can then be used to characterize cardiac and other lipid-related health risks.

Aerosol preparation of intact lipoproteins

DOEpatents

Benner, W Henry [Danville, CA; Krauss, Ronald M [Berkeley, CA; Blanche, Patricia J [Berkeley, CA

2012-01-17

A medical diagnostic method and instrumentation system for analyzing noncovalently bonded agglomerated biological particles is described. The method and system comprises: a method of preparation for the biological particles; an electrospray generator; an alpha particle radiation source; a differential mobility analyzer; a particle counter; and data acquisition and analysis means. The medical device is useful for the assessment of human diseases, such as cardiac disease risk and hyperlipidemia, by rapid quantitative analysis of lipoprotein fraction densities. Initially, purification procedures are described to reduce an initial blood sample to an analytical input to the instrument. The measured sizes from the analytical sample are correlated with densities, resulting in a spectrum of lipoprotein densities. The lipoprotein density distribution can then be used to characterize cardiac and other lipid-related health risks.

Determining the appropriate strategies for emergency planning through AHP-SWOT.

PubMed

Kalatpour, Omid

2017-01-01

During an unexpected incident, companies should demonstrate appropriate behaviour based on predetermined and rehearsed emergency strategies. This paper describes how to select the proper strategies for emergency situations via means of the AHP-SWOT tool, where the initial SWOT analysis is conducted for the emergency management system, and the final strategies are selected via the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). Alternative response strategies comprise internal, shared and external responses. Most of the scenarios investigated for this study demanded a shared response. These findings highlight the importance of mutual aid agreements, cooperative exercises and the improvement of communication systems. Organisations can take advantage of integrated approaches to select the best strategies and tactics for normal situations in general and emergency situations in particular.

Human portable preconcentrator system

DOEpatents

Linker, Kevin L.; Brusseau, Charles A.; Hannum, David W.; Puissant, James G.; Varley, Nathan R.

2003-08-12

A preconcentrator system and apparatus suited to human portable use wherein sample potentially containing a target chemical substance is drawn into a chamber and through a pervious screen. The screen is adapted to capture target chemicals and then, upon heating, to release those chemicals into the chamber. Chemicals captured and then released in this fashion are then carried to a portable chemical detection device such as a portable ion mobility spectrometer. In the preferred embodiment, the means for drawing sample into the chamber comprises a reversible fan which, when operated in reverse direction, creates a backpressure that facilitates evolution of captured target chemicals into the chamber when the screen is heated. The screen can be positioned directly in front of the detector prior to heating to improve detection capability.

Method and apparatus for cutting, abrading, and drilling with sublimable particles and vaporous liquids

DOEpatents

Bingham, Dennis N.; Swainston, Richard C.; Palmer, Gary L.

1998-01-01

A gas delivery system provides a first gas which is in a liquid state under extreme pressure and in a gaseous state under intermediate pressure. A particle delivery system provides a slurry comprising the first gas in a liquid state and a second gas in a solid state. The second gas is selected so that it will solidify at a temperature at or above the temperature of the first gas in a liquid state. A nozzle assembly connected to the gas delivery system and to the particle delivery system produces a stream having a high velocity central jet comprising the slurry, a liquid sheath surrounding the central jet comprising the first gas in a liquid state and an outer jacket surrounding the liquid sheath comprising the first gas in a gas state.

Method and apparatus for cutting, abrading, and drilling with sublimable particles and vaporous liquids

DOEpatents

Bingham, D.N.; Swainston, R.C.; Palmer, G.L.

1998-03-31

A gas delivery system provides a first gas which is in a liquid state under extreme pressure and in a gaseous state under intermediate pressure. A particle delivery system provides a slurry comprising the first gas in a liquid state and a second gas in a solid state. The second gas is selected so that it will solidify at a temperature at or above the temperature of the first gas in a liquid state. A nozzle assembly connected to the gas delivery system and to the particle delivery system produces a stream having a high velocity central jet comprising the slurry, a liquid sheath surrounding the central jet comprising the first gas in a liquid state and an outer jacket surrounding the liquid sheath comprising the first gas in a gas state. 19 figs.

X-ray atlas of rheumatic diseases

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

Dihlmann, W.

1986-01-01

This atlas comprises instructive X-rays of the various inflammatory rheumatic joint diseases in all stages at the extremities and the spinal column. In addition, the complex pattern of the wide range of arthroses, also known as degenerative rheumatic disease is included. Besides the instructive pointers to X-ray diagnosis, the book is also a guide to differential diagnosis. Hence, this book is actually an X-ray atlas of joint diseases in general. Selected Contents: Introduction: What Does ''Rheumatism'' Actually Mean./Radiographic Methodology in Rheumatic Diseases of the Locomotor System/The Mosaic of Arthritis/Adult Rheumatoid Arthritis/Seronegative Spondylarthritis/Classic Collagen Diseases/Enthesiopathies/Gout-Pseudogout

Laser action by optically depumping lower states

DOEpatents

Krupke, William F.

1977-01-01

A method and apparatus for obtaining laser action between an upper energy level and a lower energy level of a gaseous medium, which comprises populating the upper energy level to some degree (short of achieving a conventional inverted population) by any suitable pumping means, and thereafter establishing an inverted population by transiently and selectively depumping the lower energy level such as by exposing the medium to an intense source of radiation which selectively causes the transformation of the lower energy level species to some other energy level. Thus, a thermally pumped/optically depumped gas laser system is produced.

DETECTION OF COATING FAILURES IN A NEUTRONIC REACTOR

DOEpatents

Snell, A.H.; Allison, S.K.

1958-02-11

This patent relates to water-cooled reactor systems and discloses a means to detect leaks in the jackets of jacketed fuel elements comprising a neutron detector located in the cooling water discharge pipe,the pipe being provided with an enlarged portion for housing the detector so that the latter is completely surrounded by the water in its passage through the pipe, said enlarged portion and detector being shielded from the reactor for the purpose of detecting only those delayed neutrons emitted in the cooling water and due to the latter picking up fission fragments from the defective fuel elements.

Piezoelectric shear wave resonator and method of making same

DOEpatents

Wang, Jin S.; Lakin, Kenneth M.; Landin, Allen R.

1988-01-01

An acoustic shear wave resonator comprising a piezoelectric film having its C-axis substantially inclined from the film normal such that the shear wave coupling coefficient significantly exceeds the longitudinal wave coupling coefficient, whereby the film is capable of shear wave resonance, and means for exciting said film to resonate. The film is prepared by deposition in a dc planar magnetron sputtering system to which a supplemental electric field is applied. The resonator structure may also include a semiconductor material having a positive temperature coefficient of resonance such that the resonator has a temperature coefficient of resonance approaching 0 ppm/.degree.C.

Method of making a piezoelectric shear wave resonator

DOEpatents

Wang, Jin S.; Lakin, Kenneth M.; Landin, Allen R.

1987-02-03

An acoustic shear wave resonator comprising a piezoelectric film having its C-axis substantially inclined from the film normal such that the shear wave coupling coefficient significantly exceeds the longitudinal wave coupling coefficient, whereby the film is capable of shear wave resonance, and means for exciting said film to resonate. The film is prepared by deposition in a dc planar magnetron sputtering system to which a supplemental electric field is applied. The resonator structure may also include a semiconductor material having a positive temperature coefficient of resonance such that the resonator has a temperature coefficient of resonance approaching 0 ppm/.degree.C.

Fiberoptic spectrophotometer

DOEpatents

Tans, Petrus P.; Lashof, Daniel A.

1986-01-01

A device for determining the relative composition of a sample of a gas by comparison of the Raman-scattered light of the sample with that of a known gas comprising: a means for passing a single light source through the unknown and the known gases, choppers to alternate the Raman-scattered light into a common light detection and measuring system, optical fiber networks for spatially mixing the resulting Raman scattered light from each sample and directing the mixed light to selective detectors, and a compiler to record the light intensity of each wavelength of Raman-scattered light as a function of the sample from which it originated.

Method for producing smooth inner surfaces

DOEpatents

Cooper, Charles A.

2016-05-17

The invention provides a method for preparing superconducting cavities, the method comprising causing polishing media to tumble by centrifugal barrel polishing within the cavities for a time sufficient to attain a surface smoothness of less than 15 nm root mean square roughness over approximately a 1 mm.sup.2 scan area. The method also provides for a method for preparing superconducting cavities, the method comprising causing polishing media bound to a carrier to tumble within the cavities. The method also provides for a method for preparing superconducting cavities, the method comprising causing polishing media in a slurry to tumble within the cavities.

Multiple-frequency acoustic wave devices for chemical sensing and materials characterization in both gas and liquid phase

DOEpatents

Martin, S.J.; Ricco, A.J.

1993-08-10

A chemical or intrinsic physical property sensor is described comprising: (a) a substrate; (b) an interaction region of said substrate where the presence of a chemical or physical stimulus causes a detectable change in the velocity and/or an attenuation of an acoustic wave traversing said region; and (c) a plurality of paired input and output interdigitated electrodes patterned on the surface of said substrate where each of said paired electrodes has a distinct periodicity, where each of said paired electrodes is comprised of an input and an output electrode; (d) an input signal generation means for transmitting an input signal having a distinct frequency to a specified input interdigitated electrode of said plurality so that each input electrode receives a unique input signal, whereby said electrode responds to said input signal by generating an acoustic wave of a specified frequency, thus, said plurality responds by generating a plurality of acoustic waves of different frequencies; (e) an output signal receiving means for determining an acoustic wave velocity and an amplitude of said acoustic waves at several frequencies after said waves transverses said interaction region and comparing these values to an input acoustic wave velocity and an input acoustic wave amplitude to produce values for perturbations in acoustic wave velocities and for acoustic wave attenuation as a function of frequency, where said output receiving means is individually coupled to each of said output interdigitated electrode; (f) a computer means for analyzing a data stream comprising information from said output receiving means and from said input signal generation means to differentiate a specified response due to a perturbation from a subsequent specified response due to a subsequent perturbation to determine the chemical or intrinsic physical properties desired.

Exact analytical approach for six-degree-of-freedom measurement using image-orientation-change method.

PubMed

Tsai, Chung-Yu

2012-04-01

An exact analytical approach is proposed for measuring the six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) motion of an object using the image-orientation-change (IOC) method. The proposed measurement system comprises two reflector systems, where each system consists of two reflectors and one position sensing detector (PSD). The IOCs of the object in the two reflector systems are described using merit functions determined from the respective PSD readings before and after motion occurs, respectively. The three rotation variables are then determined analytically from the eigenvectors of the corresponding merit functions. After determining the three rotation variables, the order of the translation equations is downgraded to a linear form. Consequently, the solution for the three translation variables can also be analytically determined. As a result, the motion transformation matrix describing the 6-DOF motion of the object is fully determined. The validity of the proposed approach is demonstrated by means of an illustrative example.

Representing distributed cognition in complex systems: how a submarine returns to periscope depth.

PubMed

Stanton, Neville A

2014-01-01

This paper presents the Event Analysis of Systemic Teamwork (EAST) method as a means of modelling distributed cognition in systems. The method comprises three network models (i.e. task, social and information) and their combination. This method was applied to the interactions between the sound room and control room in a submarine, following the activities of returning the submarine to periscope depth. This paper demonstrates three main developments in EAST. First, building the network models directly, without reference to the intervening methods. Second, the application of analysis metrics to all three networks. Third, the combination of the aforementioned networks in different ways to gain a broader understanding of the distributed cognition. Analyses have shown that EAST can be used to gain both qualitative and quantitative insights into distributed cognition. Future research should focus on the analyses of network resilience and modelling alternative versions of a system.

Compressed gas fuel storage system

DOEpatents

Wozniak, John J.; Tiller, Dale B.; Wienhold, Paul D.; Hildebrand, Richard J.

2001-01-01

A compressed gas vehicle fuel storage system comprised of a plurality of compressed gas pressure cells supported by shock-absorbing foam positioned within a shape-conforming container. The container is dimensioned relative to the compressed gas pressure cells whereby a radial air gap surrounds each compressed gas pressure cell. The radial air gap allows pressure-induced expansion of the pressure cells without resulting in the application of pressure to adjacent pressure cells or physical pressure to the container. The pressure cells are interconnected by a gas control assembly including a thermally activated pressure relief device, a manual safety shut-off valve, and means for connecting the fuel storage system to a vehicle power source and a refueling adapter. The gas control assembly is enclosed by a protective cover attached to the container. The system is attached to the vehicle with straps to enable the chassis to deform as intended in a high-speed collision.

System and method for reproducibly mounting an optical element

DOEpatents

Eisenbies, Stephen; Haney, Steven

2005-05-31

The present invention provides a two-piece apparatus for holding and aligning the MEMS deformable mirror. The two-piece apparatus comprises a holding plate for fixedly holding an adaptive optics element in an overall optical system and a base spatially fixed with respect to the optical system and adapted for mounting and containing the holding plate. The invention further relates to a means for configuring the holding plate through adjustments to each of a number of off-set pads touching each of three orthogonal plane surfaces on the base, wherein through the adjustments the orientation of the holding plate, and the adaptive optics element attached thereto, can be aligned with respect to the optical system with six degrees of freedom when aligning the plane surface of the optical element. The mounting system thus described also enables an operator to repeatedly remove and restore the adaptive element in the optical system without the need to realign the system once that element has been aligned.

Development and assessment of a Microsoft Kinect based system for imaging the breast in three dimensions.

PubMed

Wheat, J S; Choppin, S; Goyal, A

2014-06-01

Three-dimensional surface imaging technologies have been used in the planning and evaluation of breast reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. The aim of this study was to develop a 3D surface imaging system based on the Microsoft Kinect and assess the accuracy and repeatability with which the system could image the breast. A system comprising two Kinects, calibrated to provide a complete 3D image of the mannequin was developed. Digital measurements of Euclidean and surface distances between landmarks showed acceptable agreement with manual measurements. The mean differences for Euclidean and surface distances were 1.9mm and 2.2mm, respectively. The system also demonstrated good intra- and inter-rater reliability (ICCs>0.999). The Kinect-based 3D surface imaging system offers a low-cost, readily accessible alternative to more expensive, commercially available systems, which have had limited clinical use. Copyright © 2014 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Method and apparatus for measuring stress

DOEpatents

Thompson, R.B.

1983-07-28

A method and apparatus for determining stress in a material independent of micro-structural variations and anisotropies. The method comprises comparing the velocities of two horizontally polarized and horizontally propagating ultrasonic shear waves with interchanged directions of propagation and polarization. The apparatus for carrying out the method comprises periodic permanent magnet-electromagnetic acoustic transducers for generating and detecting the shear waves and means for determining the wave velocities.

Method and apparatus for measuring stress

DOEpatents

Thompson, R. Bruce

1985-06-11

A method and apparatus for determining stress in a material independent of micro-structural variations and anisotropies. The method comprises comparing the velocities of two horizontally polarized and horizontally propagating ultrasonic shear waves with interchanged directions of propagation and polarization. The apparatus for carrying out the method comprises periodic permanent magnet-electromagnetic acoustic transducers for generating and detecting the shear waves and means for determining the wave velocities.

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

Reed, R.D.

An apparatus is described for reducing hydrocarbon fuel requirements for haber ammonia synthesis by the supply of selected gases to the second reformer of such system, comprising a first cylindrical conduit, a second smaller coaxial cylinder inside of the first conduit, forming a first annular space therebetween, the downstream end of said second conduit closed, and a plurality of circumferentially-spaced orifices in the wall of said conduit upstream of the closed end. Means are provided to supply air at selected pressure p1, temperature and flow rate to the first annular space, means to supply at least methane at a pressuremore » p2 greater than p1, to said second conduit, so that the concentration of methane in the air will be less than the lower explosive limit, and means to shield the jets of gas from the orifices in the second conduit , as they flow radially outwardly across the annular space. Means are also provided for adding steam in selected ratio with the methane prior to flow into the second conduit, whereby air, methane and steam are mixed together prior to flow into the second haber reformer.« less

Validity of Rorschach Inkblot scores for discriminating psychopaths from non-psychopaths in forensic populations: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Wood, James M; Lilienfeld, Scott O; Nezworski, M Teresa; Garb, Howard N; Allen, Keli Holloway; Wildermuth, Jessica L

2010-06-01

Gacono and Meloy (2009) have concluded that the Rorschach Inkblot Test is a sensitive instrument with which to discriminate psychopaths from nonpsychopaths. We examined the association of psychopathy with 37 Rorschach variables in a meta-analytic review of 173 validity coefficients derived from 22 studies comprising 780 forensic participants. All studies included the Hare Psychopathy Checklist or one of its versions (Hare, 1980, 1991, 2003) and Exner's (2003) Comprehensive System for the Rorschach. Mean validity coefficients of Rorschach variables in the meta-analysis ranged from -.113 to .239, with a median validity of .070 and a mean validity of .062. Psychopathy displayed a significant and medium-sized association with the number of Aggressive Potential responses (weighted mean validity coefficient = .232) and small but significant associations with the Sum of Texture responses, Cooperative Movement = 0, the number of Personal responses, and the Egocentricity Index (weighted mean validity coefficients = .097 to .159). The remaining 32 Rorschach variables were not significantly related to psychopathy. The present findings contradict the view that the Rorschach is a clinically sensitive instrument for discriminating psychopaths from nonpsychopaths.

Control and acquisition system of a space instrument for cosmic ray measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prieto, M.; Martín, C.; Quesada, M.; Meziat, D.; Medina, J.; Sánchez, S.; Rodríguez-Frías, M. D.

2000-04-01

The PESCA Instrument Control and Acquisition System (PICAS) design, building and tests are presented. The purpose of the PESCA instrument is the study of the Solar Energetic Particles and the Anomalous Cosmic Rays. It is, therefore, a satellite on-board instrument. The PICAS is basically a computer, composed of a microprocessor with a memory block and a set of interfaces for the communication with the rest of the instrument and the satellite. The PICAS manages all the comunication processes with the satellite, that comprises the order reception from the ground station, and the telemetry sending, that includes scientific data and housekeeping data. By means of telecommands, the PICAS is completely controllable from the ground. The PICAS is also a reliable data acquisition system that guarantees the correct reception of the Cosmic Rays data collected in the ground.

Nuclear reactor sealing system

DOEpatents

McEdwards, James A.

1983-01-01

A liquid metal-cooled nuclear reactor sealing system. The nuclear reactor includes a vessel sealed at its upper end by a closure head. The closure head comprises at least two components, one of which is rotatable; and the two components define an annulus therebetween. The sealing system includes at least a first and second inflatable seal disposed in series in an upper portion of the annulus. The system further includes a dip seal extending into a body of insulation located adjacent a bottom portion of the closure head. The dip seal comprises a trough formed by a lower portion of one of the components, and a seal blade pendently supported from the other component and extending downwardly into the trough. A body of liquid metal is contained in the trough which submerges a portion of the seal blade. The seal blade is provided with at least one aperture located above the body of liquid metal for providing fluid communication between the annulus intermediate the dip seal and the inflatable seals, and a body of cover gas located inside the vessel. There also is provided means for introducing a purge gas into the annulus intermediate the inflatable seals and the seal blade. The purge gas is introduced in an amount sufficient to substantially reduce diffusion of radioactive cover gas or sodium vapor up to the inflatable seals. The purge gas mixes with the cover gas in the reactor vessel where it can be withdrawn from the vessel for treatment and recycle to the vessel.

Dermatoglyphics: a genetic marker of early childhood caries.

PubMed

Anitha, C; Konde, Sapna; Raj, N Sunil; Kumar, N C; Peethamber, Preetha

2014-01-01

It is an accepted fact that genetics plays an important role in determination of palmar dermatoglyphic patterns. Since caries is a multifactorial disease with the influence of genetic pattern, this study was undertaken to explore the possibility of dermatoglyphics as a noninvasive and early predictor of dental caries in children, so as to initiate preventive oral health measures at an early age. The study group comprised of 200 children aged between 4 and 5 years. The dmfs score was evaluated. The experimental group (Group 1), comprised of 100 children with early childhood caries (ECC) with dmfs >5. The control group (Group 2) comprised of 100 children with dmfs score of 0. An increased frequency of ulnar loops in caries-free children and whorls in children with ECC was observed. Low mean atd angle and low mean. Total ridge count was observed in the ECC group. There is definite variation in dermatoglyphics between the ECC and caries-free group, indicating that dermatoglyphic patterns can be used as a predictive tool for children with ECC.

Liquid-film electron stripper

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

Gavin, B.F.

1986-12-02

This patent describes an improved liquid-film electron stripper for high intensity heavy ion beams comprising: at least one rotatable disc mounted in a housing, means for rotating the disc, a liquid reservoir operatively connected to the housing, means for directing liquid from the reservoir onto the rotatable disc for forming a film of liquid as liquid is spun from the disc, the disc being configured to define a sharp edge located at one side of the periphery of the disc, and configured to include a flat, smooth radially outer section located adjacent the sharp edge, the liquid being directed ontomore » the flat, smooth section of the disc, the means for directing liquid onto the disc including a nozzle positioned with respect to the disc so that liquid from the nozzle impinges at about a 90/sup 0/ angle with respect to the flat, smooth surface of the disc, and liquid film terminator means located in spaced relation to the disc and approximately perpendicular to a formed liquid film, the terminator means comprising at least one ribbon of material secured to the housing.« less

Splice assembly tool and method of splicing

DOEpatents

Silva, Frank A.

1980-01-01

A splice assembly tool for assembling component parts of an electrical conductor while producing a splice connection between electrical cables therewith, comprises a first structural member adaptable for supporting force applying means thereon, said force applying means enabling a rotary force applied manually thereto to be converted to a longitudinal force for subsequent application against a first component part of said electrical connection, a second structural member adaptable for engaging a second component part in a manner to assist said first structural member in assembling the component parts relative to one another and transmission means for conveying said longitudinal force between said first and said second structural members, said first and said second structural members being coupled to one another by said transmission means, wherein at least one of said component parts comprises a tubular elastomeric sleeve and said force applying means provides a relatively high mechanical advantage when said rotary force is applied thereto so as to facilitate assembly of said at least one tubular elastomeric sleeve about said other component part in an interference fit manner.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR HANDLING RADIOACTIVE PRODUCTS

DOEpatents

Nicoll, D.

1959-02-24

A device is described for handling fuel elements being discharged from a nuclear reactor. The device is adapted to be disposed beneath a reactor within the storage canal for spent fuel elements. The device is comprised essentially of a cylinder pivotally mounted to a base for rotational motion between a vertical position. where the mouth of the cylinder is in the top portion of the container for receiving a fuel element discharged from a reactor into the cylinder, and a horizontal position where the mouth of the cylinder is remote from the top portion of the container and the fuel element is discharged from the cylinder into the storage canal. The device is operated by hydraulic pressure means and is provided with a means to prevent contaminated primary liquid coolant in the reactor system from entering the storage canal with the spent fuel element.

Composition Pulse Time-Of-Flight Mass Flow Sensor

DOEpatents

Mosier, Bruce P.; Crocker, Robert W.; Harnett, Cindy K. l

2004-01-13

A device for measuring fluid flow rates over a wide range of flow rates (<1 nL/min to >10 .mu.L/min) and at pressures at least as great as 10,000 psi. The invention is particularly adapted for use in microfluidic systems. The device operates by producing compositional variations in the fluid, or pulses, that are subsequently detected downstream from the point of creation to derive a flow rate. Each pulse, comprising a small fluid volume, whose composition is different from the mean composition of the fluid, can be created by electrochemical means, such as by electrolysis of a solvent, electrolysis of a dissolved species, or electrodialysis of a dissolved ionic species. Measurements of the conductivity of the fluid can be used to detect the arrival time of the pulses, from which the fluid flow rate can be determined

Turbocharger

DOEpatents

Sun, Harold Huimin; Hanna, Dave; Zhang, Jizhong; Hu, Liangjun; Krivitzky, Eric M.; Larosiliere, Louis M.; Baines, Nicholas C.

2013-08-27

In one example, a turbocharger for an internal combustion engine is described. The turbocharger comprises a casing containing an impeller having a full blade coupled to a hub that rotates about an axis of rotation. The casing includes a bleed port and an injection port. The full blade includes a hub edge, a casing edge, and a first distribution of angles, each angle measured between the axis of rotation and a mean line at the hub edge at a meridional distance along the hub edge. The full blade includes a second distribution of angles, each angle measured between the axis of rotation and a mean line at the casing edge at a meridional distance along the casing edge. Further, various systems are described for affecting the aerodynamic properties of the compressor and turbine components in a way that may extend the operating range of the turbocharger.

Metal halogen battery construction with improved technique for producing halogen hydrate

DOEpatents

Fong, Walter L.; Catherino, Henry A.; Kotch, Richard J.

1983-01-01

An improved electrical energy storage system comprising, at least one cell having a positive electrode and a negative electrode separated by aqueous electrolyte, a store means wherein halogen hydrate is formed and stored as part of an aqueous material having a liquid level near the upper part of the store, means for circulating electrolyte through the cell, conduit means for transmitting halogen gas formed in the cell to a hydrate forming apparatus associated with the store, said hydrate forming apparatus including, a pump to which there is introduced quantities of the halogen gas and chilled water, said pump being located in the store and an outlet conduit leading from the pump and being substantially straight and generally vertically disposed and having an exit discharge into the gas space above the liquid level in the store, and wherein said hydrate forming apparatus is highly efficient and very resistant to plugging or jamming. The disclosure also relates to an improved method for producing chlorine hydrate in zinc chlorine batteries.

Free Motion Scanning System

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

Sword, Charles K.

The present invention relates to an ultrasonic scanner and method for the imaging of a part surface, the scanner comprising: a probe assembly spaced apart from the surface including at least two tracking signals for emitting electromagnetic radiation and a transmitter for emitting ultrasonic waves onto a surface in order to induce at least a portion of said waves to be reflected from the surface, at least one detector for receiving the electromagnetic radiation wherein the detector is positioned to receive said radiation from the tracking signals, an analyzing means for recognizing a three-dimensional location of the tracking signals basedmore » on said emitted electromagnetic radiation, a differential conversion means for generating an output signal representative of the waveform of the reflected waves, and a means for relating said tracking signal location with the output signal and projecting an image of the resulting data. The scanner and method are particularly useful to acquire ultrasonic inspection data by scanning the probe-over a complex part surface in an arbitrary scanning pattern.« less

Ion conducting fluoropolymer carbonates for alkali metal ion batteries

DOEpatents

DeSimone, Joseph M.; Pandya, Ashish; Wong, Dominica; Balsara, Nitash P.; Thelen, Jacob; Devaux, Didier

2017-09-05

Liquid or solid electrolyte compositions are described that comprise a homogeneous solvent system and an alkali metal salt dissolved in said solvent system. The solvent system may comprise a fluoropolymer, having one or two terminal carbonate groups covalently coupled thereto. Batteries containing such electrolyte compositions are also described.

Towards a Stakeholder Model for the Co-Production of the Public-Sector Information System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Correia, Zita P.

2005-01-01

Introduction: Proposes a systemic approach to Public Sector Information (PSI), defined as comprising entities in four categories--citizens, businesses, policymakers and administrations. This system also comprises four categories of information--on citizenship, economic and social development, policy and administration. Methods: A selective…

Nanolipoprotein particles comprising a natural rubber biosynthetic enzyme complex and related products, methods and systems

DOEpatents

Hoeprich, Paul D.; Whalen, Maureen

2016-04-05

Provided herein are nanolipoprotein particles that comprise a biosynthetic enzyme more particularly an enzyme capable of catalyzing rubber or other rubbers polymerization, and related assemblies, devices, methods and systems.

Apparatus and methods for splicing conduits and hoses subsea

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

Slocum, Alexander Henry; Gutierrez, Luis Javier

A hose connection system comprises a body including an internal cavity and a port in fluid communication with a portion of the internal cavity. In addition, the system comprises a hose end fitting positioned in the cavity. The hose end fitting includes an inner tubular member and an outer tubular member concentrically disposed about the inner tubular member. The outer tubular member includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced axial slits. Further, the system comprises a plurality of wedge members arranged circumferentially about the outer tubular member. Still further, the system comprises an annular piston movably disposed within the internal cavitymore » of the body. An end of the piston has an inner frustoconical surface that slidingly engages the plurality of wedge members. The piston is configured to move axially through the body and compress the wedge members and the outer tubular member radially inward.« less

Low heat transfer, high strength window materials

DOEpatents

Berlad, Abraham L.; Salzano, Francis J.; Batey, John E.

1978-01-01

A multi-pane window with improved insulating qualities; comprising a plurality of transparent or translucent panes held in an essentially parallel, spaced-apart relationship by a frame. Between at least one pair of panes is a convection defeating means comprising an array of parallel slats or cells so designed as to prevent convection currents from developing in the space between the two panes. The convection defeating structures may have reflective surfaces so as to improve the collection and transmittance of the incident radiant energy. These same means may be used to control (increase or decrease) the transmittance of solar energy as well as to decouple the radiative transfer between the interior surfaces of the transparent panes.

PRESSURE SENSING DEVICE

DOEpatents

Pope, K.E.

1959-12-15

This device is primarily useful as a switch which is selectively operable to actuate in response to either absolute or differential predetermined pressures. The device generally comprises a pressure-tight housing divided by a movable impermeable diaphragm into two chambers, a reference pressure chamber and a bulb chamber containing the switching means and otherwise filled with an incompressible non-conducting fluid. The switch means comprises a normally collapsed bulb having an electrically conductive outer surface and a vent tube leading to the housing exterior. The normally collapsed bulb is disposed such that upon its inflation, respensive to air inflow from the vent, two contacts fixed within the bulb chamber are adapted to be electrically shorted by the conducting outer surface of the bulb.

Catalyst system comprising a first catalyst system tethered to a supported catalyst

DOEpatents

Angelici, Robert J.; Gao, Hanrong

1998-08-04

The present invention provides new catalyst formats which comprise a supported catalyst tethered to a second and different catalyst by a suitable tethering ligand. A preferred system comprises a heterogeneous supported metal catalyst tethered to a homogeneous catalyst. This combination of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts has a sufficient lifetime and unusually high catalytic activity in arene hydrogenations, and potentially many other reactions as well, including, but not limited to hydroformylation, hydrosilation, olefin oxidation, isomerization, hydrocyanation, olefin metathesis, olefin polymerization, carbonylation, enantioselective catalysis and photoduplication. These catalysts are easily separated from the products, and can be reused repeatedly, making these systems very economical.

Catalyst system comprising a first catalyst system tethered to a supported catalyst

DOEpatents

Angelici, R.J.; Gao, H.

1998-08-04

The present invention provides new catalyst formats which comprise a supported catalyst tethered to a second and different catalyst by a suitable tethering ligand. A preferred system comprises a heterogeneous supported metal catalyst tethered to a homogeneous catalyst. This combination of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts has a sufficient lifetime and unusually high catalytic activity in arene hydrogenations, and potentially many other reactions as well, including, but not limited to hydroformylation, hydrosilication, olefin oxidation, isomerization, hydrocyanidation, olefin metathesis, olefin polymerization, carbonylation, enantioselective catalysis and photoduplication. These catalysts are easily separated from the products, and can be reused repeatedly, making these systems very economical. 2 figs.

Scaling of Multimillion-Atom Biological Molecular Dynamics Simulation on a Petascale Supercomputer

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

Schulz, Roland; Lindner, Benjamin; Petridis, Loukas

2009-01-01

A strategy is described for a fast all-atom molecular dynamics simulation of multimillion-atom biological systems on massively parallel supercomputers. The strategy is developed using benchmark systems of particular interest to bioenergy research, comprising models of cellulose and lignocellulosic biomass in an aqueous solution. The approach involves using the reaction field (RF) method for the computation of long-range electrostatic interactions, which permits efficient scaling on many thousands of cores. Although the range of applicability of the RF method for biomolecular systems remains to be demonstrated, for the benchmark systems the use of the RF produces molecular dipole moments, Kirkwood G factors,more » other structural properties, and mean-square fluctuations in excellent agreement with those obtained with the commonly used Particle Mesh Ewald method. With RF, three million- and five million atom biological systems scale well up to 30k cores, producing 30 ns/day. Atomistic simulations of very large systems for time scales approaching the microsecond would, therefore, appear now to be within reach.« less

Scaling of Multimillion-Atom Biological Molecular Dynamics Simulation on a Petascale Supercomputer.

PubMed

Schulz, Roland; Lindner, Benjamin; Petridis, Loukas; Smith, Jeremy C

2009-10-13

A strategy is described for a fast all-atom molecular dynamics simulation of multimillion-atom biological systems on massively parallel supercomputers. The strategy is developed using benchmark systems of particular interest to bioenergy research, comprising models of cellulose and lignocellulosic biomass in an aqueous solution. The approach involves using the reaction field (RF) method for the computation of long-range electrostatic interactions, which permits efficient scaling on many thousands of cores. Although the range of applicability of the RF method for biomolecular systems remains to be demonstrated, for the benchmark systems the use of the RF produces molecular dipole moments, Kirkwood G factors, other structural properties, and mean-square fluctuations in excellent agreement with those obtained with the commonly used Particle Mesh Ewald method. With RF, three million- and five million-atom biological systems scale well up to ∼30k cores, producing ∼30 ns/day. Atomistic simulations of very large systems for time scales approaching the microsecond would, therefore, appear now to be within reach.

Individual response technology to promote active learning within the caring sciences: An experimental research study.

PubMed

Hedén, Lena; Ahlstrom, Linda

2016-01-01

One major challenge in delivering lectures to large and diverse classes is the maintenance of a high standard of lecturing in order to engage students and increase their participation and involvement. The lecturer's assignment is to arrange and prepare the lecture before teaching, hence enabling students' enhanced learning. Individual response technology could encourage students' active learning and activate higher cognitive levels. The aim of this study was to evaluate individual response technology as a complement during lectures for students in higher education, in terms of the students' experiences of participation, engagement, and active learning. Also of interest was whether this technology can be considered a supportive technical system. Data were collected through a questionnaire where levels of each condition were reported on a numeric rating scale (0-10) at baseline and after the introduction of individual response technology. To get a broader perspective, two types of lectures (pediatric and statistical) were included, giving a total of four assessment times. The participants comprised 59 students in Bachelor of Nursing program at a Swedish metropolitan university. Overall, when individual response technology was used, students reported increased experience of engagement (n=82, mean 6.1 vs. n=65, mean 7.3, p<0.001), participation (n=92, mean 6.1 vs. n=79, mean 7.7, p<0.001), and active learning (n=92, mean 7.3 vs. n=79, mean 8.2 p<0.001). Additionally, the students experienced this technology as a supportive technical system during lectures (mean 6.6 vs. mean 8.1, p<0.001). The use of individual response technology during teaching is one way to enhance students' experiences of engagement, participation, and learning within the caring sciences. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Initial yield to depth relation for water wells drilled into crystalline bedrock - Pinardville quadrangle, New Hampshire

USGS Publications Warehouse

Drew, L.J.; Schuenemeyer, J.H.; Amstrong, T.R.; Sutphin, D.M.

2001-01-01

A model is proposed to explain the statistical relations between the mean initial water well yields from eight time increments from 1984 to 1998 for wells drilled into the crystalline bedrock aquifer system in the Pinardville area of southern New Hampshire and the type of bedrock, mean well depth, and mean well elevation. Statistical analyses show that the mean total yield of drilling increments is positively correlated with mean total well depth and mean well elevation. In addition, the mean total well yield varies with rock type from a minimum of 46.9 L/min (12.4 gpm) in the Damon Pond granite to a maximum of 74.5 L/min (19.7 gpm) in the Permian pegmatite and granite unit. Across the eight drilling increments that comprise 211 wells each, the percentages of very low-yield wells (1.9 L/min [0.5 gpm] or less) and high-yield wells (151.4 L/min [40 gpm] or more) increased, and those of intermediate-yield wells decreased. As housing development progressed during the 1984 to 1998 interval, the mean depth of the wells and their elevations increased, and the mix of percentages of the bedrock types drilled changed markedly. The proposed model uses a feed-forward mechanism to explain the interaction between the increasing mean elevation, mean well depth, and percentages of very low-yielding wells and the mean well yield. The increasing percentages of very low-yielding wells through time and the economics of the housing market may control the system that forces the mean well depths, percentages of high-yield wells, and mean well yields to increase. The reason for the increasing percentages of very low-yield wells is uncertain, but the explanation is believed to involve the complex structural geology and tectonic history of the Pinardville quadrangle.

Usability evaluation of the interactive Personal Patient Profile-Prostate decision support system with African American men.

PubMed

Jaja, Cheedy; Pares-Avila, Jose; Wolpin, Seth; Berry, Donna

2010-04-01

The Personal Patient Profile-Prostate (P4) program is an interactive Web-based decision support system that provides men with localized prostate cancer customized education and coaching with which to make the best personal treatment decision. This study assessed functionality and usability of the P4 program and identified problems in user-computer interaction in a sample of African American men. Usability testing was conducted with 12 community-dwelling African American adult men. The health status of participants was not known or collected by the research team. Each participant worked with the P4 program and provided simultaneous feedback using the "think aloud" technique. Handwritten field notes were collated and assigned to 3 standard coded categories. Aspects of P4 program usability was made based on common issues in the assigned categories. Summary statistics were derived for types and frequency of usability issues noted in the coded data. Twelve participants reported a total of 122 usability comments, with a mean of 9 usability comments. The most common usability issue by participant was completeness of information content, which comprised 53 (43%) of the total issues. Comprehensibility of text and graphics was second, comprising 51 (42%) of the total issues. This study provided initial inventory of usability issues for community African American men that may potentially interfere with application of the P4 system in the community setting and overall system usability, confirming the need for usability testing of a culturally appropriate Internet-based decision support system before community application.

40 CFR 205.151 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... classification unit of a manufacturer's product line and is comprised of all vehicle designs, models or series... surface. (3) Competition motorcycle means any motorcycle designed and marketed solely for use in closed.... (7) Acoustical Assurance Period (AAP) means a specified period of time or miles driven after sale to...

40 CFR 205.151 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... classification unit of a manufacturer's product line and is comprised of all vehicle designs, models or series... surface. (3) Competition motorcycle means any motorcycle designed and marketed solely for use in closed.... (7) Acoustical Assurance Period (AAP) means a specified period of time or miles driven after sale to...

40 CFR 205.151 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... classification unit of a manufacturer's product line and is comprised of all vehicle designs, models or series... surface. (3) Competition motorcycle means any motorcycle designed and marketed solely for use in closed.... (7) Acoustical Assurance Period (AAP) means a specified period of time or miles driven after sale to...

7 CFR 58.1 - Meaning of words.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

..., GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR APPROVED PLANTS AND STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF DAIRY PRODUCTS 1 Regulations... official tests in accordance with this part. Approved plant means one or more adjacent buildings, or parts thereof, comprising a single plant at one location in which the facilities and methods of operation...

7 CFR 58.1 - Meaning of words.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

..., GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR APPROVED PLANTS AND STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF DAIRY PRODUCTS 1 Regulations... official tests in accordance with this part. Approved plant means one or more adjacent buildings, or parts thereof, comprising a single plant at one location in which the facilities and methods of operation...

7 CFR 58.1 - Meaning of words.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

..., GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR APPROVED PLANTS AND STANDARDS FOR GRADES OF DAIRY PRODUCTS 1 Regulations... official tests in accordance with this part. Approved plant means one or more adjacent buildings, or parts thereof, comprising a single plant at one location in which the facilities and methods of operation...

Process Control for Precipitation Prevention in Space Water Recovery Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sargusingh, Miriam; Callahan, Michael R.; Muirhead, Dean

2015-01-01

The ability to recover and purify water through physiochemical processes is crucial for realizing long-term human space missions, including both planetary habitation and space travel. Because of their robust nature, rotary distillation systems have been actively pursued by NASA as one of the technologies for water recovery from wastewater primarily comprised of human urine. A specific area of interest is the prevention of the formation of solids that could clog fluid lines and damage rotating equipment. To mitigate the formation of solids, operational constraints are in place that limits such that the concentration of key precipitating ions in the wastewater brine are below the theoretical threshold. This control in effected by limiting the amount of water recovered such that the risk of reaching the precipitation threshold is within acceptable limits. The water recovery limit is based on an empirically derived worst case wastewater composition. During the batch process, water recovery is estimated by monitoring the throughput of the system. NASA Johnson Space Center is working on means of enhancing the process controls to increase water recovery. Options include more precise prediction of the precipitation threshold. To this end, JSC is developing a means of more accurately measuring the constituent of the brine and/or wastewater. Another means would be to more accurately monitor the throughput of the system. In spring of 2015, testing will be performed to test strategies for optimizing water recovery without increasing the risk of solids formation in the brine.

High-speed electromechanical chutter for imaging spectrographs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Quang-Viet (Inventor)

2005-01-01

The present invention presents a high-speed electromechanical shutter which has at least two rotary beam choppers that are synchronized using a phase-locked loop electronic control to reduce the duty cycle. These choppers have blade means that can comprise discs or drums, each having about 60 (+/- 15) slots which are from about 0.3 to about 0.8 mm wide and about 5 to about 20 nun long (radially) which are evenly distributed through out 360 deg, and a third rotary chopper which is optically aligned has a small number of slots, such as for example, 1 to 10 slots which are about 1 to about 2 mm wide and about 5 to about 20 mm long (radially). Further the blade means include phase slots that allow the blade means to be phase locked using a closed loop control circuit. In addition, in a preferred embodiment, the system also has a leaf shutter. Thus the invention preferably achieves a gate width of less than about 100 microseconds, using motors that operate at 3000 to 10,OOO rpm, and with a phase jitter of less than about 1.5 microseconds, and further using an aperture with more than about 75% optical transmission with a clear aperture of about 0.8 -10 nun. The system can be synchronized to external sources at 0 6 kHz lasers, data acquisition systems, and cameras.

High-speed electromechanical shutter for imaging spectrographs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Quang-Viet (Inventor)

2005-01-01

The present invention presents a high-speed electromechanical shutter which has at least two rotary beam choppers that are synchronized using a phase-locked loop electronic control to reduce the duty cycle. These choppers have blade means that can comprise discs or drums, each having about 60 (+/-15) slots which are from about 0.3 to about 0.8 mm wide and about 5 to about 20 mm long (radially) which are evenly distributed through out 360?, and a third rotary chopper which is optically aligned has a small number of slots, such as for example, 1 to 10 slots which are about 1 to about 2 mm wide and about 5 to about 20 mm long (radially). Further the blade means include phase slots that allow the blade means to be phase locked using a closed loop control circuit. In addition, in a preferred embodiment, the system also has a leaf shutter. Thus the invention preferably achieves a gate width of less than about 100 microseconds, using motors that operate at 3000 to 10,000 rpm, and with a phase jitter of less than about 1.5 microseconds, and further using an aperture with more than about 75% optical transmission with a clear aperture of about 0.8 mm?10 mm. The system can be synchronized to external sources at 0 6 kHz lasers, data acquisition systems, and cameras.

Complex oxides useful for thermoelectric energy conversion

DOEpatents

Majumdar, Arunava [Orinda, CA; Ramesh, Ramamoorthy [Moraga, CA; Yu, Choongho [College Station, TX; Scullin, Matthew L [Berkeley, CA; Huijben, Mark [Enschede, NL

2012-07-17

The invention provides for a thermoelectric system comprising a substrate comprising a first complex oxide, wherein the substrate is optionally embedded with a second complex oxide. The thermoelectric system can be used for thermoelectric power generation or thermoelectric cooling.

Nanostructured materials for hydrogen storage

DOEpatents

Williamson, Andrew J.; Reboredo, Fernando A.

2007-12-04

A system for hydrogen storage comprising a porous nano-structured material with hydrogen absorbed on the surfaces of the porous nano-structured material. The system of hydrogen storage comprises absorbing hydrogen on the surfaces of a porous nano-structured semiconductor material.

Means for the focusing and acceleration of parallel beams of charged particles. [Patent application

DOEpatents

Maschke, A.W.

1980-09-23

Apparatus for focusing beams of charged particles comprising planar arrays of electrostatic quadrupoles. The array may be assembled from a single component which comprises a support plate containing uniform rows of poles. Each pole is separated by a hole through the plate designed to pass a beam. Two such plates may be positioned with their poles intermeshed to form a plurality of quadrupoles.

Compositions, methods, and systems comprising fluorous-soluble polymers

DOEpatents

Swager, Timothy M.; Lim, Jeewoo; Takeda, Yohei

2015-10-13

The present invention generally relates to compositions, methods, and systems comprising polymers that are fluorous-soluble and/or organize at interfaces between a fluorous phase and a non-fluorous phase. In some embodiments, emulsions or films are provided comprising a polymer. The polymers, emulsions, and films can be used in many applications, including for determining, treating, and/or imaging a condition and/or disease in a subject. The polymer may also be incorporated into various optoelectronic device such as photovoltaic cells, organic light-emitting diodes, organic field effect transistors, or the like. In some embodiments, the polymers comprise pi-conjugated backbones, and in some cases, are highly emissive.

Mirror neurons, the representation of word meaning, and the foot of the third left frontal convolution.

PubMed

de Zubicaray, Greig; Postle, Natasha; McMahon, Katie; Meredith, Matthew; Ashton, Roderick

2010-01-01

Previous neuroimaging research has attempted to demonstrate a preferential involvement of the human mirror neuron system (MNS) in the comprehension of effector-related action word (verb) meanings. These studies have assumed that Broca's area (or Brodmann's area 44) is the homologue of a monkey premotor area (F5) containing mouth and hand mirror neurons, and that action word meanings are shared with the mirror system due to a proposed link between speech and gestural communication. In an fMRI experiment, we investigated whether Broca's area shows mirror activity solely for effectors implicated in the MNS. Next, we examined the responses of empirically determined mirror areas during a language perception task comprising effector-specific action words, unrelated words and nonwords. We found overlapping activity for observation and execution of actions with all effectors studied, i.e., including the foot, despite there being no evidence of foot mirror neurons in the monkey or human brain. These "mirror" areas showed equivalent responses for action words, unrelated words and nonwords, with all of these stimuli showing increased responses relative to visual character strings. Our results support alternative explanations attributing mirror activity in Broca's area to covert verbalisation or hierarchical linearisation, and provide no evidence that the MNS makes a preferential contribution to comprehending action word meanings. 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Predicting the resilience and recovery of aquatic systems: a framework for model evolution within environmental observatories

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hipsey, Matthew R.; Hamilton, David P.; Hanson, Paul C.; Carey, Cayelan C.; Coletti, Janaine Z; Read, Jordan S.; Ibelings, Bas W; Valensini, Fiona J; Brookes, Justin D

2015-01-01

Maintaining the health of aquatic systems is an essential component of sustainable catchmentmanagement, however, degradation of water quality and aquatic habitat continues to challenge scientistsand policy-makers. To support management and restoration efforts aquatic system models are requiredthat are able to capture the often complex trajectories that these systems display in response to multiplestressors. This paper explores the abilities and limitations of current model approaches in meeting this chal-lenge, and outlines a strategy based on integration of flexible model libraries and data from observationnetworks, within a learning framework, as a means to improve the accuracy and scope of model predictions.The framework is comprised of a data assimilation component that utilizes diverse data streams from sensornetworks, and a second component whereby model structural evolution can occur once the model isassessed against theoretically relevant metrics of system function. Given the scale and transdisciplinarynature of the prediction challenge, network science initiatives are identified as a means to develop and inte-grate diverse model libraries and workflows, and to obtain consensus on diagnostic approaches to modelassessment that can guide model adaptation. We outline how such a framework can help us explore thetheory of how aquatic systems respond to change by bridging bottom-up and top-down lines of enquiry,and, in doing so, also advance the role of prediction in aquatic ecosystem management.

Predicting the resilience and recovery of aquatic systems: A framework for model evolution within environmental observatories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hipsey, Matthew R.; Hamilton, David P.; Hanson, Paul C.; Carey, Cayelan C.; Coletti, Janaine Z.; Read, Jordan S.; Ibelings, Bas W.; Valesini, Fiona J.; Brookes, Justin D.

2015-09-01

Maintaining the health of aquatic systems is an essential component of sustainable catchment management, however, degradation of water quality and aquatic habitat continues to challenge scientists and policy-makers. To support management and restoration efforts aquatic system models are required that are able to capture the often complex trajectories that these systems display in response to multiple stressors. This paper explores the abilities and limitations of current model approaches in meeting this challenge, and outlines a strategy based on integration of flexible model libraries and data from observation networks, within a learning framework, as a means to improve the accuracy and scope of model predictions. The framework is comprised of a data assimilation component that utilizes diverse data streams from sensor networks, and a second component whereby model structural evolution can occur once the model is assessed against theoretically relevant metrics of system function. Given the scale and transdisciplinary nature of the prediction challenge, network science initiatives are identified as a means to develop and integrate diverse model libraries and workflows, and to obtain consensus on diagnostic approaches to model assessment that can guide model adaptation. We outline how such a framework can help us explore the theory of how aquatic systems respond to change by bridging bottom-up and top-down lines of enquiry, and, in doing so, also advance the role of prediction in aquatic ecosystem management.

Energy storage systems having an electrode comprising Li.sub.xS.sub.y

DOEpatents

Xiao, Jie; Zhang, Jiguang; Graff, Gordon L.; Liu, Jun; Wang, Wei; Zheng, Jianming; Xu, Wu; Shao, Yuyan; Yang, Zhenguo

2016-08-02

Improved lithium-sulfur energy storage systems can utilizes Li.sub.xS.sub.y as a component in an electrode of the system. For example, the energy storage system can include a first electrode current collector, a second electrode current collector, and an ion-permeable separator separating the first and second electrode current collectors. A second electrode is arranged between the second electrode current collector and the separator. A first electrode is arranged between the first electrode current collector and the separator and comprises a first condensed-phase fluid comprising Li.sub.xS.sub.y. The energy storage system can be arranged such that the first electrode functions as a positive or a negative electrode.

Process of forming compounds using reverse micelle or reverse microemulsion systems

DOEpatents

Linehan, John C.; Fulton, John L.; Bean, Roger M.

1998-01-01

The present invention is directed to a process for producing a nanometer-sized metal compound. The process comprises forming a reverse micelle or reverse microemulsion system comprising a polar fluid in a non-polar or low-polarity fluid. A first reactant comprising a multi-component, water-soluble metal compound is introduced into the polar fluid in a non-polar or low-polarity fluid. This first reactant can be introduced into the reverse micelle or reverse microemulsion system during formation thereof or subsequent to the formation of the reverse micelle or microemulsion system. The water-soluble metal compound is then reacted in the reverse micelle or reverse microemulsion system to form the nanometer-sized metal compound. The nanometer-sized metal compound is then precipitated from the reverse micelle or reverse microemulsion system.

Information processing systems, reasoning modules, and reasoning system design methods

DOEpatents

Hohimer, Ryan E.; Greitzer, Frank L.; Hampton, Shawn D.

2016-08-23

Information processing systems, reasoning modules, and reasoning system design methods are described. According to one aspect, an information processing system includes working memory comprising a semantic graph which comprises a plurality of abstractions, wherein the abstractions individually include an individual which is defined according to an ontology and a reasoning system comprising a plurality of reasoning modules which are configured to process different abstractions of the semantic graph, wherein a first of the reasoning modules is configured to process a plurality of abstractions which include individuals of a first classification type of the ontology and a second of the reasoning modules is configured to process a plurality of abstractions which include individuals of a second classification type of the ontology, wherein the first and second classification types are different.

Information processing systems, reasoning modules, and reasoning system design methods

DOEpatents

Hohimer, Ryan E.; Greitzer, Frank L.; Hampton, Shawn D.

2015-08-18

Information processing systems, reasoning modules, and reasoning system design methods are described. According to one aspect, an information processing system includes working memory comprising a semantic graph which comprises a plurality of abstractions, wherein the abstractions individually include an individual which is defined according to an ontology and a reasoning system comprising a plurality of reasoning modules which are configured to process different abstractions of the semantic graph, wherein a first of the reasoning modules is configured to process a plurality of abstractions which include individuals of a first classification type of the ontology and a second of the reasoning modules is configured to process a plurality of abstractions which include individuals of a second classification type of the ontology, wherein the first and second classification types are different.

Information processing systems, reasoning modules, and reasoning system design methods

DOEpatents

Hohimer, Ryan E; Greitzer, Frank L; Hampton, Shawn D

2014-03-04

Information processing systems, reasoning modules, and reasoning system design methods are described. According to one aspect, an information processing system includes working memory comprising a semantic graph which comprises a plurality of abstractions, wherein the abstractions individually include an individual which is defined according to an ontology and a reasoning system comprising a plurality of reasoning modules which are configured to process different abstractions of the semantic graph, wherein a first of the reasoning modules is configured to process a plurality of abstractions which include individuals of a first classification type of the ontology and a second of the reasoning modules is configured to process a plurality of abstractions which include individuals of a second classification type of the ontology, wherein the first and second classification types are different.

The association between high-risk behavior and central nervous system injuries: analysis of traffic-related fatalities in a large coroner's series.

PubMed

Pakula, Andrea; Shaker, Adel; Martin, Maureen; Skinner, Ruby

2013-10-01

High-risk behaviors leading to traffic fatalities are often a result of severe traumatic brain and spine injuries. The objective of the study was to analyze patterns of behavior in drivers and motorcyclists that are associated with central nervous system (CNS)-related prehospital deaths that may serve as a basis for future prevention initiatives. Our study group comprised 514 fatalities with severe CNS injuries documented at autopsy. The majority (n = 491) was the result of motor vehicle collisions (MVCs). In this group, male drivers predominated and the majority, 80 per cent, wore seatbelts. Toxicology analysis revealed 53 per cent of drivers with a mean concentration of ethanol above the legal limit. Texting while driving comprised 45 per cent of the study group. Less than 5 per cent of the fatalities were the result of road or weather conditions. In the motorcycle group (n = 23), 100 per cent of the victims were unhelmeted. We report a large autopsy series of CNS-related deaths with analysis of behavioral factors associated with the fatalities. Substance abuse and distracted driving are dominant patterns of high-risk behavior in MVCs and not wearing a motorcycle helmet is deadly for victims of motorcycle crashes.

Means and method for the focusing and acceleration of parallel beams of charged particles

DOEpatents

Maschke, Alfred W.

1983-07-05

A novel apparatus and method for focussing beams of charged particles comprising planar arrays of electrostatic quadrupoles. The quadrupole arrays may comprise electrodes which are shared by two or more quadrupoles. Such quadrupole arrays are particularly adapted to providing strong focussing forces for high current, high brightness, beams of charged particles, said beams further comprising a plurality of parallel beams, or beamlets, each such beamlet being focussed by one quadrupole of the array. Such arrays may be incorporated in various devices wherein beams of charged particles are accelerated or transported, such as linear accelerators, klystron tubes, beam transport lines, etc.

NEUTRONIC REACTOR

DOEpatents

Wade, E.J.

1958-09-16

This patent relates to a reflector means for a neutronic reactor. A reflector comprised of a plurality of vertically movable beryllium control members is provided surrounding the sides of the reactor core. An absorber of fast neutrons comprised of natural uramum surrounds the reflector. An absorber of slow neutrons surrounds the absorber of fast neutrons and is formed of a plurality of beryllium blocks having natural uranium members distributcd therethrough. in addition, a movable body is positioned directly below the core and is comprised of a beryllium reflector and an absorbing member attached to the botiom thereof, the absorbing member containing a substance selected from the goup consisting of natural urantum and Th/sup 232/.

The Meaning of General Education: The Emergence of a Curriculum Paradigm.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, Gary E.

An historical and conceptual analysis of general education in the United States is presented, comprising the following chapters: (1) transformation and the search for meaning (including a discussion of the concept of general education); (2) the classical curriculum confronts democracy (democratic pressures on the classical curriculum; the Yale…

Selective catalytic reduction system and process for treating NOx emissions using a palladium and rhodium or ruthenium catalyst

DOEpatents

Sobolevskiy, Anatoly [Orlando, FL; Rossin, Joseph A [Columbus, OH; Knapke, Michael J [Columbus, OH

2011-07-12

A process for the catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in a gas stream (29) in the presence of H.sub.2 is provided. The process comprises contacting the gas stream with a catalyst system (38) comprising zirconia-silica washcoat particles (41), a pre-sulfated zirconia binder (44), and a catalyst combination (40) comprising palladium and at least one of rhodium, ruthenium, or a mixture of ruthenium and rhodium.

Capillary electrophoresis systems and methods

DOEpatents

Dorairaj, Rathissh [Hillsboro, OR; Keynton, Robert S [Louisville, KY; Roussel, Thomas J [Louisville, KY; Crain, Mark M [Georgetown, IN; Jackson, Douglas J [New Albany, IN; Walsh, Kevin M [Louisville, KY; Naber, John F [Goshen, KY; Baldwin, Richard P [Louisville, KY; Franco, Danielle B [Mount Washington, KY

2011-08-02

An embodiment of the invention is directed to a capillary electrophoresis apparatus comprising a plurality of separation micro-channels. A sample loading channel communicates with each of the plurality of separation channels. A driver circuit comprising a plurality of electrodes is configured to induce an electric field across each of the plurality of separation channels sufficient to cause analytes in the samples to migrate along each of the channels. The system further comprises a plurality of detectors configured to detect the analytes.

System for simultaneously loading program to master computer memory devices and corresponding slave computer memory devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, William A. (Inventor)

1993-01-01

A bus programmable slave module card for use in a computer control system is disclosed which comprises a master computer and one or more slave computer modules interfacing by means of a bus. Each slave module includes its own microprocessor, memory, and control program for acting as a single loop controller. The slave card includes a plurality of memory means (S1, S2...) corresponding to a like plurality of memory devices (C1, C2...) in the master computer, for each slave memory means its own communication lines connectable through the bus with memory communication lines of an associated memory device in the master computer, and a one-way electronic door which is switchable to either a closed condition or a one-way open condition. With the door closed, communication lines between master computer memory (C1, C2...) and slave memory (S1, S2...) are blocked. In the one-way open condition invention, the memory communication lines or each slave memory means (S1, S2...) connect with the memory communication lines of its associated memory device (C1, C2...) in the master computer, and the memory devices (C1, C2...) of the master computer and slave card are electrically parallel such that information seen by the master's memory is also seen by the slave's memory. The slave card is also connectable to a switch for electronically removing the slave microprocessor from the system. With the master computer and the slave card in programming mode relationship, and the slave microprocessor electronically removed from the system, loading a program in the memory devices (C1, C2...) of the master accomplishes a parallel loading into the memory devices (S1, S2...) of the slave.

Therapy radiation apparatus for veterinary medicine

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

Parris, D.M.

1987-03-03

A radiation device is described for use in veterinary medicine, for treating exterior and interior portions of animal bodies, comprising: (a) power supply means providing selected voltages; (b) high frequency oscillator means; (c) frequency divider means responsive to the oscillator means, and adapted to control switch means for modulating a voltage supply for at least one non-laser broad band infrared radiation diode providing an expanding beam of radiation; and (d) means for applying at least one one-laser broad band infrared radiation diode to a dermal surface of an animal.

Temperature actuated automatic safety rod release

DOEpatents

Hutter, E.; Pardini, J.A.; Walker, D.E.

1984-03-13

A temperature-actuated apparatus is disclosed for releasably supporting a safety rod in a nuclear reactor, comprising a safety rod upper adapter having a retention means, a drive shaft which houses the upper adapter, and a bimetallic means supported within the drive shaft and having at least one ledge which engages a retention means of the safety rod upper adapter. A pre-determined increase in temperature causes the bimetallic means to deform so that the ledge disengages from the retention means, whereby the bimetallic means releases the safety rod into the core of the reactor.

Temperature actuated automatic safety rod release

DOEpatents

Hutter, Ernest; Pardini, John A.; Walker, David E.

1987-01-01

A temperature-actuated apparatus is disclosed for releasably supporting a safety rod in a nuclear reactor, comprising a safety rod upper adapter having a retention means, a drive shaft which houses the upper adapter, and a bimetallic means supported within the drive shaft and having at least one ledge which engages a retention means of the safety rod upper adapter. A pre-determined increase in temperature causes the bimetallic means to deform so that the ledge disengages from the retention means, whereby the bimetallic means releases the safety rod into the core of the reactor.

Performance evaluation of a large sewage treatment plant in Brazil, consisting of an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor followed by activated sludge.

PubMed

Saliba, Pollyane Diniz; von Sperling, Marcos

2017-10-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the behaviour of a system comprising an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor followed by activated sludge to treat domestic sewage. The Betim Central sewage treatment plant, Brazil, was designed to treat a mean influent flow of 514 L/s. The study consisted of statistical treatment of monitoring data from the treatment plant covering a period of 4 years. This work presents the concentrations and removal efficiencies of the main constituents in each stage of the treatment process, and a mass balance of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and nitrogen. The results highlight the good overall performance of the system, with high mean removal efficiencies: BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) (94%), COD (91%), ammonia (72%) and total suspended solids (92%). As expected, this system was not effective for the removal of nutrients, since it was not designed for this purpose. The removal of Escherichia coli (99.83%) was higher than expected. There was no apparent influence of operational and design parameters on the effluent quality in terms of organic matter removal, with the exceptions of the BOD load upstream of the aeration tank and the sludge age in the unit. Results suggest that this system is well suited for the treatment of domestic sewage.

Determining the risk of cardiovascular disease using ion mobility of lipoproteins

DOEpatents

Benner, W. Henry; Krauss, Ronald M.; Blanche, Patricia J.

2010-05-11

A medical diagnostic method and instrumentation system for analyzing noncovalently bonded agglomerated biological particles is described. The method and system comprises: a method of preparation for the biological particles; an electrospray generator; an alpha particle radiation source; a differential mobility analyzer; a particle counter; and data acquisition and analysis means. The medical device is useful for the assessment of human diseases, such as cardiac disease risk and hyperlipidemia, by rapid quantitative analysis of lipoprotein fraction densities. Initially, purification procedures are described to reduce an initial blood sample to an analytical input to the instrument. The measured sizes from the analytical sample are correlated with densities, resulting in a spectrum of lipoprotein densities. The lipoprotein density distribution can then be used to characterize cardiac and other lipid-related health risks.

Growth Stimulation of Biological Cells and Tissue by Electromagnetic Fields and Uses Thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolf, David A. (Inventor); Goodwin, Thomas J. (Inventor)

2002-01-01

The present invention provides systems for growing two or three dimensional mammalian cells within a culture medium facilitated by an electromagnetic field, and preferably, a time varying electromagnetic field. The cells, and culture medium are contained within a fixed or rotating culture vessel, and the electromagnetic field is emitted from at least one electrode. In one embodiment, the electrode is spaced from the vessel. The invention further provides methods to promote neural tissue regeneration by means of culturing the neural cells in the claimed system. In one embodiment, neuronal cells are grown within longitudinally extending tissue strands extending axially along and within electrodes comprising electrically conductive channels or guides through which a time varying electrical current is conducted, the conductive channels being positioned within a culture medium.

Growth stimulation of biological cells and tissue by electromagnetic fields and uses thereof

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolf, David A. (Inventor); Goodwin, Thomas J. (Inventor)

2004-01-01

The present invention provides systems for growing two or three dimensional mammalian cells within a culture medium facilitated by an electromagnetic field, and preferably, a time varying electromagnetic field. The cells and culture medium are contained within a fixed or rotating culture vessel, and the electromagnetic field is emitted from at least one electrode. In one embodiment, the electrode is spaced from the vessel. The invention further provides methods to promote neural tissue regeneration by means of culturing the neural cells in the claimed system. In one embodiment, neuronal cells are grown within longitudinally extending tissue strands extending axially along and within electrodes comprising electrically conductive channels or guides through which a time varying electrical current is conducted, the conductive channels being positioned within a culture medium.

Low density microcellular foams

DOEpatents

Aubert, James H.; Clough, Roger L.; Curro, John G.; Quintana, Carlos A.; Russick, Edward M.; Shaw, Montgomery T.

1987-01-01

Low density, microporous polymer foams are provided by a process which comprises forming a solution of polymer and a suitable solvent followed by rapid cooling of the solution to form a phase-separated system and freeze the phase-separated system. The phase-separated system comprises a polymer phase and a solvent phase, each of which is substantially continuous within the other. The morphology of the polymer phase prior to and subsequent to freezing determine the morphology of the resultant foam. Both isotropic and anisotropic foams can be produced. If isotropic foams are produced, the polymer and solvent are tailored such that the solution spontaneously phase-separates prior to the point at which any component freezes. The morphology of the resultant polymer phase determines the morphology of the resultant foam and the morphology of the polymer phase is retained by cooling the system at a rate sufficient to freeze one or both components of the system before a change in morphology can occur. Anisotropic foams are produced by forming a solution of polymer and solvent that will not phase separate prior to freezing of one or both components of the solution. In such a process, the solvent typically freezes before phase separation occurs. The morphology of the resultant frozen two-phase system determines the morphology of the resultant foam. The process involves subjecting the solution to essentially one-dimensional cooling. Means for subjecting such a solvent to one-dimensional cooling are also provided. Foams having a density of less than 0.1 g/cc and a uniform cell size of less than 10 .mu.m and a volume such that the foams have a length greater than 1 cm are provided.

Research and technology, fiscal year 1982

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

Advanced studies are reviewed. Atmospheric sciences, magnetospheric physics, solar physics, gravitational physics, astronomy, and materials processing in space comprise the research programs. Large space systems, propulsion technology, materials and processes, electrical/electronic systems, data bases/design criteria, and facilities development comprise the technology development activities.

MpTheory Java library: a multi-platform Java library for systems biology based on the Metabolic P theory.

PubMed

Marchetti, Luca; Manca, Vincenzo

2015-04-15

MpTheory Java library is an open-source project collecting a set of objects and algorithms for modeling observed dynamics by means of the Metabolic P (MP) theory, that is, a mathematical theory introduced in 2004 for modeling biological dynamics. By means of the library, it is possible to model biological systems both at continuous and at discrete time. Moreover, the library comprises a set of regression algorithms for inferring MP models starting from time series of observations. To enhance the modeling experience, beside a pure Java usage, the library can be directly used within the most popular computing environments, such as MATLAB, GNU Octave, Mathematica and R. The library is open-source and licensed under the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL) Version 3.0. Source code, binaries and complete documentation are available at http://mptheory.scienze.univr.it. luca.marchetti@univr.it, marchetti@cosbi.eu Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Modular package for cooling a laser diode array

DOEpatents

Mundinger, David C.; Benett, William J.; Beach, Raymond J.

1992-01-01

A laser diode array is disclosed that includes a plurality of planar packages and active cooling. The laser diode array may be operated in a long duty cycle, or in continuous operation. A laser diode bar and a microchannel heat sink are thermally coupled in a compact, thin planar package having the laser diode bar located proximate to one edge. In an array, a number of such thin planar packages are secured together in a stacked configuration, in close proximity so that the laser diodes are spaced closely. The cooling means includes a microchannel heat sink that is attached proximate to the laser bar so that it absorbs heat generated by laser operation. To provide the coolant to the microchannels, each thin planar package comprises a thin inlet manifold and a thin outlet manifold connected to an inlet corridor and an outlet corridor. The inlet corridor comprises a hole extending through each of the packages in the array, and the outlet corridor comprises a hole extending through each of the packages in the array. The inlet and outlet corridors are connected to a conventional coolant circulation system. The laser diode array with active cooling has application as an optical pump for high power solid state lasers. Further, it can be incorporated in equipment such as communications devices and active sensors, and in military and space applications, and it can be useful in applications having space constraints and energy limitations.

Millimeter wave radar system on a rotating platform for combined search and track functionality with SAR imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aulenbacher, Uwe; Rech, Klaus; Sedlmeier, Johannes; Pratisto, Hans; Wellig, Peter

2014-10-01

Ground based millimeter wave radar sensors offer the potential for a weather-independent automatic ground surveillance at day and night, e.g. for camp protection applications. The basic principle and the experimental verification of a radar system concept is described, which by means of an extreme off-axis positioning of the antenna(s) combines azimuthal mechanical beam steering with the formation of a circular-arc shaped synthetic aperture (SA). In automatic ground surveillance the function of search and detection of moving ground targets is performed by means of the conventional mechanical scan mode. The rotated antenna structure designed as a small array with two or more RX antenna elements with simultaneous receiver chains allows to instantaneous track multiple moving targets (monopulse principle). The simultaneously operated SAR mode yields areal images of the distribution of stationary scatterers. For ground surveillance application this SAR mode is best suited for identifying possible threats by means of change detection. The feasibility of this concept was tested by means of an experimental radar system comprising of a 94 GHz (W band) FM-CW module with 1 GHz bandwidth and two RX antennas with parallel receiver channels, placed off-axis at a rotating platform. SAR mode and search/track mode were tested during an outdoor measurement campaign. The scenery of two persons walking along a road and partially through forest served as test for the capability to track multiple moving targets. For SAR mode verification an image of the area composed of roads, grassland, woodland and several man-made objects was reconstructed from the measured data.

Electrokinetic electrode system for extraction of soil contaminants from unsaturated soils

DOEpatents

Lindgren, Eric R.; Mattson, Earl D.

1995-01-01

There is presented an electrokinetic electrode assembly for use in extraction of soil contaminants from unsaturated soil in situ. The assembly includes a housing for retaining a liquid comprising an electrolyte solution, pure water, and soil water, the housing being in part of porous material capable of holding a vacuum. An electrode is mounted in the housing. The housing is provided with a vacuum orifice for effecting a vacuum within the housing selectively to control flow of soil water through the housing into the chamber and to control outflow of the liquid from the chamber. The assembly further includes conduit means for removing the liquid from the housing and returning the electrolyte solution to the housing, and a conduit for admitting pure water to the housing. There is further presented an electrode system and method for extraction of soil contaminants, the system and method utilizing at least two electrode assemblies as described above.

Electrokinetic electrode system for extraction of soil contaminants from unsaturated soils

DOEpatents

Lindgren, E.R.; Mattson, E.D.

1995-07-25

An electrokinetic electrode assembly is described for use in extraction of soil contaminants from unsaturated soil in situ. The assembly includes a housing for retaining a liquid comprising an electrolyte solution, pure water, and soil water, the housing being in part of porous material capable of holding a vacuum. An electrode is mounted in the housing. The housing is provided with a vacuum orifice for effecting a vacuum within the housing selectively to control flow of soil water through the housing into the chamber and to control outflow of the liquid from the chamber. The assembly further includes conduit means for removing the liquid from the housing and returning the electrolyte solution to the housing, and a conduit for admitting pure water to the housing. An electrode system and method are also revealed for extraction of soil contaminants. The system and method utilize at least two electrode assemblies as described above. 5 figs.

Development of an interactive data base management system for capturing large volumes of data.

PubMed

Moritz, T E; Ellis, N K; VillaNueva, C B; Steeger, J E; Ludwig, S T; Deegan, N I; Shroyer, A L; Henderson, W G; Sethi, G K; Grover, F L

1995-10-01

Accurate collection and successful management of data are problems common to all scientific studies. For studies in which large quantities of data are collected by means of questionnaires and/or forms, data base management becomes quite laborious and time consuming. Data base management comprises data collection, data entry, data editing, and data base maintenance. In this article, the authors describe the development of an interactive data base management (IDM) system for the collection of more than 1,400 variables from a targeted population of 6,000 patients undergoing heart surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. The goals of the IDM system are to increase the accuracy and efficiency with which this large amount of data is collected and processed, to reduce research nurse work load through automation of certain administrative and clerical activities, and to improve the process for implementing a uniform study protocol, standardized forms, and definitions across sites.

A study of the diffusional behavior of a two-phase metal matrix composite exposed to a high temperature environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tenney, D. R.

1974-01-01

The progress of diffusion-controlled filament-matrix interaction in a metal matrix composite where the filaments and matrix comprise a two-phase binary alloy system was studied by mathematically modeling compositional changes resulting from prolonged elevated temperature exposure. The analysis treats a finite, diffusion-controlled, two-phase moving-interface problem by means of a variable-grid finite-difference technique. The Ni-W system was selected as an example system. Modeling was carried out for the 1000 to 1200 C temperature range for unidirectional composites containing from 6 to 40 volume percent tungsten filaments in a Ni matrix. The results are displayed to show both the change in filament diameter and matrix composition as a function of exposure time. Compositional profiles produced between first and second nearest neighbor filaments were calculated by superposition of finite-difference solutions of the diffusion equations.

Superconducting multi-cell trapped mode deflecting cavity

DOEpatents

Lunin, Andrei; Khabiboulline, Timergali; Gonin, Ivan; Yakovlev, Vyacheslav; Zholents, Alexander

2017-10-10

A method and system for beam deflection. The method and system for beam deflection comprises a compact superconducting RF cavity further comprising a waveguide comprising an open ended resonator volume configured to operate as a trapped dipole mode; a plurality of cells configured to provide a high operating gradient; at least two pairs of protrusions configured for lowering surface electric and magnetic fields; and a main power coupler positioned to optimize necessary coupling for an operating mode and damping lower dipole modes simultaneously.

Aqueous electrolytes for redox flow battery systems

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

Liu, Tianbiao; Li, Bin; Wei, Xiaoliang

An aqueous redox flow battery system includes an aqueous catholyte and an aqueous anolyte. The aqueous catholyte may comprise (i) an optionally substituted thiourea or a nitroxyl radical compound and (ii) a catholyte aqueous supporting solution. The aqueous anolyte may comprise (i) metal cations or a viologen compound and (ii) an anolyte aqueous supporting solution. The catholyte aqueous supporting solution and the anolyte aqueous supporting solution independently may comprise (i) a proton source, (ii) a halide source, or (iii) a proton source and a halide source.

Water-saving liquid-gas conditioning system

DOEpatents

Martin, Christopher; Zhuang, Ye

2014-01-14

A method for treating a process gas with a liquid comprises contacting a process gas with a hygroscopic working fluid in order to remove a constituent from the process gas. A system for treating a process gas with a liquid comprises a hygroscopic working fluid comprising a component adapted to absorb or react with a constituent of a process gas, and a liquid-gas contactor for contacting the working fluid and the process gas, wherein the constituent is removed from the process gas within the liquid-gas contactor.

Method for measuring dose-equivalent in a neutron flux with an unknown energy spectra and means for carrying out that method

DOEpatents

Distenfeld, Carl H.

1978-01-01

A method for measuring the dose-equivalent for exposure to an unknown and/or time varing neutron flux which comprises simultaneously exposing a plurality of neutron detecting elements of different types to a neutron flux and combining the measured responses of the various detecting elements by means of a function, whose value is an approximate measure of the dose-equivalent, which is substantially independent of the energy spectra of the flux. Also, a personnel neutron dosimeter, which is useful in carrying out the above method, comprising a plurality of various neutron detecting elements in a single housing suitable for personnel to wear while working in a radiation area.

Bipolar membranes with fluid distribution passages

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hitchens, G. Duncan (Inventor); Archer, Shivaun (Inventor); Tennakoon, Charles L. (Inventor); Gonzalez-Martin, Anuncia (Inventor); Cisar, Alan J. (Inventor)

1999-01-01

The present invention provides a bipolar membrane and methods for making and using the membrane. The bipolar membrane comprises a cation-selective region, an anion-selective region, an interfacial region between the anion-selective region and the cation-selective region, and means for delivering fluid directly into the interfacial region. The means for delivering fluid includes passages that may comprise a fluid-permeable material, a wicking material, an open passage disposed within the membrane or some combination thereof. The passages may be provided in many shapes, sizes and configurations, but preferably deliver fluid directly to the interfacial region so that the rate of electrodialysis is no longer limited by the diffusion of fluid through the cation- or anion-selective regions to the interfacial region.

Apparatus for proton radiography

DOEpatents

Martin, Ronald L.

1976-01-01

An apparatus for effecting diagnostic proton radiography of patients in hospitals comprises a source of negative hydrogen ions, a synchrotron for accelerating the negative hydrogen ions to a predetermined energy, a plurality of stations for stripping extraction of a radiography beam of protons, means for sweeping the extracted beam to cover a target, and means for measuring the residual range, residual energy, or percentage transmission of protons that pass through the target. The combination of information identifying the position of the beam with information about particles traversing the subject and the back absorber is performed with the aid of a computer to provide a proton radiograph of the subject. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, a back absorber comprises a plurality of scintillators which are coupled to detectors.

Aircraft anti-insect system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spiro, Clifford Lawrence (Inventor); Fric, Thomas Frank (Inventor); Leon, Ross Michael (Inventor)

1997-01-01

Insect debris is removed from or prevented from adhering to insect impingement areas of an aircraft, particularly on an inlet cowl of an engine, by heating the area to 180.degree.-500.degree. C. An apparatus comprising a means to bring hot air from the aircraft engine to a plenum contiguous to the insect impingement area provides for the heating of the insect impingement areas to the required temperatures. The plenum can include at least one tube with a plurality of holes contained in a cavity within the inlet cowl. It can also include an envelope with a plurality of holes on its surface contained in a cavity within the inlet cowl.

Space shuttle maneuvering engine reusable thrust chamber program. Task 11: Stability analyses and acoustic model testing data dump

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oberg, C. L.

1974-01-01

The combustion stability characteristics of engines applicable to the Space Shuttle Orbit Maneuvering System and the adequacy of acoustic cavities as a means of assuring stability in these engines were investigated. The study comprised full-scale stability rating tests, bench-scale acoustic model tests and analysis. Two series of stability rating tests were made. Acoustic model tests were made to determine the resonance characteristics and effects of acoustic cavities. Analytical studies were done to aid design of the cavity configurations to be tested and, also, to aid evaluation of the effectiveness of acoustic cavities from available test results.

Towards noncontact skin melanoma selection by multispectral imaging analysis.

PubMed

Kuzmina, Ilona; Diebele, Ilze; Jakovels, Dainis; Spigulis, Janis; Valeine, Lauma; Kapostinsh, Janis; Berzina, Anna

2011-06-01

A clinical trial comprising 334 pigmented and vascular lesions has been performed in three Riga clinics by means of multispectral imaging analysis. The imaging system Nuance 2.4 (CRi) and self-developed software for mapping of the main skin chromophores were used. Specific features were observed and analyzed for malignant skin melanomas: notably higher absorbance (especially as the difference of optical density relative to the healthy skin), uneven chromophore distribution over the lesion area, and the possibility to select the "melanoma areas" in the correlation graphs of chromophores. The obtained results indicate clinical potential of this technology for noncontact selection of melanoma from other pigmented and vascular skin lesions.

Piezoelectric shear wave resonator and method of making same

DOEpatents

Wang, J.S.; Lakin, K.M.; Landin, A.R.

1985-05-20

An acoustic shear wave resonator comprising a piezoelectric film having its C-axis substantially inclined from the film normal such that the shear wave coupling coefficient significantly exceeds the longitudinal wave coupling coefficient, whereby the film is capable of shear wave resonance, and means for exciting said film to resonate. The film is prepared by deposition in a dc planar magnetron sputtering system to which a supplemental electric field is applied. The resonator structure may also include a semiconductor material having a positive temperature coefficient of resonance such that the resonator has a temperature coefficient of resonance approaching 0 ppM//sup 0/C.

Piezoelectric shear wave resonator and method of making same

DOEpatents

Wang, J.S.; Lakin, K.M.; Landin, A.R.

1983-10-25

An acoustic shear wave resonator comprising a piezoelectric film having its C-axis substantially inclined from the film normal such that the shear wave coupling coefficient significantly exceeds the longitudinal wave coupling coefficient, whereby the film is capable of shear wave resonance, and means for exciting said film to resonate. The film is prepared by deposition in a dc planar magnetron sputtering system to which a supplemental electric field is applied. The resonator structure may also include a semiconductor material having a positive temperature coefficient of resonance such that the resonator has a temperature coefficient of resonance approaching 0 ppM//sup 0/C.

Fiberoptic spectrophotometer

DOEpatents

Tans, P.P.; Lashof, D.A.

1986-12-23

A device is described for determining the relative composition of a sample of a gas by comparison of the Raman-scattered light of the sample with that of a known gas comprising: a means for passing a single light source through the unknown and the known gases, choppers to alternate the Raman-scattered light into a common light detection and measuring system, optical fiber networks for spatially mixing the resulting Raman scattered light from each sample and directing the mixed light to selective detectors, and a compiler to record the light intensity of each wavelength of Raman-scattered light as a function of the sample from which it originated. 6 figs.

Whistle register: a preliminary investigation by HSDI visualization and acoustics on female cases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Corcia, Antonio; Fussi, Franco

2012-02-01

In this study we investigated laryngeal behaviors involved during vocal production of highest female vocal ranges in Flute in M3 Register, in Whistle Register and in a newly formulated by us, Hiss Register. Observations were carried with stroboscopy and High Speed Digital Imaging and with spectrographic and psycho-acoustic analysis by means of a software system having a wide spectral range (0-20.000 Hz). Results indicate that at the highest pitch vocal folds vibration is absent or significantly reduced, glottic contact is incomplete. These acoustic form of extreme pitch levels comprised intra-harmonic noise and overtones within 10 to 18 kHz range.

Management of combined knee medial compartmental and patellofemoral osteoarthritis with lateral closing wedge osteotomy with anterior translation of the distal tibial fragment: Does the degree of anteriorization affect the functional outcome and posterior tibial slope?

PubMed

Sadek, Ahmed F; Osman, Mohammed K; Laklok, Mohamed A

2016-10-01

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of degree of anterior translation of the distal tibial fragment after lateral closing wedge high tibial osteotomy in patients having combined knee medial compartmental and patellofemoral osteoarthritis. A retrospective study was conducted on 64 patients who were operated on for combined knee medial compartmental and patellofemoral osteoarthritis, by lateral closing wedge high tibial osteotomy with anterior translation of the distal tibial fragment. They were divided into two groups; Group I comprising 32 patients (34 knees, mean age of 51.4±7years) whose degree of anterior translation was <1cm and Group II comprising 32 patients (33 knees, mean age of 52.2±8.3years) whose degree of anterior translation was >1.5cm. The final assessment was performed via: visual analog scale, postoperative Knee Society clinical rating system function score, active range of motion, time to union, degree of correction of mechanical axis, posterior tibial slope, and Insall-Salvati ratio. Group II patients exhibited statistically superior mean postoperative score and better return to their work than Group I (P=0.013, 0.076, respectively). Both groups showed statistically significant differences between the preoperative and postoperative evaluation parameters (P<0.001). The posterior tibial slope was decreased in both groups but with no significant difference (P=0.527). Lateral closing wedge high tibial osteotomy combined with anterior translation of the distal tibial fragment more than 1.5cm achieved significantly better postoperative functional knee score. Both groups exhibited comparatively decreased posterior tibial slope. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preamble

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmid, Hans

2015-03-01

What does the word "multiferroic" mean? When coining the term in 1994, this was done without ulterior motives, simply by enjoying the beauty of symmetries, permitting the cohabitation of two or all three primary ferroic properties, ferroelectric, ferromagnetic, and ferroelastic in the same phase, all forming domains and hysteresis loops, heralding intricate coupling properties. In this definition, the very cradle of "multiferroics" lies in Kêitsiro Aizu's colossal work of 1970, in which he gave all the 773 high-temperature (prototypic) phase/low-temperature (ferroic) phase point group pairs ("species") occurring due to phase transitions, with indication of the number of domain states, comprising all possible single-phase multiferroic combinations, including implicitly also antiferromagnetic and co-elastic ferroic phases. The original meaning of the word "multiferroic" has undergone a tacit, more realistic mutation. In its current usage, it designates all kinds of magnetic ferroelectrics, including hetero-phase systems, but with a mainstream trend in electric-field control of ferromagnetism and in all sorts of magnetoelectric interactions.

Growth of Ni nanoclusters on irradiated graphene: a molecular dynamics study.

PubMed

Valencia, F J; Hernandez-Vazquez, E E; Bringa, E M; Moran-Lopez, J L; Rogan, J; Gonzalez, R I; Munoz, F

2018-04-23

We studied the soft landing of Ni atoms on a previously damaged graphene sheet by means of molecular dynamics simulations. We found a monotonic decrease of the cluster frequency as a function of its size, but few big clusters comprise an appreciable fraction of the total number of Ni atoms. The aggregation of Ni atoms is also modeled by means of a simple phenomenological model. The results are in clear contrast with the case of hard or energetic landing of metal atoms, where there is a tendency to form mono-disperse metal clusters. This behavior is attributed to the high diffusion of unattached Ni atoms, together with vacancies acting as capture centers. The findings of this work show that a simple study of the energetics of the system is not enough in the soft landing regime, where it is unavoidable to also consider the growth process of metal clusters.

Diamond-anvil high-pressure cell with improved x-ray collimation system

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

Schiferl, D.; Olinger, B.W.; Livingston, R.W.

1986-07-22

This patent describes a diamond-anvil high-pressure cell having a tubular piston and a cylinder in which the piston is slidable to effect compression of a pair of opposed diamonds located between the piston and the cylinder. The piston includes a central bore opening on one end, an adjustable X-ray collimation system comprising a tubular insert engageable in the bore of the piston, the insert including a central bore and having first and second ends, with the first end of the insert being closest to the opposed diamonds and the second end of the insert extending out of the open endmore » of the piston, a collimator insertable in the bore of the tubular insert. The collimator has a central bore and having first and second ends corresponding respectively with the first and second ends of the insert, elastomeric pivot means mounted in the bore of the insert at the first end of the insert for flexibly retaining the first end of the collimator while allowing the collimator to pivot within the pivot means, and adjustable locking means located at the second end of the insert for adjusting and securing the second end of the collimator so as to be in alignment with the opposed diamonds.« less

Apparatus for observing a hostile environment

DOEpatents

Nance, Thomas A.; Boylston, Micah L.; Robinson, Casandra W.; Sexton, William C.; Heckendorn, Frank M.

2000-01-01

An apparatus is provided for observing a hostile environment, comprising a housing and a camera capable of insertion within the housing. The housing is a double wall assembly with an inner and outer wall with an hermetically sealed chamber therebetween. A housing for an optical system used to observe a hostile environment is provided, comprising a transparent, double wall assembly. The double wall assembly has an inner wall and an outer wall with an hermetically sealed chamber therebetween. The double wall assembly has an opening and a void area in communication with the opening. The void area of the housing is adapted to accommodate the optical system within said void area. An apparatus for protecting an optical system used to observe a hostile environment is provided comprising a housing; a tube positioned within the housing; and a base for supporting the housing and the tube. The housing comprises a double wall assembly having an inner wall and an outerwall with an hermetically sealed chamber therebetween. The tube is adapted to house the optical system therein.

Method and apparatus for converting and removing organosulfur and other oxidizable compounds from distillate fuels, and compositions obtained thereby

DOEpatents

D'Alessandro, Robert N.; Tarabocchia, John; Jones, Jerald Andrew; Bonde, Steven E.; Leininger, Stefan

2010-10-26

The present disclosure is directed to a multi-stage system and a process utilizing said system with the design of reducing the sulfur-content in a liquid comprising hydrocarbons and organosulfur compounds. The process comprising at least one of the following states: (1) an oxidation stage; (2) an extraction state; (3) a raffinate washing stage; (4) a raffinate polishing stage; (5) a solvent recovery stage; (6) a solvent purification stage; and (7) a hydrocarbon recovery stage. The process for removing sulfur-containing hydrocarbons from gas oil, which comprises oxidizing gas oil comprising hydrocarbons and organosulfur compounds to obtain a product gas oil.

Evaluation of the educational value of YouTube videos about physical examination of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

PubMed

Azer, Samy A; Algrain, Hala A; AlKhelaif, Rana A; AlEshaiwi, Sarah M

2013-11-13

A number of studies have evaluated the educational contents of videos on YouTube. However, little analysis has been done on videos about physical examination. This study aimed to analyze YouTube videos about physical examination of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It was hypothesized that the educational standards of videos on YouTube would vary significantly. During the period from November 2, 2011 to December 2, 2011, YouTube was searched by three assessors for videos covering the clinical examination of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. For each video, the following information was collected: title, authors, duration, number of viewers, and total number of days on YouTube. Using criteria comprising content, technical authority, and pedagogy parameters, videos were rated independently by three assessors and grouped into educationally useful and non-useful videos. A total of 1920 videos were screened. Only relevant videos covering the examination of adults in the English language were identified (n=56). Of these, 20 were found to be relevant to cardiovascular examinations and 36 to respiratory examinations. Further analysis revealed that 9 provided useful information on cardiovascular examinations and 7 on respiratory examinations: scoring mean 14.9 (SD 0.33) and mean 15.0 (SD 0.00), respectively. The other videos, 11 covering cardiovascular and 29 on respiratory examinations, were not useful educationally, scoring mean 11.1 (SD 1.08) and mean 11.2 (SD 1.29), respectively. The differences between these two categories were significant (P<.001 for both body systems). The concordance between the assessors on applying the criteria was 0.89, with a kappa score >.86. A small number of videos about physical examination of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems were identified as educationally useful; these videos can be used by medical students for independent learning and by clinical teachers as learning resources. The scoring system utilized by this study is simple, easy to apply, and could be used by other researchers on similar topics.

Nuclear propulsion apparatus with alternate reactor segments

DOEpatents

Szekely, Thomas

1979-04-03

1. Nuclear propulsion apparatus comprising: A. means for compressing incoming air; B. nuclear fission reactor means for heating said air; C. means for expanding a portion of the heated air to drive said compressing means; D. said nuclear fission reactor means being divided into a plurality of radially extending segments; E. means for directing a portion of the compressed air for heating through alternate segments of said reactor means and another portion of the compressed air for heating through the remaining segments of said reactor means; and F. means for further expanding the heated air from said drive means and the remaining heated air from said reactor means through nozzle means to effect reactive thrust on said apparatus.

Apparatus for tensile testing plate-type ceramic specimens

DOEpatents

Liu, K.C.

1993-08-24

Apparatus is described for gripping a plate-type tensile specimen having generally T-shaped end regions in a dynamic tension fatigue testing apparatus comprising an annular housing having an open-ended elongated cavity therein, a plurality of hydraulic piston means supported by the housing in a spaced array about the cavity, and a specimen-supporting plate means overlying the piston means at one end of the elongated cavity and displaceable by said piston means in a longitudinal direction with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cavity, said apparatus for gripping a flat plate-type tensile specimen comprising: a pair of elongated pull rods each having oppositely disposed first and second end regions; a pair of mounting means carried by said plate means with each mounting means for pivotally attaching the first end region of each of said pull rods in a central region of said plate means for supporting said pair of elongated pull rods in a side-by-side relationship along a common longitudinal centerline within said cavity; recess means in the second end region of each of said pull rods in adjacently disposed surface regions thereof with said recess means facing one another and each adapted to receive one side of one of the generally T-shaped end regions of the plate-type tensile specimen; and load-bearing means positionable in each of said recess means and adapted to bear against a shoulder on each side of the generally T-shaped end region of the plate-type tensile specimen when a tensile loading is applied thereon.

Development and Application of a Portable Health Algorithms Test System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Melcher, Kevin J.; Fulton, Christopher E.; Maul, William A.; Sowers, T. Shane

2007-01-01

This paper describes the development and initial demonstration of a Portable Health Algorithms Test (PHALT) System that is being developed by researchers at the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC). The PHALT System was conceived as a means of evolving the maturity and credibility of algorithms developed to assess the health of aerospace systems. Comprising an integrated hardware-software environment, the PHALT System allows systems health management algorithms to be developed in a graphical programming environment; to be tested and refined using system simulation or test data playback; and finally, to be evaluated in a real-time hardware-in-the-loop mode with a live test article. In this paper, PHALT System development is described through the presentation of a functional architecture, followed by the selection and integration of hardware and software. Also described is an initial real-time hardware-in-the-loop demonstration that used sensor data qualification algorithms to diagnose and isolate simulated sensor failures in a prototype Power Distribution Unit test-bed. Success of the initial demonstration is highlighted by the correct detection of all sensor failures and the absence of any real-time constraint violations.

Cooperative storage of shared files in a parallel computing system with dynamic block size

DOEpatents

Bent, John M.; Faibish, Sorin; Grider, Gary

2015-11-10

Improved techniques are provided for parallel writing of data to a shared object in a parallel computing system. A method is provided for storing data generated by a plurality of parallel processes to a shared object in a parallel computing system. The method is performed by at least one of the processes and comprises: dynamically determining a block size for storing the data; exchanging a determined amount of the data with at least one additional process to achieve a block of the data having the dynamically determined block size; and writing the block of the data having the dynamically determined block size to a file system. The determined block size comprises, e.g., a total amount of the data to be stored divided by the number of parallel processes. The file system comprises, for example, a log structured virtual parallel file system, such as a Parallel Log-Structured File System (PLFS).

System and method for coproduction of activated carbon and steam/electricity

DOEpatents

Srinivasachar, Srivats [Sturbridge, MA; Benson, Steven [Grand Forks, ND; Crocker, Charlene [Newfolden, MN; Mackenzie, Jill [Carmel, IN

2011-07-19

A system and method for producing activated carbon comprising carbonizing a solid carbonaceous material in a carbonization zone of an activated carbon production apparatus (ACPA) to yield a carbonized product and carbonization product gases, the carbonization zone comprising carbonaceous material inlet, char outlet and carbonization gas outlet; activating the carbonized product via activation with steam in an activation zone of the ACPA to yield activated carbon and activation product gases, the activation zone comprising activated carbon outlet, activation gas outlet, and activation steam inlet; and utilizing process gas comprising at least a portion of the carbonization product gases or a combustion product thereof; at least a portion of the activation product gases or a combustion product thereof; or a combination thereof in a solid fuel boiler system that burns a solid fuel boiler feed with air to produce boiler-produced steam and flue gas, the boiler upstream of an air heater within a steam/electricity generation plant, said boiler comprising a combustion zone, a boiler-produced steam outlet and at least one flue gas outlet.

Reading, the Arts, and the Creation of Meaning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eisner, Elliot W., Ed.

The seven papers that comprise this book were presented at the 1977 National Art Education Association Conference on Reading, the Arts, and the Creation of Meaning held to bring together people in the arts and the fields of reading, psychology, and philosophy to explore the relationships that exist between these fields of study. Topics discussed…

Apparatus and method for aerodynamic levitation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williamson, John W. (Inventor); al-Darwish, Mohamad M. (Inventor); Cashen, Grant E. (Inventor)

1993-01-01

An apparatus for the levitation of a liquid drop by a fluid flow comprising a profile generator, a fluid flow supply means operatively connected to the profile generator. The profile generator includes an elongate cylindrical shell in which is contained a profiling means for configuring the velocity profile of the fluid flow exiting the profile generator.

Discovering the Meaning of Unity of Purpose: A Case Study of Fourteen Accelerated Schools.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davidson, Betty M.; Dell, Geralyn L.

This paper presents findings of a study that examined how teachers restructuring schools came to understand the meaning of the term "unity of purpose." Fourteen Louisiana schools, comprised primarily of high-risk student populations, implemented the accelerated-schools model of restructuring. The accelerated school model is based on…

Hermatically sealed motor blower unit with stator inside hollow armature

DOEpatents

Donelian, Khatchik O.

1976-01-20

13. A hermetically sealed motor blower unit comprising, in combination, a sealed housing having a thrust plate mounted therein and having a re-entrant wall forming a central cavity in said housing, a rotor within said housing, said rotor comprising an impeller, a hollow shaft embracing said cavity and a thrust collar adapted to cooperate with said thrust plate to support the axial thrust of said shaft, one or more journal bearings within said housing for supporting the radial load of said shaft and electric motor means for rotating said rotor, said motor means comprising a motor-stator located within said cavity and adapted to cooperate through a portion of said re-entrant wall with a motor-rotor mounted within said hollow shaft, the portion of said re-entrant wall located between said motor-stator and said motor-rotor being made relatively thin to reduce electrical losses, the bearing surfaces of said thrust plate, thrust collar and journal bearings being in communication with the discharge of said impeller, whereby fluid pumped by said impeller can flow directly to said bearing surfaces to lubricate them.

Parametrization of free ion levels of four isoelectronic 4f2 systems: Insights into configuration interaction parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeung, Yau Yuen; Tanner, Peter A.

2013-12-01

The experimental free ion 4f2 energy level data sets comprising 12 or 13 J-multiplets of La+, Ce2+, Pr3+ and Nd4+ have been fitted by a semiempirical atomic Hamiltonian comprising 8, 10, or 12 freely-varying parameters. The root mean square errors were 16.1, 1.3, 0.3 and 0.3 cm-1, respectively for fits with 10 parameters. The fitted inter-electronic repulsion and magnetic parameters vary linearly with ionic charge, i, but better linear fits are obtained with (4-i)2, although the reason is unclear at present. The two-body configuration interaction parameters α and β exhibit a linear relation with [ΔE(bc)]-1, where ΔE(bc) is the energy difference between the 4f2 barycentre and that of the interacting configuration, namely 4f6p for La+, Ce2+, and Pr3+, and 5p54f3 for Nd4+. The linear fit provides the rationale for the negative value of α for the case of La+, where the interacting configuration is located below 4f2.

Multiple mechanisms for CRISPR-Cas inhibition by anti-CRISPR proteins.

PubMed

Bondy-Denomy, Joseph; Garcia, Bianca; Strum, Scott; Du, Mingjian; Rollins, MaryClare F; Hidalgo-Reyes, Yurima; Wiedenheft, Blake; Maxwell, Karen L; Davidson, Alan R

2015-10-01

The battle for survival between bacteria and the viruses that infect them (phages) has led to the evolution of many bacterial defence systems and phage-encoded antagonists of these systems. Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and the CRISPR-associated (cas) genes comprise an adaptive immune system that is one of the most widespread means by which bacteria defend themselves against phages. We identified the first examples of proteins produced by phages that inhibit a CRISPR-Cas system. Here we performed biochemical and in vivo investigations of three of these anti-CRISPR proteins, and show that each inhibits CRISPR-Cas activity through a distinct mechanism. Two block the DNA-binding activity of the CRISPR-Cas complex, yet do this by interacting with different protein subunits, and using steric or non-steric modes of inhibition. The third anti-CRISPR protein operates by binding to the Cas3 helicase-nuclease and preventing its recruitment to the DNA-bound CRISPR-Cas complex. In vivo, this anti-CRISPR can convert the CRISPR-Cas system into a transcriptional repressor, providing the first example-to our knowledge-of modulation of CRISPR-Cas activity by a protein interactor. The diverse sequences and mechanisms of action of these anti-CRISPR proteins imply an independent evolution, and foreshadow the existence of other means by which proteins may alter CRISPR-Cas function.

Silicone metalization

DOEpatents

Maghribi, Mariam N [Livermore, CA; Krulevitch, Peter [Pleasanton, CA; Hamilton, Julie [Tracy, CA

2006-12-05

A system for providing metal features on silicone comprising providing a silicone layer on a matrix and providing a metal layer on the silicone layer. An electronic apparatus can be produced by the system. The electronic apparatus comprises a silicone body and metal features on the silicone body that provide an electronic device.

Silicone metalization

DOEpatents

Maghribi, Mariam N.; Krulevitch, Peter; Hamilton, Julie

2008-12-09

A system for providing metal features on silicone comprising providing a silicone layer on a matrix and providing a metal layer on the silicone layer. An electronic apparatus can be produced by the system. The electronic apparatus comprises a silicone body and metal features on the silicone body that provide an electronic device.

Storing files in a parallel computing system using list-based index to identify replica files

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

Faibish, Sorin; Bent, John M.; Tzelnic, Percy

Improved techniques are provided for storing files in a parallel computing system using a list-based index to identify file replicas. A file and at least one replica of the file are stored in one or more storage nodes of the parallel computing system. An index for the file comprises at least one list comprising a pointer to a storage location of the file and a storage location of the at least one replica of the file. The file comprises one or more of a complete file and one or more sub-files. The index may also comprise a checksum value formore » one or more of the file and the replica(s) of the file. The checksum value can be evaluated to validate the file and/or the file replica(s). A query can be processed using the list.« less

Methods and systems for integrating fluid dispensing technology with stereolithography

DOEpatents

Medina, Francisco; Wicker, Ryan; Palmer, Jeremy A.; Davis, Don W.; Chavez, Bart D.; Gallegos, Phillip L.

2010-02-09

An integrated system and method of integrating fluid dispensing technologies (e.g., direct-write (DW)) with rapid prototyping (RP) technologies (e.g., stereolithography (SL)) without part registration comprising: an SL apparatus and a fluid dispensing apparatus further comprising a translation mechanism adapted to translate the fluid dispensing apparatus along the Z-, Y- and Z-axes. The fluid dispensing apparatus comprises: a pressurized fluid container; a valve mechanism adapted to control the flow of fluid from the pressurized fluid container; and a dispensing nozzle adapted to deposit the fluid in a desired location. To aid in calibration, the integrated system includes a laser sensor and a mechanical switch. The method further comprises building a second part layer on top of the fluid deposits and optionally accommodating multi-layered circuitry by incorporating a connector trace. Thus, the present invention is capable of efficiently building single and multi-material SL fabricated parts embedded with complex three-dimensional circuitry using DW.

Synchromodal optical in vivo imaging employing microlens array optics: a complete framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peter, Joerg

2013-03-01

A complete mathematical framework for preclinical optical imaging (OI) support comprising bioluminescence imaging (BLI), fluorescence surface imaging (FSI) and fluorescence optical tomography (FOT) is presented in which optical data is acquired by means of a microlens array (MLA) based light detector (MLA-D). The MLA-D has been developed to enable unique OI, especially in synchromodal operation with secondary imaging modalities (SIM) such as positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MLA-D consists of a (large-area) photon sensor array, a matched MLA for field-of-view definition, and a septum mask of specific geometry made of anodized aluminum that is positioned between the sensor and the MLA to suppresses light cross-talk and to shield the sensor's radiofrequency interference signal (essential when used inside an MRI system). The software framework, while freely parameterizable for any MLA-D, is tailored towards an OI prototype system for preclinical SIM application comprising a multitude of cylindrically assembled, gantry-mounted, simultaneously operating MLA-D's. Besides the MLA-D specificity, the framework incorporates excitation and illumination light-source declarations of large-field and point geometry to facilitate multispectral FSI and FOT as well as three-dimensional object recognition. When used in synchromodal operation, reconstructed tomographic SIM volume data can be used for co-modal image fusion and also as a prior for estimating the imaged object's 3D surface by means of gradient vector flow. Superimposed planar (without object prior) or surface-aligned inverse mapping can be performed to estimate and to fuse the emission light map with the boundary of the imaged object. Triangulation and subsequent optical reconstruction (FOT) or constrained flow estimation (BLI), both including the possibility of SIM priors, can be performed to estimate the internal three-dimensional emission light distribution. The framework is susceptible to a number of variables controlling convergence and computational speed. Utilization and performance is illustrated on experimentally acquired data employing the OI prototype system in stand-alone operation, and when integrated into an unmodified preclinical PET system performing synchromodal BLI-PET in vivo imaging.

Electrically heated particulate filter with reduced stress

DOEpatents

Gonze, Eugene V.

2013-03-05

A system comprises a particulate matter (PM) filter comprising an inlet for receiving exhaust gas. A zoned heater is arranged in the inlet and comprises a resistive heater comprising N zones, where N is an integer greater than one. Each of the N zones comprises M sub-zones, where M is an integer greater than one. A control module selectively activates one of the N zones to initiate regeneration in downstream portions of the PM filter from the one of the N zones and deactivates others of the N zones.

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

Alderfer, R.R.; Futa, P.W.

This patent describes a fuel system for an engine having a filter through which fuel from a pump passes to a regulator in response to an operator input. The regulator controls the flow of fuel presented to a combustion chamber in the engine, the regulator having a feedback apparatus to provide an operator with a signal indicative of the fuel supplied to the combustion chamber. It comprises: bypass means having a housing with a chamber therein, the chamber having an entrance port connected to the pump and an exit port connected to the regulator; piston means located in the chambermore » for separating the entrance port from the exit port, the piston having a face with a projection extending therefrom; stop means located in the chamber; resilient means located is the chamber for urging the piston means toward the stop means to prevent the flow of fuel from the pump through the housing to the regulator; and indicator means having a body retained in the housing with a first end which extends through the housing into the from a full-open position at which the closed circuit is fully opened to a full-closed position at which the closed circuit is fully blocked; ratio detecting means which detects the speed reduction ratio to find if the speed reduction ratio becomes substantially 1; and valve position detecting means which detects position of the direct clutch valve to find if the direct clutch valve is moved to a slight-open position at which the closed circuit is slightly opened.« less

A clinicopathological study of surgically resected lung cancer in patients with usual interstitial pneumonia.

PubMed

Watanabe, Yasutaka; Kawabata, Yoshinori; Koyama, Nobuyuki; Ikeya, Tomohiko; Hoshi, Eishin; Takayanagi, Noboru; Koyama, Shinichiro

2017-08-01

The clinicopathological characteristics of lung cancer with concomitant usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) are insufficiently understood. This study aimed to elucidate a characteristic pathological feature of lung cancer that develops in patients with UIP, with a focus on the location of its onset. We reviewed surgically obtained specimens, including 547 tumors from 526 patients who underwent lobectomy for lung cancer. Surveyed patients were classified into three groups: patients with UIP (UIP group), patients with lung pathology other than UIP (non-UIP group), and patients without any associated lung pathology (normal group). The histology as well as the lobe and location of the onset of lung cancer were compared among these groups. The peripheral location was subdivided into subpleural, inner and tumor involved centrally secondary to extension. The UIP group comprised 82 patients (male, 71 [87%]; mean age, 71 years; smoking rate, 94%), the non-UIP group comprised 334 patients (male, 267 [80%]; mean age, 69 years; smoking rate, 81%), and the normal group comprised 110 patients (male, 33 [30%]; mean age, 63; smoking rate, 29%). No statistical differences were noted in sex, mean age, or smoking index between the UIP and non-UIP groups. Compared with the non-UIP group, the frequency of squamous cell carcinoma (63% vs. 32%), lower lobe origin (76% vs. 32%), and subpleural location (24% vs. 5%) were significantly higher in the UIP group. Lung cancers in patients with UIP show a predilection for the subpleural region, where UIP is also thought to originate. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fiber optic sensor employing successively destroyed coupled points or reflectors for detecting shock wave speed and damage location

DOEpatents

Weiss, Jonathan D.

1995-01-01

A shock velocity and damage location sensor providing a means of measuring shock speed and damage location. The sensor consists of a long series of time-of-arrival "points" constructed with fiber optics. The fiber optic sensor apparatus measures shock velocity as the fiber sensor is progressively crushed as a shock wave proceeds in a direction along the fiber. The light received by a receiving means changes as time-of-arrival points are destroyed as the sensor is disturbed by the shock. The sensor may comprise a transmitting fiber bent into a series of loops and fused to a receiving fiber at various places, time-of-arrival points, along the receiving fibers length. At the "points" of contact, where a portion of the light leaves the transmitting fiber and enters the receiving fiber, the loops would be required to allow the light to travel backwards through the receiving fiber toward a receiving means. The sensor may also comprise a single optical fiber wherein the time-of-arrival points are comprised of reflection planes distributed along the fibers length. In this configuration, as the shock front proceeds along the fiber it destroys one reflector after another. The output received by a receiving means from this sensor may be a series of downward steps produced as the shock wave destroys one time-of-arrival point after another, or a nonsequential pattern of steps in the event time-of-arrival points are destroyed at any point along the sensor.

Fiber optic sensor employing successively destroyed coupled points or reflectors for detecting shock wave speed and damage location

DOEpatents

Weiss, J.D.

1995-08-29

A shock velocity and damage location sensor providing a means of measuring shock speed and damage location is disclosed. The sensor consists of a long series of time-of-arrival ``points`` constructed with fiber optics. The fiber optic sensor apparatus measures shock velocity as the fiber sensor is progressively crushed as a shock wave proceeds in a direction along the fiber. The light received by a receiving means changes as time-of-arrival points are destroyed as the sensor is disturbed by the shock. The sensor may comprise a transmitting fiber bent into a series of loops and fused to a receiving fiber at various places, time-of-arrival points, along the receiving fibers length. At the ``points`` of contact, where a portion of the light leaves the transmitting fiber and enters the receiving fiber, the loops would be required to allow the light to travel backwards through the receiving fiber toward a receiving means. The sensor may also comprise a single optical fiber wherein the time-of-arrival points are comprised of reflection planes distributed along the fibers length. In this configuration, as the shock front proceeds along the fiber it destroys one reflector after another. The output received by a receiving means from this sensor may be a series of downward steps produced as the shock wave destroys one time-of-arrival point after another, or a nonsequential pattern of steps in the event time-of-arrival points are destroyed at any point along the sensor. 6 figs.

Electro-optic crystal mosaics for the generation of terahertz radiation

DOEpatents

Carrig, Timothy J.; Taylor, Antoinette J.; Stewart, Kevin R.

1996-01-01

Apparatus for the generation of high energy terahertz radiation is presented and comprises laser means effective to produce subpicosecond optical pulses and a mosaic comprising a plurality of planar electro-optic crystals fastened together edge to edge in the form of a grid. The electro-optic crystals are in optical communication with the subpicosecond optical pulses, and behave as a single large electro-optic crystal, producing high energy terahertz radiation by way of optical rectification.

Electro-optic crystal mosaics for the generation of terahertz radiation

DOEpatents

Carrig, T.J.; Taylor, A.J.; Stewart, K.R.

1996-08-06

Apparatus for the generation of high energy terahertz radiation is presented and comprises laser means effective to produce subpicosecond optical pulses and a mosaic comprising a plurality of planar electro-optic crystals fastened together edge to edge in the form of a grid. The electro-optic crystals are in optical communication with the subpicosecond optical pulses, and behave as a single large electro-optic crystal, producing high energy terahertz radiation by way of optical rectification. 5 figs.

Systems for the expression of orthogonal translation components in eubacterial host cells

DOEpatents

Ryu, Youngha; Schultz, Peter G.

2013-01-22

The invention related to compositions and methods for the in vivo production of polypeptides comprising one or more unnatural amino acids. Specifically, the invention provides plasmid systems for the efficient eubacterial expression of polypeptides comprising one or more unnatural acids at genetically-programmed positions.

Systems for the expression of orthogonal translation components in eubacterial host cells

DOEpatents

Ryu, Youngha [San Diego, CA; Schultz, Peter G [La Jolla, CA

2011-06-14

The invention relates to compositions and methods for the in vivo production of polypeptides comprising one or more unnatural amino acids. Specifically, the invention provides plasmid systems for the efficient eubacterial expression of polypeptides comprising one or more unnatural amino acids at genetically-programmed positions.

Systems for the expression of orthogonal translation components eubacterial host cells

DOEpatents

Ryu, Youngha [San Diego, CA; Schultz, Peter G [La Jolla, CA

2012-06-12

The invention relates to compositions and methods for the in vivo production of polypeptides comprising one or more unnatural amino acids. Specifically, the invention provides plasmid systems for the efficient eubacterial expression of polypeptides comprising one or more unnatural amino acids at genetically-programmed positions.

Mini-flank supra-12th rib incision for open partial nephrectomy for renal tumor with RENAL nephrometry score ≥10: an innovation of traditional open surgery.

PubMed

Wang, Hang; Sun, Li-an; Wang, Yiwei; Xiang, Zhuoyi; Zhou, Lin; Guo, Jianming; Wang, Guomin

2015-04-01

The skill of supra-12th rib mini-flank approach for open partial nephrectomy (MI-OPN) provides an advanced operative method for renal tumor. Compared with laparoscopic and robotic surgery, it may be a feasible selection for the complex renal tumors. We describe our techniques and results of MI-OPN in complex renal tumors with high RENAL nephrometry score (RENAL nephrometry score ≥10). Fifty-five patients diagnosed with renal tumors between January 2009 and July 2013 were included in this study. Eligibility criteria comprised of patients with complex renal tumor (RENAL score ≥10) being candidates for partial nephrectomy (PN). All patients received MI-OPN and all surgeries were performed by a single urologist. The preoperative workup comprised of medical history, physical examination, and routine laboratory tests. Serum creatinine was recorded preoperatively and 2 to 3 months after operation. Operative time, ischemia time, blood loss, operative and postoperative complications, renal function, and pathology parameters were recorded. MI-OPN was successfully performed in all cases. Mean tumor size was 4.7 cm (range: 2.5-8.1). Mean warm ischemia time was 28.1 minutes (range: 21-39), mean operative time was 105 minutes (range: 70-150) and mean estimated blood loss was 68 mL (range: 10-400). Mean postoperative hospital stay was 6.5 days (range: 5-12). Postoperative complications were found in 3 patients (5.5%). The mean pre- and postoperative serum creatinine levels were 76.2 μmol/L (range: 47-132) and 87.1 μmol/L (range: 61-189) with significant difference (P = 0.004). The mean pre- and postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were 91.5 (range: 34-133) and 82.5 (range: 22-126.5), respectively with significant difference (P = 0.024). In an average follow-up of 19.9 months (range: 8-50), no local recurrence or systemic progression occurred. In conclusion, MI-OPN can combine the benefits of both minimal invasive and traditional open partial nephrectomy (OPN) techniques with a smaller incision. It is an innovation of traditional OPN and suitable for the complex renal tumors with high RENAL nephrometry score safely and effectively.

Lisbon Emoji and Emoticon Database (LEED): Norms for emoji and emoticons in seven evaluative dimensions.

PubMed

Rodrigues, David; Prada, Marília; Gaspar, Rui; Garrido, Margarida V; Lopes, Diniz

2018-02-01

The use of emoticons and emoji is increasingly popular across a variety of new platforms of online communication. They have also become popular as stimulus materials in scientific research. However, the assumption that emoji/emoticon users' interpretations always correspond to the developers'/researchers' intended meanings might be misleading. This article presents subjective norms of emoji and emoticons provided by everyday users. The Lisbon Emoji and Emoticon Database (LEED) comprises 238 stimuli: 85 emoticons and 153 emoji (collected from iOS, Android, Facebook, and Emojipedia). The sample included 505 Portuguese participants recruited online. Each participant evaluated a random subset of 20 stimuli for seven dimensions: aesthetic appeal, familiarity, visual complexity, concreteness, valence, arousal, and meaningfulness. Participants were additionally asked to attribute a meaning to each stimulus. The norms obtained include quantitative descriptive results (means, standard deviations, and confidence intervals) and a meaning analysis for each stimulus. We also examined the correlations between the dimensions and tested for differences between emoticons and emoji, as well as between the two major operating systems-Android and iOS. The LEED constitutes a readily available normative database (available at www.osf.io/nua4x ) with potential applications to different research domains.

Mounting Systems for Structural Members, Fastening Assemblies Thereof, and Vibration Isolation Systems Including the Same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Young, Ken (Inventor); Hindle, Timothy (Inventor); Barber, Tim Daniel (Inventor)

2016-01-01

Mounting systems for structural members, fastening assemblies thereof, and vibration isolation systems including the same are provided. Mounting systems comprise a pair of mounting brackets, each clamped against a fastening assembly forming a mounting assembly. Fastening assemblies comprise a spherical rod end comprising a spherical member having a through opening and an integrally threaded shaft, first and second seating members on opposite sides of the spherical member and each having a through opening that is substantially coaxial with the spherical member through opening, and a partially threaded fastener that threadably engages each mounting bracket forming the mounting assembly. Structural members have axial end portions, each releasably coupled to a mounting bracket by the integrally threaded shaft. Axial end portions are threaded in opposite directions for permitting structural member rotation to adjust a length thereof to a substantially zero strain position. Structural members may be vibration isolator struts in vibration isolation systems.

Understanding a successful obesity prevention initiative in children under 5 from a systems perspective.

PubMed

Owen, Brynle; Brown, Andrew D; Kuhlberg, Jill; Millar, Lynne; Nichols, Melanie; Economos, Christina; Allender, Steven

2018-01-01

Systems thinking represents an innovative and logical approach to understanding complexity in community-based obesity prevention interventions. We report on an approach to apply systems thinking to understand the complexity of a successful obesity prevention intervention in early childhood (children aged up to 5 years) conducted in a regional city in Victoria, Australia. A causal loop diagram (CLD) was developed to represent system elements related to a successful childhood obesity prevention intervention in early childhood. Key stakeholder interviews (n = 16) were examined retrospectively to generate purposive text data, create microstructures, and form a CLD. A CLD representing key stakeholder perceptions of a successful intervention comprised six key feedback loops explaining changes in project implementation over time. The loops described the dynamics of collaboration, network formation, community awareness, human resources, project clarity, and innovation. The CLD developed provides a replicable means to capture, evaluate and disseminate a description of the dynamic elements of a successful obesity prevention intervention in early childhood.

Development of Sorting System for Fishes by Feed-forward Neural Networks Using Rotation Invariant Features

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shiraishi, Yuhki; Takeda, Fumiaki

In this research, we have developed a sorting system for fishes, which is comprised of a conveyance part, a capturing image part, and a sorting part. In the conveyance part, we have developed an independent conveyance system in order to separate one fish from an intertwined group of fishes. After the image of the separated fish is captured in the capturing part, a rotation invariant feature is extracted using two-dimensional fast Fourier transform, which is the mean value of the power spectrum with the same distance from the origin in the spectrum field. After that, the fishes are classified by three-layered feed-forward neural networks. The experimental results show that the developed system classifies three kinds of fishes captured in various angles with the classification ratio of 98.95% for 1044 captured images of five fishes. The other experimental results show the classification ratio of 90.7% for 300 fishes by 10-fold cross validation method.

Braking system

DOEpatents

Norgren, D.U.

1982-09-23

A balanced braking system comprising a plurality of braking assemblies located about a member to be braked. Each of the braking assemblies consists of a spring biased piston of a first material fitted into a body of a different material which has a greater contraction upon cooling than the piston material. The piston is provided with a recessed head portion over which is positioned a diaphragm and forming a space therebetween to which is connected a pressurized fluid supply. The diaphragm is controlled by the fluid in the space to contact or withdraw from the member to be braked. A cooling means causes the body within which the piston is fitted to contract more than the piston, producing a tight shrink fit therebetween. The braking system is particularly applicable for selectively braking an arbor of an electron microscope which immobilizes, for example, a vertically adjustable low temperature specimen holder during observation. The system provides balanced braking forces which can be easily removed and re-established with minimal disturbance to arbor location.

Characterization of Infrared Diode Laser Beams and Atmospheric CO Imaging Instrument

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miles, Jonathan J.

1999-01-01

During June-August 1997 Dr. Jonathan Miles participated in the ASEE-sponsored summer faculty research program at NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). The Aerospace Electronic Systems Division (AESD), Sensor Systems Branch (SSB), at NASA LARC had proposed a new mission, GEOstationary TROpospheric Pollution SATellite (GEO TROPSAT), to address critical science questions of tropospheric chemistry. The troposphere is a complex system, comprising "point" and distributed sources of natural and anthropogenic origin; complicated transport processes, both lateral and vertical; and photochemistry driven by UV flux, temperature, atmospheric composition, and other variables. GEO TROPSAT would be implemented about a geostationary Earth orbital (GEO) position at the equator between 600 and 80" West longitude to observe the Americas and large portions of the oceans of either coast. This mission would advance our knowledge of the atmosphere by capturing the wide temporal and spatial variability of tropospheric phenomena which is undetectable from low Earth orbit. A pre-prototype imaging carbon monoxide (CO) imaging system operating within a narrow waveband about 4.7 [Lm was built, demonstrated, and evaluated. This system applies the gas-filter correlation radiometry (GFCR) technique and produces digitized images comprising 4096 pixels, each representing a single CO mixing ratio measurement inferred from radiometric data. Associated tasks accomplished included specification for the next-generation prototype system to operate in the 2.3-@tm waveband; characterization of a 64x64, InSb focal-plane-array (FPA) imager; design, fabrication, and assembly of a filter wheel; and software development. Laboratory evaluation of this system involved imaging of a test cell placed in the path of radiant flux emanating from a blackbody source used to simulate the radiant energy reflected by Earth in real application. The cell was evacuated for system balancing and then charged with measured quantities of CO to provide a means for system characterization. Two related research efforts were undertaken during the term of the study reported here - continued development of an atmospheric CO imaging instrument and characterization of diode-laser beams. Both efforts were successful and are described within the body of this report. A second objective was to provide a means for undergraduate ISAT majors to become involved with the research described, to be afforded the opportunity to learn the technologies associated with the work performed. Two ISAT students gained a comprehensive understanding and interest in missions supported by NASA through direct involvement in this project. Many more students were exposed to these technologies through demonstrations, laboratory tours, and explanations provided in lectures.

Fuel system for rotary distributor fuel injection pump

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

Klopfer, K.H.; Kelly, W.W.

1993-06-01

In a fuel injection pump having a drive shaft, a pump rotor driven by the drive shaft, reciprocating pumping means with periodic intake and pumping strokes to periodically receive an intake charge of fuel and deliver fuel at high pressure for fuel injection is described; a distributor head with a plurality of angularly spaced distributor outlets, the pump rotor providing a distributor rotor with a distributor port connected to the pumping means, the distributor rotor being rotatably mounted in the distributor head for sequential registration of the distributor port with the distributor outlets for distributing said high pressure delivery ofmore » fuel thereto; a fuel system for supplying fuel to the pumping means, having an end chamber at one end of the pump rotor and a fuel supply pump driven by the drive shaft and having an inlet and outlet, the supply pump outlet being connected to the end chamber for supplying fuel thereto, and a pressure regulator for regulating the fuel pressure in the end chamber; and a control valve connected between the pumping means and the end chamber and selectively opened during the intake strokes to supply fuel to the pumping means from the end chamber and during the pumping strokes to spill fuel from the pumping means into the end chamber to terminate said high pressure delivery of fuel; the improvement wherein the fuel system comprises a fuel return passage connected in series with the end chamber downstream thereof, wherein the pressure regulator is mounted in the return passage for regulating the upstream fuel pressure, including the upstream fuel pressure within the end chamber, and is connected for conducting excess fuel for return to the supply pump inlet, and wherein the supply pump is driven by the drive shaft to supply fuel at a rate exceeding the rate of said high pressure delivery of fuel for fuel injection and to provide excess fuel flow continuously through the end chamber and return passage to the pressure regulator.« less

Catalysts, systems and methods to reduce NOX in an exhaust gas stream

DOEpatents

Castellano, Christopher R.; Moini, Ahmad; Koermer, Gerald S.; Furbeck, Howard

2010-07-20

Catalysts, systems and methods are described to reduce NO.sub.x emissions of an internal combustion engine. In one embodiment, an emissions treatment system for an exhaust stream is provided having an SCR catalyst comprising silver tungstate on an alumina support. The emissions treatment system may be used for the treatment of exhaust streams from diesel engines and lean burn gasoline engines. An emissions treatment system may further comprise an injection device operative to dispense a hydrocarbon reducing agent upstream of the catalyst.

Microwave mode shifting antenna system for regenerating particulate filters

DOEpatents

Gonze, Eugene V [Pinckney, MI; Kirby, Kevin W [Calabasas Hills, CA; Phelps, Amanda [Malibu, CA; Gregoire, Daniel J [Thousand Oaks, CA

2011-04-26

A regeneration system comprises a particulate matter (PM) filter including a microwave energy absorbing surface, and an antenna system comprising N antennas and an antenna driver module that sequentially drives the antenna system in a plurality of transverse modes of the antenna system to heat selected portions of the microwave absorbing surface to regenerate the PM filter, where N is an integer greater than one. The transverse modes may include transverse electric (TE) and/or transverse magnetic (TM) modes.

Selective catalytic reduction system and process using a pre-sulfated zirconia binder

DOEpatents

Sobolevskiy, Anatoly; Rossin, Joseph A.

2010-06-29

A selective catalytic reduction (SCR) process with a palladium catalyst for reducing NOx in a gas, using hydrogen as a reducing agent is provided. The process comprises contacting the gas stream with a catalyst system, the catalyst system comprising (ZrO.sub.2)SO.sub.4, palladium, and a pre-sulfated zirconia binder. The inclusion of a pre-sulfated zirconia binder substantially increases the durability of a Pd-based SCR catalyst system. A system for implementing the disclosed process is further provided.

Quench monitoring and control system and method of operating same

DOEpatents

Ryan, David Thomas; Laskaris, Evangelos Trifon; Huang, Xianrui

2006-05-30

A rotating machine comprising a superconductive coil and a temperature sensor operable to provide a signal representative of superconductive coil temperature. The rotating machine may comprise a control system communicatively coupled to the temperature sensor. The control system may be operable to reduce electric current in the superconductive coil when a signal representative of a defined superconducting coil temperature is received from the temperature sensor.

Linear electronic field time-of-flight ion mass spectrometers

DOEpatents

Funsten, Herbert O.

2010-08-24

Time-of-flight mass spectrometer comprising a first drift region and a second drift region enclosed within an evacuation chamber; a means of introducing an analyte of interest into the first drift region; a pulsed ionization source which produces molecular ions from said analyte of interest; a first foil positioned between the first drift region and the second drift region, which dissociates said molecular ions into constituent atomic ions and emits secondary electrons; an electrode which produces secondary electrons upon contact with a constituent atomic ion in second drift region; a stop detector comprising a first ion detection region and a second ion detection region; and a timing means connected to the pulsed ionization source, to the first ion detection region, and to the second ion detection region.

PULSE AMPLITUDE ANALYZER

DOEpatents

Gray, G.W.; Jensen, A.S.

1957-10-22

A pulse-height analyzer system of improved design for sorting and counting a series of pulses, such as provided by a scintillation detector in nuclear radiation measurements, is described. The analyzer comprises a main transmission line, a cathode-ray tube for each section of the line with its deflection plates acting as the line capacitance; means to bias the respective cathode ray tubes so that the beam strikes a target only when a prearranged pulse amplitude is applied, with each tube progressively biased to respond to smaller amplitudes; pulse generating and counting means associated with each tube to respond when the beam is deflected; a control transmission line having the same time constant as the first line per section with pulse generating means for each tube for initiating a pulse on the second transmission line when a pulse triggers the tube of corresponding amplitude response, the former pulse acting to prevent successive tubes from responding to the pulse under test. This arrangement permits greater deflection sensitivity in the cathode ray tube and overcomes many of the disadvantages of prior art pulse-height analyzer circuits.

Blood Vessel Extraction in Color Retinal Fundus Images with Enhancement Filtering and Unsupervised Classification

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Retinal blood vessels have a significant role in the diagnosis and treatment of various retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, arteriosclerosis, and hypertension. For this reason, retinal vasculature extraction is important in order to help specialists for the diagnosis and treatment of systematic diseases. In this paper, a novel approach is developed to extract retinal blood vessel network. Our method comprises four stages: (1) preprocessing stage in order to prepare dataset for segmentation; (2) an enhancement procedure including Gabor, Frangi, and Gauss filters obtained separately before a top-hat transform; (3) a hard and soft clustering stage which includes K-means and Fuzzy C-means (FCM) in order to get binary vessel map; and (4) a postprocessing step which removes falsely segmented isolated regions. The method is tested on color retinal images obtained from STARE and DRIVE databases which are available online. As a result, Gabor filter followed by K-means clustering method achieves 95.94% and 95.71% of accuracy for STARE and DRIVE databases, respectively, which are acceptable for diagnosis systems. PMID:29065611

Discrete wavelength-locked external cavity laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pilgrim, Jeffrey S. (Inventor); Silver, Joel A. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

An external cavity laser (and method of generating laser light) comprising: a laser light source; means for collimating light output by the laser light source; a diffraction grating receiving collimated light; a cavity feedback mirror reflecting light received from the diffraction grating back to the diffraction grating; and means for reliably tuning the external cavity laser to discrete wavelengths.

CONDENSATION CAN

DOEpatents

Booth, E.T. Jr.; Pontius, R.B.; Jacobsohn, B.A.; Slade, C.B.

1962-03-01

An apparatus is designed for condensing a vapor to a solid at relatively low back pressures. The apparatus comprises a closed condensing chamber, a vapor inlet tube extending to the central region of the chamber, a co-axial tubular shield surrounding the inlet tube, means for heating the inlet tube at a point outside the condensing chamber, and means for refrigeratirg the said chamber. (AEC)

NEUTRONIC REACTOR

DOEpatents

Fermi, E.; Zinn, W.H.; Anderson, H.L.

1958-09-16

Means are presenied for increasing the reproduction ratio of a gaphite- moderated neutronic reactor by diminishing the neutron loss due to absorption or capture by gaseous impurities within the reactor. This means comprised of a fluid-tight casing or envelope completely enclosing the reactor and provided with a valve through which the casing, and thereby the reactor, may be evacuated of atmospheric air.

Rotating superconductor magnet for producing rotating lobed magnetic field lines

DOEpatents

Hilal, Sadek K.; Sampson, William B.; Leonard, Edward F.

1978-01-01

This invention provides a rotating superconductor magnet for producing a rotating lobed magnetic field, comprising a cryostat; a superconducting magnet in the cryostat having a collar for producing a lobed magnetic field having oppositely directed adjacent field lines; rotatable support means for selectively rotating the superconductor magnet; and means for energizing the superconductor magnet.

Chemical production processes and systems

DOEpatents

Holladay, Johnathan E.; Muzatko, Danielle S.; White, James F.; Zacher, Alan H.

2014-06-17

Hydrogenolysis systems are provided that can include a reactor housing an Ru-comprising hydrogenolysis catalyst and wherein the contents of the reactor is maintained at a neutral or acidic pH. Reactant reservoirs within the system can include a polyhydric alcohol compound and a base, wherein a weight ratio of the base to the compound is less than 0.05. Systems also include the product reservoir comprising a hydrogenolyzed polyhydric alcohol compound and salts of organic acids, and wherein the moles of base are substantially equivalent to the moles of salts or organic acids. Processes are provided that can include an Ru-comprising catalyst within a mixture having a neutral or acidic pH. A weight ratio of the base to the compound can be between 0.01 and 0.05 during exposing.

Chemical production processes and systems

DOEpatents

Holladay, Johnathan E; Muzatko, Danielle S; White, James F; Zacher, Alan H

2015-04-21

Hydrogenolysis systems are provided that can include a reactor housing an Ru-comprising hydrogenolysis catalyst and wherein the contents of the reactor is maintained at a neutral or acidic pH. Reactant reservoirs within the system can include a polyhydric alcohol compound and a base, wherein a weight ratio of the base to the compound is less than 0.05. Systems also include the product reservoir comprising a hydrogenolyzed polyhydric alcohol compound and salts of organic acids, and wherein the moles of base are substantially equivalent to the moles of salts or organic acids. Processes are provided that can include an Ru-comprising catalyst within a mixture having a neutral or acidic pH. A weight ratio of the base to the compound can be between 0.01 and 0.05 during exposing.

Method of assessing a lipid-related health risk based on ion mobility analysis of lipoproteins

DOEpatents

Benner, W. Henry; Krauss, Ronald M.; Blanche, Patricia J.

2010-12-14

A medical diagnostic method and instrumentation system for analyzing noncovalently bonded agglomerated biological particles is described. The method and system comprises: a method of preparation for the biological particles; an electrospray generator; an alpha particle radiation source; a differential mobility analyzer; a particle counter; and data acquisition and analysis means. The medical device is useful for the assessment of human diseases, such as cardiac disease risk and hyperlipidemia, by rapid quantitative analysis of lipoprotein fraction densities. Initially, purification procedures are described to reduce an initial blood sample to an analytical input to the instrument. The measured sizes from the analytical sample are correlated with densities, resulting in a spectrum of lipoprotein densities. The lipoprotein density distribution can then be used to characterize cardiac and other lipid-related health risks.

Bright-White Beetle Scales Optimise Multiple Scattering of Light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burresi, Matteo; Cortese, Lorenzo; Pattelli, Lorenzo; Kolle, Mathias; Vukusic, Peter; Wiersma, Diederik S.; Steiner, Ullrich; Vignolini, Silvia

2014-08-01

Whiteness arises from diffuse and broadband reflection of light typically achieved through optical scattering in randomly structured media. In contrast to structural colour due to coherent scattering, white appearance generally requires a relatively thick system comprising randomly positioned high refractive-index scattering centres. Here, we show that the exceptionally bright white appearance of Cyphochilus and Lepidiota stigma beetles arises from a remarkably optimised anisotropy of intra-scale chitin networks, which act as a dense scattering media. Using time-resolved measurements, we show that light propagating in the scales of the beetles undergoes pronounced multiple scattering that is associated with the lowest transport mean free path reported to date for low-refractive-index systems. Our light transport investigation unveil high level of optimisation that achieves high-brightness white in a thin low-mass-per-unit-area anisotropic disordered nanostructure.

Epidemiology today: Mitigating threats to an ecosystem.

PubMed

Kreiger, Nancy

2016-06-27

Ecosystems comprise all the living and non-living things in a particular area (e.g., rain forest, desert), which interact and maintain equilibrium. Loss of equilibrium (e.g., clear-cutting trees in a rain forest) can mean the decline of the ecosystem, unless it is able to adapt to the new circumstances. The term "knowledge ecosystem" describes an approach to managing knowledge in a particular field; the components of this system include the people, the technological skills and resources, and information or data. Epidemiology can be thought of as a knowledge ecosystem and, like ecological systems, its existence can be threatened, from both internal and external forces that may alter its equilibrium. This paper describes some threats to the epidemiology knowledge ecosystem, how these threats came about, and what responses we can make that may serve to mitigate those threats.

Bistable four-wave mixing response in a semiconductor quantum dot coupled to a photonic crystal nanocavity.

PubMed

Li, Jian-Bo; Xiao, Si; Liang, Shan; He, Meng-Dong; Luo, Jian-Hua; Kim, Nam-Chol; Chen, Li-Qun

2017-10-16

We perform a theoretical study of the bistable four-wave mixing (FWM) response in a coupled system comprised of a semiconductor quantum dot (SQD) and a photonic crystal (PC) nanocavity in which the SQD is embedded. It is shown that the shape of the FWM spectrum can switch among single-peaked, double-peaked, triple-peaked, and four-peaked arising from the vacuum Rabi splitting and the exciton-nanocavity coupling. Especially, we map out bistability phase diagrams within a parameter subspace of the system, and find that it is easy to turn on or off the bistable FWM response by only adjusting the excitation frequency or the pumping intensity. Our results offer a feasible means for measuring the SQD-PC nanocavity coupling strength and open a new avenue to design optical switches and memories.

High pulse rate high resolution optical radar system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goss, W. C.; Burns, R. H.; Chi, K. (Inventor)

1973-01-01

The system is composed of an optical cavity with a laser and a mode locking means to build up an optical pulse. An optical switch is also provided within the cavity to convert the polarization of the optical pulse generated within the cavity. The optical switch comprises an electro-optical crystal driven by a time delayed driver circuit which is triggered by a coincident signal made from an optical pulse signal and a gating pulse signal. The converted optical pulse strikes a polarization sensitive prism and is deflected out of the cavity toward the pending target in the form of a pulse containing most of the optical energy generated by the laser in the pulse build-up period. After striking the target, the reflected energy is picked up by a transceiver with the total travel time of the pulse being recorded.

Effect of various binning methods and ROI sizes on the accuracy of the automatic classification system for differentiation between diffuse infiltrative lung diseases on the basis of texture features at HRCT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Namkug; Seo, Joon Beom; Sung, Yu Sub; Park, Bum-Woo; Lee, Youngjoo; Park, Seong Hoon; Lee, Young Kyung; Kang, Suk-Ho

2008-03-01

To find optimal binning, variable binning size linear binning (LB) and non-linear binning (NLB) methods were tested. In case of small binning size (Q <= 10), NLB shows significant better accuracy than the LB. K-means NLB (Q = 26) is statistically significant better than every LB. To find optimal binning method and ROI size of the automatic classification system for differentiation between diffuse infiltrative lung diseases on the basis of textural analysis at HRCT Six-hundred circular regions of interest (ROI) with 10, 20, and 30 pixel diameter, comprising of each 100 ROIs representing six regional disease patterns (normal, NL; ground-glass opacity, GGO; reticular opacity, RO; honeycombing, HC; emphysema, EMPH; and consolidation, CONS) were marked by an experienced radiologist from HRCT images. Histogram (mean) and co-occurrence matrix (mean and SD of angular second moment, contrast, correlation, entropy, and inverse difference momentum) features were employed to test binning and ROI effects. To find optimal binning, variable binning size LB (bin size Q: 4~30, 32, 64, 128, 144, 196, 256, 384) and NLB (Q: 4~30) methods (K-means, and Fuzzy C-means clustering) were tested. For automated classification, a SVM classifier was implemented. To assess cross-validation of the system, a five-folding method was used. Each test was repeatedly performed twenty times. Overall accuracies with every combination of variable ROIs, and binning sizes were statistically compared. In case of small binning size (Q <= 10), NLB shows significant better accuracy than the LB. K-means NLB (Q = 26) is statistically significant better than every LB. In case of 30x30 ROI size and most of binning size, the K-means method showed better than other NLB and LB methods. When optimal binning and other parameters were set, overall sensitivity of the classifier was 92.85%. The sensitivity and specificity of the system for each class were as follows: NL, 95%, 97.9%; GGO, 80%, 98.9%; RO 85%, 96.9%; HC, 94.7%, 97%; EMPH, 100%, 100%; and CONS, 100%, 100%, respectively. We determined the optimal binning method and ROI size of the automatic classification system for differentiation between diffuse infiltrative lung diseases on the basis of texture features at HRCT.

Generating disease-pertinent treatment vocabularies from MEDLINE citations.

PubMed

Wang, Liqin; Del Fiol, Guilherme; Bray, Bruce E; Haug, Peter J

2017-01-01

Healthcare communities have identified a significant need for disease-specific information. Disease-specific ontologies are useful in assisting the retrieval of disease-relevant information from various sources. However, building these ontologies is labor intensive. Our goal is to develop a system for an automated generation of disease-pertinent concepts from a popular knowledge resource for the building of disease-specific ontologies. A pipeline system was developed with an initial focus of generating disease-specific treatment vocabularies. It was comprised of the components of disease-specific citation retrieval, predication extraction, treatment predication extraction, treatment concept extraction, and relevance ranking. A semantic schema was developed to support the extraction of treatment predications and concepts. Four ranking approaches (i.e., occurrence, interest, degree centrality, and weighted degree centrality) were proposed to measure the relevance of treatment concepts to the disease of interest. We measured the performance of four ranks in terms of the mean precision at the top 100 concepts with five diseases, as well as the precision-recall curves against two reference vocabularies. The performance of the system was also compared to two baseline approaches. The pipeline system achieved a mean precision of 0.80 for the top 100 concepts with the ranking by interest. There were no significant different among the four ranks (p=0.53). However, the pipeline-based system had significantly better performance than the two baselines. The pipeline system can be useful for an automated generation of disease-relevant treatment concepts from the biomedical literature. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

NASA System Safety Handbook. Volume 2: System Safety Concepts, Guidelines, and Implementation Examples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dezfuli, Homayoon; Benjamin, Allan; Everett, Christopher; Feather, Martin; Rutledge, Peter; Sen, Dev; Youngblood, Robert

2015-01-01

This is the second of two volumes that collectively comprise the NASA System Safety Handbook. Volume 1 (NASASP-210-580) was prepared for the purpose of presenting the overall framework for System Safety and for providing the general concepts needed to implement the framework. Volume 2 provides guidance for implementing these concepts as an integral part of systems engineering and risk management. This guidance addresses the following functional areas: 1.The development of objectives that collectively define adequate safety for a system, and the safety requirements derived from these objectives that are levied on the system. 2.The conduct of system safety activities, performed to meet the safety requirements, with specific emphasis on the conduct of integrated safety analysis (ISA) as a fundamental means by which systems engineering and risk management decisions are risk-informed. 3.The development of a risk-informed safety case (RISC) at major milestone reviews to argue that the systems safety objectives are satisfied (and therefore that the system is adequately safe). 4.The evaluation of the RISC (including supporting evidence) using a defined set of evaluation criteria, to assess the veracity of the claims made therein in order to support risk acceptance decisions.