Sample records for technical papers pt

  1. Technical problems of wastewater treatment plant in crude palm oil industry A case study in PT Socfin Indonesia-Kebun Sungai Liput, Nang groe Aceh Darussalam Province

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Paramitadevi, Y. V.; Rahmatullah

    2017-05-01

    Crude palm oil produced in Indonesia has already been known as the largest in the world. Unfortunately many of palm oil factories (CPOF) spread out in Indonesia have not good wastewater treatments (WWTP) yet. PT Socfin Indonesia, as an example, which is located in Aceh Tamiang Regency, still has BOD contained in its final effluent of the waswater treatment plant more than 150 ppm. In fact, the capability and capacity of WWTP in PT Socfin are 192 m3per day. Because of improper operational and maintenance of the WWTP, the technical prob lem are accumulated, such as, increasing the deposition of sludge and decreasing the retention time. The following affect is the treatment process is not going well and the quality of effluent is getting worse. The objective of this paper is to solve the technical problems by means remov ing the deposition of sludge periodically and fixing floating aeration in the aerobic pond. Method using for this paper is survey and wastewater sampling. A recommendation of the was tewater treatment system has been proposed after average BOD from WWTP outlet is defined 158 mg/L. The recommendation has seven procesess including oil separation, neutralization, closed tank anaerobic digester equipped with gas holder, extended aeration, settling tank, sand drying bed and land application.

  2. Functionalized Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube-Based Fuel Cell Benchmarked Against US DOE 2017 Technical Targets

    PubMed Central

    Jha, Neetu; Ramesh, Palanisamy; Bekyarova, Elena; Tian, Xiaojuan; Wang, Feihu; Itkis, Mikhail E.; Haddon, Robert C.

    2013-01-01

    Chemically modified single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) with varying degrees of functionalization were utilized for the fabrication of SWNT thin film catalyst support layers (CSLs) in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), which were suitable for benchmarking against the US DOE 2017 targets. Use of the optimum level of SWNT -COOH functionality allowed the construction of a prototype SWNT-based PEMFC with total Pt loading of 0.06 mgPt/cm2 - well below the value of 0.125 mgPt/cm2 set as the US DOE 2017 technical target for total Pt group metals (PGM) loading. This prototype PEMFC also approaches the technical target for the total Pt content per kW of power (<0.125 gPGM/kW) at cell potential 0.65 V: a value of 0.15 gPt/kW was achieved at 80°C/22 psig testing conditions, which was further reduced to 0.12 gPt/kW at 35 psig back pressure. PMID:23877112

  3. Functionalized single-walled carbon nanotube-based fuel cell benchmarked against US DOE 2017 technical targets.

    PubMed

    Jha, Neetu; Ramesh, Palanisamy; Bekyarova, Elena; Tian, Xiaojuan; Wang, Feihu; Itkis, Mikhail E; Haddon, Robert C

    2013-01-01

    Chemically modified single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) with varying degrees of functionalization were utilized for the fabrication of SWNT thin film catalyst support layers (CSLs) in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), which were suitable for benchmarking against the US DOE 2017 targets. Use of the optimum level of SWNT -COOH functionality allowed the construction of a prototype SWNT-based PEMFC with total Pt loading of 0.06 mg(Pt)/cm²--well below the value of 0.125 mg(Pt)/cm² set as the US DOE 2017 technical target for total Pt group metals (PGM) loading. This prototype PEMFC also approaches the technical target for the total Pt content per kW of power (<0.125 g(PGM)/kW) at cell potential 0.65 V: a value of 0.15 g(Pt)/kW was achieved at 80°C/22 psig testing conditions, which was further reduced to 0.12 g(Pt)/kW at 35 psig back pressure.

  4. Nanomodified Carbon/Carbon Composites for Intermediate Temperature

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-08-31

    Carbon nanofibers (CNF) are manufactured by Applied Sciences Inc ./Pyrograf® Products by pyrolytic decomposition of methane in the presence of iron-based...Using PT-30 Resin," Carbon 41 (5), 893 (2003). 7. PT-15 technical data sheet, Lonza Inc ., Fair Lawn, NJ. 8. M. L. Ramirez, et al, Poly. Degrad. & Stab...technical data sheet, Carbon Nanotechnologies, Houston, TX. 32. Advanced SiC NanoPowder technical data sheet, Alpha Materials, Inc ., St. Paul, MN. 33

  5. First International Symposium on Strain Gauge Balances. Pt. 1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Tripp, John S. (Editor); Tcheng, Ping (Editor)

    1999-01-01

    The first International Symposium on Strain Gauge Balances was sponsored and held at NASA Langley Research Center during October 22-25, 1996. The symposium provided an open international forum for presentation, discussion, and exchange of technical information among wind tunnel test technique specialists and strain gauge balance designers. The Symposium also served to initiate organized professional activities among the participating and relevant international technical communities. Over 130 delegates from 15 countries were in attendance. The program opened with a panel discussion, followed by technical paper sessions, and guided tours of the National Transonic Facility (NTF) wind tunnel, a local commercial balance fabrication facility, and the LaRC balance calibration laboratory. The opening panel discussion addressed "Future Trends in Balance Development and Applications." Forty-six technical papers were presented in 11 technical sessions covering the following areas: calibration, automatic calibration, data reduction, facility reports, design, accuracy and uncertainty analysis, strain gauges, instrumentation, balance design, thermal effects, finite element analysis, applications, and special balances. At the conclusion of the Symposium, a steering committee representing most of the nations and several U.S. organizations attending the Symposium was established to initiate planning for a second international balance symposium, to be held in 1999 in the UK.

  6. 77 FR 2930 - Airworthiness Directives; Turbomeca S.A. Turboshaft Engines

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-01-20

    ... certain power turbine (PT) blade fir-tree roots. This proposed AD would require removing the affected PT... detected geometric non-conformities on blade fir-tree roots. The technical investigations carried out by... was prompted by the detection of geometric non- conformities on PT blade fir-tree roots. We are...

  7. 47 CFR Appendix - Technical Appendix 2

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... PROGRAM Waiver of household eligibility. Pt. 301, App. 2 Technical Appendix 2 TECHNICAL APPENDIX 2—NTIA... promotional prices Equipment cannot be sold conditioned on the purchase of a Smart Antenna or other equipment...

  8. Polymer electrolyte fuel cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gottesfeld, S.

    The recent increase in attention to polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC's) is the result of significant technical advances in this technology and the initiation of some projects for the demonstration of complete PEFC-based power system in a bus or in a passenger car. A PEFC powered vehicle has the potential for zero emission, high energy conversion efficiency and extended range compared to present day battery powered EV's. This paper describes recent achievements in R&D on PEFC's. The major thrust areas have been: (1) demonstration of membrane/electrode assemblies with stable high performance in life tests lasting 4000 hours, employing ultra-low Pt loadings corresponding to only 1/2 oz of Pt for the complete power source of a passenger car; (2) effective remedies for the high sensitivity of the Pt electrocatalyst to impurities in the fuel feed stream; and (3) comprehensive evaluation of the physicochemical properties of membrane and electrodes in the PEFC, clarifying the water management issues and enabling effective codes and diagnostics for this fuel cell.

  9. \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}${\\mbi{\\mu }}$\\end{document}-Foil Polymer Electrode Array for Intracortical Neural Recordings

    PubMed Central

    Köhler, Per; Granmo, Marcus; Schouenborg, Jens; Bengtsson, Martin; Wallman, Lars

    2014-01-01

    We have developed a multichannel electrode array—termed \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}\\(\\mu \\) \\end{document}-foil—that comprises ultrathin and flexible electrodes protruding from a thin foil at fixed distances. In addition to allowing some of the active sites to reach less compromised tissue, the barb-like protrusions that also serves the purpose of anchoring the electrode array into the tissue. This paper is an early evaluation of technical aspects and performance of this electrode array in acute in vitro/in vivo experiments. The interface impedance was reduced by up to two decades by electroplating the active sites with platinum black. The platinum black also allowed for a reduced phase lag for higher frequency components. The distance between the protrusions of the electrode array was tailored to match the architecture of the rat cerebral cortex. In vivo acute measurements confirmed a high signal-to-noise ratio for the neural recordings, and no significant crosstalk between recording channels. PMID:27170864

  10. Laser ablation with applied magnetic field for electric propulsion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Batishcheva, Alla; Batishchev, Oleg; Cambier, Jean-Luc

    2012-10-01

    Using ultrafast lasers with tera-watt-level power allows efficient ablation and ionization of solid-density materials [1], creating dense and hot (˜100eV) plasma. We propose ablating small droplets in the magnetic nozzle configurations similar to mini-helicon plasma source [2]. Such approach may improve the momentum coupling compared to ablation of solid surfaces and facilitate plasma detachment. Results of 2D modeling of solid wire ablation in the applied magnetic field are presented and discussed. [4pt] [1] O. Batishchev et al, Ultrafast Laser Ablation for Space Propulsion, AIAA technical paper 2008-5294, -16p, 44th JPC, Hartford, 2008.[0pt] [2] O. Batishchev and J.L. Cambier, Experimental Study of the Mini-Helicon Thruster, Air Force Research Laboratory Report, AFRL-RZ-ED-TR-2009-0020, 2009.

  11. 7 CFR Exhibit A to Subpart I of... - Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2011-01-01 2009-01-01 true Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Agreement A... AGENCY, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) PROGRAM REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) HOUSING Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. A Exhibit A to Subpart I of Part 1944—Self-Help Technical...

  12. 7 CFR Exhibit A to Subpart I of... - Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2010-01-01 2009-01-01 true Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Agreement A... AGENCY, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) PROGRAM REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) HOUSING Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. A Exhibit A to Subpart I of Part 1944—Self-Help Technical...

  13. 36 CFR Appendix D to Part 1191 - Technical

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Technical D Appendix D to Part 1191 Parks, Forests, and Public Property ARCHITECTURAL AND TRANSPORTATION BARRIERS COMPLIANCE...; ARCHITECTURAL BARRIERS ACT (ABA) ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES Pt. 1191, App. D Appendix D to Part 1191—Technical...

  14. 7 CFR Exhibit B to Subpart I of... - Evaluation Report of Self-Help Technical Assistance (TA) Grants

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2014-01-01 2013-01-01 true Evaluation Report of Self-Help Technical Assistance... Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. B Exhibit B to Subpart I of Part 1944—Evaluation Report of Self-Help Technical Assistance (TA) Grants Evaluation for Quarter Ending:(1...

  15. 7 CFR Exhibit B to Subpart I of... - Evaluation Report of Self-Help Technical Assistance (TA) Grants

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Evaluation Report of Self-Help Technical Assistance... Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. B Exhibit B to Subpart I of Part 1944—Evaluation Report of Self-Help Technical Assistance (TA) Grants Evaluation for Quarter Ending:(1...

  16. 7 CFR Exhibit B to Subpart I of... - Evaluation Report of Self-Help Technical Assistance (TA) Grants

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Evaluation Report of Self-Help Technical Assistance... Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. B Exhibit B to Subpart I of Part 1944—Evaluation Report of Self-Help Technical Assistance (TA) Grants Evaluation for Quarter Ending:(1...

  17. 7 CFR Exhibit D to Subpart I of... - Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Predevelopment Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2011-01-01 2009-01-01 true Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Predevelopment... SERVICE AGENCY, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) PROGRAM REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) HOUSING Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. D Exhibit D to Subpart I of Part 1944—Self-Help...

  18. 7 CFR Exhibit D to Subpart I of... - Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Predevelopment Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2010-01-01 2009-01-01 true Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Predevelopment... SERVICE AGENCY, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) PROGRAM REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) HOUSING Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. D Exhibit D to Subpart I of Part 1944—Self-Help...

  19. A Summary/Overview of Ejector Augmentor Theory and Performance. Volume 1. Technical Discussion

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1979-09-01

    P Tt ’ Pt m m P - tp pp ptm Pt P Pt Tt n CONSTANT PRESSURE MIXIN -,"--"MIXING INITIAL HEAT ADDITION TO THE PRIMARY w It s sm S Sm ENTROPY, s FfGURE 2...TEMPERATURE-ENTROPY DIAGRAM FOR AN EJECTOR CYCLE ........ . .. I.... ...T H NITIAL HEAT ADDITION TO THE PRIMARY s s sm s8 psi Pt s Tt s ex AIR Uu...s Sm = (8) This Increase in entropy drives the cycle performance to lower values of calcu- lated p, as shown in Figure 4. The only boundary condition

  20. Mechanism and stereochemistry for nucleophilic attack at carbon of platinum (iv) alkyls: Model reactions for hydrocarbon oxidation with aqueous platinum chlorides. Technical report

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

    Luinstra, G.A.; Labinger, J.A.; Bercaw, J.E.

    1992-10-01

    Reactions of PtCl4(2-) with RI (R = CH3, CH2CH2OH) in water yield PtCl5R(2-) which were isolated as their NMe4 salts. They decompose in aqueous chloride solution to give ROH and RCL. erythro- and threo-PtCl5(CHDCHDOH)(2-) are obtained by oxidation of PtCl3(cis- and trans CHD=CHD)(-) respectively. Kinetic rate laws and stereochemistry support SN2 displacement by Cl(-) or H[sub 2]O as the mechanism of the decomposition reactions.

  1. 7 CFR Exhibit E to Subpart I of... - Guidance for Recipients of Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants (Section 523 of Housing Act of...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2011-01-01 2009-01-01 true Guidance for Recipients of Self-Help Technical... REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) HOUSING Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. E Exhibit E to Subpart I of Part 1944—Guidance for Recipients of Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants (Section 523 of...

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

    Gonzales, Ivana; Chung, Hoon Taek; Kim, Yu Seung

    Slow hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) kinetics on Pt under alkaline conditions is a significant technical barrier for the development of high-performance hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cells. Here we report that benzene adsorption on Pt is a major factor responsible for the sluggish HOR. Furthermore, we demonstrate that bimetallic catalysts, such as PtMo/C, PtNi/C, and PtRu/C, can reduce the adsorption of benzene and thereby improve HOR activity. In particular, the HOR voltammogram of PtRu/C in 0.1 M benzyl ammonium showed minimal benzene adsorption. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the adsorption of benzyl ammonium on the bimetallic PtRu is endergonic formore » all four possible orientations of the cation, which explains the significantly better HOR activity observed for the bimetallic catalysts. In conclusion, the new HOR inhibition mechanism described here provides insights for the design of future polymer electrolytes and electrocatalysts for better-performing polymer membrane-based fuel cells.« less

  3. 7 CFR Exhibit D to Subpart K of... - Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of... Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944...

  4. 7 CFR Exhibit D to Subpart K of... - Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of... Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944...

  5. 7 CFR Exhibit D to Subpart K of... - Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2014-01-01 2013-01-01 true Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of... Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944...

  6. 7 CFR Exhibit D to Subpart K of... - Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2011-01-01 2009-01-01 true Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of... Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944...

  7. 7 CFR Exhibit D to Subpart K of... - Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2010-01-01 2009-01-01 true Amendment to Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grant Agreement D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of... Technical and Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. D Exhibit D to Subpart K of Part 1944...

  8. 7 CFR Exhibit C to Subpart I of... - Amendment to Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2011-01-01 2009-01-01 true Amendment to Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Agreement C Exhibit C to Subpart I of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture... Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. C Exhibit C to Subpart I of Part 1944—Amendment to Self...

  9. 7 CFR Exhibit C to Subpart I of... - Amendment to Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Agreement

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Amendment to Self-Help Technical Assistance Grant Agreement C Exhibit C to Subpart I of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture... Technical Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. I, Exh. C Exhibit C to Subpart I of Part 1944—Amendment to Self...

  10. Multifunctional Nanotechnology Research

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-03-01

    MULTIFUNCTIONAL NANOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH MARCH 2016 INTERIM TECHNICAL REPORT APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE; DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED STINFO COPY AIR...REPORT 3. DATES COVERED (From - To) JAN 2015 – JAN 2016 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE MULTIFUNCTIONAL NANOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER IN-HOUSE...H. Yoon, and C. S. Hwang, “Electrically configurable electroforming and bipolar resistive switching in Pt/TiO2/Pt structures.,” Nanotechnology , vol

  11. Benzene Adsorption - A Significant Inhibitor for the Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction in Alkaline Conditions

    DOE PAGES

    Gonzales, Ivana; Chung, Hoon Taek; Kim, Yu Seung

    2017-09-25

    Slow hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) kinetics on Pt under alkaline conditions is a significant technical barrier for the development of high-performance hydroxide exchange membrane fuel cells. Here we report that benzene adsorption on Pt is a major factor responsible for the sluggish HOR. Furthermore, we demonstrate that bimetallic catalysts, such as PtMo/C, PtNi/C, and PtRu/C, can reduce the adsorption of benzene and thereby improve HOR activity. In particular, the HOR voltammogram of PtRu/C in 0.1 M benzyl ammonium showed minimal benzene adsorption. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the adsorption of benzyl ammonium on the bimetallic PtRu is endergonic formore » all four possible orientations of the cation, which explains the significantly better HOR activity observed for the bimetallic catalysts. In conclusion, the new HOR inhibition mechanism described here provides insights for the design of future polymer electrolytes and electrocatalysts for better-performing polymer membrane-based fuel cells.« less

  12. 7 CFR Exhibit A to Subpart K of... - Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2011-01-01 2009-01-01 true Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued... Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944—Grant Agreement...

  13. 7 CFR Exhibit A to Subpart K of... - Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture... and Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944—Grant...

  14. 7 CFR Exhibit A to Subpart K of... - Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture... and Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944—Grant...

  15. 7 CFR Exhibit A to Subpart K of... - Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2014-01-01 2013-01-01 true Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued... Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944—Grant Agreement...

  16. 7 CFR Exhibit A to Subpart K of... - Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 13 2010-01-01 2009-01-01 true Grant Agreement-Technical and Supervisory Assistance A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued... Supervisory Assistance Grants Pt. 1944, Subpt. K, Exh. A Exhibit A to Subpart K of Part 1944—Grant Agreement...

  17. 37 CFR Appendix A to Part 202 - Technical Guidelines Regarding Sound Physical Condition

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... Regarding Sound Physical Condition A Appendix A to Part 202 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights COPYRIGHT... COPYRIGHT Pt. 202, App. A Appendix A to Part 202—Technical Guidelines Regarding Sound Physical Condition To be considered a copy “of sound physical condition” within the meaning of 37 CFR 202.22(d)(5), a copy...

  18. 37 CFR Appendix A to Part 202 - Technical Guidelines Regarding Sound Physical Condition

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... Regarding Sound Physical Condition A Appendix A to Part 202 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights COPYRIGHT... COPYRIGHT Pt. 202, App. A Appendix A to Part 202—Technical Guidelines Regarding Sound Physical Condition To be considered a copy “of sound physical condition” within the meaning of 37 CFR 202.22(d)(5), a copy...

  19. 10 CFR Appendix III to Part 960 - Application of the System and Technical Guidelines During the Siting Process

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 4 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Application of the System and Technical Guidelines During the Siting Process III Appendix III to Part 960 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR THE PRELIMINARY SCREENING OF POTENTIAL SITES FOR A NUCLEAR WASTE REPOSITORY Pt. 960, App. III Appendix III to Part...

  20. 10 CFR Appendix III to Part 960 - Application of the System and Technical Guidelines During the Siting Process

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Application of the System and Technical Guidelines During the Siting Process III Appendix III to Part 960 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR THE PRELIMINARY SCREENING OF POTENTIAL SITES FOR A NUCLEAR WASTE REPOSITORY Pt. 960, App. III Appendix III to Part...

  1. 10 CFR Appendix III to Part 960 - Application of the System and Technical Guidelines During the Siting Process

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 4 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Application of the System and Technical Guidelines During the Siting Process III Appendix III to Part 960 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR THE PRELIMINARY SCREENING OF POTENTIAL SITES FOR A NUCLEAR WASTE REPOSITORY Pt. 960, App. III Appendix III to Part...

  2. 10 CFR Appendix III to Part 960 - Application of the System and Technical Guidelines During the Siting Process

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Application of the System and Technical Guidelines During the Siting Process III Appendix III to Part 960 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR THE PRELIMINARY SCREENING OF POTENTIAL SITES FOR A NUCLEAR WASTE REPOSITORY Pt. 960, App. III Appendix III to Part...

  3. 37 CFR Appendix A to Part 202 - Technical Guidelines Regarding Sound Physical Condition

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... Regarding Sound Physical Condition A Appendix A to Part 202 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights U.S... CLAIMS TO COPYRIGHT Pt. 202, App. A Appendix A to Part 202—Technical Guidelines Regarding Sound Physical Condition To be considered a copy “of sound physical condition” within the meaning of 37 CFR 202.22(d)(5), a...

  4. Real-time electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide secretion in live cells by Pt nanoparticles decorated graphene-carbon nanotube hybrid paper electrode.

    PubMed

    Sun, Yimin; He, Kui; Zhang, Zefen; Zhou, Aijun; Duan, Hongwei

    2015-06-15

    In this work, we develop a new type of flexible and lightweight electrode based on highly dense Pt nanoparticles decorated free-standing graphene-carbon nanotube (CNT) hybrid paper (Pt/graphene-CNT paper), and explore its practical application as flexible electrochemical biosensor for the real-time tracking hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) secretion by live cells. For the fabrication of flexible nanohybrid electrode, the incorporation of CNT in graphene paper not only improves the electrical conductivity and the mechanical strength of graphene paper, but also increases its surface roughness and provides more nucleation sites for metal nanoparticles. Ultrafine Pt nanoparticles are further decorated on graphene-CNT paper by well controlled sputter deposition method, which offers several advantages such as defined particle size and dispersion, high loading density and strong adhesion between the nanoparticles and the substrate. Consequently, the resultant flexible Pt/graphene-CNT paper electrode demonstrates a variety of desirable electrochemical properties including large electrochemical active surface area, excellent electrocatalytic activity, high stability and exceptional flexibility. When used for nonenzymatic detection of H2O2, Pt/graphene-CNT paper exhibits outstanding sensing performance such as high sensitivity, selectivity, stability and reproducibility. The sensitivity is 1.41 µA µM(-1) cm(-2) with a linear range up to 25 µM and a low detection limit of 10 nM (S/N=3), which enables the resultant biosensor for the real-time tracking H2O2 secretion by live cells macrophages. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  5. The preterm child in dentistry. Behavioural aspects and oral health.

    PubMed

    Brogårdh-Roth, Susanne

    2010-01-01

    Advancements in medical care have enabled more children born preterm to survive and develop as healthy individuals alongside their full-term peers. However, a higher frequency of medical health problems, cognitive and behavioural disturbances, including problems in school, has been reported. There is limited knowledge about how this affects preterm children (PT) in dentistry, and few studies have evaluated behavioural problems related to dental treatments and oral health in PT as compared with full-term control children (C). The overall objective was to investigate behavioural problems related to dental treatments and the oral health in PT born between 23 and 32 weeks of gestation as compared with full-term C. Specific aims were to analyze behaviour management problems (BMP), dental fear and anxiety (DFA), prevalence of Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH), oral hygiene, gingival health, and dental caries in PT and full-term C. The study group comprised all children born between 23 and 32 weeks of gestation in the catchment area of the University hospitals of Lund and Malmö in southern Sweden. The subjects in Papers I-III were PT and matched full-term C, followed from preschool years to adolescence. In Paper IV, a new group of children, living in the city of Malmö was identified, the subjects being 10-to-12-year old PT and matched full-term C. Information about dental treatment, oral health and oral health related factors were obtained from dental records, interviews, questionnaires and clinical examinations. RESULTS OF THE FOUR PAPERS: Paper I: BMP and dental caries was studied in 187 PT and 187 C, based on notes in dental records at 3 and 6 years of age, and during the preschool period (3-6 years). At age 3, but not at age 6, the prevalence of BMPat dental examinations were more common in PT than in C. At various kinds of dental treatments during the preschool period, PT presented more frequently with BMP. No differences were found regarding dental caries. Paper II: Parents of 153 PT and 153 C were interviewed on two occasions, two years apar (preschool period and early school years) regarding experience of their child's dental care, oral health behaviour and medical health. BMPwere reported more common in PT than in C during preschool period but not during the early school years. PT also reported more medical health problems than C. Paper III: AT 12-14 years of age, 109 PT and 108 C toop art in a questionnaire study, including, the Children's Fear Survey Schedule--Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS) to measure the level of DFA, oral health behaviour and medical health. Few PT and C reported DFA. PT reported more daily use of dental floss and use of extra fluorid supplements than C. Further, PT reported more medical health problems than C. Paper IV: Eighty-two PT and 82 full-term C, aged 10 to 12 years, were clinicaly examined regarding the prevalence and severity of MIH as well as their levels of oral hygiene and gingival health. In addition, BMP and dental caries were recorded. MIH was more common in PT than in C. Low gestational age and low birth weight increased the risk of MIH. PT had more plaque and gingival inflammation and presented more BMP than C. No difference in caries prevalence was found. In 3-to-10-year old PT and matched full-term C, and based on dental records and parental reports, it was concluded that BMP were more common in PT than in C during the preschool period. The difference decreased with increasing age and during the early school years there were no differences between the groups. However, at clinical examination at the age of 10-12 years, PT presented with BMP more frequently than C. During adolescence, based on the youngsters' own viewpoints, few PT and C reported DFA. The clinical examination at 10-12 years of age showed that PT had a higher prevaleance of Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) than C, and low gestational age and low birth weight increased the risk of MIH. At this age, PT also had less favorable oral hygiene and gingival status than C. Problems with toothbrushing were more commonly reported in PT than in C during the preschool period. During adolescence, PT reported more daily use of dental floss and extra fluoride supplements than C. Regarding caries prevalence, there were no differences between the group in either the primary or in the permanent dentition. In contrast, PT had more medical health problems, persisting from preschool period in adolescence than C. The results in this thesis indicate more behavioural problems related to dental treatment and more oral health problems in PT than in C. Therefore, PT require special attention from the dental services, with treatment planning and prevention strategies from an early age. Collaboration between medical and dental health care professionals is advocated in order to ensure good oral health in PT.

  6. A P&T Committee’s Transition to a Complete Electronic Meeting System—A Multisite Institution Experience

    PubMed Central

    Al-Jedai, Ahmed H.; Algain, Roaa A.; Alghamidi, Said A.; Al-Jazairi, Abdulrazaq S.; Amin, Rashid; Bin Hussain, Ibrahim Z.

    2017-01-01

    Purpose In the last few decades, changes to formulary management processes have taken place in institutions with closed formulary systems. However, many P&T committees continued to operate using traditional paper-based systems. Paper-based systems have many limitations, including confidentiality, efficiency, open voting, and paper wastage. This becomes more challenging when dealing with a multisite P&T committee that handles formulary matters across the whole health care system. In this paper, we discuss the implementation of the first paperless, completely electronic, Web-based formulary management system across a large health care system in the Middle East. Summary We describe the transitioning of a multisite P&T committee in a large tertiary care institution from a paper-based to an all-electronic system. The challenges and limitations of running a multisite P&T committee utilizing a paper system are discussed. The design and development of a Web-based committee floor management application that can be used from notebooks, tablets, and hand-held devices is described. Implementation of a flexible, interactive, easy-to-use, and efficient electronic formulary management system is explained in detail. Conclusion The development of an electronic P&T committee meeting system that encompasses electronic document sharing, voting, and communication could help multisite health care systems unify their formularies across multiple sites. Our experience might not be generalizable to all institutions because this depends heavily on system features, existing processes and workflow, and implementation across different sites. PMID:29018301

  7. A P&T Committee's Transition to a Complete Electronic Meeting System-A Multisite Institution Experience.

    PubMed

    Al-Jedai, Ahmed H; Algain, Roaa A; Alghamidi, Said A; Al-Jazairi, Abdulrazaq S; Amin, Rashid; Bin Hussain, Ibrahim Z

    2017-10-01

    In the last few decades, changes to formulary management processes have taken place in institutions with closed formulary systems. However, many P&T committees continued to operate using traditional paper-based systems. Paper-based systems have many limitations, including confidentiality, efficiency, open voting, and paper wastage. This becomes more challenging when dealing with a multisite P&T committee that handles formulary matters across the whole health care system. In this paper, we discuss the implementation of the first paperless, completely electronic, Web-based formulary management system across a large health care system in the Middle East. We describe the transitioning of a multisite P&T committee in a large tertiary care institution from a paper-based to an all-electronic system. The challenges and limitations of running a multisite P&T committee utilizing a paper system are discussed. The design and development of a Web-based committee floor management application that can be used from notebooks, tablets, and hand-held devices is described. Implementation of a flexible, interactive, easy-to-use, and efficient electronic formulary management system is explained in detail. The development of an electronic P&T committee meeting system that encompasses electronic document sharing, voting, and communication could help multisite health care systems unify their formularies across multiple sites. Our experience might not be generalizable to all institutions because this depends heavily on system features, existing processes and workflow, and implementation across different sites.

  8. Controllable fabrication of Pt nanocatalyst supported on N-doped carbon containing nickel nanoparticles for ethanol oxidation.

    PubMed

    Yu, Jianguo; Dai, Tangming; Cao, Yuechao; Qu, Yuning; Li, Yao; Li, Juan; Zhao, Yongnan; Gao, Haiyan

    2018-08-15

    In this paper, platinum nanoparticles were deposited on a carbon carrier with the partly graphitized carbon and the highly dispersive carbon-coated nickel particles. An efficient electron transfer structure can be fabricated by controlling the contents of the deposited platinum. The high resolution transmission electron microscopy images of Pt 2 /Ni@C N-doped sample prove the electron transfer channel from Pt (1 1 1) crystal planes to graphite (1 0 0) or Ni (1 1 1) crystal planes due to these linked together crystal planes. The Pt 3 /Ni@C N-doped with low Pt contents cannot form the electron transfer structure and the Pt 1 /Ni@C N-doped with high Pt contents show an obvious aggregation of Pt nanoparticles. The electrochemical tests of all the catalysts show that the Pt 2 /Ni@C N-doped sample presents the highest catalytic activity, the strongest CO tolerance and the best catalytic stability. The high performance is attributed to the efficient electronic transport structure of the Pt 2 /Ni@C N-doped sample and the synergistic effect between Pt and Ni nanoparticles. This paper provides a promising method for enhancing the conductivity of electrode material. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Non-conventional Pt-Cu alloy/carbon paper electrochemical catalyst formed by electrodeposition using hydrogen bubble as template

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Youngkwang; Lee, Hyunjoon; Lim, Taeho; Kim, Hyun-Jong; Kwon, Oh Joong

    2017-10-01

    With emerging stability issues in fuel cell technology, a non-conventional catalyst not supported on carbon materials has been highlighted because it can avoid negative influences of carbon support materials on the stability, such as carbon corrosion. The nanostructured thin film catalyst is representative of non-conventional catalysts, which shows improved stability, enhanced mass specific activity, and fast mass transfer at high current densities. However, the nanostructured thin film catalyst usually requires multi-step processes for fabrication, making its mass production complex and irreproducible. We introduce a Pt-Cu alloy nanostructured thin film catalyst, which can be simply prepared by electrodeposition. By using hydrogen bubbles as a template, a three-dimensional free-standing foam of Cu was electrodeposited directly on the micro-porous layer/carbon paper and it was then displaced with Pt by simple immersion. The structure characterization revealed that a porous thin Pt-Cu alloy catalyst layer was successfully formed on the micro-porous layer/carbon paper. The synthesized Pt-Cu alloy catalyst exhibited superior durability compared to a conventional Pt/C in single cell test.

  10. Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes/carbon fiber paper composite to support Pt nanoparticles for direct methanol fuel cell application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Jing; Yi, Xi-bin; Liu, Shuo; Fan, Hui-Li; Ju, Wei; Wang, Qi-Chun; Ma, Jie

    2017-03-01

    Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) grown on carbon fiber paper (CFP) by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition is introduced as a catalyst support material for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). Well dispersed Pt nanoparticles on VACNTs surface are prepared by impregnation-reduction method. The VACNTs on CFP possess well-maintained alignment, large surface area and good electrical conductivity, which leading to the formation of Pt particles with a smaller size and enhance the Pt utilization rate. The structure and nature of resulting Pt/VACNTs/CFP catalysts for methanol oxidation are investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). With the aid of VACNTs, well-dispersed Pt catalysts enable the reversibly rapid redox kinetic since electron transport efficiently passes through a one-dimensional pathway, which leads to enhance the catalytic activity and Pt utilization rate. Compared with the Pt/XC-72/CFP electrode, the electrochemical measurements results display that the Pt/VACNTs/CFP catalyst shows much higher electrocatalytic activity and better stability for methanol oxidation. In addition, the oxidation current from 200 to 1200 s decayed more slowly for the Pt/VACNTs/CFP than that of the Pt/XC-72/CFP catalysts, indicating less accumulation of adsorbed CO species. All those results imply that the Pt/VACNTs/CFP has a great potential for applications in DMFCs.

  11. Visitor vehicle emissions study : Pt. Reyes National Seashore

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2005-01-01

    The U.S. Department of Transportation, John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (Volpe Center), Environmental Measurement and Modeling Division (Volpe Center), provided technical support to the : National Parks Foundation as part of a Nat...

  12. Interball-1 and MIR orbital station coordinated magnetic field and energetic particles measurements

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Klimov, S. I.; Grushin, V. A.; Lissakov, Yu. V.; Nozdrachev, M. N.; Petrukovich, A. A.; Grachev, E. A.; Grigoryan, O. R.; Lysakov, D. S.; Schwingenschuh, K.; Auster, H. U.; Fornacon, K.-H.; Rustenbach, J.; Korepanov, V. E.; Juchniewicz, J.; Afanasjev, Yu. V.; Kudela, K.

    Magnetic field measurements in solar wind and outer magnetosphere onboard the INTERBALL-1 spacecraft were performed by the following magnetometers: MIF-M magnetometer with both DC sensor (BPP) having 0.2 nT threshold sensitivity at DC and 5 pT at 1 Hz and AC sensor (DM2) with the sensitivity about 0.2 nT at 1 Hz and 0.4 pT at 100 Hz; FGM-I DC magnetometer with threshold sensitivity of 5 pT at 1 Hz; FM-31 DC magnetometer with two sensors having 0.1 nT (sensor MI) and 1.0 nT (sensor M2) threshold sensitivity. During INTERBALL-1 operation the ionosphere experiment SPRUT-VI onboard the MIR station was performed from 06/13-08/26/1999. The measurements of DC magnetic field, electron and ion fluxes at energies between 50 keV-2.5 MeV and 50 keV-30 MeV were made. The SPRUT-MAG digital magnetometer for this experiment is based on the one developed for the ESA Rosetta Lander device ROMAP which threshold sensitivity was about 5 pT/(Hz) 1/2 at 1 Hz. This paper discusses the possibility of signals processing with the aim to separate the artificial (technical, connected with the MIR onboard system operation) and natural origin signals as well as to estimate the level of ULF/ELF magnetic field disturbances and particle flows bursts.

  13. Miniature PT Cryocooler Activated by Resonant Piezoelectric Compressor and Passive Warm Expander

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sobol, S.; Grossman, G.

    2017-12-01

    A novel type of PZT-based compressor operating at mechanical resonance, suitable for pneumatically-driven Stirling-type cryocoolers, was presented at CEC-ICMC 2015. The detailed concept, analytical model and the test results on the preliminary prototype were reported earlier and presented at ICC17. Despite some mismatch between the impedances and insufficient structural stiffness, this compressor demonstrated the feasibility to drive our miniature Pulse Tube cryocooler MTSa, operating at 103 Hz and requiring an average PV power of 11 W, filling pressure of 40 Bar and a pressure ratio of 1.3. At ICC19 the prototype of a miniature passive warm expander (WE) was presented. The WE mechanism included a phase shifting piston suspended on a silicone diaphragm, a mass element, and a viscous damping system. Several technical drawbacks prevented perfect matching between the WE and MTSa; however, the presented prototype proved the ability to create any flow-to-pressure phase appropriate for a PT cryocooler. This paper concentrates on integration of the MTSa cryocooler with the recently modified PZT compressor operating at corrected mechanical resonance and the modified WE, which was also updated recently to match the MTSa requirements.

  14. 32 CFR Appendix D to Part 286 - DD Form 2086-1, “Record of Freedom of Information (FOI) Processing Cost for Technical Data”

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 32 National Defense 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false DD Form 2086-1, âRecord of Freedom of Information (FOI) Processing Cost for Technical Dataâ D Appendix D to Part 286 National Defense Department of... FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM REGULATION Pt. 286, App. D Appendix D to Part 286—DD Form 2086-1...

  15. PT3 Papers. [SITE 2001 Section].

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pierson, Melissa, Ed.; Thompson, Mary, Ed.; Adams, Angelle, Ed.; Beyer, Evelyn, Ed.; Cheriyan, Saru, Ed.; Starke, Leslie, Ed.

    This document contains the papers on the PT3 (Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to use Technology) program from the SITE (Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education) 2001 conference. Topics covered include: modeling instruction with modern information and communications technology; transforming computer coursework for preservice teachers;…

  16. Ordinary versus PT-symmetric Φ³ quantum field theory

    DOE PAGES

    Bender, Carl M.; Branchina, Vincenzo; Messina, Emanuele

    2012-04-02

    A quantum-mechanical theory is PT-symmetric if it is described by a Hamiltonian that commutes with PT, where the operator P performs space reflection and the operator T performs time reversal. A PT-symmetric Hamiltonian often has a parametric region of unbroken PT symmetry in which the energy eigenvalues are all real. There may also be a region of broken PT symmetry in which some of the eigenvalues are complex. These regions are separated by a phase transition that has been repeatedly observed in laboratory experiments. This paper focuses on the properties of a PT-symmetric igΦ³ quantum field theory. This quantum fieldmore » theory is the analog of the PT-symmetric quantum-mechanical theory described by the Hamiltonian H=p²+ix³, whose eigenvalues have been rigorously shown to be all real. This paper compares the renormalization group properties of a conventional Hermitian gΦ³ quantum field theory with those of the PT-symmetric igΦ³ quantum field theory. It is shown that while the conventional gΦ³ theory in d=6 dimensions is asymptotically free, the igΦ³ theory is like a gΦ⁴ theory in d=4 dimensions; it is energetically stable, perturbatively renormalizable, and trivial.« less

  17. Ultrasonic-electrodeposition of PtPd alloy nanoparticles on ionic liquid-functionalized graphene paper: towards a flexible and versatile nanohybrid electrode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Yimin; Zheng, Huaming; Wang, Chenxu; Yang, Mengmeng; Zhou, Aijun; Duan, Hongwei

    2016-01-01

    Here we fabricate a new type of flexible and versatile nanohybrid paper electrode by ultrasonic-electrodeposition of PtPd alloy nanoparticles on freestanding ionic liquid (IL)-functionalized graphene paper, and explore its multifunctional applications in electrochemical catalysis and sensing systems. The graphene-based paper materials demonstrate intrinsic flexibility, exceptional mechanical strength and high electrical conductivity, and therefore can serve as an ideal freestanding flexible electrode for electrochemical devices. Furthermore, the functionalization of graphene with IL (i.e., 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate) not only increases the electroactive surface area of a graphene-based nanohybrid paper electrode, but also improves the adhesion and dispersion of metal nanoparticles on the paper surface. These unique attributes, combined with the merits of an ultrasonic-electrodeposition method, lead to the formation of PtPd alloy nanoparticles on IL-graphene paper with high loading, uniform distribution, controlled morphology and favourable size. Consequently, the resultant nanohybrid paper electrode exhibits remarkable catalytic activity as well as excellent cycle stability and improved anti-poisoning ability towards electrooxidation of fuel molecules such as methanol and ethanol. Furthermore, for nonenzymatic electrochemical sensing of some specific biomarkers such as glucose and reactive oxygen species, the nanohybrid paper electrode shows high selectivity, sensitivity and biocompatibility in these bio-catalytic processes, and can be used for real-time tracking hydrogen peroxide secretion by living human cells. All these features demonstrate its promising application as a versatile nanohybrid electrode material in flexible and lightweight electrochemical energy conversion and biosensing systems such as bendable on-chip power sources, wearable/implantable detectors and in vivo micro-biosensors.Here we fabricate a new type of flexible and versatile nanohybrid paper electrode by ultrasonic-electrodeposition of PtPd alloy nanoparticles on freestanding ionic liquid (IL)-functionalized graphene paper, and explore its multifunctional applications in electrochemical catalysis and sensing systems. The graphene-based paper materials demonstrate intrinsic flexibility, exceptional mechanical strength and high electrical conductivity, and therefore can serve as an ideal freestanding flexible electrode for electrochemical devices. Furthermore, the functionalization of graphene with IL (i.e., 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate) not only increases the electroactive surface area of a graphene-based nanohybrid paper electrode, but also improves the adhesion and dispersion of metal nanoparticles on the paper surface. These unique attributes, combined with the merits of an ultrasonic-electrodeposition method, lead to the formation of PtPd alloy nanoparticles on IL-graphene paper with high loading, uniform distribution, controlled morphology and favourable size. Consequently, the resultant nanohybrid paper electrode exhibits remarkable catalytic activity as well as excellent cycle stability and improved anti-poisoning ability towards electrooxidation of fuel molecules such as methanol and ethanol. Furthermore, for nonenzymatic electrochemical sensing of some specific biomarkers such as glucose and reactive oxygen species, the nanohybrid paper electrode shows high selectivity, sensitivity and biocompatibility in these bio-catalytic processes, and can be used for real-time tracking hydrogen peroxide secretion by living human cells. All these features demonstrate its promising application as a versatile nanohybrid electrode material in flexible and lightweight electrochemical energy conversion and biosensing systems such as bendable on-chip power sources, wearable/implantable detectors and in vivo micro-biosensors. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: The stress-strain curve of the IL-rGOP, EDX spectrum of PtPd/IL-rGOP, the particle size and size distribution of Pt, PtPd and Pd nanoparticles electrodeposited on IL-rGOP derived from SEM, and the structural parameters of Pt, PtPd and Pd nanoparticles electrodeposited on IL-rGOP derived from XRD, influence of the potential interfering species towards glucose detection. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr06912b

  18. Direct fabrication of gas diffusion cathode by pulse electrodeposition for proton exchange membrane water electrolysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Park, Hyanjoo; Choe, Seunghoe; Kim, Hoyoung; Kim, Dong-Kwon; Cho, GeonHee; Park, YoonSu; Jang, Jong Hyun; Ha, Don-Hyung; Ahn, Sang Hyun; Kim, Soo-Kil

    2018-06-01

    Pt catalysts for water electrolysis were prepared on carbon paper by using both direct current and pulse electrodeposition. Controlling the mass transfer of Pt precursor in the electrolyte by varying the deposition potential enables the formation of various Pt particle shapes such as flower-like and polyhedral particles. Further control of the deposition parameters for pulse electrodeposition resulted in changes to the particle size and density. In particular, the upper potential of pulse was found to be the critical parameter controlling the morphology of the particles and their catalytic activity. In addition to the typical electrochemical measurements, Pt samples deposited on carbon paper were used as cathodes for a proton exchange membrane water electrolyser. This single cell test revealed that our Pt particle samples have exceptional mass activity while being cost effective.

  19. Preparation and electrocatalytic properties of Pt-SiO2 nanocatalysts for ethanol electrooxidation.

    PubMed

    Liu, B; Chen, J H; Zhong, X X; Cui, K Z; Zhou, H H; Kuang, Y F

    2007-03-01

    Due to their high stability in general acidic solutions, SiO(2) nanoparticles were selected as the second catalyst for ethanol oxidation in sulfuric acid aqueous solution. Pt-SiO(2) nanocatalysts were prepared in this paper. The micrography and elemental composition of Pt-SiO(2) nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, respectively. The electrocatalytic properties of Pt-SiO(2) nanocatalysts for ethanol oxidation were investigated by cyclic voltammetry. Under the same Pt loading mass and experimental conditions for ethanol oxidation, Pt-SiO(2) nanocatalysts show higher activity than PtRu/C (E-Tek), Pt/C (E-Tek), and Pt catalysts. Additionally, Pt-SiO(2) nanocatalysts possess good anti-poisoning ability. The results indicate that Pt-SiO(2) nanocatalysts may have good potential applications in direct ethanol fuel cells.

  20. Fog Bank Detector Field Tests : A Technical Summary

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1971-12-01

    The report summarizes the results of field experiments performed at Pt. Bonita, California. The system under study, a laser LIDAR and a vertical-scanning infrared radiometer, have been discussed in detail in Report No. DOT-TSC-CG-71-3. Measurements o...

  1. Sonographically Guided Plantaris Tendon Release: A Cadaveric Validation Study.

    PubMed

    Smith, Jay; Alfredson, Håkan; Masci, Lorenzo; Sellon, Jacob L; Woods, Charonn D

    2018-06-13

    The plantaris tendon (PT) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of symptoms in a subset of patients with Achilles region pain syndromes and has been traditionally managed via open surgical resection. Although the PT can be visualized on ultrasound, a minimally invasive technique for sonographically guided PT release has not been formally described. To validate a technique to perform sonographically guided PT release in an unembalmed cadaveric model. Prospective, cadaveric laboratory investigation. Procedural skills laboratory in a tertiary medical center. Twenty unembalmed cadaveric knee-ankle-foot specimens (10 right, 10 left; 6 male, 10 female) from 16 donors ages 55-96 years (mean 82.6 years) with BMI's of 14.1 to 33.2 kg/m 2 (mean 23.3 kg/m 2 ). Following simulated local anesthesia and sonographically guided hydrodissection of the plantaris tendon-Achilles tendon interval, a single experienced operator performed sonographically guided PT release on each specimen using an in-plane, lateral to medial approach, a commercially available, disposable 3.0 mm hook knife, and either a 17-5 MHz or 15-7 MHz linear array transducer. Each specimen was subsequently dissected to assess for PT release and iatrogenic injury. Status of the PT, Achilles tendon, and regional neurovascular structures as determined by dissection. All 20 PT releases were completed in a single attempt through a 3-5 mm incision. Dissection confirmed complete PT release in all specimens without damage to the adjacent Achilles tendon or regional neurovascular structures. Sonographically guided PT release is technically feasible and can be performed while avoiding injury to the Achilles tendon and regional neurovascular structures. Additional research is warranted to further define the role of sonographically guided PT release in patients with suspected PT-mediated Achilles region pain syndromes. Copyright © 2018 American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Tri-metallic PtPdAu mesoporous nanoelectrocatalysts.

    PubMed

    Li, Chunjie; Wang, Hongjing; Li, Yinghao; Yu, Hongjie; Yin, Shuli; Xue, Hairong; Li, Xiaonian; Xu, You; Wang, Liang

    2018-06-22

    The design of mesoporous materials with multi-metallic compositions is highly important for various electrocatalytic applications. In this paper, we demonstrate an efficient method to directly fabricate tri-metallic PtPdAu mesoporous nanoparticles (PtPdAu MNs) in a high yield, which is simply performed by heating treatment of the reaction mixture aqueous solution at 40 °C for 4 h. Profiting from its mesoporous structure and multi-metallic components, the as-prepared PtPdAu MNs exhibit enhanced electrocatalytic activities toward both methanol oxidation reaction and oxygen reduction reaction in comparison with bi-metallic PtPd MNs and commercial Pt/C catalyst.

  3. Tri-metallic PtPdAu mesoporous nanoelectrocatalysts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Chunjie; Wang, Hongjing; Li, Yinghao; Yu, Hongjie; Yin, Shuli; Xue, Hairong; Li, Xiaonian; Xu, You; Wang, Liang

    2018-06-01

    The design of mesoporous materials with multi-metallic compositions is highly important for various electrocatalytic applications. In this paper, we demonstrate an efficient method to directly fabricate tri-metallic PtPdAu mesoporous nanoparticles (PtPdAu MNs) in a high yield, which is simply performed by heating treatment of the reaction mixture aqueous solution at 40 °C for 4 h. Profiting from its mesoporous structure and multi-metallic components, the as-prepared PtPdAu MNs exhibit enhanced electrocatalytic activities toward both methanol oxidation reaction and oxygen reduction reaction in comparison with bi-metallic PtPd MNs and commercial Pt/C catalyst.

  4. After Behaviourism, Navigationism?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Moran, Sean

    2008-01-01

    Two previous articles in this journal advocate the greater use of a behaviourist methodology called "Precision Teaching" (PT). From a position located within virtue ethics, this article argues that the technical feat of raising narrowly defined performance in mathematics and other subjects is not sufficient justification for the…

  5. A 2.5-mm diameter probe for photoacoustic and ultrasonic endoscopy.

    PubMed

    Yang, Joon-Mo; Chen, Ruimin; Favazza, Christopher; Yao, Junjie; Li, Chiye; Hu, Zhilin; Zhou, Qifa; Shung, K Kirk; Wang, Lihong V

    2012-10-08

    We have created a 2.5-mm outer diameter integrated photo-acoustic and ultrasonic mini-probe which can be inserted into a standard video endoscope's instrument channel. A small-diameter focused ultrasonic transducer made of PMN-PT provides adequate signal sensitivity, and enables miniaturization of the probe. Additionally, this new endoscopic probe utilizes the same scanning mirror and micromotor-based built-in actuator described in our previous reports; however, the length of the rigid distal section of the new probe has been further reduced to ~35 mm. This paper describes the technical details of the mini-probe and presents experimental results that both quantify the imaging performance and demonstrate its in vivo imaging capability, which suggests that it could work as a mini-probe for certain clinical applications.

  6. A 2.5-mm diameter probe for photoacoustic and ultrasonic endoscopy

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Joon-Mo; Chen, Ruimin; Favazza, Christopher; Yao, Junjie; Li, Chiye; Hu, Zhilin; Zhou, Qifa; Shung, K. Kirk; Wang, Lihong V.

    2012-01-01

    We have created a 2.5-mm outer diameter integrated photo-acoustic and ultrasonic mini-probe which can be inserted into a standard video endoscope’s instrument channel. A small-diameter focused ultrasonic transducer made of PMN-PT provides adequate signal sensitivity, and enables miniaturization of the probe. Additionally, this new endoscopic probe utilizes the same scanning mirror and micromotor-based built-in actuator described in our previous reports; however, the length of the rigid distal section of the new probe has been further reduced to ~35 mm. This paper describes the technical details of the mini-probe and presents experimental results that both quantify the imaging performance and demonstrate its in vivo imaging capability, which suggests that it could work as a mini-probe for certain clinical applications. PMID:23188360

  7. Computer versus Paper Testing in Precollege Economics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Butters, Roger B.; Walstad, William B.

    2011-01-01

    Interest is growing at the precollege level in computer testing (CT) instead of paper-and-pencil testing (PT) for subjects in the school curriculum, including economics. Before economic educators adopt CT, a better understanding of its likely effects on test-taking behavior and performance compared with PT is needed. Using two volunteer student…

  8. 34 CFR Appendix to Part 5 - Unknown Title

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... the Department. Research protocol, design, processing, and other technical information to the extent... report submitted for comment prior to acceptance. Research protocol, design, processing, and other...-10) Pt. 5, App. Appendix to Part 5 [The following are some examples of specific records (or specific...

  9. 47 CFR Alphabetical Index - Part 78

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... of towers 78.63 Modulation limits 78.115 Monitors and Measurements, Frequency 78.113 N [Reserved] O... SERVICE Technical Regulations Modulation limits. Pt. 78, Index Alphabetical Index—Part 78 A Antenna... Changes in equipment 78.109 Conditions for license 78.27 Coordination, frequencies 78.36 Cross reference...

  10. Performance Templates and the Regulation of Learning

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lyons, Paul

    2009-01-01

    Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed, theoretical underpinning for the training and performance improvement method: performance template (P-T). The efficacy of P-T, with limitations, has been demonstrated in this journal and in others. However, the theoretical bases of the P-T approach had not been well-developed. The other…

  11. Two- and four-dimensional representations of the PT - and CPT -symmetric fermionic algebras

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Beygi, Alireza; Klevansky, S. P.; Bender, Carl M.

    2018-03-01

    Fermionic systems differ from their bosonic counterparts, the main difference with regard to symmetry considerations being that T2=-1 for fermionic systems. In PT -symmetric quantum mechanics an operator has both PT and CPT adjoints. Fermionic operators η , which are quadratically nilpotent (η2=0 ), and algebras with PT and CPT adjoints can be constructed. These algebras obey different anticommutation relations: η ηPT+ηPTη =-1 , where ηPT is the PT adjoint of η , and η ηCPT+ηCPTη =1 , where ηCPT is the CPT adjoint of η . This paper presents matrix representations for the operator η and its PT and CPT adjoints in two and four dimensions. A PT -symmetric second-quantized Hamiltonian modeled on quantum electrodynamics that describes a system of interacting fermions and bosons is constructed within this framework and is solved exactly.

  12. Synthesis of Pt-Ni-Fe/CNT/CP nanocomposite as an electrocatalytic electrode for PEM fuel cell cathode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Litkohi, Hajar Rajaei; Bahari, Ali; Ojani, Reza

    2017-08-01

    In order to use carbon nanotube (CNT)-supported catalyst as fuel cell electrodes, Pt-Ni-Fe/CNT/carbon paper (CP) electrode was prepared using an ethylene glycol reduction method. CNTs were directly synthesized on Ni-impregnated carbon paper, plain carbon cloth, and Teflonized carbon cloth using chemical vapor deposition. FESEM and TEM images and thermogravimetric analysis indicated that in situ CNT on carbon paper (ICNT/CP) possesses more appropriate structural quality and stronger adhesion to the substrate than other substrates. The contact angle analysis demonstrated that the degree of ICNT/CP surface hydrophobicity encountered a 24% increase in comparison to CP and promoted to superhydrophobicity from hydrophobicity. The polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results of the loaded Pt-Ni-Fe on in situ and ex situ CNT/CP illustrated that the power density increased and charge transfer resistance reduced compared to commercial Pt/C loaded on CP. The results can be attributed to the outstanding properties of CNTs and high catalytic activity of triple catalysts causing alloying of Pt with Ni and Fe, which makes them a proper candidate to be used as cathode electrodes in proton exchange membrane fuel cells.

  13. Probing Metal Cluster and Metal Oxide Cluster Interactions with Organo-Sulfur and Organo-Phosphorous Molecules using Mass Spectrometry and Anion PES

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2002-10-30

    atomic anions and methanol: Anion photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations on HNiCO-, PdCO - and PtCO-,” Bappaditya...HNiC2H, Ni(C2H)2, PdCO , PdCN, PdC2H, PtCO, PtCN, PtC2H), they are not included in this report, but can be found in the papers cited above. PE

  14. Modeling and analysis on ring-type piezoelectric transformers.

    PubMed

    Ho, Shine-Tzong

    2007-11-01

    This paper presents an electromechanical model for a ring-type piezoelectric transformer (PT). To establish this model, vibration characteristics of the piezoelectric ring with free boundary conditions are analyzed in advance. Based on the vibration analysis of the piezoelectric ring, the operating frequency and vibration mode of the PT are chosen. Then, electromechanical equations of motion for the PT are derived based on Hamilton's principle, which can be used to simulate the coupled electromechanical system for the transformer. Such as voltage stepup ratio, input impedance, output impedance, input power, output power, and efficiency are calculated by the equations. The optimal load resistance and the maximum efficiency for the PT will be presented in this paper. Experiments also were conducted to verify the theoretical analysis, and a good agreement was obtained.

  15. Possibility Thinking and Social Change in Primary Schools

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Craft, Anna Rachel; Chappell, Kerry Anne

    2016-01-01

    This paper reviews the nature of possibility thinking (PT) (transformation from what is to what might be, in everyday contexts for children and teachers) and reports on how PT manifested in two English primary schools engaged in social change. It identifies shared characteristics across the schools as well as unique ways in which PT manifested.…

  16. Time-invariant PT product and phase locking in PT -symmetric lattice models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Joglekar, Yogesh N.; Onanga, Franck Assogba; Harter, Andrew K.

    2018-01-01

    Over the past decade, non-Hermitian, PT -symmetric Hamiltonians have been investigated as candidates for both a fundamental, unitary, quantum theory and open systems with a nonunitary time evolution. In this paper, we investigate the implications of the former approach in the context of the latter. Motivated by the invariance of the PT (inner) product under time evolution, we discuss the dynamics of wave-function phases in a wide range of PT -symmetric lattice models. In particular, we numerically show that, starting with a random initial state, a universal, gain-site location dependent locking between wave-function phases at adjacent sites occurs in the PT -symmetry-broken region. Our results pave the way towards understanding the physically observable implications of time invariants in the nonunitary dynamics produced by PT -symmetric Hamiltonians.

  17. Physiotherapy Practice: Opportunities for International Collaboration on Workforce Reforms, Policy and Research.

    PubMed

    Grimmer, K; Morris, J; Kim, S; Milanese, S; Fletcher, W

    2017-07-01

    Physiotherapy or Physical Therapy (PT) is the most commonly practised allied health discipline globally. International PT workforce reforms are underway to deal with increasing patient numbers, shrinking medical and nursing workforces and lengthy waiting lists. It is timely to consider international differences in PT, with the aims of identifying opportunities for shared learning and forming stronger international alliances to support consistent and evidence-based workforce reforms. This paper synthesizes freely available information on PT training and service delivery across the UK, Australia and United States (California). The paper considers differences in roles, workplaces, training, legislation and registration, continuing professional development, and accountability. There are similarities between UK, Australia and United States (California) in many areas of PT roles, training, registration, legislation and professional practice. However, none has a standard national mechanism by which to demonstrate PT accountability, patient safety or quality care. Moreover, there are different approaches to workforce reforms. There is considerable duplication in physiotherapy governance. There are opportunities for targeted international collaborations regarding workforce reforms such as extending scope of practice, and determining and implementing internationally agreed ways of demonstrating PT accountability. The findings of this review have significant policy implications, and identify areas for collaborative research. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  18. Rationale and early outcomes for the management of thymoma with proton therapy.

    PubMed

    Zhu, He J; Hoppe, Bradford S; Flampouri, Stella; Louis, Debbie; Pirris, John; Nichols, R Charles; Henderson, Randal H; Mercado, Catherine E

    2018-04-01

    Radiotherapy for thymic malignancies is technically challenging due to their close proximity to the heart, lungs, esophagus, and breasts, raising concerns about significant acute and late toxicities from conventional photon radiotherapy. Proton therapy (PT) may reduce the radiation dose to these vital organs, leading to less toxicity. We reviewed the dosimetry and outcomes among patients treated with PT for thymic malignancies at our institution. From January 2008 to March 2017, six patients with de novo Masaoka stages II-III thymic malignancies were treated with PT on an IRB-approved outcomes tracking protocol. Patients were evaluated weekly during treatment, then every 3 months for 2 years, then every 6 months for 3 more years, and then annually for CTCAE vs. four toxicities and disease recurrence. Comparison intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) plans were developed for each patient. Mean doses to the heart, esophagus, bilateral breasts, lungs, and V20 of bilateral lungs were evaluated for the two treatment plans. At last follow-up (median follow-up, 2.6 years), there were two patients with recurrences, including metastatic disease in the patient treated definitively with chemotherapy and PT without surgery and a local-regional recurrence in the lung outside the proton field in one of the post-operative cases. No patients with de novo disease experienced grade ≥3 toxicities after PT. The mean dose to the heart, lung, and esophagus was reduced on average by 36.5%, 33.5%, and 60%, respectively, using PT compared with IMRT (P<0.05 for each dose parameter). PT achieved superior dose sparing to the heart, lung, and esophagus compared to IMRT for thymic malignancies. Patients treated with PT had few radiation-induced toxicities and similar survival compared to historic proton data.

  19. Shape-dependent surface magnetism of Co-Pt and Fe-Pt nanoparticles from first principles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Zhenyu; Wang, Guofeng

    2017-12-01

    In this paper, we have performed the first-principles density functional theory calculations to predict the magnetic properties of the CoPt and FePt nanoparticles in cuboctahedral, decahedral, and icosahedral shapes. The modeled alloy nanoparticles have a diameter of 1.1 nm and consist of 31 5 d Pt atoms and 24 3 d Co (or Fe) atoms. For both CoPt and FePt, we found that the decahedral nanoparticles had appreciably lower surface magnetic moments than the cuboctahedral and icosahedral nanoparticles. Our analysis indicated that this reduction in the surface magnetism was related to a large contraction of atomic spacing and high local Co (or Fe) concentration in the surface of the decahedral nanoparticles. More interestingly, we predicted that the CoPt and FePt cuboctahedral nanoparticles exhibited dramatically different surface spin structures when noncollinear magnetism was taken into account. Our calculation results revealed that surface anisotropy energy decided the fashion of surface spin canting in the CoPt and FePt nanoparticles, confirming previous predictions from atomistic Monte Carlo simulations.

  20. 40 CFR Appendix A to Part 45 - Environmental Protection Agency Training Programs

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... Radiation: Air Pollution Control Manpower Training Grants X Air Pollution Control—Technical Training X... Training Programs A Appendix A to Part 45 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY GRANTS AND OTHER FEDERAL ASSISTANCE TRAINING ASSISTANCE Pt. 45, App. A Appendix A to Part 45—Environmental...

  1. Legibility difference between e-books and paper books by using an eye tracker.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jung-Yong; Min, Seung-Nam; Subramaniyam, Murali; Cho, Young-Jin

    2014-01-01

    The aim of the study was to evaluate the difference in legibility between e-books and paper books by using an eye tracker. Eight male and eight female subjects free of eye disease participated in the experiment. The experiment was conducted using a 2 × 3 within-subject design. The book type (e-book, paper book) and font size (8 pt, 10 pt, 12 pt) were independent variables, and fixation duration time, saccade length, blink rate and subjective discomfort were dependent variables. In the results, all dependent variables showed that reading paper books provided a better experience than reading e-books did. These results indicate that the legibility of e-books needs further improvement, considering fixation duration time, saccade movement, eye fatigue, device and so on. This study evaluated the legibility difference between e-books and paper books from the viewpoint of readability, eye fatigue and subjective discomfort by using an eye tracker. The results showed that paper books provided a better experience than e-books. This indicates that the readability of e-books needs further improvement in relation to paper books.

  2. Localized Single Frequency Lasing States in a Finite Parity-Time Symmetric Resonator Chain

    PubMed Central

    Phang, Sendy; Vukovic, Ana; Creagh, Stephen C.; Sewell, Phillip D.; Gradoni, Gabriele; Benson, Trevor M.

    2016-01-01

    In this paper a practical case of a finite periodic Parity Time chain made of resonant dielectric cylinders is considered. The paper analyzes a more general case where PT symmetry is achieved by modulating both the real and imaginary part of the material refractive index along the resonator chain. The band-structure of the finite periodic PT resonator chains is compared to infinite chains in order to understand the complex interdependence of the Bloch phase and the amount of the gain/loss in the system that causes the PT symmetry to break. The results show that the type of the modulation along the unit cell can significantly affect the position of the threshold point of the PT system. In all cases the lowest threshold is achieved near the end of the Brillouin zone. In the case of finite PT-chains, and for a particular type of modulation, early PT symmetry breaking is observed and shown to be caused by the presence of termination states localized at the edges of the finite chain resulting in localized lasing and dissipative modes at each end of the chain. PMID:26848095

  3. Surface enrichment of Pt in stable Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles on MgAl 2O 4 spinel in oxidizing atmosphere

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

    Li, Wei -Zhen; Nie, Lei; Cheng, Yingwen

    With the capability of MgAl 2O 4 spinel {111} nano-facets in stabilizing small Rh, Ir and Pt particles, bimetallic Ir-Pt catalysts on the same support were investigated in this paper, aiming at further lowering the catalyst cost by substituting expensive Pt with cheaper Ir in the bulk. Small Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles (< 2 nm) were successfully stabilized on the spinel {111} nano-facets as expected. Interestingly, methanol oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) rate on the surface Pt atoms increases with oxidizing aging but decreases upon reducing treatment, where Ir is almost inactive under the same reaction conditions. Up to three times enhancement inmore » Pt exposure was achieved when the sample was oxidized at 800 °C in air for 1 week and subsequently reduced by H 2 for 2 h, demonstrating successful surface enrichment of Pt on Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles. Finally, a dynamic stabilization mechanism involving wetting/nucleation seems to be responsible for the evolution of surface compositions upon cyclic oxidizing and reducing thermal treatments.« less

  4. Surface enrichment of Pt in stable Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles on MgAl 2O 4 spinel in oxidizing atmosphere

    DOE PAGES

    Li, Wei -Zhen; Nie, Lei; Cheng, Yingwen; ...

    2017-01-13

    With the capability of MgAl 2O 4 spinel {111} nano-facets in stabilizing small Rh, Ir and Pt particles, bimetallic Ir-Pt catalysts on the same support were investigated in this paper, aiming at further lowering the catalyst cost by substituting expensive Pt with cheaper Ir in the bulk. Small Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles (< 2 nm) were successfully stabilized on the spinel {111} nano-facets as expected. Interestingly, methanol oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) rate on the surface Pt atoms increases with oxidizing aging but decreases upon reducing treatment, where Ir is almost inactive under the same reaction conditions. Up to three times enhancement inmore » Pt exposure was achieved when the sample was oxidized at 800 °C in air for 1 week and subsequently reduced by H 2 for 2 h, demonstrating successful surface enrichment of Pt on Pt-Ir nano-alloy particles. Finally, a dynamic stabilization mechanism involving wetting/nucleation seems to be responsible for the evolution of surface compositions upon cyclic oxidizing and reducing thermal treatments.« less

  5. Low-activity 124I-PET/low-dose CT versus 99mTc-pertechnetate planar scintigraphy or 99mTc-pertechnetate single-photon emission computed tomography of the thyroid: a pilot comparison.

    PubMed

    Darr, Andreas M; Opfermann, Thomas; Niksch, Tobias; Driesch, Dominik; Marlowe, Robert J; Freesmeyer, Martin

    2013-10-01

    The standard thyroid functional imaging method, 99mTc-pertechnetate (99mTc-PT) planar scintigraphy, has technical drawbacks decreasing its sensitivity in detecting nodules or anatomical pathology. 124I-PET, lacking these disadvantages and allowing simultaneous CT, may have greater sensitivity for these purposes. We performed a blinded pilot comparison of 124I-PET(/CT) versus 99mTc-PT planar scintigraphy or its cross-sectional enhancement, 99mTc-PT single-photon emission CT (SPECT), in characterizing the thyroid gland with benign disease. Twenty-one consecutive adults with goiter underwent low-activity (1 MBq/0.027 mCi) 124I-PET/low-dose (30 mAs) CT, 99mTc-PT planar scintigraphy, and 99mTc-PT-SPECT. Endpoints included the numbers of “hot spots” with/without central photopenia and “cold spots” detected, the proportion of these lesions with morphological correlates, the mean volume and diameter of visualized nodules, and the number of cases of lobus pyramidalis or retrosternal thyroid tissue identified. 124I-PET detected significantly more “hot spots” with/without central photopenia (P < 0.001), significantly more nodules (P < 0.001), and more “cold spots” than did 99mTc-PT planar scintigraphy or 99mTc-PT-SPECT, including all lesions seen on the 99mTc-PT modalities. Ultrasonographic correlates were found for all nodules visualized on all 3 modalities and 92.5% of nodules seen only on 124I-PET. Nodules discernible only on 124I-PET had significantly smaller mean volume or diameter (P < 0.001) than did those visualized on 99mTc-PT planar scintigraphy or 99mTc-PT-SPECT. 124I-PET(/CT) identified significantly more patients with a lobus pyramidalis (P < 0.001) or retrosternal thyroid tissue (P < 0.05). 124I-PET(/CT) may provide superior imaging of benign thyroid disease compared to planar or cross-sectional 99mTc-PT scintigraphy.

  6. 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.

  7. Note: A quartz cell with Pt single crystal bead electrode for electrochemical scanning tunneling microscope measurements.

    PubMed

    Xia, Zhigang; Wang, Jihao; Hou, Yubin; Lu, Qingyou

    2014-09-01

    In this paper, we provide and demonstrate a design of a unique cell with Pt single crystal bead electrode for electrochemical scanning tunneling microscope (ECSTM) measurements. The active metal Pt electrode can be protected from air contamination during the preparation process. The transparency of the cell allows the tip and bead to be aligned by direct observation. Based on this, a new and effective alignment method is introduced. The high-quality bead preparations through this new cell have been confirmed by the ECSTM images of Pt (111).

  8. Nanoscale morphology and optical property evolution of Pt nanostructures on GaN (0 0 0 1) by the systematic control of annealing temperature and duration with various Pt thickness

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kunwar, Sundar; Pandey, Puran; Sui, Mao; Zhang, Quanzhen; Li, Ming-Yu; Lee, Jihoon

    2017-06-01

    By the controlled fabrication of Pt nanostructures, various surface morphology dependent electronic, catalytic and optical properties can be exploited for a wide range of applications. In this paper, the evolution of Pt nanostructures on GaN (0 0 0 1) by the solid-state dewetting of Pt thin films is investigated. Controlling the annealing temperature, time and film thickness allows us to fabricate distinct size, density and configurations of Pt nanostructures. For 10 nm Pt thickness, tiny voids and Pt hillocks up to 550 °C, extensive void expansion and Pt nanostructure evolution between 600 °C-750 °C and finally Pt nanostructures assisted nanoholes penetration on GaN surface above 800 °C are demonstrated. Furthermore, comparatively elongated Pt nanostructures and NHs are resulted with 20 nm Pt thickness and voids growth and connected Pt nanostructure are formed by annealing duration control. The transformation of Pt films to nanostructures is governed by the surface diffusion, Rayleigh instability, Volmer-Weber growth and energy minimization mechanism whereas NHs penetration is commenced by the decomposition of GaN, Pt-Ga alloying and nitrogen desorption at high temperature. In addition, the optical characteristic of Pt nanostructures on GaN (0 0 0 1) by reflectance, photoluminescence (PL) and Raman spectroscopy demonstrate the surface morphology dependent spectral response.

  9. Sorption behavior of the Pt(II) complex anion on manganese dioxide (δ-MnO2): a model reaction to elucidate the mechanism by which Pt is concentrated into a marine ferromanganese crust

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maeno, Mamiko Yamashita; Ohashi, Hironori; Yonezu, Kotaro; Miyazaki, Akane; Okaue, Yoshihiro; Watanabe, Koichiro; Ishida, Tamao; Tokunaga, Makoto; Yokoyama, Takushi

    2016-02-01

    It is difficult to directly investigate the chemical state of Pt in marine ferromanganese crusts (a mixture of hydrous iron(III) oxide and manganese dioxide (δ-MnO2)) because it is present at extremely low concentration levels. This paper attempts to elucidate the mechanism by which Pt is concentrated into marine ferromanganese crust from the Earth's continental crust through ocean water. In this investigation, the sorption behavior of the Pt(II) complex ions on the surface of the δ-MnO2 that is a host of Pt was examined as a model reaction. The δ-MnO2 sorbing Pt was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) to determine the chemical state of the Pt. Hydrolytic Pt(II) complex ions were specifically sorbed above pH 6 by the formation of a Mn-O-Pt bond. XPS spectra and XANES spectra for δ-MnO2 sorbing Pt showed that the sorbed Pt(II) was oxidized to Pt(IV) on δ-MnO2. The extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) analysis showed that the coordination structure of Pt sorbed on δ-MnO2 is almost the same as that of the [Pt(OH)6]2- complex ion used as a standard. Therefore, the mechanism for the concentration of Pt in marine ferromanganese crust may be an oxidative substitution (penetration of Pt(IV) into structure of δ-MnO2) by a reduction-oxidation reaction between Pt(II) in [PtCl4-n(OH)n]2- and Mn(IV) in δ-MnO2 through a Mn-O-Pt bond.

  10. Synthesis and high catalytic properties of mesoporous Pt nanowire array by novel conjunct template method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhong, Yi; Xu, Cai-Ling; Kong, Ling-Bin; Li, Hu-Lin

    2008-12-01

    A novel conjunct template method for fabricating mesoporous Pt nanowire array through direct current (DC) electrodeposition of Pt into the pores of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template on Ti/Si substrate from hexagonal structured lyotropic liquid crystalline phase is demonstrated in this paper. The morphology and structure of as-prepared Pt nanowire array are characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The electrocatalytic properties of Pt nanowire array for methanol are also investigated in detail. The results indicate that Pt nanowire array has the unique mesoporous structure of approximate 40-50 nm in diameter, which resulted in the high surface area and greatly improved electrocatalytic activity for methanol. The mesoporous Pt nanowire array synthesized by the new conjunct template method has a very promising application in portable fuel cell power sources.

  11. Magnetic anisotropy, damping, and interfacial spin transport in Pt/LSMO bilayers

    DOE PAGES

    Lee, H. K.; Barsukov, I.; Swartz, A. G.; ...

    2016-05-16

    In this paper, we report ferromagnetic resonance measurements of magnetic anisotropy and damping in epitaxial La 0.7Sr 0.3MnO 3 (LSMO) and Pt capped LSMO thin films on SrTiO 3 (001) substrates. The measurements reveal large negative perpendicular magnetic anisotropy and a weaker uniaxial in-plane anisotropy that are unaffected by the Pt cap. The Gilbert damping of the bare LSMO films is found to be low α = 1.9(1) × 10 -3, and two-magnon scattering is determined to be significant and strongly anisotropic. The Pt cap increases the damping by 50% due to spin pumping, which is also directly detected viamore » inverse spin Hall effect in Pt. Our research demonstrates efficient spin transport across the Pt/LSMO interface.« less

  12. FNOC In Situ Technical Support.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-10-01

    09 NM2*20 MSGLINE*14 CONJDP*04 SEXY *05 CON VERT*O7 ACOULAB ACOULAB*06 Correct meter to feet conversion error (if more 20SVP pt). DATE ROUTINE... PORN , TASS, and PTARF (MOFT produces ASRAPL & BLKDATA for FASOTRAGRU moffett). (DRUN*106 S2 4682) B-9 UPDTE DATE: 12/15/81*1 .- PROGRAM PROGRAMMER

  13. 7 CFR Appendix D to Subpart E of... - Alcohol Production Facilities Planning, Performing, Development and Project Control

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... (CONTINUED) GENERAL Business and Industrial Loan Program Pt. 1980, Subpt. E, App. D Appendix D to Subpart E... designed utilizing accepted engineering practices and are conformed to applicable Federal, State and local... this appendix. (II) Technical Services. (A) The borrower is responsible for selecting engineering...

  14. Enhancement of the electrooxidation of ethanol on Pt-Sn-P/C catalysts prepared by chemical deposition process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xue, Xinzhong; Ge, Junjie; Tian, Tian; Liu, Changpeng; Xing, Wei; Lu, Tianhong

    In this paper, five Pt 3Sn 1/C catalysts have been prepared using three different methods. It was found that phosphorus deposited on the surface of carbon with Pt and Sn when sodium hypophosphite was used as reducing agent by optimization of synthetic conditions such as pH in the synthetic solution and temperature. The deposition of phosphorus should be effective on the size reduction and markedly reduces PtSn nanoparticle size, and raise electrochemical active surface (EAS) area of catalyst and improve the catalytic performance. TEM images show PtSnP nanoparticles are highly dispersed on the carbon surface with average diameters of 2 nm. The optimum composition is Pt 3Sn 1P 2/C (note PtSn/C-3) catalyst in my work. With this composition, it shows very high activity for the electrooxidation of ethanol and exhibit enhanced performance compared with other two Pt 3Sn 1/C catalysts that prepared using ethylene glycol reduction method (note PtSn/C-EG) and borohydride reduction method (note PtSn/-B). The maximum power densities of direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC) were 61 mW cm -2 that is 150 and 170% higher than that of the PtSn/C-EG and PtSn/C-B catalyst.

  15. From biomass to advanced bio-fuel by catalytic pyrolysis/hydro-processing: hydrodeoxygenation of bio-oil derived from biomass catalytic pyrolysis.

    PubMed

    Wang, Yuxin; He, Tao; Liu, Kaituo; Wu, Jinhu; Fang, Yunming

    2012-03-01

    Compared hydrodeoxygenation experimental studies of both model compounds and real bio-oil derived from biomass fast pyrolysis and catalytic pyrolysis was carried out over two different supported Pt catalysts. For the model compounds, the deoxygenation degree of dibenzofuran was higher than that of cresol and guaiacol over both Pt/Al(2)O(3) and the newly developed Pt supported on mesoporous zeolite (Pt/MZ-5) catalyst, and the deoxygenation degree of cresol over Pt/MZ-5 was higher than that over Pt/Al(2)O(3). The results indicated that hydrodeoxygenation become much easier upon oxygen reduction. Similar to model compounds study, the hydrodeoxygenation of the real bio-oil derived from catalytic pyrolysis was much easier than that from fast pyrolysis over both Pt catalysts, and the Pt/MZ-5 again shows much higher deoxygenation ability than Pt/Al(2)O(3). Clearly synergy between catalytic pyrolysis and bio-oil hydro-processing was found in this paper and this finding will lead an advanced biofuel production pathway in the future. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Antagonistic Activities of Novel Peptides from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens PT14 against Fusarium solani and Fusarium oxysporum.

    PubMed

    Kim, Young Gwon; Kang, Hee Kyoung; Kwon, Kee-Deok; Seo, Chang Ho; Lee, Hyang Burm; Park, Yoonkyung

    2015-12-09

    Bacillus species have recently drawn attention due to their potential use in the biological control of fungal diseases. This paper reports on the antifungal activity of novel peptides isolated from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens PT14. Reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography revealed that B. amyloliquefaciens PT14 produces five peptides (PT14-1, -2, -3, -4a, and -4b) that exhibit antifungal activity but are inactive against bacterial strains. In particular, PT14-3 and PT14-4a showed broad-spectrum antifungal activity against Fusarium solani and Fusarium oxysporum. The PT14-4a N-terminal amino acid sequence was identified through Edman degradation, and a BLAST homology analysis showed it not to be identical to any other protein or peptide. PT14-4a displayed strong fungicidal activity with minimal inhibitory concentrations of 3.12 mg/L (F. solani) and 6.25 mg/L (F. oxysporum), inducing severe morphological deformation in the conidia and hyphae. On the other hand, PT14-4a had no detectable hemolytic activity. This suggests PT14-4a has the potential to serve as an antifungal agent in clinical therapeutic and crop-protection applications.

  17. Current patch test results in consecutive patients with, and chemical analysis of, disperse blue (DB) 106, DB 124, and the mix of DB 106 and 124.

    PubMed

    Uter, Wolfgang; Hildebrandt, Stephan; Geier, Johannes; Schnuch, Axel; Lessmann, Holger

    2007-10-01

    Disperse blue (DB) 106 and 124 are important textile dye allergens. However, the dye raw material is impure, leading to uncertainty regarding the actual patch test (PT) concentration. To examine, (i) the allergen content of previously and currently used DB 106 and 124 and a respective mix, and (ii) the frequency of positive PT reactions to the DB 106/124 mix and to the single compounds in consecutive PT patients. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis and purification of DB 106 and 124, respectively. Descriptive analysis of PT data from the Information network of departments of dermatology obtained between January 2003 and December 2005. Retrospectively, 2 batches of the DB 106/124 mix proved to contain an amount of allergen different to the 1 declared (based on information of suppliers of raw material). However, since February 2005, DB 106 and 124, respectively, are available at a reliable concentration of 0.3% petrolatum. In 2005, the prevalence of positive PT reactions to both the mix (0.89%) and the single constituents combined (0.56%) did not qualify them for inclusion in the standard series. Quality control, providing accurate test concentrations of allergens based on technical grade purity raw materials is necessary for valid diagnosis of contact allergy and comparable epidemiological data.

  18. Physical therapy intervention studies on idiopathic scoliosis-review with the focus on inclusion criteria1

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Studies investigating the outcome of conservative scoliosis treatment differ widely with respect to the inclusion criteria used. This study has been performed to investigate the possibility to find useful inclusion criteria for future prospective studies on physiotherapy (PT). Materials and methods A PubMed search for outcome papers on PT was performed in order to detect study designs and inclusion criteria used. Results Real outcome papers (start of treatment in immature samples/end results after the end of growth; controlled studies in adults with scoliosis with a follow-up of more than 5 years) have not been found. Some papers investigated mid-term effects of exercises, most were retrospective, few prospective and many included patient samples with questionable treatment indications. Conclusion There is no outcome paper on PT in scoliosis with a patient sample at risk for being progressive in adults or in adolescents followed from premenarchial status until skeletal maturity. However, papers on bracing are more frequently found and bracing can be regarded as evidence-based in the conservative management and rehabilitation of idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents. PMID:22277541

  19. The use of cognitive task analysis to improve the learning of percutaneous tracheostomy placement.

    PubMed

    Sullivan, Maura E; Brown, Carlos V R; Peyre, Sarah E; Salim, Ali; Martin, Matthew; Towfigh, Shirin; Grunwald, Tiffany

    2007-01-01

    The purpose of the current study was to determine the effectiveness of using cognitive task analysis (CTA) to develop a curriculum to teach the behavioral skills and the cognitive strategies of a percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) placement. Postgraduate 2, 3, and 4 general surgery residents were randomly assigned to either the CTA group (N = 9) or the control group (N = 11). The CTA group was taught percutaneous tracheostomy placement using the CTA curriculum. The control group received the traditional curriculum. The CTA group performed significantly higher on the PT procedure at 1 month (CTA: 43.5 +/- 3.7, control 35.2 +/- 3.9, P = .001) and at 6 months post-instruction (CTA: 39.4 +/- 4.2, control: 31.8 +/- 5.8, P = .004). In addition, the CTA group demonstrated superior cognitive strategies than the control group (CTA: 25.4 +/- 5.3, control: 19.2 +/- 2.0, P = .004). The use of CTA was effective in improving the cognitive processes and technical skills of performing a PT for surgical residents.

  20. Quantum control and the challenge of non-Hermitian model-building

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Znojil, Miloslav

    2015-06-01

    In a way inspired by the brief 2002 note “The challenge of nonhermitian structures in physics” by Ramirez and Mielnik (with the text most easily available via arXiv:quant- ph/0211048) the situation in the theory is briefly summarized here as it looks twelve years later. Our text has three parts. In the first one we briefly mention the pre-history (dating back to the Freeman Dyson's proposal of the non-Hermitian-Hamiltonian method in 1956 and to its subsequent successful “interacting boson model” applications in nuclear physics) and, first of all, the amazing recent progress reached, in the stationary case, using, in essence, an inversion of the Dyson's approach. The impact on the latter idea upon abstract quantum physics is sampled, first of all, by the reference to papers by Bender et al. (who made the non-Hermitian model-building popular under the nickname of parity-times-time-reflection- symmetric alias PT-symmetric quantum mechanics) and by Mostafazadeh (who reinterpreted PT-symmetry as P-pseudo-Hermiticity). In the second part of our review the emphasis is shifted to the newest, non-stationary upgrade of the formalism which we proposed in the year 2009 and which is characterized by the simultaneous participation of a triplet of Hilbert spaces H in the representation of a single quantum system. In the third part of the review we finally emphasize that the majority of applications of our three-Hilbert-space (THS) recipe is still ahead of us because the enhancement of the flexibility is necessarily accompanied by an enhancement of the technical difficulties. An escape out of the technical trap is proposed to be sought in a restriction of attention to quantum models living in finite-dimensional Hilbert spaces H. As long as the use of such spaces is so typical for the quantum-control considerations, we conclude with conjecture that the THS formalism should start searching for implementations in the field of quantum control.

  1. Mass Casualty Incident Primary Triage Methods in China.

    PubMed

    Chen, Jin-Hong; Yang, Jun; Yang, Yu; Zheng, Jing-Chen

    2015-10-05

    To evaluate the technical characteristics and application of mass casualty incident (MCI) primary triage (PT) methods applied in China. Chinese literature was searched by Chinese Academic Journal Network Publishing Database (founded in June 2014). The English literature was searched by PubMed (MEDLINE) (1950 to June 2014). We also searched Official Websites of Chinese Central Government's (http://www.gov.cn/), National Health and Family Planning Commission of China (http://www.nhfpc.gov.cn/), and China Earthquake Information (http://www.csi.ac.cn/). We included studies associated with mass casualty events related to China, the PT applied in China, guidelines and standards, and application and development of the carding PT method in China. From 3976 potentially relevant articles, 22 met the inclusion criteria, 20 Chinese, and 2 English. These articles included 13 case reports, 3 retrospective analyses of MCI, two methods introductions, three national or sectoral criteria, and one simulated field testing and validation. There were a total of 19 kinds of MCI PT methods that have been reported in China from 1950 to 2014. In addition, there were 15 kinds of PT methods reported in the literature from the instance of the application. The national and sectoral current triage criteria are developed mainly for earthquake relief. Classification is not clear. Vague criteria (especially between moderate and severe injuries) operability are not practical. There are no triage methods and research for children and special populations. There is no data and evidence supported triage method. We should revise our existing classification and criteria so it is clearer and easier to be grasped in order to build a real, practical, and efficient PT method.

  2. Proficiency testing for bacterial whole genome sequencing: an end-user survey of current capabilities, requirements and priorities.

    PubMed

    Moran-Gilad, Jacob; Sintchenko, Vitali; Pedersen, Susanne Karlsmose; Wolfgang, William J; Pettengill, James; Strain, Errol; Hendriksen, Rene S

    2015-04-03

    The advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) has revolutionised public health microbiology. Given the potential impact of NGS, it is paramount to ensure standardisation of 'wet' laboratory and bioinformatic protocols and promote comparability of methods employed by different laboratories and their outputs. Therefore, one of the ambitious goals of the Global Microbial Identifier (GMI) initiative (http://www.globalmicrobialidentifier.org/) has been to establish a mechanism for inter-laboratory NGS proficiency testing (PT). This report presents findings from the survey recently conducted by Working Group 4 among GMI members in order to ascertain NGS end-use requirements and attitudes towards NGS PT. The survey identified the high professional diversity of laboratories engaged in NGS-based public health projects and the wide range of capabilities within institutions, at a notable range of costs. The priority pathogens reported by respondents reflected the key drivers for NGS use (high burden disease and 'high profile' pathogens). The performance of and participation in PT was perceived as important by most respondents. The wide range of sequencing and bioinformatics practices reported by end-users highlights the importance of standardisation and harmonisation of NGS in public health and underpins the use of PT as a means to assuring quality. The findings of this survey will guide the design of the GMI PT program in relation to the spectrum of pathogens included, testing frequency and volume as well as technical requirements. The PT program for external quality assurance will evolve and inform the introduction of NGS into clinical and public health microbiology practice in the post-genomic era.

  3. Electrochemical and Morphological Investigations of Ga Addition to Pt Electrocatalyst Supported on Carbon

    PubMed Central

    Paganoto, Giordano T.; Santos, Deise M.; Guimarães, Marco C. C.; Carneiro, Maria Tereza W. D.

    2017-01-01

    This paper is consisted in the synthesis of platinum-based electrocatalysts supported on carbon (Vulcan XC-72) and investigation of the addition of gallium in their physicochemical and electrochemical properties toward ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). PtGa/C electrocatalysts were prepared through thermal decomposition of polymeric precursor method at a temperature of 350°C. Six different compositions were homemade: Pt50Ga50/C, Pt60Ga40/C, Pt70Ga30/C, Pt80Ga20/C, Pt90Ga10/C, and Pt100/C. These electrocatalysts were electrochemically characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry (CA), chronopotentiometry (CP), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in the presence and absence of ethanol 1.0 mol L−1. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were also carried out for a physicochemical characterization of those materials. XRD results showed the main peaks of face-centered cubic Pt. The particle sizes obtained from XRD and TEM analysis range from 7.2 nm to 12.9 nm. The CV results indicate behavior typical of Pt-based electrocatalysts in acid medium. The CV, EIS, and CA data reveal that the addition of up to 31% of gallium to the Pt highly improves catalytic activity on EOR response when compared to Pt100/C. PMID:28466065

  4. Metallofullerenes as fuel cell electrocatalysts: a theoretical investigation of adsorbates on C59Pt.

    PubMed

    Gabriel, Margaret A; Genovese, Luigi; Krosnicki, Guillaume; Lemaire, Olivier; Deutsch, Thierry; Franco, Alejandro A

    2010-08-28

    Nano-structured electrode degradation in state-of-the-art polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is one of the main shortcomings that limit the large-scale development and commercialization of this technology. During normal operating conditions of the fuel cell, the PEMFC lifetime tends to be limited by coarsening of the cathode's Pt-based catalyst and by corrosion of the cathode's carbon black support. Because of their chemical properties, metallofullerenes such as C(59)Pt may be more electrochemically stable than the Pt/C mixture. In this paper we investigate, by theoretical methods, the stability of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) adsorbates on the metallofullerene C(59)Pt and evaluate its potential as a PEMFC fuel cell catalyst.

  5. Prospective Analysis of the Safety and Efficacy of Percutaneous Cryoablation for pT1NxMx Biopsy-Proven Renal Cell Carcinoma

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

    Rodriguez, Ronald; Cizman, Ziga; Hong, Kelvin

    2011-06-15

    Purpose: Our objective was to determine the efficacy and safety of image-guided, percutaneous cryoablation for American Joint Committee on Cancer pT1ANxMx and pT1BNxMx biopsy-proven renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Materials and Methods: Computed tomography (CT)-guided, percutaneous cryoablation was used to treat 117 renal lesions in 113 consecutive patients with pT1NxMx RCC. All 117 ablations were included in the safety analysis, and complications were categorized according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 3.0 (CTCAE v3.0). Eighty-one lesions were biopsy-proven RCC and were included in the efficacy analysis. Technical success was defined as the 'ice-ball' covering the entire lesion plus amore » minimum 5-mm margin. Efficacy was defined as complete lack of enhancement and continuous decrease in size on subsequent follow-up imaging studies. Results: Technical success was 100%, with 15% of ablations requiring air or saline injection to prevent nontarget ablation. We recorded a 7% rate of clinically significant complications (CTCAE category {>=}2) and 0% mortality. Renal function was not adversely affected. Seventy percent of patients were discharged to home on the same day. Efficacy was 98.7% for a median follow-up of 67 weeks (range 7-172). For the subgroup of patients that reached a median follow-up of 2 (n = 59) and 3 years (n = 13), efficacy was 98.3 and 92.3%, respectively. Cancer specific survival was 100%. Conclusions: CT-guided, percutaneous cryoablation has an excellent safety and efficacy profile for stage T1A and T1B RCC; however, longer follow-up is needed to compare it with other nephron-sparing surgical treatments. It is a great option for nonsurgical patients, those in whom renal function cannot be further sacrificed, and those at risk for metachronous lesions.« less

  6. 40 CFR Appendix F to Part 132 - Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Implementation Procedures

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... use of this methodology may be found in the Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Technical Support... (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS WATER QUALITY GUIDANCE FOR THE GREAT LAKES SYSTEM Pt. 132, App. F Appendix F to... that is freely dissolved in the ambient water is different than that used to derive the system-wide...

  7. 40 CFR Appendix F to Part 132 - Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Implementation Procedures

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... use of this methodology may be found in the Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative Technical Support... (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS WATER QUALITY GUIDANCE FOR THE GREAT LAKES SYSTEM Pt. 132, App. F Appendix F to... that is freely dissolved in the ambient water is different than that used to derive the system-wide...

  8. Profit Maximization Models for Exponential Decay Processes.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-08-01

    assumptions could easily be analyzed in similar fashion. References [1] Bensoussan, A., Hurst , E.G. and Nislund, B., Management Applications of Modern...TVIPe OF r 04PORNT A i M0 CiH O .V9RAE PROFIT MAXIMIZATION .ODELS FOR EXPONENT IAL Technical Report DECAY PROCESSES August 1990 ~~~I. PtA’OR~idNG ONqG

  9. 29 CFR Appendix C to Subpart Cc of... - Operator Certification: Written Examination: Technical Knowledge Criteria

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... Knowledge Criteria C Appendix C to Subpart CC of Part 1926 Labor Regulations Relating to Labor (Continued... FOR CONSTRUCTION Cranes and Derricks in Construction Pt. 1926, Subpt. CC, App. C Appendix C to Subpart.../stabilizers and counterweights. (c) Operations. (1) How to pick, carry, swing and place the load smoothly and...

  10. 29 CFR Appendix C to Subpart Cc of... - Operator Certification: Written Examination: Technical Knowledge Criteria

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... Knowledge Criteria C Appendix C to Subpart CC of Part 1926 Labor Regulations Relating to Labor (Continued... FOR CONSTRUCTION Cranes and Derricks in Construction Pt. 1926, Subpt. CC, App. C Appendix C to Subpart.../stabilizers and counterweights. (c) Operations. (1) How to pick, carry, swing and place the load smoothly and...

  11. Small-sized and contacting Pt-WC nanostructures on graphene as highly efficient anode catalysts for direct methanol fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Wang, Ruihong; Xie, Ying; Shi, Keying; Wang, Jianqiang; Tian, Chungui; Shen, Peikang; Fu, Honggang

    2012-06-11

    The synergistic effect between Pt and WC is beneficial for methanol electro-oxidation, and makes Pt-WC catalyst a promising anode candidate for the direct methanol fuel cell. This paper reports on the design and synthesis of small-sized and contacting Pt-WC nanostructures on graphene that bring the synergistic effect into full play. Firstly, DFT calculations show the existence of a strong covalent interaction between WC and graphene, which suggests great potential for anchoring WC on graphene with formation of small-sized, well-dispersed WC particles. The calculations also reveal that, when Pt attaches to the pre-existing WC/graphene hybrid, Pt particles preferentially grow on WC rather than graphene. Our experiments confirmed that highly disperse WC nanoparticles (ca. 5 nm) can indeed be anchored on graphene. Also, Pt particles 2-3 nm in size are well dispersed on WC/graphene hybrid and preferentially grow on WC grains, forming contacting Pt-WC nanostructures. These results are consistent with the theoretical findings. X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy further confirms the intimate contact between Pt and WC, and demonstrates that the presence of WC can facilitate the crystallinity of Pt particles. This new Pt-WC/graphene catalyst exhibits a high catalytic efficiency toward methanol oxidation, with a mass activity 1.98 and 4.52 times those of commercial PtRu/C and Pt/C catalysts, respectively. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  12. First-principles study of nitric oxide oxidation on Pt(111) versus Pt overlayer on 3d transition metals

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

    Arevalo, Ryan Lacdao; Escaño, Mary Clare Sison; Kasai, Hideaki, E-mail: kasai@dyn.ap.eng.osaka-u.ac.jp

    2015-03-15

    Catalytic oxidation of NO to NO{sub 2} is a significant research interest for improving the quality of air through exhaust gas purification systems. In this paper, the authors studied this reaction on pure Pt and Pt overlayer on 3d transition metals using kinetic Monte Carlo simulations coupled with density functional theory based first principles calculations. The authors found that on the Pt(111) surface, NO oxidation proceeds via the Eley–Rideal mechanism, with O{sub 2} dissociative adsorption as the rate-determining step. The oxidation path via the Langmuir–Hinshelwood mechanism is very slow and does not significantly contribute to the overall reaction. However, inmore » the Pt overlayer systems, the oxidation of NO on the surface is more thermodynamically and kinetically favorable compared to pure Pt. These findings are attributed to the weaker binding of O and NO on the Pt overlayer systems and the binding configuration of NO{sub 2} that promotes easier N-O bond formation. These results present insights for designing affordable and efficient catalysts for NO oxidation.« less

  13. Architecture-dependent surface chemistry for Pt monolayers on carbon-supported Au.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Shuang; Rettew, Robert E; Sauerbrey, Marc; Alamgir, Faisal M

    2011-10-01

    Pt monolayers were grown by surface-limited redox replacement (SLRR) on two types of Au nanostructures. The Au nanostructures were fabricated electrochemically on carbon fiber paper (CFP) by either potentiostatic deposition (PSD) or potential square wave deposition (PSWD). The morphology of the Au/CFP heterostructures, examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), was found to depend on the type of Au growth method employed. The properties of the Pt deposit, as studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), and cyclic voltammetry (CV), were found to depend strongly on the morphology of the support. Specifically, it was found that smaller Au morphologies led to a higher degree of cationicity in the resulting Pt deposit, with Pt(4+) and Pt(2+) species being identified using XPS and XAS. For fuel-cell catalysts, the resistance of ultrathin catalyst deposits to surface area loss through dissolution, poisoning, and agglomeration is critical. This study shows that an equivalent of two monolayers (ML) is the low-loading limit of Pt on Au. At 1 ML or below, the Pt film decreases in activity and durability very rapidly due to presence of cationic Pt. © 2011 American Chemical Society

  14. Is n-Hexane conversion on supported pt catalysts so simple (or can we learn more about the active sites from this reaction)?

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

    Paal, Z.

    A paper in which some very refined techniques (such as microcalorimetry and {sup 13}C NMR study) were used to characterize Pt catalysts on zeolitic and SiO{sub 2} supports has appeared in the Journal of Catalysis. That work-as well as its companion paper presenting {sup 13}CNMR results for fresh catalysts-supplies important new information on the changes of surface energetics of supported Pt samples, giving unquestionable evidence that the adsorption properties of a Pt/zeolite-as indicated by the differential heats of CO adsorption-after catalytic runs with n-hexane at 673 K are much closer to those of the initial state than are those ofmore » Pt/SiO{sub 2}. The authors must agree with the approach of the authors that no surface physical information has real value unless it is compared with catalytic propensities; the authors also include results of n-hexane test reactions. The discussion of catalytic results is oversimplified, however, and may suggest false ideas as far as the reaction pathways and their evaluation are concerned. 22 refs., 1 tab.« less

  15. EFFECTS OF TiOx INTERLAYER ON RESISTANCE SWITCHING OF Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si STRUCTURES

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Hongxia; Lv, Xiaojun; Xi, Junhua; Wu, Xin; Mao, Qinan; Liu, Qingmin; Ji, Zhenguo

    2014-08-01

    In this paper, we fabricated Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si structures by inserting TiOx interlayer between Pt top electrode (TE) and ZnO thin film for non-volatile resistive random access memory (ReRAM) applications. Effects of TiOx interlayer with different thickness on the resistance switching of Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si structures were investigated. Conduction behaviors in high and low resistance state (HRS and LRS) fit well with the trap-controlled space-charge-limited conduction (SCLC) and Ohmic behavior, respectively. Variations of set and reset voltages and HRS and LRS resistances of Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si structures were investigated as a function of TiOx thickness. Switching cycling tests were attempted to evaluate the endurance reliability of Pt/TiOx/ZnO/n+-Si structures. Additionally, the switching mechanism was analyzed by the filament model.

  16. PT3. [SITE 2002 Section].

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thompson, Mary, Ed.; Price, Jerry, Ed.

    This document contains 142 papers on PT3 (Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to use Technology) from the SITE (Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education) 2002 conference. Topics covered include: a technology in urban education summit; student professional development; meeting NCATE (National Council of Teachers of English) standards;…

  17. Improved Oxygen Reduction Activity and Durability of Dealloyed PtCo x Catalysts for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells: Strain, Ligand, and Particle Size Effects

    DOE PAGES

    Jia, Qingying; Caldwell, Keegan; Strickland, Kara; ...

    2014-11-19

    The development of active and durable catalysts with reduced platinum content is essential for fuel cell commercialization. Here in this paper, we report that the dealloyed PtCo/HSC and PtCo 3/HSC nanoparticle (NP) catalysts exhibit the same levels of enhancement in oxygen reduction activity (~4-fold) and durability over pure Pt/C NPs. Surprisingly, ex situ high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF STEM) shows that the bulk morphologies of the two catalysts are distinctly different: D-PtCo/HSC catalyst is dominated by NPs with solid Pt shells surrounding a single ordered PtCo core; however, the D-PtCo 3/HSC catalyst is dominated by NPsmore » with porous Pt shells surrounding multiple disordered PtCo cores with local concentration of Co. In situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) reveals that these two catalysts possess similar Pt–Pt and Pt–Co bond distances and Pt coordination numbers (CNs), despite their dissimilar morphologies. The similar activity of the two catalysts is thus ascribed to their comparable strain, ligand, and particle size effects. Ex situ XAS performed on D-PtCo 3/HSC under different voltage cycling stage shows that the continuous dissolution of Co leaves behind the NPs with a Pt-like structure after 30k cycles. The attenuated strain and/or ligand effects caused by Co dissolution are presumably counterbalanced by the particle size effects with particle growth, which likely accounts for the constant specific activity of the catalysts along with voltage cycling.« less

  18. The Effect of Carbonate and pH on Hydrogen Oxidation and Oxygen Reduction on Pt-Based Electrocatalysts in Alkaline Media

    DOE PAGES

    John, Samuel St.; Atkinson, Robert W.; Roy, Asa; ...

    2016-01-11

    In this paper, we investigated the performance of several carbon-supported Ru xPt y electrocatalysts for their alkaline hydrogen oxidation and oxygen reduction performance in the presence of carbonate and compared their performance with monometallic, carbon-supported Pt. Our results indicate a strong dependence of HOR upon pH for the monometallic Pt catalysts (22 mV/pH) and a weak dependence upon pH for the Ru-containing electrocatalysts (3.7, 2.5, and 4.7 mV/pH on Ru 0.2Pt 0.8, Ru 0.4Pt 0.6, and Ru 0.8Pt 0.2, respectively). These results are consistent with our previous findings that illustrate a change in rds from electron transfer (on monometallic Pt)more » to dissociative hydrogen adsorption (on Ru xPt y catalysts). Analysis of the kinetic currents to determine the rate-determining step via Tafel slope analysis provides additional data supporting this conclusion. There is no difference in the performance at comparable pH values in the presence or absence of carbonate on monometallic Pt indicating that water/hydroxide is the primary proton acceptor for alkaline HOR in 0.1 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. Finally, we observe no pH or carbonate dependence for the ORR on monometallic Pt.« less

  19. The Effect of Carbonate and pH on Hydrogen Oxidation and Oxygen Reduction on Pt-Based Electrocatalysts in Alkaline Media

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

    John, Samuel St.; Atkinson, Robert W.; Roy, Asa

    In this paper, we investigated the performance of several carbon-supported Ru xPt y electrocatalysts for their alkaline hydrogen oxidation and oxygen reduction performance in the presence of carbonate and compared their performance with monometallic, carbon-supported Pt. Our results indicate a strong dependence of HOR upon pH for the monometallic Pt catalysts (22 mV/pH) and a weak dependence upon pH for the Ru-containing electrocatalysts (3.7, 2.5, and 4.7 mV/pH on Ru 0.2Pt 0.8, Ru 0.4Pt 0.6, and Ru 0.8Pt 0.2, respectively). These results are consistent with our previous findings that illustrate a change in rds from electron transfer (on monometallic Pt)more » to dissociative hydrogen adsorption (on Ru xPt y catalysts). Analysis of the kinetic currents to determine the rate-determining step via Tafel slope analysis provides additional data supporting this conclusion. There is no difference in the performance at comparable pH values in the presence or absence of carbonate on monometallic Pt indicating that water/hydroxide is the primary proton acceptor for alkaline HOR in 0.1 M KOH aqueous electrolyte. Finally, we observe no pH or carbonate dependence for the ORR on monometallic Pt.« less

  20. Synthesis and Self-Assembly of fcc Phase FePt Nanorods

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

    Chen, Min; Pica, Timothy; Jiang, Ying-Bing

    2007-05-01

    In this paper, we report a synthesis of FePt nanorods by confining decomposition of Fe(CO) 5 and reduction of Pt(caca) 2 in surfactant reverse cylindrical micelles. The controlled nucleation and growth kinetics in confined environment allows easy control over Fe/Pt composition, nanorod uniformity, and nanorod aspect ratio. The FePt nanorods tend to self-assemble into ordered arrays along three-dimensions. Directed assembly under external magnetic field leads to two-dimensional ordered arrays, parallel to the substrate magnetic field. We expect that with optimized external magnetic fields, we should be able to assemble these nanorods into orientated one or two-dimensional arrays, providing a uniformmore » anisotropic magnetic platform for varied applications in enhanced data storage, magneto-electron transport, etc.« less

  1. Unidirectional invisibility induced by parity-time symmetric circuit

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lv, Bo; Fu, Jiahui; Wu, Bian; Li, Rujiang; Zeng, Qingsheng; Yin, Xinhua; Wu, Qun; Gao, Lei; Chen, Wan; Wang, Zhefei; Liang, Zhiming; Li, Ao; Ma, Ruyu

    2017-01-01

    Parity-time (PT) symmetric structures present the unidirectional invisibility at the spontaneous PT-symmetry breaking point. In this paper, we propose a PT-symmetric circuit consisting of a resistor and a microwave tunnel diode (TD) which represent the attenuation and amplification, respectively. Based on the scattering matrix method, the circuit can exhibit an ideal unidirectional performance at the spontaneous PT-symmetry breaking point by tuning the transmission lines between the lumped elements. Additionally, the resistance of the reactance component can alter the bandwidth of the unidirectional invisibility flexibly. Furthermore, the electromagnetic simulation for the proposed circuit validates the unidirectional invisibility and the synchronization with the input energy well. Our work not only provides an unidirectional invisible circuit based on PT-symmetry, but also proposes a potential solution for the extremely selective filter or cloaking applications.

  2. Performance evaluation of platinum-molybdenum carbide nanocatalysts with ultralow platinum loading on anode and cathode catalyst layers of proton exchange membrane fuel cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Saha, Shibely; Cabrera Rodas, José Andrés; Tan, Shuai; Li, Dongmei

    2018-02-01

    An alternative catalyst platform, consisting of a phase-pure transition carbide (TMC) support and Pt nanoparticles (NPs) in the range of subnanometer to < 2.7 nm, is established that can be used in both anode and cathode catalyst layers. While some TMCs with low Pt loadings have demonstrated similar activity as commercial Pt catalyst in idealized disk electrode screening tests, few to none have been applied in a realistic fuel cell membrane electrode assembly (MEA). We recently reported that β-Mo2C hollow nanotubes modified with Pt NPs via atomic layer deposition (ALD) possess better activity and durability than 20% Pt/C. This paper presents systematic evaluation of the Pt/Mo2C catalysts in a MEA, investigating effects of different MEA preparation techniques, gas diffusion layers (GDL) and various Pt loadings in the ultralow range (<0.04 mg/cm2) on MEA performance. Most importantly, we demonstrate, for the first time, that Pt/Mo2C catalyst on both anode and cathode, with a loading of 0.02 mg (Pt) cm-2, generated peak power density of 414 mW cm-2 that corresponds to 10.35 kWgPt-1 using hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2). Accelerated degradation tests (ADT) on Pt/Mo2C catalysts show 111% higher power density than commercial 20% Pt/C after the vigorous ADT.

  3. New electrocatalysts for unitized regenerative fuel cell: Pt-Ir alloy deposited on the proton exchange membrane surface by impregnation-reduction method.

    PubMed

    Wan, Chieh-Hao; Wu, Chun-Lin; Lin, Meng-Tsun; Shih, Chihhsiong

    2010-07-01

    In this paper, a modified technique to prepare Pt-Ir catalyst layer on the proton exchange membrane (PEM) surface using the impregnation-reduction (IR) method is proposed to improve the electrocatalytic activity as well as the life cycle of the bifunctional oxygen electrode (BOE). The resulted electrocatalysts were characterized by the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Electron Probe Micro-Analysis (EPMA), and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). The electrocatalytic properties of the Pt-Ir layer on PEM surface for the oxygen reduction and water oxidation reactions as well as the life cycle of MEA were investigated. Experimental results showed that the Ir particles were dispersed densely in the platinum layer through the modified IR technique. The atomic ratio of Pt over Ir elements was 9:1, and the resulted thickness of the obtained Pt-Ir catalyst layer was about 1.0 microm. The Pt-Ir catalyst layer was composed of Pt layer doped with Ir nano-particles comprising nano Pt-Ir alloy phase. The large surface area of Ir core with Pt shell particles and the presence of nano Pt-Ir alloy phase led to a higher electrocatalytic activity of BOE. Due to the good binding between the Nafion membrane and the Pt-Ir alloy catalyst, as well as the composite structure of the resulted Pt-Ir, the life cycle of Unitized Regenerative Fuel Cell (URFC) is improved through this novel BOE.

  4. The influence of agility training on physiological and cognitive performance.

    PubMed

    Lennemann, Lynette M; Sidrow, Kathryn M; Johnson, Erica M; Harrison, Catherine R; Vojta, Christopher N; Walker, Thomas B

    2013-12-01

    Agility training (AT) has recently been instituted in several military communities in hopes of improving combat performance and general fitness. The purpose of this study was to determine how substituting AT for traditional military physical training (PT) influences physical and cognitive performance. Forty-one subjects undergoing military technical training were divided randomly into 2 groups for 6 weeks of training. One group participated in standard military PT consisting of calisthenics and running. A second group duplicated the amount of exercise of the first group but used AT as their primary mode of training. Before and after training, subjects completed a physical and cognitive battery of tests including V[Combining Dot Above]O2max, reaction time, Illinois Agility Test, body composition, visual vigilance, dichotic listening, and working memory tests. There were significant improvements within the AT group in V[Combining Dot Above]O2max, Illinois Agility Test, visual vigilance, and continuous memory. There was a significant increase in time-to-exhaustion for the traditional group. We conclude that AT is as effective or more effective as PT in enhancing physical fitness. Further, it is potentially more effective than PT in enhancing specific measures of physical and cognitive performance, such as physical agility, memory, and vigilance. Consequently, we suggest that AT be incorporated into existing military PT programs as a way to improve war-fighter performance. Further, it seems likely that the benefits of AT observed here occur in various other populations.

  5. Knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of technical staff towards doping in Spanish football.

    PubMed

    Morente-Sánchez, Jaime; Zabala, Mikel

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study was to understand the attitudes, beliefs and knowledge among technical staff members of Spanish football teams regarding doping. The sample was drawn from 88 football teams that ranged from elite to under-18 categories. The 237 stakeholders (34.45 ± 8.59 years) were categorised as follows: coaches (COA) (n = 101), physical trainers (PT) (n = 68) and rest of technical staff (RTS) (n = 68). The descriptive exploratory design used an instrument that combined a validated questionnaire (Performance Enhancement Attitude Scale; PEAS) with specific, qualitative open-ended questions. The overall mean score from the PEAS (range, 17-102, with higher scores representing more permissive attitudes towards doping) was 31.64 ± 10.77; for COA, 31.91 ± 11.42; for PT, 31.28 ± 9.44; and for RTS, 31.58 ± 11.18. Regarding participants' knowledge and beliefs, most respondents (57.6%) did not know the meaning of WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency); 84.9% did not know the prohibited list; and 39.2% had used/recommended supplements. In addition, 87.2% recognised "differential treatment of doping among sports," with cycling considered most affected (62.6%) and team sports least (27.2%, with football at 15%). The dangerous lack of knowledge highlights the necessity for anti-doping education and prevention programs for all football stakeholders, not just athletes.

  6. Multi-criteria decision analysis of concentrated solar power with thermal energy storage and dry cooling.

    PubMed

    Klein, Sharon J W

    2013-12-17

    Decisions about energy backup and cooling options for parabolic trough (PT) concentrated solar power have technical, economic, and environmental implications. Although PT development has increased rapidly in recent years, energy policies do not address backup or cooling option requirements, and very few studies directly compare the diverse implications of these options. This is the first study to compare the annual capacity factor, levelized cost of energy (LCOE), water consumption, land use, and life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of PT with different backup options (minimal backup (MB), thermal energy storage (TES), and fossil fuel backup (FF)) and different cooling options (wet (WC) and dry (DC). Multicriteria decision analysis was used with five preference scenarios to identify the highest-scoring energy backup-cooling combination for each preference scenario. MB-WC had the highest score in the Economic and Climate Change-Economy scenarios, while FF-DC and FF-WC had the highest scores in the Equal and Availability scenarios, respectively. TES-DC had the highest score for the Environmental scenario. DC was ranked 1-3 in all preference scenarios. Direct comparisons between GHG emissions and LCOE and between GHG emissions and land use suggest a preference for TES if backup is require for PT plants to compete with baseload generators.

  7. Reading, Language Arts and Literacy. [SITE 2002 Section].

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Matthew, Kathy, Ed.

    This document contains the following papers on reading, language arts, and literacy from the SITE (Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education) 2002 conference: "PT3 Facilitates Technology Use in Preservice Teacher Reading Courses" (Dana Arrowood and Michele Maldonado); "PT3 Technology Enhanced Lesson Plans for the Elementary School"…

  8. Mass Casualty Incident Primary Triage Methods in China

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Jin-Hong; Yang, Jun; Yang, Yu; Zheng, Jing-Chen

    2015-01-01

    Objective: To evaluate the technical characteristics and application of mass casualty incident (MCI) primary triage (PT) methods applied in China. Data Sources: Chinese literature was searched by Chinese Academic Journal Network Publishing Database (founded in June 2014). The English literature was searched by PubMed (MEDLINE) (1950 to June 2014). We also searched Official Websites of Chinese Central Government's (http://www.gov.cn/), National Health and Family Planning Commission of China (http://www.nhfpc.gov.cn/), and China Earthquake Information (http://www.csi.ac.cn/). Study Selection: We included studies associated with mass casualty events related to China, the PT applied in China, guidelines and standards, and application and development of the carding PT method in China. Results: From 3976 potentially relevant articles, 22 met the inclusion criteria, 20 Chinese, and 2 English. These articles included 13 case reports, 3 retrospective analyses of MCI, two methods introductions, three national or sectoral criteria, and one simulated field testing and validation. There were a total of 19 kinds of MCI PT methods that have been reported in China from 1950 to 2014. In addition, there were 15 kinds of PT methods reported in the literature from the instance of the application. Conclusions: The national and sectoral current triage criteria are developed mainly for earthquake relief. Classification is not clear. Vague criteria (especially between moderate and severe injuries) operability are not practical. There are no triage methods and research for children and special populations. There is no data and evidence supported triage method. We should revise our existing classification and criteria so it is clearer and easier to be grasped in order to build a real, practical, and efficient PT method. PMID:26415807

  9. CeO2/rGO/Pt sandwich nanostructure: rGO-enhanced electron transmission between metal oxide and metal nanoparticles for anodic methanol oxidation of direct methanol fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Yu, Xue; Kuai, Long; Geng, Baoyou

    2012-09-21

    Pt-based nanocomposites have been of great research interest. In this paper, we design an efficient MO/rGO/Pt sandwich nanostructure as an anodic electrocatalyst for DMFCs with combination of the merits of rigid structure of metallic oxides (MOs) and excellent electronic conductivity of reduced oxidized graphene (rGO) as well as overcoming their shortcomings. In this case, the CeO(2)/rGO/Pt sandwich nanostructure is successfully fabricated through a facile hydrothermal approach in the presence of graphene oxide and CeO(2) nanoparticles. This structure has a unique building architecture where rGO wraps up the CeO(2) nanoparticles and Pt nanoparticles are homogeneously dispersed on the surface of rGO. This novel structure endows this material with great electrocatalytic performance in methanol oxidation: it reduces the overpotential of methanol oxidation significantly and its electrocatalytic activity and stability are much enhanced compared with Pt/rGO, CeO(2)/Pt and Pt/C catalysts. This work supplies a unique MO/rGO/Pt sandwich nanostructure as an efficient way to improve the electrocatalytic performance, which will surely shed some light on the exploration of some novel structures of electrocatalyst for DMFCs.

  10. Preparation and characterization of Pt loaded WO3 films suitable for gas sensing applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jolly Bose, R.; Illyasukutty, Navas; Tan, K. S.; Rawat, R. S.; Vadakke Matham, Murukesan; Kohler, Heinz; Mahadevan Pillai, V. P.

    2018-05-01

    This paper presents the preparation of nanostructured platinum (Pt) loaded tungsten oxide (WO3) thin films by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering technique. Even though, Pt loading does not produce any phase change in WO3 lattice, it deteriorates the crystalline quality and induces defects on WO3 films. The Pt loading in WO3 has profound impact on structural and optical properties of the films by which the particle size, lattice strain and optical band gap energy are reduced. Nanoporous film with reduced particle size is obtained for 5 wt% Pt loaded WO3 sample which is crucial for gas sensors. Hence the sensing response of 5 wt% Pt loaded sample is tested towards carbon monoxide (CO) gas along with pure WO3 sample. The sensing response of Pt loaded sample is nearly 15 times higher than pure WO3 sample in non-humid ambience at an operating temperature 200 °C. This indicates the suitability of the prepared films for gas sensors. The sensing response of pure WO3 film depends on the humidity while the Pt loaded WO3 film shows stable response in both humid and non-humid ambiences.

  11. Local Platinum Environments in a Solid Analogue of the Molecular Periana Catalyst

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

    Soorholtz, Mario; Jones, Louis C.; Samuelis, Dominik

    2016-02-16

    Combining advantages of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis by incorporating active species on a solid support is often an effective strategy for improving overall catalyst performance, although the influences of the support are generally challenging to establish, especially at a molecular level. In this paper, we report the local compositions, and structures of platinum species incorporated into covalent triazine framework (Pt-CTF) materials, a solid analogue of the molecular Periana catalyst, Pt(bpym)Cl 2, both of which are active for the selective oxidation of methane in the presence of concentrated sulfuric acid. By using a combination of solid-state 195Pt nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)more » spectroscopy, aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (AC-STEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), important similarities and differences are observed between the Pt-CTF and Periana catalysts, which are likely related to their respective macroscopic reaction properties. In particular, wide-line solid-state 195Pt NMR spectra enable direct measurement, identification, and quantification of distinct platinum species in as-synthesized and used Pt-CTF catalysts. The results indicate that locally ordered and disordered Pt sites are present in as-synthesized Pt-CTF, with the former being similar to one of the two crystallographically distinct Pt sites in crystalline Pt(bpym)Cl 2. A distribution of relatively disordered Pt moieties is also present in the used catalyst, among which are the principal active sites. Similarly XAS shows good agreement between the measured data of Pt-CTF and a theoretical model based on Pt(bpym)Cl 2. Analyses of the absorption spectra of Pt-CTF used for methane oxidation suggests ligand exchange, as predicted for the molecular catalyst. XPS analyses of Pt(bpym)Cl 2, Pt-CTF, as well as the unmodified ligands, further corroborate platinum coordination by pyridinic N atoms. Aberration-corrected high-angle annular dark-field STEM proves that Pt atoms are distributed within Pt-CTF before and after catalysis. Finally, the overall results establish the close similarities of Pt-CTF and the molecular Periana catalyst Pt(bpym)Cl 2, along with differences that account for their respective properties.« less

  12. Ultra-fine Pt nanoparticles on graphene aerogel as a porous electrode with high stability for microfluidic methanol fuel cell

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kwok, Y. H.; Tsang, Alpha C. H.; Wang, Yifei; Leung, Dennis Y. C.

    2017-05-01

    Platinum-decorated graphene aerogel as a porous electrode for flow-through direct methanol microfluidic fuel cell is introduced. Ultra-fine platinum nanoparticles with size ranged from diameter 1.5 nm-3 nm are evenly anchored on the graphene nanosheets without agglomeration. The electrode is characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Catalytic activity is confirmed by cyclic voltammetry. The electroactive surface area and catalytic activity of platinum on graphene oxide (Pt/GO) are much larger than commercial platinum on carbon black (Pt/C). A counterflow microfluidic fuel cell is designed for contrasting the cell performance between flow-over type and flow-through type electrodes using Pt/C on carbon paper and Pt/GO, respectively. The Pt/GO electrode shows 358% increment in specific power compared with Pt/C anode. Apart from catalytic activity, the effect of porous electrode conductivity to cell performance is also studied. The conductivity of the porous electrode should be further enhanced to achieve higher cell performance.

  13. Pt 3Re alloy nanoparticles as electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction

    DOE PAGES

    Raciti, David; Kubal, Joseph; Ma, Cheng; ...

    2015-12-25

    Development of renewable energy technologies requires advanced catalysts for efficient electrical-chemical energy conversion reactions. Here in this paper, we report the study of Pt-Re alloy nanoparticles as an electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). An organic solution approach is developed to synthesize monodisperse and homogeneous Pt 3Re alloy nanoparticles. Electrochemical studies show that these nanoparticles exhibit an improvement factor of 4 in catalytic activity for the ORR compared to commercial Pt catalysts of similar particle sizes. Fundamental understanding of the structure-property relationship is established by combining material characterization using X-ray spectroscopy and atomically resolved electron microscopy, as well asmore » Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. Lastly, our work revealed that an electronic modification of the surface properties of Pt by subsurface Re (ligand effect) accounts for the catalytic enhancement.« less

  14. pt5m - a 0.5 m robotic telescope on La Palma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hardy, L. K.; Butterley, T.; Dhillon, V. S.; Littlefair, S. P.; Wilson, R. W.

    2015-12-01

    pt5m is a 0.5 m robotic telescope located on the roof of the 4.2 m William Herschel Telescope (WHT) building, at the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, La Palma. Using a five-position filter wheel and CCD detector, and bespoke control software, pt5m provides a high-quality robotic observing facility. The telescope first began robotic observing in 2012, and is now contributing to transient follow-up and time-resolved astronomical studies. In this paper, we present the scientific motivation behind pt5m, as well as the specifications and unique features of the facility. We also present an example of the science we have performed with pt5m, where we measure the radius of the transiting exoplanet WASP-33b. We find a planetary radius of 1.603 ± 0.014RJ.

  15. Comment on 'Supersymmetry, PT-symmetry and spectral bifurcation'

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

    Bagchi, B., E-mail: bbagchi123@rediffmail.com; Quesne, C., E-mail: cquesne@ulb.ac.be

    2011-02-15

    We demonstrate that the recent paper by Abhinav and Panigrahi entitled 'Supersymmetry, PT-symmetry and spectral bifurcation' [K. Abhinav, P.K. Panigrahi, Ann. Phys. 325 (2010) 1198], which considers two different types of superpotentials for the PT-symmetric complexified Scarf II potential, fails to take into account the invariance under the exchange of its coupling parameters. As a result, they miss the important point that for unbroken PT-symmetry this potential indeed has two series of real energy eigenvalues, to which one can associate two different superpotentials. This fact was first pointed out by the present authors during the study of complex potentials havingmore » a complex sl(2) potential algebra.« less

  16. Fabrication of Monolithic Sapphire Membranes for High Tc Bolometer Array Development

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pugel, D. E.; Lakew, B.; Aslam, S.; Wang, L.

    2003-01-01

    This paper examines the effectiveness of Pt/Cr thin film masks for the architecture of monolithic membrane structures in r-plane sapphire. The development of a pinhole-free Pt/Cr composite mask that is resistant to hot H2SO4:H3PO4 etchant, will lead to the fabrication of smooth sapphire membranes whose surfaces are well-suited for the growth of low-noise high Tc films. In particular, the relationship of thermal annealing conditions on the Pt/Cr composite mask system to: (1) changes in the surface morphology and elemental concentration of the Pt/Cr thin film layers and (2) etch pit formation on the sapphire surface will be presented.

  17. From bio-mineralisation to fuel cells: biomanufacture of Pt and Pd nanocrystals for fuel cell electrode catalyst.

    PubMed

    Yong, P; Paterson-Beedle, M; Mikheenko, I P; Macaskie, L E

    2007-04-01

    Biosynthesis of nano-scale platinum and palladium was achieved via enzymatically-mediated deposition of metal ions from solution. The bio-accumulated Pt(0) and Pd(0) crystals were dried, applied onto carbon paper and tested as anodes in a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell for power production. Up to 100% and 81% of the maximum power generation was achieved by the bio-Pt and bio-Pd catalysts, respectively, compared to commercial fuel cell grade Pt catalyst. Hence, biomineralisation could pave the way for economical production of fuel cell catalysts since previous studies have shown that precious metals can be biorecovered from wastes into catalytically active bionanomaterials.

  18. Photoelectrochemical NADH Regeneration using Pt-Modified p -GaAs Semiconductor Electrodes

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

    Stufano, Paolo; Paris, Aubrey R.; Bocarsly, Andrew

    Cofactor regeneration in enzymatic reductions is crucial for the application of enzymes to both biological and energy-related catalysis. Specifically, regenerating NADH from NAD + is of great interest, and using electrochemistry to achieve this end is considered a promising option. Here in this paper, we report the first example of photoelectrochemical NADH regeneration at the illuminated (λ >600 nm), metal-modified p-type semiconductor electrode Pt/p-GaAs. Although bare p-GaAs electrodes produce only enzymatically inactive NAD 2, NADH was produced at the illuminated Pt-modified p-GaAs surface. At low overpotential (–0.75 V vs. Ag/AgCl), Pt/p-GaAs exhibited a seven-fold greater Faradaic efficiency for the formationmore » of NADH than Pt alone, with reduced competition from the hydrogen evolution reaction. Improved Faradaic efficiency and low overpotential suggest the possible utility of Pt/p-GaAs in energy-related NADH-dependent enzymatic processes.« less

  19. Interfacial oxygen migration and its effect on the magnetic anisotropy in Pt/Co/MgO/Pt films

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

    Chen, Xi; Feng, Chun, E-mail: fengchun@ustb.edu.cn, E-mail: ghyu@mater.ustb.edu.cn; Liu, Yang

    2014-02-03

    This paper reports the interfacial oxygen migration effect and its induced magnetic anisotropy evolution in Pt/Co/MgO/Pt films. During depositing the MgO layer, oxygen atoms from the MgO combine with the neighboring Co atoms, leading to the formation of CoO at the Co/MgO interface. Meanwhile, the films show in-plane magnetic anisotropy (IMA). After annealing, most of the oxygen atoms in CoO migrate back to the MgO layer, resulting in obvious improvement of Co/MgO interface and the enhancement of effective Co-O orbital hybridization. These favor the evolution of magnetic anisotropy from IMA to perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA). The oxygen migration effect ismore » achieved by the redox reaction at the Co/MgO interface. On the contrary, the transfer from IMA to PMA cannot be observed in Pt/Co/Pt films due to the lack of interfacial oxygen migration.« less

  20. Photoelectrochemical NADH Regeneration using Pt-Modified p -GaAs Semiconductor Electrodes

    DOE PAGES

    Stufano, Paolo; Paris, Aubrey R.; Bocarsly, Andrew

    2017-02-22

    Cofactor regeneration in enzymatic reductions is crucial for the application of enzymes to both biological and energy-related catalysis. Specifically, regenerating NADH from NAD + is of great interest, and using electrochemistry to achieve this end is considered a promising option. Here in this paper, we report the first example of photoelectrochemical NADH regeneration at the illuminated (λ >600 nm), metal-modified p-type semiconductor electrode Pt/p-GaAs. Although bare p-GaAs electrodes produce only enzymatically inactive NAD 2, NADH was produced at the illuminated Pt-modified p-GaAs surface. At low overpotential (–0.75 V vs. Ag/AgCl), Pt/p-GaAs exhibited a seven-fold greater Faradaic efficiency for the formationmore » of NADH than Pt alone, with reduced competition from the hydrogen evolution reaction. Improved Faradaic efficiency and low overpotential suggest the possible utility of Pt/p-GaAs in energy-related NADH-dependent enzymatic processes.« less

  1. Particle in a box in PT-symmetric quantum mechanics and an electromagnetic analog

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dasarathy, Anirudh; Isaacson, Joshua P.; Jones-Smith, Katherine; Tabachnik, Jason; Mathur, Harsh

    2013-06-01

    In PT-symmetric quantum mechanics a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics, that the Hamiltonian must be Hermitian, is replaced by another set of requirements, including notably symmetry under PT, where P denotes parity and T denotes time reversal. Here we study the role of boundary conditions in PT-symmetric quantum mechanics by constructing a simple model that is the PT-symmetric analog of a particle in a box. The model has the usual particle-in-a-box Hamiltonian but boundary conditions that respect PT symmetry rather than Hermiticity. We find that for a broad class of PT-symmetric boundary conditions the model respects the condition of unbroken PT symmetry, namely, that the Hamiltonian and the symmetry operator PT have simultaneous eigenfunctions, implying that the energy eigenvalues are real. We also find that the Hamiltonian is self-adjoint under the PT-symmetric inner product. Thus we obtain a simple soluble model that fulfills all the requirements of PT-symmetric quantum mechanics. In the second part of this paper we formulate a variational principle for PT-symmetric quantum mechanics that is the analog of the textbook Rayleigh-Ritz principle. Finally we consider electromagnetic analogs of the PT-symmetric particle in a box. We show that the isolated particle in a box may be realized as a Fabry-Perot cavity between an absorbing medium and its conjugate gain medium. Coupling the cavity to an external continuum of incoming and outgoing states turns the energy levels of the box into sharp resonances. Remarkably we find that the resonances have a Breit-Wigner line shape in transmission and a Fano line shape in reflection; by contrast, in the corresponding Hermitian case the line shapes always have a Breit-Wigner form in both transmission and reflection.

  2. Physical properties of FePt nanocomposite doped with Ag atoms: First-principles study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jia, Yong-Fei; Shu, Xiao-Lin; Xie, Yong; Chen, Zi-Yu

    2014-07-01

    L10 FePt nanocomposite with high magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy has been extensively investigated in the fields of ultra-high density magnetic recording media. However, the order—disorder transition temperature of the nanocomposite is higher than 600 °C, which is a disadvantage for the use of the material due to the sustained growth of FePt grain under the temperature. To address the problem, addition of Ag atoms has been proposed, but the magnetic properties of the doped system are still unclear so far. Here in this paper, we use first-principles method to study the lattice parameters, formation energy, electronic structure, atomic magnetic moment and order—disorder transition temperature of L10 FePt with Ag atom doping. The results show that the formation energy of a Ag atom substituting for a Pt site is 1.309 eV, which is lower than that of substituting for an Fe site 1.346 eV. The formation energy of substituting for the two nearest Pt sites is 2.560 eV lower than that of substituting for the further sites 2.621 eV, which indicates that Ag dopants tend to segregate L10 FePt. The special quasirandom structures (SQSs) for the pure FePt and the FePt doped with two Ag atoms at the stable Pt sites show that the order—disorder transition temperatures are 1377 °C and 600 °C, respectively, suggesting that the transition temperature can be reduced with Ag atom, and therefore the FePt grain growth is suppressed. The saturation magnetizations of the pure FePt and the two Ag atoms doped FePt are 1083 emu/cc and 1062 emu/cc, respectively, indicating that the magnetic property of the doped system is almost unchanged.

  3. FY 1984 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, J. E. (Compiler)

    1984-01-01

    This bibliography lists formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel. Abstracts are presented for 56 technical memorandum, and 13 technical papers. Six publications, over 260 contractor reports, and more than 300 papers cleared for publication are cited.

  4. University-Community Engagement: A Case Study Using Popular Theatre

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Feagan, Robert; Rossiter, Katherine

    2011-01-01

    Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of popular theatre (PT) as a pedagogical tool around which a community service learning (CSL) senior undergraduate course was oriented, specifically assessing the university student learning experience from this work relative to PT processes and CSL objectives. Design/methodology/approach:…

  5. The Relationship of Employee Status to Organizational Culture and Organizational Effectiveness: A Quantitative Analysis

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Deem, Jackie W.; DeLotell, Pam J.; Kelly, Kathryn

    2015-01-01

    Purpose: This study investigates the relationship between employment status (full time (FT)/part time (PT)), organizational culture and institutional effectiveness in higher education. The purpose of this paper is to answer the question, "Does the growing population of PT faculty preclude effective cultures from developing and, accordingly,…

  6. Molecular Mechanisms of Metastatic Progression in Breast Cancer

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2005-07-31

    preliminary, this data indicated a possible protective effect of clusterin on the SUM-159PT cells following TNF-alpha treatment. 5 Dr . Flanagan’s...hormone independence and invasion are linked genotypically, or whether they involve inde- pendent genetic or epigenetics processes, remains to be...Foundation for Breast Cancer Research. The authors would like to acknowledge Ken Jones for his excellent technical assistance, and Jeffrey Dawson

  7. Adaptive Processing Experiment (APE) Phase II

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1976-05-01

    P*T*~--- - ~ q ~ IPY , U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Technical Information Service t AD/A-027 071 ADAPTIVE PROCESSING EXPERIMENT (APE...4 newsletter service covering the most recentik" research findings in 25 areas of industrial, The weekly w•Nsletter series will keep you...and professional informa- wish. Please request NTIS-PR-186/PCN for tion service provided by NTIS in the Weekly more information. Government Abstracts

  8. Lightning arrestor connector lead magnesium niobate qualification pellet test procedures.

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

    Tuohig, W.; Mahoney, Patrick A.; Tuttle, Bruce Andrew

    2009-02-01

    Enhanced knowledge preservation for DOE DP technical component activities has recently received much attention. As part of this recent knowledge preservation effort, improved documentation of the sample preparation and electrical testing procedures for lead magnesium niobate--lead titanate (PMN/PT) qualification pellets was completed. The qualification pellets are fabricated from the same parent powders used to produce PMN/PT lightning arrestor connector (LAC) granules at HWF&T. In our report, the procedures for fired pellet surface preparation, electrode deposition, electrical testing and data recording are described. The dielectric measurements described in our report are an information only test. Technical reasons for selecting the electrodemore » material, electrode size and geometry are presented. The electrical testing is based on measuring the dielectric constant and dissipation factor of the pellet during cooling from 280 C to 220 C. The most important data are the temperature for which the peak dielectric constant occurs (Curie Point temperature) and the peak dielectric constant magnitude. We determined that the peak dielectric constant for our procedure would be that measured at 1 kHz at the Curie Point. Both the peak dielectric constant and the Curie point parameters provide semi-quantitative information concerning the chemical and microstructural homogeneity of the parent material used for the production of PMN/PT granules for LACs. Finally, we have proposed flag limits for the dielectric data for the pellets. Specifically, if the temperature of the peak dielectric constant falls outside the range of 250 C {+-} 30 C we propose that a flag limit be imposed that will initiate communication between production agency and design agency personnel. If the peak dielectric constant measured falls outside the range 25,000 {+-} 10,000 we also propose that a flag limit be imposed.« less

  9. Thermal-Independent Properties of PIN-PMN-PT Single-Crystal Linear-Array Ultrasonic Transducers

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Ruimin; Wu, Jinchuan; Lam, Kwok Ho; Yao, Liheng; Zhou, Qifa; Tian, Jian; Han, Pengdi; Shung, K. Kirk

    2013-01-01

    In this paper, low-frequency 32-element linear-array ultrasonic transducers were designed and fabricated using both ternary Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)–Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)–PbTiO3 (PIN-PMN-PT) and binary Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)–PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) single crystals. Performance of the array transducers was characterized as a function of temperature ranging from room temperature to 160°C. It was found that the array transducers fabricated using the PIN-PMN-PT single crystal were capable of satisfactory performance at 160°C, having a −6-dB bandwidth of 66% and an insertion loss of 37 dB. The results suggest that the potential of PIN-PMN-PT linear-array ultrasonic transducers for high-temperature ultrasonic transducer applications is promising. PMID:23221227

  10. Extraordinary reflection and transmission with direction dependent wavelength selectivity based on parity-time-symmetric multilayers

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

    Ding, Shulin; Wang, Guo Ping, E-mail: gpwang@szu.edu.cn; College of Electronic Science and Technology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060

    In this paper, we present a kind of periodical ternary parity-time (PT) -symmetric multilayers to realize nearly 100% reflectance and transmittance simultaneously when light is incident from a certain direction. This extraordinary reflection and transmission is original from unidirectional Bragg reflection of PT-symmetric systems as the symmetry spontaneous breaking happens at PT thresholds. The extra energy involved in reflection and transmission lights is obtained from pumping light to the gain regions of the structure. Moreover, we find that our PT-symmetric structure shows direction dependent wavelength selectivity. When the illumination light is incident from two opposite directions into the multilayer structure,more » such extraordinary reflection and transmission appear at visible and near-infrared wavelengths, respectively. Such distinguishing properties may provide these structures with attractive applications as beam splitters, laser mirrors, narrow band filters, and multiband PT-symmetric optical devices.« less

  11. Effects of Nanowire Length and Surface Roughness on the Electrochemical Sensor Properties of Nafion-Free, Vertically Aligned Pt Nanowire Array Electrodes

    PubMed Central

    Li, Zhiyang; Leung, Calvin; Gao, Fan; Gu, Zhiyong

    2015-01-01

    In this paper, vertically aligned Pt nanowire arrays (PtNWA) with different lengths and surface roughnesses were fabricated and their electrochemical performance toward hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) detection was studied. The nanowire arrays were synthesized by electroplating Pt in nanopores of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template. Different parameters, such as current density and deposition time, were precisely controlled to synthesize nanowires with different surface roughnesses and various lengths from 3 μm to 12 μm. The PtNWA electrodes showed better performance than the conventional electrodes modified by Pt nanowires randomly dispersed on the electrode surface. The results indicate that both the length and surface roughness can affect the sensing performance of vertically aligned Pt nanowire array electrodes. Generally, longer nanowires with rougher surfaces showed better electrochemical sensing performance. The 12 μm rough surface PtNWA presented the largest sensitivity (654 μA·mM−1·cm−2) among all the nanowires studied, and showed a limit of detection of 2.4 μM. The 12 μm rough surface PtNWA electrode also showed good anti-interference property from chemicals that are typically present in the biological samples such as ascorbic, uric acid, citric acid, and glucose. The sensing performance in real samples (river water) was tested and good recovery was observed. These Nafion-free, vertically aligned Pt nanowires with surface roughness control show great promise as versatile electrochemical sensors and biosensors. PMID:26404303

  12. CO 2 hydrogenation on Pt, Pt/SiO 2 and Pt/TiO 2: Importance of synergy between Pt and oxide support

    DOE PAGES

    Kattel, Shyam; Yan, Binhang; Chen, Jingguang G.; ...

    2016-01-27

    In this paper we combined density functional theory (DFT), kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) simulations and experimental measurements to gain insight into the mechanisms of CO 2 conversion by hydrogen on the Pt nanoparticle (NP). The results show that in spite of the presence of active, low-coordinated sites, Pt NP alone is not able to catalyze the reaction due to the weak CO 2 binding on the catalyst. Once CO 2 is stabilized, the hydrogenation of CO 2 to CO via the reverse-water–gas shift (RWGS) reaction is promoted; in contrast, the enhancement for further *CO hydrogenation to CH 4 is lessmore » significant and no CH 3OH is observed. The selectivity to CO is mainly determined by CO binding energy and the energetics of *CO hydrogenation to *HCO, while that for CH 4 and CH 3OH is determined by the competition between hydrogenation and C–O bond scission reactions of the *H 2COH species. Using SiO 2 and TiO 2 as the support, Pt NP is able to promote the overall CO 2 conversion, while the impact on the selectivity is rather small. The theoretically predicted trend in activity and selectivity is in good agreement with the experimental results. Finally, the enhanced activity of Pt/oxide over Pt is originated from the sites at the Pt–oxide interface, where the synergy between Pt and oxide plays an important role.« less

  13. CO 2 hydrogenation on Pt, Pt/SiO 2 and Pt/TiO 2: Importance of synergy between Pt and oxide support

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

    Kattel, Shyam; Yan, Binhang; Chen, Jingguang G.

    In this paper we combined density functional theory (DFT), kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) simulations and experimental measurements to gain insight into the mechanisms of CO 2 conversion by hydrogen on the Pt nanoparticle (NP). The results show that in spite of the presence of active, low-coordinated sites, Pt NP alone is not able to catalyze the reaction due to the weak CO 2 binding on the catalyst. Once CO 2 is stabilized, the hydrogenation of CO 2 to CO via the reverse-water–gas shift (RWGS) reaction is promoted; in contrast, the enhancement for further *CO hydrogenation to CH 4 is lessmore » significant and no CH 3OH is observed. The selectivity to CO is mainly determined by CO binding energy and the energetics of *CO hydrogenation to *HCO, while that for CH 4 and CH 3OH is determined by the competition between hydrogenation and C–O bond scission reactions of the *H 2COH species. Using SiO 2 and TiO 2 as the support, Pt NP is able to promote the overall CO 2 conversion, while the impact on the selectivity is rather small. The theoretically predicted trend in activity and selectivity is in good agreement with the experimental results. Finally, the enhanced activity of Pt/oxide over Pt is originated from the sites at the Pt–oxide interface, where the synergy between Pt and oxide plays an important role.« less

  14. Temperature-dependent local structural properties of redox Pt nanoparticles on TiO 2 and ZrO 2 supports

    DOE PAGES

    Jeong, Eun -Suk; Park, Chang -In; Jin, Zhenlan; ...

    2015-01-21

    This paper examined the local structural properties of Pt nanoparticles on SiO 2, TiO 2–SiO 2, and ZrO 2–SiO 2 supports to better understand the impact of oxide-support type on the performance of Pt-based catalysts. In situ X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurements were taken for the Pt L3-edge in a temperature range from 300 to 700 K in He, H 2, and O 2 gas environments. The XAFS measurements demonstrated that Pt atoms were highly dispersed on TiO 2–SiO 2 and ZrO 2–SiO 2 forming pancake-shaped nanoparticles, whereas Pt atoms formed larger particles of hemispherical shapes on SiO 2more » supports. Contrary to the SiO 2 case, the coordination numbers for Pt, Ti, and Zr around Pt atoms on the TiO 2–SiO 2 and ZrO 2–SiO 2 supports were nearly constant from 300 to 700 K under the different gas environments. These results are consistent with the improvements in thermal stability of Pt nanoparticles achieved by incorporating TiO 2 or ZrO 2 on the surface of SiO 2 supports. XAFS analysis further indicated that the enhanced dispersion and stability of Pt were a consequence of the strong metal support interaction via Pt–Ti and Pt–Zr bonds.« less

  15. Ultrasensitive colorimetric immunoassay for hCG detection based on dual catalysis of Au@Pt core-shell nanoparticle functionalized by horseradish peroxidase

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Weiguo; Zou, Yake; Yan, Jinwu; Liu, Jing; Chen, Huixiong; Li, Shan; Zhang, Lei

    2018-03-01

    In this paper, an ultrasensitive colorimetric biosensor for human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) detection was designed from bottom-up method based on the dual catalysis of the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and Au@Pt nanoparticles (NPs) relative to H2O2-TEM system. HRP and monoclonal mouse anti-hCG antibody (β-submit, mAb1) were co-immobilized onto the Au@Pt NP surface to improve catalytic efficiency and specificity, which formed a dual functionalized Au@Pt-HRP probe with the mean size of 42.8 nm (D50). The colorimetric immunoassay was developed for the hCG detection, and the Au@Pt-HRP probe featured a higher sensitivity in the concentration range of 0.4-12.8 IU L- 1 with a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.1 IU L- 1 compared with the LODs of 0.8 IU L- 1 for BA-ELISA and of 2.0 IU L- 1 for Au@Pt, which indicated that the Au@Pt-HRP probe possessed higher catalytic efficiency with 2.8-fold increase over Au@Pt and 33.8-fold increase over HRP. Also, the Au@Pt-HRP probe exhibited good precision and reproducibility, high specificity and acceptable accuracy with CV being less than 15%. The dual functionalized Au@Pt-HRP probe as a type of signal amplified method was firstly applied in the colorimetric immunoassay for the hCG detection.

  16. Three-dimensional graphene/Pt nanoparticle composites as freestanding anode for enhancing performance of microbial fuel cells

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Shenlong; Li, Yuchen; Yin, Huajie; Liu, Zhouzhou; Luan, Enxiao; Zhao, Feng; Tang, Zhiyong; Liu, Shaoqin

    2015-01-01

    Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are able to directly convert about 50 to 90% of energy from oxidation of organic matters in waste to electricity and have great potential application in broad fields such as wastewater treatment. Unfortunately, the power density of the MFCs at present is significantly lower than the theoretical value because of technical limitations including low bacteria loading capacity and difficult electron transfer between the bacteria and the electrode. We reported a three-dimensional (3D) graphene aerogel (GA) decorated with platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs) as an efficient freestanding anode for MFCs. The 3D GA/Pt–based anode has a continuous 3D macroporous structure that is favorable for microorganism immobilization and efficient electrolyte transport. Moreover, GA scaffold is homogenously decorated with Pt NPs to further enhance extracellular charge transfer between the bacteria and the anode. The MFCs constructed with 3D GA/Pt–based anode generate a remarkable maximum power density of 1460 mW/m2, 5.3 times higher than that based on carbon cloth (273 mW/m2). It deserves to be stressed that 1460 mW/m2 obtained from the GA/Pt anode shows the superior performance among all the reported MFCs inoculated with Shewanella oneidensis MR-1. Moreover, as a demonstration of the real application, the MFC equipped with the freestanding GA/Pt anode has been successfully applied in driving timer for the first time, which opens the avenue toward the real application of the MFCs. PMID:26702430

  17. Inclusion criteria for physical therapy intervention studies on scoliosis - a review of the literature.

    PubMed

    Weiss, H R

    2012-01-01

    There is a wide variation of the inclusion criteria found in studies investigating the outcome of conservative scoliosis treatment. While the application of the SRS criteria for studies on bracing seem useful, there are no inclusion criteria for the investigation of physiotherapy alone. This study has been performed to investigate the possibility to find useful inclusion criteria for future prospective studies on physiotherapy (PT). A PubMed and (incomplete) hand search for outcome papers on PT has been performed in order to detect study designs and inclusion criteria used. Real outcome papers (start of treatment in immature samples / end results after the end of growth) have not been found. Some papers investigated mid-term effects of exercises, most were retrospective, few prospective and many included patient samples with questionable treatment indications. No paper has been found with patients of risk for being progressive followed from premenarchial status until skeletal maturity under physiotherapy treatment alone. Claims made to regard physiotherapy as an evidence based method of treatment are not justified scientifically. An agreement of the scientific community on common inclusion criteria for future studies on PT is necessary. We would suggest the following: (1) girls only, (2) age 10 to 13 with the first signs of maturation (Tanner II), (3) Risser 0-2, (4) risk for progression 40 - 60% according to Lonstein and Carlson. There is no outcome paper on PT in scoliosis with a patient sample at risk for being progressive followed from premenarchial status until skeletal maturity. Therefore, only bracing can be regarded as being evidence based in the management of scoliosis patients during growth.

  18. Synthesis of honeycomb-like mesoporous nitrogen-doped carbon nanospheres as Pt catalyst supports for methanol oxidation in alkaline media

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Yunmao; Liu, Yong; Liu, Weihua; Li, Xiying; Mao, Liqun

    2017-06-01

    This paper reports the convenient synthesis of honeycomb-like mesoporous nitrogen-doped carbon spheres (MNCS) using a self-assembly strategy that employs dopamine (DA) as a carbon and nitrogen precursor and a polystyrene-b-poly(ethylene oxide) (PS173-b-PEO170) diblock copolymer as a soft template. The MNCS have large BET surface areas of up to 554 m2 g-1 and high nitrogen contents of up to 6.9 wt%. The obtained MNCS are used as a support for Pt catalysts, which promote methanol oxidation in alkaline media. The MNCS-supported Pt (Pt/MNCS) catalyst has a larger electrochemically active surface area (ESA) (89.2 m2 g-1) than does a commercially available Vulcan XC-72R supported Pt/C catalyst. Compared to the Pt/C catalyst, Pt/MNCS displays a higher peak current density (1007 mA mg-1) and is more stable during methanol oxidation. These improvements are attributed to the honeycomb-like porous structure of the MNCS and the introduction of nitrogen to the carbon support. The MNCS effectively stabilize Pt nanoparticles and assuage the agglomeration of the nanoparticles, suggesting that MNCS are potential and promising application as electrocatalyst supports in alkaline direct methanol fuel cells.

  19. And lead us (not) into persuasion…? Persuasive technology and the ethics of communication.

    PubMed

    Spahn, Andreas

    2012-12-01

    The paper develops ethical guidelines for the development and usage of persuasive technologies (PT) that can be derived from applying discourse ethics to this type of technologies. The application of discourse ethics is of particular interest for PT, since 'persuasion' refers to an act of communication that might be interpreted as holding the middle between 'manipulation' and 'convincing'. One can distinguish two elements of discourse ethics that prove fruitful when applied to PT: the analysis of the inherent normativity of acts of communication ('speech acts') and the Habermasian distinction between 'communicative' and 'strategic rationality' and their broader societal interpretation. This essay investigates what consequences can be drawn if one applies these two elements of discourse ethics to PT.

  20. Fabrication of Monolithic Sapphire Membranes for High T(sub c) Bolometer Array Development

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pugel, D. E.; Lakew, B.; Aslam, S.; Wang, L.

    2004-01-01

    This paper examines the effectiveness of Pt/Cr thin film masks for the architecture of monolithic membrane structures in r-plane single crystal sapphire. The development of a pinhole-free Pt/Cr composite mask that is resistant to boiling H2SO4:H3PO4 etchant will lead to the fabrication of smooth sapphire membranes whose surfaces are well-suited for the growth of low-noise high Tc films. In particular, the relationship of thermal annealing conditions on the Pt/Cr composite mask system to: (1) changes in the surface morphology (2) elemental concentration of the Pt/Cr thin film layers and (3) etch pit formation on the sapphire surface will be presented.

  1. Synthesis of silver-platinum nanoferns substrates used in surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy sensors to detect creatinine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Adliha Abdullah, Nur; Abu Bakar, Norhayati; Shapter, Joseph G.; Mat Salleh, Muhamad; Umar, Akrajas Ali

    2017-06-01

    Creatinine is one of the most commonly used bio markers of renal function. This paper reports a study on detection of creatinine using silver-platinum (AgPt) nanoferns substrates to fabricate a surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) sensor. The AgPt nanoferns were synthesized by liquid phase deposition (LPD) where the morphology structures and thickness of the AgPt nanoferns were controlled by varying the concentration of formic acid which was acting as the reducing agent. We have obtained four different nanoferns structures and thicknesses. This study showed that the AgPt nanoferns structure synthesized with 40 mM formic acid give the highest Raman peak intensity for a 0.05 M creatinine sample.

  2. Determination of Pd, Pt and Rh in vehicles escape fumes by GF-AAS and ICP-OES.

    PubMed

    Goncalves, Antonio; Domínguez, José R; Alvarado, José

    2008-04-15

    Automotive exhaust gases from vehicles using catalytic converters were filtered through cellulose filter papers to collect suspended particles expulsed along with the engine's escape fumes. A specially designed sample collector was used for supporting the filter papers during collection. The collector was manufactured from a new car's exhaust pipe. A cellulose circular paper filter, 11 cm diameter, was attached to one end of the pipe and kept centered by pressing it against the borders of the pipe by means of a perforated aluminum cap, slightly wider than the pipe, used to cover this end of the collector. Filter papers loaded with the solid particles were acid-digested using a modified domestic microwave oven to bring the solid material into solution. The resulting solutions were analyzed for Pt by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GF-AAS) and for Pd and Rh by inductively coupled plasma (ICP-OES). Results indicate that concentration of these analytes in the particulate is higher for new vehicles, having new catalytic converters, than for old ones. Maximum Pd, Pt and Rh in the samples analyzed were found to be 5.36, 12.60 and 1.03 microg g(-1), respectively.

  3. Micromachined PIN-PMN-PT Crystal Composite Transducer for High-Frequency Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) Imaging

    PubMed Central

    Li, Xiang; Ma, Teng; Tian, Jian; Han, Pengdi; Zhou, Qifa; Shung, K. Kirk

    2015-01-01

    In this paper, we report the use of micromachined PbIn1/2Nb1/2O3–PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3–PbTiO3 (PIN-PMN-PT) single crystal 1–3 composite material for intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging application. The effective electromechanical coupling coefficient kt(eff) of the composite was measured to be 0.75 to 0.78. Acoustic impedance was estimated to be 20 MRayl. Based on the composite, needle-type and flexible-type IVUS transducers were fabricated. The composite transducer achieved an 86% bandwidth at the center frequency of 41 MHz, which resulted in a 43 μm axial resolution. Ex vivo IVUS imaging was conducted to demonstrate the improvement of axial resolution. The composite transducer was capable of identifying the three layers of a cadaver coronary artery specimen with high resolution. The PIN-PMN-PT-based composite has superior piezoelectric properties comparable to PMN-PT-based composite and its thermal stability is higher than PMN-PT. PIN-PMN-PT crystal can be an alternative approach for fabricating high-frequency composite, instead of using PMN-PT. PMID:24960706

  4. Morphology controlled synthesis of platinum nanoparticles performed on the surface of graphene oxide using a gas-liquid interfacial reaction and its application for high-performance electrochemical sensing.

    PubMed

    Bai, Wushuang; Sheng, Qinglin; Zheng, Jianbin

    2016-07-21

    In this paper, we report a novel morphology-controlled synthetic method. Platinum (Pt) nanoparticles with three kinds of morphology (aggregation-like, cube-like and globular) were grown on the surface of graphene oxide (GO) using a simple gas-liquid interfacial reaction and Pt/GO nanocomposites were obtained successfully. According to the experimental results, the morphology of the Pt nanoparticles can be controlled by adjusting the reaction temperature with the protection of chitosan. The obtained Pt/GO nanocomposites were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Then the Pt/GO nanocomposites with the three kinds of morphology were all used to fabricate electrochemical sensors. The electrochemical experimental results indicated that compared with various reported electrochemical sensors, the Pt/GO modified sensors in this work exhibit a low detection limit, high sensitivity and an extra wide linear range for the detection of nitrite. In addition, the synthesis of Pt particles based on a gas-liquid interfacial reaction provides a new platform for the controllable synthesis of nanomaterials.

  5. A ship-in-a-bottle strategy to synthesize encapsulated intermetallic nanoparticle catalysts: Exemplified for furfural hydrogenation

    DOE PAGES

    Maligal-Ganesh, Raghu V.; Xiao, Chaoxian; Goh, Tian Wei; ...

    2016-01-28

    In this paper, intermetallic compounds are garnering increasing attention as efficient catalysts for improved selectivity in chemical processes. Here, using a ship-in-a-bottle strategy, we synthesize single-phase platinum-based intermetallic nanoparticles (NPs) protected by a mesoporous silica (mSiO 2) shell by heterogeneous reduction and nucleation of Sn, Pb, or Zn in mSiO 2-encapsulated Pt NPs. For selective hydrogenation of furfural to furfuryl alcohol, a dramatic increase in activity and selectivity is observed when intermetallic NPs catalysts are used in comparison to Pt@mSiO 2. Among the intermetallic NPs, PtSn@mSiO 2 exhibits the best performance, requiring only one-tenth of the quantity of Pt usedmore » in Pt@mSiO 2 for similar activity and near 100% selectivity to furfuryl alcohol. A high-temperature oxidation–reduction treatment easily reverses any carbon deposition-induced catalyst deactivation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy shows the importance of surface composition to the activity, whereas density functional theory calculations reveal that the enhanced selectivity on PtSn compared to Pt is due to the different furfural adsorption configurations on the two surfaces.« less

  6. Nanoparticle-enhanced electrical detection of Zika virus on paper microchips.

    PubMed

    Draz, Mohamed Shehata; Venkataramani, Manasa; Lakshminarayanan, Harini; Saygili, Ecem; Moazeni, Maryam; Vasan, Anish; Li, Yudong; Sun, Xiaoming; Hua, Stephane; Yu, Xu G; Shafiee, Hadi

    2018-06-08

    Zika virus (ZIKV) is a reemerging flavivirus causing an ongoing pandemic and public health emergency worldwide. There are currently no effective vaccines or specific therapy for Zika infection. Rapid, low-cost diagnostics for mass screening and early detection are of paramount importance in timely management of the infection at the point-of-care (POC). The current Zika diagnostics are laboratory-based and cannot be implemented at the POC particularly in resource-limited settings. Here, we develop a nanoparticle-enhanced viral lysate electrical sensing assay for Zika virus detection on paper microchips with printed electrodes. The virus is isolated from biological samples using antibodies and labeled with platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) to enhance the electrical signal. The captured ZIKV-PtNP complexes are lysed using a detergent to release the electrically charged molecules associated with the intact virus and the PtNPs on the captured viruses. The released charged molecules and PtNPs change the electrical conductivity of the solution, which can be measured on a cellulose paper microchip with screen-printed microelectrodes. The results confirmed a highly specific detection of ZIKV in the presence of other non-targeted viruses, including closely related flaviviruses such as dengue virus-1 and dengue virus-2 with a detection limit down to 101 virus particles per μl. The developed assay is simple, rapid, and cost-effective and has the potential for POC diagnosis of viral infections and treatment monitoring.

  7. Measuring the Readability of Training Materials by the PLATO IV Computer-Based Instructional System,

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1974-09-15

    Technical Information Center ATTN: DTIC-DDAB P83-0290 Cameron Sta BG 5 Alexandria VA 22314 1. I regret that it took so long to respond to your request...8217- ConeokeO -; ’ the~r grade .,evec tl"-a wr, er3 5:~ng -not e *QLrisse. TV- -are :~n. - ~-t-r ecked bv~ nine educatiorwtrainine 5ptCiaiist- using Vi

  8. Defense Technical Information Center Cataloging, Abstracting and Indexing Guidelines

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-05-01

    APPEARS AS: ENTER AS: General Electric Co., Daytona Beach , Florida. Apollo Support Dept. General Electric Co Daytona Beach FL Apollo Support Dept...OMAN OM PAKISTAN PK PALAU PW PANAMA PA PAPUA NEW GUINEA PG PARAGUAY PY PERU PE PHILIPPINES PH PITCAIRN PN POLAND PL PORTUGAL PT PUERTO...OMN PAKISTAN PAK PALAU PLW PANAMA PAN PAPUA NEW GUINEA PNG PARAGUAY PRY PERU PER PHILIPPINES PHL PITCAIRN PCN POLAND POL PORTUGAL PRT

  9. Transforming AdaPT to Ada

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Goldsack, Stephen J.; Holzbach-Valero, A. A.; Waldrop, Raymond S.; Volz, Richard A.

    1991-01-01

    This paper describes how the main features of the proposed Ada language extensions intended to support distribution, and offered as possible solutions for Ada9X can be implemented by transformation into standard Ada83. We start by summarizing the features proposed in a paper (Gargaro et al, 1990) which constitutes the definition of the extensions. For convenience we have called the language in its modified form AdaPT which might be interpreted as Ada with partitions. These features were carefully chosen to provide support for the construction of executable modules for execution in nodes of a network of loosely coupled computers, but flexibly configurable for different network architectures and for recovery following failure, or adapting to mode changes. The intention in their design was to provide extensions which would not impact adversely on the normal use of Ada, and would fit well in style and feel with the existing standard. We begin by summarizing the features introduced in AdaPT.

  10. Evaluating the flux of extraterrestrial osmium at the onset of Younger Dryas in the GRIP ice core

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Seo, J. H.; Han, C.; Hong, S.; Steffensen, J. P.; Sharma, M.

    2016-12-01

    The Younger Dryas (YD: 12.9-11.6 ka) was an abrupt cooling event during the last deglaciation. The mechanism behind the cooling is suggested to be a temporary slowdown of North Atlantic thermohaline circulation due to catastrophic release of meltwater from proglacial Lake Agassiz during the retreat of the Laurentide Ice Sheet [1]. An alternative hypothesis states that the cooling was directly/indirectly triggered by one or more cosmic airbursts/impacts [2]. While several papers have documented evidence for a YD extraterrestrial impact including microspherules, nanodiamonds, magnetic grains, and glass-like carbon [4-7], this hypothesis remains controversial [8-10]. In a recent study by Petaev et al. [11], an unusually high Pt/Ir ratio of 1200 was discovered in the GISP-2 ice core at the onset of YD, indicating a large Pt enriched iron meteorite impact. Such a high Pt/Ir in extraterrestrial materials has not been documented [12]. Thus, Petaev et al. [11] acknowledge that the interpretation of the Pt anomaly is based on circumstantial evidence. The distinct Os isotopic composition (187Os/188Os ratio) of the terrestrial (=1.26) and extraterrestrial (= 0.13) sources should allow us to evaluate if there was a meteorite impact at the YD boundary. These analyses are technically challenging owing to rather low concentration of Os in ice-melts ( 1x10-15g/g). Here, we will present Os isotope data from the GRIP ice core spanning the time period through YD to shed light on the meteorite/comet impact hypothesis. [1] Broecker et al. (1989) Nature 341, 318-321; [2] Firestone et al. (2007) PNAS. 104, 16016-16021; [3] Bunch et al. (2012) PNAS. 109, 1903-1912; [4] LeCompte et al. (2012) PNAS. 109, 2960-2969; [5] Wittke et al. (2013) PNAS 110, 2088-2097; [6] Wu et al. (2013) PNAS. 110, 3557-3566; [7] Kennett et al. (2015) PNAS 112, E4344-E4353; [8] Pinter et al. (2011) Earth Sci. Rev., 106, 247-264; [9] Holliday et al. (2014) J. Quat. Sci. 29, 515-530; [10] Meltzer et al. (2014) PNAS. 111, 2162-2171; [11] Petaev et al. (2013) PNAS. 110, 12917-12920; [12] Wasson et al. (2007) GCA. 71:760-781

  11. Reaction products and oxide thickness formed by Ti out-diffusion and oxidization in poly-Pt/Ti/SiO 2/Si with oxide films deposited

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Changhong; Huang, Dexiu; Zhu, Weiguang; Feng, Yi; Wu, Xigang

    2006-08-01

    In the paper, we present experimental results to enhance the understanding of Ti out-diffusion and oxidization in commercial poly-Pt/Ti/SiO 2/Si wafers with perovskite oxide films deposited when heat-treated in flowing oxygen ambient. It indicates that when heat-treated at 550 and 600 °C, PtTi 3+PtTi and PtTi are the reaction products from interfacial interaction, respectively; while heat-treated at 650 °C and above, the products become three layers of titanium oxides instead of the alloys. Confirmed to be rutile TiO 2, the first two layers spaced by 65 nm encapsulate the Pt surface by the first layer with 60 nm thick forming at its surface and by the next layer with 35 nm thick inserting its original layer. In addition, the next layer is formed as a barrier to block up continuous diffusion paths of Ti, and thus results in the last layer of TiO 2- x formed by the residual Ti oxidizing.

  12. Ultrastrong extraordinary transmission and reflection in PT-symmetric Thue-Morse optical waveguide networks.

    PubMed

    Wu, Jiaye; Yang, Xiangbo

    2017-10-30

    In this paper, we construct a 1D PT-symmetric Thue-Morse aperiodic optical waveguide network (PTSTMAOWN) and mainly investigate the ultrastrong extraordinary transmission and reflection. We propose an approach to study the photonic modes and solve the problem of calculating photonic modes distributions in aperiodic networks due to the lack of dispersion functions and find that in a PTSTMAOWN there exist more photonic modes and more spontaneous PT-symmetric breaking points, which are quite different from other reported PT-symmetric optical systems. Additionally, we develop a method to sort spontaneous PT-symmetric breaking point zones to seek the strongest extraordinary point and obtain that at this point the strongest extraordinary transmission and reflection arrive at 2.96316 × 10 5 and 1.32761 × 10 5 , respectively, due to the PT-symmetric coupling resonance and the special symmetry pattern of TM networks. These enormous gains are several orders of magnitude larger than the previous results. This optical system may possess potential in designing optical amplifier, optical logic elements in photon computers and ultrasensitive optical switches with ultrahigh monochromatity.

  13. Exchange spring in A1/L1{sub 0} FePt composite and its application in magnetic force microscope

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

    Li, Guoqing, E-mail: gqli@swu.edu.cn; Zhu, Yanyan, E-mail: zhubai@swu.edu.cn; Zhang, Yong

    2015-02-23

    This paper reported fabrication of Fe{sub x}Pt{sub 100-x} films with (001) epitaxy on MgO(100) substrates. The atomic percentage of Fe was changed within the range of x = 10–85 in order to search the optimal atomic ratio for achieving both high and isotropic-like coercivity. It was found that the Fe{sub 60}Pt{sub 40} film exhibited large coercivities exceeding 5 kOe along both in-plane and out-of-plane directions due to the formation of A1/L1{sub 0} FePt composite. A penta-domain model for hard/soft/hard exchange spring system was proposed to interpret the anomalous magnetization behaviors observed in Fe{sub 60}Pt{sub 40} sample. By using Fe{sub 60}Pt{sub 40} asmore » the magnetic coating layer on a probe of magnetic force microscope, the flux changes at a linear density of 1000 kfci could be readily observed at a resolution of ∼13 nm.« less

  14. Micromachined PIN-PMN-PT crystal composite transducer for high-frequency intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging.

    PubMed

    Li, Xiang; Ma, Teng; Tian, Jian; Han, Pengdi; Zhou, Qifa; Shung, K Kirk

    2014-07-01

    In this paper, we report the use of micromachined PbIn1/2Nb1/2O3-PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3-PbTiO 3 (PIN-PMNPT) single crystal 1-3 composite material for intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging application. The effective electromechanical coupling coefficient kt(eff) of the composite was measured to be 0.75 to 0.78. Acoustic impedance was estimated to be 20 MRayl. Based on the composite, needle-type and flexible-type IVUS transducers were fabricated. The composite transducer achieved an 86% bandwidth at the center frequency of 41 MHz, which resulted in a 43 μm axial resolution. Ex vivo IVUS imaging was conducted to demonstrate the improvement of axial resolution. The composite transducer was capable of identifying the three layers of a cadaver coronary artery specimen with high resolution. The PIN-PMN-PT-based composite has superior piezoelectric properties comparable to PMN-PT-based composite and its thermal stability is higher than PMN-PT. PIN-PMN-PT crystal can be an alternative approach for fabricating high-frequency composite, instead of using PMN-PT.

  15. Probing the formation mechanism and chemical states of carbon-supported Pt-Ru nanoparticles by in situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Hwang, Bing Joe; Chen, Ching-Hsiang; Sarma, Loka Subramanyam; Chen, Jiun-Ming; Wang, Guo-Rung; Tang, Mau-Tsu; Liu, Din-Goa; Lee, Jyh-Fu

    2006-04-06

    The understanding of the formation mechanism of nanoparticles is essential for the successful particle design and scaling-up process. This paper reports findings of an X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) investigation, comprised of X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) regions, to understand the mechanism of the carbon-supported Pt-Ru nanoparticles (NPs) formation process. We have utilized Watanabe's colloidal reduction method to synthesize Pt-Ru/C NPs. We slightly modified the Watanabe method by introducing a mixing and heat treatment step of Pt and Ru oxidic species at 100 degrees C for 8 h with a view to enhance the mixing efficiency of the precursor species, thereby one can achieve improved homogeneity and atomic distribution in the resultant Pt-Ru/C NPs. During the reduction process, in situ XAS measurements allowed us to follow the evolution of Pt and Ru environments and their chemical states. The Pt LIII-edge XAS indicates that when H2PtCl6 is treated with NaHSO3, the platinum compound is found to be reduced to a Pt(II) form corresponding to the anionic complex [Pt(SO3)4]6-. Further oxidation of this anionic complex with hydrogen peroxide forms dispersed [Pt(OH)6]2- species. Analysis of Ru K-edge XAS results confirms the reduction of RuIIICl3 to [RuII(OH)4]2- species upon addition of NaHSO3. Addition of hydrogen peroxide to [RuII(OH)4]2- causes dehydrogenation and forms RuOx species. Mixing of [Pt(OH)6]2- and RuOx species and heat treatment at 100 degrees C for 8 h produced a colloidal sol containing both Pt and Ru metallic as well as ionic contributions. The reduction of this colloidal mixture at 300 degrees C in hydrogen atmosphere for 2 h forms Pt-Ru nanoparticles as indicated by the presence of Pt and Ru atoms in the first coordination shell. Determination of the alloying extent or atomic distribution of Pt and Ru atoms in the resulting Pt-Ru/C NPs reveals that the alloying extent of Ru (JRu) is greater than that of the alloying extent of Pt (JPt). The XAS results support the Pt-rich core and Ru-rich shell structure with a considerable amount of segregation in the Pt region and with less segregation in the Ru region for the obtained Pt-Ru/C NPs.

  16. μ SR and magnetometry study of superconducting 5% Pt-doped IrTe 2

    DOE PAGES

    Wilson, M. N.; Medina, T.; Munsie, T. J.; ...

    2016-11-11

    In this paper, we present magnetometry and muon spin rotation ( SR) measurements of the superconducting dichalcogenide Ir 0.95Pt 0.05Te 2. From both sets of measurements we calculate the penetration depth and thence superfluid density as a function of temperature. The temperature dependence of the superfluid densities from both sets of data indicate fully gapped superconductivity that can be fit to a conventional s-wave model and yield fitting parameters consistent with a BCS weak coupling superconductor. Finally, we therefore see no evidence for exotic superconductivity in Ir 0.95Pt 0.05Te 2.

  17. Experimental study of temperature sensor for an ocean-going liquid hydrogen (LH2) carrier

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nakano, A.; Shimazaki, T.; Sekiya, M.; Shiozawa, H.; Aoyagi, A.; Ohtsuka, K.; Iwakiri, T.; Mikami, Z.; Sato, M.; Kinoshita, K.; Matsuoka, T.; Takayama, Y.; Yamamoto, K.

    2018-04-01

    The prototype temperature sensors for an ocean-going liquid hydrogen (LH2) carrier were manufactured by way of trial. All of the sensors adopted Platinum 1000 (PT-1000) resistance thermometer elements. Various configurations of preproduction temperature sensors were tested in AIST's LH2 test facility. In the experiments, a PT-1000 resistance thermometer, calibrated at the National Metrology Institute of Japan at AIST, was used as the standard thermometer. The temperatures measured by the preproduction sensors were compared with the temperatures measured by the standard thermometer, and the measurement accuracy of the temperature sensors in LH2 was investigated and discussed. It was confirmed that the measurement accuracies of the preproduction temperature sensors were within ±50 mK, which is the required measurement accuracy for a technical demonstration ocean-going LH2 carrier.

  18. Synthesis of Densely Packaged, Ultrasmall Pt02 Clusters within a Thioether-Functionalized MOF: Catalytic Activity in Industrial Reactions at Low Temperature.

    PubMed

    Mon, Marta; Rivero-Crespo, Miguel A; Ferrando-Soria, Jesús; Vidal-Moya, Alejandro; Boronat, Mercedes; Leyva-Pérez, Antonio; Corma, Avelino; Hernández-Garrido, Juan C; López-Haro, Miguel; Calvino, José J; Ragazzon, Giulio; Credi, Alberto; Armentano, Donatella; Pardo, Emilio

    2018-05-22

    The gram-scale synthesis, stabilization, and characterization of well-defined ultrasmall subnanometric catalytic clusters on solids is a challenge. The chemical synthesis and X-ray snapshots of Pt 0 2 clusters, homogenously distributed and densely packaged within the channels of a metal-organic framework, is presented. This hybrid material catalyzes efficiently, and even more importantly from an economic and environmental viewpoint, at low temperature (25 to 140 °C), energetically costly industrial reactions in the gas phase such as HCN production, CO 2 methanation, and alkene hydrogenations. These results open the way for the design of precisely defined catalytically active ultrasmall metal clusters in solids for technically easier, cheaper, and dramatically less-dangerous industrial reactions. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  19. Ultrathin Pt xSn 1–x Nanowires for Methanol and Ethanol Oxidation Reactions: Tuning Performance by Varying Chemical Composition

    DOE PAGES

    Li, Luyao; Liu, Haiqing; Qin, Chao; ...

    2018-02-28

    Pt-based alloys denote promising catalysts for the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR), due to their enhanced activity toward alcohol-oxidation reactions and reduced cost as compared with Pt alone. Among all of these binary systems, PtSn has been reported to exhibit superior methanol/ethanol oxidation activity. In this paper, we deliberatively tailor chemical composition, reduce size, and optimize morphology of the catalyst in an effort to understand structure–property correlations that can be used to improve upon the electrocatalytic activity of these systems. Previous work performed by our group suggested that Pt-based catalysts, possessing an ultrathin one-dimensional (1D)more » structure, dramatically promote both cathodic and anodic reactions with respect to their zero-dimensional (0D) counterparts. Herein, a novel set of ultrathin binary Pt–Sn 1D nanowire (NW) catalysts with rationally controlled chemical compositions, i.e., Pt 9Sn 1, Pt 8Sn 2, and Pt 7Sn 3, has been synthesized using a facile, room-temperature, wet-solution-based method. The crystallinity and chemical composition of these as-prepared samples were initially characterized using XRD, XPS, and EDX. Results revealed that this synthetic protocol could successfully generate PtSn alloys with purposely tunable chemical compositions. TEM and HRTEM verified the structural integrity of our ultrathin 1D NW morphology for our Pt 9Sn 1, Pt 8Sn 2, and Pt 7Sn 3 samples. The effects of varying Sn content within these alloy samples toward the electro-oxidation reaction of methanol and ethanol were probed using cyclic voltammetry (CV) in acidic media. Finally, within this series, we find that the optimized chemical composition for both the MOR and the EOR is Pt 7Sn 3.« less

  20. Ultrathin Pt xSn 1–x Nanowires for Methanol and Ethanol Oxidation Reactions: Tuning Performance by Varying Chemical Composition

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

    Li, Luyao; Liu, Haiqing; Qin, Chao

    Pt-based alloys denote promising catalysts for the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR), due to their enhanced activity toward alcohol-oxidation reactions and reduced cost as compared with Pt alone. Among all of these binary systems, PtSn has been reported to exhibit superior methanol/ethanol oxidation activity. In this paper, we deliberatively tailor chemical composition, reduce size, and optimize morphology of the catalyst in an effort to understand structure–property correlations that can be used to improve upon the electrocatalytic activity of these systems. Previous work performed by our group suggested that Pt-based catalysts, possessing an ultrathin one-dimensional (1D)more » structure, dramatically promote both cathodic and anodic reactions with respect to their zero-dimensional (0D) counterparts. Herein, a novel set of ultrathin binary Pt–Sn 1D nanowire (NW) catalysts with rationally controlled chemical compositions, i.e., Pt 9Sn 1, Pt 8Sn 2, and Pt 7Sn 3, has been synthesized using a facile, room-temperature, wet-solution-based method. The crystallinity and chemical composition of these as-prepared samples were initially characterized using XRD, XPS, and EDX. Results revealed that this synthetic protocol could successfully generate PtSn alloys with purposely tunable chemical compositions. TEM and HRTEM verified the structural integrity of our ultrathin 1D NW morphology for our Pt 9Sn 1, Pt 8Sn 2, and Pt 7Sn 3 samples. The effects of varying Sn content within these alloy samples toward the electro-oxidation reaction of methanol and ethanol were probed using cyclic voltammetry (CV) in acidic media. Finally, within this series, we find that the optimized chemical composition for both the MOR and the EOR is Pt 7Sn 3.« less

  1. Dimethyl ether electro-oxidation on platinum surfaces

    DOE PAGES

    Roling, Luke T.; Herron, Jeffrey A.; Budiman, Winny; ...

    2016-02-27

    A first-principles density functional theory study was performed in this paper to elucidate the mechanism of dimethyl ether electro-oxidation on three low-index platinum surfaces (Pt(111), Pt(100), and Pt(211)). The goal of this study is to provide a fundamental explanation for the high activity observed experimentally on Pt(100) compared to Pt(111) and stepped surfaces. We determine that the enhanced activity of Pt(100) stems from more facile C–O bond breaking kinetics, as well as from easier removal of CO as a surface poison through activation of water. In general, the C–O bond (in CH xOCH y) becomes easier to break as dimethylmore » ether is dehydrogenated to a greater extent. In contrast, dehydrogenation becomes more difficult as more hydrogen atoms are removed. We perform two analyses of probable reaction pathways, which both identify CHOC and CO as the key reaction intermediates on these Pt surfaces. We show that the reaction mechanism on each surface is dependent on the cell operating potential, as increasing the potential facilitates C–H bond scission, in turn promoting the formation of intermediates for which C–O scission is more facile. We additionally demonstrate that CO oxidation determines the high overpotential required for electro-oxidation on Pt surfaces. Finally, at practical operating potentials (~0.60 V RHE), we determine that C–O bond breaking is most likely the most difficult step on all three Pt surfaces studied.« less

  2. Preparation and characterization of ultraflat Pt facets by atom-height-resolved differential optical microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Azhagurajan, M.; Wen, R.; Kim, Y. G.; Itoh, T.; Sashikata, K.; Itaya, K.

    2015-01-01

    We recently demonstrated that improvements to our technique, laser confocal microscopy with differential interference microscopy (LCM-DIM), has rendered it fully capable of resolving monatomic steps with heights of ca. 0.25 nm on Au(111) and Pd(111) surfaces, even as low as 0.14 nm on Si(100), in aqueous solution. In this paper, we describe in detail a method to prepare and characterize, via atomic-layer-resolved LCM-DIM, ultraflat Pt(111) and Pt(100) facets over a wide surface area. The preparation of ultraflat surfaces is important in the characterization at the atomic scale of electrochemical processes under reaction conditions. To showcase the elegance of LCM-DIM, the anodic dissolution of Pt in aqueous HCl is briefly recounted.

  3. Exchange-coupled hard magnetic Fe-Co/CoPt nanocomposite films fabricated by electro-infiltration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wen, Xiao; Andrew, Jennifer S.; Arnold, David P.

    2017-05-01

    This paper introduces a potentially scalable electro-infiltration process to produce exchange-coupled hard magnetic nanocomposite thin films. Fe-Co/CoPt nanocomposite films are fabricated by deposition of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles onto Si substrate, followed by electroplating of CoPt. Samples are subsequently annealed under H2 to reduce the CoFe2O4 to magnetically soft Fe-Co and also induce L10 ordering in the CoPt. Resultant films exhibit 0.97 T saturation magnetization, 0.70 T remanent magnetization, 127 kA/m coercivity and 21.8 kJ/m3 maximum energy density. First order reversal curve (FORC) analysis and δM plot are used to prove the exchange coupling between soft and hard magnetic phases.

  4. Impacts of Urban Economic Factors on Private Tutoring Industry

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kim, Kyung-Min; Park, Daekwon

    2012-01-01

    This paper investigates both supply (the number of employees in the PT industry and the number of PT institutions) and demand (the number of middle and high school students, grade 7-12). Panel data are used for this research, making it possible to analyze market growth over time since it contains both cross-sectional and time-series information.…

  5. A biohydrogen fuel cell using a conductive polymer nanocomposite based anode.

    PubMed

    Hoa, Le Quynh; Sugano, Yasuhito; Yoshikawa, Hiroyuki; Saito, Masato; Tamiya, Eiichi

    2010-07-15

    This paper introduces a newly designed biohydrogen fuel cell by integrating a bioreactor for hydrogen production with the anode chamber in a hydrogen fuel cell. Two different composites of platinum nanoparticles decorated on functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes (Pt/fMWCNTs) and polyaniline (PANI) were fabricated using the electrochemical polymerisation method and used as anodes. The biohydrogen fuel cell using a thin film of PANI nanofibres deposited on Pt/fMWCNTs/carbon paper as the anode showed much higher power density than the cell using a core-shell structure PANI/Pt/fMWCNTs and Pt/fMWCNTs without PANI based anodes. The structural differences between these two composites and their effects on the interaction with hydrogen gas inside the anode chamber leading to the difference in power density of the fuel cell were also discussed. The maximum power density was 613.5 mW m(-2), which was obtained at a current density of about 2.55 A m(-2) with a cell voltage of 0.24 V using 20 mL single-chamber air-cathode, compact biohydrogen fuel cell. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Dynamic Monitoring Reveals Motor Task Characteristics in Prehistoric Technical Gestures

    PubMed Central

    Pfleging, Johannes; Stücheli, Marius; Iovita, Radu; Buchli, Jonas

    2015-01-01

    Reconstructing ancient technical gestures associated with simple tool actions is crucial for understanding the co-evolution of the human forelimb and its associated control-related cognitive functions on the one hand, and of the human technological arsenal on the other hand. Although the topic of gesture is an old one in Paleolithic archaeology and in anthropology in general, very few studies have taken advantage of the new technologies from the science of kinematics in order to improve replicative experimental protocols. Recent work in paleoanthropology has shown the potential of monitored replicative experiments to reconstruct tool-use-related motions through the study of fossil bones, but so far comparatively little has been done to examine the dynamics of the tool itself. In this paper, we demonstrate that we can statistically differentiate gestures used in a simple scraping task through dynamic monitoring. Dynamics combines kinematics (position, orientation, and speed) with contact mechanical parameters (force and torque). Taken together, these parameters are important because they play a role in the formation of a visible archaeological signature, use-wear. We present our new affordable, yet precise methodology for measuring the dynamics of a simple hide-scraping task, carried out using a pull-to (PT) and a push-away (PA) gesture. A strain gage force sensor combined with a visual tag tracking system records force, torque, as well as position and orientation of hafted flint stone tools. The set-up allows switching between two tool configurations, one with distal and the other one with perpendicular hafting of the scrapers, to allow for ethnographically plausible reconstructions. The data show statistically significant differences between the two gestures: scraping away from the body (PA) generates higher shearing forces, but requires greater hand torque. Moreover, most benchmarks associated with the PA gesture are more highly variable than in the PT gesture. These results demonstrate that different gestures used in ‘common’ prehistoric tasks can be distinguished quantitatively based on their dynamic parameters. Future research needs to assess our ability to reconstruct these parameters from observed use-wear patterns. PMID:26284785

  7. Silicon-germanium and platinum silicide nanostructures for silicon based photonics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Storozhevykh, M. S.; Dubkov, V. P.; Arapkina, L. V.; Chizh, K. V.; Mironov, S. A.; Chapnin, V. A.; Yuryev, V. A.

    2017-05-01

    This paper reports a study of two types of silicon based nanostructures prospective for applications in photonics. The first ones are Ge/Si(001) structures forming at room temperature and reconstructing after annealing at 600°C. Germanium, being deposited from a molecular beam at room temperature on the Si(001) surface, forms a thin granular film composed of Ge particles with sizes of a few nanometers. A characteristic feature of these films is that they demonstrate signs of the 2 x 1 structure in their RHEED patterns. After short-term annealing at 600°C under the closed system conditions, the granular films reconstruct to heterostructures consisting of a Ge wetting layer and oval clusters of Ge. A mixed type c(4x2) + p(2x2) reconstruction typical to the low-temperature MBE (Tgr < 600°C) forms on the wetting layer. Long-term annealing of granular films at the same conditions results in formation of c(4x2)-reconstructed wetting layer typical to high-temperature MBE (Tgr < 600°C) and huge clusters of Ge. The other type of the studied nanostructures is based on Pt silicides. This class of materials is one of the friendliest to silicon technology. But as silicide film thickness reaches a few nanometers, low resistivity becomes of primary importance. Pt3Si has the lowest sheet resistance among the Pt silicides. However, the development of a process of thin Pt3Si films formation is a challenging task. This paper describes formation of a thin Pt3Si/Pt2Si structures at room temperature on poly-Si films. Special attention is paid upon formation of poly-Si and amorphous Si films on Si3N4 substrates at low temperatures.

  8. Part-time general surgical training in South Australia: its success and future implications (or: pinnacles, pitfalls and lessons for the future).

    PubMed

    Neuhaus, Susan; Igras, Emma; Fosh, Beverley; Benson, Sarah

    2012-12-01

    Flexible training options are sought by an increasing number of Australasian surgical trainees. Reasons include increased participation of women in the surgical workforce, postgraduate training and changing attitudes to family responsibilities. Despite endorsement of flexible training by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and Board in General Surgery, part-time (PT) training in General Surgery in Australia and New Zealand is not well established. A permanent 'stand-alone' PT training position was established at the Royal Adelaide Hospital in 2007 under the Surgical Education and Training Program. This position offered 12 months of General Surgical training on a 0.5 full-time (FT) equivalent basis with pro rata emergency and on-call commitments and was accredited for 6 months of General Surgical training. This paper reviews the PT training experience in South Australia. De-identified logbook data were obtained from the South Australian Regional Subcommittee of the Board in General Surgery with consent of each of the trainees. Totals of operative cases were compared against matched FT trainees working on the same unit. Overall, PT trainees achieved comparable operative caseloads compared with their FT colleagues. All trainees included in this review have subsequently passed the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons Fellowship Examination in General Surgery and returned to FT workforce positions. This paper presents two validated models of PT training. Training, resource and regulatory requirements and individual and institutional barriers to flexible training are substantial. Successful PT models offer positive and beneficial training alternatives for General Surgical trainees and contribute to workforce flexibility. © 2012 The Authors. ANZ Journal of Surgery © 2012 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

  9. Algorithms for Monitoring Heart Rate and Respiratory Rate From the Video of a User’s Face

    PubMed Central

    Sanyal, Shourjya

    2018-01-01

    Smartphone cameras can measure heart rate (HR) by detecting pulsatile photoplethysmographic (iPPG) signals from post-processing the video of a subject’s face. The iPPG signal is often derived from variations in the intensity of the green channel as shown by Poh et. al. and Verkruysse et. al.. In this pilot study, we have introduced a novel iPPG method where by measuring variations in color of reflected light, i.e., Hue, and can therefore measure both HR and respiratory rate (RR) from the video of a subject’s face. This paper was performed on 25 healthy individuals (Ages 20–30, 15 males and 10 females, and skin color was Fitzpatrick scale 1–6). For each subject we took two 20 second video of the subject’s face with minimal movement, one with flash ON and one with flash OFF. While recording the videos we simultaneously measuring HR using a Biosync B-50DL Finger Heart Rate Monitor, and RR using self-reporting. This paper shows that our proposed approach of measuring iPPG using Hue (range 0–0.1) gives more accurate readings than the Green channel. HR/Hue (range 0–0.1) (\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$r=0.9201$ \\end{document}, \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$p$ \\end{document}-value = 4.1617, and RMSE = 0.8887) is more accurate compared with HR/Green (\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$r=0.4916$ \\end{document}, \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$p$ \\end{document}-value = 11.60172, and RMSE = 0.9068). RR/Hue (range 0–0.1) (\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$r=0.6575$ \\end{document}, \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$p$ \\end{document}-value = 0.2885, and RMSE = 3.8884) is more accurate compared with RR/Green (\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$r=0.3352$ \\end{document}, \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$p$ \\end{document}-value = 0.5608, and RMSE = 5.6885). We hope that this hardware agnostic approach for detection of vital signals will have a huge potential impact in telemedicine, and can be used to tackle challenges, such as continuous non-contact monitoring of neo-natal and elderly patients. An implementation of the algorithm can be found at https://pulser.thinkbiosolution.com

  10. Progress in the Development of Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalysts for Low-Temperature Fuel Cells

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

    Li, Dongguo; Lv, Haifeng; Kang, Yijin

    2016-04-06

    In this paper, we present a brief summary on the most recent progress in the design of catalysts for electrochemical reduction of oxygen. The main challenge in the wide spread of fuel cell technology is to lower the content of, or even eliminate, Pt and other precious metals in catalysts without sacrificing their performance. Pt-based nanosized catalysts with novel and refined architectures continue to dominate in catalytic performance, and formation of Pt-skin-like surfaces is key to achieving the highest values in activity. Moreover, durability has also been improved in Pt-based systems with addition of Au, which plays an important rolemore » in stabilizing the Pt topmost layers against dissolution. However, various carbon-based materials without precious metal have shown improvement in activity and durability and have been explored to serve as catalyst supports. Finally, understanding how the doped elements interact with each other and/or carbon is challenging and necessary in the design of robust fuel cell catalysts.« less

  11. Realization of Both High-Performance and Enhanced Durability of Fuel Cells: Pt-Exoskeleton Structure Electrocatalysts.

    PubMed

    Kim, Ok-Hee; Cho, Yoon-Hwan; Jeon, Tae-Yeol; Kim, Jung Won; Cho, Yong-Hun; Sung, Yung-Eun

    2015-07-01

    Core-shell structure nanoparticles have been the subject of many studies over the past few years and continue to be studied as electrocatalysts for fuel cells. Therefore, many excellent core-shell catalysts have been fabricated, but few studies have reported the real application of these catalysts in a practical device actual application. In this paper, we demonstrate the use of platinum (Pt)-exoskeleton structure nanoparticles as cathode catalysts with high stability and remarkable Pt mass activity and report the outstanding performance of these materials when used in membrane-electrode assemblies (MEAs) within a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell. The stability and degradation characteristics of these materials were also investigated in single cells in an accelerated degradation test using load cycling, which is similar to the drive cycle of a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell used in vehicles. The MEAs with Pt-exoskeleton structure catalysts showed enhanced performance throughout the single cell test and exhibited improved degradation ability that differed from that of a commercial Pt/C catalyst.

  12. Optical characterization of broad plasmon resonances of Pd/Pt nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Valizade-Shahmirzadi, N.; Pakizeh, T.

    2018-04-01

    In this paper, optical properties of nanoparticles (nanodisks and nanospheres) composed of photofunctional metals like palladium (Pd) and platinum (Pt) over a large dimension range are investigated using the electromagnetic simulation and quasi-static theory. These characteristics are compared with their counterparts in plasmonic gold (Au) nanoparticles. Pd/Pt-nanodisks with larger dimension have higher absorption and lower scattering efficiencies than Au-nanodisks that accompany with lower extinction efficiencies and broader resonances. Although an increment in the dimension (diameter and height) of Au/Pd/Pt-nanoparticles decreases the absorption-to-scattering ratios, these ratios are less sensitive to the height size in Au-nanodisks, which causes their LSPR spectra become much broader. It is noteworthy that the LSPR quality factor of Pd nanoparticles is improved by considering the radiative damping and depolarization in quasi-static method unlike the Au nanoparticles. The importance of the highly absorptive Pd/Pt nanoparticles can be traced in the photo-functionalized and energy applications.

  13. Human gastric cancer, Helicobacter pylori and bracken carcinogens: A connecting hypothesis.

    PubMed

    Oliveros-Bastidas, Alberto; Calcagno-Pissarelli, María Pía; Naya, Marlene; Ávila-Núñez, Jorge Luis; Alonso-Amelot, Miguel E

    2016-03-01

    Long term infection of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) virulent strains is a key factor in the genesis of human gastric cancer, and so are certain dietary proinflammatory and genotoxic compounds. Carcinogenic bracken fern (Pteridium spp.) is one of these. Toxins from this plant are consumed as bracken culinary preparations, through milk and meat of bracken-exposed livestock, and drain waters from bracken swards. Bracken toxin ptaquiloside (PtQ), a suspected human carcinogen, elicits complex responses in animals leading to death. PtQ and Hp might cooperate in gastric pathologies. This paper presents an hypothesis on PtQ-Hp association leading to the enhancement of carcinogenesis in the human gastric environment that might explain the high gastric cancer incidence and death rates among Hp-infected people living in bracken zones at two levels: (1) The macroscopic scale comprising the flow of PtQ in the human diet. (2) the microscopic scale encompassing (A) gastric luminal medium; (B) gastric mucus structure and mucin degradation elicited by Hp; (C) bacterial pH gradient modification of the gastric mucosa that favors PtQ survival and its penetration into epithelial tissue; (D) combined PtQ/Hp effects on gastric immune and inflammatory responses; (E) PtQ-Hp complementary activity at selected cell signaling cascades and genome disturbance. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Wireless Emergency Alerts: Trust Model Technical Report

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-02-01

    Simulation=,.alse·/> <Observa1ionsl> <JNode> 4\\lode id=" M13 • Name="System Accessibilit)r Type=,_abelled~ <Partnt Nodtf> <SIJt.c>Sever~l Ouignett<l and...System_@lt3• Type~Continuous Interval"> <Pareni_Node> M13 əPareni_Nocte> <St.tn>.fnfinily • 0.0@0.0 • 10.0@10.0 • fnfinity<ISiates> <N PT> <NPT _Row

  15. FY 1980 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    White, O. L. (Compiler)

    1980-01-01

    Abstracts are presented for 60 technical memoranda and 5 technical papers published in technical journals or presented by MSFC personnel in FY 1980. Conference and reference publications are cited along with contractor reports and papers cleared for presentation.

  16. Designing Metaphorically Appropriate Graphics for a PT3 World Wide Web Site.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Henry, Anne; Crawford, Caroline M.

    This paper describes the design and development of a World Wide Web site associated with a Preparing Tomorrow's Teachers to Use Technology (PT3) grant that was awarded to the University of Houston at Clear Lake (Texas) by the U.S. Department of Education. The Web site that created the electronic community (e-community) was to meet the needs and…

  17. How do we deal with multiple goals for care within an individual patient trajectory? A document content analysis of health service research papers on goals for care

    PubMed Central

    Berntsen, G K R; Gammon, D; Steinsbekk, A; Salamonsen, A; Foss, N; Ruland, C; Fønnebø, V

    2015-01-01

    Objectives Patients with complex long-term needs experience multiple parallel care processes, which may have conflicting or competing goals, within their individual patient trajectory (iPT). The alignment of multiple goals is often implicit or non-existent, and has received little attention in the literature. Research questions: (1) What goals for care relevant for the iPT can be identified from the literature? (2) What goal typology can be proposed based on goal characteristics? (3) How can professionals negotiate a consistent set of goals for the iPT? Design Document content analysis of health service research papers, on the topic of ‘goals for care’. Setting With the increasing prevalence of multimorbidity, guidance regarding the identification and alignment of goals for care across organisations and disciplines is urgently needed. Participants 70 papers that describe ‘goals for care’, ‘health’ or ‘the good healthcare process’ relevant to a general iPT, identified in a step-wise structured search of MEDLINE, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Results We developed a goal typology with four categories. Three categories are professionally defined: (1) Functional, (2) Biological/Disease and (3) Adaptive goals. The fourth category is the patient's personally defined goals. Professional and personal goals may conflict, in which case goal prioritisation by creation of a goal hierarchy can be useful. We argue that the patient has the moral and legal right to determine the goals at the top of such a goal hierarchy. Professionals can then translate personal goals into realistic professional goals such as standardised health outcomes linked to evidence-based guidelines. Thereby, when goals are aligned with one another, the iPT will be truly patient centred, while care follows professional guidelines. Conclusions Personal goals direct professional goals and define the success criteria of the iPT. However, making personal goals count requires brave and wide-sweeping attitudinal, organisational and regulatory transformation of care delivery. PMID:26656243

  18. Platinum blue as an alternative to uranyl acetate for staining in transmission electron microscopy.

    PubMed

    Inaga, Sumire; Katsumoto, Tetsuo; Tanaka, Keiichi; Kameie, Toshio; Nakane, Hironobu; Naguro, Tomonori

    2007-04-01

    This paper introduces an aqueous solution of platinum blue (Pt-blue) as an alternative to uranyl acetate (UA) for staining in transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Pt-blue was prepared from a reaction of cis-dichlorodiamine-platinum (II) (cis-platin) with thymidine. When Pt-blue was dried on a microgrid and observed by TEM it showed a uniform appearance with tiny particles less than 1 nm in diameter. The effect of Pt-blue as an electron stain was then examined not only for positive staining of conventional ultrathin resin sections and counterstaining of post-embedding immuno-electron microscopy but also for negative staining. In ultrathin sections of the rat liver and renal glomerulus, Pt-blue provided good contrast images, especially in double staining combined with a lead stain (Pb). Almost all cell organelles were clearly observed with high contrast in these sections. Glycogen granules in the hepatic parenchymal cells were particularly electron dense in Pt-blue stained sections compared with those treated with UA. In longitudinal and transverse sections of budding influenza A viruses, a specific arrangement of rod-like structures, which correspond to the ribonucleoprotein complexes, was clearly shown in each virion stained with Pt-blue and Pb. When post-embedding immunoelectron microscopy was performed in ultrathin sections of HeLa cells embedded in Lowicryl K4M, the localization of Ki-67 protein was sufficiently detected even after Pt-blue and Pb staining. The present study also revealed that Pt-blue could be used for the negative staining of E. coli, allowing the visualization of a flagellum. These findings indicate that Pt-blue is a useful, safe, and easily obtainable electron stain that is an alternative to UA for TEM preparations.

  19. Electrochemical Co-Reduction Synthesis of AuPt Bimetallic Nanoparticles-Graphene Nanocomposites for Selective Detection of Dopamine in the Presence of Ascorbic Acid and Uric Acid

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Zongya; Zhang, Mingming; Chen, Xiang; Li, Youjun; Wang, Jue

    2015-01-01

    In this paper, AuPt bimetallic nanoparticles-graphene nanocomposites were obtained by electrochemical co-reduction of graphene oxide (GO), HAuCl4 and H2PtCl6. The as-prepared AuPt bimetallic nanoparticles-graphene nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and other electrochemical methods. The morphology and composition of the nanocomposite could be easily controlled by adjusting the HAuCl4/H2PtCl6 concentration ratio. The electrochemical experiments showed that when the concentration ratio of HAuCl4/H2PtCl6 was 1:1, the obtained AuPt bimetallic nanoparticles-graphene nanocomposite (denoted as Au1Pt1NPs-GR) possessed the highest electrocatalytic activity toward dopamine (DA). As such, Au1Pt1NPs-GR nanocomposites were used to detect DA in the presence of ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA) using the differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) technique and on the modified electrode, there were three separate DPV oxidation peaks with the peak potential separations of 177 mV, 130 mV and 307 mV for DA and AA, DA and UA, AA and UA, respectively. The linear range of the constructed DA sensor was from 1.6 μM to 39.7 μM with a detection limit of 0.1 μM (S/N = 3). The obtained DA sensor with good stability, high reproducibility and excellent selectivity made it possible to detect DA in human urine samples. PMID:26184200

  20. Electrochemical Co-Reduction Synthesis of AuPt Bimetallic Nanoparticles-Graphene Nanocomposites for Selective Detection of Dopamine in the Presence of Ascorbic Acid and Uric Acid.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Zongya; Zhang, Mingming; Chen, Xiang; Li, Youjun; Wang, Jue

    2015-07-09

    In this paper, AuPt bimetallic nanoparticles-graphene nanocomposites were obtained by electrochemical co-reduction of graphene oxide (GO), HAuCl4 and H2PtCl6. The as-prepared AuPt bimetallic nanoparticles-graphene nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and other electrochemical methods. The morphology and composition of the nanocomposite could be easily controlled by adjusting the HAuCl4/H2PtCl6 concentration ratio. The electrochemical experiments showed that when the concentration ratio of HAuCl4/H2PtCl6 was 1:1, the obtained AuPt bimetallic nanoparticles-graphene nanocomposite (denoted as Au1Pt1NPs-GR) possessed the highest electrocatalytic activity toward dopamine (DA). As such, Au1Pt1NPs-GR nanocomposites were used to detect DA in the presence of ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA) using the differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) technique and on the modified electrode, there were three separate DPV oxidation peaks with the peak potential separations of 177 mV, 130 mV and 307 mV for DA and AA, DA and UA, AA and UA, respectively. The linear range of the constructed DA sensor was from 1.6 μM to 39.7 μM with a detection limit of 0.1 μM (S/N = 3). The obtained DA sensor with good stability, high reproducibility and excellent selectivity made it possible to detect DA in human urine samples.

  1. Watching proton transfer in real time: Ultrafast photoionization-induced proton transfer in phenol-ammonia complex cation.

    PubMed

    Shen, Ching-Chi; Tsai, Tsung-Ting; Wu, Jun-Yi; Ho, Jr-Wei; Chen, Yi-Wei; Cheng, Po-Yuan

    2017-10-28

    In this paper, we give a full account of our previous work [C. C. Shen et al., J. Chem. Phys. 141, 171103 (2014)] on the study of an ultrafast photoionization-induced proton transfer (PT) reaction in the phenol-ammonia (PhOH-NH 3 ) complex using ultrafast time-resolved ion photofragmentation spectroscopy implemented by the photoionization-photofragmentation pump-probe detection scheme. Neutral PhOH-NH 3 complexes prepared in a free jet are photoionized by femtosecond 1 + 1 resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization via the S 1 state. The evolving cations are then probed by delayed pulses that result in ion fragmentation, and the ionic dynamics is followed by measuring the parent-ion depletion as a function of the pump-probe delay time. By comparing with systems in which PT is not feasible and the steady-state ion photofragmentation spectra, we concluded that the observed temporal evolutions of the transient ion photofragmentation spectra are consistent with an intracomplex PT reaction after photoionization from the initial non-PT to the final PT structures. Our experiments revealed that PT in [PhOH-NH 3 ] + cation proceeds in two distinct steps: an initial impulsive wave-packet motion in ∼70 fs followed by a slower relaxation of about 1 ps that stabilizes the system into the final PT configuration. These results indicate that for a barrierless PT system, even though the initial PT motions are impulsive and ultrafast, the time scale to complete the reaction can be much slower and is determined by the rate of energy dissipation into other modes.

  2. Watching proton transfer in real time: Ultrafast photoionization-induced proton transfer in phenol-ammonia complex cation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shen, Ching-Chi; Tsai, Tsung-Ting; Wu, Jun-Yi; Ho-Wei, Jr.; Chen, Yi-Wei; Cheng, Po-Yuan

    2017-10-01

    In this paper, we give a full account of our previous work [C. C. Shen et al., J. Chem. Phys. 141, 171103 (2014)] on the study of an ultrafast photoionization-induced proton transfer (PT) reaction in the phenol-ammonia (PhOH-NH3) complex using ultrafast time-resolved ion photofragmentation spectroscopy implemented by the photoionization-photofragmentation pump-probe detection scheme. Neutral PhOH-NH3 complexes prepared in a free jet are photoionized by femtosecond 1 + 1 resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization via the S1 state. The evolving cations are then probed by delayed pulses that result in ion fragmentation, and the ionic dynamics is followed by measuring the parent-ion depletion as a function of the pump-probe delay time. By comparing with systems in which PT is not feasible and the steady-state ion photofragmentation spectra, we concluded that the observed temporal evolutions of the transient ion photofragmentation spectra are consistent with an intracomplex PT reaction after photoionization from the initial non-PT to the final PT structures. Our experiments revealed that PT in [PhOH-NH3]+ cation proceeds in two distinct steps: an initial impulsive wave-packet motion in ˜70 fs followed by a slower relaxation of about 1 ps that stabilizes the system into the final PT configuration. These results indicate that for a barrierless PT system, even though the initial PT motions are impulsive and ultrafast, the time scale to complete the reaction can be much slower and is determined by the rate of energy dissipation into other modes.

  3. Electrochemical study of highly durable cathode with Pt supported on ITO-CNT composite for proton exchange membrane fuel cells

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

    Park, Sehkyu; Shao, Yuyan; Viswanathan, Vilayanur V.

    2016-10-01

    In this paper, we describe a highly stable cathode containing a Pt catalyst supported on an indium tin oxide (ITO) and carbon nanotube (CNT) composite. The dependence of cathode performance and durability on the ITO content and the diameter of the CNTs were investigated by electrochemical techniques. The cathode with 30 wt% ITO and CNTs with diameters 10–20 nm in the composite offered preferred locations for Pt stabilization and was very resistant to carbon corrosion (i.e., 82.7% ESA retention and 105.7% mass activity retention after an accelerated stress test for 400 h).

  4. Sputtering ultra-small Pt on nanographitic flakes deposited by electrophoresis for ethanol electro oxidation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Daryakenari, Ahmad Ahmadi; Daryakenari, Mohammad Ahmadi; Omidvar, Hamid

    2018-01-01

    To acquire highly efficient and cost-effective fuel cells, numerous research works have been carried out to the development low cost and excellent performance of electrocatalysts. In this paper, a solution-based electrophoretic deposition (EPD) technique for fabrication of Pt-based catalyst layers is studied. Nanographitic flake coatings used as catalyst support for sputtered platinium (Pt) were fabricated via the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of dispersed nanographitic flakes in isopropyl alcohol. Magnesium nitrate hexahydrate (MNH) was used as an additive binder in the EPD process. Subsequently, the platinium particles were deposited by a direct sputtering on the fabricated nanographitic flake coatings.

  5. Fiscal year 1981 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Thacker, S. S. (Compiler)

    1981-01-01

    This bibliography lists approximately 503 formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY-1981. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. Citations announced in the NASA scientific and technical information system are noted.

  6. Mass dependence of Higgs boson production at large transverse momentum through a bottom-quark loop

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Braaten, Eric; Zhang, Hong; Zhang, Jia-Wei

    2018-05-01

    In the production of the Higgs through a bottom-quark loop, the transverse momentum distribution of the Higgs at large PT is complicated by its dependence on two other important scales: the bottom quark mass mb and the Higgs mass mH. A strategy for simplifying the calculation of the cross section at large PT is to calculate only the leading terms in its expansion in mb2/PT2. In this paper, we consider the bottom-quark-loop contribution to the parton process q q ¯→H +g at leading order in αs. We show that the leading power of 1 /PT2 can be expressed in the form of a factorization formula that separates the large scale PT from the scale of the masses. All the dependence on mb and mH can be factorized into a distribution amplitude for b b ¯ in the Higgs, a distribution amplitude for b b ¯ in a real gluon, and an end point contribution. The factorization formula can be used to organize the calculation of the leading terms in the expansion in mb2/PT2 so that every calculation involves at most two scales.

  7. Metal-organic frameworks derived platinum-cobalt bimetallic nanoparticles in nitrogen-doped hollow porous carbon capsules as a highly active and durable catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction

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

    Ying, Jie; Li, Jing; Jiang, Gaopeng

    Pt-based nanomaterials are regarded as the most efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). However, widespread adoption of PEMFCs requires solutions to major challenges encountered with ORR catalysts, namely high cost, sluggish kinetics, and low durability. In this paper, a new efficient method utilizing Co-based metal-organic frameworks is developed to produce PtCo bimetallic nanoparticles embedded in unique nitrogen-doped hollow porous carbon capsules. The obtained catalyst demonstrates an outstanding ORR performance, with a mass activity that is 5.5 and 13.5 times greater than that of commercial Pt/C and Pt black, respectively. Most importantly,more » the product exhibits dramatically improved durability in terms of both electrochemically active surface area (ECAS) and mass activity compared to commercial Pt/C and Pt black catalysts. Finally, the remarkable ORR performance demonstrated here can be attributed to the structural features of the catalyst (its alloy structure, high dispersion and fine particle size) and the carbon support (its nitrogen dopant, large surface area and hollow porous structure).« less

  8. A pulsed mode electrolytic drug delivery device

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yi, Ying; Buttner, Ulrich; Carreno, Armando A. A.; Conchouso, David; Foulds, Ian G.

    2015-10-01

    This paper reports the design of a proof-of-concept drug delivery device that is actuated using the bubbles formed during electrolysis. The device uses a platinum (Pt) coated nickel (Ni) metal foam and a solid drug in reservoir (SDR) approach to improve the device’s performance. This electrochemically-driven pump has many features that are unlike conventional drug delivery devices: it is capable of pumping periodically and being refilled automatically; it features drug release control; and it enables targeted delivery. Pt-coated metal foam is used as a catalytic reforming element, which reduces the period of each delivery cycle. Two methods were used for fabricating the Pt-coated metal: sputtering and electroplating. Of these two methods, the sputtered Pt-coated metal foam has a higher pumping rate; it also has a comparable recombination rate when compared to the electroplated Pt-coated metal foam. The only drawback of this catalytic reformer is that it consumes nickel scaffold. Considering long-term applications, the electroplated Pt metal foam was selected for drug delivery, where a controlled drug release rate of 2.2 μg  ±  0.3 μg per actuation pulse was achieved using 4 mW of power.

  9. Current-induced switching in CoGa/L10 MnGa/(CoGa)/Pt structure with different thicknesses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ranjbar, R.; Suzuki, K. Z.; Mizukami, S.

    2018-06-01

    In this paper, we present the results of our study into current-induced spin-orbit torque (SOT) switching in perpendicularly magnetized CoGa/MnGa/Pt trilayers with different thicknesses of MnGa and Pt. The SOT switching was observed for all films that undergo Joule heating. We also investigate SOT switching in the bottom (CoGa)/MnGa/top(CoGa/Pt) films with different top layers. Although both the bottom and top layers contribute to the SOT, the relative magnitudes of the switching current densities JC in the top and bottom layers indicate that the SOT is dominant in the top layer. The JC as a function of thickness is discussed in terms of the magnetic properties and resistivity. Experimental data suggested that the MnGa thickness dependence of JC may originate from the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy thickness product Kueff t value. On the other hand, JC as a function of the Pt thickness shows weak dependence. This may be attributed to the slight change of spin-Hall angle θSH value with different thicknesses of Pt, when we assumed that the SOT switching is primarily due to the spin-Hall effect.

  10. SO2-tolerant and H2O-promoting Pt/C catalysts for efficient NO removal via fixed-bed H2-SCR.

    PubMed

    Tu, Baosheng; Shi, Nian; Sun, Wei; Cao, Limei; Yang, Ji

    2017-01-01

    In this paper, Pt supports on carbon black powder (Vulcan XC-72) were synthesized via a hydrothermal method for selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NO with H 2 in the presence of 2 vol% O 2 over a wide temperature of 20-300 °C. The results showed that the 3 and 5 wt% Pt/C catalysts resulted in high NO conversion (>90 %) over a temperature range of 120 to 300 °C, and the maximum NO conversion of 98.6 % was achieved over 5 wt% Pt/C at 120 °C. Meanwhile, the influence of SO 2 and H 2 O on the catalyst performance of 3 wt% Pt/C was investigated. The catalysts exhibited good SO 2 poisoning resistance when the SO 2 concentration was lower than 260 ppm. Moreover, a positive effect on NO conversion was detected with the addition of 3 and 5 vol% H 2 O in the feed gas stream. Graphical abstract TEM image and good NO conversion performance of the Pt/C catalysts.

  11. Metal-organic frameworks derived platinum-cobalt bimetallic nanoparticles in nitrogen-doped hollow porous carbon capsules as a highly active and durable catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction

    DOE PAGES

    Ying, Jie; Li, Jing; Jiang, Gaopeng; ...

    2017-11-29

    Pt-based nanomaterials are regarded as the most efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). However, widespread adoption of PEMFCs requires solutions to major challenges encountered with ORR catalysts, namely high cost, sluggish kinetics, and low durability. In this paper, a new efficient method utilizing Co-based metal-organic frameworks is developed to produce PtCo bimetallic nanoparticles embedded in unique nitrogen-doped hollow porous carbon capsules. The obtained catalyst demonstrates an outstanding ORR performance, with a mass activity that is 5.5 and 13.5 times greater than that of commercial Pt/C and Pt black, respectively. Most importantly,more » the product exhibits dramatically improved durability in terms of both electrochemically active surface area (ECAS) and mass activity compared to commercial Pt/C and Pt black catalysts. Finally, the remarkable ORR performance demonstrated here can be attributed to the structural features of the catalyst (its alloy structure, high dispersion and fine particle size) and the carbon support (its nitrogen dopant, large surface area and hollow porous structure).« less

  12. FY 1989 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1989-01-01

    A compendium of bibliographic references to papers presented by Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) personnel and contractors during FY 1989 is provided. The papers include formal NASA technical reports, memoranda, papers which were published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel. The formal NASA technical reports and memoranda have abstracts included. Sources for obtaining these documents are also included.

  13. n-Hexane conversion over supported Pt catalysts: Reply to Zoltan Paal

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

    Sharma, S.B.; Dumesic, J.A.

    In the accompanying letter to the Journal of Catalysis, Paal has questioned the findings and conclusions of the author`s recently published paper. It is important to stress that many of these conclusions are based on the combined interpretation of the data from the author`s recently published paper with results form spectroscopic and microcalorimetric studies of various supported platinum catalysts. In short, the authors have shown that highly dispersed, cluster-sized platinum particles supported in L-zeolite have the same heats of H{sub 2} and CO adsorption as larger platinum particles supported on silica; however, Pt/L-zeolite catalysts are more resistant to self-poisoning reactions,more » exhibit higher turnover frequencies, and show enhanced formation of benzene and methylcyclopentane (MCP) compared to larger particles of Pt supported on silica during n-hexane conversion at total pressures of 3 atm and hydrogen pressures near 276 kPa. 13 refs., 1 tab.« less

  14. Pt-Ni and Pt-Co Catalyst Synthesis Route for Fuel Cell Applications

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Firdosy, Samad A.; Ravi, Vilupanur A.; Valdez, Thomas I.; Kisor, Adam; Narayan, Sri R.

    2013-01-01

    Oxygen reduction reactions (ORRs) at the cathode are the rate-limiting step in fuel cell performance. The ORR is 100 times slower than the corresponding hydrogen oxidation at the anode. Speeding up the reaction at the cathode will improve fuel cell efficiency. The cathode material is generally Pt powder painted onto a substrate (e.g., graphite paper). Recent efforts in the fuel cell area have focused on replacing Pt with Pt-X alloys (where X = Co, Ni, Zr, etc.) in order to (a) reduce cost, and (b) increase ORR rates. One of these strategies is to increase ORR rates by reducing the powder size, which would result in an increase in the surface area, thereby facilitating faster reaction rates. In this work, a process has been developed that creates Pt-Ni or Pt-Co alloys that are finely divided (on the nano scale) and provide equivalent performance at lower Pt loadings. Lower Pt loadings will translate to lower cost. Precursor salts of the metals are dissolved in water and mixed. Next, the salt mixtures are dried on a hot plate. Finally, the dried salt mixture is heattreated in a furnace under flowing reducing gas. The catalyst powder is then used to fabricate a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) for electrochemical performance testing. The Pt- Co catalyst-based MEA showed comparable performance to an MEA fabri cated using a standard Pt black fuel cell catalyst. The main objective of this program has been to increase the overall efficiencies of fuel cell systems to support power for manned lunar bases. This work may also have an impact on terrestrial programs, possibly to support the effort to develop a carbon-free energy source. This catalyst can be used to fabricate high-efficiency fuel cell units that can be used in space as regenerative fuel cell systems, and terrestrially as primary fuel cells. Terrestrially, this technology will become increasingly important when transition to a hydrogen economy occurs.

  15. Improved reaction kinetics and selectivity by the TiO2-embedded carbon nanofiber support for electro-oxidation of ethanol on PtRu nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nakagawa, Nobuyoshi; Ito, Yudai; Tsujiguchi, Takuya; Ishitobi, Hirokazu

    2014-02-01

    The electro-oxidation of ethanol by the catalyst of PtRu nanoparticles supported on a TiO2-embedded carbon nanofiber (PtRu/TECNF), which has recently been proposed by the authors as a highly active catalyst for methanol oxidation, is investigated by cyclic voltammetry using a glassy carbon electrode and by operating a direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC) with the catalyst. The mass activity obtained from the cyclic voltammogram for the ethanol oxidation is compared to that for the methanol oxidation reported in our recent paper. The mass activity for the ethanol oxidation is comparable or slightly higher than that for the methanol oxidation, and the relationship between the TECNF composition, i.e., the Ti/C mass ratio, and the activity are also similar to that for the methanol oxidation. A DEFC fabricated with the PtRu/TECNF shows a higher power output compared to that with the commercial PtRu/C catalyst. An analysis of the reaction products by a simple two-step reaction model reveals that the PtRu/TECNF increases the rate constant for the reaction steps from ethanol to acetaldehyde and subsequently to CO2, but decreases that from acetaldehyde to acetic acid. This means that the PtRu/TECNF improves not only the kinetics, but also the selectivity to acetaldehyde.

  16. DNA-templated synthesis of PtAu bimetallic nanoparticle/graphene nanocomposites and their application in glucose biosensor

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    In this paper, single-stranded DNA (ss-DNA) is demonstrated to functionalize graphene (GR) and to further guide the growth of PtAu bimetallic nanoparticles (PtAuNPs) on GR with high densities and dispersion. The obtained nanocomposites (PtAuNPs/ss-DNA/GR) were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS), and electrochemical techniques. Then, an enzyme nanoassembly was prepared by self-assembling glucose oxidase (GOD) on PtAuNP/ss-DNA/GR nanocomposites (GOD/PtAuNPs/ss-DNA/GR). The nanocomposites provided a suitable microenvironment for GOD to retain its biological activity. The direct and reversible electron transfer process between the active site of GOD and the modified electrode was realized without any extra electron mediator. Thus, the prepared GOD/PtAuNP/ss-DNA/GR electrode was proposed as a biosensor for the quantification of glucose. The effects of pH, applied potential, and temperature on the performance of the biosensor were discussed in detail and were optimized. Under optimal conditions, the biosensor showed a linearity with glucose concentration in the range of 1.0 to 1,800 μM with a detection limit of 0.3 μM (S/N = 3). The results demonstrate that the developed approach provides a promising strategy to improve the sensitivity and enzyme activity of electrochemical biosensors. PMID:24572068

  17. High Performance Relaxor-Based Ferroelectric Single Crystals for Ultrasonic Transducer Applications

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Yan; Lam, Kwok-Ho; Zhou, Dan; Yue, Qingwen; Yu, Yanxiong; Wu, Jinchuan; Qiu, Weibao; Sun, Lei; Zhang, Chao; Luo, Haosu; Chan, Helen L. W.; Dai, Jiyan

    2014-01-01

    Relaxor-based ferroelectric single crystals Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) have drawn much attention in the ferroelectric field because of their excellent piezoelectric properties and high electromechanical coupling coefficients (d33∼2000 pC/N, kt∼60%) near the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB). Ternary Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3-Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PIN-PMN-PT) single crystals also possess outstanding performance comparable with PMN-PT single crystals, but have higher phase transition temperatures (rhombohedral to tetragonal Trt, and tetragonal to cubic Tc) and larger coercive field Ec. Therefore, these relaxor-based single crystals have been extensively employed for ultrasonic transducer applications. In this paper, an overview of our work and perspectives on using PMN-PT and PIN-PMN-PT single crystals for ultrasonic transducer applications is presented. Various types of single-element ultrasonic transducers, including endoscopic transducers, intravascular transducers, high-frequency and high-temperature transducers fabricated using the PMN-PT and PIN-PMN-PT crystals and their 2-2 and 1-3 composites are reported. Besides, the fabrication and characterization of the array transducers, such as phased array, cylindrical shaped linear array, high-temperature linear array, radial endoscopic array, and annular array, are also addressed. PMID:25076222

  18. FY 1986 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1986-01-01

    Formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) personnel in FY-86 are presented. Also included are papers of MSFC contractors.

  19. Electrochemically assisted localized etching of ZnO single crystals in water using a catalytically active Pt-coated atomic force microscopy probe

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shibata, Takayuki; Yamamoto, Kota; Sasano, Junji; Nagai, Moeto

    2017-09-01

    This paper presents a nanofabrication technique based on the electrochemically assisted chemical dissolution of zinc oxide (ZnO) single crystals in water at room temperature using a catalytically active Pt-coated atomic force microscopy (AFM) probe. Fabricated grooves featured depths and widths of several tens and several hundreds of nanometers, respectively. The material removal rate of ZnO was dramatically improved by controlling the formation of hydrogen ions (H+) on the surface of the catalytic Pt-coated probe via oxidation of H2O molecules; this reaction can be enhanced by applying a cathodic potential to an additional Pt-wire working electrode in a three-electrode configuration. Consequently, ZnO can be dissolved chemically in water as a soluble Zn2+ species via a reaction with H+ species present in high concentrations in the immediate vicinity of the AFM tip apex.

  20. Parent Training in Autism Spectrum Disorder: What’s in a Name?

    PubMed Central

    Bearss, Karen; Burrell, T. Lindsey; Stewart, Lindsay M.; Scahill, Lawrence

    2015-01-01

    Parent training (PT) is well understood as an evidence-based treatment for typically developing children with disruptive behavior. Within the field of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the term parent training has been used to describe a wide range of interventions including care coordination, psychoeducation, treatments for language or social development, as well as programs designed to address maladaptive behaviors. As a result, the meaning of “parent training” in ASD is profoundly uncertain. This paper describes the need to delineate the variants of PT in ASD and offers a coherent taxonomy. Uniform characterization of PT programs can facilitate communication with families, professionals, administrators and third-party payers. Moreover, it may also serve as a framework for comparing and contrasting PT programs. In support of the taxonomy, a purposive sampling of the literature is presented to illustrate the range of parent training interventions in ASD. PMID:25722072

  1. Symmetries and the u-condition in Hom-Yetter-Drinfeld categories

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Shengxiang; Guo, Shuangjian

    2014-01-01

    Let (H, S, α) be a monoidal Hom-Hopf algebra and \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\\begin{document}$^{H}_{H}\\mathcal {HYD}$\\end{document}HYDHH the Hom-Yetter-Drinfeld category over (H, α). Then in this paper, we first find sufficient and necessary conditions for \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\\begin{document}$^{H}_{H}\\mathcal {HYD}$\\end{document}HYDHH to be symmetric and pseudosymmetric, respectively. Second, we study the u-condition in \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\\begin{document}$^{H}_{H}\\mathcal {HYD}$\\end{document}HYDHH and show that the Hom-Yetter-Drinfeld module (H, adjoint, Δ, α) (resp., (H, m, coadjoint, α)) satisfies the u-condition if and only if S2 = id. Finally, we prove that \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\\begin{document}$^{H}_{H}\\mathcal {HYD}$\\end{document}HYDHH over a triangular (resp., cotriangular) Hom-Hopf algebra contains a rich symmetric subcategory. PMID:25278632

  2. Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) evaluation of hysteroscopy training: a prospective study.

    PubMed

    Alici, Ferizan; Buerkle, Bernd; Tempfer, Clemens B

    2014-07-01

    To describe the performance curve of hysteroscopy-naïve probands repeatedly working through a surgery algorithm on a hysteroscopy trainer. We prospectively recruited medical students to a 30min demonstration session teaching a standardized surgery algorithm. Subjects subsequently performed three training courses immediately after training (T1) and after 24h (T2) and 48h (T3). Skills were recorded with a 20-item Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) at T1, T2, and T3. The presence of a sustained OSATS score improvement from T1 to T3 was the primary outcome. Performance time (PT) and self assessment (SA) were secondary outcomes. Statistics were performed using paired T-test and multiple linear regression analysis. 92 subjects were included. OSATS scores significantly improved over time from T1 to T2 (15.21±1.95 vs. 16.02±2.06, respectively; p<0.0001) and from T2 to T3 (16.02±2.06 vs. 16.95±1.61, respectively; p<0.0001). The secondary outcomes PT (414±119s vs. 357±88s vs. 304±91s; p<0.0001) and SA (3.02±0.85 vs. 3.80±0.76 vs. 4.41±0.67; p<0.0001) also showed an improvement over time with quicker performance and higher confidence. SA, but not PT demonstrated construct validity. In a multiple linear regression analysis, gender (odds ratio (OR) 0.96; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.35-2.71; p=0.9) did not independently influence the likelihood of OSATS score improvement. In a hysteroscopy-naïve population, there is a continuous and sustained improvement of surgical proficiency and confidence after multiple training courses on a hysteroscopy trainer. Serial hysteroscopy trainings may be helpful for teaching hysteroscopy skills. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Impact of different storage times at room temperature of unspun citrated blood samples on routine coagulation tests results. Results of a bicenter study and review of the literature.

    PubMed

    Toulon, P; Metge, S; Hangard, M; Zwahlen, S; Piaulenne, S; Besson, V

    2017-10-01

    A maximum delay between blood collection and coagulation testing of 4 hours is recommended by most guidelines. As information on optimal storage times is limited, we investigated the potential effect of different storage times of unspun tubes, that is, ≤2, 4, 6, and 8 hours, on routine coagulation test results. Four evacuated polymer tubes containing 0.109 mol/L tri-Na citrate were drawn from 144 patients, including 39 patients on vitamin K-antagonists. Except for storage time, all tubes underwent the same preanalytical process. Prothrombin time (PT)/international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen, factor V (FV), FVIII, and D-dimer were evaluated in two centers using the same technical conditions. Analytical comparison of aPTT, fibrinogen, FV, and FVIII results evaluated after prolonged storage times vs a <2-hours storage demonstrated significant difference, whereas PT/INR and D-dimer remained unchanged up to 8 hours. Mean bias between test results obtained after prolonged storage times remained below the desirable values for all studied parameters except for FVIII evaluated after 6- and 8-hours storages, but only in patients with FVIII above 100 IU/dL. Even though the corresponding bias of -5.2% and -8.5%, respectively, remained within the GEHT recommended limits of variation, its evaluation after an 8-hours storage could lead to significant underestimation of FVIII. These results suggest that, in the studied technical conditions, PT/INR, aPTT, fibrinogen, FV, and D-dimer can be reliably evaluated in tubes stored unspun at room temperature for up to 8 hours after blood collection. That optimal delay should be of 6 hours for FVIII. © 2017 The Authors. International Journal of Laboratory Hematology Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  4. The small-x gluon distribution in centrality biased pA and pp collisions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dumitru, Adrian; Kapilevich, Gary; Skokov, Vladimir

    2018-06-01

    The nuclear modification factor RpA (pT) provides information on the small-x gluon distribution of a nucleus at hadron colliders. Several experiments have recently measured the nuclear modification factor not only in minimum bias but also for central pA collisions. In this paper we analyze the bias on the configurations of soft gluon fields introduced by a centrality selection via the number of hard particles. Such bias can be viewed as reweighting of configurations of small-x gluons. We find that the biased nuclear modification factor QpA (pT) for central collisions is above RpA (pT) for minimum bias events, and that it may redevelop a "Cronin peak" even at small x. The magnitude of the peak is predicted to increase approximately like 1 /A⊥ ν, ν ∼ 0.6 ± 0.1, if one is able to select more compact configurations of the projectile proton where its gluons occupy a smaller transverse area A⊥. We predict an enhanced Qpp (pT) - 1 ∼ 1 /(pT2) ν and a Cronin peak even for central pp collisions.

  5. Hydrogen peroxide sensor based on carbon nanowalls grown by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tomatsu, Masakazu; Hiramatsu, Mineo; Foord, John S.; Kondo, Hiroki; Ishikawa, Kenji; Sekine, Makoto; Takeda, Keigo; Hori, Masaru

    2017-06-01

    Fabrication of an electrochemical sensor for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) detection was demonstrated. H2O2 is a major messenger molecule in various redox-dependent cellular signaling transductions. Therefore, sensitive detection of H2O2 is greatly important in health inspection and environmental protection. Carbon nanowalls (CNWs) are composed of few-layer graphenes standing almost vertically on a substrate forming a three-dimensional structure. In this work, CNWs were used as a platform for H2O2 sensing, which is based on the large surface area of conducting carbon and surface decoration with platinum (Pt) nanoparticles (NPs). CNWs were grown on carbon fiber paper (CFP) by inductively coupled plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition to increase the surface area. Then, the CNW surface was decorated with Pt-NPs by the reduction of H2PtCl6. Cyclic voltammetry results indicate that the Pt-decorated CNW/CFP electrode possesses excellent electrocatalytic activity for the reduction of H2O2. Amperometric responses indicate the high-sensitivity detection capability of the Pt-decorated CNW/CFP electrode for H2O2.

  6. Technical Subjects in Secondary Schools

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Howard, A. E.

    2008-01-01

    Purpose: This paper aims to examine technical education in various types of secondary schools, and suggests three levels of technical courses to be taught in secondary schools. Design/methodology/approach: The paper discusses the differences between technical schools and colleges, and vocational technical courses taught in "academic"…

  7. Ultrahigh figure-of-merit for hydrogen generation from sodium borohydride using ternary metal catalysts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hu, Lunghao; Ceccato, R.; Raj, R.

    We report further increase in the figure-of-merit (FOM) for hydrogen generation from NaBH 4 than reported in an earlier paper [1], where a sub-nanometer layer of metal catalysts are deposited on carbon nanotube paper (CNT paper) that has been functionalized with polymer-derived silicon carbonitride (SiCN) ceramic film. Ternary, Ru-Pd-Pt, instead of the binary Pd-Pt catalyst used earlier, together with a thinner CNT paper is shown to increase the figure-of-merit by up to a factor of six, putting is above any other known catalyst for hydrogen generation from NaBH 4. The catalysts are prepared by first impregnating the functionalized CNT-paper with solutions of the metal salts, followed by reduction in a sodium borohydride solution. The reaction mechanism and the catalyst efficiency are described in terms of an electric charge transfer, whereby the negative charge on the BH 4 - ion is exchanged with hydrogen via the electronically conducting SiCN/CNT substrate [1].

  8. The 3T3 neutral red uptake phototoxicity test: practical experience and implications for phototoxicity testing--the report of an ECVAM-EFPIA workshop.

    PubMed

    Ceridono, Mara; Tellner, Pär; Bauer, Daniel; Barroso, João; Alépée, Nathalie; Corvi, Raffaella; De Smedt, Ann; Fellows, Mick D; Gibbs, Neil K; Heisler, Eckhard; Jacobs, Abigail; Jirova, Dagmar; Jones, David; Kandárová, Helena; Kasper, Peter; Akunda, Jacqueline Kinyamu; Krul, Cyrille; Learn, Douglas; Liebsch, Manfred; Lynch, Anthony M; Muster, Wolfgang; Nakamura, Kazuichi; Nash, J Frank; Pfannenbecker, Uwe; Phillips, Gareth; Robles, Catherine; Rogiers, Vera; Van De Water, Femke; Liminga, Ulla Wändel; Vohr, Hans-Werner; Wattrelos, Olivier; Woods, Julie; Zuang, Valérie; Kreysa, Joachim; Wilcox, Phil

    2012-08-01

    This is the report from the "ECVAM-EFPIA workshop on 3T3 NRU Phototoxicity Test: Practical Experience and Implications for Phototoxicity Testing", jointly organized by ECVAM and EFPIA and held on the 25-27 October 2010 in Somma Lombardo, Italy. The European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods (ECVAM) was established in 1991 within the European Commission Joint Research, based on a Communication from the European Commission (1991). The main objective of ECVAM is to promote the scientific and regulatory acceptance of alternative methods which are of importance to the biosciences and which reduce, refine and replace the use of laboratory animals. The European Federation of Pharmaceuticals Industries and Association (EFPIA) represent the pharmaceutical industry operating in Europe. Through its direct membership of 31 national associations and 40 leading pharmaceutical companies, EFPIA is the voice on the EU scene of 2200 companies committed to researching, developing and bringing to patients new medicines that improve health and the quality of life around the world. The workshop, co-chaired by Joachim Kreysa (ECVAM) and Phil Wilcox (GSK, EFPIA) involved thirty-five experts from academia, regulatory authorities and industry, invited to contribute with their experiences in the field of phototoxicology. The main objectives of the workshop were: -to present 'in use' experience of the pharmaceutical industry with the 3T3 Neutral Red Uptake Phototoxicity Test (3T3 NRU-PT), -to discuss why it differs from the results in the original validation exercise, -to discuss technical issues and consider ways to improve the usability of the 3T3 NRU-PT for (non-topical) pharmaceuticals, e.g., by modifying the threshold of chemical light absorption to trigger photo-toxicological testing, and by modifying technical aspects of the assay, or adjusting the criteria used to classify a positive response. During the workshop, the assay methodology was reviewed by comparing the OECD Test Guideline (TG 432) with the protocols used in testing laboratories, data from EFPIA and JPMA 'surveys' were presented and possible reasons for the outcomes were discussed. Experts from cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries reported on their experience with the 3T3 NRU-PT and evidence was presented for phototoxic clinical symptoms that could be linked to certain relevant molecules. Brainstorming sessions discussed if the 3T3 NRU-PT needed to be improved and whether alternatives to the 3T3 NRU-PT exist. Finally, the viewpoint from EU and US regulators was presented. In the final session, the conclusions of the meeting were summarized, with action points. It was concluded that the 3T3 NRU-PT identifies phototoxicological hazards with a 100% sensitivity, and thus is accepted as the tier one test that correctly identifies the absence of phototoxic potential. Consequently, positive results in the 3T3 NRU-PT often do not translate into a clinical phototoxicity risk. Possible ways to improve the practical use of this assay include: (i) adaptation of changed UV/vis-absorption criteria as a means to reduce the number of materials tested, (ii) reduction of the highest concentration to be tested, and (iii) consideration of modifying the threshold criteria for the prediction of a positive call in the test. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Hydrogenation of benzaldehyde via electrocatalysis and thermal catalysis on carbon-supported metals

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

    Song, Yang; Sanyal, Udishnu; Pangotra, Dhananjai

    Abstract Selective reduction of benzaldehyde to benzyl alcohol on C-supported Pt, Rh, Pd, and Ni in aqueous phase was conducted using either directly H2 (thermal catalytic hydrogenation, TCH) or in situ electrocatalytically generated hydrogen (electrocatalytic hydrogenation, ECH). In TCH, the intrinsic activity of the metals at room temperature and 1 bar H2 increased in the sequence Rh/C < Pt/C < Pd/C, while Ni/C is inactive at these conditions due to surface oxidation in the absence of cathodic potential. The reaction follows a Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism with the second hydrogen addition to the adsorbed hydrocarbon being the rate-determining step. All tested metalsmore » were active in ECH of benzaldehyde, although hydrogenation competes with the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The minimum cathodic potentials to obtain appreciable ECH rates were identical to the onset potentials of HER. Above this onset, the relative rates of H reacting to H2 and H addition to the hydrocarbon determines the selectivity to ECH and TCH. Accordingly, the selectivity of the metals towards ECH increases in the order Ni/C < Pt/C < Rh/C < Pd/C. Pd/C shows exceptionally high ECH selectivity due to its surprisingly low HER reactivity under the reaction conditions. Acknowledgements The authors would like to thank the groups of Hubert A. Gasteiger at the Technische Universität München of Jorge Gascon at the Delft University of Technology for advice and valuable discussions. The authors are grateful to Nirala Singh, Erika Ember, Gary Haller, and Philipp Rheinländer for fruitful discussions. We are also grateful to Marianne Hanzlik for TEM measurements and to Xaver Hecht and Martin Neukamm for technical support. Y.S. would like to thank the Chinese Scholarship Council for the financial support. The research described in this paper is part of the Chemical Transformation Initiative at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), conducted under the Laboratory Directed Research and Development Program at PNNL, a multiprogram national laboratory operated by Battelle for the U.S. Department of Energy.« less

  10. FY 2002 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fowler, B. A. (Compiler)

    2003-01-01

    This Technical Memorandum (TM) presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY 2002. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. The information in this TM may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  11. Bias and variance reduction in estimating the proportion of true-null hypotheses

    PubMed Central

    Cheng, Yebin; Gao, Dexiang; Tong, Tiejun

    2015-01-01

    When testing a large number of hypotheses, estimating the proportion of true nulls, denoted by \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$\\pi _0$\\end{document}, becomes increasingly important. This quantity has many applications in practice. For instance, a reliable estimate of \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$\\pi _0$\\end{document} can eliminate the conservative bias of the Benjamini–Hochberg procedure on controlling the false discovery rate. It is known that most methods in the literature for estimating \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$\\pi _0$\\end{document} are conservative. Recently, some attempts have been paid to reduce such estimation bias. Nevertheless, they are either over bias corrected or suffering from an unacceptably large estimation variance. In this paper, we propose a new method for estimating \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$\\pi _0$\\end{document} that aims to reduce the bias and variance of the estimation simultaneously. To achieve this, we first utilize the probability density functions of false-null \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$p$\\end{document}-values and then propose a novel algorithm to estimate the quantity of \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$\\pi _0$\\end{document}. The statistical behavior of the proposed estimator is also investigated. Finally, we carry out extensive simulation studies and several real data analysis to evaluate the performance of the proposed estimator. Both simulated and real data demonstrate that the proposed method may improve the existing literature significantly. PMID:24963010

  12. A review of tin oxide-based catalytic systems: Preparation, characterization and catalytic behavior

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hoflund, Gar B.

    1987-01-01

    This paper reviews the important aspects of the preparation, characterization and catalytic behavior of tin oxide-based catalytic systems including doped tin oxide, mixed oxides which contain tin oxide, Pt supported on tin oxide and Pt/Sn supported on alumina. These systems have a broad range of applications and are continually increasing in importance. However, due to their complex nature, much remains to be understood concerning how they function catalytically.

  13. Report of the United Nations Interregional Seminar on the Employment, Development and Role of Scientists and Technical Personnel in the Public Service of Developing Countries, Volume III: Technical Papers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    United Nations, New York, NY. Dept. of Economic and Social Affairs.

    This collection of papers is the third of three volumes presenting the proceedings of the United Nations Interregional Seminar on the Employment, Development and Role of Scientists and Technical Personnel in the Public Service of Developing Countries (Volume I, Report of the Seminar; Volume II, Country Papers; and Volume III, Technical Papers).…

  14. Level-2 perspectives computed quickly and spontaneously: Evidence from eight- to 9.5-year-old children.

    PubMed

    Elekes, Fruzsina; Varga, Máté; Király, Ildikó

    2017-11-01

    It has been widely assumed that computing how a scene looks from another perspective (level-2 perspective taking, PT) is an effortful process, as opposed to the automatic capacity of tracking visual access to objects (level-1 PT). Recently, adults have been found to compute both forms of visual perspectives in a quick but context-sensitive way, indicating that the two functions share more features than previously assumed. However, the developmental literature still shows the dissociation between automatic level-1 and effortful level-2 PT. In the current paper, we report an experiment showing that in a minimally social situation, participating in a number verification task with an adult confederate, eight- to 9.5-year-old children demonstrate similar online level-2 PT capacities as adults. Future studies need to address whether online PT shows selectivity in children as well and develop paradigms that are adequate to test preschoolers' online level-2 PT abilities. Statement of Contribution What is already known on this subject? Adults can access how objects appear to others (level-2 perspective) spontaneously and online Online level-1, but not level-2 perspective taking (PT) has been documented in school-aged children What the present study adds? Eight- to 9.5-year-olds performed a number verification task with a confederate who had the same task Children showed similar perspective interference as adults, indicating spontaneous level-2 PT Not only agent-object relations but also object appearances are computed online by eight- to 9.5-year-olds. © 2017 The British Psychological Society.

  15. Gram-level synthesis of core-shell structured catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Luo, Mingchuan; Wei, Lingli; Wang, Fanghui; Han, Kefei; Zhu, Hong

    2014-12-01

    Over the past decade, Pt based core-shell structured alloys have been studied extensively as oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) because of their distinctive electrochemical performance and low Pt loading. In this paper, a facile route based on microwave-assisted polyol method and chemical dealloying process is proposed to synthesize carbon supported core-shell structured nanoparticles (NPs) in gram-level for ORR electrocatalysis in PEMFCs. The obtained samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). These physical characterization indicate that the final synthesized NPs are highly dispersed on the carbon support, and in a core-shell structure with CuPt alloy as the core and Pt as the shell. Electrochemical measurements, conducted by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and rotating disk electrode (RDE) tests, show the core-shell structured catalyst exhibit a 3× increase in mass activity and a 2× increase in specific activity over the commercial Pt/C catalyst, respectively. These results demonstrate that this route can be a reliable way to synthesize low-Pt catalyst in large-scale for PEMFCs.

  16. Solid lipid nanoparticles for the delivery of 1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphaadamantane (PTA) platinum (II) carboxylates.

    PubMed

    Sguizzato, Maddalena; Cortesi, Rita; Gallerani, Eleonora; Drechsler, Markus; Marvelli, Lorenza; Mariani, Paolo; Carducci, Federica; Gavioli, Riccardo; Esposito, Elisabetta; Bergamini, Paola

    2017-05-01

    The use of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) is a promising route for the delivery of platinum complexes aimed to anticancer activity. This paper describes the production and characterization of SLN suitable for the loading of Pt complexes containing the biocompatible phosphine 1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphaadamantane (PTA) as neutral ligand. After a screening of several lipidic phases, stearic acid-based SLN were identified as the most appropriate for the purpose. They were produced by emulsion-dilution method and then characterized in terms of dimension, polydispersity, time stability, pH balance and morphological aspect. Stearic acid SLN are designed as a system able to coordinate to platinum, acting as anionic carboxylic ligands, replacing the base carbonate of the Pt synthon [PtCO 3 (DMSO) 2 ], where also DMSO can subsequently be substituted by phosphinic ligands, namely PTA. SLN functionalised with Pt-PTA were produced and characterized by this synthetic route. The toxicity of plain SLN and the antiproliferative effect of SLN functionalised with Pt-PTA were evaluated on two human cancer cell lines K562 and A2780. The results indicate that SLN can be exploited as a delivery system for Pt complexes with potential anticancer activity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Low platinum loading for high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell developed by ultrasonic spray coating technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Su, Huaneng; Jao, Ting-Chu; Barron, Olivia; Pollet, Bruno G.; Pasupathi, Sivakumar

    2014-12-01

    This paper reports use of an ultrasonic-spray for producing low Pt loadings membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) with the catalyst coated substrate (CCS) fabrication technique. The main MEA sub-components (catalyst, membrane and gas diffusion layer (GDL)) are supplied from commercial manufacturers. In this study, high temperature (HT) MEAs with phosphoric acid (PA)-doped poly(2,5-benzimidazole) (AB-PBI) membrane are fabricated and tested under 160 °C, hydrogen and air feed 100 and 250 cc min-1 and ambient pressure conditions. Four different Pt loadings (from 0.138 to 1.208 mg cm-2) are investigated in this study. The experiment data are determined by in-situ electrochemical methods such as polarization curve, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The high Pt loading MEA exhibits higher performance at high voltage operating conditions but lower performances at peak power due to the poor mass transfer. The Pt loading 0.350 mg cm-2 GDE performs the peak power density and peak cathode mass power to 0.339 W cm-2 and 0.967 W mgPt-1, respectively. This work presents impressive cathode mass power and high fuel cell performance for high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs) with low Pt loadings.

  18. Fiscal year 1979 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    White, O. L. (Compiler)

    1979-01-01

    This bibliography lists approximately 590 formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, presentations by MSFC personnel, and reports of MSFC contractors introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system in 1979.

  19. Solar Eclipse (1979). Part II. Initial Results for Ionization Sources, Electron Density, and Minor Neutral Constituents.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-10-01

    OH 45433 Director Commandant Office of Missile Electronic Warfare US Army Field Artillery School ATTN: DELEW-M-STO (Dr. Steven Kovel) ATTN: ATSF- CF -R...Commander Commandant US Army White Sands Missile Range US Army Field Artillery School ATTN: STEWS-PT-AL (Laurel B. Saunders) ATTN: ATSF- CF -R White Sands...Commander Defense Communications Agency US Army INSCOM/Quest Research Corporation Technical Library Center ATTN: Mr. Donald Wilmot Code 222 6845 Elm Street

  20. CCQM key comparison CCQM-K75: Determination of toxic metals in algae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shakhashiro, A.; Toervenyi, A.; Gaudino, S.; Rosamilia, S.; Belli, M.; Turk, G. C.

    2011-01-01

    The determination of mass fraction of toxic elements and especially platinum emitted from automobile catalytic converters in the air is a critical factor in assessing air quality and the potential impact of possible pollutants. Air is in fact one of the main pathways for human exposure to toxic elements. Biomonitors, such as lichen and algae, are examples of environmental samples that have been widely used by the scientific community to assess and monitor the level of environmental pollution. For this purpose, the IAEA-450 algae material containing heavy metals and platinum at low level was prepared by IAEA Seibersdorf Laboratories in collaboration with the Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection—ISPRA (former APAT). During the April meeting in 2009 of the Inorganic Analysis Working Group (IAWG) of the CCQM it was agreed to organize a key comparison K75 for Pt and Ni and a parallel pilot study P118 for As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni, Pb and Pt using this algae material. The key comparison CCQM-K75 was successfully organized. The participating NMIs demonstrated a high level of measurement capabilities and technical competence in analysing nickel and platinum at a low level of concentration in environmental samples such as algae. The between-laboratories reproducibility standard deviation for nickel and platinum was 1.9% and 3.6% respectively, which reflects an excellent agreement of between-laboratories measurement results. The ratio between the bias and its expanded uncertainty for nickel and platinum was below 2.0 for all reported results except in one case. This study was a practical demonstration of a CCQM comparison to use the 'core-capabilities' utilized by participants as a mean of providing evidence for Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMC) claims for Ni and Pt. Based on this CCQM international key comparison, the measurement capability of the NMIs which participated in the CCQM-K75 has been demonstrated directly for determination of Pt and Ni in algae matrix. In addition, the NMIs demonstrated a wide range of 'core-capabilities' applicable to other measurement applications. Main text. To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA).

  1. FY 2005 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Narmore, K. A. (Compiler)

    2007-01-01

    This Technical Memorandum (TM) presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) personnel in FY 2005. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. The information in this TM may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  2. FY 1985 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1985-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by Marshal Space Flight Center (MSFC) personnel in FY 85. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all of the NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, Va. 22161.

  3. Mitsubishi thermal imager using the 512 x 512 PtSi focal plane arrays

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fujino, Shotaro; Miyoshi, Tetsuo; Yokoh, Masataka; Kitahara, Teruyoshi

    1990-01-01

    MITSUBISHI THERMAL IMAGER model IR-5120A is high resolution and high sensitivity infrared television imaging system. It was exhibited in SPIE'S 1988 Technical Symposium on OPTICS, ELECTRO-OPTICS, and SENSORS, held at April 1988 Orlando, and acquired interest of many attendants of the symposium for it's high performance. The detector is a Platinium Silicide Charge Sweep Device (CSD) array containing more than 260,000 individual pixels manufactured by Mitsubishi Electric Co. The IR-5120A consists of a Camera Head. containing the CSD, a stirling cycle cooler and support electronics, and a Camera Control Unit containing the pixel fixed pattern noise corrector, video controllor, cooler driver and support power supplies. The stirling cycle cooler built into the Camera Head is used for keeping CSD temperature of approx. 80K with the features such as light weight, long life of more than 2000 hours and low acoustical noise. This paper describes an improved Thermal Imager, with more light weight, compact size and higher performance, and it's design philosophy, characteristics and field image.

  4. One-Minute Paper: Student Perception of Learning Gains

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Anderson, Deborah; Burns, Shari

    2013-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine students' perceptions of learning gains when using the one-minute paper. Thirty-one students from the Physical Therapy (PT) and Nurse Anesthesia (NA) programs participated in this study. Students completed the one-minute paper in three classes. An email to students clarified the "muddy" points…

  5. Structural Evolution of Sub-10 nm Octahedral Platinum$-$Nickel Bimetallic Nanocrystals

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

    Chang, Qiaowan; Xu, Yuan; Duan, Zhiyuan

    Octahedral Pt alloy nanocrystals (NCs) have shown excellent activities as electrocatalysts toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). As the activity and stability of NCs are highly dependent on their structure and the elemental distribution, it is of great importance to understand the formation mechanism of octahedral NCs and to rationally synthesize shape-controlled alloy catalysts with optimized ORR activity and stability. However, the factors controlling the structural and compositional evolution during the synthesis have not been well understood yet. Here in this paper, we systematically investigated the structure and composition evolution pathways of Pt–Ni octahedra synthesized with the assistance of W(CO) 6more » and revealed a unique core–shell structure consisting of a Pt core and a Pt–Ni alloy shell. Below 140 °C, sphere-like pure Pt NCs with the diameter of 3–4 nm first nucleated, followed by the isotropic growth of Pt–Ni alloy on the seeds at temperatures between 170 and 230 °C forming Pt@Pt–Ni core–shell octahedra with {111} facets. Owing to its unique structure, the Pt@Pt–Ni octahedra show an unparalleled stability during potential cycling, that is, no activity drop after 10 000 cycles between 0.6 and 1.0 V. This work proposes the Pt@Pt–Ni octahedra as a high profile electrocatalyst for ORR and reveals the structural and composition evolution pathways of Pt-based bimetallic NCs.« less

  6. Structural Evolution of Sub-10 nm Octahedral Platinum$-$Nickel Bimetallic Nanocrystals

    DOE PAGES

    Chang, Qiaowan; Xu, Yuan; Duan, Zhiyuan; ...

    2017-05-11

    Octahedral Pt alloy nanocrystals (NCs) have shown excellent activities as electrocatalysts toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). As the activity and stability of NCs are highly dependent on their structure and the elemental distribution, it is of great importance to understand the formation mechanism of octahedral NCs and to rationally synthesize shape-controlled alloy catalysts with optimized ORR activity and stability. However, the factors controlling the structural and compositional evolution during the synthesis have not been well understood yet. Here in this paper, we systematically investigated the structure and composition evolution pathways of Pt–Ni octahedra synthesized with the assistance of W(CO) 6more » and revealed a unique core–shell structure consisting of a Pt core and a Pt–Ni alloy shell. Below 140 °C, sphere-like pure Pt NCs with the diameter of 3–4 nm first nucleated, followed by the isotropic growth of Pt–Ni alloy on the seeds at temperatures between 170 and 230 °C forming Pt@Pt–Ni core–shell octahedra with {111} facets. Owing to its unique structure, the Pt@Pt–Ni octahedra show an unparalleled stability during potential cycling, that is, no activity drop after 10 000 cycles between 0.6 and 1.0 V. This work proposes the Pt@Pt–Ni octahedra as a high profile electrocatalyst for ORR and reveals the structural and composition evolution pathways of Pt-based bimetallic NCs.« less

  7. Coaching and guidance with patient decision aids: A review of theoretical and empirical evidence

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Coaching and guidance are structured approaches that can be used within or alongside patient decision aids (PtDAs) to facilitate the process of decision making. Coaching is provided by an individual, and guidance is embedded within the decision support materials. The purpose of this paper is to: a) present updated definitions of the concepts “coaching” and “guidance”; b) present an updated summary of current theoretical and empirical insights into the roles played by coaching/guidance in the context of PtDAs; and c) highlight emerging issues and research opportunities in this aspect of PtDA design. Methods We identified literature published since 2003 on shared decision making theoretical frameworks inclusive of coaching or guidance. We also conducted a sub-analysis of randomized controlled trials included in the 2011 Cochrane Collaboration Review of PtDAs with search results updated to December 2010. The sub-analysis was conducted on the characteristics of coaching and/or guidance included in any trial of PtDAs and trials that allowed the impact of coaching and/or guidance with PtDA to be compared to another intervention or usual care. Results Theoretical evidence continues to justify the use of coaching and/or guidance to better support patients in the process of thinking about a decision and in communicating their values/preferences with others. In 98 randomized controlled trials of PtDAs, 11 trials (11.2%) included coaching and 63 trials (64.3%) provided guidance. Compared to usual care, coaching provided alongside a PtDA improved knowledge and decreased mean costs. The impact on some other outcomes (e.g., participation in decision making, satisfaction, option chosen) was more variable, with some trials showing positive effects and other trials reporting no differences. For values-choice agreement, decisional conflict, adherence, and anxiety there were no differences between groups. None of these outcomes were worse when patients were exposed to decision coaching alongside a PtDA. No trials evaluated the effect of guidance provided within PtDAs. Conclusions Theoretical evidence continues to justify the use of coaching and/or guidance to better support patients to participate in decision making. However, there are few randomized controlled trials that have compared the effectiveness of coaching used alongside PtDAs to PtDAs without coaching, and no trials have compared the PtDAs with guidance to those without guidance. PMID:24624995

  8. FY 2001 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Waits, J. E. Turner (Compiler)

    2002-01-01

    This Technical Memorandum (TM) presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY 2001. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161. The information in this TM may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  9. FY 2004 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fowler, B. A. (Compiler)

    2006-01-01

    This Technical Memorandum (TM) presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) personnel FY 2004. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161. The information in this TM maybe of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  10. FY 2003 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Fowler, B. A. (Compiler)

    2004-01-01

    This Technical Memorandum (TM) presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) personnel in FY 2003. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Spring.eld, VA 22161. The information in this TM may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  11. Catalytic recombination of dissociation products with Pt/SnO2 for rare and common isotope long-life, closed-cycle CO2 lasers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Brown, Kenneth G.; Sidney, B. D.; Schryer, D. R.; Upchurch, B. T.; Miller, I. M.

    1986-01-01

    This paper reports results on recombination of pulsed CO2 laser dissociation products with Pt/SnO2 catalysts, and supporting studies in a surrogate laboratory catalyst reactor. The closed-cycle, pulsed CO2 laser has been continuously operated for one million pulses with an overall power degradation of less than 5 percent by flowing the laser gas mixture through a 2-percent Pt/SnO2 catalyst bed. In the surrogate laboratory reactor, experiments have been conducted to determine isotopic exchange with the catalyst when using rare-isotope gases. The effects of catalyst pretreatment, sample weight, composition, and temperature on catalyst efficiency have also been determined.

  12. Iridium: failures & successes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Christensen, CarissaBryce; Beard, Suzette

    2001-03-01

    This paper will provide an overview of the Iridium business venture in terms of the challenges faced, the successes achieved, and the causes of the ultimate failure of the venture — bankruptcy and system de-orbit. The paper will address technical, business, and policy issues. The intent of the paper is to provide a balanced and accurate overview of the Iridium experience, to aid future decision-making by policy makers, the business community, and technical experts. Key topics will include the history of the program, the objectives and decision-making of Motorola, the market research and analysis conducted, partnering strategies and their impact, consumer equipment availability, and technical issues — target performance, performance achieved, technical accomplishments, and expected and unexpected technical challenges. The paper will use as sources trade media and business articles on the Iridium program, technical papers and conference presentations, Wall Street analyst's reports, and, where possible, interviews with participants and close observers.

  13. Relational Study of Technical Education in Scotland and Nigeria for Sustainable Skill Development

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Umunadi, E. Kennedy

    2014-01-01

    This paper was designed to look at technical education curriculum and mode of implementation in Scotland in order to adopt the advantageous attributes of the Scottish technical education in Nigeria. The paper x-rayed the staff perceptions of technical education and its roles in Scotland; history of technical education before the advent of British…

  14. Sub-4 nm PtZn Intermetallic Nanoparticles for Enhanced Mass and Specific Activities in Catalytic Electrooxidation Reaction

    DOE PAGES

    Qi, Zhiyuan; Xiao, Chaoxian; Liu, Cong; ...

    2017-03-08

    Atomically ordered intermetallic nanoparticles (iNPs) have sparked considerable interest in fuel cell applications by virtue of their exceptional electronic and structural properties. However, the synthesis of small iNPs in a controllable manner remains a formidable challenge because of the high temperature generally required in the formation of intermetallic phases. Here in this paper we report a general method for the synthesis of PtZn iNPs (3.2 ± 0.4 nm) on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) via a facile and capping agent free strategy using a sacrificial mesoporous silica (mSiO 2) shell. The as-prepared PtZn iNPs exhibited ca. 10 times higher mass activitymore » in both acidic and basic solution toward the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) compared to larger PtZn iNPs synthesized on MWNT without the mSiO 2 shell. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations predict that PtZn systems go through a “non-CO” pathway for MOR because of the stabilization of the OH* intermediate by Zn atoms, while a pure Pt system forms highly stable COH* and CO* intermediates, leading to catalyst deactivation. Experimental studies on the origin of the backward oxidation peak of MOR coincide well with DFT predictions. Moreover, the calculations demonstrate that MOR on smaller PtZn iNPs is energetically more favorable than larger iNPs, due to their high density of corner sites and lower-lying energetic pathway. Therefore, smaller PtZn iNPs not only increase the number but also enhance the activity of the active sites in MOR compared with larger ones. This work opens a new avenue for the synthesis of small iNPs with more undercoordinated and enhanced active sites for fuel cell applications.« less

  15. PT quantum mechanics.

    PubMed

    Bender, Carl M; DeKieviet, Maarten; Klevansky, S P

    2013-04-28

    PT-symmetric quantum mechanics (PTQM) has become a hot area of research and investigation. Since its beginnings in 1998, there have been over 1000 published papers and more than 15 international conferences entirely devoted to this research topic. Originally, PTQM was studied at a highly mathematical level and the techniques of complex variables, asymptotics, differential equations and perturbation theory were used to understand the subtleties associated with the analytic continuation of eigenvalue problems. However, as experiments on PT-symmetric physical systems have been performed, a simple and beautiful physical picture has emerged, and a PT-symmetric system can be understood as one that has a balanced loss and gain. Furthermore, the PT phase transition can now be understood intuitively without resorting to sophisticated mathematics. Research on PTQM is following two different paths: at a fundamental level, physicists are attempting to understand the underlying mathematical structure of these theories with the long-range objective of applying the techniques of PTQM to understanding some of the outstanding problems in physics today, such as the nature of the Higgs particle, the properties of dark matter, the matter-antimatter asymmetry in the universe, neutrino oscillations and the cosmological constant; at an applied level, new kinds of PT-synthetic materials are being developed, and the PT phase transition is being observed in many physical contexts, such as lasers, optical wave guides, microwave cavities, superconducting wires and electronic circuits. The purpose of this Theme Issue is to acquaint the reader with the latest developments in PTQM. The articles in this volume are written in the style of mini-reviews and address diverse areas of the emerging and exciting new area of PT-symmetric quantum mechanics.

  16. The life cycle assessment of alternative fuel chains for urban buses and trolleybuses.

    PubMed

    Kliucininkas, L; Matulevicius, J; Martuzevicius, D

    2012-05-30

    This paper describes a comparative analysis of public transport alternatives in the city of Kaunas, Lithuania. An LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) inventory analysis of fuel chains was undertaken using the midi urban bus and a similar type of trolleybus. The inventory analysis of fuel chains followed the guidelines provided by the ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 standards. The ReCiPe Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA) methodology was used to quantify weighted damage originating from five alternative fuel chains. The compressed biogas fuel chain had the lowest weighted damage value, namely 45.7 mPt/km, whereas weighted damage values of the fuel chains based on electricity generation for trolleybuses were 60.6 mPt/km (for natural gas) and 78.9 mPt/km (for heavy fuel oil). The diesel and compressed natural gas fuel chains exhibited considerably higher damage values of 114.2 mPt/km and 132.6 mPt/km, respectively. The comparative life cycle assessment of fuel chains suggested that biogas-powered buses and electric trolleybuses can be considered as the best alternatives to use when modernizing the public transport fleet in Kaunas. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Effects of K and Pt promoters on the performance of cobalt catalyst supported on CNTs

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

    Zabidi, Noor Asmawati Mohd, E-mail: noorasmawati-mzabidi@petronas.com.my; Ali, Sardar, E-mail: alikhan-635@yahoo.com; Subbarao, Duvvuri, E-mail: duvvuri-subbarao@petronas.com.my

    2014-10-24

    This paper presents a comparative study on the effects of incorporation of potassium (K) and platinum (Pt) as promoters on the physicochemical properties of cobalt catalyst. The catalyst was prepared by a wet impregnation method on a CNTs support. Samples were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), H{sub 2}-temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques. Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (FTS) was carried out in a fixed-bed microreactor at 543 K and 1 atm, with H{sub 2}/CO = 2v/v and space velocity, SV of 12 L/g.h for 5 hours. The K-promoted and Pt-promoted Co catalysts have different physicochemical properties and catalytic performances comparedmore » to that of the un-promoted Co catalyst. XPS analysis revealed that K and Pt promoters induced electronic modifications as exhibited by the shifts in the Co binding energies. Incorporation of 0.06 wt% K and 0.06 wt% Pt in Co/CNTs catalyst resulted in an increase in the CO conversion and C{sub 5+} selectivity and a decrease in methane selectivity. Potassium was found to be a better promoter for Co/CNTs catalyst compared to platinum.« less

  18. Effects of K and Pt promoters on the performance of cobalt catalyst supported on CNTs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zabidi, Noor Asmawati Mohd; Ali, Sardar; Subbarao, Duvvuri

    2014-10-01

    This paper presents a comparative study on the effects of incorporation of potassium (K) and platinum (Pt) as promoters on the physicochemical properties of cobalt catalyst. The catalyst was prepared by a wet impregnation method on a CNTs support. Samples were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), H2-temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques. Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (FTS) was carried out in a fixed-bed microreactor at 543 K and 1 atm, with H2/ CO = 2v / v and space velocity, SV of 12 L/g.h for 5 hours. The K-promoted and Pt-promoted Co catalysts have different physicochemical properties and catalytic performances compared to that of the un-promoted Co catalyst. XPS analysis revealed that K and Pt promoters induced electronic modifications as exhibited by the shifts in the Co binding energies. Incorporation of 0.06 wt% K and 0.06 wt% Pt in Co/CNTs catalyst resulted in an increase in the CO conversion and C5+ selectivity and a decrease in methane selectivity. Potassium was found to be a better promoter for Co/CNTs catalyst compared to platinum.

  19. High-current-density electrodeposition using pulsed and constant currents to produce thick CoPt magnetic films on silicon substrates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ewing, Jacob; Wang, Yuzheng; Arnold, David P.

    2018-05-01

    This paper investigates methods for electroplating thick (>20 μm), high-coercivity CoPt films using high current densities (up to 1 A/cm2) and elevated bath temperatures (70 °C). Correlations are made tying current-density and temperature process parameters with plating rate, elemental ratio and magnetic properties of the deposited CoPt films. It also investigates how pulsed currents can increase the plating rate and film to substrate adhesion. Using 500 mA/cm2 and constant current, high-quality, dense CoPt films were successfully electroplated up to 20 μm thick in 1 hr on silicon substrates (0.35 μm/min plating rate). After standard thermal treatment (675°C, 30 min) to achieve the ordered L10 crystalline phase, strong magnetic properties were measured: coercivities up 850 kA/m, remanences >0.5 T, and maximum energy products up to 46 kJ/m3.

  20. Analysis of the thermal balance characteristics for multiple-connected piezoelectric transformers.

    PubMed

    Park, Joung-Hu; Cho, Bo-Hyung; Choi, Sung-Jin; Lee, Sang-Min

    2009-08-01

    Because the amount of power that a piezoelectric transformer (PT) can handle is limited, multiple connections of PTs are necessary for the power-capacity improvement of PT-applications. In the connection, thermal imbalance between the PTs should be prevented to avoid the thermal runaway of each PT. The thermal balance of the multiple-connected PTs is dominantly affected by the electrothermal characteristics of individual PTs. In this paper, the thermal balance of both parallel-parallel and parallel-series connections are analyzed by electrical model parameters. For quantitative analysis, the thermal-balance effects are estimated by the simulation of the mechanical loss ratio between the PTs. The analysis results show that with PTs of similar characteristics, the parallel-series connection has better thermal balance characteristics due to the reduced mechanical loss of the higher temperature PT. For experimental verification of the analysis, a hardware-prototype test of a Cs-Lp type 40 W adapter system with radial-vibration mode PTs has been performed.

  1. Analysis of PMN-PT and PZT circular diaphragm energy harvesters for use in implantable medical devices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mo, Changki; Radziemski, Leon J.; Clark, William W.

    2007-04-01

    This paper presents current work on a project to demonstrate the feasibility of harvesting energy for medical devices from internal biomechanical forces using piezoelectric transducer technology based on PMN-PT. The energy harvesting device in this study is a partially covered, simply-supported PMN-PT unimorph circular plate to capture biomechanical energy and to provide power to implanted medical devices. Power harvesting performance for the piezoelectric energy harvesting diaphragm structure is examined analytically. The analysis includes comprehensive modeling and parametric study to provide a design primer for a specific application. An expression for the total power output from the devices for applied pressure is shown, and then used to determine optimal design parameters. It is shown that the device's deflections and stresses under load are the limiting factors in the design. While the primary material choice for energy harvesting today is PZT, an advanced material, PMN-PT, which exhibits improved potential over current materials, is used.

  2. Parametric symmetries in exactly solvable real and PT symmetric complex potentials

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

    Yadav, Rajesh Kumar, E-mail: rajeshastrophysics@gmail.com; Khare, Avinash, E-mail: khare@physics.unipune.ac.in; Bagchi, Bijan, E-mail: bbagchi123@gmail.com

    In this paper, we discuss the parametric symmetries in different exactly solvable systems characterized by real or complex PT symmetric potentials. We focus our attention on the conventional potentials such as the generalized Pöschl Teller (GPT), Scarf-I, and PT symmetric Scarf-II which are invariant under certain parametric transformations. The resulting set of potentials is shown to yield a completely different behavior of the bound state solutions. Further, the supersymmetric partner potentials acquire different forms under such parametric transformations leading to new sets of exactly solvable real and PT symmetric complex potentials. These potentials are also observed to be shape invariantmore » (SI) in nature. We subsequently take up a study of the newly discovered rationally extended SI potentials, corresponding to the above mentioned conventional potentials, whose bound state solutions are associated with the exceptional orthogonal polynomials (EOPs). We discuss the transformations of the corresponding Casimir operator employing the properties of the so(2, 1) algebra.« less

  3. PMN-PT Single-Crystal High-Frequency Kerfless Phased Array

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Ruimin; Cabrera-Munoz, Nestor E.; Lam, Kwok Ho; Hsu, Hsiu-sheng; Zheng, Fan; Zhou, Qifa; Shung, K. Kirk

    2015-01-01

    This paper reports the design, fabrication, and characterization of a miniature high-frequency kerfless phased array prepared from a PMN-PT single crystal for forward-looking intravascular or endoscopic imaging applications. After lapping down to around 40 μm, the PMN-PT material was utilized to fabricate 32-element kerfless phased arrays using micromachining techniques. The aperture size of the active area was only 1.0 × 1.0 mm. The measured results showed that the array had a center frequency of 40 MHz, a bandwidth of 34% at −6 dB with a polymer matching layer, and an insertion loss of 20 dB at the center frequency. Phantom images were acquired and compared with simulated images. The results suggest that the feasibility of developing a phased array mounted at the tip of a forward-looking intravascular catheter or endoscope. The fabricated array exhibits much higher sensitivity than PZT ceramic-based arrays and demonstrates that PMN-PT is well suited for this application. PMID:24859667

  4. Design and implementation of flexible TWDM-PON with PtP WDM overlay based on WSS for next-generation optical access networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Bin; Yin, Hongxi; Qin, Jie; Liu, Chang; Liu, Anliang; Shao, Qi; Xu, Xiaoguang

    2016-09-01

    Aiming at the increasing demand of the diversification services and flexible bandwidth allocation of the future access networks, a flexible passive optical network (PON) scheme combining time and wavelength division multiplexing (TWDM) with point-to-point wavelength division multiplexing (PtP WDM) overlay is proposed for the next-generation optical access networks in this paper. A novel software-defined optical distribution network (ODN) structure is designed based on wavelength selective switches (WSS), which can implement wavelength and bandwidth dynamical allocations and suits for the bursty traffic. The experimental results reveal that the TWDM-PON can provide 40 Gb/s downstream and 10 Gb/s upstream data transmission, while the PtP WDM-PON can support 10 GHz point-to-point dedicated bandwidth as the overlay complement system. The wavelengths of the TWDM-PON and PtP WDM-PON are allocated dynamically based on WSS, which verifies the feasibility of the proposed structure.

  5. Fabrication of graphene-platinum nanocomposite for the direct electrochemistry and electrocatalysis of myoglobin.

    PubMed

    Sun, Wei; Li, Linfang; Lei, Bingxin; Li, Tongtong; Ju, Xiaomei; Wang, Xiuzheng; Li, Guangjiu; Sun, Zhenfan

    2013-05-01

    In this paper a platinum (Pt) nanoparticle decorated graphene (GR) nanosheet was synthesized and used for the investigation on direct electrochemistry of myoglobin (Mb). By integrating GR-Pt nanocomposite with Mb on the surface of carbon ionic liquid electrode (CILE), a new electrochemical biosensor was fabricated. UV-Vis absorption and FT-IR spectra indicated that Mb remained its native structure in the nanocomposite film. Electrochemical behaviors of Nafion/Mb-GR-Pt/CILE were investigated with a pair of well-defined redox peak appeared, which indicated that direct electron transfer of Mb was realized on the underlying electrode with the usage of the GR-Pt nanocomposite. The fabricated electrode showed good electrocatalytic activity to the reduction of trichloroacetic acid in the linear range from 0.9 to 9.0 mmol/L with the detection limit as 0.32 mmol/L (3σ), which showed potential application for fabricating novel electrochemical biosensors and bioelectronic devices. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Advanced helium magnetometer for space applications

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Slocum, Robert E.

    1987-01-01

    The goal of this effort was demonstration of the concepts for an advanced helium magnetometer which meets the demands of future NASA earth orbiting, interplanetary, solar, and interstellar missions. The technical effort focused on optical pumping of helium with tunable solid state lasers. We were able to demonstrate the concept of a laser pumped helium magnetometer with improved accuracy, low power, and sensitivity of the order of 1 pT. A number of technical approaches were investigated for building a solid state laser tunable to the helium absorption line at 1083 nm. The laser selected was an Nd-doped LNA crystal pumped by a diode laser. Two laboratory versions of the lanthanum neodymium hexa-aluminate (LNA) laser were fabricated and used to conduct optical pumping experiments in helium and demonstrate laser pumped magnetometer concepts for both the low field vector mode and the scalar mode of operation. A digital resonance spectrometer was designed and built in order to evaluate the helium resonance signals and observe scalar magnetometer operation. The results indicate that the laser pumped sensor in the VHM mode is 45 times more sensitive than a lamp pumped sensor for identical system noise levels. A study was made of typical laser pumped resonance signals in the conventional magnetic resonance mode. The laser pumped sensor was operated as a scalar magnetometer, and it is concluded that magnetometers with 1 pT sensitivity can be achieved with the use of laser pumping and stable laser pump sources.

  7. Multi Texture Analysis of Colorectal Cancer Continuum Using Multispectral Imagery

    PubMed Central

    Chaddad, Ahmad; Desrosiers, Christian; Bouridane, Ahmed; Toews, Matthew; Hassan, Lama; Tanougast, Camel

    2016-01-01

    Purpose This paper proposes to characterize the continuum of colorectal cancer (CRC) using multiple texture features extracted from multispectral optical microscopy images. Three types of pathological tissues (PT) are considered: benign hyperplasia, intraepithelial neoplasia and carcinoma. Materials and Methods In the proposed approach, the region of interest containing PT is first extracted from multispectral images using active contour segmentation. This region is then encoded using texture features based on the Laplacian-of-Gaussian (LoG) filter, discrete wavelets (DW) and gray level co-occurrence matrices (GLCM). To assess the significance of textural differences between PT types, a statistical analysis based on the Kruskal-Wallis test is performed. The usefulness of texture features is then evaluated quantitatively in terms of their ability to predict PT types using various classifier models. Results Preliminary results show significant texture differences between PT types, for all texture features (p-value < 0.01). Individually, GLCM texture features outperform LoG and DW features in terms of PT type prediction. However, a higher performance can be achieved by combining all texture features, resulting in a mean classification accuracy of 98.92%, sensitivity of 98.12%, and specificity of 99.67%. Conclusions These results demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of combining multiple texture features for characterizing the continuum of CRC and discriminating between pathological tissues in multispectral images. PMID:26901134

  8. Improving the electrical contact at a Pt/TiO2 nanowire interface by selective application of focused femtosecond laser irradiation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xing, Songling; Lin, Luchan; Zou, Guisheng; Liu, Lei; Peng, Peng; Wu, Aiping; Duley, Walter W.; Zhou, Y. Norman

    2017-10-01

    In this paper, we show that tightly focused femtosecond laser irradiation is effective in improving nanojoining of an oxide nanowire (NW) (TiO2) to a metal electrode (Pt), and how this process can be used to modify contact states. Enhanced chemical bondings are created due to localized plasmonically enhanced optical absorption at the Pt/TiO2 interface as confirmed by finite element simulations of the localized field distribution during irradiation. Nano Auger electron spectroscopy shows that the resulting heterojunction is depleted in oxygen, suggesting that a TiO2-x layer is formed between the Pt electrode and the TiO2 NW. The presence of this redox layer at the metal/oxide interface plays an important role in decreasing the Schottky barrier height and in facilitating chemical bonding. After laser irradiation at the cathode for 10 s at a fluence of 5.02 mJ cm-2, the Pt/TiO2 NW/Pt structure displays different electrical properties under forward and reverse bias voltage, respectively. The creation of this asymmetric electrical characteristic shows the way in which modification of the electronic interface by laser engineering can replace the electroforming process in resistive switching devices and how it can be used to control contact states in a metal/oxide interface.

  9. Improving the electrical contact at a Pt/TiO2 nanowire interface by selective application of focused femtosecond laser irradiation.

    PubMed

    Xing, Songling; Lin, Luchan; Zou, Guisheng; Liu, Lei; Peng, Peng; Wu, Aiping; Duley, Walter W; Zhou, Y Norman

    2017-10-06

    In this paper, we show that tightly focused femtosecond laser irradiation is effective in improving nanojoining of an oxide nanowire (NW) (TiO 2 ) to a metal electrode (Pt), and how this process can be used to modify contact states. Enhanced chemical bondings are created due to localized plasmonically enhanced optical absorption at the Pt/TiO 2 interface as confirmed by finite element simulations of the localized field distribution during irradiation. Nano Auger electron spectroscopy shows that the resulting heterojunction is depleted in oxygen, suggesting that a TiO 2-x layer is formed between the Pt electrode and the TiO 2 NW. The presence of this redox layer at the metal/oxide interface plays an important role in decreasing the Schottky barrier height and in facilitating chemical bonding. After laser irradiation at the cathode for 10 s at a fluence of 5.02 mJ cm -2 , the Pt/TiO 2 NW/Pt structure displays different electrical properties under forward and reverse bias voltage, respectively. The creation of this asymmetric electrical characteristic shows the way in which modification of the electronic interface by laser engineering can replace the electroforming process in resistive switching devices and how it can be used to control contact states in a metal/oxide interface.

  10. Production of platinum radioisotopes at Brookhaven Linac Isotope Producer (BLIP)

    DOE PAGES

    Smith, Suzanne V.; Mccutchan, Elizabeth; Gurdal, Gulhan; ...

    2017-09-13

    The accelerator production of platinum isotopes was investigated at the Brookhaven Linac Isotope Producer (BLIP). In this paper high purity natural platinum foils were irradiated at 53.2, 65.7, 105.2, 151.9, 162.9 and 173.3 MeV. The irradiated foils were digested in aqua regia and then converted to their hydrochloride salt with concentrated hydrochloric acid before analyzing by gamma spectrometry periodically for at least 10 days post end of bombardment. A wide range of platinum (Pt), gold (Au) and iridiu m (Ir) isotopes were identified. Effective cross sections at BLIP for Pt-188, Pt-189, Pt-191 and Pt-195m were compared to literature and theoreticalmore » cross sections determined using Empire-3.2. The majority of the effective cross sections (<70 MeV) confirm those reported in the literature. While the absolute values of the theoretical cross sections were up to a factor of 3 lower, Empire 3.2 modeled thresholds and maxima correlated well with experimental values. Preliminary evaluation into a rapid separation of Pt isotopes from high levels of Ir and Au isotopes proved to be a promising approach for large scale production. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that with the use of isotopically enriched target material accelerator production of selected platinum isotopes is feasible over a wide proton energy range.« less

  11. A method for measuring brain partial pressure of oxygen in unanesthetized unrestrained subjects: the effect of acute and chronic hypoxia on brain tissue PO(2).

    PubMed

    Ortiz-Prado, E; Natah, Siraj; Srinivasan, Sathyanarayanan; Dunn, Jeff F

    2010-11-30

    The level of tissue oxygenation provides information related to the balance between oxygen delivery, oxygen utilization, tissue reactivity and morphology during physiological conditions. Tissue partial pressure of oxygen (PtO(2)) is influenced by the use of anesthesia or restraint. These factors may impact the absolute level of PtO(2). In this study we present a novel fiber optic method to measure brain PtO(2). This method can be used in unanesthetized, unrestrained animals, provides absolute values for PO(2), has a stable calibration, does not consume oxygen and is MRI compatible. Brain PtO(2) was studied during acute hypoxia, as well as before and after 28 days of high altitude acclimatization. A sensor was chronically implanted in the frontal cortex of eight Wistar rats. It is comprised of a fiber optic probe with a tip containing material that fluoresces with an oxygen dependent lifetime. Brain PtO(2) declines by 80% and 76% pre- and post-acclimatization, respectively, when the fraction of inspired oxygen declines from 0.21 to 0.08. In addition, a linear relationship between brain PtO(2) and inspired O(2) levels was demonstrated r(2)=0.98 and r(2)=0.99 (pre- and post-acclimatization). Hypoxia acclimatization resulted in an increase in the overall brain PtO(2) by approximately 35%. This paper demonstrates the use of a novel chronically implanted fiber optic based sensor for measuring absolute PtO(2). It shows a very strong linear relationship in awake animals between inspired O(2) and tissue O(2), and shows that there is a proportional increase in PtO(2) over a range of inspired values after exposure to chronic hypoxia. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Technical Writing: Past, Present, and Future.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mathes, J. C., Comp.; Pinelli, Thomas E., Comp.

    This compilation of papers addresses the history, present status, and trends of technical and related writing. The first of the eight papers surveys the present environment of the technical report and assesses the effectiveness of the technical report format of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in transmitting information.…

  13. Ledge-type Co/L1{sub 0}-FePt exchange-coupled composites

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

    Speliotis, Th.; Giannopoulos, G.; Niarchos, D.

    2016-06-21

    FePt-based exchange-coupled composites consisting of a magnetically hard L1{sub 0}-FePt phase exchange-coupled with a soft ferromagnetic material are promising candidates for future ultra-high density (>1 Tbit/in{sup 2}) perpendicular magnetic recording media, also being of interest for other applications including spin torque oscillators and micro-electro-mechanical systems, among others. In this paper, the effect of the thickness of a soft Co layer (3 < th{sub Co} < 20 nm) on the magnetic behavior of ledge-type fcc(100)-Co/L1{sub 0}(001)-FePt composites deposited on an MgO (100) substrate is systematically studied by combining morpho-structural analyses and angular magnetization measurements. Starting from a film consisting of isolated L1{submore » 0}(001)–FePt islands, the ledge-type structure was obtained by depositing a Co layer that either covered the FePt islands or filled-up the inter-island region, gradually forming a continuous layer with increasing Co thickness. A perpendicular anisotropy was maintained up to th{sub Co} ∼ 9.5 nm and a significant reduction in the coercivity (about 50% for th{sub Co} ∼ 3 nm) with the increase in th{sub Co} was observed, indicating that, by coupling hard FePt and soft Co phases in a ledge-type configuration, the writability can be greatly improved. Recoil loops' measurements confirmed the exchange-coupled behavior, reinforcing a potential interest in these systems for future magnetic recording media.« less

  14. Overview of Selection Process for Most Influential Paper of the 1970's

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hayes, Peggy S.; Moser, Kelsey M.

    2011-01-01

    Slides are for a presentation at the AIAA AFM conference invited session titled, 'AFM Most Influential Papers of the 1970's'. The slides describe the selection process used by the members of the technical committee to select the finalists and winning paper. The slides refer to technical papers published in the past, but have no technical data contained within them.

  15. FY 1991 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1991-01-01

    Formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY 1991 are presented. Papers of MSFC contractors are also included. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  16. Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Waits, J. E. Turner (Compiler)

    2001-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY 2000. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all the NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  17. FY 1998 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Waits, J. E. Turner (Compiler)

    1999-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC (Marshall Space Flight Center) personnel in FY98. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all of the NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

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

    Katchadjian, Pablo, E-mail: katcha@cnea.gov.ar; Desimone, Carlos, E-mail: katcha@cnea.gov.ar; Garcia, Alejandro, E-mail: katcha@cnea.gov.ar

    Embalse Nuclear Power Plant (CNE) (CANDU design) is reaching its end of life and due to elapsed operating time the problem of deformation by accelerated creep occurs in the pressure tubes (PT), leading to a possible contact between calandria tubes (CT), concentric to the PT, and some Liquid Injection Shutdown System (LISS) nozzles that pass underneath them. With determination of CT wear, after the predicted contact occurs, the wear rate of the TC could be determined and thus take less conservative measures over the remaining life of the component. This paper presents the development of an ultrasonic technique for measuringmore » wear in CT, with nominal thickness of 1.34 mm. Because the only access is through the interior of PT, to perform this measurement it is necessary to pass through three different interfaces.« less

  19. Fabrication and comparison of PMN-PT single crystal, PZT and PZT-based 1-3 composite ultrasonic transducers for NDE applications.

    PubMed

    Kim, Ki-Bok; Hsu, David K; Ahn, Bongyoung; Kim, Young-Gil; Barnard, Daniel J

    2010-08-01

    This paper describes fabrication and comparison of PMN-PT single crystal, PZT, and PZT-based 1-3 composite ultrasonic transducers for NDE applications. As a front matching layer between test material (Austenite stainless steel, SUS316) and piezoelectric materials, alumina ceramics was selected. The appropriate acoustic impedance of the backing materials for each transducer was determined based on the results of KLM model simulation. Prototype ultrasonic transducers with the center frequencies of approximately 2.25 and 5MHz for contact measurement were fabricated and compared to each other. The PMN-PT single crystal ultrasonic transducer shows considerably improved performance in sensitivity over the PZT and PZT-based 1-3 composite ultrasonic transducers. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. PEM regenerative fuel cells

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Swette, Larry L.; Laconti, Anthony B.; Mccatty, Stephen A.

    1993-01-01

    This paper will update the progress in developing electrocatalyst systems and electrode structures primarily for the positive electrode of single-unit solid polymer proton exchange membrane (PEM) regenerative fuel cells. The work was done with DuPont Nafion 117 in complete fuel cells (40 sq cm electrodes). The cells were operated alternately in fuel cell mode and electrolysis mode at 80 C. In fuel cell mode, humidified hydrogen and oxygen were supplied at 207 kPa (30 psi); in electrolysis mode, water was pumped over the positive electrode and the gases were evolved at ambient pressure. Cycling data will be presented for Pt-Ir catalysts and limited bifunctional data will be presented for Pt, Ir, Ru, Rh, and Na(x)Pt3O4 catalysts as well as for electrode structure variations.

  1. The effect of 8-week plyometric training on leg power, jump and sprint performance in female soccer players.

    PubMed

    Ozbar, Nurper; Ates, Seda; Agopyan, Ani

    2014-10-01

    The aim of this study was to determine the effect of 8-week plyometric training (PT) on the leg power and jump and sprint performance in female soccer players. Eighteen female soccer players from Women Second League (age = 18.2 ± 2.3 years, height = 161.3 ± 5.4 cm, body mass = 56.6 ± 7.2 kg) were randomly assigned to control (n = 9) and plyometric (n = 9) groups. Both groups continued together with regular technical and tactical soccer training for 4 days a week. Additionally, the plyometric group underwent PT for 8 weeks, 1 day per week, 60-minute session duration. During the 8-week period, the control group was hindered from any additional conditioning training. All players' jumps (triple hop, countermovement jump, and standing broad jump), running speed (20 m), and peak power were evaluated before and after 8 weeks. No significant difference was found between the groups at pretest variables (p > 0.05). Significant improvements were found in the posttest of both the groups (p ≤ 0.05), except for 20-m sprint test in the control group (p > 0.05). Triple hop distance, countermovement jump, standing broad jump, peak power, and 20-m sprint test values were all significantly improved in the plyometric group, compared with the control group (p ≤ 0.05). We concluded that short duration PT is an improved important component of athletic performance in female soccer players. The results indicate that safe, effective, and alternative PT can be useful to strength and conditioning coaches, especially during competition season where less time is available for training.

  2. Benefits of a Pharmacology Antimalarial Reference Standard and Proficiency Testing Program Provided by the Worldwide Antimalarial Resistance Network (WWARN)

    PubMed Central

    Lourens, Chris; Lindegardh, Niklas; Barnes, Karen I.; Guerin, Philippe J.; Sibley, Carol H.; White, Nicholas J.

    2014-01-01

    Comprehensive assessment of antimalarial drug resistance should include measurements of antimalarial blood or plasma concentrations in clinical trials and in individual assessments of treatment failure so that true resistance can be differentiated from inadequate drug exposure. Pharmacometric modeling is necessary to assess pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic relationships in different populations to optimize dosing. To accomplish both effectively and to allow comparison of data from different laboratories, it is essential that drug concentration measurement is accurate. Proficiency testing (PT) of laboratory procedures is necessary for verification of assay results. Within the Worldwide Antimalarial Resistance Network (WWARN), the goal of the quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program is to facilitate and sustain high-quality antimalarial assays. The QA/QC program consists of an international PT program for pharmacology laboratories and a reference material (RM) program for the provision of antimalarial drug standards, metabolites, and internal standards for laboratory use. The RM program currently distributes accurately weighed quantities of antimalarial drug standards, metabolites, and internal standards to 44 pharmacology, in vitro, and drug quality testing laboratories. The pharmacology PT program has sent samples to eight laboratories in four rounds of testing. WWARN technical experts have provided advice for correcting identified problems to improve performance of subsequent analysis and ultimately improved the quality of data. Many participants have demonstrated substantial improvements over subsequent rounds of PT. The WWARN QA/QC program has improved the quality and value of antimalarial drug measurement in laboratories globally. It is a model that has potential to be applied to strengthening laboratories more widely and improving the therapeutics of other infectious diseases. PMID:24777099

  3. Introducing Development Education in Technical Universities: Successful Experiences in Spain

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Boni, A.; Perez-Foguet, A.

    2008-01-01

    This paper presents and analyses the main characteristics of successful experiences of Development Education (DE) introduced in two major Spanish Technical Universities (Technical University of Catalonia, TUC, and Technical University of Valencia, TUV) during the nineties and the beginning of the twenty-first century. In this paper, after a brief…

  4. 32 CFR Appendix D to Part 290 - Audit Working Papers

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 32 National Defense 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Audit Working Papers D Appendix D to Part 290 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM DEFENSE CONTRACT AUDIT AGENCY (DCAA) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM Pt...

  5. 32 CFR Appendix D to Part 290 - Audit Working Papers

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 32 National Defense 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Audit Working Papers D Appendix D to Part 290 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM DEFENSE CONTRACT AUDIT AGENCY (DCAA) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM Pt...

  6. 32 CFR Appendix D to Part 290 - Audit Working Papers

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 32 National Defense 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Audit Working Papers D Appendix D to Part 290 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM DEFENSE CONTRACT AUDIT AGENCY (DCAA) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM Pt...

  7. 32 CFR Appendix D to Part 290 - Audit Working Papers

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 32 National Defense 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Audit Working Papers D Appendix D to Part 290 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM DEFENSE CONTRACT AUDIT AGENCY (DCAA) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM Pt...

  8. 32 CFR Appendix D to Part 290 - Audit Working Papers

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 32 National Defense 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Audit Working Papers D Appendix D to Part 290 National Defense Department of Defense (Continued) OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE (CONTINUED) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM DEFENSE CONTRACT AUDIT AGENCY (DCAA) FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT PROGRAM Pt...

  9. Kinetic Self-Assembly of DNA Tiles and Bricks

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-08-26

    research, and educa- tion. This is achieved by freeze drying cell-free systems into paper and other porous substrates to create materials with the...different toehold switches on paper . Experiments were performed by freeze drying the recombinant PT7 expression system onto paper discs, along with linear...DNA encoding specific switch RNAs. The paper discs were rehy- drated with or without the complementary RNA trigger 24 hr after drying and then

  10. Automated Technical Library System Users Manual.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1979-12-01

    AUTOPILOT);SH:AGEH 1; SH:PGH 1;SH:PGH 2;SH:FHE 400(CA);SH:PCH 1;SH:PRM;AL:HY-130;AL=I7- 4PH ; SH:PT150(SW);SH:HS DENISON CENTER DOCUMENT TYPE:PA Circulation...0 One or the other or both AND NOT AN One and not the other 17 To combine sets, enclose all Boolean statements, including embedded statements, in... 17 / FG-9001 * 48 18/ CS-ENERGY DEPT* AND FG=9001 Sometimes you are only interested in seeing the final results of a FIND statement without the step

  11. Laparoscopic Radical Cholecystectomy for Primary or Incidental Early Gallbladder Cancer: The New Rules Governing the Treatment of Gallbladder Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Piozzi, Guglielmo Niccolò

    2017-01-01

    Aim To evaluate the technical feasibility and oncologic safety of laparoscopic radical cholecystectomy (LRC) for primary or incidental early gallbladder cancer (GBC) treatment. Methods Articles reporting LRC for GBC were reviewed from the first case reported in 2010 to 2015 (129 patients). 116 patients had a preoperative diagnosis of gallbladder cancer (primary GBC). 13 patients were incidental cases (IGBC) discovered during or after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Results The majority of patients who underwent LRC were pT2 (62.7% GBC and 63.6% IGBC). Parenchyma-sparing operation with wedge resection of the gallbladder bed or resection of segments IVb-V were performed principally. Laparoscopic lymphadenectomy was carried out according to the reported depth of neoplasm invasion. Lymph node retrieved ranged from 3 to 21. Some authors performed routine sampling biopsy of the inter-aorto-caval lymph nodes (16b1 station) before the radical treatment. No postoperative mortality was documented. Discharge mean day was POD 5th. 16 patients had post operative morbidities. Bile leakage was the most frequent post-operative complication. 5 y-survival rate ranged from 68.75 to 90.7 months. Conclusion Laparoscopy can not be considered as a dogmatic contraindication to GBC but a primary approach for early case (pT1b and pT2) treatment. PMID:28690639

  12. Lake States regional forest resources assessment: technical papers.

    Treesearch

    Henry H. Webster; J. Michael Vasievich

    1997-01-01

    Contains 21 technical working papers prepared for the Lake States regional forest resources assessment, Lake States Forestry Alliance 1995. They represent significant contributions from many individuals and organizations and form the technical background for the assessment.

  13. FY 1995 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations, Volume 1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1995-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY95. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  14. The FY 1992 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1992-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY92. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all of the NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  15. FY 1988 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1988-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY 88. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all of the NASA series reports may be obtained from the NationaL Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  16. FY87 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1987-01-01

    The document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY87. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all of the NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, Va. 22161. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  17. FY 1996 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations. Volume 1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner-Waits, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1996-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY96. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all of the NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  18. Fiscal year 1993 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1993-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY93. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all of the NASA series reports may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  19. Fiber-based coherent polarization beam combining with cascaded phase-locking and polarization-transforming controls

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Yan; Geng, Chao; Li, Feng; Huang, Guan; Li, Xinyang

    2018-05-01

    In this paper, the fiber-based coherent polarization beam combining (CPBC) with cascaded phase-locking (PL) and polarization-transforming (PT) controls was proposed to combine imbalanced input beams where the number of the input beams is not binary, in which the PL control was performed using the piezoelectric-ring fiber-optic phase compensator, and the PT control was realized by the dynamic polarization controller, simultaneously. The principle of the proposed CPBC was introduced. The performance of the proposed CPBC was analyzed in comparison with the CPBC based on PL control and the CPBC based on PT control. The basic experiment of CPBC of three laser beams was carried out to validate the feasibility of the proposed CPBC, where cascaded controls of PL and PT were implemented based on stochastic parallel gradient descent algorithm. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed CPBC incorporates the advantages of the two previous CPBC schemes and performs well in the closed loop. Moreover, the expansibility and the application of the proposed CPBC were validated by scaling the CPBC to combine seven laser beams. We believe that the proposed fiber-based CPBC with cascaded PL and PT controls has great potential in free space optical communications employing the multi-aperture receiver with asymmetric structure.

  20. Posting and transfer: key to fostering trust in government health services.

    PubMed

    Sheikh, Kabir; Freedman, Lynn; Ghaffar, Abdul; Marchal, Bruno; el-Jardali, Fadi; McCaffery, Jim; de Sardan, Jean-Pierre Olivier; Dal Poz, Mario; Flores, Walter; Garimella, Surekha; Schaaf, Marta

    2015-10-13

    Appropriate deployment or posting and transfer (P&T) of health workers - placing the right people in the right positions at the right time - lies at the heart of fostering communities' faith in government health services and cementing the role of the health system as a core social institution. The authors of this paper have been involved in an ongoing transnational dialogue about P&T practices and determinants. This dialogue seeks to call attention to the importance of P&T as a health system function; to urge donors and policy-makers working in health systems, HRH and public administration governance to consider how to address issues around P&T; and to suggest avenues and approaches to research. P&T is a vexed and unresolved issue in many low- and middle-income countries that requires, above all, political commitment to improving public sector services and to new thinking and research. It holds promise as a focal point for inter-disciplinary collaboration in research and implementation that can inform other areas in HRH and health systems strengthening. Innovative social science and management theorizing, and iterative, locally driven interventions that focus on establishing transparent professional norms and building the credibility of government administration, including the health services, are likely the way forward.

  1. DNA-mediated inhibition of peroxidase-like activities on platinum nanoparticles for simple and rapid colorimetric detection of nucleic acids.

    PubMed

    Chen, Weiwei; Fang, Xueen; Li, Hua; Cao, Hongmei; Kong, Jilie

    2017-08-15

    In this research, we found that the peroxidase-like activities of noncovalent DNA-Pt hybrid nanoparticles could be obviously blocked, when Pt nanoparticles (PtNPs) were synthesized in situ using DNA as a template. Moreover, this self-assembled synthetic process was very convenient and rapid (within few mintues), and the inhibition mediated by DNA was also very effective. First, by the paper-based analytical device (PAD) we found the catalytic activities of DNA-Pt hybrid nanoparticles exhibited a linear response to the concentration of DNA in the range from 0.0075 to 0.25µM. Then, with the magnetic bead isolated system and target DNA-induced hybridization chain reaction (HCR), we realized the specific target DNA analysis with a low detection of 0.228nM, and demonstrated its effectivity in distinguishing the target DNA from other interferences. To our knowledge, this is the first report that used the nanoassembly between DNA and PtNPs for colorimetric detection of nucleic acids, which was based on DNA-mediated inhibition of catalytic activities of platinum nanoparticles. The results may be useful for understanding the interactions between DNA and metal nanoparticles, and for development of other convenient and effective analytical strategies. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  2. Persistence of T-cell immune response induced by two acellular pertussis vaccines in children five years after primary vaccination.

    PubMed

    Palazzo, Raffaella; Carollo, Maria; Bianco, Manuela; Fedele, Giorgio; Schiavoni, Ilaria; Pandolfi, Elisabetta; Villani, Alberto; Tozzi, Alberto E; Mascart, Françoise; Ausiello, Clara M

    2016-01-01

    The resurgence of pertussis suggests the need for greater efforts to understand the long-lasting protective responses induced by vaccination. In this paper we dissect the persistence of T memory responses induced by primary vaccination with two different acellular pertussis (aP) vaccines, hexavalent Hexavac® vaccine (Hexavac) (Sanofi Pasteur MSD) and Infanrix hexa® (Infanrix) (Glaxo-SmithKline Biologicals). We evaluated magnitude and duration of T-cell responses to pertussis toxin (PT) by measuring T-cell proliferation, cytokines (IL-2 and IFNγ) production and memory subsets in two groups of children 5 years after primary vaccination. Some of the enrolled children received only primary vaccination, while others had the pre-school boost dose. Positive T-cell responses to PT were detected in 36% of children. Percentage of responsive children, T-cell proliferation and CD4IL-2+ cells were significantly higher in the children primed with Hexavac than in those who received Infanrix vaccine. No major effects of the boost on PT-specific proliferation were observed. Overall, our data documented a persistence of T-cell memory against PT in a minor fraction of children 5 years after primary vaccination. The different responses induced by Hexavac and Infanrix vaccine could rely on differences in PT inactivation process or excipients/adjuvants formulations.

  3. FY 1994 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1994-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by Marshall Space Flight Center personnel in FY94. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors and author indexes. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  4. Development of a field-friendly technique for fecal steroid extraction and storage using the African wild dog (Lycaon pictus).

    PubMed

    Santymire, R M; Armstrong, D M

    2010-01-01

    Hormonal analysis provides information about wildlife populations, but is difficult to conduct in the field. Our goal was to develop a rapid and effective field method for fecal steroid analysis by comparing: (1) three extraction methods (laboratory (LAB), homogenize (HO) and handshake (HS)) and (2) two storage methods (solid-phase extraction (SPE) tubes vs. plastic tubes (PT)). Samples (n=23) from captive African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) were thoroughly mixed, three aliquots of each were weighed ( approximately 0.5 g) and 5 ml of 90% ethanol was added. For LAB, samples were agitated (mixer setting 60; 30 min), centrifuged (1,500 rpm; 20 min) and poured into glass tubes. Or aliquots were HO (1 min) or HS (1 min) and poured through filter paper into glass tubes. Samples were split, analyzed for corticosterone (C) and testosterone (T) metabolites using enzyme immunoassays or stored in SPE or PT. Samples were stored (room temperature) for 30, 60 or 180 days, reconstituted in buffer and analyzed. Mean C and T recoveries of HO were greater (P=0.03) than HS compared with LAB, which was similar to HO (P>0.05). After 30 days <21% of C and T was recovered from SPE, but approximately 100% of each was recovered from HO-PT and HS-PT. Similarly, after 60 and 180 days, approximately 100% of C and T was recovered from HO-PT and HS-PT. Results demonstrated that, for C and T, HO was more comparable (P<0.001) to LAB than HS and PT storage was more efficient than SPE (P<0.001). (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  5. A 12 mV start-up converter using piezoelectric transformer for energy harvesting applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martinez, T.; Pillonnet, G.; Costa, F.

    2016-11-01

    This paper presents a novel topology of start-up converter for sub 100 mV thermal energy harvesting based on an Armstrong oscillator topology using a piezoelectric transformer (PT) and a normally-on MOSFET. Based on a Rosen-type PT and off-the-shelf components, the proposed startup topology begins to oscillate at 12 mV input voltage corresponding to a temperature gradient of 2°C and achieves 1 V output voltage with only 18 mV input voltage applied to the harvester.

  6. 2013 JOSPT Award recipients highlight the need to leverage patient expectations and prevent second anterior cruciate ligament injuries.

    PubMed

    Simoneau, Guy G

    2014-03-01

    During the American Physical Therapy Association's Combined Sections Meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada in February 2014, JOSPT recognized the authors of the most outstanding research and clinical practice manuscripts published in JOSPT during the 2013 calendar year. The 2013 JOSPT Excellence in Research Award was presented to Mark D. Bishop, Joel E. Bialosky, Paul Mintken, PT, DPT, and Joshua A. Cleland, PT, PhD for their paper titled “Patient Expectations of Benefit From Interventions for Neck Pain and Resulting Influence on Outcomes.”

  7. Prism-type holographic optical element design and verification for the blue-light small-form-factor optical pickup head.

    PubMed

    Shih, Hsi-Fu; Chiu, Yi; Cheng, Stone; Lee, Yuan-Chin; Lu, Chun-Shin; Chen, Yung-Chih; Chiou, Jin-Chern

    2012-08-20

    This paper presents the prism-type holographic optical element (PT-HOE) design for a small-form-factor (SFF) optical pickup head (OPH). The surface of the PT-HOE was simulated by three steps of optimization and generated by binary optics. Its grating pattern was fabricated on the inclined plane of a microprism by using the standard photolithography and specific dicing procedures. The optical characteristics of the device were verified. Based on the virtual image method, the SFF-OPH with the device was assembled and realized.

  8. Transfer of graphene onto Pt/Glass substrate for transparent and large area graphene film using low temperature water bath

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aziz, Tengku Norazman Tengku Abd; Rosli, Aimi Bazilah; Yusoff, Marmeezee Mohd; Herman, Sukreen Hana; Zulkifli, Zurita

    2018-05-01

    This paper demonstrates the transfer of graphene at low temperature using water bath. Graphene in water solution (highly opaque) was transferred onto Platinum/Glass (Pt/Glass) substrate and the technique involves no additional chemicals. We obtained high transparency and large area of graphene film that is free of contaminants. The transferred graphene is characterized using FESEM, Raman spectroscopy and I-V measurements. This transfer method enables us to transfer graphene onto ZnO thin film for memristive devices.

  9. Reading magnetic ink patterns with magnetoresistive sensors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Merazzo, K. J.; Costa, T.; Franco, F.; Ferreira, R.; Zander, M.; Türr, M.; Becker, T.; Freitas, P. P.; Cardoso, S.

    2018-05-01

    Information storage and monitoring relies on sensitive transducers with high robustness and reliability. This paper shows a methodology enabling the qualification of magnetic sensors for magnetic pattern readout, in applications different than hard disk magnetic recording. A magnetic tunnel junction MTJ sensor was incorporated in a reader setup for recognition of the magnetization of patterned arrays made of CoCrPt thin films and magnetic ink. The geometry of the sensor (in particular, the footprint and vertical distance to the media) was evaluated for two sensor configurations. The readout conditions were optimized to cope for variable media field intensity, resulting from CoCrPt film or magnetic ink thickness, with fixed reading distance and dimensions of the pattern. The calibration of the ink magnetic signal could be inferred from the analytical calculations carried out to validate the CoCrPt results.

  10. Automatic ultrasonic inspection system for wear determination in calandria tubes of Embalse Nuclear Power Plant

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Katchadjian, Pablo; Desimone, Carlos; Garcia, Alejandro; Antonaccio, Carlos; Schroeter, Fernando; Molina, Héctor

    2015-03-01

    Embalse Nuclear Power Plant (CNE) (CANDU design) is reaching its end of life and due to elapsed operating time the problem of deformation by accelerated creep occurs in the pressure tubes (PT), leading to a possible contact between calandria tubes (CT), concentric to the PT, and some Liquid Injection Shutdown System (LISS) nozzles that pass underneath them. With determination of CT wear, after the predicted contact occurs, the wear rate of the TC could be determined and thus take less conservative measures over the remaining life of the component. This paper presents the development of an ultrasonic technique for measuring wear in CT, with nominal thickness of 1.34 mm. Because the only access is through the interior of PT, to perform this measurement it is necessary to pass through three different interfaces.

  11. Experimental investigation on local mechanical response of superelastic NiTi shape memory alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xiao, Yao; Zeng, Pan; Lei, Liping

    2016-01-01

    In this paper, primary attention is paid to the local mechanical response of NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) under uniaxial tension. With the help of in situ digital image correlation, sets of experiments are conducted to measure the local strain field at various thermomechanical conditions. Two types of mechanical responses of NiTi SMA are identified. The residual strain localization phenomena are observed, which can be attributed to the localized phase transformation (PT) and we affirm that most of the irreversibility is accumulated simultaneously during PT. It is found that temperature and PT play important roles in inducing delocalization of the reverse transformation. We conclude that forward transformation has more influence on the transition of mechanical response in NiTi SMA than reverse transformation in terms of the critical transition temperature for inducing delocalized reverse transformation.

  12. Freight Transportation : A Digest of Technical Papers. Volume 1.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1976-10-28

    This volume contains a number of technical papers dealing with intercity freight transportation. Collectively, these systems-oriented papers consider a wide range of subject matter including transportation facilitation, commodity flow, regulation, au...

  13. FY 1990 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, Joyce E. (Compiler)

    1990-01-01

    Formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY 90 are presented. Also included are papers of MSFC contractors. After being announced in STAR, all of the NASA series reports may be obtained from NTIS. The information may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  14. Fiscal year 1977 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    White, O. L. (Compiler)

    1977-01-01

    This bibliography lists 78 NASA technical memoranda, notes, papers, and reports presented by Marshall Space Flight Center personnel in FY 1977. In addition, 525 papers by contractors to that facility are cited along with 129 papers cleared for presentation.

  15. 46 CFR 11.950 - Subjects for engineer endorsements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ..., Valves P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P P P P-T P Hydraulics P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T... P-T Boiler Water P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P P-T P P P P-T P-T P Control Systems P-T P-T P...

  16. 46 CFR 11.950 - Subjects for engineer endorsements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ..., Valves P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P P P P-T P Hydraulics P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T... P-T Boiler Water P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P P-T P P P P-T P-T P Control Systems P-T P-T P...

  17. 46 CFR 11.950 - Subjects for engineer endorsements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ..., Valves P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P P P P-T P Hydraulics P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T... P-T Boiler Water P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P P-T P P P P-T P-T P Control Systems P-T P-T P...

  18. 46 CFR 11.950 - Subjects for engineer endorsements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ..., Valves P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P P P P-T P Hydraulics P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T... P-T Boiler Water P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P-T P P-T P P P P-T P-T P Control Systems P-T P-T P...

  19. Innovation in Information Technology: Theoretical and Empirical Study in SMQR Section of Export Import in Automotive Industry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Edi Nugroho Soebandrija, Khristian; Pratama, Yogi

    2014-03-01

    This paper has the objective to provide the innovation in information technology in both theoretical and empirical study. Precisely, both aspects relate to the Shortage Mispacking Quality Report (SMQR) Claims in Export and Import in Automotive Industry. This paper discusses the major aspects of Innovation, Information Technology, Performance and Competitive Advantage. Furthermore, In the empirical study of PT. Astra Honda Motor (AHM) refers to SMQR Claims, Communication Systems, Analysis and Design Systems. Briefly both aspects of the major aspects and its empirical study are discussed in the Introduction Session. Furthermore, the more detail discussion is conducted in the related aspects in other sessions of this paper, in particular in Literature Review in term classical and updated reference of current research. The increases of SMQR claim and communication problem at PT. Astra Daihatsu Motor (PT. ADM) which still using the email cause the time of claim settlement become longer and finally it causes the rejected of SMQR claim by supplier. With presence of this problem then performed to design the integrated communication system to manage the communication process of SMQR claim between PT. ADM with supplier. The systems was analyzed and designed is expected to facilitate the claim communication process so that can be run in accordance with the procedure and fulfill the target of claim settlement time and also eliminate the difficulties and problems on the previous manual communication system with the email. The design process of the system using the approach of system development life cycle method by Kendall & Kendall (2006)which design process covers the SMQR problem communication process, judgment process by the supplier, claim process, claim payment process and claim monitoring process. After getting the appropriate system designs for managing the SMQR claim, furthermore performed the system implementation and can be seen the improvement in claim communication process and settlement time become faster and achieve the target. The conclusion in this paper comprises two major aspects. The first one refers to the conclusion in term of theory and concept. The second one refers to the conclusion in term of the empirical study of one of automotive industries in Indonesia. Both of them are expected to have contribution in current and future research of related aspects that are discussed in this paper.

  20. Technical Writing across the Curriculum: Epics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Olds, Barbara M.

    Noting that technically competent graduates of professional schools need additional skills to function effectively in an increasingly complex and global society, this paper describes an innovative program in technical writing developed for undergraduate engineering students at the Colorado School of Mines. The paper first provides background…

  1. NASA scientific and technical publications: A catalog of special publications, reference publications, conference publications, and technical papers, 1987-1990

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1991-01-01

    This catalog lists 783 citations of all NASA Special Publications, NASA Reference Publications, NASA Conference Publications, and NASA Technical Papers that were entered into NASA Scientific and Technical Information Database during the year's 1987 through 1990. The entries are grouped by subject category. Indexes of subject terms, personal authors, and NASA report numbers are provided.

  2. NASA scientific and technical publications: A catalog of special publications, reference publications, conference publications, and technical papers, 1989

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1990-01-01

    This catalog lists 190 citations of all NASA Special Publications, NASA Reference Publications, NASA Conference Publications, and NASA Technical Papers that were entered into the NASA scientific and technical information database during accession year 1989. The entries are grouped by subject category. Indexes of subject terms, personal authors, and NASA report numbers are provided.

  3. NASA scientific and technical publications: A catalog of special publications, reference publications, conference publications, and technical papers, 1991-1992

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1993-01-01

    This catalog lists 458 citations of all NASA Special Publications, NASA Reference Publications, NASA Conference Publications, and NASA Technical Papers that were entered into the NASA Scientific and Technical Information database during accession year 1991 through 1992. The entries are grouped by subject category. Indexes of subject terms, personal authors, and NASA report numbers are provided.

  4. NASA scientific and technical publications: A catalog of Special Publications, Reference Publications, Conference Publications, and Technical Papers, 1987

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1988-01-01

    This catalog lists 239 citations of all NASA Special Publications, NASA Reference Publications, NASA Conference Publications, and NASA Technical Papers that were entered in the NASA scientific and technical information database during accession year 1987. The entries are grouped by subject category. Indexes of subject terms, personal authors, and NASA report numbers are provided.

  5. Design, Fabrication, and Experimental Validation of Novel Flexible Silicon-Based Dry Sensors for Electroencephalography Signal Measurements

    PubMed Central

    Yu, Yi-Hsin; Lu, Shao-Wei; Liao, Lun-De; Lin, Chin-Teng

    2014-01-01

    Many commercially available electroencephalography (EEG) sensors, including conventional wet and dry sensors, can cause skin irritation and user discomfort owing to the foreign material. The EEG products, especially sensors, highly prioritize the comfort level during devices wear. To overcome these drawbacks for EEG sensors, this paper designs Societe Generale de Surveillance S \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$\\cdot $ \\end{document} A \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$\\cdot $ \\end{document} (SGS)-certified, silicon-based dry-contact EEG sensors (SBDSs) for EEG signal measurements. According to the SGS testing report, SBDSs extract does not irritate skin or induce noncytotoxic effects on L929 cells according to ISO10993-5. The SBDS is also lightweight, flexible, and nonirritating to the skin, as well as capable of easily fitting to scalps without any skin preparation or use of a conductive gel. For forehead and hairy sites, EEG signals can be measured reliably with the designed SBDSs. In particular, for EEG signal measurements at hairy sites, the acicular and flexible design of SBDS can push the hair aside to achieve satisfactory scalp contact, as well as maintain low skin-electrode interface impedance. Results of this paper demonstrate that the proposed sensors perform well in the EEG measurements and are feasible for practical applications. PMID:27170884

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

    Dorr, Kent A.; Ostrom, Michael J.; Freeman-Pollard, Jhivaun R.

    CH2M Hill Plateau Remediation Company (CHPRC) designed, constructed, commissioned, and began operation of the largest groundwater pump and treatment facility in the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) nationwide complex. This one-of-a-kind groundwater pump and treatment facility, located at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation Site (Hanford Site) in Washington State, was built in an accelerated manner with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds and has attained Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) GOLD certification, which makes it the first non-administrative building in the DOE Office of Environmental Management complex to earn such an award. There were many contractual, technical, configurationmore » management, quality, safety, and LEED challenges associated with the design, procurement, construction, and commissioning of this $95 million, 52,000 ft groundwater pump and treatment facility. This paper will present the Project and LEED accomplishments, as well as Lessons Learned by CHPRC when additional ARRA funds were used to accelerate design, procurement, construction, and commissioning of the 200 West Groundwater Pump and Treatment (2W P&T) Facility to meet DOE's mission of treating contaminated groundwater at the Hanford Site with a new facility by June 28, 2012.« less

  7. Reuse the pulp and paper industry wastewater by using fashionable technology

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sudarshan, K.; Maruthaiya, K.; Kotteeswaran, P.; Murugan, A.

    2017-10-01

    This proposed method is a promising way, which can be implemented in pulp and paper industries by effective removal of the color and chemical oxygen demand (COD) and the resulting treated water may surely reuse to the other streams. Fourier Transformer Infra Red spectra confirmed the presence of the respective functional groups in the removed pollutants from the wastewater. The efficiency of Non-ferric Alum (NF Alum) and cationic polyacrylamide (C-PAM) with and without power boiler fly ash was also studied. The reduction efficiency of color and chemical oxygen demand (COD) is evaluated at the optimum dosage of NF Alum, fly ash, and C-PAM. At the optimized pH attained from these coagulants using to treat the wastewater, the flocs formation/settling and the pollutant removal efficiency are encouraging and the resulting color of the wastewater is to 40 PtCo units from 330 PtCo units and COD to 66 mg/L from 218 mg/L. While using NF Alum alone with C-PAM for the treatment of wastewater, the highest reduction efficiency of COD is 97 mg/L from 218 mg/L and the color is 60 from 330 PtCo units at pH 4.8 was noted. From these observations, NF Alum and power boiler fly ash with C-PAM can effectively remove the pollutants from the pulp and paper mill wastewater and the water can be reused for other streams.

  8. Temperature dependent electrical characterisation of Pt/HfO{sub 2}/n-GaN metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) Schottky diodes

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

    Shetty, Arjun, E-mail: arjun@ece.iisc.ernet.in; Vinoy, K. J.; Roul, Basanta

    2015-09-15

    This paper reports an improvement in Pt/n-GaN metal-semiconductor (MS) Schottky diode characteristics by the introduction of a layer of HfO{sub 2} (5 nm) between the metal and semiconductor interface. The resulting Pt/HfO{sub 2}/n-GaN metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) Schottky diode showed an increase in rectification ratio from 35.9 to 98.9(@ 2V), increase in barrier height (0.52 eV to 0.63eV) and a reduction in ideality factor (2.1 to 1.3) as compared to the MS Schottky. Epitaxial n-type GaN films of thickness 300nm were grown using plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PAMBE). The crystalline and optical qualities of the films were confirmed using high resolutionmore » X-ray diffraction and photoluminescence measurements. Metal-semiconductor (Pt/n-GaN) and metal-insulator-semiconductor (Pt/HfO{sub 2}/n-GaN) Schottky diodes were fabricated. To gain further understanding of the Pt/HfO{sub 2}/GaN interface, I-V characterisation was carried out on the MIS Schottky diode over a temperature range of 150 K to 370 K. The barrier height was found to increase (0.3 eV to 0.79 eV) and the ideality factor decreased (3.6 to 1.2) with increase in temperature from 150 K to 370 K. This temperature dependence was attributed to the inhomogeneous nature of the contact and the explanation was validated by fitting the experimental data into a Gaussian distribution of barrier heights.« less

  9. FY 1997 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Waits, J. E. Turner (Compiler)

    1998-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY97. The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  10. Kinetic Investigation of Homogeneous H(2)-D(2) Equilibration Catalyzed by Pt-Au Cluster Compounds. Characterization of the Cluster [(H)Pt(AuPPh(3))(9)](NO(3))(2).

    PubMed

    Rubinstein, Leon I.; Pignolet, Louis H.

    1996-11-06

    The new Pt-Au hydrido cluster compound [(H)Pt(AuPPh(3))(9)](NO(3))(2) (3) has been synthesized and characterized by NMR, FABMS, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction [triclinic, P&onemacr;, a = 17.0452(1) Å, b = 17.4045(2) Å, c = 55.2353(1) Å, alpha = 89.891(1) degrees, beta = 85.287(1) degrees, gamma = 75.173(1) degrees, V = 15784.0(2) Å(3), Z = 4 (two molecules in asymmetric unit), residual R = 0.089 for 45 929 observed reflections and 3367 variables, Mo Kalpha radiation]. The Pt(AuP)(9) core geometry is a distorted icosahedron with three vertices vacant. The Pt-Au, Au-Au, and Au-P distances are within the normal ranges observed in other Pt-Au clusters. This cluster is a catalyst for H(2)-D(2) equilibration in homogeneous solution phase and has been used in a general mechanistic study of this reaction catalyzed by Pt-Au clusters. We previously proposed that a key step in the mechanism for catalytic H(2)-D(2) equilibration is the dissociation of a PPh(3) ligand to give a cluster with an open Au site for bonding of H(2) or D(2). This was based on qualitative observations that PPh(3) inhibited the rate of HD production with [Pt(AuPPh(3))(8)](NO(3))(2) (1) as catalyst. In order to test this hypothesis, phosphine inhibition (on the rate of HD production) and phosphine ligand exchange kinetic experiments were carried out with [(H)(PPh(3))Pt(AuPPh(3))(7)](NO(3))(2) (2) and 3. In this paper we show that the rate constant for phosphine dissociation determined from the PPh(3) inhibition rate study of H(2)-D(2) equilibration with cluster 2 is nearly identical to the rate constant for dissociative phosphine ligand exchange. The slower rate for H(2)-D(2) equilibration observed with 3 compared with 2 (5.5 x 10(-3) vs 7.7 x 10(-2) turnover s(-1)) is explained by its smaller rate constant for phosphine dissociation (2.8 x 10(-5) vs 2.9 x 10(-4) s(-1)). The fact that clusters 2 and 3 show similar kinetic behaviors suggests that the PPh(3) dissociation step in the catalytic H(2)-D(2) equilibration is general for 18-electron hydrido Pt-AuPPh(3) clusters.

  11. Short-term stability improvements of an optical frequency standard based on free Ca atoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sherman, Jeff; Oates, Chris

    2010-03-01

    Compared to optical frequency standards featuring trapped ions or atoms in optical lattices, the strength of a standard using freely expanding neutral calcium atoms is not ultimate accuracy but rather short-term stability and experimental simplicity. Recently, a fractional frequency instability of 4 x10-15 at 1 second was demonstrated for the Ca standard at 657 nm [1]. The short cycle time (˜2 ms) combined with only a moderate interrogation duty cycle (˜15 %) is thought to introduce excess, and potentially critically limiting technical noise due to the Dick effect---high-frequency noise on the laser oscillator is not averaged away but is instead down-sampled by aliasing. We will present results of two strategies employed to minimize this effect: the reduction of clock laser noise by filtering the master clock oscillator through a high-finesse optical cavity [2], and an optimization of the interrogation cycle to match our laser's noise spectrum.[4pt] [1] Oates et al., Optics Letters, 25(21), 1603--5 (2000)[0pt] [2] Nazarova et al., J. Opt. Soc. Am. B, 5(10), 1632--8 (2008)

  12. Precision calculation of threshold πd scattering, πN scattering lengths, and the GMO sum rule

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baru, V.; Hanhart, C.; Hoferichter, M.; Kubis, B.; Nogga, A.; Phillips, D. R.

    2011-12-01

    We use chiral perturbation theory (ChPT) to calculate the πd scattering length with an accuracy of a few percent, including isospin-violating corrections in both the two- and three-body sectors. In particular, we provide the technical details of a recent letter (Baru et al., 2011) [1], where we used data on pionic deuterium and pionic hydrogen atoms to extract the isoscalar and isovector pion-nucleon scattering lengths a and a. We study isospin-breaking contributions to the three-body part of a due to mass differences, isospin violation in the πN scattering lengths, and virtual photons. This last class of effects is ostensibly infrared enhanced due to the smallness of the deuteron binding energy. However, we show that the leading virtual-photon effects that might undergo such enhancement cancel, and hence the standard ChPT counting provides a reliable estimate of isospin violation in a due to virtual photons. Finally, we discuss the validity of the Goldberger-Miyazawa-Oehme sum rule in the presence of isospin violation, and use it to determine the charged-pion-nucleon coupling constant.

  13. Collected Papers in Structural Mechanics Honoring Dr. James H. Starnes, Jr.

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Knight, Norman F., Jr. (Compiler); Nemeth, Michael P. (Compiler); Malone, John B. (Compiler)

    2006-01-01

    This special publication contains a collection of structural mechanics papers honoring Dr. James H. Starnes, Jr. presented at the 46th AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics, and Materials Conference held in Austin, Texas, April 18-21, 2005. Contributors to this publication represent a small number of those influenced by Dr. Starnes' technical leadership, his technical prowess and diversity, and his technical breath and depth in engineering mechanics. These papers cover some of the research areas Dr. Starnes investigated, which included buckling, postbuckling, and collapse of structures; composite structural mechanics, residual strength and damage tolerance of metallic and composite structures; and aircraft structural design, certification and verification. He actively pursued technical understanding and clarity, championed technical excellence, and modeled humility and perseverance.

  14. Durability enhancement of intermetallics electrocatalysts via N-anchor effect for fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Li, Xiang; An, Li; Chen, Xin; Zhang, Nanlin; Xia, Dingguo; Huang, Weifeng; Chu, Wangsheng; Wu, Ziyu

    2013-11-18

    Insufficient durability and catalytic activity of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalyst are key issues that have to be solved for the practical application of low temperature fuel cell. This paper introduces a new catalyst design strategy using N-anchor to promote the corrosion resistance of electrocatalyst. The as-synthesized N-Pt3Fe1/C shows a high electrocatalytic activity and a superior durability towards ORR. The kinetic current density of N-Pt3Fe1/C as normalized by ECSA is still as high as 0.145 mA cm(-2) and only 7% loss after 20,000 potential cycles from 0.6 to 1.2 V (vs. NHE) in O2-bubbling perchloric acid solution, whereas Pt3Fe1/C shows 49% loss under the same tests. The N-anchor approach offers novel opportunities for the development of ORR catalyst with excellent electrochemical properties.

  15. Platinum-Catalyzed Terminal-Selective C(sp3)–H Oxidation of Aliphatic Amines

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Melissa; Sanford, Melanie S.

    2016-01-01

    This paper describes the terminal-selective Pt-catalyzed C(sp3)–H oxidation of aliphatic amines without the requirement for directing groups. CuCl2 is employed as a stoichiometric oxidant, and the reactions proceed in high yield at Pt loadings as low as 1 mol %. These transformations are conducted in the presence of sulfuric acid, which reacts with the amine substrates in situ to form ammonium salts. We propose that protonation of the amine serves at least three important roles: (i) it renders the substrates soluble in the aqueous reaction medium; (ii) it limits binding of the amine nitrogen to Pt or Cu; and (ii) it electronically deactivates the C–H bonds proximal to the nitrogen center. We demonstrate that this strategy is effective for the terminal-selective C(sp3)–H oxidation of a variety of primary, secondary and tertiary amines. PMID:26439251

  16. FY 1978 scientific and technical reports, articles, papers, and presentations. [bibliography

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    White, O. L. (Compiler)

    1978-01-01

    Abstracts of 73 technical papers published or presented by MSFC personnel in FY-78 are presented. In addition, over 400 papers by contractors to that facility are listed along with the STAR document number for each report. Titles of 208 additional papers already cleared for publication are included.

  17. Powered Conveyor System for Tray Pack. Short Term Project No. 1

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1991-08-28

    responsibilities are de- scribed in the Technical and Cost Proposals for STP # 1 . 3.0 Short Term Project Activities 3.1 Technology Review & Preliminary...I - ------- F f~/ AD-A241 562: CMBAT RATION TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATION (CRAMTD) PtIwered onveyor Systein fbrfray Ph&k Short Tenn Piject # 1 -, TNAL...REPORT’ A ~~~STP Results and Acmolislssents (Odober 1989to~~ 1 91 Rpe ar.o.CRAMTDSlP #.L rR.-LO q~eO~4DTI.’ cRAi.4m CwcE~rA NO. DLA90088D-033 g ELECTb f C

  18. Reaction kinetics and product distributions in photoelectrochemical cells. Technical progress report, March 15, 1992--March 14, 1993

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

    Koval, C.A.

    1992-12-01

    Hot electron reaction studies at p-InP/CH{sub 3}CN interface revealed essential/desirable features for redox systems used to investigate hot carriers in photoelectrocehmical cells. Reduction of dibromoethylbenzene (DBEB) in presence of metallocene couples is being studied using rotating rink disk electrodes of n-and p-InP disks and Pt rings. At highly doped p-InP electrodes, reduction of DBEB can be very efficient (>30%). A minielectrochemical cell was used to investigate electron transfer at nonilluminated n-WSe{sub 2}/dimethylferrocene{sup +/0} interfaces.

  19. Popliteal versus tibial retrograde access for subintimal arterial flossing with antegrade-retrograde intervention (SAFARI) technique.

    PubMed

    Hua, W R; Yi, M Q; Min, T L; Feng, S N; Xuan, L Z; Xing, J

    2013-08-01

    This study aimed to ascertain differences in benefit and effectiveness of popliteal versus tibial retrograde access in subintimal arterial flossing with the antegrade-retrograde intervention (SAFARI) technique. This was a retrospective study of SAFARI-assisted stenting for long chronic total occlusion (CTO) of TASC C and D superficial femoral lesions. 38 cases had superficial femoral artery lesions (23 TASC C and 15 TASC D). All 38 cases underwent SAFARI-assisted stenting. The ipsilateral popliteal artery was retrogradely punctured in 17 patients. A distal posterior tibial (PT) or dorsalis pedis (DP) artery was retrogradely punctured in 21 patients, and 16 of them were punctured after open surgical exposure. SAFARI technical success was achieved in all cases. There was no significant difference in 1-year primary patency (75% vs. 78.9%, p = .86), secondary patency (81.2% vs. 84.2%, p = .91) and access complications (p = 1.00) between popliteal and tibial retrograde access. There was statistical difference in operation time between popliteal (140.1 ± 28.4 min) and tibial retrograde access with PT/DP punctures after surgical vessel exposure (120.4 ± 23.0 min, p = .04). The SAFARI technique is a safe and feasible option for patients with infrainguinal CTO (TASC II C and D). The PT or DP as the retrograde access after surgical vessel exposure is a good choice when using the SAFARI technique. Copyright © 2013 European Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Technical Education in Nigeria: The Way Forward. Summary of Proceedings of the Workshop on Technical Education: A Foundation for a Healthy Economy (Ota, Ogun State of Nigeria, March 1-2, 1994).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, Paris (France).

    This summary of proceedings includes papers from and about a workshop on technical education in Nigeria and the lessons Nigeria may gain by examining the vocational and technical education systems of Germany, the United States, Great Britain, and Japan. The following papers are included: "Foreword" (Iyorchia Ayu); "Introduction: A…

  1. Quality Concerns in Technical Education in India: A Quantifiable Quality Enabled Model

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gambhir, Victor; Wadhwa, N. C.; Grover, Sandeep

    2016-01-01

    Purpose: The paper aims to discuss current Technical Education scenarios in India. It proposes modelling the factors affecting quality in a technical institute and then applying a suitable technique for assessment, comparison and ranking. Design/methodology/approach: The paper chose graph theoretic approach for quantification of quality-enabled…

  2. Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Turner, J. E. (Compiler)

    2000-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY99. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. All of the NASA series reports may be obtained from the NASA Center for AeroSpace Information (CASI), 7121 Standard Drive, Hanover, MD 21076-1320 The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  3. Strong first order EWPT & strong gravitational waves in Z 3-symmetric singlet scalar extension

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kang, Zhaofeng; Ko, P.; Matsui, Toshinori

    2018-02-01

    The nature of electroweak (EW) phase transition (PT) is of great importance. It may give a clue to the origin of baryon asymmetry if EWPT is strong first order. Although it is a cross over within the standard model (SM), a great many extensions of the SM are capable of altering the nature. Thus, gravitational wave (GW), which is supposed to be relics of strong first order PT, is a good complementary probe to new physics beyond SM (BSM). We in this paper elaborate the patterns of strong first order EWPT in the next to simplest extension to the SM Higgs sector, by introducing a Z 3-symmetric singlet scalar. We find that, in the Z 3-symmetric limit, the tree level barrier could lead to strong first order EWPT either via three or two-step PT. Moreover, they could produce two sources of GW, despite of the undetectability from the first-step strong first order PT for the near future GW experiments. But the other source with significant supercooling which then gives rise to α ˜ O(0.1) almost can be wholly covered by future space-based GW interferometers such as eLISA, DECIGO and BBO.

  4. Phonons of Fe-based superconductor Ca 10Pt 4As 8(Fe 1-xPt xAs) 10

    DOE PAGES

    Ikeuchi, K.; Kobayashi, Y.; Suzuki, K.; ...

    2015-10-28

    In this paper, we report the results of inelastic neutron scattering measurements on particular phonons of a superconducting (SC) Ca10Pt 4As 8(Fe 1-xPt xAs) 10 with the onset transition temperature T c ~ 33 K to investigate mainly what roles orbital fluctuation plays in Cooper pairing, where we observed a slight softening of the in-plane transverse acoustic mode corresponding to the elastic constant C 66. This softening starts at temperature T well above the superconducting T c, as T decreases. An anomalously strong change of the scattering intensity of in-plane optical modes was observed at the M point of themore » pseudo tetragonal reciprocal space in the range of 35 < ω < 40 meV with decreasing T from far above T c. Finally, because this ω region mainly corresponds to the motion of Fe and As atoms in the FeAs planes, the finding presents information on the coupling between the orbital fluctuation of Fe 3d electrons and the lattice system, useful for studying the possible roles of orbital fluctuation in the pairing mechanism and/or the appearance of the so-called nematic phase.« less

  5. Structural health monitoring of glass/epoxy composite plates with MEMS PMN-PT sensors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Simon, Brenton R.; Tang, Hong-Yue; Horsley, David A.; La Saponara, Valeria; Lestari, Wahyu

    2009-03-01

    Sensors constructed with single-crystal PMN-PT, i.e. Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 or PMN, are developed in this paper for structural health monitoring of composite plates. To determine the potential of PMN-PT for this application, glass/epoxy composite specimens were created containing an embedded delamination-starter. Two different piezoelectric materials were bonded to the surface of each specimen: PMN-PT, the test material, was placed on one side of the specimen, while a traditional material, PZT-4, was placed on the other. A comparison of the ability of both materials to transmit and receive an ultrasonic pulse was conducted, with the received signal detected by both a second surface-bonded transducer constructed of the same material, as well as a laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV) analyzing the same location. The optimal frequency range of both sets of transducers is discussed and a comparison is presented of the experimental results to theory. The specimens will be fatigued until failure with further data collected every 3,000 cycles to characterize the ability of each material to detect the growing delamination in the composite structure. This additional information will be made available during the conference.

  6. Highly monodisperse multiple twinned AuCu-Pt trimetallic nanoparticles with high index surfaces.

    PubMed

    Khanal, Subarna; Bhattarai, Nabraj; McMaster, David; Bahena, Daniel; Velazquez-Salazar, J Jesus; Jose-Yacaman, Miguel

    2014-08-14

    Trimetallic nanoparticles possess different properties than their mono- and bi-metallic counterparts, opening a wide range of possibilities for diverse potential applications with the notion to study possible morphology, atomic ordering, reduce precious metal consumption and many others. In this paper, we present a comprehensive experimental study on AuCu-Pt trimetallic nanoparticles with an average diameter of 15 ± 1.0 nm, synthesized in a one-pot synthesis method and characterized by the Cs-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy technique that allowed us to probe the structure at the atomic level resolution. A new way to control the nanoparticle morphology by the presence of third metal (Pt) is also discussed by the overgrowth of Pt on the as prepared AuCu core by Frank-van der Merwe (FM) layer-by-layer and Stranski-Krastanov (SK) island-on-wetting-layer growth modes. With the application of this research, we are now a step closer to produce optimum catalysts in which the active phase forms only surface monolayers. In addition, the nanoalloy exhibits high index facet surfaces with {211} and {321} families that are highly open-structure surfaces and are interesting for the catalytic applications.

  7. Highly Monodisperse Multiple Twinned AuCu/Pt Trimetallic Nanoparticles with High Index Surfaces

    PubMed Central

    Khanal, Subarna; Bhattarai, Nabraj; McMaster, David; Bahena, Daniel; Velazquez-Salazar, J. Jesus

    2014-01-01

    Trimetallic nanoparticles present different properties than their mono- and bi-metallic counterparts, opening a wide range of possibilities for diverse potential applications with the notion to study possible morphology, atomic ordering, reduce precious metal consumption and many others. In this paper, we are presenting a comprehensive experimental study on AuCu/Pt trimetallic nanoparticles with an average diameter 15 ± 1.0 nm, synthesized in one-pot synthesis method and characterized by Cs-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy technique that allowed us to probe the structure at the atomic level resolution. A new way to control the nanoparticle morphology by the presence of third metal (Pt) is also discussed by the overgrowth of Pt on as prepared AuCu core by Frank–van der Merwe (FM) layer-by-layer and Stranski–Krastanov (SK) island-on-wetting-layer growth modes. With the application of this research, we are now a step closer to produce optimum catalysts in which the active phase forms only surface monolayers. In addition, the nanoalloy presents high index facet surfaces with {211} and {321} families, that are highly open-structure surfaces and are interesting for the catalytic applications. PMID:24975090

  8. Academicians and Neurologic Physical Therapy Residents Partner to Expand Clinical Reflection Using the SOLO Taxonomy: A Novel Approach.

    PubMed

    Pinto Zipp, Genevieve; Maher, Catherine; Donnelly, Erin; Fritz, Brian; Snowdon, Lauren

    2016-01-01

    Creating curriculums that develop physical therapy (PT) students into evidenced-based, critically reflective, entry-level practitioners is one of the primary goals for PT programs. Academic faculty partnering with neurologic residency programs to design learning environments that capitalize upon the strengths of both can create insightful educational experiences for students during their didactic training. These partnerships support the development of critical thinking skills and provide mentorship for residents transitioning from their role as a clinician to that of an educator. Using the SOLO (structure of observed learning outcomes) taxonomy as a framework for developing learning experiences, Seton Hall University neurologic academic faculty and program directors from the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation Residency in Neurologic Physical Therapy have built a partnership that seeks to develop critical reflection skills in both the neurologic resident and entry-level PT students. While integration of residents into entry-level PT curriculum may not be novel, we believe that utilizing the SOLO model within this partnership is unique. This paper describes the partnership and learning experiences rooted in the SOLO taxonomy theoretical framework and discusses perceived benefits of this learning experience across professional health science programs.

  9. Polarization transformation as an algorithm for automatic generalization and quality assessment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qian, Haizhong; Meng, Liqiu

    2007-06-01

    Since decades it has been a dream of cartographers to computationally mimic the generalization processes in human brains for the derivation of various small-scale target maps or databases from a large-scale source map or database. This paper addresses in a systematic way the polarization transformation (PT) - a new algorithm that serves both the purpose of automatic generalization of discrete features and the quality assurance. By means of PT, two dimensional point clusters or line networks in the Cartesian system can be transformed into a polar coordinate system, which then can be unfolded as a single spectrum line r = f(α), where r and a stand for the polar radius and the polar angle respectively. After the transformation, the original features will correspond to nodes on the spectrum line delimited between 0° and 360° along the horizontal axis, and between the minimum and maximum polar radius along the vertical axis. Since PT is a lossless transformation, it allows a straighforward analysis and comparison of the original and generalized distributions, thus automatic generalization and quality assurance can be down in this way. Examples illustrate that PT algorithm meets with the requirement of generalization of discrete spatial features and is more scientific.

  10. Methanol, ethanol and hydrogen sensing using metal oxide and metal (TiO(2)-Pt) composite nanoclusters on GaN nanowires: a new route towards tailoring the selectivity of nanowire/nanocluster chemical sensors.

    PubMed

    Aluri, Geetha S; Motayed, Abhishek; Davydov, Albert V; Oleshko, Vladimir P; Bertness, Kris A; Sanford, Norman A; Mulpuri, Rao V

    2012-05-04

    We demonstrate a new method for tailoring the selectivity of chemical sensors using semiconductor nanowires (NWs) decorated with metal and metal oxide multicomponent nanoclusters (NCs). Here we present the change of selectivity of titanium dioxide (TiO(2)) nanocluster-coated gallium nitride (GaN) nanowire sensor devices on the addition of platinum (Pt) nanoclusters. The hybrid sensor devices were developed by fabricating two-terminal devices using individual GaN NWs followed by the deposition of TiO(2) and/or Pt nanoclusters (NCs) using the sputtering technique. This paper present the sensing characteristics of GaN/(TiO(2)-Pt) nanowire-nanocluster (NWNC) hybrids and GaN/(Pt) NWNC hybrids, and compare their selectivity with that of the previously reported GaN/TiO(2) sensors. The GaN/TiO(2) NWNC hybrids showed remarkable selectivity to benzene and related aromatic compounds, with no measurable response for other analytes. Addition of Pt NCs to GaN/TiO(2) sensors dramatically altered their sensing behavior, making them sensitive only to methanol, ethanol and hydrogen, but not to any other chemicals we tested. The GaN/(TiO(2)-Pt) hybrids were able to detect ethanol and methanol concentrations as low as 100 nmol mol(-1) (ppb) in air in approximately 100 s, and hydrogen concentrations from 1 µmol mol(-1) (ppm) to 1% in nitrogen in less than 60 s. However, GaN/Pt NWNC hybrids showed limited sensitivity only towards hydrogen and not towards any alcohols. All these hybrid sensors worked at room temperature and are photomodulated, i.e. they responded to analytes only in the presence of ultraviolet (UV) light. We propose a qualitative explanation based on the heat of adsorption, ionization energy and solvent polarity to explain the observed selectivity of the different hybrids. These results are significant from the standpoint of applications requiring room-temperature hydrogen sensing and sensitive alcohol monitoring. These results demonstrate the tremendous potential for tailoring the selectivity of the hybrid nanosensors for a multitude of environmental and industrial sensing applications.

  11. A search for anisotropy in the arrival directions of ultra high energy cosmic rays recorded at the Pierre Auger Observatory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pierre Auger Collaboration; Abreu, P.; Aglietta, M.; Ahlers, M.; Ahn, E. J.; Albuquerque, I. F. M.; Allard, D.; Allekotte, I.; Allen, J.; Allison, P.; Almela, A.; Alvarez Castillo, J.; Alvarez-Muñiz, J.; Ambrosio, M.; Aminaei, A.; Anchordoqui, L.; Andringa, S.; Antici'c, T.; Aramo, C.; Arganda, E.; Arqueros, F.; Asorey, H.; Assis, P.; Aublin, J.; Ave, M.; Avenier, M.; Avila, G.; Bäcker, T.; Badescu, A. M.; Balzer, M.; Barber, K. B.; Barbosa, A. F.; Bardenet, R.; Barroso, S. L. C.; Baughman, B.; Bäuml, J.; Beatty, J. J.; Becker, B. R.; Becker, K. H.; Bellétoile, A.; Bellido, J. A.; BenZvi, S.; Berat, C.; Bertou, X.; Biermann, P. L.; Billoir, P.; Blanco, F.; Blanco, M.; Bleve, C.; Blümer, H.; Bohácová, M.; Boncioli, D.; Bonifazi, C.; Bonino, R.; Borodai, N.; Brack, J.; Brancus, I.; Brogueira, P.; Brown, W. C.; Bruijn, R.; Buchholz, P.; Bueno, A.; Burton, R. E.; Caballero-Mora, K. S.; Caccianiga, B.; Caramete, L.; Caruso, R.; Castellina, A.; Catalano, O.; Cataldi, G.; Cazon, L.; Cester, R.; Chauvin, J.; Cheng, S. H.; Chiavassa, A.; Chinellato, J. A.; Chirinos Diaz, J.; Chudoba, J.; Cilmo, M.; Clay, R. W.; Coluccia, M. R.; Conceição, R.; Contreras, F.; Cook, H.; Cooper, M. J.; Coppens, J.; Cordier, A.; Coutu, S.; Covault, C. E.; Creusot, A.; Criss, A.; Cronin, J.; Curutiu, A.; Dagoret-Campagne, S.; Dallier, R.; Dasso, S.; Daumiller, K.; Dawson, B. R.; de Almeida, R. M.; De Domenico, M.; De Donato, C.; de Jong, S. J.; De La Vega, G.; de Mello Junior, W. J. M.; de Mello Neto, J. R. T.; De Mitri, I.; de Souza, V.; de Vries, K. D.; del Peral, L.; del Río, M.; Deligny, O.; Dembinski, H.; Dhital, N.; Di Giulio, C.; Díaz Castro, M. L.; Diep, P. N.; Diogo, F.; Dobrigkeit, C.; Docters, W.; D'Olivo, J. C.; Dong, P. N.; Dorofeev, A.; dos Anjos, J. C.; Dova, M. T.; D'Urso, D.; Dutan, I.; Ebr, J.; Engel, R.; Erdmann, M.; Escobar, C. O.; Espadanal, J.; Etchegoyen, A.; Facal San Luis, P.; Fajardo Tapia, I.; Falcke, H.; Farrar, G.; Fauth, A. C.; Fazzini, N.; Ferguson, A. P.; Fick, B.; Filevich, A.; Filipcic, A.; Fliescher, S.; Fracchiolla, C. E.; Fraenkel, E. D.; Fratu, O.; Fröhlich, U.; Fuchs, B.; Gaior, R.; Gamarra, R. F.; Gambetta, S.; García, B.; Garcia Roca, S. T.; Garcia-Gamez, D.; Garcia-Pinto, D.; Gascon, A.; Gemmeke, H.; Ghia, P. L.; Giaccari, U.; Giller, M.; Glass, H.; Gold, M. S.; Golup, G.; Gomez Albarracin, F.; Gómez Berisso, M.; Gómez Vitale, P. F.; Gonçalves, P.; Gonzalez, D.; Gonzalez, J. G.; Gookin, B.; Gorgi, A.; Gouffon, P.; Grashorn, E.; Grebe, S.; Griffith, N.; Grigat, M.; Grillo, A. F.; Guardincerri, Y.; Guarino, F.; Guedes, G. P.; Guzman, A.; Hague, J. D.; Hansen, P.; Harari, D.; Harmsma, S.; Harrison, T. A.; Harton, J. L.; Haungs, A.; Hebbeker, T.; Heck, D.; Herve, A. E.; Hojvat, C.; Hollon, N.; Holmes, V. C.; Homola, P.; Hörandel, J. R.; Horneffer, A.; Horvath, P.; Hrabovský, M.; Huege, T.; Insolia, A.; Ionita, F.; Italiano, A.; Jarne, C.; Jiraskova, S.; Josebachuili, M.; Kadija, K.; Kampert, K. H.; Karhan, P.; Kasper, P.; Kégl, B.; Keilhauer, B.; Keivani, A.; Kelley, J. L.; Kemp, E.; Kieckhafer, R. M.; Klages, H. O.; Kleifges, M.; Kleinfeller, J.; Knapp, J.; Koang, D.-H.; Kotera, K.; Krohm, N.; Krömer, O.; Kruppke-Hansen, D.; Kuehn, F.; Kuempel, D.; Kulbartz, J. K.; Kunka, N.; La Rosa, G.; Lachaud, C.; Lauer, R.; Lautridou, P.; Le Coz, S.; Leão, M. S. A. B.; Lebrun, D.; Lebrun, P.; Leigui de Oliveira, M. A.; Letessier-Selvon, A.; Lhenry-Yvon, I.; Link, K.; López, R.; Lopez Agüera, A.; Louedec, K.; Lozano Bahilo, J.; Lu, L.; Lucero, A.; Ludwig, M.; Lyberis, H.; Macolino, C.; Maldera, S.; Mandat, D.; Mantsch, P.; Mariazzi, A. G.; Marin, J.; Marin, V.; Maris, I. C.; Marquez Falcon, H. R.; Marsella, G.; Martello, D.; Martin, L.; Martinez, H.; Martínez Bravo, O.; Mathes, H. J.; Matthews, J.; Matthews, J. A. J.; Matthiae, G.; Maurel, D.; Maurizio, D.; Mazur, P. O.; Medina-Tanco, G.; Melissas, M.; Melo, D.; Menichetti, E.; Menshikov, A.; Mertsch, P.; Meurer, C.; Mi'canovi'c, S.; Micheletti, M. I.; Minaya, I. A.; Miramonti, L.; Molina-Bueno, L.; Mollerach, S.; Monasor, M.; Monnier Ragaigne, D.; Montanet, F.; Morales, B.; Morello, C.; Moreno, E.; Moreno, J. C.; Mostafá, M.; Moura, C. A.; Muller, M. A.; Müller, G.; Münchmeyer, M.; Mussa, R.; Navarra, G.; Navarro, J. L.; Navas, S.; Necesal, P.; Nellen, L.; Nelles, A.; Neuser, J.; Nhung, P. T.; Niechciol, M.; Niemietz, L.; Nierstenhoefer, N.; Nitz, D.; Nosek, D.; Nožka, L.; Nyklicek, M.; Oehlschläger, J.; Olinto, A.; Ortiz, M.; Pacheco, N.; Pakk Selmi-Dei, D.; Palatka, M.; Pallotta, J.; Palmieri, N.; Parente, G.; Parizot, E.; Parra, A.; Pastor, S.; Paul, T.; Pech, M.; Pekala, J.; Pelayo, R.; Pepe, I. M.; Perrone, L.; Pesce, R.; Petermann, E.; Petrera, S.; Petrinca, P.; Petrolini, A.; Petrov, Y.; Petrovic, J.; Pfendner, C.; Piegaia, R.; Pierog, T.; Pieroni, P.; Pimenta, M.; Pirronello, V.; Platino, M.; Ponce, V. H.; Pontz, M.; Porcelli, A.; Privitera, P.; Prouza, M.; Quel, E. J.; Querchfeld, S.; Rautenberg, J.; Ravel, O.; Ravignani, D.; Revenu, B.; Ridky, J.; Riggi, S.; Risse, M.; Ristori, P.; Rivera, H.; Rizi, V.; Roberts, J.; Rodrigues de Carvalho, W.; Rodriguez, G.; Rodriguez Martino, J.; Rodriguez Rojo, J.; Rodriguez-Cabo, I.; Rodríguez-Frías, M. D.; Ros, G.; Rosado, J.; Rossler, T.; Roth, M.; Rouillé-d'Orfeuil, B.; Roulet, E.; Rovero, A. C.; Rühle, C.; Saftoiu, A.; Salamida, F.; Salazar, H.; Salesa Greus, F.; Salina, G.; Sánchez, F.; Santo, C. E.; Santos, E.; Santos, E. M.; Sarazin, F.; Sarkar, B.; Sarkar, S.; Sato, R.; Scharf, N.; Scherini, V.; Schieler, H.; Schiffer, P.; Schmidt, A.; Scholten, O.; Schoorlemmer, H.; Schovancova, J.; Schovánek, P.; Schröder, F.; Schulte, S.; Schuster, D.; Sciutto, S. J.; Scuderi, M.; Segreto, A.; Settimo, M.; Shadkam, A.; Shellard, R. C.; Sidelnik, I.; Sigl, G.; Silva Lopez, H. H.; Sima, O.; 'Smiałkowski, A.; Šmída, R.; Snow, G. R.; Sommers, P.; Sorokin, J.; Spinka, H.; Squartini, R.; Srivastava, Y. N.; Stanic, S.; Stapleton, J.; Stasielak, J.; Stephan, M.; Stutz, A.; Suarez, F.; Suomijärvi, T.; Supanitsky, A. D.; Šuša, T.; Sutherland, M. S.; Swain, J.; Szadkowski, Z.; Szuba, M.; Tapia, A.; Tartare, M.; Taşcău, O.; Tavera Ruiz, C. G.; Tcaciuc, R.; Tegolo, D.; Thao, N. T.; Thomas, D.; Tiffenberg, J.; Timmermans, C.; Tkaczyk, W.; Todero Peixoto, C. J.; Toma, G.; Tomé, B.; Tonachini, A.; Travnicek, P.; Tridapalli, D. B.; Tristram, G.; Trovato, E.; Tueros, M.; Ulrich, R.; Unger, M.; Urban, M.; Valdés Galicia, J. F.; Valiño, I.; Valore, L.; van den Berg, A. M.; Varela, E.; Vargas Cárdenas, B.; Vázquez, J. R.; Vázquez, R. A.; Veberic, D.; Verzi, V.; Vicha, J.; Videla, M.; Villaseñor, L.; Wahlberg, H.; Wahrlich, P.; Wainberg, O.; Walz, D.; Watson, A. A.; Weber, M.; Weidenhaupt, K.; Weindl, A.; Werner, F.; Westerhoff, S.; Whelan, B. J.; Widom, A.; Wieczorek, G.; Wiencke, L.; Wilczyńska, B.; Wilczyński, H.; Will, M.; Williams, C.; Winchen, T.; Wommer, M.; Wundheiler, B.; Yamamoto, T.; Yapici, T.; Younk, P.; Yuan, G.; Yushkov, A.; Zamorano, B.; Zas, E.; Zavrtanik, D.; Zavrtanik, M.; Zaw, I.; Zepeda, A.; Zhu, Y.; Zimbres Silva, M.; Ziolkowski, M.

    2012-04-01

    Observations of cosmic ray arrival directions made with the Pierre Auger Observatory have previously provided evidence of anisotropy at the 99% CL using the correlation of ultra high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) with objects drawn from the Véron-Cetty Véron catalog. In this paper we report on the use of three catalog independent methods to search for anisotropy. The 2pt-L, 2pt+ and 3pt methods, each giving a different measure of self-clustering in arrival directions, were tested on mock cosmic ray data sets to study the impacts of sample size and magnetic smearing on their results, accounting for both angular and energy resolutions. If the sources of UHECRs follow the same large scale structure as ordinary galaxies in the local Universe and if UHECRs are deflected no more than a few degrees, a study of mock maps suggests that these three methods can efficiently respond to the resulting anisotropy with a P-value = 1.0% or smaller with data sets as few as 100 events. Using data taken from January 1, 2004 to July 31, 2010 we examined the 20,30,...,110 highest energy events with a corresponding minimum energy threshold of about 49.3 EeV. The minimum P-values found were 13.5% using the 2pt-L method, 1.0% using the 2pt+ method and 1.1% using the 3pt method for the highest 100 energy events. In view of the multiple (correlated) scans performed on the data set, these catalog-independent methods do not yield strong evidence of anisotropy in the highest energy cosmic rays.

  12. Area-selective atomic layer deposition of Ru on electron-beam-written Pt(C) patterns versus SiO2 substratum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Junige, Marcel; Löffler, Markus; Geidel, Marion; Albert, Matthias; Bartha, Johann W.; Zschech, Ehrenfried; Rellinghaus, Bernd; van Dorp, Willem F.

    2017-09-01

    Area selectivity is an emerging sub-topic in the field of atomic layer deposition (ALD), which employs opposite nucleation phenomena to distinct heterogeneous starting materials on a surface. In this paper, we intend to grow Ru exclusively on locally pre-defined Pt patterns, while keeping a SiO2 substratum free from any deposition. In a first step, we study in detail the Ru ALD nucleation on SiO2 and clarify the impact of the set-point temperature. An initial incubation period with actually no growth was revealed before a formation of minor, isolated RuO x islands; clearly no continuous Ru layer formed on SiO2. A lower temperature was beneficial in facilitating a longer incubation and consequently a wider window for (inherent) selectivity. In a second step, we write C-rich Pt micro-patterns on SiO2 by focused electron-beam-induced deposition (FEBID), varying the number of FEBID scans at two electron beam acceleration voltages. Subsequently, the localized Pt(C) deposits are pre-cleaned in O2 and overgrown by Ru ALD. Already sub-nanometer-thin Pt(C) patterns, which were supposedly purified into some form of Pt(O x ), acted as very effective activation for the locally restricted, thus area-selective ALD growth of a pure, continuous Ru covering, whereas the SiO2 substratum sufficiently inhibited towards no growth. FEBID at lower electron energy reduced unwanted stray deposition and achieved well-resolved pattern features. We access the nucleation phenomena by utilizing a hybrid metrology approach, which uniquely combines in-situ real-time spectroscopic ellipsometry, in-vacuo x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ex-situ high-resolution scanning electron microscopy, and mapping energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy.

  13. Magnetic properties of Ce xY 1-xPt compared to Ce xLa 1-xPt ones

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

    Ocko, M.; Zadro, K.; Drobac, D.

    In this paper, we have investigated the magnetic properties of the Ce xY 1-xPt Kondo ferromagnetic alloy system in the temperature range from 1.8 K to 320 K. The results of these investigations can be summarized as follows: dc-susceptibility can be described by the Curie-Weiss law at higher temperatures down to about 100 K, but also at low temperatures above the ferromagnetic phase transition. At higher temperatures, the extracted Curie-Weiss parameter, θ p, is negative and at low temperature θ C is positive. The extracted effective magnetic moment above 100 K increases with the Ce content up to almost themore » theoretical value of the isolated Ce 3+ ion, μ = 2.54 μ B, for CePt. This suggests an increase of the hybridization with decreasing Ce content, or said equivalently, it means that the increase of the Kondo interaction diminishes effective magnetic moment. These observations confirm the main conclusions inferred from an earlier transport properties investigation of this alloy system. The corresponding θ C differs within 1 K from the Curie temperature, T C, which is determined by the resistivity measurements. The most intriguing result of the investigation of Ce xY 1-xPt is the linear concentration dependence of T C vs. x and, moreover, it is the same as in Ce xLa 1-xPt although in the former system the hybridization diminishes considerably the effective magnetic moment per Ce ion, while in the latter system, hybridization is minor and independent of x. Finally, we offer the explanations of these intriguing experimental results.« less

  14. Magnetic properties of Ce xY 1-xPt compared to Ce xLa 1-xPt ones

    DOE PAGES

    Ocko, M.; Zadro, K.; Drobac, D.; ...

    2017-12-05

    In this paper, we have investigated the magnetic properties of the Ce xY 1-xPt Kondo ferromagnetic alloy system in the temperature range from 1.8 K to 320 K. The results of these investigations can be summarized as follows: dc-susceptibility can be described by the Curie-Weiss law at higher temperatures down to about 100 K, but also at low temperatures above the ferromagnetic phase transition. At higher temperatures, the extracted Curie-Weiss parameter, θ p, is negative and at low temperature θ C is positive. The extracted effective magnetic moment above 100 K increases with the Ce content up to almost themore » theoretical value of the isolated Ce 3+ ion, μ = 2.54 μ B, for CePt. This suggests an increase of the hybridization with decreasing Ce content, or said equivalently, it means that the increase of the Kondo interaction diminishes effective magnetic moment. These observations confirm the main conclusions inferred from an earlier transport properties investigation of this alloy system. The corresponding θ C differs within 1 K from the Curie temperature, T C, which is determined by the resistivity measurements. The most intriguing result of the investigation of Ce xY 1-xPt is the linear concentration dependence of T C vs. x and, moreover, it is the same as in Ce xLa 1-xPt although in the former system the hybridization diminishes considerably the effective magnetic moment per Ce ion, while in the latter system, hybridization is minor and independent of x. Finally, we offer the explanations of these intriguing experimental results.« less

  15. A search for anisotropy in the arrival directions of ultra high energy cosmic rays recorded at the Pierre Auger Observatory

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

    Abreu, P.

    2012-01-01

    Observations of cosmic ray arrival directions made with the Pierre Auger Observatory have previously provided evidence of anisotropy at the 99% CL using the correlation of ultra high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs) with objects drawn from the Veron-Cetty Veron catalog. In this paper we report on the use of three catalog independent methods to search for anisotropy. The 2pt-L, 2pt+ and 3pt methods, each giving a different measure of self-clustering in arrival directions, were tested on mock cosmic ray data sets to study the impacts of sample size and magnetic smearing on their results, accounting for both angular and energymore » resolutions. If the sources of UHECRs follow the same large scale structure as ordinary galaxies in the local Universe and if UHECRs are deflected no more than a few degrees, a study of mock maps suggests that these three methods can efficiently respond to the resulting anisotropy with a P-value = 1.0% or smaller with data sets as few as 100 events. Using data taken from January 1, 2004 to July 31, 2010 we examined the 20, 30, ..., 110 highest energy events with a corresponding minimum energy threshold of about 51 EeV. The minimum P-values found were 13.5% using the 2pt-L method, 1.0% using the 2pt+ method and 1.1% using the 3pt method for the highest 100 energy events. In view of the multiple (correlated) scans performed on the data set, these catalog-independent methods do not yield strong evidence of anisotropy in the highest energy cosmic rays.« less

  16. The National Shipbuilding Research Program. Proceedings of the REAPS Technical Symposium. Paper No. 20: Application of the GIFTS-5 Minibased Graphics System for Ship Design and Analysis

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1979-09-01

    Proceedings of the REAPS Technical Symposium Paper No. 20: Application of the GIFTS -5 Minibased Graphics System for Ship Design and Analysis U.S...The National Shipbuilding Research Program Proceedings of the REAPS Technical Symposium Paper No. 20: Application of the GIFTS -5 Minibased Graphics...MERCHANTABILITY AND/OR FITNESS FOR PURPOSE ARE SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMED. APPLICATION OF THE GIFTS -5 MINIBASED GRAPHICS SYSTEM FOR SHIP DESIGN AND ANALYSIS Dr

  17. FY 1999 Scientific and Technical Reports, Articles, Papers, and Presentations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Waits, J.oyce E.Turner

    2000-01-01

    This document presents formal NASA technical reports, papers published in technical journals, and presentations by MSFC personnel in FY99. It also includes papers of MSFC contractors. All of the NASA series reports may be obtained from the NASA Center for AeroSpace Information (CASI), 7121 Standard Drive, Hanover, MD 21076-1320 The information in this report may be of value to the scientific and engineering community in determining what information has been published and what is available.

  18. A Smart-Home System to Unobtrusively and Continuously Assess Loneliness in Older Adults

    PubMed Central

    Dodge, Hiroko H.; Riley, Thomas; Jacobs, Peter G.; Thielke, Stephen; Kaye, Jeffrey

    2016-01-01

    Loneliness is a common condition in older adults and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, decreased sleep quality, and increased risk of cognitive decline. Assessing loneliness in older adults is challenging due to the negative desirability biases associated with being lonely. Thus, it is necessary to develop more objective techniques to assess loneliness in older adults. In this paper, we describe a system to measure loneliness by assessing in-home behavior using wireless motion and contact sensors, phone monitors, and computer software as well as algorithms developed to assess key behaviors of interest. We then present results showing the accuracy of the system in detecting loneliness in a longitudinal study of 16 older adults who agreed to have the sensor platform installed in their own homes for up to 8 months. We show that loneliness is significantly associated with both time out-of-home (\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$ {\\beta } = -0.88$ \\end{document} and \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$p<0.01$ \\end{document}) and number of computer sessions (\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$ {\\beta } = 0.78$ \\end{document} and \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$p<0.05$ \\end{document}). \\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document} }{}$R^{2}$ \\end{document} for the model was 0.35. We also show the model’s ability to predict out-of-sample loneliness, demonstrating that the correlation between true loneliness and predicted out-of-sample loneliness is 0.48. When compared with the University of California at Los Angeles loneliness score, the normalized mean absolute error of the predicted loneliness scores was 0.81 and the normalized root mean squared error was 0.91. These results represent first steps toward an unobtrusive, objective method for the prediction of loneliness among older adults, and mark the first time multiple objective behavioral measures that have been related to this key health outcome. PMID:27574577

  19. Transportan 10 improves the anticancer activity of cisplatin.

    PubMed

    Izabela, Rusiecka; Jarosław, Ruczyński; Magdalena, Alenowicz; Piotr, Rekowski; Ivan, Kocić

    2016-05-01

    The aim of this paper was to examine whether cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) such as transportan 10 (TP10) or protein transduction domain (PTD4) may improve the anticancer activity of cisplatin (cPt). The complexes of TP10 or PTD4 with cPt were used in the experiments. They were carried out on two non-cancer (HEK293 (human embryonic kidney) and HEL299 (human embryo lung)) and two cancer (HeLa (human cervical cancer) and OS143B (human osteosarcoma 143B)) cell lines. Both complexes were tested (MTT assay) with respect to their anticancer or cytotoxic actions. TAMRA (fluorescent dye)-stained preparations were visualized in a fluorescence microscope. The long-term effect of TP10 + cPt and its components on non-cancer and cancer cell lines was observed in inverted phase contrast microscopy. In the MTT test (cell viability assay), the complex of TP10 + cPt produced a more potent effect on the cancer cell lines (HeLa, OS143B) in comparison to that observed after separate treatment with TP10 or cPt. At the same time, the action of the complex and its components was rather small on non-cancer cell lines. On the other hand, a complex of another CPP with cPt, i.e., PTD4 + cPt, was without a significant effect on the cancer cell line (OS143B). The images of the fluorescent microscopy showed TAMRA-TP10 or TAMRA-TP10 + cPt in the interior of the HeLa cells. In the case of TAMRA-PTD4 or TAMRA-PTD4 + cPt, only the first compound was found inside the cancer cell line. In contrast, none of the tested compounds gained access to the interior of the non-cancer cells (HEK293, HEL299). Long-term incubation with the TP10 + cPt (estimated by inverted phase contrast microscopy) lead to an enhanced action of the complex on cell viability (decrease in the number of cells and change in their morphology) as compared with that produced by each single agent. With regard to the tested CPPs, only TP10 improved the anticancer activity of cisplatin if both compounds were used in the form of a complex. Additionally, the complex was relatively safe for non-cancer cells. What is more, TP10 also produced an anticancer effect on HeLa and OS143B cell lines.

  20. Initial State fluctuations from midperipheral to ultracentral collisions in a transport approach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Plumari, Salvatore; Scardina, Francesco; Minissale, Vincenzo; Oliva, Lucia; Greco, Vincenzo

    2018-03-01

    We study the build up of the anisotropic flows vn for a fluid at fixed η/s(T) by means of an event-by-event transport approach. Usually in the partonic approach are used massless partons implying a ɛ = 3p Equation of State (EoS). In this paper we extend previous studies to finite partonic masses tuned to simulate a fluid with an EoS close to the recent lQCD results. In particular we study the role of the equation of state and the effect of the η/s ratio and its T dependence on the build up of the vn (pT ) for Au+Au collisions at \\sqrt s = 200{{ }}GeV and for Pb + Pb collisions at \\sqrt s = 2.76{{ }}TeV. We find that the sensitivity to the EoS of the vn (pT ) increase with the order of the harmonics n. In particular we find a mass ordering for the elliptic flow at low pT . We find that for the two different beam energies considered the suppression of the vn (pT ) due to the viscosity of the medium have different contributions coming from the cross over or QGP phase depending on the collision energies. The study reveals that in ultra-central collisions (0 - 0.2%) the vn (pT ) have a stronger sensitivity to the T dependence of η/s in the QGP phase and this sensitivity increases with the order of the harmonic n.

  1. Enhanced End-Contacts by Helium Ion Bombardment to Improve Graphene-Metal Contacts

    PubMed Central

    Jia, Kunpeng; Su, Yajuan; Zhan, Jun; Shahzad, Kashif; Zhu, Huilong; Zhao, Chao; Luo, Jun

    2016-01-01

    Low contact resistance between graphene and metals is of paramount importance to fabricate high performance graphene-based devices. In this paper, the impact of both defects induced by helium ion (He+) bombardment and annealing on the contact resistance between graphene and various metals (Ag, Pd, and Pt) were systematically explored. It is found that the contact resistances between all metals and graphene are remarkably reduced after annealing, indicating that not only chemically adsorbed metal (Pd) but also physically adsorbed metals (Ag and Pt) readily form end-contacts at intrinsic defect locations in graphene. In order to further improve the contact properties between Ag, Pd, and Pt metals and graphene, a novel method in which self-aligned He+ bombardment to induce exotic defects in graphene and subsequent thermal annealing to form end-contacts was proposed. By using this method, the contact resistance is reduced significantly by 15.1% and 40.1% for Ag/graphene and Pd/graphene contacts with He+ bombardment compared to their counterparts without He+ bombardment. For the Pt/graphene contact, the contact resistance is, however, not reduced as anticipated with He+ bombardment and this might be ascribed to either inappropriate He+ bombardment dose, or inapplicable method of He+ bombardment in reducing contact resistance for Pt/graphene contact. The joint efforts of as-formed end-contacts and excess created defects in graphene are discussed as the cause responsible for the reduction of contact resistance. PMID:28335286

  2. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific Communication (14th, Orlando, Florida, October 7-9, 1987).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Geonetta, Sam C., Ed.

    Based on the notion of "reaching out," this proceedings presents papers from the annual meeting of the Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific Communication. Papers in the proceedings are: "Southern Tech's Technical Writing Certificate" (William S. Pfeiffer); "Reach Out and Quack Someone" (Daniel R. Jones);…

  3. Physically Healthy and Ready to Learn. Technical Assistance Paper No. 1

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    US Department of Health and Human Services, Head Start Bureau, 2006

    2006-01-01

    This Technical Assistance Paper offers guidance to programs regarding the implementation of the "Head Start Program Performance Standards" on child health and developmental services, child health and safety, and child nutrition. The paper examines how physical health influences children's development and how child health and development…

  4. A sub-μs thermal time constant electrically driven Pt nanoheater: thermo-dynamic design and frequency characterization

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

    Ottonello Briano, Floria, E-mail: floria@kth.se; Sohlström, Hans; Forsberg, Fredrik

    2016-05-09

    Metal nanowires can emit coherent polarized thermal radiation, work as uncooled bolometers, and provide localized heating. In this paper, we engineer the temperature dynamics of electrically driven Pt nanoheaters on a silicon-on-insulator substrate. We present three designs and we electrically characterize and model their thermal impedance in the frequency range from 3 Hz to 3 MHz. Finally, we show a temperature modulation of 300 K while consuming less than 5 mW of power, up to a frequency of 1.3 MHz. This result can lead to significant advancements in thermography and absorption spectroscopy.

  5. Owning the program technical baseline for future space systems acquisition: program technical baseline tracking tool

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nguyen, Tien M.; Guillen, Andy T.; Hant, James J.; Kizer, Justin R.; Min, Inki A.; Siedlak, Dennis J. L.; Yoh, James

    2017-05-01

    The U.S. Air Force (USAF) has recognized the needs for owning the program and technical knowledge within the Air Force concerning the systems being acquired to ensure success. This paper extends the previous work done by the authors [1-2] on the "Resilient Program Technical Baseline Framework for Future Space Systems" and "Portfolio Decision Support Tool (PDST)" to the development and implementation of the Program and Technical Baseline (PTB) Tracking Tool (PTBTL) for the DOD acquisition life cycle. The paper describes the "simplified" PTB tracking model with a focus on the preaward phases and discusses how to implement this model in PDST.

  6. Workshop on Evolution of Igneous Asteroids: Focus on Vesta and the HED Meteorites. Pt. 1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mittlefehldt, David W. (Editor); Papike, James J. (Editor)

    1996-01-01

    This volume contains abstracts of papers that have been accepted for presentation at the Workshop on Evolution of Igneous Asteroids: Focus on Vesta and the HED Meteorites, October 16-18, 1996, in Houston, Texas.

  7. The One-On-One Stochastic Duel. Part III

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-11-15

    bl; P(I a )mca~ P(T a 4) a, a-,,. and cZ.+ %i 1 -0 P(Ji -J) - p P(J j a~. 3ini2,..., and Aa+ 7, p u J1-0~ P(A) qi A- + 3- [na/a 3+ pVpB - - 1 qVa - 1 imO...AUTHORIED DOCUMENTS$ SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF THIS PAGE (%ohmn Data Efntined_"’_ REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE REFoRE CIPNS.,UTIJG FONS 1 . REPORT NUMBER R2...DUEL: PART III O TECHNICAL REPORT S. PERFORMING ORG. REPORT NUMBER r" t’ /)1r ISE R 80- 1 " 7. AUTHOR(s) --- M---CfO RN UBRs ,,. J. Ancker, Jr. DAG

  8. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific Communication (24th, Austin, Texas, October 16-18, 1997).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific Communication.

    Based on the theme of connections in technical and scientific communication, this proceedings presents 47 papers delivered at the 1997 annual meeting of the Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific Communication (CPTSC). Papers in the proceedings are divided into 10 sections: (1) Theoretical Connections; (2) Legal and Ethical Connections;…

  9. Technical change in forest sector models: the global forest products model approach

    Treesearch

    Joseph Buongiorno; Sushuai Zhu

    2015-01-01

    Technical change is developing rapidly in some parts of the forest sector, especially in the pulp and paper industry where wood fiber is being substituted by waste paper. In forest sector models, the processing of wood and other input into products is frequently represented by activity analysis (input–output). In this context, technical change translates in changes...

  10. The Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific Communication Proceedings (5th, Troy, New York, April 19-21, 1978).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carson, David L., Ed.

    Prepared by representatives of industry, government, and the educational community, the papers in this collection were drawn from a conference that addressed a variety of issues of interest to the field of technical communication. Specific topics discussed in the papers are as follows: (1) the role of the Society for Technical Communication in…

  11. Micromachined High Frequency PMN-PT/Epoxy 1-3 Composite Ultrasonic Annular Array

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Changgeng; Djuth, Frank; Li, Xiang; Chen, Ruimin; Zhou, Qifa; Shung, K. Kirk

    2013-01-01

    This paper reports the design, fabrication, and performance of miniature micromachined high frequency PMN-PT/epoxy 1-3 composite ultrasonic annular arrays. The PMN-PT single crystal 1-3 composites were made with micromachining techniques. The area of a single crystal pillar was 9 μm × 9 μm. The width of the kerf among pillars was ~ 5 μm and the kerfs were filled with a polymer. The composite thickness was 25 μm. A six-element annular transducer of equal element area of 0.2 mm2 with 16 μm kerf widths between annuli was produced. The aperture size the array transducer is about 1.5 mm in diameter. A novel electrical interconnection strategy for high density array elements was implemented. After the transducer was attached to the electric connection board and packaged, the array transducer was tested in a pulse/echo arrangement, whereby the center frequency, bandwidth, two-way insertion loss (IL), and cross talk between adjacent elements were measured for each annulus. The center frequency was 50 MHz and -6 dB bandwidth was 90%. The average insertion loss was 19.5 dB at 50 MHz and the crosstalk between adjacent elements was about -35 dB. The micromachining techniques described in this paper are promising for the fabrication of other types of high frequency transducers e.g. 1D and 2D arrays. PMID:22119324

  12. Experimental progress of a 4K VM/PT hybrid cryocooler for pre-cooling 1K sorption cooler

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pan, Changzhao; Zhang, Tong; Wang, Jue; Chen, Liubiao; Guo, Jia; Zhou, Yuan; Wang, Junjie

    2017-12-01

    Sub-kelvin refrigerator has many applications in space detector and manned space station, such as for the transition-edge superconducting (TES) bolometers operated in the 50 mK range. In order to meet the requirement of space applications, the high efficient, vibration free and high stability refrigerator need to be designed. VM/PT hybrid cryocooler is a new type cryocooler capable of attaining temperature below 4K. As a low frequency Stirling type cryocooler, it has the advantages of high stability and high efficiency. Combined with the vibration free sorption cooler and ADR refrigerator, a novel sub-kelvin cooling chain can be designed for the TES bolometer. This paper presents the recent experimental progress of the 4K VM/PT hybrid cryocooler in our laboratory. By optimizing of regenerators, phase shifters and heat exchangers, a lowest temperature of 2.6K was attained. Based on this cryocooler, a preliminary sorption cooler could be designed.

  13. Optical colour image watermarking based on phase-truncated linear canonical transform and image decomposition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Su, Yonggang; Tang, Chen; Li, Biyuan; Lei, Zhenkun

    2018-05-01

    This paper presents a novel optical colour image watermarking scheme based on phase-truncated linear canonical transform (PT-LCT) and image decomposition (ID). In this proposed scheme, a PT-LCT-based asymmetric cryptography is designed to encode the colour watermark into a noise-like pattern, and an ID-based multilevel embedding method is constructed to embed the encoded colour watermark into a colour host image. The PT-LCT-based asymmetric cryptography, which can be optically implemented by double random phase encoding with a quadratic phase system, can provide a higher security to resist various common cryptographic attacks. And the ID-based multilevel embedding method, which can be digitally implemented by a computer, can make the information of the colour watermark disperse better in the colour host image. The proposed colour image watermarking scheme possesses high security and can achieve a higher robustness while preserving the watermark’s invisibility. The good performance of the proposed scheme has been demonstrated by extensive experiments and comparison with other relevant schemes.

  14. Evidence for the Formation of Nitrogen-Rich Platinum and Palladium Nitride Nanoparticles

    DOE PAGES

    Veith, Gabriel M.; Lupini, Andrew R.; Baggetto, Loïc; ...

    2013-12-03

    Here, we report evidence for the formation of nitrogen-rich precious metal nanoparticles (Pt, Pd) prepared by reactive sputtering of the pure metal in a N 2 plasma. The composition of the nanoparticles varies as a function of particle size and growth conditions. For the smallest particles the nitrogen content appears to be as high as 6.7 N atoms for each Pd atom or 5.9 N atoms for each Pt atom whereas bulk films have nominal compositions of Pt 7.3N and Pd 2.5N. The nanoparticles are metastable in air and moisture, slowly decomposing over several years. This paper describes the synthesismore » of these materials along with experimental evidence of the composition, oxidation state, and growth modes. Moreover, the catalytic properties of these N-rich nanoparticles were accessed by rotating disk electrode electrochemical studies, the liquid phase oxidation of benzyl alcohol and gas phase CO oxidation and support the experimental evidence for the materials composition.« less

  15. Thermodynamic, electronic and magnetic properties of intermetallic compounds through statistical models

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cadeville, M. C.; Pierron-Bohnes, V.; Bouzidi, L.; Sanchez, J. M.

    1993-01-01

    Local and average electronic and magnetic properties of transition metal alloys are strongly correlated to the distribution of atoms on the lattice sites. The ability of some systems to form long range ordered structures at low temperature allows to discuss their properties in term of well identified occupation operators as those related to long range order (LRO) parameters. We show that using theoretical determinations of these LRO parameters through statistical models like the cluster variation method (CVM) developed to simulate the experimental phase diagrams, we are able to reproduce a lot of physical properties. In this paper we focus on two points: (i) a comparison between CVM results and an experimental determination of the LRO parameter by NMR at 59Co in a CoPt3 compound, and (ii) the modelling of the resistivity of ferromagnetic and paramagnetic intermetallic compounds belonging to Co-Pt, Ni-Pt and Fe-Al systems. All experiments were performed on samples in identified thermodynamic states, implying that kinetic effects are thoroughly taken into account.

  16. Fabrication and Performance of Endoscopic Ultrasound Radial Arrays Based on PMN-PT Single Crystal/Epoxy 1-3 Composite

    PubMed Central

    Zhou, Dan; Cheung, Kwok Fung; Chen, Yan; Lau, Sien Ting; Zhou, Qifa; Shung, K. Kirk; Luo, Hao Su; Dai, Jiyan; Chan, Helen Lai Wa

    2011-01-01

    In this paper, 0.7Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-0.3PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) single crystal/epoxy 1–3 composite was used as the active material of the endoscopic ultrasonic radial array transducer, because this composite exhibited ultrahigh electromechanical coupling coefficient (kt = 0.81%), very low mechanical quality factor (Qm = 11) and relatively low acoustic impedance (Zt = 12 MRayls). A 6.91 MHz PMN-PT/epoxy 1–3 composite radial array transducer with 64 elements was tested in a pulse-echo response measurement. The −6-dB bandwidth of the composite array transducer was 102%, which was ~30% larger than that of traditional lead zirconate titanate array transducer. The two-way insertion loss was found to be −32.3 dB. The obtained results show that this broadband array transducer is promising for acquiring high-resolution endoscopic ultrasonic images in many clinical applications. PMID:21342833

  17. Grain growth mechanism and magnetic properties in L10-FePt thin films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, W.; Chen, L.

    2017-08-01

    This paper focuses on the grain growth mechanisms and magnetic properties of FePt thin films during an annealing process. The grain size and grain orientation distribution have been quantitatively investigated by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and the grain growth kinetics of thin films were described by the phenomenological kinetic grain growth model. The results show that the grain growth exponent and activation energy of the FePt thin films were 4.26 and 136 kJ/mol respectively, indicating that the grain growth mechanism is mainly controlled by the stochastic jumping of atoms crossing the grain boundaries. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results show that disorder-order transformation was concurrent with grain growth during the annealing process, slowing down the velocity of grain growth. The hysteresis loops reveal that the out-of-plane coercivity and squareness is enhanced with increasing annealing temperature and this can be attributed to the improvement of L10-ordered phase volume fraction and texture intensity.

  18. Metal-promoted binuclear C-H activation of ethylene and formation of a novel heterobimetallic Ir-Pt complex. X-ray crystal structure of ((Ph sub 3 P) sub 2 (CO)Ir(. mu. -H)(. mu. -. eta. sup 2 :. eta. sup 1 -CH double bond CH sub 2 )Pt(PPh sub 3 ) sub 2 ) sup + CF sub 3 SO sub 3 sup minus

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

    Huang, Yohsin; Stang, P.J.; Arif, A.M.

    1990-07-04

    Heterobimetallic complexes containing asymmetric metal-metal bonds as well as homogeneous C-H bond activation by organometallic compounds are of considerable current interest largely because of their relevance to catalysis. Although coordination of an alkene to transition metal systems is generally considered a necessary activation step in many catalytic and stoichiometric organometallic reactions, little is known about alkene C-H bond activation of precomplexed olefin substrates. In this paper the authors report the first intermolecular example of olefin C-H activation by a second, different metal system of a precomplexed {pi}-ethylene transition-metal complex and the concomitant formation of a novel alkene-bridged heterobimetallic Ir-Pt complex.

  19. Technical Papers Presented at the 1971 NAB Engineering Conference. First Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    1971

    This collection of 25 papers and panels presented at the 1971 Engineering Conference of the National Association of Broadcasters surveys recent technical developments in the field. At least four of these papers are relevant to education. "Everything You Wanted to Know About Cartridge Machines--But Were Afraid to Ask" describes improvements in…

  20. Education and Training of Accountants in Sub-Saharan Anglophone Africa. World Bank Technical Paper Number 305. Africa Technical Department Series.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johnson, Sonia R.

    This paper describes the accounting profession, and the education and training of accountants and accounting technicians in Sub-Saharan Anglophone Africa. The report reviews professional accounting examinations and degrees, education, practical training, and continuing professional education. The paper highlights the weaknesses in accounting…

  1. Evaluation of the Performance and Flow in an Axial Compressor.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1982-10-01

    A Exit Rake P 11.00-P tP noz P2noz -PA SP-1 PHub - PA Exit Rake Pt11.50-Pt p - PA SP-1 PTip - PA Exit Rake Pt2.00-PPtpipe ATp Att Pspipe - PA SP-2...PTip - PA Exit Rake Pt6.50-Pt Inlet Rake Pt14.40-PA SP-8 PTip - PA Exit Rake Pt 17.00-Pt Inlet Rake Pt 1.30-PA SP-8 PHub - PA Exit Rake Pt17.50-Pt...Determination from Probe Pressures Pt (1) =((Pt=(1) + Phub ) + (Pt(1) + Pt(2)))/3 P t(2) P t(2) Pt (3) = t(3) P t(4) = (P t(3) + P t(4))/2 P t(5) =P t(4) Pt

  2. NASA/Army Rotorcraft Technology. Volume 1: Aerodynamics, and Dynamics and Aeroelasticity

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1988-01-01

    The Conference Proceedings is a compilation of over 30 technical papers presented at this milestone event which reported on the advances in rotorcraft technical knowledge resulting from NASA, Army, and industry rotorcraft research programs over the last 5 to 10 years. The Conference brought together over 230 government, industry, and allied nation conferees to exchange technical information and hear invited technical papers by prominent NASA, Army, and industry researchers covering technology topics which included: aerodynamics, dynamics and elasticity, propulsion and drive systems, flight dynamics and control, acoustics, systems integration, and research aircraft.

  3. Engineering Forum Issue Paper: Online Hazardous Waste Cleanup Technical Resources

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This issue paper is intended to give the reader examples of some online technical resources that can assist with hazardous waste cleanups in the Superfund, Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), and Brownfields programs.

  4. Quality Tools and TRIZ Based Quality Improvement Case Study at PT ‘X’ A Plastic Moulding Manufacturing Industry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wirawan, Christina; Chandra, Fory

    2016-02-01

    Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) is a creative encouraging problem solving method. TRIZ is prepared by Altshuller for product design. Altshuller prepared contradiction matrix and suggestion to solve contradictions usually occur in product design. This paper try to combine TRIZ with quality tools such as Pareto and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) to solve contradiction in quality improvement problem, neither than product design problem. Pareto used to identify defect priority, FTA used to analysis and identify root cause of defect. When there is contradiction in solving defect causes, TRIZ used to find creative problem solving. As a case study, PT ’X’, a plastic molding manufacturing industry was taken. PT ‘X’ using traditional press machine to produce plastic thread cone. There are 5 defect types that might occur in plastic thread cone production, incomplete form, dirty, mottle, excessive form, rugged. Research about quality improvement effort using DMAIC at PT ‘X’ have been done by Fory Candra. From this research, defect types, priority, root cause from FTA, recommendation from FMEA. In this research, from FTA reviewed, contradictions found among causes troublesome quality improvement efforts. TRIZ used to solve the contradictions and quality improvement effort can be made effectively.

  5. Evaluation of coating thickness by thermal wave imaging: A comparative study of pulsed and lock-in infrared thermography - Part I: Simulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shrestha, Ranjit; Kim, Wontae

    2017-06-01

    This paper investigates the possibilities of evaluating non-uniform coating thickness using thermal wave imaging method. A comparative study of pulsed thermography (PT) and lock-in thermography (LIT) based on evaluating the accuracy of predicted coating thickness is presented. In this study, a transient thermal finite element model was created in ANSYS 15. A single square pulse heating for PT and a sinusoidal heating at different modulation frequencies for LIT were used to stimulate the sample according to the experimental procedures. The response of thermally excited surface was recorded and data processing with Fourier transform was carried out to obtain the phase angle. Then calculated phase angle was correlated with the coating thickness. The method demonstrated potential in the evaluation of coating thickness and was successfully applied to measure the non-uniform top layers ranging from 0.1 mm to 0.6 mm; within an accuracy of 0.0003-0.0023 mm for PT and 0.0003-0.0067 mm for LIT. The simulation model enabled a better understanding of PT and LIT and provided a means of establishing the required experimental set-up parameters. This also led to optimization of experimental configurations, thus limiting the number of physical tests necessary.

  6. The impact of occupational health and safety regulations on prevention through design in construction projects: Perspectives from Spain and the United Kingdom.

    PubMed

    Martínez-Aires, María Dolores; Rubio Gámez, María Carmen; Gibb, Alistair

    2015-01-01

    Since the mid-1990 s, Prevention through Design (PtD) has become increasingly prevalent in the built environment. The acceptance of PtD has largely been due to the removal or reduction of risks during the execution phase of construction projects. European States have had the added impetus of national legislation. This paper analyzes the influence of European Union Directive 92/57/EEC on occupational safety and health injury prevention in the project design phase. Qualitative methods comprised individual semi-structured interviews and focus groups with a panel of experts. Sixty individuals from construction and related professions (architects, engineers, constructors, developers, and other construction experts) answered 17 key questions to establish national perceptions of the effectiveness of Directive 92/57/EEC in Spain and the United Kingdom (UK). The implementation of PtD in the project design phase in the UK is clearer since the regulations explicitly state the obligations of project designers as well as those of the coordinator. Interviews with Spanish experts show that, in Spain, the prevention culture is less frequently realized. The most significant differences between the European Directive and national regulations which influence PtD are linked to the Health and Safety Coordinator, and Health and Safety documents.

  7. Numerical investigation and experimental development on VM-PT cryocooler operating below 4 K

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Tong; Pan, Changzhao; Zhou, Yuan; Wang, Junjie

    2016-12-01

    Vuilleumier coupling pulse tube (VM-PT) cryocooler is a novel kind of cryocooler capable of attaining liquid helium temperature which had been experimentally verified. Depending on different coupling modes and phase shifters, VM-PT cryocooler can be designed in several configurations. This paper presents a numerical investigation on three typical types of VM-PT cryocoolers, which are gas-coupling mode with room temperature phase shifter (GCRP), gas-coupling mode with cold phase shifter (GCCP) and thermal-coupling mode with cold phase shifter (TCCP). Firstly, three configurations are optimized on operating parameters to attain lower no-load temperature. Then, based on the simulation results, distributions of acoustic power, enthalpy flow, pressure wave, and volume flow rate are presented and discussed to better understand the energy flow characteristics and coupling mechanism. Meanwhile, analyses of phase relationship and exergy loss are also performed. Furthermore, a GCCP experimental system with optimal comprehensive performance among three configurations was built and tested. Experimental results showed good consistency with the simulations. Finally, a no-load temperature of 3.39 K and cooling power of 9.75 mW at 4.2 K were obtained with a pressure ratio of 1.7, operating frequency of 1.22 Hz and mean pressure of 1.5 MPa.

  8. Reforming and oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane with CO 2 as a soft oxidant over bimetallic catalysts

    DOE PAGES

    Myint, MyatNoeZin; Yan, Binhang; Wan, Jie; ...

    2016-02-26

    An efficient mitigation of abundantly available CO 2 is critical for sustainable environmental impact as well as for novel industrial applications. Using ethane, CO 2 can be catalytically converted into a useful feedstock (synthesis gas) and a value-added monomer (ethylene) via the dry reforming pathway through the C–C bond scission and the oxidative dehydrogenation pathway through the C–H bond scission, respectively. Results from the current flow-reactor study show that the precious metal bimetallic CoPt/CeO 2 catalyst undergoes the reforming reaction to produce syngas with enhanced activity and stability compared to the parent monometallic catalysts. In this paper, in order tomore » replace Pt, the activities of non-precious CoMo/CeO 2 and NiMo/CeO 2 are investigated and the results indicate that NiMo/CeO 2 is nearly as active as CoPt/CeO 2 for the reforming pathway. Furthermore, FeNi/CeO 2 is identified as a promising catalyst for the oxidative dehydrogenation to produce ethylene. Finally, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are performed to further understand the different pathways of the CoPt/CeO 2 and FeNi/CeO 2 catalysts.« less

  9. Reforming and oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane with CO 2 as a soft oxidant over bimetallic catalysts

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

    Myint, MyatNoeZin; Yan, Binhang; Wan, Jie

    An efficient mitigation of abundantly available CO 2 is critical for sustainable environmental impact as well as for novel industrial applications. Using ethane, CO 2 can be catalytically converted into a useful feedstock (synthesis gas) and a value-added monomer (ethylene) via the dry reforming pathway through the C–C bond scission and the oxidative dehydrogenation pathway through the C–H bond scission, respectively. Results from the current flow-reactor study show that the precious metal bimetallic CoPt/CeO 2 catalyst undergoes the reforming reaction to produce syngas with enhanced activity and stability compared to the parent monometallic catalysts. In this paper, in order tomore » replace Pt, the activities of non-precious CoMo/CeO 2 and NiMo/CeO 2 are investigated and the results indicate that NiMo/CeO 2 is nearly as active as CoPt/CeO 2 for the reforming pathway. Furthermore, FeNi/CeO 2 is identified as a promising catalyst for the oxidative dehydrogenation to produce ethylene. Finally, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are performed to further understand the different pathways of the CoPt/CeO 2 and FeNi/CeO 2 catalysts.« less

  10. Protein Denaturation on p-T Axes--Thermodynamics and Analysis.

    PubMed

    Smeller, László

    2015-01-01

    Proteins are essential players in the vast majority of molecular level life processes. Since their structure is in most cases substantial for their correct function, study of their structural changes attracted great interest in the past decades. The three dimensional structure of proteins is influenced by several factors including temperature, pH, presence of chaotropic and cosmotropic agents, or presence of denaturants. Although pressure is an equally important thermodynamic parameter as temperature, pressure studies are considerably less frequent in the literature, probably due to the technical difficulties associated to the pressure studies. Although the first steps in the high-pressure protein study have been done 100 years ago with Bridgman's ground breaking work, the field was silent until the modern spectroscopic techniques allowed the characterization of the protein structural changes, while the protein was under pressure. Recently a number of proteins were studied under pressure, and complete pressure-temperature phase diagrams were determined for several of them. This review summarizes the thermodynamic background of the typical elliptic p-T phase diagram, its limitations and the possible reasons for deviations of the experimental diagrams from the theoretical one. Finally we show some examples of experimentally determined pressure-temperature phase diagrams.

  11. Cognitive and Neural Sciences Division. 1988 Programs

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-08-01

    the P.I. uses a delayed reinforcement autoshaping procedure which incorporates features of both classical and operant conditioning paradigms...Progress: The PT has completed initial dose-response study of effects of TMT on autoshaping and has submitted a paper that separates "non-specific

  12. Developing English Communication Expertise for Engineers in the Global Age

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ono, Yoshimasa A.; Morimura, Kumiko

    This paper discusses contents and results of a new graduate course “English for Engineers and Scientists” given at School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo. This course is a new attempt to develop English communication expertise for engineering graduate students: how to write technical papers and how to make technical presentations in English. For these purposes, differences in the writing styles and in the sentence structures of English and Japanese are stressed: conclusions come first in English versus conclusions come last in Japanese; the three-step style of introduction, body, and conclusion in English versus the four-step style of ki-sho-ten-ketsu in Japanese. In addition, proper styles of technical papers (rhetoric) and related grammatical points are discussed. Technical presentation course consists of four-week lecture and seven-week practice session. In the lecture, essential points of technical presentations in English are discussed in detail, and in the practice session students‧ presentation skills are improved through guidance and instructions given by native-speaker moderators. The class evaluation results show that most students have obtained necessary skills of technical presentation, indicating that the combined course of lecture and practice session is essential for training students to make better technical presentations in English.

  13. Conversion of paper-based technical manuals to interactive electronic technical manuals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuo, Mu-Hsing

    1999-12-01

    An IETM is intended to be the functional equivalent of a paper-based Technical Manual (TM), and in most cases a total replacement for paper manual. In this paper, we will describe some of document image understanding technologies applied to the conversion of paper-based TMs to IETMs. Using these advanced technologies allow us to convert paper-based TMs to class 1/2 IETMs. However, these were not sufficient for an automated integrated logistics support system in the ROC Department of Defense. An advanced IETM system is therefore required. Such class 4/5 like IETM system could provide intelligent display of information and other user applications such as diagnostics, intelligent design and manufacturing, or computer-managed training. The author has developed some of the advanced functions, and examples will be shown to demonstrate the new aspect of IETMs.

  14. Technical structure of the global nanoscience and nanotechnology literature

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kostoff, Ronald N.; Koytcheff, Raymond G.; Lau, Clifford G. Y.

    2007-10-01

    Text mining was used to extract technical intelligence from the open source global nanotechnology and nanoscience research literature. An extensive nanotechnology/nanoscience-focused query was applied to the Science Citation Index/Social Science Citation Index (SCI/SSCI) databases. The nanotechnology/nanoscience research literature technical structure (taxonomy) was obtained using computational linguistics/document clustering and factor analysis. The infrastructure (prolific authors, key journals/institutions/countries, most cited authors/journals/documents) for each of the clusters generated by the document clustering algorithm was obtained using bibliometrics. Another novel addition was the use of phrase auto-correlation maps to show technical thrust areas based on phrase co-occurrence in Abstracts, and the use of phrase-phrase cross-correlation maps to show technical thrust areas based on phrase relations due to the sharing of common co-occurring phrases. The ˜400 most cited nanotechnology papers since 1991 were grouped, and their characteristics generated. Whereas the main analysis provided technical thrusts of all nanotechnology papers retrieved, analysis of the most cited papers allowed their characteristics to be displayed. Finally, most cited papers from selected time periods were extracted, along with all publications from those time periods, and the institutions and countries were compared based on their representation in the most cited documents list relative to their representation in the most publications list.

  15. Bibliography of NASA published reports on general aviation, 1975 to 1981

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1981-01-01

    This bibliography lists 478 documents which relate to all heavier-than-air fixed wing aircraft exclusive of military types and those used for commercial air transport. An exception is the inclusion of commuter transport aircraft types within the general aviation category. NASA publications included in this bibliography are: conference publications (CP), reference publications (RP), technical memorandums (TM, TMX), technical notes (TN), technical papers (TP), and contractor reports (CR). In addition, papers and articles on NASA general aviation programs published by technical societies (AIAA, SAE, etc.) are included, as well as those listed in NASA's Scientific and Technical Aerospace Reports (STAR) Journal. Author and subject indexes are also provided to facilitate use of the bibliography.

  16. Proceedings of the Lake Wilderness Attention Conference. Interim Technical Report, August 1, 1980 through September 30, 1980.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lansman, Marcy, Ed.; Hunt, Earl, Ed.

    This technical report contains papers prepared by the 11 speakers at the 1980 Lake Wilderness (Seattle, Washington) Conference on Attention. The papers are divided into general models, physiological evidence, and visual attention categories. Topics of the papers include the following: (1) willed versus automatic control of behavior; (2) multiple…

  17. Numerical study of a gas coupled VM-PT hybrid cryocooler using 3He as the working fluid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, J.; Pan, C. Z.; Zhang, T.; Wang, J. J.; Zhou, Y.

    2017-12-01

    The two-stage Vuilleumier gas-coupling pulse tube cryocooler (VM-PT) is one kind of novel low-frequency cryocoolers. In this gas-coupled form, the single stage Vuilleumier cryocooler serves as both pressure wave generator and a pre-cooler for coaxial pulse tube. Compared with the most commercialized GM and GM pulse tube cryocooler, the two-stage VM-PT cryocooler is characterized by its high stability, compact size and thermal actuation which are indispensable for space application. It has already been verified experimentally that this cryocooler can obtain 9.75mW@4.2K and the lowest no-load temperature 3.39K when 4He as the working fluid. However, such refrigerating capacity seems not enough for further application. 3He as a more potential substitution of 4He has better physical properties to improve performance, which has been studied in GM type and Stirling pulse tube cryocooler. For further optimization, a numerical study on the specific performance of two-stage VM-PT cryocooler using 3He is carried out in the present paper though Sage software. Working at the frequency of 1.0Hz and the pressure of 0.8MPa, the two-stage VM-PT cryocooler with 3He obtained 50mW@4.06K. The usage of 3He was 0.0038kg, about 30L under STP. At 4.2K, using 3He can obtain 58mW cooling power and 0.49% relative Carnot efficiency, about 1.6 times higher than using 4He.

  18. A Review on Technical and Clinical Impact of Microsoft Kinect on Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

    PubMed Central

    Mousavi Hondori, Hossein; Khademi, Maryam

    2014-01-01

    This paper reviews technical and clinical impact of the Microsoft Kinect in physical therapy and rehabilitation. It covers the studies on patients with neurological disorders including stroke, Parkinson's, cerebral palsy, and MS as well as the elderly patients. Search results in Pubmed and Google scholar reveal increasing interest in using Kinect in medical application. Relevant papers are reviewed and divided into three groups: (1) papers which evaluated Kinect's accuracy and reliability, (2) papers which used Kinect for a rehabilitation system and provided clinical evaluation involving patients, and (3) papers which proposed a Kinect-based system for rehabilitation but fell short of providing clinical validation. At last, to serve as technical comparison to help future rehabilitation design other sensors similar to Kinect are reviewed. PMID:27006935

  19. A Review on Technical and Clinical Impact of Microsoft Kinect on Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation.

    PubMed

    Mousavi Hondori, Hossein; Khademi, Maryam

    2014-01-01

    This paper reviews technical and clinical impact of the Microsoft Kinect in physical therapy and rehabilitation. It covers the studies on patients with neurological disorders including stroke, Parkinson's, cerebral palsy, and MS as well as the elderly patients. Search results in Pubmed and Google scholar reveal increasing interest in using Kinect in medical application. Relevant papers are reviewed and divided into three groups: (1) papers which evaluated Kinect's accuracy and reliability, (2) papers which used Kinect for a rehabilitation system and provided clinical evaluation involving patients, and (3) papers which proposed a Kinect-based system for rehabilitation but fell short of providing clinical validation. At last, to serve as technical comparison to help future rehabilitation design other sensors similar to Kinect are reviewed.

  20. Fe local structure in Pt-free nitrogen-modified carbon based electrocatalysts: XAFS study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Witkowska, Agnieszka; Giuli, Gabriele; Renzi, Marco; Marzorati, Stefania; Yiming, Wubulikasimu; Nobili, Francesco; Longhi, Mariangela

    2016-05-01

    The paper presents a new results on the bonding environment (coordination number and geometry) and on oxidation states of Fe in nitrogen-modified Fe/C composites used as Pt-free catalysts for oxygen reduction in Direct Hydrogen Fuel Cells. Starting from glucose or fructose, two catalysts displaying different electrochemical performance were prepared and studied in the form of pristine powder and thin catalytic layer of electrode by Fe K-edge XAFS spectroscopy. The results show how the Fe local structure varies as a function of different synthesis conditions and how changes in the structural properties of the catalysts are related to fuel cell electrochemical performance increase during a cell activation period.

  1. Effect of water-cooling treatment times on properties of friction stir welded joints of 7N01-T4 aluminum alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, T. H.; Wang, Y.; Fang, X. F.; Liang, P.; Zhao, Y.; Li, Y. H.; Liu, X. M.

    2018-02-01

    Due to the deformation caused by residual stress in the welding process, welded components need treatment to reduce welding distortion. In this paper, several different times of flame-heating and water-cooling treatment were subjected to the friction stir welding joints of 15mm thick 7N01P-T4 aluminum alloy sheets to study the microstructure variation of friction stir welding joints of 7N01P-T4 aluminum alloy, and to analyze the effect on micro-hardness, tensile and fracture mechanical properties. This investigation will be helpful to optimize treatment methods and provide instruction on industrial production.

  2. Enhancing Electrocatalytic Performance of Bifunctional Cobalt–Manganese-Oxynitride Nanocatalysts on Graphene

    DOE PAGES

    Li, Yang; Kuttiyiel, Kurian A.; Wu, Lijun; ...

    2016-11-21

    In this paper, we report the synthesis and characterization of graphenesupported cobalt–manganese-oxynitride nanocatalysts (CoMnON/G) as bifunctional electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). A nitriding treatment of spinel compound CoMnO increased the ORR activity considerably, and the most active material catalyzed the ORR with only a 30 mV half-wave potential difference from the commercial carbon-supported platinum (Pt/C) in alkaline media. In addition to high activity, the catalyst also exhibited an intrinsic stability that outperformed Pt/C. Finally, an appropriately designed nitridation thus facilitates new directions for developing active and durable non-precious-metal oxynitride electocatalysts.

  3. Instructional Design. [SITE 2002 Section].

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    2002

    This document contains the following papers on instructional design from the SITE (Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education) 2002 conference: "Faculty Guidelines for the Video Development Process" (Ronald J. Abate and Kathleen Benghiat); "Evolution of an Online Graduate Course in Educational Multimedia" (Peter Albion); "PT3…

  4. World Wide Comparism of Technical and Vocational Education: Lessons for Nigerian Technical and Vocational Education Sector (I)

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ayeni, Abiodun Olumide

    2015-01-01

    This paper compared technical/vocational education in: Germany, Australia, Finland, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, and Nigeria, and found that technical/vocational education was given proper attention in countries considered except Nigeria, where it was handled with laissez faire attitude. Set-Up of Technical/Vocational…

  5. Electrodeposition of platinum nanoparticles in a room-temperature ionic liquid.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Da; Chang, Wan Cheng; Okajima, Takeyoshi; Ohsaka, Takeo

    2011-12-06

    The electrochemistry of the [PtCl(6)](2-)-[PtCl(4)](2-)-Pt redox system on a glassy carbon (GC) electrode in a room-temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) [i.e., N,N-diethyl-N-methyl-N-(2-methoxyethyl)ammonium tetrafluoroborate (DEMEBF(4))] has been examined. The two-step four-electron reduction of [PtCl(6)](2-) to Pt, i.e., reduction of [PtCl(6)](2-) to [PtCl(4)](2-) and further reduction of [PtCl(4)](2-) to Pt, occurs separately in this RTIL in contrast to the one-step four-electron reduction of [PtCl(6)](2-) to Pt in aqueous media. The cathodic and anodic peaks corresponding to the [PtCl(6)](2-)/[PtCl(4)](2-) redox couple were observed at ca. -1.1 and 0.6 V vs a Pt wire quasi-reference electrode, respectively, while those observed at -2.8 and -0.5 V were found to correspond to the [PtCl(4)](2-)/Pt redox couple. The disproportionation reaction of the two-electron reduction product of [PtCl(6)](2-) (i.e., [PtCl(4)](2-)) to [PtCl(6)](2-) and Pt metal was also found to occur significantly. The electrodeposition of Pt nanoparticles could be carried out on a GC electrode in DEMEBF(4) containing [PtCl(6)](2-) by holding the potential at -3.5 or -2.0 V. At -3.5 V, the four-electron reduction of [PtCl(6)](2-) to Pt can take place, while at -2.0 V the two-electron reduction of [PtCl(6)](2-) to [PtCl(4)](2-) occurs. The results obtained demonstrate that the electrodeposition of Pt at -3.5 V may occur via a series of reductions of [PtCl(6)](2-) to [PtCl(4)](2-) and further [PtCl(4)](2-) to Pt and at -2.0 V via a disproportionation reaction of [PtCl(4)](2-) to [PtCl(6)](2-) and Pt. Furthermore, the deposition potential of Pt nanoparticles was found to largely influence their size and morphology as well as the relative ratio of Pt(110) and Pt(100) crystalline orientation domains. The sizes of the Pt nanoparticles prepared by holding the electrode potential at -2.0 and -3.5 V are almost the same, in the range of ca. 1-2 nm. These small nanoparticles are "grown" to form bigger particles with different morphologies: In the case of the deposition at -2.0 V, the GC electrode surface is totally, relatively compactly covered with Pt particles of relatively uniform size of ca. 10-50 nm. On the other hand, in the case of the electrodeposition at -3.5 V, small particles of ca. 50-100 nm and the grown-up particles of ca. 100-200 nm cover the GC surface irregularly and coarsely. Interestingly, the Pt nanoparticles prepared by holding the potential at -2.0 and -3.5 V are relatively enriched in Pt(100) and Pt(110) facets, respectively. © 2011 American Chemical Society

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

    Wilkening, D.A.

    This paper discusses the extent to which bomber/cruise missile characteristics and activities can be monitored by national technical means (NTM). Particular attention is paid to those characteristics and activities relevant to arms control. National technical means--which refers to various technical means by which monitoring data can be gathered, usually involving satellite reconnaissance--are not the sole means for monitoring, though they may be the most dependable. This paper discusses the confidence one might have in monitoring bombers and cruise missiles.

  7. CPTSC 2001: Managing Change and Growth in Technical and Scientific Communication. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific Communication (28th, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, October 11-13, 2001).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Maylath, Bruce, Ed.

    This proceedings presents 43 papers delivered at the 2001 annual meeting of the Council for Programs in Technical and Scientific Communication (CPTSC). Papers in the proceedings include the following: "Act IV: On Being Less Invisible" (Bill Karis); "Building a Community of Professional Communicators by Mapping Needs and Assets"…

  8. Modulated spin orbit torque in a Pt/Co/Pt/YIG multilayer by nonequilibrium proximity effect

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Q. B.; Meng, K. K.; Cai, Y. Z.; Qian, X. H.; Wu, Y. C.; Zheng, S. Q.; Jiang, Y.

    2018-01-01

    We have compared the spin orbit torque (SOT) induced magnetization switching in Pt/Co/Pt/Y3Fe5O12 (YIG) and Pt/Co/Pt/SiO2 multilayers. The critical switching current in Pt/Co/Pt/YIG is almost half of that in Pt/Co/Pt/SiO2. Through harmonic measurements, we demonstrated the enhancement of the effective spin Hall angle in Pt/Co/Pt/YIG. The increased efficiency of SOT is ascribed to the nonequilibrium proximity effect at the Pt/YIG interface, which suppresses the spin current reflection and enhances the effective spin accumulation at the Co/Pt interface. Our method can effectively reduce the switching current density and provide another way to modulate SOT.

  9. Urology technical and non-technical skills development: the emerging role of simulation.

    PubMed

    Rashid, Prem; Gianduzzo, Troy R J

    2016-04-01

    To review the emerging role of technical and non-technical simulation in urological education and training. A review was conducted to examine the current role of simulation in urology training. A PUBMED search of the terms 'urology training', 'urology simulation' and 'urology education' revealed 11,504 titles. Three hundred and fifty-seven abstracts were identified as English language, peer reviewed papers pertaining to the role of simulation in urology and related topics. Key papers were used to explore themes. Some cross-referenced papers were also included. There is an ongoing need to ensure that training time is efficiently utilised while ensuring that optimal technical and non-technical skills are achieved. Changing working conditions and the need to minimise patient harm by inadvertent errors must be taken into account. Simulation models for specific technical aspects have been the mainstay of graduated step-wise low and high fidelity training. Whole scenario environments as well as non-technical aspects can be slowly incorporated into the curriculum. Doing so should also help define what have been challenging competencies to teach and evaluate. Dedicated time, resources and trainer up-skilling are important. Concurrent studies are needed to help evaluate the effectiveness of introducing step-wise simulation for technical and non-technical competencies. Simulation based learning remains the best avenue of progressing surgical education. Technical and non-technical simulation could be used in the selection process. There are good economic, logistic and safety reasons to pursue the process of ongoing development of simulation co-curricula. While the role of simulation is assured, its progress will depend on a structured program that takes advantage of what can be delivered via this medium. Overall, simulation can be developed further for urological training programs to encompass technical and non-technical skill development at all stages, including recertification. © 2015 The Authors BJU International © 2015 BJU International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  10. NASA/DOD Aerospace Knowledge Diffusion Research Project. Paper 17: The relationship between seven variables and the use of US government technical reports by US aerospace engineers and scientists

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pinelli, Thomas E.; Barclay, Rebecca O.; Kennedy, John M.; Glassman, Nanci; Demerath, Loren

    1991-01-01

    A study was undertaken to investigate the relationship between the use of U.S. government technical reports by U.S. aerospace engineers and scientists and seven selected sociometric variables. Data were collected by means of a self-administered mail survey which was distributed to a randomly drawn sample of American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) members. Two research questions concerning the use of conference meeting papers, journal articles, in-house technical reports, and U.S. government technical reports were investigated. Relevance, technical quality, and accessibility were found to be more important determinants of the overall extent to which U.S. government technical reports and three other information products were used by U.S. aerospace engineers and scientists.

  11. The Treatment of Assets and Income From Assets in Income-Conditioned Government Benefit Programs; Technical Papers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wisconsin Univ., Madison. Inst. for Research on Poverty.

    These technical papers were presented at the Conference on Treatment of Assets and Income from Assets in Income Conditioned Programs. Six papers dealing with current and alternative treatments of assets and income from assets in programs that offer both cash and noncash benefits were presented. The first three authors reviewed the network of rules…

  12. Substance Abuse and the Law: A Technical Assistance Paper for the Street Law Substance Abuse Lessons.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    National Inst. for Citizen Education in the Law, Washington, DC.

    This technical assistance paper is designed to give trainers guidance on teaching the development and use of substance-abuse lessons found in "Street Law: A Course in Practical Law." The paper provides background on the lessons, a rationale for using the lessons, and sample agendas to use in training. "Street Law" contains…

  13. Technosocial Modeling of IED Threat Scenarios and Attacks

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

    Whitney, Paul D.; Brothers, Alan J.; Coles, Garill A.

    2009-03-23

    This paper describes an approach for integrating sociological and technical models to develop more complete threat assessment. Current approaches to analyzing and addressing threats tend to focus on the technical factors. This paper addresses development of predictive models that encompass behavioral as well as these technical factors. Using improvised explosive device (IED) attacks as motivation, this model supports identification of intervention activities 'left of boom' as well as prioritizing attack modalities. We show how Bayes nets integrate social factors associated with IED attacks into general threat model containing technical and organizational steps from planning through obtaining the IED to initiationmore » of the attack. The social models are computationally-based representations of relevant social science literature that describes human decision making and physical factors. When combined with technical models, the resulting model provides improved knowledge integration into threat assessment for monitoring. This paper discusses the construction of IED threat scenarios, integration of diverse factors into an analytical framework for threat assessment, indicator identification for future threats, and future research directions.« less

  14. Aromatization of n-hexane by platinum-containing molecular sieves. 2. n-Hexane reactivity

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

    Mielczarski, E.; Suk Bong Hong; Davis, M.E.

    Pt/KL, Pt/BaKL, Pt/KBaKL, Pt/NaY, Pt/CsNaY, Pt/NaFAU(C), Pt/hex, Pt/SSZ-24, Pt/silica, and Pt/carbon were tested as catalysts for the aromatization of n-hexane at 460-510 C and atmospheric total pressure in order to study the influence of Pt cluster size and support acidity/basicity, microstructure, and chemical composition on activity and selectivity. Analysis of the catalytic and NH{sub 3} temperature-programmed desorption results from Pt/KL, Pt/BaKL, and Pt/KBaKL reveals that the presence of any acidity increases hydrogenolysis at the expense of benzene production. In addition, no increase in aromatization selectivity is observed by the addition of base sites to a Pt/zeolite catalyst, confirming that aromatizationmore » of n-hexane over Pt clusters on nonacidic carriers is monofunctional. High selectivity to benzene over most of the zeolite samples demonstrates that support microstructure does not contribute directly to the aromatization selectivity over Pt catalysts. High selectivity to benzene is observed for a Pt/carbon catalyst suggesting that a zeolitic support is not necessary for good performance. In fact, similar reactivity is obtained from microporous (Pt/SSZ-24) and nonmicroporous (Pt/silica) silica supported platinum catalysts with similar H/Pt values. A clear trend of increasing benzene selectivity with decreasing Pt cluster size is found. These observations suggest that the exceptional reactivity of Pt/KL for the aromatization of n-hexane results from the lack of any acidity in the support and the ability of zeolite L to stabilize the formation of extremely small Pt clusters.« less

  15. Solution Plasma-assisted Bimetallic Oxide Alloy Nanoparticles of Pt and Pd Embedded within Two-dimensional Ti3C2Tx Nanosheets as Highly Active Electrocatalysts for Overall Water-splitting.

    PubMed

    Cui, Bingbing; Hu, Bin; Liu, Jiameng; Wang, Minghua; Song, Yingpan; Tian, Kuan; Zhang, Zhihong; He, Linghao

    2018-06-25

    Exploiting high-efficiency and low-cost bifunctional electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution (HER) and oxygen evolution reactions (OER) has been actively encouraged because of their potential applications in the field of clean energy. In this paper, we reported a novel electrocatalyst based on an exfoliated two-dimensional (2D) MXene (Ti3C2Tx) loaded with bimetallic oxide alloy nanoparticles (NPs) of Pt and Pd (represented by PtOaPdObNPs@Ti3C2Tx), which was synthesized via solution plasma (SP) modification. The prepared materials were then utilized as highly efficient bifunctional electrocatalysts toward HER and OER in alkaline solution. At a high plasma input power (200 W), bimetallic oxide alloy nanoparticles of Pt and Pd or nanoclusters with different metallic valence states deposited onto the Ti3C2Tx nanosheets. Due to the synergism of the noble metal NPs and the Ti3C2Tx nanosheets, the electrocatalytic results revealed that the as-prepared PtOaPdObNPs@Ti3C2Tx nanosheets under the plasma input power of 200 W for 3 min catalyst only required a low overpotential to attain 10 mA cm-2 for HER (57 mV) in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution and OER (1.63 V) in 0.1 M KOH sollution. Moreover, water electrolysis using this catalyst achieved a water splitting current density of 10 mA cm-2 at a low cell voltage of 1.53 V in 1.0 M KOH solution. These results suggested that the hybridization of the ultra-extremely low usage of PtOa/PdOb NPs (1.07 μg cm-2) and Ti3C2Tx nanosheets by SP will expand the applications of other clean energy reactions to achieve sustainable energy.

  16. Developing Human Resources for the Technical Workforce: A Comparative Study of Korea and Thailand

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hawley, Joshua D.; Paek, Jeeyon

    2005-01-01

    Asian countries face significant and growing shortages of technically skilled workers. Vocational-technical systems are key components of national human resource development. Using labor market data from Thailand and Korea, this paper analyzes the economic payoff for individual investment in vocational-technical education, and subsequent…

  17. Unresolved Technical Issues in Fair Interest Measurement.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cole, Nancy S.

    The problem of sex differences in interest measurement involves many technical issues and procedures. The purpose of this paper is to provide a description of the technical problems involved in construction, scoring, and interpretation of interest measures as related to sex differences and to suggest guidelines within these technical issues which…

  18. 22 CFR 126.17 - Exemption pursuant to the Defense Trade Cooperation Treaty between the United States and the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ...; (ii) Technical data (including data packages, technical papers, manuals, presentations, specifications... person who receives defense articles, including technical data, but who does not have access to such... (other than technical data) shall be individually labeled with the appropriate identification detailed in...

  19. 22 CFR 126.16 - Exemption pursuant to the Defense Trade Cooperation Treaty between the United States and Australia.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... section; (ii) Technical data (including data packages, technical papers, manuals, presentations..., defense articles, including technical data, for the sole purpose of effecting onward movement to members... (other than technical data) shall be individually labeled with the appropriate identification detailed in...

  20. Superior long-term activity for a Pt-Re alloy compared to Pt in methanol oxidation reactions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Duke, Audrey S.; Xie, Kangmin; Monnier, John R.; Chen, Donna A.

    2017-03-01

    Pt-Re bimetallic catalysts have shown enhanced activity compared to pure Pt for reactions involving oxidation, but the origins of this improved activity are not fully understood. Methanol oxidation on a Pt-Re alloy surface and pure Pt foil was studied in a microreactor coupled to an ultrahigh vacuum chamber. For reaction at 60 °C, the Pt-Re alloy surface exhibits superior long-term activity over a 24 h reaction period compared to pure Pt. The initial activity of Pt is 10-15% higher than on Pt-Re; however, the Pt surface gradually loses activity after 10 h online, whereas the activity of Pt-Re does not diminish. Post-reaction XPS shows that more carbon accumulates on the Pt than on Pt-Re, and the improved long-term activity is attributed to a greater ability of Pt-Re to oxidize the carbonaceous intermediates that eventually poison active sites. Both Pt and Pt-Re surfaces have almost no activity for methanol oxidation until a minimum coverage of oxygen is achieved from O2 dissociation. A comparison with methanol oxidation studies on Pt and Pt-Re in a pressure regime that is 150 times lower than in this work demonstrates that more carbon and less oxygen accumulate on the surfaces during reaction at the lower pressures.

  1. Synthesis and Crystal and Electronic Structures of the Dinuclear Platinum Compounds [PEtPh(3)](2)[Pt(2)(&mgr;-PPh(2))(2)(C(6)F(5))(4)] and [Pt(2)(&mgr;-PPh(2))(2)(C(6)F(5))(4)]: A Computational Study by Density Functional Theory.

    PubMed

    Alonso, Ester; Casas, José M.; Cotton, F. Albert; Feng, Xuejung; Forniés, Juan; Fortuño, Consuelo; Tomas, Milagros

    1999-11-01

    The electrolytic behavior of the dinuclear complexes [NBu(4)](2)[MM'(&mgr;-PPh(2))(2)(C(6)F(5))(4)] (M = M' = Pt (1), Pd (1a); M = Pt, M' = Pd (1b)) has been studied, showing electrochemically irreversible oxidation and related reduction processes. The chemical oxidation of the binuclear compound for M = M' = Pt, results in the formation of the binuclear Pt(III) compound [Pt(2)(&mgr;-PPh(2))(2)(C(6)F(5))(4)]. The crystal structure analysis of both complexes has been carried out, showing very similar structures with similar Pt-C and Pt-P distances and analogous skeletons. However the Pt-Pt distances are very different, 3.621(1) Å for the Pt(II) compound and 2.7245(7) Å for the Pt(III) derivative (as are the parameters geometrically related to this Pt-Pt distance), suggesting that, in the Pt(III) compound, there is a strong Pt-Pt bond. Results of DFT calculations on [Pt(2)(&mgr;-PH(2))(2)(C(6)F(5))(4)](n)()(-) (n = 2, 0) agree very well with the crystallographic data and indicate that, in the Pt(III) compound, there is approximately a single sigma bond between the metal atoms.

  2. Video Cases. [SITE 2002 Section].

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Talley, Sue, Ed.

    This document contains the following papers on video case studies from the SITE (Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education) 2002 conference: (1) "Developing Digital Video Resources To Improve Teaching with Technology: The PT3--'Best Practices' Project"; (2) "Portraits of Three Schools from the U.S.A. Exemplary Technology-Supported…

  3. 10th international conference on high-occupancy vehicle systems : compendium of technical papers

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2001-08-01

    This report provides the technical papers submitted as part of the 10th International High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Systems Conference held in Dallas, Texas on August 27-30, 2000. The Conference was sponsored by the Transportation Research Board (TRB)...

  4. SWIFT Differentiated Technical Assistance. White Paper

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McCart, Amy; McSheehan, Michael; Sailor, Wayne; Mitchiner, Melinda; Quirk, Carol

    2016-01-01

    The Schoolwide Integrated Framework for Transformation (SWIFT) employs six technical assistance (TA) practices that support an initial transformation process while simultaneously building system capacity to sustain and scale up equity-based inclusion in additional schools and districts over time. This paper explains these individual practices and…

  5. NASA Scientific and Technical Publications: A Catalog of Special Publications, Reference Publications, Conference Publications, and Technical Papers 1987-1990

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1991-02-01

    Technical Papers present the results of significant research conducted by NASA scientists and engineers. Presented here are citations for reports from each...CSCL contains photographs of 322 galaxies including the majority of all 03A Shapley-Ames bright galaxies, plus cluster members in the Virgo A...Catalog of Open Clusters and Associated Interstellar Matter Research Council, London, United Kingdom Sponsored by NASA, summarizes observations of 128 open

  6. Bibliography of Technical Publications and Papers, October 1978 - September 1979

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1979-11-01

    overnutrition. Symposium on Psychosocial Factors in Nutritional Problems, llth International Congress of Nutrition, Rio de Janeiro , Brazil, September...VBIOGRAPHY OF-TZHNICAL BLICATIONS AND An T7 Octber118 -Seu~imb~ 199k6. PERFORMNING OR0. REPORT NUMBER 7. AUTMOR( e ) S. CONTRACT -OR G ANT HNDMER~a) 9...Officer Advanced Class 79-2, US Army Quartermaster School, Fort Lee, VA, 14 August 1979. 6 OFFICE OF TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Technical Papers 12. ROSS, E . W

  7. Pt Nanostructures/N-Doped Carbon hybrid, an Efficient Catalyst for Hydrogen Evolution/Oxidation Reactions: Enhancing its Base Media Activity through Bifunctionality of the Catalyst.

    PubMed

    Barman, Sudip; Kundu, Manas; Bhowmik, Tanmay; Mishra, Ranjit

    2018-06-04

    Design and synthesis of active catalyst for HER/HOR are important for the development of hydrogen based renewable technologies. We report synthesis of Pt nanostructures-N-doped carbon hybrid (Pt-(PtO2)-NSs/C) for HER/HOR applications. The HER activity of this Pt-(PtOx)-NSs/C catalyst is 4 and 6.5 times better than commercial Pt/C in acid and base. The catalyst exhibits a current density of 10 mA/cm2 at overpotentials of 5 and 51 mV with tafel slopes of 29 and 64mV/dec in in 0.5 M H2SO4 and 0.5 M KOH. This catalyst also showed superior HOR activity at all pH values. The HER/HOR activity of Pt-(PtOx)-NSs/C and PtOx-free Pt-Nanostructures/C (PtNSs/C) catalysts are comparable in acid. The presence of PtOx in Pt-(PtOx)-NSs/C makes this Pt-catalyst more HER/HOR active in base media. The activity of Pt-(PtOx)NSs/C catalyst is 5 fold higher than that of PtNSs/C catalyst in basic medium although their activity is comparable in acid. Hydrogen binding energy and oxophilicity are the two equivalent descriptors for HER/HOR in basic media. We propose a bi-functional mechanism for the enhanced alkaline HER/HOR activity of Pt(PtOx)-NSs/C catalyst. In bi-functional Pt-(PtOx)-NSs/C catalyst, PtOx provide an active site for OH- adsorption to form OHads which reacts with hydrogen intermediate (Hads), present at neighbouring Pt sites to form H2O leading to enhancement of HOR activity in basic medium This work may provide opportunity to develop catalysts for various renewable energy technologies. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  8. Diverse knowledges and competing interests: an essay on socio-technical problem-solving.

    PubMed

    di Norcia, Vincent

    2002-01-01

    Solving complex socio-technical problems, this paper claims, involves diverse knowledges (cognitive diversity), competing interests (social diversity), and pragmatism. To explain this view, this paper first explores two different cases: Canadian pulp and paper mill pollution and siting nuclear reactors in systematically sensitive areas of California. Solving such socio-technically complex problems involves cognitive diversity as well as social diversity and pragmatism. Cognitive diversity requires one to not only recognize relevant knowledges but also to assess their validity. Finally, it is suggested, integrating the resultant set of diverse relevant and valid knowledges determines the parameters of the solution space for the problem.

  9. Enhanced dielectric constant and fatigue-resistance of PbZr0.4Ti0.6O3 capacitor with magnetic intermetallic FePt top electrode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, B. T.; Zhao, J. W.; Li, X. H.; Zhou, Y.; Bian, F.; Wang, X. Y.; Zhao, Q. X.; Wang, Y. L.; Guo, Q. L.; Wang, L. X.; Zhang, X. Y.

    2010-06-01

    Both FePt/PbZr0.4Ti0.6O3(PZT)/Pt and Pt/PZT/Pt ferroelectric capacitors have been fabricated on Si substrates. It is found that up to 109 switching cycles, the FePt/PZT/Pt capacitor, measured at 50 kHz, with polarization decreased by 57%, is superior to the Pt/PZT/Pt capacitor by 82%, indicating that an intermetallic FePt top electrode can also improve the fatigue-resistance of a PZT capacitor. Maximum dielectric constants are 980 and 770 for PZT capacitors with FePt and Pt, respectively. This is attributed to the interface effect between PZT film and the top electrode since the interfacial capacitance of FePt/PZT is 3.5 times as large as that of Pt/PZT interface.

  10. Pt and PtRu catalyst bilayers increase efficiencies for ethanol oxidation in proton exchange membrane electrolysis and fuel cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Altarawneh, Rakan M.; Pickup, Peter G.

    2017-10-01

    Polarization curves, product distributions, and reaction stoichiometries have been measured for the oxidation of ethanol at anodes consisting of Pt and PtRu bilayers and a homogeneous mixture of the two catalysts. These anode structures all show synergies between the two catalysts that can be attributed to the oxidation of acetaldehyde produced at the PtRu catalyst by the Pt catalyst. The use of a PtRu layer over a Pt layer produces the strongest effect, with higher currents than a Pt on PtRu bilayer, mixed layer, or either catalyst alone, except for Pt at high potentials. Reaction stoichiometries (average number of electrons transferred per ethanol molecule) were closer to the values for Pt alone for both of the bilayer configurations but much lower for PtRu and mixed anodes. Although Pt alone would provide the highest overall fuel cell efficiency at low power densities, the PtRu on Pt bilayer would provide higher power densities without a significant loss of efficiency. The origin of the synergy between the Pt and PtRu catalysts was elucidated by separation of the total current into the individual components for generation of carbon dioxide and the acetaldehyde and acetic acid byproducts.

  11. Radiolytic Synthesis of Pt-Particle/ABS Catalysts for H₂O₂ Decomposition in Contact Lens Cleaning.

    PubMed

    Ohkubo, Yuji; Aoki, Tomonori; Seino, Satoshi; Mori, Osamu; Ito, Issaku; Endo, Katsuyoshi; Yamamura, Kazuya

    2017-08-23

    A container used in contact lens cleaning requires a Pt plating weight of 1.5 mg for H₂O₂ decomposition although Pt is an expensive material. Techniques that decrease the amount of Pt are therefore needed. In this study, Pt nanoparticles instead of Pt plating film were supported on a substrate of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS). This was achieved by the reduction of Pt ions in an aqueous solution containing the ABS substrate using high-energy electron-beam irradiation. Pt nanoparticles supported on the ABS substrate (Pt-particle/ABS) had a size of 4-10 nm. The amount of Pt required for Pt-particle/ABS was 250 times less than that required for an ABS substrate covered with Pt plating film (Pt-film/ABS). The catalytic activity for H₂O₂ decomposition was estimated by measuring the residual H₂O₂ concentration after immersing the catalyst for 360 min. The Pt-particle/ABS catalyst had a considerably higher specific catalytic activity for H₂O₂ decomposition than the Pt-film/ABS catalyst. In addition, sterilization performance was estimated from the initial rate of H₂O₂ decomposition over 60 min. The Pt-particle/ABS catalyst demonstrated a better sterilization performance than the Pt-film/ABS catalyst. The difference between Pt-particle/ABS and Pt-film/ABS was shown to reflect the size of the O₂ bubbles formed during H₂O₂ decomposition.

  12. Factors influencing the operating time for single-port laparoscopic radical nephrectomy: focus on the anatomy and distribution of the renal artery and vein.

    PubMed

    Matsumoto, Kazuhiro; Miyajima, Akira; Fukumoto, Keishiro; Komatsuda, Akari; Niwa, Naoya; Hattori, Seiya; Takeda, Toshikazu; Kikuchi, Eiji; Asanuma, Hiroshi; Oya, Mototsugu

    2017-10-01

    It is considered that laparoscopic single-site surgery should be performed by specially trained surgeons because of the technical difficulty in using special instruments through limited access. We investigated suitable patients for single-port laparoscopic radical nephrectomy, focusing on the anatomy and distribution of the renal artery and vein. This retrospective study was conducted in 52 consecutive patients who underwent single-port radical nephrectomy by the transperitoneal approach. In patients undergoing right nephrectomy, a 2-mm port was added for liver retraction. We retrospectively re-evaluated all of the recorded surgical videos and preoperative computed tomography images. The pneumoperitoneum time (PT) was used as an objective index of surgical difficulty. The PT was significantly shorter for right nephrectomy than left nephrectomy (94 vs. 123 min, P = 0.004). With left nephrectomy, dissection of the spleno-renal ligament to mobilize the spleen medially required additional time. Also, the left renal vein could only be divided after securing the adrenal, gonadal and lumbar veins. In patients whose renal artery was located cranial to the renal vein, PT tended to be longer than in the other patients (131 vs. 108 min, P = 0.070). In patients with a superior renal artery, the inferior renal vein invariably covered the artery and made it difficult to ligate the renal artery via the umbilical approach at the first procedure. These findings indicate that patients undergoing right nephrectomy in whom the renal artery is not located cranial to the renal vein are suitable for single-port laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

  13. Wave induced supersonic rotation in mirrors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fetterman, Abraham

    2010-11-01

    Wave-particle interactions in ExB supersonically rotating plasmas feature an unusual effect: particles are diffused by waves in both potential energy and kinetic energy [1]. This wave-particle interaction generalizes the alpha channeling effect, in which radio frequency waves are used to remove alpha particles collisionlessly at low energy. In rotating plasmas, the alpha particles may be removed at low energy through the loss cone, and the energy lost may be transferred to the radial electric field. This eliminates the need for electrodes in the mirror throat, which have presented serious technical issues in past rotating plasma devices. A particularly simple way to achieve this effect is to use a high azimuthal mode number perturbation on the magnetic field [2]. In the rotating frame, this perturbation is seen as a wave near the alpha particle cyclotron harmonic, and can break the azimuthal symmetry and magnetic moment conservation without changing the particle's total energy. The particle may exit if it reduces its kinetic energy and becomes more trapped if it gains kinetic energy, leading to a steady state current that maintains the field. Simulations of single particles in rotating mirrors show that a stationary wave can extract enough energy from alpha particles for a reactor to be self-sustaining. Rotation can also be sustained by waves in plasmas without a kinetic energy source. This type of wave has been considered for plasma centrifuges used for isotope separation [3]. [4pt] [1] A. J. Fetterman and N. J. Fisch, Phys Rev Lett 101, 205003 (2008). [0pt] [2] A. J. Fetterman and N. J. Fisch, Phys. Plasmas 17, 042112 (2010). [0pt] [3] A. J. Fetterman and N. J. Fisch, Plasma Sources Sci. Tech. 18, 045003 (2009).

  14. Proceedings of the IUFRO technical session on geomorphic hazards in managed forests: 5-11 August 1990: Montreal, Canada

    Treesearch

    Raymond M. Rice

    1991-01-01

    The proceedings contains 11 the 17 papers presented at the technical session on geometric hazards in managed forests at the XIX World Congress, International Union of Forestry Research Organizations, August 5-11, 1990, Montreal, Canada, plus one paper not presented orally. Two papers report research on torrents, two are about snow, three concern landslides, and five...

  15. PISA for Development Technical Strand A: Enhancement of PISA Cognitive Instruments. OECD Education Working Papers, No. 126

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Adams, Ray; Cresswell, John

    2016-01-01

    The OECD is planning to enhance existing PISA assessment instruments in reading, mathematics and science so that they will be more suitable to the context of developing countries. The main purpose of this paper is to identify the main technical issues associated with this aim. The paper reports detailed analysis of the existing PISA item pool and…

  16. [Percutaneous tracheotomy].

    PubMed

    Paleczny, J; Maciejewski, D; Łoniewska-Paleczny, E; Sawczuk, M; Kaczur, A

    2000-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to compare on the basis of up to date papers currently applied methods of the percutaneous tracheostomy (PT). There are four main PT methods by: Ciaglia, Schachner, Griggs and Fantoni. In these methods a wire is introduced into the trachea serving as a guide for special forceps or series of dilatators of increasing diameter to dilate the wall and allow cannulation of the trachea. In the literature authors found a low incidence of complications after PT. Acute complications were documented in 6-18% and late complications in 1-3% of the patients. Follow-up showed no late obstructive complications at the level of stomia and very low (0.3-0.36%) mortality risk. Translaryngeal tracheostomy (TLT) by Fantoni ensures minimal risk of complications and tissue trauma. In the TLT method through a needle inserted in to the trachea a guide wire is retrogradely pushed out of the mouth and attached to special flexible tracheostomy tube by flexible plastic cone with pointed metal tip. This device is then pulled back through larynx and outwards across the trachea and neck wall by traction on the wire. TLT can also be used in infants and children and in difficult patients in whom other techniques are riskier Review of the literature suggests that the PT can be safe and also cost-effective for properly selected patients in intensive care and other hospital units.

  17. Research on the electrical characteristics of the Pt/CdS Schottky diode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ding, Jia-xin; Zhang, Xiang-feng; Yao, Guansheng

    2013-08-01

    With the development of technology, the demand for semiconductor ultraviolet detector is increasing day by day. Compared with the traditional infrared detector in missile guidance, ultraviolet/infrared dual-color detection can significantly improve the anti-interference ability of the missile. According to the need of missile guidance and other areas of the application of ultraviolet detector, the paper introduces a manufacture of the CdS Schottky barrier ultraviolet detector. By using the radio frequency magnetron sputtering technology, a Pt thin film layer is sputtered on CdS basement to form a Schottky contact firstly. Then the indium ohmic contact electrode is fabricated by thermal evaporation method, and eventually a Pt/CdS/In Schottky diode is formed. The I-V characteristic of the device was tested at room temperature, its zero bias current and open circuit voltage is -0.578nA and 130mV, respectively. Test results show that the the Schottky contact has been formed between Pt and CdS. The device has good rectifying characteristics. According to the thermionic emission theory, the I-V curve fitting analysis of the device was studied under the condition of small voltage. The ideality factor and Schottky barrier height is 1.89 and 0.61eV, respectively. The normalized spectral responsivity at zero bias has been tested. The device has peak responsivity at 500nm, and it cutoff at 510nm.

  18. Ensemble averaged structure–function relationship for nanocrystals: effective superparamagnetic Fe clusters with catalytically active Pt skin [Ensemble averaged structure-function relationship for composite nanocrystals: magnetic bcc Fe clusters with catalytically active fcc Pt skin

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

    Petkov, Valeri; Prasai, Binay; Shastri, Sarvjit

    Practical applications require the production and usage of metallic nanocrystals (NCs) in large ensembles. Besides, due to their cluster-bulk solid duality, metallic NCs exhibit a large degree of structural diversity. This poses the question as to what atomic-scale basis is to be used when the structure–function relationship for metallic NCs is to be quantified precisely. In this paper, we address the question by studying bi-functional Fe core-Pt skin type NCs optimized for practical applications. In particular, the cluster-like Fe core and skin-like Pt surface of the NCs exhibit superparamagnetic properties and a superb catalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction,more » respectively. We determine the atomic-scale structure of the NCs by non-traditional resonant high-energy X-ray diffraction coupled to atomic pair distribution function analysis. Using the experimental structure data we explain the observed magnetic and catalytic behavior of the NCs in a quantitative manner. Lastly, we demonstrate that NC ensemble-averaged 3D positions of atoms obtained by advanced X-ray scattering techniques are a very proper basis for not only establishing but also quantifying the structure–function relationship for the increasingly complex metallic NCs explored for practical applications.« less

  19. Utilizing the "Plan, Do, Study, Act" Framework to Explore the Process of Curricular Assessment and Redesign in a Physical Therapy Education Program in Suriname.

    PubMed

    Audette, Jennifer Gail; Baldew, Se-Sergio; Chang, Tony C M S; de Vries, Jessica; Ho A Tham, Nancy; Janssen, Johanna; Vyt, Andre

    2017-01-01

    To describe how a multinational team worked together to transition a physical therapy (PT) educational program in Paramaribo, Suriname, from a Bachelor level to a Master of Science in Physical Therapy (MSPT) level. The team was made up of PT faculty from Anton De Kom Universiteit van Suriname (AdeKUS), the Flemish Interuniversity Council University Development Cooperation (VLIR-UOS) leadership, and Health Volunteers Overseas volunteers. In this case study, the process for curricular assessment, redesign, and upgrade is described retrospectively using a Plan, Do, Study, Act (PDSA) framework. PT educational programs in developing countries are eager for upgrade to meet international expectations and to better meet community health-care needs. An ongoing process which included baseline assessment of all aspects of the existing bachelor's program in PT, development of a plan for a MSPT, implementation of the master's program, and evaluation following implementation is described. Curricular assessment and upgrade in resource-limited countries requires the implementation of process-oriented methods. The PDSA process is a useful tool to explore curricular development. The international collaboration described in this paper provides an example of the diligence, consistency, and dedication required to see a project through and achieve success while providing adequate support to the host site. This project might provide valuable insights for those involved in curricular redesign in similar settings.

  20. Ground Water Technical Considerations during the Five-Year Review Process

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This issue paper has been developed to highlight technical considerations as well as technical resources available to Remedial Project Managers (RPMs) in conducting Five-Year Reviews (FYRs) at CERCLA1 sites with contaminated groundwater.

  1. Building, Maintaining, and Ending Relationships: An Urban School District and a Technical Assistance Team. Documentation and Technical Assistance in Urban Schools.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Holmes, Manford L.

    This paper describes the nature of the relationships developed between the technical assistance team of the Documentation and Technical Assistance (DTA) Project and members of a Chicago (Illinois) school district staff with whom the DTA worked. First, the methodology with which the technical assistance work was studied is described, as is the…

  2. Platinum-paper micromotors: an urchin-like nanohybrid catalyst for green monopropellant bubble-thrusters.

    PubMed

    Claussen, Jonathan C; Daniele, Michael A; Geder, Jason; Pruessner, Marius; Mäkinen, Antti J; Melde, Brian J; Twigg, Mark; Verbarg, Jasenka M; Medintz, Igor L

    2014-10-22

    Platinum nanourchins supported on microfibrilated cellulose films (MFC) were fabricated and evaluated as hydrogen peroxide catalysts for small-scale, autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) propulsion systems. The catalytic substrate was synthesized through the reduction of chloroplatinic acid to create a thick film of Pt coral-like microstructures coated with Pt urchin-like nanowires that are arrayed in three dimensions on a two-dimensional MFC film. This organic/inorganic nanohybrid displays high catalytic ability (reduced activation energy of 50-63% over conventional materials and 13-19% for similar Pt nanoparticle-based structures) during hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) decomposition as well as sufficient propulsive thrust (>0.5 N) from reagent grade H2O2 (30% w/w) fuel within a small underwater reaction vessel. The results demonstrate that these layered nanohybrid sheets are robust and catalytically effective for green, H2O2-based micro-AUV propulsion where the storage and handling of highly explosive, toxic fuels are prohibitive due to size-requirements, cost limitations, and close person-to-machine contact.

  3. Improving the secrecy rate by turning foes to allies: An auction scheme

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Ya-Yan; Wang, Bao-Yun

    2015-09-01

    Security against eavesdroppers is a critical issue in cognitive radio networks (CRNs). In this paper, a scenario consisting of one primary pair and multiple secondary pairs is considered. The secondary transmitters (STs) work in half-duplex mode and they are potential eavesdroppers on the primary transmission unless they are allowed to simultaneously transmit with the primary transmitter (PT). A modified second-price sealed-bid auction scheme is employed to model the interaction between the PT and STs. With the proposed auction scheme, the hostile relationship between the PT and STs is transformed into a cooperative relationship. An iterative algorithm based on the max-min criteria is proposed to find the optimal bidding power of the STs for an access chance in the presence of multiple eavesdroppers. Numerical results show that the proposed auction scheme not only improves the PT’s security but also increases the access opportunities of the STs. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 61271232 and 61372126) and the University Postgraduate Research and Innovation Project in Jiangsu Province, China (Grant No. CXZZ12-0472).

  4. Revealing the semiconductor–catalyst interface in buried platinum black silicon photocathodes

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

    Aguiar, Jeffery A.; Anderson, Nicholas C.; Neale, Nathan R.

    2016-01-01

    Nanoporous 'black' silicon semiconductors interfaced with buried platinum nanoparticle catalysts have exhibited stable activity for photoelectrochemical hydrogen evolution even after months of exposure to ambient conditions. The mechanism behind this stability has not been explained in detail, but is thought to involve a Pt/Si interface free from SiOx layer that would adversely affect interfacial charge transfer kinetics. In this paper, we resolve the chemical composition and structure of buried Pt/Si interfaces in black silicon photocathodes from a micron to sub-nanometer level using aberration corrected analytical scanning transmission electron microscopy. Through a controlled electrodeposition of copper on samples aged for onemore » month in ambient conditions, we demonstrate that the main active catalytic sites are the buried Pt nanoparticles located below the 400-800 nm thick nanoporous SiOx layer. Though hydrogen production performance degrades over 100 h under photoelectrochemical operating conditions, this burying strategy preserves an atomically clean catalyst/Si interface free of oxide or other phases under air exposure and provides an example of a potential method for stabilizing silicon photoelectrodes from oxidative degradation in photoelectrochemical applications.« less

  5. On The Value at Risk Using Bayesian Mixture Laplace Autoregressive Approach for Modelling the Islamic Stock Risk Investment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miftahurrohmah, Brina; Iriawan, Nur; Fithriasari, Kartika

    2017-06-01

    Stocks are known as the financial instruments traded in the capital market which have a high level of risk. Their risks are indicated by their uncertainty of their return which have to be accepted by investors in the future. The higher the risk to be faced, the higher the return would be gained. Therefore, the measurements need to be made against the risk. Value at Risk (VaR) as the most popular risk measurement method, is frequently ignore when the pattern of return is not uni-modal Normal. The calculation of the risks using VaR method with the Normal Mixture Autoregressive (MNAR) approach has been considered. This paper proposes VaR method couple with the Mixture Laplace Autoregressive (MLAR) that would be implemented for analysing the first three biggest capitalization Islamic stock return in JII, namely PT. Astra International Tbk (ASII), PT. Telekomunikasi Indonesia Tbk (TLMK), and PT. Unilever Indonesia Tbk (UNVR). Parameter estimation is performed by employing Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) approaches.

  6. Characterization of the Mechanical Stress-Strain Performance of Aerospace Alloy Materials Using Frequency-Domain Photoacoustic Ultrasound and Photothermal Methods: An FEM Approach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huan, Huiting; Mandelis, Andreas; Liu, Lixian

    2018-04-01

    Determining and keeping track of a material's mechanical performance is very important for safety in the aerospace industry. The mechanical strength of alloy materials is precisely quantified in terms of its stress-strain relation. It has been proven that frequency-domain photothermoacoustic (FD-PTA) techniques are effective methods for characterizing the stress-strain relation of metallic alloys. PTA methodologies include photothermal (PT) diffusion and laser thermoelastic photoacoustic ultrasound (PAUS) generation which must be separately discussed because the relevant frequency ranges and signal detection principles are widely different. In this paper, a detailed theoretical analysis of the connection between thermoelastic parameters and stress/strain tensor is presented with respect to FD-PTA nondestructive testing. Based on the theoretical model, a finite element method (FEM) was further implemented to simulate the PT and PAUS signals at very different frequency ranges as an important analysis tool of experimental data. The change in the stress-strain relation has an impact on both thermal and elastic properties, verified by FEM and results/signals from both PT and PAUS experiments.

  7. Electroplated L1{sub 0} CoPt thick-film permanent magnets

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

    Oniku, Ololade D., E-mail: ololadeoniku@ufl.edu; Qi, Bin; Arnold, David P.

    2014-05-07

    The fabrication and magnetic characterization of 15-μm-thick electroplated L1{sub 0} CoPt hard magnets with good magnetic properties is reported in this paper. Experimental study of the dependence of the magnets' properties on annealing temperature reveals that an intrinsic coercivity H{sub ci} = ∼800 kA/m (10 kOe), squareness >0.8, and energy product of >150 kJ/m{sup 3} are obtained for photolithographically patterned structures (250 μm × 2 mm stripes; 15 μm thickness) electroplated on silicon substrates and annealed in hydrogen forming gas at 700 °C. Scanning electron microscopy is used to inspect the morphology of both the as-deposited and annealed magnetic layers, and X-ray Diffractometer analysis on the magnets annealed at 700 °Cmore » confirm a phase transformation to an ordered L1{sub 0} CoPt structure, with a minor phase of hcp Co. These thick films are intended for microsystems/MEMS applications.« less

  8. Effects of a parallel resistor on electrical characteristics of a piezoelectric transformer in open-circuit transient state.

    PubMed

    Chang, Kuo-Tsai

    2007-01-01

    This paper investigates electrical transient characteristics of a Rosen-type piezoelectric transformer (PT), including maximum voltages, time constants, energy losses and average powers, and their improvements immediately after turning OFF. A parallel resistor connected to both input terminals of the PT is needed to improve the transient characteristics. An equivalent circuit for the PT is first given. Then, an open-circuit voltage, involving a direct current (DC) component and an alternating current (AC) component, and its related energy losses are derived from the equivalent circuit with initial conditions. Moreover, an AC power control system, including a DC-to-AC resonant inverter, a control switch and electronic instruments, is constructed to determine the electrical characteristics of the OFF transient state. Furthermore, the effects of the parallel resistor on the transient characteristics at different parallel resistances are measured. The advantages of adding the parallel resistor also are discussed. From the measured results, the DC time constant is greatly decreased from 9 to 0.04 ms by a 10 k(omega) parallel resistance under open output.

  9. Eye-pupil displacement and prediction: effects on residual wavefront in adaptive optics retinal imaging

    PubMed Central

    Kulcsár, Caroline; Raynaud, Henri-François; Garcia-Rissmann, Aurea

    2016-01-01

    This paper studies the effect of pupil displacements on the best achievable performance of retinal imaging adaptive optics (AO) systems, using 52 trajectories of horizontal and vertical displacements sampled at 80 Hz by a pupil tracker (PT) device on 13 different subjects. This effect is quantified in the form of minimal root mean square (rms) of the residual phase affecting image formation, as a function of the delay between PT measurement and wavefront correction. It is shown that simple dynamic models identified from data can be used to predict horizontal and vertical pupil displacements with greater accuracy (in terms of average rms) over short-term time horizons. The potential impact of these improvements on residual wavefront rms is investigated. These results allow to quantify the part of disturbances corrected by retinal imaging systems that are caused by relative displacements of an otherwise fixed or slowy-varying subject-dependent aberration. They also suggest that prediction has a limited impact on wavefront rms and that taking into account PT measurements in real time improves the performance of AO retinal imaging systems. PMID:27231607

  10. Research on catalysts for long-life closed-cycle CO2 laser oaperation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sidney, Barry D.; Schryer, David R.; Upchurch, Billy T.; Hess, Robert V.; Wood, George M.

    1987-01-01

    Long-life, closed-cycle operation of pulsed CO2 lasers requires catalytic CO-O2 recombination both to remove O2, which is formed by discharge-induced CO2 decomposition, and to regenerate CO2. Platinum metal on a tin-oxide substrate (Pt/SnO2) has been found to be an effective catalyst for such recombination in the desired temperature range of 25 to 100 C. This paper presents a description of ongoing research at NASA-Langley on Pt/SnO2 catalyzed CO-O2 recombination. Included are studies with rare-isotope gases since rare-isotope CO2 is desirable as a laser gas for enhanced atmospheric transmission. Results presented include: (1) the effects of various catalyst pretreatment techniques on catalyst efficiency; (2) development of a technique, verified in a 30-hour test, to prevent isotopic scrambling when C(O-18) and (O-18)2 are reacted in the presence of a common-isotope Pt/Sn(O-16)2 catalyst; and (3) development of a mathematical model of a laser discharge prior to catalyst introduction.

  11. Organization and ELISA-Based Results of the First Proficiency Testing to Evaluate the Ability of European Union Laboratories to Detect Staphylococcal Enterotoxin Type B (SEB) in Buffer and Milk

    PubMed Central

    Nia, Yacine; Rodriguez, Mélanie; Zeleny, Reinhard; Herbin, Sabine; Auvray, Frédéric; Fiebig, Uwe; Avondet, Marc-André; Munoz, Amalia; Hennekinne, Jacques-Antoine

    2016-01-01

    The aim of this work was to organize the first proficiency test (PT) dedicated to staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) detection in milk and buffer solutions. This paper describes the organization of the PT trial according to EN ISO 17043 requirements. Characterization of the SEB stock solution was performed using SDS-PAGE and SE-specific ELISA, and amino acid analysis was used to assign its protein concentration. The solution was then used to prepare six PT materials (four milk and two buffer batches) at a ng/g toxin level, which included one blank and one SEA-containing milk as specificity control. Suitable material homogeneity and stability were assessed using screening and quantitative ELISAs. Among the methods used by the participants, ELISA-based methods demonstrated their efficiency for the detection of SEB in both simple and complex matrices. The results serve as a basis for further improving the detection capabilities in expert laboratories and can therefore be considered as a contribution to biopreparedness. PMID:27649244

  12. SCMLA: Technical Writing. Proceedings (Houston, Texas, October 1987).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Oklahoma State Univ., Stillwater.

    In order to make information about technical writing more available, the South Central Modern Language Association (SCMLA) has collected the papers not subject to copyright restrictions that were presented at the technical writing section of its 1987 meeting. The essays cover a wide range of topics in technical writing pedagogy and research. The…

  13. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Technical and Vocational Education (Beijing, China, September 13-18, 1993).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chinese National Commission for UNESCO (China).

    This document contains 28 papers: "Technical and Vocational Education in Asia and the Pacific: Regional Overview and Recent Innovations" (Muhammad Ashraf Qureshi); "Secondary Education in Austria" (Helmut Aigner); "The Development of Technical Curricula in Austria" (Helmut Aigner); "Technical and Vocational Education in Australia. Australian…

  14. 22 CFR 126.17 - Exemption pursuant to the Defense Trade Cooperation Treaty between the United States and the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ...) and (j)(1)(ii) of this section; (ii) Technical data (including data packages, technical papers... entity or person who receives, but does not have access to, defense articles, including technical data...) Defense articles (other than technical data) shall be individually labeled with the appropriate...

  15. Modular Energy-Efficient and Robust Paradigms for a Disaster-Recovery Process over Wireless Sensor Networks

    PubMed Central

    Razaque, Abdul; Elleithy, Khaled

    2015-01-01

    Robust paradigms are a necessity, particularly for emerging wireless sensor network (WSN) applications. The lack of robust and efficient paradigms causes a reduction in the provision of quality of service (QoS) and additional energy consumption. In this paper, we introduce modular energy-efficient and robust paradigms that involve two archetypes: (1) the operational medium access control (O-MAC) hybrid protocol and (2) the pheromone termite (PT) model. The O-MAC protocol controls overhearing and congestion and increases the throughput, reduces the latency and extends the network lifetime. O-MAC uses an optimized data frame format that reduces the channel access time and provides faster data delivery over the medium. Furthermore, O-MAC uses a novel randomization function that avoids channel collisions. The PT model provides robust routing for single and multiple links and includes two new significant features: (1) determining the packet generation rate to avoid congestion and (2) pheromone sensitivity to determine the link capacity prior to sending the packets on each link. The state-of-the-art research in this work is based on improving both the QoS and energy efficiency. To determine the strength of O-MAC with the PT model; we have generated and simulated a disaster recovery scenario using a network simulator (ns-3.10) that monitors the activities of disaster recovery staff; hospital staff and disaster victims brought into the hospital. Moreover; the proposed paradigm can be used for general purpose applications. Finally; the QoS metrics of the O-MAC and PT paradigms are evaluated and compared with other known hybrid protocols involving the MAC and routing features. The simulation results indicate that O-MAC with PT produced better outcomes. PMID:26153768

  16. Finite-time singularities in the dynamics of hyperinflation in an economy.

    PubMed

    Szybisz, Martín A; Szybisz, Leszek

    2009-08-01

    The dynamics of hyperinflation episodes is studied by applying a theoretical approach based on collective "adaptive inflation expectations" with a positive nonlinear feedback proposed in the literature. In such a description it is assumed that the growth rate of the logarithmic price, r(t), changes with a velocity obeying a power law which leads to a finite-time singularity at a critical time t(c). By revising that model we found that, indeed, there are two types of singular solutions for the logarithmic price, p(t) . One is given by the already reported form p(t) approximately (t(c)-t)(-alpha) (with alpha>0 ) and the other exhibits a logarithmic divergence, p(t) approximately ln[1/(t(c)-t)] . The singularity is a signature for an economic crash. In the present work we express p(t) explicitly in terms of the parameters introduced throughout the formulation avoiding the use of any combination of them defined in the original paper. This procedure allows to examine simultaneously the time series of r(t) and p(t) performing a linked error analysis of the determined parameters. For the first time this approach is applied for analyzing the very extreme historical hyperinflations occurred in Greece (1941-1944) and Yugoslavia (1991-1994). The case of Greece is compatible with a logarithmic singularity. The study is completed with an analysis of the hyperinflation spiral currently experienced in Zimbabwe. According to our results, an economic crash in this country is predicted for these days. The robustness of the results to changes of the initial time of the series and the differences with a linear feedback are discussed.

  17. Modular Energy-Efficient and Robust Paradigms for a Disaster-Recovery Process over Wireless Sensor Networks.

    PubMed

    Razaque, Abdul; Elleithy, Khaled

    2015-07-06

    Robust paradigms are a necessity, particularly for emerging wireless sensor network (WSN) applications. The lack of robust and efficient paradigms causes a reduction in the provision of quality of service (QoS) and additional energy consumption. In this paper, we introduce modular energy-efficient and robust paradigms that involve two archetypes: (1) the operational medium access control (O-MAC) hybrid protocol and (2) the pheromone termite (PT) model. The O-MAC protocol controls overhearing and congestion and increases the throughput, reduces the latency and extends the network lifetime. O-MAC uses an optimized data frame format that reduces the channel access time and provides faster data delivery over the medium. Furthermore, O-MAC uses a novel randomization function that avoids channel collisions. The PT model provides robust routing for single and multiple links and includes two new significant features: (1) determining the packet generation rate to avoid congestion and (2) pheromone sensitivity to determine the link capacity prior to sending the packets on each link. The state-of-the-art research in this work is based on improving both the QoS and energy efficiency. To determine the strength of O-MAC with the PT model; we have generated and simulated a disaster recovery scenario using a network simulator (ns-3.10) that monitors the activities of disaster recovery staff; hospital staff and disaster victims brought into the hospital. Moreover; the proposed paradigm can be used for general purpose applications. Finally; the QoS metrics of the O-MAC and PT paradigms are evaluated and compared with other known hybrid protocols involving the MAC and routing features. The simulation results indicate that O-MAC with PT produced better outcomes.

  18. Efficiently Visible-Light Driven Photoelectrocatalytic Oxidation of As(III) at Low Positive Biasing Using Pt/TiO2 Nanotube Electrode

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qin, Yanyan; Li, Yilian; Tian, Zhen; Wu, Yangling; Cui, Yanping

    2016-01-01

    A constant current deposition method was selected to load highly dispersed Pt nanoparticles on TiO2 nanotubes in this paper, to extend the excited spectrum range of TiO2-based photocatalysts to visible light. The morphology, elemental composition, and light absorption capability of as-obtained Pt/TiO2 nanotubes electrodes were characterized by FE-SEM, energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS), and UV-vis spectrometer. The photocatalytic and photoelectrocatalytic oxidation of As(III) using a Pt/TiO2 nanotube arrays electrode under visible light ( λ > 420 nm) irradiation were investigated in a divided anode/cathode electrolytic tank. Compared with pure TiO2 which had no As(III) oxidation capacity under visible light, Pt/TiO2 nanotubes exhibited excellent visible-light photocatalytic performance toward As(III), even at dark condition. In anodic cell, As(III) could be oxidized with high efficiency by photoelectrochemical process with only 1.2 V positive biasing. Experimental results showed that photoelectrocatalytic oxidation process of As(III) could be well described by pseudo-first-order kinetic model. Rate constants depended on initial concentration of As(III), applied bias potential and solution pH. At the same time, it was interesting to find that in cathode cell, As(III) was also continuously oxidized to As(V). Furthermore, high-arsenic groundwater sample (25 m underground) with 0.32 mg/L As(III) and 0.35 mg/L As(V), which was collected from Daying Village, Datong basin, Northern China, could totally transform to As(V) after 200 min under visible light in this system.

  19. Content of conventional therapy for the severely affected arm during subacute rehabilitation after stroke: An analysis of physiotherapy and occupational therapy practice.

    PubMed

    de Jong, Lex D; van Wijck, Frederike; Stewart, Roy E; Geurts, Alexander C H; Dijkstra, Pieter U

    2018-01-01

    Physiotherapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) are key professions providing treatment for the arm after stroke; however, knowledge about the content of these treatments is scant. Detailed data are needed to replicate interventions, evaluate their effective components, and evaluate PT and OT practice. This paper describes PT and OT treatment for the severely affected arm in terms of duration, content according to components and categories of the International Classification of Human Functioning, Disability and Health, and to analyze differences between professions. Design: This is a retrospective analysis of randomized trial data. 46 patients after stroke with poor arm motor control recruited from inpatient neurological units from three rehabilitation centers in the Netherlands. PTs and OTs recorded duration and content of arm treatment interventions for 8 weeks using a bespoke treatment schedule with 15 International Classification of Human Functioning, Disability and Health categories. PTs and OTs spent on average 4-7 min per treatment session (30 min) on arm treatment. OTs spent significantly more time providing arm treatment and treatment at the activities level than PTs. PTs spent 79% of their arm treatment time on body functions, OTs 41%. OTs spent significantly more time on "moving around using transportation," "self care," and "household tasks" categories. Patients after stroke with a severely affected arm and an unfavorable prognosis for arm motor recovery receive little arm-oriented PT and OT. Therapists spent most arm treatment time on body functions. There was a considerable overlap in the content of PT and OT in 12 of the 15 categories. Results can be generalized only to patients with poor arm motor control and may not represent practice in other countries. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  20. Second Annual Workshop on Space Operations Automation and Robotics (SOAR 1988)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Griffin, Sandy (Editor)

    1988-01-01

    Papers presented at the Second Annual Workshop on Space Operation Automation and Robotics (SOAR '88), hosted by Wright State University at Dayton, Ohio, on July 20, 21, 22, and 23, 1988, are documented herein. During the 4 days, approximately 100 technical papers were presented by experts from NASA, the USAF, universities, and technical companies. Panel discussions on Human Factors, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Space Systems were held but are not documented herein. Technical topics addressed included knowledge-based systems, human factors, and robotics.

  1. Application of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and chemometrics for differentiation of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis phage types.

    PubMed

    Preisner, Ornella; Guiomar, Raquel; Machado, Jorge; Menezes, José Cardoso; Lopes, João Almeida

    2010-06-01

    Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and chemometric techniques were used to discriminate five closely related Salmonella enterica serotype Enteritidis phage types, phage type 1 (PT1), PT1b, PT4b, PT6, and PT6a. Intact cells and outer membrane protein (OMP) extracts from bacterial cell membranes were subjected to FT-IR analysis in transmittance mode. Spectra were collected over a wavenumber range from 4,000 to 600 cm(-1). Partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was used to develop calibration models based on preprocessed FT-IR spectra. The analysis based on OMP extracts provided greater separation between the Salmonella Enteritidis PT1-PT1b, PT4b, and PT6-PT6a groups than the intact cell analysis. When these three phage type groups were considered, the method based on OMP extract FT-IR spectra was 100% accurate. Moreover, complementary local models that considered only the PT1-PT1b and PT6-PT6a groups were developed, and the level of discrimination increased. PT1 and PT1b isolates were differentiated successfully with the local model using the entire OMP extract spectrum (98.3% correct predictions), whereas the accuracy of discrimination between PT6 and PT6a isolates was 86.0%. Isolates belonging to different phage types (PT19, PT20, and PT21) were used with the model to test its robustness. For the first time it was demonstrated that FT-IR analysis of OMP extracts can be used for construction of robust models that allow fast and accurate discrimination of different Salmonella Enteritidis phage types.

  2. Technical solutions for mitigating security threats caused by health professionals in clinical settings.

    PubMed

    Fernandez-Aleman, Jose Luis; Belen Sanchez Garcia, Ana; Garcia-Mateos, Gines; Toval, Ambrosio

    2015-08-01

    The objective of this paper is to present a brief description of technical solutions for health information system security threats caused by inadequate security and privacy practices in healthcare professionals. A literature search was carried out in ScienceDirect, ACM Digital Library and IEEE Digital Library to find papers reporting technical solutions for certain security problems in information systems used in clinical settings. A total of 17 technical solutions were identified: measures for password security, the secure use of e-mail, the Internet, portable storage devices, printers and screens. Although technical safeguards are essential to the security of healthcare organization's information systems, good training, awareness programs and adopting a proper information security policy are particularly important to prevent insiders from causing security incidents.

  3. [NASA/DOD Aerospace Knowledge Diffusion Research Project. Paper 4:] Technical communications in aerospace: An analysis of the practices reported by US and European aerospace engineers and scientists

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pinelli, Thomas E.; Barclay, Rebecca O.; Kennedy, John M.; Glassman, Myron

    1990-01-01

    Two pilot studies were conducted that investigated the technical communications practices of U.S. and European aerospace engineers and scientists. Both studies had the same five objectives: (1) solicit opinions regarding the importance of technical communications; (2) determine the use and production of technical communications; (3) seek views about the appropriate content of an undergraduate course in technical communications; (4) determine use of libraries, information centers, and online database; (5) determine use and importance of computer and information technology to them. A self-administered questionnaire was mailed to randomly selected aerospace engineers and scientists, with a slightly modified version sent to European colleagues. Their responses to selected questions are presented in this paper.

  4. Pt skin coated hollow Ag-Pt bimetallic nanoparticles with high catalytic activity for oxygen reduction reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fu, Tao; Huang, Jianxing; Lai, Shaobo; Zhang, Size; Fang, Jun; Zhao, Jinbao

    2017-10-01

    The catalytic activity and stability of electrocatalyst is critical for the commercialization of fuel cells, and recent reports reveal the great potential of the hollow structures with Pt skin coat for developing high-powered electrocatalysts due to their highly efficient utilization of the Pt atoms. Here, we provide a novel strategy to prepare the Pt skin coated hollow Ag-Pt structure (Ag-Pt@Pt) of ∼8 nm size at room temperature. As loaded on the graphene, the Ag-Pt@Pt exhibits a remarkable mass activity of 0.864 A/mgPt (at 0.9 V, vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE)) towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which is 5.30 times of the commercial Pt/C catalyst, and the Ag-Pt@Pt also shows a better stability during the ORR catalytic process. The mechanism of this significant enhancement can be attributed to the higher Pt utilization and the unique Pt on Ag-Pt surface structure, which is confirmed by the density functional theory (DFT) calculations and other characterization methods. In conclusion, this original work offers a low-cost and environment-friendly method to prepare a high active electrocatalyst with cheaper price, and this work also discloses the correlation between surface structures and ORR catalytic activity for the hollow structures with Pt skin coat, which can be instructive for designing novel advanced electrocatalysts for fuel cells.

  5. Proceedings: International Technical Communication Conference (30th, St. Louis, Missouri, May 1-4, 1983).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Society for Technical Communication, Washington, DC.

    Prepared by representatives of government, business, industry, and education, the papers in this compilation deal with a variety of aspects of technical communication. The approximately 150 papers are arranged according to the following categories: advanced technology applications, graphics and production, management and professional development,…

  6. Technical Advances and Fifth Grade Reading Comprehension: Do Students Benefit?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fountaine, Drew

    This paper takes a look at some recent studies on utilization of technical tools, primarily personal computers and software, for improving fifth-grade students' reading comprehension. Specifically, the paper asks what benefits an educator can expect students to derive from closed-captioning and computer-assisted reading comprehension products. It…

  7. Vocational Education and Training: A Major Shift in World Bank Policy.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Foster, Phillip

    1992-01-01

    Comments on the World Bank's policy paper on vocational and technical education and training. Argues that past failures in establishing effective vocational and technical education were a result of not applying conventional neoclassical economic theory. Asserts that the World Bank's policy paper corrects this approach. (CFR)

  8. Publications | Research Site Name | NREL

    Science.gov Websites

    Article Title, Journal Name (Year) Conference Paper Title, Conference Name (Year) Report Title, NREL Technical Report (Year) Topic 2 Article Title, Journal Name (Year) Conference Paper Title, Conference Name (Year) Report Title, NREL Technical Report (Year) Topic 3 Article Title, Journal Name (Year) Conference

  9. 2015-2016 Florida Adult Education Assessment Technical Assistance Paper

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Florida Department of Education, 2016

    2016-01-01

    This technical assistance paper provides guidance to individuals with test administration responsibilities in adult education programs. These policies apply to the approved assessments that programs may use to report educational gains in compliance with the National Reporting System (NRS) requirements. The NRS is the accountability system for the…

  10. 2016-2017 Florida Adult Education Assessment Technical Assistance Paper

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Florida Department of Education, 2017

    2017-01-01

    This technical assistance paper provides guidance to individuals with test administration responsibilities in adult education programs. These policies apply to the approved assessments that programs may use to report educational gains in compliance with the National Reporting System (NRS) requirements. The NRS is the accountability system for the…

  11. Surface structure and chemistry of Pt/Cu/Pt(1 1 1) near surface alloy model catalyst in CO

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zeng, Shibi; Nguyen, Luan; Cheng, Fang; Liu, Lacheng; Yu, Ying; Tao, Franklin (Feng)

    2014-11-01

    Near surface alloy (NSA) model catalyst Pt/Cu/Pt(1 1 1) was prepared on Pt(1 1 1) through a controlled vapor deposition of Cu atoms. Different coordination environments of Pt atoms of the topmost Pt layer with the underneath Cu atoms in the subsurface result in different local electronic structures of surface Pt atoms. Surface structure and chemistry of the NAS model catalyst in Torr pressure of CO were studied with high pressure scanning tunneling microscopy (HP-STM) and ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AP-XPS). In Torr pressure of CO, the topmost Pt layer of Pt/Cu/Pt(1 1 1) is restructured to thin nanoclusters with size of about 1 nm. Photoemission feature of O 1s of CO on Pt/Cu/Pt(1 1 1) suggests CO adsorbed on both edge and surface of these formed nanoclusters. This surface is active for CO oxidation. Atomic layers of carbon are formed on Pt/Cu/Pt(1 1 1) at 573 K in 2 Torr of CO.

  12. Going national with HERS and EEMs: Issues and impacts. The collected papers of the national collaborative

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

    None

    This collection of papers is a companion volume to A National Program for Energy-Efficient Mortgages and Home Energy Rating Systems: A Blueprint for Action (NREL/TP-261-4677). The Blueprint reports the findings and recommendations of the National Collaborative on Home Energy Rating Systems and Mortgage Incentives for Energy Efficiency about a voluntary national program linking energy-efficient mortgages and home energy rating systems. This volume provides technical documentation for A Blueprint for Action. It consists of 55 technical issue papers and 13 special papers prepared by the technical advisory committees and some members of the Collaborative Consensus Committee of the National Collaborative. Itmore » also contains the bibliography and the glossary written by the members and staff of the National Collaborative.« less

  13. Resistance to minor groove binders.

    PubMed

    Colmegna, Benedetta; Uboldi, Sarah; Erba, Eugenio; D'Incalci, Maurizio

    2014-03-01

    In this paper multiple resistance mechanisms to minor groove binders (MGBs) are overviewed. MGBs with antitumor properties are natural products or their derivatives and, as expected, they are all substrates of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). However, a moderate expression of P-gp does not appear to reduce the sensitivity to trabectedin, the only MGB so far approved for clinical use. Resistance to this drug is often related to transcriptional mechanisms and to DNA repair pathways, particularly defects in transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair (TC-NER). Therefore tumors resistant to trabectedin may become hypersensitive to UV rays and other DNA damaging agents acting in the major groove, such as Platinum (Pt) complexes. If this is confirmed in clinic, that will provide the rationale to combine trabectedin sequentially with Pt derivates.

  14. A consensus algorithm for approximate string matching and its application to QRS complex detection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Alba, Alfonso; Mendez, Martin O.; Rubio-Rincon, Miguel E.; Arce-Santana, Edgar R.

    2016-08-01

    In this paper, a novel algorithm for approximate string matching (ASM) is proposed. The novelty resides in the fact that, unlike most other methods, the proposed algorithm is not based on the Hamming or Levenshtein distances, but instead computes a score for each symbol in the search text based on a consensus measure. Those symbols with sufficiently high scores will likely correspond to approximate instances of the pattern string. To demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed method, it has been applied to the detection of QRS complexes in electrocardiographic signals with competitive results when compared against the classic Pan-Tompkins (PT) algorithm. The proposed method outperformed PT in 72% of the test cases, with no extra computational cost.

  15. A monolithic integrated micro direct methanol fuel cell based on sulfo functionalized porous silicon

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, M.; Lu, Y. X.; Liu, L. T.; Wang, X. H.

    2016-11-01

    In this paper, we demonstrate a monolithic integrated micro direct methanol fuel cell (μDMFC) for the first time. The monolithic integrated μDMFC combines proton exchange membrane (PEM) and Pt nanocatalysts, in which PEM is achieved by the functionalized porous silicon membrane and 3D Pt nanoflowers being synthesized in situ on it as catalysts. Sulfo groups functionalized porous silicon membrane serves as a PEM and a catalyst support simultaneously. The μDMFC prototype achieves an open circuit voltage of 0.3 V, a maximum power density of 5.5 mW/cm2. The monolithic integrated μDMFC offers several desirable features such as compatibility with micro fabrication techniques, an undeformable solid PEM and the convenience of assembly.

  16. Understanding Electrocatalytic Activity Enhancement of Bimetallic Particles to Ethanol Electro-oxidation: (1) Water Adsorption and Decomposition on PtnM (n=2,3 and 9; M=Pt, Ru, Sn)

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Yixuan; Mi, Yunjie; Redmon, Natalie; Holiday, Jessica

    2009-01-01

    The fundamental assumption of the bi-functional mechanism for PtSn alloy to catalyze ethanol electro-oxidation reaction (EER) is that Sn facilitates water dissociation and EER occurs over Pt site of the PtSn alloy. To clarify this assumption and achieve a good understanding about the EER, H2O adsorption and dissociation over bimetallic clusters PtM (M=Pt, Sn, Ru, Rh, Pd, Cu and Re) are systematically investigated in the present work. To discuss a variety of effects, PtnM (n=2, and 3; M=Pt, Sn and Ru), one-layer Pt6M (M=Pt, Sn and Ru), and two-layer (Pt6M)Pt3 (M=Pt, Sn, Ru, Rh, Pd, Cu and Re) clusters are used to model the PtM bimetallic catalysts. Water exhibits atop adsorption on Pt and Ru sites of the optimized clusters PtnM (n=2, and 3; M=Pt and Ru), yet bridge adsorption on Sn sites of Pt2Sn as well as distorted tetrahedral Pt3Sn. However, in the cases of one-layer Pt6M and two-layer Pt9M cluster models water preferentially binds to all of investigated central atom M of surface layer in atop configuration with the dipole moment of water almost parallel to the cluster surface. Water adsorption on the Sn site of PtnSn (n=2 and 3) is weaker than those on the Pt site of Ptn (n=3 and 4) and the Ru site of PtnRu (n=2 and 3), while water adsorptions on the central Sn atom of Pt6Sn and Pt9Sn are enhanced so significantly that they are even stronger than those on the central Pt and Ru atoms of PtnM (n=6 and 9; M=Pt and Ru). For all of the three cluster models, energy barrier (Ea) for the dissociation of adsorbed water over Sn is lower than over Ru and Pt atoms (e.g., Ea: 0.78 vs 0.96 and 1.07 eV for Pt9M), which also remains as external electric fields were added. It is interesting to note that the dissociation energy on Sn site is also the lowest (Ediss: 0.44 vs 0.61 and 0.67eV). The results show that from both kinetic and thermodynamic viewpoints Sn is more active to water decomposition than pure Pt and the PtRu alloy, which well supports the assumption of the bi-functional mechanism that Sn site accelerates the dissociation of H2O. The extended investigation for water behavior on the (Pt6M)Pt3 (M=Pt, Sn, Ru, Rh, Pd, Cu and Re) clusters indicate that the kinetic activity for water dissociation increases in the sequence of Cu < Pd < Rh < Pt < Ru < Sn < Re. PMID:20336187

  17. Non-technical skills of the operating theatre scrub nurse: literature review.

    PubMed

    Mitchell, Lucy; Flin, Rhona

    2008-07-01

    This paper is a report of a review to identify the non-technical (cognitive and social) skills used by scrub nurses. Recognition that failures in non-technical skills contributed to accidents in high-risk industries led to the development of research programmes to study the role of cognition and social interactions in operational safety. Recently, psychological research in operating theatres has revealed the importance of non-technical skills in safe and efficient performance. Most of the studies to date have focused on anaesthetists and surgeons. On-line sources and university library catalogues, publications of the Association for Perioperative Practice, National Association of Theatre Nurses and Association of Peri-Operative Registered Nurses were searched in 2007. Studies were included in the review if they presented data from scrub nurses on one or more of their non-technical skills. These findings were examined in relation to an existing medical non-technical skills framework with categories of communication, teamwork, leadership, situation awareness and decision-making. Of 424 publications retrieved, 13 were reviewed in detail. Ten concerned communication and eight of those also had data on teamwork. In 11 papers teamwork was examined, and one focused on nurses' situation awareness, teamwork and communication. None of the papers we reviewed examined leadership or decision-making by scrub nurses. Further work is needed to identify formally the non-technical skills which are important to the role of scrub nurse and then to design training in the identified non-technical skills during the education and development of scrub nurses.

  18. Effects of interfacial charge and the particle size of titanate nanotube-supported Pt nanoparticles on the hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chiu, Tsai-Chin; Lee, Hsin-Yi; Li, Pei-Hua; Chao, Jiunn-Hsing; Lin, Chiu-Hsun

    2013-03-01

    The oxidation state and size of Pt nanoparticles attached to alkali metal titanate nanotubes (MTNTs=M2Ti3O7, M = Li+, Na+, K+, Cs+) via ion exchange (indicated by the added label ‘-IE’) and wet impregnation (indicated by the added label ‘-IMP’) methods varied systematically with the cation of the MTNTs. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the binding energy of Pt was reduced to a low value when the support was changed from LiTNTs to CsTNTs, yielding a Ptδ- oxidation state. Thus, a space charge layer (SCL) was constructed at the interface between the Pt particle and MTNT support; the former carried the negative charge, and the alkali cation and proton in the hydroxyl group of the latter carried the positive charge. Due to a higher M/Ti atomic ratio in MTNTs, a higher electron density accumulated on Pt particles in Pt/MTNTs-IMP than on those in Pt/MTNTs-IE. Sub-ambient temperature temperature-programmed reduction and transmission electron microscopy revealed that because of the difference in reducibility of PtOx/MTNTs, the mean Pt particle size followed the order Pt/CsTNTs > Pt/KTNTs > Pt/NaTNTs > Pt/LiTNTs and Pt/MTNTs-IMP > Pt/MTNTs-IE. DRIFTS (diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy) showed that owing to its interaction with SCL, cinnamaldehyde adsorbed on Pt mainly through the C=C bond at the Pt-MTNT interfaces, and the small Pt particles in Pt/LiTNTs adsorbed three times more cinnamaldehyde than those in Pt/CsTNTs. Due to the competition between the adsorption of cinnamaldehyde and C=C activation, Pt/KTNT-IMP is the most active Pt/MTNT catalysts, achieving a conversion of 100% in the hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde at 2 atm and 313 K. The carbonyl stretching of adsorbed cinnamaldehyde was almost unperturbed by adsorption (at 1705 cm-1), suggesting that Ptδ- and the π electrons in the carbonyl group repel each other, so the CH=O group points upward and away from the Pt surface, preventing it from being hydrogenated and causing Pt/MTNTs to exhibit high 3-phenyl propionaldehyde selectivities of 75-80%.

  19. Research in Computer Simulation of Integrated Circuits.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-07-31

    mactore ftor eval -al-rto implementad am a single chip ae those s Lca we beoi ~~g 7he PT!2 software datatow macl*-re ihas nodes ’cr prr., incrastgly... chip grows, these tools are becoming increasingly importan The FTL2 system described in this paper is an interactive system for specifying concurrent...implemented on a single chip grows, theselools are becom- / r/ - --/ ing increasingly important. The FTL2 system described in this paper is an interactive

  20. Heat pump assisted geothermal heating system for Felix Spa, Romania

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

    Rosca, Marcel; Maghiar, Teodor

    1996-01-24

    The paper presents a pre-feasibility type study of a proposed heat pump assisted geothermal heating system for an average hotel in Felix Spa, Romania. After a brief presentation of the geothermal reservoir, the paper gives the methodology and the results of the technical and economical calculations. The technical and economical viability of the proposed system is discussed in detail in the final part of the paper.

  1. Heat pump assisted geothermal heating system for Felix Spa, Romania

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

    Rosca, M.; Maghiar, T.

    1996-12-31

    The paper presents a pre-feasibility type study of a proposed heat pump assisted geothermal heating system for an average hotel in Felix Spa, Romania. After a brief presentation of the geothermal reservoir, the paper gives the methodology and the results of the technical and economical calculations. The technical and economical viability of the proposed system is discussed in detail in the final part of the paper.

  2. The 1990 Johnson Space Center bibliography of scientific and technical papers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1991-01-01

    Abstracts are presented of scientific and technical papers written and/or presented by L. B. Johnson Space Center (JSC) authors, including civil servants, contractors, and grantees, during the calendar year of 1990. Citations include conference and symposium presentations, papers published in proceedings or other collective works, seminars, and workshop results, NASA formal report series (including contractually required final reports), and articles published in professional journals.

  3. American Chemical Society. 23rd Great Lakes Regional Meeting. Program and abstracts

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

    Not Available

    1990-01-01

    The technical program includes some 250 papers in 38 sessions, featuring 16 symposia with 99 invited speakers. Program highlights include a plenary lecture, The Origin and Consequences of Scientific Illiteracy, by Jon D. Miller. Sessions for general technical papers are scheduled in the following categories: analytical chemistry; biochemistry; inorganic chemistry; organic chemistry; and physical chemistry. Papers have been processed for inclusion on the data base.

  4. Platinum(II)-dendrimer conjugates: synthesis and investigations on cytotoxicity, cellular distribution, platinum release, DNA, and protein binding.

    PubMed

    Kapp, Timo; Dullin, Anja; Gust, Ronald

    2010-02-17

    A set of polyamidoamine dendrimers were modified in such a way that they are able to act as carrier and drug delivery systems for cytostatics. The terminal binding of the non-proteinogenic D,L-2,3-diaminopropionic acid allowed the attachment of the cytotoxic PtX(2) moiety (X = Cl, I: A(PtI(2))(2), A(PtCl(2))(2), B(PtI(2))(2), B(PtCl(2))(2)), while the 2-carboxypentanedioic acid acted as leaving group for [meso-1,2-bis(4-fluorophenyl)ethylenediamine]platinum(II) ((m-4F-Pt)(3)C, (m-4F-Pt)(3)D). Poly(ethylene glycol) chains at C(PtI(2))(3) and C(PtCl(2))(3) as well as (m-4F-Pt)(3)C and (m-4F-Pt)(3)D mediated sufficient water solubility. Additional dansyl residues (B(PtI(2))(2) and (m-4F-Pt)(3)D) made a simultaneous determination of platinum (graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GF-AAS)) and dendrimer (fluorimetry) possible. The ethylenediamine-terminated dendrimers were typically accumulated into MCF-7 cells in clathrin-dependent pathways and targeted the platinum moieties to the nuclear compartment. The highest intracellular platinum concentration and DNA binding caused the dendrimers A(PtX(2))(2) and B(PtX(2))(2). A coordinative DNA binding, however, is very unlikely because of low cytotoxic effects. (m-4F-Pt)(3)C and (m-4F-Pt)(3)D are labile conjugates and liberated the m-4F-Pt moiety in biological systems. The effects of these dendrimers were similar to that of the reference compounds m-4F-PtCl(2) and m-4F-Pt(H(2)O)(2).

  5. Patch testing in Australia: Is it adequate?

    PubMed

    Tizi, Stephanie; Nixon, Rosemary L

    2016-08-01

    Patch testing (PT) is essential for making the diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). However, the extent of PT undertaken by Australian dermatologists is unknown. The objectives of this study were to determine the rate and type of PT in Australia, the perceived obstacles to PT, and to explore the exposure to PT in dermatology training. Data were collected on private PT (analysing Medicare item numbers) and public hospital-based PT (estimated via verbal reports). An online survey on PT was sent to Fellows of the Australasian College of Dermatologists. It was found that total PT numbers, combining Medicare item number and public hospital data, were below the suggested optimum in all states and in Australia overall. Of the 173 respondents to the survey, 61% reported they patch tested and 78% reported they referred for PT. TrueTest was the most commonly used PT system, although it is known to be inadequate. Dermatologists who PT as registrars were significantly more likely to PT as consultants (P value = 0.0029). Cost, expertise required and staffing were considered major obstacles to performing PT. Accessibility and cost to the patient were common obstacles to referral. The combination of suboptimal PT rates and inadequate PT means that patients are missing out on being diagnosed with ACD in Australia. Increasing the exposure of registrars to PT, supporting specialised centres, the development of the Australian Baseline Series and the Contact Allergen Bank will, it is hoped, improve the rates of comprehensive PT in Australia. © 2015 The Australasian College of Dermatologists.

  6. Simple preparations of Pd6Cl12, Pt6Cl12, and Qn[Pt2Cl8+n], n=1, 2 (Q=TBA+, PPN+) and structural characterization of [TBA][Pt2Cl9] and [PPN]2[Pt2Cl10].C7H8.

    PubMed

    Dell'Amico, Daniela Belli; Calderazzo, Fausto; Marchetti, Fabio; Ramello, Stefano; Samaritani, Simona

    2008-02-04

    The hexanuclear Pd6Cl12, i.e., the crystal phase classified as beta-PdCl2, was obtained by reacting [TBA]2[Pd2Cl6] with AlCl3 (or FeCl3) in CH2Cl2. The action of AlCl3 on PtCl42-, followed by digestion of the resulting solid in 1,2-C2H4Cl2 (DCE), CHCl3, or benzene, produced Pt6Cl12.DCE, Pt6Cl12.CHCl3, or Pt6Cl12.C6H6, respectively. Treating [TBA]2[PtCl6] with a slight excess of AlCl3 afforded [TBA][Pt2Cl9], whose anion was established crystallographically to be constituted by two "PtCl6" octahedra sharing a face. Dehydration of H2PtCl6.nH2O with SOCl2 gave an amorphous compound closely analyzing as PtCl4, reactive with [Q]Cl in SOCl2 to yield [Q][Pt2Cl9] or [Q]2[Pt2Cl10], depending on the [Q]Cl/Pt molar ratio (Q=TBA+, PPN+). A single-crystal X-ray diffraction study has shown [PPN]2[Pt2Cl10].C7H8 to contain dinuclear anions formed by two edge-sharing PtCl6 octahedra.

  7. Xe adsorption site distributions on Pt(111), Pt(221) and Pt(531)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gellman, Andrew J.; Baker, L.; Holsclaw, B. S.

    2016-04-01

    The ideal structures of the Pt(111), Pt(221) and Pt(531) surfaces expose adsorption sites that can be qualitatively described as terrace sites on Pt(111), both step and terrace sites on Pt(221), and kink sites on Pt(531). The real surface structures of these surfaces can be complicated by imperfections such as misorientation, reconstruction and thermal roughening, all of which will influence their distributions of adsorption sites. Xe adsorption sites on the Pt(111), Pt(221) and Pt(531) surfaces have been probed using both photoemission of adsorbed Xe (PAX) and temperature programmed desorption (TPD) of Xe. Both PAX and Xe TPD are sensitive to the adsorption sites of the Xe and serve as complementary means of assessing the distributions of adsorption sites on these three Pt surfaces. The adsorption of Xe is sufficiently sensitive to detect the presence of residual steps on the Pt(111) surface at a density of 1.5% step atoms per Pt atom. On the Pt(221) surface, PAX and Xe TPD reveal adsorption at both terrace and step sites simultaneously. Although the ideal structure of the Pt(531) surface has no well-defined steps or terraces, Xe adsorption indicates that its adsorption sites are best described as a distribution of both step and kink sites with roughly twice as many steps sites as kinks.

  8. Potential Dependence of Pt and Co Dissolution from Platinum-Cobalt Alloy PEFC Catalysts Using Time-Resolved Measurements

    DOE PAGES

    Ahluwalia, Rajesh K.; Papadias, Dionissios D.; Kariuki, Nancy N.; ...

    2018-02-09

    An electrochemical flow cell system with catalyst-ionomer ink deposited on glassy carbon is used to investigate the aqueous stability of commercial PtCo alloys under cyclic potentials. An on-line inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer, capable of real-time measurements, is used to resolve the anodic and cathodic dissolution of Pt and Co during square-wave and triangle-wave potential cycles. We observe Co dissolution at all potentials, distinct peaks in anodic and cathodic Pt dissolution rates above 0.9 V, and potential-dependent Pt and Co dissolution rates. The amount of Pt that dissolves cathodically is smaller than the amount that dissolves anodically if the upper potentialmore » limit (UPL) is lower than 0.9 V. At the highest UPL investigated, 1.0 V, the cathodic dissolution greatly exceeds the anodic dissolution. A non-ideal solid solution model indicates that the anodic dissolution can be associated with the electrochemical oxidation of Pt and PtOH to Pt 2+, and the cathodic dissolution to electrochemical reduction of a higher Pt oxide, PtO x (x > 1), to Pt 2+. Pt also dissolves oxidatively during the cathodic scans but in smaller amounts than due to the reductive dissolution of PtO x. The relative amounts Pt dissolving oxidatively as Pt and PtOH depend on the potential cycle and UPL.« less

  9. Iridium-decorated palladium-platinum core-shell catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction in proton exchange membrane fuel cell.

    PubMed

    Wang, Chen-Hao; Hsu, Hsin-Cheng; Wang, Kai-Ching

    2014-08-01

    Carbon-supported Pt, Pd, Pd-Pt core-shell (Pt(shell)-Pd(core)/C) and Ir-decorated Pd-Pt core-shell (Ir-decorated Pt(shell)-Pd(core)/C) catalysts were synthesized, and their physical properties, electrochemical behaviors, oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) characteristics and proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) performances were investigated herein. From the XRD patterns and TEM images, Ir-decorated Pt(shell)-Pd(core)/C has been confirmed that Pt was deposited on the Pd nanoparticle which had the core-shell structure. Ir-decorated Pt(shell)-Pd(core)/C has more positive OH reduction peak than Pt/C, which is beneficial to weaken the binding energy of Pt-OH during the ORR. Thus, Ir-decorated Pt(shell)-Pd(core)/C has higher ORR activity than Pt/C. The maximum power density of H2-O2 PEMFC using Ir-decorated Pt(shell)-Pd(core)/C is 792.2 mW cm(-2) at 70°C, which is 24% higher than that using Pt/C. The single-cell accelerated degradation test of PEMFC using Ir-decorated Pt(shell)-Pd(core)/C shows good durability by the potential cycling of 40,000 cycles. This study concludes that Ir-decorated Pt(shell)-Pd(core)/C has the low Pt content, but it can facilitate the low-cost and high-efficient PEMFC. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Evaluation of Pt Alloys as Electrocatalysts for Oxalic Acid Oxidation: A Combined Experimental and Computational Study

    DOE PAGES

    Perry, Albert; Babanova, Sofia; Matanovic, Ivana; ...

    2016-07-14

    Here in this study we combined experimental approaches and density functional theory to evaluate novel platinum-based materials as electrocatalysts for oxalic acid oxidation. Several Pt alloys, PtSn (1:1), PtSn (19:1), PtRu (1:4), PtRuSn (5:4:1), and PtRhSn (3:1:4), were synthetized using sacrificial support method and tested for oxidation of oxalic acid at pH 4. It was shown that PtSn (1:1) and PtRu (1:4) have higher mass activity relative to Pt. These two materials along with Pt and one of the least active alloys, PtSn (19:1), were further analyzed for the oxidation of oxalic acid at different pHs. The results show thatmore » all samples tested followed an identical trend of decreased onset potential with increased pH and increased catalytic activity with decreased pH. Density functional theory was further utilized to gain a fundamental knowledge about the mechanism of oxalic acid oxidation on Pt, PtSn (1:1), and PtRu (1:4). In conclusion, the results of the calculations along with the experimentally observed dependence of generated currents on the oxalic acid concentration indicate that the mechanism of oxalic acid oxidation on Pt proceeds without the participation of surface oxidizing species, while on Pt alloys it involves their participation.« less

  11. Amperometric biosensors based on deposition of gold and platinum nanoparticles on polyvinylferrocene modified electrode for xanthine detection.

    PubMed

    Baş, Salih Zeki; Gülce, Handan; Yıldız, Salih; Gülce, Ahmet

    2011-12-15

    In this study, new xanthine biosensors, XO/Au/PVF/Pt and XO/Pt/PVF/Pt, based on electroless deposition of gold(Au) and platinum(Pt) nanoparticles on polyvinylferrocene(PVF) coated Pt electrode for detection of xanthine were presented. The amperometric responses of the enzyme electrodes were measured at the constant potential, which was due to the electrooxidation of enzymatically produced H(2)O(2). Compared with XO/PVF/Pt electrode, XO/Au/PVF/Pt and XO/Pt/PVF/Pt exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of the analyte. Effect of Au and Pt nanoparticles was investigated by monitoring the response currents at the different deposition times and the different concentrations of KAuCl(4) and PtBr(2). Under the optimal conditions, the calibration curves of XO/Au/PVF/Pt and XO/Pt/PVF/Pt were obtained over the range of 2.5 × 10(-3) to 0.56 mM and 2.0 × 10(-3) to 0.66 mM, respectively. The detection limits were 7.5 × 10(-4)mM for XO/Au/PVF/Pt and 6.0 × 10(-4)mM for XO/Pt/PVF/Pt. The effects of interferents, the operational and the storage stabilities of the biosensors and the applicabilities of the proposed biosensors to the drug samples analysis were also evaluated. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Potential Dependence of Pt and Co Dissolution from Platinum-Cobalt Alloy PEFC Catalysts Using Time-Resolved Measurements

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

    Ahluwalia, Rajesh K.; Papadias, Dionissios D.; Kariuki, Nancy N.

    An electrochemical flow cell system with catalyst-ionomer ink deposited on glassy carbon is used to investigate the aqueous stability of commercial PtCo alloys under cyclic potentials. An on-line inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer, capable of real-time measurements, is used to resolve the anodic and cathodic dissolution of Pt and Co during square-wave and triangle-wave potential cycles. We observe Co dissolution at all potentials, distinct peaks in anodic and cathodic Pt dissolution rates above 0.9 V, and potential-dependent Pt and Co dissolution rates. The amount of Pt that dissolves cathodically is smaller than the amount that dissolves anodically if the upper potentialmore » limit (UPL) is lower than 0.9 V. At the highest UPL investigated, 1.0 V, the cathodic dissolution greatly exceeds the anodic dissolution. A non-ideal solid solution model indicates that the anodic dissolution can be associated with the electrochemical oxidation of Pt and PtOH to Pt 2+, and the cathodic dissolution to electrochemical reduction of a higher Pt oxide, PtO x (x > 1), to Pt 2+. Pt also dissolves oxidatively during the cathodic scans but in smaller amounts than due to the reductive dissolution of PtO x. The relative amounts Pt dissolving oxidatively as Pt and PtOH depend on the potential cycle and UPL.« less

  13. A Technical Overview and Description of SOFIA (Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kunz, Nans

    2003-01-01

    This paper provides a technical overview of SOFIA, a unique airborne observatory, from an engineering perspective. It will do this by describing several of the systems of this observatory that are common with mountain top ground based observatories but mostly emphasize those more unique features and systems that are required to facilitate world class astronomy from a highly modified Boeing 747-SP flying at Mach 0.84 in the Stratosphere. This paper provides a technical overview of SOFIA by reviewing each of the performance specifications (the level one requirements for development) and describing some of the technical advancements for the telescope as well as the platform required to achieve these performance specifications. The technical advancements involved include mirror technologies, control system features, the telescope suspension system, and the aircraft open port cavity with associated cavity door that opens in flight and tracks the telescope elevation angle. For background this paper will provide a brief programmatic overview of the SOFIA project including the joint project arrangement between the US and Germany (NASA and DLR). Additionally, this paper will describe the up to date status of the development of SOFIA as the Observatory nears the date of the first test flight in the summer of 2004.

  14. NASA/DOD Aerospace Knowledge Diffusion Research Project. Paper 40: Technical communications in aerospace education: A study of AIAA student members

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kennedy, John M.; Pinelli, Thomas E.; Barclay, Rebecca O.

    1994-01-01

    This paper describes the preliminary analysis of a survey of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) student members. In the paper we examine (1) the demographic characteristics of the students, (2) factors that affected their career decisions, (3) their career goals and aspirations, and (4) their training in technical communication and techniques for finding and using aerospace scientific and technical information (STI). We determine that aerospace engineering students receive training in technical communication skills and the use of STI. While those in the aerospace industry think that more training is needed, we believe the students receive the appropriate amount of training. We think that the differences between the amount of training students receive and the perception of training needs is related partially to the characteristics of the students and partially to the structure of the aerospace STI dissemination system. Overall, we conclude that the students' technical communication training and knowledge of STI, while limited by external forces, makes it difficult for students to achieve their career goals.

  15. Platinum-ruthenium nanotubes and platinum-ruthenium coated copper nanowires as efficient catalysts for electro-oxidation of methanol

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

    Zheng, Jie; Cullen, David A.; Forest, Robert V.

    2015-01-15

    The sluggish kinetics of methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) is a major barrier to the commercialization of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). In this study, we report a facile synthesis of platinum–ruthenium nanotubes (PtRuNTs) and platinum–ruthenium-coated copper nanowires (PtRu/CuNWs) by galvanic displacement reaction using copper nanowires as a template. The PtRu compositional effect on MOR is investigated; the optimum Pt/Ru bulk atomic ratio is about 4 and surface atomic ratio about 1 for both PtRuNTs and PtRu/CuNWs. Enhanced specific MOR activities are observed on both PtRuNTs and PtRu/CuNWs compared with the benchmark commercial carbon-supported PtRu catalyst (PtRu/C, Hispec 12100). Finally, x-raymore » photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) reveals a larger extent of electron transfer from Ru to Pt on PtRu/CuNWs, which may lead to a modification of the d-band center of Pt and consequently a weaker bonding of CO (the poisoning intermediate) on Pt and a higher MOR activity on PtRu/CuNWs.« less

  16. Preparation and characterization of Pt/C and Pt sbnd Ru/C electrocatalysts for direct ethanol fuel cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Zhaolin; Ling, Xing Yi; Su, Xiaodi; Lee, Jim Yang; Gan, Leong Ming

    Nano-sized Pt and Pt sbnd Ru colloids are prepared by a microwave-assisted polyol process, and transferred to a toluene solution of decanthiol. Vulcan XC-72 is then added to the toluene solution to adsorb the thiolated Pt and Pt sbnd Ru colloids. Transmission electron microscopy examinations show nearly spherical particles and narrow size distributions for both supported and unsupported metals. The carbon-supported Pt and Pt sbnd Ru nanoparticles are activated by thermal treatment to remove the thiol stabilizing shell. All Pt and Pt sbnd Ru catalysts (except Pt 23sbnd Ru 77) give the X-ray diffraction pattern of a face-centered cubic (fcc) crystal structure, whereas the Pt 23sbnd Ru 77 alloy is more typical of the hexagonal close packed (hcp) structure. The electro-oxidation of liquid ethanol on these catalysts is investigated at room temperature by cyclic voltammetry. The results demonstrate that the alloy catalyst is catalytically more active than pure platinum. Preliminary tests on a single cell of a direct ethanol fuel cell (DEFC) indicate that a Pt 52sbnd Ru 48/C anode catalyst gives the best electrocatalytic performance among all the carbon-supported Pt and Pt sbnd Ru catalysts.

  17. Technical Preparation: Preparing Students for Success. A Position Paper Presented by the Wisconsin Association of Secondary Vocational Administrators 1991-1992.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Peterson, Charlene; And Others

    Technical Preparation (Tech Prep) programs include basic skills and competencies to improve students' school-to-work transition. The following elements characterize Tech Prep: designed for grades 9-14, leading to an technical associate degree; parallels college preparatory program; offers technical program of study in business enterprise,…

  18. Degrees of systematic thoroughness: A text analysis of student technical science writing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Esch, Catherine Julia

    This dissertation investigates student technical science writing and use of evidence. Student writers attended a writing-intensive undergraduate university oceanography course where they were required to write a technical paper drawing from an instructor-designed software program, Our Dynamic Planet. This software includes multiple interactive geological data sets relevant to plate tectonics. Through qualitative text analysis of students science writing, two research questions frame the study asking: How are the papers textually structured? Are there distinctions between high- and low-rated papers? General and specific text characteristics within three critical sections of the technical paper are identified and analyzed (Observations, Interpretations, Conclusions). Specific text characteristics consist of typical types of figures displayed in the papers, and typical statements within each paper section. Data gathering consisted of collecting 15 student papers which constitute the population of study. An analytical method was designed to manage and analyze the text characteristics. It has three stages: identifying coding categories, re-formulating the categories, and configuring categories. Three important elements emerged that identified notable distinctions in paper quality: data display and use, narration of complex geological feature relationships, and overall organization of text structure. An inter-rater coding concordance check was conducted, and showed high concordance ratios for the coding of each section: Observations = 0.95; Interpretations = 0.93; and Conclusions = 0.87. These categories collectively reveal a larger pattern of general differences in the paper quality levels (high, low, medium). This variation in the quality of papers demonstrates degrees of systematic thoroughness, which is defined as how systematically each student engages in the tasks of the assignment, and how thoroughly and consistently the student follows through on that systematic commitment. Characterizations of each paper level indicate areas that can be explored to develop an explicit instructional pedagogy to support a greater number of low and medium level students. Implications suggest most students require greater explicit instruction. This involves having students pay more attention to detail, and to demonstrate greater follow through in order to produce a solid scientific argument in their technical papers.

  19. Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) evaluation of theoretical versus hands-on training of vaginal breech delivery management: a randomized trial.

    PubMed

    Buerkle, Bernd; Rueter, Katharina; Hefler, Lukas A; Tempfer-Bentz, Eva-Katrin; Tempfer, Clemens B

    2013-12-01

    To compare the skills of performing a vaginal breech (VB) delivery after hands-on training versus demonstration. We randomized medical students to a 30-min demonstration (group 1) or a 30-min hands-on (group 2) training session using a standardized VB management algorithm on a pelvic training model. Subjects were tested with a 25 item Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) scoring system immediately after training and 72 h thereafter. OSATS scores were the primary outcome. Performance time (PT), self assessment (SA), confidence (CON), and global rating scale (GRS) were the secondary outcomes. Statistics were performed using the Mann-Whitney U-test, chi-square test, and multiple linear regression analysis. 172 subjects were randomized. OSATS scores (primary outcome) were significantly higher in group 2 (n=88) compared to group 1 (n=84) (21.18±2.29 vs. 20.19±2.37, respectively; p=0.006). The secondary outcomes GRS (10.31±2.28 vs. 9.17±2.21; p=0.001), PT (214.60±57.97 s vs. 246.98±59.34 s; p<0.0001), and CON (3.14±0.89 vs. 2.85±0.90; p=0.04) were also significantly different between groups, favoring group 2. After 72 h, primary and secondary outcomes were not significantly different between groups. In a multiple linear regression analysis, group assignment (odds ratio [OR] 1.60; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.14-2.05; p<0.0001) and gender (OR 2.91; 95% CI 2.45-3.38; p<0.0001) independently influenced OSATS scores. Hands-on training leads to a significant improvement of VB management in a pelvic training model, but this effect was only seen in the short term. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Highly Durable Supportless Pt Hollow Spheres Designed for Enhanced Oxygen Transport in Cathode Catalyst Layers of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells.

    PubMed

    Dogan, Didem C; Cho, Seonghun; Hwang, Sun-Mi; Kim, Young-Min; Guim, Hwanuk; Yang, Tae-Hyun; Park, Seok-Hee; Park, Gu-Gon; Yim, Sung-Dae

    2016-10-10

    Supportless Pt catalysts have several advantages over conventional carbon-supported Pt catalysts in that they are not susceptible to carbon corrosion. However, the need for high Pt loadings in membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) to achieve state-of-the-art fuel cell performance has limited their application in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Herein, we report a new approach to the design of a supportless Pt catalyst in terms of catalyst layer architecture, which is crucial for fuel cell performance as it affects water management and oxygen transport in the catalyst layers. Large Pt hollow spheres (PtHSs) 100 nm in size were designed and prepared using a carbon template method. Despite their large size, the unique structure of the PtHSs, which are composed of a thin-layered shell of Pt nanoparticles (ca. 7 nm thick), exhibited a high surface area comparable to that of commercial Pt black (PtB). The PtHS structure also exhibited twice the durability of PtB after 2000 potential cycles (0-1.3 V, 50 mV/s). A MEA fabricated with PtHSs showed significant improvement in fuel cell performance compared to PtB-based MEAs at high current densities (>800 mA/cm 2 ). This was mainly due to the 2.7 times lower mass transport resistance in the PtHS-based catalyst layers compared to that in PtB, owing to the formation of macropores between the PtHSs and high porosity (90%) in the PtHS catalyst layers. The present study demonstrates a successful example of catalyst design in terms of catalyst layer architecture, which may be applied to a real fuel cell system.

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