Research on Mathematical Techniques in Psychology. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gulliksen, Harold

Mathematical techniques are developed for studying psychological problems in three fields: (1) psychological scaling, (2) learning and concept formation, and (3) mental measurement. Psychological scaling procedures are demonstrated to be useful in many areas, ranging from sensory discrimination of physical stimuli, such as colors, sounds, etc.,…

Development and application of the maximum entropy method and other spectral estimation techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

King, W. R.

1980-09-01

This summary report is a collection of four separate progress reports prepared under three contracts, which are all sponsored by the Office of Naval Research in Arlington, Virginia. This report contains the results of investigations into the application of the maximum entropy method (MEM), a high resolution, frequency and wavenumber estimation technique. The report also contains a description of two, new, stable, high resolution spectral estimation techniques that is provided in the final report section. Many examples of wavenumber spectral patterns for all investigated techniques are included throughout the report. The maximum entropy method is also known as the maximum entropy spectral analysis (MESA) technique, and both names are used in the report. Many MEM wavenumber spectral patterns are demonstrated using both simulated and measured radar signal and noise data. Methods for obtaining stable MEM wavenumber spectra are discussed, broadband signal detection using the MEM prediction error transform (PET) is discussed, and Doppler radar narrowband signal detection is demonstrated using the MEM technique. It is also shown that MEM cannot be applied to randomly sampled data. The two new, stable, high resolution, spectral estimation techniques discussed in the final report section, are named the Wiener-King and the Fourier spectral estimation techniques. The two new techniques have a similar derivation based upon the Wiener prediction filter, but the two techniques are otherwise quite different. Further development of the techniques and measurement of the technique spectral characteristics is recommended for subsequent investigation.

Extraction of Iodine from Source Rock and Oil for Radioiodine Dating Final Report CRADA No. TC-1550-98

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

Moran, J. E.; Summa, L.

This was a collaborative effort between the University of California, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and Exxon Production Research Company (EPR) to develop improved techniques for extracting, concentrating, and measuring iodine from large volumes of source rock and oil. The purpose of this project was to develop a technique for measuring total iodine extracted from rock, obtain isotopic ratios, and develop age models for samples provided by EPR.

High-speed reference-beam-angle control technique for holographic memory drive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, Ken-ichiro; Ogata, Takeshi; Hosaka, Makoto; Fujita, Koji; Okuyama, Atsushi

2016-09-01

We developed a holographic memory drive for next-generation optical memory. In this study, we present the key technology for achieving a high-speed transfer rate for reproduction, that is, a high-speed control technique for the reference beam angle. In reproduction in a holographic memory drive, there is the issue that the optimum reference beam angle during reproduction varies owing to distortion of the medium. The distortion is caused by, for example, temperature variation, beam irradiation, and moisture absorption. Therefore, a reference-beam-angle control technique to position the reference beam at the optimum angle is crucial. We developed a new optical system that generates an angle-error-signal to detect the optimum reference beam angle. To achieve the high-speed control technique using the new optical system, we developed a new control technique called adaptive final-state control (AFSC) that adds a second control input to the first one derived from conventional final-state control (FSC) at the time of angle-error-signal detection. We established an actual experimental system employing AFSC to achieve moving control between each page (Page Seek) within 300 µs. In sequential multiple Page Seeks, we were able to realize positioning to the optimum angles of the reference beam that maximize the diffracted beam intensity. We expect that applying the new control technique to the holographic memory drive will enable a giga-bit/s-class transfer rate.

Assessment of Techniques for Evaluating Computer Systems for Federal Agency Procurements. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Letmanyi, Helen

Developed to identify and qualitatively assess computer system evaluation techniques for use during acquisition of general purpose computer systems, this document presents several criteria for comparison and selection. An introduction discusses the automatic data processing (ADP) acquisition process and the need to plan for uncertainty through…

Safe Driving Knowledge Dissemination and Testing Techniques. Volume II: Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McKnight, James; Green, Molly A.

In order to determine the effectiveness of improved information dissemination and assessment techniques in reducing highway accidents, a set of seven targeted driver license manuals and tests were developed for the following groups of drivers: new drivers, youthful drivers, renewal applicants, older drivers, traffic violators, accident repeaters,…

Interventional MR: vascular applications.

PubMed

Smits, H F; Bos, C; van der Weide, R; Bakker, C J

1999-01-01

Three strategies for visualisation of MR-dedicated guidewires and catheters have been proposed, namely active tracking, the technique of locally induced field inhomogeneity and passive susceptibility-based tracking. In this article the pros and cons of these techniques are discussed, including the development of MR-dedicated guidewires and catheters, scan techniques, post-processing tools, and display facilities for MR tracking. Finally, some of the results obtained with MR tracking are discussed.

Application of the Convergence Technique to Basic Studies of the Reading Process. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gephart, William J.

This study covers a program of research on problems in the area of reading undertaken and supported by the U. S. Office of Education. Due to the effectiveness of the Convergence Technique in the planning and management of complex programs of bio-medical research, this project is undertaken to develop plans for the application of this technique in…

A knitted garment using intarsia technique for Heart Rate Variability biofeedback: Evaluation of initial prototype.

PubMed

Abtahi, F; Ji, G; Lu, K; Rödby, K; Seoane, F

2015-01-01

Heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback is a method based on paced breathing at specific rate called resonance frequency by giving online feedbacks from user respiration and its effect on HRV. Since the HRV is also influence by different factors like stress and emotions, stress related to an unfamiliar measurement device, cables and skin electrodes may cover the underling effect of such kind of intervention. Wearable systems are usually considered as intuitive solutions which are more familiar to the end-user and can help to improve usability and hence reducing the stress. In this work, a prototype of a knitted garment using intarsia technique is developed and evaluated. Results show the satisfactory level of quality for Electrocardiogram and thoracic electrical bioimpedance i.e. for respiration monitoring as a part of HRV biofeedback system. Using intarsia technique and conductive yarn for making the connection instead of cables will reduce the complexity of fabrication in textile production and hence reduce the final costs in a final commercial product. Further development of garment and Android application is ongoing and usability and efficiency of final prototype will be evaluated in detail.

Final technical report

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

Richman, M.

1996-08-01

Granular flows of nearly elastic, identical spheres down bumpy inclines are described. A numerical technique is developed to overcome the difficulties associated with the ill-defined `tops` of these flows.

Multidirectional mobilities: Advanced measurement techniques and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivarsson, Lars Holger

Today high noise-and-vibration comfort has become a quality sign of products in sectors such as the automotive industry, aircraft, components, households and manufacturing. Consequently, already in the design phase of products, tools are required to predict the final vibration and noise levels. These tools have to be applicable over a wide frequency range with sufficient accuracy. During recent decades a variety of tools have been developed such as transfer path analysis (TPA), input force estimation, substructuring, coupling by frequency response functions (FRF) and hybrid modelling. While these methods have a well-developed theoretical basis, their application combined with experimental data often suffers from a lack of information concerning rotational DOFs. In order to measure response in all 6 DOFs (including rotation), a sensor has been developed, whose special features are discussed in the thesis. This transducer simplifies the response measurements, although in practice the excitation of moments appears to be more difficult. Several excitation techniques have been developed to enable measurement of multidirectional mobilities. For rapid and simple measurement of the loaded mobility matrix, a MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technique is used. The technique has been tested and validated on several structures of different complexity. A second technique for measuring the loaded 6-by-6 mobility matrix has been developed. This technique employs a model of the excitation set-up, and with this model the mobility matrix is determined from sequential measurements. Measurements on ``real'' structures show that both techniques give results of similar quality, and both are recommended for practical use. As a further step, a technique for measuring the unloaded mobilities is presented. It employs the measured loaded mobility matrix in order to calculate compensation forces and moments, which are later applied in order to compensate for the loading of the measurement equipment. The developed measurement techniques have been used in a hybrid coupling of a plate-and-beam structure to study different aspects of the coupling technique. Results show that RDOFs are crucial and have to be included in this case. The importance of stiffness residuals when mobilities are estimated from modal superposition is demonstrated. Finally it is shown that proper curve fitting can correct errors from inconsistently measured data.

Advanced high temperature static strain sensor development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hulse, C. O.; Stetson, K. A.; Grant, H. P.; Jameikis, S. M.; Morey, W. W.; Raymondo, P.; Grudkowski, T. W.; Bailey, R. S.

1986-01-01

An examination was made into various techniques to be used to measure static strain in gas turbine liners at temperatures up to 1150 K (1600 F). The methods evaluated included thin film and wire resistive devices, optical fibers, surface acoustic waves, the laser speckle technique with a heterodyne readout, optical surface image and reflective approaches and capacitive devices. A preliminary experimental program to develop a thin film capacitive device was dropped because calculations showed that it would be too sensitive to thermal gradients. In a final evaluation program, the laser speckle technique appeared to work well up to 1150 K when it was used through a relatively stagnant air path. The surface guided acoustic wave approach appeared to be interesting but to require too much development effort for the funds available. Efforts to develop a FeCrAl resistive strain gage system were only partially successful and this part of the effort was finally reduced to a characterization study of the properties of the 25 micron diameter FeCrAl (Kanthal A-1) wire. It was concluded that this particular alloy was not suitable for use as the resistive element in a strain gage above about 1000 K.

Advanced high temperature static strain sensor development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hulse, C. O.; Stetson, K. A.; Grant, H. P.; Jameikis, S. M.; Morey, W. W.; Raymondo, P.; Grudkowski, T. W.; Bailey, R. S.

1986-08-01

An examination was made into various techniques to be used to measure static strain in gas turbine liners at temperatures up to 1150 K (1600 F). The methods evaluated included thin film and wire resistive devices, optical fibers, surface acoustic waves, the laser speckle technique with a heterodyne readout, optical surface image and reflective approaches and capacitive devices. A preliminary experimental program to develop a thin film capacitive device was dropped because calculations showed that it would be too sensitive to thermal gradients. In a final evaluation program, the laser speckle technique appeared to work well up to 1150 K when it was used through a relatively stagnant air path. The surface guided acoustic wave approach appeared to be interesting but to require too much development effort for the funds available. Efforts to develop a FeCrAl resistive strain gage system were only partially successful and this part of the effort was finally reduced to a characterization study of the properties of the 25 micron diameter FeCrAl (Kanthal A-1) wire. It was concluded that this particular alloy was not suitable for use as the resistive element in a strain gage above about 1000 K.

Development, Testing, and Dissemination of Nonaversive Techniques for Working with Children with Autism: Demonstration of a "Best Practices" Model for Parents and Teachers. The A-B-C-D Model for Supporting Students with Autism (Antecedents, Behaviors, Consequences, Data). Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ikeda, Martin J.; Tucker, Richard; Rankin, Barbara

This final report describes the activities and outcomes of a federally funded project that was designed to develop, validate, and disseminate a training program for teachers of students with autism. The strategies taught to teachers were those that have been accepted as best practice in autism literature. Since 1996 more than 500 teachers,…

Nrf2: A Novel Biomarker of Disease Severity and Target for Therapeutic Intervention in Multiple Sclerosis

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

imaging technique used to capture T cell/APC interaction and infiltration in CNS during the disease course of EAE; and finally 3) characterize the...period, we aim to understand the mechanism of APC/T cell interaction by standardizing the available mouse model and imaging techniques in our lab...resulted in the development of new triterpenoids, mouse imaging techniques and biochemistry and chemical library construction. For example, work

Sonic Fatigue Design Techniques for Advanced Composite Aircraft Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-04-01

AFWAL-TR-80.3019 AD A 090553 SONIC FATIGUE DESIGN TECHNIQUES FOR ADVANCED COMPOSITE AIRCRAFT STRUCTURES FINAL REPORT Ian Holehouse Rohr Industries...5 2. General Sonic Fatigue Theory .... ....... 7 3. Composite Laminate Analysis .. ....... ... 10 4. Preliminary Sonic Fatigue...overall sonic fatigue design guides. These existing desiyn methcds have been developed for metal structures. However, recent advanced composite

Development of Simulation Techniques for the M739 and M577 Fuzes

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-04-01

AD-E401 166 CONTRACTOR RWRRT ARLCD-CR-84003 DEVELOPMENT OF SIMUILATION TECNQUES? FOR THE M739 , AND ýM577 FUZES GERARD G. LOWEN nvN-,qMA’qCSASSOCIAT04...DEVELOPMENT OF SIMULATION TECHNIQUES FOR THE M739 Final AND M4577 FUZES May 1982 - December 1983 6. PERFORMING ORO. REPORT NUMBER 7. AUTNOR(a) SI. CONTRACT...2 Variation of Escapement Center Distance on Number of Turns-to-Arm of the M739 S&A Mathematical Models of Clock Gear Train S&A 3 Forward Kinematics

The Impact of Head Start on Children, Families and Communities. Final Report of the Head Start Evaluation, Synthesis and Utilization Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McKey, Ruth Hubbell; And Others

Including all Head Start research (both published and unpublished) and using, when possible, the statistical technique of meta-analysis, this final report of the Head Start Evaluation, Synthesis, and Utilization Project presents findings on the impact of Head Start on children's cognitive and socioemotional development, on child health and health…

Diagnostics and Active Control of Aircraft Interior Noise

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fuller, C. R.

1998-01-01

This project deals with developing advanced methods for investigating and controlling interior noise in aircraft. The work concentrates on developing and applying the techniques of Near Field Acoustic Holography (NAH) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to the aircraft interior noise dynamic problem. This involves investigating the current state of the art, developing new techniques and then applying them to the particular problem being studied. The knowledge gained under the first part of the project was then used to develop and apply new, advanced noise control techniques for reducing interior noise. A new fully active control approach based on the PCA was developed and implemented on a test cylinder. Finally an active-passive approach based on tunable vibration absorbers was to be developed and analytically applied to a range of test structures from simple plates to aircraft fuselages.

Lessons learned from the SLC

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

Phinney, N.

The SLAC Linear Collider (SLC) is the first example of an entirely new type of lepton collider. Many years of effort were required to develop the understanding and techniques needed to approach design luminosity. This paper discusses some of the key issues and problems encountered in producing a working linear collider. These include the polarized source, techniques for emittance preservation, extensive feedback systems, and refinements in beam optimization in the final focus. The SLC experience has been invaluable for testing concepts and developing designs for a future linear collider.

An Analysis of a Comprehensive Evaluation Model for Guided Group Interaction Techniques with Juvenile Delinquents. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Silverman, Mitchell

Reported are the first phase activities of a longitudinal project designed to evaluate the effectiveness of Guided Group Interaction (GGI) technique as a meaningful approach in the field of corrections. The main findings relate to the establishment of reliability for the main components of the Revised Behavior Scores System developed to assess the…

Radio, Advertising Techniques, and Nutrition Education: A Summary of a Field Experiment in the Philippines and Nicaragua. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cooke, Thomas M.; Romweber, Susan T.

Infant and child health and nutrition education messages patterned after the reach-and-frequency technique of commercial advertising were broadcast to target groups of young mothers over local radio stations in the Philippines and Nicaragua for one year without the support of more conventional education methods. The messages were developed in…

Evaluation of Methodology for Estimating the Cost of Air Force On-The-Job Training. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Samers, Bernard N.; And Others

Described is the final phase of a study directed at the development of an on-the-job training (OJT) costing methodology. Utilizing a modification of survey techniques tested and evaluated during the previous phase, estimates were obtained for the cost of OJT for airman training from the l-level (unskilled to the 3-level (semiskilled) in five…

Development and demonstration of marketing techniques for establishment of ridesharing corporations in New York State: Final report

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

Peters, E.W.; Matthews, N.P.

1987-10-01

The intent of this project was to develop, demonstrate and evaluate marketing techniques for the establishment of ridesharing corporations in New York State. The objectives of the first phase of the project were to: (1) develop a ''how-to'' guide for establishing a ridesharing corporation; and (2) conduct a market assessment to identify specific methods for capturing potential users of the service. The objectives of the second phase of the project were to: (1) prepare and implement a marketing strategy to address the various major users and evaluate the viability of new marketing techniques developed in Phase 1 and marketing techniquesmore » developed during the first year of operations; and (2) develop and disseminate a ''how-to'' guide regarding the development, implementation and evaluation of marketing strategies for ridesharing in New York State.« less

Development of nano-fabrication technique utilizing self-organizational behavior of point defects induced by ion irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nitta, Noriko; Taniwaki, Masafumi

2006-04-01

The present authors proposed a novel nano-fabrication technique that is able to arrange the fine cells orderly, based on their finding in GaSb implanted at a low temperature. In this article, first the experimental results that anomalous cellular structure was formed in GaSb by ion implantation is introduced and the self-organizational formation mechanism of the structure is described. Next a nano-fabrication technique that utilizes focused ion beam is described. This technique consists of two procedures, i.e. the formation process of the voids array and the development of the initial array to ordered cellular structure. Finally, the nano-fabrication is actually performed by this technique and their results are reported. Fabrication succeeded in structures where the dot (cell) interval was 100 nm or larger. The minimum ion dose for initial voids which develops to the ordered cellular structure is evaluated. It is also shown that the substrate temperature during implantation is an essential parameter for this technique.

Development of a new test cell to measure cumulative permeation of water-insoluble pesticides with low vapor pressure through protective clothing and glove materials

PubMed Central

SHAW, Anugrah; COLEONE-CARVALHO, Ana Carla; HOLLINGSHURST, Julien; DRAPER, Michael; MACHADO NETO, Joaquim Gonçalves

2017-01-01

A collaborative approach, involving resources and expertise from several countries, was used to develop a test cell to measure cumulative permeation by a solid-state collection technique. The new technique was developed to measure the permeation of pesticide active ingredients and other chemicals with low vapor pressure that would otherwise be difficult to test via standard techniques. The development process is described and the results from the final chosen test method are reported. Inter-laboratory studies were conducted to further refine the new method and determine repeatability and reliability. The revised test method has been approved as a new ISO/EN standard to measure permeation of chemicals with low vapor pressure and/or solubility in water. PMID:29033403

Production Techniques for Computer-Based Learning Material.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moonen, Jef; Schoenmaker, Jan

Experiences in the development of educational software in the Netherlands have included the use of individual and team approaches, the determination of software content and how it should be presented, and the organization of the entire development process, from experimental programs to prototype to final product. Because educational software is a…

Solar Systems and Energy Management Controls. Final Report, 1982-83.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bergen County Vocational-Technical High School, Hackensack, NJ.

This project was conducted by the Bergen County Vocational-Technical Schools (1) to develop a practical awareness of energy conservation and management techniques for both commercial and domestic applications; (2) to develop four training courses to teach solar troubleshooting and maintenance, commercial energy management control, domestic energy…

Interdisciplinary Curriculum Development in Hospital Methods Improvement. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Watt, John R.

The major purpose of this project was to develop a "package" curriculum of Hospital Methods Improvement techniques for college students in health related majors. The elementary Industrial Engineering methods for simplifying work and saving labor were applied to the hospital environment and its complex of problems. The report's…

Real-Time Onboard Global Nonlinear Aerodynamic Modeling from Flight Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brandon, Jay M.; Morelli, Eugene A.

2014-01-01

Flight test and modeling techniques were developed to accurately identify global nonlinear aerodynamic models onboard an aircraft. The techniques were developed and demonstrated during piloted flight testing of an Aermacchi MB-326M Impala jet aircraft. Advanced piloting techniques and nonlinear modeling techniques based on fuzzy logic and multivariate orthogonal function methods were implemented with efficient onboard calculations and flight operations to achieve real-time maneuver monitoring and analysis, and near-real-time global nonlinear aerodynamic modeling and prediction validation testing in flight. Results demonstrated that global nonlinear aerodynamic models for a large portion of the flight envelope were identified rapidly and accurately using piloted flight test maneuvers during a single flight, with the final identified and validated models available before the aircraft landed.

Fan noise prediction assessment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bent, Paul H.

1995-01-01

This report is an evaluation of two techniques for predicting the fan noise radiation from engine nacelles. The first is a relatively computational intensive finite element technique. The code is named ARC, an abbreviation of Acoustic Radiation Code, and was developed by Eversman. This is actually a suite of software that first generates a grid around the nacelle, then solves for the potential flowfield, and finally solves the acoustic radiation problem. The second approach is an analytical technique requiring minimal computational effort. This is termed the cutoff ratio technique and was developed by Rice. Details of the duct geometry, such as the hub-to-tip ratio and Mach number of the flow in the duct, and modal content of the duct noise are required for proper prediction.

Comparison of different final impression techniques for management of resorbed mandibular ridge: a case report.

PubMed

Yadav, Bhupender; Jayna, Manisha; Yadav, Harish; Suri, Shrey; Phogat, Shefali; Madan, Reshu

2014-01-01

The history of complete denture impression procedures has been influenced largely by the development of impression materials from which new techniques and ideas arose. The purpose of this study was to compare the retention of complete dentures made by using different impression techniques like conventional, admixed, all green, and functional techniques. The results showed that there was significant difference in retention between the six techniques where functional technique showed the highest mean value of retention followed by elastomeric, all green, and admixed, while cocktail and green stick compound showed the lowest mean value. However, on clinical examination, the retention produced by the six techniques was satisfactory.

Comparison of Different Final Impression Techniques for Management of Resorbed Mandibular Ridge: A Case Report

PubMed Central

Yadav, Bhupender; Jayna, Manisha; Yadav, Harish; Suri, Shrey; Phogat, Shefali; Madan, Reshu

2014-01-01

The history of complete denture impression procedures has been influenced largely by the development of impression materials from which new techniques and ideas arose. The purpose of this study was to compare the retention of complete dentures made by using different impression techniques like conventional, admixed, all green, and functional techniques. The results showed that there was significant difference in retention between the six techniques where functional technique showed the highest mean value of retention followed by elastomeric, all green, and admixed, while cocktail and green stick compound showed the lowest mean value. However, on clinical examination, the retention produced by the six techniques was satisfactory. PMID:25180105

Modeling and managing risk early in software development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Briand, Lionel C.; Thomas, William M.; Hetmanski, Christopher J.

1993-01-01

In order to improve the quality of the software development process, we need to be able to build empirical multivariate models based on data collectable early in the software process. These models need to be both useful for prediction and easy to interpret, so that remedial actions may be taken in order to control and optimize the development process. We present an automated modeling technique which can be used as an alternative to regression techniques. We show how it can be used to facilitate the identification and aid the interpretation of the significant trends which characterize 'high risk' components in several Ada systems. Finally, we evaluate the effectiveness of our technique based on a comparison with logistic regression based models.

Parametric Robust Control and System Identification: Unified Approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keel, L. H.

1996-01-01

During the period of this support, a new control system design and analysis method has been studied. This approach deals with control systems containing uncertainties that are represented in terms of its transfer function parameters. Such a representation of the control system is common and many physical parameter variations fall into this type of uncertainty. Techniques developed here are capable of providing nonconservative analysis of such control systems with parameter variations. We have also developed techniques to deal with control systems when their state space representations are given rather than transfer functions. In this case, the plant parameters will appear as entries of state space matrices. Finally, a system modeling technique to construct such systems from the raw input - output frequency domain data has been developed.

Highway Bridge Research Center final report : phase I.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2005-01-01

The objective of this research was to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of nondestructive testing and monitoring techniques for highway bridges. The work included: fiber optic sensor development where photonics instruments, fiber optic sp...

In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo Techniques to Study Neuronal Migration in the Developing Cerebral Cortex

PubMed Central

Azzarelli, Roberta; Oleari, Roberto; Lettieri, Antonella; Andre', Valentina; Cariboni, Anna

2017-01-01

Neuronal migration is a fundamental biological process that underlies proper brain development and neuronal circuit formation. In the developing cerebral cortex, distinct neuronal populations, producing excitatory, inhibitory and modulatory neurotransmitters, are generated in different germinative areas and migrate along various routes to reach their final positions within the cortex. Different technical approaches and experimental models have been adopted to study the mechanisms regulating neuronal migration in the cortex. In this review, we will discuss the most common in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo techniques to visualize and study cortical neuronal migration. PMID:28448448

Research and development of improved geothermal well logging techniques, tools and components (current projects, goals and status). Final report

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

Lamers, M.D.

One of the key needs in the advancement of geothermal energy is availability of adequate subsurface measurements to aid the reservoir engineer in the development and operation of geothermal wells. Some current projects being sponsored by the U. S. Department of Energy's Division of Geothermal Energy pertaining to the development of improved well logging techniques, tools and components are described. An attempt is made to show how these projects contribute to improvement of geothermal logging technology in forming key elements of the overall program goals.

Orbital trim by velocity factoring with applications to the Viking mission.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kibler, J. F.; Green, R. N.; Young, G. R.

1972-01-01

An orbital trim technique has been developed to satisfy terminal rendezvous and intermediate timing constraints for planetary missions involving orbital operations. The technique utilizes a time-open two-impulse transfer from a specified initial orbit to a final orbit which satisfies all geometrical constraints. Each of the two impulses may then be factored, or split, into two or more vectorially equivalent impulses. The periods of the resulting intermediate orbits may be varied along with the number of revolutions in each orbit to satisfy the intermediate and final timing constraints. Factors in the range 0 to 1 result in rendezvous at the same cost as that of the two-impulse transfer. The technique is applied to the Viking mission to Mars although a similar procedure could be utilized for rendezvous operations about any planet.

Characterization of rock populations on planetary surfaces - Techniques and a preliminary analysis of Mars and Venus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garvin, J. B.; Mouginis-Mark, P. J.; Head, J. W.

1981-01-01

A data collection and analysis scheme developed for the interpretation of rock morphology from lander images is reviewed with emphasis on rock population characterization techniques. Data analysis techniques are also discussed in the context of identifying key characteristics of a rock that place it in a single category with similar rocks. Actual rock characteristics observed from Viking and Venera lander imagery are summarized. Finally, some speculations regarding the block fields on Mars and Venus are presented.

Unfolding and unfoldability of digital pulses in the z-domain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Regadío, Alberto; Sánchez-Prieto, Sebastián

2018-04-01

The unfolding (or deconvolution) technique is used in the development of digital pulse processing systems applied to particle detection. This technique is applied to digital signals obtained by digitization of analog signals that represent the combined response of the particle detectors and the associated signal conditioning electronics. This work describes a technique to determine if the signal is unfoldable. For unfoldable signals the characteristics of the unfolding system (unfolder) are presented. Finally, examples of the method applied to real experimental setup are discussed.

Nondestructive analysis and development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moslehy, Faissal A.

1993-01-01

This final report summarizes the achievements of project #4 of the NASA/UCF Cooperative Agreement from January 1990 to December 1992. The objectives of this project are to review NASA's NDE program at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) and recommend means for enhancing the present testing capabilities through the use of improved or new technologies. During the period of the project, extensive development of a reliable nondestructive, non-contact vibration technique to determine and quantify the bond condition of the thermal protection system (TPS) tiles of the Space Shuttle Orbiter was undertaken. Experimental modal analysis (EMA) is used as a non-destructive technique for the evaluation of Space Shuttle thermal protection system (TPS) tile bond integrity. Finite element (FE) models for tile systems were developed and were used to generate their vibration characteristics (i.e. natural frequencies and mode shapes). Various TPS tile assembly configurations as well as different bond conditions were analyzed. Results of finite element analyses demonstrated a drop in natural frequencies and a change in mode shapes which correlate with both size and location of disbond. Results of experimental testing of tile panels correlated with FE results and demonstrated the feasibility of EMA as a viable technique for tile bond verification. Finally, testing performed on the Space Shuttle Columbia using a laser doppler velocimeter demonstrated the application of EMA, when combined with FE modeling, as a non-contact, non-destructive bond evaluation technique.

A Color Sound Film to Illustrate the Use of New Materials and Techniques in Teaching Emotionally and/or Neurologically Handicapped Minors. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mahler, Donald; And Others

A color sound film was developed to illustrate new materials and techniques of working with emotionally and/or neurologically handicapped students in special classes. Designed to stimulate discussion and self study, the film utilized actual students and their teachers, who had been using the new approaches as part of their usual instructional…

Techniques for Sea Ice Characteristics Extraction and Sea Ice Monitoring Using Multi-Sensor Satellite Data in the Bohai Sea-Dragon 3 Programme Final Report (2012-2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xi; Zhang, Jie; Meng, Junmin

2016-08-01

The objectives of Dragon-3 programme (ID: 10501) are to develop methods for classification sea ice types and retrieving ice thickness based on multi-sensor data. In this final results paper, we give a briefly introduction for our research work and mainly results. Key words: the Bohai Sea ice, Sea ice, optical and

Development of Techniques for Spent Fuel Assay – Differential Dieaway Final Report

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

Swinhoe, Martyn Thomas; Goodsell, Alison; Ianakiev, Kiril Dimitrov

This report summarizes the work done under a DNDO R&D funded project on the development of the differential dieaway method to measure plutonium in spent fuel. There are large amounts of plutonium that are contained in spent fuel assemblies, and currently there is no way to make quantitative non-destructive assay. This has led NA24 under the Next Generation Safeguards Initiative (NGSI) to establish a multi-year program to investigate, develop and implement measurement techniques for spent fuel. The techniques which are being experimentally tested by the existing NGSI project do not include any pulsed neutron active techniques. The present work coversmore » the active neutron differential dieaway technique and has advanced the state of knowledge of this technique as well as produced a design for a practical active neutron interrogation instrument for spent fuel. Monte Carlo results from the NGSI effort show that much higher accuracy (1-2%) for the Pu content in spent fuel assemblies can be obtained with active neutron interrogation techniques than passive techniques, and this would allow their use for nuclear material accountancy independently of any information from the operator. The main purpose of this work was to develop an active neutron interrogation technique for spent nuclear fuel.« less

Design and development of a quad copter (UMAASK) using CAD/CAM/CAE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manarvi, Irfan Anjum; Aqib, Muhammad; Ajmal, Muhammad; Usman, Muhammad; Khurshid, Saqib; Sikandar, Usman

Micro flying vehicles1 (MFV) have become a popular area of research due to economy of production, flexibility of launch and variety of applications. A large number of techniques from pencil sketching to computer based software are being used for designing specific geometries and selection of materials to arrive at novel designs for specific requirements. Present research was focused on development of suitable design configuration using CAD/CAM/CAE tools and techniques. A number of designs were reviewed for this purpose. Finally, rotary wing Quadcopter flying vehicle design was considered appropriate for this research. Performance requirements were planned as approximately 10 meters ceiling, weight less than 500grams and ability to take videos and pictures. Parts were designed using Finite Element Analysis, manufactured using CNC machines and assembled to arrive at final design named as UMAASK. Flight tests were carried out which confirmed the design requirements.

An electrooptic probe to determine internal electric fields in a piezoelectric transformer.

PubMed

Norgard, Peter; Kovaleski, Scott

2012-02-01

A technique using the electrooptic effect to determine the output voltage of an optically clear LiNbO(3) piezoelectric transformer was developed and explored. A brief mathematical description of the solution is provided, as well as experimental data demonstrating a linear response under ac resonant operating conditions. A technique to calibrate the diagnostic was developed and is described. Finally, a sensitivity analysis of the electrooptic response to variations in angular alignment between the LiNbO(3) transformer and the laser probe are discussed.

The Potential of Environmental Sensors for Improving the Mobility Performance of Mainstream Blind Students. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weisgerber, Robert A.; deHaas, Carla

The report describes an effort to develop and test instructional materials, techniques and procedures - ESSETS (environmental sensing, selection, evaluation and training system) - for teaching functionally blind young adults to use electronic travel aids (ETAs). Considered are development of training guidelines, field site selection and instructor…

Business and Management Development Training Program for Hispanic Women. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miranda (L.) and Associates, Bethesda, MD.

A program was conducted to develop and motivate minority women, in particular Hispanic origin women, in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area to participate in business ownership and management. Offered at no cost to participants, the training program sought to equip potential managers with information and techniques in the fundamental…

Development of scan analysis techniques employing a small computer. Final report, February 1, 1963--July 31, 1976

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

Kuhl, D.E.

1976-08-05

During the thirteen year duration of this contract the goal has been to develop and apply computer based analysis of radionuclide scan data so as to make available improved diagnostic information based on a knowledge of localized quantitative estimates of radionuclide concentration. Results are summarized. (CH)

Development and Confirmatory Factory Analysis of the Achievement Task Value Scale for University Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lou, Yu-Chiung; Lin, Hsiao-Fang; Lin, Chin-Wen

2013-01-01

The aims of the study were (a) to develop a scale to measure university students' task value and (b) to use confirmatory factor analytic techniques to investigate the construct validity of the scale. The questionnaire items were developed based on theoretical considerations and the final version contained 38 items divided into 4 subscales.…

Training Manual Development Program: Dominion Bridge. Final Report. Organizational Needs Assessment of Workplace Literacy Skills & Development of Training Manuals for the Paint Department.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McKeag, Janis

To address specific workplace literacy needs within the steel fabrication sector in Manitoba, an organizational needs assessment was conducted training manuals were developed using literacy task analysis techniques. The organizational needs assessment assessed the general and workplace literacy tasks and demands of hourly workers at Dominion…

A Novel Technique for Performing PID Susceptibility Screening during the Solar Cell Fabrication Process

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

Oh, Jaewon; Dahal, Som; Dauksher, Bill

2016-11-21

Various characterization techniques have historically been developed in order to screen potential induced degradation (PID)-susceptible cells, but those techniques require final solar cells. We present a new characterization technique for screening PID-susceptible cells during the cell fabrication process. Illuminated Lock-In Thermography (ILIT) was used to image PID shunting of the cell without metallization and clearly showed PID-affected areas. PID-susceptible cells can be screened by ILIT, and the sample structure can advantageously be simplified as long as the sample has the silicon nitride antireflection coating and an aluminum back surface field.

[GERD: endoscopic antireflux therapies].

PubMed

Caca, K

2006-08-02

A couple of minimally-invasive, endoscopic antireflux procedures have been developed during the last years. Beside endoscopic suturing these included injection/implantation technique of biopolymers and application of radiofrequency. Radiofrequency (Stretta) has proved only a very modest effect, while implantation techniques have been abandoned due to lack of long-term efficacy (Gatekeeper) or serious side effects (Enteryx). While first generation endoluminal suturing techniques (EndoCinch, ESD) demonstrated a proof of principle their lack of durability, due to suture loss, led to the development of a potentially durable transmural plication technique (Plicator). In a prospective-randomized, sham-controlled trial the Plicator procedure proved superiority concerning reflux symptoms, medication use and esophageal acid exposure (24-h-pH-metry). While long-term data have to be awaited to draw final conclusions, technical improvements will drive innovation in this field.

Non-invasive current and voltage imaging techniques for integrated circuits using scanning probe microscopy. Final report, LDRD Project FY93 and FY94

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

Campbell, A.N.; Cole, E.I. Jr.; Tangyunyong, Paiboon

This report describes the first practical, non-invasive technique for detecting and imaging currents internal to operating integrated circuits (ICs). This technique is based on magnetic force microscopy and was developed under Sandia National Laboratories` LDRD (Laboratory Directed Research and Development) program during FY 93 and FY 94. LDRD funds were also used to explore a related technique, charge force microscopy, for voltage probing of ICs. This report describes the technical work performed under this LDRD as well as the outcomes of the project in terms of publications and awards, intellectual property and licensing, synergistic work, potential future work, hiring ofmore » additional permanent staff, and benefits to DOE`s defense programs (DP).« less

Development of a Nondestructive Evaluation Technique for Degraded Thermal Barrier Coatings Using Microwave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sayar, M.; Ogawa, K.; Shoji, T.

2008-02-01

Thermal barrier coatings have been widely used in gas turbine engines in order to protect substrate metal alloy against high temperature and to enhance turbine efficiency. Currently, there are no reliable nondestructive techniques available to monitor TBC integrity over lifetime of the coating. Hence, to detect top coating (TC) and TGO thicknesses, a microwave nondestructive technique that utilizes a rectangular waveguide was developed. The phase of the reflection coefficient at the interface of TC and waveguide varies for different TGO and TC thicknesses. Therefore, measuring the phase of the reflection coefficient enables us to accurately calculate these thicknesses. Finally, a theoretical analysis was used to evaluate the reliability of the experimental results.

A study of data coding technology developments in the 1980-1985 time frame, volume 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ingels, F. M.; Shahsavari, M. M.

1978-01-01

The source parameters of digitized analog data are discussed. Different data compression schemes are outlined and analysis of their implementation are presented. Finally, bandwidth compression techniques are given for video signals.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ON ADVANCED GRAPHITE MATERIALS. Final Report

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

None

1962-04-01

A review is given of activities over the period October 15, 1960 to October 15, 1961 on a three year program for the research and development of materials, experimental techniques, and equipment for development of premium quality, reproducible graphite-base materials suitable for missile and astronautic applications. Progress is reported on research and development in the study areas of raw materials, fabrication, and material characterization and evaluation. (auth)

Techniques for Type I Collagen Organization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson-Jackson, LaTecia Diamond

Tissue Engineering is a process in which cells, engineering, and material methods are used in amalgamation to improve biological functions. The purpose of tissue engineering is to develop alternative solutions to treat or cure tissues and organs that have been severely altered or damaged by diseases, congenital defects, trauma, or cancer. One of the most common and most promising biological materials for tissue engineering to develop scaffolds is Type I collagen. A major challenge in biomedical research is aligning Type I collagen to mimic biological structures, such as ligaments, tendons, bones, and other hierarchal aligned structures within the human body. The intent of this research is to examine possible techniques for organizing Type I collagen and to assess which of the techniques is effective for potential biological applications. The techniques used in this research to organize collagen are soft lithography with solution-assisted sonication embossing, directional freezing, and direct poling. The final concentration used for both soft lithography with solution-assisted sonication embossing and direct poling was 1 mg/ml, whereas for directional freezing the final concentration varied between 4mg/ml, 2mg/ml, and 1 mg/ml. These techniques were characterized using the Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) and Helium Ion Microscope (HIM). In this study, we have found that out of the three techniques, the soft lithography and directional freezing techniques have been successful in organizing collagen in a particular pattern, but not alignment. We concluded alignment may be dependent on the pH of collagen and the amount of acetic acid used in collagen solution. However, experiments are still being conducted to optimize all three techniques to align collagen in a unidirectional arrangement.

Sensor failure and multivariable control for airbreathing propulsion systems. Ph.D. Thesis - Dec. 1979 Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Behbehani, K.

1980-01-01

A new sensor/actuator failure analysis technique for turbofan jet engines was developed. Three phases of failure analysis, namely detection, isolation, and accommodation are considered. Failure detection and isolation techniques are developed by utilizing the concept of Generalized Likelihood Ratio (GLR) tests. These techniques are applicable to both time varying and time invariant systems. Three GLR detectors are developed for: (1) hard-over sensor failure; (2) hard-over actuator failure; and (3) brief disturbances in the actuators. The probability distribution of the GLR detectors and the detectability of sensor/actuator failures are established. Failure type is determined by the maximum of the GLR detectors. Failure accommodation is accomplished by extending the Multivariable Nyquest Array (MNA) control design techniques to nonsquare system designs. The performance and effectiveness of the failure analysis technique are studied by applying the technique to a turbofan jet engine, namely the Quiet Clean Short Haul Experimental Engine (QCSEE). Single and multiple sensor/actuator failures in the QCSEE are simulated and analyzed and the effects of model degradation are studied.

Supporting Handoff in Asynchronous Collaborative Sensemaking Using Knowledge-Transfer Graphs.

PubMed

Zhao, Jian; Glueck, Michael; Isenberg, Petra; Chevalier, Fanny; Khan, Azam

2018-01-01

During asynchronous collaborative analysis, handoff of partial findings is challenging because externalizations produced by analysts may not adequately communicate their investigative process. To address this challenge, we developed techniques to automatically capture and help encode tacit aspects of the investigative process based on an analyst's interactions, and streamline explicit authoring of handoff annotations. We designed our techniques to mediate awareness of analysis coverage, support explicit communication of progress and uncertainty with annotation, and implicit communication through playback of investigation histories. To evaluate our techniques, we developed an interactive visual analysis system, KTGraph, that supports an asynchronous investigative document analysis task. We conducted a two-phase user study to characterize a set of handoff strategies and to compare investigative performance with and without our techniques. The results suggest that our techniques promote the use of more effective handoff strategies, help increase an awareness of prior investigative process and insights, as well as improve final investigative outcomes.

Tip-Based Nanofabrication for Scalable Manufacturing

DOE PAGES

Hu, Huan; Kim, Hoe; Somnath, Suhas

2017-03-16

Tip-based nanofabrication (TBN) is a family of emerging nanofabrication techniques that use a nanometer scale tip to fabricate nanostructures. Here in this review, we first introduce the history of the TBN and the technology development. We then briefly review various TBN techniques that use different physical or chemical mechanisms to fabricate features and discuss some of the state-of-the-art techniques. Subsequently, we focus on those TBN methods that have demonstrated potential to scale up the manufacturing throughput. Finally, we discuss several research directions that are essential for making TBN a scalable nano-manufacturing technology.

Tip-Based Nanofabrication for Scalable Manufacturing

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

Hu, Huan; Kim, Hoe; Somnath, Suhas

Tip-based nanofabrication (TBN) is a family of emerging nanofabrication techniques that use a nanometer scale tip to fabricate nanostructures. Here in this review, we first introduce the history of the TBN and the technology development. We then briefly review various TBN techniques that use different physical or chemical mechanisms to fabricate features and discuss some of the state-of-the-art techniques. Subsequently, we focus on those TBN methods that have demonstrated potential to scale up the manufacturing throughput. Finally, we discuss several research directions that are essential for making TBN a scalable nano-manufacturing technology.

Developing Understanding of Twentieth Century Composition in Junior High School General Music. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adler, Marvin Stanley

To develop an understanding of major 20th century musical styles and compositional techniques in junior high school general music classes, and to utilize rather than ignore student interest in current music, a sequence for units-of-study was developed and tested over a 2-year period in urban junior high schools. The initial units dealt with what…

Development of an Acceptance Test for Chip Seal Projects : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-11-21

Chip seals are among the most popular preventive maintenance techniques implemented by many DOTs, county road departments and cities. The deteriorated pavement surface is sprayed with an asphalt emulsion or binder, and then a layer of uniformly-grade...

Responsive copolymers for enhanced petroleum recovery. Final report

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

NONE

This report describes the development of new synthetic polymers to be used in petroleum recovery. The solution behavior and rheology properties, as well as new techniques for measuring extensional flow behavior under controlled conditions in packed bed geometries is described.

The Development of the Social Concept Group among Mentally Retarded Children. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taylor, Lloyd A.

Mentally retarded children were studied for their conceptual development and movement from the ability to perceive persons as separate entities but not in significant interaction (aprasia) to group activity. A quasi-projection technique was used to test six groups of 20 boys each, including institutionalized and family-based normals (aged 6 and…

Advancing Understanding of Emissions from Oil and Natural Gas Production Operations to Support EPA’s Air Quality Modeling of Ozone Non-Attainment Areas; Final Summary Report

EPA Science Inventory

Executive Summary Environmentally responsible development of oil and gas assets requires well-developed emissions inventories and measurement techniques to verify emissions and the effectiveness of control strategies. To accurately model the oil and gas sector impacts on air qual...

A Study of Computer Techniques for Music Research. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lincoln, Harry B.

Work in three areas comprised this study of computer use in thematic indexing for music research: (1) acquisition, encoding, and keypunching of data--themes of which now number about 50,000 (primarily 16th Century Italian vocal music) and serve as a test base for program development; (2) development of computer programs to process this data; and…

Report of Activities and Accomplishments: March 1, 1968 to February 28, 1969. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Green, Thomas F.; And Others

From 1968 to 1969 the EPRC focused on: staff development, definition of a specific research program, and development of methods to deal with educational policy issues in the context of longrange futures. The research program of the center is organized around educational futures and policy planning. Specific methods include Delphi techniques, goal…

To Design and Evaluate a 12th Grade Course in the Principles of Economics; Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wiggins, Suzanne E.; Sperling, John G.

Reported is the design, development, and evaluation of a one-semester course on the principles of economics for twelfth grade students. The course is intended to develop students' capacity for economic reasoning through economic theory and empirical research. To do this, teaching materials and innovative techniques for teacher training were…

Cost and Schedule Analytical Techniques Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

This Final Report summarizes the activities performed by Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) under contract NAS 8-40431 "Cost and Schedule Analytical Techniques Development Contract" (CSATD) during Option Year 3 (December 1, 1997 through November 30, 1998). This Final Report is in compliance with Paragraph 5 of Section F of the contract. This CSATD contract provides technical products and deliverables in the form of parametric models, databases, methodologies, studies, and analyses to the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center's (MSFC) Engineering Cost Office (PP03) and the Program Plans and Requirements Office (PP02) and other user organizations. Detailed Monthly Reports were submitted to MSFC in accordance with the contract's Statement of Work, Section IV "Reporting and Documentation". These reports spelled out each month's specific work performed, deliverables submitted, major meetings conducted, and other pertinent information. Therefore, this Final Report will summarize these activities at a higher level. During this contract Option Year, SAIC expended 25,745 hours in the performance of tasks called out in the Statement of Work. This represents approximately 14 full-time EPs. Included are the Huntsville-based team, plus SAIC specialists in San Diego, Ames Research Center, Tampa, and Colorado Springs performing specific tasks for which they are uniquely qualified.

Progress in the Development of CdZnTe Unipolar Detectors for Different Anode Geometries and Data Corrections

PubMed Central

Zhang, Qiushi; Zhang, Congzhe; Lu, Yanye; Yang, Kun; Ren, Qiushi

2013-01-01

CdZnTe detectors have been under development for the past two decades, providing good stopping power for gamma rays, lightweight camera heads and improved energy resolution. However, the performance of this type of detector is limited primarily by incomplete charge collection problems resulting from charge carriers trapping. This paper is a review of the progress in the development of CdZnTe unipolar detectors with some data correction techniques for improving performance of the detectors. We will first briefly review the relevant theories. Thereafter, two aspects of the techniques for overcoming the hole trapping issue are summarized, including irradiation direction configuration and pulse shape correction methods. CdZnTe detectors of different geometries are discussed in detail, covering the principal of the electrode geometry design, the design and performance characteristics, some detector prototypes development and special correction techniques to improve the energy resolution. Finally, the state of art development of 3-D position sensing and Compton imaging technique are also discussed. Spectroscopic performance of CdZnTe semiconductor detector will be greatly improved even to approach the statistical limit on energy resolution with the combination of some of these techniques. PMID:23429509

[Recent Development of Atomic Spectrometry in China].

PubMed

Xiao, Yuan-fang; Wang, Xiao-hua; Hang, Wei

2015-09-01

As an important part of modern analytical techniques, atomic spectrometry occupies a decisive status in the whole analytical field. The development of atomic spectrometry also reflects the continuous reform and innovation of analytical techniques. In the past fifteen years, atomic spectrometry has experienced rapid development and been applied widely in many fields in China. This review has witnessed its development and remarkable achievements. It contains several directions of atomic spectrometry, including atomic emission spectrometry (AES), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), and atomic mass spectrometry (AMS). Emphasis is put on the innovation of the detection methods and their applications in related fields, including environmental samples, biological samples, food and beverage, and geological materials, etc. There is also a brief introduction to the hyphenated techniques utilized in atomic spectrometry. Finally, the prospects of atomic spectrometry in China have been forecasted.

Towards nanometric resolution in multilayer depth profiling: a comparative study of RBS, SIMS, XPS and GDOES.

PubMed

Escobar Galindo, Ramón; Gago, Raul; Duday, David; Palacio, Carlos

2010-04-01

An increasing amount of effort is currently being directed towards the development of new functionalized nanostructured materials (i.e., multilayers and nanocomposites). Using an appropriate combination of composition and microstructure, it is possible to optimize and tailor the final properties of the material to its final application. The analytical characterization of these new complex nanostructures requires high-resolution analytical techniques that are able to provide information about surface and depth composition at the nanometric level. In this work, we comparatively review the state of the art in four different depth-profiling characterization techniques: Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GDOES). In addition, we predict future trends in these techniques regarding improvements in their depth resolutions. Subnanometric resolution can now be achieved in RBS using magnetic spectrometry systems. In SIMS, the use of rotating sample holders and oxygen flooding during analysis as well as the optimization of floating low-energy ion guns to lower the impact energy of the primary ions improves the depth resolution of the technique. Angle-resolved XPS provides a very powerful and nondestructive technique for obtaining depth profiling and chemical information within the range of a few monolayers. Finally, the application of mathematical tools (deconvolution algorithms and a depth-profiling model), pulsed sources and surface plasma cleaning procedures is expected to greatly improve GDOES depth resolution.

Processing and plating helical metallic coils

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

The results of research efforts to develop an optimized nickel cobalt coating suitable as a recording medium are outlined. The coating is to be used directly on a BeCu helical coil substrate of a helical coil NASA recorder. Specifically, efforts were made to: optimize the coating thickness; establish processes and techniques adaptable for the production of finalized plated helical coils; design and fabricate the equipment required for production and testing of the coils; and deliver finalized helical coils to NASA.

Study of optical techniques for the Ames unitary wind tunnel, part 7

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, George

1993-01-01

A summary of optical techniques for the Ames Unitary Plan wind tunnels are discussed. Six optical techniques were studied: Schlieren, light sheet and laser vapor screen, angle of attack, model deformation, infrared imagery, and digital image processing. The study includes surveys and reviews of wind tunnel optical techniques, some conceptual designs, and recommendations for use of optical methods in the Ames Unitary Plan wind tunnels. Particular emphasis was placed on searching for systems developed for wind tunnel use and on commercial systems which could be readily adapted for wind tunnels. This final report is to summarize the major results and recommendations.

Contamination assessment and control in scientific satellites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naumann, R. J.

1973-01-01

Techniques for assessment and control of the contamination environment for both particulates and condensible vapors in the vicinity of spacecraft are developed. An analysis of the deposition rate on critical surfaces is made considering sources within the line of sight of the surface in question as well as those obscured from the line of sight. The amount of contamination returned by collision with the surrounding atmosphere is estimated. Scattering and absorption from the induced atmosphere of gases and particulates around the spacecraft are estimated. Finally, design techniques developed for Skylab to reduce the contamination environment to an acceptable level are discussed.

Flexible body stability analysis of Space Shuttle ascent flight control system by using lambda matrix solution techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bown, R. L.; Christofferson, A.; Lardas, M.; Flanders, H.

1980-01-01

A lambda matrix solution technique is being developed to perform an open loop frequency analysis of a high order dynamic system. The procedure evaluates the right and left latent vectors corresponding to the respective latent roots. The latent vectors are used to evaluate the partial fraction expansion formulation required to compute the flexible body open loop feedback gains for the Space Shuttle Digital Ascent Flight Control System. The algorithm is in the final stages of development and will be used to insure that the feedback gains meet the design specification.

Cost Estimation Techniques for C3I System Software.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-07-01

opment manmonth have been determined for maxi, midi , and mini .1 type computers. Small to median size timeshared developments used 0.2 to 1.5 hours...development schedule 1.23 1.00 1.10 2.1.3 Detailed Model The final codification of the COCOMO regressions was the development of separate effort...regardless of the software structure level being estimated: D8VC -- the expected development computer (maxi. midi . mini, micro) MODE -- the expected

NDE of the space shuttle orbiter thermal protection system: Phase 2 final report

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

Tow, D.M.; Barna, B.A.; Rodriguez, J.G.

1989-03-01

Research continued on the development of a nondestructive evaluation technique for inspecting bonds on the space shuttle orbiter thermal protection system tiles. The approach taken uses a noncontacting laser sensor to measure the vibrational response of bonded tiles to acoustical excitation. Laboratory work concentrated on investigating the dynamic response of ''acreage'' tiles, i.e., tiles covering the underside of the orbiter, all approximately square. A number of promising unbond signatures have been identified in the time and frequency domain response. Field tests were conducted to study environmental effects on the techniques being developed. The ambient motion of the orbiter was foundmore » to be larger than expected, necessitating modifications to current techniques. 2 refs., 21 figs., 1 tab.« less

HSR Model Deformation Measurements from Subsonic to Supersonic Speeds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burner, A. W.; Erickson, G. E.; Goodman, W. L.; Fleming, G. A.

1999-01-01

This paper describes the video model deformation technique (VMD) used at five NASA facilities and the projection moire interferometry (PMI) technique used at two NASA facilities. Comparisons between the two techniques for model deformation measurements are provided. Facilities at NASA-Ames and NASA-Langley where deformation measurements have been made are presented. Examples of HSR model deformation measurements from the Langley Unitary Wind Tunnel, Langley 16-foot Transonic Wind Tunnel, and the Ames 12-foot Pressure Tunnel are presented. A study to improve and develop new targeting schemes at the National Transonic Facility is also described. The consideration of milled targets for future HSR models is recommended when deformation measurements are expected to be required. Finally, future development work for VMD and PMI is addressed.

Summit Station Skiway Cost Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-07-01

Laboratory (CRREL) U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) 72 Lyme Road Hanover, NH 03755-1290 Final Report Approved for...cargo loads. To explore further skiway improvement and cost saving techniques, this report reviews alternative maintenance and construction options...3 2.2 Maintenance

Improvement of Base and Soil Construction Quality by Using Intelligent Compaction Technology : Final Report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-08-01

Intelligent Compaction (IC) technique is a fast-developing technology for base and soil compaction quality control. Proof-rolling subgrades and bases using IC rollers upon completion of compaction can identify the less stiff spots and significantly i...

Determination of shell content by activation analysis : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1978-08-01

The objective of this study is to determine if neutron activation analysis technique, developed under Research Project 70-1ST, can be used to determine the shell content of a sand-shell mixture. : In order to accomplish this objective, samples of san...

New imaging systems in nuclear medicine. Final report, January 1, 1993--December 31, 1995

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

NONE

1995-12-31

The aim of this program has been to improve the performance of positron emission tomography (PET) to achieve high resolution with high sensitivity. Towards this aim, the authors have carried out the following studies: (1) explored new techniques for detection of annihilation radiation including new detector materials and system geometries, specific areas that they have studied include--exploration of factors related to resolution and sensitivity of PET instrumentation including geometry, detection materials and coding, and the exploration of technique to improve the image quality by use of depth of interaction and increased sampling; (2) complete much of the final testing ofmore » PCR-II, an analog-coded cylindrical positron tomograph, developed and constructed during the current funding period; (3) developed the design of a positron microtomograph with mm resolution for quantitative studies in small animals, a single slice version of this device has been designed and studied by use of computer simulation; (4) continued and expanded the program of biological studies in animal models. Current studies have included imaging of animal models of Parkinson`s and Huntington`s disease and cancer. These studies have included new radiopharmaceuticals and techniques involving molecular biology.« less

Development of Abrasion-Resistant Coating for Solar Reflective Films. Cooperative Research and Development Final Report, CRADA Number CRD-07-247

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

Gray, Matthew

The purpose of this CRADA is to develop an abrasion-resistant coating, suitable for use on polymeric-based reflective films (e.g., the ReflecTech reflective film), that allows for improved scratch resistance and enables the use of aggressive cleaning techniques (e.g., direct contact methods like brushing) without damaging the specular reflectance properties of the reflective film.

Transition process from emerging NDT technology to production inspection application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jappe, William; Wood, Nancy; Johnson, Maurice

1995-07-01

The successful application of emerging NDT technologies for specific aging aircraft inspections requires an integration of efforts between aircraft operators, airframe manufacturers, NDT equipment designers, and government regulators. This paper describes the development process that was followed to establish an alternate inspection technique for a DC-10 crown skin butt joint inspection. Initial investigation, intermediate development, and final evaluations are discussed.

Reverse Engineering and Software Products Reuse to Teach Collaborative Web Portals: A Case Study with Final-Year Computer Science Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Medina-Dominguez, Fuensanta; Sanchez-Segura, Maria-Isabel; Mora-Soto, Arturo; Amescua, Antonio

2010-01-01

The development of collaborative Web applications does not follow a software engineering methodology. This is because when university students study Web applications in general, and collaborative Web portals in particular, they are not being trained in the use of software engineering techniques to develop collaborative Web portals. This paper…

Techniques for shuttle trajectory optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edge, E. R.; Shieh, C. J.; Powers, W. F.

1973-01-01

The application of recently developed function-space Davidon-type techniques to the shuttle ascent trajectory optimization problem is discussed along with an investigation of the recently developed PRAXIS algorithm for parameter optimization. At the outset of this analysis, the major deficiency of the function-space algorithms was their potential storage problems. Since most previous analyses of the methods were with relatively low-dimension problems, no storage problems were encountered. However, in shuttle trajectory optimization, storage is a problem, and this problem was handled efficiently. Topics discussed include: the shuttle ascent model and the development of the particular optimization equations; the function-space algorithms; the operation of the algorithm and typical simulations; variable final-time problem considerations; and a modification of Powell's algorithm.

Progress in high-dose radiation dosimetry. Final report

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

Ettinger, K.V.; Nam, J.W.; McLaughlin, W.L.

1981-01-01

The last decade has witnessed a deluge of new high-dose dosimetry techniques and expended applications of methods developed earlier. Many of the principal systems are calibrated by means of calorimetry, although production of heat is not always the final radiation effect of interest. Requirements for a stable and reliable transfer dose meters have led to further developments of several important high-dose systems: thermoluminescent materials, radiochromic dyes, ceric-cerous solutions analyzed by high-frequency oscillometry. A number of other prospective dosimeters are also treated in this review. In addition, an IAEA program of high-dose intercomparison and standardization for industrial radiation processing is described.

Progress in high-dose radiation dosimetry. Final report

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

Ettinger, K.V.; Nam, J.W.; McLaughlin, W.L.

1981-01-01

The last decade has witnessed a deluge of new high-dose dosimetry techniques and expended applications of methods developed earlier. Many of the principal systems are calibrated by means of calorimetry, although production of heat is not always the final radiation effect of interest. Requirements for a stable and reliable transfer dose meters have led to further developments of several important high-dose systems: thermoluminescent materials, radiochromic dyes, ceric-cerous solutions analyzed by high-frequency oscillometry. A number of other prospective dosimeters also treated in this review. In addition, an IAEA programme of high-dose intercomparison and standardization for industrial radiation processing is described.

U29: commercial vehicle secure network for safety and mobility applications final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-09-01

The main objective of this project is to develop a secure, reliable, high throughput and integrated wireless network for Vehicle-To-Vehicle (V2V), Vehicle-To-Infrastructure (V2I) and intra-vehicle communications. Novel techniques and communication pr...

The Orthopaedic Training Study. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miller, George E.; And Others

A four year study was initiated to systematically improve the certification procedures of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. Consequently, the immediate research aim was the development of more valid and reliable techniques in assessing professional competence in orthopedics. A definition of professional competence was reached through…

Post Processing Methods used to Improve Surface Finish of Products which are Manufactured by Additive Manufacturing Technologies: A Review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumbhar, N. N.; Mulay, A. V.

2016-08-01

The Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes open the possibility to go directly from Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to a physical prototype. These prototypes are used as test models before it is finalized as well as sometimes as a final product. Additive Manufacturing has many advantages over the traditional process used to develop a product such as allowing early customer involvement in product development, complex shape generation and also save time as well as money. Additive manufacturing also possess some special challenges that are usually worth overcoming such as Poor Surface quality, Physical Properties and use of specific raw material for manufacturing. To improve the surface quality several attempts had been made by controlling various process parameters of Additive manufacturing and also applying different post processing techniques on components manufactured by Additive manufacturing. The main objective of this work is to document an extensive literature review in the general area of post processing techniques which are used in Additive manufacturing.

An optical profilometer for spatial characterization of three-dimensional surfaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kelly, W. L., IV; Burcher, E. E.; Skolaut, M. W., Jr.

1977-01-01

The design concept and system operation of an optical profilometer are discussed, and a preliminary evaluation of a breadboard system is presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the optical profilometer technique. Measurement results are presented for several test surfaces; and to illustrate a typical application, results are shown for a cleft palate cast used by dental surgeons. Finally, recommendations are made for future development of the optical profilometer technique for specific engineering or scientific applications.

Methods, Software and Tools for Three Numerical Applications. Final report

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

E. R. Jessup

2000-03-01

This is a report of the results of the authors work supported by DOE contract DE-FG03-97ER25325. They proposed to study three numerical problems. They are: (1) the extension of the PMESC parallel programming library; (2) the development of algorithms and software for certain generalized eigenvalue and singular value (SVD) problems, and (3) the application of techniques of linear algebra to an information retrieval technique known as latent semantic indexing (LSI).

Constraint-based integration of planning and scheduling for space-based observatory management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Muscettola, Nicola; Smith, Steven F.

1994-01-01

Progress toward the development of effective, practical solutions to space-based observatory scheduling problems within the HSTS scheduling framework is reported. HSTS was developed and originally applied in the context of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) short-term observation scheduling problem. The work was motivated by the limitations of the current solution and, more generally, by the insufficiency of classical planning and scheduling approaches in this problem context. HSTS has subsequently been used to develop improved heuristic solution techniques in related scheduling domains and is currently being applied to develop a scheduling tool for the upcoming Submillimeter Wave Astronomy Satellite (SWAS) mission. The salient architectural characteristics of HSTS and their relationship to previous scheduling and AI planning research are summarized. Then, some key problem decomposition techniques underlying the integrated planning and scheduling approach to the HST problem are described; research results indicate that these techniques provide leverage in solving space-based observatory scheduling problems. Finally, more recently developed constraint-posting scheduling procedures and the current SWAS application focus are summarized.

Applying computation biology and "big data" to develop multiplex diagnostics for complex chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Ren, Guomin; Krawetz, Roman

2015-01-01

The data explosion in the last decade is revolutionizing diagnostics research and the healthcare industry, offering both opportunities and challenges. These high-throughput "omics" techniques have generated more scientific data in the last few years than in the entire history of mankind. Here we present a brief summary of how "big data" have influenced early diagnosis of complex diseases. We will also review some of the most commonly used "omics" techniques and their applications in diagnostics. Finally, we will discuss the issues brought by these new techniques when translating laboratory discoveries to clinical practice.

Accurate low-cost methods for performance evaluation of cache memory systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Laha, Subhasis; Patel, Janak H.; Iyer, Ravishankar K.

1988-01-01

Methods of simulation based on statistical techniques are proposed to decrease the need for large trace measurements and for predicting true program behavior. Sampling techniques are applied while the address trace is collected from a workload. This drastically reduces the space and time needed to collect the trace. Simulation techniques are developed to use the sampled data not only to predict the mean miss rate of the cache, but also to provide an empirical estimate of its actual distribution. Finally, a concept of primed cache is introduced to simulate large caches by the sampling-based method.

Wavelet Transform Based Filter to Remove the Notches from Signal Under Harmonic Polluted Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Sukanta; Ranjan, Vikash

2017-12-01

The work proposes to annihilate the notches present in the synchronizing signal required for converter operation appearing due to switching of semiconductor devices connected to the system in the harmonic polluted environment. The disturbances in the signal are suppressed by wavelet based novel filtering technique. In the proposed technique, the notches in the signal are determined and eliminated by the wavelet based multi-rate filter using `Daubechies4' (db4) as mother wavelet. The computational complexity of the adapted technique is very less as compared to any other conventional notch filtering techniques. The proposed technique is developed in MATLAB/Simulink and finally validated with dSPACE-1103 interface. The recovered signal, thus obtained, is almost free of the notches.

Development of sensors for ceramic components in advanced propulsion systems: Survey and evaluation of measurement techniques for temperature, strain and heat flux for ceramic components in advanced propulsion systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Atkinson, W. H.; Cyr, M. A.; Strange, R. R.

1988-01-01

The report presents the final results of Tasks 1 and 2, Development of Sensors for Ceramic Components in Advanced Propulsion Systems (NASA program NAS3-25141). During Task 1, an extensive survey was conducted of sensor concepts which have the potential for measuring surface temperature, strain and heat flux on ceramic components for advanced propulsion systems. Each sensor concept was analyzed and evaluated under Task 2; sensor concepts were then recommended for further development. For temperature measurement, both pyrometry and thermographic phosphors are recommended for measurements up to and beyond the melting point of ceramic materials. For lower temperature test programs, the thin-film techniques offer advantages in the installation of temperature sensors. Optical strain measurement techniques are recommended because they offer the possibility of being useful at very high temperature levels. Techniques for the measurement of heat flux are recommended for development based on both a surface mounted sensor and the measurement of the temperature differential across a portion of a ceramic component or metallic substrate.

Defining Malaysian Knowledge Society: Results from the Delphi Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamid, Norsiah Abdul; Zaman, Halimah Badioze

This paper outlines the findings of research where the central idea is to define the term Knowledge Society (KS) in Malaysian context. The research focuses on three important dimensions, namely knowledge, ICT and human capital. This study adopts a modified Delphi technique to seek the important dimensions that can contribute to the development of Malaysian's KS. The Delphi technique involved ten experts in a five-round iterative and controlled feedback procedure to obtain consensus on the important dimensions and to verify the proposed definition of KS. The finding shows that all three dimensions proposed initially scored high and moderate consensus. Round One (R1) proposed an initial definition of KS and required comments and inputs from the panel. These inputs were then used to develop items for a R2 questionnaire. In R2, 56 out of 73 items scored high consensus and in R3, 63 out of 90 items scored high. R4 was conducted to re-rate the new items, in which 8 out of 17 items scored high. Other items scored moderate consensus and no item scored low or no consensus in all rounds. The final round (R5) was employed to verify the final definition of KS. Findings and discovery of this study are significant to the definition of KS and the development of a framework in the Malaysian context.

Mixed strategies for energy conservation and alternative energy utilization (solar) in buildings. Final report. Volume II. Detailed results. [New York, Atlanta, Omaha, and Albuquerque

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

None

1977-06-01

The mixed-strategy analysis was a tradeoff analysis between energy-conservation methods and an alternative energy source (solar) considering technical and economic benefits. The objective of the analysis was to develop guidelines for: reducing energy requirements; reducing conventional fuel use; and identifying economic alternatives for building owners. The analysis was done with a solar system in place. This makes the study unique in that it is determining the interaction of energy conservation with a solar system. The study, therefore, established guidelines as to how to minimize capital investment while reducing the conventional fuel consumption through either a larger solar system or anmore » energy-conserving technique. To focus the scope of energy-conservation techniques and alternative energy sources considered, five building types (house, apartment buildings, commercial buildings, schools, and office buildings) were selected. Finally, the lists of energy-conservation techniques and alternative energy sources were reduced to lists of manageable size by using technical attributes to select the best candidates for further study. The resultant energy-conservation techniques were described in detail and installed costs determined. The alternative energy source reduced to solar. Building construction characteristics were defined for each building for each of four geographic regions of the country. A mixed strategy consisting of an energy-conservation technique and solar heating/hot water/cooling system was analyzed, using computer simulation to determine the interaction between energy conservation and the solar system. Finally, using FEA fuel-price scenarios and installed costs for the solar system and energy conservation techniques, an economic analysis was performed to determine the cost effectiveness of the combination. (MCW)« less

Development of a nondestructive vibration technique for bond assessment of Space Shuttle tiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moslehy, Faissal A.

1994-01-01

This final report describes the achievements of the above titled project. The project is funded by NASA-KSC (Grant No. NAG 10-0117) for the period of 1 Jan. to 31 Dec. 1993. The purpose of this project was to develop a nondestructive, noncontact technique based on 'vibration signature' of tile systems to quantify the bond conditions of the thermal protection system) tiles of Space Shuttle orbiters. The technique uses a laser rapid scan system, modal measurements, and finite element modeling. Finite element models were developed for tiles bonded to both clamped and deformable integrated skin-stringer orbiter mid-fuselage. Results showed that the size and location of a disbonded tile can be determined from frequency and mode shape information. Moreover, a frequency response survey was used to quickly identify the disbonded tiles. The finite element results were compared with experimentally determined frequency responses of a 17-tile test panel, where a rapidscan laser system was employed. An excellent degree of correlation between the mathematical simulation and experimental results was realized. An inverse solution for single-tile assemblies was also derived and is being implemented into a computer program that can interact with the modal testing software. The output of the program displays the size and location of disbond. This program has been tested with simulated input (i.e., finite element data), and excellent agreement between predicted and simulated disbonds was shown. Finally, laser vibration imaging and acoustic emission techniques were shown to be well suited for detecting and monitoring the progressive damage in Graphite/Epoxy composite materials.

Final Report on the Multicultural/Diversity Assessment Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ambrosio, Anthony L.

The Emporia State University Multicultural/Diversity Project developed a set of assessment instruments and a model evaluation plan to assess multicultural/diversity (MCD) outcomes in teacher education and general education programs. Assessment instruments and techniques were constructed to evaluate the impact of coursework on student attitudes,…

Development of a decision model for selection of appropriate timely delivery techniques for highway projects : final report, April 2009.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-04-01

The primary umbrella method used by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to ensure on-time performance in standard construction contracting is liquidated damages. The assessment value is usually a matter of some judgment. In practice,...

Linear friction welding for constructing and repairing rail for high speed and intercity passenger service rail : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-08-01

This project developed a solid-state welding process based on linear friction welding (LFW) technology. While resistance flash welding or : thermite techniques are tried and true methods for joining rails and performing partial rail replacement repai...

Development of a Graduate Course in Computer-Aided Geometric Design.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ault, Holly K.

1991-01-01

Described is a course that focuses on theory and techniques for ideation and refinement of geometric models used in mechanical engineering design applications. The course objectives, course outline, a description of the facilities, sample exercises, and a discussion of final projects are included. (KR)

In situ microscopy across scales for the characterization of crystal growth mechanisms: the case of europium oxalate

DOE PAGES

Soltis, Jennifer A.; Isley, William C.; Conroy, Michele; ...

2018-01-01

The development of targeted syntheses requires a better understanding of how production pathways affect the final product, but many ex situ techniques used for studying nanoparticle growth are unsuitable as standalone methods for identifying and characterizing growth mechanisms.

In situ microscopy across scales for the characterization of crystal growth mechanisms: the case of europium oxalate

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

Soltis, Jennifer A.; Isley, William C.; Conroy, Michele

The development of targeted syntheses requires a better understanding of how production pathways affect the final product, but many ex situ techniques used for studying nanoparticle growth are unsuitable as standalone methods for identifying and characterizing growth mechanisms.

Models of railroad passenger-car requirements in the northeast corridor : volume II user's guide

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-09-30

Models and techniques for determining passenger-car requirements in railroad service were developed and applied by a research project of which this is the final report. The report is published in two volumes. The solution and analysis of the Northeas...

Models of railroad passenger-car requirements in the northeast corridor : volume 1. formulation and results.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-09-30

Models and techniques for determining passenger-car requirements in railroad service were developed and applied by a research project of which this is the final report. The report is published in two volumes. This volume considers a general problem o...

X-ray computed tomography to study rice (Oryza sativa L.) panicle development

PubMed Central

Jhala, Vibhuti M.; Thaker, Vrinda S.

2015-01-01

Computational tomography is an important technique for developing digital agricultural models that may help farmers and breeders for increasing crop quality and yield. In the present study an attempt has been made to understand rice seed development within the panicle at different developmental stages using this technique. During the first phase of cell division the Hounsfield Unit (HU) value remained low, increased in the dry matter accumulation phase, and finally reached a maximum at the maturation stage. HU value and seed dry weight showed a linear relationship in the varieties studied. This relationship was confirmed subsequently using seven other varieties. This is therefore an easy, simple, and non-invasive technique which may help breeders to select the best varieties. In addition, it may also help farmers to optimize post-anthesis agronomic practices as well as deciding the crop harvest time for higher grain yield. PMID:26265763

Machine learning and microsimulation techniques on the prognosis of dementia: A systematic literature review.

PubMed

Dallora, Ana Luiza; Eivazzadeh, Shahryar; Mendes, Emilia; Berglund, Johan; Anderberg, Peter

2017-01-01

Dementia is a complex disorder characterized by poor outcomes for the patients and high costs of care. After decades of research little is known about its mechanisms. Having prognostic estimates about dementia can help researchers, patients and public entities in dealing with this disorder. Thus, health data, machine learning and microsimulation techniques could be employed in developing prognostic estimates for dementia. The goal of this paper is to present evidence on the state of the art of studies investigating and the prognosis of dementia using machine learning and microsimulation techniques. To achieve our goal we carried out a systematic literature review, in which three large databases-Pubmed, Socups and Web of Science were searched to select studies that employed machine learning or microsimulation techniques for the prognosis of dementia. A single backward snowballing was done to identify further studies. A quality checklist was also employed to assess the quality of the evidence presented by the selected studies, and low quality studies were removed. Finally, data from the final set of studies were extracted in summary tables. In total 37 papers were included. The data summary results showed that the current research is focused on the investigation of the patients with mild cognitive impairment that will evolve to Alzheimer's disease, using machine learning techniques. Microsimulation studies were concerned with cost estimation and had a populational focus. Neuroimaging was the most commonly used variable. Prediction of conversion from MCI to AD is the dominant theme in the selected studies. Most studies used ML techniques on Neuroimaging data. Only a few data sources have been recruited by most studies and the ADNI database is the one most commonly used. Only two studies have investigated the prediction of epidemiological aspects of Dementia using either ML or MS techniques. Finally, care should be taken when interpreting the reported accuracy of ML techniques, given studies' different contexts.

Machine learning and microsimulation techniques on the prognosis of dementia: A systematic literature review

PubMed Central

Mendes, Emilia; Berglund, Johan; Anderberg, Peter

2017-01-01

Background Dementia is a complex disorder characterized by poor outcomes for the patients and high costs of care. After decades of research little is known about its mechanisms. Having prognostic estimates about dementia can help researchers, patients and public entities in dealing with this disorder. Thus, health data, machine learning and microsimulation techniques could be employed in developing prognostic estimates for dementia. Objective The goal of this paper is to present evidence on the state of the art of studies investigating and the prognosis of dementia using machine learning and microsimulation techniques. Method To achieve our goal we carried out a systematic literature review, in which three large databases—Pubmed, Socups and Web of Science were searched to select studies that employed machine learning or microsimulation techniques for the prognosis of dementia. A single backward snowballing was done to identify further studies. A quality checklist was also employed to assess the quality of the evidence presented by the selected studies, and low quality studies were removed. Finally, data from the final set of studies were extracted in summary tables. Results In total 37 papers were included. The data summary results showed that the current research is focused on the investigation of the patients with mild cognitive impairment that will evolve to Alzheimer’s disease, using machine learning techniques. Microsimulation studies were concerned with cost estimation and had a populational focus. Neuroimaging was the most commonly used variable. Conclusions Prediction of conversion from MCI to AD is the dominant theme in the selected studies. Most studies used ML techniques on Neuroimaging data. Only a few data sources have been recruited by most studies and the ADNI database is the one most commonly used. Only two studies have investigated the prediction of epidemiological aspects of Dementia using either ML or MS techniques. Finally, care should be taken when interpreting the reported accuracy of ML techniques, given studies’ different contexts. PMID:28662070

Recent developments in the fabrication of ordered nanostructure arrays based on nanosphere lithography.

PubMed

Wei, Xueyong

2010-11-01

Since it was invented two decades ago, Nanosphere Lithography (NSL) has been widely studied as a low cost and flexible technique to fabricate nanostructures. Based on the registered patents and some selected papers, this review will discuss recent developments of different NSL strategies for the fabrication of ordered nanostructure arrays. The mechanism of self-assembly process and the techniques for preparing the self-assembled nanosphere template are first briefly introduced. The nanosphere templates are used either as shadow masks or as moulds for pattern transfer. Much more work now combines NSL with other lithographic techniques and material growth methods to form novel nanostructures of complex shape or various materials. Hence, this review finally gives a discussion on some future directions in NSL study.

Positive isolation disconnect

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosener, A. A.; Jonkoniec, T. G.

1975-01-01

A positive isolation disconnect was developed for component replacement in serviced liquid and gaseous spacecraft systems. Initially a survey of feasible concepts was made to determine the optimum method for fluid isolation, sealing techniques, coupling concepts, and foolproofing techniques. The top concepts were then further evaluated, including the fabrication of a semifunctional model. After all tradeoff analyses were made, a final configuration was designed and fabricated for development testing. This resulted in a 6.35 mm (1/4 inch) line and 12.7 mm (1/2 inch) line positive isolation disconnect, each unit consisting of two coupled disconnect halves, each capable of fluid isolation with essentially zero clearance between them for zero leakage upon disconnect half disengagement. An interlocking foolproofing technique was incorporated that prevents uncoupling of disconnect halves prior to fluid isolation.

A review on prognostic techniques for non-stationary and non-linear rotating systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kan, Man Shan; Tan, Andy C. C.; Mathew, Joseph

2015-10-01

The field of prognostics has attracted significant interest from the research community in recent times. Prognostics enables the prediction of failures in machines resulting in benefits to plant operators such as shorter downtimes, higher operation reliability, reduced operations and maintenance cost, and more effective maintenance and logistics planning. Prognostic systems have been successfully deployed for the monitoring of relatively simple rotating machines. However, machines and associated systems today are increasingly complex. As such, there is an urgent need to develop prognostic techniques for such complex systems operating in the real world. This review paper focuses on prognostic techniques that can be applied to rotating machinery operating under non-linear and non-stationary conditions. The general concept of these techniques, the pros and cons of applying these methods, as well as their applications in the research field are discussed. Finally, the opportunities and challenges in implementing prognostic systems and developing effective techniques for monitoring machines operating under non-stationary and non-linear conditions are also discussed.

Alternative control techniques document: NOx emissions from industrial/commercial/institutional (ICI) boilers

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

Not Available

1994-03-01

Industrial, commercial, and institutional (ICI) boilers have been identified as a category that emits more than 25 tons of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) per year. This alternative control techniques (ACT) document provides technical information for use by State and local agencies to develop and implement regulatory programs to control NOx emissions from ICI boilers. Additional ACT documents are being developed for other stationary source categories. Chapter 2 summarizes the findings of this study. Chapter 3 presents information on the ICI boiler types, fuels, operation, and industry applications. Chapter 4 discusses NOx formation and uncontrolled NOx emission factors. Chapter 5 coversmore » alternative control techniques and achievable controlled emission levels. Chapter 6 presents the cost and cost effectiveness of each control technique. Chapter 7 describes environmental and energy impacts associated with implementing the NOx control techniques. Finally, Appendices A through G provide the detailed data used in this study to evaluate uncontrolled and controlled emissions and the costs of controls for several retrofit scenarios.« less

Expert system verification and validation study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

French, Scott W.; Hamilton, David

1992-01-01

Five workshops on verification and validation (V&V) of expert systems (ES) where taught during this recent period of performance. Two key activities, previously performed under this contract, supported these recent workshops (1) Survey of state-of-the-practice of V&V of ES and (2) Development of workshop material and first class. The first activity involved performing an extensive survey of ES developers in order to answer several questions regarding the state-of-the-practice in V&V of ES. These questions related to the amount and type of V&V done and the successfulness of this V&V. The next key activity involved developing an intensive hands-on workshop in V&V of ES. This activity involved surveying a large number of V&V techniques, conventional as well as ES specific ones. In addition to explaining the techniques, we showed how each technique could be applied on a sample problem. References were included in the workshop material, and cross referenced to techniques, so that students would know where to go to find additional information about each technique. In addition to teaching specific techniques, we included an extensive amount of material on V&V concepts and how to develop a V&V plan for an ES project. We felt this material was necessary so that developers would be prepared to develop an orderly and structured approach to V&V. That is, they would have a process that supported the use of the specific techniques. Finally, to provide hands-on experience, we developed a set of case study exercises. These exercises were to provide an opportunity for the students to apply all the material (concepts, techniques, and planning material) to a realistic problem.

Posttest analysis of beta (Na/S) cells from chloride silent power, limited. Final report

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

Battles, J.E.; Mrazek, F.C.

Researchers have developed a unique methodology for examining sodium/sulfur cells after testing to learn more about their behavior. The new techniques described in this report allow scientists to discern the physical and chemical states of these high-energy cells and to develop hypotheses about degradation mechanisms. This information may provide a basis for building cells with longer lives.

An Advanced Programming Technique for a Cost-Effective Hardware-Independent Realization of Naval Software Systems. Final Technical Report, Part II.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Computer Symbolic, Inc., Washington, DC.

A pseudo assembly language, PAL, was developed and specified for use as the lowest level in a general, multilevel programing system for the realization of cost-effective, hardware-independent Naval software. The language was developed as part of the system called FIRMS (Fast Iterative Recursive Macro System) and is sufficiently general to allow…

Microhardness, Friction and Wear of SiC and Si3N4 Materials as a Function of Load, Temperature and Environment.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-10-01

microstructures which may be developed and finally to relate properties to structure and composition (28-31). Sialon materials are alloys of Si3N4 with oxides...techniques. The effects of specimen microstructure on indentation processes were determined by using materials formed by a wide range of fabrication...microhardness techniques. The effects of specimen microstructure on indentation processes were determined by using materials formed by a wide range of

Artificial Intelligence for VHSIC Systems Design (AIVD) User Reference Manual

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-12-01

The goal of this program was to develop prototype tools which would use artificial intelligence techniques to extend the Architecture Design and Assessment (ADAS) software capabilities. These techniques were applied in a number of ways to increase the productivity of ADAS users. AIM will reduce the amount of time spent on tedious, negative, and error-prone steps. It will also provide f documentation that will assist users in varifying that the models they build are correct Finally, AIVD will help make ADAS models more reusable.

SUPERFUND TREATABILITY CLEARINGHOUSE: FINAL REPORT: DEVELOPMENT OF OPTIMUM TREATMENT SYSTEM FOR WASTEWATER LAGOONS PHASE II - SOLVENT EXTRACTION LABORATORY TESTING

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. Army surveyed innovative treatment techniques for restoration of hazardous waste lagoons and selected solvent extraction as cost-effective restoration for further study. This treatability study focuses on treatment of organic (explosive) contaminated lagoon sediments w...

Creativity Styles of Freshman Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kumar, V. K.; And Others

1991-01-01

First-year college students (n=182) were tested to determine their beliefs about and approaches to creative endeavors. Students self-identified as creative employed a greater number of techniques such as brainstorming and were less motivated by the goal of developing a final product, compared to those identified as least creative. (JDD)

DEVELOPMENT OF HOURLY PROBABILISTIC UTILITY NOX EMISSION INVENTORIES USING TIME SERIES TECHNIQUES: PART 2-MULTIVARIATE APPROACH. (R826766)

EPA Science Inventory

The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Concl...

DEVELOPMENT OF HOURLY PROBABILISTIC UTILITY NOX EMISSION INVENTORIES USING TIME SERIES TECHNIQUES: PART 1-UNIVARIATE APPROACH. (R826766)

EPA Science Inventory

The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Concl...

Effective Vocational Training Procedures for EMR Students. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carter, Robert

A project was conducted to train Jefferson County, Alabama, vocational education instructors in effective teaching techniques and to develop appropriate instructional procedures for educable mentally retarded students. Vocational education areas included in the project were welding, food service, and brick masonry. The project was conducted in two…

Development of an FAA-EUROCONTROL technique for the analysis of human error in ATM : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-07-01

Human error has been identified as a dominant risk factor in safety-oriented industries such as air traffic control (ATC). However, little is known about the factors leading to human errors in current air traffic management (ATM) systems. The first s...

Bio-Engineering Services to the Developmentally Disabled Adolescent. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mallik, Kalisankar; Yuspeh, Sheldon

A 1-year demonstration project involving 24 developmentally disabled students (9- to 20-years-old) with severe physical limitations was conducted to increase their educational and vocational possibilities by using cost-effective bio-engineering techniques to modify their physical environment and develop improved adaptive devices. Phase I of the…

Techniques for Generating Instructional Slides. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Edgar A.; And Others

Common in briefing presentations and in individualized instruction is the use of slides that present materials prepared on a typewriter (questions, instructions, outlines). To increase the efficiency and effectiveness of producing these kind of slides a procedure was developed to facilitate: (1) formatting copy to be used for slides; (2) using…

The Review of Nuclear Microscopy Techniques: An Approach for Nondestructive Trace Elemental Analysis and Mapping of Biological Materials.

PubMed

Mulware, Stephen Juma

2015-01-01

The properties of many biological materials often depend on the spatial distribution and concentration of the trace elements present in a matrix. Scientists have over the years tried various techniques including classical physical and chemical analyzing techniques each with relative level of accuracy. However, with the development of spatially sensitive submicron beams, the nuclear microprobe techniques using focused proton beams for the elemental analysis of biological materials have yielded significant success. In this paper, the basic principles of the commonly used microprobe techniques of STIM, RBS, and PIXE for trace elemental analysis are discussed. The details for sample preparation, the detection, and data collection and analysis are discussed. Finally, an application of the techniques to analysis of corn roots for elemental distribution and concentration is presented.

Middle Atmosphere Program. Handbook for MAP, volume 19

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldberg, R. A. (Editor)

1986-01-01

This MAP handbook is concerned with rocket techniques and instrumentation as they are currently employed in the middle atmosphere. It is composed of nine chapters, written by experts on rocket experiments. The emphasis is on measurement techniques rather than results, although results are incorporated wherever they provide examples which illustrate the measurement features. The chapters first cover techniques relating to measurements of neutral dynamics and chemistry, then measurements of the various intermittent and excessive radiation sources which effect the middle atmospheric environment, and finally measurements of the plasma environment including electric fields. The weighting toward plasma related parameters is not accidental, but reflects both the historical headstart given by early development of radio wave and probe techniques to measure electron density, and by the relatively limited number of techniques available for neutral atmospheric measurements.

[What is and who created chiropractic massage?].

PubMed

Sagrera Ferrándiz, J

2003-01-01

Even though many massage techniques are called chiromassage, this term must be used to describe a technique created by its inventor, Dr. Ferrándiz, who based on knowledge from German, Swiss and Oriental techniques, developed his own technique and in order to differentiate it from other techniques, gave it the name chiro-meaning hand-massage; which is to say massage using hands, without the use of any apparatus. Once this clarification has been made, the author analyzes the parts which compose a good chiromassage: 1) preparatory exercises: exploration, initial contact, magnetic sedative passes, etc. 2) kneading: in order to distort and elongate muscle fibers, 3) specific exercises: distinct one for each individual case, and 4) finalizing exercises: vibrations, drumming with one's fingers, venal drainage and magnetic sedative passes.

[Mythodrama--a group psychotherapy model for work with children and adolescents].

PubMed

Guggenbühl, A

1992-10-01

This article discusses group psychotherapy as a possible crisis intervention technique for children and juveniles with behavioral problems at school or whose families are going through divorce, or as an intervention technique in trouble some school classes. The therapeutic group work at the Children and Juvenile Educational Counselling Centre in Bern, Switzerland, is described - "mythodrama" or the "tales, fiction and horror technique", a therapeutic approach which was developed during the last couple of years. The tale at the beginning of the article serves as an introduction and is followed by a description of the different phases of mythodrama. Finally, the main elements of this approach are summarized.

Synopsis of timing measurement techniques used in telecommunications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zampetti, George

1993-01-01

Historically, Maximum Time Interval Error (MTIE) and Maximum Relative Time Interval Error (MRTIE) have been the main measurement techniques used to characterize timing performance in telecommunications networks. Recently, a new measurement technique, Time Variance (TVAR) has gained acceptance in the North American (ANSI) standards body. TVAR was developed in concurrence with NIST to address certain inadequacies in the MTIE approach. The advantages and disadvantages of each of these approaches are described. Real measurement examples are presented to illustrate the critical issues in actual telecommunication applications. Finally, a new MTIE measurement is proposed (ZTIE) that complements TVAR. Together, TVAR and ZTIE provide a very good characterization of network timing.

Cost and Schedule Analytical Techniques Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

This Final Report summarizes the activities performed by Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) for the base contract year from December 1, 1994 through November 30, 1995. The Final Report is in compliance with Paragraph 5 of Section F of the contract. This CSATD contract provides technical services and products to the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center's (MSFC) Engineering Cost Office (PP03) and the Program Plans and Requirements Office (PP02). Detailed Monthly Progress Reports were submitted to MSFC in accordance with the contract's Statement of Work Section IV "Reporting and Documentation". These reports spelled out each month's specific work accomplishments, deliverables submitted, major meetings held, and other pertinent information. This Final Report will summarize these activities at a higher level.

Laser Shot Peening System Final Report CRADA No. TC-1369-96

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

Stuart, B. C.; Harris, F.

This CRADA project was established with a primary goal to develop a laser shot peening system which could operate at production throughput rates and produce the desired depth and intensity of induced shots. The first objective was to understand all parameters required for acceptable peening, including pulse energy, pulse temporal format, pulse spatial format, sample configuration and tamping mechanism. The next objective was to demonstrate the technique on representative samples and then on representative parts. The final objective was to implement the technology into a meaningful industrial peen.

Research into language concepts for the mission control center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dellenback, Steven W.; Barton, Timothy J.; Ratner, Jeremiah M.

1990-01-01

A final report is given on research into language concepts for the Mission Control Center (MCC). The Specification Driven Language research is described. The state of the image processing field and how image processing techniques could be applied toward automating the generation of the language known as COmputation Development Environment (CODE or Comp Builder) are discussed. Also described is the development of a flight certified compiler for Comps.

A historical overview of flight flutter testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kehoe, Michael W.

1995-01-01

This paper reviews the test techniques developed over the last several decades for flight flutter testing of aircraft. Structural excitation systems, instrumentation systems, digital data preprocessing, and parameter identification algorithms (for frequency and damping estimates from the response data) are described. Practical experiences and example test programs illustrate the combined, integrated effectiveness of the various approaches used. Finally, comments regarding the direction of future developments and needs are presented.

Space Shuttle GN and C Development History and Evolution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zimpfer, Douglas; Hattis, Phil; Ruppert, John; Gavert, Don

2011-01-01

Completion of the final Space Shuttle flight marks the end of a significant era in Human Spaceflight. Developed in the 1970 s, first launched in 1981, the Space Shuttle embodies many significant engineering achievements. One of these is the development and operation of the first extensive fly-by-wire human space transportation Guidance, Navigation and Control (GN&C) System. Development of the Space Shuttle GN&C represented first time inclusions of modern techniques for electronics, software, algorithms, systems and management in a complex system. Numerous technical design trades and lessons learned continue to drive current vehicle development. For example, the Space Shuttle GN&C system incorporated redundant systems, complex algorithms and flight software rigorously verified through integrated vehicle simulations and avionics integration testing techniques. Over the past thirty years, the Shuttle GN&C continued to go through a series of upgrades to improve safety, performance and to enable the complex flight operations required for assembly of the international space station. Upgrades to the GN&C ranged from the addition of nose wheel steering to modifications that extend capabilities to control of the large flexible configurations while being docked to the Space Station. This paper provides a history of the development and evolution of the Space Shuttle GN&C system. Emphasis is placed on key architecture decisions, design trades and the lessons learned for future complex space transportation system developments. Finally, some of the interesting flight operations experience is provided to inform future developers of flight experiences.

Exploring the Spatiotemporal Organization of Membrane Proteins in Living Plant Cells.

PubMed

Wang, Li; Xue, Yiqun; Xing, Jingjing; Song, Kai; Lin, Jinxing

2018-04-29

Plasma membrane proteins have important roles in transport and signal transduction. Deciphering the spatiotemporal organization of these proteins provides crucial information for elucidating the links between the behaviors of different molecules. However, monitoring membrane proteins without disrupting their membrane environment remains difficult. Over the past decade, many studies have developed single-molecule techniques, opening avenues for probing the stoichiometry and interactions of membrane proteins in their native environment by providing nanometer-scale spatial information and nanosecond-scale temporal information. In this review, we assess recent progress in the development of labeling and imaging technology for membrane protein analysis. We focus in particular on several single-molecule techniques for quantifying the dynamics and assembly of membrane proteins. Finally, we provide examples of how these new techniques are advancing our understanding of the complex biological functions of membrane proteins.

Application of a system modification technique to dynamic tuning of a spinning rotor blade

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spain, C. V.

1987-01-01

An important consideration in the development of modern helicopters is the vibratory response of the main rotor blade. One way to minimize vibration levels is to ensure that natural frequencies of the spinning main rotor blade are well removed from integer multiples of the rotor speed. A technique for dynamically tuning a finite-element model of a rotor blade to accomplish that end is demonstrated. A brief overview is given of the general purpose finite element system known as Engineering Analysis Language (EAL) which was used in this work. A description of the EAL System Modification (SM) processor is then given along with an explanation of special algorithms developed to be used in conjunction with SM. Finally, this technique is demonstrated by dynamically tuning a model of an advanced composite rotor blade.

Nonlinear system identification technique validation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rudko, M.; Bussgang, J. J.

1982-01-01

This final technical report describes the results obtained by SIGNATRON, Inc. of Lexington MA on Air Force Contract F30602-80-C-0104 for Rome Air Development Center. The objective of this effort is to develop a technique for identifying system response of nonlinear circuits by measurements of output response to known inputs. The report describes results of a study into the system identification technique based on the pencil-of-function method previously explored by Jain (1974) and Ewen (1979). The procedure identified roles of the linear response and is intended as a first step in nonlinear response and is intended as a first step in nonlinear circuit identification. There are serious implementation problems associated with the original approach such as loss of accuracy due to repeated integrations, lack of good measures of accuracy and computational iteration to identify the number of poles.

Analysis techniques for tracer studies of oxidation. M. S. Thesis Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Basu, S. N.

1984-01-01

Analysis techniques to obtain quantitative diffusion data from tracer concentration profiles were developed. Mass balance ideas were applied to determine the mechanism of oxide growth and to separate the fraction of inward and outward growth of oxide scales. The process of inward oxygen diffusion with exchange was theoretically modelled and the effect of lattice diffusivity, grain boundary diffusivity and grain size on the tracer concentration profile was studied. The development of the tracer concentration profile in a growing oxide scale was simulated. The double oxidation technique was applied to a FeCrAl-Zr alloy using 0-18 as a tracer. SIMS was used to obtain the tracer concentration profile. The formation of lacey oxide on the alloy was discussed. Careful consideration was given to the quality of data required to obtain quantitative information.

Optics for Processes, Products and Metrology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mather, George

1999-04-01

Optical physics has a variety of applications in industry, including process inspection, coatings development, vision instrumentation, spectroscopy, and many others. Optics has been used extensively in the design of solar energy collection systems and coatings, for example. Also, with the availability of good CCD cameras and fast computers, it has become possible to develop real-time inspection and metrology devices that can accommodate the high throughputs encountered in modern production processes. More recently, developments in moiré interferometry show great promise for applications in the basic metals and electronics industries. The talk will illustrate applications of optics by discussing process inspection techniques for defect detection, part dimensioning, birefringence measurement, and the analysis of optical coatings in the automotive, glass, and optical disc industries. In particular, examples of optical techniques for the quality control of CD-R, MO, and CD-RW discs will be presented. In addition, the application of optical concepts to solar energy collector design and to metrology by moiré techniques will be discussed. Finally, some of the modern techniques and instruments used for qualitative and quantitative material analysis will be presented.

Control of Atmospheric Emissions in the Wood Pulping Industry, Volume 3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hendrickson, E. R.; And Others

Volume 3 contains chapters 9 through 13 of the final report on the control of atmospheric emissions in the wood pulping industry. These chapters deal with the following topics: sampling and analytical techniques; on-going research related to reduction of emissions; research and development recommendations; current industry investment and operating…

Study of providing omnidirectional vibration isolation to entire space shuttle payload packages

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, C. S.; Robinson, G. D.; Weber, D. E.

1974-01-01

Techniques to provide omnidirectional vibration isolation for a space shuttle payload package were investigated via a reduced-scale model. Development, design, fabrication, assembly and test evaluation of a 0.125-scale isolation model are described. Final drawings for fabricated mechanical components are identified, and prints of all drawings are included.

Research Handbook on Children's Language Learning. Preliminary Edition. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dato, Daniel P.

This handbook serves as an introduction to the study of children's language development and as a supplementary aid in the training of research workers in the field of children's language learning. As a teaching aid, it is suggested this work be used with a film entitled "Psycholinquistic Research Techniques: Children's Language." Major chapters…

PROJECT EARNING POWER, GRANT RD-1806-G. HISTORY AND FINAL REPORT.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

LANGDON, MARGARET

THE PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT WAS TO APPLY CURRENT KNOWLEDGE, METHODS, AND TECHNIQUES IN INDUSTRIAL DESIGN AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT TO REHABILITATING THE HANDICAPPED BY USING THE LABOR FORCE AVAILABLE IN SHELTERED WORKSHOPS AND HOMEBOUND PROGRAMS. DEMONSTRATION PROGRAMS WERE ESTABLISHED AS TASK FORCES IN CHICAGO, NEW YORK, AND LOS ANGELES WITH THE…

DEVELOPMENT OF THEORETICAL MODELS AND RESEARCH TECHNIQUES IN RACE RELATIONS. FINAL REPORT.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

ANGELL, ROBERT C.; BARTH, WILLIAM P.

THIS REPORT DESCRIBES THE 1964-66 ACTIVITIES OF A COOPERATIVE TEACHING AND RESEARCH PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AND TUSKEGEE INSTITUTE (ALABAMA). DURING THE 2-YEAR PERIOD SCHOLARS AND ADMINISTRATORS OF THE TWO INSTITUTIONS HAVE ESTABLISHED A NEW SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH CENTER AT TUSKEGEE, INCLUDING A SURVEY RESEARCH OPERATION WHICH…

OMEGA time transmissions and receiver design.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chi, A. R.; Fletcher, L. A.; Casselman, C. J.

1972-01-01

This document gives a short history of the development of dual VLF time-transmission technique. The theory of time recovery from the relative phase of the dual-frequency transmission is presented. The transmission and receiving requirements for cycle identification and cycle ambiguity resolution are described. Finally, a prototype OMEGA timing receiving design is described.

Advancements of two dimensional correlation spectroscopy in protein researches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Yanchun; Wu, Yuqing; Zhang, Liping

2018-05-01

The developments of two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS) applications in protein studies are discussed, especially for the past two decades. The powerful utilities of 2DCOS combined with various analytical techniques in protein studies are summarized. The emphasis is on the vibration spectroscopic techniques including IR, NIR, Raman and optical activity (ROA), as well as vibration circular dichroism (VCD) and fluorescence spectroscopy. In addition, some new developments, such as hetero-spectral 2DCOS, moving-window correlation, and model based correlation, are also reviewed for their utility in the investigation of the secondary structure, denaturation, folding and unfolding changes of protein. Finally, the new possibility and challenges of 2DCOS in protein research are highlighted as well.

Water recovery and solid waste processing for aerospace and domestic applications. Volume 1: Final report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murray, R. W.

1973-01-01

A comprehensive study of advanced water recovery and solid waste processing techniques employed in both aerospace and domestic or commercial applications is reported. A systems approach was used to synthesize a prototype system design of an advanced water treatment/waste processing system. Household water use characteristics were studied and modified through the use of low water use devices and a limited amount of water reuse. This modified household system was then used as a baseline system for development of several water treatment waste processing systems employing advanced techniques. A hybrid of these systems was next developed and a preliminary design was generated to define system and hardware functions.

Investigation of bus transit schedule behavior modeling using advanced techniques

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

Kalaputapu, R.; Demetsky, M.J.

This research focused on investigating the application of artificial neural networks (ANN) and the Box-Jenkins technique for developing and testing schedule behavior models using data obtained for a test route from Tidewater Regional Transit`s AVL system. The three ANN architectures investigated were: Feedforward Network, Elman Network and Jordan Network. In addition, five different model structures were investigated. The time-series methodology was adopted for developing the schedule behavior models. Finally, the role of a schedule behavior model within the framework of an intelligent transit management system is defined and the potential utility of the schedule behavior model is discussed using anmore » example application.« less

F100 Multivariable Control Synthesis Program. Computer Implementation of the F100 Multivariable Control Algorithm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soeder, J. F.

1983-01-01

As turbofan engines become more complex, the development of controls necessitate the use of multivariable control techniques. A control developed for the F100-PW-100(3) turbofan engine by using linear quadratic regulator theory and other modern multivariable control synthesis techniques is described. The assembly language implementation of this control on an SEL 810B minicomputer is described. This implementation was then evaluated by using a real-time hybrid simulation of the engine. The control software was modified to run with a real engine. These modifications, in the form of sensor and actuator failure checks and control executive sequencing, are discussed. Finally recommendations for control software implementations are presented.

Lightweight and Statistical Techniques for Petascale Debugging: Correctness on Petascale Systems (CoPS) Preliminry Report

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

de Supinski, B R; Miller, B P; Liblit, B

2011-09-13

Petascale platforms with O(10{sup 5}) and O(10{sup 6}) processing cores are driving advancements in a wide range of scientific disciplines. These large systems create unprecedented application development challenges. Scalable correctness tools are critical to shorten the time-to-solution on these systems. Currently, many DOE application developers use primitive manual debugging based on printf or traditional debuggers such as TotalView or DDT. This paradigm breaks down beyond a few thousand cores, yet bugs often arise above that scale. Programmers must reproduce problems in smaller runs to analyze them with traditional tools, or else perform repeated runs at scale using only primitive techniques.more » Even when traditional tools run at scale, the approach wastes substantial effort and computation cycles. Continued scientific progress demands new paradigms for debugging large-scale applications. The Correctness on Petascale Systems (CoPS) project is developing a revolutionary debugging scheme that will reduce the debugging problem to a scale that human developers can comprehend. The scheme can provide precise diagnoses of the root causes of failure, including suggestions of the location and the type of errors down to the level of code regions or even a single execution point. Our fundamentally new strategy combines and expands three relatively new complementary debugging approaches. The Stack Trace Analysis Tool (STAT), a 2011 R&D 100 Award Winner, identifies behavior equivalence classes in MPI jobs and highlights behavior when elements of the class demonstrate divergent behavior, often the first indicator of an error. The Cooperative Bug Isolation (CBI) project has developed statistical techniques for isolating programming errors in widely deployed code that we will adapt to large-scale parallel applications. Finally, we are developing a new approach to parallelizing expensive correctness analyses, such as analysis of memory usage in the Memgrind tool. In the first two years of the project, we have successfully extended STAT to determine the relative progress of different MPI processes. We have shown that the STAT, which is now included in the debugging tools distributed by Cray with their large-scale systems, substantially reduces the scale at which traditional debugging techniques are applied. We have extended CBI to large-scale systems and developed new compiler based analyses that reduce its instrumentation overhead. Our results demonstrate that CBI can identify the source of errors in large-scale applications. Finally, we have developed MPIecho, a new technique that will reduce the time required to perform key correctness analyses, such as the detection of writes to unallocated memory. Overall, our research results are the foundations for new debugging paradigms that will improve application scientist productivity by reducing the time to determine which package or module contains the root cause of a problem that arises at all scales of our high end systems. While we have made substantial progress in the first two years of CoPS research, significant work remains. While STAT provides scalable debugging assistance for incorrect application runs, we could apply its techniques to assertions in order to observe deviations from expected behavior. Further, we must continue to refine STAT's techniques to represent behavioral equivalence classes efficiently as we expect systems with millions of threads in the next year. We are exploring new CBI techniques that can assess the likelihood that execution deviations from past behavior are the source of erroneous execution. Finally, we must develop usable correctness analyses that apply the MPIecho parallelization strategy in order to locate coding errors. We expect to make substantial progress on these directions in the next year but anticipate that significant work will remain to provide usable, scalable debugging paradigms.« less

Study of sampling systems for comets and Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amundsen, R. J.; Clark, B. C.

1987-01-01

Several aspects of the techniques that can be applied to acquisition and preservation of samples from Mars and a cometary nucleus were examined. Scientific approaches to sampling, grounded in proven engineering methods are the key to achieving the maximum science value from the sample return mission. If development of these approaches for collecting and preserving does not preceed mission definition, it is likely that only suboptimal techniques will be available because of the constraints of formal schedule timelines and the normal pressure to select only the most conservative and least sophisticated approaches when development has lagged the mission milestones. With a reasonable investment now, before the final mission definition, the sampling approach can become highly developed, ready for implementation, and mature enough to help set the requirements for the mission hardware and its performance.

Characterization and measurement of natural gas trace constituents. Volume 1. Arsenic. Final report, June 1989-October 1993

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

Chao, S.S.; Attari, A.

1995-01-01

The discovery of arsenic compounds, as alkylarsines, in natural gas prompted this research program to develop reliable measurement techniques needed to assess the efficiency of removal processes for these environmentally sensitive substances. These techniques include sampling, speciation, quantitation and on-line instrumental methods for monitoring the total arsenic concentration. The current program has yielded many products, including calibration standards, arsenic-specific sorbents, sensitive analytical methods and instrumentation. Four laboratory analytical methods have been developed and successfully employed for arsenic determination in natural gas. These methods use GC-AED and GC-MS instruments to speciate alkylarsines, and peroxydisulfate extraction with FIAS, special carbon sorbent withmore » XRF and an IGT developed sorbent with GFAA for total arsenic measurement.« less

RLV Turbine Performance Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Griffin, Lisa W.; Dorney, Daniel J.

2001-01-01

A task was developed at NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to improve turbine aerodynamic performance through the application of advanced design and analysis tools. There are four major objectives of this task: 1) to develop, enhance, and integrate advanced turbine aerodynamic design and analysis tools; 2) to develop the methodology for application of the analytical techniques; 3) to demonstrate the benefits of the advanced turbine design procedure through its application to a relevant turbine design point; and 4) to verify the optimized design and analysis with testing. Final results of the preliminary design and the results of the two-dimensional (2D) detailed design of the first-stage vane of a supersonic turbine suitable for a reusable launch vehicle (R-LV) are presented. Analytical techniques for obtaining the results are also discussed.

Final Report on Activities Supported by Department of Energy Grant No. DE-FG02-02ER63397, 2002-August 31, 2005

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

Madelaine Marquez; Neil Stillings

The grant supported four projects that involved professional development for teachers and enrichment programs for students from under-funded and under-served school districts. The projects involved long-term partnerships between Hampshire College and the districts. All projects were concerned with the effective implementation of inquiry-based science learning and its alignment with state and national curriculum and assessment standards. One project, The Collaboration for Excellence in Science Education (CESE), was designed to support research on the development of concepts in the physical sciences, specifically energy and waves. Extensive data from student interviews and written essays supported the neo-Piagetian hierarchical complexity theory of thismore » area of conceptual development. New assessment techniques that can be used by teachers were also developed. The final report includes a full presentation of the methods and results of the research.« less

Applications of Deep Learning and Reinforcement Learning to Biological Data.

PubMed

Mahmud, Mufti; Kaiser, Mohammed Shamim; Hussain, Amir; Vassanelli, Stefano

2018-06-01

Rapid advances in hardware-based technologies during the past decades have opened up new possibilities for life scientists to gather multimodal data in various application domains, such as omics, bioimaging, medical imaging, and (brain/body)-machine interfaces. These have generated novel opportunities for development of dedicated data-intensive machine learning techniques. In particular, recent research in deep learning (DL), reinforcement learning (RL), and their combination (deep RL) promise to revolutionize the future of artificial intelligence. The growth in computational power accompanied by faster and increased data storage, and declining computing costs have already allowed scientists in various fields to apply these techniques on data sets that were previously intractable owing to their size and complexity. This paper provides a comprehensive survey on the application of DL, RL, and deep RL techniques in mining biological data. In addition, we compare the performances of DL techniques when applied to different data sets across various application domains. Finally, we outline open issues in this challenging research area and discuss future development perspectives.

Development of a 3D muon disappearance algorithm for muon scattering tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blackwell, T. B.; Kudryavtsev, V. A.

2015-05-01

Upon passing through a material, muons lose energy, scatter off nuclei and atomic electrons, and can stop in the material. Muons will more readily lose energy in higher density materials. Therefore multiple muon disappearances within a localized volume may signal the presence of high-density materials. We have developed a new technique that improves the sensitivity of standard muon scattering tomography. This technique exploits these muon disappearances to perform non-destructive assay of an inspected volume. Muons that disappear have their track evaluated using a 3D line extrapolation algorithm, which is in turn used to construct a 3D tomographic image of the inspected volume. Results of Monte Carlo simulations that measure muon disappearance in different types of target materials are presented. The ability to differentiate between different density materials using the 3D line extrapolation algorithm is established. Finally the capability of this new muon disappearance technique to enhance muon scattering tomography techniques in detecting shielded HEU in cargo containers has been demonstrated.

Three examples of applied remote sensing of vegetation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rouse, J. W., Jr.; Benton, A. R., Jr.; Toler, R. W.; Haas, R. H.

1975-01-01

Cause studies in which remote sensing techniques were adapted to assist in the solution of particular problem situations in Texas involving vegetation are described. In each case, the final sensing technique developed for operational use by the concerned organizations employed photographic sensors which were optimized through studies of the spectral reflectance characteristics of the vegetation species and background conditions unique to the problem being considered. The three examples described are: (1) Assisting Aquatic Plant Monitoring and Control; (2) Improving Vegetation Utilization in Urban Planning; and (3) Enforcing the Quarantine of Diseased Crops.

Biomass to Liquid Fuels and Electrical Power

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

Taylor, Steven; McDonald, Timothy; Gallagher, Thomas

This research program provided data on immediate applicability of forest biomass production and logistics models. Also, the research further developed and optimized fractionation techniques that can be used to separate biomass feedstocks into their basic chemical constituents. Finally, additional research established systematic techniques to determine economically feasible technologies for production of biomass-derived synthesis gases that will be used for clean, renewable power generation and for production of liquid transportation fuels. Moreover, this research program continued our efforts to educate the next generation of engineers and scientists needed to implement these technologies.

Evaluation of methods for rapid determination of freezing point of aviation fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mathiprakasam, B.

1982-01-01

Methods for identification of the more promising concepts for the development of a portable instrument to rapidly determine the freezing point of aviation fuels are described. The evaluation process consisted of: (1) collection of information on techniques previously used for the determination of the freezing point, (2) screening and selection of these techniques for further evaluation of their suitability in a portable unit for rapid measurement, and (3) an extensive experimental evaluation of the selected techniques and a final selection of the most promising technique. Test apparatuses employing differential thermal analysis and the change in optical transparency during phase change were evaluated and tested. A technique similar to differential thermal analysis using no reference fuel was investigated. In this method, the freezing point was obtained by digitizing the data and locating the point of inflection. Results obtained using this technique compare well with those obtained elsewhere using different techniques. A conceptual design of a portable instrument incorporating this technique is presented.

A multichannel fiber optic photometer present performance and future developments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barwig, H.; Schoembs, R.; Huber, G.

1988-01-01

A three channel photometer for simultaneous multicolor observations was designed with the aim of making possible highly efficient photometry of fast variable objects like cataclysmic variables. Experiences with this instrument over a period of three years are presented. Aspects of the special techniques applied are discussed with respect to high precision photometry. In particular, the use of fiber optics is critically analyzed. Finally, the development of a new photometer concept is discussed.

Advanced Neuroimaging in Traumatic Brain Injury

PubMed Central

Edlow, Brian L.; Wu, Ona

2013-01-01

Advances in structural and functional neuroimaging have occurred at a rapid pace over the past two decades. Novel techniques for measuring cerebral blood flow, metabolism, white matter connectivity, and neural network activation have great potential to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and prognosis for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), while also providing biomarkers to guide the development of new therapies. Several of these advanced imaging modalities are currently being implemented into clinical practice, whereas others require further development and validation. Ultimately, for advanced neuroimaging techniques to reach their full potential and improve clinical care for the many civilians and military personnel affected by TBI, it is critical for clinicians to understand the applications and methodological limitations of each technique. In this review, we examine recent advances in structural and functional neuroimaging and the potential applications of these techniques to the clinical care of patients with TBI. We also discuss pitfalls and confounders that should be considered when interpreting data from each technique. Finally, given the vast amounts of advanced imaging data that will soon be available to clinicians, we discuss strategies for optimizing data integration, visualization and interpretation. PMID:23361483

In silico comparison of the reproducibility of full-arch implant provisional restorations to final restoration between a 3D Scan/CAD/CAM technique and the conventional method.

PubMed

Mino, Takuya; Maekawa, Kenji; Ueda, Akihiro; Higuchi, Shizuo; Sejima, Junichi; Takeuchi, Tetsuo; Hara, Emilio Satoshi; Kimura-Ono, Aya; Sonoyama, Wataru; Kuboki, Takuo

2015-04-01

The aim of this article was to investigate the accuracy in the reproducibility of full-arch implant provisional restorations to final restorations between a 3D Scan/CAD/CAM technique and the conventional method. We fabricated two final restorations for rehabilitation of maxillary and mandibular complete edentulous area and performed a computer-based comparative analysis of the accuracy in the reproducibility of the provisional restoration to final restoration between a 3D scanning and CAD/CAM (Scan/CAD/CAM) technique and the conventional silicone-mold transfer technique. Final restorations fabricated either by the conventional or Scan/CAD/CAM method were successfully installed in the patient. The total concave/convex volume discrepancy observed with the Scan/CAD/CAM technique was 503.50mm(3) and 338.15 mm(3) for maxillary and mandibular implant-supported prostheses (ISPs), respectively. On the other hand, total concave/convex volume discrepancy observed with the conventional method was markedly high (1106.84 mm(3) and 771.23 mm(3) for maxillary and mandibular ISPs, respectively). The results of the present report suggest that Scan/CAD/CAM method enables a more precise and accurate transfer of provisional restorations to final restorations compared to the conventional method. Copyright © 2014 Japan Prosthodontic Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Unsupervised, Robust Estimation-based Clustering for Multispectral Images

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Netanyahu, Nathan S.

1997-01-01

To prepare for the challenge of handling the archiving and querying of terabyte-sized scientific spatial databases, the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Applied Information Sciences Branch (AISB, Code 935) developed a number of characterization algorithms that rely on supervised clustering techniques. The research reported upon here has been aimed at continuing the evolution of some of these supervised techniques, namely the neural network and decision tree-based classifiers, plus extending the approach to incorporating unsupervised clustering algorithms, such as those based on robust estimation (RE) techniques. The algorithms developed under this task should be suited for use by the Intelligent Information Fusion System (IIFS) metadata extraction modules, and as such these algorithms must be fast, robust, and anytime in nature. Finally, so that the planner/schedule module of the IlFS can oversee the use and execution of these algorithms, all information required by the planner/scheduler must be provided to the IIFS development team to ensure the timely integration of these algorithms into the overall system.

An Optimal Order Nonnested Mixed Multigrid Method for Generalized Stokes Problems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deng, Qingping

1996-01-01

A multigrid algorithm is developed and analyzed for generalized Stokes problems discretized by various nonnested mixed finite elements within a unified framework. It is abstractly proved by an element-independent analysis that the multigrid algorithm converges with an optimal order if there exists a 'good' prolongation operator. A technique to construct a 'good' prolongation operator for nonnested multilevel finite element spaces is proposed. Its basic idea is to introduce a sequence of auxiliary nested multilevel finite element spaces and define a prolongation operator as a composite operator of two single grid level operators. This makes not only the construction of a prolongation operator much easier (the final explicit forms of such prolongation operators are fairly simple), but the verification of the approximate properties for prolongation operators is also simplified. Finally, as an application, the framework and technique is applied to seven typical nonnested mixed finite elements.

Change detection from remotely sensed images: From pixel-based to object-based approaches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussain, Masroor; Chen, Dongmei; Cheng, Angela; Wei, Hui; Stanley, David

2013-06-01

The appetite for up-to-date information about earth's surface is ever increasing, as such information provides a base for a large number of applications, including local, regional and global resources monitoring, land-cover and land-use change monitoring, and environmental studies. The data from remote sensing satellites provide opportunities to acquire information about land at varying resolutions and has been widely used for change detection studies. A large number of change detection methodologies and techniques, utilizing remotely sensed data, have been developed, and newer techniques are still emerging. This paper begins with a discussion of the traditionally pixel-based and (mostly) statistics-oriented change detection techniques which focus mainly on the spectral values and mostly ignore the spatial context. This is succeeded by a review of object-based change detection techniques. Finally there is a brief discussion of spatial data mining techniques in image processing and change detection from remote sensing data. The merits and issues of different techniques are compared. The importance of the exponential increase in the image data volume and multiple sensors and associated challenges on the development of change detection techniques are highlighted. With the wide use of very-high-resolution (VHR) remotely sensed images, object-based methods and data mining techniques may have more potential in change detection.

Fire-protection research for energy technology: Fy 80 year end report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasegawa, H. K.; Alvares, N. J.; Lipska, A. E.; Ford, H.; Priante, S.; Beason, D. G.

1981-05-01

This continuing research program was initiated in order to advance fire protection strategies for Fusion Energy Experiments (FEE). The program expanded to encompass other forms of energy research. Accomplishments for fiscal year 1980 were: finalization of the fault-free analysis of the Shiva fire management system; development of a second-generation, fire-growth analysis using an alternate model and new LLNL combustion dynamics data; improvements of techniques for chemical smoke aerosol analysis; development and test of a simple method to assess the corrosive potential of smoke aerosols; development of an initial aerosol dilution system; completion of primary small-scale tests for measurements of the dynamics of cable fires; finalization of primary survey format for non-LLNL energy technology facilities; and studies of fire dynamics and aerosol production from electrical insulation and computer tape cassettes.

Cost and Schedule Analytical Techniques Development: Option 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

This Final Report summarizes the activities performed by Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) for the base contract year from December 1, 1995 through November 30, 1996. The Final Report is in compliance with Paragraph 5 of Section F of the contract. This CSATD contract provides technical services and products to the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center's (MSFC) Engineering Cost Office (PPO3) and the Program Plans and Requirements Officer (PPO2). Detailed Monthly Progress Reports were submitted to MSFC in accordance with the contract's Statement of Work Section IV "Reporting and Documentation". These reports spelled out each month's specific work accomplishments, deliverables submitted, major meetings held, and other pertinent information. This Final Report will summarize these activities at a higher level.

Development of optical systems. [holographic technique for monitoring crystal growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vikram, Chandra S.

1995-01-01

Several key aspects of multi-color holography and laser speckle technique to study holographic reconstructions are considered in the report. Holographic fringe contrast in two-color holography in the presence of a fluid cell in the object beam is discussed in detail. A specific example of triglycine sulfate crystal growth is also considered. A breadboard design using fiber optics and diode lasers for three-color holography for fluid experiments is presented. A possible role of multi-color holography in various new applications is summarized. Finally, the use of a a laser speckle technique is demonstrated for the study of holographic reconstructions. The demonstration is performed using a Spacelab 3 hologram.

Development and fabrication of patient-specific knee implant using additive manufacturing techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zammit, Robert; Rochman, Arif

2017-10-01

Total knee replacement is the most effective treatment to relief pain and restore normal function in a diseased knee joint. The aim of this research was to develop a patient-specific knee implant which can be fabricated using additive manufacturing techniques and has reduced wear rates using a highly wear resistant materials. The proposed design was chosen based on implant requirements, such as reduction in wear rates as well as strong fixation. The patient-specific knee implant improves on conventional knee implants by modifying the articulating surfaces and bone-implant interfaces. Moreover, tribological tests of different polymeric wear couples were carried out to determine the optimal materials to use for the articulating surfaces. Finite element analysis was utilized to evaluate the stresses sustained by the proposed design. Finally, the patient-specific knee implant was successfully built using additive manufacturing techniques.

Advances in Small Animal Imaging Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loudos, George K.

2007-11-01

The rapid growth in genetics and molecular biology combined with the development of techniques for genetically engineering small animals has led to an increased interest in in vivo laboratory animal imaging during the past few years. For this purpose, new instrumentation, data acquisition strategies, and image processing and reconstruction techniques are being developed, researched and evaluated. The aim of this article is to give a short overview of the state of the art technologies for high resolution and high sensitivity molecular imaging techniques, primarily positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). The basic needs of small animal imaging will be described. The evolution in instrumentation in the past two decades, as well as the commercially available systems will be overviewed. Finally, the new trends in detector technology and preliminary results from challenging applications will be presented. For more details a number of references are provided.

Laser techniques in high-pressure geophysics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hemley, R. J.; Bell, P. M.; Mao, H. K.

1987-01-01

Laser techniques in conjunction with the diamond-anvil cell can be used to study high-pressure properties of materials important to a wide range of problems in earth and planetary science. Spontaneous Raman scattering of crystalline and amorphous solids at high pressure demonstrates that dramatic changes in structure and bonding occur on compression. High-pressure Brillouin scattering is sensitive to the pressure variations of single-crystal elastic moduli and acoustic velocities. Laser heating techniques with the diamond-anvil cell can be used to study phase transitions, including melting, under deep-earth conditions. Finally, laser-induced ruby fluorescence has been essential for the development of techniques for generating the maximum pressures now possible with the diamond-anvil cell, and currently provides a calibrated in situ measure of pressure well above 100 gigapascals.

Detection of proteolytic activity by covalent tethering of fluorogenic substrates in zymogram gels.

PubMed

Deshmukh, Ameya A; Weist, Jessica L; Leight, Jennifer L

2018-05-01

Current zymographic techniques detect only a subset of known proteases due to the limited number of native proteins that have been optimized for incorporation into polyacrylamide gels. To address this limitation, we have developed a technique to covalently incorporate fluorescently labeled, protease-sensitive peptides using an azido-PEG3-maleimide crosslinker. Peptides incorporated into gels enabled measurement of MMP-2, -9, -14, and bacterial collagenase. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that use of peptide functionalized gels could surpass detection limits of current techniques. Finally, electrophoresis of conditioned media from cultured cells resulted in the appearance of several proteolytic bands, some of which were undetectable by gelatin zymography. Taken together, these results demonstrate that covalent incorporation of fluorescent substrates can greatly expand the library of detectable proteases using zymographic techniques.

[Application of THz technology to nondestructive detection of agricultural product quality].

PubMed

Jiang, Yu-ying; Ge, Hong-yi; Lian, Fei-yu; Zhang, Yuan; Xia, Shan-hong

2014-08-01

With recent development of THz sources and detector, applications of THz radiation to nondestructive testing and quality control have expanded in many fields, such as agriculture, safety inspection and quality control, medicine, biochemistry, communication etc. Compared with other detection technique, being a new kind of technique, THz radiation has low energy, good perspectivity, and high signal-to-noise ratio, and thus can obtain physical, chemical and biological information. This paper first introduces the basic concept of THz radiation and the major properties, then gives an extensive review of recent research progress in detection of the quality of agricultural products via THz technique, analyzes the existing shortcomings of THz detection and discusses the outlook of potential application, finally proposes the new application of THz technique to detection of quality of stored grain.

Development of tritium permeation barriers on Al base in Europe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benamati, G.; Chabrol, C.; Perujo, A.; Rigal, E.; Glasbrenner, H.

The development of the water cooled lithium lead (WCLL) DEMO fusion reactor requires the production of a material capable of acting as a tritium permeation barrier (TPB). In the DEMO blanket reactor permeation barriers on the structural material are required to reduce the tritium permeation from the Pb-17Li or the plasma into the cooling water to acceptable levels (<1 g/d). Because of experimental work previously performed, one of the most promising TPB candidates is A1 base coatings. Within the EU a large R&D programme is in progress to develop a TPB fabrication technique, compatible with the structural materials requirements and capable of producing coatings with acceptable performances. The research is focused on chemical vapour deposition (CVD), hot dipping, hot isostatic pressing (HIP) technology and spray (this one developed also for repair) deposition techniques. The final goal is to select a reference technique to be used in the blanket of the DEMO reactor and in the ITER test module fabrication. The activities performed in four European laboratories are summarised here.

Improving Follow-up Response Rate at Brevard Community College. Final Report from September 24, 1984 to August 31, 1985.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lawton, Robert E.

A plan was developed to improve followup study response rates by refining techniques for data collection and improving student motivation to respond to daily requests. Factors affecting response rate to followup surveys were investigated, and alternative approaches were recommended. Findings indicated that current procedures--two mailouts of…

Studies in Mathematics, Volume XVIII: Puzzle Problems and Games Project. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dilworth, R. P.; And Others

This is a self-contained manual for use by teachers in preparation for classroom presentations. One of the goals of the report is to show how games and puzzles can provide effective means for developing mathematical understanding and skills. The authors indicate that this type of activity is well adapted for discovery teaching techniques. The…

Kansas Manpower Utilization System for Training (K-MUST): Final Report: Volume 1: System Documentation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scott, Robert E.; And Others

K-MUST, Kansas Manpower Utilization System for Training, provides an information base and management tools to be used by occupational education planners and administrators to optimize the societal and student benefits received from the expenditure of vocational monies. This first part of a two part report describes techniques used to develop,…

Introducing 12 Year-Olds to Elementary Particles

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wiener, Gerfried J.; Schmeling, Sascha M.; Hopf, Martin

2017-01-01

We present a new learning unit, which introduces 12 year-olds to the subatomic structure of matter. The learning unit was iteratively developed as a design-based research project using the technique of probing acceptance. We give a brief overview of the unit's final version, discuss its key ideas and main concepts, and conclude by highlighting the…

Developing Specialized Programs for Singing in the Elementary School. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gould, A. Oren

The objectives of this research into ways of helping children who have difficulty finding and using their singing voices were (1) to make an intensive study of singing difficulties of elementary-school children, (2) to discover, observe, and analyze successful techniques and materials for use with children who have not learned to "carry a tune,"…

An Information-Systems Program for the Language Sciences. Final Report on Survey-and-Analysis Stage, 1967-1968.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Freeman, Robert R.; And Others

The main results of the survey-and-analysis stage include a substantial collection of preliminary data on the language-sciences information user community, its professional specialties and information channels, its indexing tools, and its terminologies. The prospects and techniques for the development of a modern, discipline-based information…

Safe Driving Knowledge Dissemination and Testing Techniques. Volume III: Handbook. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McKnight, James; Green, Molly A.

Guidelines are presented for use by driver licensing agencies in the development of driver manuals, tests, and other means of disseminating information and testing license applicants. An introductory chapter discusses the purposes of written license tests and of drivers' manuals, focusing on the needs of groups of drivers based on kind of vehicle,…

A College Marketing Plan That's Working: Final Report. CASE Certification Program in Executive Management.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Noll, Gayle

In response to a 3% decline in fall 1977 enrollments, Odessa College developed and implemented a comprehensive marketing program. After initial planning, a marketing task force and nine mini-task forces were created to deal with the topics of community economic markets, community cultural markets, student retention, student recruitment techniques,…

Optimisation of a two-liquid component pre-filled acrylic bone cement system: a design of experiments approach to optimise cement final properties.

PubMed

Clements, James; Walker, Gavin; Pentlavalli, Sreekanth; Dunne, Nicholas

2014-10-01

The initial composition of acrylic bone cement along with the mixing and delivery technique used can influence its final properties and therefore its clinical success in vivo. The polymerisation of acrylic bone cement is complex with a number of processes happening simultaneously. Acrylic bone cement mixing and delivery systems have undergone several design changes in their advancement, although the cement constituents themselves have remained unchanged since they were first used. This study was conducted to determine the factors that had the greatest effect on the final properties of acrylic bone cement using a pre-filled bone cement mixing and delivery system. A design of experiments (DoE) approach was used to determine the impact of the factors associated with this mixing and delivery method on the final properties of the cement produced. The DoE illustrated that all factors present within this study had a significant impact on the final properties of the cement. An optimum cement composition was hypothesised and tested. This optimum recipe produced cement with final mechanical and thermal properties within the clinical guidelines and stated by ISO 5833 (International Standard Organisation (ISO), International standard 5833: implants for surgery-acrylic resin cements, 2002), however the low setting times observed would not be clinically viable and could result in complications during the surgical technique. As a result further development would be required to improve the setting time of the cement in order for it to be deemed suitable for use in total joint replacement surgery.

Final Report, January 1991 - July 1992

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferrara, Jon

1992-07-01

This report covers final schedules, expenses and billings, monthly reports, testing, and deliveries for this contract. The goal of the detector development program for the Solar and Heliospheric Spacecraft (SOHO) EUV Imaging Telescope (EIT) is an Extreme UltraViolet (EUV) CCD (Change Collecting Device) camera. As a part of the CCD screening effort, the quantum efficiency (QE) of a prototype CCD has been measured in the NRL EUV laboratory over the wavelength range of 256 to 735 Angstroms. A simplified model has been applied to these QE measurements to illustrate the relevant physical processes that determine the performance of the detector. The charge transfer efficiency (CTE) characteristics of the Tektronix 1024 X 1024 CCD being developed for STIS/SOHO space imaging applications have been characterized at different signal levels, operating conditions, and temperatures using a variety of test methods. A number of CCD's have been manufactured using processing techniques developed to improve CTE, and test results on these devices will be used in determining the final chip design. In this paper, we discuss the CTE test methods used and present the results and conclusions of these tests.

The da Vinci robotic surgical assisted anterior lumbar interbody fusion: technical development and case report.

PubMed

Beutler, William J; Peppelman, Walter C; DiMarco, Luciano A

2013-02-15

Technique development to use the da Vince Robotic Surgical System for anterior lumbar interbody fusion at L5-S1 is detailed. A case report is also presented. To evaluate and develop the da Vinci robotic assisted laparoscopic anterior lumbar stand-alone interbody fusion procedure. Anterior lumbar interbody fusion is a common procedure associated with potential morbidity related to the surgical approach. The da Vinci robot provides intra-abdominal dissection and visualization advantages compared with the traditional open and laparoscopic approach. The surgical techniques for approach to the anterior lumbar spine using the da Vinci robot were developed and modified progressively beginning with operative models followed by placement of an interbody fusion cage in the living porcine model. Development continued to progress with placement of fusion cage in a human cadaver, completed first in the laboratory setting and then in the operating room. Finally, the first patient with fusion completed using the da Vinci robot-assisted approach is presented. The anterior transperitoneal approach to the lumbar spine is accomplished with enhanced visualization and dissection capability, with maintenance of pneumoperitoneum using the da Vinci robot. Blood loss is minimal. The visualization inside the disc space and surrounding structures was considered better than current open and laparoscopic techniques. The da Vinci robot Surgical System technique continues to develop and is now described for the transperitoneal approach to the anterior lumbar spine. 4.

Process Development and Micro-Machining of MARBLE Foam-Cored Rexolite Hemi-Shell Ablator Capsules

DOE PAGES

Randolph, Randall Blaine; Oertel, John A.; Schmidt, Derek William; ...

2016-06-30

For this study, machined CH hemi-shell ablator capsules have been successfully produced by the MST-7 Target Fabrication Team at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Process development and micro-machining techniques have been developed to produce capsules for both the Omega and National Ignition Facility (NIF) campaigns. These capsules are gas filled up to 10 atm and consist of a machined plastic hemi-shell outer layer that accommodates various specially engineered low-density polystyrene foam cores. Machining and assembly of the two-part, step-jointed plastic hemi-shell outer layer required development of new techniques, processes, and tooling while still meeting very aggressive shot schedules for both campaigns.more » Finally, problems encountered and process improvements will be discussed that describe this very unique, complex capsule design approach through the first Omega proof-of-concept version to the larger NIF version.« less

Extended vertical range roughness measurements in non-ideal environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Creath, Katherine

2011-09-01

This paper describes recent research into developing an extended range dynamic interferometry technique where the range is extended vertically to enhance surface roughness measurements made in non-ideal environments. Utilizing short pulses from two sources on either side of a frame transfer in a CCD sensor, data can be taken fast enough in noisy shop environments to make measurements in the presence of vibration, and air turbulence. A key application of this technique is monitoring of surface roughness of large optics during the polishing process by making in situ measurements from fine grind through to the final polish. It is anticipated that this monitoring can help speed up what is now a very lengthy process. This same technique is applicable to many other types of measurements including MEMS devices, as it is not affected by dispersion in windows covering devices, and for measuring features on flat panel display glass or semiconductor wafers. This paper describes the technique, and presents results of a variety of sample measurements including: bare glass in various states of polish from fine grind to final polish, scratches and pits in a roughened semiconductor wafer, a DMD MEMS device, and various calibration standards. Performance in terms of repeatabilitity of step heights and roughness for this proof of concept is in the +/-2% range.

Applications of hyperspectral imaging in chicken meat safety and quality detection and evaluation: a review.

PubMed

Xiong, Zhenjie; Xie, Anguo; Sun, Da-Wen; Zeng, Xin-An; Liu, Dan

2015-01-01

Currently, the issue of food safety and quality is a great public concern. In order to satisfy the demands of consumers and obtain superior food qualities, non-destructive and fast methods are required for quality evaluation. As one of these methods, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technique has emerged as a smart and promising analytical tool for quality evaluation purposes and has attracted much interest in non-destructive analysis of different food products. With the main advantage of combining both spectroscopy technique and imaging technique, HSI technique shows a convinced attitude to detect and evaluate chicken meat quality objectively. Moreover, developing a quality evaluation system based on HSI technology would bring economic benefits to the chicken meat industry. Therefore, in recent years, many studies have been conducted on using HSI technology for the safety and quality detection and evaluation of chicken meat. The aim of this review is thus to give a detailed overview about HSI and focus on the recently developed methods exerted in HSI technology developed for microbiological spoilage detection and quality classification of chicken meat. Moreover, the usefulness of HSI technique for detecting fecal contamination and bone fragments of chicken carcasses are presented. Finally, some viewpoints on its future research and applicability in the modern poultry industry are proposed.

Development of a competency framework for optometrists with a specialist interest in glaucoma.

PubMed

Myint, J; Edgar, D F; Kotecha, A; Crabb, D P; Lawrenson, J G

2010-09-01

To develop a competency framework, using a modified Delphi methodology, for optometrists with a specialist interest in glaucoma, which would provide a basis for training and accreditation. A modified iterative Delphi technique was used using a 16-member panel consisting almost exclusively of sub-specialist optometrists and ophthalmologists. The first round involved scoring the relevance of a draft series of competencies using a 9-point Likert scale with a free-text option to modify any competency or suggest additional competencies. The revised framework was subjected to a second round of scoring and free-text comment. The Delphi process was followed by a face-to-face structured workshop to debate and agree the final framework. The version of the framework agreed at the workshop was sent out for a 4-month period of external stakeholder validation. There was a 100% response to round 1 and an 94% response to round 2. All panel members attended the workshop. The final version of the competency framework was validated by a subsequent stakeholder consultation and contained 19 competencies for the diagnosis of glaucoma and 7 further competencies for monitoring and treatment. Application of a consensus methodology consisting of a modified Delphi technique allowed the development of a competency framework for glaucoma specialisation by optometrists. This will help to shape the development of a speciality curriculum and potentially could be adapted for other healthcare professionals.

Current status and some future test directions for the U.S. National Transonic Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gloss, Blair B.

1992-01-01

The construction of the National Transonic Facility was completed in September 1982 and the start-up and checkout of the tunnel systems were performed over the following two years. In August 1984, the facility was declared operational for final checkout of cryogenic instrumentation and control systems, and for the aerodynamics calibration and testing to commence. Since 1984 several operational problems have been identified and successfully solved which is demonstrated by the fact that the facility has operated the last year with no significant facility down times. Also during this time period, development of test techniques and instrumentation has continued. This paper will review some of the recent test techniques and instrumentation developments, and will briefly review the status of the facility.

Quantifying risk and accuracy in cancer risk assessment: the process and its role in risk management problem-solving.

PubMed

Turturro, A; Hart, R W

1987-01-01

A better understanding of chemical-induced cancer has led to appreciation of similarities to problems addressed by risk management of radiation-induced toxicity. Techniques developed for cancer risk assessment of toxic substances can be generalized to toxic agents. A recent problem-solving approach for risk management of toxic substances developed for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the role of risk assessment and how uncertainty should be treated within the context of this approach, is discussed. Finally, two different methods, research into the assumptions underlying risk assessment and the modification of risk assessment/risk management documents, are used to illustrate how the technique can be applied.

Optics of high-performance electron microscopes*

PubMed Central

Rose, H H

2008-01-01

During recent years, the theory of charged particle optics together with advances in fabrication tolerances and experimental techniques has lead to very significant advances in high-performance electron microscopes. Here, we will describe which theoretical tools, inventions and designs have driven this development. We cover the basic theory of higher-order electron optics and of image formation in electron microscopes. This leads to a description of different methods to correct aberrations by multipole fields and to a discussion of the most advanced design that take advantage of these techniques. The theory of electron mirrors is developed and it is shown how this can be used to correct aberrations and to design energy filters. Finally, different types of energy filters are described. PMID:27877933

Improving "lab-on-a-chip" techniques using biomedical nanotechnology: a review.

PubMed

Gorjikhah, Fatemeh; Davaran, Soodabeh; Salehi, Roya; Bakhtiari, Mohsen; Hasanzadeh, Arash; Panahi, Yunes; Emamverdy, Masumeh; Akbarzadeh, Abolfazl

2016-11-01

Nanotechnology and its applications in biomedical sciences principally in molecular nanodiagnostics are known as nanomolecular diagnostics, which provides new options for clinical nanodiagnostic techniques. Molecular nanodiagnostics are a critical role in the development of personalized medicine, which features point-of care performance of diagnostic procedure. This can to check patients at point-of-care facilities or in remote or resource-poor locations, therefore reducing checking time from days to minutes. In this review, applications of nanotechnology suited to biomedicine are discussed in two main class: biomedical applications for use inside (such as drugs, diagnostic techniques, prostheses, and implants) and outside the body (such as "lab-on-a-chip" techniques). A lab-on-a-chip (LOC) is a tool that incorporates numerous laboratory tasks onto a small device, usually only millimeters or centimeters in size. Finally, are discussed the applications of biomedical nanotechnology in improving "lab-on-a-chip" techniques.

A comparative analysis of soft computing techniques for gene prediction.

PubMed

Goel, Neelam; Singh, Shailendra; Aseri, Trilok Chand

2013-07-01

The rapid growth of genomic sequence data for both human and nonhuman species has made analyzing these sequences, especially predicting genes in them, very important and is currently the focus of many research efforts. Beside its scientific interest in the molecular biology and genomics community, gene prediction is of considerable importance in human health and medicine. A variety of gene prediction techniques have been developed for eukaryotes over the past few years. This article reviews and analyzes the application of certain soft computing techniques in gene prediction. First, the problem of gene prediction and its challenges are described. These are followed by different soft computing techniques along with their application to gene prediction. In addition, a comparative analysis of different soft computing techniques for gene prediction is given. Finally some limitations of the current research activities and future research directions are provided. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Randolph, Randall Blaine; Oertel, John A.; Schmidt, Derek William

For this study, machined CH hemi-shell ablator capsules have been successfully produced by the MST-7 Target Fabrication Team at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Process development and micro-machining techniques have been developed to produce capsules for both the Omega and National Ignition Facility (NIF) campaigns. These capsules are gas filled up to 10 atm and consist of a machined plastic hemi-shell outer layer that accommodates various specially engineered low-density polystyrene foam cores. Machining and assembly of the two-part, step-jointed plastic hemi-shell outer layer required development of new techniques, processes, and tooling while still meeting very aggressive shot schedules for both campaigns.more » Finally, problems encountered and process improvements will be discussed that describe this very unique, complex capsule design approach through the first Omega proof-of-concept version to the larger NIF version.« less

Analysis and application of intelligence network based on FTTH

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Xiancheng; Yun, Xiang

2008-12-01

With the continued rapid growth of Internet, new network service emerges in endless stream, especially the increase of network game, meeting TV, video on demand, etc. The bandwidth requirement increase continuously. Network technique, optical device technical development is swift and violent. FTTH supports all present and future service with enormous bandwidth, including traditional telecommunication service, traditional data service and traditional TV service, and the future digital TV and VOD. With huge bandwidth of FTTH, it wins the final solution of broadband network, becomes the final goal of development of optical access network. Firstly, it introduces the main service which FTTH supports, main analysis key technology such as FTTH system composition way, topological structure, multiplexing, optical cable and device. It focus two kinds of realization methods - PON, P2P technology. Then it proposed that the solution of FTTH can support comprehensive access (service such as broadband data, voice, video and narrowband private line). Finally, it shows the engineering application for FTTH in the district and building. It brings enormous economic benefits and social benefit.

Automated payload experiment tool feasibility study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maddux, Gary A.; Clark, James; Delugach, Harry; Hammons, Charles; Logan, Julie; Provancha, Anna

1991-01-01

To achieve an environment less dependent on the flow of paper, automated techniques of data storage and retrieval must be utilized. The prototype under development seeks to demonstrate the ability of a knowledge-based, hypertext computer system. This prototype is concerned with the logical links between two primary NASA support documents, the Science Requirements Document (SRD) and the Engineering Requirements Document (ERD). Once developed, the final system should have the ability to guide a principal investigator through the documentation process in a more timely and efficient manner, while supplying more accurate information to the NASA payload developer.

The development of advanced manufacturing systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doumeingts, Guy; Vallespir, Bruno; Darricau, Didier; Roboam, Michel

Various methods for the design of advanced manufacturing systems (AMSs) are reviewed. The specifications for AMSs and problems inherent in their development are first discussed. Three models, the Computer Aided Manufacturing-International model, the National Bureau of Standards model, and the GRAI model, are considered in detail. Hierarchical modeling tools such as structured analysis and design techniques, Petri nets, and the Icam definition method are used in the development of integrated manufacturing models. Finally, the GRAI method is demonstrated in the design of specifications for the production management system of the Snecma AMS.

Ripeness sensor development. Final report of a Phase 2 study

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

Stroshine, R.

This is a final report for the Phase II study entitled ``Ripeness Sensor Development.`` The overall objective of the study was the development of a prototype device capable of testing whole fruits for sugar content. Although ripeness and sugar content are not synonymous, they are closely related. Furthermore, the consumer`s acceptance of or preference for fruits is strongly influenced by sugar content. Therefore, the device was called a ripeness sensor. The principle behind the measurement is proton magnetic resonance ({sup 1}H-MR). For several decades, chemists, pharmacists and other scientists have been using {sup 1}H-MR to investigate chemical structure and composition.more » More recently, the technique has been used in laboratories of the food industry for quality control. This effort represents one of the first attempts to adapt {sup 1}H-MR to use in a commercial facility. 28 refs., 36 figs., 7 tabs.« less

A scale for measuring hygiene behavior: development, reliability and validity.

PubMed

Stevenson, Richard J; Case, Trevor I; Hodgson, Deborah; Porzig-Drummond, Renata; Barouei, Javad; Oaten, Megan J

2009-09-01

There is currently no general self-report measure for assessing hygiene behavior. This article details the development and testing of such a measure. In studies 1 to 4, a total of 855 participants were used for scale and subscale development and for reliability and validity testing. The latter involved establishing the relationships between self-reported hygiene behavior and existing measures, hand hygiene behavior, illness rates, and a physiological marker of immune function. In study 5, a total of 507 participants were used to assess the psychometric properties of the final revised version of the scale. The final 23-item scale comprised 5 subscales: general, household, food-related, handwashing technique, and personal hygiene. Studies 1 to 4 confirmed the scale's reliability and validity, and study 5 confirmed the scale's 5-factor structure. The scale is potentially suitable for multiple uses, in various settings, and for experimental and correlational approaches.

Microsystems in medicine.

PubMed

Wallrabe, U; Ruther, P; Schaller, T; Schomburg, W K

1998-03-01

The complexity of modern surgical and analytical methods requires the miniaturisation of many medical devices. The LIGA technique and also mechanical microengineering are well known for the batch fabrication of microsystems. Actuators and sensors are developed based on these techniques. The hydraulic actuation principle is advantageous for medical applications since the energy may be supplied by pressurised balanced salt solution. Some examples are turbines, pumps and valves. In addition, optical sensors and components are useful for analysis and inspection as represented by microspectrometers and spherical lenses. Finally, plastic containers with microporous bottoms allow a 3-dimensional growth of cell culture systems.

Space Food

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

In planning for the long duration Apollo missions, NASA conducted extensive research into space food. One of the techniques developed was freeze drying. Action Products commercialized this technique, concentrating on snack food including the first freeze-dried ice cream. The foods are cooked, quickly frozen and then slowly heated in a vacuum chamber to remove the ice crystals formed by the freezing process. The final product retains 98 percent of its nutrition and weighs only 20 percent of its original weight. Action snacks are sold at museums, NASA facilities and are exported to a number of foreign countries. Sales run to several million dollars annually.

Development of a model for predicting NASA/MSFC program success

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Riggs, Jeffrey; Miller, Tracy; Finley, Rosemary

1990-01-01

Research conducted during the execution of a previous contract (NAS8-36955/0039) firmly established the feasibility of developing a tool to aid decision makers in predicting the potential success of proposed projects. The final report from that investigation contains an outline of the method to be applied in developing this Project Success Predictor Model. As a follow-on to the previous study, this report describes in detail the development of this model and includes full explanation of the data-gathering techniques used to poll expert opinion. The report includes the presentation of the model code itself.

Automated documentation generator for advanced protein crystal growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maddux, Gary A.; Provancha, Anna; Chattam, David

1994-01-01

To achieve an environment less dependent on the flow of paper, automated techniques of data storage and retrieval must be utilized. This software system, 'Automated Payload Experiment Tool,' seeks to provide a knowledge-based, hypertext environment for the development of NASA documentation. Once developed, the final system should be able to guide a Principal Investigator through the documentation process in a more timely and efficient manner, while supplying more accurate information to the NASA payload developer. The current system is designed for the development of the Science Requirements Document (SRD), the Experiment Requirements Document (ERD), the Project Plan, and the Safety Requirements Document.

Office of the Secretary of Defense Research, Development Test and Evaluation, Development and Test Evaluation, Defense, Director of Operational Test and Evaluation Defense, FY 1994 Budget Estimates, Justification of Estimates Submitted to Congress April 1993

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-04-01

separation capability. o Demonstrate advanced KKVs in the 6-20 KG weight class. o Test planning for SRAM/LEAP and PATRIOT/LEAP integrated technology...packaging techniques to reduce satellite size, weight , power, and total system costs. Further development of these technologies are absolutely 4...1993 o Developed a master plan with a delivery schedule for each light- weight subassembly in the sensor integration payload. o Finalized a contract for

Standardized Estimates of Time Required and Quality of Various Tasks in Household Employment. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vaughn, Janet L.

The pricing of household work can be based on standardized times established for component parts of the job. Techniques for determining these standardized times and the component parts were developed in a study conducted at Purdue University and supported by a federal grant. After a preliminary survey of homemaker practices in cleaning living…

Transfer from Audiovisual Pretraining to a Continuous Perceptual Motor Task. Final Report for Period June 1972 - August 1973.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wood, Milton E.; Gerlach, Vernon S.

A technique was developed for providing transfer-of-training from a form of audiovisual pretraining to an instrument flight task. The continuous flight task was broken into discrete categories of flight; each category combined an instrument configuration with a return-to-criterion aircraft control response. Three methods of sequencing categories…

Viking Software Data

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-05-01

RADC-TR-77-168 Final Technical Report M~ay 1977 ll VIKING SOF11WARE DATA Martin Marietta Corporation Approved for public release; distribution...practices employed on a large and complex system development by the Martin Marietta Corporation. The intent of the RADC program to which this document...the technique are described. The preparation of this report could not have been accomplished without considerable assistance from fellow Martin

Fast Solvers for Moving Material Interfaces

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-01

interface method—with the semi-Lagrangian contouring method developed in References [16–20]. We are now finalizing portable C / C ++ codes for fast adaptive ...stepping scheme couples a CIR predictor with a trapezoidal corrector using the velocity evaluated from the CIR approximation. It combines the...formula with efficient geometric algorithms and fast accurate contouring techniques. A modular adaptive implementation with fast new geometry modules

Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Foreign Humanitarian Assistance

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-08-15

violence and nuclear, biological, or chemical (NBC) accidents). DOD policy permits military components to participate in FHA operations in response to...Acts of Man Flood, Drought, Fire, Hurricane, Earthquake Volcanic Eruption Civil Violence Nuclear, Biological, or Chemical Accidents FOREIGN DISASTERS I...Supply shortages developed, particularly of items not ordinarily required by a fighting unit — catheters for small children , for example. Finally

Rural Infant Stimulation Environment (RISE). Progress Report, July 1, 1974 to June 30, 1977. Handicapped Children's Early Education Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holder, Loreta

This final report describes a federally-funded project that was designed to provide a model for service delivery to severely physically involved infants and their families living in the highly rural area of West Alabama. The project developed and refined an eclectic treatment approach known as Developmental Physical Management Techniques (DPMT).…

Developing an ICT-Literacy Task-Based Assessment Instrument: The Findings on the Final Testing Phase

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mat-jizat, Jessnor Elmy

2013-01-01

This paper reports the findings of a study which seeks to identify the information and communications technology (ICT) literacy levels of trainee teachers, by investigating their ICT proficiency using a task-bask assessment instrument. The Delphi technique was used as a primary validation method for the new assessment tool and the ICT literacy…

Moonport: A History of Apollo Launch Facilities and Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benson, C. D.; Faherty, W. B.

1978-01-01

The development of the Apollo f launch facilities and launch operations is described from the beginning of design through the final launch. Management techniques, innovation in automation, and testing on the ground to avoid failures in space are among the topics covered. The impact of the Apollo program on the citrus groves and quiet beaches of Florida's east coast is included.

Investigations into Generalization of Constraint-Based Scheduling Theories with Applications to Space Telescope Observation Scheduling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Muscettola, Nicola; Smith, Steven S.

1996-01-01

This final report summarizes research performed under NASA contract NCC 2-531 toward generalization of constraint-based scheduling theories and techniques for application to space telescope observation scheduling problems. Our work into theories and techniques for solution of this class of problems has led to the development of the Heuristic Scheduling Testbed System (HSTS), a software system for integrated planning and scheduling. Within HSTS, planning and scheduling are treated as two complementary aspects of the more general process of constructing a feasible set of behaviors of a target system. We have validated the HSTS approach by applying it to the generation of observation schedules for the Hubble Space Telescope. This report summarizes the HSTS framework and its application to the Hubble Space Telescope domain. First, the HSTS software architecture is described, indicating (1) how the structure and dynamics of a system is modeled in HSTS, (2) how schedules are represented at multiple levels of abstraction, and (3) the problem solving machinery that is provided. Next, the specific scheduler developed within this software architecture for detailed management of Hubble Space Telescope operations is presented. Finally, experimental performance results are given that confirm the utility and practicality of the approach.

Conservative Surgical Approach to Restore Necrotic Columella in Patients Undergoing Neonatal Usage of Nasogastric Tube.

PubMed

Inchingolo, Francesco; Abenavoli, Fabio Massimo; De Angelis, Francesca; Orefici, Alessandro; Santacroce, Luigi; Dipalma, Gianna

2017-01-01

A common complication, related to the use of nasogastric tube during the 1 st day of life, is the necrosis of the columella. Esthetic damage in the early age typically leads to a healing request with very high result expectations. We aimed to develop and use an innovative surgical technique. We used our technique in four cases. Our technique requires two flaps designed with two paramedian release incisions. The two flaps will be sutured to what remains of the fibrous septum; finally, the two flaps will be sutured together in the medial region. Postoperative course was devoid of any complication. All patients gained esthetic improvements and an increase in the volume of the columella on the sagittal and frontal planes. This technique allows a conservative approach with low donor site morbidity and rapid postoperative course.

Myocardial tagging by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance: evolution of techniques--pulse sequences, analysis algorithms, and applications

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) tagging has been established as an essential technique for measuring regional myocardial function. It allows quantification of local intramyocardial motion measures, e.g. strain and strain rate. The invention of CMR tagging came in the late eighties, where the technique allowed for the first time for visualizing transmural myocardial movement without having to implant physical markers. This new idea opened the door for a series of developments and improvements that continue up to the present time. Different tagging techniques are currently available that are more extensive, improved, and sophisticated than they were twenty years ago. Each of these techniques has different versions for improved resolution, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), scan time, anatomical coverage, three-dimensional capability, and image quality. The tagging techniques covered in this article can be broadly divided into two main categories: 1) Basic techniques, which include magnetization saturation, spatial modulation of magnetization (SPAMM), delay alternating with nutations for tailored excitation (DANTE), and complementary SPAMM (CSPAMM); and 2) Advanced techniques, which include harmonic phase (HARP), displacement encoding with stimulated echoes (DENSE), and strain encoding (SENC). Although most of these techniques were developed by separate groups and evolved from different backgrounds, they are in fact closely related to each other, and they can be interpreted from more than one perspective. Some of these techniques even followed parallel paths of developments, as illustrated in the article. As each technique has its own advantages, some efforts have been made to combine different techniques together for improved image quality or composite information acquisition. In this review, different developments in pulse sequences and related image processing techniques are described along with the necessities that led to their invention, which makes this article easy to read and the covered techniques easy to follow. Major studies that applied CMR tagging for studying myocardial mechanics are also summarized. Finally, the current article includes a plethora of ideas and techniques with over 300 references that motivate the reader to think about the future of CMR tagging. PMID:21798021

An improved switching converter model. Ph.D. Thesis. Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shortt, D. J.

1982-01-01

The nonlinear modeling and analysis of dc-dc converters in the continuous mode and discontinuous mode was done by averaging and discrete sampling techniques. A model was developed by combining these two techniques. This model, the discrete average model, accurately predicts the envelope of the output voltage and is easy to implement in circuit and state variable forms. The proposed model is shown to be dependent on the type of duty cycle control. The proper selection of the power stage model, between average and discrete average, is largely a function of the error processor in the feedback loop. The accuracy of the measurement data taken by a conventional technique is affected by the conditions at which the data is collected.

Self-Tuning of Design Variables for Generalized Predictive Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, Chaung; Juang, Jer-Nan

2000-01-01

Three techniques are introduced to determine the order and control weighting for the design of a generalized predictive controller. These techniques are based on the application of fuzzy logic, genetic algorithms, and simulated annealing to conduct an optimal search on specific performance indexes or objective functions. Fuzzy logic is found to be feasible for real-time and on-line implementation due to its smooth and quick convergence. On the other hand, genetic algorithms and simulated annealing are applicable for initial estimation of the model order and control weighting, and final fine-tuning within a small region of the solution space, Several numerical simulations for a multiple-input and multiple-output system are given to illustrate the techniques developed in this paper.

Nanoscale porosity in polymer films: fabrication and therapeutic applications

PubMed Central

Bernards, Daniel A.; Desai, Tejal A.

2011-01-01

This review focuses on current developments in the field of nanostructured bulk polymers and their application in bioengineering and therapeutic sciences. In contrast to well-established nanoscale materials, such as nanoparticles and nanofibers, bulk nanostructured polymers combine nanoscale structure in a macroscopic construct, which enables unique application of these materials. Contemporary fabrication and processing techniques capable of producing nanoporous polymer films are reviewed. Focus is placed on techniques capable of sub-100 nm features since this range approaches the size scale of biological components, such as proteins and viruses. The attributes of these techniques are compared, with an emphasis on the characteristic advantages and limitations of each method. Finally, application of these materials to biofiltration, immunoisolation, and drug delivery are reviewed. PMID:22140398

Image-guided tissue engineering

PubMed Central

Ballyns, Jeffrey J; Bonassar, Lawrence J

2009-01-01

Replication of anatomic shape is a significant challenge in developing implants for regenerative medicine. This has lead to significant interest in using medical imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography to design tissue engineered constructs. Implementation of medical imaging and computer aided design in combination with technologies for rapid prototyping of living implants enables the generation of highly reproducible constructs with spatial resolution up to 25 μm. In this paper, we review the medical imaging modalities available and a paradigm for choosing a particular imaging technique. We also present fabrication techniques and methodologies for producing cellular engineered constructs. Finally, we comment on future challenges involved with image guided tissue engineering and efforts to generate engineered constructs ready for implantation. PMID:19583811

Seismic migration in generalized coordinates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arias, C.; Duque, L. F.

2017-06-01

Reverse time migration (RTM) is a technique widely used nowadays to obtain images of the earth’s sub-surface, using artificially produced seismic waves. This technique has been developed for zones with flat surface and when applied to zones with rugged topography some corrections must be introduced in order to adapt it. This can produce defects in the final image called artifacts. We introduce a simple mathematical map that transforms a scenario with rugged topography into a flat one. The three steps of the RTM can be applied in a way similar to the conventional ones just by changing the Laplacian in the acoustic wave equation for a generalized one. We present a test of this technique using the Canadian foothills SEG velocity model.

Mooring and ground handling rigid airships

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walker, H., Jr.

1975-01-01

The problems of mooring and ground handling rigid airships are discussed. A brief history of Mooring and Ground Handling Rigid Airships from July 2, 1900 through September 1, 1939 is included. Also a brief history of ground handling developments with large U. S. Navy nonrigid airships between September 1, 1939 and August 31, 1962 is included wherein developed equipment and techniques appear applicable to future large rigid airships. Finally recommendations are made pertaining to equipment and procedures which appear desirable and feasible for future rigid airship programs.

Develop real-time dosimetry concepts and instrumentation for long term missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Braby, L. A.

1982-01-01

The development of a rugged portable instrument to evaluate dose and dose equivalent is described. A tissue-equivalent proportional counter simulating a 2 micrometer spherical tissue volume was operated satisfactorily for over a year. The basic elements of the electronic system were designed and tested. And finally, the most suitable mathematical technique for evaluating dose equivalent with a portable instrument was selected. Design and fabrication of a portable prototype, based on the previously tested circuits, is underway.

Manufacturing and Characterization of Ultra Pure Ferrous Alloys Final Report CRADA No. TC02069.0

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

Lesuer, D.; McGreevy, T. E.

This CRADA was a.collaborative effort between the Lawrence Livermore National Security LLC (formerly University of California)/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL),and Caterpillar Inc. (CaterpiHar), to further advance levitation casting techniques (developed at the Central Research Institute for Material (CRIM) in St. Petersburg, Russia) for use in manufacturing high purity metal alloys. This DOE Global Initiatives for Proliferation Prevention Program (IPP) project was to develop and demonstrate the levitation casting technology for producing ultra-pure alloys.

Thermal management and mechanical structures for silicon detector systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Viehhauser, G.

2015-09-01

Due to the size of current silicon tracking systems system aspects have become a major design driver. This article discusses requirements for the engineering of the mechanical structures and thermal management of such systems and reviews solutions developed to satisfy them. Modern materials and fabrication techniques have been instrumental in constructing these devices and will be discussed here. Finally, this paper will describe current and potential future developments in the engineering of silicon tracking systems which will shape the silicon tracking systems of the future.

Cophasing techniques for extremely large telescopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Devaney, Nicholas; Schumacher, Achim

2004-07-01

The current designs of the majority of ELTs envisage that at least the primary mirror will be segmented. Phasing of the segments is therefore a major concern, and a lot of work is underway to determine the most suitable techniques. The techniques which have been developed are either wave optics generalizations of classical geometric optics tests (e.g. Shack-Hartmann and curvature sensing) or direct interferometric measurements. We present a review of the main techniques proposed for phasing and outline their relative merits. We consider problems which are specific to ELTs, e.g. vignetting of large parts of the primary mirror by the secondary mirror spiders, and the need to disentangle phase errors arising in different segmented mirrors. We present improvements in the Shack-Hartmann and curvature sensing techniques which allow greater precision and range. Finally, we describe a piston plate which simulates segment phasing errors and show the results of laboratory experiments carried out to verify the precision of the Shack-Hartmann technique.

Feathering effect detection and artifact agglomeration index-based video deinterlacing technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martins, André Luis; Rodrigues, Evandro Luis Linhari; de Paiva, Maria Stela Veludo

2018-03-01

Several video deinterlacing techniques have been developed, and each one presents a better performance in certain conditions. Occasionally, even the most modern deinterlacing techniques create frames with worse quality than primitive deinterlacing processes. This paper validates that the final image quality can be improved by combining different types of deinterlacing techniques. The proposed strategy is able to select between two types of deinterlaced frames and, if necessary, make the local correction of the defects. This decision is based on an artifact agglomeration index obtained from a feathering effect detection map. Starting from a deinterlaced frame produced by the "interfield average" method, the defective areas are identified, and, if deemed appropriate, these areas are replaced by pixels generated through the "edge-based line average" method. Test results have proven that the proposed technique is able to produce video frames with higher quality than applying a single deinterlacing technique through getting what is good from intra- and interfield methods.

Visualizing Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in vivo using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jog, Mayank Anant

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a low-cost, non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has been shown to treat clinical symptoms as well as improve cognition. However, no techniques exist at the time of research to visualize tDCS currents in vivo. This dissertation presents the theoretical framework and experimental implementations of a novel MRI technique that enables non-invasive visualization of the tDCS electric current using magnetic field mapping. The first chapter establishes the feasibility of measuring magnetic fields induced by tDCS currents. The following chapter discusses the state of the art implementation that can measure magnetic field changes in individual subjects undergoing concurrent tDCS/MRI. The final chapter discusses how the developed technique was integrated with BOLD fMRI-an established MRI technique for measuring brain function. By enabling a concurrent measurement of the tDCS current induced magnetic field as well as the brain's hemodynamic response to tDCS, our technique opens a new avenue to investigate tDCS mechanisms and improve targeting.

Dynamic Tensile Experimental Techniques for Geomaterials: A Comprehensive Review

DOE PAGES

Heard, W.; Song, B.; Williams, B.; ...

2018-01-03

Here, this review article is dedicated to the Dynamic Behavior of Materials Technical Division for celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Society for Experimental Mechanics (SEM). Understanding dynamic behavior of geomaterials is critical for analyzing and solving engineering problems of various applications related to underground explosions, seismic, airblast, and penetration events. Determining the dynamic tensile response of geomaterials has been a great challenge in experiments due to the nature of relatively low tensile strength and high brittleness. Various experimental approaches have been made in the past century, especially in the most recent half century, to understand the dynamic behavior ofmore » geomaterials in tension. In this review paper, we summarized the dynamic tensile experimental techniques for geomaterials that have been developed. The major dynamic tensile experimental techniques include dynamic direct tension, dynamic split tension, and spall tension. All three of the experimental techniques are based on Hopkinson or split Hopkinson (also known as Kolsky) bar techniques and principles. Finally, uniqueness and limitations for each experimental technique are also discussed.« less

Dynamic Tensile Experimental Techniques for Geomaterials: A Comprehensive Review

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

Heard, W.; Song, B.; Williams, B.

Here, this review article is dedicated to the Dynamic Behavior of Materials Technical Division for celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Society for Experimental Mechanics (SEM). Understanding dynamic behavior of geomaterials is critical for analyzing and solving engineering problems of various applications related to underground explosions, seismic, airblast, and penetration events. Determining the dynamic tensile response of geomaterials has been a great challenge in experiments due to the nature of relatively low tensile strength and high brittleness. Various experimental approaches have been made in the past century, especially in the most recent half century, to understand the dynamic behavior ofmore » geomaterials in tension. In this review paper, we summarized the dynamic tensile experimental techniques for geomaterials that have been developed. The major dynamic tensile experimental techniques include dynamic direct tension, dynamic split tension, and spall tension. All three of the experimental techniques are based on Hopkinson or split Hopkinson (also known as Kolsky) bar techniques and principles. Finally, uniqueness and limitations for each experimental technique are also discussed.« less

Development of a scale for the evaluation of patients’ rights prerequisites at educational hospitals in Iran: a study using the Delphi technique

PubMed Central

Aazami, Sanaz; Mozafari, Mosayeb

2015-01-01

The patients’ rights status is one of the essential elements in defining norms related to the concept of clinical governance system. In addition, the patients’ rights status is an important index for quality of care offered in the health care system. However, the lack of a coherent instrument makes it difficult to evaluate patients’ rights status in hospitals and clinics. The aim of this study was to develop an instrument for the evaluation of patients’ rights prerequisites at educational hospitals in Iran. This study was conducted using the modified Delphi technique. In this study, 36 experts in the fields of law, medicine, and professional ethics were participated. The panel of experts participated in 3 rounds. First, experts were asked to judge some pre-identified items, and then, excluded items were judged again in the second round. At the end of the third round, all of the agreed items were included in the final list to form an evaluative scale on practice of patients’ rights. Experts were asked to judge a total 171 items in 3 rounds. Around 31% (n = 53) of items obtained the panel’s approval to be included in the final version of the scale. The experts’ opinions were collected using face-to-face interviews and electronic email during a 6-month period of data collection from October 2013 to February 2014. This study developed a 53-item scale for evaluation of patients’ rights prerequisites in educational hospitals in Iran. This scale was developed in 7 areas of commitments including university education, research, supervision, process management, physical structure, organizational policy, and human resources management. This study developed an evaluative scale to assess the practice of patients’ rights in educational hospitals. The items in the final version of this scale were obtained from a consensus of experts and the instrument can be used to evaluate the context and prerequisites for practice of patients’ rights in Iranian educational hospitals. PMID:27354900

New Language and Old Problems in Breast Cancer Radiotherapy.

PubMed

Chiricuţă, Ion Christian

2017-01-01

New developments in breast cancer radiotherapy make possible new standards in treatment recommandations based on international guidelines. Developments in radiotherapy irradiation techniques from 2D to 3D-Conformal RT and to IMRT (Intensity Modulated Arc Therapy) make possible to reduce the usual side effects on the organs at risk as: skin, lung, miocard, bone, esophagus and brahial plexus. Dispite of all these progresses acute and late side effects are present. Side effects are as old as the radiotherapy was used. New solutions are available now by improving irradiation techniques. New techniques as sentinel node procedure (SNP) or partial breast irradiation (PBRT) and immediate breast reconstruction with silicon implants (IBRIS) make necessary new considerations regarding the target volume delineations. A new language for definition of gross tumor volume (GTV), clinical target volume (CTV) based on the new diagnostic methods as PET/CT,nonaparticle MRI will have real impact on target delineation and irradiation techniques. "The new common language in breast cancer therapy" would be the first step to improve the endresults and finally the quality of life of the patients. Celsius.

Evaluation of bridge cables corrosion using acoustic emission technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Dongsheng; Ou, Jinping

2010-04-01

Owing to the nature of the stress, corrosion of bridge cable may result in catastrophic failure of the structure. However, using electrochemical techniques isn't fully efficient for the detection and control on line of the corrosion phenomenon. A non-destructive testing method based on acoustic emission technique monitoring bridge cable corrosion was explored. The steel strands were placed at room temperature in 5% NaCl solution. Acoustic emission (AE) characteristic parameters were recorded in the whole corrosion experiment process. Based on the plot of cumulated acoustic activity, the bridge cables corrosion included three stages. It can be clearly seen that different stages have different acoustic emission signal characteristics. The AE characteristic parameters would be increased with cables corrosion development. Finally, the bridge cables corrosion experiment with different stress state and different corrosion environment was performed. The results shows that stress magnitude only affects the bridge cable failure time, however, the AE characteristic parameters value has changed a little. It was verified that AE technique can be used to detect the bridge cable early corrosion, investigating corrosion developing trend, and in monitoring and evaluating corrosion damages.

Development of a new technique (ATP) for training visually impaired children in oral hygiene maintenance.

PubMed

Hebbal, M; Ankola, A V

2012-10-01

To develop a special oral health education technique and compare plaque scores before and after health education. Non-randomised before and after comparison trial without controls. The final study population comprised of 96 visually impaired children aged 6-18 years old. Silness and Loe plaque index scores were recorded at baseline. 'Audio tactile performance technique' (ATP Technique) a specially designed health education method was used to educate these children regarding oral hygiene maintenance. Periodic reinforcement of health education was performed at an interval of 9 months. Re-examination was carried out after 18 months of health education to assess plaque scores. Wilcoxon's sign rank test and paired t test was used to assess the difference between the scores before and after health education. There was increase in frequency of tooth brushing after health education. The mean plaque scores pre- and post-health education were 1.41 (+/-0.58) and 0.63 (+/-0.39) respectively. The difference was statistically significant (p<0.001). Visually impaired children could maintain an acceptable level of oral hygiene when taught using special customised methods.

Fully porous GaN p-n junction diodes fabricated by chemical vapor deposition.

PubMed

Bilousov, Oleksandr V; Carvajal, Joan J; Geaney, Hugh; Zubialevich, Vitaly Z; Parbrook, Peter J; Martínez, Oscar; Jiménez, Juan; Díaz, Francesc; Aguiló, Magdalena; O'Dwyer, Colm

2014-10-22

Porous GaN based LEDs produced by corrosion etching techniques demonstrated enhanced light extraction efficiency in the past. However, these fabrication techniques require further postgrown processing steps, which increases the price of the final system. Also, the penetration depth of these etching techniques is limited, and affects not only the semiconductor but also the other elements constituting the LED when applied to the final device. In this paper, we present the fabrication of fully porous GaN p-n junctions directly during growth, using a sequential chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process to produce the different layers that form the p-n junction. We characterized their diode behavior from room temperature to 673 K and demonstrated their ability as current rectifiers, thus proving the potential of these fully porous p-n junctions for diode and LEDs applications. The electrical and luminescence characterization confirm that high electronic quality porous structures can be obtained by this method, and we believe this investigation can be extended to other III-N materials for the development of white light LEDs, or to reduce reflection losses and narrowing the output light cone for improved LED external quantum efficiencies.

Michigan Physicians' Conference on Elder Abuse. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sengstock, Mary C.; O'Brien, James G.

The final report describes the Michigan Physicians' Conference on Elder Abuse project. The project conference had four major content areas, including: a general introduction to the problem of elder abuse; clinical symptoms of abuse; legal issues; and referral and case management techniques. Training techniques included lectures, group discussion,…

Final Report: Closeout of the Award NO. DE-FG02-98ER62618 (M.S. Fox-Rabinovitz, P.I.)

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

Fox-Rabinovitz, M. S.

The final report describes the study aimed at exploring the variable-resolution stretched-grid (SG) approach to decadal regional climate modeling using advanced numerical techniques. The obtained results have shown that variable-resolution SG-GCMs using stretched grids with fine resolution over the area(s) of interest, is a viable established approach to regional climate modeling. The developed SG-GCMs have been extensively used for regional climate experimentation. The SG-GCM simulations are aimed at studying the U.S. regional climate variability with an emphasis on studying anomalous summer climate events, the U.S. droughts and floods.

Final incision size after cataract surgery with toric intraocular lens implantation using 2 techniques.

PubMed

Guarnieri, Adriano; Moreno-Montañés, Javier; Sabater, Alfonso L; Gosende-Chico, Inmaculada; Bonet-Farriol, Elvira

2013-11-01

To analyze the changes in incision sizes after implantation of a toric intraocular lens (IOL) using 2 methods. Department of Ophthalmology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain. Prospective case series. Coaxial phacoemulsification and IOL implantation through a 2.2 mm clear corneal incision using a cartridge injector were performed. Wound-assisted or cartridge-insertion techniques were used to implant the IOLs. The results were analyzed according to IOL spherical and cylindrical powers. Corneal hysteresis (CH) and the corneal resistance factor (CRF) were measured and evaluated based on the changes in incision size. Incision size increased in 30 (41.7%) of 72 eyes in the wound-assisted group and 71 (98.6%) of 72 eyes in the cartridge-insertion group. The mean incision size after IOL implantation was 2.27 mm ± 0.06 (SD) and 2.37 ± 0.05 mm, respectively (P<.01). The final incision size and IOL spherical power in the wound-assisted technique group (P=.02) and the cartridge-insertion technique group (P=.03) were correlated significantly; IOL toricity was not (P=.19 and P=.28, respectively). The CH and CRF values were not correlated with the final incision size. The final incision size and the changes in incision size after IOL implantation were greater with the cartridge-insertion technique than with the wound-assisted technique. The increase was related to IOL spherical power in both groups but not to IOL toricity. Corneal biomechanical properties were not correlated with the final incision size. Copyright © 2013 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automatic Coregistration and orthorectification (ACRO) and subsequent mosaicing of NASA high-resolution imagery over the Mars MC11 quadrangle, using HRSC as a baseline

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sidiropoulos, Panagiotis; Muller, Jan-Peter; Watson, Gillian; Michael, Gregory; Walter, Sebastian

2018-02-01

This work presents the coregistered, orthorectified and mosaiced high-resolution products of the MC11 quadrangle of Mars, which have been processed using novel, fully automatic, techniques. We discuss the development of a pipeline that achieves fully automatic and parameter independent geometric alignment of high-resolution planetary images, starting from raw input images in NASA PDS format and following all required steps to produce a coregistered geotiff image, a corresponding footprint and useful metadata. Additionally, we describe the development of a radiometric calibration technique that post-processes coregistered images to make them radiometrically consistent. Finally, we present a batch-mode application of the developed techniques over the MC11 quadrangle to validate their potential, as well as to generate end products, which are released to the planetary science community, thus assisting in the analysis of Mars static and dynamic features. This case study is a step towards the full automation of signal processing tasks that are essential to increase the usability of planetary data, but currently, require the extensive use of human resources.

New Technique for Tibiotalar Arthrodesis Using a New Intramedullary Nail Device: A Cadaveric Study

PubMed Central

Eisenstein, Emmanuel D.; Rodriguez, Mario

2016-01-01

Introduction. Ankle arthrodesis is performed in a variety of methods. We propose a new technique for tibiotalar arthrodesis using a newly designed intramedullary nail. Methods. We proposed development of an intramedullary device for ankle arthrodesis which spared the subtalar joint using a sinus tarsi approach. Standard saw bones models and computer assisted modeling and stress analysis were used to develop different nail design geometries and determine the feasibility of insertion. After the final design was constructed, the device was tested on three cadaveric specimens. Results. Four basic nail geometries were developed. The optimal design was composed of two relatively straight segments, each with a different radius of curvature for their respective tibial and talar component. We successfully implemented this design into three cadaveric specimens. Conclusion. Our newly designed tibiotalar nail provides a new technique for isolated tibiotalar fusion. It utilizes the advantages of a tibiotalar calcaneal nail and spares the subtalar joint. This design serves as the foundation for future research to include compression options across the tibiotalar joint and eventual transition to clinical practice. PMID:27818800

New Technique for Tibiotalar Arthrodesis Using a New Intramedullary Nail Device: A Cadaveric Study.

PubMed

Eisenstein, Emmanuel D; Rodriguez, Mario; Abdelgawad, Amr A

2016-01-01

Introduction . Ankle arthrodesis is performed in a variety of methods. We propose a new technique for tibiotalar arthrodesis using a newly designed intramedullary nail. Methods . We proposed development of an intramedullary device for ankle arthrodesis which spared the subtalar joint using a sinus tarsi approach. Standard saw bones models and computer assisted modeling and stress analysis were used to develop different nail design geometries and determine the feasibility of insertion. After the final design was constructed, the device was tested on three cadaveric specimens. Results . Four basic nail geometries were developed. The optimal design was composed of two relatively straight segments, each with a different radius of curvature for their respective tibial and talar component. We successfully implemented this design into three cadaveric specimens. Conclusion . Our newly designed tibiotalar nail provides a new technique for isolated tibiotalar fusion. It utilizes the advantages of a tibiotalar calcaneal nail and spares the subtalar joint. This design serves as the foundation for future research to include compression options across the tibiotalar joint and eventual transition to clinical practice.

Nitride Fuel Development Using Cryo-process Technique

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

O'Brien, Brandi M; Windes, William E

A new cryo-process technique has been developed for the fabrication of advanced fuel for nuclear systems. The process uses a new cryo-processing technique whereby small, porous microspheres (<2000 µm) are formed from sub-micron oxide powder. A simple aqueous particle slurry of oxide powder is pumped through a microsphere generator consisting of a vibrating needle with controlled amplitude and frequency. As the water-based droplets are formed and pass through the microsphere generator they are frozen in a bath of liquid nitrogen and promptly vacuum freeze-dried to remove the water. The resulting porous microspheres consist of half micron sized oxide particles heldmore » together by electrostatic forces and mechanical interlocking of the particles. Oxide powder microspheres ranging from 750 µm to 2000 µm are then converted into a nitride form using a high temperature fluidized particle bed. Carbon black can be added to the oxide powder before microsphere formation to augment the carbothermic reaction during conversion to a nitride. Also, the addition of ethyl alcohol to the aqueous slurry reduces the surface tension energy of the droplets resulting in even smaller droplets forming in the microsphere generator. Initial results from this new process indicate a lower impurity contamination in the final nitrides due to the single feed stream of particles, material handling and conversion are greatly simplified, a minimum of waste and personnel exposure are anticipated, and finally the conversion kinetics may be greatly increased because of the small oxide powder size (sub-micron) forming the porous microsphere. Thus far the fabrication process has been successful in demonstrating all of these improvements with surrogate ZrO2 powder. Further tests will be conducted in the future using the technique on UO2 powders.« less

Preparation and surface characterization of plasma-treated and biomolecular-micropatterned polymer substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langowski, Bryan Alfred

A micropatterning process creates distinct microscale domains on substrate surfaces that differ from the surfaces' original chemical/physical properties. Numerous micropatterning methods exist, each having relative advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, ease, reproducibility, and versatility. Polymeric surfaces micropatterned with biomolecules have many applications, but are specifically utilized in tissue engineering as cell scaffolds that attempt to controlled tissue generation in vivo and ex vivo. As the physical and chemical cues presented by micropatterned substrates control resulting cellular behavior, characterization of these cues via surface-sensitive analytical techniques is essential in developing cell scaffolds that mimic complex in vivo physicochemical environments. The initial focus of this thesis is the chemical and physical characterization of plasma-treated, microcontact-printed (muCP) polymeric substrates used to direct nerve cell behavior. Unmodified and oxygen plasma-treated poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) substrates were analyzed by surface sensitive techniques to monitor plasma-induced chemical and physical modifications. Additionally, protein-micropattern homogeneity and size were microscopically evaluated. Lastly, poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) stamps and contaminated PMMA substrates were characterized by spectroscopic and microscopic methods to identify a contamination source during microcontact printing. The final focus of this thesis is the development of microscale plasma-initiated patterning (muPIP) as a versatile, reproducible micropatterning method. Using muPIP, polymeric substrates were micropatterned with several biologically relevant inks. Polymeric substrates were characterized following muPIP by surface-sensitive techniques to identify the technique's underlying physical and chemical bases. In addition, neural stem cell response to muPIP-generated laminin micropatterns was microscopically and biologically evaluated. Finally, enhanced versatility of muPIP in generating microscale poly-L-lysine gradients was demonstrated.

Combining various space geodetic techniques for regional modeling of ionospheric electron density over Iran

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zare, Saeed; Alizadeh, M. Mahdi; Schuh, Harald

2017-04-01

Ionosphere is a layer of the upper atmosphere, between the thermosphere and the exosphere, distinguished because it is ionized by solar radiation. As an important part of human living environment, ionosphere affects our modern society in many ways. International broadcasters use this medium to reflect radio signals back toward the Earth. Ionosphere provides long range capabilities for commercial ship-to-shore communications, for trans-oceanic aircraft links, and for military communication and surveillance systems. Space geodetic techniques have turned into a capable tool for studying the ionosphere in the last decades. Up to now, two dimensional (2-D) models of vertical TEC (VTEC) have been widely developed and used by different communities; however, due to the fact that these models provide information about the integral of the whole electron content along the vertical or slant ray path, these maps are not useful when information about the ionosphere at different altitude is required. The aim of this study is to develop three dimensional (3-D) regional model of electron density by using combination of various space geodetic techniques. B-Spline basis functions are used for longitude and latitude variations of the electron density and Chapman profile function for altitude variations. The National Cartographic Center of Iran (NCC) has established a network of one hundred GPS stations: The Iranian Permanent GPS Network for Geodynamics (IPGN). The main task of the GPS stations is to collect and store raw GPS data and send it to Tehran processing center on a daily basis for final processing. The required data for our investigation are ground based measurements of permanent GPS stations over Iran and radio occultation data from Formosat-3/Cosmic for region of interest. We expect to increase accuracy and reliability of final model by integrating different observation techniques.

Development of MRM-based assays for the absolute quantitation of plasma proteins.

PubMed

Kuzyk, Michael A; Parker, Carol E; Domanski, Dominik; Borchers, Christoph H

2013-01-01

Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), sometimes called selected reaction monitoring (SRM), is a directed tandem mass spectrometric technique performed on to triple quadrupole mass spectrometers. MRM assays can be used to sensitively and specifically quantify proteins based on peptides that are specific to the target protein. Stable-isotope-labeled standard peptide analogues (SIS peptides) of target peptides are added to enzymatic digests of samples, and quantified along with the native peptides during MRM analysis. Monitoring of the intact peptide and a collision-induced fragment of this peptide (an ion pair) can be used to provide information on the absolute peptide concentration of the peptide in the sample and, by inference, the concentration of the intact protein. This technique provides high specificity by selecting for biophysical parameters that are unique to the target peptides: (1) the molecular weight of the peptide, (2) the generation of a specific fragment from the peptide, and (3) the HPLC retention time during LC/MRM-MS analysis. MRM is a highly sensitive technique that has been shown to be capable of detecting attomole levels of target peptides in complex samples such as tryptic digests of human plasma. This chapter provides a detailed description of how to develop and use an MRM protein assay. It includes sections on the critical "first step" of selecting the target peptides, as well as optimization of MRM acquisition parameters for maximum sensitivity of the ion pairs that will be used in the final method, and characterization of the final MRM assay.

Dryland pasture and crop conditions as seen by HCMM. [Washita Watershed, Oklahoma

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harlan, J. C. (Principal Investigator); Rosenthal, W. D.; Blanchard, B. J.

1981-01-01

Techniques developed from aircraft flights over the Washita watershed in central Oklahoma were applied to HCMM data analysis. Results show that (1) canopy temperatures were accurately measured remotely; (2) pasture surface temperature differences detected relative soil moisture differences; (3) pasture surface temperature differences were related to stress in nearby wheat fields; and (4) no relationship was developed between final yield differences, thermal infrared data, and soil moisture stress at critical growth stages due to a lack of satellite thermal data at critical growth stages. The HCMM thermal data proved to be quite adequate in detecting relative moisture differences; however, with a 16 day day/night overpass frequency, more frequent overpasses are required to analyze more cases within a 7 day period after the storm. Better normalization techniques are also required.

High-Power Microwave Transmission and Mode Conversion Program

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

Vernon, Ronald J.

2015-08-14

This is a final technical report for a long term project to develop improved designs and design tools for the microwave hardware and components associated with the DOE Plasma Fusion Program. We have developed basic theory, software, fabrication techniques, and low-power measurement techniques for the design of microwave hardware associated gyrotrons, microwave mode converters and high-power microwave transmission lines. Specifically, in this report we discuss our work on designing quasi-optical mode converters for single and multiple frequencies, a new method for the analysis of perturbed-wall waveguide mode converters, perturbed-wall launcher design for TE0n mode gyrotrons, quasi-optical traveling-wave resonator design formore » high-power testing of microwave components, and possible improvements to the HSX microwave transmission line.« less

Thermodynamics and Mechanics of Membrane Curvature Generation and Sensing by Proteins and Lipids

PubMed Central

Baumgart, Tobias; Capraro, Benjamin R.; Zhu, Chen; Das, Sovan L.

2014-01-01

Research investigating lipid membrane curvature generation and sensing is a rapidly developing frontier in membrane physical chemistry and biophysics. The fast recent progress is based on the discovery of a plethora of proteins involved in coupling membrane shape to cellular membrane function, the design of new quantitative experimental techniques to study aspects of membrane curvature, and the development of analytical theories and simulation techniques that allow a mechanistic interpretation of quantitative measurements. The present review first provides an overview of important classes of membrane proteins for which function is coupled to membrane curvature. We then survey several mechanisms that are assumed to underlie membrane curvature sensing and generation. Finally, we discuss relatively simple thermodynamic/mechanical models that allow quantitative interpretation of experimental observations. PMID:21219150

Investigation of safety analysis methods using computer vision techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirazi, Mohammad Shokrolah; Morris, Brendan Tran

2017-09-01

This work investigates safety analysis methods using computer vision techniques. The vision-based tracking system is developed to provide the trajectory of road users including vehicles and pedestrians. Safety analysis methods are developed to estimate time to collision (TTC) and postencroachment time (PET) that are two important safety measurements. Corresponding algorithms are presented and their advantages and drawbacks are shown through their success in capturing the conflict events in real time. The performance of the tracking system is evaluated first, and probability density estimation of TTC and PET are shown for 1-h monitoring of a Las Vegas intersection. Finally, an idea of an intersection safety map is introduced, and TTC values of two different intersections are estimated for 1 day from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Three-Dimensional Printing of Tissue/Organ Analogues Containing Living Cells.

PubMed

Park, Jeong Hun; Jang, Jinah; Lee, Jung-Seob; Cho, Dong-Woo

2017-01-01

The technical advances of three-dimensional (3D) printing in the field of tissue engineering have enabled the creation of 3D living tissue/organ analogues. Diverse 3D tissue/organ printing techniques with computer-aided systems have been developed and used to dispose living cells together with biomaterials and supporting biochemicals as pre-designed 3D tissue/organ models. Furthermore, recent advances in bio-inks, which are printable hydrogels with living cell encapsulation, have greatly enhanced the versatility of 3D tissue/organ printing. Here, we introduce 3D tissue/organ printing techniques and biomaterials that have been developed and widely used thus far. We also review a variety of applications in an attempt to repair or replace the damaged or defective tissue/organ, and develop the in vitro tissue/organ models. The potential challenges are finally discussed from the technical perspective of 3D tissue/organ printing.

The evolution of endovascular electroencephalography: historical perspective and future applications.

PubMed

Sefcik, Roberta K; Opie, Nicholas L; John, Sam E; Kellner, Christopher P; Mocco, J; Oxley, Thomas J

2016-05-01

Current standard practice requires an invasive approach to the recording of electroencephalography (EEG) for epilepsy surgery, deep brain stimulation (DBS), and brain-machine interfaces (BMIs). The development of endovascular techniques offers a minimally invasive route to recording EEG from deep brain structures. This historical perspective aims to describe the technical progress in endovascular EEG by reviewing the first endovascular recordings made using a wire electrode, which was followed by the development of nanowire and catheter recordings and, finally, the most recent progress in stent-electrode recordings. The technical progress in device technology over time and the development of the ability to record chronic intravenous EEG from electrode arrays is described. Future applications for the use of endovascular EEG in the preoperative and operative management of epilepsy surgery are then discussed, followed by the possibility of the technique's future application in minimally invasive operative approaches to DBS and BMI.

"Smart" liposomal nanocontainers in biology and medicine.

PubMed

Tarahovsky, Y S

2010-07-01

The perspectives of using liposomes for delivery of drugs to desired parts of the human body have been intensively investigated for more than 30 years. During this time many inventions have been suggested and different kinds of liposomal devices developed, and a number of them have reached the stages of preclinical or clinical trials. The latest techniques can be used to develop biocompatible nano-sized liposomal containers having some abilities of artificial intellect, such as the presence of sensory and responsive units. However, only a few have been clinically approved. Further improvements in this area depend on our knowledge of the interactions of drugs with the lipid bilayer of liposomes. Further studies on liposomal transport through the human body, their targeting of cells requiring therapeutic treatment, and finally, the development of techniques for controlled drug delivery to desired acceptors on cell surfaces or in cytoplasm are still required.

Advanced technology development multi-color holography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vikram, Chandra S.

1993-01-01

This is the final report of the Multi-color Holography project. The comprehensive study considers some strategic aspects of multi-color holography. First, various methods of available techniques for accurate fringe counting are reviewed. These are heterodyne interferometry, quasi-heterodyne interferometry, and phase-shifting interferometry. Phase-shifting interferometry was found to be the most suitable for multi-color holography. Details of experimentation with a sugar solution are also reported where better than 1/200 of a fringe order measurement capability was established. Rotating plate glass phase shifter was used for the experimentation. The report then describes the possible role of using more than two wavelengths with special reference-to-object beam intensity ratio needs in multicolor holography. Some specific two- and three-color cases are also described in detail. Then some new analysis methods of the reconstructed wavefront are considered. These are deflectometry, speckle metrology, confocal optical signal processing, and phase shifting technique related applications. Finally, design aspects of an experimental breadboard are presented.

Ultra-Flexible Thermal Bus for Use in the Astro-H Adiabatic Demagnetization Refrigerator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kimball, Mark O.; Shirron, Peter J.

2015-01-01

The adiabatic demagnetization refrigerator (ADR) developed for the Astro-H Soft-X-ray Spectrometer (SXS) is a multi-stage solid-state cooler. It is capable of holding the SXS detector array at 0.050 K for greater than 24 hours with a recycle time of less than one hour. This quick recycle time relies upon high-conductivity thermal straps to couple the individual stages to a pair of heat switches without imposing a lateral load on the paramagnetic salt pills. To accomplish this we construct thermal straps using a technique of diffusion bonding together the ends of high-purity copper straps leaving the length between as individual foils. A thermal bus created this way has a thermal conductivity comparable to a solid strap of the equivalent thickness but with much-increased flexibility. The technique for selecting the base material, machining, cleaning, forming into final shape, and finally bonding together individual foils will be discussed along with examples of complete straps in various geometries.

High efficiency and simple technique for controlling mechanisms by EMG signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dugarte, N.; Álvarez, A.; Balacco, J.; Mercado, G.; Gonzalez, A.; Dugarte, E.; Javier, F.; Ceballos, G.; Olivares, A.

2016-04-01

This article reports the development of a simple and efficient system that allows control of mechanisms through electromyography (EMG) signals. The novelty about this instrument is focused on individual control of each motion vector mechanism through independent electronic circuits. Each of electronic circuit does positions a motor according to intensity of EMG signal captured. This action defines movement in one mechanical axis considered from an initial point, based on increased muscle tension. The final displacement of mechanism depends on individual’s ability to handle the levels of muscle tension at different body parts. This is the design of a robotic arm where each degree of freedom is handled with a specific microcontroller that responds to signals taken from a defined muscle. The biophysical interaction between the person and the final positioning of the robotic arm is used as feedback. Preliminary tests showed that the control operates with minimal positioning error margins. The constant use of system with the same operator showed that the person adapts and progressively improves at control technique.

Stereotactic Laser Ablation for Medically Intractable Epilepsy: The Next Generation of Minimally Invasive Epilepsy Surgery

PubMed Central

LaRiviere, Michael J.; Gross, Robert E.

2016-01-01

Epilepsy is a common, disabling illness that is refractory to medical treatment in approximately one-third of patients, particularly among those with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy. While standard open mesial temporal resection is effective, achieving seizure freedom in most patients, efforts to develop safer, minimally invasive techniques have been underway for over half a century. Stereotactic ablative techniques, in particular, radiofrequency (RF) ablation, were first developed in the 1960s, with refinements in the 1990s with the advent of modern computed tomography and magnetic resonance-based imaging. In the past 5 years, the most recent techniques have used MRI-guided laser interstitial thermotherapy (LITT), the development of which began in the 1980s, saw refinements in MRI thermal imaging through the 1990s, and was initially used primarily for the treatment of intracranial and extracranial tumors. The present review describes the original stereotactic ablation trials, followed by modern imaging-guided RF ablation series for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy. The developments of LITT and MRI thermometry are then discussed. Finally, the two currently available MRI-guided LITT systems are reviewed for their role in the treatment of mesial temporal lobe and other medically refractory epilepsies. PMID:27995127

A comprehensive program to develop correlations for physical properties of kraft black liquor. Final report

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

Fricke, A.L.; Zaman, A.A.; Stoy, M.O.

A wide variety of experimental techniques have been used in this work, and many of these have been developed completely or improved significantly in the course of the research done during this program. Therefore, it is appropriate to describe these techniques in detail as a reference for future workers so that the techniques can be used in future work with little additional effort or so that the results reported from this program can be compared better with future results from other work. In many cases, the techniques described are for specific analytical instruments. It is recognized that these may bemore » superseded by future developments and improvements in instrumentation if a complete description of techniques used successfully in the past on other instrumentation is available. The total pulping and liquor preparation research work performed included chip and white liquor preparation, digestion, pulp washing, liquor and wash recovery, liquor sampling, weak liquor concentration in two steps to about 45--50% solids with an intermediate soap skimming at about 140F and 27--30% solids, determination of pulp yield and Kappa number, determination of total liquor solids, and a check on the total material balance for pulping. All other research was performed either on a sample of the weak black liquor (the combined black liquor and washes from the digester) or on the skimmed liquor that had been concentrated.« less

Fiber Loop Ringdown — a Time-Domain Sensing Technique for Multi-Function Fiber Optic Sensor Platforms: Current Status and Design Perspectives

PubMed Central

Wang, Chuji

2009-01-01

Fiber loop ringdown (FLRD) utilizes an inexpensive telecommunications light source, a photodiode, and a section of single-mode fiber to form a uniform fiber optic sensor platform for sensing various quantities, such as pressure, temperature, strain, refractive index, chemical species, biological cells, and small volume of fluids. In FLRD, optical losses of a light pulse in a fiber loop induced by changes in a quantity are measured by the light decay time constants. FLRD measures time to detect a quantity; thus, FLRD is referred to as a time-domain sensing technique. FLRD sensors have near real-time response, multi-pass enhanced high-sensitivity, and relatively low cost (i.e., without using an optical spectral analyzer). During the last eight years since the introduction of the original form of fiber ringdown spectroscopy, there has been increasing interest in the FLRD technique in fiber optic sensor developments, and new application potential is being explored. This paper first discusses the challenging issues in development of multi-function, fiber optic sensors or sensor networks using current fiber optic sensor sensing schemes, and then gives a review on current fiber optic sensor development using FLRD technique. Finally, design perspectives on new generation, multi-function, fiber optic sensor platforms using FLRD technique are particularly presented. PMID:22408471

A Study of Low-Wage Workers and Their Response to High Intensity Training. Volume I: Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davis, Earl E.

The intent of this study was to describe low-wage, low-skill workers within the context of their work environment and to develop techniques to measure the effects of Skill Advancement's skill training program on the participants. Due to the lack of research findings in this area, these research efforts were somewhat exploratory in nature,…

A System for the Individualization and Optimization of Learning Through Computer Management of the Educational Process. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schure, Alexander

A computer-based system model for the monitoring and management of the instructional process was conceived, developed and refined through the techniques of systems analysis. This report describes the various aspects and components of this project in a series of independent and self-contained units. The first unit provides an overview of the entire…

Cadmium Alternatives for High-Strength Steel

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-22

coating small parts, a barrel coater was developed which originally coated 75 pounds of steel fasteners during a coating run. By the early 1980s...technique to define design allowables. Other design authorities rely more heavily on axial tension-tension or tension- compression data. Some axial ...FINAL REPORT Cadmium Alternatives for High-Strength Steel WP-200022 Steven A. Brown Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Patuxent

Computer Science and Technology: Modeling and Measurement Techniques for Evaluation of Design Alternatives in the Implementation of Database Management Software. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Deutsch, Donald R.

This report describes a research effort that was carried out over a period of several years to develop and demonstrate a methodology for evaluating proposed Database Management System designs. The major proposition addressed by this study is embodied in the thesis statement: Proposed database management system designs can be evaluated best through…

Wheelchairmanship Project. A Program to Educate Personnel in the Transportation, Hotel and Restaurant, and Entertainment Industries in Improved Techniques for Serving Disabled People. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Anita P.; And Others

In a project designed to train customer service personnel in improved methods of assisting the physically disabled, audio-visual training materials were developed and presented during 2-week courses involving 1,058 employees at transportation, hotel/restaurant, and entertainment centers in 25 cities. The participants judged the training program…

Powder metallurgy in aerospace research: A survey

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blakeslee, H. W.

1971-01-01

The various techniques by which powders can be produced, as pure metals or as alloys, are discussed; the methods by which these powders can be formed into the final parts are explained as well as further processing that may be necessary to meet specific requirements. The NASA developments are detailed, and references are provided for those who wish to obtain further information characteristic of any methodology.

Final Report for DE-AR0000708

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

Donohue, Marc; Aranovich, Gregory; Wang, Chao

This project determined the effect of adsorption compression on the rates of catalytic chemical reactions. It was shown that in regions of strong adsorption compression there is a dramatic increase in the rate of catalytic chemical reaction. Experiments focused on the conversion of NO to molecular nitrogen and oxygen. Data analysis techniques were developed to allow interpretation of experimental data and prediction of conditions for optimal reaction rates.

A Dual-Line Detection Rayleigh Scattering Diagnostic Technique for the Combustion of Hydrocarbon Fuels and Filtered UV Rayleigh Scattering for Gas Velocity Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Otugen, M. Volkan

1997-01-01

Non-intrusive techniques for the dynamic measurement of gas flow properties such as density, temperature and velocity, are needed in the research leading to the development of new generation high-speed aircraft. Accurate velocity, temperature and density data obtained in ground testing and in-flight measurements can help understand the flow physics leading to transition and turbulence in supersonic, high-altitude flight. Such non-intrusive measurement techniques can also be used to study combustion processes of hydrocarbon fuels in aircraft engines. Reliable, time and space resolved temperature measurements in various combustor configurations can lead to a better understanding of high temperature chemical reaction dynamics thus leading to improved modeling and better prediction of such flows. In view of this, a research program was initiated at Polytechnic University's Aerodynamics Laboratory with support from NASA Lewis Research Center through grants NAG3-1301 and NAG3-1690. The overall objective of this program has been to develop laser-based, non-contact, space- and time-resolved temperature and velocity measurement techniques. In the initial phase of the program a ND:YAG laser-based dual-line Rayleigh scattering technique was developed and tested for the accurate measurement of gas temperature in the presence of background laser glare. Effort was next directed towards the development of a filtered, spectrally-resolved Rayleigh/Mie scattering technique with the objective of developing an interferometric method for time-frozen velocity measurements in high-speed flows utilizing the uv line of an ND:YAG laser and an appropriate molecular absorption filter. This effort included both a search for an appropriate filter material for the 266 nm laser line and the development and testing of several image processing techniques for the fast processing of Fabry-Perot images for velocity and temperature information. Finally, work was also carried out for the development of a new laser-based strain-rate and vorticity technique for the time-resolved measurement of vorticity and strain-rates in turbulent flows.

Progress on development of SPIDER diagnostics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pasqualotto, R.; Agostini, M.; Barbisan, M.; Bernardi, M.; Brombin, M.; Cavazzana, R.; Croci, G.; Palma, M. Dalla; Delogu, R. S.; Gorini, G.; Lotto, L.; Muraro, A.; Peruzzo, S.; Pimazzoni, A.; Pomaro, N.; Rizzolo, A.; Serianni, G.; Spolaore, M.; Tardocchi, M.; Zaniol, B.; Zaupa, M.

2017-08-01

SPIDER experiment, the full size prototype of the beam source for the ITER heating neutral beam injector, has to demonstrate extraction and acceleration to 100 kV of a large negative ion hydrogen or deuterium beam with co-extracted electron fraction e-/D- <1 and beam uniformity within 10%, for up to one hour beam pulses. Main RF source plasma and beam parameters are measured with different complementary techniques to exploit the combination of their specific features. While SPIDER plant systems are being installed, the different diagnostic systems are in the procurement phase. Their final design is described here with a focus on some key solutions and most original and cost effective implementations. Thermocouples used to measure the power load distribution in the source and over the beam dump front surface will be efficiently fixed with proven technique and acquired through commercial and custom electronics. Spectroscopy needs to use well collimated lines of sight and will employ novel design spectrometers with higher efficiency and resolution and filtered detectors with custom built amplifiers. The electrostatic probes will be operated through electronics specifically developed to cope with the challenging environment of the RF source. The instrumented calorimeter STRIKE will use new CFC tiles, still under development. Two linear cameras, one built in house, have been tested as suitable for optical beam tomography. Some diagnostic components are off the shelf, others are custom developed: some of these are being prototyped or are under test before final production and installation, which will be completed before start of SPIDER operation.

Orbiter/payload proximity operations: Lateral approach technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bell, J. A.; Jones, H. L.; Mcadoo, S. F.

1977-01-01

The lateral approach is presented for proximity operations associated with the retrieval of free flying payloads. An out of plane final approach emphasizing onboard software support is recommended for all except the latter segment of the final approach in which manual control is considered mandatory. An overall assessment of various candidate proximity operations techniques are made.

Operationalizing strategic marketing.

PubMed

Chambers, S B

1989-05-01

The strategic marketing process, like any administrative practice, is far simpler to conceptualize than operationalize within an organization. It is for this reason that this chapter focused on providing practical techniques and strategies for implementing the strategic marketing process. First and foremost, the marketing effort needs to be marketed to the various publics of the organization. This chapter advocated the need to organize the marketing analysis into organizational, competitive, and market phases, and it provided examples of possible designs of the phases. The importance and techniques for exhausting secondary data sources and conducting efficient primary data collection methods were explained and illustrated. Strategies for determining marketing opportunities and threats, as well as segmenting markets, were detailed. The chapter provided techniques for developing marketing strategies, including considering the five patterns of coverage available; determining competitor's position and the marketing mix; examining the stage of the product life cycle; and employing a consumer decision model. The importance of developing explicit objectives, goals, and detailed action plans was emphasized. Finally, helpful hints for operationalizing the communication variable and evaluating marketing programs were provided.

[Features of skin graft in pediatric plastic surgery].

PubMed

Depoortère, C; François, C; Belkhou, A; Duquennoy-Martinot, V; Guerreschi, P

2016-10-01

Skin graft is a skin tissue fragment transferred from a donor site to a receiving site with a spontaneous revascularization. Basic process of plastic surgery, skin graft known in children, specific, warnings and refinements. It finds its indication in many pediatric cases: integumental diseases (neavus, hamartoma), acute burns and scars, traumatic loss of substance or surgically induced, congenital malformations of the hands and feet, etc. Specific skin graft techniques in children are developed: donor sites, sampling technique and procedure, early postoperative care. Especially in children, the scalp is a perfect site for split skin graft and technique is actively developed. Refinements and special cases are discussed: use of dermal matrices, allografts, xenografts, negative pressure therapy, prior skin expansion of the donor site. Results of skin graft in children are exposed: taking of graft, growth and shrinkage, pigmentation. Skin graft sometimes allows to stay the complex movement and get the best final benefit, permanent or at least temporary, in a growing being. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Controlled atmosphere annealing of ion implanted gallium arsenide. Final report 1 Jul 76-30 Nov 79

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

Anderson, C.L.; Eu, V.; Feng, M.

1980-08-01

Controlled atmosphere techniques were developed as an alternative to dielectric encapsulation for the high temperature anneal of ion implanted layers in GaAs. Two approaches: (1) the controlled atmosphere technique (CAT), and (2) the melt controlled ambient technique (MCAT) have been investigated. Using the CAT procedure, which involves annealing in flowing hydrogen with an arsenic overpressure, annealing without detectable surface erosion, has been performed at temperatures as high as 950 C, with or without encapsulants. Impurity diffusion, damage recovery, and electrical activity were investigated as a function of anneal parameters. Range studies of technologically important impurities such as S, Si, Se,more » Be and Mg were carried out. For the first time the role of the encapsulant on implanted profile degradation and the importance of Cr redistribution during the anneal cycle were determined. An improved CAT anneal system capable of production quantity throughput was developed and is in current use for device processing.« less

In-situ monitoring of acoustic linear and nonlinear behavior of titanium alloys during cycling loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frouin, Jerome; Matikas, Theodore E.; Na, Jeong K.; Sathish, Shamachary

1999-02-01

An in-situ technique to measure sound velocity, ultrasonic attenuation and acoustic nonlinear property has been developed for characterization and early detection of fatigue damage in aerospace materials. A previous experiment using the f-2f technique on Ti-6Al-4V dog bone specimen fatigued at different stage of fatigue has shown that the material nonlinearity exhibit large change compared to the other ultrasonic parameter. Real-time monitoring of the nonlinearity may be a future tool to characterize early fatigue damage in the material. For this purpose we have developed a computer software and measurement technique including hardware for the automation of the measurement. New transducer holder and special grips are designed. The automation has allowed us to test the long-term stability of the electronics over a period of time and so proof of the linearity of the system. For the first time, a real-time experiment has been performed on a dog-bone specimen from zero fatigue al the way to the final fracture.

Underwater Photogrammetry, Coded Target and Plenoptic Technology: a Set of Tools for Monitoring Red Coral in Mediterranean Sea in the Framework of the "perfect" Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drap, P.; Royer, J. P.; Nawaf, M. M.; Saccone, M.; Merad, D.; López-Sanz, À.; Ledoux, J. B.; Garrabou, J.

2017-02-01

PErfECT "Photogrammetry, gEnetic, Ecology for red coral ConservaTion" is a project leaded by the Laboratoire des Sciences de lInformation et des Systmes (LSIS - UMR 7296 CNRS) from the Aix-Marseille University (France) in collaboration with the Spanish National Agency for Scientific Research (CSIC, Spain). The main objective of the project is to develop innovative Tools for the conservation of the Mediterranean red coral, Corallium rubrum. PErfECT was funded by the Total Fundation. The adaptation of digital photogrammetric techniques for use in submarine is rapidly increasing in recent years. In fact, these techniques are particularly well suited for use in underwater environments. PErfECT developed different photogrammetry tools to enhance the red coral population surveys based in: (i) automatic orientation on coded quadrats, (ii) use of NPR (Non Photo realistic Rendering) techniques, (iii) the calculation of distances between colonies within local populations and finally (iv) the use of plenoptic approaches in underwater conditions.

Evaluation of various thrust calculation techniques on an F404 engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, Ronald J.

1990-01-01

In support of performance testing of the X-29A aircraft at the NASA-Ames, various thrust calculation techniques were developed and evaluated for use on the F404-GE-400 engine. The engine was thrust calibrated at NASA-Lewis. Results from these tests were used to correct the manufacturer's in-flight thrust program to more accurately calculate thrust for the specific test engine. Data from these tests were also used to develop an independent, simplified thrust calculation technique for real-time thrust calculation. Comparisons were also made to thrust values predicted by the engine specification model. Results indicate uninstalled gross thrust accuracies on the order of 1 to 4 percent for the various in-flight thrust methods. The various thrust calculations are described and their usage, uncertainty, and measured accuracies are explained. In addition, the advantages of a real-time thrust algorithm for flight test use and the importance of an accurate thrust calculation to the aircraft performance analysis are described. Finally, actual data obtained from flight test are presented.

Applications of emerging imaging techniques for meat quality and safety detection and evaluation: A review.

PubMed

Xiong, Zhenjie; Sun, Da-Wen; Pu, Hongbin; Gao, Wenhong; Dai, Qiong

2017-03-04

With improvement in people's living standards, many people nowadays pay more attention to quality and safety of meat. However, traditional methods for meat quality and safety detection and evaluation, such as manual inspection, mechanical methods, and chemical methods, are tedious, time-consuming, and destructive, which cannot meet the requirements of modern meat industry. Therefore, seeking out rapid, non-destructive, and accurate inspection techniques is important for the meat industry. In recent years, a number of novel and noninvasive imaging techniques, such as optical imaging, ultrasound imaging, tomographic imaging, thermal imaging, and odor imaging, have emerged and shown great potential in quality and safety assessment. In this paper, a detailed overview of advanced applications of these emerging imaging techniques for quality and safety assessment of different types of meat (pork, beef, lamb, chicken, and fish) is presented. In addition, advantages and disadvantages of each imaging technique are also summarized. Finally, future trends for these emerging imaging techniques are discussed, including integration of multiple imaging techniques, cost reduction, and developing powerful image-processing algorithms.

Infrastructure development for radioactive materials at the NSLS-II

DOE PAGES

Sprouster, David J.; Weidner, R.; Ghose, S. K.; ...

2017-11-04

The X-ray Powder Diffraction (XPD) Beamline at the National Synchrotron Light Source-II is a multipurpose instrument designed for high-resolution, high-energy X-ray scattering techniques. In this paper, the capabilities, opportunities and recent developments in the characterization of radioactive materials at XPD are described. The overarching goal of this work is to provide researchers access to advanced synchrotron techniques suited to the structural characterization of materials for advanced nuclear energy systems. XPD is a new beamline providing high photon flux for X-ray Diffraction, Pair Distribution Function analysis and Small Angle X-ray Scattering. The infrastructure and software described here extend the existing capabilitiesmore » at XPD to accommodate radioactive materials. Such techniques will contribute crucial information to the characterization and quantification of advanced materials for nuclear energy applications. Finally, we describe the automated radioactive sample collection capabilities and recent X-ray Diffraction and Small Angle X-ray Scattering results from neutron irradiated reactor pressure vessel steels and oxide dispersion strengthened steels.« less

Development of beryllium honeycomb sandwich composite for structural and other related applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vogan, J. W.; Grant, L. A.

1972-01-01

The feasibility of fabricating large beryllium honeycomb panels was demonstrated. Both flat and curved sandwich structures were manufactured using practical, braze bonding techniques. The processes developed prove that metallurgically assembled beryllium honeycomb panels show decided potential where rigid, lightweight structures are required. Three panels, each 10 square feet in surface area, were fabricated, and radiographically inspected to determine integrity. This examination revealed a 97 percent braze in the final panel. It is believed that ceramic dies for forming and brazing would facilitate the fabrication techniques for higher production rates. Ceramic dies would yield a lower thermal gradient in the panel during the braze cycle. This would eliminate the small amount of face sheet wrinkling present in the panels. Hot forming the various panel components demonstrated efficient manufacturing techniques for scaling up and producing large numbers of hot formed beryllium components and panels. The beryllium honeycomb panel demonstrated very good vibrational loading characteristics under test with desirable damping characteristics.

The history of thoracic surgical instruments and instrumentation.

PubMed

Hagopian, E J; Mann, C; Galibert, L A; Steichen, F M

2000-02-01

Thoracic surgical practice has evolved from the innovations of its pioneers. Beginning with the stethoscope discovered by Laënnec with his system of auscultation, to the tools we use in the dissection and control of the hilum of the lung for resection, our practice of thoracic surgery has been entwined with the development of instruments and instrumentation. The development of strategies to prevent death from the open pneumothorax began with manual control of the mediastinum and progressed through differential pressure to, finally, the technique of intubation and the methods of positive-pressure and insufflation anesthesia. The instruments we place in our hands are not enough to define our art. Entry into the chest would not be possible without the use of rib retractors, rib shears, and even periosteal elevators. Finally, to the present day of minimally invasive techniques and the application of thoracoscopy for therapeutic purposes, we find the efforts of our predecessors well developed. For the progression from the fear of the open pneumothorax to the present-day state of the ease of thoracotomy for lung resection we are indebted to those who gave so much of their time and, for some, their lives to death from tuberculosis, to allow the advancement of our practice of surgery. These great people should be remembered not only for their acceptance of novel ideas but also, more importantly, for their lack of fear of testing them.

CHROMATOGRAPHIC TECHNIQUES IN PHARMACEUTICAL ANALYSIS IN POIAND: HISTORY AND THE PRESENCE ON THE BASIS OF PAPERS PUBLISHED IN SELECTED POLISH PHARMACEUTICAL JOURNALS IN XX CENTURY.

PubMed

Bilek, Maciej; Namieśnik, Jacek

2016-01-01

For a long time, chromatographic techniques and techniques related to them have stimulated the development of new procedures in the field of pharmaceutical analysis. The newly developed methods, characterized by improved metrological parameters, allow for more accurate testing of, among others, the composition of raw materials, intermediates and final products. The chromatographic techniques also enable studies on waste generated in research laboratories and factories producing pharmaceuticals and parapharmaceuticals. Based on the review of reports published in Polish pharmaceutical journals, we assessed the impact of chromatographic techniques on the development of pharmaceutical analysis. The first chromatographic technique used in pharmaceutical analysis was a so-called capillary analysis. It was applied in the 1930s to control the identity of pharmaceutical formulations. In the 1940s and 1950s, the chromatographic techniques were mostly a subject of review publications, while their use in experimental work was rare. Paper chromatography and thin layer chromatography were introduced in the 1960s and 1970s, respectively. These new analytical tools have contributed to the intensive development of research in the field of phytochemistry and the analysis of herbal medicines. The development of colunm chromatography-based techniques, i.e., gas chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography took place in the end of 20th century. Both aforementioned techniques were widely applied in pharmaceutical analysis, for example, to assess the stability of drugs, test for impurities and degradation products as well as in pharmacokinetics studies. The first decade of 21" century was the time of new detection methods in gas and liquid chromatography. The information sources used to write this article were Polish pharmaceutical journals, both professional and scientific, originating from the interwar and post-war period, i.e., "Kronika Farmaceutyczna", "Farmacja Współczesna", "Wiadomości Farmaceutyczne", "Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica", "Farmacja Polska", "Dissertationes Pharmaceuticae", "Annales UMCS sectio DDD Phamacia". The number of published works using various chromatography techniques was assessed based on the content description of individual issues of the journal "Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica".

A relative-intensity two-color phosphor thermography system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Merski, N. Ronald

1991-01-01

The NASA LaRC has developed a relative-intensity two-color phosphor thermography system. This system has become a standard technique for acquiring aerothermodynamic data in LaRC Hypersonic Facilities Complex (HFC). The relative intensity theory and its application to the LaRC phosphor thermography system is discussed along with the investment casting technique which is critical to the utilization of the phosphor method for aerothermodynamic studies. Various approaches to obtaining quantitative heat transfer data using thermographic phosphors are addressed and comparisons between thin-film data and thermographic phosphor data on an orbiter-like configuration are presented. In general, data from these two techniques are in good agreement. A discussion is given on the application of phosphors to integration heat transfer data reduction techniques (the thin film method) and preliminary heat transfer data obtained on a calibration sphere using thin-film equations are presented. Finally, plans for a new phosphor system which uses target recognition software are discussed.

Techniques for obtaining regional radiation budgets from satellite radiometer observations, phase 4 and phase 5. Ph.D. Thesis. Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pina, J. F.; House, F. B.

1976-01-01

A scheme was developed which divides the earth-atmosphere system into 2060 elemental areas. The regions previously described are defined in terms of these elemental areas which are fixed in size and position as the satellite moves. One method, termed the instantaneous technique, yields values of the radiant emittance (We) and the radiant reflectance (Wr) which the regions have during the time interval of a single satellite pass. The number of observations matches the number of regions under study and a unique solution is obtained using matrix inversion. The other method (termed the best fit technique), yields time averages of We and Wr for large time intervals (e.g., months, seasons). The number of observations in this technique is much greater than the number of regions considered, and an approximate solution is obtained by the method of least squares.

Localized analysis of paint-coat drying using dynamic speckle interferometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sierra-Sosa, Daniel; Tebaldi, Myrian; Grumel, Eduardo; Rabal, Hector; Elmaghraby, Adel

2018-07-01

The paint-coating is part of several industrial processes, including the automotive industry, architectural coatings, machinery and appliances. These paint-coatings must comply with high quality standards, for this reason evaluation techniques from paint-coatings are in constant development. One important factor from the paint-coating process is the drying, as it has influence on the quality of final results. In this work we present an assessment technique based on the optical dynamic speckle interferometry, this technique allows for the temporal activity evaluation of the paint-coating drying process, providing localized information from drying. This localized information is relevant in order to address the drying homogeneity, optimal drying, and quality control. The technique relies in the definition of a new temporal history of the speckle patterns to obtain the local activity; this information is then clustered to provide a convenient indicative of different drying process stages. The experimental results presented were validated using the gravimetric drying curves

Recent progress in tissue optical clearing

PubMed Central

Zhu, Dan; Larin, Kirill V; Luo, Qingming; Tuchin, Valery V

2013-01-01

Tissue optical clearing technique provides a prospective solution for the application of advanced optical methods in life sciences. This paper gives a review of recent developments in tissue optical clearing techniques. The physical, molecular and physiological mechanisms of tissue optical clearing are overviewed and discussed. Various methods for enhancing penetration of optical-clearing agents into tissue, such as physical methods, chemical-penetration enhancers and combination of physical and chemical methods are introduced. Combining the tissue optical clearing technique with advanced microscopy image or labeling technique, applications for 3D microstructure of whole tissues such as brain and central nervous system with unprecedented resolution are demonstrated. Moreover, the difference in diffusion and/or clearing ability of selected agents in healthy versus pathological tissues can provide a highly sensitive indicator of the tissue health/pathology condition. Finally, recent advances in optical clearing of soft or hard tissue for in vivo imaging and phototherapy are introduced. PMID:24348874

High Penetration Photovoltaic Power Electronics and Energy Management Technology Research, Development and Demonstration: Cooperative Research and Development Final Report, CRADA Number CRD-13-517

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

Hudgins, Andrew P.

Advanced Energy Industries, Inc., will partner with DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to conduct research and development to demonstrate technologies that will increase the penetration of photovoltaic (PV) technologies for commercial and utility applications. Standard PV power control systems use simple control techniques that only provide real power to the grid. A focus of this partnership is to demonstrate how state of the art control and power electronic technologies can be combined to create a utility interactive control platform.

Multiparametric prostate MRI: technical conduct, standardized report and clinical use.

PubMed

Manfredi, Matteo; Mele, Fabrizio; Garrou, Diletta; Walz, Jochen; Fütterer, Jurgen J; Russo, Filippo; Vassallo, Lorenzo; Villers, Arnauld; Emberton, Mark; Valerio, Massimo

2018-02-01

Multiparametric prostate MRI (mp-MRI) is an emerging imaging modality for diagnosis, characterization, staging, and treatment planning of prostate cancer (PCa). The technique, results reporting, and its role in clinical practice have been the subject of significant development over the last decade. Although mp-MRI is not yet routinely used in the diagnostic pathway, almost all urological guidelines have emphasized the potential role of mp-MRI in several aspects of PCa management. Moreover, new MRI sequences and scanning techniques are currently under evaluation to improve the diagnostic accuracy of mp-MRI. This review presents an overview of mp-MRI, summarizing the technical applications, the standardized reporting systems used, and their current roles in various stages of PCa management. Finally, this critical review also reports the main limitations and future perspectives of the technique.

Automated high-performance cIMT measurement techniques using patented AtheroEdge™: a screening and home monitoring system.

PubMed

Molinari, Filippo; Meiburger, Kristen M; Suri, Jasjit

2011-01-01

The evaluation of the carotid artery wall is fundamental for the assessment of cardiovascular risk. This paper presents the general architecture of an automatic strategy, which segments the lumen-intima and media-adventitia borders, classified under a class of Patented AtheroEdge™ systems (Global Biomedical Technologies, Inc, CA, USA). Guidelines to produce accurate and repeatable measurements of the intima-media thickness are provided and the problem of the different distance metrics one can adopt is confronted. We compared the results of a completely automatic algorithm that we developed with those of a semi-automatic algorithm, and showed final segmentation results for both techniques. The overall rationale is to provide user-independent high-performance techniques suitable for screening and remote monitoring.

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

Perry, F.V.; Valentine, G.A.; Crowe, B.M.

This is the final report of a one-year, Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). The objective of this project was to determine whether isotopic techniques can be used to assess the eruption potential and eruption volume of continental stratovolcanoes. Large-volume eruptions from stratovolcanoes pose significant hazards to population and infrastructure in many parts of the world. We are testing whether this technique will allow a short- to medium-term (decades to millennia) probabilistic hazard assessment of large-volume eruptions. If successful, the technique will be useful to countries or regions that must consider medium tomore » long-term volcanic (e.g., nuclear waste facilities). We have begun sample acquisition and isotopic measurements at two stratovolcanoes, Pico de Orizaba in eastern Mexico and Daisen in western Japan.« less

Novel Diffusivity Measurement Technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rashidnia, Nasser

2001-01-01

A common-path interferometer (CPI) system was developed to measure the diffusivity of liquid pairs. The CPI is an optical technique that can be used to measure changes in the gradient of the refraction index of transparent materials. This system uses a shearing interferometer that shares the same optical path from a laser light source to the final imaging plane. Hence, the molecular diffusion coefficient of liquids can be determined using the physical relations between changes in the optical path length and the liquid phase properties. The data obtained with this interferometer were compared with similar results from other techniques and demonstrated that the instrument is superior in measuring the diffusivity of miscible liquids while keeping the system very compact and robust. CPI can also be used for studies in interface dynamics and other diffusion-dominated-process applications.

An Algebra-Based Introductory Computational Neuroscience Course with Lab.

PubMed

Fink, Christian G

2017-01-01

A course in computational neuroscience has been developed at Ohio Wesleyan University which requires no previous experience with calculus or computer programming, and which exposes students to theoretical models of neural information processing and techniques for analyzing neural data. The exploration of theoretical models of neural processes is conducted in the classroom portion of the course, while data analysis techniques are covered in lab. Students learn to program in MATLAB and are offered the opportunity to conclude the course with a final project in which they explore a topic of their choice within computational neuroscience. Results from a questionnaire administered at the beginning and end of the course indicate significant gains in student facility with core concepts in computational neuroscience, as well as with analysis techniques applied to neural data.

Physical techniques for delivering microwave energy to tissues.

PubMed Central

Hand, J. W.

1982-01-01

Some of the physical aspects of delivering microwave energy to tissues have been discussed. Effective penetration of a few cm may be achieved with external applicators whilst small coaxial or cylindrical devices can induce localized heating in sites accessible to catheters or to direct invasion. To heat deep tissue sites in general, systems of greater complexity involving a number of applicators with particular phase relationships between them are required. The problems of thermometry in the presence of electromagnetic fields fall outside the scope of this article. Their solution, however, is no less important to the future of clinical hyperthermia than the development of heating techniques. Finally, it should be remembered that physiological parameters such as blood flow have appreciable effects in determining the efficacy of the physical techniques described above. PMID:6950781

Recent advances in Lorentz microscopy

DOE PAGES

Phatak, C.; Petford-Long, A. K.; De Graef, M.

2016-01-05

Lorentz transmission electron microscopy (LTEM) has evolved from a qualitative magnetic domain observation technique to a quantitative technique for the determination of the magnetization state of a sample. Here, we describe recent developments in techniques and imaging modes, including the use of spherical aberration correction to improve the spatial resolution of LTEM into the single nanometer range, and novel in situ observation modes. We also review recent advances in the modeling of the wave optical magnetic phase shift as well as in the area of phase reconstruction by means of the Transport of Intensity Equation (TIE) approach, and discuss vectormore » field electron tomography, which has emerged as a powerful tool for the 3D reconstruction of magnetization configurations. Finally, we conclude this review with a brief overview of recent LTEM applications.« less

Post-test navigation data analysis techniques for the shuttle ALT

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

Postflight test analysis data processing techniques for shuttle approach and landing tests (ALT) navigation data are defined. Postfight test processor requirements are described along with operational and design requirements, data input requirements, and software test requirements. The postflight test data processing is described based on the natural test sequence: quick-look analysis, postflight navigation processing, and error isolation processing. Emphasis is placed on the tradeoffs that must remain open and subject to analysis until final definition is achieved in the shuttle data processing system and the overall ALT plan. A development plan for the implementation of the ALT postflight test navigation data processing system is presented. Conclusions are presented.

Human body preservation – old and new techniques

PubMed Central

Brenner, Erich

2014-01-01

This review deals with the art of (anatomical) embalming. The first part contains a brief historical review of the history of embalming, starting with ancient cultures such as the Egyptians and the lesser known Chinchorro culture, then going down the centuries and describing the anatomical techniques developed over the last two centuries. The second part deals in detail with the chemicals used for embalming purposes. The third part deals with several approaches to evaluating embalming methods, their suitability for biomechanical testing, antimicrobial properties, histological appearance, and usability. The fourth and final part analyze the European Biocidal Products Directive (98/8/EC) in the light of embalming. PMID:24438435

Human body preservation - old and new techniques.

PubMed

Brenner, Erich

2014-03-01

This review deals with the art of (anatomical) embalming. The first part contains a brief historical review of the history of embalming, starting with ancient cultures such as the Egyptians and the lesser known Chinchorro culture, then going down the centuries and describing the anatomical techniques developed over the last two centuries. The second part deals in detail with the chemicals used for embalming purposes. The third part deals with several approaches to evaluating embalming methods, their suitability for biomechanical testing, antimicrobial properties, histological appearance, and usability. The fourth and final part analyze the European Biocidal Products Directive (98/8/EC) in the light of embalming. © 2014 Anatomical Society.

The Application of Hilbert-Huang Transforms to Meteorological Datasets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duffy, Dean G.

2003-01-01

Recently a new spectral technique as been developed for the analysis of aperiodic and nonlinear signals - the Hilbert-Huang transform. This paper shows how these transforms can be used to discover synoptic and climatic features: For sea level data, the transforms capture the oceanic tides as well as large, aperiodic river outflows. In the case of solar radiation, we observe variations in the diurnal and seasonal cycles. Finally, from barographic data, the Hilbert-Huang transform reveals the passage of extratropical cyclones, fronts, and troughs. Thus, this technique can flag significant weather events such its a flood or the passage of a squall line.

Standard-M mobile satellite terminal employing electronic beam squint tracking

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hawkins, G. J.; Beach, M. A.; Hilton, G. S.

1990-01-01

In recent years, extensive experience has been built up at the University of Bristol in the use of the Electronic Beam Squint (EBS) tracking technique, applied to large earth station facilities. The current interest in land mobile satellite terminals, using small tracking antennas, has prompted the investigation of the applicability of the EBS technique to this environment. The development of an L-band mechanically steered vehicle antenna is presented. A description of the antenna is followed by a detailed investigation of the tracking environment and its implications on the error detection capability of the system. Finally, the overall hardware configuration is described along with plans for future work.

An analytical approach to test and design upper limb prosthesis.

PubMed

Veer, Karan

2015-01-01

In this work the signal acquiring technique, the analysis models and the design protocols of the prosthesis are discussed. The different methods to estimate the motion intended by the amputee from surface electromyogram (SEMG) signals based on time and frequency domain parameters are presented. The experiment proposed that the used techniques can help significantly in discriminating the amputee's motions among four independent activities using dual channel set-up. Further, based on experimental results, the design and working of an artificial arm have been covered under two constituents--the electronics design and the mechanical assembly. Finally, the developed hand prosthesis allows the amputated persons to perform daily routine activities easily.

On scattered waves and lipid domains: detecting membrane rafts with X-rays and neutrons

DOE PAGES

Marquardt, Drew; Heberle, Frederick A.; Nickels, Jonathan D.; ...

2015-09-21

In order to understand the biological role of lipids in cell membranes, it is necessary to determine the mesoscopic structure of well-defined model membrane systems. Neutron and X-ray scattering are non-invasive, probe-free techniques that have been used extensively in such systems to probe length scales ranging from angstroms to microns, and dynamics occurring over picosecond to millisecond time scales. Finally, recent developments in the area of phase separated lipid systems mimicking membrane rafts will be presented, and the underlying concepts of the different scattering techniques used to study them will be discussed in detail.

Endoscopic ultrasound: Elastographic lymph node evaluation.

PubMed

Dietrich, Christoph F; Jenssen, Christian; Arcidiacono, Paolo G; Cui, Xin-Wu; Giovannini, Marc; Hocke, Michael; Iglesias-Garcia, Julio; Saftoiu, Adrian; Sun, Siyu; Chiorean, Liliana

2015-01-01

Different imaging techniques can bring different information which will contribute to the final diagnosis and further management of the patients. Even from the time of Hippocrates, palpation has been used in order to detect and characterize a body mass. The so-called virtual palpation has now become a reality due to elastography, which is a recently developed technique. Elastography has already been proving its added value as a complementary imaging method, helpful to better characterize and differentiate between benign and malignant masses. The current applications of elastography in lymph nodes (LNs) assessment by endoscopic ultrasonography will be further discussed in this paper, with a review of the literature and future perspectives.

Computational materials design of crystalline solids.

PubMed

Butler, Keith T; Frost, Jarvist M; Skelton, Jonathan M; Svane, Katrine L; Walsh, Aron

2016-11-07

The modelling of materials properties and processes from first principles is becoming sufficiently accurate as to facilitate the design and testing of new systems in silico. Computational materials science is both valuable and increasingly necessary for developing novel functional materials and composites that meet the requirements of next-generation technology. A range of simulation techniques are being developed and applied to problems related to materials for energy generation, storage and conversion including solar cells, nuclear reactors, batteries, fuel cells, and catalytic systems. Such techniques may combine crystal-structure prediction (global optimisation), data mining (materials informatics) and high-throughput screening with elements of machine learning. We explore the development process associated with computational materials design, from setting the requirements and descriptors to the development and testing of new materials. As a case study, we critically review progress in the fields of thermoelectrics and photovoltaics, including the simulation of lattice thermal conductivity and the search for Pb-free hybrid halide perovskites. Finally, a number of universal chemical-design principles are advanced.

Research and Development of High-performance Explosives

PubMed Central

Cornell, Rodger; Wrobel, Erik; Anderson, Paul E.

2016-01-01

Developmental testing of high explosives for military applications involves small-scale formulation, safety testing, and finally detonation performance tests to verify theoretical calculations. small-scale For newly developed formulations, the process begins with small-scale mixes, thermal testing, and impact and friction sensitivity. Only then do subsequent larger scale formulations proceed to detonation testing, which will be covered in this paper. Recent advances in characterization techniques have led to unparalleled precision in the characterization of early-time evolution of detonations. The new technique of photo-Doppler velocimetry (PDV) for the measurement of detonation pressure and velocity will be shared and compared with traditional fiber-optic detonation velocity and plate-dent calculation of detonation pressure. In particular, the role of aluminum in explosive formulations will be discussed. Recent developments led to the development of explosive formulations that result in reaction of aluminum very early in the detonation product expansion. This enhanced reaction leads to changes in the detonation velocity and pressure due to reaction of the aluminum with oxygen in the expanding gas products. PMID:26966969

Biomass modeling of four water intensiveleading world crops using hyperspectral narrowbands in support of HyspIRI Mission

USGS Publications Warehouse

Marshall, Michael T.; Thenkabail, Prasad S.

2014-01-01

New satellite missions are expected to record high spectral resolution information globally and consistently for the first time, so it is important to identify modeling techniques that take advantage of these new data. In this paper, we estimate biomass for four major crops using ground-based hyperspectral narrowbands. The spectra and their derivatives are evaluated using three modeling techniques: two-band hyperspectral vegetation indices (HVIs), multiple band-HVIs (MB-HVIs) developed from Sequential Search Methods (SSM), and MB-HVIs developed from Principal Component Regression. Overall, the two-band HVIs and MB-HVIs developed from SSMs using first derivative transformed spectra in the visible blue and green and NIR explained more biomass variability and had lower error than the other approaches or transformations; however a better search criterion needs to be developed in order to reflect the true ability of the two-band HVI approach. Short-Wave Infrared 1 (1000 to 1700 nm) proved less effective, but still important in the final models.

Technical Report Series on Global Modeling and Data Assimilation. Volume 16; Filtering Techniques on a Stretched Grid General Circulation Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Takacs, Lawrence L.; Sawyer, William; Suarez, Max J. (Editor); Fox-Rabinowitz, Michael S.

1999-01-01

This report documents the techniques used to filter quantities on a stretched grid general circulation model. Standard high-latitude filtering techniques (e.g., using an FFT (Fast Fourier Transformations) to decompose and filter unstable harmonics at selected latitudes) applied on a stretched grid are shown to produce significant distortions of the prognostic state when used to control instabilities near the pole. A new filtering technique is developed which accurately accounts for the non-uniform grid by computing the eigenvectors and eigenfrequencies associated with the stretching. A filter function, constructed to selectively damp those modes whose associated eigenfrequencies exceed some critical value, is used to construct a set of grid-spaced weights which are shown to effectively filter without distortion. Both offline and GCM (General Circulation Model) experiments are shown using the new filtering technique. Finally, a brief examination is also made on the impact of applying the Shapiro filter on the stretched grid.

Status of Thermal NDT of Space Shuttle Materials at NASA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cramer, K. Elliott; Winfree, William P.; Hodges, Kenneth; Koshti, Ajay; Ryan, Daniel; Reinhardt, Walter W.

2006-01-01

Since the Space Shuttle Columbia accident, NASA has focused on improving advanced nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques for the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) panels that comprise the orbiter's wing leading edge and nose cap. Various nondestructive inspection techniques have been used in the examination of the RCC, but thermography has emerged as an effective inspection alternative to more traditional methods. Thermography is a non-contact inspection method as compared to ultrasonic techniques which typically require the use of a coupling medium between the transducer and material. Like radiographic techniques, thermography can inspect large areas, but has the advantage of minimal safety concerns and the ability for single-sided measurements. Details of the analysis technique that has been developed to allow insitu inspection of a majority of shuttle RCC components is discussed. Additionally, validation testing, performed to quantify the performance of the system, will be discussed. Finally, the results of applying this technology to the Space Shuttle Discovery after its return from the STS-114 mission in July 2005 are discussed.

Status of Thermal NDT of Space Shuttle Materials at NASA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cramer, K. Elliott; Winfree, William P.; Hodges, Kenneth; Koshti, Ajay; Ryan, Daniel; Reinhardt, Walter W.

2007-01-01

Since the Space Shuttle Columbia accident, NASA has focused on improving advanced NDE techniques for the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) panels that comprise the orbiter s wing leading edge and nose cap. Various nondestructive inspection techniques have been used in the examination of the RCC, but thermography has emerged as an effective inspection alternative to more traditional methods. Thermography is a non-contact inspection method as compared to ultrasonic techniques which typically require the use of a coupling medium between the transducer and material. Like radiographic techniques, thermography can inspect large areas, but has the advantage of minimal safety concerns and the ability for single-sided measurements. Details of the analysis technique that has been developed to allow insitu inspection of a majority of shuttle RCC components is discussed. Additionally, validation testing, performed to quantify the performance of the system, will be discussed. Finally, the results of applying this technology to the Space Shuttle Discovery after its return from the STS-114 mission in July 2005 are discussed.

Status of Thermal NDT of Space Shuttle Materials at NASA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cramer, K. Elliott; Winfree, William P.; Hodges, Kenneth; Koshti, Ajay; Ryan, Daniel; Rweinhardt, Walter W.

2006-01-01

Since the Space Shuttle Columbia accident, NASA has focused on improving advanced NDE techniques for the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) panels that comprise the orbiter's wing leading edge and nose cap. Various nondestructive inspection techniques have been used in the examination of the RCC, but thermography has emerged as an effective inspection alternative to more traditional methods. Thermography is a non-contact inspection method as compared to ultrasonic techniques which typically require the use of a coupling medium between the transducer and material. Like radiographic techniques, thermography can inspect large areas, but has the advantage of minimal safety concerns and the ability for single-sided measurements. Details of the analysis technique that has been developed to allow insitu inspection of a majority of shuttle RCC components is discussed. Additionally, validation testing, performed to quantify the performance of the system, will be discussed. Finally, the results of applying this technology to the Space Shuttle Discovery after its return from the STS-114 mission in July 2005 are discussed.

Indirect three-dimensional printing of synthetic polymer scaffold based on thermal molding process.

PubMed

Park, Jeong Hun; Jung, Jin Woo; Kang, Hyun-Wook; Cho, Dong-Woo

2014-06-01

One of the major issues in tissue engineering has been the development of three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds, which serve as a structural template for cell growth and extracellular matrix formation. In scaffold-based tissue engineering, 3D printing (3DP) technology has been successfully applied for the fabrication of complex 3D scaffolds by using both direct and indirect techniques. In principle, direct 3DP techniques rely on the straightforward utilization of the final scaffold materials during the actual scaffold fabrication process. In contrast, indirect 3DP techniques use a negative mold based on a scaffold design, to which the desired biomaterial is cast and then sacrificed to obtain the final scaffold. Such indirect 3DP techniques generally impose a solvent-based process for scaffold fabrication, resulting in a considerable increase in the fabrication time and poor mechanical properties. In addition, the internal architecture of the resulting scaffold is affected by the properties of the biomaterial solution. In this study, we propose an advanced indirect 3DP technique using projection-based micro-stereolithography and an injection molding system (IMS) in order to address these challenges. The scaffold was fabricated by a thermal molding process using IMS to overcome the limitation of the solvent-based molding process in indirect 3DP techniques. The results indicate that the thermal molding process using an IMS has achieved a substantial reduction in scaffold fabrication time and has also provided the scaffold with higher mechanical modulus and strength. In addition, cell adhesion and proliferation studies have indicated no significant difference in cell activity between the scaffolds prepared by solvent-based and thermal molding processes.

Electronics for Piezoelectric Smart Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Warkentin, D. J.; Tani, J.

1997-01-01

This paper briefly presents work addressing some of the basic considerations for the electronic components used in smart structures incorporating piezoelectric elements. After general remarks on the application of piezoelectric elements to the problem of structural vibration control, three main topics are described. Work to date on the development of techniques for embedding electronic components within structural parts is presented, followed by a description of the power flow and dissipation requirements of those components. Finally current work on the development of electronic circuits for use in an 'active wall' for acoustic noise is introduced.

An analysis of the development of port operation in Da Nang Port, Vietnam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, T. D. H.; Cools, M.

2018-04-01

This paper presents the current operating status in Da Nang Port, Vietnam in the period 2012-2016. The port operation had positive changes that were reflected by a significant increase in total throughputs, especially containerized cargo volumes. Classical decomposition techniques are used to find trend-cycle and seasonal components of monthly throughput flows. Appropriate predictive models of different kinds of throughputs are proposed. Finally, a development strategy towards containerization and investment policies in facilities, equipment, and infrastructure are suggested based on the predictive results.

Final Technical Report for DE-FG02-98ER45737

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

Ade, Harald W.

This document represents the cumulative, final technical report for Grant No. DE-FG02- 98ER45737, the title of which has changed with each funding period, but the research pursued is within a coherent overall theme of methods and technique developments that exploit contrast at the carbon absorption edge to characterize complex organic materials and the use of these synchrotron radiation-based methods for important research challenges in polymer physics and Materials Science. The last three funding periods focused on organic devices and in particular organic solar cells (OSCs), owing to their extra-ordinarily complex morphology, yet high potential as a cheap and printable power-conversionmore » technology.« less

Social Structures, Ideologies, and Culture Codes in Occupational Development of Puerto Rican Youths. Volume 1 of Final Report, Anthropological Study of Disability From Educational Problems of Puerto Rican Youths.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burnett, Jacquetta Hill

The question of how educational failures lead to or contribute to occupational disability was studied in a youthful Puerto Rican population in an economically poor neighborhood and school district of Chicago. Anthropological field research techniques, supplemented by scheduled interviews and questionnaires, were used to collect qualitative and…

Development of a Multileaf Collimator for Proton Radiotherapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-06-01

generated and compared to the dosimetry derived from radiochromic media. TLDS may be inserted into the phantom to further confirm the technique. Finally...of dosimetry systems for scanned beams: (FY 2006-2009). We are investigating dosimetry systems for use with scanned beams and will either purchase a...group Research in Monte Carlo Simulations and Dosimetry Studies of Proton Therapy Rulon Mayer, PhD Energetic protons used to damage tumors

US Army Institute of Dental Research Annual Progress Report FY80.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-10-01

indicates that use of the laser technique does result in increased connectiv tissue regeneration and improved resolution of the periodontal defects...connectiv tissue regeneration and improved resolution of the periodontal defects. Final analysis of histologic data on the use of the neodymium laser for in...and 21 Bone Regeneration in Trnumatic Wounds (Pathology) DA OH 6038 Development of Endodontic Procedures for 22 Military Dentistry ( Oral Biology) DA OK

Employing a new bath- and liquidus temperature sensor for molten salts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verstreken, P.

1997-11-01

In this article, a newly developed sensor that measures bath and liquidus temperatures is described. The accuracy and reproducibility of the sensor are discussed, and the sensor’s output is compared with results obtained using other techniques. A series of measurements in point-feed and center-worked cells are given. Finally, the evolution of bath and liquidus temperature is shown with respect to feed strategies.

Demonstration, Developmental and Research Project for Programs, Materials, Facilities and Educational Technology for Undereducated Adults: Ohio State Module. ABE Life-Centered Curriculum Development and Teaching Technique. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morehead State Univ., KY.

Three types of instruction were used in the Ohio Module Project: traditional classes, programmed learning centers, and home instruction. Four major objectives of the project are: (1) to determine the kind of training program necessary to prepare paraprofessionals to operate an instructional program utilizing programmed materials, (2) to compare…

Application of optimal control theory to the design of the NASA/JPL 70-meter antenna servos

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alvarez, L. S.; Nickerson, J.

1989-01-01

The application of Linear Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) techniques to the design of the 70-m axis servos is described. Linear quadratic optimal control and Kalman filter theory are reviewed, and model development and verification are discussed. Families of optimal controller and Kalman filter gain vectors were generated by varying weight parameters. Performance specifications were used to select final gain vectors.

Final Report for the ZERT Project: Basic Science of Retention Issues, Risk Assessment & Measurement, Monitoring and Verification for Geologic Sequestration

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

Spangler, Lee; Cunningham, Alfred; Lageson, David

2011-03-31

ZERT has made major contributions to five main areas of sequestration science: improvement of computational tools; measurement and monitoring techniques to verify storage and track migration of CO{sub 2}; development of a comprehensive performance and risk assessment framework; fundamental geophysical, geochemical and hydrological investigations of CO{sub 2} storage; and investigate innovative, bio-based mitigation strategies.

Use of Landsat data in soil and agricultural land use studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Westin, F. C.; Brandner, T. M.

1980-01-01

This paper describes how the synoptic, multispectral, and temporal characteristics of Landsat can be used to locate Soil Association boundaries. Then, using these techniques we describe how a low intensity soil survey was conducted and how some interpretive maps were developed from this. Finally, we describe how soil suitability and land use interpretations were made to aid in defining Agrophysical units used in crop inventories.

Recovery of Navy distillate fuel from reclaimed product. Volume II. Literature review

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

Brinkman, D.W.; Whisman, M.L.

In an effort to assist the Navy to better utilize its waste hydrocarbons, NIPER, with support from the US Department of Energy, is conducting research designed to ultimately develop a practical technique for converting Reclaimed Product (RP) into specification Naval Distillate Fuel (F-76). This first phase of the project was focused on reviewing the literature and available information from equipment manufacturers. The literature survey has been carefully culled for methodology applicable to the conversion of RP into diesel fuel suitable for Navy use. Based upon the results of this study, a second phase has been developed and outlined in whichmore » experiments will be performed to determine the most practical recycling technologies. It is realized that the final selection of one particular technology may be site-specific due to vast differences in RP volume and available facilities. A final phase, if funded, would involve full-scale testing of one of the recommended techniques at a refueling depot. The Phase I investigations are published in two volumes. Volume 1, Technical Discussion, includes the narrative and Appendices I and II. Appendix III, a detailed Literature Review, includes both a narrative portion and an annotated bibliography containing about 800 references and abstracts. This appendix, because of its volume, has been published separately as Volume 2.« less

Supercritical fluid extraction. Principles and practice

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

McHugh, M.A.; Krukonis, V.J.

This book is a presentation of the fundamentals and application of super-critical fluid solvents (SCF). The authors cover virtually every facet of SCF technology: the history of SCF extraction, its underlying thermodynamic principles, process principles, industrial applications, and analysis of SCF research and development efforts. The thermodynamic principles governing SCF extraction are covered in depth. The often complex three-dimensional pressure-temperature composition (PTx) phase diagrams for SCF-solute mixtures are constructed in a coherent step-by-step manner using the more familiar two-dimensional Px diagrams. The experimental techniques used to obtain high pressure phase behavior information are described in detail and the advantages andmore » disadvantages of each technique are explained. Finally, the equations used to model SCF-solute mixtures are developed, and modeling results are presented to highlight the correlational strengths of a cubic equation of state.« less

Non-thermal plasma technologies: new tools for bio-decontamination.

PubMed

Moreau, M; Orange, N; Feuilloley, M G J

2008-01-01

Bacterial control and decontamination are crucial to industrial safety assessments. However, most recently developed materials are not compatible with standard heat sterilization treatments. Advanced oxidation processes, and particularly non-thermal plasmas, are emerging and promising technologies for sanitation because they are both efficient and cheap. The applications of non-thermal plasma to bacterial control remain poorly known for several reasons: this technique was not developed for biological applications and most of the literature is in the fields of physics and chemistry. Moreover, the diversity of the devices and complexity of the plasmas made any general evaluation of the potential of the technique difficult. Finally, no experimental equipment for non-thermal plasma sterilization is commercially available and reference articles for microbiologists are rare. The present review aims to give an overview of the principles of action and applications of plasma technologies in biodecontamination.

INcreasing Security and Protection through Infrastructure REsilience: The INSPIRE Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Antonio, Salvatore; Romano, Luigi; Khelil, Abdelmajid; Suri, Neeraj

The INSPIRE project aims at enhancing the European potential in the field of security by ensuring the protection of critical information infrastructures through (a) the identification of their vulnerabilities and (b) the development of innovative techniques for securing networked process control systems. To increase the resilience of such systems INSPIRE will develop traffic engineering algorithms, diagnostic processes and self-reconfigurable architectures along with recovery techniques. Hence, the core idea of the INSPIRE project is to protect critical information infrastructures by appropriately configuring, managing, and securing the communication network which interconnects the distributed control systems. A working prototype will be implemented as a final demonstrator of selected scenarios. Controls/Communication Experts will support project partners in the validation and demonstration activities. INSPIRE will also contribute to standardization process in order to foster multi-operator interoperability and coordinated strategies for securing lifeline systems.

Risk Management of NASA Projects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sarper, Hueseyin

1997-01-01

Various NASA Langley Research Center and other center projects were attempted for analysis to obtain historical data comparing pre-phase A study and the final outcome for each project. This attempt, however, was abandoned once it became clear that very little documentation was available. Next, extensive literature search was conducted on the role of risk and reliability concepts in project management. Probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) techniques are being used with increasing regularity both in and outside of NASA. The value and the usage of PRA techniques were reviewed for large projects. It was found that both civilian and military branches of the space industry have traditionally refrained from using PRA, which was developed and expanded by nuclear industry. Although much has changed with the end of the cold war and the Challenger disaster, it was found that ingrained anti-PRA culture is hard to stop. Examples of skepticism against the use of risk management and assessment techniques were found both in the literature and in conversations with some technical staff. Program and project managers need to be convinced that the applicability and use of risk management and risk assessment techniques is much broader than just in the traditional safety-related areas of application. The time has come to begin to uniformly apply these techniques. The whole idea of risk-based system can maximize the 'return on investment' that the public demands. Also, it would be very useful if all project documents of NASA Langley Research Center, pre-phase A through final report, are carefully stored in a central repository preferably in electronic format.

Incomplete data based parameter identification of nonlinear and time-variant oscillators with fractional derivative elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kougioumtzoglou, Ioannis A.; dos Santos, Ketson R. M.; Comerford, Liam

2017-09-01

Various system identification techniques exist in the literature that can handle non-stationary measured time-histories, or cases of incomplete data, or address systems following a fractional calculus modeling. However, there are not many (if any) techniques that can address all three aforementioned challenges simultaneously in a consistent manner. In this paper, a novel multiple-input/single-output (MISO) system identification technique is developed for parameter identification of nonlinear and time-variant oscillators with fractional derivative terms subject to incomplete non-stationary data. The technique utilizes a representation of the nonlinear restoring forces as a set of parallel linear sub-systems. In this regard, the oscillator is transformed into an equivalent MISO system in the wavelet domain. Next, a recently developed L1-norm minimization procedure based on compressive sensing theory is applied for determining the wavelet coefficients of the available incomplete non-stationary input-output (excitation-response) data. Finally, these wavelet coefficients are utilized to determine appropriately defined time- and frequency-dependent wavelet based frequency response functions and related oscillator parameters. Several linear and nonlinear time-variant systems with fractional derivative elements are used as numerical examples to demonstrate the reliability of the technique even in cases of noise corrupted and incomplete data.

Rescuing the Clinical Breast Examination: Advances in Classifying Technique and Assessing Physician Competency.

PubMed

Laufer, Shlomi; D'Angelo, Anne-Lise D; Kwan, Calvin; Ray, Rebbeca D; Yudkowsky, Rachel; Boulet, John R; McGaghie, William C; Pugh, Carla M

2017-12-01

Develop new performance evaluation standards for the clinical breast examination (CBE). There are several, technical aspects of a proper CBE. Our recent work discovered a significant, linear relationship between palpation force and CBE accuracy. This article investigates the relationship between other technical aspects of the CBE and accuracy. This performance assessment study involved data collection from physicians (n = 553) attending 3 different clinical meetings between 2013 and 2014: American Society of Breast Surgeons, American Academy of Family Physicians, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Four, previously validated, sensor-enabled breast models were used for clinical skills assessment. Models A and B had solitary, superficial, 2 cm and 1 cm soft masses, respectively. Models C and D had solitary, deep, 2 cm hard and moderately firm masses, respectively. Finger movements (search technique) from 1137 CBE video recordings were independently classified by 2 observers. Final classifications were compared with CBE accuracy. Accuracy rates were model A = 99.6%, model B = 89.7%, model C = 75%, and model D = 60%. Final classification categories for search technique included rubbing movement, vertical movement, piano fingers, and other. Interrater reliability was (k = 0.79). Rubbing movement was 4 times more likely to yield an accurate assessment (odds ratio 3.81, P < 0.001) compared with vertical movement and piano fingers. Piano fingers had the highest failure rate (36.5%). Regression analysis of search pattern, search technique, palpation force, examination time, and 6 demographic variables, revealed that search technique independently and significantly affected CBE accuracy (P < 0.001). Our results support measurement and classification of CBE techniques and provide the foundation for a new paradigm in teaching and assessing hands-on clinical skills. The newly described piano fingers palpation technique was noted to have unusually high failure rates. Medical educators should be aware of the potential differences in effectiveness for various CBE techniques.

Process-Structure Linkages Using a Data Science Approach: Application to Simulated Additive Manufacturing Data

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

Popova, Evdokia; Rodgers, Theron M.; Gong, Xinyi

A novel data science workflow is developed and demonstrated to extract process-structure linkages (i.e., reduced-order model) for microstructure evolution problems when the final microstructure depends on (simulation or experimental) processing parameters. Our workflow consists of four main steps: data pre-processing, microstructure quantification, dimensionality reduction, and extraction/validation of process-structure linkages. These methods that can be employed within each step vary based on the type and amount of available data. In this paper, this data-driven workflow is applied to a set of synthetic additive manufacturing microstructures obtained using the Potts-kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) approach. Additive manufacturing techniques inherently produce complex microstructures thatmore » can vary significantly with processing conditions. Using the developed workflow, a low-dimensional data-driven model was established to correlate process parameters with the predicted final microstructure. In addition, the modular workflows developed and presented in this work facilitate easy dissemination and curation by the broader community.« less

Design and Development of a Deep Acoustic Lining for the 40-by 80-Foot Wind Tunnel Test Section

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soderman, Paul T.; Schmitz, Fredric H.; Allen, Christopher S.; Jaeger, Stephen M.; Sacco, Joe N.; Mosher, Marianne; Hayes, Julie A.

2002-01-01

The work described in this report has made effective use of design teams to build a state-of-the-art anechoic wind-tunnel facility. Many potential design solutions were evaluated using engineering analysis, and computational tools. Design alternatives were then evaluated using specially developed testing techniques, Large-scale coupon testing was then performed to develop confidence that the preferred design would meet the acoustic, aerodynamic, and structural objectives of the project. Finally, designs were frozen and the final product was installed in the wind tunnel. The result of this technically ambitious project has been the creation of a unique acoustic wind tunnel. Its large test section (39 ft x 79 ft x SO ft), potentially near-anechoic environment, and medium subsonic speed capability (M = 0.45) will support a full range of aeroacoustic testing-from rotorcraft and other vertical takeoff and landing aircraft to the take-off/landing configurations of both subsonic and supersonic transports.

A new method for recognizing quadric surfaces from range data and its application to telerobotics and automation, final phase

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mielke, Roland; Dcunha, Ivan; Alvertos, Nicolas

1994-01-01

In the final phase of the proposed research a complete top to down three dimensional object recognition scheme has been proposed. The various three dimensional objects included spheres, cones, cylinders, ellipsoids, paraboloids, and hyperboloids. Utilizing a newly developed blob determination technique, a given range scene with several non-cluttered quadric surfaces is segmented. Next, using the earlier (phase 1) developed alignment scheme, each of the segmented objects are then aligned in a desired coordinate system. For each of the quadric surfaces based upon their intersections with certain pre-determined planes, a set of distinct features (curves) are obtained. A database with entities such as the equations of the planes and angular bounds of these planes has been created for each of the quadric surfaces. Real range data of spheres, cones, cylinders, and parallelpipeds have been utilized for the recognition process. The developed algorithm gave excellent results for the real data as well as for several sets of simulated range data.

Process-Structure Linkages Using a Data Science Approach: Application to Simulated Additive Manufacturing Data

DOE PAGES

Popova, Evdokia; Rodgers, Theron M.; Gong, Xinyi; ...

2017-03-13

A novel data science workflow is developed and demonstrated to extract process-structure linkages (i.e., reduced-order model) for microstructure evolution problems when the final microstructure depends on (simulation or experimental) processing parameters. Our workflow consists of four main steps: data pre-processing, microstructure quantification, dimensionality reduction, and extraction/validation of process-structure linkages. These methods that can be employed within each step vary based on the type and amount of available data. In this paper, this data-driven workflow is applied to a set of synthetic additive manufacturing microstructures obtained using the Potts-kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) approach. Additive manufacturing techniques inherently produce complex microstructures thatmore » can vary significantly with processing conditions. Using the developed workflow, a low-dimensional data-driven model was established to correlate process parameters with the predicted final microstructure. In addition, the modular workflows developed and presented in this work facilitate easy dissemination and curation by the broader community.« less

Electrocardiogram signal denoising based on empirical mode decomposition technique: an overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, G.; Lin, B.; Xu, Z.

2017-03-01

Electrocardiogram (ECG) signal is nonlinear and non-stationary weak signal which reflects whether the heart is functioning normally or abnormally. ECG signal is susceptible to various kinds of noises such as high/low frequency noises, powerline interference and baseline wander. Hence, the removal of noises from ECG signal becomes a vital link in the ECG signal processing and plays a significant role in the detection and diagnosis of heart diseases. The review will describe the recent developments of ECG signal denoising based on Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) technique including high frequency noise removal, powerline interference separation, baseline wander correction, the combining of EMD and Other Methods, EEMD technique. EMD technique is a quite potential and prospective but not perfect method in the application of processing nonlinear and non-stationary signal like ECG signal. The EMD combined with other algorithms is a good solution to improve the performance of noise cancellation. The pros and cons of EMD technique in ECG signal denoising are discussed in detail. Finally, the future work and challenges in ECG signal denoising based on EMD technique are clarified.

Pulsating potentiometric titration technique for assay of dissolved oxygen in water at trace level.

PubMed

Sahoo, P; Ananthanarayanan, R; Malathi, N; Rajiniganth, M P; Murali, N; Swaminathan, P

2010-06-11

A simple but high performance potentiometric titration technique using pulsating sensors has been developed for assay of dissolved oxygen (DO) in water samples down to 10.0 microg L(-1) levels. The technique involves Winkler titration chemistry, commonly used for determination of dissolved oxygen in water at mg L(-1) levels, with modification in methodology for accurate detection of end point even at 10.0 microg L(-1) levels DO present in the sample. An indigenously built sampling cum pretreatment vessel has been deployed for collection and chemical fixing of dissolved oxygen in water samples from flowing water line without exposure to air. A potentiometric titration facility using pulsating sensors developed in-house is used to carry out titration. The power of the titration technique has been realised in estimation of very dilute solution of iodine equivalent to 10 microg L(-1) O(2). Finally, several water samples containing dissolved oxygen from mg L(-1) to microg L(-1) levels were successfully analysed with excellent reproducibility using this new technique. The precision in measurement of DO in water at 10 microg L(-1) O(2) level is 0.14 (n=5), RSD: 1.4%. Probably for the first time a potentiometric titration technique has been successfully deployed for assay of dissolved oxygen in water samples at 10 microg L(-1) levels. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Non-surgical and non-chemical attempts to treat echinococcosis: do they work?

PubMed Central

Tamarozzi, Francesca; Vuitton, Lucine; Brunetti, Enrico; Vuitton, Dominique Angèle; Koch, Stéphane

2014-01-01

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE) are chronic, complex and neglected diseases. Their treatment depends on a number of factors related to the lesion, setting and patient. We performed a literature review of curative or palliative non-surgical, non-chemical interventions in CE and AE. In CE, some of these techniques, like radiofrequency thermal ablation (RFA), were shelved after initial attempts, while others, such as High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, appear promising but are still in a pre-clinical phase. In AE, RFA has never been tested, however, radiotherapy or heavy-ion therapies have been attempted in experimental models. Still, application to humans is questionable. In CE, although prospective clinical studies are still lacking, therapeutic, non-surgical drainage techniques, such as PAIR (puncture, aspiration, injection, re-aspiration) and its derivatives, are now considered a useful option in selected cases. Finally, palliative, non-surgical drainage techniques such as US- or CT-guided percutaneous biliary drainage, centro-parasitic abscesses drainage, or vascular stenting were performed successfully. Recently, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-associated techniques have become increasingly used to manage biliary fistulas in CE and biliary obstructions in AE. Development of pre-clinical animal models would allow testing for AE techniques developed for other indications, e.g. cancer. Prospective trials are required to determine the best use of PAIR, and associated procedures, and the indications and techniques of palliative drainage. PMID:25531730

Understanding Nanoemulsion Formation and Developing a Procedure for Porous Material Growth using Assembled Nanoemulsions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yeranossian, Vahagn Frounzig

Nanoemulsions as an emerging technology have found many applications in consumer products, drug delivery, and even particle formation. However, knowledge gaps exist in how some of these emulsions are formed, specifically what pathways are traversed to reach the final state. Moreover, how these pathways affect the final properties of the nanoemulsions would affect the applications that these droplets possess. Some nanoemulsions possess unique properties, including the assembly of droplets. While the assembly of droplets is being studied in the Helgeson lab, work must be done to understand how the assembly itself could be used to control the growth of porous materials, such a hydrogels. Thus, this thesis aims to address two factors of nanoemulsions: the formation of water-in-oil nanoemulsions and the use of assemblying droplets in oil-in-water nanoemulsions to form macroporous hydrogels. To elucidate the formation mechanism of water-in-oil nanoemulsions, a combination of dynamic light scattering and small angle neutron scattering were used to study the intermediate and final states of the nanoemulsion during its formation. These nanoemulsions were prepared by slowly adding water to an oil and surfactant mixture and were diluted to effectively measure using scattering techniques without multiple scattering events. To develop a procedure to use assembled nanoemulsions for the growth of porous materials, a combination of optical microscopy and diffusional studies were employed. Optical microscopy images taken at various stages of the procedure help elucidate how the pore sizes of the final porous material is related to the droplet-rich domains of the assembled nanoemulsion. Meanwhile, diffusional measurements help confirm the size and interconnectedness of the macropores. From the work done in the completion of my thesis, the formation mechanism of the water-in-oil nanoemulsion studied has been elucidated. The neutron scattering measurements show that during the formation of the nanoemulsion, a combination of droplets and vesicles form. The presence of vesicles provides insight into how chemical additives in the water would affect the final droplet properties. This insight can be used to design water-in-oil nanoemulsions to be used for the controlled synthesis of solid nanoparticles. Additionally, this work demonstrates a potential procedure for developing macroporous hydrogels using nanoemulsions that are assembled into droplet-rich and droplet-poor domains. Through mild UV cross-linking conditions and mild solvent extraction techniques, the pore sizes could be equivalent to the droplet-rich domain sizes. The final hydrogels can control diffusivity of molecules, giving them potential applications in drug delivery.

Straightforward and accurate technique for post-coupler stabilization in drift tube linac structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khalvati, Mohammad Reza; Ramberger, Suitbert

2016-04-01

The axial electric field of Alvarez drift tube linacs (DTLs) is known to be susceptible to variations due to static and dynamic effects like manufacturing tolerances and beam loading. Post-couplers are used to stabilize the accelerating fields of DTLs against tuning errors. Tilt sensitivity and its slope have been introduced as measures for the stability right from the invention of post-couplers but since then the actual stabilization has mostly been done by tedious iteration. In the present article, the local tilt-sensitivity slope TSn' is established as the principal measure for stabilization instead of tilt sensitivity or some visual slope, and its significance is developed on the basis of an equivalent-circuit diagram of the DTL. Experimental and 3D simulation results are used to analyze its behavior and to define a technique for stabilization that allows finding the best post-coupler settings with just four tilt-sensitivity measurements. CERN's Linac4 DTL Tank 2 and Tank 3 have been stabilized successfully using this technique. The final tilt-sensitivity error has been reduced from ±100 %/MHz down to ±3 %/MHz for Tank 2 and down to ±1 %/MHz for Tank 3. Finally, an accurate procedure for tuning the structure using slug tuners is discussed.

A Novel Technique Applying Spectral Estimation to Johnson Noise Thermometry

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

Ezell, N. Dianne Bull; Britton, Chuck; Ericson, Nance

Johnson noise thermometry is one of many important measurement techniques used to monitor the safety levels and stability in a nuclear reactor. However, this measurement is very dependent on the minimal electromagnetic environment. Properly removing unwanted electromagnetic interference (EMI) is critical for accurate drift-free temperature measurements. The two techniques developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) to remove transient and periodic EMI are briefly discussed here. Spectral estimation is a key component in the signal processing algorithm used for EMI removal and temperature calculation. The cross-power spectral density is a key component in the Johnson noise temperature computation. Applying eithermore » technique requires the simple addition of electronics and signal processing to existing resistive thermometers. With minimal installation changes, the system discussed here can be installed on existing nuclear power plants. The Johnson noise system developed is tested at three locations: ORNL, Sandia National Laboratory, and the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Kingston Fossil Plant. Each of these locations enabled improvement on the EMI removal algorithm. Finally, the conclusions made from the results at each of these locations is discussed, as well as possible future work.« less

Combinative Particle Size Reduction Technologies for the Production of Drug Nanocrystals

PubMed Central

Salazar, Jaime; Müller, Rainer H.; Möschwitzer, Jan P.

2014-01-01

Nanosizing is a suitable method to enhance the dissolution rate and therefore the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. The success of the particle size reduction processes depends on critical factors such as the employed technology, equipment, and drug physicochemical properties. High pressure homogenization and wet bead milling are standard comminution techniques that have been already employed to successfully formulate poorly soluble drugs and bring them to market. However, these techniques have limitations in their particle size reduction performance, such as long production times and the necessity of employing a micronized drug as the starting material. This review article discusses the development of combinative methods, such as the NANOEDGE, H 96, H 69, H 42, and CT technologies. These processes were developed to improve the particle size reduction effectiveness of the standard techniques. These novel technologies can combine bottom-up and/or top-down techniques in a two-step process. The combinative processes lead in general to improved particle size reduction effectiveness. Faster production of drug nanocrystals and smaller final mean particle sizes are among the main advantages. The combinative particle size reduction technologies are very useful formulation tools, and they will continue acquiring importance for the production of drug nanocrystals. PMID:26556191

Quad-rotor flight path energy optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kemper, Edward

Quad-Rotor unmanned areal vehicles (UAVs) have been a popular area of research and development in the last decade, especially with the advent of affordable microcontrollers like the MSP 430 and the Raspberry Pi. Path-Energy Optimization is an area that is well developed for linear systems. In this thesis, this idea of path-energy optimization is extended to the nonlinear model of the Quad-rotor UAV. The classical optimization technique is adapted to the nonlinear model that is derived for the problem at hand, coming up with a set of partial differential equations and boundary value conditions to solve these equations. Then, different techniques to implement energy optimization algorithms are tested using simulations in Python. First, a purely nonlinear approach is used. This method is shown to be computationally intensive, with no practical solution available in a reasonable amount of time. Second, heuristic techniques to minimize the energy of the flight path are tested, using Ziegler-Nichols' proportional integral derivative (PID) controller tuning technique. Finally, a brute force look-up table based PID controller is used. Simulation results of the heuristic method show that both reliable control of the system and path-energy optimization are achieved in a reasonable amount of time.

A Novel Technique Applying Spectral Estimation to Johnson Noise Thermometry

DOE PAGES

Ezell, N. Dianne Bull; Britton, Chuck; Ericson, Nance; ...

2018-03-30

Johnson noise thermometry is one of many important measurement techniques used to monitor the safety levels and stability in a nuclear reactor. However, this measurement is very dependent on the minimal electromagnetic environment. Properly removing unwanted electromagnetic interference (EMI) is critical for accurate drift-free temperature measurements. The two techniques developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) to remove transient and periodic EMI are briefly discussed here. Spectral estimation is a key component in the signal processing algorithm used for EMI removal and temperature calculation. The cross-power spectral density is a key component in the Johnson noise temperature computation. Applying eithermore » technique requires the simple addition of electronics and signal processing to existing resistive thermometers. With minimal installation changes, the system discussed here can be installed on existing nuclear power plants. The Johnson noise system developed is tested at three locations: ORNL, Sandia National Laboratory, and the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Kingston Fossil Plant. Each of these locations enabled improvement on the EMI removal algorithm. Finally, the conclusions made from the results at each of these locations is discussed, as well as possible future work.« less

Spectral estimation—What is new? What is next?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tary, Jean Baptiste; Herrera, Roberto Henry; Han, Jiajun; van der Baan, Mirko

2014-12-01

Spectral estimation, and corresponding time-frequency representation for nonstationary signals, is a cornerstone in geophysical signal processing and interpretation. The last 10-15 years have seen the development of many new high-resolution decompositions that are often fundamentally different from Fourier and wavelet transforms. These conventional techniques, like the short-time Fourier transform and the continuous wavelet transform, show some limitations in terms of resolution (localization) due to the trade-off between time and frequency localizations and smearing due to the finite size of the time series of their template. Well-known techniques, like autoregressive methods and basis pursuit, and recently developed techniques, such as empirical mode decomposition and the synchrosqueezing transform, can achieve higher time-frequency localization due to reduced spectral smearing and leakage. We first review the theory of various established and novel techniques, pointing out their assumptions, adaptability, and expected time-frequency localization. We illustrate their performances on a provided collection of benchmark signals, including a laughing voice, a volcano tremor, a microseismic event, and a global earthquake, with the intention to provide a fair comparison of the pros and cons of each method. Finally, their outcomes are discussed and possible avenues for improvements are proposed.

Aperture Array Photonic Metamaterials: Theoretical approaches, numerical techniques and a novel application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lansey, Eli

Optical or photonic metamaterials that operate in the infrared and visible frequency regimes show tremendous promise for solving problems in renewable energy, infrared imaging, and telecommunications. However, many of the theoretical and simulation techniques used at lower frequencies are not applicable to this higher-frequency regime. Furthermore, technological and financial limitations of photonic metamaterial fabrication increases the importance of reliable theoretical models and computational techniques for predicting the optical response of photonic metamaterials. This thesis focuses on aperture array metamaterials. That is, a rectangular, circular, or other shaped cavity or hole embedded in, or penetrating through a metal film. The research in the first portion of this dissertation reflects our interest in developing a fundamental, theoretical understanding of the behavior of light's interaction with these aperture arrays, specifically regarding enhanced optical transmission. We develop an approximate boundary condition for metals at optical frequencies, and a comprehensive, analytical explanation of the physics underlying this effect. These theoretical analyses are augmented by computational techniques in the second portion of this thesis, used both for verification of the theoretical work, and solving more complicated structures. Finally, the last portion of this thesis discusses the results from designing, fabricating and characterizing a light-splitting metamaterial.

Project F. A. S. T.: Facilitating Academic Study Techniques for Handicapped Children. Volume 2. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Clessen J.

Volume 2, the appendix to the final report of Project FAST, consists of prose selections used to study the effects of text reduction techniques on the comprehension and recall of written materials among visually handicapped and hearing impaired subjects. Each selection is presented in various versions such as 10 percent subjective deleted, 20…

A Versatile Mounting Method for Long Term Imaging of Zebrafish Development.

PubMed

Hirsinger, Estelle; Steventon, Ben

2017-01-26

Zebrafish embryos offer an ideal experimental system to study complex morphogenetic processes due to their ease of accessibility and optical transparency. In particular, posterior body elongation is an essential process in embryonic development by which multiple tissue deformations act together to direct the formation of a large part of the body axis. In order to observe this process by long-term time-lapse imaging it is necessary to utilize a mounting technique that allows sufficient support to maintain samples in the correct orientation during transfer to the microscope and acquisition. In addition, the mounting must also provide sufficient freedom of movement for the outgrowth of the posterior body region without affecting its normal development. Finally, there must be a certain degree in versatility of the mounting method to allow imaging on diverse imaging set-ups. Here, we present a mounting technique for imaging the development of posterior body elongation in the zebrafish D. rerio. This technique involves mounting embryos such that the head and yolk sac regions are almost entirely included in agarose, while leaving out the posterior body region to elongate and develop normally. We will show how this can be adapted for upright, inverted and vertical light-sheet microscopy set-ups. While this protocol focuses on mounting embryos for imaging for the posterior body, it could easily be adapted for the live imaging of multiple aspects of zebrafish development.

Final safety analysis report for the Galileo Mission: Volume 2, Book 2: Accident model document: Appendices

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

Not Available

1988-12-15

This section of the Accident Model Document (AMD) presents the appendices which describe the various analyses that have been conducted for use in the Galileo Final Safety Analysis Report II, Volume II. Included in these appendices are the approaches, techniques, conditions and assumptions used in the development of the analytical models plus the detailed results of the analyses. Also included in these appendices are summaries of the accidents and their associated probabilities and environment models taken from the Shuttle Data Book (NSTS-08116), plus summaries of the several segments of the recent GPHS safety test program. The information presented in thesemore » appendices is used in Section 3.0 of the AMD to develop the Failure/Abort Sequence Trees (FASTs) and to determine the fuel releases (source terms) resulting from the potential Space Shuttle/IUS accidents throughout the missions.« less

Dual fuel gradients in uranium silicide plates

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

Pace, B.W.

1997-08-01

Babcock & Wilcox has been able to achieve dual gradient plates with good repeatability in small lots of U{sub 3}Si{sub 2} plates. Improvements in homogeneity and other processing parameters and techniques have allowed the development of contoured fuel within the cladding. The most difficult obstacles to overcome have been the ability to evaluate the bidirectional fuel loadings in comparison to the perfect loading model and the different methods of instilling the gradients in the early compact stage. The overriding conclusion is that to control the contour of the fuel, a known relationship between the compact, the frames and final coremore » gradient must exist. Therefore, further development in the creation and control of dual gradients in fuel plates will involve arriving at a plausible gradient requirement and building the correct model between the compact configuration and the final contoured loading requirements.« less

Sixth SIAM conference on applied linear algebra: Final program and abstracts. Final technical report

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

NONE

1997-12-31

Linear algebra plays a central role in mathematics and applications. The analysis and solution of problems from an amazingly wide variety of disciplines depend on the theory and computational techniques of linear algebra. In turn, the diversity of disciplines depending on linear algebra also serves to focus and shape its development. Some problems have special properties (numerical, structural) that can be exploited. Some are simply so large that conventional approaches are impractical. New computer architectures motivate new algorithms, and fresh ways to look at old ones. The pervasive nature of linear algebra in analyzing and solving problems means that peoplemore » from a wide spectrum--universities, industrial and government laboratories, financial institutions, and many others--share an interest in current developments in linear algebra. This conference aims to bring them together for their mutual benefit. Abstracts of papers presented are included.« less

Bone tissue engineering scaffolding: computer-aided scaffolding techniques.

PubMed

Thavornyutikarn, Boonlom; Chantarapanich, Nattapon; Sitthiseripratip, Kriskrai; Thouas, George A; Chen, Qizhi

Tissue engineering is essentially a technique for imitating nature. Natural tissues consist of three components: cells, signalling systems (e.g. growth factors) and extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM forms a scaffold for its cells. Hence, the engineered tissue construct is an artificial scaffold populated with living cells and signalling molecules. A huge effort has been invested in bone tissue engineering, in which a highly porous scaffold plays a critical role in guiding bone and vascular tissue growth and regeneration in three dimensions. In the last two decades, numerous scaffolding techniques have been developed to fabricate highly interconnective, porous scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications. This review provides an update on the progress of foaming technology of biomaterials, with a special attention being focused on computer-aided manufacturing (Andrade et al. 2002) techniques. This article starts with a brief introduction of tissue engineering (Bone tissue engineering and scaffolds) and scaffolding materials (Biomaterials used in bone tissue engineering). After a brief reviews on conventional scaffolding techniques (Conventional scaffolding techniques), a number of CAM techniques are reviewed in great detail. For each technique, the structure and mechanical integrity of fabricated scaffolds are discussed in detail. Finally, the advantaged and disadvantage of these techniques are compared (Comparison of scaffolding techniques) and summarised (Summary).

Recent advances in radiation oncology.

PubMed

Garibaldi, Cristina; Jereczek-Fossa, Barbara Alicja; Marvaso, Giulia; Dicuonzo, Samantha; Rojas, Damaris Patricia; Cattani, Federica; Starzyńska, Anna; Ciardo, Delia; Surgo, Alessia; Leonardi, Maria Cristina; Ricotti, Rosalinda

2017-01-01

Radiotherapy (RT) is very much a technology-driven treatment modality in the management of cancer. RT techniques have changed significantly over the past few decades, thanks to improvements in engineering and computing. We aim to highlight the recent developments in radiation oncology, focusing on the technological and biological advances. We will present state-of-the-art treatment techniques, employing photon beams, such as intensity-modulated RT, volumetric-modulated arc therapy, stereotactic body RT and adaptive RT, which make possible a highly tailored dose distribution with maximum normal tissue sparing. We will analyse all the steps involved in the treatment: imaging, delineation of the tumour and organs at risk, treatment planning and finally image-guidance for accurate tumour localisation before and during treatment delivery. Particular attention will be given to the crucial role that imaging plays throughout the entire process. In the case of adaptive RT, the precise identification of target volumes as well as the monitoring of tumour response/modification during the course of treatment is mainly based on multimodality imaging that integrates morphological, functional and metabolic information. Moreover, real-time imaging of the tumour is essential in breathing adaptive techniques to compensate for tumour motion due to respiration. Brief reference will be made to the recent spread of particle beam therapy, in particular to the use of protons, but also to the yet limited experience of using heavy particles such as carbon ions. Finally, we will analyse the latest biological advances in tumour targeting. Indeed, the effectiveness of RT has been improved not only by technological developments but also through the integration of radiobiological knowledge to produce more efficient and personalised treatment strategies.

Combined ellipsometry and refractometry technique for characterisation of liquid crystal based nanocomposites.

PubMed

Warenghem, Marc; Henninot, Jean François; Blach, Jean François; Buchnev, Oleksandr; Kaczmarek, Malgosia; Stchakovsky, Michel

2012-03-01

Spectroscopic ellipsometry is a technique especially well suited to measure the effective optical properties of a composite material. However, as the sample is optically thick and anisotropic, this technique loses its accuracy for two reasons: anisotropy means that two parameters have to be determined (ordinary and extraordinary indices) and optically thick means a large order of interference. In that case, several dielectric functions can emerge out of the fitting procedure with a similar mean square error and no criterion to discriminate the right solution. In this paper, we develop a methodology to overcome that drawback. It combines ellipsometry with refractometry. The same sample is used in a total internal reflection (TIR) setup and in a spectroscopic ellipsometer. The number of parameters to be determined by the fitting procedure is reduced in analysing two spectra, the correct final solution is found by using the TIR results both as initial values for the parameters and as check for the final dielectric function. A prefitting routine is developed to enter the right initial values in the fitting procedure and so to approach the right solution. As an example, this methodology is used to analyse the optical properties of BaTiO(3) nanoparticles embedded in a nematic liquid crystal. Such a methodology can also be used to analyse experimentally the validity of the mixing laws, since ellipsometry gives the effective dielectric function and thus, can be compared to the dielectric function of the components of the mixture, as it is shown on the example of BaTiO(3)/nematic composite.

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), part II: review of instrumental and methodological approaches to material analysis and applications to different fields.

PubMed

Hahn, David W; Omenetto, Nicoló

2012-04-01

The first part of this two-part review focused on the fundamental and diagnostics aspects of laser-induced plasmas, only touching briefly upon concepts such as sensitivity and detection limits and largely omitting any discussion of the vast panorama of the practical applications of the technique. Clearly a true LIBS community has emerged, which promises to quicken the pace of LIBS developments, applications, and implementations. With this second part, a more applied flavor is taken, and its intended goal is summarizing the current state-of-the-art of analytical LIBS, providing a contemporary snapshot of LIBS applications, and highlighting new directions in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, such as novel approaches, instrumental developments, and advanced use of chemometric tools. More specifically, we discuss instrumental and analytical approaches (e.g., double- and multi-pulse LIBS to improve the sensitivity), calibration-free approaches, hyphenated approaches in which techniques such as Raman and fluorescence are coupled with LIBS to increase sensitivity and information power, resonantly enhanced LIBS approaches, signal processing and optimization (e.g., signal-to-noise analysis), and finally applications. An attempt is made to provide an updated view of the role played by LIBS in the various fields, with emphasis on applications considered to be unique. We finally try to assess where LIBS is going as an analytical field, where in our opinion it should go, and what should still be done for consolidating the technique as a mature method of chemical analysis. © 2012 Society for Applied Spectroscopy

Image feature detection and extraction techniques performance evaluation for development of panorama under different light conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patil, Venkat P.; Gohatre, Umakant B.

2018-04-01

The technique of obtaining a wider field-of-view of an image to get high resolution integrated image is normally required for development of panorama of a photographic images or scene from a sequence of part of multiple views. There are various image stitching methods developed recently. For image stitching five basic steps are adopted stitching which are Feature detection and extraction, Image registration, computing homography, image warping and Blending. This paper provides review of some of the existing available image feature detection and extraction techniques and image stitching algorithms by categorizing them into several methods. For each category, the basic concepts are first described and later on the necessary modifications made to the fundamental concepts by different researchers are elaborated. This paper also highlights about the some of the fundamental techniques for the process of photographic image feature detection and extraction methods under various illumination conditions. The Importance of Image stitching is applicable in the various fields such as medical imaging, astrophotography and computer vision. For comparing performance evaluation of the techniques used for image features detection three methods are considered i.e. ORB, SURF, HESSIAN and time required for input images feature detection is measured. Results obtained finally concludes that for daylight condition, ORB algorithm found better due to the fact that less tome is required for more features extracted where as for images under night light condition it shows that SURF detector performs better than ORB/HESSIAN detectors.

Three-Dimensional Printing Articular Cartilage: Recapitulating the Complexity of Native Tissue.

PubMed

Guo, Ting; Lembong, Josephine; Zhang, Lijie Grace; Fisher, John P

2017-06-01

In the past few decades, the field of tissue engineering combined with rapid prototyping (RP) techniques has been successful in creating biological substitutes that mimic tissues. Its applications in regenerative medicine have drawn efforts in research from various scientific fields, diagnostics, and clinical translation to therapies. While some areas of therapeutics are well developed, such as skin replacement, many others such as cartilage repair can still greatly benefit from tissue engineering and RP due to the low success and/or inefficiency of current existing, often surgical treatments. Through fabrication of complex scaffolds and development of advanced materials, RP provides a new avenue for cartilage repair. Computer-aided design and three-dimensional (3D) printing allow the fabrication of modeled cartilage scaffolds for repair and regeneration of damaged cartilage tissues. Specifically, the various processes of 3D printing will be discussed in details, both cellular and acellular techniques, covering the different materials, geometries, and operational printing conditions for the development of tissue-engineered articular cartilage. Finally, we conclude with some insights on future applications and challenges related to this technology, especially using 3D printing techniques to recapitulate the complexity of native structure for advanced cartilage regeneration.

Compiler-Assisted Multiple Instruction Rollback Recovery Using a Read Buffer. Ph.D. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alewine, Neal Jon

1993-01-01

Multiple instruction rollback (MIR) is a technique to provide rapid recovery from transient processor failures and was implemented in hardware by researchers and slow in mainframe computers. Hardware-based MIR designs eliminate rollback data hazards by providing data redundancy implemented in hardware. Compiler-based MIR designs were also developed which remove rollback data hazards directly with data flow manipulations, thus eliminating the need for most data redundancy hardware. Compiler-assisted techniques to achieve multiple instruction rollback recovery are addressed. It is observed that data some hazards resulting from instruction rollback can be resolved more efficiently by providing hardware redundancy while others are resolved more efficiently with compiler transformations. A compiler-assisted multiple instruction rollback scheme is developed which combines hardware-implemented data redundancy with compiler-driven hazard removal transformations. Experimental performance evaluations were conducted which indicate improved efficiency over previous hardware-based and compiler-based schemes. Various enhancements to the compiler transformations and to the data redundancy hardware developed for the compiler-assisted MIR scheme are described and evaluated. The final topic deals with the application of compiler-assisted MIR techniques to aid in exception repair and branch repair in a speculative execution architecture.

Use of consumer insight in the new product development process in the meat sector.

PubMed

Grunert, Klaus G; Verbeke, Wim; Kügler, Jens O; Saeed, Faiza; Scholderer, Joachim

2011-11-01

Successful new product development requires input from the market throughout the product development process, from identification of opportunities via screening of ideas, development of concepts, development of physical prototypes and to launch. Drawing on work done in the EU FP6 projects PROSAFEBEEF and Q-PORKCHAINS and a Danish project, all dealing with new product development in the meat sector, it is shown how the use of consumer insight techniques can a) support the identification of market opportunities, b) make sure that technologies applied are acceptable to consumers, c) aid the selection and optimisation of new product concepts and related communication, and d) be used to test product prototypes before final launch. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hybrid CARS for Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xi; Pestov, Dmitry; Zhang, Aihua; Murawski, Robert; Sokolov, Alexei; Welch, George; Laane, Jaan; Scully, Marlan

2007-10-01

We develop a spectroscopy technique that combines the advantages of both the frequency-resolved coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) and the time-resolved CARS. We use broadband preparation pulses to get an instantaneous coherent excitation of multiplex molecular vibration levels and subsequent optically shaped time-delayed narrowband probing pulse to detect these vibrations. This technique can suppress the nonresonant background and retrieve the molecular fingerprint signal efficiently and rapidly. We employ this technique to glucose detection, the final goal of which is accurate, non-invasive (i.e. painless) and continuous monitoring of blood glucose concentration in the Diabetes diagnosis to replace the current glucose measurement process, which requires painful fingerpricks and therefore cannot be performed more than a few times a day. We have gotten the CARS spectra of glucose aqueous solution down to 2 mM.

Patterning techniques for metal organic frameworks.

PubMed

Falcaro, Paolo; Buso, Dario; Hill, Anita J; Doherty, Cara M

2012-06-26

The tuneable pore size and architecture, chemical properties and functionalization make metal organic frameworks (MOFs) attractive versatile stimuli-responsive materials. In this context, MOFs hold promise for industrial applications and a fervent research field is currently investigating MOF properties for device fabrication. Although the material properties have a crucial role, the ability to precisely locate the functional material is fundamental for device fabrication. In this progress report, advancements in the control of MOF positioning and precise localization of functional materials within MOF crystals are presented. Advantages and limitations of each reviewed technique are critically investigated, and several important gaps in the technological development for device fabrication are highlighted. Finally, promising patterning techniques are presented which are inspired by previous studies in organic and inorganic crystal patterning for the future of MOF lithography. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

[Endoscopically assisted fronto-orbitary correction in trigonocephaly].

PubMed

Hinojosa, J; Esparza, J; García-Recuero, I; Romance, A

2007-01-01

The development of multidisciplinar Units for Craneofacial Surgery has led to a considerable decrease in morbidity even in the cases of more complex craniofacial syndromes. The use of minimally invasive techniques for the correction of some of these malformations allows the surgeon to minimize the incidence of complications by means of a decrease in the surgical time, blood salvage and shortening of postoperative hospitalization in comparison to conventional craniofacial techniques. Simple and milder craniosynostosis are best approached by these techniques and render the best results. Different osteotomies resembling standard fronto-orbital remodelling besides simple suturectomies and the use of postoperative cranial orthesis may improve the final aesthetic appearence. In endoscopic treatment of trigonocephaly the use of preauricular incisions achieves complete pterional resection, lower lateral orbital osteotomies and successful precoronal frontal osteotomies to obtain long lasting and satisfactory outcomes.

Verification and extension of the MBL technique for photo resist pattern shape measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Isawa, Miki; Tanaka, Maki; Kazumi, Hideyuki; Shishido, Chie; Hamamatsu, Akira; Hasegawa, Norio; De Bisschop, Peter; Laidler, David; Leray, Philippe; Cheng, Shaunee

2011-03-01

In order to achieve pattern shape measurement with CD-SEM, the Model Based Library (MBL) technique is in the process of development. In this study, several libraries which consisted by double trapezoid model placed in optimum layout, were used to measure the various layout patterns. In order to verify the accuracy of the MBL photoresist pattern shape measurement, CDAFM measurements were carried out as a reference metrology. Both results were compared to each other, and we confirmed that there is a linear correlation between them. After that, to expand the application field of the MBL technique, it was applied to end-of-line (EOL) shape measurement to show the capability. Finally, we confirmed the possibility that the MBL could be applied to more local area shape measurement like hot-spot analysis.

A Technique for Transient Thermal Testing of Thick Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horn, Thomas J.; Richards, W. Lance; Gong, Leslie

1997-01-01

A new open-loop heat flux control technique has been developed to conduct transient thermal testing of thick, thermally-conductive aerospace structures. This technique uses calibration of the radiant heater system power level as a function of heat flux, predicted aerodynamic heat flux, and the properties of an instrumented test article. An iterative process was used to generate open-loop heater power profiles prior to each transient thermal test. Differences between the measured and predicted surface temperatures were used to refine the heater power level command profiles through the iteration process. This iteration process has reduced the effects of environmental and test system design factors, which are normally compensated for by closed-loop temperature control, to acceptable levels. The final revised heater power profiles resulted in measured temperature time histories which deviated less than 25 F from the predicted surface temperatures.

Germs, genomics and global public health: How can advances in genomic sciences be integrated into public health in the developing world to deal with infectious diseases?

PubMed

Pang, T

2009-12-01

Scientific and technological advances derived from the genomics revolution have a central role to play in dealing with continuing infectious disease threats in the developing world caused by emerging and re-emerging pathogens. These techniques, coupled with increasing knowledge of host-pathogen interactions, can assist in the early identification and containment of outbreaks as well as in the development of preventive vaccination and therapeutic interventions, including the urgent need for new antibiotics. However, the effective application of genomics technologies faces key barriers and challenges which occur at three stages: from the research to the products, from the products to individual patients, and, finally, from patients to entire populations. There needs to be an emphasis on research in areas of greatest need, in facilitating the translation of research into interventions and, finally, the effective delivery of such interventions to those in greatest need. Ultimate success will depend on bringing together science, society and policy to develop effective public health implementation strategies to provide health security and health equity for all peoples.

Processing Uav and LIDAR Point Clouds in Grass GIS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petras, V.; Petrasova, A.; Jeziorska, J.; Mitasova, H.

2016-06-01

Today's methods of acquiring Earth surface data, namely lidar and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery, non-selectively collect or generate large amounts of points. Point clouds from different sources vary in their properties such as number of returns, density, or quality. We present a set of tools with applications for different types of points clouds obtained by a lidar scanner, structure from motion technique (SfM), and a low-cost 3D scanner. To take advantage of the vertical structure of multiple return lidar point clouds, we demonstrate tools to process them using 3D raster techniques which allow, for example, the development of custom vegetation classification methods. Dense point clouds obtained from UAV imagery, often containing redundant points, can be decimated using various techniques before further processing. We implemented and compared several decimation techniques in regard to their performance and the final digital surface model (DSM). Finally, we will describe the processing of a point cloud from a low-cost 3D scanner, namely Microsoft Kinect, and its application for interaction with physical models. All the presented tools are open source and integrated in GRASS GIS, a multi-purpose open source GIS with remote sensing capabilities. The tools integrate with other open source projects, specifically Point Data Abstraction Library (PDAL), Point Cloud Library (PCL), and OpenKinect libfreenect2 library to benefit from the open source point cloud ecosystem. The implementation in GRASS GIS ensures long term maintenance and reproducibility by the scientific community but also by the original authors themselves.

Automated Construction of Node Software Using Attributes in a Ubiquitous Sensor Network Environment

PubMed Central

Lee, Woojin; Kim, Juil; Kang, JangMook

2010-01-01

In sensor networks, nodes must often operate in a demanding environment facing restrictions such as restricted computing resources, unreliable wireless communication and power shortages. Such factors make the development of ubiquitous sensor network (USN) applications challenging. To help developers construct a large amount of node software for sensor network applications easily and rapidly, this paper proposes an approach to the automated construction of node software for USN applications using attributes. In the proposed technique, application construction proceeds by first developing a model for the sensor network and then designing node software by setting the values of the predefined attributes. After that, the sensor network model and the design of node software are verified. The final source codes of the node software are automatically generated from the sensor network model. We illustrate the efficiency of the proposed technique by using a gas/light monitoring application through a case study of a Gas and Light Monitoring System based on the Nano-Qplus operating system. We evaluate the technique using a quantitative metric—the memory size of execution code for node software. Using the proposed approach, developers are able to easily construct sensor network applications and rapidly generate a large number of node softwares at a time in a ubiquitous sensor network environment. PMID:22163678

Automated construction of node software using attributes in a ubiquitous sensor network environment.

PubMed

Lee, Woojin; Kim, Juil; Kang, JangMook

2010-01-01

In sensor networks, nodes must often operate in a demanding environment facing restrictions such as restricted computing resources, unreliable wireless communication and power shortages. Such factors make the development of ubiquitous sensor network (USN) applications challenging. To help developers construct a large amount of node software for sensor network applications easily and rapidly, this paper proposes an approach to the automated construction of node software for USN applications using attributes. In the proposed technique, application construction proceeds by first developing a model for the sensor network and then designing node software by setting the values of the predefined attributes. After that, the sensor network model and the design of node software are verified. The final source codes of the node software are automatically generated from the sensor network model. We illustrate the efficiency of the proposed technique by using a gas/light monitoring application through a case study of a Gas and Light Monitoring System based on the Nano-Qplus operating system. We evaluate the technique using a quantitative metric-the memory size of execution code for node software. Using the proposed approach, developers are able to easily construct sensor network applications and rapidly generate a large number of node softwares at a time in a ubiquitous sensor network environment.

Towards environmentally benign approaches for the synthesis of CZTSSe nanocrystals by a hot injection method: a status review.

PubMed

Ghorpade, Uma; Suryawanshi, Mahesh; Shin, Seung Wook; Gurav, Kishor; Patil, Pramod; Pawar, Sambhaji; Hong, Chang Woo; Kim, Jin Hyeok; Kolekar, Sanjay

2014-10-07

With the earth's abundance of kesterite, recent progress in chalcogenide based Cu2ZnSn(Sx,Se1-x)4 (CZTSSe) thin films has drawn prime attention in thin film solar cells (TFSCs) research and development. This review is focused on the current developments in the synthesis of CZTS nanocrystals (NCs) using a hot injection (HI) technique and provides comprehensive discussions on the current status of CZTSSe TFSCs. This article begins with a description of the advantages of nanoparticulate based thin films, and then introduces the basics of this technique and the corresponding growth mechanism is also discussed. A brief overview further addresses a series of investigations on the developments in the HI based CZTSSe NCs using different solvents in terms of their high toxicity to environmentally benign materials. A variety of recipes and techniques for the NCs ink formulation and thereby the preparation of absorber layers using NC inks are outlined, respectively. The deposition of precursor thin films, post-deposition processes such as sulfurization or selenization treatments and the fabrication of CZTSSe NCs based solar cells and their performances are discussed. Finally, we discussed concluding remarks and the perspectives for further developments in the existing research on CZTSSe based nanoparticulate (NP) TFSCs towards future green technology.

Using C to build a satellite scheduling expert system: Examples from the Explorer platform planning system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mclean, David R.; Tuchman, Alan; Potter, William J.

1991-01-01

Recently, many expert systems were developed in a LISP environment and then ported to the real world C environment before the final system is delivered. This situation may require that the entire system be completely rewritten in C and may actually result in a system which is put together as quickly as possible with little regard for maintainability and further evolution. With the introduction of high performance UNIX and X-windows based workstations, a great deal of the advantages of developing a first system in the LISP environment have become questionable. A C-based AI development effort is described which is based on a software tools approach with emphasis on reusability and maintainability of code. The discussion starts with simple examples of how list processing can easily be implemented in C and then proceeds to the implementations of frames and objects which use dynamic memory allocation. The implementation of procedures which use depth first search, constraint propagation, context switching and a blackboard-like simulation environment are described. Techniques for managing the complexity of C-based AI software are noted, especially the object-oriented techniques of data encapsulation and incremental development. Finally, all these concepts are put together by describing the components of planning software called the Planning And Resource Reasoning (PARR) shell. This shell was successfully utilized for scheduling services of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System for the Earth Radiation Budget Satellite since May 1987 and will be used for operations scheduling of the Explorer Platform in November 1991.

Experimental design-based strategy for the simulation of complex gaseous mixture spectra to detect drug precursors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calderisi, Marco; Ulrici, Alessandro; Pigani, Laura; Secchi, Alberto; Seeber, Renato

2012-09-01

The EU FP7 project CUSTOM (Drugs and Precursor Sensing by Complementing Low Cost Multiple Techniques) aims at developing a new sensing system for the detection of drug precursors in gaseous samples, which includes an External Cavity-Quantum Cascade Laser Photo-Acoustic Sensor (EC-QCLPAS) that is in the final step of realisation. Thus, a simulation based on FT-IR literature spectra has been accomplished, where the development of a proper strategy for the design of the composition of the environment, as much as possible realistic and representative of different scenarios, is of key importance. To this aim, an approach based on the combination of signal processing and experimental design techniques has been developed. The gaseous mixtures were built by adding the considered 4 drug precursor (target) species to the gases typically found in atmosphere, taking also into account possible interfering species. These last chemicals were selected considering custom environments (20 interfering chemical species), whose concentrations have been inferred from literature data. The spectra were first denoised by means of a Fast Wavelet Transform-based algorithm; then, a procedure based on a sigmoidal transfer function was developed to multiply the pure components spectra by the respective concentration values, in a way to correctly preserve background intensity and shape, and to operate only on the absorption bands. The noise structure of the EC-QCLPAS was studied using sample spectra measured with a prototype instrument, and added to the simulated mixtures. Finally a matrix containing 5000 simulated spectra of gaseous mixtures was built up.

Application of radar for automotive collision avoidance. Volume 2: Development plan and progress reports

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lichtenberg, Christopher L. (Editor)

1987-01-01

The purpose of this project was research and development of an automobile collision avoidance radar system. Items within the scope of the one-year effort were to: (1) review previous authors' work in this field; (2) select a suitable radar approach; (3) develop a system design; (4) perform basic analyses and observations pertinent to radar design, performance, and effects; (5) fabricate and collect radar data from a data collection radar; (6) analyze and derive conclusions from the radar data; and (7) make recommendations about the likelihood of success of the investigated radar techniques. The final technical report presenting all conclusions is contained in Volume 1.

Development of a digital guidance and control law for steep approach automatic landings using modern control techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Halyo, N.

1979-01-01

The development of a digital automatic control law for a small jet transport to perform a steep final approach in automatic landings is reported along with the development of a steady-state Kalman filter used to provide smooth estimates to the control law. The control law performs the functions of localizer and glides capture, localizer and glideslope track, decrab, and place. The control law uses the microwave landing system position data, and aircraft body-mounted accelerators, attitude and attitude rate information. The results obtained from a digital simulation of the aircraft dynamics, wind conditions, and sensor noises using the control law and filter developed are described.

Optimum coding techniques for MST radars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sulzer, M. P.; Woodman, R. F.

1986-01-01

The optimum coding technique for MST (mesosphere stratosphere troposphere) radars is that which gives the lowest possible sidelobes in practice and can be implemented without too much computing power. Coding techniques are described in Farley (1985). A technique mentioned briefly there but not fully developed and not in general use is discussed here. This is decoding by means of a filter which is not matched to the transmitted waveform, in order to reduce sidelobes below the level obtained with a matched filter. This is the first part of the technique discussed here; the second part consists of measuring the transmitted waveform and using it as the basis for the decoding filter, thus reducing errors due to imperfections in the transmitter. There are two limitations to this technique. The first is a small loss in signal to noise ratio (SNR), which usually is not significant. The second problem is related to incomplete information received at the lowest ranges. An appendix shows a technique for handling this problem. Finally, it is shown that the use of complementary codes on transmission and nonmatched decoding gives the lowest possible sidelobe level and the minimum loss in SNR due to mismatch.

Evaluation of gravimetric techniques to estimate the microvascular filtration coefficient

PubMed Central

Dongaonkar, R. M.; Laine, G. A.; Stewart, R. H.

2011-01-01

Microvascular permeability to water is characterized by the microvascular filtration coefficient (Kf). Conventional gravimetric techniques to estimate Kf rely on data obtained from either transient or steady-state increases in organ weight in response to increases in microvascular pressure. Both techniques result in considerably different estimates and neither account for interstitial fluid storage and lymphatic return. We therefore developed a theoretical framework to evaluate Kf estimation techniques by 1) comparing conventional techniques to a novel technique that includes effects of interstitial fluid storage and lymphatic return, 2) evaluating the ability of conventional techniques to reproduce Kf from simulated gravimetric data generated by a realistic interstitial fluid balance model, 3) analyzing new data collected from rat intestine, and 4) analyzing previously reported data. These approaches revealed that the steady-state gravimetric technique yields estimates that are not directly related to Kf and are in some cases directly proportional to interstitial compliance. However, the transient gravimetric technique yields accurate estimates in some organs, because the typical experimental duration minimizes the effects of interstitial fluid storage and lymphatic return. Furthermore, our analytical framework reveals that the supposed requirement of tying off all draining lymphatic vessels for the transient technique is unnecessary. Finally, our numerical simulations indicate that our comprehensive technique accurately reproduces the value of Kf in all organs, is not confounded by interstitial storage and lymphatic return, and provides corroboration of the estimate from the transient technique. PMID:21346245

Final Project Report: Data Locality Enhancement of Dynamic Simulations for Exascale Computing

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

Shen, Xipeng

The goal of this project is to develop a set of techniques and software tools to enhance the matching between memory accesses in dynamic simulations and the prominent features of modern and future manycore systems, alleviating the memory performance issues for exascale computing. In the first three years, the PI and his group have achieves some significant progress towards the goal, producing a set of novel techniques for improving the memory performance and data locality in manycore systems, yielding 18 conference and workshop papers and 4 journal papers and graduating 6 Ph.Ds. This report summarizes the research results of thismore » project through that period.« less

Multidisciplinary approach for in-deep assessment of joint prosthesis failure.

PubMed

Tessarolo, F; Caola, I; Piccoli, F; Dorigotti, P; Demattè, E; Molinari, M; Malavolta, M; Barbareschi, M; Caciagli, P; Nollo, G

2009-01-01

In spite of advancement in biomaterials and biomechanics, in development of new osteo-integrative materials and coatings, and in macro- micro- component design, a non negligible fraction of the implanted prosthesis fails before the expected lifetime. A prospective observational clinical study has been conducted to define and apply a set of experimental techniques to in-deep assess the failure of joint prosthesis. Microbiological, histological and micro-structural techniques were implemented to specifically address phenomena occurring at the tissue-implant interface. Results obtained from 27 cases of prosthetic joint failure are discussed in terms of sensitivity and specificity. A procedural flow-chart is finally proposed for the assessment of joint prosthesis failure.

A boundary element method for Stokes flows with interfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alinovi, Edoardo; Bottaro, Alessandro

2018-03-01

The boundary element method is a widely used and powerful technique to numerically describe multiphase flows with interfaces, satisfying Stokes' approximation. However, low viscosity ratios between immiscible fluids in contact at an interface and large surface tensions may lead to consistency issues as far as mass conservation is concerned. A simple and effective approach is described to ensure mass conservation at all viscosity ratios and capillary numbers within a standard boundary element framework. Benchmark cases are initially considered demonstrating the efficacy of the proposed technique in satisfying mass conservation, comparing with approaches and other solutions present in the literature. The methodology developed is finally applied to the problem of slippage over superhydrophobic surfaces.

Automatic arc welding of propulsion system tubing in close proximity to sensitive electronic devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lumsden, J. M.; Whittlesey, A. C.

1981-01-01

The planned final assembly of the Galileo spacecraft propulsion system tubing, which involves welding in close proximity to sensitive electronics, raised significant concerns about the effects of electromagnetic coupling of weld energy on CMOS and other sensitive integrated circuits. A test program was established to assess the potential of an orbital arc welder and an RF-induction brazing machine to damage sensitive electronic equipment. Test parameters were varied to assess the effectiveness of typical transient suppression practices such as grounding, bonding, and shielding. A technique was developed to calibrate the hazard levels at the victim-circuit location; this technique is described along with the results and conclusions of the test program.

Principles for system level electrochemistry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thaller, L. H.

1986-01-01

The higher power and higher voltage levels anticipated for future space missions have required a careful review of the techniques currently in use to preclude battery problems that are related to the dispersion characteristics of the individual cells. Not only are the out-of-balance problems accentuated in these larger systems, but the thermal management considerations also require a greater degree of accurate design. Newer concepts which employ active cooling techniques are being developed which permit higher rates of discharge and tighter packing densities for the electrochemical components. This paper will put forward six semi-independent principles relating to battery systems. These principles will progressively address cell, battery and finally system related aspects of large electrochemical storage systems.

Automation is an Effective Way to Improve Quality of Verification (Calibration) of Measuring Instruments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golobokov, M.; Danilevich, S.

2018-04-01

In order to assess calibration reliability and automate such assessment, procedures for data collection and simulation study of thermal imager calibration procedure have been elaborated. The existing calibration techniques do not always provide high reliability. A new method for analyzing the existing calibration techniques and developing new efficient ones has been suggested and tested. A type of software has been studied that allows generating instrument calibration reports automatically, monitoring their proper configuration, processing measurement results and assessing instrument validity. The use of such software allows reducing man-hours spent on finalization of calibration data 2 to 5 times and eliminating a whole set of typical operator errors.

Development and melt growth of novel scintillating halide crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshikawa, Akira; Yokota, Yuui; Shoji, Yasuhiro; Kral, Robert; Kamada, Kei; Kurosawa, Shunsuke; Ohashi, Yuji; Arakawa, Mototaka; Chani, Valery I.; Kochurikhin, Vladimir V.; Yamaji, Akihiro; Andrey, Medvedev; Nikl, Martin

2017-12-01

Melt growth of scintillating halide crystals is reviewed. The vertical Bridgman growth technique is still considered as very popular method that enables production of relatively large and commercially attractive crystals. On the other hand, the micro-pulling-down method is preferable when fabrication of small samples, sufficient for preliminary characterization of their optical and/or scintillation performance, is required. Moreover, bulk crystal growth is also available using the micro-pulling-down furnace. The examples of growths of various halide crystals by industrially friendly melt growth techniques including Czochralski and edge-defined film-fed growth methods are also discussed. Finally, traveling molten zone growth that in some degree corresponds to horizontal zone melting is briefly overviewed.

Observation of hohlraum-wall motion with spectrally selective x-ray imaging at the National Ignition Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izumi, N.; Meezan, N. B.; Divol, L.; Hall, G. N.; Barrios, M. A.; Jones, O.; Landen, O. L.; Kroll, J. J.; Vonhof, S. A.; Nikroo, A.; Jaquez, J.; Bailey, C. G.; Hardy, C. M.; Ehrlich, R. B.; Town, R. P. J.; Bradley, D. K.; Hinkel, D. E.; Moody, J. D.

2016-11-01

The high fuel capsule compression required for indirect drive inertial confinement fusion requires careful control of the X-ray drive symmetry throughout the laser pulse. When the outer cone beams strike the hohlraum wall, the plasma ablated off the hohlraum wall expands into the hohlraum and can alter both the outer and inner cone beam propagations and hence the X-ray drive symmetry especially at the final stage of the drive pulse. To quantitatively understand the wall motion, we developed a new experimental technique which visualizes the expansion and stagnation of the hohlraum wall plasma. Details of the experiment and the technique of spectrally selective x-ray imaging are discussed.

Repetition code of 15 qubits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wootton, James R.; Loss, Daniel

2018-05-01

The repetition code is an important primitive for the techniques of quantum error correction. Here we implement repetition codes of at most 15 qubits on the 16 qubit ibmqx3 device. Each experiment is run for a single round of syndrome measurements, achieved using the standard quantum technique of using ancilla qubits and controlled operations. The size of the final syndrome is small enough to allow for lookup table decoding using experimentally obtained data. The results show strong evidence that the logical error rate decays exponentially with code distance, as is expected and required for the development of fault-tolerant quantum computers. The results also give insight into the nature of noise in the device.

Surface chemistry and microscopy of food powders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burgain, Jennifer; Petit, Jeremy; Scher, Joël; Rasch, Ron; Bhandari, Bhesh; Gaiani, Claire

2017-12-01

Despite high industrial and scientific interest, a comprehensive review of the surface science of food powders is still lacking. There is a real gap between scientific concerns of the field and accessible reviews on the subject. The global description of the surface of food powders by multi-scale microscopy approaches seems to be essential in order to investigate their complexity and take advantage of their high innovation potential. Links between these techniques and the interest to develop a multi-analytical approach to investigate scientific questions dealing with powder functionality are discussed in the second part of the review. Finally, some techniques used in others fields and showing promising possibilities in the food powder domain will be highlighted.

Observation of hohlraum-wall motion with spectrally selective x-ray imaging at the National Ignition Facility.

PubMed

Izumi, N; Meezan, N B; Divol, L; Hall, G N; Barrios, M A; Jones, O; Landen, O L; Kroll, J J; Vonhof, S A; Nikroo, A; Jaquez, J; Bailey, C G; Hardy, C M; Ehrlich, R B; Town, R P J; Bradley, D K; Hinkel, D E; Moody, J D

2016-11-01

The high fuel capsule compression required for indirect drive inertial confinement fusion requires careful control of the X-ray drive symmetry throughout the laser pulse. When the outer cone beams strike the hohlraum wall, the plasma ablated off the hohlraum wall expands into the hohlraum and can alter both the outer and inner cone beam propagations and hence the X-ray drive symmetry especially at the final stage of the drive pulse. To quantitatively understand the wall motion, we developed a new experimental technique which visualizes the expansion and stagnation of the hohlraum wall plasma. Details of the experiment and the technique of spectrally selective x-ray imaging are discussed.

Evaluating water management strategies in watersheds by new hybrid Fuzzy Analytical Network Process (FANP) methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

RazaviToosi, S. L.; Samani, J. M. V.

2016-03-01

Watersheds are considered as hydrological units. Their other important aspects such as economic, social and environmental functions play crucial roles in sustainable development. The objective of this work is to develop methodologies to prioritize watersheds by considering different development strategies in environmental, social and economic sectors. This ranking could play a significant role in management to assign the most critical watersheds where by employing water management strategies, best condition changes are expected to be accomplished. Due to complex relations among different criteria, two new hybrid fuzzy ANP (Analytical Network Process) algorithms, fuzzy TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) and fuzzy max-min set methods are used to provide more flexible and accurate decision model. Five watersheds in Iran named Oroomeyeh, Atrak, Sefidrood, Namak and Zayandehrood are considered as alternatives. Based on long term development goals, 38 water management strategies are defined as subcriteria in 10 clusters. The main advantage of the proposed methods is its ability to overcome uncertainty. This task is accomplished by using fuzzy numbers in all steps of the algorithms. To validate the proposed method, the final results were compared with those obtained from the ANP algorithm and the Spearman rank correlation coefficient is applied to find the similarity in the different ranking methods. Finally, the sensitivity analysis was conducted to investigate the influence of cluster weights on the final ranking.

Gray-level transformations for interactive image enhancement. M.S. Thesis. Final Technical Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fittes, B. A.

1975-01-01

A gray-level transformation method suitable for interactive image enhancement was presented. It is shown that the well-known histogram equalization approach is a special case of this method. A technique for improving the uniformity of a histogram is also developed. Experimental results which illustrate the capabilities of both algorithms are described. Two proposals for implementing gray-level transformations in a real-time interactive image enhancement system are also presented.

Opto-electronic oscillator and its applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, X. S.; Maleki, Lute

1997-04-01

We review the properties of a new class of microwave oscillators called opto-electronic oscillators (OEO). We present theoretical and experimental results of a multi-loop technique for single mode selection. We then describe a new development called coupled OEO (COEO) in which the electrical oscillation is directly coupled with the optical oscillation, producing an OEO that generates stable optical pulses and single mode microwave oscillation simultaneously. Finally we discuss various applications of OEO.

Part-Task Training Strategies in Simulated Carrier Landing Final Approach Training

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-11-01

received a large amount of attention in the recent past. However, the notion that the value of flight simulation may b• enhanced when principles of...as training devices through the application of principles of learning. The research proposed here s based on this point of view. THIS EXPERIMENT The...tracking. Following Goldstein’s suggestion, one should look for training techniques suggested by learnina principles developed from research on

Parallel image compression

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reif, John H.

1987-01-01

A parallel compression algorithm for the 16,384 processor MPP machine was developed. The serial version of the algorithm can be viewed as a combination of on-line dynamic lossless test compression techniques (which employ simple learning strategies) and vector quantization. These concepts are described. How these concepts are combined to form a new strategy for performing dynamic on-line lossy compression is discussed. Finally, the implementation of this algorithm in a massively parallel fashion on the MPP is discussed.

Navigation Concepts for NASA's Constellation Program and Human Missions to the Moon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moreau, Michael C.

2008-01-01

This viewgraph presentation provides an overview of the Constellation Program, and its goal of returning human presence to the moon. Particular attention is given to the navigation concepts, in terms of the flight to the Moon, the landing on the moon, travel on the surface and the return flight to Earth. Finally the development of new navigation, and communication techniques that will enable the exploration beyond the Moon are reviewed.

Responsive copolymers for enhanced petroleum recovery

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

McCormick, Charles; Hester, Roger

The objectives of this work were to: synthesize responsive, amphiphilic systems; characterize molecular structure and solution behavior; measure rheological properties of the aqueous fluids including behavior in fixed geometry flow profiles and beds; and to tailor final polymer compositions for in situ rheology control under simulated reservoir conditions. This report focuses on the first phase of the research emphasizing synthesis and the development of photophysical techniques and rheological means of following segmental organization at the structural level.

Multiscale Modeling and Simulation of Material Processing

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-07-01

As a re- GIMP simulations . Fig. 2 illustrates the contact algo- suit, MPM using a single mesh tends to induce early con- rithm for the contact pair ...21-07-2006 Final Performance Report 05-01-2003 - 04-30-2006 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER Multiscale Modeling and Simulation of Material...development of scaling laws for multiscale simulations from atomistic to continuum using material testing techniques, such as tension and indentation

2016 Research Final Presentation

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

Koskelo, EliseAnne Corinne

These are slides which show an example of research at Los Alamos National Laboratory done by E.C. Koskelo to show college professors in the hopes of earning a research position or fellowship position. In summary, this researcher developed a new in-situ technique for the inspection of additively manufactured parts, created an algorithm which can correct "skewed" scans of angular parts/taken at oblique angles, and used AWS to detect hidden defects and thickness changes in aerospace composites.

Introducing 12 year-olds to elementary particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiener, Gerfried J.; Schmeling, Sascha M.; Hopf, Martin

2017-07-01

We present a new learning unit, which introduces 12 year-olds to the subatomic structure of matter. The learning unit was iteratively developed as a design-based research project using the technique of probing acceptance. We give a brief overview of the unit’s final version, discuss its key ideas and main concepts, and conclude by highlighting the main implications of our research, which we consider to be most promising for use in the physics classroom.

Demonstration, Developmental and Research Project for Programs, Materials, Facilities and Educational Technology for Undereducated Adults: Ohio State Module. ABE Life-Centered Curriculum Development and Teaching Technique. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morehead State Univ., KY.

This workshop was held for the purpose of training selected staff members of the Ohio Module Field Unit of the Appalachian Adult Basic Education Demonstration Center (AABEDC). Twelve persons, six teachers and six paraprofessionals, were selected to participate in the workshop. While their specific jobs vary, all will be concerned with utilization…

Nuclear Structure Research at Richmond

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

Beausang, Cornelius W.

The goals for the final year were; (1) to continue ongoing efforts to develop and enhance GRETINA and work towards GRETA; (2) to investigate the structure of non-yrast states in shape transitional Sm and Gd nuclei; (3) to investigate the structure of selected light Cd nuclei; (4) to exploit the surrogate reaction technique to extract (n,f) cross sections for actinide nuclei, particularly the first measurement of the 236Pu and 237Pu(n,f) cross sections.

Quantitative Analysis, Design, and Fabrication of Biosensing and Bioprocessing Devices in Living Cells

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-03-10

AFRL-OSR-VA-TR-2015-0080 Biosensing and Bioprocessing Devices in Living Cells Domitilla Del Vecchio MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Final...Of Biosensing And Bioprocessing Devices In Living Cells FA9550-12-1-0129 D. Del Vecchio Massachusetts Institute of Technology -- 77 Massachusetts...research is to develop quantitative techniques for the de novo design and fabrication of biosensing devices in living cells . Such devices will be entirely

Threshold of transverse mode coupling instability with arbitrary space charge

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

Balbekov, V.

The threshold of the transverse mode coupling instability is calculated in framework of the square well model at arbitrary value of space charge tune shift. A new method of calculation is developed beyond the traditional expansion technique. The square, resistive, and exponential wakes are investigated. It is shown that the instability threshold goes up indefinitely when the tune shift increases. Finally, a comparison with conventional case of the parabolic potential well is performed.

Threshold of transverse mode coupling instability with arbitrary space charge

DOE PAGES

Balbekov, V.

2017-11-30

The threshold of the transverse mode coupling instability is calculated in framework of the square well model at arbitrary value of space charge tune shift. A new method of calculation is developed beyond the traditional expansion technique. The square, resistive, and exponential wakes are investigated. It is shown that the instability threshold goes up indefinitely when the tune shift increases. Finally, a comparison with conventional case of the parabolic potential well is performed.

[Applying the Modified Delphi Technique to Develop the Role of HIV Case Managers and Essential Nursing Competencies in HIV Care].

PubMed

Ko, Nai-Ying; Hsieh, Chia-Yin; Chen, Yen-Chin; Tsai, Chen-Hsi; Liu, Hsiao-Ying; Liu, Li-Fang

2015-08-01

Since 2005, the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (Taiwan CDC) initiated an HIV case management program in AIDS-designated hospitals to provide integrative services and risk-reduction counseling for HIV-infected individuals. In light of the increasingly complex and highly specialized nature of clinical care, expanding and improving competency-based professional education is important to enhance the quality of HIV/AIDS care. The aim of this study was to develop the essential competency framework for HIV care for HIV case managers in Taiwan. We reviewed essential competencies of HIV care from Canada, the United Kingdom, and several African countries and devised descriptions of the roles of case managers and of the associated core competencies for HIV care in Taiwan. The modified Delphi technique was used to evaluate the draft framework of these roles and core competencies. A total of 15 HIV care experts were invited to join the expert panel to review and rank the draft framework. The final framework consisted of 7 roles and 27 competencies for HIV case managers. In Round 1, only 3 items did not receive consensus approval from the experts. After modification based on opinions of the experts, 7 roles and 27 competencies received 97.06% consensus approval in Round 2 and were organized into the final framework for HIV case managers. These roles and associated core competencies were: HIV Care Expert (9 competencies), Communicator (1 competency), Collaborator (4 competencies), Navigator (2 competencies), Manager (4 competencies), Advocate (2 competencies), and Professional (5 competencies). The authors developed an essential competency framework for HIV care using the consensus of a multidisciplinary expert panel. Curriculum developers and advanced nurses and practitioners may use this framework to support developments and to ensure a high quality of HIV care.

Strain-energy release rate analysis of a laminate with a postbuckled delamination

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitcomb, John D.; Shivakumar, K. N.

1987-01-01

The objectives are to present the derivation of the new virtual crack closure technique, evaluate the accuracy of the technique, and finally to present the results of a limited parametric study of laminates with a postbuckled delamination. Although the new virtual crack closure technique is general, only homogeneous, isotropic laminates were analyzed. This was to eliminate the variation of flexural stiffness with orientation, which occurs even for quasi-isotropic laminates. This made it easier to identify the effect of geometrical parameters on G. The new virtual crack closure technique is derived. Then the specimen configurations are described. Next, the stress analyses is discussed. Finally, the virtual crack closure technique is evaluated and then used to calculate the distribution of G along the delamination front of several laminates with a postbuckled delamination.

Dental Age Estimation (DAE): Data management for tooth development stages including the third molar. Appropriate censoring of Stage H, the final stage of tooth development.

PubMed

Roberts, Graham J; McDonald, Fraser; Andiappan, Manoharan; Lucas, Victoria S

2015-11-01

The final stage of dental development of third molars is usually helpful to indicate whether or not a subject is aged over 18 years. A complexity is that the final stage of development is unlimited in its upper border. Investigators usually select an inappropriate upper age limit or censor point for this tooth development stage. The literature was searched for appropriate data sets for dental age estimation and those that provided the count (n), the mean (x¯), and the standard deviation (sd) for each of the tooth development stages. The Demirjian G and Demirjian H were used for this study. Upper and lower limits of the Stage G and Stage H data were calculated limiting the data to plus or minus three standard deviations from the mean. The upper border of Stage H was limited by appropriate censoring at the maximum value for Stage G. The maximum age at attainment from published data, for Stage H, ranged from 22.60 years to 34.50 years. These data were explored to demonstrate how censoring provides an estimate for the correct maximum age for the final stage of Stage H as 21.64 years for UK Caucasians. This study shows that confining the data array of individual tooth developments stages to ± 3sd provides a reliable and logical way of censoring the data for tooth development stages with a Normal distribution of data. For Stage H this is inappropriate as it is unbounded in its upper limit. The use of a censored data array for Stage H using Percentile values is appropriate. This increases the reliability of using third molar Stage H alone to determine whether or not an individual is over 18 years old. For Stage H, individual ancestral groups should be censored using the same technique. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine. All rights reserved.

Three-dimensional nanoscale characterisation of materials by atom probe tomography

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

Devaraj, Arun; Perea, Daniel E.; Liu, Jia

The development of three-dimensional (3D), characterization techniques with high spatial and mass resolution is crucial for understanding and developing advanced materials for many engineering applications as well as for understanding natural materials. In recent decades, atom probe tomography (APT) which combines a point projection microscope and time-of-flight mass spectrometer has evolved to be an excellent characterization technique capable of providing 3D nanoscale characterization of materials with sub-nanometer scale spatial resolution, with equal sensitivity for all elements. This review discusses the current state as of beginning of the year 2016 of APT instrumentation, new developments in sample preparation methods, experimental proceduresmore » for different material classes, reconstruction of APT results, the current status of correlative microscopy, and application of APT for microstructural characterization in established scientific areas like structural materials as well as new applications in semiconducting nanowires, semiconductor devices, battery materials, catalyst materials, geological materials and biological materials. Finally, a brief perspective is given regarding the future of APT.« less

Applying the metro map to software development management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aguirregoitia, Amaia; Dolado, J. Javier; Presedo, Concepción

2010-01-01

This paper presents MetroMap, a new graphical representation model for controlling and managing the software development process. Metromap uses metaphors and visual representation techniques to explore several key indicators in order to support problem detection and resolution. The resulting visualization addresses diverse management tasks, such as tracking of deviations from the plan, analysis of patterns of failure detection and correction, overall assessment of change management policies, and estimation of product quality. The proposed visualization uses a metaphor with a metro map along with various interactive techniques to represent information concerning the software development process and to deal efficiently with multivariate visual queries. Finally, the paper shows the implementation of the tool in JavaFX with data of a real project and the results of testing the tool with the aforementioned data and users attempting several information retrieval tasks. The conclusion shows the results of analyzing user response time and efficiency using the MetroMap visualization system. The utility of the tool was positively evaluated.

High-Fidelity Coupled Monte-Carlo/Thermal-Hydraulics Calculations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanov, Aleksandar; Sanchez, Victor; Ivanov, Kostadin

2014-06-01

Monte Carlo methods have been used as reference reactor physics calculation tools worldwide. The advance in computer technology allows the calculation of detailed flux distributions in both space and energy. In most of the cases however, those calculations are done under the assumption of homogeneous material density and temperature distributions. The aim of this work is to develop a consistent methodology for providing realistic three-dimensional thermal-hydraulic distributions by coupling the in-house developed sub-channel code SUBCHANFLOW with the standard Monte-Carlo transport code MCNP. In addition to the innovative technique of on-the fly material definition, a flux-based weight-window technique has been introduced to improve both the magnitude and the distribution of the relative errors. Finally, a coupled code system for the simulation of steady-state reactor physics problems has been developed. Besides the problem of effective feedback data interchange between the codes, the treatment of temperature dependence of the continuous energy nuclear data has been investigated.

Development of a Software Safety Process and a Case Study of Its Use

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knight, J. C.

1997-01-01

Research in the year covered by this reporting period has been primarily directed toward the following areas: (1) Formal specification of user interfaces; (2) Fault-tree analysis including software; (3) Evaluation of formal specification notations; (4) Evaluation of formal verification techniques; (5) Expanded analysis of the shell architecture concept; (6) Development of techniques to address the problem of information survivability; and (7) Development of a sophisticated tool for the manipulation of formal specifications written in Z. This report summarizes activities under the grant. The technical results relating to this grant and the remainder of the principal investigator's research program are contained in various reports and papers. The remainder of this report is organized as follows. In the next section, an overview of the project is given. This is followed by a summary of accomplishments during the reporting period and details of students funded. Seminars presented describing work under this grant are listed in the following section, and the final section lists publications resulting from this grant.

Development of quantitative laser ionization mass spectrometry (LIMS). Final report, 1 Aug 87-1 Jan 90

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

Odom, R.W.

1991-06-04

The objective of the research was to develop quantitative microanalysis methods for dielectric thin films using the laser ionization mass spectrometry (LIMS) technique. The research involved preparation of thin (5,000 A) films of SiO2, Al2O3, MgF2, TiO2, Cr2O3, Ta2O5, Si3N4, and ZrO2, and doping these films with ion implant impurities of 11B, 40Ca, 56Fe, 68Zn, 81Br, and 121Sb. Laser ionization mass spectrometry (LIMS), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) were performed on these films. The research demonstrated quantitative LIMS analysis down to detection levels of 10-100 ppm, and led to the development of (1) a compoundmore » thin film standards product line for the performing organization, (2) routine LIMS analytical methods, and (3) the manufacture of high speed preamplifiers for time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF-MS) techniques.« less

A Journey Through a Leaf: Phenomics Analysis of Leaf Growth in Arabidopsis thaliana

PubMed Central

Vanhaeren, Hannes; Gonzalez, Nathalie; Inzé, Dirk

2015-01-01

In Arabidopsis, leaves contribute to the largest part of the aboveground biomass. In these organs, light is captured and converted into chemical energy, which plants use to grow and complete their life cycle. Leaves emerge as a small pool of cells at the vegetative shoot apical meristem and develop into planar, complex organs through different interconnected cellular events. Over the last decade, numerous phenotyping techniques have been developed to visualize and quantify leaf size and growth, leading to the identification of numerous genes that contribute to the final size of leaves. In this review, we will start at the Arabidopsis rosette level and gradually zoom in from a macroscopic view on leaf growth to a microscopic and molecular view. Along this journey, we describe different techniques that have been key to identify important events during leaf development and discuss approaches that will further help unraveling the complex cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie leaf growth. PMID:26217168

Improved methods for distribution loss evaluation. Volume 1: analytic and evaluative techniques. Final report

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

Flinn, D.G.; Hall, S.; Morris, J.

This volume describes the background research, the application of the proposed loss evaluation techniques, and the results. The research identified present loss calculation methods as appropriate, provided care was taken to represent the various system elements in sufficient detail. The literature search of past methods and typical data revealed that extreme caution in using typical values (load factor, etc.) should be taken to ensure that all factors were referred to the same time base (daily, weekly, etc.). The performance of the method (and computer program) proposed in this project was determined by comparison of results with a rigorous evaluation ofmore » losses on the Salt River Project system. This rigorous evaluation used statistical modeling of the entire system as well as explicit enumeration of all substation and distribution transformers. Further tests were conducted at Public Service Electric and Gas of New Jersey to check the appropriateness of the methods in a northern environment. Finally sensitivity tests indicated data elements inaccuracy of which would most affect the determination of losses using the method developed in this project.« less

A novel feature ranking method for prediction of cancer stages using proteomics data

PubMed Central

Saghapour, Ehsan; Sehhati, Mohammadreza

2017-01-01

Proteomic analysis of cancers' stages has provided new opportunities for the development of novel, highly sensitive diagnostic tools which helps early detection of cancer. This paper introduces a new feature ranking approach called FRMT. FRMT is based on the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution method (TOPSIS) which select the most discriminative proteins from proteomics data for cancer staging. In this approach, outcomes of 10 feature selection techniques were combined by TOPSIS method, to select the final discriminative proteins from seven different proteomic databases of protein expression profiles. In the proposed workflow, feature selection methods and protein expressions have been considered as criteria and alternatives in TOPSIS, respectively. The proposed method is tested on seven various classifier models in a 10-fold cross validation procedure that repeated 30 times on the seven cancer datasets. The obtained results proved the higher stability and superior classification performance of method in comparison with other methods, and it is less sensitive to the applied classifier. Moreover, the final introduced proteins are informative and have the potential for application in the real medical practice. PMID:28934234

[Microsurgical transplantation of bone tumors of uncertain prognosis in athymic nude mice].

PubMed

Duprez, A; Féry, A; Sommelet, J

1986-01-01

Eight cases of human bone or soft tissue tumours were transplanted to nude mice. After such transplants to nude mice which are immunologically deficient, the malignant tumors developed like benign tumours, but maintaining malignant cytological characteristics. The transplants of normal human tissues or of benign tumours decreased in size or remained stable. The technique allowed a change of an original diagnosis of osteosarcoma to a final diagnosis of chondrosarcoma. It made it possible to diagnose a benign osteoblastoma, the diagnosis of which was doubtful before the transplant between osteosarcoma and chondroblastoma. It was possible to diagnose the malignancy of a haemangiopericytoma of muscle. Two aggressive tumours--a non-ossifying fibroma and a giant-cell tumour--were rated as benign after transplantation. This technique also allowed a more precise diagnosis of the grade of one chondrosarcoma and one osteosarcoma. Finally, transplantation also made it possible to test the efficacy of chemotherapy. In a patient so treated, the extreme cell proliferation after transplantation to the nude mouse led to a change in the drugs administered.

Estimating the Size of the Methamphetamine-Using Population in New York City Using Network Sampling Techniques.

PubMed

Dombrowski, Kirk; Khan, Bilal; Wendel, Travis; McLean, Katherine; Misshula, Evan; Curtis, Ric

2012-12-01

As part of a recent study of the dynamics of the retail market for methamphetamine use in New York City, we used network sampling methods to estimate the size of the total networked population. This process involved sampling from respondents' list of co-use contacts, which in turn became the basis for capture-recapture estimation. Recapture sampling was based on links to other respondents derived from demographic and "telefunken" matching procedures-the latter being an anonymized version of telephone number matching. This paper describes the matching process used to discover the links between the solicited contacts and project respondents, the capture-recapture calculation, the estimation of "false matches", and the development of confidence intervals for the final population estimates. A final population of 12,229 was estimated, with a range of 8235 - 23,750. The techniques described here have the special virtue of deriving an estimate for a hidden population while retaining respondent anonymity and the anonymity of network alters, but likely require larger sample size than the 132 persons interviewed to attain acceptable confidence levels for the estimate.

Production of nanoparticle drug delivery systems with microfluidics tools.

PubMed

Khan, Ikram Ullah; Serra, Christophe A; Anton, Nicolas; Vandamme, Thierry F

2015-04-01

Nowadays the development of composite nano- and microparticles is an extensively studied area of research. This interest is growing because of the potential use of such particles in drug delivery systems. Indeed they can be used in various medical disciplines depending upon their sizes and their size distribution, which determine their final biomedical applications. Amongst the different techniques to produce nanoparticles, microfluidic techniques allow preparing particles having a specific size, a narrow size distribution and high encapsulation efficiency with ease. This review covers the general description of microfluidics, its techniques, advantages and disadvantages with focus on the encapsulation of active principles in polymeric nanoparticles as well as on pure drug nanoparticles. Polymeric nanoparticles constitute the majority of the examples reported; however lipid nanoparticulate systems (DNA, SiRNA nanocarriers) are very comparable and their formulation processes are in most cases exactly similar. Accordingly this review focuses also on active ingredient nanoparticles formulated by nanoprecipitation processes in microfluidic devices in general. It also provides detailed description of the different geometries of most common microfluidic devices and the crucial parameters involved in techniques designed to obtain the desired properties. Although the classical fabrication of nanoparticles drug delivery systems in batch is extremely well-described and developed, their production with microfluidic tools arises today as an emerging field with much more potential. In this review we present and discuss these new possibilities for biomedical applications through the current emerging developments.

High speed civil transport: Sonic boom softening and aerodynamic optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheung, Samson

1994-01-01

An improvement in sonic boom extrapolation techniques has been the desire of aerospace designers for years. This is because the linear acoustic theory developed in the 60's is incapable of predicting the nonlinear phenomenon of shock wave propagation. On the other hand, CFD techniques are too computationally expensive to employ on sonic boom problems. Therefore, this research focused on the development of a fast and accurate sonic boom extrapolation method that solves the Euler equations for axisymmetric flow. This new technique has brought the sonic boom extrapolation techniques up to the standards of the 90's. Parallel computing is a fast growing subject in the field of computer science because of its promising speed. A new optimizer (IIOWA) for the parallel computing environment has been developed and tested for aerodynamic drag minimization. This is a promising method for CFD optimization making use of the computational resources of workstations, which unlike supercomputers can spend most of their time idle. Finally, the OAW concept is attractive because of its overall theoretical performance. In order to fully understand the concept, a wind-tunnel model was built and is currently being tested at NASA Ames Research Center. The CFD calculations performed under this cooperative agreement helped to identify the problem of the flow separation, and also aided the design by optimizing the wing deflection for roll trim.

3D Microfabrication Using Emulsion Mask Grayscale Photolithography Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Tze Pin; Mohamed, Khairudin

2016-02-01

Recently, the rapid development of technology such as biochips, microfluidic, micro-optical devices and micro-electromechanical-systems (MEMS) demands the capability to create complex design of three-dimensional (3D) microstructures. In order to create 3D microstructures, the traditional photolithography process often requires multiple photomasks to form 3D pattern from several stacked photoresist layers. This fabrication method is extremely time consuming, low throughput, costly and complicated to conduct for high volume manufacturing scale. On the other hand, next generation lithography such as electron beam lithography (EBL), focused ion beam lithography (FIB) and extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) are however too costly and the machines require expertise to setup. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to develop a simplified method in producing 3D microstructures using single grayscale emulsion mask technique. By using this grayscale fabrication method, microstructures of thickness as high as 500μm and as low as 20μm are obtained in a single photolithography exposure. Finally, the fabrication of 3D microfluidic channel has been demonstrated by using this grayscale photolithographic technique.

Modelling and multi objective optimization of WEDM of commercially Monel super alloy using evolutionary algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Varun, Sajja; Reddy, Kalakada Bhargav Bal; Vardhan Reddy, R. R. Vishnu

2016-09-01

In this research work, development of a multi response optimization technique has been undertaken, using traditional desirability analysis and non-traditional particle swarm optimization techniques (for different customer's priorities) in wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM). Monel 400 has been selected as work material for experimentation. The effect of key process parameters such as pulse on time (TON), pulse off time (TOFF), peak current (IP), wire feed (WF) were on material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness(SR) in WEDM operation were investigated. Further, the responses such as MRR and SR were modelled empirically through regression analysis. The developed models can be used by the machinists to predict the MRR and SR over a wide range of input parameters. The optimization of multiple responses has been done for satisfying the priorities of multiple users by using Taguchi-desirability function method and particle swarm optimization technique. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) is also applied to investigate the effect of influential parameters. Finally, the confirmation experiments were conducted for the optimal set of machining parameters, and the betterment has been proved.

A survey of various enhancement techniques for square rings antennas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mumin, Abdul Rashid O.; Alias, Rozlan; Abdullah, Jiwa; Abdulhasan, Raed Abdulkareem; Ali, Jawad; Dahlan, Samsul Haimi; Awaleh, Abdisamad A.

2017-09-01

The square ring shape becomes a famous reconfiguration on antenna design. The researchers have been developed the square ring by different configurations. It has high efficiency and simple calculation method. The performance enhancement for an antenna is the main reason to use this setting. Furthermore, the multi-objectives for the antenna also are considered. In this paper, different studies of square ring shape are discussed. This shape is developed in five different techniques, which are the gain enhancement, dual band antenna, reconfigurable antenna, CSRR, and circularly polarization. Moreover, the validation between these configurations also demonstrates for square ring shapes. In particular, the square ring slot improved the gain by 4.3 dB, provide dual band resonance at 1.4 and 2.6 GHz while circular polarization at 1.54 GHz, and multi-mode antenna. However, square ring strip achieved an excellent band rejection on UWB antenna at 5.5 GHz. The square ring slot length is the most influential factor on the antenna performance, which refers to the free space wavelength. Finally, comparisons between these techniques are presented.

Dynamic microscopy of nanoscale cluster growth at the solid-liquid interface.

PubMed

Williamson, M J; Tromp, R M; Vereecken, P M; Hull, R; Ross, F M

2003-08-01

Dynamic processes at the solid-liquid interface are of key importance across broad areas of science and technology. Electrochemical deposition of copper, for example, is used for metallization in integrated circuits, and a detailed understanding of nucleation, growth and coalescence is essential in optimizing the final microstructure. Our understanding of processes at the solid-vapour interface has advanced tremendously over the past decade due to the routine availability of real-time, high-resolution imaging techniques yielding data that can be compared quantitatively with theory. However, the difficulty of studying the solid-liquid interface leaves our understanding of processes there less complete. Here we analyse dynamic observations--recorded in situ using a novel transmission electron microscopy technique--of the nucleation and growth of nanoscale copper clusters during electrodeposition. We follow in real time the evolution of individual clusters, and compare their development with simulations incorporating the basic physics of electrodeposition during the early stages of growth. The experimental technique developed here is applicable to a broad range of dynamic phenomena at the solid-liquid interface.

Systems Based Approaches for Conversion of Biomass to Bioenergy and Bioproducts

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

Taylor, Steve; McDonald, Timothy; Adhikari, Sushil

The research provided data on applicability of agricultural energy crops and forest biomass production and logistics models. While much of the overall research effort was focused on lignocellulosic feedstocks, the research also recognized that there are important opportunities for the production and use of starch-based agricultural crops to serve as alternative regionally-appropriate biofuel feedstocks. Also, the research identified fractionation techniques that can be used to separate biomass feedstocks into their basic chemical constituents and then streamline the biorefining industry by developing commodity products for cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Finally, models and techniques were developed to determine economically feasible technologies formore » production of biomass-derived synthesis gases that can be used for clean, renewable power generation and for production of liquid transportation fuels through Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis. Moreover, this research program educated the next generation of engineers and scientists needed to implement these technologies.« less

Development of an advanced anaerobic digester design and a kinetic model for biogasification of water hyacinth/sludge blends

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

Srivastava, V.; Fannin, K.F.; Biljetina, R.

1986-07-01

The Institute of Gas Technology (IGT) conducted a comprehensive laboratory-scale research program to develop and optimize the anaerobic digestion process for producing methane from water hyacinth and sludge blends. This study focused on digester design and operating techniques, which gave improved methane yields and production rates over those observed using conventional digesters. The final digester concept and the operating experience was utilized to design and operate a large-scale experimentla test unit (ETU) at Walt Disney World, Florida. This paper describes the novel digester design, operating techniques, and the results obtained in the laboratory. The paper also discusses a kinetic modelmore » which predicts methane yield, methane production rate, and digester effluent solids as a function of retention time. This model was successfully utilized to predict the performance of the ETU. 15 refs., 6 figs., 6 tabs.« less

System engineering techniques for establishing balanced design and performance guidelines for the advanced telerobotic testbed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zimmerman, W. F.; Matijevic, J. R.

1987-01-01

Novel system engineering techniques have been developed and applied to establishing structured design and performance objectives for the Telerobotics Testbed that reduce technical risk while still allowing the testbed to demonstrate an advancement in state-of-the-art robotic technologies. To estblish the appropriate tradeoff structure and balance of technology performance against technical risk, an analytical data base was developed which drew on: (1) automation/robot-technology availability projections, (2) typical or potential application mission task sets, (3) performance simulations, (4) project schedule constraints, and (5) project funding constraints. Design tradeoffs and configuration/performance iterations were conducted by comparing feasible technology/task set configurations against schedule/budget constraints as well as original program target technology objectives. The final system configuration, task set, and technology set reflected a balanced advancement in state-of-the-art robotic technologies, while meeting programmatic objectives and schedule/cost constraints.

4-D OCT in Developmental Cardiology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jenkins, Michael W.; Rollins, Andrew M.

Although strong evidence exists to suggest that altered cardiac function can lead to CHDs, few studies have investigated the influential role of cardiac function and biophysical forces on the development of the cardiovascular system due to a lack of proper in vivo imaging tools. 4-D imaging is needed to decipher the complex spatial and temporal patterns of biomechanical forces acting upon the heart. Numerous solutions over the past several years have demonstrated 4-D OCT imaging of the developing cardiovascular system. This chapter will focus on these solutions and explain their context in the evolution of 4-D OCT imaging. The first sections describe the relevant techniques (prospective gating, direct 4-D imaging, retrospective gating), while later sections focus on 4-D Doppler imaging and measurements of force implementing 4-D OCT Doppler. Finally, the techniques are summarized, and some possible future directions are discussed.

Developments in laser Doppler blood perfusion monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leahy, Martin J.; de Mul, Frits F. M.; Nilsson, Gert E.; Maniewski, Roman; Liebert, Adam

2003-03-01

This paper reviews the development and use of laser Doppler perfusion monitors and imagers. Despite their great success and almost universal applicability in microcirculation research, they have had great difficulty in converting to widespread clinical application. The enormous interest in microvascular blood perfusion coupled with the 'ease of use' of the technique has led to 2000+ publications citing its use. However, useful results can only be achieved with an understanding of the basic principles of the instrumentation and its application in the various clinical disciplines. The basic technical background is explored and definitions of blood perfusion and laser Doppler perfusion are established. The calibration method is then described together with potential routes to standardisation. A guide to the limitations in application of the technique gives the user a clear indication of what can be achieved in new studies as well as possible inadequacy in some published investigations. Finally some clinical applications have found acceptability and these will be explored.

Expert system verification and validation study. Delivery 3A and 3B: Trip summaries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

French, Scott

1991-01-01

Key results are documented from attending the 4th workshop on verification, validation, and testing. The most interesting part of the workshop was when representatives from the U.S., Japan, and Europe presented surveys of VV&T within their respective regions. Another interesting part focused on current efforts to define industry standards for artificial intelligence and how that might affect approaches to VV&T of expert systems. The next part of the workshop focused on VV&T methods of applying mathematical techniques to verification of rule bases and techniques for capturing information relating to the process of developing software. The final part focused on software tools. A summary is also presented of the EPRI conference on 'Methodologies, Tools, and Standards for Cost Effective Reliable Software Verification and Validation. The conference was divided into discussion sessions on the following issues: development process, automated tools, software reliability, methods, standards, and cost/benefit considerations.

Numerical Schemes for the Hamilton-Jacobi and Level Set Equations on Triangulated Domains

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barth, Timothy J.; Sethian, James A.

1997-01-01

Borrowing from techniques developed for conservation law equations, numerical schemes which discretize the Hamilton-Jacobi (H-J), level set, and Eikonal equations on triangulated domains are presented. The first scheme is a provably monotone discretization for certain forms of the H-J equations. Unfortunately, the basic scheme lacks proper Lipschitz continuity of the numerical Hamiltonian. By employing a virtual edge flipping technique, Lipschitz continuity of the numerical flux is restored on acute triangulations. Next, schemes are introduced and developed based on the weaker concept of positive coefficient approximations for homogeneous Hamiltonians. These schemes possess a discrete maximum principle on arbitrary triangulations and naturally exhibit proper Lipschitz continuity of the numerical Hamiltonian. Finally, a class of Petrov-Galerkin approximations are considered. These schemes are stabilized via a least-squares bilinear form. The Petrov-Galerkin schemes do not possess a discrete maximum principle but generalize to high order accuracy.

Molecular-based design and emerging applications of nanoporous carbon spheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Jian; Wickramaratne, Nilantha P.; Qiao, Shi Zhang; Jaroniec, Mietek

2015-08-01

Over the past decade, considerable progress has been made in the synthesis and applications of nanoporous carbon spheres ranging in size from nanometres to micrometres. This Review presents the primary techniques for preparing nanoporous carbon spheres and the seminal research that has inspired their development, presented potential applications and uncovered future challenges. First we provide an overview of the synthesis techniques, including the Stöber method and those based on templating, self-assembly, emulsion and hydrothermal carbonization, with special emphasis on the design and functionalization of nanoporous carbon spheres at the molecular level. Next, we cover the key applications of these spheres, including adsorption, catalysis, separation, energy storage and biomedicine -- all of which might benefit from the regular geometry, good liquidity, tunable porosity and controllable particle-size distribution offered by nanoporous carbon spheres. Finally, we present the current challenges and opportunities in the development and commercial applications of nanoporous carbon spheres.

Molecular-based design and emerging applications of nanoporous carbon spheres.

PubMed

Liu, Jian; Wickramaratne, Nilantha P; Qiao, Shi Zhang; Jaroniec, Mietek

2015-08-01

Over the past decade, considerable progress has been made in the synthesis and applications of nanoporous carbon spheres ranging in size from nanometres to micrometres. This Review presents the primary techniques for preparing nanoporous carbon spheres and the seminal research that has inspired their development, presented potential applications and uncovered future challenges. First we provide an overview of the synthesis techniques, including the Stöber method and those based on templating, self-assembly, emulsion and hydrothermal carbonization, with special emphasis on the design and functionalization of nanoporous carbon spheres at the molecular level. Next, we cover the key applications of these spheres, including adsorption, catalysis, separation, energy storage and biomedicine — all of which might benefit from the regular geometry, good liquidity, tunable porosity and controllable particle-size distribution offered by nanoporous carbon spheres. Finally, we present the current challenges and opportunities in the development and commercial applications of nanoporous carbon spheres.

Simulation and Development of Internal Model Control Applications in the Bayer Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colombé, Ph.; Dablainville, R.; Vacarisas, J.

Traditional PID feedback control system is limited in its use in the Bayer cycle due to the important and omnipresent time delays which can lead to stability problems and sluggish response. Advanced modern control techniques are available, but suffer in an industrial environment from a lack of simplicity and robustness. In this respect the Internal Model Control (IMC) method may be considered as an exception. After a brief review of the basic theoretical principles behind IMC, an IMC scheme is developed to work with single-input, single-output, discrete-time, nonlinear systems. Two applications of IMC in the Bayer process, both in simulations and on industrial plants, are then described: control of the caustic soda concentration of the aluminate liquor and control of the A12O3/Na20 caust. ratio of the digested slurry, Finally, the results obtained make this technique quite attractive for the alumina industry.

Personnel launch system autoland development study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bossi, J. A.; Langehough, M. A.; Tollefson, J. C.

1991-01-01

The Personnel Launch System (PLS) Autoland Development Study focused on development of the guidance and control system for the approach and landing (A/L) phase and the terminal area energy management (TAEM) phase. In the A/L phase, a straight-in trajectory profile was developed with an initial high glide slope, a pull-up and flare to lower glide slope, and the final flare touchdown. The TAEM system consisted of using a heading alignment cone spiral profile. The PLS autopilot was developed using integral LQG design techniques. The guidance and control design was verified using a nonlinear 6 DOF simulation. Simulation results demonstrated accurate steering during the TAEM phase and adequate autoland performance in the presence of wind turbulence and wind shear.

The reduced space Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) method for calculating the worst resonance response of nonlinear systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liao, Haitao; Wu, Wenwang; Fang, Daining

2018-07-01

A coupled approach combining the reduced space Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) method with the harmonic balance condensation technique for finding the worst resonance response is developed. The nonlinear equality constraints of the optimization problem are imposed on the condensed harmonic balance equations. Making use of the null space decomposition technique, the original optimization formulation in the full space is mathematically simplified, and solved in the reduced space by means of the reduced SQP method. The transformation matrix that maps the full space to the null space of the constrained optimization problem is constructed via the coordinate basis scheme. The removal of the nonlinear equality constraints is accomplished, resulting in a simple optimization problem subject to bound constraints. Moreover, second order correction technique is introduced to overcome Maratos effect. The combination application of the reduced SQP method and condensation technique permits a large reduction of the computational cost. Finally, the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed methodology is demonstrated by two numerical examples.

A “dry and wet hybrid” lithography technique for multilevel replication templates: Applications to microfluidic neuron culture and two-phase global mixing

PubMed Central

Paul, Debjani; Saias, Laure; Pedinotti, Jean-Cedric; Chabert, Max; Magnifico, Sebastien; Pallandre, Antoine; De Lambert, Bertrand; Houdayer, Claude; Brugg, Bernard; Peyrin, Jean-Michel; Viovy, Jean-Louis

2011-01-01

A broad range of microfluidic applications, ranging from cell culture to protein crystallization, requires multilevel devices with different heights and feature sizes (from micrometers to millimeters). While state-of-the-art direct-writing techniques have been developed for creating complex three-dimensional shapes, replication molding from a multilevel template is still the preferred method for fast prototyping of microfluidic devices in the laboratory. Here, we report on a “dry and wet hybrid” technique to fabricate multilevel replication molds by combining SU-8 lithography with a dry film resist (Ordyl). We show that the two lithography protocols are chemically compatible with each other. Finally, we demonstrate the hybrid technique in two different microfluidic applications: (1) a neuron culture device with compartmentalization of different elements of a neuron and (2) a two-phase (gas-liquid) global micromixer for fast mixing of a small amount of a viscous liquid into a larger volume of a less viscous liquid. PMID:21559239

A lightweight network anomaly detection technique

DOE PAGES

Kim, Jinoh; Yoo, Wucherl; Sim, Alex; ...

2017-03-13

While the network anomaly detection is essential in network operations and management, it becomes further challenging to perform the first line of detection against the exponentially increasing volume of network traffic. In this paper, we develop a technique for the first line of online anomaly detection with two important considerations: (i) availability of traffic attributes during the monitoring time, and (ii) computational scalability for streaming data. The presented learning technique is lightweight and highly scalable with the beauty of approximation based on the grid partitioning of the given dimensional space. With the public traffic traces of KDD Cup 1999 andmore » NSL-KDD, we show that our technique yields 98.5% and 83% of detection accuracy, respectively, only with a couple of readily available traffic attributes that can be obtained without the help of post-processing. Finally, the results are at least comparable with the classical learning methods including decision tree and random forest, with approximately two orders of magnitude faster learning performance.« less

Review article: Fabrication of nanofluidic devices

PubMed Central

Duan, Chuanhua; Wang, Wei; Xie, Quan

2013-01-01

Thanks to its unique features at the nanoscale, nanofluidics, the study and application of fluid flow in nanochannels/nanopores with at least one characteristic size smaller than 100 nm, has enabled the occurrence of many interesting transport phenomena and has shown great potential in both bio- and energy-related fields. The unprecedented growth of this research field is apparently attributed to the rapid development of micro/nanofabrication techniques. In this review, we summarize recent activities and achievements of nanofabrication for nanofluidic devices, especially those reported in the past four years. Three major nanofabrication strategies, including nanolithography, microelectromechanical system based techniques, and methods using various nanomaterials, are introduced with specific fabrication approaches. Other unconventional fabrication attempts which utilize special polymer properties, various microfabrication failure mechanisms, and macro/microscale machining techniques are also presented. Based on these fabrication techniques, an inclusive guideline for materials and processes selection in the preparation of nanofluidic devices is provided. Finally, technical challenges along with possible opportunities in the present nanofabrication for nanofluidic study are discussed. PMID:23573176

A lightweight network anomaly detection technique

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

Kim, Jinoh; Yoo, Wucherl; Sim, Alex

While the network anomaly detection is essential in network operations and management, it becomes further challenging to perform the first line of detection against the exponentially increasing volume of network traffic. In this paper, we develop a technique for the first line of online anomaly detection with two important considerations: (i) availability of traffic attributes during the monitoring time, and (ii) computational scalability for streaming data. The presented learning technique is lightweight and highly scalable with the beauty of approximation based on the grid partitioning of the given dimensional space. With the public traffic traces of KDD Cup 1999 andmore » NSL-KDD, we show that our technique yields 98.5% and 83% of detection accuracy, respectively, only with a couple of readily available traffic attributes that can be obtained without the help of post-processing. Finally, the results are at least comparable with the classical learning methods including decision tree and random forest, with approximately two orders of magnitude faster learning performance.« less

Adaptive Neural Control for a Class of Pure-Feedback Nonlinear Systems via Dynamic Surface Technique.

PubMed

Liu, Zongcheng; Dong, Xinmin; Xue, Jianping; Li, Hongbo; Chen, Yong

2016-09-01

This brief addresses the adaptive control problem for a class of pure-feedback systems with nonaffine functions possibly being nondifferentiable. Without using the mean value theorem, the difficulty of the control design for pure-feedback systems is overcome by modeling the nonaffine functions appropriately. With the help of neural network approximators, an adaptive neural controller is developed by combining the dynamic surface control (DSC) and minimal learning parameter (MLP) techniques. The key features of our approach are that, first, the restrictive assumptions on the partial derivative of nonaffine functions are removed, second, the DSC technique is used to avoid "the explosion of complexity" in the backstepping design, and the number of adaptive parameters is reduced significantly using the MLP technique, third, smooth robust compensators are employed to circumvent the influences of approximation errors and disturbances. Furthermore, it is proved that all the signals in the closed-loop system are semiglobal uniformly ultimately bounded. Finally, the simulation results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the designed method.

An evaluation of machine processing techniques of ERTS-1 data for user applications. [urban land use and soil association mapping in Indiana

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Landgrebe, D.

1974-01-01

A broad study is described to evaluate a set of machine analysis and processing techniques applied to ERTS-1 data. Based on the analysis results in urban land use analysis and soil association mapping together with previously reported results in general earth surface feature identification and crop species classification, a profile of general applicability of this procedure is beginning to emerge. Put in the hands of a user who knows well the information needed from the data and also is familiar with the region to be analyzed it appears that significantly useful information can be generated by these methods. When supported by preprocessing techniques such as the geometric correction and temporal registration capabilities, final products readily useable by user agencies appear possible. In parallel with application, through further research, there is much potential for further development of these techniques both with regard to providing higher performance and in new situations not yet studied.

Continuous piecewise-linear, reduced-order electrochemical model for lithium-ion batteries in real-time applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farag, Mohammed; Fleckenstein, Matthias; Habibi, Saeid

2017-02-01

Model-order reduction and minimization of the CPU run-time while maintaining the model accuracy are critical requirements for real-time implementation of lithium-ion electrochemical battery models. In this paper, an isothermal, continuous, piecewise-linear, electrode-average model is developed by using an optimal knot placement technique. The proposed model reduces the univariate nonlinear function of the electrode's open circuit potential dependence on the state of charge to continuous piecewise regions. The parameterization experiments were chosen to provide a trade-off between extensive experimental characterization techniques and purely identifying all parameters using optimization techniques. The model is then parameterized in each continuous, piecewise-linear, region. Applying the proposed technique cuts down the CPU run-time by around 20%, compared to the reduced-order, electrode-average model. Finally, the model validation against real-time driving profiles (FTP-72, WLTP) demonstrates the ability of the model to predict the cell voltage accurately with less than 2% error.

Optimization of Native and Formaldehyde iPOND Techniques for Use in Suspension Cells.

PubMed

Wiest, Nathaniel E; Tomkinson, Alan E

2017-01-01

The isolation of proteins on nascent DNA (iPOND) technique developed by the Cortez laboratory allows a previously unparalleled ability to examine proteins associated with replicating and newly synthesized DNA in mammalian cells. Both the original, formaldehyde-based iPOND technique and a more recent derivative, accelerated native iPOND (aniPOND), have mostly been performed in adherent cell lines. Here, we describe modifications to both protocols for use with suspension cell lines. These include cell culture, pulse, and chase conditions that optimize sample recovery in both protocols using suspension cells and several key improvements to the published aniPOND technique that reduce sample loss, increase signal to noise, and maximize sample recovery. Additionally, we directly and quantitatively compare the iPOND and aniPOND protocols to test the strengths and limitations of both. Finally, we present a detailed protocol to perform the optimized aniPOND protocol in suspension cell lines. © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Approaches to self-assembly of colloidal monolayers: A guide for nanotechnologists.

PubMed

Lotito, Valeria; Zambelli, Tomaso

2017-08-01

Self-assembly of quasi-spherical colloidal particles in two-dimensional (2D) arrangements is essential for a wide range of applications from optoelectronics to surface engineering, from chemical and biological sensing to light harvesting and environmental remediation. Several self-assembly approaches have flourished throughout the years, with specific features in terms of complexity of the implementation, sensitivity to process parameters, characteristics of the final colloidal assembly. Selecting the proper method for a given application amidst the vast literature in this field can be a challenging task. In this review, we present an extensive classification and comparison of the different techniques adopted for 2D self-assembly in order to provide useful guidelines for scientists approaching this field. After an overview of the main applications of 2D colloidal assemblies, we describe the main mechanisms underlying their formation and introduce the mathematical tools commonly used to analyse their final morphology. Subsequently, we examine in detail each class of self-assembly techniques, with an explanation of the physical processes intervening in crystallization and a thorough investigation of the technical peculiarities of the different practical implementations. We point out the specific characteristics of the set-ups and apparatuses developed for self-assembly in terms of complexity, requirements, reproducibility, robustness, sensitivity to process parameters and morphology of the final colloidal pattern. Such an analysis will help the reader to individuate more easily the approach more suitable for a given application and will draw the attention towards the importance of the details of each implementation for the final results. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Structural Inference in the Art of Violin Making.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morse-Fortier, Leonard Joseph

The "secrets" of success of early Italian violins have long been sought. Among their many efforts to reproduce the results of Stradiveri, Guarneri, and Amati, luthiers have attempted to order and match natural resonant frequencies in the free violin plates. This tap-tone plate tuning technique is simply an eigenvalue extraction scheme. In the final stages of carving, the violin maker complements considerable intuitive knowledge of violin plate structure and of modal attributes with tap-tone frequency estimates to better understand plate structure and to inform decisions about plate carving and completeness. Examining the modal attributes of violin plates, this work develops and incorporates an impulse-response scheme for modal inference, measures resonant frequencies and modeshapes for a pair of violin plates, and presents modeshapes through a unique computer visualization scheme developed specifically for this purpose. The work explores, through simple examples questions of how plate modal attributes reflect underlying structure, and questions about the so -called evolution of modeshapes and frequencies through assembly of the violin. Separately, the work develops computer code for a carved, anisotropic, plate/shell finite element. Solutions are found to the static displacement and free-vibration eigenvalue problems for an orthotropic plate, and used to verify element accuracy. Finally, a violin back plate is modelled with full consideration of plate thickness and arching. Model estimates for modal attributes compare very well against experimentally acquired values. Finally, the modal synthesis technique is applied to predicting the modal attributes of the violin top plate with ribs attached from those of the top plate alone, and with an estimate of rib mass and stiffness. This last analysis serves to verify the modal synthesis method, and to quantify its limits of applicability in attempting to solve problems with severe structural modification. Conclusions emphasize the importance of better understanding the underlying structure, improved understanding of its relationship to modal attributes, and better estimates of wood elasticity.

Nano-yttria dispersed stainless steel composites composed by the 3 dimensional fiber deposition technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verhiest, K.; Mullens, S.; De Wispelaere, N.; Claessens, S.; DeBremaecker, A.; Verbeken, K.

2012-09-01

In this study, oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) 316L steel samples were manufactured by the 3 dimensional fiber deposition (3DFD) technique. The performance of 3DFD as colloidal consolidation technique to obtain porous green bodies based on yttria (Y2O3) nano-slurries or paste, is discussed within this experimental work. The influence of the sintering temperature and time on sample densification and grain growth was investigated in this study. Hot consolidation was performed to obtain final product quality in terms of residual porosity reduction and final dispersion homogeneity.

Surface tension effects on fully developed liquid layer flow over a convex corner

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhatti, Ifrah; Farid, Saadia; Ullah, Saif; Riaz, Samia; Faryad, Maimoona

2018-04-01

This investigation deals with the study of fully developed liquid layer flow along with surface tension effects, confronting a convex corner in the direction of fluid flow. At the point of interaction, the related equations are formulated using double deck structure and match asymptotic techniques. Linearized solutions for small angle are obtained analytically. The solutions corresponding to similar flow neglecting surface tension effects are also recovered as special case of our general solutions. Finally, the influence of pertinent parameters on the flow, as well as a comparison between models, are shown by graphical illustration.

An update on X-ray reflection gratings developed for future missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miles, Drew

2018-01-01

X-ray reflection gratings are a key technology being studied for future X-ray spectroscopy missions, including the Lynx X-ray mission under consideration for the 2020 Decadal Survey. We present an update on the status of X-ray reflection gratings being developed at Penn State University, including current fabrication techniques and mass-replication processes and the latest diffraction efficiency results and resolving power measurements. Individual off-plane X-ray reflection gratings have exceeded the current Lynx requirements for both effective area and resolving power. Finally, we discuss internal projects that will advance the technology readiness level of these gratings.

An overview of computer viruses in a research environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bishop, Matt

1991-01-01

The threat of attack by computer viruses is in reality a very small part of a much more general threat, specifically threats aimed at subverting computer security. Here, computer viruses are examined as a malicious logic in a research and development environment. A relation is drawn between the viruses and various models of security and integrity. Current research techniques aimed at controlling the threats posed to computer systems by threatening viruses in particular and malicious logic in general are examined. Finally, a brief examination of the vulnerabilities of research and development systems that malicious logic and computer viruses may exploit is undertaken.

Analog simulation of flux-summing servo-model, phases 1 and 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hriber, E. J.

1984-01-01

The analog simulation was developed for a closed-loop system having an electrohydraulic flux-summing servo valve and actuator with associated inertial load. One-fourth of the system's total forward gain is carried by each of four channels. The present study successfully applied failure mode management techniques to the problem of channel failure. Digital logic circuitry was developed to maintain the overall forward gain of the system at a constant value, in the presence of channel failure. Finally, the stability of the system was verified, and performance characteristics were determined through the use of frequency response methods.

Apollo experience report: Command and service module communications subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lattier, E. E., Jr.

1974-01-01

The development of spacecraft communications hardware from design to operation is described. Programs, requirements, specifications, and design approaches for a variety of functions (such as voice, telemetry, television, and antennas) are reviewed. Equipment environmental problems such as vibration, extreme temperature variation, and zero gravity are discussed. A review of the development of managerial techniques used in refining the roles of prime and subcontractors is included. The hardware test program is described in detail as it progressed from breadboard design to manned flight system evaluations. Finally, a series of actions is recommended to managers of similar projects to facilitate administration.

Silica Materials for Medical Applications

PubMed Central

Vallet-Regí, María; Balas, Francisco

2008-01-01

The two main applications of silica-based materials in medicine and biotechnology, i.e. for bone-repairing devices and for drug delivery systems, are presented and discussed. The influence of the structure and chemical composition in the final characteristics and properties of every silica-based material is also shown as a function of the both applications presented. The adequate combination of the synthesis techniques, template systems and additives leads to the development of materials that merge the bioactive behavior with the drug carrier ability. These systems could be excellent candidates as materials for the development of devices for tissue engineering. PMID:19662110

Significant findings concerning the production of Italian Renaissance lustred majolica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Padeletti, G.; Fermo, P.

2013-12-01

In the present paper the main results obtained, over a period of more than ten years, from a series of studies concerning the characterization of Italian Renaissance lustred majolicas (from Gubbio and Deruta, Umbria, Italy) are presented. Lustre decoration is a well-known technique, consisting in the application of a thin metallic iridescent film, containing silver and copper nanoparticles, over a previously glazed ceramic object. The technique had its origin in Persia (IX century), was imported by Moorish in Spain, and then developed in central Italy during the Renaissance period. Numerous analytical techniques (among which, ETASS, XRD, UV-Vis, SEM-EDX) have been employed for the characterization of lustred ceramic shards, allowing one to acquire information on both lustre chemical composition and nanostructure. In this way it was shown how some technological parameters, such as the firing conditions, are mandatory to obtain the final result. The presence of a specific marker of the lustre Italian production, i.e., cosalite (Pb2Bi2S5), has been also highlighted. From the study of the ceramic body composition (by means of XRD and ICP-OES and in particular of chemometric techniques) acquired on more than 50 ceramic shards it was possible to discriminate between Deruta and Gubbio production, in this way allowing one to assign objects of uncertain provenance to a specific site. Finally, the most interesting results obtained studying excellent lustred masterpieces from Renaissance belonging to important museums are here presented. In particular, with the use of nondestructive techniques (PIXE, RBS, and portable XRD), the production of Mastro Giorgio Andreoli from Gubbio was investigated. By means of the same analytical approach, one of the first examples of lustre in Italy (the famous Baglioni's albarello) was examined, and the controversial question of its attribution to Italian production was scientifically faced.

Stable adaptive PI control for permanent magnet synchronous motor drive based on improved JITL technique.

PubMed

Zheng, Shiqi; Tang, Xiaoqi; Song, Bao; Lu, Shaowu; Ye, Bosheng

2013-07-01

In this paper, a stable adaptive PI control strategy based on the improved just-in-time learning (IJITL) technique is proposed for permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) drive. Firstly, the traditional JITL technique is improved. The new IJITL technique has less computational burden and is more suitable for online identification of the PMSM drive system which is highly real-time compared to traditional JITL. In this way, the PMSM drive system is identified by IJITL technique, which provides information to an adaptive PI controller. Secondly, the adaptive PI controller is designed in discrete time domain which is composed of a PI controller and a supervisory controller. The PI controller is capable of automatically online tuning the control gains based on the gradient descent method and the supervisory controller is developed to eliminate the effect of the approximation error introduced by the PI controller upon the system stability in the Lyapunov sense. Finally, experimental results on the PMSM drive system show accurate identification and favorable tracking performance. Copyright © 2013 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Summary of Work for Joint Research Interchanges with DARWIN Integrated Product Team 1998

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hesselink, Lambertus

1999-01-01

The intent of Stanford University's SciVis group is to develop technologies that enabled comparative analysis and visualization techniques for simulated and experimental flow fields. These techniques would then be made available under the Joint Research Interchange for potential injection into the DARWIN Workspace Environment (DWE). In the past, we have focused on techniques that exploited feature based comparisons such as shock and vortex extractions. Our current research effort focuses on finding a quantitative comparison of general vector fields based on topological features. Since the method relies on topological information, grid matching and vector alignment is not needed in the comparison. This is often a problem with many data comparison techniques. In addition, since only topology based information is stored and compared for each field, there is a significant compression of information that enables large databases to be quickly searched. This report will briefly (1) describe current technologies in the area of comparison techniques, (2) will describe the theory of our new method and finally (3) summarize a few of the results.

Summary of Work for Joint Research Interchanges with DARWIN Integrated Product Team

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hesselink, Lambertus

1999-01-01

The intent of Stanford University's SciVis group is to develop technologies that enabled comparative analysis and visualization techniques for simulated and experimental flow fields. These techniques would then be made available un- der the Joint Research Interchange for potential injection into the DARWIN Workspace Environment (DWE). In the past, we have focused on techniques that exploited feature based comparisons such as shock and vortex extractions. Our current research effort focuses on finding a quantitative comparison of general vector fields based on topological features. Since the method relies on topological information, grid matching an@ vector alignment is not needed in the comparison. This is often a problem with many data comparison techniques. In addition, since only topology based information is stored and compared for each field, there is a significant compression of information that enables large databases to be quickly searched. This report will briefly (1) describe current technologies in the area of comparison techniques, (2) will describe the theory of our new method and finally (3) summarize a few of the results.

Improving microstructural quantification in FIB/SEM nanotomography.

PubMed

Taillon, Joshua A; Pellegrinelli, Christopher; Huang, Yi-Lin; Wachsman, Eric D; Salamanca-Riba, Lourdes G

2018-01-01

FIB/SEM nanotomography (FIB-nt) is a powerful technique for the determination and quantification of the three-dimensional microstructure in subsurface features. Often times, the microstructure of a sample is the ultimate determiner of the overall performance of a system, and a detailed understanding of its properties is crucial in advancing the materials engineering of a resulting device. While the FIB-nt technique has developed significantly in the 15 years since its introduction, advanced nanotomographic analysis is still far from routine, and a number of challenges remain in data acquisition and post-processing. In this work, we present a number of techniques to improve the quality of the acquired data, together with easy-to-implement methods to obtain "advanced" microstructural quantifications. The techniques are applied to a solid oxide fuel cell cathode of interest to the electrochemistry community, but the methodologies are easily adaptable to a wide range of material systems. Finally, results from an analyzed sample are presented as a practical example of how these techniques can be implemented. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Page layout analysis and classification for complex scanned documents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erkilinc, M. Sezer; Jaber, Mustafa; Saber, Eli; Bauer, Peter; Depalov, Dejan

2011-09-01

A framework for region/zone classification in color and gray-scale scanned documents is proposed in this paper. The algorithm includes modules for extracting text, photo, and strong edge/line regions. Firstly, a text detection module which is based on wavelet analysis and Run Length Encoding (RLE) technique is employed. Local and global energy maps in high frequency bands of the wavelet domain are generated and used as initial text maps. Further analysis using RLE yields a final text map. The second module is developed to detect image/photo and pictorial regions in the input document. A block-based classifier using basis vector projections is employed to identify photo candidate regions. Then, a final photo map is obtained by applying probabilistic model based on Markov random field (MRF) based maximum a posteriori (MAP) optimization with iterated conditional mode (ICM). The final module detects lines and strong edges using Hough transform and edge-linkages analysis, respectively. The text, photo, and strong edge/line maps are combined to generate a page layout classification of the scanned target document. Experimental results and objective evaluation show that the proposed technique has a very effective performance on variety of simple and complex scanned document types obtained from MediaTeam Oulu document database. The proposed page layout classifier can be used in systems for efficient document storage, content based document retrieval, optical character recognition, mobile phone imagery, and augmented reality.

Improved Detection Technique for Solvent Rinse Cleanliness Verification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hornung, S. D.; Beeson, H. D.

2001-01-01

The NASA White Sands Test Facility (WSTF) has an ongoing effort to reduce or eliminate usage of cleaning solvents such as CFC-113 and its replacements. These solvents are used in the final clean and cleanliness verification processes for flight and ground support hardware, especially for oxygen systems where organic contaminants can pose an ignition hazard. For the final cleanliness verification in the standard process, the equivalent of one square foot of surface area of parts is rinsed with the solvent, and the final 100 mL of the rinse is captured. The amount of nonvolatile residue (NVR) in the solvent is determined by weight after the evaporation of the solvent. An improved process of sampling this rinse, developed at WSTF, requires evaporation of less than 2 mL of the solvent to make the cleanliness verification. Small amounts of the solvent are evaporated in a clean stainless steel cup, and the cleanliness of the stainless steel cup is measured using a commercially available surface quality monitor. The effectiveness of this new cleanliness verification technique was compared to the accepted NVR sampling procedures. Testing with known contaminants in solution, such as hydraulic fluid, fluorinated lubricants, and cutting and lubricating oils, was performed to establish a correlation between amount in solution and the process response. This report presents the approach and results and discusses the issues in establishing the surface quality monitor-based cleanliness verification.

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

Maghenda, W.M.

The purpose of this study is threefold: first, to develop and administer a questionnaire designed to determine Kenyan students' concerns about environmental issues; second to investigate the primary environmental factors facing the country; and finally, to utilize the findings of the study to develop a conceptual framework for environmental education in Kenya. To develop an environmental education framework for Kenya, baseline data was obtained from a survey of Form IV secondary school students' concerns about environmental issues. A split-half technique was used to establish the reliability of the questionnaire. Factor analysis was used to test the construct validity of themore » questionnaire and as a data reduction method. This technique resulted in reducing the 81 items developed for the study to eight Factor as follows: (F1) Land use and health stresses; (F2) Community environmental risks; (F3) National environmental problems; (F4) Careless land use practices at community level; (F5) Socioeconomic elements; (F6) Sources of environmental information; (F7) Careless land use at national level; and (F8) Primary population pressures. Results are presented briefly.« less

Biotechnology and apple breeding in Japan

PubMed Central

Igarashi, Megumi; Hatsuyama, Yoshimichi; Harada, Takeo; Fukasawa-Akada, Tomoko

2016-01-01

Apple is a fruit crop of significant economic importance, and breeders world wide continue to develop novel cultivars with improved characteristics. The lengthy juvenile period and the large field space required to grow apple populations have imposed major limitations on breeding. Various molecular biological techniques have been employed to make apple breeding easier. Transgenic technology has facilitated the development of apples with resistance to fungal or bacterial diseases, improved fruit quality, or root stocks with better rooting or dwarfing ability. DNA markers for disease resistance (scab, powdery mildew, fire-blight, Alternaria blotch) and fruit skin color have also been developed, and marker-assisted selection (MAS) has been employed in breeding programs. In the last decade, genomic sequences and chromosome maps of various cultivars have become available, allowing the development of large SNP arrays, enabling efficient QTL mapping and genomic selection (GS). In recent years, new technologies for genetic improvement, such as trans-grafting, virus vectors, and genome-editing, have emerged. Using these techniques, no foreign genes are present in the final product, and some of them show considerable promise for application to apple breeding. PMID:27069388

Biotechnology and apple breeding in Japan.

PubMed

Igarashi, Megumi; Hatsuyama, Yoshimichi; Harada, Takeo; Fukasawa-Akada, Tomoko

2016-01-01

Apple is a fruit crop of significant economic importance, and breeders world wide continue to develop novel cultivars with improved characteristics. The lengthy juvenile period and the large field space required to grow apple populations have imposed major limitations on breeding. Various molecular biological techniques have been employed to make apple breeding easier. Transgenic technology has facilitated the development of apples with resistance to fungal or bacterial diseases, improved fruit quality, or root stocks with better rooting or dwarfing ability. DNA markers for disease resistance (scab, powdery mildew, fire-blight, Alternaria blotch) and fruit skin color have also been developed, and marker-assisted selection (MAS) has been employed in breeding programs. In the last decade, genomic sequences and chromosome maps of various cultivars have become available, allowing the development of large SNP arrays, enabling efficient QTL mapping and genomic selection (GS). In recent years, new technologies for genetic improvement, such as trans-grafting, virus vectors, and genome-editing, have emerged. Using these techniques, no foreign genes are present in the final product, and some of them show considerable promise for application to apple breeding.

3D Biofabrication Strategies for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

PubMed Central

Bajaj, Piyush; Schweller, Ryan M.; Khademhosseini, Ali; West, Jennifer L.; Bashir, Rashid

2014-01-01

Over the past several decades, there has been an ever-increasing demand for organ transplants. However, there is a severe shortage of donor organs, and as a result of the increasing demand, the gap between supply and demand continues to widen. A potential solution to this problem is to grow or fabricate organs using biomaterial scaffolds and a person’s own cells. Although the realization of this solution has been limited, the development of new biofabrication approaches has made it more realistic. This review provides an overview of natural and synthetic biomaterials that have been used for organ/tissue development. It then discusses past and current biofabrication techniques, with a brief explanation of the state of the art. Finally, the review highlights the need for combining vascularization strategies with current biofabrication techniques. Given the multitude of applications of biofabrication technologies, from organ/tissue development to drug discovery/screening to development of complex in vitro models of human diseases, these manufacturing technologies can have a significant impact on the future of medicine and health care. PMID:24905875

Development of preoperative planning software for transforaminal endoscopic surgery and the guidance for clinical applications.

PubMed

Chen, Xiaojun; Cheng, Jun; Gu, Xin; Sun, Yi; Politis, Constantinus

2016-04-01

Preoperative planning is of great importance for transforaminal endoscopic techniques applied in percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy. In this study, a modular preoperative planning software for transforaminal endoscopic surgery was developed and demonstrated. The path searching method is based on collision detection, and the oriented bounding box was constructed for the anatomical models. Then, image reformatting algorithms were developed for multiplanar reconstruction which provides detailed anatomical information surrounding the virtual planned path. Finally, multithread technique was implemented to realize the steady-state condition of the software. A preoperative planning software for transforaminal endoscopic surgery (TE-Guider) was developed; seven cases of patients with symptomatic lumbar disc herniations were planned preoperatively using TE-Guider. The distances to the midlines and the direction of the optimal paths were exported, and each result was in line with the empirical value. TE-Guider provides an efficient and cost-effective way to search the ideal path and entry point for the puncture. However, more clinical cases will be conducted to demonstrate its feasibility and reliability.

Controlled environment life support system: Growth studies with potatoes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tibbitts, T. W.; Wheeler, R. M.

1986-01-01

Results of experiments conducted to maximize the productivity of potatoes grown under controlled environmental conditions are discussed. A variety of parameters is examined which affect potato growth, specifically, photoperiod, light intensity, temperature, nitrogen nutrition, carbon dioxide concentration and culture techniques. These experiments were conducted using five different cultivars, Russet Burbank, Norchip, Superior, Kennebec and Norland. To achieve high productivity, three specific objectives were explored: (1) to develop effective cultural procedures, (2) to determine the most effective photoperiod and (3) to develop a mist culture system. It is felt that the productivity obtained in this study is below the maximum that can be obtained. High irradiance levels coupled with tuber-promoting conditions such as cooler temperatures, increased CO2 levels and lowered nitrogen concentrations should allow increases in tuber production. Tuberization appears to be accelerated by short daylengths although final yields are not increased. Mist culture techniques have not yet produced fully developed tubers. The use of supporting media and alteration of the nitrogen content of the mist solution are being explored as a way to allow tubers to develop to maturity.

Design on intelligent gateway technique in home network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Zhonggong; Feng, Xiancheng

2008-12-01

Based on digitization, multimedia, mobility, wide band, real-time interaction and so on,family networks, because can provide diverse and personalized synthesis service in information, correspondence work, entertainment, education and health care and so on, are more and more paid attention by the market. The family network product development has become the focus of the related industry. In this paper,the concept of the family network and the overall reference model of the family network are introduced firstly.Then the core techniques and the correspondence standard related with the family network are proposed.The key analysis is made for the function of family gateway, the function module of the software,the key technologies to client side software architecture and the trend of development of the family network entertainment seeing and hearing service and so on. Product present situation of the family gateway and the future trend of development, application solution of the digital family service are introduced. The development of the family network product bringing about the digital family network industry is introduced finally.It causes the development of software industries,such as communication industry,electrical appliances industry, computer and game and so on.It also causes the development of estate industry.

Recent advances in electronic nose techniques for monitoring of fermentation process.

PubMed

Jiang, Hui; Zhang, Hang; Chen, Quansheng; Mei, Congli; Liu, Guohai

2015-12-01

Microbial fermentation process is often sensitive to even slight changes of conditions that may result in unacceptable end-product quality. Thus, the monitoring of the process is critical for discovering unfavorable deviations as early as possible and taking the appropriate measures. However, the use of traditional analytical techniques is often time-consuming and labor-intensive. In this sense, the most effective way of developing rapid, accurate and relatively economical method for quality assurance in microbial fermentation process is the use of novel chemical sensor systems. Electronic nose techniques have particular advantages in non-invasive monitoring of microbial fermentation process. Therefore, in this review, we present an overview of the most important contributions dealing with the quality control in microbial fermentation process using the electronic nose techniques. After a brief description of the fundamentals of the sensor techniques, some examples of potential applications of electronic nose techniques monitoring are provided, including the implementation of control strategies and the combination with other monitoring tools (i.e. sensor fusion). Finally, on the basis of the review, the electronic nose techniques are critically commented, and its strengths and weaknesses being highlighted. In addition, on the basis of the observed trends, we also propose the technical challenges and future outlook for the electronic nose techniques.

Hardfacing of duplex stainless steel using melting and diffusion processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lailatul, H.; Maleque, M. A.

2017-03-01

Duplex stainless steel (DSS) is a material with high potential successes in many new applications such as rail car manufacturing, automotive and chemical industries. Although DSS is widely used in various industries, this material has faced wear and hardness problems which obstruct a wider capability of this material and causes problems in current application. Therefore, development of surface modification has been introduced to produce hard protective layer or coating on DSS. The main aim of this work is to brief review on hard surface layer formation on DSS using melting and diffusion processes. Melting technique using tungsten inert gas (TIG) torch and diffusion technique using gas nitriding are the effective process to meet this requirement. The processing route plays a significant role in developing the hard surface layer for any application with effective cost and environmental factors. The good understanding and careful selection of processing route to form products are very important factors to decide the suitable techniques for surface engineering treatment. In this paper, an attempt is also made to consolidate the important research works done on melting and diffusion techniques of DSS in the past. The advantages and disadvantages between melting and diffusion technique are presented for better understanding on the feasibility of hard surface formation on DSS. Finally, it can be concluded that this work will open an avenue for further research on the application of suitable process for hard surface formation on DSS.

A Case of Chronic Total Occlusion of the Left Anterior Descending Artery Successfully Treated with Side Branch Technique Using the Soutenir CV

PubMed Central

Niizeki, Takeshi; Ikeno, Eiichiro; Kubota, Isao

2017-01-01

Patient: Male, 54 Final Diagnosis: Old myocardial infarction Symptoms: Lower extremity swelling • respiratory distress Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Success Specialty: Cardiology Objective: Unusual setting of medical care Background: Success rates for treatment of chronic total occlusion (CTO) have dramatically improved in recent years with the development of new CTO guidewires and development of new techniques such as the retrograde approach. In the antegrade approach, a guidewire is occasionally passed through a side branch despite successful wire crossing of the CTO lesion. In order to pass a wire through the main artery, there are a few side branch techniques such as a reverse wire technique. Case Report: A 54-year-old man with symptoms of heart failure was admitted to our hospital. Coronary angiography showed CTO of the proximal left anterior descending artery. Percutaneous coronary intervention with an antegrade approach was started. We succeeded in passing the wire through a side branch but not the main artery. Unfortunately, a reverse wire technique failed in this case. Next, the wire passed through a side branch was exchanged with the Soutenir CV, and a retrograde approach was started. The wire crossing from retrograde was entwined around the Soutenir CV. After that, the retrograde wire was snared and guided to the antegrade guiding catheter, which resulted in successful wiring into the main artery easily. Conclusions: The side branch technique using the Soutenir CV may be an effective strategy in some cases. PMID:28082733

Interactive effects of aging parameters of AA6056

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dehghani, Kamran; Nekahi, Atiye

2012-10-01

The effect of thermomechanical treatment on the aging behavior of AA6056 aluminum alloy was modeled using response surface methodology (RSM). Two models were developed to predict the final yield stress (FYS) and elongation amounts as well as the optimum conditions of aging process. These were done based on the interactive effects of applied thermomechanical parameters. The optimum condition predicted by the model to attain the maximum strength was pre-aging at 80 °C for 15 h, followed by 70% cold work and subsequent final aging at 165 °C for 4 h, which resulted in the FYS of about 480 MPa. As for the elongation, the optimum condition was pre-aging at 80 °C for 15 h, followed by 30% cold work and final-aging at 165 °C for 4 h, which led to 21% elongation. To verify the suggested optimum conditions, the tests were carried out confirming the high accuracy (above 94%) of the RSM technique as well as the developed models. It is shown that the RSM can be used successfully to optimize the aging process, to determine the significance of aging parameters and to model the combination effect of process variables on the aging behavior of AA6056.

Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Phantom Fabrication and Characterization through the Tailored Properties of Polymeric Composites and Cellular Foams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoy, Carlton F. O.

The overall objective of this thesis was to control the fabrication technique and relevant material properties for phantom devices designated for computed tomography (CT) scanning. Fabrication techniques using polymeric composites and foams were detailed together with parametric studies outlining the fundamentals behind the changes in material properties which affect the characteristic CT number. The composites fabricated used polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polyethylene (PE) with hydroxylapatite (hA) as additive with different composites made by means of different weight percentages of additive. Polymeric foams were fabricated through a batch foaming technique with the heating time controlled to create different levels of foams. Finally, the effect of fabricated phantoms under varied scanning media was assessed to determine whether self-made phantoms can be scanned accurately under non-water or rigid environments allowing for the future development of complex shaped or fragile material types.

Software error detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buechler, W.; Tucker, A. G.

1981-01-01

Several methods were employed to detect both the occurrence and source of errors in the operational software of the AN/SLQ-32. A large embedded real time electronic warfare command and control system for the ROLM 1606 computer are presented. The ROLM computer provides information about invalid addressing, improper use of privileged instructions, stack overflows, and unimplemented instructions. Additionally, software techniques were developed to detect invalid jumps, indices out of range, infinte loops, stack underflows, and field size errors. Finally, data are saved to provide information about the status of the system when an error is detected. This information includes I/O buffers, interrupt counts, stack contents, and recently passed locations. The various errors detected, techniques to assist in debugging problems, and segment simulation on a nontarget computer are discussed. These error detection techniques were a major factor in the success of finding the primary cause of error in 98% of over 500 system dumps.

Nuclear analytical techniques in medicine

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

Cesareo, R.

1988-01-01

This book acquaints one with the fundamental principles and the instrumentation relevant to analytical technique based on atomic and nuclear physics, as well as present and future biomedical applications. Besides providing a theoretical description of the physical phenomena, a large part of the book is devoted to applications in the medical and biological field, particularly in hematology, forensic medicine and environmental science. This volume reviews methods such as the possibility of carrying out rapid multi-element analysis of trace elements on biomedical samples, in vitro and in vivo, by XRF-analysis; the ability of the PIXE-microprobe to analyze in detail and tomore » map trace elements in fragments of biomedical samples or inside the cells; the potentiality of in vivo nuclear activation analysis for diagnostic purposes. Finally, techniques are described such as radiation scattering (elastic and inelastic scattering) and attenuation measurements which will undoubtedly see great development in the immediate future.« less

Enrichment and separation techniques for large-scale proteomics analysis of the protein post-translational modifications.

PubMed

Huang, Junfeng; Wang, Fangjun; Ye, Mingliang; Zou, Hanfa

2014-11-06

Comprehensive analysis of the post-translational modifications (PTMs) on proteins at proteome level is crucial to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of various biological processes. In the past decades, thanks to the development of specific PTM enrichment techniques and efficient multidimensional liquid chromatography (LC) separation strategy, the identification of protein PTMs have made tremendous progress. A huge number of modification sites for some major protein PTMs have been identified by proteomics analysis. In this review, we first introduced the recent progresses of PTM enrichment methods for the analysis of several major PTMs including phosphorylation, glycosylation, ubiquitination, acetylation, methylation, and oxidation/reduction status. We then briefly summarized the challenges for PTM enrichment. Finally, we introduced the fractionation and separation techniques for efficient separation of PTM peptides in large-scale PTM analysis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Micro/nano-fabrication technologies for cell biology.

PubMed

Qian, Tongcheng; Wang, Yingxiao

2010-10-01

Micro/nano-fabrication techniques, such as soft lithography and electrospinning, have been well-developed and widely applied in many research fields in the past decade. Due to the low costs and simple procedures, these techniques have become important and popular for biological studies. In this review, we focus on the studies integrating micro/nano-fabrication work to elucidate the molecular mechanism of signaling transduction in cell biology. We first describe different micro/nano-fabrication technologies, including techniques generating three-dimensional scaffolds for tissue engineering. We then introduce the application of these technologies in manipulating the physical or chemical micro/nano-environment to regulate the cellular behavior and response, such as cell life and death, differentiation, proliferation, and cell migration. Recent advancement in integrating the micro/nano-technologies and live cell imaging are also discussed. Finally, potential schemes in cell biology involving micro/nano-fabrication technologies are proposed to provide perspectives on the future research activities.

Micro/nano-fabrication technologies for cell biology

PubMed Central

Qian, Tongcheng

2012-01-01

Micro/nano-fabrication techniques, such as soft lithography and electrospinning, have been well-developed and widely applied in many research fields in the past decade. Due to the low costs and simple procedures, these techniques have become important and popular for biological studies. In this review, we focus on the studies integrating micro/nano-fabrication work to elucidate the molecular mechanism of signaling transduction in cell biology. We first describe different micro/nano-fabrication technologies, including techniques generating three-dimensional scaffolds for tissue engineering. We then introduce the application of these technologies in manipulating the physical or chemical micro/nano-environment to regulate the cellular behavior and response, such as cell life and death, differentiation, proliferation, and cell migration. Recent advancement in integrating the micro/nano-technologies and live cell imaging are also discussed. Finally, potential schemes in cell biology involving micro/nano-fabrication technologies are proposed to provide perspectives on the future research activities. PMID:20490938

Historical Techniques of Lie Detection

PubMed Central

Vicianova, Martina

2015-01-01

Since time immemorial, lying has been a part of everyday life. For this reason, it has become a subject of interest in several disciplines, including psychology. The purpose of this article is to provide a general overview of the literature and thinking to date about the evolution of lie detection techniques. The first part explores ancient methods recorded circa 1000 B.C. (e.g., God’s judgment in Europe). The second part describes technical methods based on sciences such as phrenology, polygraph and graphology. This is followed by an outline of more modern-day approaches such as FACS (Facial Action Coding System), functional MRI, and Brain Fingerprinting. Finally, after the familiarization with the historical development of techniques for lie detection, we discuss the scope for new initiatives not only in the area of designing new methods, but also for the research into lie detection itself, such as its motives and regulatory issues related to deception. PMID:27247675

Applied photo interpretation for airbrush cartography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Inge, J. L.; Bridges, P. M.

1976-01-01

Lunar and planetary exploration has required the development of new techniques of cartographic portrayal. Conventional photo-interpretive methods employing size, shape, shadow, tone, pattern, and texture are applied to computer-processed satellite television images. Comparative judgements are affected by illumination, resolution, variations in surface coloration, and transmission or processing artifacts. The portrayal of tonal densities in a relief illustration is performed using a unique airbrush technique derived from hill-shading of contour maps. The control of tone and line quality is essential because the mid-gray to dark tone densities must be finalized prior to the addition of highlights to the drawing. This is done with an electric eraser until the drawing is completed. The drawing density is controlled with a reflectance-reading densitometer to meet certain density guidelines. The versatility of planetary photo-interpretive methods for airbrushed map portrayals is demonstrated by the application of these techniques to the synthesis of nonrelief data.

Correlative Tomography

PubMed Central

Burnett, T. L.; McDonald, S. A.; Gholinia, A.; Geurts, R.; Janus, M.; Slater, T.; Haigh, S. J.; Ornek, C.; Almuaili, F.; Engelberg, D. L.; Thompson, G. E.; Withers, P. J.

2014-01-01

Increasingly researchers are looking to bring together perspectives across multiple scales, or to combine insights from different techniques, for the same region of interest. To this end, correlative microscopy has already yielded substantial new insights in two dimensions (2D). Here we develop correlative tomography where the correlative task is somewhat more challenging because the volume of interest is typically hidden beneath the sample surface. We have threaded together x-ray computed tomography, serial section FIB-SEM tomography, electron backscatter diffraction and finally TEM elemental analysis all for the same 3D region. This has allowed observation of the competition between pitting corrosion and intergranular corrosion at multiple scales revealing the structural hierarchy, crystallography and chemistry of veiled corrosion pits in stainless steel. With automated correlative workflows and co-visualization of the multi-scale or multi-modal datasets the technique promises to provide insights across biological, geological and materials science that are impossible using either individual or multiple uncorrelated techniques. PMID:24736640

Use of the Morlet mother wavelet in the frequency-scale domain decomposition technique for the modal identification of ambient vibration responses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le, Thien-Phu

2017-10-01

The frequency-scale domain decomposition technique has recently been proposed for operational modal analysis. The technique is based on the Cauchy mother wavelet. In this paper, the approach is extended to the Morlet mother wavelet, which is very popular in signal processing due to its superior time-frequency localization. Based on the regressive form and an appropriate norm of the Morlet mother wavelet, the continuous wavelet transform of the power spectral density of ambient responses enables modes in the frequency-scale domain to be highlighted. Analytical developments first demonstrate the link between modal parameters and the local maxima of the continuous wavelet transform modulus. The link formula is then used as the foundation of the proposed modal identification method. Its practical procedure, combined with the singular value decomposition algorithm, is presented step by step. The proposition is finally verified using numerical examples and a laboratory test.