Coupling of TRAC-PF1/MOD2, Version 5.4.25, with NESTLE

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

Knepper, P.L.; Hochreiter, L.E.; Ivanov, K.N.

1999-09-01

A three-dimensional (3-D) spatial kinetics capability within a thermal-hydraulics system code provides a more correct description of the core physics during reactor transients that involve significant variations in the neutron flux distribution. Coupled codes provide the ability to forecast safety margins in a best-estimate manner. The behavior of a reactor core and the feedback to the plant dynamics can be accurately simulated. For each time step, coupled codes are capable of resolving system interaction effects on neutronics feedback and are capable of describing local neutronics effects caused by the thermal hydraulics and neutronics coupling. With the improvements in computational technology,more » modeling complex reactor behaviors with coupled thermal hydraulics and spatial kinetics is feasible. Previously, reactor analysis codes were limited to either a detailed thermal-hydraulics model with simplified kinetics or multidimensional neutron kinetics with a simplified thermal-hydraulics model. The authors discuss the coupling of the Transient Reactor Analysis Code (TRAC)-PF1/MOD2, Version 5.4.25, with the NESTLE code.« less

Precision-Guided Munitions Effects Representation

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-03

Center for Army Analysis (CAA) by the TRADOC Analysis Center, Monterey (TRAC-MTRY). The focus of the research is to improve the current methodology ... Methodology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2 Timeline... Methodology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1 MATLAB Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-49 Damage

Assessment of TRAC-PF1/MOD1 version 14. 3 using separate effects critical flow and blowdown experiments

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

Spindler, B.; Pellissier, M.

1990-01-01

Independent assessment of the TRAC code was conducted at the Centre d'Etudes Nucleaires de Grenoble of the Commissariate a l'Energie Atomique (France) in the frame of the ICAP. This report presents the results of the assessment of TRAC-PF1/MOD1 version 14.3 using critical flow steady state tests (MOBY-DICK, SUPER-MOBY-DICK), and blowdown tests (CANON, SUPER-CANON, VERTICAL-CANON, MARVIKEN, OMEGA-TUBE, OMEGA-BUNDLE). This document, Volume 1, presents the text and tables from this assessment.

Validating the FOCUS Model Through an Analysis of Identity Fragmentation in Nigerian Social Media

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-01

TRAC-M-TM-15-032 September 2015 Validating the FOCUS Model Through an Analysis of Identity Fragmentation in Nigerian Social Media ...an Analysis of Identity Fragmentation in Nigerian Social Media Authors MAJ Adam Haupt Dr. Camber Warren...Identity Fragmentation in Nigerian Social Media 5. PROJECT NUMBERS TRAC Project Code 060113 6. AUTHOR(S) MAJ Haupt, Dr. Warren 7. PERFORMING

Analysis of the return to power scenario following a LBLOCA in a PWR

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

Macian, R.; Tyler, T.N.; Mahaffy, J.H.

1995-09-01

The risk of reactivity accidents has been considered an important safety issue since the beginning of the nuclear power industry. In particular, several events leading to such scenarios for PWR`s have been recognized and studied to assess the potential risk of fuel damage. The present paper analyzes one such event: the possible return to power during the reflooding phase following a LBLOCA. TRAC-PF1/MOD2 coupled with a three-dimensional neutronic model of the core based on the Nodal Expansion Method (NEM) was used to perform the analysis. The system computer model contains a detailed representation of a complete typical 4-loop PWR. Thus,more » the simulation can follow complex system interactions during reflooding, which may influence the neutronics feedback in the core. Analyses were made with core models bases on cross sections generated by LEOPARD. A standard and a potentially more limiting case, with increased pressurizer and accumulator inventories, were run. In both simulations, the reactor reaches a stable state after the reflooding is completed. The lower core region, filled with cold water, generates enough power to boil part of the incoming liquid, thus preventing the core average liquid fraction from reaching a value high enough to cause a return to power. At the same time, the mass flow rate through the core is adequate to maintain the rod temperature well below the fuel damage limit.« less

Crowd Behavior Algorithm Development for COMBAT XXI

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-05-30

This study cost the Department of Defense approximately $176,000 expended by TRAC in Fiscal Years 15-17. Prepared on 30 May 2017 TRAC Project Code...modeling to study impacts of military operations in urban terrain. Impacts of crowds on military operations can include those lethality, mobility...de- pendent on the particular socio-economic, political, and cultural environment of the region being studied in the scenario. Our research has found

TOOKUIL: A case study in user interface development for safety code application

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

Gray, D.L.; Harkins, C.K.; Hoole, J.G.

1997-07-01

Traditionally, there has been a very high learning curve associated with using nuclear power plant (NPP) analysis codes. Even for seasoned plant analysts and engineers, the process of building or modifying an input model for present day NPP analysis codes is tedious, error prone, and time consuming. Current cost constraints and performance demands place an additional burden on today`s safety analysis community. Advances in graphical user interface (GUI) technology have been applied to obtain significant productivity and quality assurance improvements for the Transient Reactor Analysis Code (TRAC) input model development. KAPL Inc. has developed an X Windows-based graphical user interfacemore » named TOOKUIL which supports the design and analysis process, acting as a preprocessor, runtime editor, help system, and post processor for TRAC. This paper summarizes the objectives of the project, the GUI development process and experiences, and the resulting end product, TOOKUIL.« less

Long range targeting for space based rendezvous

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Everett, Louis J.; Redfield, R. C.

1995-01-01

The work performed under this grant supported the Dexterous Flight Experiment one STS-62 The project required developing hardware and software for automating a TRAC sensor on orbit. The hardware developed by for the flight has been documented through standard NASA channels since it has to pass safety, environmental, and other issues. The software has not been documented previously, therefore, this report provides a software manual for the TRAC code developed for the grant.

Posttest analysis of MIST Test 330302 using TRAC-PF1/MOD1

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

Boyack, B E

This report discusses a posttest analysis of Multi-Loop Integral System Test (MIST) 330302 which has been performed using TRAC-PF1/MOD1. This test was one of group performed in the MIST facility to investigate high-pressure injection (HPI)-power-operated relief valve (PORV) cooling, also known as feed-and-bleed cooling. In Test 330302, HPI cooling was delayed 20 min after opening and locking the PORV open to induce extensive system voiding. We have concluded that the TRAC-calculated results are in reasonable overall agreement with the data for Test 330302. All major trends and phenomena were correctly predicted. Differences observed between the measured and calculated results havemore » been traced and related, in part, to deficiencies in our knowledge of the facility configuration and operation. We have identified two models forwhich additional review is appropriate. However, in general, the TRAC closure models and correlations appear to be adequate for the prediction of the phenomena expected to occur during feed-and-bleed transientsin the MIST facility. We believe that the correct conclusions about trends and phenomena will be reached if the code is used in similar applications. Conclusions reached regarding use of the code to calculate similar phenomena in full-size plants (scaling implications) and regulatory implications of this work are also presented.« less

TRAC-PF1/MOD1 pretest predictions of MIST experiments

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

Boyack, B.E.; Steiner, J.L.; Siebe, D.A.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is a participant in the Integral System Test (IST) program initiated in June 1983 to provide integral system test data on specific issues and phenomena relevant to post small-break loss-of-coolant accidents (SBLOCAs) in Babcock and Wilcox plant designs. The Multi-Loop Integral System Test (MIST) facility is the largest single component in the IST program. During Fiscal Year 1986, Los Alamos performed five MIST pretest analyses. The five experiments were chosen on the basis of their potential either to approach the facility limits or to challenge the predictive capability of the TRAC-PF1/MOD1 code. Three SBLOCA tests weremore » examined which included nominal test conditions, throttled auxiliary feedwater and asymmetric steam-generator cooldown, and reduced high-pressure-injection (HPI) capacity, respectively. Also analyzed were two ''feed-and-bleed'' cooling tests with reduced HPI and delayed HPI initiation. Results of the tests showed that the MIST facility limits would not be approached in the five tests considered. Early comparisons with preliminary test data indicate that the TRAC-PF1/MOD1 code is correctly calculating the dominant phenomena occurring in the MIST facility during the tests. Posttest analyses are planned to provide a quantitative assessment of the code's ability to predict MIST transients.« less

Study of the TRAC Airfoil Table Computational System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hu, Hong

1999-01-01

The report documents the study of the application of the TRAC airfoil table computational package (TRACFOIL) to the prediction of 2D airfoil force and moment data over a wide range of angle of attack and Mach number. The TRACFOIL generates the standard C-81 airfoil table for input into rotorcraft comprehensive codes such as CAM- RAD. The existing TRACFOIL computer package is successfully modified to run on Digital alpha workstations and on Cray-C90 supercomputers. A step-by-step instruction for using the package on both computer platforms is provided. Application of the newer version of TRACFOIL is made for two airfoil sections. The C-81 data obtained using the TRACFOIL method are compared with those of wind-tunnel data and results are presented.

Interactive web-based identification and visualization of transcript shared sequences.

PubMed

Azhir, Alaleh; Merino, Louis-Henri; Nauen, David W

2018-05-12

We have developed TraC (Transcript Consensus), a web-based tool for detecting and visualizing shared sequences among two or more mRNA transcripts such as splice variants. Results including exon-exon boundaries are returned in a highly intuitive, data-rich, interactive plot that permits users to explore the similarities and differences of multiple transcript sequences. The online tool (http://labs.pathology.jhu.edu/nauen/trac/) is free to use. The source code is freely available for download (https://github.com/nauenlab/TraC). Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Optimization of small long-life PWR based on thorium fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Subkhi, Moh Nurul; Suud, Zaki; Waris, Abdul; Permana, Sidik

2015-09-01

A conceptual design of small long-life Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) using thorium fuel has been investigated in neutronic aspect. The cell-burn up calculations were performed by PIJ SRAC code using nuclear data library based on JENDL 3.2, while the multi-energy-group diffusion calculations were optimized in three-dimension X-Y-Z geometry of core by COREBN. The excess reactivity of thorium nitride with ZIRLO cladding is considered during 5 years of burnup without refueling. Optimization of 350 MWe long life PWR based on 5% 233U & 2.8% 231Pa, 6% 233U & 2.8% 231Pa and 7% 233U & 6% 231Pa give low excess reactivity.

78 FR 26171 - Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Provisions; Fisheries of the...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-03

... be found at: http://www2.mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/science/trac/tsr.html . The 2012 TRAC noted that, in... the 2012 TRAC assessment can be found at: http://www2.mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/science/trac/tsr.html . The... available from the Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) at: http://www.nefsc.noaa.gov/saw/saw55...

Immune Biomarkers Predictive for Disease-Free Survival with Adjuvant Sunitinib in High-Risk Locoregional Renal Cell Carcinoma: From Randomized Phase III S-TRAC Study.

PubMed

George, Daniel J; Martini, Jean-François; Staehler, Michael; Motzer, Robert J; Magheli, Ahmed; Escudier, Bernard; Gerletti, Paola; Li, Sherry; Casey, Michelle; Laguerre, Brigitte; Pandha, Hardev S; Pantuck, Allan J; Patel, Anup; Lechuga, Maria J; Ravaud, Alain

2018-04-01

Purpose: Adjuvant sunitinib therapy compared with placebo prolonged disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with locoregional high-risk renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in the S-TRAC trial (ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT00375674). A prospectively designed exploratory analysis of tissue biomarkers was conducted to identify predictors of treatment benefit. Experimental Design: Tissue blocks were used for immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1), CD4, CD8, and CD68. DFS was compared between < versus ≥ median IHC parameter using the Kaplan-Meier method. For biomarkers with predictive potential, receiver operating characteristics curves were generated. Results: Baseline characteristics were similar in patients with ( n = 191) and without ( n = 419) IHC analysis. Among patients with IHC, longer DFS was observed in patients with tumor CD8 + T-cell density ≥ versus < median [median (95% CI), not reached (6.83-not reached) versus 3.47 years (1.73-not reached); hazard ratio (HR) 0.40 (95% CI, 0.20-0.81); P = 0.009] treated with sunitinib ( n = 101), but not with placebo ( n = 90). The sensitivity and specificity for CD8 + T-cell density in predicting DFS were 0.604 and 0.658, respectively. Shorter DFS was observed in placebo-treated patients with PD-L1 + versus PD-L1 - tumors (HR 1.75; P = 0.103). Among all patients with PD-L1 + tumors, DFS was numerically longer with sunitinib versus placebo (HR 0.58; P = 0.175). Conclusions: Greater CD8 + T-cell density in tumor tissue was associated with longer DFS with sunitinib but not placebo, suggesting predictive treatment effect utility. Further independent cohort validation studies are warranted. The prognostic value of PD-L1 expression in primary tumors from patients with high-risk nonmetastatic RCC should also be further explored. Clin Cancer Res; 24(7); 1554-61. ©2018 AACR . ©2018 American Association for Cancer Research.

Optimization of small long-life PWR based on thorium fuel

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

Subkhi, Moh Nurul, E-mail: nsubkhi@students.itb.ac.id; Physics Dept., Faculty of Science and Technology, State Islamic University of Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung Jalan A.H Nasution 105 Bandung; Suud, Zaki, E-mail: szaki@fi.itb.ac.id

2015-09-30

A conceptual design of small long-life Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) using thorium fuel has been investigated in neutronic aspect. The cell-burn up calculations were performed by PIJ SRAC code using nuclear data library based on JENDL 3.2, while the multi-energy-group diffusion calculations were optimized in three-dimension X-Y-Z geometry of core by COREBN. The excess reactivity of thorium nitride with ZIRLO cladding is considered during 5 years of burnup without refueling. Optimization of 350 MWe long life PWR based on 5% {sup 233}U & 2.8% {sup 231}Pa, 6% {sup 233}U & 2.8% {sup 231}Pa and 7% {sup 233}U & 6% {supmore » 231}Pa give low excess reactivity.« less

Validation of the new code package APOLLO2.8 for accurate PWR neutronics calculations

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

Santamarina, A.; Bernard, D.; Blaise, P.

2013-07-01

This paper summarizes the Qualification work performed to demonstrate the accuracy of the new APOLLO2.S/SHEM-MOC package based on JEFF3.1.1 nuclear data file for the prediction of PWR neutronics parameters. This experimental validation is based on PWR mock-up critical experiments performed in the EOLE/MINERVE zero-power reactors and on P.I. Es on spent fuel assemblies from the French PWRs. The Calculation-Experiment comparison for the main design parameters is presented: reactivity of UOX and MOX lattices, depletion calculation and fuel inventory, reactivity loss with burnup, pin-by-pin power maps, Doppler coefficient, Moderator Temperature Coefficient, Void coefficient, UO{sub 2}-Gd{sub 2}O{sub 3} poisoning worth, Efficiency ofmore » Ag-In-Cd and B4C control rods, Reflector Saving for both standard 2-cm baffle and GEN3 advanced thick SS reflector. From this qualification process, calculation biases and associated uncertainties are derived. This code package APOLLO2.8 is already implemented in the ARCADIA new AREVA calculation chain for core physics and is currently under implementation in the future neutronics package of the French utility Electricite de France. (authors)« less

Zebra: An advanced PWR lattice code

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

Cao, L.; Wu, H.; Zheng, Y.

2012-07-01

This paper presents an overview of an advanced PWR lattice code ZEBRA developed at NECP laboratory in Xi'an Jiaotong Univ.. The multi-group cross-section library is generated from the ENDF/B-VII library by NJOY and the 361-group SHEM structure is employed. The resonance calculation module is developed based on sub-group method. The transport solver is Auto-MOC code, which is a self-developed code based on the Method of Characteristic and the customization of AutoCAD software. The whole code is well organized in a modular software structure. Some numerical results during the validation of the code demonstrate that this code has a good precisionmore » and a high efficiency. (authors)« less

Assessment of MSIV full closure for Santa Maria de Garona Nuclear Power Plant using TRAC-BF1 (G1J1)

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

Crespo, J.L.; Fernandez, R.A.

1993-06-01

This document presents a spurious Main Steam Isolation Value (MSIV) closure analysis for Santa Maria de Garorta Nuclear Power Plan describing the problems found when comparing calculated and real data. The plant is a General Electric Boiling Water Reactor 3, containment type Mark 1. It is operated by NUCLENOR, S.A. and was connected to the grid in 1971. The analysis has been performed by the Apphed Physics Department from the University of Cantabria and the Analysis and Operation Section from NUCLENOR, S.A. as a part of an agreement for developing an engineering simulator of operational transients and accidents for Santamore » Maria de Gamma Power Plant. The analysis was performed using the frozen version of TRAC-BFI (GlJl) code and is the second of two NUCLENOR contributions to the International Code Applications and Assessment Program (ICAP). The code was run in a Cyber 932 with operating system NOS/VE, property of NUCLENOR, S.A.. A programming effort was carried out in order to provide suitable graphics from the output file.« less

Reliability of a new 4th generation FloTrac algorithm to track cardiac output changes in patients receiving phenylephrine.

PubMed

Ji, Fuhai; Li, Jian; Fleming, Neal; Rose, David; Liu, Hong

2015-08-01

Phenylephrine is often used to treat intra-operative hypotension. Previous studies have shown that the FloTrac cardiac monitor may overestimate cardiac output (CO) changes following phenylephrine administration. A new algorithm (4th generation) has been developed to improve performance in this setting. We performed a prospective observational study to assess the effects of phenylephrine administration on CO values measured by the 3rd and 4th generation FloTrac algorithms. 54 patients were enrolled in this study. We used the Nexfin, a pulse contour method shown to be insensitive to vasopressor administration, as the reference method. Radial arterial pressures were recorded continuously in patients undergoing surgery. Phenylephrine administration times were documented. Arterial pressure recordings were subsequently analyzed offline using three different pulse contour analysis algorithms: FloTrac 3rd generation (G3), FloTrac 4th generation (G4), and Nexfin (nf). One minute of hemodynamic measurements was analyzed immediately before phenylephrine administration and then repeated when the mean arterial pressure peaked. A total of 157 (4.6 ± 3.2 per patient, range 1-15) paired sets of hemodynamic recordings were analyzed. Phenylephrine induced a significant increase in stroke volume (SV) and CO with the FloTrac G3, but not with FloTrac G4 or Nexfin algorithms. Agreement between FloTrac G3 and Nexfin was: 0.23 ± 1.19 l/min and concordance was 51.1%. In contrast, agreement between FloTrac G4 and Nexfin was: 0.19 ± 0.86 l/min and concordance was 87.2%. In conclusion, the pulse contour method of measuring CO, as implemented in FloTrac 4th generation algorithm, has significantly improved its ability to track the changes in CO induced by phenylephrine.

Development of a new lattice physics code robin for PWR application

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

Zhang, S.; Chen, G.

2013-07-01

This paper presents a description of methodologies and preliminary verification results of a new lattice physics code ROBIN, being developed for PWR application at Shanghai NuStar Nuclear Power Technology Co., Ltd. The methods used in ROBIN to fulfill various tasks of lattice physics analysis are an integration of historical methods and new methods that came into being very recently. Not only these methods like equivalence theory for resonance treatment and method of characteristics for neutron transport calculation are adopted, as they are applied in many of today's production-level LWR lattice codes, but also very useful new methods like the enhancedmore » neutron current method for Dancoff correction in large and complicated geometry and the log linear rate constant power depletion method for Gd-bearing fuel are implemented in the code. A small sample of verification results are provided to illustrate the type of accuracy achievable using ROBIN. It is demonstrated that ROBIN is capable of satisfying most of the needs for PWR lattice analysis and has the potential to become a production quality code in the future. (authors)« less

Accuracy and trending ability of the fourth-generation FloTrac/Vigileo System™ in patients undergoing abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery.

PubMed

Maeda, Takuma; Hattori, Kohshi; Sumiyoshi, Miho; Kanazawa, Hiroko; Ohnishi, Yoshihiko

2018-06-01

The fourth-generation FloTrac/Vigileo™ improved its algorithm to follow changes in systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI). This revision may improve the accuracy and trending ability of CI even in patients who undergo abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) surgery which cause drastic change of SVRI by aortic clamping. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the accuracy and trending ability of the fourth-generation FloTrac/Vigileo™ in patients with AAA surgery by comparing the FloTrac/Vigileo™-derived CI (CI FT ) with that measured by three-dimensional echocardiography (CI 3D ). Twenty-six patients undergoing elective AAA surgery were included in this study. CI FT and CI3 D were determined simultaneously in eight points including before and after aortic clamp. We used CI 3D as the reference method. In the Bland-Altman analysis, CI FT had a wide limit of agreement with CI 3D showing a percentage error of 46.7%. Subgroup analysis showed that the percentage error between CO 3D and CO FT was 56.3% in patients with cardiac index < 2.5 L/min/m 2 and 28.4% in patients with cardiac index ≥ 2.5 L/min/m 2 . SVRI was significantly higher in patients with cardiac index < 2.5 L/min/m 2 (1703 ± 330 vs. 2757 ± 798; p < 0.001). The tracking ability of fourth generation of FloTrac/Vigileo™ after aortic clamp was not clinically acceptable (26.9%). The degree of accuracy of the fourth-generation FloTrac/Vigileo™ in patients with AAA surgery was not acceptable. The tracking ability of the fourth-generation FloTrac/Vigileo™ after aortic clamp was below the acceptable limit.

Tyurin with TRAC experiment in Destiny laboratory

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-01-02

ISS014-E-11047 (2 Jan. 2007) --- Cosmonaut Mikhail Tyurin, Expedition 14 flight engineer representing Russia's Federal Space Agency, works with the Test of Reaction and Adaptation Capabilities (TRAC) experiment in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. The TRAC investigation will test the theory of brain adaptation during space flight by testing hand-eye coordination before, during and after the space flight.

Fluorescent sensors for activity and regulation of the nitrate transceptor CHL1/NRT1.1 and oligopeptide transporters

PubMed Central

Ho, Cheng-Hsun; Frommer, Wolf B

2014-01-01

To monitor nitrate and peptide transport activity in vivo, we converted the dual-affinity nitrate transceptor CHL1/NRT1.1/NPF6.3 and four related oligopeptide transporters PTR1, 2, 4, and 5 into fluorescence activity sensors (NiTrac1, PepTrac). Substrate addition to yeast expressing transporter fusions with yellow fluorescent protein and mCerulean triggered substrate-dependent donor quenching or resonance energy transfer. Fluorescence changes were nitrate/peptide-specific, respectively. Like CHL1, NiTrac1 had biphasic kinetics. Mutation of T101A eliminated high-affinity transport and blocked the fluorescence response to low nitrate. NiTrac was used for characterizing side chains considered important for substrate interaction, proton coupling, and regulation. We observed a striking correlation between transport activity and sensor output. Coexpression of NiTrac with known calcineurin-like proteins (CBL1, 9; CIPK23) and candidates identified in an interactome screen (CBL1, KT2, WNKinase 8) blocked NiTrac1 responses, demonstrating the suitability for in vivo analysis of activity and regulation. The new technology is applicable in plant and medical research. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.01917.001 PMID:24623305

Design study of long-life PWR using thorium cycle

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

Subkhi, Moh. Nurul; Su'ud, Zaki; Waris, Abdul

2012-06-06

Design study of long-life Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) using thorium cycle has been performed. Thorium cycle in general has higher conversion ratio in the thermal spectrum domain than uranium cycle. Cell calculation, Burn-up and multigroup diffusion calculation was performed by PIJ-CITATION-SRAC code using libraries based on JENDL 3.2. The neutronic analysis result of infinite cell calculation shows that {sup 231}Pa better than {sup 237}Np as burnable poisons in thorium fuel system. Thorium oxide system with 8%{sup 233}U enrichment and 7.6{approx} 8%{sup 231}Pa is the most suitable fuel for small-long life PWR core because it gives reactivity swing less than 1%{Delta}k/kmore » and longer burn up period (more than 20 year). By using this result, small long-life PWR core can be designed for long time operation with reduced excess reactivity as low as 0.53%{Delta}k/k and reduced power peaking during its operation.« less

Lopez-Alegria with TRAC experiment in Destiny laboratory

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-01-02

ISS014-E-11061 (2 Jan. 2007) --- Astronaut Michael E. Lopez-Alegria, Expedition 14 commander and NASA space station science officer, works with the Test of Reaction and Adaptation Capabilities (TRAC) experiment in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. The TRAC investigation will test the theory of brain adaptation during space flight by testing hand-eye coordination before, during and after the space flight.

Fostering Team Awareness in Earth System Modeling Communities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Easterbrook, S. M.; Lawson, A.; Strong, S.

2009-12-01

Existing Global Climate Models are typically managed and controlled at a single site, with varied levels of participation by scientists outside the core lab. As these models evolve to encompass a wider set of earth systems, this central control of the modeling effort becomes a bottleneck. But such models cannot evolve to become fully distributed open source projects unless they address the imbalance in the availability of communication channels: scientists at the core site have access to regular face-to-face communication with one another, while those at remote sites have access to only a subset of these conversations - e.g. formally scheduled teleconferences and user meetings. Because of this imbalance, critical decision making can be hidden from many participants, their code contributions can interact in unanticipated ways, and the community loses awareness of who knows what. We have documented some of these problems in a field study at one climate modeling centre, and started to develop tools to overcome these problems. We report on one such tool, TracSNAP, which analyzes the social network of the scientists contributing code to the model by extracting the data in an existing project code repository. The tool presents the results of this analysis to modelers and model users in a number of ways: recommendation for who has expertise on particular code modules, suggestions for code sections that are related to files being worked on, and visualizations of team communication patterns. The tool is currently available as a plugin for the Trac bug tracking system.

Development code for sensitivity and uncertainty analysis of input on the MCNPX for neutronic calculation in PWR core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartini, Entin; Andiwijayakusuma, Dinan

2014-09-01

This research was carried out on the development of code for uncertainty analysis is based on a statistical approach for assessing the uncertainty input parameters. In the butn-up calculation of fuel, uncertainty analysis performed for input parameters fuel density, coolant density and fuel temperature. This calculation is performed during irradiation using Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport. The Uncertainty method based on the probabilities density function. Development code is made in python script to do coupling with MCNPX for criticality and burn-up calculations. Simulation is done by modeling the geometry of PWR terrace, with MCNPX on the power 54 MW with fuel type UO2 pellets. The calculation is done by using the data library continuous energy cross-sections ENDF / B-VI. MCNPX requires nuclear data in ACE format. Development of interfaces for obtaining nuclear data in the form of ACE format of ENDF through special process NJOY calculation to temperature changes in a certain range.

Development code for sensitivity and uncertainty analysis of input on the MCNPX for neutronic calculation in PWR core

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

Hartini, Entin, E-mail: entin@batan.go.id; Andiwijayakusuma, Dinan, E-mail: entin@batan.go.id

2014-09-30

This research was carried out on the development of code for uncertainty analysis is based on a statistical approach for assessing the uncertainty input parameters. In the butn-up calculation of fuel, uncertainty analysis performed for input parameters fuel density, coolant density and fuel temperature. This calculation is performed during irradiation using Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport. The Uncertainty method based on the probabilities density function. Development code is made in python script to do coupling with MCNPX for criticality and burn-up calculations. Simulation is done by modeling the geometry of PWR terrace, with MCNPX on the power 54 MW with fuelmore » type UO2 pellets. The calculation is done by using the data library continuous energy cross-sections ENDF / B-VI. MCNPX requires nuclear data in ACE format. Development of interfaces for obtaining nuclear data in the form of ACE format of ENDF through special process NJOY calculation to temperature changes in a certain range.« less

TRAC-Monterey FY16 Work Program Development and Report of Research Elicitation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-01

any changes to priorities or additional projects that require immediate research. Work Program; Research Elicitation Unclassified UU UU UU UU 35 MAJ...conduct analysis for the Army. 1 Marks, Chris, Nesbitt, Peter. TRAC FY14 Research Requirements Elicitation . Technical Report TRAC-M-TM-13-059. 700 Dyer... Requirements Elicitation Interviews Interview Guide: 1. Describe a research requirement in the areas of topics, techniques, and methodologies. 2

40 CFR 59.507 - What are the labeling requirements for aerosol coatings?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... in Table 1 of this subpart or a company-specific code, if that code is explained as required by § 59.511(a); (2) The applicable PWR limit for the product specified in Table 1 of this subpart; (3) The day... this subpart. (b) The label on the product must be displayed in such a manner that it is readily...

SU-E-J-34: Setup Accuracy in Spine SBRT Using CBCT 6D Image Guidance in Comparison with 6D ExacTrac

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

Han, Z; Yip, S; Lewis, J

2015-06-15

Purpose Volumetric information of the spine captured on CBCT can potentially improve the accuracy in spine SBRT setup that has been commonly performed through 2D radiographs. This work evaluates the setup accuracy in spine SBRT using 6D CBCT image guidance that recently became available on Varian systems. Methods ExacTrac radiographs have been commonly used for Spine SBRT setup. The setup process involves first positioning patients with lasers followed by localization imaging, registration, and repositioning. Verification images are then taken providing the residual errors (ExacTracRE) before beam on. CBCT verification is also acquired in our institute. The availability of both ExacTracmore » and CBCT verifications allows a comparison study. 41 verification CBCT of 16 patients were retrospectively registered with the planning CT enabling 6D corrections, giving CBCT residual errors (CBCTRE) which were compared with ExacTracRE. Results The RMS discrepancies between CBCTRE and ExacTracRE are 1.70mm, 1.66mm, 1.56mm in vertical, longitudinal and lateral directions and 0.27°, 0.49°, 0.35° in yaw, roll and pitch respectively. The corresponding mean discrepancies (and standard deviation) are 0.62mm (1.60mm), 0.00mm (1.68mm), −0.80mm (1.36mm) and 0.05° (0.58°), 0.11° (0.48°), −0.16° (0.32°). Of the 41 CBCT, 17 had high-Z surgical implants. No significant difference in ExacTrac-to-CBCT discrepancy was observed between patients with and without the implants. Conclusion Multiple factors can contribute to the discrepancies between CBCT and ExacTrac: 1) the imaging iso-centers of the two systems, while calibrated to coincide, can be different; 2) the ROI used for registration can be different especially if ribs were included in ExacTrac images; 3) small patient motion can occur between the two verification image acquisitions; 4) the algorithms can be different between CBCT (volumetric) and ExacTrac (radiographic) registrations.« less

Heuristic rules embedded genetic algorithm for in-core fuel management optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alim, Fatih

The objective of this study was to develop a unique methodology and a practical tool for designing loading pattern (LP) and burnable poison (BP) pattern for a given Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) core. Because of the large number of possible combinations for the fuel assembly (FA) loading in the core, the design of the core configuration is a complex optimization problem. It requires finding an optimal FA arrangement and BP placement in order to achieve maximum cycle length while satisfying the safety constraints. Genetic Algorithms (GA) have been already used to solve this problem for LP optimization for both PWR and Boiling Water Reactor (BWR). The GA, which is a stochastic method works with a group of solutions and uses random variables to make decisions. Based on the theories of evaluation, the GA involves natural selection and reproduction of the individuals in the population for the next generation. The GA works by creating an initial population, evaluating it, and then improving the population by using the evaluation operators. To solve this optimization problem, a LP optimization package, GARCO (Genetic Algorithm Reactor Code Optimization) code is developed in the framework of this thesis. This code is applicable for all types of PWR cores having different geometries and structures with an unlimited number of FA types in the inventory. To reach this goal, an innovative GA is developed by modifying the classical representation of the genotype. To obtain the best result in a shorter time, not only the representation is changed but also the algorithm is changed to use in-core fuel management heuristics rules. The improved GA code was tested to demonstrate and verify the advantages of the new enhancements. The developed methodology is explained in this thesis and preliminary results are shown for the VVER-1000 reactor hexagonal geometry core and the TMI-1 PWR. The improved GA code was tested to verify the advantages of new enhancements. The core physics code used for VVER in this research is Moby-Dick, which was developed to analyze the VVER by SKODA Inc. The SIMULATE-3 code, which is an advanced two-group nodal code, is used to analyze the TMI-1.

The incremental value of troponin biomarkers in risk stratification of acute coronary syndromes: is the relationship multiplicative?

PubMed

Amin, Amit P; Nathan, Sandeep; Vassallo, Patricia; Calvin, James E

2009-05-20

To emphasize the importance of troponin in the context of a new score for risk stratifying acute coronary syndromes (ACS) patients. Although troponins have powerful prognostic value, current ACS scores do not fully capitalize this prognostic ability. Here, we weigh troponin status in a multiplicative manner to develop the TRACS score from previously published Rush score risk factors (RRF). 2,866 ACS patients (46.7% troponin positive) from 9 centers comprising the TRACS registry, were randomly split into derivation (n=1,422) and validation (n=1,444) cohorts. In the derivation sample, RRF sum was multiplied by 3 if troponins were positive to yield the TRACS score, which was grouped into five categories of 0-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-11, 12-15 (multiples of 3). Predictive performance of this score to predict hospital death was ascertained in the validation sample. The TRACS score had ROC AUC of 0.71 in the validation cohort. Logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier analysis, likelihood-ratio and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) test indicated that weighing troponin status with 3 in the TRACS score improved the prediction of mortality. Hosmer-Lemeshow test indicated sound model fit. We demonstrate that weighing troponin as a multiple of 3 yields robust prognostication of hospital mortality in ACS patients, when used in the context of the TRACS score.

The Incremental Value of Troponin Biomarkers in Risk Stratification of Acute Coronary Syndromes: Is the Relationship Multiplicative?

PubMed Central

Amin, Amit P; Nathan, Sandeep; Vassallo, Patricia; Calvin, James E

2009-01-01

Structured Abstract Objective: To emphasize the importance of troponin in the context of a new score for risk stratifying acute coronary syndromes (ACS) patients. Although troponins have powerful prognostic value, current ACS scores do not fully capitalize this prognostic ability. Here, we weigh troponin status in a multiplicative manner to develop the TRACS score from previously published Rush score risk factors (RRF). Methods: 2,866 ACS patients (46.7% troponin positive) from 9 centers comprising the TRACS registry, were randomly split into derivation (n=1,422) and validation (n=1,444) cohorts. In the derivation sample, RRF sum was multiplied by 3 if troponins were positive to yield the TRACS score, which was grouped into five categories of 0-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-11, 12-15 (multiples of 3). Predictive performance of this score to predict hospital death was ascertained in the validation sample. Results: The TRACS score had ROC AUC of 0.71 in the validation cohort. Logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier analysis, likelihood-ratio and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) test indicated that weighing troponin status with 3 in the TRACS score improved the prediction of mortality. Hosmer-Lemeshow test indicated sound model fit. Conclusions: We demonstrate that weighing troponin as a multiple of 3 yields robust prognostication of hospital mortality in ACS patients, when used in the context of the TRACS score. PMID:19557150

Posttest analysis of MIST Test 3109AA using TRAC-PF1/MOD1

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

Steiner, J.L.; Siebe, D.A.; Boyack, B.E.

This document discusses a posttest calculation and analysis of Multi-loop Integral System Test (MIST) 3109AA as the nominal test for the MIST program. It is a test of a small-break loss-of-coolant accident (SBLOCA) with a scaled 10-cm{sup 2} break in the B1 cold leg. The test exhibited the major post-SBLOCA phenomena, as expected, including depressurization to saturation, intermittent and interrupted loop flow, boiler-condenser mode cooling, refill, and postrefill cooldown. Full high-pressure injection and auxiliary feedwater were available, reactor coolant pumps were not available, and reactor-vessel vent valves and guard heaters were automatically controlled. Constant level control in the steam-generator secondariesmore » was used after steam-generator secondary refill and symmetric steam-generator pressure control was used. We performed the calculation using TRAC-PF1/MODI. Agreement between test data and the calculation was generally reasonable. All major trends and phenomena were correctly predicted. It is believed that the correct conclusions about trends and phenomena will be reached if the code is used in similar applications.« less

Posttest analysis of MIST Test 3109AA using TRAC-PF1/MOD1

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

Steiner, J.L.; Siebe, D.A.; Boyack, B.E.

This document discusses a posttest calculation and analysis of Multi-loop Integral System Test (MIST) 3109AA as the nominal test for the MIST program. It is a test of a small-break loss-of-coolant accident (SBLOCA) with a scaled 10-cm[sup 2] break in the B1 cold leg. The test exhibited the major post-SBLOCA phenomena, as expected, including depressurization to saturation, intermittent and interrupted loop flow, boiler-condenser mode cooling, refill, and postrefill cooldown. Full high-pressure injection and auxiliary feedwater were available, reactor coolant pumps were not available, and reactor-vessel vent valves and guard heaters were automatically controlled. Constant level control in the steam-generator secondariesmore » was used after steam-generator secondary refill and symmetric steam-generator pressure control was used. We performed the calculation using TRAC-PF1/MODI. Agreement between test data and the calculation was generally reasonable. All major trends and phenomena were correctly predicted. It is believed that the correct conclusions about trends and phenomena will be reached if the code is used in similar applications.« less

SU-E-J-47: Comparison of Online Image Registrations of Varian TrueBeam Cone-Beam CT and BrainLab ExacTrac Imaging Systems

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

Li, J; Shi, W; Andrews, D

2015-06-15

Purpose To compare online image registrations of TrueBeam cone-beam CT (CBCT) and BrainLab ExacTrac imaging systems. Methods Tests were performed on a Varian TrueBeam STx linear accelerator (Version 2.0), which is integrated with a BrainLab ExacTrac imaging system (Version 6.0.5). The study was focused on comparing the online image registrations for translational shifts. A Rando head phantom was placed on treatment couch and immobilized with a BrainLab mask. The phantom was shifted by moving the couch translationally for 8 mm with a step size of 1 mm, in vertical, longitudinal, and lateral directions, respectively. At each location, the phantom wasmore » imaged with CBCT and ExacTrac x-ray. CBCT images were registered with TrueBeam and ExacTrac online registration algorithms, respectively. And ExacTrac x-ray image registrations were performed. Shifts calculated from different registrations were compared with nominal couch shifts. Results The averages and ranges of absolute differences between couch shifts and calculated phantom shifts obtained from ExacTrac x-ray registration, ExacTrac CBCT registration with default window, ExaxTrac CBCT registration with adjusted window (bone), Truebeam CBCT registration with bone window, and Truebeam CBCT registration with soft tissue window, were: 0.07 (0.02–0.14), 0.14 (0.01–0.35), 0.12 (0.02–0.28), 0.09 (0–0.20), and 0.06 (0–0.10) mm, in vertical direction; 0.06 (0.01–0.12), 0.27 (0.07–0.57), 0.23 (0.02–0.48), 0.04 (0–0.10), and 0.08 (0– 0.20) mm, in longitudinal direction; 0.05 (0.01–0.21), 0.35 (0.14–0.80), 0.25 (0.01–0.56), 0.19 (0–0.40), and 0.20 (0–0.40) mm, in lateral direction. Conclusion The shifts calculated from ExacTrac x-ray and TrueBeam CBCT registrations were close to each other (the differences between were less than 0.40 mm in any direction), and had better agreements with couch shifts than those from ExacTrac CBCT registrations. There were no significant differences between TrueBeam CBCT registrations using different windows. In ExacTrac CBCT registrations, using bone window led to better agreements than using default window.« less

Development of the V4.2m5 and V5.0m0 Multigroup Cross Section Libraries for MPACT for PWR and BWR

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

Kim, Kang Seog; Clarno, Kevin T.; Gentry, Cole

2017-03-01

The MPACT neutronics module of the Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL) core simulator is a 3-D whole core transport code being developed for the CASL toolset, Virtual Environment for Reactor Analysis (VERA). Key characteristics of the MPACT code include (1) a subgroup method for resonance selfshielding and (2) a whole-core transport solver with a 2-D/1-D synthesis method. The MPACT code requires a cross section library to support all the MPACT core simulation capabilities which would be the most influencing component for simulation accuracy.

Reactor Dosimetry Applications Using RAPTOR-M3G:. a New Parallel 3-D Radiation Transport Code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Longoni, Gianluca; Anderson, Stanwood L.

2009-08-01

The numerical solution of the Linearized Boltzmann Equation (LBE) via the Discrete Ordinates method (SN) requires extensive computational resources for large 3-D neutron and gamma transport applications due to the concurrent discretization of the angular, spatial, and energy domains. This paper will discuss the development RAPTOR-M3G (RApid Parallel Transport Of Radiation - Multiple 3D Geometries), a new 3-D parallel radiation transport code, and its application to the calculation of ex-vessel neutron dosimetry responses in the cavity of a commercial 2-loop Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR). RAPTOR-M3G is based domain decomposition algorithms, where the spatial and angular domains are allocated and processed on multi-processor computer architectures. As compared to traditional single-processor applications, this approach reduces the computational load as well as the memory requirement per processor, yielding an efficient solution methodology for large 3-D problems. Measured neutron dosimetry responses in the reactor cavity air gap will be compared to the RAPTOR-M3G predictions. This paper is organized as follows: Section 1 discusses the RAPTOR-M3G methodology; Section 2 describes the 2-loop PWR model and the numerical results obtained. Section 3 addresses the parallel performance of the code, and Section 4 concludes this paper with final remarks and future work.

Distance Learning Methodologies. TRANSCOM Regulating and Command & Control Evacuation System (TRAC2ES).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bloomquist, Carroll R.

The TRANSCOM (Transportation Command) Regulating Command and Control Evacuation System (TRAC2ES), which applies state-of-the-art technology to manage global medical regulating (matching patients to clinical availability) and medical evacuation processes, will be installed at all Department of Defense medical locations globally. A combination of…

Conflict Prediction Through Geo-Spatial Interpolation of Radicalization in Syrian Social Media

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-24

TRAC-M-TM-15-031 September 2015 Conflict Prediction Through Geo-Spatial Interpolation of Radicalization in Syrian Social Media ...Spatial Interpolation of Radicalization in Syrian Social Media Authors MAJ Adam Haupt Dr. Camber Warren...Spatial Interpolation of Radicalization in Syrian Social 1RAC Project Code 060114 Media 6. AUTHOR(S) MAJ Haupt, Dr. Warren 7. PERFORMING OR

Application of MELCOR Code to a French PWR 900 MWe Severe Accident Sequence and Evaluation of Models Performance Focusing on In-Vessel Thermal Hydraulic Results

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

De Rosa, Felice

2006-07-01

In the ambit of the Severe Accident Network of Excellence Project (SARNET), funded by the European Union, 6. FISA (Fission Safety) Programme, one of the main tasks is the development and validation of the European Accident Source Term Evaluation Code (ASTEC Code). One of the reference codes used to compare ASTEC results, coming from experimental and Reactor Plant applications, is MELCOR. ENEA is a SARNET member and also an ASTEC and MELCOR user. During the first 18 months of this project, we performed a series of MELCOR and ASTEC calculations referring to a French PWR 900 MWe and to themore » accident sequence of 'Loss of Steam Generator (SG) Feedwater' (known as H2 sequence in the French classification). H2 is an accident sequence substantially equivalent to a Station Blackout scenario, like a TMLB accident, with the only difference that in H2 sequence the scram is forced to occur with a delay of 28 seconds. The main events during the accident sequence are a loss of normal and auxiliary SG feedwater (0 s), followed by a scram when the water level in SG is equal or less than 0.7 m (after 28 seconds). There is also a main coolant pumps trip when {delta}Tsat < 10 deg. C, a total opening of the three relief valves when Tric (core maximal outlet temperature) is above 603 K (330 deg. C) and accumulators isolation when primary pressure goes below 1.5 MPa (15 bar). Among many other points, it is worth noting that this was the first time that a MELCOR 1.8.5 input deck was available for a French PWR 900. The main ENEA effort in this period was devoted to prepare the MELCOR input deck using the code version v.1.8.5 (build QZ Oct 2000 with the latest patch 185003 Oct 2001). The input deck, completely new, was prepared taking into account structure, data and same conditions as those found inside ASTEC input decks. The main goal of the work presented in this paper is to put in evidence where and when MELCOR provides good enough results and why, in some cases mainly referring to its specific models (candling, corium pool behaviour, etc.) they were less good. A future work will be the preparation of an input deck for the new MELCOR 1.8.6. and to perform a code-to-code comparison with ASTEC v1.2 rev. 1. (author)« less

System integration case study : FAST-TRAC : preliminary IV deliverable : #2-systems integration case study

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-02-12

This report focuses on the system integration aspect of the Transportation Information Management System (TIMS), a component of the FAST-TRAC project. The TIMS functions as the center of a communications network which integrates advanced traffic cont...

Theoretical study of the gas-phase reactions of iodine atoms ((2)P(3/2)) with H(2), H(2)O, HI, and OH.

PubMed

Canneaux, Sébastien; Xerri, Bertrand; Louis, Florent; Cantrel, Laurent

2010-09-02

The rate constants of the reactions of iodine atoms with H(2), H(2)O, HI, and OH have been estimated using 39, 21, 13, and 39 different levels of theory, respectively, and have been compared to the available literature values over the temperature range of 250-2500 K. The aim of this methodological work is to demonstrate that standard theoretical methods are adequate to obtain quantitative rate constants for the reactions involving iodine-containing species. Geometry optimizations and vibrational frequency calculations are performed using three methods (MP2, MPW1K, and BHandHLYP) combined with three basis sets (cc-pVTZ, cc-pVQZ, and 6-311G(d,p)). Single-point energy calculations are performed with the highly correlated ab initio coupled cluster method in the space of single, double, and triple (pertubatively) electron excitations CCSD(T) using the cc-pVnZ (n = T, Q, and 5), aug-cc-pVnZ (n = T, Q, and 5), 6-311G(d,p), 6-311+G(3df,2p), and 6-311++G(3df,3pd) basis sets. Canonical transition state theory with a simple Wigner tunneling correction is used to predict the rate constants as a function of temperature. CCSD(T)/cc-pVnZ//MP2/cc-pVTZ (n = T and Q), CCSD(T)/6-311+G(3df,2p)//MP2/6-311G(d,p), and CCSD(T)/6-311++G(3df,3pd)//MP2/6-311G(d,p) levels of theory provide accurate kinetic rate constants when compared to available literature data. The use of the CCSD(T)/cc-pVQZ//MP2/cc-pVTZ and CCSD(T)/6-311++G(3df,3pd) levels of theory allows one to obtain a better agreement with the literature data for all reactions with the exception of the I + H(2) reaction R(1) . This computational procedure has been also used to predict rate constants for some reactions where no available experimental data exist. The use of quantum chemistry tools could be therefore extended to other elements and next applied to develop kinetic networks involving various fission products, steam, and hydrogen in the absence of literature data. The final objective is to implement the kinetics of gaseous reactions in the ASTEC (Accident Source Term Evaluation Code) code to improve speciation of fission transport, which can be transported along the Reactor Coolant System (RCS) of a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) in case of a severe accident.

A theoretical study of the H-abstraction reactions from HOI by moist air radiolytic products (H, OH, and O (3P)) and iodine atoms (2P(3/2)).

PubMed

Hammaecher, Catherine; Canneaux, Sébastien; Louis, Florent; Cantrel, Laurent

2011-06-23

The rate constants of the reactions of HOI molecules with H, OH, O ((3)P), and I ((2)P(3/2)) atoms have been estimated over the temperature range 300-2500 K using four different levels of theory. Geometry optimizations and vibrational frequency calculations are performed using MP2 methods combined with two basis sets (cc-pVTZ and 6-311G(d,p)). Single-point energy calculations are performed with the highly correlated ab initio coupled cluster method in the space of single, double, and triple (pertubatively) electron excitations CCSD(T) using the cc-pVTZ, cc-pVQZ, 6-311+G(3df,2p), and 6-311++G(3df,3pd) basis sets. Reaction enthalpies at 0 K were calculated at the CCSD(T)/cc-pVnZ//MP2/cc-pVTZ (n = T and Q), CCSD(T)/6-311+G(3df,2p)//MP2/6-311G(d,p), and CCSD(T)/6-311++G(3df,3pd)//MP2/6-311G(d,p) levels of theory and compared to the experimental values taken from the literature. Canonical transition-state theory with an Eckart tunneling correction is used to predict the rate constants as a function of temperature. The computational procedure has been used to predict rate constants for H-abstraction elementary reactions because there are actually no literature data to which the calculated rate constants can be directly compared. The final objective is to implement kinetics of gaseous reactions in the ASTEC (accident source term evaluation code) program to improve speciation of fission products, which can be transported along the reactor coolant system (RCS) of a pressurized water reactor (PWR) in the case of a severe accident.

Pleiotropic Effects of Variants in Dementia Genes in Parkinson Disease.

PubMed

Ibanez, Laura; Dube, Umber; Davis, Albert A; Fernandez, Maria V; Budde, John; Cooper, Breanna; Diez-Fairen, Monica; Ortega-Cubero, Sara; Pastor, Pau; Perlmutter, Joel S; Cruchaga, Carlos; Benitez, Bruno A

2018-01-01

Background: The prevalence of dementia in Parkinson disease (PD) increases dramatically with advancing age, approaching 80% in patients who survive 20 years with the disease. Increasing evidence suggests clinical, pathological and genetic overlap between Alzheimer disease, dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia with PD. However, the contribution of the dementia-causing genes to PD risk, cognitive impairment and dementia in PD is not fully established. Objective: To assess the contribution of coding variants in Mendelian dementia-causing genes on the risk of developing PD and the effect on cognitive performance of PD patients. Methods: We analyzed the coding regions of the amyloid-beta precursor protein ( APP ), Presenilin 1 and 2 ( PSEN1, PSEN2 ), and Granulin ( GRN ) genes from 1,374 PD cases and 973 controls using pooled-DNA targeted sequence, human exome-chip and whole-exome sequencing (WES) data by single variant and gene base (SKAT-O and burden tests) analyses. Global cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The effect of coding variants in dementia-causing genes on cognitive performance was tested by multiple regression analysis adjusting for gender, disease duration, age at dementia assessment, study site and APOE carrier status. Results: Known AD pathogenic mutations in the PSEN1 (p.A79V) and PSEN2 (p.V148I) genes were found in 0.3% of all PD patients. There was a significant burden of rare, likely damaging variants in the GRN and PSEN1 genes in PD patients when compared with frequencies in the European population from the ExAC database. Multiple regression analysis revealed that PD patients carrying rare variants in the APP, PSEN1, PSEN2 , and GRN genes exhibit lower cognitive tests scores than non-carrier PD patients ( p = 2.0 × 10 -4 ), independent of age at PD diagnosis, age at evaluation, APOE status or recruitment site. Conclusions: Pathogenic mutations in the Alzheimer disease-causing genes ( PSEN1 and PSEN2) are found in sporadic PD patients. PD patients with cognitive decline carry rare variants in dementia-causing genes. Variants in genes causing Mendelian neurodegenerative diseases exhibit pleiotropic effects.

Hybrid parallel code acceleration methods in full-core reactor physics calculations

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

Courau, T.; Plagne, L.; Ponicot, A.

2012-07-01

When dealing with nuclear reactor calculation schemes, the need for three dimensional (3D) transport-based reference solutions is essential for both validation and optimization purposes. Considering a benchmark problem, this work investigates the potential of discrete ordinates (Sn) transport methods applied to 3D pressurized water reactor (PWR) full-core calculations. First, the benchmark problem is described. It involves a pin-by-pin description of a 3D PWR first core, and uses a 8-group cross-section library prepared with the DRAGON cell code. Then, a convergence analysis is performed using the PENTRAN parallel Sn Cartesian code. It discusses the spatial refinement and the associated angular quadraturemore » required to properly describe the problem physics. It also shows that initializing the Sn solution with the EDF SPN solver COCAGNE reduces the number of iterations required to converge by nearly a factor of 6. Using a best estimate model, PENTRAN results are then compared to multigroup Monte Carlo results obtained with the MCNP5 code. Good consistency is observed between the two methods (Sn and Monte Carlo), with discrepancies that are less than 25 pcm for the k{sub eff}, and less than 2.1% and 1.6% for the flux at the pin-cell level and for the pin-power distribution, respectively. (authors)« less

Coupled Neutronics Thermal-Hydraulic Solution of a Full-Core PWR Using VERA-CS

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

Clarno, Kevin T; Palmtag, Scott; Davidson, Gregory G

2014-01-01

The Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL) is developing a core simulator called VERA-CS to model operating PWR reactors with high resolution. This paper describes how the development of VERA-CS is being driven by a set of progression benchmark problems that specify the delivery of useful capability in discrete steps. As part of this development, this paper will describe the current capability of VERA-CS to perform a multiphysics simulation of an operating PWR at Hot Full Power (HFP) conditions using a set of existing computer codes coupled together in a novel method. Results for several single-assembly casesmore » are shown that demonstrate coupling for different boron concentrations and power levels. Finally, high-resolution results are shown for a full-core PWR reactor modeled in quarter-symmetry.« less

Risk-Informed External Hazards Analysis for Seismic and Flooding Phenomena for a Generic PWR

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

Parisi, Carlo; Prescott, Steve; Ma, Zhegang

This report describes the activities performed during the FY2017 for the US-DOE Light Water Reactor Sustainability Risk-Informed Safety Margin Characterization (LWRS-RISMC), Industry Application #2. The scope of Industry Application #2 is to deliver a risk-informed external hazards safety analysis for a representative nuclear power plant. Following the advancements occurred during the previous FYs (toolkits identification, models development), FY2017 focused on: increasing the level of realism of the analysis; improving the tools and the coupling methodologies. In particular the following objectives were achieved: calculation of buildings pounding and their effects on components seismic fragility; development of a SAPHIRE code PRA modelsmore » for 3-loops Westinghouse PWR; set-up of a methodology for performing static-dynamic PRA coupling between SAPHIRE and EMRALD codes; coupling RELAP5-3D/RAVEN for performing Best-Estimate Plus Uncertainty analysis and automatic limit surface search; and execute sample calculations for demonstrating the capabilities of the toolkit in performing a risk-informed external hazards safety analyses.« less

Holloman AFB, New Mexico. Revised Uniform Summary of Surface Weather Observations (RUSSWO). Parts A-F.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-04-12

A RC ..... sl6 3i4 ~ N0 A.o 0 o2 *I A3 05 .7 0 to TRACE A 5S :S TRAC .29 .0.0 *2.. *,.j st16 &TRC T ACt la S4 :01 o Ŕ TRAC risAc *4 ?P.TAC *I .0 .02...2l 046 t.2 145 .14 TRACE TRACI T*A TRI 004....~ 60 A001. sOJa .. , 46 .31 .04 .01 6 at .0 .2 .10 47 1_ 1_ - -A .121 __ 48 1.2 .61 .0 TRAC 2.9 l.9 al...r - sea--vu 6s 23.6 *7.6 20 1 9 26 1.9 7 02__1 wo 10mS 0 .5 02U*1*7 9 w 91 "m,. om .4FVC%. LA ~im wm ul 19 292 Ze* ~ U -A- GLiCBAL CLIMATOLOGY

Development a computer codes to couple PWR-GALE output and PC-CREAM input

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuntjoro, S.; Budi Setiawan, M.; Nursinta Adi, W.; Deswandri; Sunaryo, G. R.

2018-02-01

Radionuclide dispersion analysis is part of an important reactor safety analysis. From the analysis it can be obtained the amount of doses received by radiation workers and communities around nuclear reactor. The radionuclide dispersion analysis under normal operating conditions is carried out using the PC-CREAM code, and it requires input data such as source term and population distribution. Input data is derived from the output of another program that is PWR-GALE and written Population Distribution data in certain format. Compiling inputs for PC-CREAM programs manually requires high accuracy, as it involves large amounts of data in certain formats and often errors in compiling inputs manually. To minimize errors in input generation, than it is make coupling program for PWR-GALE and PC-CREAM programs and a program for writing population distribution according to the PC-CREAM input format. This work was conducted to create the coupling programming between PWR-GALE output and PC-CREAM input and programming to written population data in the required formats. Programming is done by using Python programming language which has advantages of multiplatform, object-oriented and interactive. The result of this work is software for coupling data of source term and written population distribution data. So that input to PC-CREAM program can be done easily and avoid formatting errors. Programming sourceterm coupling program PWR-GALE and PC-CREAM is completed, so that the creation of PC-CREAM inputs in souceterm and distribution data can be done easily and according to the desired format.

Comparison of Online 6 Degree-of-Freedom Image Registration of Varian TrueBeam Cone-Beam CT and BrainLab ExacTrac X-Ray for Intracranial Radiosurgery.

PubMed

Li, Jun; Shi, Wenyin; Andrews, David; Werner-Wasik, Maria; Lu, Bo; Yu, Yan; Dicker, Adam; Liu, Haisong

2017-06-01

The study was aimed to compare online 6 degree-of-freedom image registrations of TrueBeam cone-beam computed tomography and BrainLab ExacTrac X-ray imaging systems for intracranial radiosurgery. Phantom and patient studies were performed on a Varian TrueBeam STx linear accelerator (version 2.5), which is integrated with a BrainLab ExacTrac imaging system (version 6.1.1). The phantom study was based on a Rando head phantom and was designed to evaluate isocenter location dependence of the image registrations. Ten isocenters at various locations representing clinical treatment sites were selected in the phantom. Cone-beam computed tomography and ExacTrac X-ray images were taken when the phantom was located at each isocenter. The patient study included 34 patients. Cone-beam computed tomography and ExacTrac X-ray images were taken at each patient's treatment position. The 6 degree-of-freedom image registrations were performed on cone-beam computed tomography and ExacTrac, and residual errors calculated from cone-beam computed tomography and ExacTrac were compared. In the phantom study, the average residual error differences (absolute values) between cone-beam computed tomography and ExacTrac image registrations were 0.17 ± 0.11 mm, 0.36 ± 0.20 mm, and 0.25 ± 0.11 mm in the vertical, longitudinal, and lateral directions, respectively. The average residual error differences in the rotation, roll, and pitch were 0.34° ± 0.08°, 0.13° ± 0.09°, and 0.12° ± 0.10°, respectively. In the patient study, the average residual error differences in the vertical, longitudinal, and lateral directions were 0.20 ± 0.16 mm, 0.30 ± 0.18 mm, 0.21 ± 0.18 mm, respectively. The average residual error differences in the rotation, roll, and pitch were 0.40°± 0.16°, 0.17° ± 0.13°, and 0.20° ± 0.14°, respectively. Overall, the average residual error differences were <0.4 mm in the translational directions and <0.5° in the rotational directions. ExacTrac X-ray image registration is comparable to TrueBeam cone-beam computed tomography image registration in intracranial treatments.

A flooding induced station blackout analysis for a pressurized water reactor using the RISMC toolkit

DOE PAGES

Mandelli, Diego; Prescott, Steven; Smith, Curtis; ...

2015-05-17

In this paper we evaluate the impact of a power uprate on a pressurized water reactor (PWR) for a tsunami-induced flooding test case. This analysis is performed using the RISMC toolkit: the RELAP-7 and RAVEN codes. RELAP-7 is the new generation of system analysis codes that is responsible for simulating the thermal-hydraulic dynamics of PWR and boiling water reactor systems. RAVEN has two capabilities: to act as a controller of the RELAP-7 simulation (e.g., component/system activation) and to perform statistical analyses. In our case, the simulation of the flooding is performed by using an advanced smooth particle hydrodynamics code calledmore » NEUTRINO. The obtained results allow the user to investigate and quantify the impact of timing and sequencing of events on system safety. The impact of power uprate is determined in terms of both core damage probability and safety margins.« less

ADDITIONAL STRESS AND FRACTURE MECHANICS ANALYSES OF PRESSURIZED WATER REACTOR PRESSURE VESSEL NOZZLES

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

Walter, Matthew; Yin, Shengjun; Stevens, Gary

2012-01-01

In past years, the authors have undertaken various studies of nozzles in both boiling water reactors (BWRs) and pressurized water reactors (PWRs) located in the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) adjacent to the core beltline region. Those studies described stress and fracture mechanics analyses performed to assess various RPV nozzle geometries, which were selected based on their proximity to the core beltline region, i.e., those nozzle configurations that are located close enough to the core region such that they may receive sufficient fluence prior to end-of-life (EOL) to require evaluation of embrittlement as part of the RPV analyses associated with pressure-temperaturemore » (P-T) limits. In this paper, additional stress and fracture analyses are summarized that were performed for additional PWR nozzles with the following objectives: To expand the population of PWR nozzle configurations evaluated, which was limited in the previous work to just two nozzles (one inlet and one outlet nozzle). To model and understand differences in stress results obtained for an internal pressure load case using a two-dimensional (2-D) axi-symmetric finite element model (FEM) vs. a three-dimensional (3-D) FEM for these PWR nozzles. In particular, the ovalization (stress concentration) effect of two intersecting cylinders, which is typical of RPV nozzle configurations, was investigated. To investigate the applicability of previously recommended linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) hand solutions for calculating the Mode I stress intensity factor for a postulated nozzle corner crack for pressure loading for these PWR nozzles. These analyses were performed to further expand earlier work completed to support potential revision and refinement of Title 10 to the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 50, Appendix G, Fracture Toughness Requirements, and are intended to supplement similar evaluation of nozzles presented at the 2008, 2009, and 2011 Pressure Vessels and Piping (PVP) Conferences. This work is also relevant to the ongoing efforts of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel (B&PV) Code, Section XI, Working Group on Operating Plant Criteria (WGOPC) efforts to incorporate nozzle fracture mechanics solutions into a revision to ASME B&PV Code, Section XI, Nonmandatory Appendix G.« less

Technical Requirements Analysis and Control Systems (TRACS) Initial Operating Capability (IOC) documentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hammond, Dana P.

1991-01-01

The Technical Requirements Analysis and Control Systems (TRACS) software package is described. TRACS offers supplemental tools for the analysis, control, and interchange of project requirements. This package provides the fundamental capability to analyze and control requirements, serves a focal point for project requirements, and integrates a system that supports efficient and consistent operations. TRACS uses relational data base technology (ORACLE) in a stand alone or in a distributed environment that can be used to coordinate the activities required to support a project through its entire life cycle. TRACS uses a set of keyword and mouse driven screens (HyperCard) which imposes adherence through a controlled user interface. The user interface provides an interactive capability to interrogate the data base and to display or print project requirement information. TRACS has a limited report capability, but can be extended with PostScript conventions.

Fatigue crack growth rates in a pressure vessel steel under various conditions of loading and the environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hicks, P. D.; Robinson, F. P. A.

1986-10-01

Corrosion fatigue (CF) tests have been carried out on SA508 Cl 3 pressure vessel steel, in simulated P.W.R. environments. The test variables investigated included air and P.W.R. water environments, frequency variation over the range 1 Hz to 10 Hz, transverse and longitudinal crack growth directions, temperatures of 20 °C and 50 °C, and R-ratios of 0.2 and 0.7. It was found that decreasing the test frequency increased fatigue crack growth rates (FCGR) in P.W.R. environments, P.W.R. environment testing gave enhanced crack growth (vs air tests), FCGRs were greater for cracks growing in the longitudinal direction, slight increases in temperature gave noticeable accelerations in FCGR, and several air tests gave FCGR greater than those predicted by the existing ASME codes. Fractographic evidence indicates that FCGRs were accelerated by a hydrogen embrittlement mechanism. The presence of elongated MnS inclusions aided both mechanical fatigue and hydrogen embrittlement processes, thus producing synergistically fast FCGRs. Both anodic dissolution and hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms have been proposed for the environmental enhancement of crack growth rates. Electrochemical potential measurements and potentiostatic tests have shown that sample isolation of the test specimens from the clevises in the apparatus is not essential during low temperature corrosion fatigue testing.

76 FR 23644 - Solicitation of Nominations for Members of the Transit Rail Advisory Committee for Safety (TRACS)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-27

... augment the TRACS' existing knowledge base with professionals who have done academic research in the... TRACS. From that solicitation, 21 members were chosen, each representing a broad base of expertise...

3D neutronic codes coupled with thermal-hydraulic system codes for PWR, and BWR and VVER reactors

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

Langenbuch, S.; Velkov, K.; Lizorkin, M.

1997-07-01

This paper describes the objectives of code development for coupling 3D neutronics codes with thermal-hydraulic system codes. The present status of coupling ATHLET with three 3D neutronics codes for VVER- and LWR-reactors is presented. After describing the basic features of the 3D neutronic codes BIPR-8 from Kurchatov-Institute, DYN3D from Research Center Rossendorf and QUABOX/CUBBOX from GRS, first applications of coupled codes for different transient and accident scenarios are presented. The need of further investigations is discussed.

40 CFR 59.506 - How do I demonstrate compliance if I manufacture multi-component kits?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... multi-component kits as defined in § 59.503, then the Kit PWR must not exceed the Total Reactivity Limit. (b) You must calculate the Kit PWR and the Total Reactivity Limit as follows: (1) KIT PWR = (PWR(1) × W1) + (PWR(2) × W2) +. ...+ (PWR(n) × Wn) (2) Total Reactivity Limit = (RL1 × W1) + (RL2 × W2...

40 CFR 59.506 - How do I demonstrate compliance if I manufacture multi-component kits?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... multi-component kits as defined in § 59.503, then the Kit PWR must not exceed the Total Reactivity Limit. (b) You must calculate the Kit PWR and the Total Reactivity Limit as follows: (1) KIT PWR = (PWR(1) × W1) + (PWR(2) × W2) +. ...+ (PWR(n) × Wn) (2) Total Reactivity Limit = (RL1 × W1) + (RL2 × W2...

40 CFR 59.506 - How do I demonstrate compliance if I manufacture multi-component kits?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... multi-component kits as defined in § 59.503, then the Kit PWR must not exceed the Total Reactivity Limit. (b) You must calculate the Kit PWR and the Total Reactivity Limit as follows: (1) KIT PWR = (PWR(1) × W1) + (PWR(2) × W2) +. ...+ (PWR(n) × Wn) (2) Total Reactivity Limit = (RL1 × W1) + (RL2 × W2...

40 CFR 59.506 - How do I demonstrate compliance if I manufacture multi-component kits?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... multi-component kits as defined in § 59.503, then the Kit PWR must not exceed the Total Reactivity Limit. (b) You must calculate the Kit PWR and the Total Reactivity Limit as follows: (1) KIT PWR = (PWR(1) × W1) + (PWR(2) × W2) +. ...+ (PWR(n) × Wn) (2) Total Reactivity Limit = (RL1 × W1) + (RL2 × W2...

Status of thermalhydraulic modelling and assessment: Open issues

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

Bestion, D.; Barre, F.

1997-07-01

This paper presents the status of the physical modelling in present codes used for Nuclear Reactor Thermalhydraulics (TRAC, RELAP 5, CATHARE, ATHLET,...) and attempts to list the unresolved or partially resolved issues. First, the capabilities and limitations of present codes are presented. They are mainly known from a synthesis of the assessment calculations performed for both separate effect tests and integral effect tests. It is also interesting to list all the assumptions and simplifications which were made in the establishment of the system of equations and of the constitutive relations. Many of the present limitations are associated to physical situationsmore » where these assumptions are not valid. Then, recommendations are proposed to extend the capabilities of these codes.« less

An evaluation of Delaware's DelTrac program : building an integrated transportation management system

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-06-01

The DelTrac deployment experience included both successes and unmet challenges. Programmatically, the DelTrac approach to managing ITS has been successful at creating a great deal of integration and cooperation between organizations at DelDOT. Stakeh...

Increased amount of phosphorylated proinflammatory osteopontin in rheumatoid arthritis synovia is associated to decreased tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5B/5A ratio.

PubMed

Luukkonen, Jani; Pascual, Laia Mira; Patlaka, Christina; Lång, Pernilla; Turunen, Sanna; Halleen, Jussi; Nousiainen, Tomi; Valkealahti, Maarit; Tuukkanen, Juha; Andersson, Göran; Lehenkari, Petri

2017-01-01

Osteopontin (OPN) is an immunoregulatory protein which production increases in both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). Phosphorylated osteopontin (Phospho-OPN) is known to increase macrophage and osteoclast activation, this process is controlled by extracellular tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAcP), also a biomarker for RA. Here, we evaluated the phosphorylation status of OPN in RA and OA synovia, as well as its correlation with TRAcP isoforms. Synovial tissue and fluid were obtained from 24 RA (14 seropositive and 10 seronegative) and 24 OA patients. Western blotting was used to analyze the extent of OPN phosphorylation. TRAcP isoforms were measured in synovial fluid using ELISA; immunohistochemistry assessed the distribution of OPN and TRAcP expressing cells in the synovial tissue, especially distinguishing between the TRAcP isoforms. Full-length OPN was more phosphorylated in RA than in OA (p<0.05). The thrombin cleaved C-terminal end of OPN was also more phosphorylated in RA (p<0.05). RA patients had a lower concentration of TRAcP 5B and higher concentration of less active 5A in their synovial fluid compared to OA patients. The TRAcP 5B/5A ratio was decreased in RA and correlated negatively with the amount of phospho-OPN (p<0.05). TRAcP positive cells for both isoforms were found all along the synovial lining; OPN antibody staining was localized in the extracellular matrix. Our data suggests that in RA the synovial fluid contains insufficient amounts of TRAcP 5B which increase levels of the proinflammatory phospho-OPN. This may lead to increased macrophage and osteoclast activation, resulting in the increased local inflammation and bone resorption present in RA joints.

SU-E-J-48: Imaging Origin-Radiation Isocenter Coincidence for Linac-Based SRS with Novalis Tx

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

Geraghty, C; Workie, D; Hasson, B

Purpose To implement and evaluate an image-based Winston-Lutz (WL) test to measure the displacement between ExacTrac imaging origin and radiation isocenter on a Novalis Tx system using RIT V6.2 software analysis tools. Displacement between imaging and radiation isocenters was tracked over time. The method was applied for cone-based and MLC-based WL tests. Methods The Brainlab Winston-Lutz phantom was aligned to room lasers. The ExacTrac imaging system was then used to detect the Winston- Lutz phantom and obtain the displacement between the center of the phantom and the imaging origin. EPID images of the phantom were obtained at various gantry andmore » couch angles and analyzed with RIT calculating the phantom center to radiation isocenter displacement. The RIT and Exactrac displacements were combined to calculate the displacement between imaging origin and radiation isocenter. Results were tracked over time. Results Mean displacements between ExacTrac origin and radiation isocenter were: VRT: −0.1mm ± 0.3mm, LNG: 0.5mm ± 0.2mm, LAT: 0.2mm ± 0.2mm (vector magnitude of 0.7 ± 0.2mm). Radiation isocenter was characterized by the mean of the standard deviations of the WL phantom displacements: σVRT: 0.2mm, σLNG: 0.4mm, σLAT: 0.6mm. The linac couch base was serviced to reduce couch walkout. This reduced σLAT to 0.2mm. These measurements established a new baseline of radiation isocenter-imaging origin coincidence. Conclusion The image-based WL test has ensured submillimeter localization accuracy using the ExacTrac imaging system. Standard deviations of ExacTrac-radiation isocenter displacements indicate that average agreement within 0.3mm is possible in each axis. This WL test is a departure from the tradiational WL in that imaging origin/radiation isocenter agreement is the end goal not lasers/radiation isocenter.« less

Posttest data analysis of FIST experimental TRAC-BD1/MOD1 power transient experiment

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

Wheatley, P.D.; Wagner, K.C.

The FIST power transient test 6PMC2 was analyzed to further the understanding of the FIST facility and provide an assessment of TRAC-BD1/MOD1. FIST power transient 6PMC2 investigated the thermal-hydraulic response following inadvertent closure of the main steam isolation valve and the subsequent failure of the reactor to scram. Failure of the high pressure core spray system was also assumed, resulting in only the reactor core isolation cooling flow for inventory makeup during the transient. The experiment was a sensitivity study with relatively high core power and low makeup rates. This study provides one of the first opportunities to assess TRAC-BD1/MOD1more » under power transient and natural circulation conditions with data from a facility with prototypical BWR geometry. The power transient test was analyzed with emphasis on the following phenomena: (a) the system pressure response, (b) the natural circulation flows and rates, and (c) the heater rod cladding temperature response. Based on the results of this study, TRAC-BD1/MOD1 can be expected to calculate the thermal-hydraulic behavior of a BWR during a power transient.« less

An analytical study on excitation of nuclear-coupled thermal-hydraulic instability due to seismically induced resonance in BWR

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

Hirano, Masashi

1997-07-01

This paper describes the results of a scoping study on seismically induced resonance of nuclear-coupled thermal-hydraulic instability in BWRs, which was conducted by using TRAC-BF1 within a framework of a point kinetics model. As a result of the analysis, it is shown that a reactivity insertion could occur accompanied by in-surge of coolant into the core resulted from the excitation of the nuclear-coupled instability by the external acceleration. In order to analyze this phenomenon more in detail, it is necessary to couple a thermal-hydraulic code with a three-dimensional nuclear kinetics code.

Generating realistic environments for cyber operations development, testing, and training

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berk, Vincent H.; Gregorio-de Souza, Ian; Murphy, John P.

2012-06-01

Training eective cyber operatives requires realistic network environments that incorporate the structural and social complexities representative of the real world. Network trac generators facilitate repeatable experiments for the development, training and testing of cyber operations. However, current network trac generators, ranging from simple load testers to complex frameworks, fail to capture the realism inherent in actual environments. In order to improve the realism of network trac generated by these systems, it is necessary to quantitatively measure the level of realism in generated trac with respect to the environment being mimicked. We categorize realism measures into statistical, content, and behavioral measurements, and propose various metrics that can be applied at each level to indicate how eectively the generated trac mimics the real world.

Preliminary calculations related to the accident at Three Mile Island

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

Kirchner, W.L.; Stevenson, M.G.

This report discusses preliminary studies of the Three Mile Island Unit 2 (TMI-2) accident based on available methods and data. The work reported includes: (1) a TRAC base case calculation out to 3 hours into the accident sequence; (2) TRAC parametric calculations, these are the same as the base case except for a single hypothetical change in the system conditions, such as assuming the high pressure injection (HPI) system operated as designed rather than as in the accident; (3) fuel rod cladding failure, cladding oxidation due to zirconium metal-steam reactions, hydrogen release due to cladding oxidation, cladding ballooning, cladding embrittlement,more » and subsequent cladding breakup estimates based on TRAC calculated cladding temperatures and system pressures. Some conclusions of this work are: the TRAC base case accident calculation agrees very well with known system conditions to nearly 3 hours into the accident; the parametric calculations indicate that, loss-of-core cooling was most influenced by the throttling of High-Pressure Injection (HPI) flows, given the accident initiating events and the pressurizer electromagnetic-operated valve (EMOV) failing to close as designed; failure of nearly all the rods and gaseous fission product gas release from the failed rods is predicted to have occurred at about 2 hours and 30 minutes; cladding oxidation (zirconium-steam reaction) up to 3 hours resulted in the production of approximately 40 kilograms of hydrogen.« less

Posttest analysis of international standard problem 10 using RELAP4/MOD7. [PWR

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

Hsu, M.; Davis, C.B.; Peterson, A.C. Jr.

RELAP4/MOD7, a best estimate computer code for the calculation of thermal and hydraulic phenomena in a nuclear reactor or related system, is the latest version in the RELAP4 code development series. This paper evaluates the capability of RELAP4/MOD7 to calculate refill/reflood phenomena. This evaluation uses the data of International Standard Problem 10, which is based on West Germany's KWU PKL refill/reflood experiment K9A. The PKL test facility represents a typical West German four-loop, 1300 MW pressurized water reactor (PWR) in reduced scale while maintaining prototypical volume-to-power ratio. The PKL facility was designed to specifically simulate the refill/reflood phase of amore » hypothetical loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA).« less

Market Assessment For Traveler Services, A Choice Modeling Study Phase Iii, Fast-Trac Deliverable, #16B: Final Choice Modeling Report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-02-12

FAST-TRAC : THIS REPORT DESCRIBES THE CHOICE MODEL STUDY OF THE FAST-TRAC (FASTER AND SAFER TRAVEL THROUGH TRAFFIC ROUTING AND ADVANCED CONTROLS) OPERATIONAL TEST IN SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN. CHOICE MODELING IS A STATED-PREFERENCE APPROACH IN WHICH RESP...

Self calibrating autoTRAC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Everett, Louis J.

1994-01-01

The work reported here demonstrates how to automatically compute the position and attitude of a targeting reflective alignment concept (TRAC) camera relative to the robot end effector. In the robotics literature this is known as the sensor registration problem. The registration problem is important to solve if TRAC images need to be related to robot position. Previously, when TRAC operated on the end of a robot arm, the camera had to be precisely located at the correct orientation and position. If this location is in error, then the robot may not be able to grapple an object even though the TRAC sensor indicates it should. In addition, if the camera is significantly far from the alignment it is expected to be at, TRAC may give incorrect feedback for the control of the robot. A simple example is if the robot operator thinks the camera is right side up but the camera is actually upside down, the camera feedback will tell the operator to move in an incorrect direction. The automatic calibration algorithm requires the operator to translate and rotate the robot arbitrary amounts along (about) two coordinate directions. After the motion, the algorithm determines the transformation matrix from the robot end effector to the camera image plane. This report discusses the TRAC sensor registration problem.

GPS-based Microenvironment Tracker (MicroTrac) Model to ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

A critical aspect of air pollution exposure assessment is the estimation of the time spent by individuals in various microenvironments (ME). Accounting for the time spent in different ME with different pollutant concentrations can reduce exposure misclassifications, while failure to do so can add uncertainty and bias to risk estimates. In this study, a classification model, called MicroTrac, was developed to estimate time of day and duration spent in eight ME (indoors and outdoors at home, work, school; inside vehicles; other locations) from global positioning system (GPS) data and geocoded building boundaries. Based on a panel study, MicroTrac estimates were compared to 24 h diary data from 7 participants on workdays and 2 participants on nonworkdays, with corresponding GPS data and building boundaries of home, school, and work. MicroTrac correctly classified the ME for 99.5% of the daily time spent by the participants. The capability of MicroTrac could help to reduce the time-location uncertainty in air pollution exposure models and exposure metrics for individuals in health studies. The National Exposure Research Laboratory’s (NERL’s) Human Exposure and Atmospheric Sciences Division (HEASD) conducts research in support of EPA’s mission to protect human health and the environment. HEASD’s research program supports Goal 1 (Clean Air) and Goal 4 (Healthy People) of EPA’s strategic plan. More specifically, our division conducts research to characterize

SU-F-J-42: Comparison of Varian TrueBeam Cone-Beam CT and BrainLab ExacTrac X-Ray for Cranial Radiotherapy

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

Li, J; Shi, W; Andrews, D

2016-06-15

Purpose: To compare online image registrations of TrueBeam cone-beam CT (CBCT) and BrainLab ExacTrac x-ray imaging systems for cranial radiotherapy. Method: Phantom and patient studies were performed on a Varian TrueBeam STx linear accelerator (Version 2.5), which is integrated with a BrainLab ExacTrac imaging system (Version 6.1.1). The phantom study was based on a Rando head phantom, which was designed to evaluate isocenter-location dependence of the image registrations. Ten isocenters were selected at various locations in the phantom, which represented clinical treatment sites. CBCT and ExacTrac x-ray images were taken when the phantom was located at each isocenter. The patientmore » study included thirteen patients. CBCT and ExacTrac x-ray images were taken at each patient’s treatment position. Six-dimensional image registrations were performed on CBCT and ExacTrac, and residual errors calculated from CBCT and ExacTrac were compared. Results: In the phantom study, the average residual-error differences between CBCT and ExacTrac image registrations were: 0.16±0.10 mm, 0.35±0.20 mm, and 0.21±0.15 mm, in the vertical, longitudinal, and lateral directions, respectively. The average residual-error differences in the rotation, roll, and pitch were: 0.36±0.11 degree, 0.14±0.10 degree, and 0.12±0.10 degree, respectively. In the patient study, the average residual-error differences in the vertical, longitudinal, and lateral directions were: 0.13±0.13 mm, 0.37±0.21 mm, 0.22±0.17 mm, respectively. The average residual-error differences in the rotation, roll, and pitch were: 0.30±0.10 degree, 0.18±0.11 degree, and 0.22±0.13 degree, respectively. Larger residual-error differences (up to 0.79 mm) were observed in the longitudinal direction in the phantom and patient studies where isocenters were located in or close to frontal lobes, i.e., located superficially. Conclusion: Overall, the average residual-error differences were within 0.4 mm in the translational directions and were within 0.4 degree in the rotational directions.« less

Best estimate plus uncertainty analysis of departure from nucleate boiling limiting case with CASL core simulator VERA-CS in response to PWR main steam line break event

DOE PAGES

Brown, Cameron S.; Zhang, Hongbin; Kucukboyaci, Vefa; ...

2016-09-07

VERA-CS (Virtual Environment for Reactor Applications, Core Simulator) is a coupled neutron transport and thermal-hydraulics subchannel code under development by the Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL). VERA-CS was used to simulate a typical pressurized water reactor (PWR) full core response with 17x17 fuel assemblies for a main steam line break (MSLB) accident scenario with the most reactive rod cluster control assembly stuck out of the core. The accident scenario was initiated at the hot zero power (HZP) at the end of the first fuel cycle with return to power state points that were determined by amore » system analysis code and the most limiting state point was chosen for core analysis. The best estimate plus uncertainty (BEPU) analysis method was applied using Wilks’ nonparametric statistical approach. In this way, 59 full core simulations were performed to provide the minimum departure from nucleate boiling ratio (MDNBR) at the 95/95 (95% probability with 95% confidence level) tolerance limit. The results show that this typical PWR core remains within MDNBR safety limits for the MSLB accident.« less

Best estimate plus uncertainty analysis of departure from nucleate boiling limiting case with CASL core simulator VERA-CS in response to PWR main steam line break event

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

Brown, Cameron S.; Zhang, Hongbin; Kucukboyaci, Vefa

VERA-CS (Virtual Environment for Reactor Applications, Core Simulator) is a coupled neutron transport and thermal-hydraulics subchannel code under development by the Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL). VERA-CS was used to simulate a typical pressurized water reactor (PWR) full core response with 17x17 fuel assemblies for a main steam line break (MSLB) accident scenario with the most reactive rod cluster control assembly stuck out of the core. The accident scenario was initiated at the hot zero power (HZP) at the end of the first fuel cycle with return to power state points that were determined by amore » system analysis code and the most limiting state point was chosen for core analysis. The best estimate plus uncertainty (BEPU) analysis method was applied using Wilks’ nonparametric statistical approach. In this way, 59 full core simulations were performed to provide the minimum departure from nucleate boiling ratio (MDNBR) at the 95/95 (95% probability with 95% confidence level) tolerance limit. The results show that this typical PWR core remains within MDNBR safety limits for the MSLB accident.« less

75 FR 11225 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Tip Reporting Alternative Commitment Agreement (TRAC...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-10

... Reporting Alternative Commitment Agreement (TRAC) for Use in Industries Other Than the Food and Beverage... Use in Industries Other Than the Food and Beverage Industry and the Cosmetology and Barber Industry... Alternative Commitment Agreement (TRAC) for Use in Industries Other Than the Food and Beverage Industry and...

75 FR 11226 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Tip Reporting Alternative Commitment Agreement (TRAC...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-10

... Reporting Alternative Commitment Agreement (TRAC) for Use in the Food and Beverage Industry AGENCY: Internal... Reporting Alternative Commitment Agreement (TRAC) for Use in the Food and Beverage Industry. DATES: Written... in the Food and Beverage Industry. OMB Number: 1545-1549. Abstract: Announcement 2000-22, 2000-19 I.R...

Managing Information On Technical Requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mauldin, Lemuel E., III; Hammond, Dana P.

1993-01-01

Technical Requirements Analysis and Control Systems/Initial Operating Capability (TRACS/IOC) computer program provides supplemental software tools for analysis, control, and interchange of project requirements so qualified project members have access to pertinent project information, even if in different locations. Enables users to analyze and control requirements, serves as focal point for project requirements, and integrates system supporting efficient and consistent operations. TRACS/IOC is HyperCard stack for use on Macintosh computers running HyperCard 1.2 or later and Oracle 1.2 or later.

Review of Hybrid (Deterministic/Monte Carlo) Radiation Transport Methods, Codes, and Applications at Oak Ridge National Laboratory

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

Wagner, John C; Peplow, Douglas E.; Mosher, Scott W

2011-01-01

This paper provides a review of the hybrid (Monte Carlo/deterministic) radiation transport methods and codes used at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and examples of their application for increasing the efficiency of real-world, fixed-source Monte Carlo analyses. The two principal hybrid methods are (1) Consistent Adjoint Driven Importance Sampling (CADIS) for optimization of a localized detector (tally) region (e.g., flux, dose, or reaction rate at a particular location) and (2) Forward Weighted CADIS (FW-CADIS) for optimizing distributions (e.g., mesh tallies over all or part of the problem space) or multiple localized detector regions (e.g., simultaneous optimization of two or moremore » localized tally regions). The two methods have been implemented and automated in both the MAVRIC sequence of SCALE 6 and ADVANTG, a code that works with the MCNP code. As implemented, the methods utilize the results of approximate, fast-running 3-D discrete ordinates transport calculations (with the Denovo code) to generate consistent space- and energy-dependent source and transport (weight windows) biasing parameters. These methods and codes have been applied to many relevant and challenging problems, including calculations of PWR ex-core thermal detector response, dose rates throughout an entire PWR facility, site boundary dose from arrays of commercial spent fuel storage casks, radiation fields for criticality accident alarm system placement, and detector response for special nuclear material detection scenarios and nuclear well-logging tools. Substantial computational speed-ups, generally O(102-4), have been realized for all applications to date. This paper provides a brief review of the methods, their implementation, results of their application, and current development activities, as well as a considerable list of references for readers seeking more information about the methods and/or their applications.« less

Experimental validation of the DARWIN2.3 package for fuel cycle applications

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

San-Felice, L.; Eschbach, R.; Bourdot, P.

2012-07-01

The DARWIN package, developed by the CEA and its French partners (AREVA and EDF) provides the required parameters for fuel cycle applications: fuel inventory, decay heat, activity, neutron, {gamma}, {alpha}, {beta} sources and spectrum, radiotoxicity. This paper presents the DARWIN2.3 experimental validation for fuel inventory and decay heat calculations on Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR). In order to validate this code system for spent fuel inventory a large program has been undertaken, based on spent fuel chemical assays. This paper deals with the experimental validation of DARWIN2.3 for the Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) Uranium Oxide (UOX) and Mixed Oxide (MOX) fuelmore » inventory calculation, focused on the isotopes involved in Burn-Up Credit (BUC) applications and decay heat computations. The calculation - experiment (C/E-1) discrepancies are calculated with the latest European evaluation file JEFF-3.1.1 associated with the SHEM energy mesh. An overview of the tendencies is obtained on a complete range of burn-up from 10 to 85 GWd/t (10 to 60 GWcVt for MOX fuel). The experimental validation of the DARWIN2.3 package for decay heat calculation is performed using calorimetric measurements carried out at the Swedish Interim Spent Fuel Storage Facility for Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) assemblies, covering a large burn-up (20 to 50 GWd/t) and cooling time range (10 to 30 years). (authors)« less

An integrated decision support system for TRAC: A proposal

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mukkamala, Ravi

1991-01-01

Optimal allocation and usage of resources is a key to effective management. Resources of concern to TRAC are: Manpower (PSY), Money (Travel, contracts), Computing, Data, Models, etc. Management activities of TRAC include: Planning, Programming, Tasking, Monitoring, Updating, and Coordinating. Existing systems are insufficient, not completely automated, manpower intensive, and has the potential for data inconsistency exists. A system is proposed which suggests a means to integrate all project management activities of TRAC through the development of a sophisticated software and by utilizing the existing computing systems and network resources. The systems integration proposal is examined in detail.

Posttest data analysis and assessment of TRAC-BD1/MOD1 with data from a Full Integral Simulation Test (FIST) power transient experiment

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

Wheatley, P.D.; Wagner, K.C.

The FIST power transient test 6PMC2 was analyzed to further the understanding of the FIST facility and provide an assessment of TRAC-BD1/MOD1. FIST power transient 6PMC2 investigated the thermal-hydraulic response following inadvertent closure of the main steam isolation valve and the subsequent failure of the reactor to scram. Failure of the high pressure core spray system was also assumed, resulting on only the reactor core isolation cooling flow for inventory makeup during the transient. The experiment was a sensitivity study with relatively high core power and low makeup rates. This study provides one of the first opportunities to assess TRAC-BD1/MOD1more » under power transient and natural circulation conditions with data from a facility with prototypical BWR geometry. The power transient test was analyzed with emphasis on the following phenomena; (a) the system pressure response, (b) the natural circulation flows and rates, and (c) the heater rod cladding temperature response. Based on the results of this study, TRAC-BD1/MOD1 can be expected to calculate the thermal-hydraulic behavior of a BWR during a power transient.« less

TRAC Innovative Visualization Techniques

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-11-14

Therefore, TRAC analysts need a way to analyze the effectiveness of their visualization design choices. Currently, TRAC does not have a methodology ...to analyze visualizations used to support an analysis story. Our research team developed a visualization design methodology to create effective...visualizations that support an analysis story. First, we based our methodology on the latest research on design thinking, cognitive learning, and

Williams with TRAC experiment in Destiny

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-03-08

ISS014-E-16215 (8 March 2007) --- Astronaut Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer, works with the Test of Reaction and Adaptation Capabilities (TRAC) experiment in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. The TRAC investigation will test the theory of brain adaptation during space flight by testing hand-eye coordination before, during and after the space flight.

Williams with TRAC experiment in Destiny

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-03-08

ISS014-E-16210 (8 March 2007) --- Astronaut Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer, works with the Test of Reaction and Adaptation Capabilities (TRAC) experiment in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. The TRAC investigation will test the theory of brain adaptation during space flight by testing hand-eye coordination before, during and after the space flight.

Williams with TRAC experiment in Destiny

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-03-08

ISS014-E-16214 (8 March 2007) --- Astronaut Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer, works with the Test of Reaction and Adaptation Capabilities (TRAC) experiment in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. The TRAC investigation will test the theory of brain adaptation during space flight by testing hand-eye coordination before, during and after the space flight.

76 FR 32227 - Core Industries, Inc., DBA Star Trac and/or Unisen, Inc., DBA STAR TRAC and/or Trac Strength...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-03

... DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Employment and Training Administration [TA-W-75,192; TA-W-75,192A] Core... Leased Workers From Aerotek, Helpmates, Mattson, and Empire Staffing, Irvine, CA; Core Industries, Inc... Eligibility to Apply for Worker Adjustment Assistance on February 15, 2011, applicable to workers of Core...

Review of Hybrid (Deterministic/Monte Carlo) Radiation Transport Methods, Codes, and Applications at Oak Ridge National Laboratory

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

Wagner, John C; Peplow, Douglas E.; Mosher, Scott W

2010-01-01

This paper provides a review of the hybrid (Monte Carlo/deterministic) radiation transport methods and codes used at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and examples of their application for increasing the efficiency of real-world, fixed-source Monte Carlo analyses. The two principal hybrid methods are (1) Consistent Adjoint Driven Importance Sampling (CADIS) for optimization of a localized detector (tally) region (e.g., flux, dose, or reaction rate at a particular location) and (2) Forward Weighted CADIS (FW-CADIS) for optimizing distributions (e.g., mesh tallies over all or part of the problem space) or multiple localized detector regions (e.g., simultaneous optimization of two or moremore » localized tally regions). The two methods have been implemented and automated in both the MAVRIC sequence of SCALE 6 and ADVANTG, a code that works with the MCNP code. As implemented, the methods utilize the results of approximate, fast-running 3-D discrete ordinates transport calculations (with the Denovo code) to generate consistent space- and energy-dependent source and transport (weight windows) biasing parameters. These methods and codes have been applied to many relevant and challenging problems, including calculations of PWR ex-core thermal detector response, dose rates throughout an entire PWR facility, site boundary dose from arrays of commercial spent fuel storage casks, radiation fields for criticality accident alarm system placement, and detector response for special nuclear material detection scenarios and nuclear well-logging tools. Substantial computational speed-ups, generally O(10{sup 2-4}), have been realized for all applications to date. This paper provides a brief review of the methods, their implementation, results of their application, and current development activities, as well as a considerable list of references for readers seeking more information about the methods and/or their applications.« less

A mobile trauma database with charge capture.

PubMed

Moulton, Steve; Myung, Dan; Chary, Aron; Chen, Joshua; Agarwal, Suresh; Emhoff, Tim; Burke, Peter; Hirsch, Erwin

2005-11-01

Charge capture plays an important role in every surgical practice. We have developed and merged a custom mobile database (DB) system with our trauma registry (TRACS), to better understand our billing methods, revenue generators, and areas for improved revenue capture. The mobile database runs on handheld devices using the Windows Compact Edition platform. The front end was written in C# and the back end is SQL. The mobile database operates as a thick client; it includes active and inactive patient lists, billing screens, hot pick lists, and Current Procedural Terminology and International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code sets. Microsoft Information Internet Server provides secure data transaction services between the back ends stored on each device. Traditional, hand written billing information for three of five adult trauma surgeons was averaged over a 5-month period. Electronic billing information was then collected over a 3-month period using handheld devices and the subject software application. One surgeon used the software for all 3 months, and two surgeons used it for the latter 2 months of the electronic data collection period. This electronic billing information was combined with TRACS data to determine the clinical characteristics of the trauma patients who were and were not captured using the mobile database. Total charges increased by 135%, 148%, and 228% for each of the three trauma surgeons who used the mobile DB application. The majority of additional charges were for evaluation and management services. Patients who were captured and billed at the point of care using the mobile DB had higher Injury Severity Scores, were more likely to undergo an operative procedure, and had longer lengths of stay compared with those who were not captured. Total charges more than doubled using a mobile database to bill at the point of care. A subsequent comparison of TRACS data with billing information revealed a large amount of uncaptured patient revenue. Greater familiarity and broader use of mobile database technology holds the potential for even greater revenue capture.

An Item Response Theory Analysis of DSM–IV Diagnostic Criteria for Personality Disorders: Findings From the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions

PubMed Central

Harford, Thomas C.; Chen, Chiung M.; Saha, Tulshi D.; Smith, Sharon M.; Hasin, Deborah S.; Grant, Bridget F.

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of DSM–IV symptom criteria for assessing personality disorders (PDs) in a national population and to compare variations in proposed symptom coding for social and/or occupational dysfunction. Data were obtained from a total sample of 34,653 respondents from Waves 1 and 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC). For each personality disorder, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) established a 1-factor latent factor structure for the respective symptom criteria. A 2-parameter item response theory (IRT) model was applied to the symptom criteria for each PD to assess the probabilities of symptom item endorsements across different values of the underlying trait (latent factor). Findings were compared with a separate IRT model using an alternative coding of symptom criteria that requires distress/impairment to be related to each criterion. The CFAs yielded a good fit for a single underlying latent dimension for each PD. Findings from the IRT indicated that DSM–IV PD symptom criteria are clustered in the moderate to severe range of the underlying latent dimension for each PD and are peaked, indicating high measurement precision only within a narrow range of the underlying trait and lower measurement precision at lower and higher levels of severity. Compared with the NESARC symptom coding, the IRT results for the alternative symptom coding are shifted toward the more severe range of the latent trait but generally have lower measurement precision for each PD. The IRT findings provide support for a reliable assessment of each PD for both NESARC and alternative coding for distress/impairment. The use of symptom dysfunction for each criterion, however, raises a number of issues and implications for the DSM-5 revision currently proposed for Axis II disorders (American Psychiatric Association, 2010). PMID:22449066

Comparing the Incidence of Falls/Fractures in Parkinson's Disease Patients in the US Population.

PubMed

Kalilani, Linda; Asgharnejad, Mahnaz; Palokangas, Tuire; Durgin, Tracy

2016-01-01

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) may experience falls and/or fractures as a result of disease symptoms. There are limited data available from long-term studies estimating the incidence of falls/fractures in patients with PD. The objective was to compare the incidence rate of falls/fractures in PD patients with non-PD patients in a US population. This was a retrospective study using a US-based claims database (Truven Health MarketScan®) that compared the incidence rate of falls/fractures in PD subjects with non-PD subjects. The study period included the 12 months prior to index date (defined as earliest PD diagnosis [International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code 332.0]) and a postindex period to the end of data availability. Fractures were defined by inpatient/outpatient claims as a principal or secondary diagnosis and accompanying procedure codes during the postindex period. Incidence rates and 95% CIs for falls/fractures were calculated as the number of events per 10,000 person-years of follow-up using negative binomial or Poisson regression models. Twenty-eight thousand two hundred and eighty PD subjects were matched to non-PD subjects for the analysis (mean [SD] age, 71.4 [11.8] years; 53% male). A higher incidence rate (adjusted for comorbidities and medications) of all fall/fracture cases and by fall and fracture types was observed for PD subjects versus non-PD subjects; the overall adjusted incidence rate ratio comparing PD to non-PD subjects was 2.05; 95% CI, 1.88-2.24. The incidence rate of falls/fractures was significantly higher in subjects with PD compared with non-PD subjects in a US population.

Data and animal management software for large-scale phenotype screening.

PubMed

Ching, Keith A; Cooke, Michael P; Tarantino, Lisa M; Lapp, Hilmar

2006-04-01

The mouse N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis program at the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation (GNF) uses MouseTRACS to analyze phenotype screens and manage animal husbandry. MouseTRACS is a Web-based laboratory informatics system that electronically records and organizes mouse colony operations, prints cage cards, tracks inventory, manages requests, and reports Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) protocol usage. For efficient phenotype screening, MouseTRACS identifies mutants, visualizes data, and maps mutations. It displays and integrates phenotype and genotype data using likelihood odds ratio (LOD) plots of genetic linkage between genotype and phenotype. More detailed mapping intervals show individual single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers in the context of phenotype. In addition, dynamically generated pedigree diagrams and inventory reports linked to screening results summarize the inheritance pattern and the degree of penetrance. MouseTRACS displays screening data in tables and uses standard charts such as box plots, histograms, scatter plots, and customized charts looking at clustered mice or cross pedigree comparisons. In summary, MouseTRACS enables the efficient screening, analysis, and management of thousands of animals to find mutant mice and identify novel gene functions. MouseTRACS is available under an open source license at http://www.mousetracs.sourceforge.net.

Posttest analysis of MIST Test 320201 using TRAC-PF1/MOD1

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

Siebe, D.A.; Steiner, J.L.; Boyack, B.E.

A posttest calculation and analysis of Multi-Loop Integral System Test 320201, a small-break loss-of-coolant accident (SBLOCA) test with a scaled 50-cm{sup 2} cold-leg pump discharge leak, has been completed and is reported herein. It was one in a series of tests, with leak size varied parametrically. Scaled leak sizes included 5, 10, (the nominal, Test 3109AA), and 50 cm{sub 2}. The test exhibited the major post-SBLOCA phenomena, as expected, including depressurization to saturation, interruption of loop flow, boiler-condenser mode cooling, refill, and postrefill cooldown. Full high-pressure injection and auxiliary feedwater were available, reactor coolant pumps were not available, and reactor-vesselmore » vent valves and guard heaters were automatically controlled. Constant level control in the steam-generator (SG) secondaries was used after SG-secondary refill; and symmetric SG pressure control was also used. The sequence of events seen in this test was similar to the sequence of events for much of the nominal test except that events occurred in a shorter time frame as the system inventory was reduced and the system depressurized at a faster rate. The calculation was performed using TRAC-PFL/MOD 1. Agreement between test data and the calculation was generally reasonable. All major trends and phenomena were correctly predicted. We believe that the correct conclusions about trends and phenomena will be reached if the code is used in similar applications.« less

Posttest analysis of MIST Test 320201 using TRAC-PF1/MOD1

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

Siebe, D.A.; Steiner, J.L.; Boyack, B.E.

A posttest calculation and analysis of Multi-Loop Integral System Test 320201, a small-break loss-of-coolant accident (SBLOCA) test with a scaled 50-cm[sup 2] cold-leg pump discharge leak, has been completed and is reported herein. It was one in a series of tests, with leak size varied parametrically. Scaled leak sizes included 5, 10, (the nominal, Test 3109AA), and 50 cm[sub 2]. The test exhibited the major post-SBLOCA phenomena, as expected, including depressurization to saturation, interruption of loop flow, boiler-condenser mode cooling, refill, and postrefill cooldown. Full high-pressure injection and auxiliary feedwater were available, reactor coolant pumps were not available, and reactor-vesselmore » vent valves and guard heaters were automatically controlled. Constant level control in the steam-generator (SG) secondaries was used after SG-secondary refill; and symmetric SG pressure control was also used. The sequence of events seen in this test was similar to the sequence of events for much of the nominal test except that events occurred in a shorter time frame as the system inventory was reduced and the system depressurized at a faster rate. The calculation was performed using TRAC-PFL/MOD 1. Agreement between test data and the calculation was generally reasonable. All major trends and phenomena were correctly predicted. We believe that the correct conclusions about trends and phenomena will be reached if the code is used in similar applications.« less

Inflammatory bowel disease and risk of Parkinson's disease in Medicare beneficiaries.

PubMed

Camacho-Soto, Alejandra; Gross, Anat; Searles Nielsen, Susan; Dey, Neelendu; Racette, Brad A

2018-05-01

Gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction precedes the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) by several years. PD patients have abnormal aggregation of intestinal α-synuclein, the accumulation of which may be promoted by inflammation. The relationship between intestinal α-synuclein aggregates and central nervous system neuropathology is unknown. Recently, we observed a possible inverse association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and PD as part of a predictive model of PD. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the relationship between PD risk and IBD and IBD-associated conditions and treatment. Using a case-control design, we identified 89,790 newly diagnosed PD cases and 118,095 population-based controls >65 years of age using comprehensive Medicare data from 2004-2009 including detailed claims data. We classified IBD using International Classification of Diseases version 9 (ICD-9) diagnosis codes. We used logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to evaluate the association between PD and IBD. Covariates included age, sex, race/ethnicity, smoking, Elixhauser comorbidities, and health care use. PD was inversely associated with IBD overall (OR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.80-0.91) and with both Crohn's disease (OR = 0.83, 95% CI 0.74-0.93) and ulcerative colitis (OR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.82-0.96). Among beneficiaries with ≥2 ICD-9 codes for IBD, there was an inverse dose-response association between number of IBD ICD-9 codes, as a potential proxy for IBD severity, and PD (p-for-trend = 0.006). IBD is associated with a lower risk of developing PD. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Processing and microstructural characterisation of a UO2-based ceramic for disposal studies on spent AGR fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hiezl, Z.; Hambley, D. I.; Padovani, C.; Lee, W. E.

2015-01-01

Preparation and characterisation of a Simulated Spent Nuclear Fuel (SIMFuel), which replicates the chemical state and microstructure of Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF) discharged from a UK Advanced Gas-cooled Reactor (AGR) after a cooling time of 100 years is described. Given the relatively small differences in radionuclide inventory expected over longer time periods, the SIMFuel studied in this work is expected to be also representative of spent fuel after significantly longer periods (e.g. 1000 years). Thirteen stable elements were added to depleted UO2 and sintered to simulate the composition of fuel pellets after burn-ups of 25 and 43 GWd/tU and, as a reference, pure UO2 pellets were also investigated. The fission product distribution was calculated using the FISPIN code provided by the UK National Nuclear Laboratory. SIMFuel pellets were up to 92% dense and during the sintering process in H2 atmosphere Mo-Ru-Rh-Pd metallic precipitates and grey-phase ((Ba, Sr)(Zr, RE) O3 oxide precipitates) formed within the UO2 matrix. These secondary phases are present in real PWR and AGR SNF. Metallic precipitates are generally spherical and have submicron particle size (0.8 ± 0.7 μm). Spherical oxide precipitates in SIMFuel measured up to 30 μm in diameter, but no data were available in the public domain to compare this to AGR SNF. The grain size of actual AGR SNF (∼ 3-30 μm) is larger than that measured in AGR SIMFuel (∼ 2-5 μm).

Posttest calculation of the PBF LOC-11B and LOC-11C experiments using RELAP4/MOD6. [PWR

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

Hendrix, C.E.

Comparisons between RELAP4/MOD6, Update 4 code-calculated and measured experimental data are presented for the PBF LOC-11C and LOC-11B experiments. Independent code verification techniques are now being developed and this study represents a preliminary effort applying structured criteria for developing computer models, selecting code input, and performing base-run analyses. Where deficiencies are indicated in the base-case representation of the experiment, methods of code and criteria improvement are developed and appropriate recommendations are made.

Investigation of genes coding for inflammatory components in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Håkansson, Anna; Westberg, Lars; Nilsson, Staffan; Buervenich, Silvia; Carmine, Andrea; Holmberg, Björn; Sydow, Olof; Olson, Lars; Johnels, Bo; Eriksson, Elias; Nissbrandt, Hans

2005-05-01

Several findings obtained recently indicate that inflammation may contribute to the pathogenesis in Parkinson's disease (PD). Genetic variants of genes coding for components involved in immune reactions in the brain might therefore influence the risk of developing PD or the age of disease onset. Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes coding for interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma; T874A in intron 1), interferon-gamma receptor 2 (IFN-gamma R2; Gln64Arg), interleukin-10 (IL-10; G1082A in the promoter region), platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH; Val379Ala), and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1; Lys469Glu) were genotyped, using pyrosequencing, in 265 patients with PD and 308 controls. None of the investigated SNPs was found to be associated with PD; however, the G1082A polymorphism in the IL-10 gene promoter was found to be related to the age of disease onset. Linear regression showed a significantly earlier onset with more A-alleles (P = 0.0095; after Bonferroni correction, P = 0.048), resulting in a 5-year delayed age of onset of the disease for individuals having two G-alleles compared with individuals having two A-alleles. The results indicate that the IL-10 G1082A SNP could possibly be related to the age of onset of PD. Copyright 2005 Movement Disorder Society.

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

Boyack, B.E.; Steiner, J.L.; Harmony, S.C.

The PIUS advanced reactor is a 640-MWe pressurized water reactor developed by Asea Brown Boveri (ABB). A unique feature of the PIUS concept is the absence of mechanical control and shutdown rods. Reactivity is normally controlled by coolant boron concentration and the temperature of the moderator coolant. ABB submitted the PIUS design to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for preapplication review, and Los Alamos supported the NRC`s review effort. Baseline analyses of small-break initiators at two locations were performed with the system neutronic and thermal-hydraulic analysis code TRAC-PF1/MOD2. In addition, sensitivity studies were performed to explore the robustness ofmore » the PIUS concept to severe off-normal conditions having a very low probability of occurrence.« less

Modeling of a Flooding Induced Station Blackout for a Pressurized Water Reactor Using the RISMC Toolkit

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

Mandelli, Diego; Prescott, Steven R; Smith, Curtis L

2011-07-01

In the Risk Informed Safety Margin Characterization (RISMC) approach we want to understand not just the frequency of an event like core damage, but how close we are (or are not) to key safety-related events and how might we increase our safety margins. The RISMC Pathway uses the probabilistic margin approach to quantify impacts to reliability and safety by coupling both probabilistic (via stochastic simulation) and mechanistic (via physics models) approaches. This coupling takes place through the interchange of physical parameters and operational or accident scenarios. In this paper we apply the RISMC approach to evaluate the impact of amore » power uprate on a pressurized water reactor (PWR) for a tsunami-induced flooding test case. This analysis is performed using the RISMC toolkit: RELAP-7 and RAVEN codes. RELAP-7 is the new generation of system analysis codes that is responsible for simulating the thermal-hydraulic dynamics of PWR and boiling water reactor systems. RAVEN has two capabilities: to act as a controller of the RELAP-7 simulation (e.g., system activation) and to perform statistical analyses (e.g., run multiple RELAP-7 simulations where sequencing/timing of events have been changed according to a set of stochastic distributions). By using the RISMC toolkit, we can evaluate how power uprate affects the system recovery measures needed to avoid core damage after the PWR lost all available AC power by a tsunami induced flooding. The simulation of the actual flooding is performed by using a smooth particle hydrodynamics code: NEUTRINO.« less

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

Sattarivand, Mike; Summers, Clare; Robar, James

Purpose: To evaluate the validity of using spine as a surrogate for tumor positioning with ExacTrac stereoscopic imaging in lung stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Methods: Using the Novalis ExacTrac x-ray system, 39 lung SBRT patients (182 treatments) were aligned before treatment with 6 degrees (6D) of freedom couch (3 translations, 3 rotations) based on spine matching on stereoscopic images. The couch was shifted to treatment isocenter and pre-treatment CBCT was performed based on a soft tissue match around tumor volume. The CBCT data were used to measure residual errors following ExacTrac alignment. The thresholds for re-aligning the patients basedmore » on CBCT were 3mm shift or 3° rotation (in any 6D). In order to evaluate the effect of tumor location on residual errors, correlations between tumor distance from spine and individual residual errors were calculated. Results: Residual errors were up to 0.5±2.4mm. Using 3mm/3° thresholds, 80/182 (44%) of the treatments required re-alignment based on CBCT soft tissue matching following ExacTrac spine alignment. Most mismatches were in sup-inf, ant-post, and roll directions which had larger standard deviations. No correlation was found between tumor distance from spine and individual residual errors. Conclusion: ExacTrac stereoscopic imaging offers a quick pre-treatment patient alignment. However, bone matching based on spine is not reliable for aligning lung SBRT patients who require soft tissue image registration from CBCT. Spine can be a poor surrogate for lung SBRT patient alignment even for proximal tumor volumes.« less

Hot zero power reactor calculations using the Insilico code

DOE PAGES

Hamilton, Steven P.; Evans, Thomas M.; Davidson, Gregory G.; ...

2016-03-18

In this paper we describe the reactor physics simulation capabilities of the insilico code. A description of the various capabilities of the code is provided, including detailed discussion of the geometry, meshing, cross section processing, and neutron transport options. Numerical results demonstrate that the insilico SP N solver with pin-homogenized cross section generation is capable of delivering highly accurate full-core simulation of various PWR problems. Comparison to both Monte Carlo calculations and measured plant data is provided.

Analysis of internal flows relative to the space shuttle main engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1987-01-01

Cooperative efforts between the Lockheed-Huntsville Computational Mechanics Group and the NASA-MSFC Computational Fluid Dynamics staff has resulted in improved capabilities for numerically simulating incompressible flows generic to the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME). A well established and documented CFD code was obtained, modified, and applied to laminar and turbulent flows of the type occurring in the SSME Hot Gas Manifold. The INS3D code was installed on the NASA-MSFC CRAY-XMP computer system and is currently being used by NASA engineers. Studies to perform a transient analysis of the FPB were conducted. The COBRA/TRAC code is recommended for simulating the transient flow of oxygen into the LOX manifold. Property data for modifying the code to represent LOX/GOX flow was collected. The ALFA code was developed and recommended for representing the transient combustion in the preburner. These two codes will couple through the transient boundary conditions to simulate the startup and/or shutdown of the fuel preburner. A study, NAS8-37461, is currently being conducted to implement this modeling effort.

Summary of papers on current and anticipated uses of thermal-hydraulic codes

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

Caruso, R.

1997-07-01

The author reviews a range of recent papers which discuss possible uses and future development needs for thermal/hydraulic codes in the nuclear industry. From this review, eight common recommendations are extracted. They are: improve the user interface so that more people can use the code, so that models are easier and less expensive to prepare and maintain, and so that the results are scrutable; design the code so that it can easily be coupled to other codes, such as core physics, containment, fission product behaviour during severe accidents; improve the numerical methods to make the code more robust and especiallymore » faster running, particularly for low pressure transients; ensure that future code development includes assessment of code uncertainties as integral part of code verification and validation; provide extensive user guidelines or structure the code so that the `user effect` is minimized; include the capability to model multiple fluids (gas and liquid phase); design the code in a modular fashion so that new models can be added easily; provide the ability to include detailed or simplified component models; build on work previously done with other codes (RETRAN, RELAP, TRAC, CATHARE) and other code validation efforts (CSAU, CSNI SET and IET matrices).« less

Forrester works with the TRAC Experiment in the U.S Laboratory during Joint Operations

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-06-12

S117-E-07092 (12 June 2007) --- Astronaut Patrick Forrester, STS-117 mission specialist, works with the Test of Reaction and Adaptation Capabilities (TRAC) experiment in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Atlantis was docked with the station. The TRAC investigation will test the theory of brain adaptation during space flight by testing hand-eye coordination before, during and after the space flight.

Anderson works with the TRAC experiment in the U.S. Laboratory during Joint Operations

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-06-12

S117-E-07031 (12 June 2007) --- Astronaut Clayton Anderson, Expedition 15 flight engineer, works with the Test of Reaction and Adaptation Capabilities (TRAC) experiment in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Atlantis was docked with the station. The TRAC investigation will test the theory of brain adaptation during space flight by testing hand-eye coordination before, during and after the space flight.

Structure and chromosomal localization of the human PD-1 gene (PDCD1)

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

Shinohara, T.; Ishida, Y.; Kawaichi, M.

1994-10-01

A cDNA encoding mouse PD-1, a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily, was previously isolated from apoptosis-induced cells by subtractive hybridization. To determine the structure and chromosomal location of the human PD-1 gene, we screened a human T cell cDNA library by mouse PD-1 probe and isolated a cDNA coding for the human PD-1 protein. The deduced amino acid sequence of human PD-1 was 60% identical to the mouse counterpart, and a putative tyrosine kinase-association motif was well conserved. The human PD-1 gene was mapped to 2q37.3 by chromosomal in situ hybridization. 7 refs., 3 figs.

Epitope enhancement for immunohistochemical demonstration of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase.

PubMed

Janckila, A J; Lear, S C; Martin, A W; Yam, L T

1996-03-01

We have developed a monoclonal antibody (9C5) for immunohistochemical localization of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAcP). This antibody reacts with a denatured epitope of TRAcP and requires enhancement methods to promote antigenicity in paraffin-embedded tissues. We used this antibody to systematically examine proteolytic digestion and heat denaturation conditions for epitope enhancement in both paraffin sections and fixed smears. The goal was to increase the sensitivity of the immunohistochemical stain for TRAcP. Optimal conditions for proteolytic digestion were established. Denaturation in a conventional boiling water bath was compared to microwave irradiation in several commonly used solutions. Immunohistochemistry was compared directly to TRAcP cytochemistry in fixed smears from hairy cell leukemia specimens to gauge the level of sensitivity of our improved method. Attempts were made to "retrieve" the 9C5 epitope from overfixed tissues and aged smears. Maximal immunoreactivity of TRAcP was achieved by microwave irradiation in a citrate or Tris buffer of pH 6.0-8.0 without the need for a subsequent protease digestion step. With this method of epitope enhancement, immunohistochemistry with antibody 9C5 was as sensitive as direct cytochemical staining of TRAcP activity. However, once a tissue specimen had been overfixed or a smear stored for a year or more, the 9C5 epitope was no longer retrievable. The key element in epitope enhancement for 9C5 immunohistochemistry is heat denaturation of the target epitope. Immunohistochemistry of TRAcP in paraffin sections would be a great asset to the study of specialized forms of the monocyte/macrophage lineage and to the process of macrophage activation. It would also provide another means for more precise evaluation of residual disease in bone marrow of patients treated for hairy cell leukemia.

Thermal Deformation of Very Slender Triangular Rollable and Collapsible Booms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stohlman, Olive R.; Loper, Erik R.

2016-01-01

Metallic triangular rollable and collapsible (TRAC) booms have deployed two Cubesat-based solar sails in low Earth orbit, making TRAC booms the most popular solar sail deployment method in practice. This paper presents some concerns and solutions surrounding the behavior of these booms in the space thermal environment. A 3.5-cm-tall, 4-meter-long TRAC boom of Elgiloy cobalt alloy, when exposed to direct sunlight in a 1 AU deep space environment, has a predicted tip motion of as much as 0.5 meters. Such large thermal deflections could generate unacceptable distortions in the shape of a supported solar sail, making attitude control of the solar sail spacecraft difficult or impossible. As a possible means of mitigating this issue, the thermal distortion behaviors of three alternative material TRAC booms are investigated and compared with the uncoated Elgiloy baseline boom. A tenfold decrease in induced curvature is shown to be possible relative to the baseline boom. Potential thermal distortions of the LightSail-A solar sail TRAC booms are also examined and compared, although inconclusively, with available on-orbit camera imagery.

GPS-based microenvironment tracker (MicroTrac) model to estimate time–location of individuals for air pollution exposure assessments: Model evaluation in central North Carolina

PubMed Central

Breen, Michael S.; Long, Thomas C.; Schultz, Bradley D.; Crooks, James; Breen, Miyuki; Langstaff, John E.; Isaacs, Kristin K.; Tan, Yu-Mei; Williams, Ronald W.; Cao, Ye; Geller, Andrew M.; Devlin, Robert B.; Batterman, Stuart A.; Buckley, Timothy J.

2014-01-01

A critical aspect of air pollution exposure assessment is the estimation of the time spent by individuals in various microenvironments (ME). Accounting for the time spent in different ME with different pollutant concentrations can reduce exposure misclassifications, while failure to do so can add uncertainty and bias to risk estimates. In this study, a classification model, called MicroTrac, was developed to estimate time of day and duration spent in eight ME (indoors and outdoors at home, work, school; inside vehicles; other locations) from global positioning system (GPS) data and geocoded building boundaries. Based on a panel study, MicroTrac estimates were compared with 24-h diary data from nine participants, with corresponding GPS data and building boundaries of home, school, and work. MicroTrac correctly classified the ME for 99.5% of the daily time spent by the participants. The capability of MicroTrac could help to reduce the time–location uncertainty in air pollution exposure models and exposure metrics for individuals in health studies. PMID:24619294

Probabilistic approach for decay heat uncertainty estimation using URANIE platform and MENDEL depletion code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsilanizara, A.; Gilardi, N.; Huynh, T. D.; Jouanne, C.; Lahaye, S.; Martinez, J. M.; Diop, C. M.

2014-06-01

The knowledge of the decay heat quantity and the associated uncertainties are important issues for the safety of nuclear facilities. Many codes are available to estimate the decay heat. ORIGEN, FISPACT, DARWIN/PEPIN2 are part of them. MENDEL is a new depletion code developed at CEA, with new software architecture, devoted to the calculation of physical quantities related to fuel cycle studies, in particular decay heat. The purpose of this paper is to present a probabilistic approach to assess decay heat uncertainty due to the decay data uncertainties from nuclear data evaluation like JEFF-3.1.1 or ENDF/B-VII.1. This probabilistic approach is based both on MENDEL code and URANIE software which is a CEA uncertainty analysis platform. As preliminary applications, single thermal fission of uranium 235, plutonium 239 and PWR UOx spent fuel cell are investigated.

Current and anticipated uses of thermal-hydraulic codes in Germany

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

Teschendorff, V.; Sommer, F.; Depisch, F.

1997-07-01

In Germany, one third of the electrical power is generated by nuclear plants. ATHLET and S-RELAP5 are successfully applied for safety analyses of the existing PWR and BWR reactors and possible future reactors, e.g. EPR. Continuous development and assessment of thermal-hydraulic codes are necessary in order to meet present and future needs of licensing organizations, utilities, and vendors. Desired improvements include thermal-hydraulic models, multi-dimensional simulation, computational speed, interfaces to coupled codes, and code architecture. Real-time capability will be essential for application in full-scope simulators. Comprehensive code validation and quantification of uncertainties are prerequisites for future best-estimate analyses.

Increased risk of Parkinson's disease in individuals hospitalized with conditions related to the use of methamphetamine or other amphetamine-type drugs.

PubMed

Callaghan, Russell C; Cunningham, James K; Sykes, Jenna; Kish, Stephen J

2012-01-01

Since methamphetamine and other amphetamine-type stimulants (meth/amphetamine) can damage dopaminergic neurons, researchers have long speculated that these drugs may predispose users to develop Parkinson's disease (PD), a dopamine deficiency neurological disorder. We employed a retrospective population-based cohort study using all linked statewide California inpatient hospital episodes and death records from January 1, 1990 through December 31, 2005. Patients at least 30 years of age were followed for up to 16 years. Competing risks analysis was used to determine whether the meth/amphetamine cohort had elevated risk of developing PD (ICD-9 332.0; ICD-10 G20) in comparison to a matched population-proxy appendicitis group and a matched cocaine drug control group. Individuals admitted to hospital with meth/amphetamine-related conditions (n=40,472; ICD-9 codes 304.4, 305.7, 969.7, E854.2) were matched on age, race, sex, date of index admission, and patterns of hospital admission with patients with appendicitis conditions (n=207,831; ICD-9 codes 540-542) and also individuals with cocaine-use disorders (n=35,335; ICD-9 codes 304.2, 305.6, 968.5). The meth/amphetamine cohort showed increased risk of PD compared to both that of the matched appendicitis group [hazard ratio (HR)=1.76, 95% CI: 1.12-2.75, p=0.017] and the matched cocaine group [HR=2.44, 95% CI: 1.32-4.41, p=0.004]. The cocaine group did not show elevated hazard of PD compared to the matched appendicitis group [HR=1.04, 95% CI: 0.56-1.93, p=0.80]. These data provide evidence that meth/amphetamine users have above-normal risk for developing PD. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Improved setup and positioning accuracy using a three‐point customized cushion/mask/bite‐block immobilization system for stereotactic reirradiation of head and neck cancer

PubMed Central

Wang, He; Wang, Congjun; Tung, Samuel; Dimmitt, Andrew Wilson; Wong, Pei Fong; Edson, Mark A.; Garden, Adam S.; Rosenthal, David I.; Fuller, Clifton D.; Gunn, Gary B.; Takiar, Vinita; Wang, Xin A.; Luo, Dershan; Yang, James N.; Wong, Jennifer

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the setup and positioning uncertainty of a custom cushion/mask/bite‐block (CMB) immobilization system and determine PTV margin for image‐guided head and neck stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (HN‐SABR). We analyzed 105 treatment sessions among 21 patients treated with HN‐SABR for recurrent head and neck cancers using a custom CMB immobilization system. Initial patient setup was performed using the ExacTrac infrared (IR) tracking system and initial setup errors were based on comparison of ExacTrac IR tracking system to corrected online ExacTrac X‐rays images registered to treatment plans. Residual setup errors were determined using repeat verification X‐ray. The online ExacTrac corrections were compared to cone‐beam CT (CBCT) before treatment to assess agreement. Intrafractional positioning errors were determined using prebeam X‐rays. The systematic and random errors were analyzed. The initial translational setup errors were −0.8±1.3 mm, −0.8±1.6 mm, and 0.3±1.9 mm in AP, CC, and LR directions, respectively, with a three‐dimensional (3D) vector of 2.7±1.4 mm. The initial rotational errors were up to 2.4° if 6D couch is not available. CBCT agreed with ExacTrac X‐ray images to within 2 mm and 2.5°. The intrafractional uncertainties were 0.1±0.6 mm, 0.1±0.6 mm, and 0.2±0.5 mm in AP, CC, and LR directions, respectively, and 0.0∘±0.5°, 0.0∘±0.6°, and −0.1∘±0.4∘ in yaw, roll, and pitch direction, respectively. The translational vector was 0.9±0.6 mm. The calculated PTV margins mPTV(90,95) were within 1.6 mm when using image guidance for online setup correction. The use of image guidance for online setup correction, in combination with our customized CMB device, highly restricted target motion during treatments and provided robust immobilization to ensure minimum dose of 95% to target volume with 2.0 mm PTV margin for HN‐SABR. PACS number(s): 87.55.ne PMID:27167275

PdSlt2 Penicillium digitatum mitogen-activated-protein kinase controls sporulation and virulence during citrus fruit infection.

PubMed

de Ramón-Carbonell, Marta; Sánchez-Torres, Paloma

2017-12-01

The Slt2 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase homologue of Penicillium digitatum, the most relevant pathogen-producing citrus green mould decay during postharvest, was identified and explored. The P. digitatum Slt2-MAPK coding gene (PdSlt2) was functionally characterized by homologous gene elimination and transcriptomic evaluation. The absence of PdSlt2 gene resulted in significantly reduced virulence during citrus infection. The ΔPdSlt2 mutants were also defective in asexual reproduction, showing impairment of sporulation during citrus infection. Gene expression analysis revealed that PdSlt2 was highly induced during citrus fruit infection at early stages (1 dpi). Moreover, PdSlt2 deletion altered gene expression profiles. The relative gene expression (RGE) of fungicide resistance- and fungal virulence-related genes showed that PdSlt2 acts as negative regulator of several transporter encoding genes (ABC and MFS transporters) and a positive regulator of two sterol demethylases. This study indicates that PdSlt2 MAPK is functionally preserved in P. digitatum and highlights the relevant role of the PdSlt2 MAP kinase-mediated signalling pathway in regulating diverse genes crucial for infection and asexual reproduction. Copyright © 2017 British Mycological Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

MODFLOW 2.0: A program for predicting moderator flow patterns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peterson, P. F.; Paik, I. K.

1991-07-01

Sudden changes in the temperature of flowing liquids can result in transient buoyancy forces which strongly impact the flow hydrodynamics via flow stratification. These effects have been studied for the case of potential flow of stratified liquids to line sinks, but not for moderator flow in SRS reactors. Standard codes, such as TRAC and COMMIX, do not have the capability to capture the stratification effect, due to strong numerical diffusion which smears away the hot/cold fluid interface. A related problem with standard codes is the inability to track plumes injected into the liquid flow, again due to numerical diffusion. The combined effects of buoyant stratification and plume dispersion have been identified as being important in the operation of the Supplementary Safety System which injects neutron-poison ink into SRS reactors to provide safe shutdown in the event of safety rod failure. The MODFLOW code discussed here provides transient moderator flow pattern information with stratification effects, and tracks the location of ink plumes in the reactor. The code, written in Fortran, is compiled for Macintosh II computers, and includes subroutines for interactive control and graphical output. Removing the graphics capabilities, the code can also be compiled on other computers. With graphics, in addition to the capability to perform safety related computations, MODFLOW also provides an easy tool for becoming familiar with flow distributions in SRS reactors.

Posttest RELAP5 simulations of the Semiscale S-UT series experiments. [PWR

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

Leonard, M.T.

The RELAP5/MOD1 computer code was used to perform posttest calculations, simulating six experiments, run in the Semiscale Mod-2A facility, investigating the effects of upper head injection on small break transient behavior. The results of these calculations and corresponding test data are presented in this report. An evaluation is made of the capability of RELAP5 to calculate the thermal-hydraulic response of the Mod-2A system over a spectrum of break sizes, with and without the use of upper head injection.

Stand-alone containment analysis of Phébus FPT tests with ASTEC and MELCOR codes: the FPT-2 test.

PubMed

Gonfiotti, Bruno; Paci, Sandro

2018-03-01

During the last 40 years, many studies have been carried out to investigate the different phenomena occurring during a Severe Accident (SA) in a Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). Such efforts have been supported by the execution of different experimental campaigns, and the integral Phébus FP tests were probably some of the most important experiments in this field. In these tests, the degradation of a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) fuel bundle was investigated employing different control rod materials and burn-up levels in strongly or weakly oxidizing conditions. From the findings on these and previous tests, numerical codes such as ASTEC and MELCOR have been developed to analyze the evolution of a SA in real NPPs. After the termination of the Phébus FP campaign, these two codes have been furthermore improved to implement the more recent findings coming from different experimental campaigns. Therefore, continuous verification and validation is still necessary to check that the new improvements introduced in such codes allow also a better prediction of these Phébus tests. The aim of the present work is to re-analyze the Phébus FPT-2 test employing the updated ASTEC and MELCOR code versions. The analysis focuses on the stand-alone containment aspects of this test, and three different spatial nodalizations of the containment vessel (CV) have been developed. The paper summarizes the main thermal-hydraulic results and presents different sensitivity analyses carried out on the aerosols and fission products (FP) behavior. When possible, a comparison among the results obtained during this work and by different authors in previous work is also performed. This paper is part of a series of publications covering the four Phébus FP tests using a PWR fuel bundle: FPT-0, FPT-1, FPT-2, and FPT-3, excluding the FPT-4 one, related to the study of the release of low-volatility FP and transuranic elements from a debris bed and a pool of melted fuel.

Pawcatuck and Woonasquatucket River Basins and Narragansett Bay Local Drainage Area. Main Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-10-01

building and housing codes are recommended. Flood warning systems, urban renewal, tax incentives, and public open space acquisition will also help...RIVER GROUP WATERSHEDLD LOCAL DRAINAGE PD, WOONASQUATUCKET - MOSI4ASSUCK - PROVIDENCE RIVERS SUB-BASIN PD2 BLACKSTONE RIVER SUB-BASIN orPD 3 TENMiLE...of the Taunton River Basin in Massachusetts, 1979 PNB Water Supply Study, January 1979 Big River Reservoir Project, July 1981 Blackstone River

FAST-TRAC evaluation : evaluation summary report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

FAST-TRAC is an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) that integrates advanced traffic control with a variety of advanced traffic information systems through centralized collection, processing, and dissemination of traffic data. The Road Commission...

Evaluations of the setup discrepancy between BrainLAB 6D ExacTrac and cone-beam computed tomography used with the imaging guidance system Novalis-Tx for intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery.

PubMed

Oh, Se An; Park, Jae Won; Yea, Ji Woon; Kim, Sung Kyu

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the setup discrepancy between BrainLAB 6 degree-of-freedom (6D) ExacTrac and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) used with the imaging guidance system Novalis Tx for intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery. We included 107 consecutive patients for whom white stereotactic head frame masks (R408; Clarity Medical Products, Newark, OH) were used to fix the head during intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery, between August 2012 and July 2016. The patients were immobilized in the same state for both the verification image using 6D ExacTrac and online 3D CBCT. In addition, after radiation treatment, registration between the computed tomography simulation images and the CBCT images was performed with offline 6D fusion in an offline review. The root-mean-square of the difference in the translational dimensions between the ExacTrac system and CBCT was <1.01 mm for online matching and <1.10 mm for offline matching. Furthermore, the root-mean-square of the difference in the rotational dimensions between the ExacTrac system and the CBCT were <0.82° for online matching and <0.95° for offline matching. It was concluded that while the discrepancies in residual setup errors between the ExacTrac 6D X-ray and the CBCT were minor, they should not be ignored.

75 FR 1412 - Notice of Lodging of Consent Decree Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-11

... Decree in United States v. Highview Gardens, Inc., Civil Action No. 2:09-cv-02827-PD was lodged with the... States v. Highview Gardens, Inc., Civil Action No. 2:09-cv- 02827-PD, D.J. Ref. 90-11-2-902/4. The..., Environment and Natural Resources Division. [FR Doc. 2010-175 Filed 1-8-10; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4410-15-P ...

40 CFR Appendix A to Part 76 - Phase I Affected Coal-Fired Utility Units With Group 1 or Cell Burner Boilers

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... MONTROSE 2 KANSAS CITY PWR & LT. MISSOURI MONTROSE 3 KANSAS CITY PWR & LT. NEW YORK DUNKIRK 3 NIAGARA MOHAWK PWR. NEW YORK DUNKIRK 4 NIAGARA MOHAWK PWR. NEW YORK GREENIDGE 6 NY STATE ELEC & GAS. NEW YORK...

40 CFR Appendix A to Part 76 - Phase I Affected Coal-Fired Utility Units With Group 1 or Cell Burner Boilers

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... MONTROSE 2 KANSAS CITY PWR & LT. MISSOURI MONTROSE 3 KANSAS CITY PWR & LT. NEW YORK DUNKIRK 3 NIAGARA MOHAWK PWR. NEW YORK DUNKIRK 4 NIAGARA MOHAWK PWR. NEW YORK GREENIDGE 6 NY STATE ELEC & GAS. NEW YORK...

40 CFR Appendix A to Part 76 - Phase I Affected Coal-Fired Utility Units With Group 1 or Cell Burner Boilers

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... MONTROSE 2 KANSAS CITY PWR & LT. MISSOURI MONTROSE 3 KANSAS CITY PWR & LT. NEW YORK DUNKIRK 3 NIAGARA MOHAWK PWR. NEW YORK DUNKIRK 4 NIAGARA MOHAWK PWR. NEW YORK GREENIDGE 6 NY STATE ELEC & GAS. NEW YORK...

Microenvironment Tracker (MicroTrac) Model helps track air quality

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

MicroTrac is a model that uses global positioning system (GPS) data to estimate time of day and duration that people spend in different microenvironments (e.g., indoors and outdoors at home, work, school).

Microenvironment Tracker (MicroTrac) Factsheet

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

MicroTrac is a model developed by EPA that uses GPS data to estimate time of day and duration that people spend in different microenvironments, such as indoors and outdoors at home, work, school, and inside vehicles.

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

Downar, Thomas

This report summarizes the current status of VERA-CS Verification and Validation for PWR Core Follow operation and proposes a multi-phase plan for continuing VERA-CS V&V in FY17 and FY18. The proposed plan recognizes the hierarchical nature of a multi-physics code system such as VERA-CS and the importance of first achieving an acceptable level of V&V on each of the single physics codes before focusing on the V&V of the coupled physics solution. The report summarizes the V&V of each of the single physics codes systems currently used for core follow analysis (ie MPACT, CTF, Multigroup Cross Section Generation, and BISONmore » / Fuel Temperature Tables) and proposes specific actions to achieve a uniformly acceptable level of V&V in FY17. The report also recognizes the ongoing development of other codes important for PWR Core Follow (e.g. TIAMAT, MAMBA3D) and proposes Phase II (FY18) VERA-CS V&V activities in which those codes will also reach an acceptable level of V&V. The report then summarizes the current status of VERA-CS multi-physics V&V for PWR Core Follow and the ongoing PWR Core Follow V&V activities for FY17. An automated procedure and output data format is proposed for standardizing the output for core follow calculations and automatically generating tables and figures for the VERA-CS Latex file. A set of acceptance metrics is also proposed for the evaluation and assessment of core follow results that would be used within the script to automatically flag any results which require further analysis or more detailed explanation prior to being added to the VERA-CS validation base. After the Automation Scripts have been completed and tested using BEAVRS, the VERA-CS plan proposes the Watts Bar cycle depletion cases should be performed with the new cross section library and be included in the first draft of the new VERA-CS manual for release at the end of PoR15. Also, within the constraints imposed by the proprietary nature of plant data, as many as possible of the FY17 AMA Plant Core Follow cases should also be included in the VERA-CS manual at the end of PoR15. After completion of the ongoing development of TIAMAT for fully coupled, full core calculations with VERA-CS / BISON 1.5D, and after the completion of the refactoring of MAMBA3D for CIPS analysis in FY17, selected cases from the VERA-CS validation based should be performed, beginning with the legacy cases of Watts Bar and BEAVRS in PoR16. Finally, as potential Phase III future work some additional considerations are identified for extending the VERA-CS V&V to other reactor types such as the BWR.« less

Spontaneous and posed facial expression in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Smith, M C; Smith, M K; Ellgring, H

1996-09-01

Spontaneous and posed emotional facial expressions in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD, n = 12) were compared with those of healthy age-matched controls (n = 12). The intensity and amount of facial expression in PD patients were expected to be reduced for spontaneous but not posed expressions. Emotional stimuli were video clips selected from films, 2-5 min in duration, designed to elicit feelings of happiness, sadness, fear, disgust, or anger. Facial movements were coded using Ekman and Friesen's (1978) Facial Action Coding System (FACS). In addition, participants rated their emotional experience on 9-point Likert scales. The PD group showed significantly less overall facial reactivity than did controls when viewing the films. The predicted Group X Condition (spontaneous vs. posed) interaction effect on smile intensity was found when PD participants with more severe disease were compared with those with milder disease and with controls. In contrast, ratings of emotional experience were similar for both groups. Depression was positively associated with emotion rating but not with measures of facial activity. Spontaneous facial expression appears to be selectively affected in PD, whereas posed expression and emotional experience remain relatively intact.

A meta-analysis of public microarray data identifies biological regulatory networks in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Su, Lining; Wang, Chunjie; Zheng, Chenqing; Wei, Huiping; Song, Xiaoqing

2018-04-13

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a long-term degenerative disease that is caused by environmental and genetic factors. The networks of genes and their regulators that control the progression and development of PD require further elucidation. We examine common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from several PD blood and substantia nigra (SN) microarray datasets by meta-analysis. Further we screen the PD-specific genes from common DEGs using GCBI. Next, we used a series of bioinformatics software to analyze the miRNAs, lncRNAs and SNPs associated with the common PD-specific genes, and then identify the mTF-miRNA-gene-gTF network. Our results identified 36 common DEGs in PD blood studies and 17 common DEGs in PD SN studies, and five of the genes were previously known to be associated with PD. Further study of the regulatory miRNAs associated with the common PD-specific genes revealed 14 PD-specific miRNAs in our study. Analysis of the mTF-miRNA-gene-gTF network about PD-specific genes revealed two feed-forward loops: one involving the SPRK2 gene, hsa-miR-19a-3p and SPI1, and the second involving the SPRK2 gene, hsa-miR-17-3p and SPI. The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-mediated regulatory network identified lncRNAs associated with PD-specific genes and PD-specific miRNAs. Moreover, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis of the PD-specific genes identified two significant SNPs, and SNP analysis of the neurodegenerative disease-specific genes identified seven significant SNPs. Most of these SNPs are present in the 3'-untranslated region of genes and are controlled by several miRNAs. Our study identified a total of 53 common DEGs in PD patients compared with healthy controls in blood and brain datasets and five of these genes were previously linked with PD. Regulatory network analysis identified PD-specific miRNAs, associated long non-coding RNA and feed-forward loops, which contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms underlying PD. The SNPs identified in our study can determine whether a genetic variant is associated with PD. Overall, these findings will help guide our study of the complex molecular mechanism of PD.

InfoTrac TFD: a microcomputer implementation of the Transcription Factor Database TFD with a graphical user interface.

PubMed

Hoeck, W G

1994-06-01

InfoTrac TFD provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for viewing and manipulating datasets in the Transcription Factor Database, TFD. The interface was developed in Filemaker Pro 2.0 by Claris Corporation, which provides cross platform compatibility between Apple Macintosh computers running System 7.0 and higher and IBM-compatibles running Microsoft Windows 3.0 and higher. TFD ASCII-tables were formatted to fit data into several custom data tables using Add/Strip, a shareware utility and Filemaker Pro's lookup feature. The lookup feature was also put to use to allow TFD data tables to become linked within a flat-file database management system. The 'Navigator', consisting of several pop-up menus listing transcription factor abbreviations, facilitates the search for transcription factor entries. Data are presented onscreen in several layouts, that can be further customized by the user. InfoTrac TFD makes the transcription factor database accessible to a much wider community of scientists by making it available on two popular microcomputer platforms.

TRAC PAC : the next generation

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-05-01

The Transportation and Civil Engineering (TRAC) PAC is a toolkit of instructional aids originally built in 1994 to attract middle and high school students to the transportation field. Since that time, users have noted difficulties arising from the PA...

Analysis of PANDA Passive Containment Cooling Steady-State Tests with the Spectra Code

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

Stempniewicz, Marek M

2000-07-15

Results of post test simulation of the PANDA passive containment cooling (PCC) steady-state tests (S-series tests), performed at the PANDA facility at the Paul Scherrer Institute, Switzerland, are presented. The simulation has been performed using the computer code SPECTRA, a thermal-hydraulic code, designed specifically for analyzing containment behavior of nuclear power plants.Results of the present calculations are compared to the measurement data as well as the results obtained earlier with the codes MELCOR, TRAC-BF1, and TRACG. The calculated PCC efficiencies are somewhat lower than the measured values. Similar underestimation of PCC efficiencies had been obtained in the past, with themore » other computer codes. To explain this difference, it is postulated that condensate coming into the tubes forms a stream of liquid in one or two tubes, leaving most of the tubes unaffected. The condensate entering the water box is assumed to fall down in the form of droplets. With these assumptions, the results calculated with SPECTRA are close to the experimental data.It is concluded that the SPECTRA code is a suitable tool for analyzing containments of advanced reactors, equipped with passive containment cooling systems.« less

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

Boyack, B.E.; Steiner, J.L.; Harmony, S.C.

The PIUS Advanced Reactor is a 640-MW(e) pressurized-water reactor developed by Asea Brown Boveri. A unique feature of the PIUS concept is the absence of mechanical control and shutdown rods. Reactivity normally is controlled by the boron concentration in the coolant and the temperature of the moderator coolant. Analyses of five initiating events have been completed on the basis of calculations performed with the system neutronic and thermal-hydraulic analysis code TRAC-PF1/MOD2. The initiating events analyzed are (1) reactor scram, (2) loss of off-site power (3) main steam-line break, (4) small-break loss of coolant, and (5) large-break loss of coolant. Inmore » addition to the baseline calculation for each sequence, sensitivity studies were performed to explore the response of the PIUS reactor to severe off-normal conditions having a very low probability of occurrence. The sensitivity studies provide insights into the robustness of the design.« less

[Control of postoperative hemorrhage in isolated coronary bypass surgery: comparison of tranexamic acid effects in off-pump surgery with aprotinin effects in conventional surgery].

PubMed

Bordalo, Alvaro D B; Nobre, Angelo L; Silva, Fernanda; Serpa, Carlos; Cravino, João

2011-01-01

In spite of the strong criticism elicited thereafter, the results of a multicentric study on the consequences of several perioperative anti-hemorrhagic strategies in cardiac surgery, published five years ago, led to the aprotinin (Aprot) withdrawal from the market and its progressive replacement by tranexamic acid (TrAc) in many surgical departments. To evaluate the hemostatic effects and clinical consequences of TrAc use or non-use in off-pump coronary bypass surgery (CABG) and compare them with those of Aprot use or non-use in conventional (conv) CABG. Retrospective analysis of 2 groups (Gr) of patients (pts): GrA - 252 pts undergoing isolated conv CABG (GrA1 - 185 pts submitted to an intra-operative full-dose Aprot protocol; GrA2 - 67 pts operated without Aprot); GrB - 383 pts undergoing isolated off-pump CABG (GrB1 - 136 pts submitted to an intra-operative low-dose TrAc protocol; GrB2 - 247 pts operated in absence of TrAc). Pre-operative clinical characteristics (GrA1 vs GrA2, GrB1 vs GrB2): mean age (years) - 65 vs 64 (NS), 64 vs 64; female gender - 20% vs 21% (NS), 23% vs 20% (NS); logistic Euroscore - 5.1% vs 6.2% (NS), 6.3% vs 5.5% (NS); chronic renal failure - 21% vs 27% (NS), 27% vs 25% (NS); diffuse coronary artery disease - 34% vs 42% (NS), 36% vs 30% (NS); pre-operative betablocker treatment - 64% vs 55% (NS), 74% vs 71% (NS); statin therapy for > 3 months - 78% vs 82% (NS), 81% vs 85% (NS). Pts have been operated by 4 surgeons largely experienced in both CABG modalities. Antiplatelet therapy was stopped => 4 days prior to surgery (but aspirin was maintained in high-risk pts). Results (GrA1 vs GrA2, GrB1 vs GrB2): 1) Bleeding (mL/pt - mean): 783 vs 1375 (p < 0.001), 1061 vs 1368 (p < 0.001); blood loss > 1500 mL (%pts) - 5.4% vs 34% (p < 0.0001), 12% vs 28% (p < 0.001); surgical re-exploration for bleeding - 1.1% vs 3.0% (NS), 2.2% vs 2.0% (NS). 2) Transfusion of blood products (U/pt - mean): plasma - 0.56 vs 2.19 (p < 0.001), 1.45 vs 1.03 (p < 0.05); platelets - 0.09 vs 0.22 (p < 0.02), 0.24 vs 0.15 (NS). 3) Renal function (%pts): increased serum cre- atinine - 56% vs 56%, 55% vs 38% (p < 0.001); hemofiltration use - 1.1% vs 1.5% (NS), 1.5% vs 0.4% (NS). 4) Perioperative myocardial infarction - 21.6% vs 17.9% (NS), 17.6% vs 14.6% (NS); other ischemic events - 3.2% vs 3.0% (NS), 1.5% vs 1.2% (NS). 5) Hospital mortality: 4.8% vs 4.5% (NS), 4.4% vs 1.6% (NS). 1) TrAc does not reduce the risk of surgical re-exploration for bleeding. 2) Taking into account the differences between conv CABG and off-pump CABG, TrAc hemostatic effect seems to be inferior to that of Aprot, without offering a better safety profile in terms of lesser renal or ischemic risk as a counterpart.

A New App for At-Home Cognitive Training: Description and Pilot Testing on Patients with Multiple Sclerosis.

PubMed

Tacchino, Andrea; Pedullà, Ludovico; Bonzano, Laura; Vassallo, Claudio; Battaglia, Mario Alberto; Mancardi, Gianluigi; Bove, Marco; Brichetto, Giampaolo

2015-08-31

Cognitive impairment is common in people with neurological diseases and severely affects their social and professional life. It has been shown that intensive and personalized cognitive rehabilitation (CR), based on working memory exercises, leads to improved cognitive status of healthy and cognitive-impaired subjects. New technologies would help to promote accessible, at-home, and self-managed CR interventions. The aim of this paper is to describe the design of Cognitive Training Kit (COGNI-TRAcK), an app for mobile devices, to self-administer an at-home, intensive, and personalized CR intervention based on working memory exercises, and test its disposability-to-use (usability, motivation to use, compliance to treatment) on cognitive-impaired patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). COGNI-TRAcK includes user-friendly interfaces for personal data input and management and for CR intervention configurations. Inner routines automatically implement adaptive working load algorithms and allow data processing and analysis. A dedicated team developed COGNI-TRAcK with C# programming language, by using the platform Xamarin Studio 4.0.10 for Android (API level 15 and following). Three exercises based on working memory are now available. To assess the disposability-to-use of the system, patients with MS were selected as likely users due to the young age of disease onset. Cognitive-impaired patients with MS (N=16) with a mean age of 49.06 years (SD 9.10) and a mean score of 3.75 (SD 1.92) on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) were submitted to an 8-week at-home intervention administered by the app. The intervention consisted of 5 daily scheduled 30-minute sessions per week. Disposability-to-use of COGNI-TRAcK was investigated by means of a questionnaire administered to patients at the end of the training. The adherence to the treatment was 84% (33.4/40). Of the patients with MS, 94% (15/16) understood the instructions given, 100% (16/16) felt independent to use COGNI-TRAcK at home, 75% (12/16) found the exercises interesting, and 81% (13/16) found the exercises useful and were motivated to use the app again. Moreover, during the exercises, patients with MS were highly motivated to perform well (mean score 3.19/4, SE 0.16), experienced rather low levels of stress (mean score 2.19/4, SE 0.26), were not bored (mean score 1.81/4, SE 0.30), and felt amusement (mean score 2.25/4, SE 0.23). As COGNI-TRAcK is highly usable, motivating, and well-accepted by patients with MS, its effectiveness can now be investigated. To improve COGNI-TRAcK, new releases should contain more working memory exercises, have enhanced perceived amusement, and promote Internet communication procedures for data transfer and fostering remote control of the intervention.

A New App for At-Home Cognitive Training: Description and Pilot Testing on Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Bonzano, Laura; Vassallo, Claudio; Battaglia, Mario Alberto; Mancardi, Gianluigi; Bove, Marco

2015-01-01

Background Cognitive impairment is common in people with neurological diseases and severely affects their social and professional life. It has been shown that intensive and personalized cognitive rehabilitation (CR), based on working memory exercises, leads to improved cognitive status of healthy and cognitive-impaired subjects. New technologies would help to promote accessible, at-home, and self-managed CR interventions. Objective The aim of this paper is to describe the design of Cognitive Training Kit (COGNI-TRAcK), an app for mobile devices, to self-administer an at-home, intensive, and personalized CR intervention based on working memory exercises, and test its disposability-to-use (usability, motivation to use, compliance to treatment) on cognitive-impaired patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods COGNI-TRAcK includes user-friendly interfaces for personal data input and management and for CR intervention configurations. Inner routines automatically implement adaptive working load algorithms and allow data processing and analysis. A dedicated team developed COGNI-TRAcK with C# programming language, by using the platform Xamarin Studio 4.0.10 for Android (API level 15 and following). Three exercises based on working memory are now available. To assess the disposability-to-use of the system, patients with MS were selected as likely users due to the young age of disease onset. Cognitive-impaired patients with MS (N=16) with a mean age of 49.06 years (SD 9.10) and a mean score of 3.75 (SD 1.92) on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) were submitted to an 8-week at-home intervention administered by the app. The intervention consisted of 5 daily scheduled 30-minute sessions per week. Disposability-to-use of COGNI-TRAcK was investigated by means of a questionnaire administered to patients at the end of the training. Results The adherence to the treatment was 84% (33.4/40). Of the patients with MS, 94% (15/16) understood the instructions given, 100% (16/16) felt independent to use COGNI-TRAcK at home, 75% (12/16) found the exercises interesting, and 81% (13/16) found the exercises useful and were motivated to use the app again. Moreover, during the exercises, patients with MS were highly motivated to perform well (mean score 3.19/4, SE 0.16), experienced rather low levels of stress (mean score 2.19/4, SE 0.26), were not bored (mean score 1.81/4, SE 0.30), and felt amusement (mean score 2.25/4, SE 0.23). Conclusions As COGNI-TRAcK is highly usable, motivating, and well-accepted by patients with MS, its effectiveness can now be investigated. To improve COGNI-TRAcK, new releases should contain more working memory exercises, have enhanced perceived amusement, and promote Internet communication procedures for data transfer and fostering remote control of the intervention. PMID:26323749

Comparison of TG-43 dosimetric parameters of brachytherapy sources obtained by three different versions of MCNP codes.

PubMed

Zaker, Neda; Zehtabian, Mehdi; Sina, Sedigheh; Koontz, Craig; Meigooni, Ali S

2016-03-08

Monte Carlo simulations are widely used for calculation of the dosimetric parameters of brachytherapy sources. MCNP4C2, MCNP5, MCNPX, EGS4, EGSnrc, PTRAN, and GEANT4 are among the most commonly used codes in this field. Each of these codes utilizes a cross-sectional library for the purpose of simulating different elements and materials with complex chemical compositions. The accuracies of the final outcomes of these simulations are very sensitive to the accuracies of the cross-sectional libraries. Several investigators have shown that inaccuracies of some of the cross section files have led to errors in 125I and 103Pd parameters. The purpose of this study is to compare the dosimetric parameters of sample brachytherapy sources, calculated with three different versions of the MCNP code - MCNP4C, MCNP5, and MCNPX. In these simulations for each source type, the source and phantom geometries, as well as the number of the photons, were kept identical, thus eliminating the possible uncertainties. The results of these investigations indicate that for low-energy sources such as 125I and 103Pd there are discrepancies in gL(r) values. Discrepancies up to 21.7% and 28% are observed between MCNP4C and other codes at a distance of 6 cm for 103Pd and 10 cm for 125I from the source, respectively. However, for higher energy sources, the discrepancies in gL(r) values are less than 1.1% for 192Ir and less than 1.2% for 137Cs between the three codes.

Nuclear Fuel Depletion Analysis Using Matlab Software

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faghihi, F.; Nematollahi, M. R.

Coupled first order IVPs are frequently used in many parts of engineering and sciences. In this article, we presented a code including three computer programs which are joint with the Matlab software to solve and plot the solutions of the first order coupled stiff or non-stiff IVPs. Some engineering and scientific problems related to IVPs are given and fuel depletion (production of the 239Pu isotope) in a Pressurized Water Nuclear Reactor (PWR) are computed by the present code.

Calculation and benchmarking of an azimuthal pressure vessel neutron fluence distribution using the BOXER code and scraping experiments

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

Holzgrewe, F.; Hegedues, F.; Paratte, J.M.

1995-03-01

The light water reactor BOXER code was used to determine the fast azimuthal neutron fluence distribution at the inner surface of the reactor pressure vessel after the tenth cycle of a pressurized water reactor (PWR). Using a cross-section library in 45 groups, fixed-source calculations in transport theory and x-y geometry were carried out to determine the fast azimuthal neutron flux distribution at the inner surface of the pressure vessel for four different cycles. From these results, the fast azimuthal neutron fluence after the tenth cycle was estimated and compared with the results obtained from scraping test experiments. In these experiments,more » small samples of material were taken from the inner surface of the pressure vessel. The fast neutron fluence was then determined form the measured activity of the samples. Comparing the BOXER and scraping test results have maximal differences of 15%, which is very good, considering the factor of 10{sup 3} neutron attenuation between the reactor core and the pressure vessel. To compare the BOXER results with an independent code, the 21st cycle of the PWR was also calculated with the TWODANT two-dimensional transport code, using the same group structure and cross-section library. Deviations in the fast azimuthal flux distribution were found to be <3%, which verifies the accuracy of the BOXER results.« less

78 FR 22034 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Notice 2001-1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-12

... Notice 2001-1, Employer-designed Tip Reporting Program for the Food and Beverage Industry (EmTRAC). DATES... Program for the Food and Beverage Industry (EmTRAC). OMB Number: 1545-1716. Notice Number: Notice 2001-1...

IVHS Institutional and Legal Issues Program: Review of the FAST-TRAC Operational Test

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1994-06-01

The FAST-TRAC (Faster and Safer Travel through Traffic Routing and Advanced Controls) operational test attempted to integrate advanced traveler information systems (ATIS) and advanced traffic management system (ATMS) technologies in Oakland County, M...

A Tangled Web – Tau and Sporadic Parkinson's Disease

PubMed Central

Wray, Selina; Lewis, Patrick A.

2010-01-01

Parkinson's disease (PD) represents a major challenge for health care systems around the world: it is the most common degenerative movement disorder of old age, affecting over 100,000 people in the UK alone (Schrag et al., 2000). Despite the remarkable success of treatments directed at potentiating or replacing dopamine within the brain, which can relieve symptoms for over a decade, PD remains an incurable and invariably fatal disorder. As such, efforts to understand the processes that lead to cell death in the brains of patients with PD are a priority for neurodegenerative researchers. A great deal of progress has been made in this regard by taking advantage of advances in genetics, initially by the identification of genes responsible for rare Mendelian forms of PD (outlined in Table 1), and more recently by applying genome wide association studies (GWAS) to the sporadic form of the disease (Hardy et al., 2009). Several such GWAS have now been carried out, with a meta-analysis currently under way. Using over 6000 cases and 10,000 controls, two of these studies have identified variation at a number of loci as being associated with an increased risk of disease (Satake et al., 2009; Simon-Sanchez et al., 2009). Three genes stand out as candidates from these studies – the SNCA gene, coding for α-synuclein, the LRRK2 gene, coding for leucine rich repeat kinase 2, and MAPT, coding for the microtubule-associated protein tau. Mutations at all three of these loci have been associated with Mendelian forms of disease presenting with the clinical syndrome of Parkinsonism, however only SNCA and LRRK2 have been previously associated with pathologically defined PD (Hardy et al., 2009). Point mutations in α-synuclein, along with gene multiplication events, result in autosomal dominant PD, often with a significant dementia component. In addition to this, α-synuclein is the principle component of the main pathological hallmark of idiopathic PD, the Lewy body, making it an unsurprising hit in the GWAS (Spillantini et al., 1997). Mutations in LRRK2 are the most common genetic cause of PD, and so again made this gene a likely candidate as a susceptibility locus for the sporadic form of disease (Kumari and Tan, 2009). More surprising, perhaps, was the identification of tau as a susceptibility factor for Parkinson's. In this review we will outline the role of tau in neurodegeneration and in different forms of Parkinsonism, and speculate as to what the functional basis of the association between MAPT and PD might be. PMID:21423457

A tangled web - tau and sporadic Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Wray, Selina; Lewis, Patrick A

2010-01-01

Parkinson's disease (PD) represents a major challenge for health care systems around the world: it is the most common degenerative movement disorder of old age, affecting over 100,000 people in the UK alone (Schrag et al., 2000). Despite the remarkable success of treatments directed at potentiating or replacing dopamine within the brain, which can relieve symptoms for over a decade, PD remains an incurable and invariably fatal disorder. As such, efforts to understand the processes that lead to cell death in the brains of patients with PD are a priority for neurodegenerative researchers. A great deal of progress has been made in this regard by taking advantage of advances in genetics, initially by the identification of genes responsible for rare Mendelian forms of PD (outlined in Table 1), and more recently by applying genome wide association studies (GWAS) to the sporadic form of the disease (Hardy et al., 2009). Several such GWAS have now been carried out, with a meta-analysis currently under way. Using over 6000 cases and 10,000 controls, two of these studies have identified variation at a number of loci as being associated with an increased risk of disease (Satake et al., 2009; Simon-Sanchez et al., 2009). Three genes stand out as candidates from these studies - the SNCA gene, coding for α-synuclein, the LRRK2 gene, coding for leucine rich repeat kinase 2, and MAPT, coding for the microtubule-associated protein tau. Mutations at all three of these loci have been associated with Mendelian forms of disease presenting with the clinical syndrome of Parkinsonism, however only SNCA and LRRK2 have been previously associated with pathologically defined PD (Hardy et al., 2009). Point mutations in α-synuclein, along with gene multiplication events, result in autosomal dominant PD, often with a significant dementia component. In addition to this, α-synuclein is the principle component of the main pathological hallmark of idiopathic PD, the Lewy body, making it an unsurprising hit in the GWAS (Spillantini et al., 1997). Mutations in LRRK2 are the most common genetic cause of PD, and so again made this gene a likely candidate as a susceptibility locus for the sporadic form of disease (Kumari and Tan, 2009). More surprising, perhaps, was the identification of tau as a susceptibility factor for Parkinson's. In this review we will outline the role of tau in neurodegeneration and in different forms of Parkinsonism, and speculate as to what the functional basis of the association between MAPT and PD might be.

RELAP-7 Level 2 Milestone Report: Demonstration of a Steady State Single Phase PWR Simulation with RELAP-7

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

David Andrs; Ray Berry; Derek Gaston

The document contains the simulation results of a steady state model PWR problem with the RELAP-7 code. The RELAP-7 code is the next generation nuclear reactor system safety analysis code being developed at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The code is based on INL's modern scientific software development framework - MOOSE (Multi-Physics Object-Oriented Simulation Environment). This report summarizes the initial results of simulating a model steady-state single phase PWR problem using the current version of the RELAP-7 code. The major purpose of this demonstration simulation is to show that RELAP-7 code can be rapidly developed to simulate single-phase reactor problems. RELAP-7more » is a new project started on October 1st, 2011. It will become the main reactor systems simulation toolkit for RISMC (Risk Informed Safety Margin Characterization) and the next generation tool in the RELAP reactor safety/systems analysis application series (the replacement for RELAP5). The key to the success of RELAP-7 is the simultaneous advancement of physical models, numerical methods, and software design while maintaining a solid user perspective. Physical models include both PDEs (Partial Differential Equations) and ODEs (Ordinary Differential Equations) and experimental based closure models. RELAP-7 will eventually utilize well posed governing equations for multiphase flow, which can be strictly verified. Closure models used in RELAP5 and newly developed models will be reviewed and selected to reflect the progress made during the past three decades. RELAP-7 uses modern numerical methods, which allow implicit time integration, higher order schemes in both time and space, and strongly coupled multi-physics simulations. RELAP-7 is written with object oriented programming language C++. Its development follows modern software design paradigms. The code is easy to read, develop, maintain, and couple with other codes. Most importantly, the modern software design allows the RELAP-7 code to evolve with time. RELAP-7 is a MOOSE-based application. MOOSE (Multiphysics Object-Oriented Simulation Environment) is a framework for solving computational engineering problems in a well-planned, managed, and coordinated way. By leveraging millions of lines of open source software packages, such as PETSC (a nonlinear solver developed at Argonne National Laboratory) and LibMesh (a Finite Element Analysis package developed at University of Texas), MOOSE significantly reduces the expense and time required to develop new applications. Numerical integration methods and mesh management for parallel computation are provided by MOOSE. Therefore RELAP-7 code developers only need to focus on physics and user experiences. By using the MOOSE development environment, RELAP-7 code is developed by following the same modern software design paradigms used for other MOOSE development efforts. There are currently over 20 different MOOSE based applications ranging from 3-D transient neutron transport, detailed 3-D transient fuel performance analysis, to long-term material aging. Multi-physics and multiple dimensional analyses capabilities can be obtained by coupling RELAP-7 and other MOOSE based applications and by leveraging with capabilities developed by other DOE programs. This allows restricting the focus of RELAP-7 to systems analysis-type simulations and gives priority to retain and significantly extend RELAP5's capabilities.« less

Monte Carlo characterization of PWR spent fuel assemblies to determine the detectability of pin diversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burdo, James S.

This research is based on the concept that the diversion of nuclear fuel pins from Light Water Reactor (LWR) spent fuel assemblies is feasible by a careful comparison of spontaneous fission neutron and gamma levels in the guide tube locations of the fuel assemblies. The goal is to be able to determine whether some of the assembly fuel pins are either missing or have been replaced with dummy or fresh fuel pins. It is known that for typical commercial power spent fuel assemblies, the dominant spontaneous neutron emissions come from Cm-242 and Cm-244. Because of the shorter half-life of Cm-242 (0.45 yr) relative to that of Cm-244 (18.1 yr), Cm-244 is practically the only neutron source contributing to the neutron source term after the spent fuel assemblies are more than two years old. Initially, this research focused upon developing MCNP5 models of PWR fuel assemblies, modeling their depletion using the MONTEBURNS code, and by carrying out a preliminary depletion of a ¼ model 17x17 assembly from the TAKAHAMA-3 PWR. Later, the depletion and more accurate isotopic distribution in the pins at discharge was modeled using the TRITON depletion module of the SCALE computer code. Benchmarking comparisons were performed with the MONTEBURNS and TRITON results. Subsequently, the neutron flux in each of the guide tubes of the TAKAHAMA-3 PWR assembly at two years after discharge as calculated by the MCNP5 computer code was determined for various scenarios. Cases were considered for all spent fuel pins present and for replacement of a single pin at a position near the center of the assembly (10,9) and at the corner (17,1). Some scenarios were duplicated with a gamma flux calculation for high energies associated with Cm-244. For each case, the difference between the flux (neutron or gamma) for all spent fuel pins and with a pin removed or replaced is calculated for each guide tube. Different detection criteria were established. The first was whether the relative error of the difference was less than 1.00, allowing for the existence of the difference within the margin of error. The second was whether the difference between the two values was big enough to prevent their error bars from overlapping. Error analysis was performed both using a one second count and pseudo-Maxwell statistics for a projected 60 second count, giving four criteria for detection. The number of guide tubes meeting these criteria was compared and graphed for each case. Further analysis at extremes of high and low enrichment and long and short burnup times was done using data from assemblies at the Beaver Valley 1 and 2 PWR. In all neutron flux cases, at least two guide tube locations meet all the criteria for detection of pin diversion. At least one location in almost all of the gamma flux cases does. These results show that placing detectors in the empty guide tubes of spent fuel bundles to identify possible pin diversion is feasible.

SU-F-P-40: Analysis of Pelvic Lymph Node Margin Using Prostate Fiducial Markers, for SBRT Treatments

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

Torres, J; Castro Pena, P; Garrigo, E

2016-06-15

Purpose: The use of fiducials markers in prostate treatment allows a precise localization of this volume. Typical prostate SBRT margins with fiducials markers are 5mm in all directions, except toward the rectum, where 3mm is used. For some patients nearby pelvic lymph nodes with 5mm margin need to be irradiate assuming that its localization is linked to the prostate fiducial markers instead of bony anatomy. The purpose of this work was to analyze the geometric impact of locate the lymph node regions through the patient positioning by prostate fiducial markers. Methods: 10 patients with prostate SBRT with lymph nodes irradiationmore » were selected. Each patient had 5 implanted titanium fiducial markers. A Novalis TX (BrainLAB-Varian) with ExacTrac and aSi1000 portal image was used. Treatment plan uses 11 beams with a dose prescription (D95%) of 40Gy to the prostate and 25Gy to the lymph node in 5 fractions. Daily positioning was carried out by ExacTrac system based on the implanted fiducials as the reference treatment position; further position verification was performed using the ExacTrac and two portal images (gantry angle 0 and 90) based on bony structures. Comparison between reference position with bony based ExacTrac and portal image localization, was done for each treatment fraction Results: A total of 50 positioning analysis were done. The average discrepancy between reference treatment position and ExacTrac based on bony anatomy (pubic area) was 4.2mm [0.3; 11.2]. The discrepancy was <5mm in 61% of the cases and <9mm in 92%. Using portal images the average discrepancy was 3.7mm [0.0; 11.1]. The discrepancy was <5mm in 69% of the cases and <9mm in 96%. Conclusion: Localizing lymph node by prostate fiducial markers may produce large discrepancy as large as 11mm compared to bony based localization. Dosimetric impact of this discrepancy should be studied.« less

Potential effects of valproate and oxcarbazepine on growth velocity and bone metabolism in epileptic children- a medical center experience.

PubMed

Lin, Chien-Ming; Fan, Hueng-Chuen; Chao, Tsu-Yi; Chu, Der-Ming; Lai, Chi-Chieh; Wang, Chih-Chien; Chen, Shyi-Jou

2016-05-03

Children with longstanding use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are susceptible to developing low bone mineral density and an increased fracture risk. However, the literature regarding the effects of AEDs on growth in epileptic children is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential effects of valproate (VPA) and/or oxcarbazepine (OXC) therapy on growth velocity and bone metabolism. Seventy-three ambulatory children (40 boys and 33 girls) with epilepsy, aged between 1 and 18 years (mean age 9.8 ± 4.1 years), were evaluated for growth velocity before and for 1 year after VPA and/or OXC treatment. The bone resorption marker serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRAcP5b) and the bone formation marker serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) were measured post-AEDs therapy for 1 year. The difference in growth velocity (ΔHt) and body weight change (ΔWt) between pre- and post-AEDs treatment were -1.0 ± 2.8 cm/year (P < 0.05) and 0.1 ± 3.9 kg/year (P = 0.84), respectively. The study population had serum TRAcP5b-SDS of -1.6 ± 1.2 and BAP-SDS of 1.7 ± 3.7 compared with sex- and age-matched healthy children. Significant correlation between serum TRAcP 5b and BAP activities was noted (r = 0.60, p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between growth velocity and serum TRAcP 5b activity after AED treatment (r = 0.42, p < 0.01). No correlation was found between ΔHt, ΔWt, serum TRAcP 5b, BAP activity and types of AEDs. Growth velocity was significantly decreased in epileptic children after 1 year of VPA and/or OXC treatment. The effect of VPA and/or OXC therapy on dysregulation of bone metabolism might play a crucial role in physical growth.

A model of systems integration to facilitate ITS deployment : FAST-TRAC phase IV deliverable

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-04-01

The FAST-TRAC (Faster and Safer Travel through Traffic Routing and Advanced Controls) Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Field Test in Oakland County, an urbanized county in metropolitan Detroit, represents a large and successful systems integr...

Hazardous chemical tracking system (HAZ-TRAC)

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

Bramlette, J D; Ewart, S M; Jones, C E

Westinghouse Idaho Nuclear Company, Inc. (WINCO) developed and implemented a computerized hazardous chemical tracking system, referred to as Haz-Trac, for use at the Idaho Chemical Processing Plant (ICPP). Haz-Trac is designed to provide a means to improve the accuracy and reliability of chemical information, which enhances the overall quality and safety of ICPP operations. The system tracks all chemicals and chemical components from the time they enter the ICPP until the chemical changes form, is used, or becomes a waste. The system runs on a Hewlett-Packard (HP) 3000 Series 70 computer. The system is written in COBOL and uses VIEW/3000,more » TurboIMAGE/DBMS 3000, OMNIDEX, and SPEEDWARE. The HP 3000 may be accessed throughout the ICPP, and from remote locations, using data communication lines. Haz-Trac went into production in October, 1989. Currently, over 1910 chemicals and chemical components are tracked on the system. More than 2500 personnel hours were saved during the first six months of operation. Cost savings have been realized by reducing the time needed to collect and compile reporting information, identifying and disposing of unneeded chemicals, and eliminating duplicate inventories. Haz-Trac maintains information required by the Superfund Amendment Reauthorization Act (SARA), the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).« less

Is ExacTrac x-ray system an alternative to CBCT for positioning patients with head and neck cancers?

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

Clemente, Stefania; Chiumento, Costanza; Fiorentino, Alba

Purpose: To evaluate the usefulness of a six-degrees-of freedom (6D) correction using ExacTrac robotics system in patients with head-and-neck (HN) cancer receiving radiation therapy.Methods: Local setup accuracy was analyzed for 12 patients undergoing intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Patient position was imaged daily upon two different protocols, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and ExacTrac (ET) images correction. Setup data from either approach were compared in terms of both residual errors after correction and punctual displacement of selected regions of interest (Mandible, C2, and C6 vertebral bodies).Results: On average, both protocols achieved reasonably low residual errors after initial correction. The observed differences inmore » shift vectors between the two protocols showed that CBCT tends to weight more C2 and C6 at the expense of the mandible, while ET tends to average more differences among the different ROIs.Conclusions: CBCT, even without 6D correction capabilities, seems preferable to ET for better consistent alignment and the capability to see soft tissues. Therefore, in our experience, CBCT represents a benchmark for positioning head and neck cancer patients.« less

Development of new two-dimensional spectral/spatial code based on dynamic cyclic shift code for OCDMA system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jellali, Nabiha; Najjar, Monia; Ferchichi, Moez; Rezig, Houria

2017-07-01

In this paper, a new two-dimensional spectral/spatial codes family, named two dimensional dynamic cyclic shift codes (2D-DCS) is introduced. The 2D-DCS codes are derived from the dynamic cyclic shift code for the spectral and spatial coding. The proposed system can fully eliminate the multiple access interference (MAI) by using the MAI cancellation property. The effect of shot noise, phase-induced intensity noise and thermal noise are used to analyze the code performance. In comparison with existing two dimensional (2D) codes, such as 2D perfect difference (2D-PD), 2D Extended Enhanced Double Weight (2D-Extended-EDW) and 2D hybrid (2D-FCC/MDW) codes, the numerical results show that our proposed codes have the best performance. By keeping the same code length and increasing the spatial code, the performance of our 2D-DCS system is enhanced: it provides higher data rates while using lower transmitted power and a smaller spectral width.

Assessment of the TRACE Reactor Analysis Code Against Selected PANDA Transient Data

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

Zavisca, M.; Ghaderi, M.; Khatib-Rahbar, M.

2006-07-01

The TRACE (TRAC/RELAP Advanced Computational Engine) code is an advanced, best-estimate thermal-hydraulic program intended to simulate the transient behavior of light-water reactor systems, using a two-fluid (steam and water, with non-condensable gas), seven-equation representation of the conservation equations and flow-regime dependent constitutive relations in a component-based model with one-, two-, or three-dimensional elements, as well as solid heat structures and logical elements for the control system. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is currently supporting the development of the TRACE code and its assessment against a variety of experimental data pertinent to existing and evolutionary reactor designs. This paper presents themore » results of TRACE post-test prediction of P-series of experiments (i.e., tests comprising the ISP-42 blind and open phases) conducted at the PANDA large-scale test facility in 1990's. These results show reasonable agreement with the reported test results, indicating good performance of the code and relevant underlying thermal-hydraulic and heat transfer models. (authors)« less

Development of burnup dependent fuel rod model in COBRA-TF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yilmaz, Mine Ozdemir

The purpose of this research was to develop a burnup dependent fuel thermal conductivity model within Pennsylvania State University, Reactor Dynamics and Fuel Management Group (RDFMG) version of the subchannel thermal-hydraulics code COBRA-TF (CTF). The model takes into account first, the degradation of fuel thermal conductivity with high burnup; and second, the fuel thermal conductivity dependence on the Gadolinium content for both UO2 and MOX fuel rods. The modified Nuclear Fuel Industries (NFI) model for UO2 fuel rods and Duriez/Modified NFI Model for MOX fuel rods were incorporated into CTF and fuel centerline predictions were compared against Halden experimental test data and FRAPCON-3.4 predictions to validate the burnup dependent fuel thermal conductivity model in CTF. Experimental test cases from Halden reactor fuel rods for UO2 fuel rods at Beginning of Life (BOL), through lifetime without Gd2O3 and through lifetime with Gd 2O3 and a MOX fuel rod were simulated with CTF. Since test fuel rod and FRAPCON-3.4 results were based on single rod measurements, CTF was run for a single fuel rod surrounded with a single channel configuration. Input decks for CTF were developed for one fuel rod located at the center of a subchannel (rod-centered subchannel approach). Fuel centerline temperatures predicted by CTF were compared against the measurements from Halden experimental test data and the predictions from FRAPCON-3.4. After implementing the new fuel thermal conductivity model in CTF and validating the model with experimental data, CTF model was applied to steady state and transient calculations. 4x4 PWR fuel bundle configuration from Purdue MOX benchmark was used to apply the new model for steady state and transient calculations. First, one of each high burnup UO2 and MOX fuel rods from 4x4 matrix were selected to carry out single fuel rod calculations and fuel centerline temperatures predicted by CTF/TORT-TD were compared against CTF /TORT-TD /FRAPTRAN predictions. After confirming that the new fuel thermal conductivity model in CTF worked and provided consistent results with FRAPTRAN predictions for a single fuel rod configuration, the same type of analysis was carried out for a bigger system which is the 4x4 PWR bundle consisting of 15 fuel pins and one control guide tube. Steady- state calculations at Hot Full Power (HFP) conditions for control guide tube out (unrodded) were performed using the 4x4 PWR array with CTF/TORT-TD coupled code system. Fuel centerline, surface and average temperatures predicted by CTF/TORT-TD with and without the new fuel thermal conductivity model were compared against CTF/TORT-TD/FRAPTRAN predictions to demonstrate the improvement in fuel centerline predictions when new model was used. In addition to that constant and CTF dynamic gap conductance model were used with the new thermal conductivity model to show the performance of the CTF dynamic gap conductance model and its impact on fuel centerline and surface temperatures. Finally, a Rod Ejection Accident (REA) scenario using the same 4x4 PWR array was run both at Hot Zero Power (HZP) and Hot Full Power (HFP) condition, starting at a position where half of the control rod is inserted. This scenario was run using CTF/TORT-TD coupled code system with and without the new fuel thermal conductivity model. The purpose of this transient analysis was to show the impact of thermal conductivity degradation (TCD) on feedback effects, specifically Doppler Reactivity Coefficient (DRC) and, eventually, total core reactivity.

Variation in GIGYF2 is not associated with Parkinson disease.

PubMed

Nichols, W C; Kissell, D K; Pankratz, N; Pauciulo, M W; Elsaesser, V E; Clark, K A; Halter, C A; Rudolph, A; Wojcieszek, J; Pfeiffer, R F; Foroud, T

2009-06-02

A recent study reported that mutations in a gene on chromosome 2q36-37, GIGYF2, result in Parkinson disease (PD). We have previously reported linkage to this chromosomal region in a sample of multiplex PD families, with the strongest evidence of linkage obtained using the subset of the sample having the strongest family history of disease and meeting the strictest diagnostic criteria. We have tested whether mutations in GIGYF2 may account for the previously observed linkage finding. We sequenced the GIGYF2 coding region in 96 unrelated patients with PD used in our original study that contributed to the chromosome 2q36-37 linkage signal. Subsequently, we genotyped the entire sample of 566 multiplex PD kindreds as well as 1,447 controls to test whether variants in GIGYF2 are causative or increase susceptibility for PD. We detected three novel variants as well as one of the previously reported seven variants in a total of five multiple PD families; however, there was no consistent evidence that these variants segregated with PD in these families. We also did not find a significant increase in risk for PD among those inheriting variants in GIGYF2 (p = 0.28). We believe that variation in a gene other than GIGYF2 accounts for the previously reported linkage finding on chromosome 2q36-37.

SU-E-CAMPUS-J-05: Quantitative Investigation of Random and Systematic Uncertainties From Hardware and Software Components in the Frameless 6DBrainLAB ExacTrac System

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

Keeling, V; Jin, H; Hossain, S

2014-06-15

Purpose: To evaluate setup accuracy and quantify individual systematic and random errors for the various hardware and software components of the frameless 6D-BrainLAB ExacTrac system. Methods: 35 patients with cranial lesions, some with multiple isocenters (50 total lesions treated in 1, 3, 5 fractions), were investigated. All patients were simulated with a rigid head-and-neck mask and the BrainLAB localizer. CT images were transferred to the IPLAN treatment planning system where optimized plans were generated using stereotactic reference frame based on the localizer. The patients were setup initially with infrared (IR) positioning ExacTrac system. Stereoscopic X-ray images (XC: X-ray Correction) weremore » registered to their corresponding digitally-reconstructed-radiographs, based on bony anatomy matching, to calculate 6D-translational and rotational (Lateral, Longitudinal, Vertical, Pitch, Roll, Yaw) shifts. XC combines systematic errors of the mask, localizer, image registration, frame, and IR. If shifts were below tolerance (0.7 mm translational and 1 degree rotational), treatment was initiated; otherwise corrections were applied and additional X-rays were acquired to verify patient position (XV: X-ray Verification). Statistical analysis was used to extract systematic and random errors of the different components of the 6D-ExacTrac system and evaluate the cumulative setup accuracy. Results: Mask systematic errors (translational; rotational) were the largest and varied from one patient to another in the range (−15 to 4mm; −2.5 to 2.5degree) obtained from mean of XC for each patient. Setup uncertainty in IR positioning (0.97,2.47,1.62mm;0.65,0.84,0.96degree) was extracted from standard-deviation of XC. Combined systematic errors of the frame and localizer (0.32,−0.42,−1.21mm; −0.27,0.34,0.26degree) was extracted from mean of means of XC distributions. Final patient setup uncertainty was obtained from the standard deviations of XV (0.57,0.77,0.67mm,0.39,0.35,0.30degree). Conclusion: Statistical analysis was used to calculate cumulative and individual systematic errors from the different hardware and software components of the 6D-ExacTrac-system. Patients were treated with cumulative errors (<1mm,<1degree) with XV image guidance.« less

Application of the TEMPEST computer code for simulating hydrogen distribution in model containment structures. [PWR; BWR

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

Trent, D.S.; Eyler, L.L.

In this study several aspects of simulating hydrogen distribution in geometric configurations relevant to reactor containment structures were investigated using the TEMPEST computer code. Of particular interest was the performance of the TEMPEST turbulence model in a density-stratified environment. Computed results illustrated that the TEMPEST numerical procedures predicted the measured phenomena with good accuracy under a variety of conditions and that the turbulence model used is a viable approach in complex turbulent flow simulation.

78 FR 37877 - Request for Transit Rail Advisory Committee for Safety (TRACS) Nominations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-24

... transportation as FTA implements new statutory authority for public transportation safety oversight. FOR FURTHER... public transportation. Therefore, TRACS membership will be reconfigured to reflect a broader range of... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Transit Administration Request for Transit Rail Advisory...

TRAC performance estimates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Everett, L.

1992-01-01

This report documents the performance characteristics of a Targeting Reflective Alignment Concept (TRAC) sensor. The performance will be documented for both short and long ranges. For long ranges, the sensor is used without the flat mirror attached to the target. To better understand the capabilities of the TRAC based sensors, an engineering model is required. The model can be used to better design the system for a particular application. This is necessary because there are many interrelated design variables in application. These include lense parameters, camera, and target configuration. The report presents first an analytical development of the performance, and second an experimental verification of the equations. In the analytical presentation it is assumed that the best vision resolution is a single pixel element. The experimental results suggest however that the resolution is better than 1 pixel. Hence the analytical results should be considered worst case conditions. The report also discusses advantages and limitations of the TRAC sensor in light of the performance estimates. Finally the report discusses potential improvements.

Analysis of steam generator tube rupture transients with single failure

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

Trambauer, K.

The Gesellschaft fuer Reaktorsicherheit is engaged in the collection and evaluation of light water reactor operating experience as well as analyses for the risk study of the pressurized water reactor (PWR). Within these activities, thermohydraulic calculations have been performed to show the influence of different boundary conditions and disturbances on the steam generator tube rupture (SGTR) transients. The analyses of these calculations have focused on the measures and systems needed to cope with an SGTR. The reference plant for this analysis is a 1300-MW(e) PWR of Kraftwerk Union design with four loops, each containing a U-tube steam generator (SG) andmore » a reactor cooling pump (RCP). The thermal-hydraulic code DRUFAN-02 was used for the transient calculations.« less

Comparison of TG‐43 dosimetric parameters of brachytherapy sources obtained by three different versions of MCNP codes

PubMed Central

Zaker, Neda; Sina, Sedigheh; Koontz, Craig; Meigooni1, Ali S.

2016-01-01

Monte Carlo simulations are widely used for calculation of the dosimetric parameters of brachytherapy sources. MCNP4C2, MCNP5, MCNPX, EGS4, EGSnrc, PTRAN, and GEANT4 are among the most commonly used codes in this field. Each of these codes utilizes a cross‐sectional library for the purpose of simulating different elements and materials with complex chemical compositions. The accuracies of the final outcomes of these simulations are very sensitive to the accuracies of the cross‐sectional libraries. Several investigators have shown that inaccuracies of some of the cross section files have led to errors in  125I and  103Pd parameters. The purpose of this study is to compare the dosimetric parameters of sample brachytherapy sources, calculated with three different versions of the MCNP code — MCNP4C, MCNP5, and MCNPX. In these simulations for each source type, the source and phantom geometries, as well as the number of the photons, were kept identical, thus eliminating the possible uncertainties. The results of these investigations indicate that for low‐energy sources such as  125I and  103Pd there are discrepancies in gL(r) values. Discrepancies up to 21.7% and 28% are observed between MCNP4C and other codes at a distance of 6 cm for  103Pd and 10 cm for  125I from the source, respectively. However, for higher energy sources, the discrepancies in gL(r) values are less than 1.1% for  192Ir and less than 1.2% for  137Cs between the three codes. PACS number(s): 87.56.bg PMID:27074460

Measurement of activation cross-section of long-lived products in deuteron induced nuclear reactions on palladium in the 30-50MeV energy range.

PubMed

Ditrói, F; Tárkányi, F; Takács, S; Hermanne, A; Ignatyuk, A V

2017-10-01

Excitation functions were measured in the 31-49.2MeV energy range for the nat Pd(d,xn) 111,110m,106m,105,104g,103 Ag, nat Pd(d,x) 111m,109,101,100 Pd, nat Pd(d,x), 105,102m,102g,101m,101g,100,99m,99g Rh and nat Pd(d,x) 103,97 Ru nuclear reactions by using the stacked foil irradiation technique. The experimental results are compared with our previous results and with the theoretical predictions calculated with the ALICE-D, EMPIRE-D and TALYS (TENDL libraries) codes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

Vidal, Jean-Marc; Eschbach, Romain; Launay, Agnes

CEA and AREVA-NC have developed and used a depletion code named CESAR for 30 years. This user-friendly industrial tool provides fast characterizations for all types of nuclear fuel (PWR / UOX or MOX or reprocess Uranium, BWR / UOX or MOX, MTR and SFR) and the wastes associated. CESAR can evaluate 100 heavy nuclides, 200 fission products and 150 activation products (with Helium and Tritium formation). It can also characterize the structural material of the fuel (Zircalloy, stainless steel, M5 alloy). CESAR provides depletion calculations for any reactor irradiation history and from 3 months to 1 million years of coolingmore » time. CESAR5.3 is based on the latest calculation schemes recommended by the CEA and on an international nuclear data base (JEFF-3.1.1). It is constantly checked against the CEA referenced and qualified depletion code DARWIN. CESAR incorporates the CEA qualification based on the dissolution analyses of fuel rod samples and the 'La Hague' reprocessing plant feedback experience. AREVA-NC uses CESAR intensively at 'La Hague' plant, not only for prospective studies but also for characterizations at different industrial facilities all along the reprocessing process and waste conditioning (near 150 000 calculations per year). CESAR is the reference code for AREVA-NC. CESAR is used directly or indirectly with other software, data bank or special equipment in many parts of the La Hague plants. The great flexibility of CESAR has rapidly interested other projects. CESAR became a 'tool' directly integrated in some other softwares. Finally, coupled with a Graphical User Interface, it can be easily used independently, responding to many needs for prospective studies as a support for nuclear facilities or transport. An English version is available. For the principal isotopes of U and Pu, CESAR5 benefits from the CEA experimental validation for the PWR UOX fuels, up to a burnup of 60 GWd/t and for PWR MOX fuels, up to 45 GWd/t. CESAR version 5.3 uses the CEA reference calculation codes for neutron physics with the JEFF-3.1.1 nuclear data set. (authors)« less

Evaluation of user perceptions and behaviors of Fast-Trac : pilot study results

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-01-01

The purpose of the User Perceptions and Behaviors evaluation component of FAST-TRAC is to understand how users perceive and value the in-vehicle navigation system, ALI-SCOUT, and to determine how the system is used in the Oakland County study area. S...

TRAC, a collaborative computer tool for tracer-test interpretation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gutierrez, A.; Klinka, T.; Thiéry, D.; Buscarlet, E.; Binet, S.; Jozja, N.; Défarge, C.; Leclerc, B.; Fécamp, C.; Ahumada, Y.; Elsass, J.

2013-05-01

Artificial tracer tests are widely used by consulting engineers for demonstrating water circulation, proving the existence of leakage, or estimating groundwater velocity. However, the interpretation of such tests is often very basic, with the result that decision makers and professionals commonly face unreliable results through hasty and empirical interpretation. There is thus an increasing need for a reliable interpretation tool, compatible with the latest operating systems and available in several languages. BRGM, the French Geological Survey, has developed a project together with hydrogeologists from various other organizations to build software assembling several analytical solutions in order to comply with various field contexts. This computer program, called TRAC, is very light and simple, allowing the user to add his own analytical solution if the formula is not yet included. It aims at collaborative improvement by sharing the tool and the solutions. TRAC can be used for interpreting data recovered from a tracer test as well as for simulating the transport of a tracer in the saturated zone (for the time being). Calibration of a site operation is based on considering the hydrodynamic and hydrodispersive features of groundwater flow as well as the amount, nature and injection mode of the artificial tracer. The software is available in French, English and Spanish, and the latest version can be downloaded from the web site http://trac.brgm.fr">http://trac.brgm.fr.

Mutations in the GIGYF2 (TNRC15) Gene at the PARK11 Locus in Familial Parkinson Disease

PubMed Central

Lautier, Corinne; Goldwurm, Stefano; Dürr, Alexandra; Giovannone, Barbara; Tsiaras, William G.; Pezzoli, Gianni; Brice, Alexis; Smith, Robert J.

2008-01-01

The genetic basis for association of the PARK11 region of chromosome 2 with familial Parkinson disease (PD) is unknown. This study examined the GIGYF2 (Grb10-Interacting GYF Protein-2) (TNRC15) gene, which contains the PARK11 microsatellite marker with the highest linkage score (D2S206, LOD 5.14). The 27 coding exons of the GIGYF2 gene were sequenced in 123 Italian and 126 French patients with familial PD, plus 131 Italian and 96 French controls. A total of seven different GIGYF2 missense mutations resulting in single amino acid substitutions were present in 12 unrelated PD index patients (4.8%) and not in controls. Three amino acid insertions or deletions were found in four other index patients and absent in controls. Specific exon sequencing showed that these ten sequence changes were absent from a further 91 controls. In four families with amino acid substitutions in which at least one other PD case was available, the GIGYF2 mutations (Asn56Ser, Thr112Ala, and Asp606Glu) segregated with PD. There were, however, two unaffected carriers in one family, suggesting age-dependent or incomplete penetrance. One index case (PD onset age 33) inherited a GIGYF2 mutation (Ile278Val) from her affected father (PD onset age 66) and a previously described PD-linked mutation in the LRRK2 gene (Ile1371Val) from her affected mother (PD onset age 61). The earlier onset and severe clinical course in the index patient suggest additive effects of the GIGYF2 and LRRK2 mutations. These data strongly support GIGYF2 as a PARK11 gene with a causal role in familial PD. PMID:18358451

75 FR 51523 - Notice of Meeting of the Transit Rail Advisory Committee for Safety (TRACS)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-20

... Administration (FTA) on matters pertaining to the safety of public transportation systems. TRACS is composed of... Administration Eric Cheng, Utah Department of Transportation Richard W. Clark, California Public Utilities... Grizard, American Public Transportation Association Leonard Hardy, Bay Area Transit Authority Henry...

76 FR 16854 - Notice of Meeting of the Transit Rail Advisory Committee for Safety (TRACS)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-25

... Secretary and the Federal Transit Administrator on matters relating to the safety of public transportation... to the safety of public transportation systems. TRACS is composed of 21 members representing a broad... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Transit Administration Notice of Meeting of the Transit Rail...

Incident Management, Fast-Trac, Phase Iib Deliverables, #20. The Model Analysis Report On The Benefits Of Scats In Alleviating The Impacts Of Incidents

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-01-01

FAST-TRAC : SELECTING THE MOST APPROPRIATE TRAFFIC CONTROL STRATEGY FOR INCIDENT CONGESTION MANAGEMENT CAN HAVE A MAJOR IMPACT ON THE EXTENT AND DURATION OF THE RESULTING CONGESTION. THIS RESEARCH INVESTIGATED THE EFFECTIVENESSES OF SEVERAL CONTRO...

Are hospitalized Parkinson's disease patients more likely to carry a do-not-resuscitate order?

PubMed

Mahajan, Abhimanyu; Patel, Achint; Nadkarni, Girish; Sidiropoulos, Christos

2017-03-01

While DNR utilization is a complex subjective phenomenon, the effect of such a decision can collectively influence attitudes of care. The role of palliative care in advanced PD has been under appreciated. We reviewed the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2012 for all hospitalizations ⩾65years. We identified PD by using ICD-9-CM code 332.0 and DNR status with ICD code - V49.86 entered during the same admission as a secondary diagnosis. We estimated risk of mortality by the 3M™ All Patient Refined DRG (APR DRG) classification System and generated multivariate regression models to assess associations between DNR and PD after adjusting for confounders. Finally, we tested for interaction by risk of mortality. We analyzed 12,700,000 hospitalizations with age ⩾65years in 2012, of which 246625 (1.94%) pts had PD. Proportion of DNR utilization was higher among PD patients vs. those without, 20895 (8.47%) vs. 723090 (5.8%) (p<0.01). In multivariable regression analysis, PD patients were associated with higher odds of DNR utilization [Adjusted Odds ratio (aOR): 1.26, 95% CI: 1.21, 1.30, p<0.001]. Finally, the odds of DNR utilization increased significantly with APR-DRG stage [aOR: 1 vs. 1.61 (Stage 2) vs. 2.46 (Stage 3) vs. 3.61 (Stage 4); p<0.0001]. PD patients have higher odds of DNR utilization than the general population, which worsens with increasing objective risk of mortality. This is likely correlated with perception of end of life and importance of QOL with increasing severity of overall illness. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Comparison of Measured and Predicted XV-15 Tiltrotor Surface Acoustic Pressures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lyle, Karen H.; Burley, Casey L.; Prichard, Devon S.

1997-01-01

Predicted XV-15 exterior surface acoustic pressures are compared with previously published experimental data. Surface acoustic pressure transducers were concentrated near the tip-path-plane of the rotor in airplane mode. The comparison emphasized cruise conditions which are of interest for tiltrotor interior noise - level flight for speeds ranging from 72 m/s to 113 m/s. The predictions were produced by components of the NASA Langley Tiltrotor Aeroacoustic Code (TRAC) system of computer codes. Comparisons between measurements and predictions were made in both the time and frequency domains, as well as overall sound pressure levels. In general, the predictions replicated the measured data well. Discrepancies between measurements and predictions were noted. Some of the discrepancies were due to poor correlation of the measured data with the rotor tach signal. In other cases limitations of the predictive methodology have been indicated.

77 FR 5876 - Notice of Meeting of the Transit Rail Advisory Committee for Safety (TRACS)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-06

... the safety of public transportation systems. TRACS is comprised of 26 members, including 7 new members... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Transit Administration Notice of Meeting of the Transit Rail... meeting. SUMMARY: This notice announces a public meeting of the Transit Rail Advisory Committee for Safety...

78 FR 28285 - Notice of Meeting of the Transit Rail Advisory Committee for Safety (TRACS)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-14

... the safety of public transportation systems. TRACS is composed of 24 members representing a broad base... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Transit Administration Notice of Meeting of the Transit Rail... meeting. SUMMARY: This notice announces a public meeting of the Transit Rail Advisory Committee for Safety...

78 FR 67212 - Notice of Meeting of the Transit Rail Advisory Committee for Safety (TRACS)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-08

... the safety of public transportation systems. DATES: The TRACS meeting will be held on November 21... Letter Report on the Development of the National Public Transportation Safety Plan (4) Review of the Draft Letter Report on Public Transportation Agency Plans (5) Public Comments (6) Wrap Up As previously...

A comparison of two types of running wheel in terms of mouse preference, health, and welfare.

PubMed

Walker, Michael; Mason, Georgia

2018-07-01

Voluntary wheel running occurs in mice of all strains, sexes, and ages. Mice find voluntary wheel running rewarding, and it leads to numerous health benefits. For this reason wheels are used both to enhance welfare and to create models of exercise. However, many designs of running wheel are used. This makes between-study comparisons difficult, as this variability could potentially affect the amount, pattern, and/or intensity of running behaviour, and thence the wheels' effects on welfare and exercise-related changes in anatomy and physiology. This study therefore evaluated two commercially available models, chosen because safe for group-housed mice: Bio Serv®'s "fast-trac" wheel combo and Ware Manufacturing Inc.'s stainless steel mesh 5″ upright wheel. Working with a total of three hundred and fifty one female C57BL/6, DBA/2 and BALB/c mice, we assessed these wheels' relative utilization by mice when access was free; the strength of motivation for each wheel-type when access required crossing an electrified grid; and the impact each wheel had on mouse well-being (inferred from acoustic startle responses and neophobia) and exercise-related anatomical changes (BMI; heart and hind limb masses). Mice ran more on the "fast-trac" wheel regardless of whether both wheel-types were available at once, or only if one was present. In terms of motivation, subjects required to work to access a single wheel worked equally hard for both wheel-types (even if locked and thus not useable for running), but if provided with one working wheel for free and the other type of wheel (again unlocked) accessible via crossing the electrified grid, the "fast-trac" wheel emerged as more motivating, as the Maximum Price Paid for the Ware metal wheel was lower than that paid for the "fast-trac" plastic wheel, at least for C57BL/6s and DBA/2s. No deleterious consequences were noted with either wheel in terms of health and welfare, but only mice with plastic wheels developed significantly larger hearts and hind limbs than control animals with locked wheels. Thus, where differences emerged, Bio Serv®'s "fast-trac" wheel combos appeared to better meet the aims of exercise provision than Ware Manufacturing's steel upright wheels. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Keeping Track Every Step of the Way

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2001-01-01

Knowledge Sharing Systems, Inc., a producer of intellectual assets management software systems for the federal government, universities, non-profit laboratories, and private companies, constructed and presently manages the NASA Technology Tracking System, also known as TechTracS. Under contract to Langley Research Center, TechTracS identifies and captures all NASA technologies, manages the patent prosecution process, and then tracks their progress en route to commercialization. The system supports all steps involved in various technology transfer activities, and is considered the premier intellectual asset management system used in the federal government today. NASA TechTracS consists of multiple relational databases and web servers, located at each of the 10 field centers, as well as NASA Headquarters. The system is capable of supporting the following functions: planning commercial technologies; commercialization activities; reporting new technologies and inventions; and processing and tracking intellectual property rights, licensing, partnerships, awards, and success stories. NASA TechTracS is critical to the Agency's ongoing mission to commercialize its revolutionary technologies in a variety of sectors within private industry, both aerospace and non- aerospace.

Conceptual design study of small long-life PWR based on thorium cycle fuel

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

Subkhi, M. Nurul; Su'ud, Zaki; Waris, Abdul

2014-09-30

A neutronic performance of small long-life Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) using thorium cycle based fuel has been investigated. Thorium cycle which has higher conversion ratio in thermal region compared to uranium cycle produce some significant of {sup 233}U during burn up time. The cell-burn up calculations were performed by PIJ SRAC code using nuclear data library based on JENDL 3.3, while the multi-energy-group diffusion calculations were optimized in whole core cylindrical two-dimension R-Z geometry by SRAC-CITATION. this study would be introduced thorium nitride fuel system which ZIRLO is the cladding material. The optimization of 350 MWt small long life PWRmore » result small excess reactivity and reduced power peaking during its operation.« less

Role of LRRK2 and SNCA in autosomal dominant Parkinson's disease in Turkey.

PubMed

Kessler, Christoph; Atasu, Burcu; Hanagasi, Hasmet; Simón-Sánchez, Javier; Hauser, Ann-Kathrin; Pak, Meltem; Bilgic, Basar; Erginel-Unaltuna, Nihan; Gurvit, Hakan; Gasser, Thomas; Lohmann, Ebba

2018-03-01

Mutations in the LRRK2 and alpha-synuclein (SNCA) genes are well-established causes of autosomal dominant Parkinson's disease (PD). However, their frequency differs widely between ethnic groups. Only three studies have screened all coding regions of LRRK2 and SNCA in European samples so far. In Turkey, the role of LRRK2 in Parkinson's disease has been studied fragmentarily, and the incidence of SNCA copy number variations is unknown. The purpose of this study is to determine the frequency of LRRK2 and SNCA mutations in autosomal dominant PD in Turkey. We performed Sanger sequencing of all coding LRRK2 and SNCA exons in a sample of 91 patients with Parkinsonism. Copy number variations in SNCA, PRKN, PINK1, DJ1 and ATP13A2 were assessed using the MLPA method. All patients had a positive family history compatible with autosomal dominant inheritance. Known mutations in LRRK2 and SNCA were found in 3.3% of cases: one patient harbored the LRRK2 G2019S mutation, and two patients carried a SNCA gene duplication. Furthermore, we found a heterozygous deletion of PRKN exon 2 in one patient, and four rare coding variants of unknown significance (LRRK2: A211V, R1067Q, T2494I; SNCA: T72T). Genetic testing in one affected family identified the LRRK2 R1067Q variant as a possibly pathogenic substitution. Point mutations in LRRK2 and SNCA are a rare cause of autosomal dominant PD in Turkey. However, copy number variations should be considered. The unclassified variants, especially LRRK2 R1067Q, demand further investigation. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Investigation of electronic structure and chemical bonding of intermetallic Pd2HfIn: An ab-initio study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bano, Amreen; Gaur, N. K.

2018-05-01

Ab-initio calculations are carried out to study the electronic and chemical bonding properties of Intermetallic full Heusler compound Pd2HfIn which crystallizes in F-43m structure. All calculations are performed by using density functional theory (DFT) based code Quantum Espresso. Generalized gradient approximations (GGA) of Perdew- Burke- Ernzerhof (PBE) have been adopted for exchange-correlation potential. Calculated electronic band structure reveals the metallic character of the compound. From partial density of states (PDoS), we found the presence of relatively high intensity electronic states of 4d-Pd atom at Fermi level. We have found a pseudo-gap just abouve the Fermi level and N(E) at Fermi level is observed to be 0.8 states/eV, these finding indicates the existence of superconducting character in Pd2HfIn.

Comparison of two methods for cardiac output measurement in critically ill patients.

PubMed

Saraceni, E; Rossi, S; Persona, P; Dan, M; Rizzi, S; Meroni, M; Ori, C

2011-05-01

The aim of recent haemodynamic monitoring has been to obtain continuous and reliable measures of cardiac output (CO) and indices of preload responsiveness. Many of these methods are based on the arterial pressure waveform analysis. The aim of our study was to assess the accuracy of CO measurements obtained by FloTrac/Vigileo, software version 1.07 and the new version 1.10 (Edwards Lifesciences LLC, Irvine, CA, USA), compared with CO measurements obtained by bolus thermodilution by pulmonary artery catheterization (PAC) in the intensive care setting. In 21 critically ill patients (enrolled in two University Hospitals), requiring invasive haemodynamic monitoring, PAC and FloTrac/Vigileo transducers connected to the arterial pressure line were placed. Simultaneous measurements of CO by two methods (FloTrac/Vigileo and thermodilution) were obtained three times a day for 3 consecutive days, when possible. The level of concordance between the two methods was assessed by the procedure suggested by Bland and Altman. One hundred and forty-one pairs of measurements (provided by thermodilution and by both 1.07 and 1.10 FloTrac/Vigileo versions) were obtained in 21 patients (seven of them were trauma patients) with a mean (sd) age of 59 (16) yr. The Pearson product moment coefficient was 0.62 (P<0.001). The bias was -0.18 litre min(-1). The limits of agreement were 4.54 and -4.90 litre min(-1), respectively. Our data show a poor level of concordance between measures provided by the two methods. We found an underestimation of CO values measured with the 1.07 software version of FloTrac for supranormal values of CO. The new software (1.10) has been improved in order to correct this bias; however, its reliability is still poor. On the basis of our data, we can therefore conclude that both software versions of FloTrac/Vigileo did not still provide reliable estimation of CO in our intensive care unit setting.

Can dialysis patients be accurately identified using healthcare claims data?

PubMed

Taneja, Charu; Berger, Ariel; Inglese, Gary W; Lamerato, Lois; Sloand, James A; Wolff, Greg G; Sheehan, Michael; Oster, Gerry

2014-01-01

While health insurance claims data are often used to estimate the costs of renal replacement therapy in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the accuracy of methods used to identify patients receiving dialysis - especially peritoneal dialysis (PD) and hemodialysis (HD) - in these data is unknown. The study population consisted of all persons aged 18 - 63 years in a large US integrated health plan with ESRD and dialysis-related billing codes (i.e., diagnosis, procedures) on healthcare encounters between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2008. Using billing codes for all healthcare encounters within 30 days of each patient's first dialysis-related claim ("index encounter"), we attempted to designate each study subject as either a "PD patient" or "HD patient." Using alternative windows of ± 30 days, ± 90 days, and ± 180 days around the index encounter, we reviewed patients' medical records to determine the dialysis modality actually received. We calculated the positive predictive value (PPV) for each dialysis-related billing code, using information in patients' medical records as the "gold standard." We identified a total of 233 patients with evidence of ESRD and receipt of dialysis in healthcare claims data. Based on examination of billing codes, 43 and 173 study subjects were designated PD patients and HD patients, respectively (14 patients had evidence of PD and HD, and modality could not be ascertained for 31 patients). The PPV of codes used to identify PD patients was low based on a ± 30-day medical record review window (34.9%), and increased with use of ± 90-day and ± 180-day windows (both 67.4%). The PPV for codes used to identify HD patients was uniformly high - 86.7% based on ± 30-day review, 90.8% based on ± 90-day review, and 93.1% based on ± 180-day review. While HD patients could be accurately identified using billing codes in healthcare claims data, case identification was much more problematic for patients receiving PD. Copyright © 2014 International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis.

PRELIMINARY COUPLING OF THE MONTE CARLO CODE OPENMC AND THE MULTIPHYSICS OBJECT-ORIENTED SIMULATION ENVIRONMENT (MOOSE) FOR ANALYZING DOPPLER FEEDBACK IN MONTE CARLO SIMULATIONS

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

Matthew Ellis; Derek Gaston; Benoit Forget

In recent years the use of Monte Carlo methods for modeling reactors has become feasible due to the increasing availability of massively parallel computer systems. One of the primary challenges yet to be fully resolved, however, is the efficient and accurate inclusion of multiphysics feedback in Monte Carlo simulations. The research in this paper presents a preliminary coupling of the open source Monte Carlo code OpenMC with the open source Multiphysics Object-Oriented Simulation Environment (MOOSE). The coupling of OpenMC and MOOSE will be used to investigate efficient and accurate numerical methods needed to include multiphysics feedback in Monte Carlo codes.more » An investigation into the sensitivity of Doppler feedback to fuel temperature approximations using a two dimensional 17x17 PWR fuel assembly is presented in this paper. The results show a functioning multiphysics coupling between OpenMC and MOOSE. The coupling utilizes Functional Expansion Tallies to accurately and efficiently transfer pin power distributions tallied in OpenMC to unstructured finite element meshes used in MOOSE. The two dimensional PWR fuel assembly case also demonstrates that for a simplified model the pin-by-pin doppler feedback can be adequately replicated by scaling a representative pin based on pin relative powers.« less

49 CFR 387.323 - Electronic filing of surety bonds, trust fund agreements, certificates of insurance and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Start field End field Record type 1 Numeric 1=Filing2=Cancellation B 1 1 Insurer number 8 Text FMCSA... Filing type 1 Numeric 1 = BI&PD2 = Cargo 3 = Bond 4 = Trust Fund B 10 10 FMCSA docket number 8 Text FMCSA... 264 265 Insured zip code 9 Numeric (Do not include dash if using 9 digit code) B 266 274 Insured...

49 CFR 387.323 - Electronic filing of surety bonds, trust fund agreements, certificates of insurance and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Start field End field Record type 1 Numeric 1=Filing2=Cancellation B 1 1 Insurer number 8 Text FMCSA... Filing type 1 Numeric 1 = BI&PD2 = Cargo 3 = Bond 4 = Trust Fund B 10 10 FMCSA docket number 8 Text FMCSA... 264 265 Insured zip code 9 Numeric (Do not include dash if using 9 digit code) B 266 274 Insured...

Conceptual Core Analysis of Long Life PWR Utilizing Thorium-Uranium Fuel Cycle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rouf; Su'ud, Zaki

2016-08-01

Conceptual core analysis of long life PWR utilizing thorium-uranium based fuel has conducted. The purpose of this study is to evaluate neutronic behavior of reactor core using combined thorium and enriched uranium fuel. Based on this fuel composition, reactor core have higher conversion ratio rather than conventional fuel which could give longer operation length. This simulation performed using SRAC Code System based on library SRACLIB-JDL32. The calculation carried out for (Th-U)O2 and (Th-U)C fuel with uranium composition 30 - 40% and gadolinium (Gd2O3) as burnable poison 0,0125%. The fuel composition adjusted to obtain burn up length 10 - 15 years under thermal power 600 - 1000 MWt. The key properties such as uranium enrichment, fuel volume fraction, percentage of uranium are evaluated. Core calculation on this study adopted R-Z geometry divided by 3 region, each region have different uranium enrichment. The result show multiplication factor every burn up step for 15 years operation length, power distribution behavior, power peaking factor, and conversion ratio. The optimum core design achieved when thermal power 600 MWt, percentage of uranium 35%, U-235 enrichment 11 - 13%, with 14 years operation length, axial and radial power peaking factor about 1.5 and 1.2 respectively.

77 FR 53913 - River Bend Industries, LLC, Including On-Site Leased Workers From FirstStaff, Trac Staffing, and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-04

..., LLC, Including On-Site Leased Workers From FirstStaff, Trac Staffing, and Worksource, Inc., Fort Smith... Staffing, Worksource, Inc., Fort Smith, Arkansas. The Department's notice of determination was published in... Worksource, Inc. were employed on-site at the Fort Smith, Arkansas location of River Bend Industries, LLC...

Burnup calculations and chemical analysis of irradiated fuel samples studied in LWR-PROTEUS phase II

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

Grimm, P.; Guenther-Leopold, I.; Berger, H. D.

2006-07-01

The isotopic compositions of 5 UO{sub 2} samples irradiated in a Swiss PWR power plant, which were investigated in the LWR-PROTEUS Phase II programme, were calculated using the CASMO-4 and BOXER assembly codes. The burnups of the samples range from 50 to 90 MWd/kg. The results for a large number of actinide and fission product nuclides were compared to those of chemical analyses performed using a combination of chromatographic separation and mass spectrometry. A good agreement of calculated and measured concentrations is found for many of the nuclides investigated with both codes. The concentrations of the Pu isotopes are mostlymore » predicted within {+-}10%, the two codes giving quite different results, except for {sup 242}Pu. Relatively significant deviations are found for some isotopes of Cs and Sm, and large discrepancies are observed for Eu and Gd. The overall quality of the predictions by the two codes is comparable, and the deviations from the experimental data do not generally increase with burnup. (authors)« less

Validation Data and Model Development for Fuel Assembly Response to Seismic Loads

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

Bardet, Philippe; Ricciardi, Guillaume

2016-01-31

Vibrations are inherently present in nuclear reactors, especially in cores and steam generators of pressurized water reactors (PWR). They can have significant effects on local heat transfer and wear and tear in the reactor and often set safety margins. The simulation of these multiphysics phenomena from first principles requires the coupling of several codes, which is one the most challenging tasks in modern computer simulation. Here an ambitious multiphysics multidisciplinary validation campaign is conducted. It relied on an integrated team of experimentalists and code developers to acquire benchmark and validation data for fluid-structure interaction codes. Data are focused on PWRmore » fuel bundle behavior during seismic transients.« less

Comparison of ENDF/B-VII.1 and JEFF-3.2 in VVER-1000 operational data calculation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frybort, Jan

2017-09-01

Safe operation of a nuclear reactor requires an extensive calculational support. Operational data are determined by full-core calculations during the design phase of a fuel loading. Loading pattern and design of fuel assemblies are adjusted to meet safety requirements and optimize reactor operation. Nodal diffusion code ANDREA is used for this task in case of Czech VVER-1000 reactors. Nuclear data for this diffusion code are prepared regularly by lattice code HELIOS. These calculations are conducted in 2D on fuel assembly level. There is also possibility to calculate these macroscopic data by Monte-Carlo Serpent code. It can make use of alternative evaluated libraries. All calculations are affected by inherent uncertainties in nuclear data. It is useful to see results of full-core calculations based on two sets of diffusion data obtained by Serpent code calculations with ENDF/B-VII.1 and JEFF-3.2 nuclear data including also decay data library and fission yields data. The comparison is based directly on fuel assembly level macroscopic data and resulting operational data. This study illustrates effect of evaluated nuclear data library on full-core calculations of a large PWR reactor core. The level of difference which results exclusively from nuclear data selection can help to understand the level of inherent uncertainties of such full-core calculations.

Consistent criticality and radiation studies of Swiss spent nuclear fuel: The CS2M approach.

PubMed

Rochman, D; Vasiliev, A; Ferroukhi, H; Pecchia, M

2018-06-15

In this paper, a new method is proposed to systematically calculate at the same time canister loading curves and radiation sources, based on the inventory information from an in-core fuel management system. As a demonstration, the isotopic contents of the assemblies come from a Swiss PWR, considering more than 6000 cases from 34 reactor cycles. The CS 2 M approach consists in combining four codes: CASMO and SIMULATE to extract the assembly characteristics (based on validated models), the SNF code for source emission and MCNP for criticality calculations for specific canister loadings. The considered cases cover enrichments from 1.9 to 5.0% for the UO 2 assemblies and 4.8% for the MOX, with assembly burnup values from 7 to 74 MWd/kgU. Because such a study is based on the individual fuel assembly history, it opens the possibility to optimize canister loadings from the point-of-view of criticality, decay heat and emission sources. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

ACHILLES: Heat Transfer in PWR Core During LOCA Reflood Phase

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

2013-11-01

1. NAME AND TITLE OF DATA LIBRARY ACHILLES -Heat Transfer in PWR Core During LOCA Reflood Phase. 2. NAME AND TITLE OF DATA RETRIEVAL PROGRAMS N/A 3. CONTRIBUTOR AEA Technology, Winfrith Technology Centre, Dorchester DT2 8DH United Kingdom through the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency Data Bank, Issy-les-Moulineaux, France. 4. DESCRIPTION OF TEST FACILITY The most important features of the Achilles rig were the shroud vessel, which contained the test section, and the downcomer. These may be thought of as representing the core barrel and the annular downcomer in the reactor pressure vessel. The test section comprises a cluster of 69more » rods in a square array within a circular shroud vessel. The rod diameter and pitch (9.5 mm and 12.6 mm) were typical of PWR dimensions. The internal diameter of the shroud vessel was 128 mm. Each rod was electrically heated over a length of 3.66 m, which is typical of the nuclear heated length in a PWR fuel rod, and each contained 6 internal thermocouples. These were arranged in one of 8 groupings which concentrated the thermocouples in different axial zones. The spacer grids were at prototypic PWR locations. Each grid had two thermocouples attached to its trailing edge at radial locations. The axial power profile along the rods was an 11 step approximation to a "chopped cosine". The shroud vessel had 5 heating zones whose power could be independently controlled. 5. DESCRIPTION OF TESTS The Achilles experiments investigated the heat transfer in the core of a Pressurized Water Reactor during the re-flood phase of a postulated large break loss of coolant accident. The results provided data to validate codes and to improve modeling. Different types of experiments were carried out which included single phase cooling, re-flood under low flow conditions, level swell and re-flood under high flow conditions. Three series of experiments were performed. The first and the third used the same test section but the second used another test section, similar in all respects except that it contained a partial blockage formed by attaching sleeves (or "balloons") to some of the rods. 6. SOURCE AND SCOPE OF DATA Phenomena Tested - Heat transfer in the core of a PWR during a re-flood phase of postulated large break LOCA. Test Designation - Achilles Rig. The programme includes the following types of experiments: - on an unballooned cluster: -- single phase air flow -- low pressure level swell -- low flooding rate re-flood -- high flooding rate re-flood - on a ballooned cluster containing 80% blockage formed by 16 balloon sleeves -- single phase air flow -- low flooding rate re-flood 7. DISCUSSION OF THE DATA RETRIEVAL PROGRAM N/A 8. DATA FORMAT AND COMPUTER Many Computers (M00019MNYCP00). 9. TYPICAL RUNNING TIME N/A 11. CONTENTS OF LIBRARY The ACHILLES package contains test data and associated data processing software as well as the documentation listed above. 12. DATE OF ABSTRACT November 2013. KEYWORDS: DATABASES, BENCHMARKS, HEAT TRANSFER, LOSS-OF-COLLANT ACCIDENT, PWR REACTORS, REFLOODING« less

Biotechnological approach for systemic delivery of membrane Receptor Activator of NF-κB Ligand (RANKL) active domain into the circulation

PubMed Central

Cappariello, Alfredo; Paone, Riccardo; Maurizi, Antonio; Capulli, Mattia; Rucci, Nadia; Muraca, Maurizio; Teti, Anna

2015-01-01

Deficiency of Receptor Activator of NF-κB Ligand (RANKL) prevents osteoclast formation causing osteopetrosis. RANKL is a membrane-bound protein cleaved into active soluble (s)RANKL by metalloproteinase 14 (MMP14). We created a bio-device that harbors primary osteoblasts, cultured on 3D hydroxyapatite scaffolds carrying immobilized MMP14 catalytic domain. Scaffolds were sealed in diffusion chambers and implanted in RANKL-deficient mice. Mice received 1 or 2 diffusion chambers, once or twice and were sacrificed after 1 or 2 months from implants. A progressive increase of body weight was observed in the implanted groups. Histological sections of tibias of non-implanted mice were negative for the osteoclast marker Tartrate-Resistant Acid Phosphatase (TRAcP), consistent with the lack of osteoclasts. In contrast, tibias excised from implanted mice showed TRAcP-positive cells in the bone marrow and on the bone surface, these latter morphologically similar to mature osteoclasts. In mice implanted with 4 diffusion chambers total, we noted the highest number and size of TRAcP-positive cells, with quantifiable eroded bone surface and significant reduction of trabecular bone volume. These data demonstrate that our bio-device delivers effective sRANKL, inducing osteoclastogenesis in RANKL-deficient mice, supporting the feasibility of an innovative experimental strategy to treat systemic cytokine deficiencies. PMID:25678116

Biotechnological approach for systemic delivery of membrane Receptor Activator of NF-κB Ligand (RANKL) active domain into the circulation.

PubMed

Cappariello, Alfredo; Paone, Riccardo; Maurizi, Antonio; Capulli, Mattia; Rucci, Nadia; Muraca, Maurizio; Teti, Anna

2015-04-01

Deficiency of Receptor Activator of NF-κB Ligand (RANKL) prevents osteoclast formation causing osteopetrosis. RANKL is a membrane-bound protein cleaved into active soluble (s)RANKL by metalloproteinase 14 (MMP14). We created a bio-device that harbors primary osteoblasts, cultured on 3D hydroxyapatite scaffolds carrying immobilized MMP14 catalytic domain. Scaffolds were sealed in diffusion chambers and implanted in RANKL-deficient mice. Mice received 1 or 2 diffusion chambers, once or twice and were sacrificed after 1 or 2 months from implants. A progressive increase of body weight was observed in the implanted groups. Histological sections of tibias of non-implanted mice were negative for the osteoclast marker Tartrate-Resistant Acid Phosphatase (TRAcP), consistent with the lack of osteoclasts. In contrast, tibias excised from implanted mice showed TRAcP-positive cells in the bone marrow and on the bone surface, these latter morphologically similar to mature osteoclasts. In mice implanted with 4 diffusion chambers total, we noted the highest number and size of TRAcP-positive cells, with quantifiable eroded bone surface and significant reduction of trabecular bone volume. These data demonstrate that our bio-device delivers effective sRANKL, inducing osteoclastogenesis in RANKL-deficient mice, supporting the feasibility of an innovative experimental strategy to treat systemic cytokine deficiencies. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Report On Stakeholders Analysis Fast-Trac Phase Iii Deliverables, #5 One Set Of Stakeholder Readings, #6. Final Version Of The Stakeholders? Questionnaire, #7. Stakeholders? Analysis Report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-12-10

THIS STUDY WAS UNDERTAKEN TO IDENTIFY AND EVALUATE CRITERIA BY WHICH THE PUBLIC, AND CERTAIN STAKEHOLDER GROUPS WITHIN THE PUBLIC, WILL JUDGE THE MERITS OF THE FAST-TRAC SYSTEM. OVER A PERIOD OF TWO YEARS, THREE SURVEYS WERE CONDUCTED TO OBTAIN SPECI...

Land Warrior (LW)/Mounted Warrior (MW) DOTMLPF Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-06-01

the DOTMLPF impacts of equipping a Stryker battalion with MW and LW? 3) What is the estimated life cycle cost (LCC) of each LW BOIP alternative? 4...A R E D A T A Assessed costs included: - Support Equipment/Disposal. - Contractor Logistics Support. - Ensemble Hardware...DOTMLPF . 3 - Cost . LUT Navigation Experiment Lethality Experiment AMSAA TRAC-WSMR TRAC-WSMR ATEC LW Test Unit

The Impact of Operating Parameters and Correlated Parameters for Extended BWR Burnup Credit

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

Ade, Brian J.; Marshall, William B. J.; Ilas, Germina

Applicants for certificates of compliance for spent nuclear fuel (SNF) transportation and dry storage systems perform analyses to demonstrate that these systems are adequately subcritical per the requirements of Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) Parts 71 and 72. For pressurized water reactor (PWR) SNF, these analyses may credit the reduction in assembly reactivity caused by depletion of fissile nuclides and buildup of neutron-absorbing nuclides during power operation. This credit for reactivity reduction during depletion is commonly referred to as burnup credit (BUC). US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) staff review BUC analyses according to the guidancemore » in the Division of Spent Fuel Storage and Transportation Interim Staff Guidance (ISG) 8, Revision 3, Burnup Credit in the Criticality Safety Analyses of PWR Spent Fuel in Transportation and Storage Casks.« less

Common genetic variation in the HLA region is associated with late-onset sporadic Parkinson’s disease

PubMed Central

Hamza, Taye H; Zabetian, Cyrus P; Tenesa, Albert; Laederach, Alain; Montimurro, Jennifer; Yearout, Dora; Kay, Denise M; Doheny, Kimberly F; Paschall, Justin; Pugh, Elizabeth; Kusel, Victoria I; Collura, Randall; Roberts, John; Griffith, Alida; Samii, Ali; Scott, William K; Nutt, John; Factor, Stewart A; Payami, Haydeh

2010-01-01

Parkinson disease (PD) is a common disorder that leads to motor and cognitive disability. We performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) with 2000 PD and 1986 control Caucasian subjects from NeuroGenetics Research Consortium.1–5 We confirmed SNCA2,6–8 and MAPT3,7–9; replicated GAK9 (PPankratz+NGRC=3.2×10−9); and detected a novel association with HLA (PNGRC=2.9×10−8) which replicated in two datasets (PMeta-analysis=1.9×10−10). We designate the new PD genes PARK17 (GAK) and PARK18 (HLA). PD-HLA association was uniform across genetic and environmental risk strata, and strong in sporadic (P=5.5×10−10) and late-onset (P=2.4×10−8) PD. The association peak was at rs3129882, a non-coding variant in HLA-DRA. Two studies suggested rs3129882 influences expression of HLA-DR and HLA-DQ.10,11 PD brains exhibit up-regulation of DR antigens and presence of DR-positive reactive microglia.12 Moreover, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) reduce PD risk.4,13 The genetic association with HLA coalesces the evidence for involvement of the immune system and offers new targets for drug development and pharmacogenetics. PMID:20711177

CASMO5/TSUNAMI-3D spent nuclear fuel reactivity uncertainty analysis

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

Ferrer, R.; Rhodes, J.; Smith, K.

2012-07-01

The CASMO5 lattice physics code is used in conjunction with the TSUNAMI-3D sequence in ORNL's SCALE 6 code system to estimate the uncertainties in hot-to-cold reactivity changes due to cross-section uncertainty for PWR assemblies at various burnup points. The goal of the analysis is to establish the multiplication factor uncertainty similarity between various fuel assemblies at different conditions in a quantifiable manner and to obtain a bound on the hot-to-cold reactivity uncertainty over the various assembly types and burnup attributed to fundamental cross-section data uncertainty. (authors)

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

Mohr, C.L.; Rausch, W.N.; Hesson, G.M.

The LOCA Simulation Program in the NRU reactor is the first set of experiments to provide data on the behavior of full-length, nuclear-heated PWR fuel bundles during the heatup, reflood, and quench phases of a loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA). This paper compares the temperature time histories of 4 experimental test cases with 4 computer codes: CE-THERM, FRAP-T5, GT3-FLECHT, and TRUMP-FLECHT. The preliminary comparisons between prediction and experiment show that the state-of-the art fuel codes have large uncertainties and are not necessarily conservative in predicting peak temperatures, turn around times, and bundle quench times.

SU-F-J-24: Setup Uncertainty and Margin of the ExacTrac 6D Image Guide System for Patients with Brain Tumors

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

Kim, S; Oh, S; Yea, J

Purpose: This study evaluated the setup uncertainties for brain sites when using BrainLAB’s ExacTrac X-ray 6D system for daily pretreatment to determine the optimal planning target volume (PTV) margin. Methods: Between August 2012 and April 2015, 28 patients with brain tumors were treated by daily image-guided radiotherapy using the BrainLAB ExacTrac 6D image guidance system of the Novalis-Tx linear accelerator. DUONTM (Orfit Industries, Wijnegem, Belgium) masks were used to fix the head. The radiotherapy was fractionated into 27–33 treatments. In total, 844 image verifications were performed for 28 patients and used for the analysis. The setup corrections along with themore » systematic and random errors were analyzed for six degrees of freedom in the translational (lateral, longitudinal, and vertical) and rotational (pitch, roll, and yaw) dimensions. Results: Optimal PTV margins were calculated based on van Herk et al.’s [margin recipe = 2.5∑ + 0.7σ − 3 mm] and Stroom et al.’s [margin recipe = 2∑ + 0.7σ] formulas. The systematic errors (∑) were 0.72, 1.57, and 0.97 mm in the lateral, longitudinal, and vertical translational dimensions, respectively, and 0.72°, 0.87°, and 0.83° in the pitch, roll, and yaw rotational dimensions, respectively. The random errors (σ) were 0.31, 0.46, and 0.54 mm in the lateral, longitudinal, and vertical rotational dimensions, respectively, and 0.28°, 0.24°, and 0.31° in the pitch, roll, and yaw rotational dimensions, respectively. According to van Herk et al.’s and Stroom et al.’s recipes, the recommended lateral PTV margins were 0.97 and 1.66 mm, respectively; the longitudinal margins were 1.26 and 3.47 mm, respectively; and the vertical margins were 0.21 and 2.31 mm, respectively. Conclusion: Therefore, daily setup verifications using the BrainLAB ExacTrac 6D image guide system are very useful for evaluating the setup uncertainties and determining the setup margin.∑σ.« less

Structural Integrity of Water Reactor Pressure Boundary Components.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-02-20

environment, and load waveform parameters . A theory of the influence of dissolved oxygen content on the fatigue crack growth results in simulated PWR ...simulated PWR coolant is - (Continues ) DD IJN7 1473 EDITION OF I NOV S ..OSL- -C 2 S/ 0102-LF-014-6601 S1ECURITY CLASSI1FICATION OF THIS PAGE (When...not seem to influence the data, which was produced for a load ratio of 0.2 and a simulated PWR coolant environment. Test results for A106 Grade C piping

Cross Service Fixed-Wing Cost Estimation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-17

TRAC-M-TR-16-021 May 2016 Cross Service Fixed-Wing Cost Estimation TRADOC Analysis Center 700 Dyer Road Monterey, California 93943-0692 This study...Service Fixed-Wing Cost Estimation MAJ Jarrod S. Shingleton TRADOC Analysis Center 700 Dyer Road Monterey, California 93943-0692 DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT...Wing Cost Estimation MAJ Jarrod Shingleton 060312 TRADOC Analysis Center, TRAC-MTRY Naval Postgraduate School 700 Dyer Road Bldg 246 Monterey, CA 93943

Financial Health of the Higher Education Sector: Financial Results and TRAC Outcomes 2013-14. Issues Paper 2015/07

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Higher Education Funding Council for England, 2015

2015-01-01

This report provides an overview of the financial health of the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE)-funded higher education sector in England. The analysis covers financial results for the academic year 2013-14, as submitted to HEFCE in December 2014, as well as the outcomes from the sector's Transparent Approach to Costing (TRAC)…

TRIGA MARK-II source term

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

Usang, M. D., E-mail: mark-dennis@nuclearmalaysia.gov.my; Hamzah, N. S., E-mail: mark-dennis@nuclearmalaysia.gov.my; Abi, M. J. B., E-mail: mark-dennis@nuclearmalaysia.gov.my

ORIGEN 2.2 are employed to obtain data regarding γ source term and the radio-activity of irradiated TRIGA fuel. The fuel composition are specified in grams for use as input data. Three types of fuel are irradiated in the reactor, each differs from the other in terms of the amount of Uranium compared to the total weight. Each fuel are irradiated for 365 days with 50 days time step. We obtain results on the total radioactivity of the fuel, the composition of activated materials, composition of fission products and the photon spectrum of the burned fuel. We investigate the differences ofmore » results using BWR and PWR library for ORIGEN. Finally, we compare the composition of major nuclides after 1 year irradiation of both ORIGEN library with results from WIMS. We found only minor disagreements between the yields of PWR and BWR libraries. In comparison with WIMS, the errors are a little bit more pronounced. To overcome this errors, the irradiation power used in ORIGEN could be increased a little, so that the differences in the yield of ORIGEN and WIMS could be reduced. A more permanent solution is to use a different code altogether to simulate burnup such as DRAGON and ORIGEN-S. The result of this study are essential for the design of radiation shielding from the fuel.« less

LWR pressure vessel surveillance dosimetry improvement program: LWR power reactor surveillance physics-dosimetry data base compendium

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

McElroy, W.N.

1985-08-01

This NRC physics-dosimetry compendium is a collation of information and data developed from available research and commercial light water reactor vessel surveillance program (RVSP) documents and related surveillance capsule reports. The data represents the results of the HEDL least-squares FERRET-SAND II Code re-evaluation of exposure units and values for 47 PWR and BWR surveillance capsules for W, B and W, CE, and GE power plants. Using a consistent set of auxiliary data and dosimetry-adjusted reactor physics results, the revised fluence values for E > 1 MeV averaged 25% higher than the originally reported values. The range of fluence values (new/old)more » was from a low of 0.80 to a high of 2.38. These HEDL-derived FERRET-SAND II exposure parameter values are being used for NRC-supported HEDL and other PWR and BWR trend curve data development and testing studies. These studies are providing results to support Revision 2 of Regulatory Guide 1.99. As stated by Randall (Ra84), the Guide is being updated to reflect recent studies of the physical basis for neutron radiation damage and efforts to correlate damage to chemical composition and fluence.« less

Recent improvements of reactor physics codes in MHI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kosaka, Shinya; Yamaji, Kazuya; Kirimura, Kazuki; Kamiyama, Yohei; Matsumoto, Hideki

2015-12-01

This paper introduces recent improvements for reactor physics codes in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd(MHI). MHI has developed a new neutronics design code system Galaxy/Cosmo-S(GCS) for PWR core analysis. After TEPCO's Fukushima Daiichi accident, it is required to consider design extended condition which has not been covered explicitly by the former safety licensing analyses. Under these circumstances, MHI made some improvements for GCS code system. A new resonance calculation model of lattice physics code and homogeneous cross section representative model for core simulator have been developed to apply more wide range core conditions corresponding to severe accident status such like anticipated transient without scram (ATWS) analysis and criticality evaluation of dried-up spent fuel pit. As a result of these improvements, GCS code system has very wide calculation applicability with good accuracy for any core conditions as far as fuel is not damaged. In this paper, the outline of GCS code system is described briefly and recent relevant development activities are presented.

Recent improvements of reactor physics codes in MHI

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

Kosaka, Shinya, E-mail: shinya-kosaka@mhi.co.jp; Yamaji, Kazuya; Kirimura, Kazuki

2015-12-31

This paper introduces recent improvements for reactor physics codes in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd(MHI). MHI has developed a new neutronics design code system Galaxy/Cosmo-S(GCS) for PWR core analysis. After TEPCO’s Fukushima Daiichi accident, it is required to consider design extended condition which has not been covered explicitly by the former safety licensing analyses. Under these circumstances, MHI made some improvements for GCS code system. A new resonance calculation model of lattice physics code and homogeneous cross section representative model for core simulator have been developed to apply more wide range core conditions corresponding to severe accident status such like anticipatedmore » transient without scram (ATWS) analysis and criticality evaluation of dried-up spent fuel pit. As a result of these improvements, GCS code system has very wide calculation applicability with good accuracy for any core conditions as far as fuel is not damaged. In this paper, the outline of GCS code system is described briefly and recent relevant development activities are presented.« less

Tensile and Fatigue Testing and Material Hardening Model Development for 508 LAS Base Metal and 316 SS Similar Metal Weld under In-air and PWR Primary Loop Water Conditions

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

Mohanty, Subhasish; Soppet, William; Majumdar, Saurin

This report provides an update on an assessment of environmentally assisted fatigue for light water reactor components under extended service conditions. This report is a deliverable in September 2015 under the work package for environmentally assisted fatigue under DOE’s Light Water Reactor Sustainability program. In an April 2015 report we presented a baseline mechanistic finite element model of a two-loop pressurized water reactor (PWR) for systemlevel heat transfer analysis and subsequent thermal-mechanical stress analysis and fatigue life estimation under reactor thermal-mechanical cycles. In the present report, we provide tensile and fatigue test data for 508 low-alloy steel (LAS) base metal,more » 508 LAS heat-affected zone metal in 508 LAS–316 stainless steel (SS) dissimilar metal welds, and 316 SS-316 SS similar metal welds. The test was conducted under different conditions such as in air at room temperature, in air at 300 oC, and under PWR primary loop water conditions. Data are provided on materials properties related to time-independent tensile tests and time-dependent cyclic tests, such as elastic modulus, elastic and offset strain yield limit stress, and linear and nonlinear kinematic hardening model parameters. The overall objective of this report is to provide guidance to estimate tensile/fatigue hardening parameters from test data. Also, the material models and parameters reported here can directly be used in commercially available finite element codes for fatigue and ratcheting evaluation of reactor components under in-air and PWR water conditions.« less

TRAC based sensing for autonomous rendezvous

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Everett, Louis J.; Monford, Leo

1991-01-01

The Targeting Reflective Alignment Concept (TRAC) sensor is to be used in an effort to support an Autonomous Rendezvous and Docking (AR&D) flight experiment. The TRAC sensor uses a fixed-focus, fixed-iris CCD camera and a target that is a combination of active and passive components. The system experiment is anticipated to fly in 1994 using two Commercial Experiment Transporters (COMET's). The requirements for the sensor are: bearing error less than or equal to 0.075 deg; bearing error rate less than 0.3 deg/sec; attitude error less than 0.5 deg.; and attitude rate error less than 2.0 deg/sec. The range requirement depends on the range and the range rate of the vehicle. The active component of the target is several 'kilo-bright' LED's that can emit 2500 millicandela with 40 milliwatts of input power. Flashing the lights in a known pattern eliminates background illumination. The system should be able to rendezvous from 300 meters all the way to capture. A question that arose during the presentation: What is the life time of the LED's and their sensitivity to radiation? The LED's should be manufactured to Military Specifications, coated with silicon dioxide, and all other space qualified precautions should be taken. The LED's will not be on all the time so they should easily last the two-year mission.

Microenvironment Tracker (MicroTrac) | Science Inventory ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Epidemiologic studies have shown associations between air pollution concentrations measured at central-site ambient monitors and adverse health outcomes. Using central-site concentrations as exposure surrogates, however, can lead to exposure errors due to time spent in various indoor and outdoor microenvironments (ME) with pollutant concentrations that can be substantially different from central-site concentrations. These exposure errors can introduce bias and incorrect confidence intervals in health effect estimates, which diminish the power of such studies to establish correct conclusions about the exposure and health effects association. The significance of this issue was highlighted in the National Research Council (NRC) Report “Research Priorities for Airborne Particulate Matter”, which recommends that EPA address exposure error in health studies. To address this limitation, we developed MicroTrac, an automated classification model that estimates time of day and duration spent in eight ME (indoors and outdoors at home, work, school; inside vehicles; other locations) from personal global positioning system (GPS) data and geocoded boundaries of buildings (e.g., home, work, school). MicroTrac has several innovative design features: (1) using GPS signal quality to account for GPS signal loss inside certain buildings, (2) spatial buffering of building boundaries to account for the spatial inaccuracy of the GPS device, and (3) temporal buffering of GPS positi

Wartime critical care air transport.

PubMed

Bridges, Elizabeth; Evers, Karen

2009-04-01

Describe the characteristics/enroute care of casualties transported by USAF Critical Care Air Transport Teams (CCATT) during Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF). Retrospective review of TRAC2ES and CCATT Mission Reports (Oct 2001-May 2006). 3492 patient moves (2439 patients). Moves by route: within Area of Responsibility (AOR) (n = 261); AOR-Landstuhl (LRMC) (n = 1995), Germany-CONUS (n = 1188). For AOR-LRMC: BI (64%), NBI (8%), Disease (25%). Among injured (n = 1491), 69% suffered polytrauma, primarily d/t explosions. Injury area: extremities (63%), head (55%), thorax (46%), abdomen (31%), neck (17%). Injury type: soft tissue (64%), orthopedic (45%), thoracic (35%), skull fracture (27%), brain injury (25%). Disease diagnoses: cardiac (15%) and pulmonary (8%). This is the first analysis of OEF/OIF CCATT patients. Phase 1 of this study demonstrates the strengths and limitations of TRAC2ES and CCATT Mission Reports to describe the characteristics/enroute care of this unique population.

Neutronics Analysis of SMART Small Modular Reactor using SRAC 2006 Code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramdhani, Rahmi N.; Prastyo, Puguh A.; Waris, Abdul; Widayani; Kurniadi, Rizal

2017-07-01

Small modular reactors (SMRs) are part of a new generation of nuclear reactor being developed worldwide. One of the advantages of SMR is the flexibility to adopt the advanced design concepts and technology. SMART (System integrated Modular Advanced ReacTor) is a small sized integral type PWR with a thermal power of 330 MW that has been developed by KAERI (Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute). SMART core consists of 57 fuel assemblies which are based on the well proven 17×17 array that has been used in Korean commercial PWRs. SMART is soluble boron free, and the high initial reactivity is mainly controlled by burnable absorbers. The goal of this study is to perform neutronics evaluation of SMART core with UO2 as main fuel. Neutronics calculation was performed by using PIJ and CITATION modules of SRAC 2006 code with JENDL 3.3 as nuclear data library.

Advanced Pellet-Cladding Interaction Modeling using the US DOE CASL Fuel Performance Code: Peregrine

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

Montgomery, Robert O.; Capps, Nathan A.; Sunderland, Dion J.

The US DOE’s Consortium for Advanced Simulation of LWRs (CASL) program has undertaken an effort to enhance and develop modeling and simulation tools for a virtual reactor application, including high fidelity neutronics, fluid flow/thermal hydraulics, and fuel and material behavior. The fuel performance analysis efforts aim to provide 3-dimensional capabilities for single and multiple rods to assess safety margins and the impact of plant operation and fuel rod design on the fuel thermo-mechanical-chemical behavior, including Pellet-Cladding Interaction (PCI) failures and CRUD-Induced Localized Corrosion (CILC) failures in PWRs. [1-3] The CASL fuel performance code, Peregrine, is an engineering scale code thatmore » is built upon the MOOSE/ELK/FOX computational FEM framework, which is also common to the fuel modeling framework, BISON [4,5]. Peregrine uses both 2-D and 3-D geometric fuel rod representations and contains a materials properties and fuel behavior model library for the UO2 and Zircaloy system common to PWR fuel derived from both open literature sources and the FALCON code [6]. The primary purpose of Peregrine is to accurately calculate the thermal, mechanical, and chemical processes active throughout a single fuel rod during operation in a reactor, for both steady state and off-normal conditions.« less

An overview of the OmniTRACS: The first operational mobile Ku-band satellite communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salmasi, Allen

1988-01-01

The service features of the OmniTRACS system developed by Omninet Communications Services of Los Angeles, California are described. This system is the first operational mobile Ku-band satellite communications system that provides two-way messaging and position determination and reporting services to mobile users on a nationwide basis. The system uses existing Ku-band satellites under a secondary international allocation for mobile satellite services.

Technical characteristics of the OmniTRACS: The first operation mobile Ku-band satellite communications system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Antonio, Franklin P.; Gilhousen, Klein S.; Jacobs, Irwin M.; Weaver, Linday A., Jr.

1988-01-01

The techinical characteristics of the OmniTRACS system are described. The system is the first operational mobile Ku-band satellite communications system and provides two-way message and position determination service to mobile terminals using existing Ku-band satellites. Interference to and from the system is minimized by the use of special spread-spectrum techniques, together with low power and low data rate transmissions.

How the Theory of Computing Can Help in Space Exploration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kreinovich, Vladik; Longpre, Luc

1997-01-01

The opening of the NASA Pan American Center for Environmental and Earth Sciences (PACES) at the University of Texas at El Paso made it possible to organize the student Center for Theoretical Research and its Applications in Computer Science (TRACS). In this abstract, we briefly describe the main NASA-related research directions of the TRACS center, and give an overview of the preliminary results of student research.

Emergy assessment of three home courtyard agriculture production systems in Tibet Autonomous Region, China*

PubMed Central

Guan, Fa-chun; Sha, Zhi-peng; Zhang, Yu-yang; Wang, Jun-feng; Wang, Chao

2016-01-01

Home courtyard agriculture is an important model of agricultural production on the Tibetan plateau. Because of the sensitive and fragile plateau environment, it needs to have optimal performance characteristics, including high sustainability, low environmental pressure, and high economic benefit. Emergy analysis is a promising tool for evaluation of the environmental-economic performance of these production systems. In this study, emergy analysis was used to evaluate three courtyard agricultural production models: Raising Geese in Corn Fields (RGICF), Conventional Corn Planting (CCP), and Pea-Wheat Rotation (PWR). The results showed that the RGICF model produced greater economic benefits, and had higher sustainability, lower environmental pressure, and higher product safety than the CCP and PWR models. The emergy yield ratio (EYR) and emergy self-support ratio (ESR) of RGICF were 0.66 and 0.11, respectively, lower than those of the CCP production model, and 0.99 and 0.08, respectively, lower than those of the PWR production model. The impact of RGICF (1.45) on the environment was lower than that of CCP (2.26) and PWR (2.46). The emergy sustainable indices (ESIs) of RGICF were 1.07 and 1.02 times higher than those of CCP and PWR, respectively. With regard to the emergy index of product safety (EIPS), RGICF had a higher safety index than those of CCP and PWR. Overall, our results suggest that the RGICF model is advantageous and provides higher environmental benefits than the CCP and PWR systems. PMID:27487808

Emergy assessment of three home courtyard agriculture production systems in Tibet Autonomous Region, China.

PubMed

Guan, Fa-Chun; Sha, Zhi-Peng; Zhang, Yu-Yang; Wang, Jun-Feng; Wang, Chao

2016-08-01

Home courtyard agriculture is an important model of agricultural production on the Tibetan plateau. Because of the sensitive and fragile plateau environment, it needs to have optimal performance characteristics, including high sustainability, low environmental pressure, and high economic benefit. Emergy analysis is a promising tool for evaluation of the environmental-economic performance of these production systems. In this study, emergy analysis was used to evaluate three courtyard agricultural production models: Raising Geese in Corn Fields (RGICF), Conventional Corn Planting (CCP), and Pea-Wheat Rotation (PWR). The results showed that the RGICF model produced greater economic benefits, and had higher sustainability, lower environmental pressure, and higher product safety than the CCP and PWR models. The emergy yield ratio (EYR) and emergy self-support ratio (ESR) of RGICF were 0.66 and 0.11, respectively, lower than those of the CCP production model, and 0.99 and 0.08, respectively, lower than those of the PWR production model. The impact of RGICF (1.45) on the environment was lower than that of CCP (2.26) and PWR (2.46). The emergy sustainable indices (ESIs) of RGICF were 1.07 and 1.02 times higher than those of CCP and PWR, respectively. With regard to the emergy index of product safety (EIPS), RGICF had a higher safety index than those of CCP and PWR. Overall, our results suggest that the RGICF model is advantageous and provides higher environmental benefits than the CCP and PWR systems.

SU-E-T-212: Comparison of TG-43 Dosimetric Parameters of Low and High Energy Brachytherapy Sources Obtained by MCNP Code Versions of 4C, X and 5

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

Zehtabian, M; Zaker, N; Sina, S

2015-06-15

Purpose: Different versions of MCNP code are widely used for dosimetry purposes. The purpose of this study is to compare different versions of the MCNP codes in dosimetric evaluation of different brachytherapy sources. Methods: The TG-43 parameters such as dose rate constant, radial dose function, and anisotropy function of different brachytherapy sources, i.e. Pd-103, I-125, Ir-192, and Cs-137 were calculated in water phantom. The results obtained by three versions of Monte Carlo codes (MCNP4C, MCNPX, MCNP5) were compared for low and high energy brachytherapy sources. Then the cross section library of MCNP4C code was changed to ENDF/B-VI release 8 whichmore » is used in MCNP5 and MCNPX codes. Finally, the TG-43 parameters obtained using the MCNP4C-revised code, were compared with other codes. Results: The results of these investigations indicate that for high energy sources, the differences in TG-43 parameters between the codes are less than 1% for Ir-192 and less than 0.5% for Cs-137. However for low energy sources like I-125 and Pd-103, large discrepancies are observed in the g(r) values obtained by MCNP4C and the two other codes. The differences between g(r) values calculated using MCNP4C and MCNP5 at the distance of 6cm were found to be about 17% and 28% for I-125 and Pd-103 respectively. The results obtained with MCNP4C-revised and MCNPX were similar. However, the maximum difference between the results obtained with the MCNP5 and MCNP4C-revised codes was 2% at 6cm. Conclusion: The results indicate that using MCNP4C code for dosimetry of low energy brachytherapy sources can cause large errors in the results. Therefore it is recommended not to use this code for low energy sources, unless its cross section library is changed. Since the results obtained with MCNP4C-revised and MCNPX were similar, it is concluded that the difference between MCNP4C and MCNPX is their cross section libraries.« less

Simulation of German PKL refill/reflood experiment K9A using RELAP4/MOD7. [PWR

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

Hsu, M.T.; Davis, C.B.; Behling, S.R.

This paper describes a RELAP4/MOD7 simulation of West Germany's Kraftwerk Union (KWU) Primary Coolant Loop (PKL) refill/reflood experiment K9A. RELAP4/MOD7, a best-estimate computer program for the calculation of thermal and hydraulic phenomena in a nuclear reactor or related system, is the latest version in the RELAP4 code development series. This study was the first major simulation using RELAP4/MOD7 since its release by the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL). The PKL facility is a reduced scale (1:134) representation of a typical West German four-loop 1300 MW pressurized water reactor (PWR). A prototypical scale of the total volume to power ratio wasmore » maintained. The test facility was designed specifically for an experiment simulating the refill/reflood phase of a Loss-of-Coolant Accident (LOCA).« less

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms and haplotypes of non-coding area in the CP gene are correlated with Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Zhao, Na; Xiao, Jianqiu; Zheng, Zhiyong; Fei, Guoqiang; Zhang, Feng; Jin, Lirong; Zhong, Chunjiu

2015-04-01

Our previous studies have demonstrated that ceruloplasmin (CP) dysmetabolism is correlated with Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the causes of decreased serum CP levels in PD patients remain to be clarified. This study aimed to explore the potential association between genetic variants of the CP gene and PD. Clinical features, serum CP levels, and the CP gene (both promoter and coding regions) were analyzed in 60 PD patients and 50 controls. A luciferase reporter system was used to investigate the function of promoter single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). High-density comparative genomic hybridization microarrays were also used to detect large-scale copy-number variations in CP and an additional 47 genes involved in PD and/or copper/iron metabolism. The frequencies of eight SNPs (one intronic SNP and seven promoter SNPs of the CP gene) and their haplotypes were significantly different between PD patients, especially those with lowered serum CP levels, and controls. However, the luciferase reporter system revealed no significant effect of the risk haplotype on promoter activity of the CP gene. Neither these SNPs nor their haplotypes were correlated with the Hoehn and Yahr staging of PD. The results of this study suggest that common genetic variants of CP are associated with PD and further investigation is needed to explore their functions in PD.

TRAC Searchable Research Library

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-01

network accessible document repository for technical documents and similar document artifacts. We used a model-based approach using the Vector...demonstration and model refinement. 14. SUBJECT TERMS Knowledge Management, Document Repository , Digital Library, Vector Directional Data Model...27 Figure D1. Administrator Repository Upload Page. ................................................................... D-2 Figure D2

Calculation of the temperature in the container unit with a modified design for the production of {sup 99}Mo at the VVR-Ts research reactor facility (IVV.10M)

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

Kazantsev, A. A., E-mail: kazantsevanatoly@gmail.com; Sergeev, V. V.; Kochnov, O. Yu.

The temperature regime is calculated for two different designs of containers with uranium-bearing material for the upgraded VVR-Ts research reactor facility (IVV.10M). The containers are to be used in the production of {sup 99}Mo. It is demonstrated that the modification of the container design leads to a considerable temperature reduction and an increase in the near-wall boiling margin and allows one to raise the amount of material loaded into the container. The calculations were conducted using the international thermohydraulic contour code TRAC intended to analyze the technical safety of water-cooled nuclear power units.

The Pekin duck programmed death-ligand 1: cDNA cloning, genomic structure, molecular characterization and mRNA expression analysis.

PubMed

Yao, Q; Fischer, K P; Tyrrell, D L; Gutfreund, K S

2015-04-01

Programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) plays an important role in the attenuation of adaptive immune responses in higher vertebrates. Here, we describe the identification of the Pekin duck PD-L1 orthologue (duPD-L1) and its gene structure. The duPD-L1 cDNA encodes a 311-amino acid protein that has an amino acid identity of 78% and 42% with chicken and human PD-L1, respectively. Mapping of the duPD-L1 cDNA with duck genomic sequences revealed an exonic structure of its coding sequence similar to those of other vertebrates but lacked a noncoding exon 1. Homology modelling of the duPD-L1 extracellular domain was compatible with the tandem IgV-like and IgC-like IgSF domain structure of human PD-L1 (PDB ID: 3BIS). Residues known to be important for receptor binding of human PD-L1 were mostly conserved in duPD-L1 within the N-terminus and the G sheet, and partially conserved within the F sheet but not within sheets C and C'. DuPD-L1 mRNA was constitutively expressed in all tissues examined with highest expression levels in lung and spleen and very low levels of expression in muscle, kidney and brain. Mitogen stimulation of duck peripheral blood mononuclear cells transiently increased duPD-L1 mRNA expression. Our observations demonstrate evolutionary conservation of the exonic structure of its coding sequence, the extracellular domain structure and residues implicated in receptor binding, but the role of the longer cytoplasmic tail in avian PD-L1 proteins remains to be determined. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Development and Testing of Neutron Cross Section Covariance Data for SCALE 6.2

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

Marshall, William BJ J; Williams, Mark L; Wiarda, Dorothea

2015-01-01

Neutron cross-section covariance data are essential for many sensitivity/uncertainty and uncertainty quantification assessments performed both within the TSUNAMI suite and more broadly throughout the SCALE code system. The release of ENDF/B-VII.1 included a more complete set of neutron cross-section covariance data: these data form the basis for a new cross-section covariance library to be released in SCALE 6.2. A range of testing is conducted to investigate the properties of these covariance data and ensure that the data are reasonable. These tests include examination of the uncertainty in critical experiment benchmark model k eff values due to nuclear data uncertainties, asmore » well as similarity assessments of irradiated pressurized water reactor (PWR) and boiling water reactor (BWR) fuel with suites of critical experiments. The contents of the new covariance library, the testing performed, and the behavior of the new covariance data are described in this paper. The neutron cross-section covariances can be combined with a sensitivity data file generated using the TSUNAMI suite of codes within SCALE to determine the uncertainty in system k eff caused by nuclear data uncertainties. The Verified, Archived Library of Inputs and Data (VALID) maintained at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) contains over 400 critical experiment benchmark models, and sensitivity data are generated for each of these models. The nuclear data uncertainty in k eff is generated for each experiment, and the resulting uncertainties are tabulated and compared to the differences in measured and calculated results. The magnitude of the uncertainty for categories of nuclides (such as actinides, fission products, and structural materials) is calculated for irradiated PWR and BWR fuel to quantify the effect of covariance library changes between the SCALE 6.1 and 6.2 libraries. One of the primary applications of sensitivity/uncertainty methods within SCALE is the assessment of similarities between benchmark experiments and safety applications. This is described by a c k value for each experiment with each application. Several studies have analyzed typical c k values for a range of critical experiments compared with hypothetical irradiated fuel applications. The c k value is sensitive to the cross-section covariance data because the contribution of each nuclide is influenced by its uncertainty; large uncertainties indicate more likely bias sources and are thus given more weight. Changes in c k values resulting from different covariance data can be used to examine and assess underlying data changes. These comparisons are performed for PWR and BWR fuel in storage and transportation systems.« less

Mesos-scale modeling of irradiation in pressurized water reactor concrete biological shields

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

Le Pape, Yann; Huang, Hai

Neutron irradiation exposure causes aggregate expansion, namely radiation-induced volumetric expansion (RIVE). The structural significance of RIVE on a portion of a prototypical pressurized water reactor (PWR) concrete biological shield (CBS) is investigated by using a meso- scale nonlinear concrete model with inputs from an irradiation transport code and a coupled moisture transport-heat transfer code. RIVE-induced severe cracking onset appears to be triggered by the ini- tial shrinkage-induced cracking and propagates to a depth of > 10 cm at extended operation of 80 years. Relaxation of the cement paste stresses results in delaying the crack propagation by about 10 years.

SU-F-J-25: Position Monitoring for Intracranial SRS Using BrainLAB ExacTrac Snap Verification

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

Jang, S; McCaw, T; Huq, M

2016-06-15

Purpose: To determine the accuracy of position monitoring with BrainLAB ExacTrac snap verification following couch rotations during intracranial SRS. Methods: A CT scan of an anthropomorphic head phantom was acquired using 1.25mm slices. The isocenter was positioned near the centroid of the frontal lobe. The head phantom was initially aligned on the treatment couch using cone-beam CT, then repositioned using ExacTrac x-ray verification with residual errors less than 0.2mm and 0.2°. Snap verification was performed over the full range of couch angles in 15° increments with known positioning offsets of 0–3mm applied to the phantom along each axis. At eachmore » couch angle, the smallest tolerance was determined for which no positioning deviation was detected. Results: For couch angles 30°–60° from the center position, where the longitudinal axis of the phantom is approximately aligned with the beam axis of one x-ray tube, snap verification consistently detected positioning errors exceeding the maximum 8mm tolerance. Defining localization error as the difference between the known offset and the minimum tolerance for which no deviation was detected, the RMS error is mostly less than 1mm outside of couch angles 30°–60° from the central couch position. Given separate measurements of patient position from the two imagers, whether to proceed with treatment can be determined by the criterion of a reading within tolerance from just one (OR criterion) or both (AND criterion) imagers. Using a positioning tolerance of 1.5mm, snap verification has sensitivity and specificity of 94% and 75%, respectively, with the AND criterion, and 67% and 93%, respectively, with the OR criterion. If readings exceeding maximum tolerance are excluded, the sensitivity and specificity are 88% and 86%, respectively, with the AND criterion. Conclusion: With a positioning tolerance of 1.5mm, ExacTrac snap verification can be used during intracranial SRS with sensitivity and specificity between 85% and 90%.« less

Is there an occupational status gradient in the development of periodontal disease in Japanese workers? A 5-year prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Irie, Koichiro; Yamazaki, Toru; Yoshii, Saori; Takeyama, Hideo; Shimazaki, Yoshihiro

2017-02-01

Development of periodontal disease (PD) may be affected by socioeconomic status. This study examined the relationship between occupational status and PD in a 5-year prospective cohort of Japanese workers. In total, 19,633 participants had initial examinations at the Aichi Health Promotion Foundation, of whom 8210 participants aged 20 years or older did not have PD. Follow-up examinations were conducted for 3757 participants, accounting for 45.8% of baseline participants. Ultimately, 3390 participants were analyzed according to the criterion of job classification at baseline, which was based on the International Standard Classification of Occupations, 1987. Oral examinations were performed using the Community Periodontal Index (CPI). The CPI scores were coded as follows: healthy (score of 0); bleeding after probing (1); dental calculus (2); shallow pockets (3); and deep pockets (4). Participants with one or more sextants with a score >2 were diagnosed with PD. Poisson regression analysis was performed to adjust for age and other potential confounders. Overall, 31.6% of men and 23.8% of women had developed PD (CPI scores of 3 or 4). The adjusted relative risk (RR) for PD (CPI scores of 3 or 4) in men was not significant. On the other hand, the adjusted RRs for PD (CPI score of 4) in men were 2.52-, 2.39-, and 2.74-fold higher for skilled workers, sales persons, and drivers, respectively, than for professionals. In contrast, we found no gradient in women. We found a gradient related to the risk of developing PD according to occupational status among men in a Japanese worker population. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of Stress Corrosion Crack Morphology on Ultrasonic Examination Performances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dupond, O.; Duwig, V.; Fouquet, T.

2009-03-01

Stress Corrosion Cracking represents a potential damage for several components in PWR. For this reason, NDE of stress corrosion cracks corresponds to an important stake for Electricité de France (EDF) both for availability and for safety of plants. This paper is dedicated to the ultrasonic examination of SCC crack defects. The study mixes an experimental approach conducted on artificial flaws—meant to represent the characteristic morphologic features often encountered on SCC cracks—and a 2D finite element modelling with the code ATHENA 2D developed by EDF. Results indicate that ATHENA reproduces correctly the interaction of the beam on the complex defect. Indeed specific ultrasonic responses resulting from the defect morphology have been observed experimentally and reproduced with the modelling.

Association between gestational weight gain according to body mass index and postpartum weight in a large cohort of Danish women.

PubMed

Rode, Line; Kjærgaard, Hanne; Ottesen, Bent; Damm, Peter; Hegaard, Hanne K

2012-02-01

Our aim was to investigate the association between gestational weight gain (GWG) and postpartum weight retention (PWR) in pre-pregnancy underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese women, with emphasis on the American Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendations. We performed secondary analyses on data based on questionnaires from 1,898 women from the "Smoke-free Newborn Study" conducted 1996-1999 at Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark. Relationship between GWG and PWR was examined according to BMI as a continuous variable and in four groups. Association between PWR and GWG according to IOM recommendations was tested by linear regression analysis and the association between PWR ≥ 5 kg (11 lbs) and GWG by logistic regression analysis. Mean GWG and mean PWR were constant for all BMI units until 26-27 kg/m(2). After this cut-off mean GWG and mean PWR decreased with increasing BMI. Nearly 40% of normal weight, 60% of overweight and 50% of obese women gained more than recommended during pregnancy. For normal weight and overweight women with GWG above recommendations the OR of gaining ≥ 5 kg (11 lbs) 1-year postpartum was 2.8 (95% CI 2.0-4.0) and 2.8 (95% CI 1.3-6.2, respectively) compared to women with GWG within recommendations. GWG above IOM recommendations significantly increases normal weight, overweight and obese women's risk of retaining weight 1 year after delivery. Health personnel face a challenge in prenatal counseling as 40-60% of these women gain more weight than recommended for their BMI. As GWG is potentially modifiable, our study should be followed by intervention studies focusing on GW.

Comorbid Parkinson's disease, falls and fractures in the 2010 National Emergency Department Sample

PubMed Central

Beydoun, Hind A.; Beydoun, May A.; Mishra, Nishant K.; Rostant, Ola S.; Zonderman, Alan B.; Eid, Shaker M.

2017-01-01

Introduction Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disorder of multifactorial etiology affecting ~1% of older adults. Research focused on linking PD to falls and bone fractures has been limited in Emergency Department (ED) settings, where most injuries are identified. We assessed whether injured U.S. ED admissions with PD diagnoses were more likely to exhibit comorbid fall- or non-fall related bone fractures and whether a PD diagnosis with a concomitant fall or bone fracture is linked to worse prognosis. Methods We performed secondary analyses of 2010 Healthcare Utilization Project National ED Sample from 4,253,987 admissions to U.S. EDs linked to injured elderly patients. ED discharges with ICD-9-CM code (332.0) were identified as PD and those with ICD-9-CM code (800.0–829.0) were used to define bone fracture location. Linear and logistic regression models were constructed to estimate slopes (B) and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results PD admissions had 28% increased adjusted prevalence of bone fracture. Non-fall injuries showed stronger relationship between PD and bone fracture (ORadj = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.22–1.45) than fall injuries (ORadj = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.10). PD had the strongest impact on hospitalization length when bone fracture and fall co-occurred, and total charges were directly associated with PD only for fall injuries. Finally, PD status was not related to in-hospital death in this population. Conclusions Among injured U.S. ED elderly patient visits, those with PD had higher bone fracture prevalence and more resource utilization especially among fall-related injuries. No association of PD with in-hospital death was noted. PMID:27887896

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

Samohyl, P.

The application of the LBB requires also fatigue flaw growth assessment. This analysis was performed for PWR nuclear power plants types VVER 440/230, VVER 440/213c, VVER 1000/320. Respecting that these NPP`s were designed according to Russian codes that differ from US codes it was needed to compare these approaches. Comparison with our experimental data was accomplished, too. Margins of applicability of the US methods and their modifications for the materials used for construction of Czech and Slovak NPP`s are shown. Computer code accomplishing the analysis according to described method is presented. Some measurement and calculations show that thermal stratifications inmore » horizontal pipelines can lead to additive loads that are not negligible and can be dangerous. An attempt to include these loads induced by steady-state stratification was made.« less

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) mutations database: review of the "old" and update of the new mutations.

PubMed

Minucci, Angelo; Moradkhani, Kamran; Hwang, Ming Jing; Zuppi, Cecilia; Giardina, Bruno; Capoluongo, Ettore

2012-03-15

In the present paper we have updated the G6PD mutations database, including all the last discovered G6PD genetic variants. We underline that the last database has been published by Vulliamy et al. [1] who analytically reported 140 G6PD mutations: along with Vulliamy's database, there are two main sites, such as http://202.120.189.88/mutdb/ and www.LOVD.nl/MR, where almost all G6PD mutations can be found. Compared to the previous mutation reports, in our paper we have included for each mutation some additional information, such as: the secondary structure and the enzyme 3D position involving by mutation, the creation or abolition of a restriction site (with the enzyme involved) and the conservation score associated with each amino acid position. The mutations reported in the present tab have been divided according to the gene's region involved (coding and non-coding) and mutations affecting the coding region in: single, multiple (at least with two bases involved) and deletion. We underline that for the listed mutations, reported in italic, literature doesn't provide all the biochemical or bio-molecular information or the research data. Finally, for the "old" mutations, we tried to verify features previously reported and, when subsequently modified, we updated the specific information using the latest literature data. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Validation of CESAR Thermal-hydraulic Module of ASTEC V1.2 Code on BETHSY Experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tregoures, Nicolas; Bandini, Giacomino; Foucher, Laurent; Fleurot, Joëlle; Meloni, Paride

The ASTEC V1 system code is being jointly developed by the French Institut de Radioprotection et Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN) and the German Gesellschaft für Anlagen und ReaktorSicherheit (GRS) to address severe accident sequences in a nuclear power plant. Thermal-hydraulics in primary and secondary system is addressed by the CESAR module. The aim of this paper is to present the validation of the CESAR module, from the ASTEC V1.2 version, on the basis of well instrumented and qualified integral experiments carried out in the BETHSY facility (CEA, France), which simulates a French 900 MWe PWR reactor. Three tests have been thoroughly investigated with CESAR: the loss of coolant 9.1b test (OECD ISP N° 27), the loss of feedwater 5.2e test, and the multiple steam generator tube rupture 4.3b test. In the present paper, the results of the code for the three analyzed tests are presented in comparison with the experimental data. The thermal-hydraulic behavior of the BETHSY facility during the transient phase is well reproduced by CESAR: the occurrence of major events and the time evolution of main thermal-hydraulic parameters of both primary and secondary circuits are well predicted.

Recent plant studies using Victoria 2.0

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

BIXLER,NATHAN E.; GASSER,RONALD D.

2000-03-08

VICTORIA 2.0 is a mechanistic computer code designed to analyze fission product behavior within the reactor coolant system (RCS) during a severe nuclear reactor accident. It provides detailed predictions of the release of radioactive and nonradioactive materials from the reactor core and transport and deposition of these materials within the RCS and secondary circuits. These predictions account for the chemical and aerosol processes that affect radionuclide behavior. VICTORIA 2.0 was released in early 1999; a new version VICTORIA 2.1, is now under development. The largest improvements in VICTORIA 2.1 are connected with the thermochemical database, which is being revised andmore » expanded following the recommendations of a peer review. Three risk-significant severe accident sequences have recently been investigated using the VICTORIA 2.0 code. The focus here is on how various chemistry options affect the predictions. Additionally, the VICTORIA predictions are compared with ones made using the MELCOR code. The three sequences are a station blackout in a GE BWR and steam generator tube rupture (SGTR) and pump-seal LOCA sequences in a 3-loop Westinghouse PWR. These sequences cover a range of system pressures, from fully depressurized to full system pressure. The chief results of this study are the fission product fractions that are retained in the core, RCS, secondary, and containment and the fractions that are released into the environment.« less

Dual Coding, Reasoning and Fallacies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hample, Dale

1982-01-01

Develops the theory that a fallacy is not a comparison of a rhetorical text to a set of definitions but a comparison of one person's cognition with another's. Reviews Paivio's dual coding theory, relates nonverbal coding to reasoning processes, and generates a limited fallacy theory based on dual coding theory. (PD)

Progression Rate Associated Peripheral Blood Biomarkers of Parkinson's Disease.

PubMed

Fan, Yanxia; Xiao, Shuping

2018-06-23

Parkinson disease (PD) is one of the most frequent neurodegenerative disorders. The aim of this study was to identify blood biomarkers capable to discriminate PD patients with different progression rates. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were acquired by comparing the expression profiles of PD patients with rapid and slow progression rates, using an expression dataset from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) under accession code of GSE80599. Altered biological processes and pathways were revealed by functional annotation. Potential biomarkers of PD were identified by protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Critical transcription factors (TFs) and miRNAs regulating DEGs were predicted by TF analysis and miRNA analysis. A total of 225 DEGs were identified between PD patients with rapid and slow progression profiles. These genes were significantly enriched in biological processes and pathways related to fatty acid metabolism. Among these DEGs, ZFAND4, SRMS, UBL4B, PVALB, DIRAS1, PDP2, LRCH1, and MYL4 were potential progression rate associated biomarkers of PD. Additionally, these DEGs may be regulated by miRNAs of the miR-30 family and TFs STAT1 and GRHL3. Our results may contribute to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying different PD progression profiles.

Recent operating experiences with steam generators in Japanese NPPs

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

Yashima, Seiji

1997-02-01

In 1994, the Genkai-3 of Kyushu Electric Power Co., Inc. and the Ikata-3 of Shikoku Electric Power Co., Inc. started commercial operation, and now 22 PWR plants are being operated in Japan. Since the first PWR plant now 22 PWR plants are being operated in was started to operate, Japanese PWR plants have had an operating experience of approx. 280 reactor-years. During that period, many tube degradations have been experienced in steam generators (SGs). And, in 1991, the steam generator tube rupture (SGTR) occurred in the Mihama-2 of Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. However, the occurrence of tube degradation ofmore » SGs has been decreased by the instructions of the MITI as regulatory authorities, efforts of Electric Utilities, and technical support from the SG manufacturers. Here the author describes the recent SGs in Japan about the following points. (1) Recent Operating Experiences (2) Lessons learned from Mihama-2 SGTR (3) SG replacement (4) Safety Regulations on SG (5) Research and development on SG.« less

EYE-TRAC: monitoring attention and utility for mTBI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maruta, Jun; Tong, Jianliang; Lee, Stephanie W.; Iqbal, Zarah; Schonberger, Alison; Ghajar, Jamshid

2012-06-01

Attention is a core function in cognition and also the most prevalent cognitive deficit in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Predictive timing is an essential element of attention functioning because sensory processing and execution of goal-oriented behavior are facilitated by temporally accurate prediction. It is hypothesized that impaired synchronization between prediction and external events accounts for the attention deficit in mTBI. Other cognitive and somatic or affective symptoms associated with mTBI may be explained as secondary consequences of impaired predictive timing. Eye-Tracking Rapid Attention Computation (EYE-TRAC) is the quantification of predictive timing with indices of dynamic visuo-motor synchronization (DVS) between the gaze and the target during continuous predictive visual tracking. Such quantification allows for cognitive performance monitoring in comparison to the overall population as well as within individuals over time. We report preliminary results of normative data and data collected from subjects with a history of mTBI within 2 weeks of injury and post-concussive symptoms at the time of recruitment. A substantial proportion of mTBI subjects demonstrated DVS scores worse than 95% of normal subjects. In addition, longitudinal monitoring of acute mTBI subjects showed that initially abnormal DVS scores were followed by improvement toward the normal range. In summary, EYE-TRAC provides fast and objective indices of DVS that allow comparison of attention performance to a normative standard and monitoring of within-individual changes.

Arterial pressure-based cardiac output monitoring: a multicenter validation of the third-generation software in septic patients.

PubMed

De Backer, Daniel; Marx, Gernot; Tan, Andrew; Junker, Christopher; Van Nuffelen, Marc; Hüter, Lars; Ching, Willy; Michard, Frédéric; Vincent, Jean-Louis

2011-02-01

Second-generation FloTrac software has been shown to reliably measure cardiac output (CO) in cardiac surgical patients. However, concerns have been raised regarding its accuracy in vasoplegic states. The aim of the present multicenter study was to investigate the accuracy of the third-generation software in patients with sepsis, particularly when total systemic vascular resistance (TSVR) is low. Fifty-eight septic patients were included in this prospective observational study in four university-affiliated ICUs. Reference CO was measured by bolus pulmonary thermodilution (iCO) using 3-5 cold saline boluses. Simultaneously, CO was computed from the arterial pressure curve recorded on a computer using the second-generation (CO(G2)) and third-generation (CO(G3)) FloTrac software. CO was also measured by semi-continuous pulmonary thermodilution (CCO). A total of 401 simultaneous measurements of iCO, CO(G2), CO(G3), and CCO were recorded. The mean (95%CI) biases between CO(G2) and iCO, CO(G3) and iCO, and CCO and iCO were -10 (-15 to -5)% [-0.8 (-1.1 to -0.4) L/min], 0 (-4 to 4)% [0 (-0.3 to 0.3) L/min], and 9 (6-13)% [0.7 (0.5-1.0) L/min], respectively. The percentage errors were 29 (20-37)% for CO(G2), 30 (24-37)% for CO(G3), and 28 (22-34)% for CCO. The difference between iCO and CO(G2) was significantly correlated with TSVR (r(2) = 0.37, p < 0.0001). A very weak (r(2) = 0.05) relationship was also observed for the difference between iCO and CO(G3). In patients with sepsis, the third-generation FloTrac software is more accurate, as precise, and less influenced by TSVR than the second-generation software.

Bias estimates used in lieu of validation of fission products and minor actinides in MCNP K eff calculations for PWR burnup credit casks

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

Mueller, Don E.; Marshall, William J.; Wagner, John C.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Division of Spent Fuel Storage and Transportation recently issued Interim Staff Guidance (ISG) 8, Revision 3. This ISG provides guidance for burnup credit (BUC) analyses supporting transport and storage of PWR pressurized water reactor (PWR) fuel in casks. Revision 3 includes guidance for addressing validation of criticality (k eff) calculations crediting the presence of a limited set of fission products and minor actinides (FP&MA). Based on previous work documented in NUREG/CR-7109, recommendation 4 of ISG-8, Rev. 3, includes a recommendation to use 1.5 or 3% of the FP&MA worth to conservatively cover the biasmore » due to the specified FP&MAs. This bias is supplementary to the bias and bias uncertainty resulting from validation of k eff calculations for the major actinides in SNF and does not address extension to actinides and fission products beyond those identified herein. The work described in this report involves comparison of FP&MA worths calculated using SCALE and MCNP with ENDF/B-V, -VI, and -VII based nuclear data and supports use of the 1.5% FP&MA worth bias when either SCALE or MCNP codes are used for criticality calculations, provided the other conditions of the recommendation 4 are met. The method used in this report may also be applied to demonstrate the applicability of the 1.5% FP&MA worth bias to other codes using ENDF/B V, VI or VII based nuclear data. The method involves use of the applicant s computational method to generate FP&MA worths for a reference SNF cask model using specified spent fuel compositions. The applicant s FP&MA worths are then compared to reference values provided in this report. The applicants FP&MA worths should not exceed the reference results by more than 1.5% of the reference FP&MA worths.« less

Applications of the microdosimetric function implemented in the macroscopic particle transport simulation code PHITS.

PubMed

Sato, Tatsuhiko; Watanabe, Ritsuko; Sihver, Lembit; Niita, Koji

2012-01-01

Microdosimetric quantities such as lineal energy are generally considered to be better indices than linear energy transfer (LET) for expressing the relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of high charge and energy particles. To calculate their probability densities (PD) in macroscopic matter, it is necessary to integrate microdosimetric tools such as track-structure simulation codes with macroscopic particle transport simulation codes. As an integration approach, the mathematical model for calculating the PD of microdosimetric quantities developed based on track-structure simulations was incorporated into the macroscopic particle transport simulation code PHITS (Particle and Heavy Ion Transport code System). The improved PHITS enables the PD in macroscopic matter to be calculated within a reasonable computation time, while taking their stochastic nature into account. The microdosimetric function of PHITS was applied to biological dose estimation for charged-particle therapy and risk estimation for astronauts. The former application was performed in combination with the microdosimetric kinetic model, while the latter employed the radiation quality factor expressed as a function of lineal energy. Owing to the unique features of the microdosimetric function, the improved PHITS has the potential to establish more sophisticated systems for radiological protection in space as well as for the treatment planning of charged-particle therapy.

Modeling Off-Nominal Recovery in NextGen Terminal-Area Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Callantine, Todd J.

2011-01-01

Robust schedule-based arrival management requires efficient recovery from off-nominal situations. This paper presents research on modeling off-nominal situations and plans for recovering from them using TRAC, a route/airspace design, fast-time simulation, and analysis tool for studying NextGen trajectory-based operations. The paper provides an overview of a schedule-based arrival-management concept and supporting controller tools, then describes TRAC implementations of methods for constructing off-nominal scenarios, generating trajectory options to meet scheduling constraints, and automatically producing recovery plans.

Data-Base Software For Tracking Technological Developments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aliberti, James A.; Wright, Simon; Monteith, Steve K.

1996-01-01

Technology Tracking System (TechTracS) computer program developed for use in storing and retrieving information on technology and related patent information developed under auspices of NASA Headquarters and NASA's field centers. Contents of data base include multiple scanned still images and quick-time movies as well as text. TechTracS includes word-processing, report-editing, chart-and-graph-editing, and search-editing subprograms. Extensive keyword searching capabilities enable rapid location of technologies, innovators, and companies. System performs routine functions automatically and serves multiple users.

Plasmon waveguide resonance sensor using an Au-MgF2 structure.

PubMed

Zhou, Yanfei; Zhang, Pengfei; He, Yonghong; Xu, Zihao; Liu, Le; Ji, Yanhong; Ma, Hui

2014-10-01

We report an Au − MgF(2) plasmon waveguide resonance (PWR) sensor in this work. The characteristics of this sensing structure are compared with a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structure theoretically and experimentally. The transverse-magnetic-polarized PWR sensor has a refractive index resolution of 9.3 × 10(-7) RIU, which is 6 times smaller than that of SPR at the incident light wavelength of 633 nm, and the transverse-electric-polarized PWR sensor has a refractive index resolution of 3.0 × 10(-6) RIU. This high-resolution sensor is easy to build and is less sensitive to film coating deviations.

Pretest mediction of Semiscale Test S-07-10 B. [PWR

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

Dobbe, C A

A best estimate prediction of Semiscale Test S-07-10B was performed at INEL by EG and G Idaho as part of the RELAP4/MOD6 code assessment effort and as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission pretest calculation for the Small Break Experiment. The RELAP4/MOD6 Update 4 and the RELAP4/MOD7 computer codes were used to analyze Semiscale Test S-07-10B, a 10% communicative cold leg break experiment. The Semiscale Mod-3 system utilized an electrially heated simulated core operating at a power level of 1.94 MW. The initial system pressure and temperature in the upper plenum was 2276 psia and 604/sup 0/F, respectively.

A collision history-based approach to Sensitivity/Perturbation calculations in the continuous energy Monte Carlo code SERPENT

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

Giuseppe Palmiotti

In this work, the implementation of a collision history-based approach to sensitivity/perturbation calculations in the Monte Carlo code SERPENT is discussed. The proposed methods allow the calculation of the eects of nuclear data perturbation on several response functions: the eective multiplication factor, reaction rate ratios and bilinear ratios (e.g., eective kinetics parameters). SERPENT results are compared to ERANOS and TSUNAMI Generalized Perturbation Theory calculations for two fast metallic systems and for a PWR pin-cell benchmark. New methods for the calculation of sensitivities to angular scattering distributions are also presented, which adopts fully continuous (in energy and angle) Monte Carlo estimators.

Personality characteristics and motor skills attributed to occupations in Parkinson disease.

PubMed

Gatto, Nicole M; Bordelon, Yvette; Gatz, Margaret; Ritz, Beate

2011-03-01

It has previously been speculated that a distinct premorbid personality characterized by introversion, rigidity, and over cautiousness might be associated with Parkinson disease (PD). Only 1 previous study has assessed personality before PD onset, and other data collected retrospectively do not exclude reverse causation. We relied on the longest held job reported in an interview to infer personality traits and motor skills for 355 incident PD patients and 335 population controls enrolled in a PD study in California. Jobs were coded according to the 1980 US Census Occupational Code and assigned scores for various demands, skills, and aptitudes required by the job. None of the occupational temperament or interest factors required, expected, or exhibited by workers were related to statistically significantly higher odds of having PD per unit increase in scores, whereas there was some suggestion of differences when the extremes were examined. Analyses of physical aptitude factors showed that PD cases were less likely to have worked in jobs that involved certain motor skills. This study uses a novel approach to assess personality traits using occupational characteristics. Most job attributes thought to reflect conservativeness; risk taking, stress resistance, and flexibility were not associated with PD in a linear manner. Thus, these occupation-derived traits do not seem to support the existence of a distinct parkinsonian personality. However, the negative associations with jobs requiring certain motor skills are intriguing, and may suggest very early premotor features or a lack of continuous motor training as a risk factor for PD.

KWU's high conversion reactor concept - An economical evolution of modern pressurized water reactor technology toward improved uranium ore utilization

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

Markl, H.; Goetzmann, C.A.; Moldaschl, H.

The Kraftwerk Union AG high conversion reactor represents a quasi-standard PWR with fuel assemblies of more or less uniformly enriched fuel rods, arranged in a tight hexagonal array with a pitch-to-diameter ratio p/d approx. = 1.12. High fuel enrichment as well as a high conversion ratio of --0.9 will provide the potential for high burnup values up to 70 000 MWd/tonne and a low fissile material consumption. The overall objective of the actual RandD program is to have the technical feasibility, including that for licensibility, established by the early 1990s as a prerequisite for deciding whether to enter a demonstrationmore » plant program.« less

[Detection of gene mutation in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency by RT-PCR sequencing].

PubMed

Lyu, Rong-Yu; Chen, Xiao-Wen; Zhang, Min; Chen, Yun-Sheng; Yu, Jie; Wen, Fei-Qiu

2016-07-01

Since glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the most common hereditary hemolytic erythrocyte enzyme deficiency, most cases have single nucleotide mutations in the coding region, and current test methods for gene mutation have some missed detections, this study aimed to investigate the feasibility of RT-PCR sequencing in the detection of gene mutation in G6PD deficiency. According to the G6PD/6GPD ratio, 195 children with anemia of unknown cause or who underwent physical examination between August 2013 and July 2014 were classified into G6PD-deficiency group with 130 children (G6PD/6GPD ratio <1.00) and control group with 65 children (G6PD/6GPD ratio≥1.00). The primer design and PCR amplification conditions were optimized, and RT-PCR sequencing was used to analyze the complete coding sequence and verify the genomic DNA sequence in the two groups. In the G6PD-deficiency group, the detection rate of gene mutation was 100% and 13 missense mutations were detected, including one new mutation. In the control group, no missense mutation was detected in 28 boys; 13 heterozygous missense mutations, 1 homozygous same-sense mutation (C1191T) which had not been reported in China and abroad, and 14 single nucleotide polymorphisms of C1311T were detected in 37 girls. The control group showed a high rate of missed detection of G6PD deficiency (carriers) in the specimens from girls (35%, 13/37). RT-PCR sequencing has a high detection rate of G6PD gene mutation and a certain value in clinical diagnosis of G6PD deficiency.

Main steam line break accident simulation of APR1400 using the model of ATLAS facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ekariansyah, A. S.; Deswandri; Sunaryo, Geni R.

2018-02-01

A main steam line break simulation for APR1400 as an advanced design of PWR has been performed using the RELAP5 code. The simulation was conducted in a model of thermal-hydraulic test facility called as ATLAS, which represents a scaled down facility of the APR1400 design. The main steam line break event is described in a open-access safety report document, in which initial conditions and assumptionsfor the analysis were utilized in performing the simulation and analysis of the selected parameter. The objective of this work was to conduct a benchmark activities by comparing the simulation results of the CESEC-III code as a conservative approach code with the results of RELAP5 as a best-estimate code. Based on the simulation results, a general similarity in the behavior of selected parameters was observed between the two codes. However the degree of accuracy still needs further research an analysis by comparing with the other best-estimate code. Uncertainties arising from the ATLAS model should be minimized by taking into account much more specific data in developing the APR1400 model.

Development of a video image-based QA system for the positional accuracy of dynamic tumor tracking irradiation in the Vero4DRT system.

PubMed

Ebe, Kazuyu; Sugimoto, Satoru; Utsunomiya, Satoru; Kagamu, Hiroshi; Aoyama, Hidefumi; Court, Laurence; Tokuyama, Katsuichi; Baba, Ryuta; Ogihara, Yoshisada; Ichikawa, Kosuke; Toyama, Joji

2015-08-01

To develop and evaluate a new video image-based QA system, including in-house software, that can display a tracking state visually and quantify the positional accuracy of dynamic tumor tracking irradiation in the Vero4DRT system. Sixteen trajectories in six patients with pulmonary cancer were obtained with the ExacTrac in the Vero4DRT system. Motion data in the cranio-caudal direction (Y direction) were used as the input for a programmable motion table (Quasar). A target phantom was placed on the motion table, which was placed on the 2D ionization chamber array (MatriXX). Then, the 4D modeling procedure was performed on the target phantom during a reproduction of the patient's tumor motion. A substitute target with the patient's tumor motion was irradiated with 6-MV x-rays under the surrogate infrared system. The 2D dose images obtained from the MatriXX (33 frames/s; 40 s) were exported to in-house video-image analyzing software. The absolute differences in the Y direction between the center of the exposed target and the center of the exposed field were calculated. Positional errors were observed. The authors' QA results were compared to 4D modeling function errors and gimbal motion errors obtained from log analyses in the ExacTrac to verify the accuracy of their QA system. The patients' tumor motions were evaluated in the wave forms, and the peak-to-peak distances were also measured to verify their reproducibility. Thirteen of sixteen trajectories (81.3%) were successfully reproduced with Quasar. The peak-to-peak distances ranged from 2.7 to 29.0 mm. Three trajectories (18.7%) were not successfully reproduced due to the limited motions of the Quasar. Thus, 13 of 16 trajectories were summarized. The mean number of video images used for analysis was 1156. The positional errors (absolute mean difference + 2 standard deviation) ranged from 0.54 to 1.55 mm. The error values differed by less than 1 mm from 4D modeling function errors and gimbal motion errors in the ExacTrac log analyses (n = 13). The newly developed video image-based QA system, including in-house software, can analyze more than a thousand images (33 frames/s). Positional errors are approximately equivalent to those in ExacTrac log analyses. This system is useful for the visual illustration of the progress of the tracking state and for the quantification of positional accuracy during dynamic tumor tracking irradiation in the Vero4DRT system.

A NIST Kinetic Data Base for PAH Reaction and Soot Particle Inception During Combusion

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-12-01

in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) codes hat have lead to the capability of describing complex reactive flow problems and thus simulating... parameters . However in the absence of data estimates must be made. Since the chemistry of combustion is extremely complex and for proper description...118:381-389 9. Babushok, V. and Tsang, W., J. Prop. and Pwr . 20 (2004) 403-414. 10. . Fournet, R., Warth, V., Glaude, P.A., Battin-Leclerc, F

Performance evaluation of two-stage fuel cycle from SFR to PWR

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

Fei, T.; Hoffman, E.A.; Kim, T.K.

2013-07-01

One potential fuel cycle option being considered is a two-stage fuel cycle system involving the continuous recycle of transuranics in a fast reactor and the use of bred plutonium in a thermal reactor. The first stage is a Sodium-cooled Fast Reactor (SFR) fuel cycle with metallic U-TRU-Zr fuel. The SFRs need to have a breeding ratio greater than 1.0 in order to produce fissile material for use in the second stage. The second stage is a PWR fuel cycle with uranium and plutonium mixed oxide fuel based on the design and performance of the current state-of-the-art commercial PWRs with anmore » average discharge burnup of 50 MWd/kgHM. This paper evaluates the possibility of this fuel cycle option and discusses its fuel cycle performance characteristics. The study focuses on an equilibrium stage of the fuel cycle. Results indicate that, in order to avoid a positive coolant void reactivity feedback in the stage-2 PWR, the reactor requires high quality of plutonium from the first stage and minor actinides in the discharge fuel of the PWR needs to be separated and sent back to the stage-1 SFR. The electricity-sharing ratio between the 2 stages is 87.0% (SFR) to 13.0% (PWR) for a TRU inventory ratio (the mass of TRU in the discharge fuel divided by the mass of TRU in the fresh fuel) of 1.06. A sensitivity study indicated that by increasing the TRU inventory ratio to 1.13, The electricity generation fraction of stage-2 PWR is increased to 28.9%. The two-stage fuel cycle system considered in this study was found to provide a high uranium utilization (>80%). (authors)« less

Improved Biomolecular Thin-Film Sensor based on Plasmon Waveguide Resonance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Byard, Courtney; Aslan, Mustafa; Mendes, Sergio

2009-05-01

The design, fabrication, and characterization of a plasmon waveguide resonance (PWR) sensor are presented. Glass substrates are coated with a 35 nm gold film using electron beam evaporation, and then covered with a 143 nm aluminum oxide waveguide using an atomic layer deposition process, creating a smooth, highly transparent dielectric film. When probed in the Kretschmann configuration, the structure allows for an efficient conversion of an incident optical beam into a surface wave, which is mainly confined in the dielectric layer and exhibits a deep and narrow angular resonance. The performance (reflectance vs. incidence angle in TE polarization) is modeled using a transfer-matrix approach implemented into a Mathematica code. Our simulations and experimental data are compared with that of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor using the same criteria. We show that the resolution of PWR is approximately ten times better than SPR, opening opportunities for more sensitive studies in various applications including research in protein interactions, pharmaceutical drug development, and food analysis.

The increase in fatigue crack growth rates observed for Zircaloy-4 in a PWR environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cockeram, B. V.; Kammenzind, B. F.

2018-02-01

Cyclic stresses produced during the operation of nuclear reactors can result in the extension of cracks by processes of fatigue. Although fatigue crack growth rate (FCGR) data for Zircaloy-4 in air are available, little testing has been performed in a PWR primary water environment. Test programs have been performed by Gee et al., in 1989 and Picker and Pickles in 1984 by the UK Atomic Energy Authority, and by Wisner et al., in 1994, that have shown an enhancement in FCGR for Zircaloy-2 and Zircaloy-4 in high-temperature water. In this work, FCGR testing is performed on Zircaloy-4 in a PWR environment in the hydrided and non-hydrided condition over a range of stress-intensity. Measurements of crack extension are performed using a direct current potential drop (DCPD) method. The cyclic rate in the PWR primary water environment is varied between 1 cycle per minute to 0.1 cycle per minute. Faster FCGR rates are observed in water in comparison to FCGR testing performed in air for the hydrided material. Hydrided and non-hydrided materials had similar FCGR values in air, but the non-hydrided material exhibited much lower rates of FCGR in a PWR primary water environment than for hydrided material. Hydrides are shown to exhibit an increased tendency for cracking or decohesion in a PWR primary water environment that results in an enhancement in FCGR values. The FCGR in the PWR primary water only increased slightly with decreasing cycle frequency in the range of 1 cycle per minute to 0.1 cycle per minute. Comparisons between the FCGR in water and air show the enhancement from the PWR environment is affected by the applied stress intensity.

Simulation of Rotary-Wing Near-Wake Vortex Structures Using Navier-Stokes CFD Methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kenwright, David; Strawn, Roger; Ahmad, Jasim; Duque, Earl; Warmbrodt, William (Technical Monitor)

1997-01-01

This paper will use high-resolution Navier-Stokes computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to model the near-wake vortex roll-up behind rotor blades. The locations and strengths of the trailing vortices will be determined from newly-developed visualization and analysis software tools applied to the CFD solutions. Computational results for rotor nearwake vortices will be used to study the near-wake vortex roll up for highly-twisted tiltrotor blades. These rotor blades typically have combinations of positive and negative spanwise loading and complex vortex wake interactions. Results of the computational studies will be compared to vortex-lattice wake models that are frequently used in rotorcraft comprehensive codes. Information from these comparisons will be used to improve the rotor wake models in the Tilt-Rotor Acoustic Code (TRAC) portion of NASA's Short Haul Civil Transport program (SHCT). Accurate modeling of the rotor wake is an important part of this program and crucial to the successful design of future civil tiltrotor aircraft. The rotor wake system plays an important role in blade-vortex interaction noise, a major problem for all rotorcraft including tiltrotors.

Advanced Pellet Cladding Interaction Modeling Using the US DOE CASL Fuel Performance Code: Peregrine

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

Jason Hales; Various

The US DOE’s Consortium for Advanced Simulation of LWRs (CASL) program has undertaken an effort to enhance and develop modeling and simulation tools for a virtual reactor application, including high fidelity neutronics, fluid flow/thermal hydraulics, and fuel and material behavior. The fuel performance analysis efforts aim to provide 3-dimensional capabilities for single and multiple rods to assess safety margins and the impact of plant operation and fuel rod design on the fuel thermomechanical- chemical behavior, including Pellet-Cladding Interaction (PCI) failures and CRUD-Induced Localized Corrosion (CILC) failures in PWRs. [1-3] The CASL fuel performance code, Peregrine, is an engineering scale codemore » that is built upon the MOOSE/ELK/FOX computational FEM framework, which is also common to the fuel modeling framework, BISON [4,5]. Peregrine uses both 2-D and 3-D geometric fuel rod representations and contains a materials properties and fuel behavior model library for the UO2 and Zircaloy system common to PWR fuel derived from both open literature sources and the FALCON code [6]. The primary purpose of Peregrine is to accurately calculate the thermal, mechanical, and chemical processes active throughout a single fuel rod during operation in a reactor, for both steady state and off-normal conditions.« less

Methodology, status and plans for development and assessment of Cathare code

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

Bestion, D.; Barre, F.; Faydide, B.

1997-07-01

This paper presents the methodology, status and plans for the development, assessment and uncertainty evaluation of the Cathare code. Cathare is a thermalhydraulic code developed by CEA (DRN), IPSN, EDF and FRAMATOME for PWR safety analysis. First, the status of the code development and assessment is presented. The general strategy used for the development and the assessment of the code is presented. Analytical experiments with separate effect tests, and component tests are used for the development and the validation of closure laws. Successive Revisions of constitutive laws are implemented in successive Versions of the code and assessed. System tests ormore » integral tests are used to validate the general consistency of the Revision. Each delivery of a code Version + Revision is fully assessed and documented. A methodology is being developed to determine the uncertainty on all constitutive laws of the code using calculations of many analytical tests and applying the Discrete Adjoint Sensitivity Method (DASM). At last, the plans for the future developments of the code are presented. They concern the optimization of the code performance through parallel computing - the code will be used for real time full scope plant simulators - the coupling with many other codes (neutronic codes, severe accident codes), the application of the code for containment thermalhydraulics. Also, physical improvements are required in the field of low pressure transients and in the modeling for the 3-D model.« less

Targeting a CAR to the TRAC locus with CRISPR/Cas9 enhances tumour rejection

PubMed Central

Eyquem, Justin; Mansilla-Soto, Jorge; Giavridis, Theodoros; van der Stegen, Sjoukje J. C.; Hamieh, Mohamad; Cunanan, Kristen M.; Odak, Ashlesha; Gönen, Mithat; Sadelain, Michel

2017-01-01

Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) are synthetic receptors that redirect and reprogram T cells to mediate tumour rejection1. The most successful CARs used to date are those targeting CD19 (ref. 2), which offer the prospect of complete remission in patients with chemorefractory or relapsed B-cell malignancies3. CARs are typically transduced into the T cells of a patient using γ-retroviral4 vectors or other randomly integrating vectors5, which may result in clonal expansion, oncogenic transformation, variegated transgene expression and transcriptional silencing6–8. Recent advances in genome editing enable efficient sequence-specific interventions in human cells9,10, including targeted gene delivery to the CCR5 and AAVS1 loci11,12. Here we show that directing a CD19-specific CAR to the T-cell receptor α constant (TRAC) locus not only results in uniform CAR expression in human peripheral blood T cells, but also enhances T-cell potency, with edited cells vastly outperforming conventionally generated CAR T cells in a mouse model of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. We further demonstrate that targeting the CAR to the TRAC locus averts tonic CAR signalling and establishes effective internalization and re-expression of the CAR following single or repeated exposure to antigen, delaying effector T-cell differentiation and exhaustion. These findings uncover facets of CAR immunobiology and underscore the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to advance immunotherapies. PMID:28225754

TRAC FY15 Research Planning and Elicitation

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-30

Wargaming and Simulation Directorate . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2 Table C–7. FLVN-Operations Directorate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C...Studies and Analysis III Directorate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-4 Table C–14.WSMR - Modeling and Simulation Directorate...Directorate - Mr. Decker • Wargaming and Simulation Directorate - Mr. Johnson • Operations Directorate - Ms. Fratzel • Scenarios and Data Directorate - Mr

75 FR 14161 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-24

.... Proposed Project: Transformation Accountability (TRAC) Reporting System --(OMB No. 0930-0285)--Revision... Receiving Mental Health Services. The name of this data collection effort is revised to the Transformation... 2 Education and Employment 4 3 Crime and Criminal Justice........ 1 1 Perception of Care 15 14...

Epigenome-wide DNA methylation analysis in siblings and monozygotic twins discordant for sporadic Parkinson's disease revealed different epigenetic patterns in peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

PubMed

Kaut, Oliver; Schmitt, Ina; Tost, Jörg; Busato, Florence; Liu, Yi; Hofmann, Per; Witt, Stephanie H; Rietschel, Marcella; Fröhlich, Holger; Wüllner, Ullrich

2017-01-01

Numerous studies have elucidated the genetics of Parkinson's disease; however, the aetiology of the majority of sporadic cases has not yet been resolved. We hypothesized that epigenetic variations could be associated with PD and evaluated the DNA methylation pattern in PD patients compared to brothers or twins without PD. The methylation of DNA from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 62 discordant siblings including 24 monozygotic twins was characterized with Illumina DNA Methylation 450K bead arrays and subsequently validated in two independent cohorts: 221 PD vs. 227 healthy individuals (cohort 1) applying Illumina's VeraCode and 472 PD patients vs. 487 controls (cohort 2) using pyrosequencing. We choose a delta beta of >15 % and selected 62 differentially methylated CpGs in 51 genes from the discordant siblings. Among them, three displayed multiple CpGs per gene: microRNA 886 (MIR886, 10 CpGs), phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D, 2 CpGs) and tripartite motif-containing 34 (TRIM34, 2 CpGs). PDE4D was confirmed in both cohorts (p value 2.44e-05). In addition, for biomarker construction, we used the penalized logistic regression model, resulting in a signature of eight CpGs with an AUC of 0.77. Our findings suggest that a distinct level of PD susceptibility stems from individual, epigenetic modifications of specific genes. We identified a signature of CpGs in blood cells that could separate control from disease with a reasonable discriminatory power, holding promise for future epigenetically based biomarker development.

Physics of hydride fueled PWR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ganda, Francesco

The first part of the work presents the neutronic results of a detailed and comprehensive study of the feasibility of using hydride fuel in pressurized water reactors (PWR). The primary hydride fuel examined is U-ZrH1.6 having 45w/o uranium: two acceptable design approaches were identified: (1) use of erbium as a burnable poison; (2) replacement of a fraction of the ZrH1.6 by thorium hydride along with addition of some IFBA. The replacement of 25 v/o of ZrH 1.6 by ThH2 along with use of IFBA was identified as the preferred design approach as it gives a slight cycle length gain whereas use of erbium burnable poison results in a cycle length penalty. The feasibility of a single recycling plutonium in PWR in the form of U-PuH2-ZrH1.6 has also been assessed. This fuel was found superior to MOX in terms of the TRU fractional transmutation---53% for U-PuH2-ZrH1.6 versus 29% for MOX---and proliferation resistance. A thorough investigation of physics characteristics of hydride fuels has been performed to understand the reasons of the trends in the reactivity coefficients. The second part of this work assessed the feasibility of multi-recycling plutonium in PWR using hydride fuel. It was found that the fertile-free hydride fuel PuH2-ZrH1.6, enables multi-recycling of Pu in PWR an unlimited number of times. This unique feature of hydride fuels is due to the incorporation of a significant fraction of the hydrogen moderator in the fuel, thereby mitigating the effect of spectrum hardening due to coolant voiding accidents. An equivalent oxide fuel PuO2-ZrO2 was investigated as well and found to enable up to 10 recycles. The feasibility of recycling Pu and all the TRU using hydride fuels were investigated as well. It was found that hydride fuels allow recycling of Pu+Np at least 6 times. If it was desired to recycle all the TRU in PWR using hydrides, the number of possible recycles is limited to 3; the limit is imposed by positive large void reactivity feedback.

Periodontal Disease Associated with Higher Risk of Dementia: Population-Based Cohort Study in Taiwan.

PubMed

Lee, Ya-Ling; Hu, Hsiao-Yun; Huang, Li-Ying; Chou, Pesus; Chu, Dachen

2017-09-01

To determine the magnitude and temporal aspect of the effect of poor dental health and periodontal disease (PD) on dementia. Retrospective cohort study SETTING: Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Individuals with newly diagnosed PD (N = 182,747) MEASUREMENTS: Participants were followed from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2010. Participants were assigned to dental prophylaxis, intensive periodontal treatment, tooth extraction, or no treatment, according to International Classification of Diseases codes and PD treatment codes. The incidence rate of dementia of the groups was compared. The association between PD and dementia was analyzed using Cox regression, with adjustments for age, sex, monthly income, residential urbanicity, and comorbidities. The incidence of dementia was significantly higher in the group with PD that did not receive treatment (0.76% per year) and in the group that had teeth extracted (0.57% per year) than in the group that underwent intensive PD treatment (0.35% per year) and the group that received dental prophylaxis (0.39% per year) (P < .001). After adjusting for confounders, the Cox proportional hazards model revealed a higher risk of dementia in the group with PD who did not undergo treatment (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.04-1.24) and the group that had teeth extracted (HR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.04-1.16) than in the group that received dental prophylaxis. Subjects who had more severe PD or did not receive periodontal treatment were at greater risk of developing dementia. © 2017, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2017, The American Geriatrics Society.

Personality Characteristics and Motor Skills Attributed to Occupations in Parkinson Disease

PubMed Central

Gatto, Nicole M.; Bordelon, Yvette; Gatz, Margaret; Ritz, Beate

2013-01-01

Background It has previously been speculated that a distinct premorbid personality characterized by introversion, rigidity, and over cautiousness might be associated with Parkinson disease (PD). Only 1 previous study has assessed personality before PD onset, and other data collected retrospectively do not exclude reverse causation. Objective We relied on the longest held job reported in an interview to infer personality traits and motor skills for 355 incident PD patients and 335 population controls enrolled in a PD study in California. Methods Jobs were coded according to the 1980 US Census Occupational Code and assigned scores for various demands, skills, and aptitudes required by the job. Results None of the occupational temperament or interest factors required, expected, or exhibited by workers were related to statistically significantly higher odds of having PD per unit increase in scores, whereas there was some suggestion of differences when the extremes were examined. Analyses of physical aptitude factors showed that PD cases were less likely to have worked in jobs that involved certain motor skills. Conclusions This study uses a novel approach to assess personality traits using occupational characteristics. Most job attributes thought to reflect conservativeness; risk taking, stress resistance, and flexibility were not associated with PD in a linear manner. Thus, these occupation-derived traits do not seem to support the existence of a distinct parkinsonian personality. However, the negative associations with jobs requiring certain motor skills are intriguing, and may suggest very early premotor features or a lack of continuous motor training as a risk factor for PD. PMID:21487260

Whole genome survey of coding SNPs reveals a reproducible pathway determinant of Parkinson disease

PubMed Central

Srinivasan, Balaji S; Doostzadeh, Jaleh; Absalan, Farnaz; Mohandessi, Sharareh; Jalili, Roxana; Bigdeli, Saharnaz; Wang, Justin; Mahadevan, Jaydev; Lee, Caroline LG; Davis, Ronald W; William Langston, J; Ronaghi, Mostafa

2009-01-01

It is quickly becoming apparent that situating human variation in a pathway context is crucial to understanding its phenotypic significance. Toward this end, we have developed a general method for finding pathways associated with traits that control for pathway size. We have applied this method to a new whole genome survey of coding SNP variation in 187 patients afflicted with Parkinson disease (PD) and 187 controls. We show that our dataset provides an independent replication of the axon guidance association recently reported by Lesnick et al. [PLoS Genet 2007;3:e98], and also indicates that variation in the ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis and T-cell receptor signaling pathways may predict PD susceptibility. Given this result, it is reasonable to hypothesize that pathway associations are more replicable than individual SNP associations in whole genome association studies. However, this hypothesis is complicated by a detailed comparison of our dataset to the second recent PD association study by Fung et al. [Lancet Neurol 2006;5:911–916]. Surprisingly, we find that the axon guidance pathway does not rank at the very top of the Fung dataset after controlling for pathway size. More generally, in comparing the studies, we find that SNP frequencies replicate well despite technologically different assays, but that both SNP and pathway associations are globally uncorrelated across studies. We thus have a situation in which an association between axon guidance pathway variation and PD has been found in 2 out of 3 studies. We conclude by relating this seeming inconsistency to the molecular heterogeneity of PD, and suggest future analyses that may resolve such discrepancies. PMID:18853455

BNL severe-accident sequence experiments and analysis program. [PWR; BWR

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

Greene, G.A.; Ginsberg, T.; Tutu, N.K.

1983-01-01

In the analysis of degraded core accidents, the two major sources of pressure loading on light water reactor containments are: steam generation from core debris-water thermal interactions; and molten core-concrete interactions. Experiments are in progress at BNL in support of analytical model development related to aspects of the above containment loading mechanisms. The work supports development and evaluation of the CORCON (Muir, 1981) and MARCH (Wooton, 1980) computer codes. Progress in the two programs is described.

FY2012 summary of tasks completed on PROTEUS-thermal work.

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

Lee, C.H.; Smith, M.A.

2012-06-06

PROTEUS is a suite of the neutronics codes, both old and new, that can be used within the SHARP codes being developed under the NEAMS program. Discussion here is focused on updates and verification and validation activities of the SHARP neutronics code, DeCART, for application to thermal reactor analysis. As part of the development of SHARP tools, the different versions of the DeCART code created for PWR, BWR, and VHTR analysis were integrated. Verification and validation tests for the integrated version were started, and the generation of cross section libraries based on the subgroup method was revisited for the targetedmore » reactor types. The DeCART code has been reorganized in preparation for an efficient integration of the different versions for PWR, BWR, and VHTR analysis. In DeCART, the old-fashioned common blocks and header files have been replaced by advanced memory structures. However, the changing of variable names was minimized in order to limit problems with the code integration. Since the remaining stability problems of DeCART were mostly caused by the CMFD methodology and modules, significant work was performed to determine whether they could be replaced by more stable methods and routines. The cross section library is a key element to obtain accurate solutions. Thus, the procedure for generating cross section libraries was revisited to provide libraries tailored for the targeted reactor types. To improve accuracy in the cross section library, an attempt was made to replace the CENTRM code by the MCNP Monte Carlo code as a tool obtaining reference resonance integrals. The use of the Monte Carlo code allows us to minimize problems or approximations that CENTRM introduces since the accuracy of the subgroup data is limited by that of the reference solutions. The use of MCNP requires an additional set of libraries without resonance cross sections so that reference calculations can be performed for a unit cell in which only one isotope of interest includes resonance cross sections, among the isotopes in the composition. The OECD MHTGR-350 benchmark core was simulated using DeCART as initial focus of the verification/validation efforts. Among the benchmark problems, Exercise 1 of Phase 1 is a steady-state benchmark case for the neutronics calculation for which block-wise cross sections were provided in 26 energy groups. This type of problem was designed for a homogenized geometry solver like DIF3D rather than the high-fidelity code DeCART. Instead of the homogenized block cross sections given in the benchmark, the VHTR-specific 238-group ENDF/B-VII.0 library of DeCART was directly used for preliminary calculations. Initial results showed that the multiplication factors of a fuel pin and a fuel block with or without a control rod hole were off by 6, -362, and -183 pcm Dk from comparable MCNP solutions, respectively. The 2-D and 3-D one-third core calculations were also conducted for the all-rods-out (ARO) and all-rods-in (ARI) configurations, producing reasonable results. Figure 1 illustrates the intermediate (1.5 eV - 17 keV) and thermal (below 1.5 eV) group flux distributions. As seen from VHTR cores with annular fuels, the intermediate group fluxes are relatively high in the fuel region, but the thermal group fluxes are higher in the inner and outer graphite reflector regions than in the fuel region. To support the current project, a new three-year I-NERI collaboration involving ANL and KAERI was started in November 2011, focused on performing in-depth verification and validation of high-fidelity multi-physics simulation codes for LWR and VHTR. The work scope includes generating improved cross section libraries for the targeted reactor types, developing benchmark models for verification and validation of the neutronics code with or without thermo-fluid feedback, and performing detailed comparisons of predicted reactor parameters against both Monte Carlo solutions and experimental measurements. The following list summarizes the work conducted so far for PROTEUS-Thermal Tasks: Unification of different versions of DeCART was initiated, and at the same time code modernization was conducted to make code unification efficient; (2) Regeneration of cross section libraries was attempted for the targeted reactor types, and the procedure for generating cross section libraries was updated by replacing CENTRM with MCNP for reference resonance integrals; (3) The MHTGR-350 benchmark core was simulated using DeCART with VHTR-specific 238-group ENDF/B-VII.0 library, and MCNP calculations were performed for comparison; and (4) Benchmark problems for PWR and BWR analysis were prepared for the DeCART verification/validation effort. In the coming months, the work listed above will be completed. Cross section libraries will be generated with optimized group structures for specific reactor types.« less

[Frameless set-up with ExacTrac® system for stereotactic radiotherapy of brain metastasis: Descriptive study from five French centres].

PubMed

Ohnleiter, T; Mahé, M-A; Biau, J; Wdowczyk, D; Clavier, J-B; Antoni, D; Noël, G

2016-12-01

This study aimed to analyse the positioning protocols with the ExacTrac ® system, associated with a dedicated linear accelerator such as Novalis ® , for stereotactic treatment of brain metastases in several French centres. A survey, including three questions about the prescription of irradiation and twenty-one questions about how the ExacTrac ® system is used, was sent to nine French centres owning a dedicated Novalis ® accelerator. Five centres have accepted to participate in the study. All centres checked the positioning before each treatment's bow, with residual mismatch tolerances of 0.5 to 0.7mm for the translations and 0.5 to 1° for the rotations. All centres except one also realised orthogonal planar images of classic incidences to help operators ensure proper isocentre positioning. Prescribed doses were 20Gy in one fraction, 30Gy and 33Gy in three fractions or 34Gy in four fractions, mainly depending on the size of the lesion. Finally, a physician validated the images at the treatment station before starting the irradiation. The practices of the different centres concerning the positioning protocols were rather homogeneous, in agreement with the literature data on ExacTrac ® system's accuracy, as well as proposed fractionations. The systematic medical validation at the treatment station may, however, be questioned because of the waiting time between the doctor's call and validation itself and because of its usefulness; indeed, corrections by the radiation oncologist are very rare and in some centres, non-existent. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier SAS.

Assessment of RELAP5/MOD2 against a pressurizer spray valve inadverted fully opening transient and recovery by natural circulation in Jose Cabrera Nuclear Station

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

Arroyo, R.; Rebollo, L.

1993-06-01

This document presents the comparison between the simulation results and the plant measurements of a real event that took place in JOSE CABRERA nuclear power plant in August 30th, 1984. The event was originated by the total, continuous and inadverted opening of the pressurizer spray valve PCV-400A. JOSE CABRERA power plant is a single loop Westinghouse PWR belonging to UNION ELECTRICA FENOSA, S.A. (UNION FENOSA), an Spanish utility which participates in the International Code Assessment and Applications Program (ICAP) as a member of UNIDAD ELECTRICA, S.A. (UNESA). This is the second of its two contributions to the Program: the firstmore » one was an application case and this is an assessment one. The simulation has been performed using the RELAP5/MOD2 cycle 36.04 code, running on a CDC CYBER 180/830 computer under NOS 2.5 operating system. The main phenomena have been calculated correctly and some conclusions about the 3D characteristics of the condensation due to the spray and its simulation with a 1D tool have been got.« less

SCORE-EVET: a computer code for the multidimensional transient thermal-hydraulic analysis of nuclear fuel rod arrays. [BWR; PWR

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

Benedetti, R. L.; Lords, L. V.; Kiser, D. M.

1978-02-01

The SCORE-EVET code was developed to study multidimensional transient fluid flow in nuclear reactor fuel rod arrays. The conservation equations used were derived by volume averaging the transient compressible three-dimensional local continuum equations in Cartesian coordinates. No assumptions associated with subchannel flow have been incorporated into the derivation of the conservation equations. In addition to the three-dimensional fluid flow equations, the SCORE-EVET code ocntains: (a) a one-dimensional steady state solution scheme to initialize the flow field, (b) steady state and transient fuel rod conduction models, and (c) comprehensive correlation packages to describe fluid-to-fuel rod interfacial energy and momentum exchange. Velocitymore » and pressure boundary conditions can be specified as a function of time and space to model reactor transient conditions such as a hypothesized loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) or flow blockage.« less

The citrus postharvest pathogen Penicillium digitatum depends on the PdMpkB kinase for developmental and virulence functions.

PubMed

Ma, Haijie; Sun, Xuepeng; Wang, Mingshuang; Gai, Yunpeng; Chung, Kuang-Ren; Li, Hongye

2016-11-07

The postharvest pathogen Penicillium digitatum causes green mold decay on citrus fruit, resulting in severe economic losses. To explore possible factors involved in fungal pathogenesis, phenotypic characterization of the budding yeast Fus3/Kiss1 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase homolog was carried out. The P. digitatum MAP kinase B coding gene, designated PdMpkB, was functionally inactivated via homologous recombination. The fungal strain (∆PdMpkB) carrying a PdMpkBdeletion demonstrated altered gene expression profiles, reduced growth and conidiogenesis, elevated resistance to osmotic stress, and failed to induce green mold decay on citrus fruit. ∆PdMpkB was more resistant to CaCl2, NaCl and sorbitol than its progenitor strain, indicating a negative regulatory function of PdMpkB in osmotic stress adaptation. Fungal infection assays on citrus fruit revealed that ∆PdMpkB proliferated poorly within host tissues, induced water-soaking lesions, failed to break through host cuticle layers and thus, failed to produce aerial hyphae and conidia. Introduction of a functional copy of PdMpkB into a null mutant restored all defective phenotypes. Transcriptome analysis revealed that inactivation of PdMpkB impacted expression of the genes associated with cell wall-degrading enzyme activities, carbohydrate and amino acid metabolisms, conidial formation, and numerous metabolic processes. Our results define pivotal roles of the PdMpkB-mediated signaling pathway in developmental and pathological functions in the citrus postharvest pathogen P. digitatum. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

Stevens, D.L.; Simonen, F.A.; Strosnider, J. Jr.

The VISA (Vessel Integrity Simulation Analysis) code was developed as part of the NRC staff evaluation of pressurized thermal shock. VISA uses Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the failure probability of a pressurized water reactor (PWR) pressure vessel subjected to a pressure and thermal transient specified by the user. Linear elastic fracture mechanics are used to model crack initiation and propagation. parameters for initial crack size, copper content, initial RT/sub NDT/, fluence, crack-initiation fracture toughness, and arrest fracture toughness are treated as random variables. This report documents the version of VISA used in the NRC staff report (Policy Issue frommore » J.W. Dircks to NRC Commissioners, Enclosure A: NRC Staff Evaluation of Pressurized Thermal Shock, November 1982, SECY-82-465) and includes a user's guide for the code.« less

77 FR 37795 - Airworthiness Directives; Dassault Aviation Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-25

... display of ELEC:LH ESS PWR LO or ELEC:LH ESS NO PWR (Abnormal procedure 3-190-40), land at nearest suitable airport Upon display of ELEC:RH ESS PWR LO and ELEC:RH ESS NO PWR (Abnormal procedure 3-190-45...

Measuring the cost and effect of current community consultation and public disclosure techniques in emergency care research.

PubMed

Matchett, Gerald; Ryan, Timothy J; Sunna, Mary C; Lee, Simon C; Pepe, Paul E

2018-04-30

U.S. federal regulations for research involving exception from informed consent (EFIC) include stipulations for community consultation (CC) and public disclosure (PD) (FDA 21 CFR 50.24). Published descriptions of PD campaigns include letters to community leaders, media outreach, paid advertising, and community meetings. Whether or not these activities provide measurable impact is unknown, as few prior works have evaluated PD activities with probabilistic polling. The aim of this study is to use polling to assess how much public awareness PD efforts generate. A 3-month PD campaign similar in scope and scale to PD campaigns described in several recent publications was implemented across a large urban county (pop. 2.55 million). PD included a study website (www.evktrial.org), letters to 300 community leaders/organizations, bilingual media outreach and also phased roll-outs, weeks apart, of newspaper advertisements, mass e-mail messaging, and paid advertising in Facebook ® and Twitter ® augmented by volunteer social media outreach. During PD we used repeated zip code-targeted online polling via Google Consumer Surveys ® to assess community awareness of the proposed EFIC study. Over 3-months all-source exposures to >1 million individuals were estimated, generating ∼5,000 website visits (12-month cumulative, ∼9000). However, general community awareness evaluated through repeated county-wide polling never rose above baseline measurements. CC/PD campaign costs were estimated at $60,000 (USD). A PD campaign in scope and scale common for EFIC studies may not provide measurable impact in a community. Investigators, review boards and regulators could consider these findings when re-examining and/or creating policies for PD for EFIC studies. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A study of the relationships between Parkinson's disease and markers of traffic-derived and environmental manganese air pollution in two Canadian cities.

PubMed

Finkelstein, Murray M; Jerrett, Michael

2007-07-01

There is concern that industrial emissions of manganese (Mn) and the use of Mn-containing compounds as fuel additives might increase the population risk of Parkinson's disease (PD)-like disorders. We investigated associations between the diagnosis and treatment of PD and markers of exposure to vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions of Mn within a cohort of 110,000 subjects in the cities of Toronto and Hamilton, Canada. Methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT) has been added to Canadian gasoline since 1976 and steelmaking in Hamilton emits Mn to the air. Using residential postal codes, subjects were mapped to: (1) residence locations close to traffic and to neighbourhood levels of NO2, as markers of traffic-generated air pollution (TGAP); and, (2) neighbourhood levels of ambient Mn in Hamilton, as measured by the Mn fraction of total suspended particulate. Subjects were linked to Ministry of Health administrative databases, 1992-1999, to identify physicians' diagnoses of PD and prescriptions for l-Dopa containing medications. In Toronto, we found no association between PD and the markers of TGAP. In Hamilton, the odds ratio for a physician's diagnosis of PD was 1.034 (1.00-1.07) per 10 ng/m3 increase in Mn in TSP. The estimate of the "doubling exposure" for physician-diagnosed PD was about 150 ng/m3 Mn in TSP. Examination of prevalence curves suggested that exposure to ambient Mn advances the age of diagnosis of PD, consistent with the theory that exposure to Mn adds to the natural loss of neurons attributable to the aging process.

TH-A-9A-05: Initial Setup Accuracy Comparison Between Frame-Based and Frameless Stereotactic Radiosurgery

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

Tseng, T; Sheu, R; Todorov, B

2014-06-15

Purpose: To evaluate initial setup accuracy for stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) between Brainlab frame-based and frameless immobilization system, also to discern the magnitude frameless system has on setup parameters. Methods: The correction shifts from the original setup were compared for total 157 SRS cranial treatments (69 frame-based vs. 88 frameless). All treatments were performed on a Novalis linac with ExacTrac positioning system. Localization box with isocenter overlay was used for initial setup and correction shift was determined by ExacTrac 6D auto-fusion to achieve submillimeter accuracy for treatment. For frameless treatments, mean time interval between simulation and treatment was 5.7 days (rangemore » 0–13). Pearson Chi-Square was used for univariate analysis. Results: The correctional radial shifts (mean±STD, median) for the frame and frameless system measured by ExacTrac were 1.2±1.2mm, 1.1mm and 3.1±3.3mm, 2.0mm, respectively. Treatments with frameless system had a radial shift >2mm more often than those with frames (51.1% vs. 2.9%; p<.0001). To achieve submillimeter accuracy, 85.5% frame-based treatments did not require shift and only 23.9% frameless treatment could succeed with initial setup. There was no statistical significant system offset observed in any direction for either system. For frameless treatments, those treated ≥ 3 days from simulation had statistically higher rates of radial shifts between 1–2mm and >2mm compared to patients treated in a shorter amount of time from simulation (34.3% and 56.7% vs. 28.6% and 33.3%, respectively; p=0.006). Conclusion: Although image-guided positioning system can also achieve submillimeter accuracy for frameless system, users should be cautious regarding the inherent uncertainty of its capability of immobilization. A proper quality assurance procedure for frameless mask manufacturing and a protocol for intra-fraction imaging verification will be crucial for frameless system. Time interval between simulation and treatment was influential to initial setup accuracy. A shorter time frame for frameless SRS treatment could be helpful in minimizing uncertainties in localization.« less

SINGLE PHASE ANALYTICAL MODELS FOR TERRY TURBINE NOZZLE

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

Zhao, Haihua; Zhang, Hongbin; Zou, Ling

All BWR RCIC (Reactor Core Isolation Cooling) systems and PWR AFW (Auxiliary Feed Water) systems use Terry turbine, which is composed of the wheel with turbine buckets and several groups of fixed nozzles and reversing chambers inside the turbine casing. The inlet steam is accelerated through the turbine nozzle and impacts on the wheel buckets, generating work to drive the RCIC pump. As part of the efforts to understand the unexpected “self-regulating” mode of the RCIC systems in Fukushima accidents and extend BWR RCIC and PWR AFW operational range and flexibility, mechanistic models for the Terry turbine, based on Sandiamore » National Laboratories’ original work, has been developed and implemented in the RELAP-7 code to simulate the RCIC system. RELAP-7 is a new reactor system code currently under development with the funding support from U.S. Department of Energy. The RELAP-7 code is a fully implicit code and the preconditioned Jacobian-free Newton-Krylov (JFNK) method is used to solve the discretized nonlinear system. This paper presents a set of analytical models for simulating the flow through the Terry turbine nozzles when inlet fluid is pure steam. The implementation of the models into RELAP-7 will be briefly discussed. In the Sandia model, the turbine bucket inlet velocity is provided according to a reduced-order model, which was obtained from a large number of CFD simulations. In this work, we propose an alternative method, using an under-expanded jet model to obtain the velocity and thermodynamic conditions for the turbine bucket inlet. The models include both adiabatic expansion process inside the nozzle and free expansion process out of the nozzle to reach the ambient pressure. The combined models are able to predict the steam mass flow rate and supersonic velocity to the Terry turbine bucket entrance, which are the necessary input conditions for the Terry Turbine rotor model. The nozzle analytical models were validated with experimental data and benchmarked with CFD simulations. The analytical models generally agree well with the experimental data and CFD simulations. The analytical models are suitable for implementation into a reactor system analysis code or severe accident code as part of mechanistic and dynamical models to understand the RCIC behaviors. The cases with two-phase flow at the turbine inlet will be pursued in future work.« less

Polar-Drive--Implosion Physics on OMEGA and the NIF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radha, P. B.

2012-10-01

Polar drive (PD) permits the execution of direct-drive--ignition experiments on facilities that are configured for x-ray drive such as the National Ignition Facility (NIF) and Laser M'egajoule. Experiments on the OMEGA laser are used to develop and validate models of PD implosions. Results from OMEGA PD shock-timing and warm implosions are presented. Experiments are simulated with the 2-D hydrodynamic code DRACO including full 3-D ray trace to model oblique beams. Excellent agreement is obtained in shock velocity and catch-up in PD geometry in warm, plastic shells. Predicted areal densities are measured in PD implosion experiments. Good agreement between simulation and experiments is obtained in the overall shape of the compressing shell when observed through x-ray backlighting. Simulated images of the hot core, including the effect of magnetic fields, are compared with experiments. Comparisons of simulated and observed scattered light and bang time in PD geometry are presented. Several techniques to increase implosion velocity are presented including beam profile variations and different ablator materials. Results from shimmed-target PD experiments will also be presented. Designs for future PD OMEGA experiments at ignition-relevant intensities will be presented. The implication of these results for NIF-scale plasmas is discussed. Experiments for the NIF in its current configuration, with indirect-drive phase plates, are proposed to study implosion energetics and shell asymmetries. This work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Inertial Confinement Fusion under Cooperative Agreement No. DE-FC52-08NA28302.

Demonstration of optimum fuel-to-moderator ratio in a PWR unit fuel cell

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

Feltus, M.A.; Pozsgai, C.

1992-01-01

Nuclear engineering students at The Pennsylvania State University develop scaled-down [[approx]350 MW(thermal)] pressurized water reactors (PWRs) using actual plants as references. The design criteria include maintaining the clad temperature below 2200[degree]F, fuel temperature below melting point, sufficient departure from nucleate boiling ratio (DNBR) margin, a beginning-of-life boron concentration that yields a negative moderator temperature coefficient, an adequate cycle power production (330 effective full-power days), and a batch loading scheme that is economical. The design project allows for many degrees of freedom (e.g., assembly number, pitch and height and batch enrichments) so that each student's result is unique. The iterative naturemore » of the design process is stressed in the course. The LEOPARD code is used for the unit cell depletion, critical boron, and equilibrium xenon calculations. Radial two-group diffusion equations are solved with the TWIDDLE-DEE code. The steady-state ZEBRA thermal-hydraulics program is used for calculating DNBR. The unit fuel cell pin radius and pitch (fuel-to-moerator ratio) for the scaled-down design, however, was set equal to the already optimized ratio for the reference PWR. This paper describes an honors project that shows how the optimum fuel-to-moderator ratio is found for a unit fuel cell shown in terms of neutron economics. This exercise illustrates the impact of fuel-to-moderator variations on fuel utilization factor and the effect of assuming space and energy separability.« less

Analytical methods in the high conversion reactor core design

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

Zeggel, W.; Oldekop, W.; Axmann, J.K.

High conversion reactor (HCR) design methods have been used at the Technical University of Braunschweig (TUBS) with the technological support of Kraftwerk Union (KWU). The present state and objectives of this cooperation between KWU and TUBS in the field of HCRs have been described using existing design models and current activities aimed at further development and validation of the codes. The hard physical and thermal-hydraulic boundary conditions of pressurized water reactor (PWR) cores with a high degree of fuel utilization result from the tight packing of the HCR fuel rods and the high fissionable plutonium content of the fuel. Inmore » terms of design, the problem will be solved with rod bundles whose fuel rods are adjusted by helical spacers to the proposed small rod pitches. These HCR properties require novel computational models for neutron physics, thermal hydraulics, and fuel rod design. By means of a survey of the codes, the analytical procedure for present-day HCR core design is presented. The design programs are currently under intensive development, as design tools with a solid, scientific foundation and with essential parameters that are widely valid and are required for a promising optimization of the HCR core. Design results and a survey of future HCR development are given. In this connection, the reoptimization of the PWR core in the direction of an HCR is considered a fascinating scientific task, with respect to both economic and safety aspects.« less

The influence of psychological factors on post-partum weight retention at 9 months.

PubMed

Phillips, Joanne; King, Ross; Skouteris, Helen

2014-11-01

Post-partum weight retention (PWR) has been identified as a critical pathway for long-term overweight and obesity. In recent years, psychological factors have been demonstrated to play a key role in contributing to and maintaining PWR. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the relationship between post-partum psychological distress and PWR at 9 months, after controlling for maternal weight factors, sleep quality, sociocontextual influences, and maternal behaviours. Pregnant women (N = 126) completed a series of questionnaires at multiple time points from early pregnancy until 9 months post-partum. Hierarchical regression indicated that gestational weight gain, shorter duration (6 months or less) of breastfeeding, and post-partum body dissatisfaction at 3 and 6 months are associated with higher PWR at 9 months; stress, depression, and anxiety had minimal influence. Interventions aimed at preventing excessive PWR should specifically target the prevention of body dissatisfaction and excessive weight gain during pregnancy. What is already known on this subject? Post-partum weight retention (PWR) is a critical pathway for long-term overweight and obesity. Causes of PWR are complex and multifactorial. There is increasing evidence that psychological factors play a key role in predicting high PWR. What does this study add? Post-partum body dissatisfaction at 3 and 6 months is associated with PWR at 9 months post-birth. Post-partum depression, stress and anxiety have less influence on PWR at 9 months. Interventions aimed at preventing excessive PWR should target body dissatisfaction. © 2013 The British Psychological Society.

Development of a video image-based QA system for the positional accuracy of dynamic tumor tracking irradiation in the Vero4DRT system

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

Ebe, Kazuyu, E-mail: nrr24490@nifty.com; Tokuyama, Katsuichi; Baba, Ryuta

Purpose: To develop and evaluate a new video image-based QA system, including in-house software, that can display a tracking state visually and quantify the positional accuracy of dynamic tumor tracking irradiation in the Vero4DRT system. Methods: Sixteen trajectories in six patients with pulmonary cancer were obtained with the ExacTrac in the Vero4DRT system. Motion data in the cranio–caudal direction (Y direction) were used as the input for a programmable motion table (Quasar). A target phantom was placed on the motion table, which was placed on the 2D ionization chamber array (MatriXX). Then, the 4D modeling procedure was performed on themore » target phantom during a reproduction of the patient’s tumor motion. A substitute target with the patient’s tumor motion was irradiated with 6-MV x-rays under the surrogate infrared system. The 2D dose images obtained from the MatriXX (33 frames/s; 40 s) were exported to in-house video-image analyzing software. The absolute differences in the Y direction between the center of the exposed target and the center of the exposed field were calculated. Positional errors were observed. The authors’ QA results were compared to 4D modeling function errors and gimbal motion errors obtained from log analyses in the ExacTrac to verify the accuracy of their QA system. The patients’ tumor motions were evaluated in the wave forms, and the peak-to-peak distances were also measured to verify their reproducibility. Results: Thirteen of sixteen trajectories (81.3%) were successfully reproduced with Quasar. The peak-to-peak distances ranged from 2.7 to 29.0 mm. Three trajectories (18.7%) were not successfully reproduced due to the limited motions of the Quasar. Thus, 13 of 16 trajectories were summarized. The mean number of video images used for analysis was 1156. The positional errors (absolute mean difference + 2 standard deviation) ranged from 0.54 to 1.55 mm. The error values differed by less than 1 mm from 4D modeling function errors and gimbal motion errors in the ExacTrac log analyses (n = 13). Conclusions: The newly developed video image-based QA system, including in-house software, can analyze more than a thousand images (33 frames/s). Positional errors are approximately equivalent to those in ExacTrac log analyses. This system is useful for the visual illustration of the progress of the tracking state and for the quantification of positional accuracy during dynamic tumor tracking irradiation in the Vero4DRT system.« less

Development of ECT/UT inspection system for bottom mounted instrumentation nozzle of PWR reactor vessels

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

Tanaka, H.; Fukui, S.; Iwahashi, Y.

1994-12-31

The development of inspection technique and tool for Bottom Mounted Instrument (BMI) nozzle of PWR plant was performed for countermeasure of leakage accident at incore instrument nozzle of Hamaoka-1 (BWR). MHI achieved the following development, of which object was PWR Plant R/V: (1) development of ECT/UT Multi-sensored Probe; (2) development of Inspection System (3) development of Data Processing System. The Inspection System had been functionally tested using full scale mock-up. As the result of the functional test, this system was confirmed to be very effective, and assumed to be hopeful for the actual application on site.

Establishing the role of rare coding variants in known Parkinson's disease risk loci.

PubMed

Jansen, Iris E; Gibbs, J Raphael; Nalls, Mike A; Price, T Ryan; Lubbe, Steven; van Rooij, Jeroen; Uitterlinden, André G; Kraaij, Robert; Williams, Nigel M; Brice, Alexis; Hardy, John; Wood, Nicholas W; Morris, Huw R; Gasser, Thomas; Singleton, Andrew B; Heutink, Peter; Sharma, Manu

2017-11-01

Many common genetic factors have been identified to contribute to Parkinson's disease (PD) susceptibility, improving our understanding of the related underlying biological mechanisms. The involvement of rarer variants in these loci has been poorly studied. Using International Parkinson's Disease Genomics Consortium data sets, we performed a comprehensive study to determine the impact of rare variants in 23 previously published genome-wide association studies (GWAS) loci in PD. We applied Prix fixe to select the putative causal genes underneath the GWAS peaks, which was based on underlying functional similarities. The Sequence Kernel Association Test was used to analyze the joint effect of rare, common, or both types of variants on PD susceptibility. All genes were tested simultaneously as a gene set and each gene individually. We observed a moderate association of common variants, confirming the involvement of the known PD risk loci within our genetic data sets. Focusing on rare variants, we identified additional association signals for LRRK2, STBD1, and SPATA19. Our study suggests an involvement of rare variants within several putatively causal genes underneath previously identified PD GWAS peaks. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mixed Legendre moments and discrete scattering cross sections for anisotropy representation

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

Calloo, A.; Vidal, J. F.; Le Tellier, R.

2012-07-01

This paper deals with the resolution of the integro-differential form of the Boltzmann transport equation for neutron transport in nuclear reactors. In multigroup theory, deterministic codes use transfer cross sections which are expanded on Legendre polynomials. This modelling leads to negative values of the transfer cross section for certain scattering angles, and hence, the multigroup scattering source term is wrongly computed. The first part compares the convergence of 'Legendre-expanded' cross sections with respect to the order used with the method of characteristics (MOC) for Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) type cells. Furthermore, the cross section is developed using piecewise-constant functions, whichmore » better models the multigroup transfer cross section and prevents the occurrence of any negative value for it. The second part focuses on the method of solving the transport equation with the above-mentioned piecewise-constant cross sections for lattice calculations for PWR cells. This expansion thereby constitutes a 'reference' method to compare the conventional Legendre expansion to, and to determine its pertinence when applied to reactor physics calculations. (authors)« less

Neutron-gamma flux and dose calculations in a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brovchenko, Mariya; Dechenaux, Benjamin; Burn, Kenneth W.; Console Camprini, Patrizio; Duhamel, Isabelle; Peron, Arthur

2017-09-01

The present work deals with Monte Carlo simulations, aiming to determine the neutron and gamma responses outside the vessel and in the basemat of a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR). The model is based on the Tihange-I Belgian nuclear reactor. With a large set of information and measurements available, this reactor has the advantage to be easily modelled and allows validation based on the experimental measurements. Power distribution calculations were therefore performed with the MCNP code at IRSN and compared to the available in-core measurements. Results showed a good agreement between calculated and measured values over the whole core. In this paper, the methods and hypotheses used for the particle transport simulation from the fission distribution in the core to the detectors outside the vessel of the reactor are also summarized. The results of the simulations are presented including the neutron and gamma doses and flux energy spectra. MCNP6 computational results comparing JEFF3.1 and ENDF-B/VII.1 nuclear data evaluations and sensitivity of the results to some model parameters are presented.

Three-dimensional time-dependent STAR reactor kinetics analyses coupled with RETRAN and MCPWR system response

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

Feltus, M.A.

1989-11-01

The operation of a nuclear power plant must be regularly supported by various reactor dynamics and thermal-hydraulic analyses, which may include final safety analysis report (FSAR) design-basis calculations, and conservative and best-estimate analyses. The development and improvement of computer codes and analysis methodologies provide many advantages, including the ability to evaluate the effect of modeling simplifications and assumptions made in previous reactor kinetics and thermal-hydraulic calculations. This paper describes the results of using the RETRAN, MCPWR, and STAR codes in a tandem, predictive-corrective manner for three pressurized water reactor (PWR) transients: (a) loss of feedwater (LOF) anticipated transient without scrammore » (ATWS), (b) station blackout ATWS, and (c) loss of total reactor coolant system (RCS) flow with a scram.« less

TechTracS: NASA's commercial technology management system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barquinero, Kevin; Cannon, Douglas

1996-03-01

The Commercial Technology Mission is a primary NASA mission, comparable in importance to those in aeronautics and space. This paper will discuss TechTracS, NASA Commercial Technology Management System that has been put into place in FY 1995 to implement this mission. This system is designed to identify and capture the NASA technologies which have commercial potential into an off-the-shelf database application, and then track the technologies' progress in realizing the commercial potential through collaborations with industry. The management system consists of four stages. The first is to develop an inventory database of the agency's entire technology portfolio and assess it for relevance to the commercial marketplace. Those technologies that are identified as having commercial potential will then be actively marketed to appropriate industries—this is the second stage. The third stage is when a NASA-industry partnership is entered into for the purposes of commercializing the technology. The final stage is to track the technology's success or failure in the marketplace. The collection of this information in TechTracS enables metrics evaluation and can accelerate the establishment on direct contacts between and NASA technologist and an industry technologist. This connection is the beginning of the technology commercialization process.

PD5: a general purpose library for primer design software.

PubMed

Riley, Michael C; Aubrey, Wayne; Young, Michael; Clare, Amanda

2013-01-01

Complex PCR applications for large genome-scale projects require fast, reliable and often highly sophisticated primer design software applications. Presently, such applications use pipelining methods to utilise many third party applications and this involves file parsing, interfacing and data conversion, which is slow and prone to error. A fully integrated suite of software tools for primer design would considerably improve the development time, the processing speed, and the reliability of bespoke primer design software applications. The PD5 software library is an open-source collection of classes and utilities, providing a complete collection of software building blocks for primer design and analysis. It is written in object-oriented C(++) with an emphasis on classes suitable for efficient and rapid development of bespoke primer design programs. The modular design of the software library simplifies the development of specific applications and also integration with existing third party software where necessary. We demonstrate several applications created using this software library that have already proved to be effective, but we view the project as a dynamic environment for building primer design software and it is open for future development by the bioinformatics community. Therefore, the PD5 software library is published under the terms of the GNU General Public License, which guarantee access to source-code and allow redistribution and modification. The PD5 software library is downloadable from Google Code and the accompanying Wiki includes instructions and examples: http://code.google.com/p/primer-design.

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

Not Available

The following are reported: theoretical calculations (configuration interaction, relativistic effective core potentials, polyatomics, CASSCF); proposed theoretical studies (clusters of Cu, Ag, Au, Ni, Pt, Pd, Rh, Ir, Os, Ru; transition metal cluster ions; transition metal carbide clusters; bimetallic mixed transition metal clusters); reactivity studies on transition metal clusters (reactivity with H{sub 2}, C{sub 2}H{sub 4}, hydrocarbons; NO and CO chemisorption on surfaces). Computer facilities and codes to be used, are described. 192 refs, 13 figs.

Genetic and epigenetic status of triple exotic consanguinity cotton introgression lines.

PubMed

He, S P; Sun, J L; Du, X M

2011-10-03

Introgression lines are some of the most important germplasm for breeding applications and other research conducted on cotton crops. The DNA methylation level among 10 introgression lines of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) and three exotic parental species (G. arboreum, G. thurberi and G. barbadense) were assessed by methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (MSAP) technology. The methylation level in the introgression lines ranged from 33.3 to 51.5%. However, the lines PD0111 and PD0113 had the lowest methylation level (34.6 and 33.3%, respectively) due to demethylation of most non-coding sequences. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) was used to evaluate the genetic polymorphism in the cotton introgression lines. A high degree of polymorphism was observed in all introgression lines (mean 47.2%) based on AFLP and MSAP analyses. This confirmed the effects of genetic improvement on cotton introgression lines. The low methylation varieties, PD0111 and PD0113 (introgression lines), clustered outside of the introgression lines based on MSAP data, which was incongruent with an AFLP-based dendrogram. This phenomenon could be caused by environmental changes or introgression of exotic DNA fragments.

Low Platelet to White Blood Cell Ratio Indicates Poor Prognosis for Acute-On-Chronic Liver Failure.

PubMed

Jie, Yusheng; Gong, Jiao; Xiao, Cuicui; Zhu, Shuguang; Zhou, Wenying; Luo, Juan; Chong, Yutian; Hu, Bo

2018-01-01

Background. Platelet to white blood cell ratio (PWR) was an independent prognostic predictor for outcomes in some diseases. However, the prognostic role of PWR is still unclear in patients with hepatitis B related acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). In this study, we evaluated the clinical performances of PWR in predicting prognosis in HBV-related ACLF. Methods. A total of 530 subjects were recruited, including 97 healthy controls and 433 with HBV-related ACLF. Liver function, prothrombin time activity (PTA), international normalized ratio (INR), HBV DNA measurement, and routine hematological testing were performed at admission. Results . At baseline, PWR in patients with HBV-related ACLF (14.03 ± 7.17) was significantly decreased compared to those in healthy controls (39.16 ± 9.80). Reduced PWR values were clinically associated with the severity of liver disease and the increased mortality rate. Furthermore, PWR may be an inexpensive, easily accessible, and significant independent prognostic index for mortality on multivariate analysis (HR = 0.660, 95% CI: 0.438-0.996, p = 0.048) as well as model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score. Conclusions . The PWR values were markedly decreased in ACLF patients compared with healthy controls and associated with severe liver disease. Moreover, PWR was an independent prognostic indicator for the mortality rate in patients with ACLF. This investigation highlights that PWR comprised a useful biomarker for prediction of liver severity.

Uncertainty analysis on reactivity and discharged inventory for a pressurized water reactor fuel assembly due to {sup 235,238}U nuclear data uncertainties

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

Da Cruz, D. F.; Rochman, D.; Koning, A. J.

2012-07-01

This paper discusses the uncertainty analysis on reactivity and inventory for a typical PWR fuel element as a result of uncertainties in {sup 235,238}U nuclear data. A typical Westinghouse 3-loop fuel assembly fuelled with UO{sub 2} fuel with 4.8% enrichment has been selected. The Total Monte-Carlo method has been applied using the deterministic transport code DRAGON. This code allows the generation of the few-groups nuclear data libraries by directly using data contained in the nuclear data evaluation files. The nuclear data used in this study is from the JEFF3.1 evaluation, and the nuclear data files for {sup 238}U and {supmore » 235}U (randomized for the generation of the various DRAGON libraries) are taken from the nuclear data library TENDL. The total uncertainty (obtained by randomizing all {sup 238}U and {sup 235}U nuclear data in the ENDF files) on the reactor parameters has been split into different components (different nuclear reaction channels). Results show that the TMC method in combination with a deterministic transport code constitutes a powerful tool for performing uncertainty and sensitivity analysis of reactor physics parameters. (authors)« less

Ratchetting in pressurized pipes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rider, R. J.; Harvey, S. J.; Charles, I. D.

1994-04-01

The plastic deformation of thin-walled cylinders has been experimentally examined for the loading conditions of +/- 1% axial strain with hoop stresses of approximately 0, 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 of the initial uniaxial yield stress. Two materials similar to those used in the pipework of PWR nuclear plant in the U.K. have been tested, namely 304S11 stainless steel and En6 low-carbon steel. The results of the tests were to be compared with the allowable stresses and deformations specified in the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section III. The code specifies that a prescribed combination of primary stresses must not exceed 1.5S(sub m), where S(sub m) is a stress value defined for each material. The results indicate that the limit of 1.5S(sub m) is excessively low for both materials and that in particular, the stainless steel could tolerate 5S(sub m). Although the En6 steel is more prone to ratchetting than the stainless steel, the results suggest that it too could tolerate a higher primary stress than the code allows. Both materials are shown to satisfy the proposed ASME ratchet strain limit of 5% hoop strain after 10 cycles of +/- 1% axial strain range, for any value of internal pressure.

Calculation of design load for the MOD-5A 7.3 mW wind turbine system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mirandy, L.; Strain, J. C.

1995-01-01

Design loads are presented for the General Electric MOD-SA wind turbine. The MOD-SA system consists of a 400 ft. diameter, upwind, two-bladed, teetered rotor connected to a 7.3 mW variable-speed generator. Fatigue loads are specified in the form of histograms for the 30 year life of the machine, while limit (or maximum) loads have been derived from transient dynamic analysis at critical operating conditions. Loads prediction was accomplished using state of the art aeroelastic analyses developed at General Electric. Features of the primary predictive tool - the Transient Rotor Analysis Code (TRAC) are described in the paper. Key to the load predictions are the following wind models: (1) yearly mean wind distribution; (2) mean wind variations during operation; (3) number of start/shutdown cycles; (4) spatially large gusts; and (5) spatially small gusts (local turbulence). The methods used to develop statistical distributions from load calculations represent an extension of procedures used in past wind programs and are believed to be a significant contribution to Wind Turbine Generator analysis. Test/theory correlations are presented to demonstrate code load predictive capability and to support the wind models used in the analysis. In addition MOD-5A loads are compared with those of existing machines. The MOD-5A design was performed by the General Electric Company, Advanced Energy Program Department, under Contract DEN3-153 with NASA Lewis Research Center and sponsored by the Department of Energy.

Recoil distance lifetime measurements in 122,124Xe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Govil, I. M.; Kumar, A.; Iyer, H.; Li, H.; Garg, U.; Ghugre, S. S.; Johnson, T.; Kaczarowski, R.; Kharraja, B.; Naguleswaran, S.; Walpe, J. C.

1998-02-01

Lifetimes of the lower-excited states in 122,124Xe are measured using the recoil-distance Doppler-shift technique. The reactions 110Pd(16O,4n)122Xe and 110Pd(18O,4n)124Xe at a beam energy of 66 MeV were used for this experiment. The lifetimes of the 2+, 4+, 6+, and 8+ states of the ground state band were extracted using the computer code LIFETIME including the corrections due to the side feeding and the nuclear deorientation effects. The lifetime of the 2+ state in 122Xe agrees with the recoil distance method (RDM) measurements but for the 124Xe it does not agree with the RDM measurements but agrees with the Coulomb-excitation experiment. The measured B(E2) values for both the nuclei are compared with the standard algebraic and the multishell models.

SU-E-T-659: Quantitative Evaluation of Patient Setup Accuracy of Stereotactic Radiotherapy with the Frameless 6D-ExacTrac System Using Statistical Modeling

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

Keeling, V; Jin, H; Hossain, S

2015-06-15

Purpose: To evaluate patient setup accuracy and quantify individual and cumulative positioning uncertainties associated with different hardware and software components of the stereotactic radiotherapy (SRS/SRT) with the frameless-6D-ExacTrac system. Methods: A statistical model was used to evaluate positioning uncertainties of the different components of SRS/SRT treatment with the BrainLAB 6D-ExacTrac system using the positioning shifts of 35 patients having cranial lesions (49 total lesions treated in 1, 3, 5 fractions). All these patients were immobilized with rigid head-and-neck masks, simulated with BrainLAB-localizer and planned with iPlan treatment planning system. Infrared imaging (IR) was used initially to setup patients. Then, stereoscopicmore » x-ray images (XC) were acquired and registered to corresponding digitally-reconstructed-radiographs using bony-anatomy matching to calculate 6D-translational and rotational shifts. When the shifts were within tolerance (0.7mm and 1°), treatment was initiated. Otherwise corrections were applied and additional x-rays were acquired (XV) to verify that patient position was within tolerance. Results: The uncertainties from the mask, localizer, IR-frame, x-ray imaging, MV and kV isocentricity were quantified individually. Mask uncertainty (Translational: Lateral, Longitudinal, Vertical; Rotational: Pitch, Roll, Yaw) was the largest and varied with patients in the range (−1.05−1.50mm, −5.06–3.57mm, −5.51−3.49mm; −1.40−2.40°, −1.24−1.74°, and −2.43−1.90°) obtained from mean of XC shifts for each patient. Setup uncertainty in IR positioning (0.88,2.12,1.40mm, and 0.64,0.83,0.96°) was extracted from standard-deviation of XC. Systematic uncertainties of the localizer (−0.03,−0.01,0.03mm, and −0.03,0.00,−0.01°) and frame (0.18,0.25,−1.27mm,−0.32,0.18, and 0.47°) were extracted from means of all XV setups and mean of all XC distributions, respectively. Uncertainties in isocentricity of the MV radiotherapy machine were (0.27,0.24,0.34mm) and kV-imager (0.15,−0.4,0.21mm). Conclusion: A statistical model was developed to evaluate the individual and cumulative systematic and random uncertainties induced by the different hardware and software components of the 6D-ExacTrac-system. The immobilization mask was associated with the largest positioning uncertainty.« less

Evaluation of a Powered Ankle-Foot Prosthesis during Slope Ascent Gait

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Passive prosthetic feet lack active plantarflexion and push-off power resulting in gait deviations and compensations by individuals with transtibial amputation (TTA) during slope ascent. We sought to determine the effect of active ankle plantarflexion and push-off power provided by a powered prosthetic ankle-foot (PWR) on lower extremity compensations in individuals with unilateral TTA as they walked up a slope. We hypothesized that increased ankle plantarflexion and push-off power would reduce compensations commonly observed with a passive, energy-storing-returning prosthetic ankle-foot (ESR). We compared the temporal spatial, kinematic, and kinetic measures of ten individuals with TTA (age: 30.2 ± 5.3 yrs) to matched abled-bodied (AB) individuals during 5° slope ascent. The TTA group walked with an ESR and separately with a PWR. The PWR produced significantly greater prosthetic ankle plantarflexion and push-off power generation compared to an ESR and more closely matched AB values. The PWR functioned similar to a passive ESR device when transitioning onto the prosthetic limb due to limited prosthetic dorsiflexion, which resulted in similar deviations and compensations. In contrast, when transitioning off the prosthetic limb, increased ankle plantarflexion and push-off power provided by the PWR contributed to decreased intact limb knee extensor power production, lessening demand on the intact limb knee. PMID:27977681

Evaluation of a Powered Ankle-Foot Prosthesis during Slope Ascent Gait.

PubMed

Rábago, Christopher A; Aldridge Whitehead, Jennifer; Wilken, Jason M

2016-01-01

Passive prosthetic feet lack active plantarflexion and push-off power resulting in gait deviations and compensations by individuals with transtibial amputation (TTA) during slope ascent. We sought to determine the effect of active ankle plantarflexion and push-off power provided by a powered prosthetic ankle-foot (PWR) on lower extremity compensations in individuals with unilateral TTA as they walked up a slope. We hypothesized that increased ankle plantarflexion and push-off power would reduce compensations commonly observed with a passive, energy-storing-returning prosthetic ankle-foot (ESR). We compared the temporal spatial, kinematic, and kinetic measures of ten individuals with TTA (age: 30.2 ± 5.3 yrs) to matched abled-bodied (AB) individuals during 5° slope ascent. The TTA group walked with an ESR and separately with a PWR. The PWR produced significantly greater prosthetic ankle plantarflexion and push-off power generation compared to an ESR and more closely matched AB values. The PWR functioned similar to a passive ESR device when transitioning onto the prosthetic limb due to limited prosthetic dorsiflexion, which resulted in similar deviations and compensations. In contrast, when transitioning off the prosthetic limb, increased ankle plantarflexion and push-off power provided by the PWR contributed to decreased intact limb knee extensor power production, lessening demand on the intact limb knee.

Development and preliminary verification of the 3D core neutronic code: COCO

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

Lu, H.; Mo, K.; Li, W.

As the recent blooming economic growth and following environmental concerns (China)) is proactively pushing forward nuclear power development and encouraging the tapping of clean energy. Under this situation, CGNPC, as one of the largest energy enterprises in China, is planning to develop its own nuclear related technology in order to support more and more nuclear plants either under construction or being operation. This paper introduces the recent progress in software development for CGNPC. The focus is placed on the physical models and preliminary verification results during the recent development of the 3D Core Neutronic Code: COCO. In the COCO code,more » the non-linear Green's function method is employed to calculate the neutron flux. In order to use the discontinuity factor, the Neumann (second kind) boundary condition is utilized in the Green's function nodal method. Additionally, the COCO code also includes the necessary physical models, e.g. single-channel thermal-hydraulic module, burnup module, pin power reconstruction module and cross-section interpolation module. The preliminary verification result shows that the COCO code is sufficient for reactor core design and analysis for pressurized water reactor (PWR). (authors)« less

Anxiety/Depression and Hostility/Suspiciousness in Adolescent Boys: Testing Adherence to Honor Code as Mediator of Callousness and Attachment Insecurity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Somech, Lior Y.; Elizur, Yoel

2012-01-01

Research of psychological distress (PD) needs to differentiate between anxiety/depression and hostility/suspiciousness, which are associated with different motivational systems. In this study, structural equation modeling was used to test two hypothesized models for the prediction of each facet of PD. Hypotheses were proposed about the effects of…

Cloudy - simulating the non-equilibrium microphysics of gas and dust, and its observed spectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferland, Gary J.

2014-01-01

Cloudy is an open-source plasma/spectral simulation code, last described in the open-access journal Revista Mexicana (Ferland et al. 2013, 2013RMxAA..49..137F). The project goal is a complete simulation of the microphysics of gas and dust over the full range of density, temperature, and ionization that we encounter in astrophysics, together with a prediction of the observed spectrum. Cloudy is one of the more widely used theory codes in astrophysics with roughly 200 papers citing its documentation each year. It is developed by graduate students, postdocs, and an international network of collaborators. Cloudy is freely available on the web at trac.nublado.org, the user community can post questions on http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/cloudy_simulations/info, and summer schools are organized to learn more about Cloudy and its use (http://cloud9.pa.uky.edu gary/cloudy/CloudySummerSchool/). The code’s widespread use is possible because of extensive automatic testing. It is exercised over its full range of applicability whenever the source is changed. Changes in predicted quantities are automatically detected along with any newly introduced problems. The code is designed to be autonomous and self-aware. It generates a report at the end of a calculation that summarizes any problems encountered along with suggestions of potentially incorrect boundary conditions. This self-monitoring is a core feature since the code is now often used to generate large MPI grids of simulations, making it impossible for a user to verify each calculation by hand. I will describe some challenges in developing a large physics code, with its many interconnected physical processes, many at the frontier of research in atomic or molecular physics, all in an open environment.

78 FR 1916 - Culturally Significant Objects Imported for Exhibition; Determinations: “Impressionism, Fashion...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-09

... October 1, 1999, and Delegation of Authority No. 236-3 of August 28, 2000 (and, as appropriate, Delegation..., SA-5, L/PD, Fifth Floor (Suite 5H03), Washington, DC 20522-0505. Dated: January 2, 2013. J. Adam... State. [FR Doc. 2013-00246 Filed 1-8-13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4710-05-P ...

Investigation of Natural Circulation Instability and Transients in Passively Safe Small Modular Reactors

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

Ishii, Mamoru

The NEUP funded project, NEUP-3496, aims to experimentally investigate two-phase natural circulation flow instability that could occur in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), especially for natural circulation SMRs. The objective has been achieved by systematically performing tests to study the general natural circulation instability characteristics and the natural circulation behavior under start-up or design basis accident conditions. Experimental data sets highlighting the effect of void reactivity feedback as well as the effect of power ramp-up rate and system pressure have been used to develop a comprehensive stability map. The safety analysis code, RELAP5, has been used to evaluate experimental results andmore » models. Improvements to the constitutive relations for flashing have been made in order to develop a reliable analysis tool. This research has been focusing on two generic SMR designs, i.e. a small modular Simplified Boiling Water Reactor (SBWR) like design and a small integral Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) like design. A BWR-type natural circulation test facility was firstly built based on the three-level scaling analysis of the Purdue Novel Modular Reactor (NMR) with an electric output of 50 MWe, namely NMR-50, which represents a BWR-type SMR with a significantly reduced reactor pressure vessel (RPV) height. The experimental facility was installed with various equipment to measure thermalhydraulic parameters such as pressure, temperature, mass flow rate and void fraction. Characterization tests were performed before the startup transient tests and quasi-steady tests to determine the loop flow resistance. The control system and data acquisition system were programmed with LabVIEW to realize the realtime control and data storage. The thermal-hydraulic and nuclear coupled startup transients were performed to investigate the flow instabilities at low pressure and low power conditions for NMR-50. Two different power ramps were chosen to study the effect of startup power density on the flow instability. The experimental startup transient results showed the existence of three different flow instability mechanisms, i.e., flashing instability, condensation induced flow instability, and density wave oscillations. In addition, the void-reactivity feedback did not have significant effects on the flow instability during the startup transients for NMR-50. ii Several initial startup procedures with different power ramp rates were experimentally investigated to eliminate the flow instabilities observed from the startup transients. Particularly, the very slow startup transient and pressurized startup transient tests were performed and compared. It was found that the very slow startup transients by applying very small power density can eliminate the flashing oscillations in the single-phase natural circulation and stabilize the flow oscillations in the phase of net vapor generation. The initially pressurized startup procedure was tested to eliminate the flashing instability during the startup transients as well. The pressurized startup procedure included the initial pressurization, heat-up, and venting process. The startup transient tests showed that the pressurized startup procedure could eliminate the flow instability during the transition from single-phase flow to two-phase flow at low pressure conditions. The experimental results indicated that both startup procedures were applicable to the initial startup of NMR. However, the pressurized startup procedures might be preferred due to short operating hours required. In order to have a deeper understanding of natural circulation flow instability, the quasi-steady tests were performed using the test facility installed with preheater and subcooler. The effect of system pressure, core inlet subcooling, core power density, inlet flow resistance coefficient, and void reactivity feedback were investigated in the quasi-steady state tests. The experimental stability boundaries were determined between unstable and stable flow conditions in the dimensionless stability plane of inlet subcooling number and Zuber number. To predict the stability boundary theoretically, linear stability analysis in the frequency domain was performed at four sections of the natural circulation test loop. The flashing phenomena in the chimney section was considered as an axially uniform heat source. And the dimensionless characteristic equation of the pressure drop perturbation was obtained by considering the void fraction effect and outlet flow resistance in the core section. The theoretical flashing boundary showed some discrepancies with previous experimental data from the quasi-steady state tests. In the future, thermal non-equilibrium was recommended to improve the accuracy of flashing instability boundary. As another part of the funded research, flow instabilities of a PWR-type SMR under low pressure and low power conditions were investigated experimentally as well. The NuScale reactor design was selected as the prototype for the PWR-type SMR. In order to experimentally study the natural circulation behavior of NuScale iii reactor during accidental scenarios, detailed scaling analyses are necessary to ensure that the scaled phenomena could be obtained in a laboratory test facility. The three-level scaling method is used as well to obtain the scaling ratios derived from various non-dimensional numbers. The design of the ideally scaled facility (ISF) was initially accomplished based on these scaling ratios. Then the engineering scaled facility (ESF) was designed and constructed based on the ISF by considering engineering limitations including laboratory space, pipe size, and pipe connections etc. PWR-type SMR experiments were performed in this well-scaled test facility to investigate the potential thermal hydraulic flow instability during the blowdown events, which might occur during the loss of coolant accident (LOCA) and loss of heat sink accident (LOHS) of the prototype PWR-type SMR. Two kinds of experiments, normal blowdown event and cold blowdown event, were experimentally investigated and compared with code predictions. The normal blowdown event was experimentally simulated since an initial condition where the pressure was lower than the designed pressure of the experiment facility, while the code prediction of blowdown started from the normal operation condition. Important thermal hydraulic parameters including reactor pressure vessel (RPV) pressure, containment pressure, local void fraction and temperature, pressure drop and natural circulation flow rate were measured and analyzed during the blowdown event. The pressure and water level transients are similar to the experimental results published by NuScale [51], which proves the capability of current loop in simulating the thermal hydraulic transient of real PWR-type SMR. During the 20000s blowdown experiment, water level in the core was always above the active fuel assemble during the experiment and proved the safety of natural circulation cooling and water recycling design of PWR-type SMR. Besides, pressure, temperature, and water level transient can be accurately predicted by RELAP5 code. However, the oscillations of natural circulation flow rate, water level and pressure drops were observed during the blowdown transients. This kind of flow oscillations are related to the water level and the location upper plenum, which is a path for coolant flow from chimney to steam generator and down comer. In order to investigate the transients start from the opening of ADS valve in both experimental and numerical way, the cold blow-down experiment is conducted. For the cold blowdown event, different from setting both reactor iv pressure vessel (RPV) and containment at high temperature and pressure, only RPV was heated close to the highest designed pressure and then open the ADS valve, same process was predicted using RELAP5 code. By doing cold blowdown experiment, the entire transients from the opening of ADS can be investigated by code and benchmarked with experimental data. Similar flow instability observed in the cold blowdown experiment. The comparison between code prediction and experiment data showed that the RELAP5 code can successfully predict the pressure void fraction and temperature transient during the cold blowdown event with limited error, but numerical instability exists in predicting natural circulation flow rate. Besides, the code is lack of capability in predicting the water level related flow instability observed in experiments.« less

Comparison of two combinations of opioid and non-opioid analgesics for acute periradicular abscess: a randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Santini, Manuela Favarin; Rosa, Ricardo Abreu da; Ferreira, Maria Beatriz Cardoso; Fischer, Maria Isabel; Souza, Erick Miranda; Só, Marcus Vinícius Reis

2017-01-01

Acute periradicular abscess is a condition characterized by the formation and propagation of pus in the periapical tissues and generally associated with debilitating pain. The aim of this study was to compare the overall analgesic effectiveness of two combinations of opioid and non-opioid analgesics for acute periradicular abscess. This study included 26 patients who sought emergency care in a Brazilian dental school. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: Co/Ac - oral prescription of codeine (30 mg) plus acetaminophen (500 mg), every 4 h, for 3 days or Tr/Ac - oral prescription of tramadol hydrochloride (37.5 mg) plus acetaminophen (500 mg) on the same schedule. Two factors were evaluated: (1) pain scores recorded by the patients in a pain diary 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after treatment, using the Visual Analogue Scale; and (2) the occurrence of adverse effects. In both groups, there was a reduction in pain scores over time. For the Co/Ac group, there was a significant reduction in the scores 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after treatment (P<0.05). In the Tr/Ac group, the scores significantly decreased over time from time point 6 h (P<0.05). Comparing the pain at each time point, the groups were not significantly different (P>0.05), i.e., both treatments were effective in controlling pain caused by APA; however, the combination of Tr/Ac caused more adverse reactions as two patients had to stop using the medication. This study suggests that, considering both analgesic efficacy and safety, the combination of codeine and acetaminophen is more effective to control moderate to severe pain from acute periradicular abscesses.

Validation of the 16-Gene Recurrence Score in patients with locoregional, high-risk renal cell carcinoma from a phase 3 trial of adjuvant sunitinib.

PubMed

Rini, Brian I; Escudier, Bernard; Martini, Jean-Francois; Magheli, Ahmed; Svedman, Christer; Lopatin, Margarita; Knezevic, Dejan; Goddard, Audrey D; Febbo, Phillip G; Li, Rachel; Lin, Xun; Valota, Olga; Staehler, Michael; Motzer, Robert J; Ravaud, Alain

2018-05-17

Adjuvant sunitinib prolonged disease-free survival (DFS) (hazard ratio [HR] 0.76) in patients with locoregional high-risk renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in the S-TRAC trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00375674). The 16-gene Recurrence Score (RS) assay was previously developed and validated to estimate risk for disease recurrence in patients with RCC post-nephrectomy. This analysis further validated the prognostic value of RS assay in patients from S-TRAC and explored association of RS results with prediction of sunitinib benefit. The analysis was prospectively designed with prespecified genes, algorithm, endpoints, and analytical methods. Primary RCC was available from 212 patients with informed consent; primary analysis focused on patients with T3 RCC. Gene expression was quantitated by RT-PCR. Time to recurrence (TTR), DFS, and renal cancer-specific survival (RCSS) were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards regression. Results: Baseline characteristics were similar between patients with and without RS results, and between the sunitinib and placebo arms among patients with RS results. RS results predicted TTR, DFS, and RCSS in both arms, with the strongest results observed in the placebo arm. When high versus low RS groups were compared, HR for recurrence was 9.18 (95% CI, 2.15-39.24; P < 0.001) in the placebo arm; interaction of RS results with treatment was not significant. Conclusions: The strong prognostic performance of the 16-gene RS assay was confirmed in S-TRAC, and the RS assay is now supported by level IB evidence. RS results may help identify patients at high risk for recurrence who may derive higher absolute benefit from adjuvant therapy. Copyright ©2018, American Association for Cancer Research.

Implementation of ASME Code, Section XI, Code Case N-770, on Alternative Examination Requirements for Class 1 Butt Welds Fabricated with Alloy 82/182

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

Sullivan, Edmund J.; Anderson, Michael T.

In May 2010, the NRC issued a proposed notice of rulemaking that includes a provision to add a new section to its rules to require licensees to implement ASME Code Case N-770, ‘‘Alternative Examination Requirements and Acceptance Standards for Class 1 PWR Piping and Vessel Nozzle Butt Welds Fabricated with UNS N06082 or UNS W86182 Weld Filler Material With or Without the Application of Listed Mitigation Activities, Section XI, Division 1,’’ with 15 conditions. Code Case N-770 contains baseline and inservice inspection (ISI) requirements for unmitigated butt welds fabricated with Alloy 82/182 material and preservice and ISI requirements for mitigatedmore » butt welds. The NRC stated that application of ASME Code Case N-770 is necessary because the inspections currently required by the ASME Code, Section XI, were not written to address stress corrosion cracking Alloy 82/182 butt welds, and the safety consequences of inadequate inspections can be significant. The NRC expects to issue the final rule incorporating this code case into its regulations in the spring 2011 time frame. This paper discusses the new examination requirements, the conditions that NRC is imposing , and the major concerns with implementation of the new Code Case.« less

In situ treatability testing of reductive dechlorination in wetland sediments

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lorah, M.M.; Majcher, E.; Jones, E.; Driedger, G.; Dworatzek, S.; Graves, D.

2005-01-01

In situ treatability testing was conducted in the discharge wetlands along West Branch Canal Creek at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. The potential for stimulating reductive dechlorination of 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane, tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, and carbon tetrachloride in areas of preferential discharge or seeps was evaluated. Geological Survey that degrades chlorinated ethanes and ethylenes was tested using MICRO-Trac??? devices. At seep 3-4W, results of the C and BA MICRO-Trac??? treatments showed essentially no biodegradation of chlorinated solvents occurring under natural and bioaugmented conditions. Results of geochemical samples at this site indicated predominantly iron- and sulfate-reducing conditions consistent with the rapid discharge rates previously measured. The biostimulated treatment showed stimulation of methanogenic conditions and partial degradation of the parent chlorinated VOC to intermediate chlorinated compounds. The bioaugmented and bistimulated treatment showed the highest production of methane, the highest removal of parent compounds and intermediate daughter products, and the highest production of the non-chlorinated end product ethylene. This is an abstract of a paper presented at the proceedings of the 8th International In Situ and On-Site Bioremediation Symposium (Baltimore, MD 6/6-9/2005).

Digital Coding and the Self-Proving Message

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dettering, Richard

1971-01-01

Author suggests that digital Communication", which relies on arbitrary coding elements, like the phones of speech," overshadows the importance of the analogic symbolism people use more extensively than realized. Non-verbal messages can be more convincing than verbal and can be used to predict patterns of future behavior. (Author/PD)

Stability and accuracy of 3D neutron transport simulations using the 2D/1D method in MPACT

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

Collins, Benjamin, E-mail: collinsbs@ornl.gov; Stimpson, Shane, E-mail: stimpsonsg@ornl.gov; Kelley, Blake W., E-mail: kelleybl@umich.edu

2016-12-01

A consistent “2D/1D” neutron transport method is derived from the 3D Boltzmann transport equation, to calculate fuel-pin-resolved neutron fluxes for realistic full-core Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) problems. The 2D/1D method employs the Method of Characteristics to discretize the radial variables and a lower order transport solution to discretize the axial variable. This paper describes the theory of the 2D/1D method and its implementation in the MPACT code, which has become the whole-core deterministic neutron transport solver for the Consortium for Advanced Simulations of Light Water Reactors (CASL) core simulator VERA-CS. Several applications have been performed on both leadership-class and industry-classmore » computing clusters. Results are presented for whole-core solutions of the Watts Bar Nuclear Power Station Unit 1 and compared to both continuous-energy Monte Carlo results and plant data.« less

Stability and accuracy of 3D neutron transport simulations using the 2D/1D method in MPACT

DOE PAGES

Collins, Benjamin; Stimpson, Shane; Kelley, Blake W.; ...

2016-08-25

We derived a consistent “2D/1D” neutron transport method from the 3D Boltzmann transport equation, to calculate fuel-pin-resolved neutron fluxes for realistic full-core Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) problems. The 2D/1D method employs the Method of Characteristics to discretize the radial variables and a lower order transport solution to discretize the axial variable. Our paper describes the theory of the 2D/1D method and its implementation in the MPACT code, which has become the whole-core deterministic neutron transport solver for the Consortium for Advanced Simulations of Light Water Reactors (CASL) core simulator VERA-CS. We also performed several applications on both leadership-class and industry-classmore » computing clusters. Results are presented for whole-core solutions of the Watts Bar Nuclear Power Station Unit 1 and compared to both continuous-energy Monte Carlo results and plant data.« less

Statistical uncertainty analysis applied to the DRAGONv4 code lattice calculations and based on JENDL-4 covariance data

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

Hernandez-Solis, A.; Demaziere, C.; Ekberg, C.

2012-07-01

In this paper, multi-group microscopic cross-section uncertainty is propagated through the DRAGON (Version 4) lattice code, in order to perform uncertainty analysis on k{infinity} and 2-group homogenized macroscopic cross-sections predictions. A statistical methodology is employed for such purposes, where cross-sections of certain isotopes of various elements belonging to the 172 groups DRAGLIB library format, are considered as normal random variables. This library is based on JENDL-4 data, because JENDL-4 contains the largest amount of isotopic covariance matrixes among the different major nuclear data libraries. The aim is to propagate multi-group nuclide uncertainty by running the DRAGONv4 code 500 times, andmore » to assess the output uncertainty of a test case corresponding to a 17 x 17 PWR fuel assembly segment without poison. The chosen sampling strategy for the current study is Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS). The quasi-random LHS allows a much better coverage of the input uncertainties than simple random sampling (SRS) because it densely stratifies across the range of each input probability distribution. Output uncertainty assessment is based on the tolerance limits concept, where the sample formed by the code calculations infers to cover 95% of the output population with at least a 95% of confidence. This analysis is the first attempt to propagate parameter uncertainties of modern multi-group libraries, which are used to feed advanced lattice codes that perform state of the art resonant self-shielding calculations such as DRAGONv4. (authors)« less

Irradiation performance of (Th,Pu)O2 fuel under Pressurized Water Reactor conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boer, B.; Lemehov, S.; Wéber, M.; Parthoens, Y.; Gysemans, M.; McGinley, J.; Somers, J.; Verwerft, M.

2016-04-01

This paper examines the in-pile safety performance of (Th,Pu)O2 fuel pins under simulated Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) conditions. Both sol-gel and SOLMAS produced (Th,Pu)O2 fuels at enrichments of 7.9% and 12.8% in Pu/HM have been irradiated at SCK·CEN. The irradiation has been performed under PWR conditions (155 bar, 300 °C) in a dedicated loop of the BR-2 reactor. The loop is instrumented with flow and temperature monitors at inlet and outlet, which allow for an accurate measurement of the deposited enthalpy.

Plasmid partition system of the P1par family from the pWR100 virulence plasmid of Shigella flexneri.

PubMed

Sergueev, Kirill; Dabrazhynetskaya, Alena; Austin, Stuart

2005-05-01

P1par family members promote the active segregation of a variety of plasmids and plasmid prophages in gram-negative bacteria. Each has genes for ParA and ParB proteins, followed by a parS partition site. The large virulence plasmid pWR100 of Shigella flexneri contains a new P1par family member: pWR100par. Although typical parA and parB genes are present, the putative pWR100parS site is atypical in sequence and organization. However, pWR100parS promoted accurate plasmid partition in Escherichia coli when the pWR100 Par proteins were supplied. Unique BoxB hexamer motifs within parS define species specificities among previously described family members. Although substantially different from P1parS from the P1 plasmid prophage of E. coli, pWR100parS has the same BoxB sequence. As predicted, the species specificity of the two types proved identical. They also shared partition-mediated incompatibility, consistent with the proposed mechanistic link between incompatibility and species specificity. Among several informative sequence differences between pWR100parS and P1parS is the presence of a 21-bp insert at the center of the pWR100parS site. Deletion of this insert left much of the parS activity intact. Tolerance of central inserts with integral numbers of helical DNA turns reflects the critical topology of these sites, which are bent by binding the host IHF protein.

Identifying autism early: The Toddlers at Risk of Autism Clinic model.

PubMed

Davis, Tessa; Clifton, Deirdre; Papadopoulos, Con

2015-07-01

This paper describes the Toddlers at Risk of Autism Clinic (TRAC), which utilises the Social Attention and Communication Study (SACS) and/or Autism Detection in Early Childhood (ADEC) play-based assessments to facilitate the early diagnosis of autism. A retrospective audit was conducted of all 42 children assessed over a 3-year period in the TRAC. A semi-structured interview and play-based assessment (SACS and ADEC) were used to aid experienced clinicians in diagnosing autism. Intervention was recommended, and families were routinely followed up. Analysis was conducted on the tools used, the outcomes of assessment, diagnosis and stability of diagnosis on follow-up. During this period, 35 boys and 7 girls were assessed, with a mean age of 25 months. The average waiting time for clinic was 11.6 weeks. Twenty-five patients were diagnosed with autism; 90.5% of toddlers given an initial diagnosis retained that diagnosis at follow-up. Out of the 17 children who were not diagnosed with autism in the TRAC, one child was later diagnosed with autism. Experienced clinicians can use the SACS and/or ADEC to assist with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual diagnosis of autism in toddlers. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health © 2015 Paediatrics and Child Health Division (Royal Australasian College of Physicians).

Bipolar Transistor and Diode Failure to Electrical Transients-Predictive Failure Modeling versus Experimental Damage Testing. 1 Junction Capacitance Damage Model

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-06-01

into the Wunsch-Bell equation) are P = A R , 1t-0 5 1.2 PD) = A26B2t-.5 (3) JAJ where A,*, A, B1, and B2 are experimentally determined constants and TJ...ATTN CODE 7240, S. N. LICHT’NAN PATRICK AID, FL 32J25 DIV COIMAND SAN DIEGO, CA 92152 ATTN D]PN-ATC AF WEAPONS LABORATORY, AFSC ATTN DRCFN- TDS -DSI

Clinical accuracy of ExacTrac intracranial frameless stereotactic system

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

Ackerly, T.; Lancaster, C. M.; Geso, M.

2011-09-15

Purpose: In this paper, the authors assess the accuracy of the Brainlab ExacTrac system for frameless intracranial stereotactic treatments in clinical practice. Methods: They recorded couch angle and image fusion results (comprising lateral, longitudinal, and vertical shifts, and rotation corrections about these axes) for 109 stereotactic radiosurgery and 166 stereotactic radiotherapy patient treatments. Frameless stereotactic treatments involve iterative 6D image fusion corrections applied until the results conform to customizable pass criteria, theirs being 0.7 mm and 0.5 deg. for each axis. The planning CT slice thickness was 1.25 mm. It has been reported in the literature that the CT slices'more » thickness impacts the accuracy of localization to bony anatomy. The principle of invariance with respect to patient orientation was used to determine spatial accuracy. Results: The data for radiosurgery comprised 927 image pairs, of which 532 passed (pass ratio of 57.4%). The data for radiotherapy comprised 15983 image pairs, of which 10 050 passed (pass ratio of 62.9%). For stereotactic radiotherapy, the combined uncertainty of ExacTrac calibration, image fusion, and intrafraction motion was (95% confidence interval) 0.290-0.302 and 0.306-0.319 mm in the longitudinal and lateral axes, respectively. The combined uncertainty of image fusion and intrafraction motion in the anterior-posterior coordinates was 0.174-0.182 mm. For stereotactic radiosurgery, the equivalent ranges are 0.323-0.393, 0.337-0.409, and 0.231-0.281 mm. The overall spatial accuracy was 1.24 mm for stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) and 1.35 mm for stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Conclusions: The ExacTrac intracranial frameless stereotactic system spatial accuracy is adequate for clinical practice, and with the same pass criteria, SRT is more accurate than SRS. They now use frameless stereotaxy exclusively at their center.« less

77 FR 15293 - Airworthiness Directives; Dassault Aviation Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-15

...-190-20), land at nearest suitable airport Upon display of ELEC:LH ESS PWR LO or ELEC:LH ESS NO PWR (Abnormal procedure 3-190-40), land at nearest suitable airport Upon display of ELEC:RH ESS PWR LO and ELEC...

Deployed Analyst History Report, Volume 2. Analytic Support to Combat Operations in the Philippines (2011-2014)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) Analysis Center (TRAC) to the Philippines for Operation ENDURING FREEDOM – Philippines (OEF-P). PROJECT...management, doctrine and force development, training management, system testing, system acquisition, decision analysis, and resource management, as...influenced procurement decisions and reshaped Army doctrine . Additionally, CAA itself has benefited in numerous ways. Combat experience provides analysts

Multiloop integral system test (MIST): Final report

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

Gloudemans, J.R.

1991-04-01

The Multiloop Integral System Test (MIST) is part of a multiphase program started in 1983 to address small-break loss-of-coolant accidents (SBLOCAs) specific to Babcock and Wilcox designed plants. MIST is sponsored by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Babcock Wilcox Owners Group, the Electric Power Research Institute, and Babcock and Wilcox. The unique features of the Babcock and Wilcox design, specifically the hot leg U-bends and steam generators, prevented the use of existing integral system data or existing integral facilities to address the thermal-hydraulic SBLOCA questions. MIST was specifically designed and constructed for this program, and an existing facility --more » the Once Through Integral System (OTIS) -- was also used. Data from MIST and OTIS are used to benchmark the adequacy of system codes, such as RELAP5 and TRAC, for predicting abnormal plant transients. The MIST program is reported in 11 volumes. Volumes 2 through 8 pertain to groups of Phase 3 tests by type; Volume 9 presents inter-group comparisons; Volume 10 provides comparisons between the RELAP5/MOD2 calculations and MIST observations, and Volume 11 (with addendum) presents the later Phase 4 tests. This is Volume 1 of the MIST final report, a summary of the entire MIST program. Major topics include, Test Advisory Group (TAG) issues, facility scaling and design, test matrix, observations, comparison of RELAP5 calculations to MIST observations, and MIST versus the TAG issues. MIST generated consistent integral-system data covering a wide range of transient interactions. MIST provided insight into integral system behavior and assisted the code effort. The MIST observations addressed each of the TAG issues. 11 refs., 29 figs., 9 tabs.« less

Parallel Demand-Withdraw Processes in Family Therapy for Adolescent Drug Abuse

PubMed Central

Rynes, Kristina N.; Rohrbaugh, Michael J.; Lebensohn-Chialvo, Florencia; Shoham, Varda

2013-01-01

Isomorphism, or parallel process, occurs in family therapy when patterns of therapist-client interaction replicate problematic interaction patterns within the family. This study investigated parallel demand-withdraw processes in Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT) for adolescent drug abuse, hypothesizing that therapist-demand/adolescent-withdraw interaction (TD/AW) cycles observed early in treatment would predict poor adolescent outcomes at follow-up for families who exhibited entrenched parent-demand/adolescent-withdraw interaction (PD/AW) before treatment began. Participants were 91 families who received at least 4 sessions of BSFT in a multi-site clinical trial on adolescent drug abuse (Robbins et al., 2011). Prior to receiving therapy, families completed videotaped family interaction tasks from which trained observers coded PD/AW. Another team of raters coded TD/AW during two early BSFT sessions. The main dependent variable was the number of drug use days that adolescents reported in Timeline Follow-Back interviews 7 to 12 months after family therapy began. Zero-inflated Poisson (ZIP) regression analyses supported the main hypothesis, showing that PD/AW and TD/AW interacted to predict adolescent drug use at follow-up. For adolescents in high PD/AW families, higher levels of TD/AW predicted significant increases in drug use at follow-up, whereas for low PD/AW families, TD/AW and follow-up drug use were unrelated. Results suggest that attending to parallel demand-withdraw processes in parent/adolescent and therapist/adolescent dyads may be useful in family therapy for substance-using adolescents. PMID:23438248

Dialysis Modality and Readmission Following Hospital Discharge: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

PubMed

Perl, Jeffrey; McArthur, Eric; Bell, Chaim; Garg, Amit X; Bargman, Joanne M; Chan, Christopher T; Harel, Shai; Li, Lihua; Jain, Arsh K; Nash, Danielle M; Harel, Ziv

2017-07-01

Readmissions following hospital discharge among maintenance dialysis patients are common, potentially modifiable, and costly. Compared with patients receiving in-center hemodialysis (HD), patients receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD) have fewer routine dialysis clinic encounters and as a result may be more susceptible to a hospital readmission following discharge. Population-based retrospective-cohort observational study. Patients treated with maintenance dialysis who were discharged following an acute-care hospitalization during January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2013, across 164 acute-care hospitals in Ontario, Canada. For those with multiple hospitalizations, we randomly selected a single hospitalization as the index hospitalization. Dialysis modality PD or in-center HD. Propensity scores were used to match each patient on PD therapy to 2 patients on in-center HD therapy to ensure that baseline indicators of health were similar between the 2 groups. All-cause 30-day readmission following the index hospital discharge. 28,026 dialysis patients were included in the study. 4,013 PD patients were matched to 8,026 in-center HD patients. Among the matched cohort, 30-day readmission rates were 7.1 (95% CI, 6.6-7.6) per 1,000 person-days for patients on PD therapy and 6.0 (95% CI, 5.7-6.3) per 1,000 person-days for patients on in-center HD therapy. The risk for a 30-day readmission among patients on PD therapy was higher compared with those on in-center HD therapy (adjusted HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.08-1.31). The primary results were consistent across several key prespecified subgroups. Lack of information for the frequency of nephrology physician encounters following discharge from the hospital in both the PD and in-center HD cohorts. Limited validation of International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes. The risk for 30-day readmission is higher for patients on home-based PD compared to in-center HD therapy. Interventions to improve transitions in care between the inpatient and outpatient settings are needed, particularly for patients on PD therapy. Copyright © 2016 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cytochrome P450 2D6 and Parkinson's Disease: Polymorphism, Metabolic Role, Risk and Protection.

PubMed

Ur Rasheed, Mohd Sami; Mishra, Abhishek Kumar; Singh, Mahendra Pratap

2017-12-01

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 is one of the most highly active, oxidative and polymorphic enzymes known to metabolize Parkinsonian toxins and clinically established anti-Parkinson's disease (PD) drugs. Albeit CYP2D6 gene is not present in rodents, its orthologs perform almost the similar function with imprecise substrate and inhibitor specificity. CYP2D6 expression and catalytic activity are found to be regulated at every stage of the central dogma except replication as well as at the epigenetic level. CYP2D6 gene codes for a set of alternate splice variants that give rise to a range of enzymes possessing variable catalytic activity. Case-control studies, meta-analysis and systemic reviews covering CYP2D6 polymorphism and PD risk have demonstrated that poor metabolizer phenotype possesses a considerable genetic susceptibility. Besides, ultra-rapid metabolizer offers protection against the risk in some populations while lack of positive or inverse association is also reported in other inhabitants. CYP2D6 polymorphisms resulting into deviant protein products with differing catalytic activity could lead to inter-individual variations, which could be explained to certain extent on the basis of sample size, life style factors, food habits, ethnicity and tools used for statistical analysis across various studies. Current article describes the role played by polymorphic CYP2D6 in the metabolism of anti-PD drugs/Parkinsonian toxins and how polymorphisms determine PD risk or protection. Moreover, CYP2D6 orthologs and their roles in rodent models of Parkinsonism have also been mentioned. Finally, a perspective on inconsistency in the findings and futuristic relevance of CYP2D6 polymorphisms in disease diagnosis and treatment has also been highlighted.

Rocky Mountain Arsenal Ecological Chemical Data (1984-1985)

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-03-01

Type Wet Areas Code Area LK Lake MT Marshy Type PD Pond C-1 APPENDIX D TISSUE CODES Code Tissue BRA Brain FIL Filet EDP Edible Portion LIV Liver MUS...ctus 472 Craton texcisis Crotoni 473 Cryptantha fcndleri Fcnder’s Cryptantha 474 Cucurbita foctidissinma Wild Gourd 475 Cytroptcrus montanus Pink Cym...adcrnocaulon Nlorthern wilIlow- herb 484 Eragrostis cilianensis Stinkgrass 485 Erfcgonum annuum Tall Erlogonum 486 Erigercn divergcns Spreading Fleabine 487

SAS2H Generated Isotopic Concentrations For B&W 15X15 PWR Assembly (SCPB:N/A)

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

J.W. Davis

This analysis is prepared by the Mined Geologic Disposal System (MGDS) Waste Package Development Department (WPDD) to provide pressurized water reactor (PWR) isotopic composition data as a function of time for use in criticality analyses. The objectives of this evaluation are to generate burnup and decay dependant isotopic inventories and to provide these inventories in a form which can easily be utilized in subsequent criticality calculations.

Collecting wrappers, labels, and packages to enhance accuracy of food records among children 2-8 years in the Pacific region: Children's Healthy Living Program (CHL).

PubMed

Yonemori, Kim M; Ennis, Tui; Novotny, Rachel; Fialkowski, Marie K; Ettienne, Reynolette; Wilkens, Lynne R; Leon Guerrero, Rachael T; Bersamin, Andrea; Coleman, Patricia; Li, Fenfang; Boushey, Carol J

2017-12-01

The aim was to describe differences in dietary outcomes based on the provision of food wrappers, labels or packages (WLP) to complement data from dietary records (DR) among children from the US Affiliated Pacific. The WLP were intended to aid food coding. Since WLP can be associated with ultra-processed foods, one might expect differences in sodium, sugar, and other added ingredients to emerge. Dietary intakes of children (2-8 y) in Alaska, Hawai'i, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam were collected using parent/caregiver completed 2-day DR. Parents were encouraged to collect WLP associated with the child's intake. Trained staff entered data from the DRs including the WLP when available using PacTrac3, a web application. Of the 1,868 DRs collected and entered at the time of this report, 498 (27%) included WLP. After adjusting for confounders (sex, age, location, education, food assistance), the DRs with WLP had significantly higher amounts of energy (kcal), total fat, saturated fat, added sugar, and sodium. These results suggest the inclusion of WLP enhanced the dietary intake data. The intake of energy, fat, added sugar and sodium derived from processed foods and foods consumed outside the home was better captured in children who had WLP.

Pattern destabilization and emotional processing in cognitive therapy for personality disorders

PubMed Central

Hayes, Adele M.; Yasinski, Carly

2015-01-01

Clinical trials of treatments for personality disorders can provide a medium for studying the process of therapeutic change with particularly entrenched and self-perpetuating systems and might reveal important principles of system transition. We examined the extent to which maladaptive personality patterns were destabilized in a trial of cognitive therapy personality disorders (CT-PD) and how destabilization was associated with emotional processing and treatment outcomes. Dynamic systems theory was used as a theoretical framework for studying change. Method: Participants were 27 patients diagnosed with Avoidant or Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (AVPD or OCPD), who completed an open trial of CT-PD. Raters coded treatment sessions using a coding system that operationalizes emotional processing, as well as cognitive, affective, behavioral, and somatic components of pathological (negative) and more adaptive (positive) patterns of functioning. Pattern destabilization (dispersion) scores during the early phase of treatment (phase 1: session 1–10) and the schema-focused phase (phase 2: session 11–34) were calculated using a program called GridWare. Results: More pattern destabilization and emotional processing in the schema-focused phase of CT-PD predicted more improvement in personality disorder symptoms and positive pattern strength at the end of treatment, whereas these variables in phase 1 did not predict outcome. Conclusion: In addition to illustrating a quantitative method for studying destabilization and change of patterns of psychopathology, we present findings that are consistent with recent updates of emotional processing theory and with principles from dynamic systems theory. PMID:25755647

Pattern destabilization and emotional processing in cognitive therapy for personality disorders.

PubMed

Hayes, Adele M; Yasinski, Carly

2015-01-01

Clinical trials of treatments for personality disorders can provide a medium for studying the process of therapeutic change with particularly entrenched and self-perpetuating systems and might reveal important principles of system transition. We examined the extent to which maladaptive personality patterns were destabilized in a trial of cognitive therapy personality disorders (CT-PD) and how destabilization was associated with emotional processing and treatment outcomes. Dynamic systems theory was used as a theoretical framework for studying change. Participants were 27 patients diagnosed with Avoidant or Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (AVPD or OCPD), who completed an open trial of CT-PD. Raters coded treatment sessions using a coding system that operationalizes emotional processing, as well as cognitive, affective, behavioral, and somatic components of pathological (negative) and more adaptive (positive) patterns of functioning. Pattern destabilization (dispersion) scores during the early phase of treatment (phase 1: session 1-10) and the schema-focused phase (phase 2: session 11-34) were calculated using a program called GridWare. More pattern destabilization and emotional processing in the schema-focused phase of CT-PD predicted more improvement in personality disorder symptoms and positive pattern strength at the end of treatment, whereas these variables in phase 1 did not predict outcome. In addition to illustrating a quantitative method for studying destabilization and change of patterns of psychopathology, we present findings that are consistent with recent updates of emotional processing theory and with principles from dynamic systems theory.

FAVOR: A new fracture mechanics code for reactor pressure vessels subjected to pressurized thermal shock

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

Dickson, T.L.

1993-01-01

This report discusses probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM) analysis which is a major element of the comprehensive probabilistic methodology endorsed by the NRC for evaluation of the integrity of Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) pressure vessels subjected to pressurized-thermal-shock (PTS) transients. It is anticipated that there will be an increasing need for an improved and validated PTS PFM code which is accepted by the NRC and utilities, as more plants approach the PTS screening criteria and are required to perform plant-specific analyses. The NRC funded Heavy Section Steel Technology (HSST) Program at Oak Ridge National Laboratories is currently developing the FAVOR (Fracturemore » Analysis of Vessels: Oak Ridge) PTS PFM code, which is intended to meet this need. The FAVOR code incorporates the most important features of both OCA-P and VISA-II and contains some new capabilities such as PFM global modeling methodology, the capability to approximate the effects of thermal streaming on circumferential flaws located inside a plume region created by fluid and thermal stratification, a library of stress intensity factor influence coefficients, generated by the NQA-1 certified ABAQUS computer code, for an adequate range of two and three dimensional inside surface flaws, the flexibility to generate a variety of output reports, and user friendliness.« less

FAVOR: A new fracture mechanics code for reactor pressure vessels subjected to pressurized thermal shock

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

Dickson, T.L.

1993-04-01

This report discusses probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM) analysis which is a major element of the comprehensive probabilistic methodology endorsed by the NRC for evaluation of the integrity of Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) pressure vessels subjected to pressurized-thermal-shock (PTS) transients. It is anticipated that there will be an increasing need for an improved and validated PTS PFM code which is accepted by the NRC and utilities, as more plants approach the PTS screening criteria and are required to perform plant-specific analyses. The NRC funded Heavy Section Steel Technology (HSST) Program at Oak Ridge National Laboratories is currently developing the FAVOR (Fracturemore » Analysis of Vessels: Oak Ridge) PTS PFM code, which is intended to meet this need. The FAVOR code incorporates the most important features of both OCA-P and VISA-II and contains some new capabilities such as PFM global modeling methodology, the capability to approximate the effects of thermal streaming on circumferential flaws located inside a plume region created by fluid and thermal stratification, a library of stress intensity factor influence coefficients, generated by the NQA-1 certified ABAQUS computer code, for an adequate range of two and three dimensional inside surface flaws, the flexibility to generate a variety of output reports, and user friendliness.« less

Human X-Linked genes regionally mapped utilizing X-autosome translocations and somatic cell hybrids.

PubMed Central

Shows, T B; Brown, J A

1975-01-01

Human genes coding for hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT, EC 2.4.2.8; IMP:pyrophosphate phosphoribosyltransferase), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD, EC 1.1.1.49; D-glucose-6-phosphate:NADP+ 1-oxidoreductase), and phosphoglycerate kinase (PGK, EC 2.7.2.3; ATP:3-phospho-D-glycerate 1-phosphotransferase) have been assigned to specific regions on the long arm of the X chromosome by somatic cell gentic techniques. Gene assignment and linear order were determined by employing human somatic cells possessing an X/9 translocation or an X/22 translocation in man-mouse cell hybridization studies. The X/9 translocation involved the majority of the X long arm translocated to chromosome 9 and the X/22 translocation involved the distal half of the X long arm translocated to 22. In each case these rearrangements appeared to be reciprocal. Concordant segregation of X-linked enzymes and segments of the X chromosome generated by the translocations indicated assignment of the PGK gene to a proximal long arm region (q12-q22) and the HPRT and G6PD genes to the distal half (q22-qter) of the X long arm. Further evidence suggests a gene order on the X long arm of centromere-PGK-HPRT-G6PD. Images PMID:1056018

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

Ling Zou; Hongbin Zhang; Jess Gehin

A coupled TH/Neutronics/CRUD framework, which is able to simulate the CRUD deposits impact on CIPS phenomenon, was described in this paper. This framework includes the coupling among three essential physics, thermal-hydraulics, CRUD and neutronics. The overall framework was implemented by using the CFD software STAR-CCM+, developing CRUD codes, and using the neutronics code DeCART. The coupling was implemented by exchanging data between softwares using intermediate exchange files. A typical 3 by 3 PWR fuel pin problem was solved under this framework. The problem was solved in a 12 months length period of time. Time-dependent solutions were provided, including CRUD depositsmore » inventory and their distributions on fuels, boron hideout amount inside CRUD deposits, as well as power shape changing over time. The results clearly showed the power shape suppression in regions where CRUD deposits exist, which is a strong indication of CIPS phenomenon.« less

Radio frequency tags systems to initiate system processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Madsen, Harold O.; Madsen, David W.

1994-09-01

This paper describes the automatic identification technology which has been installed at Applied Magnetic Corp. MR fab. World class manufacturing requires technology exploitation. This system combines (1) FluoroTrac cassette and operator tracking, (2) CELLworks cell controller software tools, and (3) Auto-Soft Inc. software integration services. The combined system eliminates operator keystrokes and errors during normal processing within a semiconductor fab. The methods and benefits of this system are described.

Scalable, Flexible and Active Learning on Distributions

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

enthusiasm about widely varying research ideas was inspiring. Junier Oliva always knew the right way to think about something when I got stuck. Tzu -Kuo...109 Bibliography 113 iii iv Chapter 1 Introduction Traditional machine learning approaches focus on learning problems defined on...with Tzu -Kuo (TK) Huang. 2 et al. 2012; Ntampaka, Trac, Sutherland, Battaglia, et al. 2015; Jin 2016; Jin et al. 2016; Sutherland, J. B. Oliva, et al

Fluid intelligence and empathy in association with personality disorder trait-scores: exploring the link.

PubMed

Hengartner, Michael P; Ajdacic-Gross, Vladeta; Rodgers, Stephanie; Müller, Mario; Haker, Helene; Rössler, Wulf

2014-08-01

There is some evidence that fluid intelligence as well as empathy may be significantly related to personality disorders (PDs). To our knowledge, no study has addressed those issues simultaneously in all 10 DSM PDs in a sample of the general population. We analysed data from 196 participants aged 20–41 from the Epidemiology Survey of the Zurich Programme for Sustainable Development of Mental Health Services (ZInEP), a comprehensive psychiatric survey in the general population of Zurich, Switzerland. We assessed the digit symbol-coding test (DSCT), the “reading the mind in the eyes” test (RMET) and the interpersonal reactivity index (IRI). Both measures of cognitive empathy (i.e. RMET and IRI perspective taking) were not related to any PD trait-score. The total PD trait-score was significantly associated with low scores on DSCT and IRI empathic concern and high scores on IRI personal distress, which indicates a dose–response relationship in those measures. DSCT was particularly related to borderline PD, IRI empathic concern to schizoid and narcissistic PDs, and IRI personal distress to avoidant PD. The proportion of variance explained in the total PD trait-score accounted for by DSCT, IRI empathic concern and IRI personal distress was 2.6, 2.3 and 13.3 %, respectively. Symptomatology and severity of PDs are related to low fluid intelligence and reduced emotional empathy as characterized by low empathic concern and high personal distress towards emotional expressions of others. Further research is needed that examines the association between cognitive empathy and personality pathology as well as potential clinical applications.

Logistics Modeling of Emplacement Rate and Duration of Operations for Generic Geologic Repository Concepts

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

Kalinina, Elena Arkadievna; Hardin, Ernest

This study identified potential geologic repository concepts for disposal of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and (2) evaluated the achievable repository waste emplacement rate and the time required to complete the disposal for these concepts. Total repository capacity is assumed to be approximately 140,000 MT of spent fuel. The results of this study provide an important input for the rough-order-of-magnitude (ROM) disposal cost analysis. The disposal concepts cover three major categories of host geologic media: crystalline or hard rock, salt, and argillaceous rock. Four waste package sizes are considered: 4PWR/9BWR; 12PWR/21BWR; 21PWR/44BWR, and dual purpose canisters (DPCs). The DPC concepts assumemore » that the existing canisters will be sealed into disposal overpacks for direct disposal. Each concept assumes one of the following emplacement power limits for either emplacement or repository closure: 1.7 kW; 2.2 kW; 5.5 kW; 10 kW; 11.5 kW, and 18 kW.« less

Whole exome sequencing of rare variants in EIF4G1 and VPS35 in Parkinson disease

PubMed Central

Nuytemans, Karen; Bademci, Guney; Inchausti, Vanessa; Dressen, Amy; Kinnamon, Daniel D.; Mehta, Arpit; Wang, Liyong; Züchner, Stephan; Beecham, Gary W.; Martin, Eden R.; Scott, William K.

2013-01-01

Objective: Recently, vacuolar protein sorting 35 (VPS35) and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4 gamma 1 (EIF4G1) have been identified as 2 causal Parkinson disease (PD) genes. We used whole exome sequencing for rapid, parallel analysis of variations in these 2 genes. Methods: We performed whole exome sequencing in 213 patients with PD and 272 control individuals. Those rare variants (RVs) with <5% frequency in the exome variant server database and our own control data were considered for analysis. We performed joint gene-based tests for association using RVASSOC and SKAT (Sequence Kernel Association Test) as well as single-variant test statistics. Results: We identified 3 novel VPS35 variations that changed the coded amino acid (nonsynonymous) in 3 cases. Two variations were in multiplex families and neither segregated with PD. In EIF4G1, we identified 11 (9 nonsynonymous and 2 small indels) RVs including the reported pathogenic mutation p.R1205H, which segregated in all affected members of a large family, but also in 1 unaffected 86-year-old family member. Two additional RVs were found in isolated patients only. Whereas initial association studies suggested an association (p = 0.04) with all RVs in EIF4G1, subsequent testing in a second dataset for the driving variant (p.F1461) suggested no association between RVs in the gene and PD. Conclusions: We confirm that the specific EIF4G1 variation p.R1205H seems to be a strong PD risk factor, but is nonpenetrant in at least one 86-year-old. A few other select RVs in both genes could not be ruled out as causal. However, there was no evidence for an overall contribution of genetic variability in VPS35 or EIF4G1 to PD development in our dataset. PMID:23408866

Fermilab Science Education Office - Educators/Teachers

Science.gov Websites

Search Professional Development and Research Opportunities Prepare for NGSS/Work with Scientists Professional Development Teacher Workshops and Scholarships Teacher Resource Center Research Opportunities TRAC

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

Thakur, Gautam

A data-driven realistic design and evalua- tion of vehicular mobility has been particularly chal- lenging due to a lack of large-scale real-world mea- surements in the research community. Current research methodologies rely on articial scenarios, random con- nectivity, and use small and biased samples. In this pa- per, we perform a combined study to learn the struc- ture and connectivity of urban streets and modeling and characterization of vehicular trac densities on them. Our dataset is a collection of more than 222 thousand routes and 25 million vehicular mobility images from 1091 online web cameras located in six dierent re-more » gions of the world. Our results centered around four major observations: i. study shows that driving routes and visiting locations of regions demonstrate power-law distribution, indicating a planned or recently designed road infrastructure; ii. we represent regions by network graphs in which nodes are camera locations and edges are urban streets that connect the nodes. Such represen- tation exhibits small world properties with short path lengths and large clustering coecient; iii. trac densi- ties show 80% temporal correlation during several hours of a day; iv. modeling trac densities against known theoretical distributions show less than 5% deviation for heavy-trailed models such as log-logistic and log- gamma distributions. We believe this work will provide a much-needed contribution to the research community for design and evaluation of future vehicular networks and smart cities.« less

TU-AB-BRC-08: Egs-brachy, a Fast and Versatile Monte Carlo Code for Brachytherapy Applications

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

Chamberland, M; Taylor, R; Rogers, D

2016-06-15

Purpose: To introduce egs-brachy, a new, fast, and versatile Monte Carlo code for brachytherapy applications. Methods: egs-brachy is an EGSnrc user-code based on the EGSnrc C++ class library (egs++). Complex phantom, applicator, and source model geometries are built using the egs++ geometry module. egs-brachy uses a tracklength estimator to score collision kerma in voxels. Interaction, spectrum, energy fluence, and phase space scoring are also implemented. Phase space sources and particle recycling may be used to improve simulation efficiency. HDR treatments (e.g. stepping source through dwell positions) can be simulated. Standard brachytherapy seeds, as well as electron and miniature x-ray tubemore » sources are fully modelled. Variance reduction techniques for electron source simulations are implemented (Bremsstrahlung cross section enhancement, uniform Bremsstrahlung splitting, and Russian Roulette). TG-43 parameters of seeds are computed and compared to published values. Example simulations of various treatments are carried out on a single 2.5 GHz Intel Xeon E5-2680 v3 processor core. Results: TG-43 parameters calculated with egs-brachy show excellent agreement with published values. Using a phase space source, 2% average statistical uncertainty in the PTV ((2mm){sup 3} voxels) can be achieved in 10 s for 100 {sup 125}I or {sup 103}Pd seeds in a 36.2 cm{sup 3} prostate PTV, 31 s for 64 {sup 103}Pd seeds in a 64 cm{sup 3} breast PTV, and 56 s for a miniature x-ray tube in a 27 cm{sup 3} breast PTV. Comparable uncertainty is reached in 12 s in a (1 mm){sup 3} water voxel 5 mm away from a COMS 16mm eye plaque with 13 {sup 103}Pd seeds. Conclusion: The accuracy of egs-brachy has been demonstrated through benchmarking calculations. Calculation times are sufficiently fast to allow full MC simulations for routine treatment planning for diverse brachytherapy treatments (LDR, HDR, miniature x-ray tube). egs-brachy will be available as free and open-source software to the medical physics research community. This work is partially funded by the Canada Research Chairs program, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, and the Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation (Ontario Early Researcher Award).« less

The underwater coincidence counter (UWCC) for plutonium measurements in mixed oxide fuels

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

Eccleston, G.W.; Menlove, H.O.; Abhold, M.

1998-12-31

The use of fresh uranium-plutonium mixed oxide (MOX) fuel in light-water reactors (LWR) is increasing in Europe and Japan and it is necessary to verify the plutonium content in the fuel for international safeguards purposes. The UWCC is a new instrument that has been designed to operate underwater and nondestructively measure the plutonium in unirradiated MOX fuel assemblies. The UWCC can be quickly configured to measure either boiling-water reactor (BWR) or pressurized-water reactor (PWR) fuel assemblies. The plutonium loading per unit length is measured using the UWCC to precisions of less than 1% in a measurement time of 2 tomore » 3 minutes. Initial calibrations of the UWCC were completed on measurements of MOX fuel in Mol, Belgium. The MCNP-REN Monte Carlo simulation code is being benchmarked to the calibration measurements to allow accurate simulations for extended calibrations of the UWCC.« less

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

Simonen, F.A.; Johnson, K.I.; Liebetrau, A.M.

The VISA-II (Vessel Integrity Simulation Analysis code was originally developed as part of the NRC staff evaluation of pressurized thermal shock. VISA-II uses Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the failure probability of a pressurized water reactor (PWR) pressure vessel subjected to a pressure and thermal transient specified by the user. Linear elastic fracture mechanics methods are used to model crack initiation and propagation. Parameters for initial crack size and location, copper content, initial reference temperature of the nil-ductility transition, fluence, crack-initiation fracture toughness, and arrest fracture toughness are treated as random variables. This report documents an upgraded version of themore » original VISA code as described in NUREG/CR-3384. Improvements include a treatment of cladding effects, a more general simulation of flaw size, shape and location, a simulation of inservice inspection, an updated simulation of the reference temperature of the nil-ductility transition, and treatment of vessels with multiple welds and initial flaws. The code has been extensively tested and verified and is written in FORTRAN for ease of installation on different computers. 38 refs., 25 figs.« less

Current and planned numerical development for improving computing performance for long duration and/or low pressure transients

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

Faydide, B.

1997-07-01

This paper presents the current and planned numerical development for improving computing performance in case of Cathare applications needing real time, like simulator applications. Cathare is a thermalhydraulic code developed by CEA (DRN), IPSN, EDF and FRAMATOME for PWR safety analysis. First, the general characteristics of the code are presented, dealing with physical models, numerical topics, and validation strategy. Then, the current and planned applications of Cathare in the field of simulators are discussed. Some of these applications were made in the past, using a simplified and fast-running version of Cathare (Cathare-Simu); the status of the numerical improvements obtained withmore » Cathare-Simu is presented. The planned developments concern mainly the Simulator Cathare Release (SCAR) project which deals with the use of the most recent version of Cathare inside simulators. In this frame, the numerical developments are related with the speed up of the calculation process, using parallel processing and improvement of code reliability on a large set of NPP transients.« less

Trace Assessment for BWR ATWS Analysis

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

Cheng, L.Y.; Diamond, D.; Arantxa Cuadra, Gilad Raitses, Arnold Aronson

2010-04-22

A TRACE/PARCS input model has been developed in order to be able to analyze anticipated transients without scram (ATWS) in a boiling water reactor. The model is based on one developed previously for the Browns Ferry reactor for doing loss-of-coolant accident analysis. This model was updated by adding the control systems needed for ATWS and a core model using PARCS. The control systems were based on models previously developed for the TRAC-B code. The PARCS model is based on information (e.g., exposure and moderator density (void) history distributions) obtained from General Electric Hitachi and cross sections for GE14 fuel obtainedmore » from an independent source. The model is able to calculate an ATWS, initiated by the closure of main steam isolation valves, with recirculation pump trip, water level control, injection of borated water from the standby liquid control system and actuation of the automatic depres-surization system. The model is not considered complete and recommendations are made on how it should be improved.« less

In-field Calibration of a Fast Neutron Collar for the Measurement of Fresh PWR Fuel Assemblies

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

Swinhoe, Martyn Thomas; De Baere, Paul

2015-04-17

A new neutron collar has been designed for the measurement of fresh LEU fuel assemblies. This collar uses “fast mode” measurement to reduce the effect of burnable poison rods on the assay and thus reduce the dependence on the operator’s declaration. The new collar design reduces effect of poison rods considerably. Instead of 12 pins of 5.2% Gd causing a 20.4% effect, as in the standard thermal mode collar, they only cause a 3.2% effect in the new collar. However it has higher efficiency so that reasonably precise measurements can be made in 25 minutes, rather than the 1 hourmore » of previous collars. The new collar is fully compatible with the use of the standard data collection and analysis code INCC. This report describes the calibration that was made with a mock-up assembly at Los Alamos National Laboratory and with actual assemblies at the AREVA Fuel fabrication Plant in Lingen, Germany.« less

Preliminary Analysis of High-Flux RSG-GAS to Transmute Am-241 of PWR’s Spent Fuel in Asian Region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Budi Setiawan, M.; Kuntjoro, S.

2018-02-01

A preliminary study of minor actinides (MA) transmutation in the high flux profile RSG-GAS research reactor was performed, aiming at an optimal transmutation loading for present nuclear energy development. The MA selected in the analysis includes Am-241 discharged from pressurized water reactors (PWRs) in Asian region. Until recently, studies have been undertaken in various methods to reduce radiotoxicity from actinides in high-level waste. From the cell calculation using computer code SRAC2006, it is obtained that the target Am-241 which has a cross section of the thermal energy absorption in the region (group 8) is relatively large; it will be easily burned in the RSG-GAS reactor. Minor actinides of Am-241 which can be inserted in the fuel (B/T fuel) is 2.5 kg which is equivalent to Am-241 resulted from the partition of spent fuel from 2 units power reactors PWR with power 1000MW(th) operated for one year.

Photoreceptor dysplasia (pd) in miniature schnauzer dogs: evaluation of candidate genes by molecular genetic analysis.

PubMed

Zhang, Q; Baldwin, V J; Acland, G M; Parshall, C J; Haskel, J; Aguirre, G D; Ray, K

1999-01-01

Photoreceptor dysplasia (pd) is one of a group of at least six distinct autosomal and one X-linked retinal disorders identified in dogs which are collectively known as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). It is an early onset retinal disease identified in miniature schnauzer dogs, and pedigree analysis and breeding studies have established autosomal recessive inheritance of the disease. Using a gene-based approach, a number of retina-expressed genes, including some members of the phototransduction pathway, have been causally implicated in retinal diseases of humans and other animals. Here we examined seven such potential candidate genes (opsin, RDS/peripherin, ROM1, rod cGMP-gated cation channel alpha-subunit, and three subunits of transducin) for their causal association with the pd locus by testing segregation of intragenic markers with the disease locus, or, in the absence of informative polymorphisms, sequencing of the coding regions of the genes. Based on these results, we have conclusively excluded four photoreceptor-specific genes as candidates for pd by linkage analysis. For three other photoreceptor-specific genes, we did not find any mutation in the coding sequences of the genes and have excluded them provisionally. Formal exclusion would require investigation of the levels of expression of the candidate genes in pd-affected dogs relative to age-matched controls. At present we are building suitable informative pedigrees for the disease locus with a sufficient number of meiosis to be useful for genomewide screening. This should identify markers linked to the disease locus and eventually permit progress toward the identification of the photoreceptor dysplasia gene and the disease-causing mutation.

Comparison of fresh fuel experimental measurements to MCNPX calculations using self-interrogation neutron resonance densitometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

LaFleur, Adrienne M.; Charlton, William S.; Menlove, Howard O.; Swinhoe, Martyn T.

2012-07-01

A new non-destructive assay technique called Self-Interrogation Neutron Resonance Densitometry (SINRD) is currently being developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) to improve existing nuclear safeguards measurements for Light Water Reactor (LWR) fuel assemblies. SINRD consists of four 235U fission chambers (FCs): bare FC, boron carbide shielded FC, Gd covered FC, and Cd covered FC. Ratios of different FCs are used to determine the amount of resonance absorption from 235U in the fuel assembly. The sensitivity of this technique is based on using the same fissile materials in the FCs as are present in the fuel because the effect of resonance absorption lines in the transmitted flux is amplified by the corresponding (n,f) reaction peaks in the fission chamber. In this work, experimental measurements were performed in air with SINRD using a reference Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) 15×15 low enriched uranium (LEU) fresh fuel assembly at LANL. The purpose of this experiment was to assess the following capabilities of SINRD: (1) ability to measure the effective 235U enrichment of the PWR fresh LEU fuel assembly and (2) sensitivity and penetrability to the removal of fuel pins from an assembly. These measurements were compared to Monte Carlo N-Particle eXtended transport code (MCNPX) simulations to verify the accuracy of the MCNPX model of SINRD. The reproducibility of experimental measurements via MCNPX simulations is essential to validating the results and conclusions obtained from the simulations of SINRD for LWR spent fuel assemblies.

Impact of a Health Management Program on Healthcare Outcomes among Patients on Augmentation Therapy for Alpha 1-Antitrypsin Deficiency: An Insurance Claims Analysis.

PubMed

Campos, Michael A; Runken, Michael C; Davis, Angela M; Johnson, Michael P; Stone, Glenda A; Buikema, Ami R

2018-04-01

Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a genetic disorder which reduces serum alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT or alpha1-proteinase inhibitor, A1PI) and increases the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Management strategies include intravenous A1PI augmentation, and, in some cases, a health management program (Prolastin Direct ® ; PD). This study compared clinical and economic outcomes between patients with and without PD program participation. This retrospective study included commercial and Medicare Advantage health insurance plan members with ≥ 1 claim with diagnosis codes for COPD and ≥ 1 medical or pharmacy claim including A1PI (on index date). Outcomes were compared between patients receiving only Prolastin ® or Prolastin ® -C (PD cohort) and patients who received a different brand without PD (Comparator cohort). Demographic and clinical characteristics were captured during 6 months pre-index. Post-index exacerbation episodes and healthcare utilization and costs were compared between cohorts. The study sample comprised 445 patients (n = 213 in PD cohort; n = 232 in Comparator cohort), with a mean age 55.5 years, 50.8% male, and 78.9% commercially insured. The average follow-up was 822 days (2.25 years), and the average time on A1PI was 747 days (2.04 years). Few differences were observed in demographic or clinical characteristics. Adjusting for differences in patient characteristics, the rate of severe exacerbation episodes was reduced by 36.1% in the PD cohort. Adjusted total annual all-cause costs were 11.4% lower, and adjusted mean respiratory-related costs were 10.6% lower in the PD cohort than the Comparator cohort. Annual savings in all-cause total costs in the PD cohort relative to the Comparator cohort was US$25,529 per patient, largely due to significantly fewer and shorter hospitalizations. These results suggest that comprehensive health management services may improve both clinical and economic outcomes among patients with COPD and AATD who receive augmentation therapy. Grifols Shared Services of North America, Inc.

Waterside corrosion of Zircaloy-clad fuel rods in a PWR environment

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

Garzarolli, F.; Jorde, D.; Manzel, R.

A data base of Zircaloy corrosion behavior under PWR operating conditions has been established from previously published reports as well as from new Kraftwerk Union (KWU) fuel examinations. The data show that the reactor environment increases the corrosion. ZrO/sub 2/ film thermal conductivity is another major factor that influences corrosion behavior. It was inferred from KWU film thickness data that the oxide film thermal conductivity may decrease once circumferential cracks develop in the layer. 57 refs.

The change of radial power factor distribution due to RCCA insertion at the first cycle core of AP1000

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Susilo, J.; Suparlina, L.; Deswandri; Sunaryo, G. R.

2018-02-01

The using of a computer program for the PWR type core neutronic design parameters analysis has been carried out in some previous studies. These studies included a computer code validation on the neutronic parameters data values resulted from measurements and benchmarking calculation. In this study, the AP1000 first cycle core radial power peaking factor validation and analysis were performed using CITATION module of the SRAC2006 computer code. The computer code has been also validated with a good result to the criticality values of VERA benchmark core. The AP1000 core power distribution calculation has been done in two-dimensional X-Y geometry through ¼ section modeling. The purpose of this research is to determine the accuracy of the SRAC2006 code, and also the safety performance of the AP1000 core first cycle operating. The core calculations were carried out with the several conditions, those are without Rod Cluster Control Assembly (RCCA), by insertion of a single RCCA (AO, M1, M2, MA, MB, MC, MD) and multiple insertion RCCA (MA + MB, MA + MB + MC, MA + MB + MC + MD, and MA + MB + MC + MD + M1). The maximum power factor of the fuel rods value in the fuel assembly assumedapproximately 1.406. The calculation results analysis showed that the 2-dimensional CITATION module of SRAC2006 code is accurate in AP1000 power distribution calculation without RCCA and with MA+MB RCCA insertion.The power peaking factor on the first operating cycle of the AP1000 core without RCCA, as well as with single and multiple RCCA are still below in the safety limit values (less then about 1.798). So in terms of thermal power generated by the fuel assembly, then it can be considered that the AP100 core at the first operating cycle is safe.

Identification of Developmentally Regulated PCP-Responsive Non-Coding RNA, prt6, in the Rat Thalamus

PubMed Central

Umino, Asami; Nishikawa, Toru

2014-01-01

Schizophrenia and similar psychoses induced by NMDA-type glutamate receptor antagonists, such as phencyclidine (PCP) and ketamine, usually develop after adolescence. Moreover, adult-type behavioral disturbance following NMDA receptor antagonist application in rodents is observed after a critical period at around 3 postnatal weeks. These observations suggest that the schizophrenic symptoms caused by and psychotomimetic effects of NMDA antagonists require the maturation of certain brain neuron circuits and molecular networks, which differentially respond to NMDA receptor antagonists across adolescence and the critical period. From this viewpoint, we have identified a novel developmentally regulated phencyclidine-responsive transcript from the rat thalamus, designated as prt6, as a candidate molecule involved in the above schizophrenia-related systems using a DNA microarray technique. The transcript is a non-coding RNA that includes sequences of at least two microRNAs, miR132 and miR212, and is expressed strongly in the brain and testis, with trace or non-detectable levels in the spleen, heart, liver, kidney, lung and skeletal muscle, as revealed by Northern blot analysis. The systemic administration of PCP (7.5 mg/kg, subcutaneously (s.c.)) significantly elevated the expression of prt6 mRNA in the thalamus at postnatal days (PD) 32 and 50, but not at PD 8, 13, 20, or 24 as compared to saline-treated controls. At PD 50, another NMDA receptor antagonist, dizocilpine (0.5 mg/kg, s.c.), and a schizophrenomimetic dopamine agonist, methamphetamine (4.8 mg/kg, s.c.), mimicked a significant increase in the levels of thalamic prt6 mRNAs, while a D2 dopmamine receptor antagonist, haloperidol, partly inhibited the increasing influence of PCP on thalamic prt6 expression without its own effects. These data indicate that prt6 may be involved in the pathophysiology of the onset of drug-induced schizophrenia-like symptoms and schizophrenia through the possible dysregulation of target genes of the long non-coding RNA or microRNAs in the transcript. PMID:24886782

Motor automaticity in Parkinson’s disease

PubMed Central

Wu, Tao; Hallett, Mark; Chan, Piu

2017-01-01

Bradykinesia is the most important feature contributing to motor difficulties in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the pathophysiology underlying bradykinesia is not fully understood. One important aspect is that PD patients have difficulty in performing learned motor skills automatically, but this problem has been generally overlooked. Here we review motor automaticity associated motor deficits in PD, such as reduced arm swing, decreased stride length, freezing of gait, micrographia and reduced facial expression. Recent neuroimaging studies have revealed some neural mechanisms underlying impaired motor automaticity in PD, including less efficient neural coding of movement, failure to shift automated motor skills to the sensorimotor striatum, instability of the automatic mode within the striatum, and use of attentional control and/or compensatory efforts to execute movements usually performed automatically in healthy people. PD patients lose previously acquired automatic skills due to their impaired sensorimotor striatum, and have difficulty in acquiring new automatic skills or restoring lost motor skills. More investigations on the pathophysiology of motor automaticity, the effect of L-dopa or surgical treatments on automaticity, and the potential role of using measures of automaticity in early diagnosis of PD would be valuable. PMID:26102020

Logistics Support Analysis Techniques Guide

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-03-15

LANGUAGE (DATA RECORDS) FORTRAN CDC 6600 D&V FSD P/D A H REMA-RKS: Program n-s-ists of F PLIATIffIONS, approx 4000 line of coding , 3 Safegard, AN/FSC... FORTRAN IV -EW-RAK9-- The model consz.sts of IT--k-LIC- I-U-0NS: approximately 367 lines of SiNCGARS, PERSHING II coding . %.’. ~ LSA TASK INTERFACE...system supported by Computer’ Systems Command. The current version of LADEN is coded totally in FORTRAN 󈧕 for virtual memory operating system

Force 2025 and Beyond Strategic Force Design Analytic Model

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-01-12

depiction of the core ideas of our force design model. Figure 1: Description of Force Design Model Figure 2 shows an overview of our methodology ...the F2025B Force Design Analytic Model research conducted by TRAC- MTRY and the Naval Postgraduate School. Our research develops a methodology for...designs. We describe a data development methodology that characterizes the data required to construct a force design model using our approach. We

Astronaut Robinson presents 2010 Silver Snoopy awards

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-06-23

NASA's John C. Stennis Space Center Director Patrick Scheuermann and astronaut Steve Robinson stand with recipients of the 2010 Silver Snoopy awards following a June 23 ceremony. Sixteen Stennis employees received the astronauts' personal award, which is presented by a member of the astronaut corps representing its core principles for outstanding flight safety and mission success. This year's recipients and ceremony participants were: (front row, l to r): Cliff Arnold (NASA), Wendy Holladay (NASA), Kendra Moran (Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne), Mary Johnson (Jacobs Technology Facility Operating Services Contract group), Cory Beckemeyer (PWR), Dean Bourlet (PWR), Cecile Saltzman (NASA), Marla Carpenter (Jacobs FOSC), David Alston (Jacobs FOSC); (back row, l to r) Scheuermann, Don Wilson (A2 Research), Tim White (NASA), Ira Lossett (Jacobs Technology NASA Test Operations Group), Kerry Gallagher (Jacobs NTOG); Rene LeFrere (PWR), Todd Ladner (ASRC Research and Technology Solutions) and Thomas Jacks (NASA).

SIGACE Code for Generating High-Temperature ACE Files; Validation and Benchmarking

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

Sharma, Amit R.; Ganesan, S.; Trkov, A.

2005-05-24

A code named SIGACE has been developed as a tool for MCNP users within the scope of a research contract awarded by the Nuclear Data Section of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) (Ref: 302-F4-IND-11566 B5-IND-29641). A new recipe has been evolved for generating high-temperature ACE files for use with the MCNP code. Under this scheme the low-temperature ACE file is first converted to an ENDF formatted file using the ACELST code and then Doppler broadened, essentially limited to the data in the resolved resonance region, to any desired higher temperature using SIGMA1. The SIGACE code then generates a high-temperaturemore » ACE file for use with the MCNP code. A thinning routine has also been introduced in the SIGACE code for reducing the size of the ACE files. The SIGACE code and the recipe for generating ACE files at higher temperatures has been applied to the SEFOR fast reactor benchmark problem (sodium-cooled fast reactor benchmark described in ENDF-202/BNL-19302, 1974 document). The calculated Doppler coefficient is in good agreement with the experimental value. A similar calculation using ACE files generated directly with the NJOY system also agrees with our SIGACE computed results. The SIGACE code and the recipe is further applied to study the numerical benchmark configuration of selected idealized PWR pin cell configurations with five different fuel enrichments as reported by Mosteller and Eisenhart. The SIGACE code that has been tested with several FENDL/MC files will be available, free of cost, upon request, from the Nuclear Data Section of the IAEA.« less

MIST final report

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

Gloudemans, J.R.

1991-08-01

The multiloop integral system test (MIST) was part of a multiphase program started in 1983 to address small-break loss-of-coolant accidents (SBLOCAs) specific to Babcock Wilcox-designed plants. MIST was sponsored by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Babcock Wilcox Owners Group, the Electric Power Research Institute, and Babcock Wilcox. The unique features of the Babcock Wilcox design, specifically the hot leg U-bends and steam generators, prevented the use of existing integral system data or existing integral system facilities to addresss the thermal-hydraulic SBLOCA questions. MIST was specifically designed and constructed for this program, and an existing facility -- the once-through integralmore » system (OTIS) -- was also used. Data from MIST and OTIS are used to benchmark the adequacy of system codes, such as RELAP5 and TRAC, for predicting abnormal plant transients. The MIST program is reported in eleven volumes; Volumes 2 through 8 pertain to groups of Phase 3 tests by type, Volume 9 presents inter-group comparisons. Volume 10 provides comparisons between the RELAP5 MOD2 calculations and MIST observations, and Volume 11 (with addendum) presents the later, Phase 4 tests. This is Volume 1 of the MIST final report, a summary of the entire MIST program. Major topics include: test advisory grop (TAG) issues; facility scaling and design; test matrix; observations; comparisons of RELAP5 calculations to MIST observations; and MIST versus the TAG issues. 11 refs., 29 figs., 9 tabs.« less

IJS procedure for RELAP5 to TRACE input model conversion using SNAP

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

Prosek, A.; Berar, O. A.

2012-07-01

The TRAC/RELAP Advanced Computational Engine (TRACE) advanced, best-estimate reactor systems code developed by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission comes with a graphical user interface called Symbolic Nuclear Analysis Package (SNAP). Much of efforts have been done in the past to develop the RELAP5 input decks. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the Institut 'Josef Stefan' (IJS) conversion procedure from RELAP5 to TRACE input model of BETHSY facility. The IJS conversion procedure consists of eleven steps and is based on the use of SNAP. For calculations of the selected BETHSY 6.2TC test the RELAP5/MOD3.3 Patch 4 and TRACE V5.0more » Patch 1 were used. The selected BETHSY 6.2TC test was 15.24 cm equivalent diameter horizontal cold leg break in the reference pressurized water reactor without high pressure and low pressure safety injection. The application of the IJS procedure for conversion of BETHSY input model showed that it is important to perform the steps in proper sequence. The overall calculated results obtained with TRACE using the converted RELAP5 model were close to experimental data and comparable to RELAP5/MOD3.3 calculations. Therefore it can be concluded, that proposed IJS conversion procedure was successfully demonstrated on the BETHSY integral test facility input model. (authors)« less

Whole-Genome and Epigenomic Landscapes of Etiologically Distinct Subtypes of Cholangiocarcinoma

PubMed Central

Jusakul, Apinya; Cutcutache, Ioana; Yong, Chern Han; Lim, Jing Quan; Huang, Mi Ni; Padmanabhan, Nisha; Nellore, Vishwa; Kongpetch, Sarinya; Ng, Alvin Wei Tian; Ng, Ley Moy; Choo, Su Pin; Myint, Swe Swe; Thanan, Raynoo; Nagarajan, Sanjanaa; Lim, Weng Khong; Ng, Cedric Chuan Young; Boot, Arnoud; Liu, Mo; Ong, Choon Kiat; Rajasegaran, Vikneswari; Lie, Stefanus; Lim, Alvin Soon Tiong; Lim, Tse Hui; Tan, Jing; Loh, Jia Liang; McPherson, John R.; Khuntikeo, Narong; Bhudhisawasdi, Vajaraphongsa; Yongvanit, Puangrat; Wongkham, Sopit; Totoki, Yasushi; Nakamura, Hiromi; Arai, Yasuhito; Yamasaki, Satoshi; Chow, Pierce Kah-Hoe; Chung, Alexander Yaw Fui; Ooi, London Lucien Peng Jin; Lim, Kiat Hon; Dima, Simona; Duda, Dan G.; Popescu, Irinel; Broet, Philippe; Hsieh, Sen-Yung; Yu, Ming-Chin; Scarpa, Aldo; Lai, Jiaming; Luo, Di-Xian; Carvalho, André Lopes; Vettore, André Luiz; Rhee, Hyungjin; Park, Young Nyun; Alexandrov, Ludmil B.; Gordân, Raluca; Rozen, Steven G.; Shibata, Tatsuhiro; Pairojkul, Chawalit; Teh, Bin Tean; Tan, Patrick

2017-01-01

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a hepatobiliary malignancy exhibiting high incidence in countries with endemic liver-fluke infection. We analysed 489 CCAs from 10 countries, combining whole-genome (71 cases), targeted/exome, copy-number, gene expression, and DNA methylation information. Integrative clustering defined four CCA clusters – Fluke-Positive CCAs (Clusters 1/2) are enriched in ERBB2 amplifications and TP53 mutations, conversely Fluke-Negative CCAs (Clusters 3/4) exhibit high copy-number alterations and PD-1/PD-L2 expression, or epigenetic mutations (IDH1/2, BAP1) and FGFR/PRKA-related gene rearrangements. Whole-genome analysis highlighted FGFR2 3′UTR deletion as a mechanism of FGFR2 upregulation. Integration of non-coding promoter mutations with protein-DNA binding profiles demonstrates pervasive modulation of H3K27me3-associated sites in CCA. Clusters 1 and 4 exhibit distinct DNA hypermethylation patterns targeting either CpG islands or shores – mutation signature and subclonality analysis suggests that these reflect different mutational pathways. Our results exemplify how genetics, epigenetics and environmental carcinogens can interplay across different geographies to generate distinct molecular subtypes of cancer. PMID:28667006

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

Jusakul, Apinya; Cutcutache, Ioana; Yong, Chern Han

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a hepatobiliary malignancy exhibiting high incidence in countries with endemic liver-fluke infection. We analysed 489 CCAs from 10 countries, combining whole-genome (71 cases), targeted/exome, copy-number, gene expression, and DNA methylation information. Integrative clustering defined four CCA clusters - Fluke- Positive CCAs (Clusters 1/2) are enriched in ERBB2 amplifications and TP53 mutations, conversely Fluke-Negative CCAs (Clusters 3/4) exhibit high copy-number alterations and PD-1/PD-L2 expression, or epigenetic mutations (IDH1/2, BAP1) and FGFR/PRKA-related gene rearrangements. Whole-genome analysis highlighted FGFR2 3’UTR deletion as a mechanism of FGFR2 upregulation. Integration of non-coding promoter mutations with protein-DNA binding profiles demonstrates pervasive modulation ofmore » H3K27me3-associated sites in CCA. Clusters 1 and 4 exhibit distinct DNA hypermethylation patterns targeting either CpG islands or shores - mutation signature and subclonality analysis suggests that these reflect different mutational pathways. Lastly, our results exemplify how genetics, epigenetics and environmental carcinogens can interplay across different geographies to generate distinct molecular subtypes of cancer.« less

Extension of the Bgl Broad Group Cross Section Library

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirilova, Desislava; Belousov, Sergey; Ilieva, Krassimira

2009-08-01

The broad group cross-section libraries BUGLE and BGL are applied for reactor shielding calculation using the DOORS package based on discrete ordinates method and multigroup approximation of the neutron cross-sections. BUGLE and BGL libraries are problem oriented for PWR or VVER type of reactors respectively. They had been generated by collapsing the problem independent fine group library VITAMIN-B6 applying PWR and VVER one-dimensional radial model of the reactor middle plane using the SCALE software package. The surveillance assemblies (SA) of VVER-1000/320 are located on the baffle above the reactor core upper edge in a region where geometry and materials differ from those of the middle plane and the neutron field gradient is very high which would result in a different neutron spectrum. That is why the application of the fore-mentioned libraries for the neutron fluence calculation in the region of SA could lead to an additional inaccuracy. This was the main reason to study the necessity for an extension of the BGL library with cross-sections appropriate for the SA region. Comparative analysis of the neutron spectra of the SA region calculated by the VITAMIN-B6 and BGL libraries using the two-dimensional code DORT have been done with purpose to evaluate the BGL applicability for SA calculation.

About Us

Science.gov Websites

Atoll Cleanup Documents TRAC About Who We Are Our Values History Locations Our Leadership Director Who We Are Our Values Locations DTRA Leadership Stay Connected About DoD Top Issues News Photos &

75 FR 35878 - Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-23

...: Tip Reporting Alternative Commitment (TRAC) for Use in the Food and Beverage Industry. Abstract...., Room 6129, Washington, DC 20224; (202) 622-3634. OMB Reviewer: Shagufta Ahmed, Office of Management and...

Increased Risk of Dementia in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

PubMed

Liao, Kuang-Ming; Ho, Chung-Han; Ko, Shian-Chin; Li, Chung-Yi

2015-06-01

Neurodegenerative disease in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was observed. We aim to clarify the risk of dementia in patients with COPD. The study used claims data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. Subjects were those who received a discharge diagnosis of COPD between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2011. Only the first hospitalization was enrolled, and the index date was the first day of admission. Patients younger than 40 years or those with a history of Alzheimer disease (AD) or Parkinson disease (PD) before the index date were excluded. The patients with COPD were then followed until receiving a diagnosis of AD or PD, death, or the end of the study. Control subjects were selected from hospitalized patients without a history of COPD, AD, or PD and were matched according to age (±3 years), gender, and the year of admission at a 2:1 ratio. The comorbidities were measured from 1 year before the index date based on the ICD-9-CM codes. The study included 8640 patients with COPD and a mean age of 68.76 (±10.74) years. The adjusted hazard ratio of developing dementia (AD or PD) was 1.74 (95% confidence interval = 1.55-1.96) in patients with COPD compared with patients without COPD after adjusting for age, gender, and comorbidities. This nationwide cohort study demonstrates that the risk of dementia, including AD and PD, is significantly increased in patients with COPD compared with individuals in the general population.

Programming of a flexible computer simulation to visualize pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic models.

PubMed

Lötsch, J; Kobal, G; Geisslinger, G

2004-01-01

Teaching pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) models can be made more effective using computer simulations. We propose the programming of educational PK or PK/PD computer simulations as an alternative to the use of pre-built simulation software. This approach has the advantage of adaptability to non-standard or complicated PK or PK/PD models. Simplicity of the programming procedure was achieved by selecting the LabVIEW programming environment. An intuitive user interface to visualize the time courses of drug concentrations or effects can be obtained with pre-built elements. The environment uses a wiring analogy that resembles electrical circuit diagrams rather than abstract programming code. The goal of high interactivity of the simulation was attained by allowing the program to run in continuously repeating loops. This makes the program behave flexibly to the user input. The programming is described with the aid of a 2-compartment PK simulation. Examples of more sophisticated simulation programs are also given where the PK/PD simulation shows drug input, concentrations in plasma, and at effect site and the effects themselves as a function of time. A multi-compartmental model of morphine, including metabolite kinetics and effects is also included. The programs are available for download from the World Wide Web at http:// www. klinik.uni-frankfurt.de/zpharm/klin/ PKPDsimulation/content.html. For pharmacokineticists who only program occasionally, there is the possibility of building the computer simulation, together with the flexible interactive simulation algorithm for clinical pharmacological teaching in the field of PK/PD models.

Applied Computational Electromagnetics Society Journal and Newletter, Volume 14 No. 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-03-01

code validation, performance analysis, and input/output standardization; code or technique optimization and error minimization; innovations in...SOUTH AFRICA Alamo, CA, 94507-0516 USA Washington, DC 20330 USA MANAGING EDITOR Kueichien C. Hill Krishna Naishadham Richard W. Adler Wright Laboratory...INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERS ALLGON DERA Nasvagen 17 Common Road, Funtington INNOVATIVE DYNAMICS Akersberga, SWEDEN S-18425 Chichester, P018 9PD UK 2560 N. Triphammer

{sup 45}Sc Solid State NMR studies of the silicides ScTSi (T=Co, Ni, Cu, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ir, Pt)

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

Harmening, Thomas; Eckert, Hellmut, E-mail: eckerth@uni-muenster.de; Fehse, Constanze M.

The silicides ScTSi (T=Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ir, Pt) were synthesized by arc-melting and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction. The structures of ScCoSi, ScRuSi, ScPdSi, and ScIrSi were refined from single crystal diffractometer data. These silicides crystallize with the TiNiSi type, space group Pnma. No systematic influences of the {sup 45}Sc isotropic magnetic shift and nuclear electric quadrupolar coupling parameters on various structural distortion parameters calculated from the crystal structure data can be detected. {sup 45}Sc MAS-NMR data suggest systematic trends in the local electronic structure probed by the scandium atoms: both the electric field gradients andmore » the isotropic magnetic shifts relative to a 0.2 M aqueous Sc(NO{sub 3}){sub 3} solution decrease with increasing valence electron concentration and within each T group the isotropic magnetic shift decreases monotonically with increasing atomic number. The {sup 45}Sc nuclear electric quadrupolar coupling constants are generally well reproduced by quantum mechanical electric field gradient calculations using the WIEN2k code. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Arc-melting synthesis of silicides ScTSi. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Single crystal X-ray data of ScCoSi, ScRuSi, ScPdSi, and ScIrSi. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer {sup 45}Sc solid state NMR of silicides ScTSi.« less

Fabrication of simulated DUPIC fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Kweon Ho; Song, Ki Chan; Park, Hee Sung; Moon, Je Sun; Yang, Myung Seung

2000-12-01

Simulated DUPIC fuel provides a convenient way to investigate the DUPIC fuel properties and behavior such as thermal conductivity, thermal expansion, fission gas release, leaching, and so on without the complications of handling radioactive materials. Several pellets simulating the composition and microstructure of DUPIC fuel are fabricated by resintering the powder, which was treated through OREOX process of simulated spent PWR fuel pellets, which had been prepared from a mixture of UO2 and stable forms of constituent nuclides. The key issues for producing simulated pellets that replicate the phases and microstructure of irradiated fuel are to achieve a submicrometre dispersion during mixing and diffusional homogeneity during sintering. This study describes the powder treatment, OREOX, compaction and sintering to fabricate simulated DUPIC fuel using the simulated spent PWR fuel. The homogeneity of additives in the powder was observed after attrition milling. The microstructure of the simulated spent PWR fuel agrees well with the other studies. The leading structural features observed are as follows: rare earth and other oxides dissolved in the UO2 matrix, small metallic precipitates distributed throughout the matrix, and a perovskite phase finely dispersed on grain boundaries.

Silencing of the pentose phosphate pathway genes influences DNA replication in human fibroblasts.

PubMed

Fornalewicz, Karolina; Wieczorek, Aneta; Węgrzyn, Grzegorz; Łyżeń, Robert

2017-11-30

Previous reports and our recently published data indicated that some enzymes of glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid cycle can affect the genome replication process by changing either the efficiency or timing of DNA synthesis in human normal cells. Both these pathways are connected with the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP pathway). The PPP pathway supports cell growth by generating energy and precursors for nucleotides and amino acids. Therefore, we asked if silencing of genes coding for enzymes involved in the pentose phosphate pathway may also affect the control of DNA replication in human fibroblasts. Particular genes coding for PPP pathway enzymes were partially silenced with specific siRNAs. Such cells remained viable. We found that silencing of the H6PD, PRPS1, RPE genes caused less efficient enterance to the S phase and decrease in efficiency of DNA synthesis. On the other hand, in cells treated with siRNA against G6PD, RBKS and TALDO genes, the fraction of cells entering the S phase was increased. However, only in the case of G6PD and TALDO, the ratio of BrdU incorporation to DNA was significantly changed. The presented results together with our previously published studies illustrate the complexity of the influence of genes coding for central carbon metabolism on the control of DNA replication in human fibroblasts, and indicate which of them are especially important in this process. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Improvement of COBRA-TF for modeling of PWR cold- and hot-legs during reactor transients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salko, Robert K.

COBRA-TF is a two-phase, three-field (liquid, vapor, droplets) thermal-hydraulic modeling tool that has been developed by the Pacific Northwest Laboratory under sponsorship of the NRC. The code was developed for Light Water Reactor analysis starting in the 1980s; however, its development has continued to this current time. COBRA-TF still finds wide-spread use throughout the nuclear engineering field, including nuclear-power vendors, academia, and research institutions. It has been proposed that extension of the COBRA-TF code-modeling region from vessel-only components to Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) coolant-line regions can lead to improved Loss-of-Coolant Accident (LOCA) analysis. Improved modeling is anticipated due to COBRA-TF's capability to independently model the entrained-droplet flow-field behavior, which has been observed to impact delivery to the core region[1]. Because COBRA-TF was originally developed for vertically-dominated, in-vessel, sub-channel flow, extension of the COBRA-TF modeling region to the horizontal-pipe geometries of the coolant-lines required several code modifications, including: • Inclusion of the stratified flow regime into the COBRA-TF flow regime map, along with associated interfacial drag, wall drag and interfacial heat transfer correlations, • Inclusion of a horizontal-stratification force between adjacent mesh cells having unequal levels of stratified flow, and • Generation of a new code-input interface for the modeling of coolant-lines. The sheer number of COBRA-TF modifications that were required to complete this work turned this project into a code-development project as much as it was a study of thermal-hydraulics in reactor coolant-lines. The means for achieving these tasks shifted along the way, ultimately leading the development of a separate, nearly completely independent one-dimensional, two-phase-flow modeling code geared toward reactor coolant-line analysis. This developed code has been named CLAP, for Coolant-Line-Analysis Package. Versions were created that were both coupled to COBRA-TF and standalone, with the most recent version being a standalone code. This code performs a separate, simplified, 1-D solution of the conservation equations while making special considerations for coolant-line geometry and flow phenomena. The end of this project saw a functional code package that demonstrates a stable numerical solution and that has gone through a series of Validation and Verification tests using the Two-Phase Testing Facility (TPTF) experimental data[2]. The results indicate that CLAP is under-performing RELAP5-MOD3 in predicting the experimental void of the TPTF facility in some cases. There is no apparent pattern, however, to point to a consistent type of case that the code fails to predict properly (e.g., low-flow, high-flow, discharging to full vessel, or discharging to empty vessel). Pressure-profile predictions are sometimes unrealistic, which indicates that there may be a problem with test-case boundary conditions or with the coupling of continuity and momentum equations in the solution algorithm. The code does predict the flow regime correctly for all cases with the stratification-force model off. Turning the stratification model on can cause the low-flow case void profiles to over-react to the force and the flow regime to transition out of stratified flow. The code would benefit from an increased amount of Validation & Verification testing. The development of CLAP was significant, as it is a cleanly written, logical representation of the reactor coolant-line geometry. It is stable and capable of modeling basic flow physics in the reactor coolant-line. Code development and debugging required the temporary removal of the energy equation and mass-transfer terms in governing equations. The reintroduction of these terms will allow future coupling to RELAP and re-coupling with COBRA-TF. Adding in more applicable entrainment and de-entrainment models would allow the capture of more advanced physics in the coolant-line that can be expected during Loss-of-Coolant Accident. One of the package's benefits is its ability to be used as a platform for future coolant-line model development and implementation, including capturing of the important de-entrainment behavior in reactor hot-legs (steam-binding effect) and flow convection in the upper-plenum region of the vessel.

Defense Threat Reduction Agency > About > Our Values

Science.gov Websites

Atoll Cleanup Documents TRAC About Who We Are Our Values History Locations Our Leadership Director Our Values Locations DTRA Leadership Stay Connected About DoD Top Issues News Photos & Videos

Gun Transparency and Accountability (Gun TRAC) Act of 2013

THOMAS, 113th Congress

Rep. Speier, Jackie [D-CA-14

2013-01-25

House - 02/28/2013 Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, And Investigations. (All Actions) Tracker: This bill has the status IntroducedHere are the steps for Status of Legislation:

Evaluation and comparison of gross primary production estimates for the Northern Great Plains grasslands

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zhang, Li; Wylie, Bruce K.; Loveland, Thomas R.; Fosnight, Eugene A.; Tieszen, Larry L.; Ji, Lei; Gilmanov, Tagir

2007-01-01

Two spatially-explicit estimates of gross primary production (GPP) are available for the Northern Great Plains. An empirical piecewise regression (PWR) GPP model was developed from flux tower measurements to map carbon flux across the region. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS) GPP model is a process-based model that uses flux tower data to calibrate its parameters. Verification and comparison of the regional PWR GPP and the global MODIS GPP are important for the modeling of grassland carbon flux. This study compared GPP estimates from PWR and MODIS models with five towers in the grasslands. Among them, PWR GPP and MODIS GPP showed a good agreement with tower-based GPP at three towers. The global MODIS GPP, however, did not agree well with tower-based GPP at two other towers, probably because of the insensitivity of MODIS model to regional ecosystem and climate change and extreme soil moisture conditions. Cross-validation indicated that the PWR model is relatively robust for predicting regional grassland GPP. However, the PWR model should include a wide variety of flux tower data as the training data sets to obtain more accurate results.In addition, GPP maps based on the PWR and MODIS models were compared for the entire region. In the northwest and south, PWR GPP was much higher than MODIS GPP. These areas were characterized by the higher water holding capacity with a lower proportion of C4 grasses in the northwest and a higher proportion of C4 grasses in the south. In the central and southeastern regions, PWR GPP was much lower than MODIS GPP under complicated conditions with generally mixed C3/C4 grasses. The analysis indicated that the global MODIS GPP model has some limitations on detecting moisture stress, which may have been caused by the facts that C3 and C4 grasses are not distinguished, water stress is driven by vapor pressure deficit (VPD) from coarse meteorological data, and MODIS land cover data are unable to differentiate the sub-pixel cropland components.

Quantifying the impact of adaptive traffic control systems on crash frequency and severity: Evidence from Oakland County, Michigan.

PubMed

Fink, Joshua; Kwigizile, Valerian; Oh, Jun-Seok

2016-06-01

Despite seeing widespread usage worldwide, adaptive traffic control systems have experienced relatively little use in the United States. Of the systems used, the Sydney Coordinated Adaptive Traffic System (SCATS) is the most popular in America. Safety benefits of these systems are not as well understood nor as commonly documented. This study investigates the safety benefits of adaptive traffic control systems by using the large SCATS-based system in Oakland County, MI known as FAST-TRAC. This study uses data from FAST-TRAC-controlled intersections in Oakland County and compares a wide variety of geometric, traffic, and crash characteristics to similar intersections in metropolitan areas elsewhere in Michigan. Data from 498 signalized intersections are used to conduct a cross-sectional analysis. Negative binomial models are used to estimate models for three dependent crash variables. Multinomial logit models are used to estimate an injury severity model. A variable tracking the presence of FAST-TRAC controllers at intersections is used in all models to determine if a SCATS-based system has an impact on crash occurrences or crash severity. Estimates show that the presence of SCATS-based controllers at intersections is likely to reduce angle crashes by up to 19.3%. Severity results show a statistically significant increase in non-serious injuries, but not a significant reduction in incapacitating injuries or fatal accidents. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd and National Safety Council. All rights reserved.

Tert-butylalumoxanes: Synthetic Analogs for Methylalumoxane (MAO) and New Catalytic Routes to Polyolefins and Polyketones

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-06-15

91-J-1934 R&T Code 4132060 Tert-butylalumoxanes: synthetic analogs for methylalumoxane (MAO) and new catalytic routes to polyolef’ms and polyketones ...and Principal Investigator: new catalytic routes to polyolefins and polyketones A. R. Barron Mailing Address: Dept. of.Chemistry Harvard University...catalyst complex,[CP2Zr(Me)] [(t~u)6,Al6(O)6(Me)]. Our studies with Pd/alumoxane polyketone synthesis have now demonstrated that high molecular weight

ARCADIA{sup R} - A New Generation of Coupled Neutronics / Core Thermal- Hydraulics Code System at AREVA NP

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

Curca-Tivig, Florin; Merk, Stephan; Pautz, Andreas

2007-07-01

Anticipating future needs of our customers and willing to concentrate synergies and competences existing in the company for the benefit of our customers, AREVA NP decided in 2002 to develop the next generation of coupled neutronics/ core thermal-hydraulic (TH) code systems for fuel assembly and core design calculations for both, PWR and BWR applications. The global CONVERGENCE project was born: after a feasibility study of one year (2002) and a conceptual phase of another year (2003), development was started at the beginning of 2004. The present paper introduces the CONVERGENCE project, presents the main feature of the new code systemmore » ARCADIA{sup R} and concludes on customer benefits. ARCADIA{sup R} is designed to meet AREVA NP market and customers' requirements worldwide. Besides state-of-the-art physical modeling, numerical performance and industrial functionality, the ARCADIA{sup R} system is featuring state-of-the-art software engineering. The new code system will bring a series of benefits for our customers: e.g. improved accuracy for heterogeneous cores (MOX/ UOX, Gd...), better description of nuclide chains, and access to local neutronics/ thermal-hydraulics and possibly thermal-mechanical information (3D pin by pin full core modeling). ARCADIA is a registered trademark of AREVA NP. (authors)« less

Validation of the BUGJEFF311.BOLIB, BUGENDF70.BOLIB and BUGLE-B7 broad-group libraries on the PCA-Replica (H2O/Fe) neutron shielding benchmark experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pescarini, Massimo; Orsi, Roberto; Frisoni, Manuela

2016-03-01

The PCA-Replica 12/13 (H2O/Fe) neutron shielding benchmark experiment was analysed using the TORT-3.2 3D SN code. PCA-Replica reproduces a PWR ex-core radial geometry with alternate layers of water and steel including a pressure vessel simulator. Three broad-group coupled neutron/photon working cross section libraries in FIDO-ANISN format with the same energy group structure (47 n + 20 γ) and based on different nuclear data were alternatively used: the ENEA BUGJEFF311.BOLIB (JEFF-3.1.1) and UGENDF70.BOLIB (ENDF/B-VII.0) libraries and the ORNL BUGLE-B7 (ENDF/B-VII.0) library. Dosimeter cross sections derived from the IAEA IRDF-2002 dosimetry file were employed. The calculated reaction rates for the Rh-103(n,n')Rh-103m, In-115(n,n')In-115m and S-32(n,p)P-32 threshold activation dosimeters and the calculated neutron spectra are compared with the corresponding experimental results.

Accuracy of Calories Indicated on 7 Commercially Available Exercise Machines

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-02

the results of the testing of 7 devices: Precor EFX Elliptical, Precor UBK800 Bike, Octane 4700 Elliptical, Star Track E-UB Bike, Star Track E- TBT ...Star Track E- TBT Low Medium High Cadence 65-75 65-75 60-70 Work Level ♂ 5-8 10-13 15-18 ♀ 4-6 8-11 13-15 Results: Two of the devices...588 (.370, .806) .910 1.164 Star Trac E- TBT 2.750 (-.200, 5.700) .659 (.416, .902) .899 .970 Note: CI = confidence interval Figure 2.0 shows the

Impact of glucocerebrosidase mutations on motor and nonmotor complications in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Oeda, Tomoko; Umemura, Atsushi; Mori, Yuko; Tomita, Satoshi; Kohsaka, Masayuki; Park, Kwiyoung; Inoue, Kimiko; Fujimura, Harutoshi; Hasegawa, Hiroshi; Sugiyama, Hiroshi; Sawada, Hideyuki

2015-12-01

Homozygous mutations of the glucocerebrosidase gene (GBA) cause Gaucher disease (GD), and heterozygous mutations of GBA are a major risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD). This study examined the impact of GBA mutations on the longitudinal clinical course of PD patients by retrospective cohort design. GBA-coding regions were fully sequenced in 215 PD patients and GD-associated GBA mutations were identified in 19 (8.8%) PD patients. In a retrospective cohort study, time to develop dementia, psychosis, wearing-off, and dyskinesia were examined. Survival time analysis followed a maximum 12-year observation (median 6.0 years), revealing that PD patients with GD-associated mutations developed dementia and psychosis significantly earlier than those without mutations (p < 0.001 and p = 0.017, respectively). Adjusted hazard ratios of GBA mutations were 8.3 for dementia (p < 0.001) and 3.1 for psychosis (p = 0.002). No statistically significant differences were observed for wearing-off and dyskinesia between the groups. N-isopropyl-p[(123)I] iodoamphetamine single-photon emission tomography pixel-by-pixel analysis revealed that regional cerebral blood flow was reduced in the bilateral parietal cortex, including the precuneus of GD-associated mutant PD patients, compared with matched PD controls without mutations. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Photon caliper to achieve submillimeter positioning accuracy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gallagher, Kyle J.; Wong, Jennifer; Zhang, Junan

2017-09-01

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of using a commercial two-dimensional (2D) detector array with an inherent detector spacing of 5 mm to achieve submillimeter accuracy in localizing the radiation isocenter. This was accomplished by delivering the Vernier ‘dose’ caliper to a 2D detector array where the nominal scale was the 2D detector array and the non-nominal Vernier scale was the radiation dose strips produced by the high-definition (HD) multileaf collimators (MLCs) of the linear accelerator. Because the HD MLC sequence was similar to the picket fence test, we called this procedure the Vernier picket fence (VPF) test. We confirmed the accuracy of the VPF test by offsetting the HD MLC bank by known increments and comparing the known offset with the VPF test result. The VPF test was able to determine the known offset within 0.02 mm. We also cross-validated the accuracy of the VPF test in an evaluation of couch hysteresis. This was done by using both the VPF test and the ExacTrac optical tracking system to evaluate the couch position. We showed that the VPF test was in agreement with the ExacTrac optical tracking system within a root-mean-square value of 0.07 mm for both the lateral and longitudinal directions. In conclusion, we demonstrated the VPF test can determine the offset between a 2D detector array and the radiation isocenter with submillimeter accuracy. Until now, no method to locate the radiation isocenter using a 2D detector array has been able to achieve such accuracy.

Neutron radiography experiments for verification of soluble boron mixing and transport modeling under natural circulation conditions

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

Feltus, M.A.; Morlang, G.M.

1996-06-01

The use of neutron radiography for visualization of fluid flow through flow visualization modules has been very successful. Current experiments at the Penn State Breazeale Reactor serve to verify the mixing and transport of soluble boron under natural flow conditions as would be experienced in a pressurized water reactor. Different flow geometries have been modeled including holes, slots, and baffles. Flow modules are constructed of aluminum box material 1 1/2 inches by 4 inches in varying lengths. An experimental flow system was built which pumps fluid to a head tank and natural circulation flow occurs from the head tank throughmore » the flow visualization module to be radiographed. The entire flow system is mounted on a portable assembly to allow placement of the flow visualization module in front of the neutron beam port. A neutron-transparent fluorinert fluid is used to simulate water at different densities. Boron is modeled by gadolinium oxide powder as a tracer element, which is placed in a mixing assembly and injected into the system by remote operated electric valve, once the reactor is at power. The entire sequence is recorded on real-time video. Still photographs are made frame-by-frame from the video tape. Computers are used to digitally enhance the video and still photographs. The data obtained from the enhancement will be used for verification of simple geometry predictions using the TRAC and RELAP thermal-hydraulic codes. A detailed model of a reactor vessel inlet plenum, downcomer region, flow distribution area and core inlet is being constructed to model the AP600 plenum. Successive radiography experiments of each section of the model under identical conditions will provide a complete vessel/core model for comparison with the thermal-hydraulic codes.« less

Optimizing dual-energy x-ray parameters for the ExacTrac clinical stereoscopic imaging system to enhance soft-tissue imaging.

PubMed

Bowman, Wesley A; Robar, James L; Sattarivand, Mike

2017-03-01

Stereoscopic x-ray image guided radiotherapy for lung tumors is often hindered by bone overlap and limited soft-tissue contrast. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of dual-energy imaging techniques and to optimize parameters of the ExacTrac stereoscopic imaging system to enhance soft-tissue imaging for application to lung stereotactic body radiation therapy. Simulated spectra and a physical lung phantom were used to optimize filter material, thickness, tube potentials, and weighting factors to obtain bone subtracted dual-energy images. Spektr simulations were used to identify material in the atomic number range (3-83) based on a metric defined to separate spectra of high and low-energies. Both energies used the same filter due to time constraints of imaging in the presence of respiratory motion. The lung phantom contained bone, soft tissue, and tumor mimicking materials, and it was imaged with a filter thickness in the range of (0-0.7) mm and a kVp range of (60-80) for low energy and (120,140) for high energy. Optimal dual-energy weighting factors were obtained when the bone to soft-tissue contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was minimized. Optimal filter thickness and tube potential were achieved by maximizing tumor-to-background CNR. Using the optimized parameters, dual-energy images of an anthropomorphic Rando phantom with a spherical tumor mimicking material inserted in his lung were acquired and evaluated for bone subtraction and tumor contrast. Imaging dose was measured using the dual-energy technique with and without beam filtration and matched to that of a clinical conventional single energy technique. Tin was the material of choice for beam filtering providing the best energy separation, non-toxicity, and non-reactiveness. The best soft-tissue-weighted image in the lung phantom was obtained using 0.2 mm tin and (140, 60) kVp pair. Dual-energy images of the Rando phantom with the tin filter had noticeable improvement in bone elimination, tumor contrast, and noise content when compared to dual-energy imaging with no filtration. The surface dose was 0.52 mGy per each stereoscopic view for both clinical single energy technique and the dual-energy technique in both cases of with and without the tin filter. Dual-energy soft-tissue imaging is feasible without additional imaging dose using the ExacTrac stereoscopic imaging system with optimized acquisition parameters and no beam filtration. Addition of a single tin filter for both the high and low energies has noticeable improvements on dual-energy imaging with optimized parameters. Clinical implementation of a dual-energy technique on ExacTrac stereoscopic imaging could improve lung tumor visibility. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Microenvironment Tracker (MicroTrac)

EPA Science Inventory

Epidemiologic studies have shown associations between air pollution concentrations measured at central-site ambient monitors and adverse health outcomes. Using central-site concentrations as exposure surrogates, however, can lead to exposure errors due to time spent in various in...

75 FR 11632 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request for Notice 2001-1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-11

... comments concerning Notice 2001-1, Employer-designed Tip Reporting Program for the Food and Beverage... Reporting Program for the Food and Beverage Industry (EmTRAC). OMB Number: 1545-1716. Notice Number: Notice...

Statistical Representations of Track Geometry : Volume I, Text.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1980-03-31

Mathematical representations of railroad track geometry variations are derived from time series analyses of track measurements. Since the majority of track is free of anomalies (turnouts, crossings, bridges, etc.), representation of anomaly-free trac...

Brachytherapy dosimetry of 125I and 103Pd sources using an updated cross section library for the MCNP Monte Carlo transport code.

PubMed

Bohm, Tim D; DeLuca, Paul M; DeWerd, Larry A

2003-04-01

Permanent implantation of low energy (20-40 keV) photon emitting radioactive seeds to treat prostate cancer is an important treatment option for patients. In order to produce accurate implant brachytherapy treatment plans, the dosimetry of a single source must be well characterized. Monte Carlo based transport calculations can be used for source characterization, but must have up to date cross section libraries to produce accurate dosimetry results. This work benchmarks the MCNP code and its photon cross section library for low energy photon brachytherapy applications. In particular, we calculate the emitted photon spectrum, air kerma, depth dose in water, and radial dose function for both 125I and 103Pd based seeds and compare to other published results. Our results show that MCNP's cross section library differs from recent data primarily in the photoelectric cross section for low energies and low atomic number materials. In water, differences as large as 10% in the photoelectric cross section and 6% in the total cross section occur at 125I and 103Pd photon energies. This leads to differences in the dose rate constant of 3% and 5%, and differences as large as 18% and 20% in the radial dose function for the 125I and 103Pd based seeds, respectively. Using a partially updated photon library, calculations of the dose rate constant and radial dose function agree with other published results. Further, the use of the updated photon library allows us to verify air kerma and depth dose in water calculations performed using MCNP's perturbation feature to simulate updated cross sections. We conclude that in order to most effectively use MCNP for low energy photon brachytherapy applications, we must update its cross section library. Following this update, the MCNP code system will be a very effective tool for low energy photon brachytherapy dosimetry applications.

Palladium(II) complexes with highly basic imidazolin-2-imines and their reactivity toward small bio-molecules.

PubMed

Bogojeski, Jovana; Volbeda, Jeroen; Freytag, Matthias; Tamm, Matthias; Bugarčić, Živadin D

2015-10-21

A series of novel Pd(ii) complexes with chelating mono(imidazolin-2-imine) and bis(imidazolin-2-imine) ligands were synthesized. The crystal structures of [Pd(DMEAIm(iPr))Cl2] and [Pd(DPENIm(iPr))Cl2] were determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. The reactivity of the six Pd(ii) complexes, namely, [Pd(en)Cl2], [Pd(EAIm(iPr))Cl2], [Pd(DMEAIm(iPr))Cl2], [Pd(DPENIm(iPr))Cl2], [Pd(BL(iPr))Cl2] and [Pd(DACH(Im(iPr))2)Cl2], were investigated. Spectrophotometric acid-base titrations were performed to determine the pKa values of the coordinated water molecules in [Pd(en)(H2O)2](2+), [Pd(EAIm(iPr))(H2O)2](2+), [Pd(DMEAIm(iPr))(H2O)2](2+), [Pd(DPENIm(iPr))(H2O)2](2+), [Pd(BL(iPr))(H2O)2](2+) and [Pd(DACH(Im(iPr))2)(H2O)2](2+). The substitution of the chloride ligands in these complexes by TU, l-Met, l-His and Gly was studied under pseudo-first-order conditions as a function of the nucleophile concentration and temperature using stopped-flow techniques; the sulfur-donor nucleophiles have shown better reactivity than nitrogen-donor nucleophiles. The obtained results indicate that there is a clear correlation between the nature of the imidazolin-2-imine ligands and the acid-base characteristics and reactivity of the resulting Pd(ii) complexes; the order of reactivity of the investigated Pd(ii) complexes is: [Pd(en)Cl2] > [Pd(EAIm(iPr))Cl2] > [Pd(DMEAIm(iPr))Cl2] > [Pd(DPENIm(iPr))Cl2] > [Pd(BL(iPr))Cl2] > [Pd(DACH(Im(iPr))2)Cl2]. The solubility measurements revealed good solubility of the studied imidazolin-2-imine complexes in water, despite the fact that these Pd(ii) complexes are neutral complexes. Based on the performed studies, three unusual features of the novel imidazolin-2-imine Pd(ii) complexes are observed, that is, good solubility in water, very low reactivity and high pKa values. The coordination geometries around the palladium atoms are distorted square-planar; the [Pd(DMEAIm(iPr))Cl2] complex displays Pd-N distances of 2.013(2) and 2.076(2) Å, while the [Pd(DPENIm(iPr))Cl2] complex displays similar Pd-N distances of 2.034(4) and 2.038(3) Å. The studied systems are of interest because little is known about the substitution behavior of imidazolin-2-imine Pd(ii) complexes with bio-molecules under physiological conditions.

Optimization of burnable poison design for Pu incineration in fully fertile free PWR core

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

Fridman, E.; Shwageraus, E.; Galperin, A.

2006-07-01

The design challenges of the fertile-free based fuel (FFF) can be addressed by careful and elaborate use of burnable poisons (BP). Practical fully FFF core design for PWR reactor has been reported in the past [1]. However, the burnable poison option used in the design resulted in significant end of cycle reactivity penalty due to incomplete BP depletion. Consequently, excessive Pu loading were required to maintain the target fuel cycle length, which in turn decreased the Pu burning efficiency. A systematic evaluation of commercially available BP materials in all configurations currently used in PWRs is the main objective of thismore » work. The BP materials considered are Boron, Gd, Er, and Hf. The BP geometries were based on Wet Annular Burnable Absorber (WABA), Integral Fuel Burnable Absorber (IFBA), and Homogeneous poison/fuel mixtures. Several most promising combinations of BP designs were selected for the full core 3D simulation. All major core performance parameters for the analyzed cases are very close to those of a standard PWR with conventional UO{sub 2} fuel including possibility of reactivity control, power peaking factors, and cycle length. The MTC of all FFF cores was found at the full power conditions at all times and very close to that of the UO{sub 2} core. The Doppler coefficient of the FFF cores is also negative but somewhat lower in magnitude compared to UO{sub 2} core. The soluble boron worth of the FFF cores was calculated to be lower than that of the UO{sub 2} core by about a factor of two, which still allows the core reactivity control with acceptable soluble boron concentrations. The main conclusion of this work is that judicial application of burnable poisons for fertile free fuel has a potential to produce a core design with performance characteristics close to those of the reference PWR core with conventional UO{sub 2} fuel. (authors)« less

Analysis of radiation safety for Small Modular Reactor (SMR) on PWR-100 MWe type

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Udiyani, P. M.; Husnayani, I.; Deswandri; Sunaryo, G. R.

2018-02-01

Indonesia as an archipelago country, including big, medium and small islands is suitable to construction of Small Medium/Modular reactors. Preliminary technology assessment on various SMR has been started, indeed the SMR is grouped into Light Water Reactor, Gas Cooled Reactor, and Solid Cooled Reactor and from its site it is group into Land Based reactor and Water Based Reactor. Fukushima accident made people doubt about the safety of Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), which impact on the public perception of the safety of nuclear power plants. The paper will describe the assessment of safety and radiation consequences on site for normal operation and Design Basis Accident postulation of SMR based on PWR-100 MWe in Bangka Island. Consequences of radiation for normal operation simulated for 3 units SMR. The source term was generated from an inventory by using ORIGEN-2 software and the consequence of routine calculated by PC-Cream and accident by PC Cosyma. The adopted methodology used was based on site-specific meteorological and spatial data. According to calculation by PC-CREAM 08 computer code, the highest individual dose in site area for adults is 5.34E-02 mSv/y in ESE direction within 1 km distance from stack. The result of calculation is that doses on public for normal operation below 1mSv/y. The calculation result from PC Cosyma, the highest individual dose is 1.92.E+00 mSv in ESE direction within 1km distance from stack. The total collective dose (all pathway) is 3.39E-01 manSv, with dominant supporting from cloud pathway. Results show that there are no evacuation countermeasure will be taken based on the regulation of emergency.

Effect of Nonlocal Electron Transport in Both Directions on the Symmetry of Polar-Drive--Ignition Targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delettrez, J. A.; Collins, T. J. B.; Shvydky, A.; Moses, G.; Cao, D.; Marinak, M. M.

2012-10-01

A nonlocal, multigroup diffusion model for thermal electron transportfootnotetextG. P. Schurtz, Ph. D. Nicola"i, and M. Busquet, Phys. Plasmas 7, 4238 (2000). has been added to the 2-D hydrodynamic code DRACO. This model has been applied to simulations of polar-drive (PD) NIF ignition designs. Previous simulations were carried out with a constant flux-limiter model in both the radial and transverse directions. Due to the nonsymmetry of PD illumination, these implosions suffer from low-mode nonuniformities that affect their performance. Nonlocal electron transport in both directions is expected to reduce these nonuniformities. The 2-D thermal electron flux from simulations, using either the nonlocal model or the standard flux-limited approach, will be compared and the effect of the nonlocal transport model on the growth of the nonuniformities and on target performance will be presented. This work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Inertial Confinement Fusion under Cooperative Agreement No. DE-FC52-08NA28302.

ENEL overall PWR plant models and neutronic integrated computing systems

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

Pedroni, G.; Pollachini, L.; Vimercati, G.

1987-01-01

To support the design activity of the Italian nuclear energy program for the construction of pressurized water reactors, the Italian Electricity Board (ENEL) needs to verify the design as a whole (that is, the nuclear steam supply system and balance of plant) both in steady-state operation and in transient. The ENEL has therefore developed two computer models to analyze both operational and incidental transients. The models, named STRIP and SFINCS, perform the analysis of the nuclear as well as the conventional part of the plant (the control system being properly taken into account). The STRIP model has been developed bymore » means of the French (Electricite de France) modular code SICLE, while SFINCS is based on the Italian (ENEL) modular code LEGO. STRIP validation was performed with respect to Fessenheim French power plant experimental data. Two significant transients were chosen: load step and total load rejection. SFINCS validation was performed with respect to Saint-Laurent French power plant experimental data and also by comparing the SFINCS-STRIP responses.« less

Liquid phase catalytic hydrodebromination of tetrabromobisphenol A on supported Pd catalysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Ke; Zheng, Mengjia; Han, Yuxiang; Xu, Zhaoyi; Zheng, Shourong

2016-07-01

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is a widely used brominated flame retardant and reductive debromination is an effective method for the abatement of TBBPA pollution. In this study, Pd catalysts supported on TiO2, CeO2, Al2O3 and SiO2 were prepared by the impregnation (the resulting catalyst denoted as im-Pd/support), deposition-precipitation (the resulting catalyst denoted as dp-Pd/support), and photo-deposition (the resulting catalyst denoted as pd-Pd/support) methods. The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, measurement of zeta potential, CO chemisorption, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results showed that at an identical Pd loading amount (2.0 wt.%) Pd particle size in dp-Pd/TiO2 was much smaller than those in im-Pd/TiO2 and pd-Pd/TiO2. Pd particle size of the dp-Pd/TiO2 catalyst increased with Pd loading amount. Additionally, Pd particles in the dp-Pd/TiO2 catalysts were positively charged due to the strong metal-support interaction, whereas the cationization effect was gradually attenuated with the increase of Pd loading amount. For the liquid phase catalytic hydrodebromination (HDB) of TBBPA, tri-bromobisphenol A (tri-BBPA), di-bromobisphenol A (di-BBPA), and mono-bromobisphenol A (mono-BBPA) were identified as the intermediate products, indicative of a stepwise debromination process. The catalytic HDB of TBBPA followed the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model, reflecting an adsorption enhanced catalysis mechanism. At an identical Pd loading amount, the Pd catalyst supported on TiO2 exhibited a much higher catalytic activity than those on other supports. Furthermore, dp-Pd/TiO2 was found to be more active than im-Pd/TiO2 and pd-Pd/TiO2.

76 FR 21033 - Core Industries, Inc., DBA Star Trac, Including On-Site Leased Workers From Aerotek, Helpmates...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-14

... for workers of the subject firm. The workers produce commercial fitness equipment. The Murrieta... the overall production operation and were affected by the firm's acquisition of commercial fitness...

Performance evaluation and specification of trackless tack.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-09-01

Several trackless tack products have come to market in Texas; however, there are currently no specifications to : ensure the products have trackless properties and adequate bond strength. The objectives of this project were to : (1) evaluate the trac...

Review of private sector data for roadway monitoring

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-05-01

This document presents a summary of Washington State Transportation Center's (TRACs) examination of privately collected roadway performance data in the Puget Sound Region. The review examined the accuracy and reliability of those data for use by W...

PRESSURIZED WATER REACTOR PROGRAM TECHNICAL PROGRESS REPORT FOR THE PERIOD MAY 5, 1955 TO JUNE 16, 1955

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

None

The current PWR plant and core parameters are listed. Resign requirements are briefly summarized for a radiation monitoring system, a fuel handling water system, a coolant purification system, an electrical power distribution system, and component shielding. Results of studies on thermal bowing and stressing of UO/sub 2/ are reported. A graph is presented of reactor power vs. reactor flow for various hot channel conditions. Development of U-- Mo and U-Nb alloys has been stopped because of the recent selection of UO/sub 2/ fuel material for the PWR core and blanket. The fabrication characteristics of UO/sub 2/ powders are being studied.more » Seamless Zircaloy-2 tubing has been tested to determine elastic limits, bursting pressures, and corrosion resistance. Fabrication techniques and tests for corrosion and defects in Zircaloy-clad U-Mo and UO/sub 2/ fuel rods are described. The preparation of UO/sub 2/ by various methods is being studied to determine which method produces a material most suitable for PWR fuel elements. The stability of UO/sub 2/ compacts in high temperature water and steam is being determined. Surface area and density measurements have been performed on samples of UO/sub 2/ powder prepared by various methods. Revelopment work on U-- Mo and U--Nb alloys has included studies of the effect on corrosion behavior of additions to the test water, additions to the alloys, homogenization of the alloys, annealing times, cladding, and fabrication techniques. Data are presented on relaxation in spring materials after exposure to a corrosive environment. Results are reported from loop and autoclave tests on fission product and crud deposition. Results of irradiation and corrosion testing of clad and unclad U--Mo and U-Nh alloys are described. The UO/sub 2/ irradiation program has included studies of dimensional changes, release of fission gases, and activity in the water surrounding the samples. A review of the methods of calculating reactor physics parameters has been completed, and the established procedures have been applied to determination of PWR reference design parameters. Critical experiments and primary loop shielding analyses are described. (D.E.B.)« less

The Shock and Vibration Bulletin. Part 1. Keynote Address, Invited Papers, Panel Sessions, Modal Test and Analysis.

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-09-01

SNAPSHOT PICTURE VIDEO TAPE 35-MM PHOTO TRANSPARENCY MICROFILM Figure 2 - Gross Area Information Density other across the organization. Then we developed...the finite element In the modeling of a tor- method. The torpedo hull is divided pedo for shock and vibration analysis, ,. into primary structural...length of the tor- 16. Figure 15 presents the magnitude pedo with several circumferential trac- and phase of motor motion, and Fig. 16 ings at

System analysis with improved thermo-mechanical fuel rod models for modeling current and advanced LWR materials in accident scenarios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Porter, Ian Edward

A nuclear reactor systems code has the ability to model the system response in an accident scenario based on known initial conditions at the onset of the transient. However, there has been a tendency for these codes to lack the detailed thermo-mechanical fuel rod response models needed for accurate prediction of fuel rod failure. This proposed work will couple today's most widely used steady-state (FRAPCON) and transient (FRAPTRAN) fuel rod models with a systems code TRACE for best-estimate modeling of system response in accident scenarios such as a loss of coolant accident (LOCA). In doing so, code modifications will be made to model gamma heating in LWRs during steady-state and accident conditions and to improve fuel rod thermal/mechanical analysis by allowing axial nodalization of burnup-dependent phenomena such as swelling, cladding creep and oxidation. With the ability to model both burnup-dependent parameters and transient fuel rod response, a fuel dispersal study will be conducted using a hypothetical accident scenario under both PWR and BWR conditions to determine the amount of fuel dispersed under varying conditions. Due to the fuel fragmentation size and internal rod pressure both being dependent on burnup, this analysis will be conducted at beginning, middle and end of cycle to examine the effects that cycle time can play on fuel rod failure and dispersal. Current fuel rod and system codes used by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) are compilations of legacy codes with only commonly used light water reactor materials, Uranium Dioxide (UO2), Mixed Oxide (U/PuO 2) and zirconium alloys. However, the events at Fukushima Daiichi and Three Mile Island accident have shown the need for exploration into advanced materials possessing improved accident tolerance. This work looks to further modify the NRC codes to include silicon carbide (SiC), an advanced cladding material proposed by current DOE funded research on accident tolerant fuels (ATF). Several additional fuels will also be analyzed, including uranium nitride (UN), uranium carbide (UC) and uranium silicide (U3Si2). Focusing on the system response in an accident scenario, an emphasis is placed on the fracture mechanics of the ceramic cladding by design the fuel rods to eliminate pellet cladding mechanical interaction (PCMI). The time to failure and how much of the fuel in the reactor fails with an advanced fuel design will be analyzed and compared to the current UO2/Zircaloy design using a full scale reactor model.

Increased Risk of Dementia in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

PubMed Central

Liao, Kuang-Ming; Ho, Chung-Han; Ko, Shian-Chin; Li, Chung-Yi

2015-01-01

Abstract Neurodegenerative disease in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was observed. We aim to clarify the risk of dementia in patients with COPD. The study used claims data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. Subjects were those who received a discharge diagnosis of COPD between January 1, 2002 and December 31, 2011. Only the first hospitalization was enrolled, and the index date was the first day of admission. Patients younger than 40 years or those with a history of Alzheimer disease (AD) or Parkinson disease (PD) before the index date were excluded. The patients with COPD were then followed until receiving a diagnosis of AD or PD, death, or the end of the study. Control subjects were selected from hospitalized patients without a history of COPD, AD, or PD and were matched according to age (±3 years), gender, and the year of admission at a 2:1 ratio. The comorbidities were measured from 1 year before the index date based on the ICD-9-CM codes. The study included 8640 patients with COPD and a mean age of 68.76 (±10.74) years. The adjusted hazard ratio of developing dementia (AD or PD) was 1.74 (95% confidence interval = 1.55–1.96) in patients with COPD compared with patients without COPD after adjusting for age, gender, and comorbidities. This nationwide cohort study demonstrates that the risk of dementia, including AD and PD, is significantly increased in patients with COPD compared with individuals in the general population. PMID:26061317

Dimensional assessment of self- and interpersonal functioning in adolescents: implications for DSM-5's general definition of personality disorder.

PubMed

DeFife, Jared A; Goldberg, Melissa; Westen, Drew

2015-04-01

Central to the proposed DSM-5 general definition of personality disorder (PD) are features of self- and interpersonal functioning. The Social Cognition and Object Relations Scale-Global Rating Method (SCORS-G) is a coding system that assesses eight dimensions of self- and relational experience that can be applied to narrative data or used by clinically experienced observers to quantify observations of patients in ongoing psychotherapy. This study aims to evaluate the relationship of SCORS-G dimensions to personality pathology in adolescents and their incremental validity for predicting multiple domains of adaptive functioning. A total of 294 randomly sampled doctoral-level clinical psychologists and psychiatrists described an adolescent patient in their care based on all available data. Individual SCORS-G variables demonstrated medium-to-large effect size differences for PD versus non-PD identified adolescents (d = .49-1.05). A summary SCORS-Composite rating was significantly related to composite measurements of global adaptive functioning (r = .66), school functioning (r = .47), externalizing behavior (r = -.49), and prior psychiatric history (r = -.31). The SCORS-Composite significantly predicted variance in domains of adaptive functioning above and beyond age and DSM-IV PD diagnosis (ΔR(2)s = .07-.32). As applied to adolescents, the SCORS-G offers a framework for a clinically meaningful and empirically sound dimensional assessment of self- and other representations and interpersonal functioning capacities. Our findings support the inclusion of self- and interpersonal capacities in the DSM-5 general definition of personality disorder as an improvement to existing PD diagnosis for capturing varied domains of adaptive functioning and psychopathology.

PD-1/PD-L1, but not PD-1/PD-L2, interactions regulate the severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis.

PubMed

Carter, Laura L; Leach, Michael W; Azoitei, Mihai L; Cui, Junqing; Pelker, Jeffrey W; Jussif, Jason; Benoit, Steve; Ireland, Gretchen; Luxenberg, Deborah; Askew, G Roger; Milarski, Kim L; Groves, Christopher; Brown, Tom; Carito, Brenda A; Percival, Karen; Carreno, Beatriz M; Collins, Mary; Marusic, Suzana

2007-01-01

Interactions between PD-1 and its two differentially expressed ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, attenuate T cell activation and effector function. To determine the role of these molecules in autoimmune disease of the CNS, PD-1-/-, PD-L1-/- and PD-L2-/- mice were generated and immunized to induce experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). PD-1-/- and PD-L1-/- mice developed more severe EAE than wild type and PD-L2-/- mice. Consistent with this, PD-1-/- and PD-L1-/- cells produced elevated levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IFN-gamma, TNF, IL-6 and IL-17. These results demonstrate that interactions between PD-1/PD-L1, but not PD-1/PDL-2, are crucial in attenuating T cell responses in EAE.

Assessment for advanced fuel cycle options in CANDU

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

Morreale, A.C.; Luxat, J.C.; Friedlander, Y.

2013-07-01

The possible options for advanced fuel cycles in CANDU reactors including actinide burning options and thorium cycles were explored and are feasible options to increase the efficiency of uranium utilization and help close the fuel cycle. The actinide burning TRUMOX approach uses a mixed oxide fuel of reprocessed transuranic actinides from PWR spent fuel blended with natural uranium in the CANDU-900 reactor. This system reduced actinide content by 35% and decreased natural uranium consumption by 24% over a PWR once through cycle. The thorium cycles evaluated used two CANDU-900 units, a generator and a burner unit along with a drivermore » fuel feedstock. The driver fuels included plutonium reprocessed from PWR, from CANDU and low enriched uranium (LEU). All three cycles were effective options and reduced natural uranium consumption over a PWR once through cycle. The LEU driven system saw the largest reduction with a 94% savings while the plutonium driven cycles achieved 75% savings for PWR and 87% for CANDU. The high neutron economy, online fuelling and flexible compact fuel make the CANDU system an ideal reactor platform for many advanced fuel cycles.« less

Neutronics Studies of Uranium-bearing Fully Ceramic Micro-encapsulated Fuel for PWRs

DOE PAGES

George, Nathan M.; Maldonado, G. Ivan; Terrani, Kurt A.; ...

2014-12-01

Our study evaluated the neutronics and some of the fuel cycle characteristics of using uranium-based fully ceramic microencapsulated (FCM) fuel in a pressurized water reactor (PWR). Specific PWR lattice designs with FCM fuel have been developed that are expected to achieve higher specific burnup levels in the fuel while also increasing the tolerance to reactor accidents. The SCALE software system was the primary analysis tool used to model the lattice designs. A parametric study was performed by varying tristructural isotropic particle design features (e.g., kernel diameter, coating layer thicknesses, and packing fraction) to understand the impact on reactivity and resultingmore » operating cycle length. Moreover, to match the lifetime of an 18-month PWR cycle, the FCM particle fuel design required roughly 10% additional fissile material at beginning of life compared with that of a standard uranium dioxide (UO 2) rod. Uranium mononitride proved to be a favorable fuel for the fuel kernel due to its higher heavy metal loading density compared with UO 2. The FCM fuel designs evaluated maintain acceptable neutronics design features for fuel lifetime, lattice peaking factors, and nonproliferation figure of merit.« less

RANKL/Osteoprotegerin System and Bone Turnover in Hashimoto Thyroiditis.

PubMed

Konca Degertekin, Ceyla; Turhan Iyidir, Ozlem; Aktas Yılmaz, Banu; Elbeg, Sehri; Pasaoglu, Ozge Tugce; Pasaoglu, Hatice; Cakır, Nuri; Arslan, Metin

2016-10-01

Hypothyroidism is associated with changes in bone metabolism. The impact of hypothyroidism and the associated autoimmunity on the mediators of bone turnover in Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is not known. In this study, we assessed the levels of OPG, RANKL, and IL-6 along with markers of bone formation as osteocalcin (OC) and markers of bone resorption as type 1 collagen C telopeptide (CTX) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase isoform 5b (TRAcP 5b) in 30 hypothyroid and 30 euthyroid premenopausal HT patients and 20 healthy premenopausal controls. We found that TRAcP 5b (p = 0.006), CTX (p = 0.01), OC (p = 0.017), and IL-6 (p < 0.001) levels were lower in the hypothyroid group compared to euthyroid HT patients and controls. OPG levels were higher (p < 0.001) and RANKL levels were lower (p = 0.021) in hypothyroid and euthyroid HT patients compared to controls. TSH was negatively correlated with IL-6 (rho = -0.434, p < 0.001), OC (rho = -0.313, p = 0.006), TRAcP 5b (rho = -0.335, p = 0.003), and positively correlated with OPG (rho = 0.248, p = 0.029). RANKL/OPG ratio was independently associated with the presence of HT. In conclusion, bone turnover is slowed down by hypothyroidism in premenopausal patients with HT. Thyroid autoimmunity might have a unique impact on OPG/RANKL levels apart from the resultant hypothyroidism.

BIBLIO: A Computerized Retrieval System for Communication Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Williams, M. Lee; Edwards, Renee

1983-01-01

Describes BIBLIO, a computer program created for the storage and retrieval of articles in the 1970-80 issues of "Communication Education." Tells how articles were coded, method used to retrieve information, and advantages and uses of the system. (PD)

Noninvasive and Real-Time Plasmon Waveguide Resonance Thermometry

PubMed Central

Zhang, Pengfei; Liu, Le; He, Yonghong; Zhou, Yanfei; Ji, Yanhong; Ma, Hui

2015-01-01

In this paper, the noninvasive and real-time plasmon waveguide resonance (PWR) thermometry is reported theoretically and demonstrated experimentally. Owing to the enhanced evanescent field and thermal shield effect of its dielectric layer, a PWR thermometer permits accurate temperature sensing and has a wide dynamic range. A temperature measurement sensitivity of 9.4 × 10−3 °C is achieved and the thermo optic coefficient nonlinearity is measured in the experiment. The measurement of water cooling processes distributed in one dimension reveals that a PWR thermometer allows real-time temperature sensing and has potential to be applied for thermal gradient analysis. Apart from this, the PWR thermometer has the advantages of low cost and simple structure, since our transduction scheme can be constructed with conventional optical components and commercial coating techniques. PMID:25871718

INTEGRATIVE SAMPLING OF ANTIBIOTICS AND OTHER PHARMACEUTICALLY-RELATED COMPOUNDS

EPA Science Inventory

Pharmaceuticals from human and veterinary use continually enter the environment through municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), surface runoff from animal waste, and direct disposal of unused medications. The presence of these chemicals, albeit often at subtherapeutic trac...

iTRAC : intelligent video compression for automated traffic surveillance systems.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-08-01

Non-intrusive video imaging sensors are commonly used in traffic monitoring : and surveillance. For some applications it is necessary to transmit the video : data over communication links. However, due to increased requirements of : bitrate this mean...

Whole-Genome and Epigenomic Landscapes of Etiologically Distinct Subtypes of Cholangiocarcinoma

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

Jusakul, Apinya; Cutcutache, Ioana; Yong, Chern Han

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a hepatobiliary malignancy exhibiting high incidence in countries with endemic liver-fluke infection. We analysed 489 CCAs from 10 countries, combining whole-genome (71 cases), targeted/exome, copy-number, gene expression, and DNA methylation information. Integrative clustering defined four CCA clusters - Fluke- Positive CCAs (Clusters 1/2) are enriched in ERBB2 amplifications and TP53 mutations, conversely Fluke-Negative CCAs (Clusters 3/4) exhibit high copy-number alterations and PD-1/PD-L2 expression, or epigenetic mutations (IDH1/2, BAP1) and FGFR/PRKA-related gene rearrangements. Whole-genome analysis highlighted FGFR2 3’UTR deletion as a mechanism of FGFR2 upregulation. Integration of non-coding promoter mutations with protein-DNA binding profiles demonstrates pervasive modulation ofmore » H3K27me3-associated sites in CCA. Clusters 1 and 4 exhibit distinct DNA hypermethylation patterns targeting either CpG islands or shores - mutation signature and subclonality analysis suggests that these reflect different mutational pathways. Lastly, our results exemplify how genetics, epigenetics and environmental carcinogens can interplay across different geographies to generate distinct molecular subtypes of cancer.« less

Whole-Genome and Epigenomic Landscapes of Etiologically Distinct Subtypes of Cholangiocarcinoma

DOE PAGES

Jusakul, Apinya; Cutcutache, Ioana; Yong, Chern Han; ...

2017-06-30

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a hepatobiliary malignancy exhibiting high incidence in countries with endemic liver-fluke infection. We analysed 489 CCAs from 10 countries, combining whole-genome (71 cases), targeted/exome, copy-number, gene expression, and DNA methylation information. Integrative clustering defined four CCA clusters - Fluke- Positive CCAs (Clusters 1/2) are enriched in ERBB2 amplifications and TP53 mutations, conversely Fluke-Negative CCAs (Clusters 3/4) exhibit high copy-number alterations and PD-1/PD-L2 expression, or epigenetic mutations (IDH1/2, BAP1) and FGFR/PRKA-related gene rearrangements. Whole-genome analysis highlighted FGFR2 3’UTR deletion as a mechanism of FGFR2 upregulation. Integration of non-coding promoter mutations with protein-DNA binding profiles demonstrates pervasive modulation ofmore » H3K27me3-associated sites in CCA. Clusters 1 and 4 exhibit distinct DNA hypermethylation patterns targeting either CpG islands or shores - mutation signature and subclonality analysis suggests that these reflect different mutational pathways. Lastly, our results exemplify how genetics, epigenetics and environmental carcinogens can interplay across different geographies to generate distinct molecular subtypes of cancer.« less

RELAP5 Analyses of OECD/NEA ROSA-2 Project Experiments on Intermediate-Break LOCAs at Hot Leg or Cold Leg

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takeda, Takeshi; Maruyama, Yu; Watanabe, Tadashi; Nakamura, Hideo

Experiments simulating PWR intermediate-break loss-of-coolant accidents (IBLOCAs) with 17% break at hot leg or cold leg were conducted in OECD/NEA ROSA-2 Project using the Large Scale Test Facility (LSTF). In the hot leg IBLOCA test, core uncovery started simultaneously with liquid level drop in crossover leg downflow-side before loop seal clearing (LSC) induced by steam condensation on accumulator coolant injected into cold leg. Water remained on upper core plate in upper plenum due to counter-current flow limiting (CCFL) because of significant upward steam flow from the core. In the cold leg IBLOCA test, core dryout took place due to rapid liquid level drop in the core before LSC. Liquid was accumulated in upper plenum, steam generator (SG) U-tube upflow-side and SG inlet plenum before the LSC due to CCFL by high velocity vapor flow, causing enhanced decrease in the core liquid level. The RELAP5/MOD3.2.1.2 post-test analyses of the two LSTF experiments were performed employing critical flow model in the code with a discharge coefficient of 1.0. In the hot leg IBLOCA case, cladding surface temperature of simulated fuel rods was underpredicted due to overprediction of core liquid level after the core uncovery. In the cold leg IBLOCA case, the cladding surface temperature was underpredicted too due to later core uncovery than in the experiment. These may suggest that the code has remaining problems in proper prediction of primary coolant distribution.

Finite Element Stress Analysis of Spent Nuclear Fuel Disposal Canister in a Deep Geological Repository

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwon, Young Joo; Choi, Jong Won

This paper presents the finite element stress analysis of a spent nuclear fuel disposal canister to provide basic information for dimensioning the canister and configuration of canister components and consequently to suggest the structural analysis methodology for the disposal canister in a deep geological repository which is nowadays very important in the environmental waste treatment technology. Because of big differences in the pressurized water reactor (PWR) and the Canadian deuterium and uranium reactor (CANDU) fuel properties, two types of canisters are conceived. For manufacturing, operational reasons and standardization, however, both canisters have the same outer diameter and length. The construction type of canisters introduced here is a solid structure with a cast insert and a corrosion resistant overpack. The structural stress analysis is carried out using a finite element analysis code, NISA, and focused on the structural strength of the canister against the expected external pressures due to the swelling of the bentonite buffer and the hydrostatic head. The canister must withstand these large pressure loads. Consequently, canisters presented here contain 4 PWR fuel assemblies and 33×9 CANDU fuel bundles. The outside diameter of the canister for both fuels is 122cm and the cast insert diameter is 112cm. The total length of the canister is 483cm with the lid/bottom and the outer shell of 5cm.

Extensions of the MCNP5 and TRIPOLI4 Monte Carlo Codes for Transient Reactor Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoogenboom, J. Eduard; Sjenitzer, Bart L.

2014-06-01

To simulate reactor transients for safety analysis with the Monte Carlo method the generation and decay of delayed neutron precursors is implemented in the MCNP5 and TRIPOLI4 general purpose Monte Carlo codes. Important new variance reduction techniques like forced decay of precursors in each time interval and the branchless collision method are included to obtain reasonable statistics for the power production per time interval. For simulation of practical reactor transients also the feedback effect from the thermal-hydraulics must be included. This requires coupling of the Monte Carlo code with a thermal-hydraulics (TH) code, providing the temperature distribution in the reactor, which affects the neutron transport via the cross section data. The TH code also provides the coolant density distribution in the reactor, directly influencing the neutron transport. Different techniques for this coupling are discussed. As a demonstration a 3x3 mini fuel assembly with a moving control rod is considered for MCNP5 and a mini core existing of 3x3 PWR fuel assemblies with control rods and burnable poisons for TRIPOLI4. Results are shown for reactor transients due to control rod movement or withdrawal. The TRIPOLI4 transient calculation is started at low power and includes thermal-hydraulic feedback. The power rises about 10 decades and finally stabilises the reactor power at a much higher level than initial. The examples demonstrate that the modified Monte Carlo codes are capable of performing correct transient calculations, taking into account all geometrical and cross section detail.

Theoretical study on the gas-phase reaction mechanism between palladium monoxide and methane.

PubMed

Yang, Hua-Qing; Hu, Chang-Wei; Gao, Chao; Yang, Meng-Yao; Li, Fang-Ming; Li, Cai-Qin; Li, Xiang-Yuan

2011-12-01

The gas-phase reaction mechanism between palladium monoxide and methane has been theoretically investigated on the singlet and triplet state potential energy surfaces (PESs) at the CCSD(T)/AVTZ//B3LYP/6-311+G(2d, 2p), SDD level. The major reaction channel leads to the products PdCH(2) + H(2)O, whereas the minor channel results in the products Pd + CH(3)OH, CH(2)OPd + H(2), and PdOH + CH(3). The minimum energy reaction pathway for the formation of main products (PdCH(2) + H(2)O), involving one spin inversion, prefers to start at the triplet state PES and afterward proceed along the singlet state PES, where both CH(3)PdOH and CH(3)Pd(O)H are the critical intermediates. Furthermore, the rate-determining step is RS-CH(3) PdOH → RS-2-TS1cb → RS-CH(2)Pd(H)OH with the rate constant of k = 1.48 × 10(12) exp(-93,930/RT). For the first C-H bond cleavage, both the activation strain ΔE(≠)(strain) and the stabilizing interaction ΔE(≠)(int) affect the activation energy ΔE(≠), with ΔE(≠)(int) in favor of the direct oxidative insertion. On the other hand, in the PdCH(2) + H(2) O reaction, the main products are Pd + CH(3)OH, and CH(3)PdOH is the energetically preferred intermediate. In the CH(2)OPd + H(2) reaction, the main products are Pd + CH(3)OH with the energetically preferred intermediate H(2)PdOCH(2). In the Pd + CH(3)OH reaction, the main products are CH(2)OPd + H(2), and H(2)PdOCH(2) is the energetically predominant intermediate. The intermediates, PdCH(2), H(2) PdCO, and t-HPdCHO are energetically preferred in the PdC + H(2), PdCO + H(2), and H(2)Pd + CO reactions, respectively. Besides, PdO toward methane activation exhibits higher reaction efficiency than the atom Pd and its first-row congener NiO. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Multiloop Integral System Test (MIST): MIST Facility Functional Specification

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

Habib, T F; Koksal, C G; Moskal, T E

1991-04-01

The Multiloop Integral System Test (MIST) is part of a multiphase program started in 1983 to address small-break loss-of-coolant accidents (SBLOCAs) specific to Babcock and Wilcox designed plants. MIST is sponsored by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Babcock Wilcox Owners Group, the Electric Power Research Institute, and Babcock and Wilcox. The unique features of the Babcock and Wilcox design, specifically the hot leg U-bends and steam generators, prevented the use of existing integral system data or existing integral facilities to address the thermal-hydraulic SBLOCA questions. MIST was specifically designed and constructed for this program, and an existing facility --more » the Once Through Integral System (OTIS) -- was also used. Data from MIST and OTIS are used to benchmark the adequacy of system codes, such as RELAP5 and TRAC, for predicting abnormal plant transients. The MIST Functional Specification documents as-built design features, dimensions, instrumentation, and test approach. It also presents the scaling basis for the facility and serves to define the scope of work for the facility design and construction. 13 refs., 112 figs., 38 tabs.« less

Hyperoxia, unlike phorbol ester, induces glutathione peroxidase through a protein kinase C-independent mechanism.

PubMed Central

Jornot, L; Junod, A F

1997-01-01

Human selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase (GP) is implicated as a mechanism of resistance against oxygen free radicals. The 5' flanking sequence upstream from the coding region of GP contained an oxygen-responsive element termed ORE1 that is responsive to hypoxia, as well as several copies of the activator protein-1 (AP-1)- and AP-1-like-binding sites. In this study, we sought to define the molecular events that lead to GP gene transcription in response to hyperoxia in human umbilical-vein endothelial cells, and asked whether such induction is mimicked and sustained by activation of protein kinase C (PKC) by phorbol esters. Treatment of cells with 100 nM phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PdBu) induced a delayed (24-48 h) but significant (2-fold) increase in steady-state GP mRNA levels. Steady-state GP mRNA levels also rose after exposure to 95% O2, again after considerable delay (48-72 h). For both PdBu and oxygen, induction was transcriptionally regulated, as demonstrated by nuclear run-on experiments. The simulations by PdBu and oxygen were additive. In contrast with PdBu, hyperoxia did not stimulate translocation of PKC from the cytosol to the particulate fraction, although the specific activity of both cytosolic and particulate-associated PKC was increased 2-fold in cells exposed to 95% O2 for 5 days. In addition, gel mobility-shift assays using double-stranded tumour-promoting-agent-responsive element (TRE) and nuclear extracts derived from phorbol- and oxygen-treated cells revealed that PdBu, but not hyperoxia, increased AP-1 DNA-binding activity. On the other hand, the up-regulation of GP expression by oxygen could not be accounted for by the ORE1 core sequence, since no specific protein-DNA binding activity could be detected using nuclear extracts from hyperoxic cells and ORE1. Taken together, these results suggest that there may be different molecular mechanisms controlling GP expression. After exposure to PdBu, GP undergoes transcriptional activation via a process that can be readily explained by a classic AP-1 interaction with the TRE sites in the GP promoter. During hyperoxia, GP also undergoes transcriptional activity, but via a process that appears to involve neither TRE nor ORE1. PMID:9337858

Redox non-innocence of thioether crowns: elucidation of the electronic structure of the mononuclear Pd(III) complexes [Pd([9]aneS3)2]3+ and [Pd([18]aneS6)]3+.

PubMed

Stephen, Emma; Blake, Alexander J; Carter, Emma; Collison, David; Davies, E Stephen; Edge, Ruth; Lewis, William; Murphy, Damien M; Wilson, Claire; Gould, Robert O; Holder, Alan J; McMaster, Jonathan; Schröder, Martin

2012-02-06

The Pd(II) complexes [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](PF(6))(2)·2MeCN (1) ([9]aneS(3) = 1,4,7-trithiacyclononane) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](PF(6))(2) (2) ([18]aneS(6) = 1,4,7,10,13,16-hexathiacyclooctadecane) can be oxidized electrochemically or chemically oxidized with 70% HClO(4) to [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+), respectively. These centers have been characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction, and by UV/vis and multifrequency electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopies. The single crystal X-ray structures of [Pd(III)([9]aneS(3))(2)](ClO(4))(6)·(H(3)O)(3)·(H(2)O)(4) (3) at 150 K and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](ClO(4))(6)·(H(5)O(2))(3) (4) at 90 K reveal distorted octahedral geometries with Pd-S distances of 2.3695(8), 2.3692(8), 2.5356(9) and 2.3490(6), 2.3454(5), 2.5474(6) Å, respectively, consistent with Jahn-Teller distortion at a low-spin d(7) Pd(III) center. The Pd(II) compound [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](PF(6))(2) shows a one-electron oxidation process in MeCN (0.2 M NBu(4)PF(6), 293 K) at E(1/2) = +0.57 V vs. Fc(+)/Fc assigned to a formal Pd(III)/Pd(II) couple. Multifrequency (Q-, X-, S-, and L-band) EPR spectroscopic analysis of [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+) gives g(iso) = 2.024, |A(iso(Pd))| = 18.9 × 10(-4) cm(-1); g(xx) = 2.046, g(yy) = 2.041, g(zz) = 2.004; |A(xx(Pd))| = 24 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |A(yy(Pd))| = 22 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |A(zz(Pd))| = 14 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |a(xx(H))| = 4 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |a(yy(H))| = 5 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |a(zz(H))| = 5.5 × 10(-4) cm(-1) for [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+), and g(iso) = 2.015, |A(iso(Pd))| = 18.8× 10(-4) cm(-1); g(xx) = 2.048 g(yy) = 2.036, g(zz) = 1.998; |a(xx(H))| = 5, |a(yy(H))| = 5, |a(zz(H))| = 6 × 10(-4) cm(-1); |A(xx(Pd))| = 23× 10(-4) cm(-1), |A(yy(Pd))| = 22 × 10(-4) cm(-1), |A(zz(Pd))| = 4 × 10(-4) cm(-1) for [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+). Both [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+) exhibit five-line superhyperfine splitting in the g(zz) region in their frozen solution EPR spectra. Double resonance spectroscopic measurements, supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculations, permit assignment of this superhyperfine to through-bond coupling involving four (1)H centers of the macrocyclic ring. Analysis of the spin Hamiltonian parameters for the singly occupied molecular orbital (SOMO) in these complexes gives about 20.4% and 25% Pd character in [Pd([9]aneS(3))(2)](3+) and [Pd([18]aneS(6))](3+), respectively, consistent with the compositions calculated from scalar relativistic DFT calculations.

SU-E-P-41: Imaging Coordination of Cone Beam CT, On-Board Image Conjunction with Optical Image Guidance for SBRT Treatment with Respiratory Motion Management

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

Liu, Y; Campbell, J

2015-06-15

Purpose: To spare normal tissue for SBRT lung/liver patients, especially for patients with significant tumor motion, image guided respiratory motion management has been widely implemented in clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to evaluate imaging coordination of cone beam CT, on-board X-ray image conjunction with optical image guidance for SBRT treatment with motion management. Methods: Currently in our clinic a Varian Novlis Tx was utilized for treating SBRT patients implementing CBCT. A BrainLAB X-ray ExacTrac imaging system in conjunction with optical guidance was primarily used for SRS patients. CBCT and X-ray imaging system were independently calibrated with 1.0more » mm tolerance. For SBRT lung/liver patients, the magnitude of tumor motion was measured based-on 4DCT and the measurement was analyzed to determine if patients would be beneficial with respiratory motion management. For patients eligible for motion management, an additional CT with breath holding would be scanned and used as primary planning CT and as reference images for Cone beam CT. During the SBRT treatment, a CBCT with pause and continuing technology would be performed with patients holding breath, which may require 3–4 partially scanned CBCT to combine as a whole CBCT depending on how long patients capable of holding breath. After patients being setup by CBCT images, the ExactTrac X-ray imaging system was implemented with patients’ on-board X-ray images compared to breath holding CT-based DRR. Results: For breath holding patients SBRT treatment, after initially localizing patients with CBCT, we then position patients with ExacTrac X-ray and optical imaging system. The observed deviations of real-time optical guided position average at 3.0, 2.5 and 1.5 mm in longitudinal, vertical and lateral respectively based on 35 treatments. Conclusion: The respiratory motion management clinical practice improved our physician confidence level to give tighter tumor margin for sparing normal tissue for SBRT lung/liver patients.« less

Increasing use of less-invasive hemodynamic monitoring in 3 specialty surgical intensive care units: a 5-year experience at a tertiary medical center.

PubMed

Kirton, Orlando C; Calabrese, Rebecca C; Staff, Ilene

2015-01-01

Less-invasive hemodynamic monitoring (eg, esophageal doppler monitoring [EDM] and arterial pressure contour analysis, FloTrac) is increasingly used as an alternative to pulmonary artery catheters (PACs) in critically ill intensive care unit (ICU). The decrease in use of PACs is not associated with increased mortality. Five-year retrospective review of 1894 hemodynamically monitored patients admitted to 3 surgical ICUs in a university-affiliate, tertiary care urban hospital. Data included the number of admissions, diagnosis-related group discharge case mix, length of stay, insertion of monitoring devices (PAC, EDM, and FloTrac probes), administered intravenous vasoactive agents (β-predominant agonists--dobutamine, epinephrine, and dopamine; vasopressors--norepinephrine and phenylephrine), and mortality. Data from hospital administrative databases were compiled to create patient characteristic and monitoring variables across a 5-year time period, 2005 to 2009 inclusive. Chi-square for independent proportions, 1-way analysis of variance, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used; tests for trend were conducted. An α level of .05 was considered significant. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v14 was used for all statistical testing. There was a significant change in the type of hemodynamic monitors inserted in 2 of the 3 surgical ICUs (in the general surgery and neurointensive care but not in the cardiac ICU) from PACs to less-invasive devices (FloTrac or EDM) during the 5-year study period (P < .001). There was no change in mortality rate over the time period (P = .492). There was an overall increase in the proportion of monitored patients who received intravenous vasoactive agents (P < .001) with a progressive shift from β-agonists to vasopressors (P < .002). Multivariate analyses indicated that age, case mix, and use of vasoactive agents were all independent predictors of inhospital mortality (P = .001) but that type of monitoring was not (P = .638). In a 5-year period, the decreased insertions of PACs were replaced by increased utilization of less-invasive hemodynamic monitoring devices. This change in practice did not adversely impact mortality. © The Author(s) 2013.

Effect of fluid loading on left ventricular volume and stroke volume variability in patients with end-stage renal disease: a pilot study

PubMed Central

Kanda, Hirotsugu; Hirasaki, Yuji; Iida, Takafumi; Kanao-Kanda, Megumi; Toyama, Yuki; Kunisawa, Takayuki; Iwasaki, Hiroshi

2015-01-01

Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate fluid loading-induced changes in left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) and stroke volume variability (SVV) in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) using real-time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography and the Vigileo-FloTrac system. Patients and methods After obtaining ethics committee approval and informed consent, 28 patients undergoing peripheral vascular procedures were studied. Fourteen patients with ESRD on hemodialysis (HD) were assigned to the HD group and 14 patients without ESRD were assigned to the control group. Institutional standardized general anesthesia was provided in both groups. SVV was measured using the Vigileo-FloTrac system. Simultaneously, a full-volume three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography dataset was acquired to measure LVEDV, left ventricular end-systolic volume, and left ventricular ejection fraction. Measurements were obtained before and after loading 500 mL hydroxyethyl starch over 30 minutes in both groups. Results In the control group, intravenous colloid infusion was associated with a significant decrease in SVV (13.8%±2.6% to 6.5%±2.6%, P<0.001) and a significant increase in LVEDV (83.6±23.4 mL to 96.1±28.8 mL, P<0.001). While SVV significantly decreased after infusion in the HD group (16.2%±6.0% to 6.2%±2.8%, P<0.001), there was no significant change in LVEDV. Conclusion Our preliminary data suggest that fluid responsiveness can be assessed not by LVEDV but also by SVV due to underlying cardiovascular pathophysiology in patients with ESRD. PMID:26527879

Effect of planecta and ROSE™ on the frequency characteristics of blood pressure-transducer kits.

PubMed

Fujiwara, Shigeki; Kawakubo, Yoshifumi; Mori, Satoshi; Tachihara, Keiichi; Toyoguchi, Izumi; Yokoyama, Takeshi

2015-12-01

Pressure-transducer kits have frequency characteristics such as natural frequency and damping coefficient, which affect the monitoring accuracy. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of planecta ports and a damping device (ROSE™, Argon Medical Devices, TX, USA) on the frequency characteristics of pressure-transducer kits. The FloTrac sensor kit (Edwards Lifesciences, CA, USA) and the DTXplus transducer kit (Argon Medical Devices) were prepared with planecta ports, and their frequency characteristics were tested with or without ROSE™. The natural frequency and damping coefficient of each kit were obtained using frequency characteristics analysis software and evaluated by plotting them on the Gardner's chart. By inserting a planecta port, the natural frequency markedly decreased in both the FloTrac sensor kit (from 40 to 22 Hz) and the DTXplus transducer kit (from 35 to 22 Hz). In both kits with one planecta port, the damping coefficient markedly increased by insertion of ROSE™ from 0.2 to 0.5, optimising frequency characteristics. In both kits with two planecta ports, however, the natural frequency decreased from 22 to 12 Hz. The damping coefficient increased from 0.2 to 0.8 by insertion of ROSE™; however, optimisation was not achieved even by ROSE™ insertion. Planecta ports decrease the natural frequency of the kit. ROSE™ is useful to optimise the frequency characteristics in the kits without or with one planecta port. However, optimisation is difficult with two or more planecta ports, even with the ROSE™ device.

FloCon 2011 Proceedings

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

and G. Armitage. Dening and evaluating greynets (sparse darknets ). In LCN󈧉: Proceedings of the IEEE Conference on Local Computer Networks 30th...analysis of distributed darknet trac. In IMC󈧉: Proceedings of the USENIX/ACM Internet Measurement Conference, 2005. Indexing Full Packet Capture Data

Online Databases. Ingenta Grows in the U.S. Market.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tenopir, Carol

2002-01-01

Focuses on the growth of the United Kingdom company Ingenta in the United States. Highlights include a new partnership with Gale Group related to their InfoTrac databases; indexing and full text coverage; standards; and other Ingenta acquisitions. (LRW)

Reliability assessment of MVP-BURN and JENDL-4.0 related to nuclear transmutation of light platinum group elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Terashima, Atsunori; Nilsson, Mikael; Ozawa, Masaki; Chiba, Satoshi

2017-09-01

The Aprés ORIENT research program, as a concept of advanced nuclear fuel cycle, was initiated in FY2011 aiming at creating stable, highly-valuable elements by nuclear transmutation from ↓ssion products. In order to simulate creation of such elements by (n, γ) reaction succeeded by β- decay in reactors, a continuous-energy Monte Carlo burnup calculation code MVP-BURN was employed. Then, it is one of the most important tasks to con↓rm the reliability of MVP-BURN code and evaluated neutron cross section library. In this study, both an experiment of neutron activation analysis in TRIGA Mark I reactor at University of California, Irvine and the corresponding burnup calculation using MVP-BURN code were performed for validation of the simulation on transmutation of light platinum group elements. Especially, some neutron capture reactions such as 102Ru(n, γ)103Ru, 104Ru(n, γ)105Ru, and 108Pd(n, γ)109Pd were dealt with in this study. From a comparison between the calculation (C) and the experiment (E) about 102Ru(n, γ)103Ru, the deviation (C/E-1) was signi↓cantly large. Then, it is strongly suspected that not MVP-BURN code but the neutron capture cross section of 102Ru belonging to JENDL-4.0 used in this simulation have made the big di↑erence as (C/E-1) >20%.

Long Non-Coding RNA and Alternative Splicing Modulations in Parkinson's Leukocytes Identified by RNA Sequencing

PubMed Central

Soreq, Lilach; Guffanti, Alessandro; Salomonis, Nathan; Simchovitz, Alon; Israel, Zvi; Bergman, Hagai; Soreq, Hermona

2014-01-01

The continuously prolonged human lifespan is accompanied by increase in neurodegenerative diseases incidence, calling for the development of inexpensive blood-based diagnostics. Analyzing blood cell transcripts by RNA-Seq is a robust means to identify novel biomarkers that rapidly becomes a commonplace. However, there is lack of tools to discover novel exons, junctions and splicing events and to precisely and sensitively assess differential splicing through RNA-Seq data analysis and across RNA-Seq platforms. Here, we present a new and comprehensive computational workflow for whole-transcriptome RNA-Seq analysis, using an updated version of the software AltAnalyze, to identify both known and novel high-confidence alternative splicing events, and to integrate them with both protein-domains and microRNA binding annotations. We applied the novel workflow on RNA-Seq data from Parkinson's disease (PD) patients' leukocytes pre- and post- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) treatment and compared to healthy controls. Disease-mediated changes included decreased usage of alternative promoters and N-termini, 5′-end variations and mutually-exclusive exons. The PD regulated FUS and HNRNP A/B included prion-like domains regulated regions. We also present here a workflow to identify and analyze long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) via RNA-Seq data. We identified reduced lncRNA expression and selective PD-induced changes in 13 of over 6,000 detected leukocyte lncRNAs, four of which were inversely altered post-DBS. These included the U1 spliceosomal lncRNA and RP11-462G22.1, each entailing sequence complementarity to numerous microRNAs. Analysis of RNA-Seq from PD and unaffected controls brains revealed over 7,000 brain-expressed lncRNAs, of which 3,495 were co-expressed in the leukocytes including U1, which showed both leukocyte and brain increases. Furthermore, qRT-PCR validations confirmed these co-increases in PD leukocytes and two brain regions, the amygdala and substantia-nigra, compared to controls. This novel workflow allows deep multi-level inspection of RNA-Seq datasets and provides a comprehensive new resource for understanding disease transcriptome modifications in PD and other neurodegenerative diseases. PMID:24651478

Differential expression of non-coding RNAs and continuous evolution of the X chromosome in testicular transcriptome of two mouse species.

PubMed

Homolka, David; Ivanek, Robert; Forejt, Jiri; Jansa, Petr

2011-02-14

Tight regulation of testicular gene expression is a prerequisite for male reproductive success, while differentiation of gene activity in spermatogenesis is important during speciation. Thus, comparison of testicular transcriptomes between closely related species can reveal unique regulatory patterns and shed light on evolutionary constraints separating the species. Here, we compared testicular transcriptomes of two closely related mouse species, Mus musculus and Mus spretus, which diverged more than one million years ago. We analyzed testicular expression using tiling arrays overlapping Chromosomes 2, X, Y and mitochondrial genome. An excess of differentially regulated non-coding RNAs was found on Chromosome 2 including the intronic antisense RNAs, intergenic RNAs and premature forms of Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs). Moreover, striking difference was found in the expression of X-linked G6pdx gene, the parental gene of the autosomal retrogene G6pd2. The prevalence of non-coding RNAs among differentially expressed transcripts indicates their role in species-specific regulation of spermatogenesis. The postmeiotic expression of G6pdx in Mus spretus points towards the continuous evolution of X-chromosome silencing and provides an example of expression change accompanying the out-of-the X-chromosomal retroposition.

Hydrothermal synthesis of Ni 2FeBO 5 in near-supercritical PWR coolant and possible effects of neutron-induced 10B fission in fuel crud

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sawicki, Jerzy A.

2011-08-01

The hydrothermal synthesis of a nickel-iron oxyborate, Ni 2FeBO 5, known as bonaccordite, was investigated at pressures and temperatures that might occur at the surface of high-power fuel rods in PWR cores and in supercritical water reactors, especially during localized departures from nucleate boiling and dry-outs. The tests were performed using aqueous mixtures of nickel and iron oxides with boric acid or boron oxide, and as a function of lithium hydroxide addition, temperature and time of heating. At subcritical temperatures nickel ferrite NiFe 2O 4 was always the primary reaction product. High yield of Ni 2FeBO 5 synthesis started near critical water temperature and was strongly promoted by additions of LiOH up to Li/Fe and Li/B molar ratios in a range 0.1-1. The synthesis of bonaccordite was also promoted by other alkalis such as NaOH and KOH. The bonaccordite particles were likely formed by dissolution and re-crystallization by means of an intermediate nickel ferrite phase. It is postulated that the formation of Ni 2FeBO 5 in deposits of borated nickel and iron oxides on PWR fuel cladding can be accelerated by lithium produced in thermal neutron capture 10B(n,α) 7Li reactions. The process may also be aided in the reactor core by kinetic energy of α-particles and 7Li ions dissipated in the crud layer.

Metallosulfoxides and -sulfones: Sulfur oxygenates of [1,5-Bis(2-mercaptoethyl)-1,5-diazacyclooctanato]palladium (II)

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

Tuntulani, T.; Musie, G.; Reibenspies, J.H.

1995-12-06

Successive sulfur-site oxygenation of the dithiolate complex [1,5-bis(mercaptoethyl)-1,5 diazacyclooctanato]-palladium(II), Pd-1, using H{sub 2}O{sub 2} as an O atom source produced all but one member of the series of palladium(II) complexes containing sulfinate (metallosulfone) and sulfinate (metallosulfoxide) S-donor ligands: the monosulfoxide, PdS(=O)R or Pd-4; bis(sulfoxide), Pd(S(=O)R){sub 2} or Pd-5; sulfone/sulfoxide, Pd((SO{sub 2}R)S(=))R or Pd-6; and the bis(sulfone) Pd(SO{sub 2}R){sub 2} or Pd-3 complex. A unique site selectivity for the addition of a second O atom from H{sub 2}O{sub 2} to thiolate sulfur of Pd-4 producing the bis(sulfoxide), Pd-5, exclusively, precluded the preparation of the monosulfone complex, Pd(SO{sub 2}R)SR or Pd-2, viamore » that route. However, the dithiolate Pd-1 reacts with O{sub 2} photochemically in aprotic solvents, giving access to this last member of the series, Pd-2. Further reaction of Pd-2 with O{sub 2} under UV photolysis gives the bis(sulfone) complex, Pd-3. The oxygenates were characterized by various spectroscopies, electrochemistry, and X-ray crystallography. Mass spectrometry delineated a single O atom loss pathway for the sulfoxide species, while SO{sub 2} and O{sub 2} loss is found in sulfone cases. Electrochemical studies show that the addition of an O atom to a thiolate sulfur to create a sulfoxide S-donor results in a stabilization of the Pd{sup I} oxidation state in the range 50-70 mV, while the addition of an O atom to a sulfoxide sulfur to create a sulfone S-donor results in greater stabilization of the Pd{sup I} oxidation state in the range 190-220 mV.« less

Development of sensory innervation in rat tibia: co-localization of CGRP and substance P with growth-associated protein 43 (GAP-43)

PubMed Central

Gajda, Mariusz; Litwin, Jan A; Cichocki, Tadeusz; Timmermans, Jean-Pierre; Adriaensen, Dirk

2005-01-01

The development of sensory innervation in long bones was investigated in rat tibia in fetuses on gestational days (GD) 16–21 and in neonates and juvenile individuals on postnatal days (PD) 1–28. A double immunostaining method was applied to study the co-localization of the neuronal growth marker growth-associated protein 43 (GAP-43) and the pan-neuronal marker protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) as well as that of two sensory fibre-associated neuropeptides, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and substance P (SP). The earliest, not yet chemically coded, nerve fibres were observed on GD17 in the perichondrium of the proximal epiphysis. Further development of the innervation was characterized by the successive appearance of nerve fibres in the perichondrium/periosteum of the shaft (GD19), the bone marrow cavity and intercondylar eminence (GD21), the metaphyses (PD1), the cartilage canals penetrating into the epiphyses (PD7), and finally in the secondary ossification centres (PD10) and epiphyseal bone marrow (PD14). Maturation of the fibres, manifested by their immunoreactivity for CGRP and SP, was visible on GD21 in the epiphyseal perichondrium, the periosteum of the shaft and the bone marrow, on PD1 in the intercondylar eminence and the metaphyses, on PD7 in the cartilage canals, on PD10 in the secondary ossification centres and on PD14 in the epiphyseal bone marrow. The temporal and topographic pattern of nerve fibre appearance corresponds with the development of regions characterized by active mineralization and bone remodelling, suggesting a possible involvement of the sensory innervation in these processes. PMID:16050900

Interaction of polymorphisms in the genes encoding interleukin-6 and estrogen receptor beta on the susceptibility to Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Håkansson, Anna; Westberg, Lars; Nilsson, Staffan; Buervenich, Silvia; Carmine, Andrea; Holmberg, Björn; Sydow, Olof; Olson, Lars; Johnels, Bo; Eriksson, Elias; Nissbrandt, Hans

2005-02-05

The multifunctional cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) is involved in inflammatory processes in the central nervous system and increased levels of IL-6 have been found in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). It is known that estrogen inhibits the production of IL-6, via action on estrogen receptors, thereby pointing to an important influence of estrogen on IL-6. In a previous study, we reported an association between a G/A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at position 1730 in the gene coding for estrogen receptor beta (ERbeta) and age of onset of PD. To investigate the influence of a G/C SNP at position 174 in the promoter of the IL-6 gene, and the possible interaction of this SNP and the ERbeta G-1730A SNP on the risk for PD, the G-174C SNP was genotyped, by pyrosequencing, in 258 patients with PD and 308 controls. A significantly elevated frequency of the GG genotype of the IL-6 SNP was found in the patient group and this was most obvious among patients with an early age of onset (

76 FR 41783 - Combined Notice of Filings #2

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-15

... Commodities Group, Constellation Pwr Source Generation LLC, Constellation NewEnergy, Inc., CER Generation II..., CER Generation, LLC, Constellation Energy Commodities Group M, Constellation Mystic Power, LLC...

76 FR 73596 - Notice of Scope Rulings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-29

... LLC and OTR Wheel Engineering, Inc.; its wheel hub units/assemblies with tapered roller bearings are...-601: Tapered Roller Bearings from the People's Republic of China Requestor: New Trend Engineering... Requestor: OTR Wheel Engineering, Inc. (``OTR Wheel''); whether OTR Wheel's ``Trac Master'' and ``Traction...

77 FR 32648 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request; CareerTrac

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-01

... of 1995, the Fogarty International Center (FIC), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences...) within NIEHS, National Institute of General Medical Science (NIGMS), and National Cancer Institute (NCI... outcomes are achieved, comply with OMB Part requirements, respond to congressional inquiries, and as a...

Analysis of corridor delay under SCATS control : FAST-TRAC Phase III deliverable

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1998-04-01

The study was designed to determine the change in travel time following the implementation of the Sydney Coordinated Adaptive Traffic System (SCATS) in Oakland County, Michigan. A before/after comparison was used to examine the change in travel time ...

FGC Webinar: Making it Easier to Buy Greener Products and Services, and Final FGC Data Reporting

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Presention on changes in Sustainable Facility Tool, Green Product Compilation, and Environmental Programs pages that clarify requirements for purchasing products and services, as well as reporting your FY2017 FGC Data using Re-TRAC Connect.

Measurement Program for Evaluation of Concrete Ties and Fastenings in Transit Track

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1979-03-01

This report outlines a measurement program to obtain data on the performance of standard tie designs and associated fastening systems under field service conditions. In addition, the program identifies limited data to be obtained from a wood tie trac...

Genetic Determinants of Parkinson's Disease: Can They Help to Stratify the Patients Based on the Underlying Molecular Defect?

PubMed Central

Redenšek, Sara; Trošt, Maja; Dolžan, Vita

2017-01-01

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a sporadic progressive neurodegenerative brain disorder with a relatively strong genetic background. We have reviewed the current literature about the genetic factors that could be indicative of pathophysiological pathways of PD and their applications in everyday clinical practice. Information on novel risk genes is coming from several genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and their meta-analyses. GWASs that have been performed so far enabled the identification of 24 loci as PD risk factors. These loci take part in numerous cellular processes that may contribute to PD pathology: protein aggregation, protein, and membrane trafficking, lysosomal autophagy, immune response, synaptic function, endocytosis, inflammation, and metabolic pathways are among the most important ones. The identified single nucleotide polymorphisms are usually located in the non-coding regions and their functionality remains to be determined, although they presumably influence gene expression. It is important to be aware of a very low contribution of a single genetic risk factor to PD development; therefore, novel prognostic indices need to account for the cumulative nature of genetic risk factors. A better understanding of PD pathophysiology and its genetic background will help to elucidate the underlying pathological processes. Such knowledge may help physicians to recognize subjects with the highest risk for the development of PD, and provide an opportunity for the identification of novel potential targets for neuroprotective treatment. Moreover, it may enable stratification of the PD patients according to their genetic fingerprint to properly personalize their treatment as well as supportive measures. PMID:28239348

Use of medical care biases associations between Parkinson disease and other medical conditions.

PubMed

Gross, Anat; Racette, Brad A; Camacho-Soto, Alejandra; Dube, Umber; Searles Nielsen, Susan

2018-06-12

To examine how use of medical care biases the well-established associations between Parkinson disease (PD) and smoking, smoking-related cancers, and selected positively associated comorbidities. We conducted a population-based, case-control study of 89,790 incident PD cases and 118,095 randomly selected controls, all Medicare beneficiaries aged 66 to 90 years. We ascertained PD and other medical conditions using ICD-9-CM codes from comprehensive claims data for the 5 years before PD diagnosis/reference. We used logistic regression to estimate age-, sex-, and race-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) between PD and each other medical condition of interest. We then examined the effect of also adjusting for selected geographic- or individual-level indicators of use of care. Models without adjustment for use of care and those that adjusted for geographic-level indicators produced similar ORs. However, adjustment for individual-level indicators consistently decreased ORs: Relative to ORs without adjustment for use of care, all ORs were between 8% and 58% lower, depending on the medical condition and the individual-level indicator of use of care added to the model. ORs decreased regardless of whether the established association is known to be positive or inverse. Most notably, smoking and smoking-related cancers were positively associated with PD without adjustment for use of care, but appropriately became inversely associated with PD with adjustment for use of care. Use of care should be considered when evaluating associations between PD and other medical conditions to ensure that positive associations are not attributable to bias and that inverse associations are not masked. © 2018 American Academy of Neurology.

VERA Core Simulator Methodology for PWR Cycle Depletion

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

Kochunas, Brendan; Collins, Benjamin S; Jabaay, Daniel

2015-01-01

This paper describes the methodology developed and implemented in MPACT for performing high-fidelity pressurized water reactor (PWR) multi-cycle core physics calculations. MPACT is being developed primarily for application within the Consortium for the Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL) as one of the main components of the VERA Core Simulator, the others being COBRA-TF and ORIGEN. The methods summarized in this paper include a methodology for performing resonance self-shielding and computing macroscopic cross sections, 2-D/1-D transport, nuclide depletion, thermal-hydraulic feedback, and other supporting methods. These methods represent a minimal set needed to simulate high-fidelity models of a realistic nuclearmore » reactor. Results demonstrating this are presented from the simulation of a realistic model of the first cycle of Watts Bar Unit 1. The simulation, which approximates the cycle operation, is observed to be within 50 ppm boron (ppmB) reactivity for all simulated points in the cycle and approximately 15 ppmB for a consistent statepoint. The verification and validation of the PWR cycle depletion capability in MPACT is the focus of two companion papers.« less

Selective hydrodechlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane catalyzed by trace Pd decorated Ag/Al2O3 catalysts prepared by galvanic replacement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Jingya; Han, Yuxiang; Fu, Heyun; Wan, Haiqin; Xu, Zhaoyi; Zheng, Shourong

2018-01-01

Ag catalysts decorated by trace Pd supported on γ-Al2O3 with different structure and chemical properties were prepared using a combined impregnation and galvanic replacement method. For comparison, monometallic Ag/γ-Al2O3 and Pd/γ-Al2O3 catalysts were prepared using the impregnation method. Gas-phase catalytic hydrodechlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane to ethylene was investigated on those catalysts. The structures and chemical compositions of bimetallic Pd-Ag particles in the catalysts were controlled by adjusting Pd replacement amount. The as-prepared catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and in-situ FTIR spectroscopy of CO adsorption. The results demonstrated that contiguous Pd sites dominated in the monometallic Pd/γ-Al2O3 catalyst, while Pd atoms were separately decorated on the surface of Ag particles in the bimetallic Pd-Ag/γ-Al2O3 catalysts when Pd replacement amount was below 0.30 wt.%. At Pd replacement amount of 0.30 wt.%, Pd ensembles with contiguous Pd sites developed in the bimetallic catalyst. Thus, monometallic Pd/γ-Al2O3 catalyst displayed negligible ethylene selectivity toward the catalytic hydrodechlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane, while bimetallic Pd-Ag/γ-Al2O3 catalyst with a Pd replacement amount of 0.13 wt.% exhibited 94.6% of ethylene selectivity. Furthermore, selectivity to incompletely dechlorinated byproduct chloroethylene decreased with Pd replacement amount, due to the enhanced decoration effect of Pd on large Ag ensembles. Findings in this work provide a promising bimetallic catalyst prepared by galvanic replacement for the selective catalytic hydrodechlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane.

Pheromone-Regulated Expression of Sex Pheromone Plasmid pAD1-Encoded Aggregation Substance Depends on at Least Six Upstream Genes and a cis-Acting, Orientation-Dependent Factor

PubMed Central

Muscholl-Silberhorn, Albrecht B.

2000-01-01

Conjugative transfer of Enterococcus faecalis-specific sex pheromone plasmids relies on an adhesin, called aggregation substance, to confer a tight cell-to-cell contact between the mating partners. To analyze the dependence of pAD1-encoded aggregation substance, Asa1, on pheromone induction, a variety of upstream fragments were fused to an α-amylase reporter gene, amyL, by use of a novel promoter probe vector, pAMY-em1. For pheromone-regulated α-amylase activity, a total of at least six genes, traB, traC, traA, traE1, orfY, and orf1, are required: TraB efficiently represses asa1 (by a mechanism unrelated to its presumptive function in pheromone shutdown, since a complete shutdown is observed exclusively in the presence of traC); only traC can relieve traB-mediated repression in a pheromone-dependent manner. In addition to traB, traA is required but not sufficient for negative control. Mutational inactivation of traE1, orfY, or orf1, respectively, results in a total loss of α-amylase activity for constructs normally mediating constitutive expression. Inversion of a fragment covering traA, P0, and traE1 without disrupting any gene or control element switches off amyL or asa1 expression, indicating the involvement of a cis-acting, orientation-dependent factor (as had been shown for plasmid pCF10). Unexpectedly, pAD1 represses all pAMY-em1 derivatives in trans, while its own pheromone-dependent functions are unaffected. The discrepancy between the new data and those of former studies defining TraE1 as a trans-acting positive regulator is discussed. PMID:10850999

Postpartum weight trajectories in overweight and lean women.

PubMed

Bogaerts, Annick; De Baetselier, Elyne; Ameye, Lieveke; Dilles, Tinne; Van Rompaey, Bart; Devlieger, Roland

2017-06-01

overweight and obesity in women of reproductive age are increasing and are often linked with excessive weight gain in pregnancy and weight retention after birth. Studies on spontaneous maternal weight trajectory after childbirth are scarce. we describe women's spontaneous weight trajectory during the first six weeks of the postpartum period and its relationship between Body Mass Index and socio-demographical, behavioural and psychological variables. data from 212 women who gave birth in three regional hospitals were collected prospectively between December 2015 and February 2016. Potential determinants were examined during pregnancy and the postpartum period at four and six weeks after childbirth. Descriptive statistics and a linear multivariate regression model were used. Early postnatal weight retention (PWR) was defined as the difference between the maternal weight six weeks after childbirth and the pre-pregnancy weight (kg). mean PWR at six weeks after childbirth was 3.3kg (SD 4.1), with a range between -7 and +16.2kg; 81% reported some weight retention (PWR>0kg), and 36% showed a high weight retention (PWR≥5kg). Women with a BMI <25kg/m 2 showed a significantly higher mean PWR six weeks after childbirth compared to women with a BMI ≥25kg/m 2 (4.0kg versus 1.6kg, p=0.002). There was a significant correlation between maternal weight retention and gestational weight gain (GWG) (B=0.65, p<0.001) and pre-pregnancy body mass index <25kg/m 2 (B=1.12, p=0.017), six weeks after childbirth. weight retention six weeks after childbirth is associated with pre-pregnancy BMI and GWG, but contrary to expectations, lean women with excessive GWG tended to retain most weight after childbirth. No significant associations with several socio-demographical, behavioural and psychological variables were found. weight management strategies around pregnancy should not be limited to overweight and obese mothers. Women with pre-pregnancy BMI <25kg/m 2 require equal attention to prevent postnatal weight retention. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Fixed-Point Phase Lock Loop in a Software Defined Radio

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-09-01

code from a simulation model. This feature will allow easy implementation on an FPGA as C can be easily converted to VHDL , the language required...this is equivalent to the MATLAB code implementation in Appendix A. The PD takes the input signal 40 and multiplies it by the in-phase and...stop to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds (the fastest production car ever built is the Porsche Carrera twin turbo which was tested at 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds

Dissolved molecular hydrogen (H2) in Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) solutions preserves mesothelial cells and peritoneal membrane integrity.

PubMed

Nakayama, Masaaki; Zhu, Wan-Jun; Watanabe, Kimio; Gibo, Ayano; Sherif, Ali M; Kabayama, Shigeru; Ito, Sadayoshi

2017-10-31

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is used as renal replacement therapy in patients with end-stage kidney disease. However, peritoneal membrane failure remains problematic and constitutes a critical cause of PD discontinuation. Recent studies have revealed the unique biological action of molecular hydrogen (H 2 ) as an anti-oxidant, which ameliorates tissue injury. In the present study, we aimed to examine the effects of H 2 on the peritoneal membrane of experimental PD rats. Eight-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into the following groups (n = 8-11 each) receiving different test solutions: control group (no treatment), PD group (commercially available lactate-based neutral 2.5% glucose PD solution), and H 2 PD group (PD solution with dissolved H 2 at 400 ppb). Furthermore, the influence of iron (FeCl 3 : 5 μM: inducer of oxidative cellular injury) in the respective PD solutions was also examined (Fe-PD and Fe-H 2 PD groups). The H 2 PD solution was manufactured by bathing a PD bag in H 2 -oversaturated water created by electrolysis of the water. Twenty mL of the test solutions were intraperitoneally injected once a day for 10 days. Parietal peritoneum samples and cells collected from the peritoneal surface following treatment with trypsin were subjected to analysis. In the PD group as compared to controls, a mild but significant sub-mesothelial thickening was observed, with increase in the number of cells in the peritoneal surface tissue that were positive for apoptosis, proliferation and vimentin, as seen by immunostaining. There were significantly fewer of such changes in the H 2 PD group, in which there was a dominant presence of M2 (CD163+) macrophages in the peritoneum. The Fe-PD group showed a significant loss of mesothelial cells with sub-mesothelial thickening, these changes being ameliorated in the Fe-H 2 PD group. H 2 -dissolved PD solutions could preserve mesothelial cells and peritoneal membrane integrity in PD rats. Clinical application of H 2 in PD could be a novel strategy for protection of peritoneal tissue during PD treatment.

Aqueous phase hydrogenation of phenol catalyzed by Pd and PdAg on ZrO 2

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

Resende, Karen A.; Hori, Carla E.; Noronha, Fabio B.

Hydrogenation of phenol in aqueous phase was studied over a series of ZrO2-supported Pd catalysts in order to explore the effects of particle size and of Ag addition on the activity of Pd. Kinetic assessments were performed in a batch reactor, on monometallic Pd/ZrO2 samples with different Pd loadings (0.5%, 1% and 2%), as well as on a 1% PdAg/ZrO2 sample. The turnover frequency (TOF) increases with the Pd particle size. The reaction orders in phenol and H2 indicate that the surface coverages by phenol, H2 and their derived intermediates are higher on 0.5% Pd/ZrO2 than on other samples. Themore » activation energy was the lowest on the least active sample (0.5% Pd/ZrO2), while being identical on 1% and 2% Pd/ZrO2 catalysts. Thus, the significantly lower activity of the small Pd particles (1-2 nm on average) in 0.5%Pd/ZrO2 is explained by the unfavorable activation entropies for the strongly bound species. The presence of Ag increases considerably the TOF of the reaction by decreasing the Ea and increasing the coverages of phenol and H2.« less

Rapid Analysis of Energetic and Geo-Materials Using Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-04-01

et al ., Anal Bioanal Chem ( 2006 ) 385, 316. 5. Mohamed, W. T. Y., Prog Phys (2007) 2, 42. 6. Elhassan, A., et al ., Spectrochim Acta B (2008) 63...Anal (2005) 5, 21. 20. Anzano, J. M., et al ., Anal Chim Acta ( 2006 ) 575, 230. 21. Rusak, D. A., et al ., TrAC Trend Anal Chem (1998) 17, 453. 22. Martin...Spectrosc Reviews (2004) 39, 27. 25. Winefordner, J. D., et al ., J Anal Atom Spectrom (2004) 19, 1061. 26. Cremers , D. A., and Radziemski, L. J.,

The Val158Met COMT polymorphism is a modifier of the age at onset in Parkinson's disease with a sexual dimorphism

PubMed Central

Klebe, Stephan; Golmard, Jean-Louis; Nalls, Michael A; Saad, Mohamad; Singleton, Andrew B; Bras, Jose M; Hardy, John; Simon-Sanchez, Javier; Heutink, Peter; Kuhlenbäumer, Gregor; Charfi, Rim; Klein, Christine; Hagenah, Johann; Gasser, Thomas; Wurster, Isabel; Lesage, Suzanne; Lorenz, Delia; Deuschl, Günther; Durif, Franck; Pollak, Pierre; Damier, Philippe; Tison, François; Durr, Alexandra; Amouyel, Philippe; Lambert, Jean-Charles; Tzourio, Christophe; Maubaret, Cécilia; Charbonnier-Beaupel, Fanny; Tahiri, Khadija; Vidailhet, Marie; Martinez, Maria; Brice, Alexis; Corvol, Jean-Christophe

2013-01-01

The catechol-O-methyltranferase (COMT) is one of the main enzymes that metabolise dopamine in the brain. The Val158Met polymorphism in the COMT gene (rs4680) causes a trimodal distribution of high (Val/Val), intermediate (Val/Met) and low (Met/Met) enzyme activity. We tested whether the Val158Met polymorphism is a modifier of the age at onset (AAO) in Parkinson's disease (PD). The rs4680 was genotyped in a total of 16 609 subjects from five independent cohorts of European and North American origin (5886 patients with PD and 10 723 healthy controls). The multivariate analysis for comparing PD and control groups was based on a stepwise logistic regression, with gender, age and cohort origin included in the initial model. The multivariate analysis of the AAO was a mixed linear model, with COMT genotype and gender considered as fixed effects and cohort and cohort-gender interaction as random effects. COMT genotype was coded as a quantitative variable, assuming a codominant genetic effect. The distribution of the COMT polymorphism was not significantly different in patients and controls (p=0.22). The Val allele had a significant effect on the AAO with a younger AAO in patients with the Val/Val (57.1±13.9, p=0.03) than the Val/Met (57.4±13.9) and the Met/Met genotypes (58.3±13.5). The difference was greater in men (1.9 years between Val/Val and Met/Met, p=0.007) than in women (0.2 years, p=0.81). Thus, the Val158Met COMT polymorphism is not associated with PD in the Caucasian population but acts as a modifier of the AAO in PD with a sexual dimorphism: the Val allele is associated with a younger AAO in men with idiopathic PD. PMID:23408064

Molecular Analysis of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Gene Mutations in Bangladeshi Individuals.

PubMed

Sarker, Suprovath Kumar; Islam, Md Tarikul; Eckhoff, Grace; Hossain, Mohammad Amir; Qadri, Syeda Kashfi; Muraduzzaman, A K M; Bhuyan, Golam Sarower; Shahidullah, Mohammod; Mannan, Mohammad Abdul; Tahura, Sarabon; Hussain, Manzoor; Akhter, Shahida; Nahar, Nazmun; Shirin, Tahmina; Qadri, Firdausi; Mannoor, Kaiissar

2016-01-01

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a common X-linked human enzyme defect of red blood cells (RBCs). Individuals with this gene defect appear normal until exposed to oxidative stress which induces hemolysis. Consumption of certain foods such as fava beans, legumes; infection with bacteria or virus; and use of certain drugs such as primaquine, sulfa drugs etc. may result in lysis of RBCs in G6PD deficient individuals. The genetic defect that causes G6PD deficiency has been identified mostly as single base missense mutations. One hundred and sixty G6PD gene mutations, which lead to amino acid substitutions, have been described worldwide. The purpose of this study was to detect G6PD gene mutations in hospital-based settings in the local population of Dhaka city, Bangladesh. Qualitative fluorescent spot test and quantitative enzyme activity measurement using RANDOX G6PDH kit were performed for analysis of blood specimens and detection of G6PD-deficient participants. For G6PD-deficient samples, PCR was done with six sets of primers specific for G6PD gene. Automated Sanger sequencing of the PCR products was performed to identify the mutations in the gene. Based on fluorescence spot test and quantitative enzyme assay followed by G6PD gene sequencing, 12 specimens (11 males and one female) among 121 clinically suspected patient-specimens were found to be deficient, suggesting a frequency of 9.9% G6PD deficiency. Sequencing of the G6PD-deficient samples revealed c.C131G substitution (exon-3: Ala44Gly) in six samples, c.G487A substitution (exon-6:Gly163Ser) in five samples and c.G949A substitution (exon-9: Glu317Lys) of coding sequence in one sample. These mutations either affect NADP binding or disrupt protein structure. From the study it appears that Ala44Gly and Gly163Ser are the most common G6PD mutations in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This is the first study of G6PD mutations in Bangladesh.

Molecular Analysis of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Gene Mutations in Bangladeshi Individuals

PubMed Central

Sarker, Suprovath Kumar; Hossain, Mohammad Amir; Qadri, Syeda Kashfi; Muraduzzaman, A. K. M.; Bhuyan, Golam Sarower; Shahidullah, Mohammod; Mannan, Mohammad Abdul; Tahura, Sarabon; Hussain, Manzoor; Akhter, Shahida; Nahar, Nazmun; Shirin, Tahmina; Qadri, Firdausi; Mannoor, Kaiissar

2016-01-01

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a common X-linked human enzyme defect of red blood cells (RBCs). Individuals with this gene defect appear normal until exposed to oxidative stress which induces hemolysis. Consumption of certain foods such as fava beans, legumes; infection with bacteria or virus; and use of certain drugs such as primaquine, sulfa drugs etc. may result in lysis of RBCs in G6PD deficient individuals. The genetic defect that causes G6PD deficiency has been identified mostly as single base missense mutations. One hundred and sixty G6PD gene mutations, which lead to amino acid substitutions, have been described worldwide. The purpose of this study was to detect G6PD gene mutations in hospital-based settings in the local population of Dhaka city, Bangladesh. Qualitative fluorescent spot test and quantitative enzyme activity measurement using RANDOX G6PDH kit were performed for analysis of blood specimens and detection of G6PD-deficient participants. For G6PD-deficient samples, PCR was done with six sets of primers specific for G6PD gene. Automated Sanger sequencing of the PCR products was performed to identify the mutations in the gene. Based on fluorescence spot test and quantitative enzyme assay followed by G6PD gene sequencing, 12 specimens (11 males and one female) among 121 clinically suspected patient-specimens were found to be deficient, suggesting a frequency of 9.9% G6PD deficiency. Sequencing of the G6PD-deficient samples revealed c.C131G substitution (exon-3: Ala44Gly) in six samples, c.G487A substitution (exon-6:Gly163Ser) in five samples and c.G949A substitution (exon-9: Glu317Lys) of coding sequence in one sample. These mutations either affect NADP binding or disrupt protein structure. From the study it appears that Ala44Gly and Gly163Ser are the most common G6PD mutations in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This is the first study of G6PD mutations in Bangladesh. PMID:27880809

Glutamate Neonatal Excitotoxicity Modifies VEGF-A, VEGF-B, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 Protein Expression Profiles During Postnatal Development of the Cerebral Cortex and Hippocampus of Male Rats.

PubMed

Castañeda-Cabral, Jose Luis; Beas-Zarate, Carlos; Gudiño-Cabrera, Graciela; Ureña-Guerrero, Monica E

2017-09-01

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) exerts both neuroprotective and proinflammatory effects in the brain, depending on the VEGF (A-E) and VEGF receptor (VEGFR1-3) types involved. Neonatal monosodium glutamate (MSG) treatment triggers an excitotoxic degenerative process associated with several neuropathological conditions, and VEGF messenger RNA (mRNA) expression is increased at postnatal day (PD) 14 in rat hippocampus (Hp) following the treatment. The aim of this work was to establish the changes in immunoreactivity to VEGF-A, VEGF-B, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 proteins induced by neonatal MSG treatment (4 g/kg, subcutaneous, at PD1, 3, 5 and 7) in the cerebral motor cortex (CMC) and Hp. Samples collected from PD2 to PD60 from control and MSG-treated male Wistar rats were assessed by western blotting for each protein. Considering that immunoreactivity measured by western blotting is related to the protein expression level, we found that each protein in each cerebral region has a specific expression profile throughout the studied ages, and all profiles were differentially modified by MSG. Specifically, neonatal MSG treatment significantly increased the immunoreactivity to the following: (1) VEGF-A at PD8-PD10 in the CMC and at PD6-PD8 in the Hp; (2) VEGF-B at PD2, PD6 and PD10 in the CMC and at PD8-PD9 in the Hp; and (3) VEGFR-2 at PD6-PD8 in the CMC and at PD21-PD60 in the Hp. Also, MSG significantly reduced the immunoreactivity to the following: (1) VEGF-B at PD8-PD9 and PD45-PD60 in the CMC; and (2) VEGFR-1 at PD4-PD6 and PD14-PD21 in the CMC and at PD4, PD9-PD10 and PD60 in the Hp. Our results indicate that VEGF-mediated signalling is involved in the excitotoxic process triggered by neonatal MSG treatment and should be further characterized.

Efficient Decarbonylation of Furfural to Furan Catalyzed by Zirconia-Supported Palladium Clusters with Low Atomicity.

PubMed

Ishida, Tamao; Kume, Kurumi; Kinjo, Kota; Honma, Tetsuo; Nakada, Kengo; Ohashi, Hironori; Yokoyama, Takushi; Hamasaki, Akiyuki; Murayama, Haruno; Izawa, Yusuke; Utsunomiya, Masaru; Tokunaga, Makoto

2016-12-20

Decarbonylation of furfural to furan was efficiently catalyzed by ZrO 2 -supported Pd clusters in the liquid phase under a N 2 atmosphere without additives. Although Pd/C and Pd/Al 2 O 3 have frequently been used for decarbonylation, Pd/ZrO 2 exhibited superior catalytic performance compared with these conventional catalysts. Transmission electron microscopy and X-ray absorption fine structure measurements revealed that the size of the Pd particles decreased with an increase in the specific surface area of ZrO 2 . ZrO 2 with a high surface area immobilized Pd as clusters consisting of several (three to five) Pd atoms, whereas Pd aggregated to form nanoparticles on other supports such as carbon and Al 2 O 3 despite their high surface areas. The catalytic activity of Pd/ZrO 2 was enhanced with a decrease in particle size, and the smallest Pd/ZrO 2 was the most active catalyst for decarbonylation. When CeO 2 was used as the support, a decrease in Pd particle size with an increase in surface area was also observed. Single Pd atoms were deposited on CeO 2 with a high surface area, with a strong interaction through the formation of a Pd-O-Ce bond, which led to a lower catalytic activity than that of Pd/ZrO 2 . This result suggests that zero-valent small Pd clusters consisting of more than one Pd atom are the active species for the decarbonylation reaction. Recycling tests proved that Pd/ZrO 2 maintained its catalytic activity until its sixth use. © 2016 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Identification of poor households for premium exemptions in Ghana's National Health Insurance Scheme: empirical analysis of three strategies.

PubMed

Aryeetey, Genevieve Cecilia; Jehu-Appiah, Caroline; Spaan, Ernst; D'Exelle, Ben; Agyepong, Irene; Baltussen, Rob

2010-12-01

To evaluate the effectiveness of three alternative strategies to identify poor households: means testing (MT), proxy means testing (PMT) and participatory wealth ranking (PWR) in urban, rural and semi-urban settings in Ghana. The primary motivation was to inform implementation of the National Health Insurance policy of premium exemptions for the poorest households. Survey of 145-147 households per setting to collect data on consumption expenditure to estimate MT measures and of household assets to estimate PMT measures. We organized focus group discussions to derive PWR measures. We compared errors of inclusion and exclusion of PMT and PWR relative to MT, the latter being considered the gold standard measure to identify poor households. Compared to MT, the errors of exclusion and inclusion of PMT ranged between 0.46-0.63 and 0.21-0.36, respectively, and of PWR between 0.03-0.73 and 0.17-0.60, respectively, depending on the setting. Proxy means testing and PWR have considerable errors of exclusion and inclusion in comparison with MT. PWR is a subjective measure of poverty and has appeal because it reflects community's perceptions on poverty. However, as its definition of the poor varies across settings, its acceptability as a uniform strategy to identify the poor in Ghana may be questionable. PMT and MT are potential strategies to identify the poor, and their relative societal attractiveness should be judged in a broader economic analysis. This study also holds relevance to other programmes that require identification of the poor in low-income countries. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Thoughts on the Semantics of "Information"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Berger, Louis S.

1971-01-01

SRI attempts to apply aerospace research results to biomedicine are revealing inadequacies of present information systems when information originates in different discipline from that of user. Author suggests catergorizing characteristics of originator, symbolic vehicle, coding process and user, with possible design of new systems as well. (PD)

Supporting palladium metal on gold nanoparticles improves its catalysis for nitrite reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qian, Huifeng; Zhao, Zhun; Velazquez, Juan C.; Pretzer, Lori A.; Heck, Kimberly N.; Wong, Michael S.

2013-12-01

Nitrate (NO3-) and nitrite (NO2-) anions are often found in groundwater and surface water as contaminants globally, especially in agricultural areas due to nitrate-rich fertilizer use. One popular approach to studying the removal of nitrite/nitrate from water has been their degradation to dinitrogen via Pd-based reduction catalysis. However, little progress has been made towards understanding how the catalyst structure can improve activity. Focusing on the catalytic reduction of nitrite in this study, we report that Au NPs supporting Pd metal ("Pd-on-Au NPs") show catalytic activity that varies with volcano-shape dependence on Pd surface coverage. At room temperature, in CO2-buffered water, and under H2 headspace, the NPs were maximally active at a Pd surface coverage of 80%, with a first-order rate constant (kcat = 576 L gPd-1 min-1) that was 15x and 7.5x higher than monometallic Pd NPs (~4 nm; 40 L gPd-1 min-1) and Pd/Al2O3 (1 wt% Pd; 76 L gPd-1 min-1), respectively. Accounting only for surface Pd atoms, these NPs (576 L gsurface-Pd-1 min-1) were 3.6x and 1.6x higher than monometallic Pd NPs (160 L gsurface-Pd-1 min-1) and Pd/Al2O3 (361 L gsurface-Pd-1 min-1). These NPs retained ~98% of catalytic activity at a chloride concentration of 1 mM, whereas Pd/Al2O3 lost ~50%. The Pd-on-Au nanostructure is a promising approach to improve the catalytic reduction process for nitrite and, with further development, also for nitrate anions.Nitrate (NO3-) and nitrite (NO2-) anions are often found in groundwater and surface water as contaminants globally, especially in agricultural areas due to nitrate-rich fertilizer use. One popular approach to studying the removal of nitrite/nitrate from water has been their degradation to dinitrogen via Pd-based reduction catalysis. However, little progress has been made towards understanding how the catalyst structure can improve activity. Focusing on the catalytic reduction of nitrite in this study, we report that Au NPs supporting Pd metal ("Pd-on-Au NPs") show catalytic activity that varies with volcano-shape dependence on Pd surface coverage. At room temperature, in CO2-buffered water, and under H2 headspace, the NPs were maximally active at a Pd surface coverage of 80%, with a first-order rate constant (kcat = 576 L gPd-1 min-1) that was 15x and 7.5x higher than monometallic Pd NPs (~4 nm; 40 L gPd-1 min-1) and Pd/Al2O3 (1 wt% Pd; 76 L gPd-1 min-1), respectively. Accounting only for surface Pd atoms, these NPs (576 L gsurface-Pd-1 min-1) were 3.6x and 1.6x higher than monometallic Pd NPs (160 L gsurface-Pd-1 min-1) and Pd/Al2O3 (361 L gsurface-Pd-1 min-1). These NPs retained ~98% of catalytic activity at a chloride concentration of 1 mM, whereas Pd/Al2O3 lost ~50%. The Pd-on-Au nanostructure is a promising approach to improve the catalytic reduction process for nitrite and, with further development, also for nitrate anions. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr04540d

Driver response to the TetraStar Navigation Assistance System by age and sex

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-07-01

This study is part of the evaluation of the FAST-TRAC operational test of an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) in Michigan and is concerned with user perceptions and behaviors with Advanced Traveler Information Systems (ATIS). The use and perce...

MONITORING OF WATERWAYS FOR EMERGING CONTAMINANTS USING INTEGRATIVE SAMPLING COUPLED WITH LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY-ELECTROSPRAY/MASS SPECTROMETRY

EPA Science Inventory

Assessing the potential impact to the aquatic environment from emerging contaminants, entails monitoring a complex mixture (pharmaceuticals, polar pesticides, industrial by- products and degradation products) in natural waters. The presence of these chemicals, often at ultra-trac...

Dynamic travel information personalized and delivered to your cell phone : addendum.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-03-01

Real-time travel information must reach a significant amount of travelers to create a large amount of travel behavior change. For this project, since the TRAC-IT mobile phone application is used to monitor user context in terms of location, the mobil...

Human Health Risk Assessment: A case study application of principles in dose response assessment

EPA Science Inventory

This case study application workshop will build on fundamental concepts and techniques in risk assessment presented and archived at previous TRAC meeting workshops. Practical examples from publicly available, peer reviewed risk assessments will be used as teaching aids. Course ...

Measuring Impact of EPAs Computational Toxicology Research (BOSC)

EPA Science Inventory

Computational Toxicology (CompTox) research at the EPA was initiated in 2005. Since 2005, CompTox research efforts have made tremendous advances in developing new approaches to evaluate thousands of chemicals for potential health effects. The purpose of this case study is to trac...

Genetic algorithm-based stochastic optimization for preempted signals at highway railroad grade crossing.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-09-01

Decreasing the number of accidents at highway-railway grade crossings (HRGCs) is an important goal in the transportation field. The preemption of traffic signal operations at HRGCs is widely used to prevent accidents by clearing vehicles off the trac...

A description of QUALCOMM Automatic Satellite Position Reporting (QASPR(R)) for mobile communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ames, William G.

1990-01-01

Two satellite position reporting has been introduced into the OmniTRACS mobile satellite communication system. This system significantly improves position reporting reliability and accuracy while simplifying the terminal's hardware. The positioning technique uses the original OmniTRACS TDMA timing signal formats in the forward and return link directions plus an auxiliary, low power forward link signal through a second satellite to derive distance values. The distances are then converted into the mobile terminal's latitude and longitude in real time. A minor augmentation of the spread spectrum profile of the return link allowed the resolution of periodic ambiguities. The system also locates the two satellites in real time with fixed platforms in known locations using identical mobile terminal hardware. Initial accuracies of 1/4 mile have been realized uniformly throughout the USA using a satellite separation of 22 degrees and there are no dead zones, skywaves, or cycle slips as found in terrestrial systems like LORAN-C.

A description of QUALCOMM Automatic Satellite Position Reporting (QASPR(R)) for mobile communications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ames, William G.

Two satellite position reporting has been introduced into the OmniTRACS mobile satellite communication system. This system significantly improves position reporting reliability and accuracy while simplifying the terminal's hardware. The positioning technique uses the original OmniTRACS TDMA timing signal formats in the forward and return link directions plus an auxiliary, low power forward link signal through a second satellite to derive distance values. The distances are then converted into the mobile terminal's latitude and longitude in real time. A minor augmentation of the spread spectrum profile of the return link allowed the resolution of periodic ambiguities. The system also locates the two satellites in real time with fixed platforms in known locations using identical mobile terminal hardware. Initial accuracies of 1/4 mile have been realized uniformly throughout the USA using a satellite separation of 22 degrees and there are no dead zones, skywaves, or cycle slips as found in terrestrial systems like LORAN-C.

Poria cocos polysaccharide attenuates RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis by suppressing NFATc1 activity and phosphorylation of ERK and STAT3.

PubMed

Song, Dezhi; Cao, Zhen; Tickner, Jennifer; Qiu, Heng; Wang, Chao; Chen, Kai; Wang, Ziyi; Guo, Chunyu; Dong, Shiwu; Xu, Jiake

2018-06-01

Pathological fractures caused by osteolytic lesions seriously threaten the health of patients. Osteoclasts play important roles in bone resorption whose hyperfunction are closely related to osteolytic lesions. Studies on osteoclast differentiation and function assist in the prevention of excessive bone loss associated diseases. We screened a variety of natural compounds with anti-inflammatory effect and found that poria cocos polysaccharide (PCP) inhibited RANKL-induced osteoclast formation and bone resorption via TRAcP staining, immunofluorescence, RT-PCR and western blot. PCP down-regulated phosphorylation of STAT3, P38, ERK and JNK, and thus repressed the expression of NFAcT1 and c-Fos during RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis. Besides, the expression of bone resorption related genes such as TRAcP and CTSK was suppressed by PCP. The results suggest that PCP can be invoked as a candidate for the treatment of osteolytic diseases by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of 3D pseudo pin-by-pin calculation methodology in ANC

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

Zhang, B.; Mayhue, L.; Huria, H.

2012-07-01

Advanced cores and fuel assembly designs have been developed to improve operational flexibility, economic performance and further enhance safety features of nuclear power plants. The simulation of these new designs, along with strong heterogeneous fuel loading, have brought new challenges to the reactor physics methodologies currently employed in the industrial codes for core analyses. Control rod insertion during normal operation is one operational feature in the AP1000{sup R} plant of Westinghouse next generation Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) design. This design improves its operational flexibility and efficiency but significantly challenges the conventional reactor physics methods, especially in pin power calculations. Themore » mixture loading of fuel assemblies with significant neutron spectrums causes a strong interaction between different fuel assembly types that is not fully captured with the current core design codes. To overcome the weaknesses of the conventional methods, Westinghouse has developed a state-of-the-art 3D Pin-by-Pin Calculation Methodology (P3C) and successfully implemented in the Westinghouse core design code ANC. The new methodology has been qualified and licensed for pin power prediction. The 3D P3C methodology along with its application and validation will be discussed in the paper. (authors)« less

CFD and Neutron codes coupling on a computational platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cerroni, D.; Da Vià, R.; Manservisi, S.; Menghini, F.; Scardovelli, R.

2017-01-01

In this work we investigate the thermal-hydraulics behavior of a PWR nuclear reactor core, evaluating the power generation distribution taking into account the local temperature field. The temperature field, evaluated using a self-developed CFD module, is exchanged with a neutron code, DONJON-DRAGON, which updates the macroscopic cross sections and evaluates the new neutron flux. From the updated neutron flux the new peak factor is evaluated and the new temperature field is computed. The exchange of data between the two codes is obtained thanks to their inclusion into the computational platform SALOME, an open-source tools developed by the collaborative project NURESAFE. The numerical libraries MEDmem, included into the SALOME platform, are used in this work, for the projection of computational fields from one problem to another. The two problems are driven by a common supervisor that can access to the computational fields of both systems, in every time step, the temperature field, is extracted from the CFD problem and set into the neutron problem. After this iteration the new power peak factor is projected back into the CFD problem and the new time step can be computed. Several computational examples, where both neutron and thermal-hydraulics quantities are parametrized, are finally reported in this work.

Modeling of local steam condensation on walls in presence of non-condensable gases. Application to a loca calculation in reactor containment using the multidimensional geyser/tonus code

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

Benet, L.V.; Caroli, C.; Cornet, P.

1995-09-01

This paper reports part of a study of possible severe pressurized water reactor (PWR) accidents. The need for containment modeling, and in particular for a hydrogen risk study, was reinforced in France after 1990, with the requirement that severe accidents must be taken into account in the design of future plants. This new need of assessing the transient local hydrogen concentration led to the development, in the Mechanical Engineering and Technology Department of the French Atomic Energy Commission (CEA/DMT), of the multidimensional code GEYSER/TONUS for containment analysis. A detailed example of the use of this code is presented. The mixturemore » consisted of noncondensable gases (air or air plus hydrogen) and water vapor and liquid water. This is described by a compressible homogeneous two-phase flow model and wall condensation is based on the Chilton-Colburn formula and the analogy between heat and mass transfer. Results are given for a transient two-dimensional axially-symmetric computation for the first hour of a simplified accident sequence. In this there was an initial injection of a large amount of water vapor followed by a smaller amount and by hydrogen injection.« less

Architecture engineering toward highly active palladium integrated titanium dioxide yolk-double-shell nanoreactor for catalytic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Baocang; Wang, Qin; Yu, Shengli; Jing, Peng; Liu, Lixia; Xu, Guangran; Zhang, Jun

2014-09-01

Rational design of the hierarchical architecture of a material with well controlled functionality is crucially important for improving its properties. In this paper, we present the general strategies for rationally designing and constructing three types of hierarchical Pd integrated TiO2 double-shell architectures, i.e. yolk-double-shell TiO2 architecture (Pd@TiO2/Pd@TiO2) with yolk-type Pd nanoparticles residing inside the central cavity of the hollow TiO2 structure; ultrafine Pd nanoparticles homogenously dispersed on both the external and internal surfaces of the inner TiO2 shell; and double-shell TiO2 architecture (@TiO2/Pd@TiO2) with Pd nanoparticles solely loaded on the external surface of the inner TiO2 shell, and double-shell TiO2 architecture (@TiO2@Pd@TiO2) with Pd nanoparticles dispersed in the interlayer space of double TiO2 shells, via newly developed Pd2+ ion-diffusion and Pd sol impregnation methodologies. These architectures are well controlled in structure, size, morphology, and configuration with Pd nanoparticles existing in various locations. Owing to the variable synergistic effects arising from the location discrepancies of Pd nanoparticle in the architectures, they exhibit remarkable variations in catalytic activity. In particular, different from previously reported yolk-shell structures, the obtained yolk-double-shell Pd@TiO2/Pd@TiO2 architecture, which is revealed for the first time, possesses a uniform hierarchical structure, narrow size distribution, and good monodispersibility, and it creates two Pd-TiO2 interfaces on the external and internal surfaces of the inner TiO2 shell, leading to the strongest synergistic effect of Pd nanoparticles with TiO2 shell. Furthermore, the interlayer chamber between the double TiO2 shells connecting with the central cavity of the hollow TiO2 structure through the mesoporous TiO2 wall forms a nanoreactor for enriching the reactants and preventing the deletion of Pd nanoparticles during the reaction, thus greatly accelerating the reaction speed. Owing to its structural features, yolk-double-shell Pd@TiO2/Pd@TiO2 architecture exhibits extremely high catalytic performance on the Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction. The synthetic methodologies are robust for fabricating double-shell architectures with various configurations for applications such as in catalysis, drug delivery, and medicine release. The obtained double-shell architectures may be used as novel catalyst systems with highly efficient catalytic performance for other catalytic reactions.Rational design of the hierarchical architecture of a material with well controlled functionality is crucially important for improving its properties. In this paper, we present the general strategies for rationally designing and constructing three types of hierarchical Pd integrated TiO2 double-shell architectures, i.e. yolk-double-shell TiO2 architecture (Pd@TiO2/Pd@TiO2) with yolk-type Pd nanoparticles residing inside the central cavity of the hollow TiO2 structure; ultrafine Pd nanoparticles homogenously dispersed on both the external and internal surfaces of the inner TiO2 shell; and double-shell TiO2 architecture (@TiO2/Pd@TiO2) with Pd nanoparticles solely loaded on the external surface of the inner TiO2 shell, and double-shell TiO2 architecture (@TiO2@Pd@TiO2) with Pd nanoparticles dispersed in the interlayer space of double TiO2 shells, via newly developed Pd2+ ion-diffusion and Pd sol impregnation methodologies. These architectures are well controlled in structure, size, morphology, and configuration with Pd nanoparticles existing in various locations. Owing to the variable synergistic effects arising from the location discrepancies of Pd nanoparticle in the architectures, they exhibit remarkable variations in catalytic activity. In particular, different from previously reported yolk-shell structures, the obtained yolk-double-shell Pd@TiO2/Pd@TiO2 architecture, which is revealed for the first time, possesses a uniform hierarchical structure, narrow size distribution, and good monodispersibility, and it creates two Pd-TiO2 interfaces on the external and internal surfaces of the inner TiO2 shell, leading to the strongest synergistic effect of Pd nanoparticles with TiO2 shell. Furthermore, the interlayer chamber between the double TiO2 shells connecting with the central cavity of the hollow TiO2 structure through the mesoporous TiO2 wall forms a nanoreactor for enriching the reactants and preventing the deletion of Pd nanoparticles during the reaction, thus greatly accelerating the reaction speed. Owing to its structural features, yolk-double-shell Pd@TiO2/Pd@TiO2 architecture exhibits extremely high catalytic performance on the Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction. The synthetic methodologies are robust for fabricating double-shell architectures with various configurations for applications such as in catalysis, drug delivery, and medicine release. The obtained double-shell architectures may be used as novel catalyst systems with highly efficient catalytic performance for other catalytic reactions. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Synthetic schemes, TEM, SEM, XRD, FTIR, UV-DRS spectra, TPR, and catalytic data. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr02692f

Porous Nanocrystalline Silicon Supported Bimetallic Pd-Au Catalysts: Preparation, Characterization, and Direct Hydrogen Peroxide Synthesis

PubMed Central

Potemkin, Dmitriy I.; Maslov, Dmitry K.; Loponov, Konstantin; Snytnikov, Pavel V.; Shubin, Yuri V.; Plyusnin, Pavel E.; Svintsitskiy, Dmitry A.; Sobyanin, Vladimir A.; Lapkin, Alexei A.

2018-01-01

Bimetallic Pd-Au catalysts were prepared on the porous nanocrystalline silicon (PSi) for the first time. The catalysts were tested in the reaction of direct hydrogen peroxide synthesis and characterized by standard structural and chemical techniques. It was shown that the Pd-Au/PSi catalyst prepared from conventional H2[PdCl4] and H[AuCl4] precursors contains monometallic Pd and a range of different Pd-Au alloy nanoparticles over the oxidized PSi surface. The PdAu2/PSi catalyst prepared from the [Pd(NH3)4][AuCl4]2 double complex salt (DCS) single-source precursor predominantly contains bimetallic Pd-Au alloy nanoparticles. For both catalysts the surface of bimetallic nanoparticles is Pd-enriched and contains palladium in Pd0 and Pd2+ states. Among the catalysts studied, the PdAu2/PSi catalyst was the most active and selective in the direct H2O2 synthesis with H2O2 productivity of 0.5 mol gPd-1 h-1 at selectivity of 50% and H2O2 concentration of 0.023 M in 0.03 M H2SO4-methanol solution after 5 h on stream at −10°C and atmospheric pressure. This performance is due to high activity in the H2O2 synthesis reaction and low activities in the undesirable H2O2 decomposition and hydrogenation reactions. Good performance of the PdAu2/PSi catalyst was associated with the major part of Pd in the catalyst being in the form of the bimetallic Pd-Au nanoparticles. Porous silicon was concluded to be a promising catalytic support for direct hydrogen peroxide synthesis due to its inertness with respect to undesirable side reactions, high thermal stability, and conductivity, possibility of safe operation at high temperatures and pressures and a well-established manufacturing process. PMID:29637068

Programmed Death-1 Ligand 2-Mediated Regulation of the PD-L1 to PD-1 Axis Is Essential for Establishing CD4(+) T Cell Immunity.

PubMed

Karunarathne, Deshapriya S; Horne-Debets, Joshua M; Huang, Johnny X; Faleiro, Rebecca; Leow, Chiuan Yee; Amante, Fiona; Watkins, Thomas S; Miles, John J; Dwyer, Patrick J; Stacey, Katryn J; Yarski, Michael; Poh, Chek Meng; Lee, Jason S; Cooper, Matthew A; Rénia, Laurent; Richard, Derek; McCarthy, James S; Sharpe, Arlene H; Wykes, Michelle N

2016-08-16

Many pathogens, including Plasmodium spp., exploit the interaction of programmed death-1 (PD-1) with PD-1-ligand-1 (PD-L1) to "deactivate" T cell functions, but the role of PD-L2 remains unclear. We studied malarial infections to understand the contribution of PD-L2 to immunity. Here we have shown that higher PD-L2 expression on blood dendritic cells, from Plasmodium falciparum-infected individuals, correlated with lower parasitemia. Mechanistic studies in mice showed that PD-L2 was indispensable for establishing effective CD4(+) T cell immunity against malaria, because it not only inhibited PD-L1 to PD-1 activity but also increased CD3 and inducible co-stimulator (ICOS) expression on T cells. Importantly, administration of soluble multimeric PD-L2 to mice with lethal malaria was sufficient to dramatically improve immunity and survival. These studies show immuno-regulation by PD-L2, which has the potential to be translated into an effective treatment for malaria and other diseases where T cell immunity is ineffective or short-lived due to PD-1-mediated signaling. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of pretreatment on pd/Al2O3 catalyst for catalytic oxidation of o-xylene at low temperature.

PubMed

Huang, Shaoyong; Zhang, Changbin; He, Hong

2013-06-01

The effect of pretreatment on Pd/Al2O3 catalysts for the catalytic oxidation of o-xylene at low temperature was studied by changing the pretreatment and testing conditions. The fresh and pretreated Pd/Al2O3 catalysts were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that the pretreatment dramatically changed the Pd/PdO ratio and then significantly affected the Pd/Al2O3 activity; while the pretreatment had not much influence on Pd particle size. The Pd/Al2O3 pre-reduced at 300 degrees C/400 degrees C, which has fully reduced Pd species, showed the highest activity; while the fresh Pd/Al2O3, which has fully oxidized Pd species, presented the worst performance, indicating the Pd chemical state plays an important role in the catalytic activity for the o-xylene oxidation. It is concluded that metallic Pd is the active species on the Pd/Al2O3 catalyst for the catalytic oxidation of o-xylene at low temperature.

[Molecular characterization of 71 cases of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in Hainan province].

PubMed

Huang, Dong-Ai; Wang, Xiao-Ying; Wang, Zheng; Zhou, Dai-Feng; Cai, Wang-Wei

2007-04-01

To molecularly analyze in Han and Li individuals of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in Hainan, China. The amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS) was employed to detect G1376T, G1388A and A95G mutations. The coding regions and flanking intronic regions from the second to the thirteenth exons of G6PD gene was analyzed by DNA sequencing to characterize the gene mutations in samples without G1376T, G1388A and A95G mutations. Among 29 Han cases of G6PD deficiency, 11 had G1376T (37.9%), 2 G1388A (6.9%), 1 G1376T and G1388A (3.4%) and 1 G1376T and A95G (3.4%) were identified. Mutations of G1376T, G1388A, A95G and their complex accounted for 51.7% of G6PD deficiency in the Han individuals. Among 42 Li cases of G6PD deficiency, 25 had G1376T (59.5%), 6 G1388A (14.3%), 2 A95G (4.8%), 4 G1376T and G1388A (9.5%), 1 G1376T and A95G (2.4% )were identified. These mutations accounted for 90.5% of the Li individuals. Gene mutation of 18 cases (14 Han and 4 Li individuals) remained unknown. Sequencing results of the 18 samples indicated that one case had a single base of T deletion at nucleotide 636 or 637 in the 5th intron (IVS-5 636 or 637 T del) and two cases had C1311T with IVS-11 T93C mutation. G6PD G1376T and G1388A are the most common mutations in the populations of the Han and Li nationalities in Hainan. The IVS-5 636 or 637 T del mutation is first reported in Chinese, and the complex mutation of G1376T/A95G is first found in the Li nationality.

Structural characterization and comparative modeling of PD-Ls 1-3, type 1 ribosome-inactivating proteins from summer leaves of Phytolacca dioica L.

PubMed

Di Maro, Antimo; Chambery, Angela; Carafa, Vincenzo; Costantini, Susan; Colonna, Giovanni; Parente, Augusto

2009-03-01

The amino acid sequence and glycan structure of PD-L1, PD-L2 and PD-L3, type 1 ribosome-inactivating proteins isolated from Phytolacca dioica L. leaves, were determined using a combined approach based on peptide mapping, Edman degradation and ESI-Q-TOF MS in precursor ion discovery mode. The comparative analysis of the 261 amino acid residue sequences showed that PD-L1 and PD-L2 have identical primary structure, as it is the case of PD-L3 and PD-L4. Furthermore, the primary structure of PD-Ls 1-2 and PD-Ls 3-4 have 81.6% identity (85.1% similarity). The ESI-Q-TOF MS analysis confirmed that PD-Ls 1-3 were glycosylated at different sites. In particular, PD-L1 contained three glycidic chains with the well known paucidomannosidic structure (Man)(3) (GlcNAc)(2) (Fuc)(1) (Xyl)(1) linked to Asn10, Asn43 and Asn255. PD-L2 was glycosylated at Asn10 and Asn43, and PD-L3 was glycosylated only at Asn10. PD-L4 was confirmed to be not glycosylated. Despite an overall high structural similarity, the comparative modeling of PD-L1, PD-L2, PD-L3 and PD-L4 has shown potential influences of the glycidic chains on their adenine polynucleotide glycosylase activity on different substrates.

Multirecycling of Plutonium from LMFBR Blanket in Standard PWRs Loaded with MOX Fuel

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

Sonat Sen; Gilles Youinou

2013-02-01

It is now well-known that, from a physics standpoint, Pu, or even TRU (i.e. Pu+M.A.), originating from LEU fuel irradiated in PWRs can be multirecycled also in PWRs using MOX fuel. However, the degradation of the isotopic composition during irradiation necessitates using enriched U in conjunction with the MOX fuel either homogeneously or heterogeneously to maintain the Pu (or TRU) content at a level allowing safe operation of the reactor, i.e. below about 10%. The study is related to another possible utilization of the excess Pu produced in the blanket of a LMFBR, namely in a PWR(MOX). In this casemore » the more Pu is bred in the LMFBR, the more PWR(MOX) it can sustain. The important difference between the Pu coming from the blanket of a LMFBR and that coming from a PWR(LEU) is its isotopic composition. The first one contains about 95% of fissile isotopes whereas the second one contains only about 65% of fissile isotopes. As it will be shown later, this difference allows the PWR fed by Pu from the LMFBR blanket to operate with natural U instead of enriched U when it is fed by Pu from PWR(LEU)« less

Programmed death-1 ligands 1 and 2 expression in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and their relationship with tumour- infiltrating dendritic cells.

PubMed

Jiao, Q; Liu, C; Li, W; Li, W; Fang, F; Qian, Q; Zhang, X

2017-06-01

The programmed death-1 (PD-1) receptor ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, are co-stimulatory molecules that contribute to the negative regulation of T lymphocyte activation. It is still unclear whether there is correlation between PD-L1 or PD-L2 and tumour-infiltrating dendritic cells (TIDCs) in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). The aim of this study was to analyse PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression and dendritic cells infiltration in tumour tissue of CSCC patients and investigate their clinical significance. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to evaluate the expression of PD-L1, PD-L2, CD1a and CD83 in 61 CSCC tissues. The immunofluoresence double-labelling technique was performed to detect the co-expression of PD-L1 or PD-L2 and CD1a or CD83 in tumour tissues. We found that 25 of 61 cases CSCC (40·98%) exhibited positivity for PD-L1, whereas 37 of 61 cases CSCC (60·66%) exhibited positivity for PD-L2. A higher percentage of CD1a-positive cases were observed on both PD-L1-positive and PD-L2-positive specimens compared with that of CD83-positive cases (92·29% versus 37·60%, 83·20% versus 33·16%). The expression of PD-L1 and PD-L2 on CD1a + cells was significantly higher than that on CD83 + cells in tumour tissues of CSCC patients. Furthermore, the expression rate of PD-L1 was associated with UICC stage, and the expression rate of PD-L2 was associated with predominant differentiation and tumour size in CSCC. Our results indicated that higher expression of PD-L1 and PD-L2 on CD1a + cells than that on CD83 + cells in CSCC tumour tissues may contribute to negative regulation in anti-tumour immune responses. © 2017 British Society for Immunology.