Sample records for x-shapes off-axis distortions

  1. Distortion definition and correction in off-axis systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Da Deppo, Vania; Simioni, Emanuele; Naletto, Giampiero; Cremonese, Gabriele

    2015-09-01

    Off-axis optical configurations are becoming more and more used in a variety of applications, in particular they are the most preferred solution for cameras devoted to Solar System planets and small bodies (i.e. asteroids and comets) study. Off-axis designs, being devoid of central obstruction, are able to guarantee better PSF and MTF performance, and thus higher contrast imaging capabilities with respect to classical on-axis designs. In particular they are suitable for observing extended targets with intrinsic low contrast features, or scenes where a high dynamical signal range is present. Classical distortion theory is able to well describe the performance of the on-axis systems, but it has to be adapted for the off-axis case. A proper way to deal with off-axis distortion definition is thus needed together with dedicated techniques to accurately measure and hence remove the distortion effects present in the acquired images. In this paper, a review of the distortion definition for off-axis systems will be given. In particular the method adopted by the authors to deal with the distortion related issues (definition, measure, removal) in some off-axis instruments will be described in detail.

  2. THE ABUNDANCE OF X-SHAPED RADIO SOURCES. I. VLA SURVEY OF 52 SOURCES WITH OFF-AXIS DISTORTIONS

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

    Roberts, David H.; Cohen, Jake P.; Lu, Jing

    Cheung identified a sample of 100 candidate X-shaped radio galaxies using the NRAO FIRST survey; these are small-axial-ratio extended radio sources with off-axis emission. Here, we present radio images of 52 of these sources that have been made from archival Very Large Array data with resolution of about 1″. Fifty-one of the 52 were observed at 1.4 GHz, 7 were observed at 1.4 and 5 GHz, and 1 was observed only at 5 GHz. We also present overlays of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey red images for 48 of the sources, and DSS II overlays for the remainder. Optical counterpartsmore » have been identified for most sources, but there remain a few empty fields. Our higher resolution VLA images along with FIRST survey images of the sources in the sample reveal that extended extragalactic radio sources with small axial ratios are largely (60%) cases of double radio sources with twin lobes that have off-axis extensions, usually with inversion-symmetric structure. The available radio images indicate that at most 20% of sources might be genuine X-shaped radio sources that could have formed by a restarting of beams in a new direction following an interruption and axis flip. The remaining 20% are in neither of these categories. The implications of this result for the gravitational wave background are discussed in Roberts et al.« less

  3. Shaping off-axis metallic membrane reflectors using optimal boundary shapes and inelastic strains

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    White, C. V.; Dragovan, M.

    2004-01-01

    This paper will describe a novel concept for constructing off-axis membrane reflector surfaces. Membrane reflectors have been extensively studied, including investigations into inflated lenticular architectures, shaping by spin casting, shaping using electrostatic forces, and shaping by evacuating behind a membrane surface stretched between circular or annular-shaped supports.

  4. Design of Off-Axis PIAACMC Mirrors

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pluzhnik, Eugene; Guyon, Olivier; Belikov, Ruslan; Kern, Brian; Bendek, Eduardo

    2015-01-01

    The Phase-Induced Amplitude Apodization Complex Mask Coronagraph (PIAACMC) provides an efficient way to control diffraction propagation effects caused by the central obstruction/segmented mirrors of the telescope. PIAACMC can be optimized in a way that takes into account both chromatic diffraction effects caused by the telescope obstructed aperture and tip/tilt sensitivity of the coronagraph. As a result, unlike classic PIAA, the PIAACMC mirror shapes are often slightly asymmetric even for an on-axis configuration and require more care in calculating off-axis shapes when an off-axis configuration is preferred. A method to design off-axis PIAA mirror shapes given an on-axis mirror design is presented. The algorithm is based on geometrical ray tracing and is able to calculate off-axis PIAA mirror shapes for an arbitrary geometry of the input and output beams. The method is demonstrated using the third generation PIAACMC design for WFIRST-AFTA (Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope-Astrophysics Focused Telescope Assets) telescope. Geometrical optics design issues related to the off-axis diffraction propagation effects are also discussed.

  5. Diamond Machining of an Off-Axis Biconic Aspherical Mirror

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ohl, Raymond G.; Preuss, Werner; Sohn, Alex; MacKenty, John

    2009-01-01

    Two diamond-machining methods have been developed as part of an effort to design and fabricate an off-axis, biconic ellipsoidal, concave aluminum mirror for an infrared spectrometer at the Kitt Peak National Observatory. Beyond this initial application, the methods can be expected to enable satisfaction of requirements for future instrument mirrors having increasingly complex (including asymmetrical), precise shapes that, heretofore, could not readily be fabricated by diamond machining or, in some cases, could not be fabricated at all. In the initial application, the mirror is prescribed, in terms of Cartesian coordinates x and y, by aperture dimensions of 94 by 76 mm, placements of -2 mm off axis in x and 227 mm off axis in y, an x radius of curvature of 377 mm, a y radius of curvature of 407 mm, an x conic constant of 0.078, and a y conic constant of 0.127. The aspect ratio of the mirror blank is about 6. One common, "diamond machining" process uses single-point diamond turning (SPDT). However, it is impossible to generate the required off-axis, biconic ellipsoidal shape by conventional SPDT because (1) rotational symmetry is an essential element of conventional SPDT and (2) the present off-axis biconic mirror shape lacks rotational symmetry. Following conventional practice, it would be necessary to make this mirror from a glass blank by computer-controlled polishing, which costs more than diamond machining and yields a mirror that is more difficult to mount to a metal bench. One of the two present diamond machining methods involves the use of an SPDT machine equipped with a fast tool servo (FTS). The SPDT machine is programmed to follow the rotationally symmetric asphere that best fits the desired off-axis, biconic ellipsoidal surface. The FTS is actuated in synchronism with the rotation of the SPDT machine to generate the difference between the desired surface and the best-fit rotationally symmetric asphere. In order to minimize the required stroke of the FTS

  6. Instrument Line Shape Modeling and Correction for Off-Axis Detectors in Fourier Transform Spectrometry

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bowman, K.; Worden, H.; Beer, R.

    1999-01-01

    Spectra measured by off-axis detectors in a high-resolution Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS) are characterized by frequency scaling, asymmetry and broadening of their line shape, and self-apodization in the corresponding interferogram.

  7. Extremely Soft X-Ray Flash as the Indicator of Off-axis Orphan GRB Afterglow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Urata, Yuji; Huang, Kuiyun; Yamazaki, Ryo; Sakamoto, Takanori

    2015-06-01

    We verified the off-axis jet model of X-ray flashes (XRFs) and examined a discovery of off-axis orphan gamma-ray burst (GRB) afterglows. The XRF sample was selected on the basis of the following three factors: (1) a constraint on the lower peak energy of the prompt spectrum {E}{obs}{src}, (2) redshift measurements, and (3) multicolor observations of an earlier (or brightening) phase. XRF 020903 was the only sample selected on the basis of these criteria. A complete optical multicolor afterglow light curve of XRF 020903 obtained from archived data and photometric results in the literature showed an achromatic brightening around 0.7 days. An off-axis jet model with a large observing angle (0.21 rad, which is twice the jet opening half-angle, {θ }{jet}) can naturally describe the achromatic brightening and the prompt X-ray spectral properties. This result indicates the existence of off-axis orphan GRB afterglow light curves. Events with a larger viewing angle (\\gt ∼ 2{θ }{jet}) could be discovered using an 8 m class telescope with wide-field imagers such as the Subaru Hyper-Suprime-Cam and the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope.

  8. SU-F-T-425: Head-Scatter Off-Axis for FFF Megavoltage Photon Beams

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

    Zhu, T; Penjweini, R; Dimofte, A

    Purpose: Head-scatter photons inside a clinical accelerator cause the output to change with collimator setting. On the central-axis, this contribution is well-described by output factor in air (or head-scatter factor). However, a few studies have examined this component at off-axis points. Methods: We define the head-scatter off-axis ratio, HOA, as the ratio of the water kerma in air due to head-scatter photons at the off-axis position x to the water kerma from direct primary photons on the central axis: HOA(cx,cy,xy) = (Q(cx,cy,x) – QP(cx,cy,x))/QP(cx,cy,0), where Q(cx, cy,x), QP(cx,cy,x) are charges measured by an ionization chamber in a miniphantom for collimatormore » setting cx × cy and cx × 3 cm, respectively, at off-axis point x. “Direct primary” is those photons that come from the source without interactions in the intervening structures. Results: We measured HOA for two energies (6XFFF and 6X) along X and Y jaw directions for various collimator settings. The shape of HOA has well defined penumbra for collimator setting larger than 10 × 10 cm2. Conclusion: The narrow gaussian component is interpreted as the source of photons scattered in the flattening filter and the primary collimator. The broad component is attributed to photons scattered in the secondary (variable) collimators. By a direct comparison between 6X and 6XFFF beams, we can confirm that the second component is indeed coming from collimator jaws and identify the parts coming from the primary collimator and the flattening filter, respectively.« less

  9. X-ray microfocusing with off-axis ellipsoidal mirror

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

    Yumoto, Hirokatsu, E-mail: yumoto@spring8.or.jp; Koyama, Takahisa; Matsuyama, Satoshi

    2016-07-27

    High-precision ellipsoidal mirrors for two-dimensionally focusing X-rays to nanometer sizes have not been realized because of technical problems in their fabrication processes. The objective of the present study is to develop fabrication techniques for ellipsoidal focusing mirrors in the hard-X-ray region. We design an off-axis ellipsoidal mirror for use under total reflection conditions up to the X-ray energy of 8 keV. We fabricate an ellipsoidal mirror with a surface roughness of 0.3 nm RMS (root-mean-square) and a surface figure error height of 3.0 nm RMS by utilizing a surface profiler and surface finishing method developed by us. The focusing propertiesmore » of the mirror are evaluated at the BL29XUL beamline in SPring-8. A focusing beam size of 270 nm × 360 nm FWHM (full width at half maximum) at an X-ray energy of 7 keV is observed with the use of the knife-edge scanning method. We expect to apply the developed fabrication techniques to construct ellipsoidal nanofocusing mirrors.« less

  10. Off-axis astigmatism in the isolated chicken crystalline lens.

    PubMed

    Maier, Felix; Wahl, Siegfried; Schaeffel, Frank

    2016-12-01

    The chicken eye was previously found to have little off-axis astigmatism which is not explained by its special corneal shape but rather by the optical properties of the crystalline lens. To learn more about lens design, we studied off-axis astigmatism in the chicken lens in situ and compared it to a glass lens of similar power but with homogenous refractive index. After euthanasia, enucleated eye balls were cut in the equatorial plane right behind the scleral ossicles. The anterior segment was placed in a water-filled chamber. Several thin laser beams were projected in two perpendicular meridians through the lens under various eccentricities and the focal lengths were determined. Off-axis astigmatism across the horizontal visual field was determined as the differences in power in the two meridians. The same procedure was used for the glass lens. On-axis, the chicken crystalline lens had slightly more power in the vertical than in the horizontal meridian (-2.8±0.7D (SEM)). Astigmatism flipped sign and increased with eccentricity to reach +6.1±2.1D (SEM) at 33.5deg off-axis, as expected from off-axis astigmatism. Even though this value appears high, it was still 2.5 times lower than in the glass lens. A ZEMAX model of a lens with a homogeneous index and with surface profiles taken of the natural chicken lens revealed even higher levels of off-axis astigmatism. Obviously, the natural chicken lens displays much less off-axis astigmatism than a glass lens with similar power. Since its shape does not explain the low off-axis astigmatism, it must be due to a refined internal refractive index structure. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Hybrid shallow on-axis and deep off-axis hydrothermal circulation at fast-spreading ridges.

    PubMed

    Hasenclever, Jörg; Theissen-Krah, Sonja; Rüpke, Lars H; Morgan, Jason P; Iyer, Karthik; Petersen, Sven; Devey, Colin W

    2014-04-24

    Hydrothermal flow at oceanic spreading centres accounts for about ten per cent of all heat flux in the oceans and controls the thermal structure of young oceanic plates. It also influences ocean and crustal chemistry, provides a basis for chemosynthetic ecosystems, and has formed massive sulphide ore deposits throughout Earth's history. Despite this, how and under what conditions heat is extracted, in particular from the lower crust, remains largely unclear. Here we present high-resolution, whole-crust, two- and three-dimensional simulations of hydrothermal flow beneath fast-spreading ridges that predict the existence of two interacting flow components, controlled by different physical mechanisms, that merge above the melt lens to feed ridge-centred vent sites. Shallow on-axis flow structures develop owing to the thermodynamic properties of water, whereas deeper off-axis flow is strongly shaped by crustal permeability, particularly the brittle-ductile transition. About 60 per cent of the discharging fluid mass is replenished on-axis by warm (up to 300 degrees Celsius) recharge flow surrounding the hot thermal plumes, and the remaining 40 per cent or so occurs as colder and broader recharge up to several kilometres away from the axis that feeds hot (500-700 degrees Celsius) deep-rooted off-axis flow towards the ridge. Despite its lower contribution to the total mass flux, this deep off-axis flow carries about 70 per cent of the thermal energy released at the ridge axis. This combination of two flow components explains the seismically determined thermal structure of the crust and reconciles previously incompatible models favouring either shallower on-axis or deeper off-axis hydrothermal circulation.

  12. Analysis of nodal aberration properties in off-axis freeform system design.

    PubMed

    Shi, Haodong; Jiang, Huilin; Zhang, Xin; Wang, Chao; Liu, Tao

    2016-08-20

    Freeform surfaces have the advantage of balancing off-axis aberration. In this paper, based on the framework of nodal aberration theory (NAT) applied to the coaxial system, the third-order astigmatism and coma wave aberration expressions of an off-axis system with Zernike polynomial surfaces are derived. The relationship between the off-axis and surface shape acting on the nodal distributions is revealed. The nodal aberration properties of the off-axis freeform system are analyzed and validated by using full-field displays (FFDs). It has been demonstrated that adding Zernike terms, up to nine, to the off-axis system modifies the nodal locations, but the field dependence of the third-order aberration does not change. On this basis, an off-axis two-mirror freeform system with 500 mm effective focal length (EFL) and 300 mm entrance pupil diameter (EPD) working in long-wave infrared is designed. The field constant aberrations induced by surface tilting are corrected by selecting specific Zernike terms. The design results show that the nodes of third-order astigmatism and coma move back into the field of view (FOV). The modulation transfer function (MTF) curves are above 0.4 at 20 line pairs per millimeter (lp/mm) which meets the infrared reconnaissance requirement. This work provides essential insight and guidance for aberration correction in off-axis freeform system design.

  13. Low-loss off-axis feeds for symmetric dual-reflector antennas

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Veruttipong, T.; Galindo-Israel, V.; Imbriale, W.

    1986-01-01

    Circularly symmetric, dual reflector, high gain antenna systems often require feeds placed off the system's axis because of the need for multiple feeds to use the reflector antenna. Also, the constraint requiring the hyperboloid or shaped subreflector to remain circularly symmetric is sometimes added. In a Cassegrainian system, the subreflector and feed may be rotated off axis around the paraboloid focus and retain main reflector focusing. However, substantial spillover results in considerable noise with a high gain/low noise temperature system. In a shaped system, the tilt of the shaped subreflector and feed together results in substantial defocusing as well as spillover noise. If the subreflector is tilted approximately one-half the angle of the feed tilt in either the Cassegrainian or the dual shaped reflector antenna, it is found that spillover and noise are substantially reduced with tolerable defocusing. An extensive numerical analysis of these effects was conducted to determine the characteristics of a planned 70-meter, dual shaped reflector versus Cassegrainian antenna and to gain some understanding of the cause of the observed effects.

  14. Off-axis reflective optical apparatus

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ames, Lawrence L. (Inventor); Leary, David F. (Inventor); Mammini, Paul V. (Inventor)

    2005-01-01

    Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a simple apparatus and a convenient and accurate method of mounting the components to form an off-axis reflective optical apparatus such as a collimator. In one embodiment, an off-axis reflective optical apparatus comprises a mounting block having a ferrule holder support surface and an off-axis reflector support surface which is generally perpendicular to the ferrule holder support surface. An optical reflector is mounted on the off-axis reflector support surface and has a reflected beam centerline. The optical reflector has a conic reflective surface and a conic center. A ferrule holder is mounted on the ferrule holder support surface. The ferrule holder provides a ferrule for coupling to an optical fiber and orienting a fiber tip of the optical fiber along a fiber axis toward the optical reflector. The fiber axis is nonparallel to the reflected beam centerline. Prior to mounting the optical reflector to the off-axis reflector support surface and prior to mounting the ferrule holder to the ferrule holder support surface, the optical reflector is movable on the off-axis reflector surface and the ferrule holder is movable on the ferrule holder support surface to align the conic center of the optical reflector with respect to the fiber tip of the optical fiber, and the apparatus has at least one of the following features: (1) the optical reflector is movable on the off-axis reflector support surface to adjust a focus of the fiber tip with respect to the optical reflector, and (2) the ferrule holder is movable on the ferrule holder support surface to adjust the focus of the fiber tip with respect to the optical reflector.

  15. Fracture modes in off-axis fiber composites

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sinclair, J. H.; Chamis, C. C.

    1978-01-01

    Criteria were developed for identifying, characterizing, and quantifying fracture modes in high-modulus graphite-fiber/resin unidirectional composites subjected to off-axis tensile loading. Procedures are described which use sensitivity analyses and off-axis data to determine the uniaxial strength of fiber composites. It was found that off-axis composites fail by three fracture modes which produce unique fracture surface characteristics. The stress that dominates each fracture mode and the load angle range of its dominance can be identified. Linear composite mechanics is adequate to describe quantitatively the mechanical behavior of off-axis composites. The uniaxial strengths predicted from off-axis data are comparable to these measured in uniaxial tests.

  16. Off-axis illumination direct-to-digital holography

    DOEpatents

    Thomas, Clarence E.; Price, Jeffery R.; Voelkl, Edgar; Hanson, Gregory R.

    2004-06-08

    Systems and methods are described for off-axis illumination direct-to-digital holography. A method of recording an off-axis illuminated spatially heterodyne hologram including spatially heterodyne fringes for Fourier analysis, includes: reflecting a reference beam from a reference mirror at a non-normal angle; reflecting an object beam from an object at an angle with respect to an optical axis defined by a focusing lens; focusing the reference beam and the object beam at a focal plane of a digital recorder to form the off-axis illuminated spatially heterodyne hologram including spatially heterodyne fringes for Fourier analysis; digitally recording the off-axis illuminated spatially heterodyne hologram including spatially heterodyne fringes for Fourier analysis; Fourier analyzing the recorded off-axis illuminated spatially heterodyne hologram including spatially heterodyne fringes by transforming axes of the recorded off-axis illuminated spatially heterodyne hologram including spatially heterodyne fringes in Fourier space to sit on top of a heterodyne carrier frequency defined as an angle between the reference beam and the object beam; applying a digital filter to cut off signals around an original origin; and then performing an inverse Fourier transform.

  17. Optics ellipticity performance of an unobscured off-axis space telescope.

    PubMed

    Zeng, Fei; Zhang, Xin; Zhang, Jianping; Shi, Guangwei; Wu, Hongbo

    2014-10-20

    With the development of astronomy, more and more attention is paid to the survey of dark matter. Dark matter cannot be seen directly but can be detected by weak gravitational lensing measurement. Ellipticity is an important parameter used to define the shape of a galaxy. Galaxy ellipticity changes with weak gravitational lensing and nonideal optics. With our design of an unobscured off-axis telescope, we implement the simulation and calculation of optics ellipticity. With an accurate model of optics PSF, the characteristic of ellipticity is modeled and analyzed. It is shown that with good optical design, the full field ellipticity can be quite small. The spatial ellipticity change can be modeled by cubic interpolation with very high accuracy. We also modeled the ellipticity variance with time and analyzed the tolerance. It is shown that the unobscured off-axis telescope has good ellipticity performance and fulfills the requirement of dark matter survey.

  18. Effect of Off-Axis Screw Insertion, Insertion Torque, and Plate Contouring on Locked Screw Strength

    PubMed Central

    Gallagher, Bethany; Silva, Matthew J.; Ricci, William M.

    2015-01-01

    Objectives This study quantifies the effects of insertion torque, off-axis screw angulation, and plate contouring on the strength of locking plate constructs. Methods Groups of locking screws (n = 6–11 screws) were inserted at 50%, 100%, 150%, and 200% of the manufacturer-recommended torque (3.2 Nm) into locking compression plates at various angles: orthogonal (control), 5-degree angle off-axis, and 10-degree angle off-axis. Screws were loaded to failure by a transverse force (parallel to the plate) either in the same (“+”) or opposite direction (“−”) of the initial screw angulation. Separately, locking plates were bent to 5 and 10-degree angles, with the bend apex at a screw hole. Locking screws inserted orthogonally into the apex hole at 100% torque were loaded to failure. Results Orthogonal insertion resulted in the highest average load to failure, 2577 ± 141 N (range, 2413–2778 N), whereas any off-axis insertion significantly weakened constructs (165–1285 N, at 100% torque) (P < 0.05). For “+” loading, torque beyond 100% did not increase strength, but 50% torque reduced screw strength (P < 0.05). Loading in the “−” direction consistently resulted in higher strengths than “+” loading (P < 0.05). Plate contouring of 5-degree angle did not significantly change screw strength compared with straight plates but contouring of 10-degree angle significantly reduced load to failure (P < 0.05). Conclusions To maximize the screw plate interface strength, locking screws should be inserted without cross-threading. The mechanical stability of locked screws is significantly compromised by loose insertion, off-axis insertion, or severe distortion of the locking mechanism. PMID:24343255

  19. Off-axis points encoding/decoding with orbital angular momentum spectrum

    PubMed Central

    Chu, Jiaqi; Chu, Daping; Smithwitck, Quinn

    2017-01-01

    Encoding/decoding off-axis points with discrete orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes is investigated. On-axis Laguerre-Gaussian (LG) beams are expanded into off-axis OAM spectra, with which off-axis points are encoded. The influence of the mode and the displacement of the LG beam on the spread of the OAM spectrum is analysed. The results show that not only the conventional on-axis point, but also off-axis points, can be encoded and decoded with OAM of light. This is confirmed experimentally. The analytical result here provides a solid foundation to use OAM modes to encode two-dimensional high density information for multiplexing and to analyse the effect of mis-alignment in practical OAM applications. PMID:28272543

  20. Circularly Polarized Microwave Antenna Element with Very Low Off-Axis Cross-Polarization

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Greem. David; DuToit, Cornelis

    2013-01-01

    The goal of this work was to improve off-axis cross-polarization performance and ease of assembly of a circularly polarized microwave antenna element. To ease assembly, the initial design requirement of Hexweb support for the internal circuit part, as well as the radiating disks, was eliminated. There is a need for different plating techniques to improve soldering. It was also desirable to change the design to eliminate soldering as well as the need to use the Hexweb support. Thus, a technique was developed to build the feed without using solder, solving the lathing and soldering issue. Internal parts were strengthened by adding curvature to eliminate Hexweb support, and in the process, the new geometries of the internal parts opened the way for improving the off-axis cross-polarization performance as well. The radiating disks curvatures were increased for increased strength, but it was found that this also improved crosspolarization. Optimization of the curvatures leads to very low off-axis cross-polarization. The feed circuit was curved into a cylinder for improved strength, eliminating Hexweb support. An aperture coupling feed mechanism eliminated the need for feed pins to the disks, which would have required soldering. The aperture coupling technique also improves cross-polarization performance by effectively exciting the radiating disks very close to the antenna s central axis of symmetry. Because of the shape of the parts, it allowed for an all-aluminum design bolted together and assembled with no solder needed. The advantage of a solderless design is that the reliability is higher, with no single-point failure (solder), and no need for special plating techniques in order to solder the unit together. The shapes (curved or round) make for a more robust build without extra support materials, as well as improved offaxis cross-polarization.

  1. Materials for x-ray refractive lenses minimizing wavefront distortions

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

    Roth, Thomas; Alianelli, Lucia; Lengeler, Daniel

    2017-06-09

    Refraction through curved surfaces, reflection from curved mirrors in grazing incidence, and diffraction from Fresnel zone plates are key hard x-ray focusing mechanisms. In this article, we present materials used for refractive x-ray lenses. Important properties of such x-ray lenses include focusing strength, shape, and the material’s homogeneity and absorption coefficient. Both the properties of the initial material and the fabrication process result in a lens with imperfections, which can lead to unwanted wavefront distortions. Different fabrication methods for one-dimensional and two-dimensional focusing lenses are presented, together with the respective benefits and inconveniences that are mostly due to shape fidelity.more » Different materials and material grades have been investigated in terms of their homogeneity and the absence of inclusions. Single-crystalline materials show high homogeneity, but suffer from unwanted diffracted radiation, which can be avoided using amorphous materials. Lastly, we show that shape imperfections can be corrected using a correction lens.« less

  2. A compact and lightweight off-axis lightguide prism in near to eye display

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhuang, Zhenfeng; Cheng, Qijia; Surman, Phil; Zheng, Yuanjin; Sun, Xiao Wei

    2017-06-01

    We propose a method to improve the design of an off-axis lightguide configuration for near to eye displays (NED) using freeform optics technology. The advantage of this modified optical system, which includes an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a doublet lens, an imaging lightguide prism and a compensation prism, is that it increases optical length path, offers a smaller size, as well as avoids the obstructed views, and matches the user's head shape. In this system, the light emitted from the OLED passes through the doublet lens and is refracted/reflected by the imaging lightguide prism, which is used to magnify the image from the microdisplay, while the compensation prism is utilized to correct the light ray shift so that a low-distortion image can be observed in a real-world setting. A NED with a 4 mm diameter exit pupil, 21.5° diagonal full field of view (FoV), 23 mm eye relief, and a size of 33 mm by 9.3 mm by 16 mm is designed. The developed system is compact, lightweight and suitable for entertainment and education application.

  3. Improving the off-axis spatial resolution and dynamic range of the NIF X-ray streak cameras (invited)

    DOE PAGES

    MacPhee, A. G.; Dymoke-Bradshaw, A. K. L.; Hares, J. D.; ...

    2016-08-08

    Here, we report simulationsand experiments that demonstrate an increasein spatial resolution ofthe NIF core diagnostic x-ray streak camerasby a factor of two, especially off axis. A designwas achieved by usinga corrector electron optic to flatten the field curvature at the detector planeand corroborated by measurement. In addition, particle in cell simulations were performed to identify theregions in the streak camera that contribute most to space charge blurring. Our simulations provide a tool for convolving syntheticpre-shot spectra with the instrument functionso signal levels can be set to maximize dynamic range for the relevant part of the streak record.

  4. 3D relativistic MHD numerical simulations of X-shaped radio sources

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rossi, P.; Bodo, G.; Capetti, A.; Massaglia, S.

    2017-10-01

    Context. A significant fraction of extended radio sources presents a peculiar X-shaped radio morphology: in addition to the classical double lobed structure, radio emission is also observed along a second axis of symmetry in the form of diffuse wings or tails. In a previous investigation we showed the existence of a connection between the radio morphology and the properties of the host galaxies. Motivated by this connection we performed two-dimensional numerical simulations showing that X-shaped radio sources may naturally form as a jet propagates along the major axis a highly elliptical density distribution, because of the fast expansion of the cocoon along the minor axis of the distribution. Aims: We intend to extend our analysis by performing three-dimensional numerical simulations and investigating the role of different parameters in determining the formation of the X-shaped morphology. Methods: The problem is addressed by numerical means, carrying out three-dimensional relativistic magnetohydrodynamic simulations of bidirectional jets propagating in a triaxial density distribution. Results: We show that only jets with power ≲ 1044 erg s-1 can give origin to an X-shaped morphology and that a misalignment of 30° between the jet axis and the major axis of the density distribution is still favourable to the formation of this kind of morphology. In addition we compute synthetic radio emission maps and polarization maps. Conclusions: In our scenario for the formation of X-shaped radio sources only low power FRII can give origin to such kind of morphology. Our synthetic emission maps show that the different observed morphologies of X-shaped sources can be the result of similar structures viewed under different perspectives.

  5. Ferro-Lattice-Distortions and Charge Fluctuations in Superconducting LaO 1- x F x BiS 2

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

    Athauda, Anushika; Hoffmann, Christina; Aswartham, Saicharan

    2017-05-15

    Competing ferroelectric and charge density wave states have been proposed to exist in the electron–phonon coupled LaO1-xFxBiS2 superconductor. The lattice instability is proposed to arise from unstable phonon modes that can break the crystal symmetry. Using single crystal diffraction, a superlattice pattern is observed, that arises from coherent in-plane displacements of the sulfur atoms in the BiS2 superconducting planes. The distortions morph into coordinated ferrodistortive patterns with displacements in the x- and y-directions, that alternate along the c-axis. Diffuse scattering is observed along the (H0L) plane due to stacking faults but not along the (HH0) plane. The ferro-distortive pattern remainsmore » in the superconducting state upon fluorine doping, but the displacements are diminished in magnitude. Moreover, we find that the in-plane distortions give rise to disorder where the (00L) reflections become quite broad. It is possible that charge carriers can get trapped in the lattice deformations reducing the effective number of carriers available for pairing.« less

  6. The Electromagnetic Counterpart of the Binary Neutron Star Merger LIGO/Virgo GW170817. V. Rising X-Ray Emission from an Off-axis Jet

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Margutti, R.; Berger, E.; Fong, W.; Guidorzi, C.; Alexander, K. D.; Metzger, B. D.; Blanchard, P. K.; Cowperthwaite, P. S.; Chornock, R.; Eftekhari, T.; Nicholl, M.; Villar, V. A.; Williams, P. K. G.; Annis, J.; Brown, D. A.; Chen, H.; Doctor, Z.; Frieman, J. A.; Holz, D. E.; Sako, M.; Soares-Santos, M.

    2017-10-01

    We report the discovery of rising X-ray emission from the binary neutron star merger event GW170817. This is the first detection of X-ray emission from a gravitational-wave (GW) source. Observations acquired with the Chandra X-ray Observatory (CXO) at t≈ 2.3 days post-merger reveal no significant emission, with {L}x≲ 3.2× {10}38 {erg} {{{s}}}-1 (isotropic-equivalent). Continued monitoring revealed the presence of an X-ray source that brightened with time, reaching {L}x≈ 9× {10}38 {erg} {{{s}}}-1 at ≈ 15.1 days post-merger. We interpret these findings in the context of isotropic and collimated relativistic outflows (both on- and off-axis). We find that the broadband X-ray to radio observations are consistent with emission from a relativistic jet with kinetic energy {E}k˜ {10}49-50 {erg}, viewed off-axis with {θ }{obs}˜ 20^\\circ {--}40^\\circ . Our models favor a circumbinary density n˜ {10}-4{--}{10}-2 {{cm}}-3, depending on the value of the microphysical parameter {ɛ }B={10}-4{--}{10}-2. A central-engine origin of the X-ray emission is unlikely. Future X-ray observations at t≳ 100 days, when the target will be observable again with the CXO, will provide additional constraints to solve the model degeneracies and test our predictions. Our inferences on {θ }{obs} are testable with GW information on GW170817 from advanced LIGO/Virgo on the binary inclination.

  7. Improving the off-axis spatial resolution and dynamic range of the NIF X-ray streak cameras (invited).

    PubMed

    MacPhee, A G; Dymoke-Bradshaw, A K L; Hares, J D; Hassett, J; Hatch, B W; Meadowcroft, A L; Bell, P M; Bradley, D K; Datte, P S; Landen, O L; Palmer, N E; Piston, K W; Rekow, V V; Hilsabeck, T J; Kilkenny, J D

    2016-11-01

    We report simulations and experiments that demonstrate an increase in spatial resolution of the NIF core diagnostic x-ray streak cameras by at least a factor of two, especially off axis. A design was achieved by using a corrector electron optic to flatten the field curvature at the detector plane and corroborated by measurement. In addition, particle in cell simulations were performed to identify the regions in the streak camera that contribute the most to space charge blurring. These simulations provide a tool for convolving synthetic pre-shot spectra with the instrument function so signal levels can be set to maximize dynamic range for the relevant part of the streak record.

  8. Off-axis Gamma-ray Burst Afterglow Modeling Based on a Two-dimensional Axisymmetric Hydrodynamics Simulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    van Eerten, Hendrik; Zhang, Weiqun; MacFadyen, Andrew

    2010-10-01

    Starting as highly relativistic collimated jets, gamma-ray burst outflows gradually slow down and become nonrelativistic spherical blast waves. Although detailed analytical solutions describing the afterglow emission received by an on-axis observer during both the early and late phases of the outflow evolution exist, a calculation of the received flux during the intermediate phase and for an off-axis observer requires either a more simplified analytical model or direct numerical simulations of the outflow dynamics. In this paper, we present light curves for off-axis observers covering the long-term evolution of the blast wave, calculated from a high-resolution two-dimensional relativistic hydrodynamics simulation using a synchrotron radiation model. We compare our results to earlier analytical work and calculate the consequence of the observer angle with respect to the jet axis both for the detection of orphan afterglows and for jet break fits to the observational data. We confirm earlier results in the literature finding that only a very small number of local type Ibc supernovae can harbor an orphan afterglow. For off-axis observers, the observable jet break can be delayed up to several weeks, potentially leading to overestimation of the beaming-corrected total energy. In addition we find that, when using our off-axis light curves to create synthetic Swift X-ray data, jet breaks are likely to remain hidden in the data.

  9. Study on off-axis detection of pulsed laser in atmosphere

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liang, Weiwei

    2018-02-01

    Laser communication, designation, and ranging are point to point and have a high degree of specificity, current laser detection, such as laser warning receiver system, could detect the scattering laser from the off-axis distance by scattering track on natural aerosols, which is helpful to locate the laser source. However, the intensity of the scattering laser is extremely weak and affected by many factors, in order to evaluate the detection characteristic, a simplified model of off-axis detection for scattering laser in the lower atmosphere based on the Mie scattering theory is presented in this paper, the performances of the off-axis laser detection in different conditions such as off-axis distance, visibility, incidence angle, and delay time are investigated.

  10. The Electromagnetic Counterpart of the Binary Neutron Star Merger LIGO/Virgo GW170817. V. Rising X-Ray Emission from an Off-axis Jet

    DOE PAGES

    Margutti, Raffaella; Berger, E.; Fong, W.; ...

    2017-10-16

    Here, we report the discovery of rising X-ray emission from the binary neutron star merger event GW170817. This is the first detection of X-ray emission from a gravitational-wave (GW) source. Observations acquired with the Chandra X-ray Observatory ( CXO) atmore » $$t\\approx 2.3$$ days post-merger reveal no significant emission, with $${L}_{x}\\lesssim 3.2\\times {10}^{38}\\,\\mathrm{erg}\\,{{\\rm{s}}}^{-1}$$ (isotropic-equivalent). Continued monitoring revealed the presence of an X-ray source that brightened with time, reaching $${L}_{x}\\approx 9\\times {10}^{38}\\,\\mathrm{erg}\\,{{\\rm{s}}}^{-1}$$ at $$\\approx 15.1$$ days post-merger. We interpret these findings in the context of isotropic and collimated relativistic outflows (both on- and off-axis). We find that the broadband X-ray to radio observations are consistent with emission from a relativistic jet with kinetic energy $${E}_{k}\\sim {10}^{49-50}\\,\\mathrm{erg}$$, viewed off-axis with $${\\theta }_{\\mathrm{obs}}\\sim 20^\\circ \\mbox{--}40^\\circ $$. Our models favor a circumbinary density $$n\\sim {10}^{-4}\\mbox{--}{10}^{-2}\\,{\\mathrm{cm}}^{-3}$$, depending on the value of the microphysical parameter $${\\epsilon }_{B}={10}^{-4}\\mbox{--}{10}^{-2}$$. A central-engine origin of the X-ray emission is unlikely. Future X-ray observations at $$t\\gtrsim 100$$ days, when the target will be observable again with the CXO, will provide additional constraints to solve the model degeneracies and test our predictions. Our inferences on $${\\theta }_{\\mathrm{obs}}$$ are testable with GW information on GW170817 from advanced LIGO/Virgo on the binary inclination.« less

  11. The Electromagnetic Counterpart of the Binary Neutron Star Merger LIGO/Virgo GW170817. V. Rising X-Ray Emission from an Off-axis Jet

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

    Margutti, Raffaella; Berger, E.; Fong, W.

    Here, we report the discovery of rising X-ray emission from the binary neutron star merger event GW170817. This is the first detection of X-ray emission from a gravitational-wave (GW) source. Observations acquired with the Chandra X-ray Observatory ( CXO) atmore » $$t\\approx 2.3$$ days post-merger reveal no significant emission, with $${L}_{x}\\lesssim 3.2\\times {10}^{38}\\,\\mathrm{erg}\\,{{\\rm{s}}}^{-1}$$ (isotropic-equivalent). Continued monitoring revealed the presence of an X-ray source that brightened with time, reaching $${L}_{x}\\approx 9\\times {10}^{38}\\,\\mathrm{erg}\\,{{\\rm{s}}}^{-1}$$ at $$\\approx 15.1$$ days post-merger. We interpret these findings in the context of isotropic and collimated relativistic outflows (both on- and off-axis). We find that the broadband X-ray to radio observations are consistent with emission from a relativistic jet with kinetic energy $${E}_{k}\\sim {10}^{49-50}\\,\\mathrm{erg}$$, viewed off-axis with $${\\theta }_{\\mathrm{obs}}\\sim 20^\\circ \\mbox{--}40^\\circ $$. Our models favor a circumbinary density $$n\\sim {10}^{-4}\\mbox{--}{10}^{-2}\\,{\\mathrm{cm}}^{-3}$$, depending on the value of the microphysical parameter $${\\epsilon }_{B}={10}^{-4}\\mbox{--}{10}^{-2}$$. A central-engine origin of the X-ray emission is unlikely. Future X-ray observations at $$t\\gtrsim 100$$ days, when the target will be observable again with the CXO, will provide additional constraints to solve the model degeneracies and test our predictions. Our inferences on $${\\theta }_{\\mathrm{obs}}$$ are testable with GW information on GW170817 from advanced LIGO/Virgo on the binary inclination.« less

  12. Improving the off-axis spatial resolution and dynamic range of the NIF X-ray streak cameras (invited)

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

    MacPhee, A. G., E-mail: macphee2@llnl.gov; Hatch, B. W.; Bell, P. M.

    2016-11-15

    We report simulations and experiments that demonstrate an increase in spatial resolution of the NIF core diagnostic x-ray streak cameras by at least a factor of two, especially off axis. A design was achieved by using a corrector electron optic to flatten the field curvature at the detector plane and corroborated by measurement. In addition, particle in cell simulations were performed to identify the regions in the streak camera that contribute the most to space charge blurring. These simulations provide a tool for convolving synthetic pre-shot spectra with the instrument function so signal levels can be set to maximize dynamicmore » range for the relevant part of the streak record.« less

  13. Modal Survey Test of the SOTV 2X3 Meter Off-Axis Inflatable Concentrator

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Engberg, Robert C.; Lassiter, John O.; McGee, Jennie K.

    2000-01-01

    NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center has had several projects involving inflatable space structures. Projects in solar thermal propulsion have had the most involvement, primarily inflatable concentrators. A flight project called Shooting Star Experiment initiated the first detailed design, analysis and testing effort involving an inflatable concentrator that supported a Fresnel lens. The lens was to concentrate the sun's rays to provide an extremely large heat transfer for an experimental solar propulsion engine. Since the conclusion of this experiment, research and development activities for solar propulsion at Marshall Space Flight Center have continued both in the solar propulsion engine technology as well as inflatable space structures. Experience gained in conducting modal survey tests of inflatable structures for the Shooting Star Experiment has been used by dynamic test engineers at Marshall Space Flight Center to conduct a modal survey test on a Solar Orbital Transfer Vehicle (SOTV) off-axis inflatable concentrator. This paper describes how both previously learned test methods and new test methods that address the unique test requirements for inflatable structures were used. Effects of the inherent nonlinear response of the inflatable concentrator on test methods and test results are noted as well. Nine analytical mode shapes were successfully correlated to test mode shapes. The paper concludes with several "lessons learned" applicable to future dynamics testing and shows how Marshall Space Flight Center has utilized traditional and new methods for modal survey testing of inflatable space structures.

  14. Femtosecond profiling of shaped x-ray pulses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hoffmann, M. C.; Grguraš, I.; Behrens, C.; Bostedt, C.; Bozek, J.; Bromberger, H.; Coffee, R.; Costello, J. T.; DiMauro, L. F.; Ding, Y.; Doumy, G.; Helml, W.; Ilchen, M.; Kienberger, R.; Lee, S.; Maier, A. R.; Mazza, T.; Meyer, M.; Messerschmidt, M.; Schorb, S.; Schweinberger, W.; Zhang, K.; Cavalieri, A. L.

    2018-03-01

    Arbitrary manipulation of the temporal and spectral properties of x-ray pulses at free-electron lasers would revolutionize many experimental applications. At the Linac Coherent Light Source at Stanford National Accelerator Laboratory, the momentum phase-space of the free-electron laser driving electron bunch can be tuned to emit a pair of x-ray pulses with independently variable photon energy and femtosecond delay. However, while accelerator parameters can easily be adjusted to tune the electron bunch phase-space, the final impact of these actuators on the x-ray pulse cannot be predicted with sufficient precision. Furthermore, shot-to-shot instabilities that distort the pulse shape unpredictably cannot be fully suppressed. Therefore, the ability to directly characterize the x-rays is essential to ensure precise and consistent control. In this work, we have generated x-ray pulse pairs via electron bunch shaping and characterized them on a single-shot basis with femtosecond resolution through time-resolved photoelectron streaking spectroscopy. This achievement completes an important step toward future x-ray pulse shaping techniques.

  15. Femtosecond profiling of shaped x-ray pulses

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

    Hoffmann, M. C.; Grguras, I.; Behrens, C.

    Arbitrary manipulation of the temporal and spectral properties of x-ray pulses at free-electron lasers would revolutionize many experimental applications. At the Linac Coherent Light Source at Stanford National Accelerator Laboratory, the momentum phase-space of the free-electron laser driving electron bunch can be tuned to emit a pair of x-ray pulses with independently variable photon energy and femtosecond delay. However, while accelerator parameters can easily be adjusted to tune the electron bunch phase-space, the final impact of these actuators on the x-ray pulse cannot be predicted with sufficient precision. Furthermore, shot-to-shot instabilities that distort the pulse shape unpredictably cannot be fullymore » suppressed. Therefore, the ability to directly characterize the x-rays is essential to ensure precise and consistent control. In this work, we have generated x-ray pulse pairs via electron bunch shaping and characterized them on a single-shot basis with femtosecond resolution through time-resolved photoelectron streaking spectroscopy. Furthermore, this achievement completes an important step toward future x-ray pulse shaping techniques.« less

  16. Femtosecond profiling of shaped x-ray pulses

    DOE PAGES

    Hoffmann, M. C.; Grguras, I.; Behrens, C.; ...

    2018-03-26

    Arbitrary manipulation of the temporal and spectral properties of x-ray pulses at free-electron lasers would revolutionize many experimental applications. At the Linac Coherent Light Source at Stanford National Accelerator Laboratory, the momentum phase-space of the free-electron laser driving electron bunch can be tuned to emit a pair of x-ray pulses with independently variable photon energy and femtosecond delay. However, while accelerator parameters can easily be adjusted to tune the electron bunch phase-space, the final impact of these actuators on the x-ray pulse cannot be predicted with sufficient precision. Furthermore, shot-to-shot instabilities that distort the pulse shape unpredictably cannot be fullymore » suppressed. Therefore, the ability to directly characterize the x-rays is essential to ensure precise and consistent control. In this work, we have generated x-ray pulse pairs via electron bunch shaping and characterized them on a single-shot basis with femtosecond resolution through time-resolved photoelectron streaking spectroscopy. Furthermore, this achievement completes an important step toward future x-ray pulse shaping techniques.« less

  17. Shape distortions and Gestalt grouping in anorthoscopic perception

    PubMed Central

    Aydın, Murat; Herzog, Michael H.; Öğmen, Haluk

    2011-01-01

    When a figure moves behind a stationary narrow slit, observers often report seeing the figure as a whole, a phenomenon called slit viewing or anorthoscopic perception. Interestingly, in slit viewing, the figure is perceived compressed along the axis of motion. As with other perceptual distortions, it is unclear whether the perceptual space in the vicinity of the slit or the representation of the figure itself undergoes compression. In a psychophysical experiment, we tested these two hypotheses. We found that the percept of a stationary bar, presented within the slit, was not distorted even when at the same time a circle underwent compression by moving through the slit. This result suggests that the compression of form results from figural rather than from space compression. In support of this hypothesis, we found that when the bar was perceptually grouped with the circle, the bar appeared compressed. Our results show that, in slit viewing, the distortion occurs at a non-retinotopic level where grouped objects are jointly represented. PMID:19757947

  18. High-precision processing and detection of the high-caliber off-axis aspheric mirror

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dai, Chen; Li, Ang; Xu, Lingdi; Zhang, Yingjie

    2017-10-01

    To achieve the efficient, controllable, digital processing and high-precision detection of the high-caliber off-axis aspheric mirror, meeting the high-level development needs of the modern high-resolution, large field of space optical remote sensing camera, we carried out the research on high precision machining and testing technology of off-axis aspheric mirror. First, we forming the off-axis aspheric sample with diameter of 574mm × 302mm by milling it with milling machine, and then the intelligent robot equipment was used for off-axis aspheric high precision polishing. Surface detection of the sample will be proceed with the off-axis aspheric contact contour detection technology and offaxis non-spherical surface interference detection technology after its fine polishing using ion beam equipment. The final surface accuracy RMS is 12nm.

  19. METALLICITY DISTRIBUTION FUNCTIONS, RADIAL VELOCITIES, AND ALPHA ELEMENT ABUNDANCES IN THREE OFF-AXIS BULGE FIELDS

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

    Johnson, Christian I.; Rich, R. Michael; Kobayashi, Chiaki

    2013-03-10

    We present radial velocities and chemical abundance ratios of [Fe/H], [O/Fe], [Si/Fe], and [Ca/Fe] for 264 red giant branch stars in three Galactic bulge off-axis fields located near (l, b) = (-5.5, -7), (-4, -9), and (+8.5, +9). The results are based on equivalent width and spectrum synthesis analyses of moderate resolution (R Almost-Equal-To 18,000), high signal-to-noise ratio (S/N {approx} 75-300 pixel{sup -1}) spectra obtained with the Hydra spectrographs on the Blanco 4 m and WIYN 3.5 m telescopes. The targets were selected from the blue side of the giant branch to avoid cool stars that would be strongly affectedmore » by CN and TiO; however, a comparison of the color-metallicity distribution in literature samples suggests that our selection of bluer targets should not present a significant bias against metal-rich stars. We find a full range in metallicity that spans [Fe/H] Almost-Equal-To -1.5 to +0.5, and that, in accordance with the previously observed minor-axis vertical metallicity gradient, the median [Fe/H] also declines with increasing Galactic latitude in off-axis fields. The off-axis vertical [Fe/H] gradient in the southern bulge is estimated to be {approx}0.4 dex kpc{sup -1}; however, comparison with the minor-axis data suggests that a strong radial gradient does not exist. The (+8.5, +9) field exhibits a higher than expected metallicity, with a median [Fe/H] = -0.23, that might be related to a stronger presence of the X-shaped bulge structure along that line-of-sight. This could also be the cause of an anomalous increase in the median radial velocity for intermediate metallicity stars in the (+8.5, +9) field. However, the overall radial velocity and dispersion for each field are in good agreement with recent surveys and bulge models. All fields exhibit an identical, strong decrease in velocity dispersion with increasing metallicity that is consistent with observations in similar minor-axis outer bulge fields. Additionally, the [O/Fe], [Si

  20. Content-based fused off-axis object illumination direct-to-digital holography

    DOEpatents

    Price, Jeffery R.

    2006-05-02

    Systems and methods are described for content-based fused off-axis illumination direct-to-digital holography. A method includes calculating an illumination angle with respect to an optical axis defined by a focusing lens as a function of data representing a Fourier analyzed spatially heterodyne hologram; reflecting a reference beam from a reference mirror at a non-normal angle; reflecting an object beam from an object the object beam incident upon the object at the illumination angle; focusing the reference beam and the object beam at a focal plane of a digital recorder to from the content-based off-axis illuminated spatially heterodyne hologram including spatially heterodyne fringes for Fourier analysis; and digitally recording the content based off-axis illuminated spatially heterodyne hologram including spatially heterodyne fringes for Fourier analysis.

  1. Analysis of off-axis incoherent digital holographic microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Quan, Xiangyu; Matoba, Osamu; Awatsuji, Yasuhiro

    2017-05-01

    Off-axis incoherent digital holography that enables single-shot three-dimensional (3D) distribution is introduced in the paper. Conventional fluorescence microscopy images 3D fields by sectioning, this prevents instant imaging of fast reactions of living cells. In order to realize digital holography from incoherent light, we adapted common path configuration to achieve the best temporal coherence. And by introducing gratings, we shifted the direction of each light to achieve off-axis interference. Simulations and preliminary experiments using LED light have confirmed the results. We expect to use this method to realize 3D phase imaging and fluorescent imaging at the same time from the same biological sample.

  2. Influence of temperature on the optical system with large diameter off-axis parabolic lenses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Su, Yaru; Ruan, Hao; Liu, Jie

    2016-10-01

    In this work, an optical system with large diameter off-axis parabolic lenses was adopted to achieve diffraction gratings by laser interference exposure. The diffraction wavefront aberration caused by temperature variations was simulated using ZEMAX. Through theoretical analysis and optical simulation, it is proved that the diffraction wavefront aberration of holographic grating caused by the pinhole's location errors (it is assumed that when the displacement of pinhole exists along one axis, the locations of the pinhole along the other two orthogonal axes are in a state of precise adjustment ) is much larger when the displacement occurs along z axis than along the other two axes, and the diffraction wavefront aberration is the smallest when the displacement occurs along x axis. If the ambient temperature changes by 1 degree, the PV value is 0.0631λ when the location of the pinhole changes by 0.121mm along z axis, 0.0034λor 0.0672λ when the location of the pinhole changes by 0.002mm along x axis or 0.03mm along y axis. To reach the diffraction limit (that means the PV value is 0.25λ), the decentering value of the pinhole along z axis should be less than 0.0341mm. In conclusion, the position error along z axis is an important factor to influence the PV value of diffraction grating, and the effect of temperature on the PV value of diffraction grating can be neglected.

  3. Active optics: off axis aspherics generation for high contrast imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hugot, E.; Laslandes, M.; Ferrari, M.; Vives, S.; Moindrot, S.; El Hadi, K.; Dohlen, K.

    2017-11-01

    Active Optics methods, based on elasticity theory, allow the aspherisation of optical surfaces by stress polishing but also active aspherisation in situ. Researches in this field will impact the final performance and the final cost of any telescope or instrument. The stress polishing method is well suited for the superpolishing of aspheric components for astronomy. Its principle relies on spherical polishing with a full-sized tool of a warped substrate, which becomes aspherical once unwarped. The main advantage of this technique is the very high optical quality obtained either on form or on high spatial frequency errors. Furthermore, the roughness can be decreased down to a few angstroms, thanks the classical polishing with a large pitch tool, providing a substantial gain on the final scientific performance, for instance on the contrast on coronagraphic images, but also on the polishing time and cost. Stress polishing is based on elasticity theory, and requires an optimised deformation system able to provide the right aspherical form on the optical surface during polishing. The optical quality of the deformation is validated using extensive Finite Element Analysis, allowing an estimation of residuals and an optimisation of the warping harness. We describe here the work realised on stress polishing of toric mirrors for VLT-SPHERE and then our actual work on off axis aspherics (OAA) for the ASPIICS-Proba3 mission for solar coronagraphy. The ASPIICS optical design made by Vives et al is a three mirrors anastigmat including a concave off axis hyperboloid and a convex off axis parabola (OAP). We are developing a prototype in order to demonstrate the feasibility of this type of surface, using a multi-mode warping harness (Lemaitre et al). Furthermore, we present our work on variable OAP, meaning the possibility to adjust the shape of a simple OAP in situ with a minimal number of actuators, typically one actuator per optical mode (Focus, Coma and Astigmatism

  4. Fused off-axis object illumination direct-to-digital holography with a plurality of illumination sources

    DOEpatents

    Price, Jeffery R.; Bingham, Philip R.

    2005-11-08

    Systems and methods are described for rapid acquisition of fused off-axis illumination direct-to-digital holography. A method of recording a plurality of off-axis object illuminated spatially heterodyne holograms, each of the off-axis object illuminated spatially heterodyne holograms including spatially heterodyne fringes for Fourier analysis, includes digitally recording, with a first illumination source of an interferometer, a first off-axis object illuminated spatially heterodyne hologram including spatially heterodyne fringes for Fourier analysis; and digitally recording, with a second illumination source of the interferometer, a second off-axis object illuminated spatially heterodyne hologram including spatially heterodyne fringes for Fourier analysis.

  5. Off-axis beam dynamics in rf-gun-based electron photoinjectors

    DOE PAGES

    Huang, R.; Mitchell, Chad; Papadopoulos, C.; ...

    2016-11-22

    The need to operate an rf-gun-based electron photoinjector with a beam emitted away from the cathode center can occur under various circumstances. First, in some cases the cathode can be affected by ion back-bombardment that progressively reduces the quantum efficiency (QE) in its center, making off-axis operation mandatory; second, in some cases the drive laser intensity can be sufficiently high to generate QE depletion in the cathode area illuminated by the laser, forcing off-axis operation; last, in cathodes with nonuniform QE distribution it could be convenient to operate off axis to exploit a better QE. However, operation in this modemore » may lead to growth of the projected transverse beam emittances due to correlations between the transverse and longitudinal degrees of freedom that are introduced within the gun and downstream rf cavities. A strategy is described to mitigate this emittance growth by allowing the beam to propagate along a carefully tuned off-axis trajectory in downstream rf cavities to remove the time-dependent rf kicks introduced in the gun. Along this trajectory, short range wakefields do not degrade the emittance, and long range wakefields degrade the emittance for very high repetition rate only.« less

  6. Off-axis beam dynamics in rf-gun-based electron photoinjectors

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

    Huang, R.; Mitchell, Chad; Papadopoulos, C.

    The need to operate an rf-gun-based electron photoinjector with a beam emitted away from the cathode center can occur under various circumstances. First, in some cases the cathode can be affected by ion back-bombardment that progressively reduces the quantum efficiency (QE) in its center, making off-axis operation mandatory; second, in some cases the drive laser intensity can be sufficiently high to generate QE depletion in the cathode area illuminated by the laser, forcing off-axis operation; last, in cathodes with nonuniform QE distribution it could be convenient to operate off axis to exploit a better QE. However, operation in this modemore » may lead to growth of the projected transverse beam emittances due to correlations between the transverse and longitudinal degrees of freedom that are introduced within the gun and downstream rf cavities. A strategy is described to mitigate this emittance growth by allowing the beam to propagate along a carefully tuned off-axis trajectory in downstream rf cavities to remove the time-dependent rf kicks introduced in the gun. Along this trajectory, short range wakefields do not degrade the emittance, and long range wakefields degrade the emittance for very high repetition rate only.« less

  7. Off-axis Doas Measurements At Observatoire De Haute Provence During 2001

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Roozendael, M. Van; de Mazière, M.; Fayt, C.; Hendrick, F.; Hermans, C.

    Since December 2000, a ground-based off-axis DOAS spectrometer has been operated by BIRA-IASB in the South of France at the Observatoire de Haute Provence (OHP, 44°N). The design of the instrument allows automated observations of the scattered light alternatively in the zenith direction and at 10° above the horizon (off-axis geometry). The spectrometer is polarised and follows the azimuth of the sun. Its temperature is regulated and it is equipped with a Princeton Instruments/ Hammamatsu cooled diode array detector. Observations are made every 5 minutes in the 320-390 nm range. The analysis of the spectra recorded between January and December 2001 demonstrates the sensitivity of the measurements to tropospheric contents of NO2, HCHO, O3 and BrO. Results show a large seasonality in the HCHO content with maximum values in summer. The tropospheric BrO column is found to be stable over the year in the range of approximately 1.5-2 x1013 molec/cm2, roughly consistent with GOME observations at Northern mid-latitudes. Large increases of the BrO concentration are observed in summer likely due to local pollution in the vicinity of the station.

  8. Comparison of calculations and measurements of the off-axis radiation dose (SI) in liquid nitrogen as a function of radiation length

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cromar, P. F.

    1984-12-01

    In this thesis results are presented from a study of the off-axis X and Gamma radiation field caused by a highly relativistic electron beam in liquid Nitrogen at various path lengths out to 2 radiation lengths. The off-axis dose in Silicon was calculated using electron/photon transport code CYLTRAN and measured using thermal luminescent dosimeters (TLD's). Calculations were performed on a CDC-7600 computer ar Los Alamos National Laboratory and measurements were made using the Naval Postgraduate School 100 Mev Linac. Comparison of the results is made and CYLTRAN is found to be in agreement with experimentally measured values. The CYLTRAN results are extended to the off-axis dose caused by a 100 Mev electron beam in air at Standard Temperature and Pressure (STP).

  9. Re-evaluating across-axis geochemical variations at the East Pacific Rise and Juan de Fuca Ridge: on- and off-axis melt delivery

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Perfit, M. R.; Walters, R. L.

    2014-12-01

    High spatial density geochemical data sets from the N-EPR and S-JdFR are used to re-evaluate the across-axis geochemical variations in major and trace elements at mid-ocean ridges (MORs). At two axial melt lens (AML) segments, north and south, at the 9-10°N EPR, N-MORB MgO varies across-axis from the most primitive above the AML to more evolved away from the axis. This trend is distinct at the northern (magmatically more robust) segment with an axial MgO range of 8-9 wt% and off-axis (>2km) range of 6.5-8 wt%. This decrease is also reflected in E-MORB MgO variation. There is more variability at the southern segment but, off-axis progression to more evolved MgO is still evident. Interestingly, the Cleft segment, JdFR, displays similar geochemical behavior to the EPR with an axial MgO range of 7-8.5 wt% and off-axis (>2km) range of 6-7.5 wt%. EPR geochemical studies over the past 30 years have described models of upper crustal accumulation ranging from eruptions limited to the axis, to temporal variation in the composition of magma in the AML, to multiple eruption sites across the ridge crest and flanks (<5km). Eruptions limited to the axis, with topographically controlled flow off-axis, cannot reproduce the observed off-axis change to more evolved N-MORB. Time-dependence could explain one instance of evolved lavas off-axis but, similar geochemical behavior is observed at two separate AML segments. Multiple instances of consistent compositional variability at multiple AML segments, and at different ridges, point to a common process of crustal accretion at MORs. In light of recent geophysical discoveries of Off-axis AMLs (OAMLs) at the EPR and JdFR, we propose that the trend of more evolved lavas for the majority of N-MORB lavas with distance from the axis is controlled by thermal distribution in the underlying crystal mush zone (CMZ). Higher magma flux beneath the axis facilitates higher temperatures and high porosity melt pathways, reducing crustal residence times

  10. Macroscopic shape change of melt-processed YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x-}Y{sub 2}BaCuO{sub 5} bulk superconductors.

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

    Diko, P.; Goretta, K. C.; Energy Technology

    A macroscopic change in the shape of five-domain melt-processed YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x}/Y{sub 2}BaCuO{sub 5} bulk superconductors is reported and explained. The change, a distortion from circular cross-section, is attributed to liquid transport from a slower growth front in an a-axis direction to a faster growth front in a c-axis direction at the edge between the a- and c-growth fronts, a phenomenon that we call the edge melt distribution (EMD) effect. Formation of bands of higher Y{sub 2}BaCuO{sub 5} particle density along the a/c growth boundaries, which nearly coincide with {l_brace}110{r_brace}-type planes, is explained by the EMD effect.

  11. Sparsity based terahertz reflective off-axis digital holography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wan, Min; Muniraj, Inbarasan; Malallah, Ra'ed; Zhao, Liang; Ryle, James P.; Rong, Lu; Healy, John J.; Wang, Dayong; Sheridan, John T.

    2017-05-01

    Terahertz radiation lies between the microwave and infrared regions in the electromagnetic spectrum. Emitted frequencies range from 0.1 to 10 THz with corresponding wavelengths ranging from 30 μm to 3 mm. In this paper, a continuous-wave Terahertz off-axis digital holographic system is described. A Gaussian fitting method and image normalisation techniques were employed on the recorded hologram to improve the image resolution. A synthesised contrast enhanced hologram is then digitally constructed. Numerical reconstruction is achieved using the angular spectrum method of the filtered off-axis hologram. A sparsity based compression technique is introduced before numerical data reconstruction in order to reduce the dataset required for hologram reconstruction. Results prove that a tiny amount of sparse dataset is sufficient in order to reconstruct the hologram with good image quality.

  12. Broadband quantitative phase microscopy with extended field of view using off-axis interferometric multiplexing.

    PubMed

    Girshovitz, Pinhas; Frenklach, Irena; Shaked, Natan T

    2015-11-01

    We propose a new portable imaging configuration that can double the field of view (FOV) of existing off-axis interferometric imaging setups, including broadband off-axis interferometers. This configuration is attached at the output port of the off-axis interferometer and optically creates a multiplexed interferogram on the digital camera, which is composed of two off-axis interferograms with straight fringes at orthogonal directions. Each of these interferograms contains a different FOV of the imaged sample. Due to the separation of these two FOVs in the spatial-frequency domain, they can be fully reconstructed separately, while obtaining two complex wavefronts from the sample at once. Since the optically multiplexed off-axis interferogram is recorded by the camera in a single exposure, fast dynamics can be recorded with a doubled imaging area. We used this technique for quantitative phase microscopy of biological samples with extended FOV. We demonstrate attaching the proposed module to a diffractive phase microscopy interferometer, illuminated by a broadband light source. The biological samples used for the experimental demonstrations include microscopic diatom shells, cancer cells, and flowing blood cells.

  13. Off-axis mirror fabrication from spherical surfaces under mechanical stress

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Izazaga-Pérez, R.; Aguirre-Aguirre, D.; Percino-Zacarías, M. E.; Granados-Agustín, Fermin-Salomon

    2013-09-01

    The preliminary results in the fabrication of off-axis optical surfaces are presented. The propose using the conventional polishing method and with the surface under mechanical stress at its edges. It starts fabricating a spherical surface using ZERODUR® optical glass with the conventional polishing method, the surface is deformed by applying tension and/or compression at the surface edges using a specially designed mechanical mount. To know the necessary deformation, the interferogram of the deformed surface is analyzed in real time with a ZYGO® Mark II Fizeau type interferometer, the mechanical stress is applied until obtain the inverse interferogram associated to the off-axis surface that we need to fabricate. Polishing process is carried out again until obtain a spherical surface, then mechanical stress in the edges are removed and compares the actual interferogram with the theoretical associated to the off-axis surface. To analyze the resulting interferograms of the surface we used the phase shifting analysis method by using a piezoelectric phase-shifter and Durango® interferometry software from Diffraction International™.

  14. Coil extensions improve line shapes by removing field distortions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Conradi, Mark S.; Altobelli, Stephen A.; McDowell, Andrew F.

    2018-06-01

    The static magnetic susceptibility of the rf coil can substantially distort the field B0 and be a dominant source of line broadening. A scaling argument shows that this may be a particular problem in microcoil NMR. We propose coil extensions to reduce the distortion. The actual rf coil is extended to a much longer overall length by abutted coil segments that do not carry rf current. The result is a long and nearly uniform sheath of copper wire, in terms of the static susceptibility. The line shape improvement is demonstrated at 43.9 MHz and in simulation calculations.

  15. Experimental Validation Techniques for the Heleeos Off-Axis Laser Propagation Model

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-03-01

    EXPERIMENTAL VALIDATION TECHNIQUES FOR THE HELEEOS OFF-AXIS LASER PROPAGATION MODEL THESIS John Haiducek, 1st Lt, USAF AFIT/GAP/ENP/10-M07 DEPARTMENT...Department of Defense, or the United States Government. AFIT/GAP/ENP/10-M07 EXPERIMENTAL VALIDATION TECHNIQUES FOR THE HELEEOS OFF-AXIS LASER ...BS, Physics 1st Lt, USAF March 2010 APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE; DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED. AFIT/GAP/ENP/10-M07 Abstract The High Energy Laser End-to-End

  16. Photographic simulation of off-axis blurring due to chromatic aberration in spectacle lenses.

    PubMed

    Doroslovački, Pavle; Guyton, David L

    2015-02-01

    Spectacle lens materials of high refractive index (nd) tend to have high chromatic dispersion (low Abbé number [V]), which may contribute to visual blurring with oblique viewing. A patient who noted off-axis blurring with new high-refractive-index spectacle lenses prompted us to do a photographic simulation of the off-axis aberrations in 3 readily available spectacle lens materials, CR-39 (nd = 1.50), polyurethane (nd = 1.60), and polycarbonate (nd = 1.59). Both chromatic and monochromatic aberrations were found to cause off-axis image degradation. Chromatic aberration was more prominent in the higher-index materials (especially polycarbonate), whereas the lower-index CR-39 had more astigmatism of oblique incidence. It is important to consider off-axis aberrations when a patient complains of otherwise unexplained blurred vision with a new pair of spectacle lenses, especially given the increasing promotion of high-refractive-index materials with high chromatic dispersion. Copyright © 2015 American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Single-shot dual-wavelength in-line and off-axis hybrid digital holography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Fengpeng; Wang, Dayong; Rong, Lu; Wang, Yunxin; Zhao, Jie

    2018-02-01

    We propose an in-line and off-axis hybrid holographic real-time imaging technique. The in-line and off-axis digital holograms are generated simultaneously by two lasers with different wavelengths, and they are recorded using a color camera with a single shot. The reconstruction is carried using an iterative algorithm in which the initial input is designed to include the intensity of the in-line hologram and the approximate phase distributions obtained from the off-axis hologram. In this way, the complex field in the object plane and the output by the iterative procedure can produce higher quality amplitude and phase images compared to traditional iterative phase retrieval. The performance of the technique has been demonstrated by acquiring the amplitude and phase images of a green lacewing's wing and a living moon jellyfish.

  18. Mapping the X-shaped Milky Way Bulge

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Saito, R. K.; Zoccali, M.; McWilliam, A.; Minniti, D.; Gonzalez, O. A.; Hill, V.

    2011-09-01

    We analyzed the distribution of the red clump (RC) stars throughout the Galactic bulge using Two Micron All Sky Survey data. We mapped the position of the RC in 1 deg2 fields within the area |l| <= 8fdg5 and 3fdg5 <= |b| <= 8fdg5, for a total of 170 deg2. The single RC seen in the central area splits into two components at high Galactic longitudes in both hemispheres, produced by two structures at different distances along the same line of sight. The X-shape is clearly visible in the Z-X plane for longitudes close to the l = 0° axis. Crude measurements of the space densities of RC stars in the bright and faint RC populations are consistent with the adopted RC distances, providing further supporting evidence that the X-structure is real, and that there is approximate front-back symmetry in our bulge fields. We conclude that the Milky Way bulge has an X-shaped structure within |l| <~ 2°, seen almost edge-on with respect to the line of sight. Additional deep near-infrared photometry extending into the innermost bulge regions combined with spectroscopic data is needed in order to discriminate among the different possibilities that can cause the observed X-shaped structure.

  19. A two-dimensional matrix correction for off-axis portal dose prediction errors

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

    Bailey, Daniel W.; Department of Radiation Medicine, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York 14263; Kumaraswamy, Lalith

    2013-05-15

    Purpose: This study presents a follow-up to a modified calibration procedure for portal dosimetry published by Bailey et al. ['An effective correction algorithm for off-axis portal dosimetry errors,' Med. Phys. 36, 4089-4094 (2009)]. A commercial portal dose prediction system exhibits disagreement of up to 15% (calibrated units) between measured and predicted images as off-axis distance increases. The previous modified calibration procedure accounts for these off-axis effects in most regions of the detecting surface, but is limited by the simplistic assumption of radial symmetry. Methods: We find that a two-dimensional (2D) matrix correction, applied to each calibrated image, accounts for off-axismore » prediction errors in all regions of the detecting surface, including those still problematic after the radial correction is performed. The correction matrix is calculated by quantitative comparison of predicted and measured images that span the entire detecting surface. The correction matrix was verified for dose-linearity, and its effectiveness was verified on a number of test fields. The 2D correction was employed to retrospectively examine 22 off-axis, asymmetric electronic-compensation breast fields, five intensity-modulated brain fields (moderate-high modulation) manipulated for far off-axis delivery, and 29 intensity-modulated clinical fields of varying complexity in the central portion of the detecting surface. Results: Employing the matrix correction to the off-axis test fields and clinical fields, predicted vs measured portal dose agreement improves by up to 15%, producing up to 10% better agreement than the radial correction in some areas of the detecting surface. Gamma evaluation analyses (3 mm, 3% global, 10% dose threshold) of predicted vs measured portal dose images demonstrate pass rate improvement of up to 75% with the matrix correction, producing pass rates that are up to 30% higher than those resulting from the radial correction technique alone

  20. Effects of off-axis loading on the tensile behavior of a ceramic-matrix composite

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

    Lynch, C.S.; Evans, A.G.

    A 0{degree}/90{degree} ceramic-matrix composite (CMC) comprised of Nicalon fibers in magnesium aluminosilicate (MAS) has been loaded in tension in three orientations relative to the fiber direction: 0, 30, and 45{degree}. The off-axis loaded samples exhibit inelastic deformation at appreciably lower stresses than samples loads at 0{degree}. Matrix cracking governs the inelastic strains in all orientations. But, important differences in the morphologies and sequencing of the cracks account for the differences in the stress levels. Off-axis failure also occurs at substantially lower stresses than on-axis failure. On-axis composite failure is governed by fiber fracture, but off-axis failure involves matrix-crack coalescence. Tomore » facilitate interpretation and modeling of these behaviors, the interface friction and debond stresses have been determined from hysteresis measurements.« less

  1. Binocular Coordination of the Human Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex during Off-axis Pitch Rotation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wood, S. J.; Reschke, M. F.; Kaufman, G. D.; Black, F. O.; Paloski, W. H.

    2006-01-01

    Head movements in the sagittal pitch plane typically involve off-axis rotation requiring both vertical and horizontal vergence ocular reflexes to compensate for angular and translational motion relative to visual targets of interest. The purpose of this study was to compare passive pitch VOR responses during rotation about an Earth-vertical axis (canal only cues) with off-axis rotation (canal and otolith cues). Methods. Eleven human subjects were oscillated sinusoidally at 0.13, 0.3 and 0.56 Hz while lying left-side down with the interaural axis either aligned with the axis of rotation or offset by 50 cm. In a second set of measurements, twelve subjects were also tested during sinusoidally varying centrifugation over the same frequency range. The modulation of vertical and horizontal vergence ocular responses was measured with a binocular videography system. Results. Off-axis pitch rotation enhanced the vertical VOR at lower frequencies and enhanced the vergence VOR at higher frequencies. During sinusoidally varying centrifugation, the opposite trend was observed for vergence, with both vertical and vergence vestibulo-ocular reflexes being suppressed at the highest frequency. Discussion. These differential effects of off-axis rotation over the 0.13 to 0.56 Hz range are consistent with the hypothesis that otolith-ocular reflexes are segregated in part on the basis of stimulus frequency. At the lower frequencies, tilt otolith-ocular responses compensate for declining canal input. At higher frequencies, translational otolith-ocular reflexes compensate for declining visual contributions to the kinematic demands required for fixating near targets.

  2. Field experiment of 800× off-axis XR-Köhler concentrator module on a carousel tracker

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamada, Noboru; Okamoto, Kazuya; Ijiro, Toshikazu; Suzuki, Takao; Maemura, Toshihiko; Kawaguchi, Takashi; Takahashi, Hiroshi; Sato, Takashi; Hernandez, Maikel; Benitez, Pablo; Chaves, Julio; Cvetkovic, Aleksandra; Vilaplana, Juan; Mohedano, Ruben; Mendes-Lopes, Joao; Miñano, Juan Carlos

    2013-09-01

    This paper presents the design and preliminary experimental results of a concentrator-type photovoltaic module based on a free-form off-axis 800×XR-Köhler concentrator. The off-axis XR-Köhler concentrator is one of the advanced concentrators that perform high concentration with a large acceptance angle and excellent irradiance uniformity on a solar cell. As a result of on-sun characterization of the unglazed single-cell unit test rig, the temperature-corrected DC module efficiency was 32.2% at 25 °C without an anti-reflective (AR) coating on the secondary optics, and the acceptance angle was more than ±1.0°. In addition, the non-corrected DC efficiency of an individual cell in a glazed 8-cell unit module mounted on a carousel tracking system was measured. The individual efficiency deviated in the range of 24.3-27.4%, owing to the mirror shape and alignment errors. The resultant series-connected efficiency was approximately 25% at direct normal irradiation (DNI) of 770 W/m2.

  3. Two distinct events, section compression and loss of particles ("lost caps"), contribute to z-axis distortion and bias in optical disector counting.

    PubMed

    Baryshnikova, Larisa M; Von Bohlen Und Halbach, Oliver; Kaplan, Suleyman; Von Bartheld, Christopher S

    2006-09-01

    Deformation of tissue sections in the z-axis can bias optical disector counting. When samples of particle densities are not representative for the entire tissue section, significant bias of estimated numbers can result. To assess the occurrence, prevalence, extent, sequence of events, and causes of z-axis distortion, the distribution of neuronal nucleoli in thick paraffin and vibratome sections was determined in chicken, rodent, and human brain tissues. When positions of neuronal nucleoli were measured in the z-axis, nucleoli were more frequent at the surfaces (bottom and top) of tissue sections than in the core. This nonlinear z-axis distribution was not lab-, equipment-, or investigator-specific, and was independent of age, fixation quality, coverslipping medium, or paraffin melting temperature, but in paraffin sections, was highly correlated with the tilt of the knife (cutting) angle. Manipulation of subsequent tissue processing steps revealed that two events contribute to z-axis distortion. Initially, a higher density of particles results at surfaces after sectioning, apparently due to section compression. Subsequently, particles can be lost to varying degrees from surfaces during floating or staining and dehydration, resulting in "lost caps." These results may explain different degrees of z-axis distortion between different types of sections and different labs, and reinforce the importance of checking z-axis distributions as a "quality control" prior to selection of guard zones in optical disector counting. Indirect approaches to assess section quality, such as resectioning in a perpendicular plane, yield additional artifacts, and should be replaced by a direct quantitative measurement of z-axis distribution of particles. (c) 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  4. The effects of eccentricities on the fracture of off-axis fiber composites

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chamis, C. C.; Sinclair, J. H.

    1978-01-01

    Finite element analyses were performed to investigate theoretically the effects of in-plane and out-of plane eccentricities, bending or twisting, and thickness nonuniformity on the axial stress and strain variations across the width of off-axis specimens. The results are compared with measured data and are also used to access the effects of these eccentricities on the fracture stress of off-axis fiber composites. Guidelines for detecting and minimizing the presence of eccentricities are described.

  5. Split in phase singularities of an optical vortex by off-axis diffraction through a simple circular aperture

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

    Taira, Yoshitaka; Zhang, Shukui

    Here, diffraction patterns of an optical vortex through several shaped apertures reveal its topological charge. In this letter, we theoretically and experimentally show that diffraction of a Laguerre Gaussian beam through a circular aperture at an off-axis position can be used to determine the magnitude and sign of the topological charge. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a simple circular aperture has been used to detect orbital angular momentum of an incident optical vortex.

  6. Split in phase singularities of an optical vortex by off-axis diffraction through a simple circular aperture.

    PubMed

    Taira, Yoshitaka; Zhang, Shukui

    2017-04-01

    Diffraction patterns of an optical vortex through several shaped apertures reveal its topological charge. In this Letter, we theoretically and experimentally show that diffraction of a Laguerre Gaussian beam through a circular aperture at an off-axis position can be used to determine the magnitude and sign of the topological charge. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a simple circular aperture has been used to detect orbital angular momentum of an incident optical vortex.

  7. Split in phase singularities of an optical vortex by off-axis diffraction through a simple circular aperture

    DOE PAGES

    Taira, Yoshitaka; Zhang, Shukui

    2017-03-29

    Here, diffraction patterns of an optical vortex through several shaped apertures reveal its topological charge. In this letter, we theoretically and experimentally show that diffraction of a Laguerre Gaussian beam through a circular aperture at an off-axis position can be used to determine the magnitude and sign of the topological charge. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a simple circular aperture has been used to detect orbital angular momentum of an incident optical vortex.

  8. Research on the magnetorheological finishing of large aperture off-axis aspheric optical surfaces for zinc sulfide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Yunfei; Huang, Wen; Zheng, Yongcheng; Ji, Fang; Xu, Min; Duan, Zhixin; Luo, Qing; Liu, Qian; Xiao, Hong

    2016-03-01

    Zinc sulfide is a kind of typical infrared optical material, commonly produced using single point diamond turning (SPDT). SPDT can efficiently produce zinc sulfide aspheric surfaces with micro-roughness and acceptable figure error. However the tool marks left by the diamond turning process cause high micro-roughness that degrades the optical performance when used in the visible region of the spectrum. Magnetorheological finishing (MRF) is a deterministic, sub-aperture polishing technology that is very helpful in improving both surface micro-roughness and surface figure.This paper mainly investigates the MRF technology of large aperture off-axis aspheric optical surfaces for zinc sulfide. The topological structure and coordinate transformation of a MRF machine tool PKC1200Q2 are analyzed and its kinematics is calculated, then the post-processing algorithm model of MRF for an optical lens is established. By taking the post-processing of off-axis aspheric surfacefor example, a post-processing algorithm that can be used for a raster tool path is deduced and the errors produced by the approximate treatment are analyzed. A polishing algorithm of trajectory planning and dwell time based on matrix equation and optimization theory is presented in this paper. Adopting this algorithm an experiment is performed to machining a large-aperture off-axis aspheric surface on the MRF machine developed by ourselves. After several times' polishing, the figure accuracy PV is proved from 3.3λ to 2.0λ and RMS from 0.451λ to 0.327λ. This algorithm is used to polish the other shapes including spheres, aspheres and prisms.

  9. Tidal Distortion and Disruption of Earth-Crossing Asteriods

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Love, Stanley G.; Bottke, William, Jr.

    1997-01-01

    We represent results of numerical simulations that show Earth's tidal forces can both distort and disrupt Earth-crossing asteriods (ECAs) that have weak rubble-pile structures. Building on previous studies, we consider more realistic asteriod shapes and trajectories, test a variety of spin and rates and axis orientations, and employ a dissipation algorithm to more accurately treat collisions between particles.

  10. Radius of Curvature of Off-Axis Paraboloids

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Robinson, Brian; Reardon, Patrick; Hadaway, James; Geary, Joseph; Russell, Kevin (Technical Monitor)

    2002-01-01

    We present several methods for measuring the vertex radius of curvature of off-axis paraboloidal mirrors. One is based on least-squares fitting of interferometer output, one on comparison of sagittal and tangential radii of curvature, and another on measurement of displacement of the nulled test article from the ideal reference wave. Each method defines radius of curvature differently and, as a consequence, produces its own sort of errors.

  11. Exploring for Volcanic and Hydrothermal Activity Above Off-axis Melt Lenses near the East Pacific Rise

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    White, S. M.; Lee, A. J.; Rubin, K. H.

    2015-12-01

    Two Alvin dives (AL 4771 and 4774) transected the seafloor directly above the two largest Off-Axis Melt Lenses (O-AML) east of the East Pacific Rise (EPR) axis at 9 39'N and 9 54'N. In 2008, a 3D high-resolution seismic reflection survey (MGL-0812) discovered O-AMLs 3-7 km from the EPR at 2-3 km below the seafloor. Several other O-AML in the crust have been subsequently detected in several locations up to 20 km from the spreading axis at fast and intermediate spreading ridges; understanding their impacts is increasingly important. During the dives, no currently active hydrothermal venting or fresh lava was seen, suggesting that these features do not constantly power off-axis geological activity. However, the seafloor appears much younger at small volcanic seamounts in the 9 39'N than at the 9 54'N site. At 9 39'N, we used Alvin to explore the off-axis volcanic mound complex, reaching the summit of the three largest mounds. Although no evidence for on-going hydrothermal or volcanic activity was detected, the seafloor wore a thin sediment layer of ~10cm and thin Mn-coatings on 9 rock samples, suggesting volcanism more recently than would be expected based on the spreading-rate age of the crust. At 9 54'N, the Alvin trackline started south of a prominent abyssal hill, which has an unusual D-shape over 1 km wide in the center, crossed the abyssal hill, visited two local hummocks on top, and then attempted to find volcanic activity on the near slope of EPR axis by going as far west was possible during the dive. Heavy sediment everywhere on the abyssal hill, to the depth of push cores (~30 cm) and probably much deeper in many areas and 4 rock samples from the abyssal hill were quite weathered with little glass intact, suggest that this site is unaffected by the underlying O-AML. Upslope toward the EPR west of the abyssal hill, 4 rocks collected appear somewhat younger, and sediment became thinner. In addition, 3 CTD tow-yos over each O-AML found no evidence of active

  12. Exploring for Volcanic and Hydrothermal Activity Above Off-axis Melt Lenses near the East Pacific Rise

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    West, A. J.; Torres, M. A.; Nealson, K. H.

    2014-12-01

    Two Alvin dives (AL 4771 and 4774) transected the seafloor directly above the two largest Off-Axis Melt Lenses (O-AML) east of the East Pacific Rise (EPR) axis at 9 39'N and 9 54'N. In 2008, a 3D high-resolution seismic reflection survey (MGL-0812) discovered O-AMLs 3-7 km from the EPR at 2-3 km below the seafloor. Several other O-AML in the crust have been subsequently detected in several locations up to 20 km from the spreading axis at fast and intermediate spreading ridges; understanding their impacts is increasingly important. During the dives, no currently active hydrothermal venting or fresh lava was seen, suggesting that these features do not constantly power off-axis geological activity. However, the seafloor appears much younger at small volcanic seamounts in the 9 39'N than at the 9 54'N site. At 9 39'N, we used Alvin to explore the off-axis volcanic mound complex, reaching the summit of the three largest mounds. Although no evidence for on-going hydrothermal or volcanic activity was detected, the seafloor wore a thin sediment layer of ~10cm and thin Mn-coatings on 9 rock samples, suggesting volcanism more recently than would be expected based on the spreading-rate age of the crust. At 9 54'N, the Alvin trackline started south of a prominent abyssal hill, which has an unusual D-shape over 1 km wide in the center, crossed the abyssal hill, visited two local hummocks on top, and then attempted to find volcanic activity on the near slope of EPR axis by going as far west was possible during the dive. Heavy sediment everywhere on the abyssal hill, to the depth of push cores (~30 cm) and probably much deeper in many areas and 4 rock samples from the abyssal hill were quite weathered with little glass intact, suggest that this site is unaffected by the underlying O-AML. Upslope toward the EPR west of the abyssal hill, 4 rocks collected appear somewhat younger, and sediment became thinner. In addition, 3 CTD tow-yos over each O-AML found no evidence of active

  13. Off-axis spectral beam combining of Bragg reflection waveguide photonic crystal diode lasers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Fangyuan; Wang, Lijie; Zhao, Yufei; Hou, Guanyu; Shu, Shili; Zhang, Jun; Peng, Hangyu; Tian, Sicong; Tong, Cunzhu; Wang, Lijun

    2018-06-01

    The spectral beam combining (SBC) of Bragg reflection waveguide photonic crystal (BRW-PC) diode lasers was studied for the first time. An off-axis feedback system was constructed using a stripe mirror and a spatial filter to control beam quality in the external cavity. It was found that the BRW-PC diode lasers with a low divergence and a circular beam provided a simplified and cost-effective SBC. The off-axis feedback broke the beam quality limit of a single element, and an M 2 factor of 3.8 times lower than that of a single emitter in the slow axis was demonstrated.

  14. Propagation dynamics of off-axis symmetrical and asymmetrical vortices embedded in flat-topped beams

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Xu; Wang, Haiyan

    2017-11-01

    In this paper, propagation dynamics of off-axis symmetrical and asymmetrical optical vortices(OVs) embedded in flat-topped beams have been explored numerically based on rigorous scalar diffraction theory. The distribution properties of phase and intensity play an important role in driving the propagation dynamics of OVs. Numerical results show that the single off-axis vortex moves in a straight line. The displacement of the single off-axis vortex becomes smaller, when either the order of flatness N and the beam size ω0are increased or the off-axis displacement d is decreased. In addition, the phase singularities of high order vortex beams can be split after propagating a certain distance. It is also demonstrated that the movement of OVs are closely related with the spatial symmetrical or asymmetrical distribution of vortex singularities field. Multiple symmetrical and asymmetrical optical vortices(OVs) embedded in flat-topped beams can interact and rotate. The investment of the propagation dynamics of OVs may have many applications in optical micro-manipulation and optical tweezers.

  15. Averaging scheme for atomic resolution off-axis electron holograms.

    PubMed

    Niermann, T; Lehmann, M

    2014-08-01

    All micrographs are limited by shot-noise, which is intrinsic to the detection process of electrons. For beam insensitive specimen this limitation can in principle easily be circumvented by prolonged exposure times. However, in the high-resolution regime several instrumental instabilities limit the applicable exposure time. Particularly in the case of off-axis holography the holograms are highly sensitive to the position and voltage of the electron-optical biprism. We present a novel reconstruction algorithm to average series of off-axis holograms while compensating for specimen drift, biprism drift, drift of biprism voltage, and drift of defocus, which all might cause problematic changes from exposure to exposure. We show an application of the algorithm utilizing also the possibilities of double biprism holography, which results in a high quality exit-wave reconstruction with 75 pm resolution at a very high signal-to-noise ratio. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Geophysical and Geochemical Analysis of the 8°20' N Seamount Chain: Studies of Off-Axis Volcanism

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McCully, E.; Fornari, D. J.; Gregg, P. M.; Perfit, M. R.; Wanless, V. D.; Anderson, M.; Lubetkin, M.

    2017-12-01

    The 8°20' N Seamount Chain is an off-axis lineament of volcanoes located west of the East Pacific Rise (EPR) and 15 km north of the Siqueiros Fracture Zone. The volcanoes are located 11 km west of the EPR axis and extend 160 km to the west. The OASIS (Off-Axis Seamount Investigations at Siqueiros) expedition in November 2016 collected ship-based EM122 bathymetry aboard the R/V Atlantis over the entire seamount chain at a 50 m resolution, and AUV Sentry bathymetric and sidescan sonar data were collected over 11 selected areas on some of the seamount summits and flanks at 1-2 m resolution. 90,000 high-resolution digital images were acquired using DSV Alvin and analyzed and classified according to morphology, structure, sediment and manganese presence, and biology. These data are used to create geologic facies maps to correlate seafloor morphology and type with acoustic reflectivity. Major and trace element data of samples collected by Alvin and dredging are also correlated to geological parameters of the seafloor features on each studied seamount. Initial estimates for the volumes of individual constructional features (e.g., mounds, cones) that comprise the seamounts were derived from the high-resolution EM122 multibeam and Sentry AUV bathymetric data and calculated using IVS Fledermaus and plotted as a function of distance from the EPR. These individually constructed volcanic features, dependent on geochemical diversity, may ultimately be grouped into larger eruptive volumes. Thus far, Sentry-derived volumes range from 0.0011-2.96 km3, while EM122-derived volumes range from 0.13-123 km3. The seamounts were classified into 3 shapes; circular, volcanic lineaments aligning parallel to the ridge-axis, and ridge-like constructions, trending perpendicular to the EPR axis. The central 60 km of the chain (60-120 km off-axis) is dominated by ridges and circular seamounts, which exhibit the largest volumes observed along the 8°20' N chain. The seamounts with the lowest

  17. Off-axis full-field swept-source optical coherence tomography using holographic refocusing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hillmann, Dierck; Franke, Gesa; Hinkel, Laura; Bonin, Tim; Koch, Peter; Hüttmann, Gereon

    2013-03-01

    We demonstrate a full-field swept-source OCT using an off-axis geometry of the reference illumination. By using holographic refocusing techniques, a uniform lateral resolution is achieved over the measurement depth of approximately 80 Rayleigh lengths. Compared to a standard on-axis setup, artifacts and autocorrelation signals are suppressed and the measurement depth is doubled by resolving the complex conjugate ambiguity. Holographic refocusing was done efficiently by Fourier-domain resampling as demonstrated before in inverse scattering and holoscopy. It allowed to reconstruct a complete volume with about 10μm resolution over the complete measurement depth of more than 10mm. Off-axis full-field swept-source OCT enables high measurement depths, spanning many Rayleigh lengths with reduced artifacts.

  18. The role of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal axis in mediating predator-avoidance trade-offs.

    PubMed

    Harris, Breanna N; Carr, James A

    2016-05-01

    Maintaining energy balance and reproducing are important for fitness, yet animals have evolved mechanisms by which the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal (HPA/HPI) axis can shut these activities off. While HPA/HPI axis inhibition of feeding and reproduction may have evolved as a predator defense, to date there has been no review across taxa of the causal evidence for such a relationship. Here we review the literature on this topic by addressing evidence for three predictions: that exposure to predators decreases reproduction and feeding, that exposure to predators activates the HPA/HPI axis, and that predator-induced activation of the HPA/HPI axis inhibits foraging and reproduction. Weight of evidence indicates that exposure to predator cues inhibits several aspects of foraging and reproduction. While the evidence from fish and mammals supports the hypothesis that predator cues activate the HPA/HPI axis, the existing data in other vertebrate taxa are equivocal. A causal role for the HPA axis in predator-induced suppression of feeding and reproduction has not been demonstrated to date, although many studies report correlative relationships between HPA activity and reproduction and/or feeding. Manipulation of HPA/HPI axis signaling will be required in future studies to demonstrate direct mediation of predator-induced inhibition of feeding and reproduction. Understanding the circuitry linking sensory pathways to their control of the HPA/HPI axis also is needed. Finally, the role that fear and anxiety pathways play in the response of the HPA axis to predator cues is needed to better understand the role that predators have played in shaping anxiety related behaviors in all species, including humans. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Expected neutrino fluence from short Gamma-Ray Burst 170817A and off-axis angle constraints

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Biehl, D.; Heinze, J.; Winter, W.

    2018-05-01

    We compute the expected neutrino fluence from SGRB 170817A, associated with the gravitational wave event GW 170817, directly based on Fermi observations in two scenarios: structured jet and off-axis (observed) top-hat jet. While the expected neutrino fluence for the structured jet case is very small, large off-axis angles imply high radiation densities in the jet, which can enhance the neutrino production efficiency. In the most optimistic allowed scenario, the neutrino fluence can reach only 10-4 of the sensitivity of the neutrino telescopes. We furthermore demonstrate that the fact that gamma-rays can escape limits the baryonic loading (energy in protons versus photons) and the off-axis angle for the internal shock scenario. In particular, for a baryonic loading of 10, the off-axis angle is more strongly constrained by the baryonic loading than by the time delay between the gravitational wave event and the onset of the gamma-ray emission.

  20. Interior of a charged distorted black hole

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

    Abdolrahimi, Shohreh; Frolov, Valeri P.; Shoom, Andrey A.

    We study the interior of a charged, nonrotating distorted black hole. We consider static and axisymmetric black holes, and focus on a special case when an electrically charged distorted solution is obtained by the Harrison-Ernst transformation from an uncharged one. We demonstrate that the Cauchy horizon of such a black hole remains regular, provided the distortion is regular at the event horizon. The shape and the inner geometry of both the outer and inner (Cauchy) horizons are studied. We demonstrate that there exists a duality between the properties of the horizons. Proper time of a free fall of a testmore » particle moving in the interior of the distorted black hole along the symmetry axis is calculated. We also study the property of the curvature in the inner domain between the horizons. Simple relations between the 4D curvature invariants and the Gaussian curvature of the outer and inner horizon surfaces are found.« less

  1. A sex-ratio meiotic drive system in Drosophila simulans. II: an X-linked distorter.

    PubMed

    Tao, Yun; Araripe, Luciana; Kingan, Sarah B; Ke, Yeyan; Xiao, Hailian; Hartl, Daniel L

    2007-11-06

    The evolution of heteromorphic sex chromosomes creates a genetic condition favoring the invasion of sex-ratio meiotic drive elements, resulting in the biased transmission of one sex chromosome over the other, in violation of Mendel's first law. The molecular mechanisms of sex-ratio meiotic drive may therefore help us to understand the evolutionary forces shaping the meiotic behavior of the sex chromosomes. Here we characterize a sex-ratio distorter on the X chromosome (Dox) in Drosophila simulans by genetic and molecular means. Intriguingly, Dox has very limited coding capacity. It evolved from another X-linked gene, which also evolved de nova. Through retrotransposition, Dox also gave rise to an autosomal suppressor, not much yang (Nmy). An RNA interference mechanism seems to be involved in the suppression of the Dox distorter by the Nmy suppressor. Double mutant males of the genotype dox; nmy are normal for both sex-ratio and spermatogenesis. We postulate that recurrent bouts of sex-ratio meiotic drive and its subsequent suppression might underlie several common features observed in the heterogametic sex, including meiotic sex chromosome inactivation and achiasmy.

  2. Off-axis low coherence digital holographic interferometry for quantitative phase imaging with an LED

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guo, Rongli; Wang, Fan; Hu, Xiaoying; Yang, Wenqian

    2017-11-01

    Off-axis digital holographic interferometry with the light source of a light emitting diode (LED) is presented and its application for quantitative phase imaging in a large range with low noise is demonstrated. The scheme is implemented in a grating based Mach-Zehnder interferometer. To achieve off-axis interferometry, firstly, the collimated beam emitted from an LED is diffracted into multiple orders by a grating and they are split into two copies by a beam splitter; secondly, in the object arm the zero order of one copy is filtered in the Fourier plane and is reshaped to illuminate the sample, while in the reference arm one of its first order of another copy is selected to serve as the reference beam, and then an off-axis hologram can be obtained at the image plane. The main advantage stemming from an LED illumination is its high spatial phase resolution, due to the subdued speckle effect. The off-axis geometry enables one-shot recording of the hologram in the millisecond scale. The utility of the proposed setup is illustrated with measurements of a resolution target and part of a wing of green-lacewing, and dynamic evaporation process of an ethanol film.

  3. OFF-AXIS THERMAL AND SYNCHROTRON EMISSION FOR SHORT GAMMA RAY BURST

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Xiaoyi

    2018-01-01

    We present light curves of photospheric and synchrotron emission from a relativistic jet propagating through the ejecta cloud of a neutron star merger. We use a moving-mesh relativistic hydrodynamics code with adaptive mesh refinement to compute the continuous evolution of jet over 13 orders of magnitude in radius from the scale of the central merger engine all the way through the late afterglow phase. As the jet propagates through the cloud it forms a hot cocoon surrounding the jet core. We find that the photospheric emission released by the hot cocoon is bright for on-axis observers and is detectable for off-axis observers at a wide range of observing angles for sufficiently close sources. As the jet and cocoon drive an external shock into the surrounding medium we compute synchrotron light curves and find bright emission for off-axis observers which differs from top-hat Blandford-McKee jets, especially for lower explosion energies.

  4. An off-axis galaxy cluster merger: Abell 0141

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Caglar, Turgay

    2018-04-01

    We present structural analysis results of Abell 0141 (z = 0.23) based on X-ray data. The X-ray luminosity map demonstrates that Abell 0141 (A0141) is a bimodal galaxy cluster, which is separated on the sky by ˜0.65 Mpc with an elongation along the north-south direction. The optical galaxy density map also demonstrates this bimodality. We estimate sub-cluster ICM temperatures of 5.17^{+0.20}_{-0.19} keV for A0141N and 5.23^{+0.24}_{-0.23} keV for A0141S. We obtain X-ray morphological parameters w = 0.034 ± 0.004, c = 0.113 ± 0.004, and w = 0.039 ± 0.004, c = 0.104 ± 0.005 for A0141N and A0141S, respectively. The resulting X-ray morphological parameters indicate that both sub-clusters are moderately disturbed non-cool core structures. We find a slight brightness jump in the bridge region, and yet, there is still an absence of strong X-ray emitting gas between sub-clusters. We discover a significantly hotspot (˜10 keV) between sub-clusters, and a Mach number M = 1.69^{+0.40}_{-0.37} is obtained by using the temperature jump condition. However, we did not find direct evidence for shock-heating between sub-clusters. We estimate the sub-clusters' central entropies as K0 > 100 keV cm2, which indicates that the sub-clusters are not cool cores. We find some evidence that the system undergoes an off-axis collision; however, the cores of each sub-clusters have not yet been destroyed. Due to the orientation of X-ray tails of sub-clusters, we suggest that the northern sub-cluster moves through the south-west direction, and the southern cluster moves through the north-east direction. In conclusion, we are witnessing an earlier phase of close core passage between sub-clusters.

  5. Fabrication and testing of the first 8.4-m off-axis segment for the Giant Magellan Telescope

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martin, H. M.; Allen, R. G.; Burge, J. H.; Kim, D. W.; Kingsley, J. S.; Tuell, M. T.; West, S. C.; Zhao, C.; Zobrist, T.

    2010-07-01

    The primary mirror of the Giant Magellan Telescope consists of seven 8.4 m segments which are borosilicate honeycomb sandwich mirrors. Fabrication and testing of the off-axis segments is challenging and has led to a number of innovations in manufacturing technology. The polishing system includes an actively stressed lap that follows the shape of the aspheric surface, used for large-scale figuring and smoothing, and a passive "rigid conformal lap" for small-scale figuring and smoothing. Four independent measurement systems support all stages of fabrication and provide redundant measurements of all critical parameters including mirror figure, radius of curvature, off-axis distance and clocking. The first measurement uses a laser tracker to scan the surface, with external references to compensate for rigid body displacements and refractive index variations. The main optical test is a full-aperture interferometric measurement, but it requires an asymmetric null corrector with three elements, including a 3.75 m mirror and a computer-generated hologram, to compensate for the surface's 14 mm departure from the best-fit sphere. Two additional optical tests measure large-scale and small-scale structure, with some overlap. Together these measurements provide high confidence that the segments meet all requirements.

  6. The immunomodulatory role of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis: Proximate mechanism for reproduction-immune trade offs?

    PubMed

    Segner, Helmut; Verburg-van Kemenade, B M Lidy; Chadzinska, Magdalena

    2017-01-01

    The present review discusses the communication between the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis and the immune system of vertebrates, attempting to situate the HPG-immune interaction into the context of life history trade-offs between reproductive and immune functions. More specifically, (i) we review molecular and cellular interactions between hormones of the HPG axis, and, as far as known, the involved mechanisms on immune functions, (ii) we evaluate whether the HPG-immune crosstalk serves as proximate mechanism mediating reproductive-immune trade-offs, and (iii) we ask whether the nature of the HPG-immune interaction is conserved throughout vertebrate evolution, despite the changes in immune functions, reproductive modes, and life histories. In all vertebrate classes studied so far, HPG hormones have immunomodulatory functions, and indications exist that they contribute to reproduction-immunity resource trade-offs, although the very limited information available for most non-mammalian vertebrates makes it difficult to judge how comparable or different the interactions are. There is good evidence that the HPG-immune crosstalk is part of the proximate mechanisms underlying the reproductive-immune trade-offs of vertebrates, but it is only one factor in a complex network of factors and processes. The fact that the HPG-immune interaction is flexible and can adapt to the functional and physiological requirements of specific life histories. Moreover, the assumption of a relatively fixed pattern of HPG influence on immune functions, with, for example, androgens always leading to immunosuppression and estrogens always being immunoprotective, is probably oversimplified, but the HPG-immune interaction can vary depending on the physiological and envoironmental context. Finally, the HPG-immune interaction is not only driven by resource trade-offs, but additional factors such as, for instance, the evolution of viviparity shape this neuroendocrine-immune relationship

  7. Analysis of off-axis tension test of wood specimens

    Treesearch

    Jen Y. Liu

    2002-01-01

    This paper presents a stress analysis of the off-axis tension test of clear wood specimens based on orthotropic elasticity theory. The effects of Poisson's ratio and shear coupling coefficient on stress distribution are analyzed in detail. The analysis also provides a theoretical foundation for the selection of a 10° grain angle in wood specimens for the...

  8. Raman Study of the Structural Distortion in the Ni 1–xCo xTiO 3 Solid Solution

    DOE PAGES

    Fujioka, Yukari; Frantti, Johannes; Puretzky, Alexander; ...

    2016-09-08

    In this paper, Raman spectra were collected on Ni 1–xCo xTiO 3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) ilmenite samples as a function of the temperature between 4 and 1200 K. An evident symmetry lowering from the prototype Rmore » $$\\bar{3}$$symmetry is observed. The distortion was largest for the x = 0.40 and 0.50 samples and significantly diminished for small and large values of x. The distortion was preserved in the whole temperature range and, except for the x = 0.50 sample, did not show significant changes. Notably, between 25 and 69 K, distortion of the x = 0.40 sample is accompanied by ferromagnetic order. The direct cation–cation and O-mediated indirect interactions are discussed as mechanisms behind the distortion and magnetic order. A reversible order–disorder phase transformation, assigned to occur between the ilmenite and corundum phases, took place at 973 K in the x = 0.50 sample. Completion of the transformation took over 1 h. Finally, the role of the overlap of Co/Ni and Ti 3d orbitals through O octahedral faces for charge transfer is discussed.« less

  9. Ten Deg Off-Axis Test for Shear Properties in Fiber Composites

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chamis, C. C.; Sinclair, J. H.

    1977-01-01

    A combined theoretical and experimental investigation was conducted to assess the suitability of the 10 deg off-axis tensile test specimen for the intralaminar shear characterization of unidirectional composites. Composite mechanics, a combined-stress failure criterion, and a finite variation across the specimen width and the relative stress and strain magnitudes at the 10 deg plane. Strain gages were used to measure the strain variation across the specimen width at specimen midlength and near the end tabs. Specimens from Mod-I/epoxy, T-300/epoxy, and S-glass/epoxy were used in the experimental program. It was found that the 10 deg off-axis tensile test specimen is suitable for intralaminar shear characterization, and it is recommended that it should be considered as a possible standard test specimen for such a characterization.

  10. Off Axis Growth of Strontium Titanate Films with High Dielectric Constant Tuning and Low Loss

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2003-04-03

    80309, U.S.A. ABSTRACT We have measured the nonlinear dielectric properties of strontium titanate (STO) thin films grown on neodymium gallate (NGO...and lanthanum aluminate (LAO) substrates. The films prepared by off-axis pulsed laser deposition were characterized by their dielectric constant and...performed on the films prepared with the off axis growth. EXPERIMENTAL Pulsed laser deposition (PLD) was used to deposit STO films on lanthanum

  11. Validation of the BASALT model for simulating off-axis hydrothermal circulation in oceanic crust

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Farahat, Navah X.; Archer, David; Abbot, Dorian S.

    2017-08-01

    Fluid recharge and discharge between the deep ocean and the porous upper layer of off-axis oceanic crust tends to concentrate in small volumes of rock, such as seamounts and fractures, that are unimpeded by low-permeability sediments. Basement structure, sediment burial, heat flow, and other regional characteristics of off-axis hydrothermal systems appear to produce considerable diversity of circulation behaviors. Circulation of seawater and seawater-derived fluids controls the extent of fluid-rock interaction, resulting in significant geochemical impacts. However, the primary regional characteristics that control how seawater is distributed within upper oceanic crust are still poorly understood. In this paper we present the details of the two-dimensional (2-D) BASALT (Basement Activity Simulated At Low Temperatures) numerical model of heat and fluid transport in an off-axis hydrothermal system. This model is designed to simulate a wide range of conditions in order to explore the dominant controls on circulation. We validate the BASALT model's ability to reproduce observations by configuring it to represent a thoroughly studied transect of the Juan de Fuca Ridge eastern flank. The results demonstrate that including series of narrow, ridge-parallel fractures as subgrid features produces a realistic circulation scenario at the validation site. In future projects, a full reactive transport version of the validated BASALT model will be used to explore geochemical fluxes in a variety of off-axis hydrothermal environments.

  12. Analysis on influence of installation error of off-axis three-mirror optical system on imaging line-of-sight

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gao, Lingyu; Li, Xinghua; Guo, Qianrui; Quan, Jing; Hu, Zhengyue; Su, Zhikun; Zhang, Dong; Liu, Peilu; Li, Haopeng

    2018-01-01

    The internal structure of off-axis three-mirror system is commonly complex. The mirror installation error in assembly always affects the imaging line-of-sight and further degrades the image quality. Due to the complexity of the optical path in off-axis three-mirror optical system, the straightforward theoretical analysis on the variations of imaging line-of-sight is extremely difficult. In order to simplify the theoretical analysis, an equivalent single-mirror system is proposed and presented in this paper. In addition, the mathematical model of single-mirror system is established and the accurate expressions of imaging coordinate are derived. Utilizing the simulation software ZEMAX, off-axis three-mirror model and single-mirror model are both established. By adjusting the position of mirror and simulating the line-of-sight rotation of optical system, the variations of imaging coordinates are clearly observed. The final simulation results include: in off-axis three-mirror system, the varying sensitivity of the imaging coordinate to the rotation of line-of-sight is approximately 30 um/″; in single-mirror system, the varying sensitivity of the imaging coordinate to the rotation of line-of-sight is 31.5 um/″. Compared to the simulation results of the off-axis three-mirror model, the 5% relative error of single-mirror model analysis highly satisfies the requirement of equivalent analysis and also verifies its validity. This paper presents a new method to analyze the installation error of the mirror in the off-axis three-mirror system influencing on the imaging line-of-sight. Moreover, the off-axis three-mirror model is totally equivalent to the single-mirror model in theoretical analysis.

  13. Correlation between the structural distortions and thermoelectric characteristics in La(1-x)A(x)CoO(3) (A = Ca and Sr).

    PubMed

    Wang, Yang; Sui, Yu; Ren, Peng; Wang, Lan; Wang, Xianjie; Su, Wenhui; Fan, Hong Jin

    2010-04-05

    Detailed structures and thermoelectric (TE) properties are investigated for the perovskite La(1-x)Ca(x)CoO(3) and La(1-x)Sr(x)CoO(3) with 0 x X-ray diffraction, which reveals that the La(1-x)Sr(x)CoO(3) series has smaller global distortions but larger local distortions. The different structural distortions strongly influence the transport and TE properties in terms of resistivity, thermopower, thermal conductivity, bandwidth, and effective mass as well as electronic correlation. These results unambiguously demonstrate a close correlation between the structural distortions and TE characteristics in this family. Furthermore, a new approach is suggested to improve the TE performance by controlling the structure factors in such strongly correlated oxide systems. The effects of the spin-state transition of Co ions on the TE properties are also discussed.

  14. Conjugation of both on-axis and off-axis light in Nipkow disk confocal microscope to increase availability of incoherent light source.

    PubMed

    Saito, Kenta; Arai, Yoshiyuki; Zhang, Jize; Kobayashi, Kentaro; Tani, Tomomi; Nagai, Takeharu

    2011-01-01

    Laser-scanning confocal microscopy has been employed for exploring structures at subcellular, cellular and tissue level in three dimensions. To acquire the confocal image, a coherent light source, such as laser, is generally required in conventional single-point scanning microscopy. The illuminating beam must be focused onto a small spot with diffraction-limited size, and this determines the spatial resolution of the microscopy system. In contrast, multipoint scanning confocal microscopy using a Nipkow disk enables the use of an incoherent light source. We previously demonstrated successful application of a 100 W mercury arc lamp as a light source for the Yokogawa confocal scanner unit in which a microlens array was coupled with a Nipkow disk to focus the collimated incident light onto a pinhole (Saito et al., Cell Struct. Funct., 33: 133-141, 2008). However, transmission efficiency of incident light through the pinhole array was low because off-axis light, the major component of the incident light, was blocked by the non-aperture area of the disk. To improve transmission efficiency, we propose an optical system in which off-axis light is able to be transmitted through pinholes surrounding the pinhole located on the optical axis of the collimator lens. This optical system facilitates the use of not only the on-axis but also the off-axis light such that the available incident light is considerably improved. As a result, we apply the proposed system to high-speed confocal and multicolor imaging both with a satisfactory signal-to-noise ratio.

  15. AXIS - Advanced X-ray Imaging Sarellite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Loewenstein, Michael; AXIS Team

    2018-01-01

    We present an overview of the Advanced X-ray Imaging Satellite (AXIS), a probe mission concept under study to the 2020 Decadal survey. AXIS follows in the footsteps of the spectacularly successful Chandra X-ray Observatory with similar or higher angular resolution and an order of magnitude more collecting area in the 0.3-10 keV band over a 15' field of view. These capabilities are designed to attain a wide range of science goals such as (i) measuring the event horizon scale structure in AGN accretion disks and the spin of supermassive black holes through monitoring of gravitationally microlensed quasars; (ii) understanding AGN and starburst feedback in galaxies and galaxy clusters through direct imaging of winds and interaction of jets and via spatially resolved imaging of galaxies at high-z; (iii) probing the fueling of AGN by resolving the SMBH sphere of influence in nearby galaxies; (iv) investigating hierarchical structure formation and the SMBH merger rate through measurement of the occurrence rate of dual AGN and occupation fraction of SMBHs; (v) advancing SNR physics and galaxy ecology through large detailed samples of SNR in nearby galaxies; (vi) measuring the Cosmic Web through its connection to cluster outskirts. With a nominal 2028 launch, AXIS benefits from natural synergies with LSST, ELTs, ALMA, WFIRST and ATHENA, and will be a valuable precursor to Lynx. AXIS utilizes breakthroughs in the construction of light-weight X-ray optics from mono-crystalline silicon blocks, and developments in the fabrication of large format, small pixel, high readout detectors.

  16. Distortion in Two-Dimensional Shapes of Merging Nanobubbles: Evidence for Anisotropic Gas Flow Mechanism.

    PubMed

    Park, Jong Bo; Shin, Dongha; Kang, Sangmin; Cho, Sung-Pyo; Hong, Byung Hee

    2016-11-01

    Two nanobubbles that merge in a graphene liquid cell take elliptical shapes rather than the ideal circular shapes. This phenomenon was investigated in detail by using in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show that the distortion in the two-dimensional shapes of the merging nanobubbles is attributed to the anisotropic gas transport flux between the nanobubbles. We also predicted and confirmed the same phenomenon in a three-nanobubble system, indicating that the relative size difference is important in determining the shape of merging nanobubbles.

  17. -X Mixing in T- and V-Shaped Quantum Wires

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    di Carlo, A.; Pescetelli, S.; Kavokin, A.; Vladimirova, M.; Lugli, P.

    1997-11-01

    We have applied both tight-binding (TB) and multivalley envelope function (MEF) techniques to calculate the electronic states in T- and V-shaped realistic quantum wires taking into account -X mixing in the conduction band. Strong reduction of the electron quantization energy due to the off-resonant -X mixing has been found in all types of quantum wires. This effect appears to be tied to the localization of the electron wave function and to its overlap with atomic layers next to interfaces.

  18. Averaged ratio between complementary profiles for evaluating shape distortions of map projections and spherical hierarchical tessellations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yan, Jin; Song, Xiao; Gong, Guanghong

    2016-02-01

    We describe a metric named averaged ratio between complementary profiles to represent the distortion of map projections, and the shape regularity of spherical cells derived from map projections or non-map-projection methods. The properties and statistical characteristics of our metric are investigated. Our metric (1) is a variable of numerical equivalence to both scale component and angular deformation component of Tissot indicatrix, and avoids the invalidation when using Tissot indicatrix and derived differential calculus for evaluating non-map-projection based tessellations where mathematical formulae do not exist (e.g., direct spherical subdivisions), (2) exhibits simplicity (neither differential nor integral calculus) and uniformity in the form of calculations, (3) requires low computational cost, while maintaining high correlation with the results of differential calculus, (4) is a quasi-invariant under rotations, and (5) reflects the distortions of map projections, distortion of spherical cells, and the associated distortions of texels. As an indicator of quantitative evaluation, we investigated typical spherical tessellation methods, some variants of tessellation methods, and map projections. The tessellation methods we evaluated are based on map projections or direct spherical subdivisions. The evaluation involves commonly used Platonic polyhedrons, Catalan polyhedrons, etc. Quantitative analyses based on our metric of shape regularity and an essential metric of area uniformity implied that (1) Uniform Spherical Grids and its variant show good qualities in both area uniformity and shape regularity, and (2) Crusta, Unicube map, and a variant of Unicube map exhibit fairly acceptable degrees of area uniformity and shape regularity.

  19. On the maximum off-axis gain of symmetrical pencil-beam antennas

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sawitz, P. H.

    1977-01-01

    For a general class of symmetrical pencil-beam antennas, the gain at a given off-axis angle can be maximized by choosing the proper antenna size. The maximum gain at the given angle relative to the on-axis gain is independent of the given angle and dependent only on the main-beam pattern. It is computed here for four commonly used gain functions. Its value, in all cases, is close to 4 dB. This result is important in the definition of service areas for communication and broadcast satellites.

  20. The Advanced X-ray Imaging Satellite (AXIS)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Reynolds, Christopher S.; Mushotzky, Richard

    2017-08-01

    The Advanced X-ray Imaging Satellite (AXIS) will follow in the footsteps of the spectacularly successful Chandra X-ray Observatory with similar or higher angular resolution and an order of magnitude more collecting area in the 0.3-10keV band. These capabilities will enable major advances in many of the most active areas of astrophysics, including (i) mapping event horizon scale structure in AGN accretion disks and the determination of supermassive black hole (SMBH) spins through monitoring of gravitationally-microlensed quasars; (ii) dramatically deepening our understanding of AGN feedback in galaxies and galaxy clusters out to high-z through the direct imaging of AGN winds and the interaction of jets with the hot interstellar/intracluster medium; (iii) understanding the fueling of AGN by probing hot flows inside of the SMBH sphere of influence; (iv) obtaining geometric distance measurements using dust scattering halos. With a nominal 2028 launch, AXIS will be enormously synergistic with LSST, ALMA, WFIRST and ATHENA, and will be a valuable precursor to Lynx. AXIS is enabled by breakthroughs in the construction of light-weight X-ray optics from mono-crystalline silicon blocks, building on recent developments in the semiconductor industry. Here, we describe the straw-man concept for AXIS, some of the high profile science that this observatory will address, and how you can become involved.

  1. Normalized Point Source Sensitivity for Off-Axis Optical Performance Evaluation of the Thirty Meter Telescope

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Seo, Byoung-Joon; Nissly, Carl; Troy, Mitchell; Angeli, George

    2010-01-01

    The Normalized Point Source Sensitivity (PSSN) has previously been defined and analyzed as an On-Axis seeing-limited telescope performance metric. In this paper, we expand the scope of the PSSN definition to include Off-Axis field of view (FoV) points and apply this generalized metric for performance evaluation of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT). We first propose various possible choices for the PSSN definition and select one as our baseline. We show that our baseline metric has useful properties including the multiplicative feature even when considering Off-Axis FoV points, which has proven to be useful for optimizing the telescope error budget. Various TMT optical errors are considered for the performance evaluation including segment alignment and phasing, segment surface figures, temperature, and gravity, whose On-Axis PSSN values have previously been published by our group.

  2. Measurement of νμ and νe Events in an Off-Axis Horn-Focused Neutrino Beam

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Adamson, P.; Aguilar-Arevalo, A. A.; Anderson, C. E.; Bazarko, A. O.; Bishai, M.; Brice, S. J.; Brown, B. C.; Bugel, L.; Cao, J.; Choudhary, B. C.; Coney, L.; Conrad, J. M.; Cox, D. C.; Curioni, A.; Djurcic, Z.; Finley, D. A.; Fleming, B. T.; Ford, R.; Gallagher, H. R.; Garcia, F. G.; Garvey, G. T.; Green, C.; Green, J. A.; Harris, D.; Hart, T. L.; Hawker, E.; Hylen, J.; Imlay, R.; Johnson, R. A.; Karagiorgi, G.; Kasper, P.; Katori, T.; Kobilarcik, T.; Kopp, S.; Kourbanis, I.; Koutsoliotas, S.; Laird, E. M.; Linden, S. K.; Link, J. M.; Liu, Y.; Liu, Y.; Loiacono, L.; Louis, W. C.; Marchionni, A.; Mahn, K. B. M.; Marsh, W.; McGregor, G.; Messier, M. D.; Metcalf, W.; Meyers, P. D.; Mills, F.; Mills, G. B.; Monroe, J.; Moore, C. D.; Nelson, J. K.; Nelson, R. H.; Nguyen, V. T.; Nienaber, P.; Nowak, J. A.; Ouedraogo, S.; Patterson, R. B.; Pavlovic, Z.; Perevalov, D.; Polly, C. C.; Prebys, E.; Raaf, J. L.; Ray, H.; Roe, B. P.; Russell, A. D.; Sandberg, V.; Schirato, R.; Schmitz, D.; Shaevitz, M. H.; Shoemaker, F. C.; Smart, W.; Smith, D.; Sodeberg, M.; Sorel, M.; Spentzouris, P.; Stancu, I.; Stefanski, R. J.; Sung, M.; Tanaka, H. A.; Tayloe, R.; Tzanov, M.; Vahle, P.; van de Water, R.; Viren, B.; Wascko, M. O.; White, D. H.; Wilking, M. J.; Yang, H. J.; Yumiceva, F. X.; Zeller, G. P.; Zimmerman, E. D.; Zwaska, R.

    2009-05-01

    We report the first observation of off-axis neutrino interactions in the MiniBooNE detector from the NuMI beam line at Fermilab. The MiniBooNE detector is located 745 m from the NuMI production target, at 110 mrad angle (6.3°) with respect to the NuMI beam axis. Samples of charged-current quasielastic νμ and νe interactions are analyzed and found to be in agreement with expectation. This provides a direct verification of the expected pion and kaon contributions to the neutrino flux and validates the modeling of the NuMI off-axis beam.

  3. A Morphospace for Reef Fishes: Elongation Is the Dominant Axis of Body Shape Evolution

    PubMed Central

    Claverie, Thomas; Wainwright, Peter C.

    2014-01-01

    Tropical reef fishes are widely regarded as being perhaps the most morphologically diverse vertebrate assemblage on earth, yet much remains to be discovered about the scope and patterns of this diversity. We created a morphospace of 2,939 species spanning 56 families of tropical Indo-Pacific reef fishes and established the primary axes of body shape variation, the phylogenetic consistency of these patterns, and whether dominant patterns of shape change can be accomplished by diverse underlying changes. Principal component analysis showed a major axis of shape variation that contrasts deep-bodied species with slender, elongate forms. Furthermore, using custom methods to compare the elongation vector (axis that maximizes elongation deformation) and the main vector of shape variation (first principal component) for each family in the morphospace, we showed that two thirds of the families diversify along an axis of body elongation. Finally, a comparative analysis using a principal coordinate analysis based on the angles among first principal component vectors of each family shape showed that families accomplish changes in elongation with a wide range of underlying modifications. Some groups such as Pomacentridae and Lethrinidae undergo decreases in body depth with proportional increases in all body regions, while other families show disproportionate changes in the length of the head (e.g., Labridae), the trunk or caudal region in all combinations (e.g., Pempheridae and Pinguipedidae). In conclusion, we found that evolutionary changes in body shape along an axis of elongation dominates diversification in reef fishes. Changes in shape on this axis are thought to have immediate implications for swimming performance, defense from gape limited predators, suction feeding performance and access to some highly specialized habitats. The morphological modifications that underlie changes in elongation are highly diverse, suggesting a role for a range of developmental processes

  4. A morphospace for reef fishes: elongation is the dominant axis of body shape evolution.

    PubMed

    Claverie, Thomas; Wainwright, Peter C

    2014-01-01

    Tropical reef fishes are widely regarded as being perhaps the most morphologically diverse vertebrate assemblage on earth, yet much remains to be discovered about the scope and patterns of this diversity. We created a morphospace of 2,939 species spanning 56 families of tropical Indo-Pacific reef fishes and established the primary axes of body shape variation, the phylogenetic consistency of these patterns, and whether dominant patterns of shape change can be accomplished by diverse underlying changes. Principal component analysis showed a major axis of shape variation that contrasts deep-bodied species with slender, elongate forms. Furthermore, using custom methods to compare the elongation vector (axis that maximizes elongation deformation) and the main vector of shape variation (first principal component) for each family in the morphospace, we showed that two thirds of the families diversify along an axis of body elongation. Finally, a comparative analysis using a principal coordinate analysis based on the angles among first principal component vectors of each family shape showed that families accomplish changes in elongation with a wide range of underlying modifications. Some groups such as Pomacentridae and Lethrinidae undergo decreases in body depth with proportional increases in all body regions, while other families show disproportionate changes in the length of the head (e.g., Labridae), the trunk or caudal region in all combinations (e.g., Pempheridae and Pinguipedidae). In conclusion, we found that evolutionary changes in body shape along an axis of elongation dominates diversification in reef fishes. Changes in shape on this axis are thought to have immediate implications for swimming performance, defense from gape limited predators, suction feeding performance and access to some highly specialized habitats. The morphological modifications that underlie changes in elongation are highly diverse, suggesting a role for a range of developmental processes

  5. Off-Axis Ratcheting Behavior of Unidirectional Carbon/Epoxy Laminate under Asymmetric Cyclic Loading at High Temperature

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-11-01

    ply unidirectional carbon/epoxy laminates [0]12 were fabricated from the prepreg tape of P3252-20 (TORAY). They were laid up by hand and cured in...Off-Axis Ratcheting Behavior of Unidirectional Carbon/Epoxy Laminate under Asymmetric Cyclic Loading at High Temperature Takafumi Suzuki 1 and...Development of an engineering model for predicting the off-axis ratcheting behavior of a unidirectional CFRP laminate has been attempted. For this purpose

  6. APS-U LATTICE DESIGN FOR OFF-AXIS ACCUMULATION

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

    Sun, Yipeng; Borland, M.; Lindberg, R.

    2017-06-25

    A 67-pm hybrid-seven-bend achromat (H7BA) lattice is being proposed for a future Advanced Photon Source (APS) multi-bend-achromat (MBA) upgrade project. This lattice design pushes for smaller emittance and requires use of a swap-out (on-axis) injection scheme due to limited dynamic acceptance. Alternate lattice design work has also been performed for the APS upgrade to achieve better beam dynamics performance than the nominal APS MBA lattice, in order to allow off-axis accumulation. Two such alternate H7BA lattice designs, which target a still-low emittance of 90 pm, are discussed in detail in this paper. Although the single-particle-dynamics performance is good, simulations ofmore » collective effects indicate that surprising difficulty would be expected accumulating high single-bunch charge in this lattice. The brightness of the 90-pm lattice is also a factor of two lower than the 67-pm H7BA lattice.« less

  7. Point Spread Function of ASTRO-H Soft X-Ray Telescope (SXT)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hayashi, Takayuki; Sato, Toshiki; Kikuchi, Naomichi; Iizuka, Ryo; Maeda, Yoshitomo; Ishida, Manabu; Kurashima, Sho; Nakaniwa, Nozomi; Okajima, Takashi; Mori, Hideyuki; hide

    2016-01-01

    ASTRO-H (Hitomi) satellite equips two Soft X-ray Telescopes (SXTs), one of which (SXT-S) is coupled to Soft-X-ray Spectrometer (SXS) while the other (SXT-I) is coupled to Soft X-ray Imager (SXI). Although SXTs are lightweight of approximately 42 kgmodule1 and have large on-axis effective area (EA) of approximately 450 cm(exp 2) at 4.5 keV module(sub 1) by themselves, their angular resolutions are moderate approximately 1.2 arcmin in half power diameter. The amount of contamination into the SXS FOV (3.05 times 3.05 arcmin(exp 2) from nearby sources was measured in the ground-based calibration at the beamline in Institute of Space and Astronautical Science. The contamination at 4.5 keV were measured with sources distant from the SXS center by one width of the FOV in perpendicular and diagonal directions, that is, 3 and 4.5 arcmin-off, respectively. The average EA of the contamination in the four directions with the 3 and 4.5 arcmin-off were measured to be 2 and 0.6% of the on-axis EA of 412 cm (exp) for the SXS FOV, respectively. The contamination from a source distant by two FOV widths in a diagonal direction, that is, 8.6 arcmin-off was measured to be 0.1% of the on-axis at 4.5 keV. The contamination amounts were also measured at 1.5 keV and 8.0 keV which indicated that the ratio of the contamination EA to that of on-axis hardly depended on the source energy. The off-axis SXT-I images from 4.5 to 27 arcmin were acquired at intervals of -4.5 arcmin for the SXI FOV of 38 times 38 arcmin(exp 2). The image shrinked as the off-axis angle increased. Above 13.5 arcmin of off-angle, a stray appeared around the image center in the off-axis direction. As for the on-axis image, a ring-shaped stray appeared at the edge of SXI of approximately 18 arcmin distant from the image center.

  8. Off-axis impact of unidirectional composites with cracks: Dynamic stress intensification

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sih, G. C.; Chen, E. P.

    1979-01-01

    The dynamic response of unidirectional composites under off axis (angle loading) impact is analyzed by assuming that the composite contains an initial flaw in the matrix material. The analytical method utilizes Fourier transform for the space variable and Laplace transform for the time variable. The off axis impact is separated into two parts, one being symmetric and the other skew-symmetric with reference to the crack plane. Transient boundary conditions of normal and shear tractions are applied to a crack embedded in the matrix of the unidirectional composite. The two boundary conditions are solved independently and the results superimposed. Mathematically, these conditions reduce the problem to a system of dual integral equations which are solved in the Laplace transform plane for the transformation of the dynamic stress intensity factor. The time inversion is carried out numerically for various combinations of the material properties of the composite and the results are displayed graphically.

  9. A dual-porosity reactive-transport model of off-axis hydrothermal systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Farahat, N. X.; Abbot, D. S.; Archer, D. E.

    2017-12-01

    We built a dual-porosity reactive-transport 2D numerical model of off-axis pillow basalt alteration. An "outer chamber" full of porous glassy material supports significant seawater flushing, and an "inner chamber", which represents the more crystalline interior of a pillow, supports diffusive alteration. Hydrothermal fluids in the two chambers interact, and the two chambers are coupled to 2D flows. In a few million years of low-temperature alteration, the dual-porosity model predicts progressive stages of alteration that have been observed in drilled crust. A single-porosity model, with all else being equal, does not predict alteration stages as well. The dual-chamber model also does a better job than the single-chamber model at predicting the types of minerals expected in off-axis environments. We validate the model's ability to reproduce observations by configuring it to represent a thoroughly-studied transect of the Juan de Fuca Ridge eastern flank.

  10. Phase derivative method for reconstruction of slightly off-axis digital holograms.

    PubMed

    Guo, Cheng-Shan; Wang, Ben-Yi; Sha, Bei; Lu, Yu-Jie; Xu, Ming-Yuan

    2014-12-15

    A phase derivative (PD) method is proposed for reconstruction of off-axis holograms. In this method, a phase distribution of the tested object wave constrained within 0 to pi radian is firstly worked out by a simple analytical formula; then it is corrected to its right range from -pi to pi according to the sign characteristics of its first-order derivative. A theoretical analysis indicates that this PD method is particularly suitable for reconstruction of slightly off-axis holograms because it only requires the spatial frequency of the reference beam larger than spatial frequency of the tested object wave in principle. In addition, because the PD method belongs to a pure local method with no need of any integral operation or phase shifting algorithm in process of the phase retrieval, it could have some advantages in reducing computer load and memory requirements to the image processing system. Some experimental results are given to demonstrate the feasibility of the method.

  11. The Jahn-Teller distortion influenced ferromagnetic order in Pr1-xLaxMnO3

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    He, Feifei; Mao, Zhongquan; Tang, Lingyun; Zhang, Jiang; Chen, Xi

    2018-06-01

    The structural and magnetic properties of Pr1-xLaxMnO3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) polycrystalline powders are investigated. A structural phase transition from a large Jahn-Teller (J-T) distorted orthorhombic structure to a small J-T distorted orthorhombic phase is found at x = 0.70, while the LaMnO3 is showed to have a rhombohedral structure. All the samples exhibit ferromagnetic ordering, and meanwhile, a reentrant spin glass behavior at low temperature. The relationship between J-T distortions and the ferromagnetic order is discussed.

  12. Off-axis fishbone-like instability and excitation of resistive wall modes in JT-60U and DIII-D

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

    Okabayashi, M.; Solomon, W. M.; Budny, R. V.

    2011-05-15

    An energetic-particle (EP)-driven ''off-axis-fishbone-like mode (OFM)'' often triggers a resistive wall mode (RWM) in JT-60U and DIII-D devices, preventing long-duration high-{beta}{sub N} discharges. In these experiments, the EPs are energetic ions (70-85 keV) injected by neutral beams to produce high-pressure plasmas. EP-driven bursting events reduce the EP density and the plasma rotation simultaneously. These changes are significant in high-{beta}{sub N} low-rotation plasmas, where the RWM stability is predicted to be strongly influenced by the EP precession drift resonance and by the plasma rotation near the q=2 surface (kinetic effects). Analysis of these effects on stability with a self-consistent perturbation tomore » the mode structure using the MARS-K code showed that the impact of EP losses and rotation drop is sufficient to destabilize the RWM in low-rotation plasmas, when the plasma rotation normalized by Alfven frequency is only a few tenths of a percent near the q=2 surface. The OFM characteristics are very similar in JT-60U and DIII-D, including nonlinear mode evolution. The modes grow initially like a classical fishbone, and then the mode structure becomes strongly distorted. The dynamic response of the OFM to an applied n=1 external field indicates that the mode retains its external kink character. These comparative studies suggest that an energetic particle-driven 'off-axis-fishbone-like mode' is a new EP-driven branch of the external kink mode in wall-stabilized plasmas, analogous to the relationship of the classical fishbone branch to the internal kink mode.« less

  13. Off-axis cooling of rotating devices using a crank-shaped heat pipe

    DOEpatents

    Jankowski, Todd A.; Prenger, F. Coyne; Waynert, Joseph A.

    2007-01-30

    The present invention is a crank-shaped heat pipe for cooling rotating machinery and a corresponding method of manufacture. The crank-shaped heat pipe comprises a sealed cylindrical tube with an enclosed inner wick structure. The crank-shaped heat pipe includes a condenser section, an adiabatic section, and an evaporator section. The crank-shape is defined by a first curve and a second curve existing in the evaporator section or the adiabatic section of the heat pipe. A working fluid within the heat pipe provides the heat transfer mechanism.

  14. Major off-axis hydrothermal activity on the northern Gorda Ridge

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Rona, Peter A.; Denlinger, Roger P.; Fisk, M. R.; Howard, K. J.; Taghon, G. L.; Klitgord, Kim D.; McClain, James S.; McMurray, G. R.; Wiltshire, J. C.

    1990-01-01

    The first hydrothermal field on the northern Gorda Ridge, the Sea Cliff hydrothermal field, was discovered and geologic controls of hydrothermal activity in the rift valley were investigated on a dive series using the DSV Sea Cliff. The Sea Cliff hydrothermal field was discovered where predicted at the intersection of axis-oblique and axis-parallel faults at the south end of a linear ridge at mid-depth (2700 m) on the east wall. Preliminary mapping and sampling of the field reveal: a setting nested on nearly sediment-free fault blocks 300 m above the rift valley floor 2.6 km from the axis; a spectrum of venting types from seeps to black smokers; high conductive heat flow estimated to be equivalent to the convective flux of multiple black smokers through areas of the sea floor sealed by a caprock of elastic breccia primarily derived from basalt with siliceous cement and barite pore fillings; and a vent biota with Juan de Fuca Ridge affinites. These findings demonstrate the importance of off-axis hydrothermal activity and the role of the intersection of tectonic lineations in controlling hydrothermal sites at sea-floor spreading centers.

  15. The effects of eccentricities on the fracture of off-axis fiber composites. [carbon fiber reinforced plastics

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chamis, C. C.; Sinclair, J. H.

    1978-01-01

    Finite element analyses were performed to investigate theoretically the effects of in-plane and out-of-plane eccentricities, bending or twisting, and thickness nonuniformity on the axial stress and strain variations across the width of off-axis specimens. The results are compared with measured data and are also used to assess the effects of these eccentricities on the fracture stress of off-axis fiber composites. Guidelines for detecting and minimizing the presence of eccentricities are described.

  16. Improvements in dose calculation accuracy for small off-axis targets in high dose per fraction tomotherapy

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

    Hardcastle, Nicholas; Bayliss, Adam; Wong, Jeannie Hsiu Ding

    2012-08-15

    Purpose: A recent field safety notice from TomoTherapy detailed the underdosing of small, off-axis targets when receiving high doses per fraction. This is due to angular undersampling in the dose calculation gantry angles. This study evaluates a correction method to reduce the underdosing, to be implemented in the current version (v4.1) of the TomoTherapy treatment planning software. Methods: The correction method, termed 'Super Sampling' involved the tripling of the number of gantry angles from which the dose is calculated during optimization and dose calculation. Radiochromic film was used to measure the dose to small targets at various off-axis distances receivingmore » a minimum of 21 Gy in one fraction. Measurements were also performed for single small targets at the center of the Lucy phantom, using radiochromic film and the dose magnifying glass (DMG). Results: Without super sampling, the peak dose deficit increased from 0% to 18% for a 10 mm target and 0% to 30% for a 5 mm target as off-axis target distances increased from 0 to 16.5 cm. When super sampling was turned on, the dose deficit trend was removed and all peak doses were within 5% of the planned dose. For measurements in the Lucy phantom at 9.7 cm off-axis, the positional and dose magnitude accuracy using super sampling was verified using radiochromic film and the DMG. Conclusions: A correction method implemented in the TomoTherapy treatment planning system which triples the angular sampling of the gantry angles used during optimization and dose calculation removes the underdosing for targets as small as 5 mm diameter, up to 16.5 cm off-axis receiving up to 21 Gy.« less

  17. Optical diffraction tomography: accuracy of an off-axis reconstruction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kostencka, Julianna; Kozacki, Tomasz

    2014-05-01

    Optical diffraction tomography is an increasingly popular method that allows for reconstruction of three-dimensional refractive index distribution of semi-transparent samples using multiple measurements of an optical field transmitted through the sample for various illumination directions. The process of assembly of the angular measurements is usually performed with one of two methods: filtered backprojection (FBPJ) or filtered backpropagation (FBPP) tomographic reconstruction algorithm. The former approach, although conceptually very simple, provides an accurate reconstruction for the object regions located close to the plane of focus. However, since FBPJ ignores diffraction, its use for spatially extended structures is arguable. According to the theory of scattering, more precise restoration of a 3D structure shall be achieved with the FBPP algorithm, which unlike the former approach incorporates diffraction. It is believed that with this method one is allowed to obtain a high accuracy reconstruction in a large measurement volume exceeding depth of focus of an imaging system. However, some studies have suggested that a considerable improvement of the FBPP results can be achieved with prior propagation of the transmitted fields back to the centre of the object. This, supposedly, enables reduction of errors due to approximated diffraction formulas used in FBPP. In our view this finding casts doubt on quality of the FBPP reconstruction in the regions far from the rotation axis. The objective of this paper is to investigate limitation of the FBPP algorithm in terms of an off-axis reconstruction and compare its performance with the FBPJ approach. Moreover, in this work we propose some modifications to the FBPP algorithm that allow for more precise restoration of a sample structure in off-axis locations. The research is based on extensive numerical simulations supported with wave-propagation method.

  18. A Study of Electron Modes in Off-axis Heated Alcator C-Mod Plasmas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fiore, C. L.; Ernst, D. R.; Mikkelsen, D.; Ennever, P. C.; Howard, N. T.; Gao, C.; Reinke, M. L.; Rice, J. E.; Hughes, J. W.; Walk, J. R.

    2013-10-01

    Understanding the underlying physics and stability of the peaked density internal transport barriers (ITB) that have been observed during off-axis ICRF heating of Alcator C-Mod plasmas is the goal of recent gyro-kinetic simulations. Two scenarios are examined: an ITB plasma formed with maximal (4.5 MW) off-axis heating power; also the use of off-axis heating in an I-mode plasma as a target in the hopes of establishing an ITB. In the former, it is expected that evidence of trapped electron mode instabilities could be found if a sufficiently high electron temperature is achieved in the core. Linear simulations show unstable modes are present across the plasma core from r/a = 0.2 and greater. In the latter case, despite establishing similar conditions to those in which ITBS were formed, none developed in the I-mode plasmas. Linear gyrokinetic analyses show no unstable ion modes at r/a < 0.55 in these I-mode plasmas, with both ITG and ETG modes present beyond r/a = 0.65. The details of the experimental results will be presented. Linear and non-linear simulations of both of these cases will attempt to explore the underlying role of electron and ion gradient driven instabilities to explain the observations. This work was supported by US-DoE DE-FC02-99ER54512 and DE-AC02-09CH11466.

  19. Destabilization of counter-propagating TAEs by off-axis, co-current Neutral Beam Injection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Podesta', M.; Fredrickson, E.; Gorelenkova, M.

    2017-10-01

    Neutral Beam injection (NBI) is a common tool to heat the plasma and drive current non-inductively in fusion devices. Energetic particles (EP) resulting from NBI can drive instabilities that are detrimental for the performance and the predictability of plasma discharges. A broad NBI deposition profile, e.g. by off-axis injection aiming near the plasma mid-radius, is often assumed to limit those undesired effects by reducing the radial gradient of the EP density, thus reducing the ``universal'' drive for instabilities. However, this work presents new evidence that off-axis NBI can also lead to undesired effects such as the destabilization of Alfvénic instabilities, as observed in NSTX-U plasmas. Experimental observations indicate that counter propagating toroidal AEs are destabilized as the radial EP density profile becomes hollow as a result of off-axis NBI. Time-dependent analysis with the TRANSP code, augmented by a reduced fast ion transport model (known as kick model), indicates that instabilities are driven by a combination of radial and energy gradients in the EP distribution. Understanding the mechanisms for wave-particle interaction, revealed by the phase space resolved analysis, is the basis to identify strategies to mitigate or suppress the observed instabilities. Work supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Fusion Energy Sciences under Contract Number DE-AC02-09CH11466.

  20. Fast imaging with inelastically scattered electrons by off-axis chromatic confocal electron microscopy.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Changlin; Zhu, Ye; Lazar, Sorin; Etheridge, Joanne

    2014-04-25

    We introduce off-axis chromatic scanning confocal electron microscopy, a technique for fast mapping of inelastically scattered electrons in a scanning transmission electron microscope without a spectrometer. The off-axis confocal mode enables the inelastically scattered electrons to be chromatically dispersed both parallel and perpendicular to the optic axis. This enables electrons with different energy losses to be separated and detected in the image plane, enabling efficient energy filtering in a confocal mode with an integrating detector. We describe the experimental configuration and demonstrate the method with nanoscale core-loss chemical mapping of silver (M4,5) in an aluminium-silver alloy and atomic scale imaging of the low intensity core-loss La (M4,5@840  eV) signal in LaB6. Scan rates up to 2 orders of magnitude faster than conventional methods were used, enabling a corresponding reduction in radiation dose and increase in the field of view. If coupled with the enhanced depth and lateral resolution of the incoherent confocal configuration, this offers an approach for nanoscale three-dimensional chemical mapping.

  1. Fast reconstruction of off-axis digital holograms based on digital spatial multiplexing.

    PubMed

    Sha, Bei; Liu, Xuan; Ge, Xiao-Lu; Guo, Cheng-Shan

    2014-09-22

    A method for fast reconstruction of off-axis digital holograms based on digital multiplexing algorithm is proposed. Instead of the existed angular multiplexing (AM), the new method utilizes a spatial multiplexing (SM) algorithm, in which four off-axis holograms recorded in sequence are synthesized into one SM function through multiplying each hologram with a tilted plane wave and then adding them up. In comparison with the conventional methods, the SM algorithm simplifies two-dimensional (2-D) Fourier transforms (FTs) of four N*N arrays into a 1.25-D FTs of one N*N arrays. Experimental results demonstrate that, using the SM algorithm, the computational efficiency can be improved and the reconstructed wavefronts keep the same quality as those retrieved based on the existed AM method. This algorithm may be useful in design of a fast preview system of dynamic wavefront imaging in digital holography.

  2. Effect of fuel and nozzle geometry on the off-axis oscillation of needle in diesel injectors using high-speed X-ray phase contrast imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, X.; Liu, J.; Wang, J.

    2016-05-01

    The diesel spray characteristics are strongly influenced by the flow dynamics inside the injector nozzle. Moreover, the off-axis oscillation of needle could lead to variation of orifice flow in the nozzle. In this paper, the needle oscillation was investigated using high-speed X-ray phase contrast imaging and quantitative image processing. The effects of fuel, injection pressure and nozzle geometry on the needle oscillation were analyzed. The results showed that the vertical and horizontal oscillation of needle was independent on the injection pressure. The maximum oscillation range of 14μ m was found. Biodiesel application slightly decreased the needle oscillation due to high viscosity. The needle oscillation range increased generally with increasing hole number. The larger needle oscillation in multi-hole injectors was dominated by the geometry problem or production issue at lower needle lift. In addition, the influence of needle oscillation on the spray morphology was also discussed.

  3. Off-axis current drive and real-time control of current profile in JT-60U

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Suzuki, T.; Ide, S.; Oikawa, T.; Fujita, T.; Ishikawa, M.; Seki, M.; Matsunaga, G.; Hatae, T.; Naito, O.; Hamamatsu, K.; Sueoka, M.; Hosoyama, H.; Nakazato, M.; JT-60 Team

    2008-04-01

    Aiming at optimization of current profile in high-β plasmas for higher confinement and stability, a real-time control system of the minimum of the safety factor (qmin) using the off-axis current drive has been developed. The off-axis current drive can raise the safety factor in the centre and help to avoid instability that limits the performance of the plasma. The system controls the injection power of lower-hybrid waves, and hence its off-axis driven current in order to control qmin. The real-time control of qmin is demonstrated in a high-β plasma, where qmin follows the temporally changing reference qmin,ref from 1.3 to 1.7. Applying the control to another high-β discharge (βN = 1.7, βp = 1.5) with m/n = 2/1 neo-classical tearing mode (NTM), qmin was raised above 2 and the NTM was suppressed. The stored energy increased by 16% with the NTM suppressed, since the resonant rational surface was eliminated. For the future use for current profile control, current density profile for off-axis neutral beam current drive (NBCD) is for the first time measured, using the motional Stark effect diagnostic. Spatially localized NBCD profile was clearly observed at the normalized minor radius ρ of about 0.6-0.8. The location was also confirmed by multi-chordal neutron emission profile measurement. The total amount of the measured beam driven current was consistent with the theoretical calculation using the ACCOME code. The CD location in the calculation was inward shifted than the measurement.

  4. Measurement of multiaxial ply strength by an off-axis flexure test

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Crews, John H., Jr.; Naik, Rajiv A.

    1992-01-01

    An off-axis flexure (OAF) test was performed to measure ply strength under multiaxial stress states. This test involves unidirectional off-axis specimens loaded in bending, using an apparatus that allows these anisotropic specimens to twist as well as flex without the complications of a resisting torque. A 3D finite element stress analysis verified that simple beam theory could be used to compute the specimen bending stresses at failure. Unidirectional graphite/epoxy specimens with fiber angles ranging from 90 deg to 15 deg have combined normal and shear stresses on their failure planes that are typical of 45 deg plies in structural laminates. Tests for a range of stress states with AS4/3501-6 specimens showed that both normal and shear stresses on the failure plane influenced cracking resistance. This OAF test may prove to be useful for generating data needed to predict ply cracking in composite structures and may also provide an approach for studying fiber-matrix interface failures under stress states typical of structures.

  5. Off-Axis Nulling Transfer Function Measurement: A First Assessment

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vedova, G. Dalla; Menut, J.-L.; Millour, F.; Petrov, R.; Cassaing, F.; Danchi, W. C.; Jacquinod, S.; Lhome, E.; Lopez, B.; Lozi, J.; hide

    2013-01-01

    We want to study a polychromatic inverse problem method with nulling interferometers to obtain information on the structures of the exozodiacal light. For this reason, during the first semester of 2013, thanks to the support of the consortium PERSEE, we launched a campaign of laboratory measurements with the nulling interferometric test bench PERSEE, operating with 9 spectral channels between J and K bands. Our objective is to characterise the transfer function, i.e. the map of the null as a function of wavelength for an off-axis source, the null being optimised on the central source or on the source photocenter. We were able to reach on-axis null depths better than 10(exp -4). This work is part of a broader project aiming at creating a simulator of a nulling interferometer in which typical noises of a real instrument are introduced. We present here our first results.

  6. Mechanical behavior and fracture characteristics of off-axis fiber composites. 1: Experimental investigation. [at the Lewis Research Center

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sinclair, J. H.; Chamis, C. C.

    1977-01-01

    The mechanical behavior, fracture surfaces, and fracture modes of unidirectional high-modulus graphite-fiber/epoxy composites subjected to off-axis tensile loads were investigated experimentally. The investigation included the generation of stress-strain-to-fracture data and scanning electron microscope studies of the fractured surfaces. The results led to the identification of fracture modes and distinct fracture surface characteristics for off-axis tensile loading. The results also led to the formulation of critical for identifying and characterizing these fracture modes and their associated fracture surfaces. The results presented and discussed herein were used in the theoretical investigation and comparisons described in Part 2. These results should also provide a good foundation for identifying, characterizing, and quantifying fracture modes in both off-axis and angle-plied laminates.

  7. High aperture off-axis parabolic mirror applied in digital holographic microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kalenkov, Georgy S.; Kalenkov, Sergey G.; Shtanko, Alexander E.

    2018-04-01

    An optical scheme of recording digital holograms of micro-objects based on high numerical aperture off-axis parabolic mirror forming a high aperture reference wave is suggested. Registration of digital holograms based on the proposed optical scheme is confirmed experimentally. Application of the proposed approach for hyperspectral holograms registration of micro-objects in incoherent light is discussed.

  8. A microstructure-based model for shape distortion during liquid phase sintering

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Upadhyaya, Anish

    Tight dimensional control is a major concern in consolidation of alloys via liquid phase sintering. This research demonstrates the role of microstructure in controlling the bulk dimensional changes that occur during liquid phase sintering. The dimensional changes were measured using a coordinate measuring machine and also on a real-time basis using in situ video imaging. To quantify compact distortion, a distortion parameter is formulated which takes into consideration the compact distortion in radial as well as axial directions. The microstructural attributes considered in this study are as follows: solid content, dihedral angle, grain size, grain contiguity and connectivity, and solid-solubility. Sintering experiments were conducted with the W-Ni-Cu, W-Ni-Fe, Mo-Ni-Cu, and Fe-Cu systems. The alloy systems and the compositions were selected to give a range of microstructures during liquid phase sintering. The results show that distortion correlates with the measured microstructural attributes. Systems containing a high solid content, high grain coordination number and contiguity, and large dihedral angle have more structural rigidity. The results show that a minimum two-dimensional grain coordination number of 3.0 is necessary for shape preservation. Based on the experimental observations, a model is derived that relates the critical solid content required for maintaining structural rigidity to the dihedral angle. The critical solid content decreases with an increasing dihedral angle. Consequently, W-Cu alloys, which have a dihedral angle of about 95sp°, can be consolidated without gross distortion with as little as 20 vol.% solid. To comprehensively understand the gravitational effects in the evolution of both the microstructure and the macrostructure during liquid phase sintering, W-Ni-Fe alloys with W content varying from 78 to 93 wt.% were sintered in microgravity. Compositions that slump during ground-based sintering also distort when sintered under

  9. Off-Axis Seamount Lavas at 8°20' N Span the Entire Range of East Pacific Rise MORB Compositions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anderson, M.; Wanless, V. D.; Perfit, M. R.; Gregg, P. M.; Fornari, D. J.; McCully, E.; Ridley, W. I.

    2017-12-01

    Lavas erupted at off-axis seamounts can provide a window into mantle heterogeneity and melting systematics that are not easily observed on-axis at fast-spreading mid-ocean ridges (MORs), where melts are efficiently mixed and homogenized within shallow axial magma chambers. To investigate off-axis magmatism, we systematically mapped the 8°20' N seamount chain in November of 2016 on R/V Atlantis using shipboard EM122 multibeam system and AUV Sentry. This 160-km long chain of off-axis seamounts and ridges is located perpendicular to the ridge axis, west of the East Pacific Rise (EPR) and north of the Siqueiros Fracture Zone. The high-resolution surface and AUV-based multibeam and AUV sidescan maps are combined with geochemical analyses of 300 basalt samples, collected using HOV Alvin and dredging, to evaluate magmatic plumbing and sources off-axis. Preliminary major and trace element concentrations reveal remarkable geochemical heterogeneity (including both normal and enriched basalt compositions) across the entire seamount chain and within individual seamounts. For example, (La/Sm)N contents span the entire range of known values for basalts from northern Pacific MORs and seamounts (0.45—2.76). MgO contents vary from 10.25 to 4.56 wt. % across the seamount chain and by as much as 3.61 wt. % from volcanic features sampled at an individual seamount (Beryl). Additionally, K2O/TiO2 ratios range from 4.9 to 61.3 across the seamount chain, and by as much as 54.4 at a single seamount (Beryl), indicating heterogeneous mantle sources or variable extents of melting occur at both regional and local scales. We combine the geochemical results and bathymetric maps with petrologic models to evaluate extents and depths of fractional crystallization and mantle melting in the off-axis environment.

  10. Ten deg off-axis tensile test for intralaminar shear characterization of fiber composites

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chamis, C. C.; Sinclair, J. H.

    1976-01-01

    A combined theoretical and experimental investigation was conducted to assess the suitability of the 10 deg off-axis tensile test specimen for the intralaminar shear characterization of unidirectional composites. Composite mechanics, a combined-stress failure criterion, and a finite element analysis were used to determine theoretically the stress-strain variation across the specimen width and the relative stress and strain magnitudes at the 10 deg plane. Strain gages were used to measure the strain variation across the specimen width at specimen midlength and near the end tabs. Specimens from Mod-I/epoxy, T-300/epoxy, and S-glass/epoxy were used in the experimental program. It was found that the 10 deg off-axis tensile test specimen is suitable for intralaminar shear characterization and it is recommended that it should be considered as a possible standard test specimen for such a characterization.

  11. Enantiopure distorted ribbon-shaped nanographene combining two-photon absorption-based upconversion and circularly polarized luminescence.

    PubMed

    Cruz, Carlos M; Márquez, Irene R; Mariz, Inês F A; Blanco, Victor; Sánchez-Sánchez, Carlos; Sobrado, Jesús M; Martín-Gago, José A; Cuerva, Juan M; Maçôas, Ermelinda; Campaña, Araceli G

    2018-04-28

    Herein we describe a distorted ribbon-shaped nanographene exhibiting unprecedented combination of optical properties in graphene-related materials, namely upconversion based on two-photon absorption (TPA-UC) together with circularly polarized luminescence (CPL). The compound is a graphene molecule of ca. 2 nm length and 1 nm width with edge defects that promote the distortion of the otherwise planar lattice. The edge defects are an aromatic saddle-shaped ketone unit and a [5]carbohelicene moiety. This system is shown to combine two-photon absorption and circularly polarized luminescence and a remarkably long emission lifetime of 21.5 ns. The [5]helicene is responsible for the chiroptical activity while the push-pull geometry and the extended network of sp 2 carbons are factors favoring the nonlinear absorption. Electronic structure theoretical calculations support the interpretation of the results.

  12. Trait-fitness relationships determine how trade-off shapes affect species coexistence.

    PubMed

    Ehrlich, Elias; Becks, Lutz; Gaedke, Ursula

    2017-12-01

    Trade-offs between functional traits are ubiquitous in nature and can promote species coexistence depending on their shape. Classic theory predicts that convex trade-offs facilitate coexistence of specialized species with extreme trait values (extreme species) while concave trade-offs promote species with intermediate trait values (intermediate species). We show here that this prediction becomes insufficient when the traits translate non-linearly into fitness which frequently occurs in nature, e.g., an increasing length of spines reduces grazing losses only up to a certain threshold resulting in a saturating or sigmoid trait-fitness function. We present a novel, general approach to evaluate the effect of different trade-off shapes on species coexistence. We compare the trade-off curve to the invasion boundary of an intermediate species invading the two extreme species. At this boundary, the invasion fitness is zero. Thus, it separates trait combinations where invasion is or is not possible. The invasion boundary is calculated based on measurable trait-fitness relationships. If at least one of these relationships is not linear, the invasion boundary becomes non-linear, implying that convex and concave trade-offs not necessarily lead to different coexistence patterns. Therefore, we suggest a new ecological classification of trade-offs into extreme-favoring and intermediate-favoring which differs from a purely mathematical description of their shape. We apply our approach to a well-established model of an empirical predator-prey system with competing prey types facing a trade-off between edibility and half-saturation constant for nutrient uptake. We show that the survival of the intermediate prey depends on the convexity of the trade-off. Overall, our approach provides a general tool to make a priori predictions on the outcome of competition among species facing a common trade-off in dependence of the shape of the trade-off and the shape of the trait

  13. THE ABUNDANCE OF X-SHAPED RADIO SOURCES: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE GRAVITATIONAL WAVE BACKGROUND

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

    Roberts, David H.; Saripalli, Lakshmi; Subrahmanyan, Ravi, E-mail: roberts@brandeis.edu

    Coalescence of supermassive black holes (SMBHs) in galaxy mergers is potentially the dominant contributor to the low frequency gravitational wave background (GWB). It was proposed by Merritt and Ekers that X-shaped radio galaxies are signposts of such coalescences and that their abundance might be used to predict the magnitude of the GWB. In Roberts et al. we presented radio images of all 52 X-shaped radio source candidates out of the sample of 100 selected by Cheung for which archival VLA data were available. These images indicate that at most 21% of the candidates might be genuine X-shaped radio sources thatmore » were formed by a restarting of beams in a new direction following a major merger. This suggests that fewer than 1.3% of extended radio sources appear to be candidates for genuine axis reorientations (“spin flips”), much smaller than the 7% suggested by Leahy and Parma. Thus, the associated GWB may be substantially smaller than previous estimates. These results can be used to normalize detailed calculations of the SMBH coalescence rate and the GWB.« less

  14. Determination of fiber-matrix interface failure parameters from off-axis tests

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Naik, Rajiv A.; Crews, John H., Jr.

    1993-01-01

    Critical fiber-matrix (FM) interface strength parameters were determined using a micromechanics-based approach together with failure data from off-axis tension (OAT) tests. The ply stresses at failure for a range of off-axis angles were used as input to a micromechanics analysis that was performed using the personal computer-based MICSTRAN code. FM interface stresses at the failure loads were calculated for both the square and the diamond array models. A simple procedure was developed to determine which array had the more severe FM interface stresses and the location of these critical stresses on the interface. For the cases analyzed, critical FM interface stresses were found to occur with the square array model and were located at a point where adjacent fibers were closest together. The critical FM interface stresses were used together with the Tsai-Wu failure theory to determine a failure criterion for the FM interface. This criterion was then used to predict the onset of ply cracking in angle-ply laminates for a range of laminate angles. Predictions for the onset of ply cracking in angle-ply laminates agreed with the test data trends.

  15. Rectification of the chordal axis transform and a new criterion for shape decomposition.

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

    Prasad, Lakshman

    2004-01-01

    In an earlier work we proposed the chordal axis transform (CAT) as a more useful alternative to the medial axis transform (MAT) for obtaining skeletons of discrete shapes. Since then, the CAT has benefited various applications in 2D and 3D shape analysis. In this paper, we revisit the CAT to address its deficiencies that are an artifact of the underlying constrained Delaunay triangulation (CDT). We introduce a valuation on the internal edges of a discrete shape's CDT based on a concept of approximate co-circularity. This valuation provides a basis for suppression of the role of certain edges in the constructionmore » of the CAT skeleton. The result is a rectified CAT skeleton that has smoother branches as well as branch points of varying degrees, unlike the original CAT skeleton whose branches exhibit oscillations in tapered sections of shapes and allows only degree 3 branch points. Additionally, the valuation leads to a new criterion for parsing shapes into visually salient parts that closely resemble the empirical decompositions of shapes by human subjects as recorded in experiments by M. Singh, G. Seyranian, and D. Hoffinan.« less

  16. Design and analysis of a worm gear turntable off-axis assembly method in a three-grating monochromator.

    PubMed

    Chen, Jianjun; Cui, Jicheng; Yao, Xuefeng; Liu, Jianan; Sun, Ci

    2018-04-01

    To solve the problem where the actual grating aperture decreases with an increasing scanning angle during the scanning of a three-grating monochromator, we propose an off-axis assembly method for the worm gear turntable that makes it possible to suppress this aperture reduction. We simulated and compared the traditional assembly method with the off-axis assembly method in the three-grating monochromator. Results show that the actual grating aperture can be improved by the off-axis assembly method. In fact, for any one of the three gratings, when the monochromator outputs the longest wavelength in the corresponding wavelength band, the actual grating aperture increases by 45.93%. Over the entire monochromator output band, the actual grating aperture increased by an average of 32.56% and can thus improve the monochromator's output energy. Improvement of the actual grating aperture can also reduce the stray light intensity in the monochromator and improve its output signal-to-noise ratio.

  17. Developments in blade shape design for a Darrieus vertical axis wind turbine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ashwill, T. D.; Leonard, T. M.

    1986-09-01

    A new computer program package has been developed that determines the troposkein shape for a Darrieus Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Blade with any geometrical configuration or rotation rate. This package allows users to interact and develop a buildable blade whose shape closely approximates the troposkein. Use of this package can significantly reduce flatwise mean bending stresses in the blade and increase fatigue life.

  18. Effects of rotation and tidal distortions on the shapes of radial velocity curves of polytropic models of pulsating variable stars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Tarun; Lal, Arvind Kumar; Pathania, Ankush

    2018-06-01

    Anharmonic oscillations of rotating stars have been studied by various authors in literature to explain the observed features of certain variable stars. However, there is no study available in literature that has discussed the combined effect of rotation and tidal distortions on the anharmonic oscillations of stars. In this paper, we have created a model to determine the effect of rotation and tidal distortions on the anharmonic radial oscillations associated with various polytropic models of pulsating variable stars. For this study we have used the theory of Rosseland to obtain the anharmonic pulsation equation for rotationally and tidally distorted polytropicmodels of pulsating variable stars. The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of rotation and tidal distortions on the shapes of the radial velocity curves for rotationally and tidally distorted polytropic models of pulsating variable stars. The results of the present study show that the rotational effects cause more deviations in the shapes of radial velocity curves of pulsating variable stars as compared to tidal effects.

  19. Observation of hole accumulation in Ge/Si core/shell nanowires using off-axis electron holography.

    PubMed

    Li, Luying; Smith, David J; Dailey, Eric; Madras, Prashanth; Drucker, Jeff; McCartney, Martha R

    2011-02-09

    Hole accumulation in Ge/Si core/shell nanowires (NWs) has been observed and quantified using off-axis electron holography and other electron microscopy techniques. The epitaxial [110]-oriented Ge/Si core/shell NWs were grown on Si (111) substrates by chemical vapor deposition through the vapor-liquid-solid growth mechanism. High-angle annular-dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy images and off-axis electron holograms were obtained from specific NWs. The excess phase shifts measured by electron holography across the NWs indicated the presence of holes inside the Ge cores. Calculations based on a simplified coaxial cylindrical model gave hole densities of (0.4 ± 0.2) /nm(3) in the core regions.

  20. IR Spectrometer Using 90-Degree Off-Axis Parabolic Mirrors

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

    Robert M. Malone, Ian J. McKenna

    2008-03-01

    A gated spectrometer has been designed for real-time, pulsed infrared (IR) studies at the National Synchrotron Light Source at the Brookhaven National Laboratory. A pair of 90-degree, off-axis parabolic mirrors are used to relay the light from an entrance slit to an output recording camera. With an initial wavelength range of 1500–4500 nm required, gratings could not be used in the spectrometer because grating orders would overlap. A magnesium oxide prism, placed between these parabolic mirrors, serves as the dispersion element. The spectrometer is doubly telecentric. With proper choice of the air spacing between the prism and the second parabolicmore » mirror, any spectral region of interest within the InSb camera array’s sensitivity region can be recorded. The wavelengths leaving the second parabolic mirror are collimated, thereby relaxing the camera positioning tolerance. To set up the instrument, two different wavelength (visible) lasers are introduced at the entrance slit and made collinear with the optical axis via flip mirrors. After dispersion by the prism, these two laser beams are directed to tick marks located on the outside housing of the gated IR camera. This provides first-order wavelength calibration for the instrument. Light that is reflected off the front prism face is coupled into a high-speed detector to verify steady radiance during the gated spectral imaging. Alignment features include tick marks on the prism and parabolic mirrors. This instrument was designed to complement single-point pyrometry, which provides continuous time histories of a small collection of spots from shock-heated targets.« less

  1. IR Spectrometer Using 90-degree Off-axis Parabolic Mirrors

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

    Robert M. Malone, Richard, G. Hacking, Ian J. McKenna, and Daniel H. Dolan

    2008-09-02

    A gated spectrometer has been designed for real-time, pulsed infrared (IR) studies at the National Synchrotron Light ource at the Brookhaven National Laboratory. A pair of 90-degree, off-axis parabolic mirrors are used to relay the light from an entrance slit to an output IR recording camera. With an initial wavelength range of 1500–4500 nm required, gratings could not be used in the spectrometer because grating orders would overlap. A magnesium oxide prism, placed between these parabolic mirrors, serves as the dispersion element. The spectrometer is doubly telecentric. With proper choice of the air spacing between the prism and the secondmore » parabolic mirror, any spectral region of interest within the InSb camera array’s sensitivity region can be recorded. The wavelengths leaving the second parabolic mirror are collimated, thereby relaxing the camera positioning tolerance. To set up the instrument, two different wavelength (visible) lasers are introduced at the entrance slit and made collinear with the optical axis via flip mirrors. After dispersion by the prism, these two laser beams are directed to tick marks located on the outside housing of the gated IR camera. This provides first-order wavelength calibration for the instrument. Light that is reflected off the front prism face is coupled into a high-speed detector to verify steady radiance during the gated spectral imaging. Alignment features include tick marks on the prism and parabolic mirrors. This instrument was designed to complement singlepoint pyrometry, which provides continuous time histories of a small collection of spots from shock-heated targets.« less

  2. Correlating off-axis tension tests to shear modulus of wood-based panels

    Treesearch

    Edmond P. Saliklis; Robert H. Falk

    2000-01-01

    The weakness of existing relationships correlating off-axis modulus of elasticity E q to shear modulus G 12 for wood composite panels is demonstrated through presentation of extensive experimental data. A new relationship is proposed that performs better than existing equations found in the literature. This relationship can be manipulated to calculate the shear modulus...

  3. Shapes on a plane: Evaluating the impact of projection distortion on spatial binning

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Battersby, Sarah E.; Strebe, Daniel “daan”; Finn, Michael P.

    2017-01-01

    One method for working with large, dense sets of spatial point data is to aggregate the measure of the data into polygonal containers, such as political boundaries, or into regular spatial bins such as triangles, squares, or hexagons. When mapping these aggregations, the map projection must inevitably distort relationships. This distortion can impact the reader’s ability to compare count and density measures across the map. Spatial binning, particularly via hexagons, is becoming a popular technique for displaying aggregate measures of point data sets. Increasingly, we see questionable use of the technique without attendant discussion of its hazards. In this work, we discuss when and why spatial binning works and how mapmakers can better understand the limitations caused by distortion from projecting to the plane. We introduce equations for evaluating distortion’s impact on one common projection (Web Mercator) and discuss how the methods used generalize to other projections. While we focus on hexagonal binning, these same considerations affect spatial bins of any shape, and more generally, any analysis of geographic data performed in planar space.

  4. Off-axis digital holographic microscopy with LED illumination based on polarization filtering.

    PubMed

    Guo, Rongli; Yao, Baoli; Gao, Peng; Min, Junwei; Zhou, Meiling; Han, Jun; Yu, Xun; Yu, Xianghua; Lei, Ming; Yan, Shaohui; Yang, Yanlong; Dan, Dan; Ye, Tong

    2013-12-01

    A reflection mode digital holographic microscope with light emitting diode (LED) illumination and off-axis interferometry is proposed. The setup is comprised of a Linnik interferometer and a grating-based 4f imaging unit. Both object and reference waves travel coaxially and are split into multiple diffraction orders in the Fourier plane by the grating. The zeroth and first orders are filtered by a polarizing array to select orthogonally polarized object waves and reference waves. Subsequently, the object and reference waves are combined again in the output plane of the 4f system, and then the hologram with uniform contrast over the entire field of view can be acquired with the aid of a polarizer. The one-shot nature in the off-axis configuration enables an interferometric recording time on a millisecond scale. The validity of the proposed setup is illustrated by imaging nanostructured substrates, and the experimental results demonstrate that the phase noise is reduced drastically by an order of 68% when compared to a He-Ne laser-based result.

  5. Coherent and incoherent off-axis Hermite-Gaussian beam combinations.

    PubMed

    Lü, B; Ma, H

    2000-03-10

    A detailed study of the coherent and the incoherent combinations of two-dimensional off-axis Hermite-Gaussian beams with rectangular symmetry is made. The closed-form propagation formulas of the resulting beam are derived, and the resulting beam quality in terms of the M(2) factor and power in the bucket is discussed and compared for the coherent and the incoherent combinations. In addition, it is shown that the resulting astigmatic beam can be symmetrized in the sense of the second-moment definition of beam width. However, the symmetrizing transformation of the resulting astigmatic beams is incomplete, because there exist different irradiance profiles.

  6. A cascaded model of spectral distortions due to spectral response effects and pulse pileup effects in a photon-counting x-ray detector for CT

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

    Cammin, Jochen, E-mail: jcammin1@jhmi.edu, E-mail: ktaguchi@jhmi.edu; Taguchi, Katsuyuki, E-mail: jcammin1@jhmi.edu, E-mail: ktaguchi@jhmi.edu; Xu, Jennifer

    (2011)]. The agreement between the x-ray spectra calculated by the cascaded SRE+PPE model and the measured spectra was evaluated for various levels of deadtime loss ratios (DLR) and incident spectral shapes, realized using different attenuators, in terms of the weighted coefficient of variation (COV{sub W}), i.e., the root mean square difference weighted by the statistical errors of the data and divided by the mean. Results: At low count rates, when DLR < 10%, the distorted spectra measured by the DXMCT-1 were in agreement with those calculated by SRE only, with COV{sub W}'s less than 4%. At higher count rates, the measured spectra were also in agreement with the ones calculated by the cascaded SRE+PPE model; with PMMA as attenuator, COV{sub W} was 5.6% at a DLR of 22% and as small as 6.7% for a DLR as high as 55%. Conclusions: The x-ray spectra calculated by the proposed model agreed with the measured spectra over a wide range of count rates and spectral shapes. The SRE model predicted the distorted, recorded spectra with low count rates over various types and thicknesses of attenuators. The study also validated the hypothesis that the complex spectral distortions in a PCD can be adequately modeled by cascading the count-rate independent SRE and the count-rate dependent PPE.« less

  7. A cascaded model of spectral distortions due to spectral response effects and pulse pileup effects in a photon-counting x-ray detector for CT

    PubMed Central

    Cammin, Jochen; Xu, Jennifer; Barber, William C.; Iwanczyk, Jan S.; Hartsough, Neal E.; Taguchi, Katsuyuki

    2014-01-01

    agreement between the x-ray spectra calculated by the cascaded SRE+PPE model and the measured spectra was evaluated for various levels of deadtime loss ratios (DLR) and incident spectral shapes, realized using different attenuators, in terms of the weighted coefficient of variation (COVW), i.e., the root mean square difference weighted by the statistical errors of the data and divided by the mean. Results: At low count rates, when DLR < 10%, the distorted spectra measured by the DXMCT-1 were in agreement with those calculated by SRE only, with COVW's less than 4%. At higher count rates, the measured spectra were also in agreement with the ones calculated by the cascaded SRE+PPE model; with PMMA as attenuator, COVW was 5.6% at a DLR of 22% and as small as 6.7% for a DLR as high as 55%. Conclusions: The x-ray spectra calculated by the proposed model agreed with the measured spectra over a wide range of count rates and spectral shapes. The SRE model predicted the distorted, recorded spectra with low count rates over various types and thicknesses of attenuators. The study also validated the hypothesis that the complex spectral distortions in a PCD can be adequately modeled by cascading the count-rate independent SRE and the count-rate dependent PPE. PMID:24694136

  8. Thin glass shells for AO: from plano to off-axis aspherics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Harel, Emmanuelle; Anretar, Alain; Antelme, Jean-Pierre; Caillon, Stéphane; Dussourd, Adrien; Foucaud, Guillaume; Jaury, Hervé; Roure, Océane; William, Jean-Philippe; Wuillaume, Philippe; Ruch, Eric; Geyl, Roland

    2016-07-01

    Reosc has been working on thin glass shells for many years and was recently selected by ESO for the production of the E-ELT M4 mirror thin glass shells. Previously Reosc also produced the aspheric thin shell for the VLT-M2 AO Facility. Based on this experience we will discuss how off axis thin glass shells can be made for the next generation AO systems like the GMT one.

  9. An Off-Axis Four-Quadrant Phase Mask (FQPM) Coronagraph for Palomar: High-Contrast Near Bright Stars Imager

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Haguenauer, Pierre; Serabyn, Eugene; Bloemhof, Eric E.; Troy, Mitchell; Wallace, James K.; Koresko, Chris D.; Mennesson, Bertrand

    2005-01-01

    Direct detection of planets around nearby stars requires the development of high-contrast imaging techniques because of the high difference between their respective fluxes. This led us to test a new coronagraphic approach based on the use of phase mask instead of dark occulting ones. Combined with high-level wavefront correction on an unobscured off-axis section of a large telescope, this method allows imaging very close to the star. Calculations indicate that for a given ground-based on-axis telescope, use of such an off-axis coronagraph provides a near-neighbor detection capability superior to that of a traditional coronagraph utilizing the full telescope aperture. Setting up a laboratory experiment working in near infrared allowed us to demonstrate the principle of the method, and a rejection of 2000:1 has already been achieved.

  10. Parent-offspring conflict and the genetic trade-offs shaping parental investment.

    PubMed

    Kölliker, Mathias; Boos, Stefan; Wong, Janine W Y; Röllin, Lilian; Stucki, Dimitri; Raveh, Shirley; Wu, Min; Meunier, Joël

    2015-04-16

    The genetic conflict between parents and their offspring is a cornerstone of kin selection theory and the gene-centred view of evolution, but whether it actually occurs in natural systems remains an open question. Conflict operates only if parenting is driven by genetic trade-offs between offspring performance and the parent's ability to raise additional offspring, and its expression critically depends on the shape of these trade-offs. Here we investigate the occurrence and nature of genetic conflict in an insect with maternal care, the earwig Forficula auricularia. Specifically, we test for a direct response to experimental selection on female future reproduction and correlated responses in current offspring survival, developmental rate and growth. The results demonstrate genetic trade-offs that differ in shape before and after hatching. Our study not only provides direct evidence for parent-offspring conflict but also highlights that conflict is not inevitable and critically depends on the genetic trade-offs shaping parental investment.

  11. Multiferroic Properties of o-LuMnO3 Controlled by b-Axis Strain

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Windsor, Y. W.; Huang, S. W.; Hu, Y.; Rettig, L.; Alberca, A.; Shimamoto, K.; Scagnoli, V.; Lippert, T.; Schneider, C. W.; Staub, U.

    2014-10-01

    Strain is a leading candidate for controlling magnetoelectric coupling in multiferroics. Here, we use x-ray diffraction to study the coupling between magnetic order and structural distortion in epitaxial films of the orthorhombic (o-) perovskite LuMnO3. An antiferromagnetic spin canting in the E-type magnetic structure is shown to be related to the ferroelectrically induced structural distortion and to a change in the magnetic propagation vector. By comparing films of different orientations and thicknesses, these quantities are found to be controlled by b-axis strain. It is shown that compressive strain destabilizes the commensurate E-type structure and reduces its accompanying ferroelectric distortion.

  12. Multiferroic properties of o-LuMnO3 controlled by b-axis strain.

    PubMed

    Windsor, Y W; Huang, S W; Hu, Y; Rettig, L; Alberca, A; Shimamoto, K; Scagnoli, V; Lippert, T; Schneider, C W; Staub, U

    2014-10-17

    Strain is a leading candidate for controlling magnetoelectric coupling in multiferroics. Here, we use x-ray diffraction to study the coupling between magnetic order and structural distortion in epitaxial films of the orthorhombic (o-) perovskite LuMnO(3). An antiferromagnetic spin canting in the E-type magnetic structure is shown to be related to the ferroelectrically induced structural distortion and to a change in the magnetic propagation vector. By comparing films of different orientations and thicknesses, these quantities are found to be controlled by b-axis strain. It is shown that compressive strain destabilizes the commensurate E-type structure and reduces its accompanying ferroelectric distortion.

  13. Modular off-axis solar concentrator

    DOEpatents

    Plesniak, Adam P; Hall, John C

    2015-01-27

    A solar concentrator including a housing defining a vertical axis and including a receiving wall connected to a reflecting wall to define an internal volume and an opening into the internal volume, wherein the reflecting wall defines at least one primary optical element, and wherein at least a portion of the reflecting wall includes a layer of reflective material, the housing further including a cover connected to the receiving wall and the reflecting wall to seal the opening, and at least one receiver mounted on the receiving wall such that a vertical axis of the receiver is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the vertical axis of the housing, the receiver including at least one photovoltaic cell.

  14. Effects of off-axis elliptical training on reducing pain and improving knee function in individuals with patellofemoral pain

    PubMed Central

    Tsai, Liang-Ching; Lee, Song Joo; Yang, Aaron J.; Ren, Yupeng; Press, Joel M.; Zhang, Li-Qun

    2014-01-01

    Objective To examine whether an off-axis elliptical training program reduces pain and improves knee function in individuals with patellofemoral pain (PFP). Design Controlled laboratory study, pre-test-post-test. Setting University rehabilitation center. Participants Twelve adult subjects with PFP. Interventions Subjects with PFP completed an exercise program consisting of 18 sessions of lower extremity off-axis training using a custom-made elliptical trainer that allows frontal-plane sliding and transverse-plane pivoting of the footplates. Main Outcome Measures Changes in knee pain and function post-training and 6 weeks following training were evaluated using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores. Lower extremity off-axis control was assessed by pivoting and sliding instability, calculated as the root mean square (RMS) of the footplate pivoting angle and sliding distance during elliptical exercise. Subjects’ single-leg hop distance and proprioception in detecting lower extremity pivoting motion were also evaluated. Results Subjects reported significantly greater KOOS and IKDC scores (increased by 12–18 points) and hop distance (increased by 0.2 m) following training. A significant decrease in the pivoting and sliding RMS was also observed following training. Additionally, subjects with PFP demonstrated improved pivoting proprioception when tested under a minimum-weight-bearing position. Conclusions An off-axis elliptical training program was effective in enhancing lower extremity neuromuscular control on the frontal and transverse planes, reducing pain and improving knee function in persons with PFP. PMID:25591131

  15. Structural design of off-axis aspheric surface reflective zoom optical system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Ke; Chang, Jun; Song, Haiping; Niu, Yajun

    2018-01-01

    Designed an off-axis aspheric reflective zoom optical system, and produced a prototype. The system consists of three aspheric reflective lens, the zoom range is 30mm { 90mm. This system gave up the traditional structure of zoom cam, the lens moved using linear guide rail driven by motor, the positioning precision of which was 0.01mm. And introduced the design of support frames of each lens. The practice tests verified the rationality of the prototype structure design.

  16. The ASTRO-H SXT Performance to the Large Off-Set Angles

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sato, Toshiki; Iizuka, Ryo; Mori, Hideyuki; Hayashi, Takayuki; Maeda, Yoshitomo; Ishida, Manabu; Kikuchi, Naomichi; Kurashima, Sho; Nakaniwa, Nozomi; Okajima, Takashi; hide

    2016-01-01

    The X-ray astronomy satellite ASTRO-H, which is the 6th Japanese X-ray astronomy satellite and is renamed Hitomi after launch, is designed to observe celestial X-ray objects in a wide energy band from a few hundred eV to 600 keV. The Soft X-ray Telescopes (SXTs) onboard ASTRO-H play a role of collecting and imaging X-rays up to approximately 12 keV. Although the field of view of the SXT is approximately 15' (FWHM), due to the thin-foil-nested Wolter-I type optics adopted in the SXTs, X-rays out of the field of view can reach the focal plane without experiencing a normal double reflection. This component is referred to as 'stray light'. Owing to investigation of the stray light so far, 'secondary reflection' is now identified as the main component of the stray light, which is composed of X-rays reflected only by secondary reflectors. In order to cut the secondary reflections, a 'pre-collimator' is equipped on top of the SXTs. However, we cannot cut all the stray lights with the pre-collimator in some off-axis angle domain. In this study, we measure the brightness of the stray light of the SXTs at some representative off-axis angles by using the ISAS X-ray beam line. ASTRO-H is equipped with two modules of the SXT; one is for the Soft X-ray Spectrometer (SXS), an X-ray calorimeter, and the other is for the Soft X-ray Imager (SXI), an X-ray CCD camera. These SXT modules are called SXT-S and SXT-I, respectively. Of the two detector systems, the SXI has a large field of view, a square with 38' on a side. To cope with this, we have made a mosaic mapping of the stray light at a representative off-axis angle of 30' in the X-ray beam line at the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science. The effective area of the brightest secondary reflection is found of order approximately 0.1% of the on-axis effective area at the energy of 1.49 keV. The other components are not so bright (less than 5 x 10(exp -4) times smaller than the on-axis effective area). On the other hand, we

  17. Stitching interferometry for ellipsoidal x-ray mirrors

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

    Yumoto, Hirokatsu, E-mail: yumoto@spring8.or.jp; Koyama, Takahisa; Matsuyama, Satoshi

    2016-05-15

    Ellipsoidal mirrors, which can efficiently produce a two-dimensional focusing beam with a single mirror, are superior x-ray focusing optics, especially when compared to elliptical-cylinder mirrors in the Kirkpatrick–Baez geometry. However, nano-focusing ellipsoidal mirrors are not commonly used for x-ray optics because achieving the accuracy required for the surface metrology of nano-focusing ellipsoidal mirrors is difficult due to their small radius of curvature along the short ellipsoidal axis. Here, we developed a surface metrology system for nano-focusing ellipsoidal mirrors using stitching interferometric techniques. The developed system simultaneously measures sub-aperture shapes with a microscopic interferometer and the tilt angles of the sub-aperturemore » shapes with a large Fizeau interferometer. After correcting the systematic errors included in the sub-aperture shapes, the entire mirror shape is calculated by stitching the sub-aperture shapes based on the obtained relative angles between partially overlapped sub-apertures. In this study, we developed correction methods for systematic errors in sub-aperture shapes that originated from off-axis aberrations produced in the optics of the microscopic interferometer. The systematic errors on an ellipsoidal mirror were estimated by measuring a series of tilted plane substrates and the ellipsoidal substrate. From measurements of an ellipsoidal mirror with a 3.6-mm radius of curvature at the mirror center, we obtained a measurement repeatability of 0.51 nm (root-mean-square) in an assessment area of 0.5 mm × 99.18 mm. This value satisfies the requirements for surface metrology of nano-focusing x-ray mirrors. Thus, the developed metrology system should be applicable for fabricating nano-focusing ellipsoidal mirrors.« less

  18. High speed phase retrieval of in-line holograms by the assistance of corresponding off-axis holograms.

    PubMed

    Orzó, László

    2015-06-29

    Retrieving correct phase information from an in-line hologram is difficult as the object wave field and the diffractions of the zero order and the conjugate object term overlap. The existing iterative numerical phase retrieval methods are slow, especially in the case of high Fresnel number systems. Conversely, the reconstruction of the object wave field from an off-axis hologram is simple, but due to the applied spatial frequency filtering the achievable resolution is confined. Here, a new, high-speed algorithm is introduced that efficiently incorporates the data of an auxiliary off-axis hologram in the phase retrieval of the corresponding in-line hologram. The efficiency of the introduced combined phase retrieval method is demonstrated by simulated and measured holograms.

  19. Design of off-axis four-mirror optical system without obscuration based on free-form surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, Chenxu; Liu, Xin

    2015-11-01

    With the development of modern military technology, the requirements of airborne electro-optical search and tracking system are increasing on target detection and recognition. However, traditional off-axis three-mirror system couldn't meet the requirements for reducing weight and compacting size in some circumstances. Based on Seidel aberration theory, by restricting the aberration functions, the optical system could achieve initial construction parameters. During the designing process, decenters and tilts of mirrors were adjusted continuously to eliminate the obscurations. To balance off-axis aberration and increase angle of view, the free-form mirror was introduced into the optical system. Then an unobstructed optical system with effective focal length of 100 mm, FOV of 16°×16°, and relative aperture as F/7 is designed. The results show that the system structure is compact, with imaging qualities approaching diffraction limit.

  20. Quantitative DIC microscopy using an off-axis self-interference approach.

    PubMed

    Fu, Dan; Oh, Seungeun; Choi, Wonshik; Yamauchi, Toyohiko; Dorn, August; Yaqoob, Zahid; Dasari, Ramachandra R; Feld, Michael S

    2010-07-15

    Traditional Normarski differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy is a very powerful method for imaging nonstained biological samples. However, one of its major limitations is the nonquantitative nature of the imaging. To overcome this problem, we developed a quantitative DIC microscopy method based on off-axis sample self-interference. The digital holography algorithm is applied to obtain quantitative phase gradients in orthogonal directions, which leads to a quantitative phase image through a spiral integration of the phase gradients. This method is practically simple to implement on any standard microscope without stringent requirements on polarization optics. Optical sectioning can be obtained through enlarged illumination NA.

  1. GRB 170817A: a short GRB seen off-axis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    He, Xin-Bo; Tam, Pak-Hin Thomas; Shen, Rong-Feng

    2018-04-01

    The angular distribution of gamma-ray burst (GRB) jets is not yet clear. The observed luminosity of GRB 170817A is the lowest among all known short GRBs, which is best explained by the fact that our line of sight is outside of the jet opening angle, θ obs > θ j , where θ obs is the angle between our line of sight and the jet axis. As inferred by gravitational wave observations, as well as radio and X-ray afterglow modeling of GRB 170817A, it is likely that θ obs ∼ 20° – 28°. In this work, we quantitatively consider two scenarios of angular energy distribution of GRB ejecta: a top-hat jet and a structured jet with a power law index s. For the top-hat jet model, we get a large θ j (e.g., θ j > 10°), a rather high local (i.e., z < 0.01) short GRB rate ∼8–15×103, Gpc‑3, yr‑1 (estimated to be 90∼1850 Gpc‑3, yr‑1 in Fong et al.) and an extremely high E peak,0 (on-axis, rest-frame) > 7.5 × 104, keV (∼500, keV for a typical short GRB). For the structured jet model, we use θ obs to give limits on s and θj for typical on-axis luminosity of a short GRB (e.g., 1049 erg s‑1 ∼ 1051 erg s‑1), and a low on-axis luminosity case (e.g., 1049 erg s‑1) gives more reasonable values of s. The structured jet model is more feasible for GRB 170817A than the top-hat jet model due to the rather high local short GRB rate, and the extremely high on-axis E peak,0 almost rules out the top-hat jet model. GRB 170817A is likely a low on-axis luminosity GRB (1049 erg s‑1) with a structured jet.

  2. Enclosed, off-axis solar concentrator

    DOEpatents

    Benitez, Pablo; Grip, Robert E; Minano, Juan C; Narayanan, Authi A; Plesniak, Adam; Schwartz, Joel A

    2013-11-26

    A solar concentrator including a housing having receiving wall, a reflecting wall and at least two end walls, the receiving, reflecting and end walls defining a three-dimensional volume having an inlet, wherein a vertical axis of the housing is generally perpendicular to the inlet, a receiver mounted on the receiving wall of the housing, the receiver including at least one photovoltaic cell, wherein a vertical axis of the receiver is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the vertical axis of the housing, at least one clip disposed on the reflecting wall an optical element received within the three-dimensional volume, the optical element including at least one tab, the tab being engaged by the clip to align the optical element with the receiver, and a window received over the inlet to enclose the housing.

  3. High-speed single-shot optical focusing through dynamic scattering media with full-phase wavefront shaping.

    PubMed

    Hemphill, Ashton S; Shen, Yuecheng; Liu, Yan; Wang, Lihong V

    2017-11-27

    In biological applications, optical focusing is limited by the diffusion of light, which prevents focusing at depths greater than ∼1 mm in soft tissue. Wavefront shaping extends the depth by compensating for phase distortions induced by scattering and thus allows for focusing light through biological tissue beyond the optical diffusion limit by using constructive interference. However, due to physiological motion, light scattering in tissue is deterministic only within a brief speckle correlation time. In in vivo tissue, this speckle correlation time is on the order of milliseconds, and so the wavefront must be optimized within this brief period. The speed of digital wavefront shaping has typically been limited by the relatively long time required to measure and display the optimal phase pattern. This limitation stems from the low speeds of cameras, data transfer and processing, and spatial light modulators. While binary-phase modulation requiring only two images for the phase measurement has recently been reported, most techniques require at least three frames for the full-phase measurement. Here, we present a full-phase digital optical phase conjugation method based on off-axis holography for single-shot optical focusing through scattering media. By using off-axis holography in conjunction with graphics processing unit based processing, we take advantage of the single-shot full-phase measurement while using parallel computation to quickly reconstruct the phase map. With this system, we can focus light through scattering media with a system latency of approximately 9 ms, on the order of the in vivo speckle correlation time.

  4. High-speed single-shot optical focusing through dynamic scattering media with full-phase wavefront shaping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hemphill, Ashton S.; Shen, Yuecheng; Liu, Yan; Wang, Lihong V.

    2017-11-01

    In biological applications, optical focusing is limited by the diffusion of light, which prevents focusing at depths greater than ˜1 mm in soft tissue. Wavefront shaping extends the depth by compensating for phase distortions induced by scattering and thus allows for focusing light through biological tissue beyond the optical diffusion limit by using constructive interference. However, due to physiological motion, light scattering in tissue is deterministic only within a brief speckle correlation time. In in vivo tissue, this speckle correlation time is on the order of milliseconds, and so the wavefront must be optimized within this brief period. The speed of digital wavefront shaping has typically been limited by the relatively long time required to measure and display the optimal phase pattern. This limitation stems from the low speeds of cameras, data transfer and processing, and spatial light modulators. While binary-phase modulation requiring only two images for the phase measurement has recently been reported, most techniques require at least three frames for the full-phase measurement. Here, we present a full-phase digital optical phase conjugation method based on off-axis holography for single-shot optical focusing through scattering media. By using off-axis holography in conjunction with graphics processing unit based processing, we take advantage of the single-shot full-phase measurement while using parallel computation to quickly reconstruct the phase map. With this system, we can focus light through scattering media with a system latency of approximately 9 ms, on the order of the in vivo speckle correlation time.

  5. High-quality single-crystal thulium iron garnet films with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy by off-axis sputtering

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, C. N.; Tseng, C. C.; Lin, K. Y.; Cheng, C. K.; Yeh, S. L.; Fanchiang, Y. T.; Hong, M.; Kwo, J.

    2018-05-01

    High-quality single-crystal thulium iron garnet (TmIG) films of 10-30 nm thick were grown by off-axis sputtering at room temperature (RT) followed by post-annealing. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was employed to determine the TmIG film composition to optimize the growth conditions, along with the aid of x-ray diffraction (XRD) structural analysis and atomic force microscope (AFM) for surface morphology. The optimized films exhibited perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) and the saturation magnetization at RT was ˜99 emu/cm3, close to the RT bulk value ˜110 emu/cm3 with a very low coercive field of ˜2.4 Oe. We extracted the H⊥ of 1734 Oe and the peak-to-peak linewidth ΔH of ferromagnetic resonance are only about 99 Oe, significantly lower than that of PLD grown TmIG film and bulk single crystals. The high-quality sputtered single-crystal TmIG films show great potential to be integrated with topological insulators or heavy metals with strong spin-orbit coupling for spintronic applications.

  6. Critical disease windows shaped by stress exposure alter allocation trade-offs between development and immunity.

    PubMed

    Kirschman, Lucas J; Crespi, Erica J; Warne, Robin W

    2018-01-01

    Ubiquitous environmental stressors are often thought to alter animal susceptibility to pathogens and contribute to disease emergence. However, duration of exposure to a stressor is likely critical, because while chronic stress is often immunosuppressive, acute stress can temporarily enhance immune function. Furthermore, host susceptibility to stress and disease often varies with ontogeny; increasing during critical developmental windows. How the duration and timing of exposure to stressors interact to shape critical windows and influence disease processes is not well tested. We used ranavirus and larval amphibians as a model system to investigate how physiological stress and pathogenic infection shape development and disease dynamics in vertebrates. Based on a resource allocation model, we designed experiments to test how exposure to stressors may induce resource trade-offs that shape critical windows and disease processes because the neuroendocrine stress axis coordinates developmental remodelling, immune function and energy allocation in larval amphibians. We used wood frog larvae (Lithobates sylvaticus) to investigate how chronic and acute exposure to corticosterone, the dominant amphibian glucocorticoid hormone, mediates development and immune function via splenocyte immunohistochemistry analysis in association with ranavirus infection. Corticosterone treatments affected immune function, as both chronic and acute exposure suppressed splenocyte proliferation, although viral replication rate increased only in the chronic corticosterone treatment. Time to metamorphosis and survival depended on both corticosterone treatment and infection status. In the control and chronic corticosterone treatments, ranavirus infection decreased survival and delayed metamorphosis, although chronic corticosterone exposure accelerated rate of metamorphosis in uninfected larvae. Acute corticosterone exposure accelerated metamorphosis increased survival in infected larvae. Interactions

  7. Design and optimize of 3-axis filament winding machine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Quanjin, Ma; Rejab, M. R. M.; Idris, M. S.; Bachtiar, B.; Siregar, J. P.; Harith, M. N.

    2017-10-01

    Filament winding technique is developed as the primary process for composite cylindrical structures fabrication at low cost. Fibres are wound on a rotating mandrel by a filament winding machine where resin impregnated fibres pass through a pay-out eye. This paper aims to develop and optimize a 3-axis, lightweight, practical, efficient, portable filament winding machine to satisfy the customer demand, which can fabricate pipes and round shape cylinders with resins. There are 3 main units on the 3-axis filament winding machine, which are the rotary unit, the delivery unit and control system unit. Comparison with previous existing filament winding machines in the factory, it has 3 degrees of freedom and can fabricate more complex shape specimens based on the mandrel shape and particular control system. The machine has been designed and fabricated on 3 axes movements with control system. The x-axis is for movement of the carriage, the y-axis is the rotation of mandrel and the z-axis is the movement of the pay-out eye. Cylindrical specimens with different dimensions and winding angles were produced. 3-axis automated filament winding machine has been successfully designed with simple control system.

  8. Magnetic Properties of the Ferromagnetic Shape Memory Alloys Ni50+xMn27−xGa23 in Magnetic Fields

    PubMed Central

    Sakon, Takuo; Otsuka, Kohei; Matsubayashi, Junpei; Watanabe, Yuushi; Nishihara, Hironori; Sasaki, Kenta; Yamashita, Satoshi; Umetsu, Rie Y.; Nojiri, Hiroyuki; Kanomata, Takeshi

    2014-01-01

    Thermal strain, permeability, and magnetization measurements of the ferromagnetic shape memory alloys Ni50+xMn27−xGa23 (x = 2.0, 2.5, 2.7) were performed. For x = 2.7, in which the martensite transition and the ferromagnetic transition occur at the same temperature, the martensite transition starting temperature TMs shift in magnetic fields around a zero magnetic field was estimated to be dTMs/dB = 1.1 ± 0.2 K/T, thus indicating that magnetic fields influences martensite transition. We discussed the itinerant electron magnetism of x = 2.0 and 2.5. As for x = 2.5, the M4 vs. B/M plot crosses the origin of the coordinate axis at the Curie temperature, and the plot indicates a good linear relation behavior around the Curie temperature. The result is in agreement with the theory by Takahashi, concerning itinerant electron ferromagnets. PMID:28788645

  9. Design of CMOS compatible and compact, thermally-compensated electro-optic modulator based on off-axis microring resonator for dense wavelength division multiplexing applications.

    PubMed

    Haldar, Raktim; Banik, Abhik D; Varshney, Shailendra K

    2014-09-22

    In this work, we propose and demonstrate the performance of silicon-on-insulator (SOI) off-axis microring resonator (MRR) as electro-optic modulator (EOM). Adding an extra off-axis inner-ring in conventional microring structure provides control to compensate thermal effects on EOM. It is shown that dynamically controlled bias-voltage applied to the outer ring has the potency to quell the thermal effects over a wide range of temperature. Thus, besides the appositely biased conventional microring, off-axis inner microring with pre-emphasized electrical input message signal enables our proposed structure suitable for high data-rate dense wavelength division multiplexing scheme of optical communication within a very compact device size.

  10. Visual Costs of the Inhomogeneity of Luminance and Contrast by Viewing LCD-TFT Screens Off-Axis.

    PubMed

    Ziefle, Martina; Groeger, Thomas; Sommer, Dietmar

    2003-01-01

    In this study the anisotropic characteristics of TFT-LCD (Thin-Film-Transistor-Liquid Crystal Display) screens were examined. Anisotropy occurs as the distribution of luminance and contrast changes over the screen surface due to different viewing angles. On the basis of detailed photometric measurements the detection performance in a visual reaction task was measured in different viewing conditions. Viewing angle (0 degrees, frontal view; 30 degrees, off-axis; 50 degrees, off-axis) as well as ambient lighting (a dark or illuminated room) were varied. Reaction times and accuracy of detection performance were recorded. Results showed TFT's anisotropy to be a crucial factor deteriorating performance. With an increasing viewing angle performance decreased. It is concluded that TFT's anisotropy is a limiting factor for overall suitability and usefulness of this new display technology.

  11. Perceptual Visual Distortions in Adult Amblyopia and Their Relationship to Clinical Features

    PubMed Central

    Piano, Marianne E. F.; Bex, Peter J.; Simmers, Anita J.

    2015-01-01

    Purpose Develop a paradigm to map binocular perceptual visual distortions in adult amblyopes and visually normal controls, measure their stability over time, and determine the relationship between strength of binocular single vision and distortion magnitude. Methods Perceptual visual distortions were measured in 24 strabismic, anisometropic, or microtropic amblyopes (interocular acuity difference ≥ 0.200 logMAR or history of amblyopia treatment) and 10 controls (mean age 27.13 ± 10.20 years). The task was mouse-based target alignment on a stereoscopic liquid crystal display monitor, measured binocularly five times during viewing dichoptically through active shutter glasses, amblyopic eye viewing cross-hairs, fellow eye viewing single target dots (16 locations within central 5°), and five times nondichoptically, with all stimuli visible to either eye. Measurements were repeated over time (1 week, 1 month) in eight amblyopic subjects, evaluating test–retest reliability. Measurements were also correlated against logMAR visual acuity, horizontal prism motor fusion range, Frisby/Preschool Randot stereoacuity, and heterophoria/heterotropia prism cover test measurement. Results Sixty-seven percent (16/24) of amblyopes had significant perceptual visual distortions under dichoptic viewing conditions compared to nondichoptic viewing conditions and dichoptic control group performance. Distortions correlated with the strength of motor fusion (r = −0.417, P = 0.043) and log stereoacuity (r = 0.492, P = 0.015), as well as near angle of heterotropic/heterophoric deviation (r = 0.740, P < 0.001), and, marginally, amblyopia depth (r = 0.405, P = 0.049). Global distortion index (GDI, mean displacement) remained, overall, consistent over time (median change in GDI between baseline and 1 week = −0.03°, 1 month = −0.08°; x-axis Z = 4.4256, P < 0.001; y-axis Z = 5.0547, P < 0.001). Conclusions Perceptual visual distortions are stable over time and associated with poorer

  12. Calculating broad neutron resonances in a cut-off Woods-Saxon potential

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baran, Á.; Noszály, Cs.; Salamon, P.; Vertse, T.

    2015-07-01

    In a cut-off Woods-Saxon (CWS) potential with realistic depth S -matrix poles being far from the imaginary wave number axis form a sequence where the distances of the consecutive resonances are inversely proportional with the cut-off radius value, which is an unphysical parameter. Other poles lying closer to the imaginary wave number axis might have trajectories with irregular shapes as the depth of the potential increases. Poles being close repel each other, and their repulsion is responsible for the changes of the directions of the corresponding trajectories. The repulsion might cause that certain resonances become antibound and later resonances again when they collide on the imaginary axis. The interaction is extremely sensitive to the cut-off radius value, which is an apparent handicap of the CWS potential.

  13. Cosmological Distortions in Redshift Space

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ryden, Barbara S.

    1995-05-01

    The long-sought value of q_0, the deceleration parameter, remains elusive. One method of finding q_0 is to measure the distortions of large scale structure in redshift space. If the Hubble constant changes with time, then the mapping between redshift space and real space is nonlinear, even in the absence of peculiar motions. When q_0 > -1, structures in redshift space will be distorted along the line of sight; the distortion is proportional to (1 + q_0 ) z in the limit that the redshift z is small. The cosmological distortions at z <= 0.2 can be found by measuring the shapes of voids in redshift surveys of galaxies (such as the upcoming Sloane Digital Sky Survey). The cosmological distortions are masked to some extent by the distortions caused by small-scale peculiar velocities; it is difficult to measure the shape of a void when the fingers of God are poking into it. The cosmological distortions at z ~ 1 can be found by measuring the correlation function of quasars as a function of redshift and of angle relative to the line of sight. Finding q_0 by measuring distortions in redshift space, like the classical methods of determining q_0, is simple and elegant in principle but complicated and messy in practice.

  14. Low distortion laser welding of cylindrical components

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kittel, Sonja

    2011-02-01

    Automotive components are for the most part cylindrical and thus the weld seams are of radial shape. Radial weld seams are usually produced by starting at a point on the component's surface rotating the component resulting in an overlap zone at the start/end of the weld. In this research, it is shown that the component's distortion strongly depends on the overlap of weld start and end. A correlation between overlap zone and distortion is verified by an experimental study. In order to reduce distortion generated by the overlap zone a special optics is used which allows shaping the laser beam into a ring shape which is then focused on the cylindrical surface and produces a radial ring weld seam simultaneously by one laser pulse. In doing this, the overlap zone is eliminated and distortion can be reduced. Radial weld seams are applied on precision samples and distortion is measured after welding. The distortion of the precision samples is measured by a tactile measuring method and a comparison of the results of welding with the ring optics to reference welds is done.

  15. Off-axis targets maximize bearing Fisher Information in broadband active sonar.

    PubMed

    Kloepper, Laura N; Buck, John R; Liu, Yang; Nachtigall, Paul E

    2018-01-01

    Broadband active sonar systems estimate range from time delay and velocity from Doppler shift. Relatively little attention has been paid to how the received echo spectrum encodes information about the bearing of an object. This letter derives the bearing Fisher Information encoded in the frequency dependent transmitter beampattern. This leads to a counter-intuitive result: directing the sonar beam so that a target of interest is slightly off-axis maximizes the bearing information about the target. Beam aim data from a dolphin biosonar experiment agree closely with the angle predicted to maximize bearing information.

  16. Absolute Scale Quantitative Off-Axis Electron Holography at Atomic Resolution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Winkler, Florian; Barthel, Juri; Tavabi, Amir H.; Borghardt, Sven; Kardynal, Beata E.; Dunin-Borkowski, Rafal E.

    2018-04-01

    An absolute scale match between experiment and simulation in atomic-resolution off-axis electron holography is demonstrated, with unknown experimental parameters determined directly from the recorded electron wave function using an automated numerical algorithm. We show that the local thickness and tilt of a pristine thin WSe2 flake can be measured uniquely, whereas some electron optical aberrations cannot be determined unambiguously for a periodic object. The ability to determine local specimen and imaging parameters directly from electron wave functions is of great importance for quantitative studies of electrostatic potentials in nanoscale materials, in particular when performing in situ experiments and considering that aberrations change over time.

  17. Simultaneous off-axis multiplexed holography and regular fluorescence microscopy of biological cells.

    PubMed

    Nygate, Yoav N; Singh, Gyanendra; Barnea, Itay; Shaked, Natan T

    2018-06-01

    We present a new technique for obtaining simultaneous multimodal quantitative phase and fluorescence microscopy of biological cells, providing both quantitative phase imaging and molecular specificity using a single camera. Our system is based on an interferometric multiplexing module, externally positioned at the exit of an optical microscope. In contrast to previous approaches, the presented technique allows conventional fluorescence imaging, rather than interferometric off-axis fluorescence imaging. We demonstrate the presented technique for imaging fluorescent beads and live biological cells.

  18. Multileaf collimator tongue-and-groove effect on depth and off-axis doses: A comparison of treatment planning data with measurements and Monte Carlo calculations

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

    Kim, Hee Jung; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul; Department of Radiation Oncology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Seoul

    2015-01-01

    To investigate how accurately treatment planning systems (TPSs) account for the tongue-and-groove (TG) effect, Monte Carlo (MC) simulations and radiochromic film (RCF) measurements were performed for comparison with TPS results. Two commercial TPSs computed the TG effect for Varian Millennium 120 multileaf collimator (MLC). The TG effect on off-axis dose profile at 3 depths of solid water was estimated as the maximum depth and the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the dose dip at an interleaf position. When compared with the off-axis dose of open field, the maximum depth of the dose dip for MC and RCF rangedmore » from 10.1% to 20.6%; the maximum depth of the dose dip gradually decreased by up to 8.7% with increasing depths of 1.5 to 10 cm and also by up to 4.1% with increasing off-axis distances of 0 to 13 cm. However, TPS results showed at most a 2.7% decrease for the same depth range and a negligible variation for the same off-axis distances. The FWHM of the dose dip was approximately 0.19 cm for MC and 0.17 cm for RCF, but 0.30 cm for Eclipse TPS and 0.45 cm for Pinnacle TPS. Accordingly, the integrated value of TG dose dip for TPS was larger than that for MC and RCF and almost invariant along the depths and off-axis distances. We concluded that the TG dependence on depth and off-axis doses shown in the MC and RCF results could not be appropriately modeled by the TPS versions in this study.« less

  19. Compensation of X-ray mirror shape-errors using refractive optics

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

    Sawhney, Kawal, E-mail: Kawal.sawhney@diamond.ac.uk; Laundy, David; Pape, Ian

    2016-08-01

    Focusing of X-rays to nanometre scale focal spots requires high precision X-ray optics. For nano-focusing mirrors, height errors in the mirror surface retard or advance the X-ray wavefront and after propagation to the focal plane, this distortion of the wavefront causes blurring of the focus resulting in a limit on the spatial resolution. We describe here the implementation of a method for correcting the wavefront that is applied before a focusing mirror using custom-designed refracting structures which locally cancel out the wavefront distortion from the mirror. We demonstrate in measurements on a synchrotron radiation beamline a reduction in the sizemore » of the focal spot of a characterized test mirror by a factor of greater than 10 times. This technique could be used to correct existing synchrotron beamline focusing and nanofocusing optics providing a highly stable wavefront with low distortion for obtaining smaller focus sizes. This method could also correct multilayer or focusing crystal optics allowing larger numerical apertures to be used in order to reduce the diffraction limited focal spot size.« less

  20. Investigations of the local distortions and EPR parameters for Cu2+ in xNa2 O-(30-x)K2 O-70B2 O3 (5 ≤ x ≤ 25 mol%) glasses.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Zhen-Ya; Wu, Shao-Yi; Zhang, Fu; Zhang, Cheng-Xi; Qin, Rui-Jie; Gao, Han

    2018-03-01

    The local distortions and electron paramagnetic resonance parameters for Cu 2+ in the mixed alkali borate glasses xNa 2 O-(30-x)K 2 O-70B 2 O 3 (5 ≤ x ≤ 25 mol%) are theoretically studied with distinct modifier Na 2 O compositions x. Owing to the Jahn-Teller effect, the octahedral [CuO 6 ] 10- clusters show significant tetragonal elongation ratios p ~19% along the C 4 axis. With the increase of composition x, the cubic field parameter Dq and the orbital reduction factor k exhibit linearly and quasi-linearly decreasing tendencies, respectively, whereas the relative tetragonal elongation ratio p has quasi-linearly increasing rule with some fluctuations, leading to the minima of g factors at x = 10 mol%. The composition dependences of the optical spectra and the electron paramagnetic resonance parameters are suitably reproduced by the linear or quasi-linear relationships of the relevant quantities (i.e., Dq, k, and p) with x. The above composition dependences are analyzed from mixed alkali effect, which brings forward the modifications of the local crystal-fields and the electronic cloud distribution around Cu 2+ with the variation of the composition of Na 2 O. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  1. Evaluation of the JPL X-band 32 element active array. [for deep space communication

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Boreham, J. F.; Postal, R. B.; Conroy, B. L.

    1979-01-01

    Tests performed on an X-band 32-element active array are described. Antenna pattern characteristics of the array were tested in its standard operating mode as well as several degraded performance modes, including failures of 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 16, and 31 elements. Additionally, the array was characterized with the addition of a metallic shroud, and also characterized versus rf drive level and at a single off-axis electronic beamsteered position. Characterization was performed on several of the 3/4-watt, three-stage, X-band solid-state power amplifier modules. The characterization included swept amplitude response, amplitude and phase versus temperature from -20 to +60 C, and intermodulation distortion of selected modules. The array is described and conclusions and recommendations based upon the experience and results achieved are included.

  2. Synthesis of ZnO:As Films Using Off-Axis Sputtering Deposition

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zhu, Shen; Su, Ching-Hua; Lehoczky, S. L.; Rose, M. Franklin (Technical Monitor)

    2001-01-01

    As a novel oxide semiconductor material, ZnO is interesting for use in many applications. For fabricating electronic devices, it is important to have n- and p- type ZnO materials. Arsenic has been proven to be one of the p-type dopants for ZnO materials. However, information in studying the ZnAsO ternary compound films has been scarce. In order to investigate the morphology, structure and electrical properties of ZnAsO ternary compounds, ZnO:As films have been synthesized using off-axis sputtering deposition on various substrates including (100) Si and (0001) sapphire crystals. Films are grown under various growth conditions. ZnO:As targets with the atomic weight ratios of arsenic to zinc from 0.01 to 0.10 are used for film synthesis. The growth temperatures and pressures range from 350 to 550C and 5 to 150 mTorr, respectively. Argon to oxygen gas ratio for film growth is varied to examine the film quality as well. Film surface morphology, crystal structure, and compositions, are characterized using atomic force microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and energy dispersive spectroscopy, respectively. The compositions of target material and ZnO:As films grown under various conditions are then assessed. The electrical properties were also measured. The detail of these measurements will be discussed in the presentation.

  3. Electromagnetic scattering by a uniaxial anisotropic sphere located in an off-axis Bessel beam.

    PubMed

    Qu, Tan; Wu, Zhen-Sen; Shang, Qing-Chao; Li, Zheng-Jun; Bai, Lu

    2013-08-01

    Electromagnetic scattering of a zero-order Bessel beam by an anisotropic spherical particle in the off-axis configuration is investigated. Based on the spherical vector wave functions, the expansion expression of the zero-order Bessel beam is derived, and its convergence is numerically discussed in detail. Utilizing the tangential continuity of the electromagnetic fields, the expressions of scattering coefficients are given. The effects of the conical angle of the wave vector components of the zero-order Bessel beam, the ratio of the radius of the sphere to the central spot radius of the zero-order Bessel beam, the shift of the beam waist center position along both the x and y axes, the permittivity and permeability tensor elements, and the loss of the sphere on the radar cross section (RCS) are numerically analyzed. It is revealed that the maximum RCS appears in the conical direction or neighboring direction when the sphere is illuminated by a zero-order Bessel beam. Furthermore, the RCS will decrease and the symmetry is broken with the shift of the beam waist center.

  4. Wavelet-based tracking of bacteria in unreconstructed off-axis holograms.

    PubMed

    Marin, Zach; Wallace, J Kent; Nadeau, Jay; Khalil, Andre

    2018-03-01

    We propose an automated wavelet-based method of tracking particles in unreconstructed off-axis holograms to provide rough estimates of the presence of motion and particle trajectories in digital holographic microscopy (DHM) time series. The wavelet transform modulus maxima segmentation method is adapted and tailored to extract Airy-like diffraction disks, which represent bacteria, from DHM time series. In this exploratory analysis, the method shows potential for estimating bacterial tracks in low-particle-density time series, based on a preliminary analysis of both living and dead Serratia marcescens, and for rapidly providing a single-bit answer to whether a sample chamber contains living or dead microbes or is empty. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Barlenses and X-shaped features compared: two manifestations of boxy/peanut bulges

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Laurikainen, E.; Salo, H.

    2017-02-01

    Aims: We study the morphological characteristics of boxy/peanut-shaped bulges. In particular, we are interested to determine whether most of the flux associated with bulges in galaxies with masses similar to those of the Milky Way at redshift z 0 might belong to the vertically thick inner part of the bar, in a similar manner as in the Milky Way itself. At high galaxy inclinations, these structures are observed as boxy/peanut/X-shaped features, and when the view is near to face-on, they are observed as barlenses. We also study the possibility that bulges in some fraction of unbarred galaxies might form in a similar manner as the bulges in barred galaxies. Methods: We used the Spitzer Survey of Stellar Structure in Galaxies (S4G) and the Near-IR S0 galaxy Survey (NIRS0S) to compile complete samples of galaxies with barlenses (N = 85) and X-shaped features (N = 88). A sample of unbarred galaxies (N = 41) is also selected. For all 214 galaxies unsharp mask images were created, used to recognize the X-shaped features and to measure their linear sizes. To detect possible boxy isophotes (using the B4-parameter), we also performed an isophotal analysis for the barlens galaxies. We use recently published N-body simulations: the models that exhibit boxy/peanut/X/barlens morphologies are viewed from isotropically chosen directions that cover the full range of galaxy inclinations in the sky. The synthetic images were analyzed in a similar manner as the observations. Results: This is the first time that the observed properties of barlenses and X-shaped features are directly compared across a wide range of galaxy inclinations. A comparison with the simulation models shows that the differences in their apparent sizes, a/rbar ≳ 0.5 for barlenses and a/rbar ≲ 0.5 for X-shapes, can be explained by projection effects. Observations at various inclinations are consistent with intrinsic abl ≈ aX ≈ 0.5rbar: here intrinsic size means the face-on semimajor axis length for bars and

  6. Characterizing the Impact of Off-Axis Scan Acquisition on the Reproducibility of Total Retinal Thickness Measurements in SDOCT Volumes.

    PubMed

    Antony, Bhavna J; Stetson, Paul F; Abramoff, Michael D; Lee, Kyungmoo; Colijn, Johanna M; Buitendijk, Gabriëlle H S; Klaver, Caroline C W; Roorda, Austin; Lujan, Brandon J

    2015-07-01

    Off-axis acquisition of spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) images has been shown to increase total retinal thickness (TRT) measurements. We analyzed the reproducibility of TRT measurements obtained using either the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) or Bruch's membrane as reference surfaces in off-axis scans intentionally acquired through multiple pupil positions. Five volumetric SDOCT scans of the macula were obtained from one eye of 25 normal subjects. One scan was acquired through a central pupil position, while subsequent scans were acquired through four peripheral pupil positions. The internal limiting membrane, the RPE, and Bruch's membrane were segmented using automated approaches. These volumes were registered to each other and the TRT was evaluated in 9 Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) regions. The reproducibility of the TRT obtained using the RPE was computed using the mean difference, coefficient of variation (CV), and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and compared to those obtained using Bruch's membrane as the reference surface. A secondary set of 1545 SDOCT scans was also analyzed in order to gauge the incidence of off-axis scans in a typical acquisition environment. The photoreceptor tips were dimmer in off-axis images, which affected the RPE segmentation. The overall mean TRT difference and CV obtained using the RPE were 7.04 ± 4.31 μm and 1.46%, respectively, whereas Bruch's membrane was 1.16 ± 1.00 μm and 0.32%, respectively. The ICCs at the subfoveal TRT were 0.982 and 0.999, respectively. Forty-one percent of the scans in the secondary set showed large tilts (> 6%). RPE segmentation is confounded by its proximity to the interdigitation zone, a structure strongly affected by the optical Stiles-Crawford effect. Bruch's membrane, however, is unaffected leading to a more robust segmentation that is less dependent upon pupil position. The way in which OCT images are acquired can independently

  7. Bilateral Symmetry of Distortions of Tactile Size Perception.

    PubMed

    Longo, Matthew R; Ghosh, Arko; Yahya, Tasneem

    2015-01-01

    The perceived distance between touches on the limbs is generally bigger for distances oriented across the width of the limb than for distances oriented along the length of the limb. The present study aimed to investigate the coherence of such distortions of tactile size perception across different skin surfaces. We investigated distortions of tactile size perception on the dorsal and palmar surfaces of both the left and right hands as well as the forehead. Participants judged which of two tactile distances felt larger. One distance was aligned with the proximodistal axis (along the body), the other with the mediolateral axis (across the body). Clear distortions were found on all five skin surfaces, with stimuli oriented across the width of the body being perceived as farther apart than those oriented along the length of the body. Consistent with previous results, distortions were smaller on the palmar than on the dorsal hand surface. Distortion on the forehead was intermediate between the dorsal and palmar surfaces. There were clear correlations between distortion on the left and right hands, for both the dorsal and palmar skin surfaces. In contrast, within each hand, there was no significant correlation between the two skin surfaces. Distortion on the forehead was not significantly correlated with that on any of the other skin surfaces. These results provide evidence for bilaterally symmetric representations underlying tactile size perception. © The Author(s) 2015.

  8. An empirical method for calculating melt compositions produced beneath mid-ocean ridges: for axis and off-axis (seamounts) melting application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Batiza, Rodey

    1991-12-01

    We present a new method for calculating the major element compositions of primary melts parental to mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB). This model is based on the experimental data of Jaques and Green (1980), Falloon et al. (1988), and Falloon and Green (1987, 1988) which are ideal for this purpose. Our method is empirical and employs solid-liquid partition coefficients (Di) from the experiments. We empirically determine Di=f(P,F) and use this to calculate melt compositions produced by decompression-induced melting along an adiabat (column melting). Results indicate that most MORBs can be generated by 10-20% partial melting at initial pressures (P0) of 12-21 kbar. Our primary MORB melts have MgO=10-12 wt %. We fractionate these at low pressure to an MgO content of 8.0 wt% in order to interpret natural MORB liquids. This model allows us to calculate Po, Pf, To, Tf, and F for natural MORB melts. We apply the model to interpret MORB compositions and mantle upwelling patterns beneath a fast ridge (East Pacific Rise (EPR) 8°N to 14°N), a slow ridge (mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) at 26°S), and seamounts near the EPR (Lamont seamount chain). We find mantle temperature differences of up to 50°-60°C over distances of 30-50 km both across axis and along axis at the EPR. We propose that these are due to upward mantle flow in a weakly conductive (versus adiabatic) temperature gradient. We suggest that the EPR is fed by a wide (~100 km) zone of upwelling due to plate separation but has a central core of faster buoyant flow. An along-axis thermal dome between the Siqueiros transform and the 11°45' Overlapping Spreading Center (OSC) may represent such an upwelling; however, in general there is a poor correlation between mantle temperature, topography, and the segmentation pattern at the EPR. For the Lamont seamounts we find regular across-axis changes in Po and F suggesting that the melt zone pinches out off axis. This observation supports the idea that the EPR is fed by a broad

  9. An empirical method for calculating melt compositions produced beneath mid-ocean ridges: Application for axis and off-axis (seamounts) melting

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Niu, Yaoling; Batiza, Rodey

    1991-12-01

    We present a new method for calculating the major element compositions of primary melts parental to mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB). This model is based on the experimental data of Jaques and Green (1980), Falloon et al. (1988), and Falloon and Green (1987, 1988) which are ideal for this purpose. Our method is empirical and employs solid-liquid partition coefficients (Di) from the experiments. We empirically determine Di = ƒ(P,F) and use this to calculate melt compositions produced by decompression-induced melting along an adiabat (column melting). Results indicate that most MORBs can be generated by 10-20% partial melting at initial pressures (P0) of 12-21 kbar. Our primary MORB melts have MgO = 10-12 wt %. We fractionate these at low pressure to an MgO content of 8.0 wt % in order to interpret natural MORB liquids. This model allows us to calculate Po, Pƒ, To, Tƒ, and F for natural MORB melts. We apply the model to interpret MORB compositions and mantle upwelling patterns beneath a fast ridge (East Pacific Rise (EPR)8°N to 14°N), a slow ridge (mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) at 26°S), and seamounts near the EPR (Lament seamount chain). We find mantle temperature differences of up to 50°-60°C over distances of 30-50 km both across axis and along axis at the EPR. We propose that these are due to upward mantle flow in a weakly conductive (versus adiabatic) temperature gradient. We suggest that the EPR is fed by a wide (-100 km) zone of upwelling due to plate separation but has a central core of faster buoyant flow. An along-axis thermal dome between the Siqueiros transform and the 11°45' Overlapping Spreading center (OSC) may represent such an upwelling; however, in general there is a poor correlation between mantle temperature, topography, and the segmentation pattern at the EPR. For the Lament seamounts we find regular across-axis changes in Po and F suggesting that the melt zone pinches out off axis. This observation supports the idea that the EPR is fed by a

  10. Parabrachial nucleus neuronal responses to off-vertical axis rotation in macaques

    PubMed Central

    McCandless, Cyrus H.; Balaban, Carey D.

    2010-01-01

    The caudal aspect of the parabrachial nucleus (PBN) contains neurons responsive to whole body, periodic rotational stimulation in alert monkeys. This study characterizes the angular and linear motion-sensitive response properties of PBN unit responses during off-vertical axis rotation (OVAR) and position trapezoid stimulation. The OVAR responses displayed a constant firing component which varied from the firing rate at rest. Nearly two-thirds of the units also modulated their discharges with respect to head orientation (re: gravity) during constant velocity OVAR stimulation. The modulated response magnitudes were equal during ipsilateral and contralateral OVARs, indicative of a one-dimensional accelerometer. These response orientations during OVAR divided the units into three spatially tuned populations, with peak modulation responses centered in the ipsilateral ear down, contralateral anterior semicircular canal down, and occiput down orientations. Because the orientation of the OVAR modulation response was opposite in polarity to the orientation of the static tilt component of responses to position trapezoids for the majority of units, the linear acceleration responses were divided into colinear dynamic linear and static tilt components. The orientations of these unit responses formed two distinct population response axes: (1) units with an interaural linear response axis and (2) units with an ipsilateral anterior semicircular canal-contralateral posterior semicircular canal plane linear response axis. The angular rotation sensitivity of these units is in a head-vertical plane that either contains the linear acceleration response axis or is perpendicular to the linear acceleration axis. Hence, these units behave like head-based (‘strap-down’) inertial guidance sensors. Because the PBN contributes to sensory and interoceptive processing, it is suggested that vestibulo-recipient caudal PBN units may detect potentially dangerous anomalies in control of postural

  11. Off-plane x-ray reflection grating fabrication

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Peterson, Thomas J.; DeRoo, Casey T.; Marlowe, Hannah; McEntaffer, Randall L.; Miles, Drew M.; Tutt, James H.; Schultz, Ted B.

    2015-09-01

    Off-plane X-ray diffraction gratings with precision groove profiles at the submicron scale will be used in next generation X-ray spectrometers. Such gratings will be used on a current NASA suborbital rocket mission, the Off-plane Grating Rocket Experiment (OGRE), and have application for future grating missions. The fabrication of these gratings does not come without challenges. High performance off-plane gratings must be fabricated with precise radial grating patterns, optically at surfaces, and specific facet angles. Such gratings can be made using a series of common micro-fabrication techniques. The resulting process is highly customizable, making it useful for a variety of different mission architectures. In this paper, we detail the fabrication method used to produce high performance off-plane gratings and report the results of a preliminary qualification test of a grating fabricated in this manner. The grating was tested in the off-plane `Littrow' configuration, for which the grating is most efficient for a given diffraction order, and found to achieve 42% relative efficiency in the blaze order with respect to all diffracted light.

  12. Off-axis phase-only holograms of 3D objects using accelerated point-based Fresnel diffraction algorithm

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zeng, Zhenxiang; Zheng, Huadong; Yu, Yingjie; Asundi, Anand K.

    2017-06-01

    A method for calculating off-axis phase-only holograms of three-dimensional (3D) object using accelerated point-based Fresnel diffraction algorithm (PB-FDA) is proposed. The complex amplitude of the object points on the z-axis in hologram plane is calculated using Fresnel diffraction formula, called principal complex amplitudes (PCAs). The complex amplitudes of those off-axis object points of the same depth can be obtained by 2D shifting of PCAs. In order to improve the calculating speed of the PB-FDA, the convolution operation based on fast Fourier transform (FFT) is used to calculate the holograms rather than using the point-by-point spatial 2D shifting of the PCAs. The shortest recording distance of the PB-FDA is analyzed in order to remove the influence of multiple-order images in reconstructed images. The optimal recording distance of the PB-FDA is also analyzed to improve the quality of reconstructed images. Numerical reconstructions and optical reconstructions with a phase-only spatial light modulator (SLM) show that holographic 3D display is feasible with the proposed algorithm. The proposed PB-FDA can also avoid the influence of the zero-order image introduced by SLM in optical reconstructed images.

  13. Design Trade Study for a 4-Meter Off-Axis Primary Mirror Substrate and Mount for the Habitable-Zone Exoplanet Direct Imaging Mission

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Arnold, William R.; Stahl, H. Philip

    2017-01-01

    An extensive trade study was conducted to evaluate primary mirror substrate design architectures for the HabEx mission baseline 4-meter off-axis telescope. The study’s purpose is not to produce a final design, but rather to established a design methodology for matching the mirror’s properties (mass and stiffness) with the mission’s optical performance specifications (static dynamic wavefront error, WFE). The study systematically compares the effect of proven design elements (closed-back vs. open-back vs. partial-back; meniscus vs. flat back vs. shaped back; etc.), which can be implemented with proven space mirror materials (ULE and Zerodur), on static and dynamic WFE. Additionally, the study compares static and dynamic WFE of each substrate point design integrated onto three and six point mounts.

  14. Design trade study for a 4-meter off-axis primary mirror substrate and mount for the Habitable-zone Exoplanet Direct Imaging Mission

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arnold, William R.; Stahl, H. Philip

    2017-09-01

    An extensive trade study was conducted to evaluate primary mirror substrate design architectures for the HabEx mission baseline 4-meter off-axis telescope. The study's purpose is not to produce a final design, but rather to established a design methodology for matching the mirror's properties (mass and stiffness) with the mission's optical performance specifications (static dynamic wavefront error, WFE). The study systematically compares the effect of proven design elements (closed-back vs open-back vs partial-back; meniscus vs flat back vs shaped back; etc.), which can be implemented with proven space mirror materials (ULE and Zerodur), on static and dynamic WFE. Additionally, the study compares static and dynamic WFE of each substrate point design integrated onto three and six point mounts.

  15. An indirect method of studying band alignments in nBn photodetectors using off-axis electron holography

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

    Shen, Xiao-Meng, E-mail: xiaomeng.shen@asu.edu; Center for Photonics Innovation, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287; He, Zhao-Yu

    2015-09-21

    Mid-wave and long-wave infrared nBn photodetectors with absorbers consisting of InAs/InAsSb superlattices and barriers consisting of InAs/AlGaSb(As) superlattices were grown using molecular beam epitaxy. High-resolution X-ray diffraction showing significant differences in Ga composition in the barrier layer, and different dark current behavior at 77 K, suggested the possibility of different types of band alignments between the barrier layer and the absorber for the mid- and long-wave infrared samples. Examination of the barrier layers using off-axis electron holography showed the presence of positive charge with an estimated density of 1.8 × 10{sup 17}/cm{sup 3} in the mid-wave sample as a result of a type-IImore » band alignment, whereas negligible charge was detected in the long-wave sample, consistent with a type-I band alignment.« less

  16. Measuring the X-shaped structures in edge-on galaxies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Savchenko, S. S.; Sotnikova, N. Ya.; Mosenkov, A. V.; Reshetnikov, V. P.; Bizyaev, D. V.

    2017-11-01

    We present a detailed photometric study of a sample of 22 edge-on galaxies with clearly visible X-shaped structures. We propose a novel method to derive geometrical parameters of these features, along with the parameters of their host galaxies based on the multi-component photometric decomposition of galactic images. To include the X-shaped structure into our photometric model, we use the imfit package, in which we implement a new component describing the X-shaped structure. This method is applied for a sample of galaxies with available Sloan Digital Sky Survey and Spitzer IRAC 3.6 μm observations. In order to explain our results, we perform realistic N-body simulations of a Milky Way-type galaxy and compare the observed and the model X-shaped structures. Our main conclusions are as follows: (1) galaxies with strong X-shaped structures reside in approximately the same local environments as field galaxies; (2) the characteristic size of the X-shaped structures is about 2/3 of the bar size; (3) there is a correlation between the X-shaped structure size and its observed flatness: the larger structures are more flattened; (4) our N-body simulations qualitatively confirm the observational results and support the bar-driven scenario for the X-shaped structure formation.

  17. Image-based spectral distortion correction for photon-counting x-ray detectors

    PubMed Central

    Ding, Huanjun; Molloi, Sabee

    2012-01-01

    Purpose: To investigate the feasibility of using an image-based method to correct for distortions induced by various artifacts in the x-ray spectrum recorded with photon-counting detectors for their application in breast computed tomography (CT). Methods: The polyenergetic incident spectrum was simulated with the tungsten anode spectral model using the interpolating polynomials (TASMIP) code and carefully calibrated to match the x-ray tube in this study. Experiments were performed on a Cadmium-Zinc-Telluride (CZT) photon-counting detector with five energy thresholds. Energy bins were adjusted to evenly distribute the recorded counts above the noise floor. BR12 phantoms of various thicknesses were used for calibration. A nonlinear function was selected to fit the count correlation between the simulated and the measured spectra in the calibration process. To evaluate the proposed spectral distortion correction method, an empirical fitting derived from the calibration process was applied on the raw images recorded for polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) phantoms of 8.7, 48.8, and 100.0 mm. Both the corrected counts and the effective attenuation coefficient were compared to the simulated values for each of the five energy bins. The feasibility of applying the proposed method to quantitative material decomposition was tested using a dual-energy imaging technique with a three-material phantom that consisted of water, lipid, and protein. The performance of the spectral distortion correction method was quantified using the relative root-mean-square (RMS) error with respect to the expected values from simulations or areal analysis of the decomposition phantom. Results: The implementation of the proposed method reduced the relative RMS error of the output counts in the five energy bins with respect to the simulated incident counts from 23.0%, 33.0%, and 54.0% to 1.2%, 1.8%, and 7.7% for 8.7, 48.8, and 100.0 mm PMMA phantoms, respectively. The accuracy of the effective attenuation

  18. Body shape transformation along a shared axis of anatomical evolution in labyrinth fishes (Anabantoidei).

    PubMed

    Collar, David C; Quintero, Michelle; Buttler, Bernardo; Ward, Andrea B; Mehta, Rita S

    2016-03-01

    Major morphological transformations, such as the evolution of elongate body shape in vertebrates, punctuate evolutionary history. A fundamental step in understanding the processes that give rise to such transformations is identification of the underlying anatomical changes. But as we demonstrate in this study, important insights can also be gained by comparing these changes to those that occur in ancestral and closely related lineages. In labyrinth fishes (Anabantoidei), rapid evolution of a highly derived torpedo-shaped body in the common ancestor of the pikehead (Luciocephalus aura and L. pulcher) occurred primarily through exceptional elongation of the head, with secondary contributions involving reduction in body depth and lengthening of the precaudal vertebral region. This combination of changes aligns closely with the primary axis of anatomical diversification in other anabantoids, revealing that pikehead evolution involved extraordinarily rapid change in structures that were ancestrally labile. Finer-scale examination of the anatomical components that determine head elongation also shows alignment between the pikehead evolutionary trajectory and the primary axis of cranial diversification in anabantoids, with much higher evolutionary rates leading to the pikehead. Altogether, our results show major morphological transformation stemming from extreme change along a shared morphological axis in labyrinth fishes. © 2016 The Author(s). Evolution © 2016 The Society for the Study of Evolution.

  19. Investigating shape representation using sensitivity to part- and axis-based transformations.

    PubMed

    Denisova, Kristina; Feldman, Jacob; Su, Xiaotao; Singh, Manish

    2016-09-01

    Part- and axis-based approaches organize shape representations in terms of simple parts and their spatial relationships. Shape transformations that alter qualitative part structure have been shown to be more detectable than those that preserve it. We compared sensitivity to various transformations that change quantitative properties of parts and their spatial relationships, while preserving qualitative part structure. Shape transformations involving changes in length, width, curvature, orientation and location were applied to a small part attached to a larger base of a two-part shape. Increment thresholds were estimated for each transformation using a 2IFC procedure. Thresholds were converted into common units of shape difference to enable comparisons across transformations. Higher sensitivity was consistently found for transformations involving a parameter of a single part (length, width, curvature) than those involving spatial relations between two parts (relative orientation and location), suggesting a single-part superiority effect. Moreover, sensitivity to shifts in part location - a biomechanically implausible shape transformation - was consistently poorest. The influence of region-based geometry was investigated via stereoscopic manipulation of figure and ground. Sensitivity was compared across positive parts (protrusions) and negative parts (indentations) for transformations involving a change in orientation or location. For changes in part orientation (biomechanically plausible), sensitivity was better for positive than negative parts; whereas for changes in part location (biomechanically implausible), no systematic difference was observed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. INVESTIGATING SHAPE REPRESENTATION USING SENSITIVITY TO PART- AND AXIS-BASED TRANSFORMATIONS

    PubMed Central

    Denisova, Kristina; Feldman, Jacob; Su, Xiaotao; Singh, Manish

    2015-01-01

    Part -and axis-based approaches organize shape representations in terms of simple parts and their spatial relationships. Shape transformations that alter qualitative part structure have been shown to be more detectable than those that preserve it. We compared sensitivity to various transformations that change quantitative properties of parts and their spatial relationships, while preserving qualitative part structure. Shape transformations involving changes in length, width, curvature, orientation and location were applied to a small part attached to a larger base of a two-part shape. Increment thresholds were estimated for each transformation using a 2IFC procedure. Thresholds were converted into common units of shape difference to enable comparisons across transformations. Higher sensitivity was consistently found for transformations involving a parameter of a single part (length, width, curvature) than those involving spatial relations between two parts (relative orientation and location), suggesting a single-part superiority effect. Moreover, sensitivity to shifts in part location—a biomechanically implausible shape transformation—was consistently poorest. The influence of region-based geometry was investigated via stereoscopic manipulation of figure and ground. Sensitivity was compared across positive parts (protrusions) and negative parts (indentations) for transformations involving a change in orientation or location. For changes in part orientation (biomechanically plausible), sensitivity was better for positive than negative parts; whereas for changes in part location (biomechanically implausible), no systematic difference was observed. PMID:26325393

  1. Effect of p–d hybridization, structural distortion and cation electronegativity on electronic properties of ZnSnX{sub 2} (X=P, As, Sb) chalcopyrite semiconductors

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

    Mishra, S.; Ganguli, B., E-mail: biplabg@nitrkl.ac.in

    2013-04-15

    Significant effects of p–d hybridization, structural distortion and cation-electro-negativity are found on band gap in ZnSnX{sub 2} (X=P, As, Sb). Our study suggests these compounds to be direct band gap semiconductors with band gaps of 1.23, 0.68 and 0.19 eV respectively. Lattice constants, tetragonal distortion (η), anion displacement, bond lengths and bulk moduli are calculated by Density Functional Theory based on Tight binding Linear Muffin-Tin orbital method. Our result of structural properties is in good agreement with the available experimental and other theoretical results. Calculated band gaps also agree well with the experimental works within LDA limitation. Unlike other semiconductorsmore » in the group II–IV–V{sub 2}, there is a reduction in the band gap of 0.22, 0.20 and 0.24 eV respectively in ZnSnX{sub 2} (X=P, As, Sb) due to p–d hybridization. Structural distortion decreases band gap by 0.20, 0.12 and 0.10 eV respectively. We find that cation electronegativity effect is responsible for increasing the band gap relative to their binary analogs GaInP{sub 2}, InGaAs{sub 2} and GaInSb{sub 2} respectively and increment are 0.13, 0.04 and 0.13 eV respectively. - Graphical abstract: One unit cell of ZnSnX{sub 2} (X=P, As, Sb) chalcopyrite semiconductor. Semiconductors ZnSnX{sub 2} (X=P, As, Sb) are found to be direct band gap semiconductors with band gaps 1.23, 0.68 and 0.19 eV respectively. The quantitative estimate of effects of p–d hybridization, structural distortion and cation electronegativity shows band gaps change significantly due to these effects. Highlights: ► ZnSnX{sub 2} (X=P, As, Sb) are direct band gap semiconductors. ► These have band gaps of 1.23 eV, 0.68 eV and 0.19 eV respectively. ► The band gap reduction due to p–d hybridization is 13.41%, 18.51% and 40% respectively. ► Band gap reduction due to structural distortion is 12.12%, 11.11% and 16.66% respectively. ► Band gap increases 8.38%, 3.70% and 21

  2. Mechanical behavior and fracture characteristics of off-axis fiber composites. 2: Theory and comparisons

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chamis, C. C.; Sinclair, J. H.

    1978-01-01

    The mechanical behavior and stresses inducing fracture modes of unidirectional high-modulus graphite-fiber/epoxy composites subjected to off-axis tensile loads were investigated theoretically. The investigation included the use of composite mechanics, combined-stress failure criteria, and finite-element stress analysis. The results are compared with experimental data and led to the formulation of criteria and convenient plotting procedures for identifying, characterizing, and quantifying these fracture modes.

  3. AXIS - A High Angular Resoltuion X-ray Probe Concept Study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mushotzky, Richard; AXIS Study Team

    2018-01-01

    AXIS is a probe-class concept under study to the 2020 Decadal survey. AXIS will extend and enhance the science of high angular resolution x-ray imaging and spectroscopy in the next decade with ~0.3" angular resolution over a 7' radius field of view and an order of magnitude more collecting area than Chandra in the 0.3-12 keV band with a cost consistent with a probe.These capabilities enable major advances in a wide range of science such as: (1) measuring the event horizon scale structure in AGN accretion disks and the spins of supermassive black holes through observations of gravitationally-microlensed quasars; (ii) determining AGN and starburst feedback in galaxies and galaxy clusters through direct imaging of winds and interaction of jets and via spatially resolved imaging of galaxies at high-z; (iii) fueling of AGN by probing the Bondi radius of over 20 nearby galaxies; (iv) hierarchical structure formation and the SMBH merger rate through measurement of the occurrence rate of dual AGN and occupation fraction of SMBHs; (v) advancing SNR physics and galaxy ecology through large detailed samples of SNR in nearby galaxies; (vi) measuring the Cosmic Web through its connection to cluster outskirts. With a nominal 2028 launch, AXIS benefits from natural synergies with the ELTs, LSST, ALMA, WFIRST and ATHENA. AXIS utilizes breakthroughs in the construction of lightweight X-ray optics from mono-crystalline silicon blocks, and developments in the fabrication of large format, small pixel, high readout rate detectors allowing a robust and cost effective design. The AXIS team welcomes input and feedback from the community in preparation for the 2020 Decadal review.

  4. Novel approaches to address spectral distortions in photon counting x-ray CT using artificial neural networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Touch, M.; Clark, D. P.; Barber, W.; Badea, C. T.

    2016-04-01

    Spectral CT using a photon-counting x-ray detector (PCXD) can potentially increase accuracy of measuring tissue composition. However, PCXD spectral measurements suffer from distortion due to charge sharing, pulse pileup, and Kescape energy loss. This study proposes two novel artificial neural network (ANN)-based algorithms: one to model and compensate for the distortion, and another one to directly correct for the distortion. The ANN-based distortion model was obtained by training to learn the distortion from a set of projections with a calibration scan. The ANN distortion was then applied in the forward statistical model to compensate for distortion in the projection decomposition. ANN was also used to learn to correct distortions directly in projections. The resulting corrected projections were used for reconstructing the image, denoising via joint bilateral filtration, and decomposition into three-material basis functions: Compton scattering, the photoelectric effect, and iodine. The ANN-based distortion model proved to be more robust to noise and worked better compared to using an imperfect parametric distortion model. In the presence of noise, the mean relative errors in iodine concentration estimation were 11.82% (ANN distortion model) and 16.72% (parametric model). With distortion correction, the mean relative error in iodine concentration estimation was improved by 50% over direct decomposition from distorted data. With our joint bilateral filtration, the resulting material image quality and iodine detectability as defined by the contrast-to-noise ratio were greatly enhanced allowing iodine concentrations as low as 2 mg/ml to be detected. Future work will be dedicated to experimental evaluation of our ANN-based methods using 3D-printed phantoms.

  5. Dolphin biosonar signals measured at extreme off-axis angles: insights to sound propagation in the head.

    PubMed

    Au, Whitlow W L; Branstetter, Brian; Moore, Patrick W; Finneran, James J

    2012-08-01

    Biosonar signals radiated along the beam axis of an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin resemble short transient oscillations. As the azimuth of the measuring hydrophones in the horizontal plane progressively increases with respect to the beam axis the signals become progressively distorted. At approximately ±45°, the signals begin to divide into two components with the time difference between the components increasing with increasing angles. At ±90° or normal to the longitudinal axis of the animal, the time difference between the two pulses measured by the hydrophone on the right side of the dolphin's head is, on average, ∼11.9 μs larger than the time differences observed by the hydrophone on the left side of the dolphin's head. The center frequency of the first pulse is generally lower, by 33-47 kHz, than the center frequency of the second pulse. When considering the relative locations of the two phonic lips, the data suggest that the signals are being produced by one of the phonic lips and the second pulse resulting from a reflection within the head of the animal. The generation of biosonar signals is a complex process and the propagation pathways through the dolphin's head are not well understood.

  6. Tilt and Translation Motion Perception during Off Vertical Axis Rotation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wood, Scott J.; Reschke, Millard F.; Clement, Gilles

    2006-01-01

    The effect of stimulus frequency on tilt and translation motion perception was studied during constant velocity off-vertical axis rotation (OVAR), and compared to the effect of stimulus frequency on eye movements. Fourteen healthy subjects were rotated in darkness about their longitudinal axis 10deg and 20deg off-vertical at 0.125 Hz, and 20deg offvertical at 0.5 Hz. Oculomotor responses were recorded using videography, and perceived motion was evaluated using verbal reports and a joystick with four degrees of freedom (pitch and roll tilt, mediallateral and anteriorposterior translation). During the lower frequency OVAR, subjects reported the perception of progressing along the edge of a cone. During higher frequency OVAR, subjects reported the perception of progressing along the edge of an upright cylinder. The modulation of both tilt recorded from the joystick and ocular torsion significantly increased as the tilt angle increased from 10deg to 20deg at 0.125 Hz, and then decreased at 0.5 Hz. Both tilt perception and torsion slightly lagged head orientation at 0.125 Hz. The phase lag of torsion increased at 0.5 Hz, while the phase of tilt perception did not change as a function of frequency. The amplitude of both translation perception recorded from the joystick and horizontal eye movements was negligible at 0.125 Hz and increased as a function of stimulus frequency. While the phase lead of horizontal eye movements decreased at 0.5 Hz, the phase of translation perception did not vary with stimulus frequency and was similar to the phase of tilt perception during all conditions. During dynamic linear acceleration in the absence of other sensory input (canal, vision) a change in stimulus frequency alone elicits similar changes in the amplitude of both self motion perception and eye movements. However, in contrast to the eye movements, the phase of both perceived tilt and translation motion is not altered by stimulus frequency. We conclude that the neural processing

  7. Determination of the topological shape of integral membrane protein light-harvesting complex LH2 from photosynthetic bacteria in the detergent solution by small-angle X-ray scattering.

    PubMed

    Hong, Xinguo; Weng, Yu-Xiang; Li, Ming

    2004-02-01

    The topological shape of the integral membrane protein light-harvesting complex LH2 from photosynthetic bacteria Rhodobacter spheroides 2.4.1 in detergent solution has been determined from synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering data using direct curve-fitting by the ellipsoid, ab initio shape determination methods of simulated annealing algorithm and multipole expansion, respectively. The results indicate that the LH2 protein in aqueous solution is encapsulated by a monolayered detergent shell. The detergent-stabilized structure has the shape of an oblate plate, with a thickness of 40 A, a long axis of 110 A, and a short axis of 85 A. After correction for the detergent shell, the shape of the LH2 core is also an oblate plate with a height of 40 A, a long axis of 80 A, and a short axis of 55 A. In contrast to the cylindrical crystal structure with a height of 40 A and a diameter of 68 A, the molecular shape of the LH2 complex in detergent solution clearly deviates from the ringlike crystal structure, with an eccentricity found to be 0.59-consistent with the result of single molecular spectroscopy study of the isolated single LH2 molecules.

  8. Determination of the Topological Shape of Integral Membrane Protein Light-Harvesting Complex LH2 from Photosynthetic Bacteria in the Detergent Solution by Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering

    PubMed Central

    Hong, Xinguo; Weng, Yu-Xiang; Li, Ming

    2004-01-01

    The topological shape of the integral membrane protein light-harvesting complex LH2 from photosynthetic bacteria Rhodobacter spheroides 2.4.1 in detergent solution has been determined from synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering data using direct curve-fitting by the ellipsoid, ab initio shape determination methods of simulated annealing algorithm and multipole expansion, respectively. The results indicate that the LH2 protein in aqueous solution is encapsulated by a monolayered detergent shell. The detergent-stabilized structure has the shape of an oblate plate, with a thickness of 40 Å, a long axis of 110 Å, and a short axis of 85 Å . After correction for the detergent shell, the shape of the LH2 core is also an oblate plate with a height of 40 Å, a long axis of 80 Å, and a short axis of 55 Å. In contrast to the cylindrical crystal structure with a height of 40 Å and a diameter of 68 Å, the molecular shape of the LH2 complex in detergent solution clearly deviates from the ringlike crystal structure, with an eccentricity found to be 0.59—consistent with the result of single molecular spectroscopy study of the isolated single LH2 molecules. PMID:14747343

  9. Ecology shapes the evolutionary trade-off between predator avoidance and defence in coral reef butterflyfishes.

    PubMed

    Hodge, Jennifer R; Alim, Chidera; Bertrand, Nick G; Lee, Wesley; Price, Samantha A; Tran, Binh; Wainwright, Peter C

    2018-07-01

    Antipredator defensive traits are thought to trade-off evolutionarily with traits that facilitate predator avoidance. However, complexity and scale have precluded tests of this prediction in many groups, including fishes. Using a macroevolutionary approach, we test this prediction in butterflyfishes, an iconic group of coral reef inhabitants with diverse social behaviours, foraging strategies and antipredator adaptations. We find that several antipredator traits have evolved adaptively, dependent primarily on foraging strategy. We identify a previously unrecognised axis of diversity in butterflyfishes where species with robust morphological defences have riskier foraging strategies and lack sociality, while species with reduced morphological defences feed in familiar territories, have adaptations for quick escapes and benefit from the vigilance provided by sociality. Furthermore, we find evidence for the constrained evolution of fin spines among species that graze solely on corals, highlighting the importance of corals, as both prey and structural refuge, in shaping fish morphology. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd/CNRS.

  10. Control of minimum member size in parameter-free structural shape optimization by a medial axis approximation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schmitt, Oliver; Steinmann, Paul

    2018-06-01

    We introduce a manufacturing constraint for controlling the minimum member size in structural shape optimization problems, which is for example of interest for components fabricated in a molding process. In a parameter-free approach, whereby the coordinates of the FE boundary nodes are used as design variables, the challenging task is to find a generally valid definition for the thickness of non-parametric geometries in terms of their boundary nodes. Therefore we use the medial axis, which is the union of all points with at least two closest points on the boundary of the domain. Since the effort for the exact computation of the medial axis of geometries given by their FE discretization highly increases with the number of surface elements we use the distance function instead to approximate the medial axis by a cloud of points. The approximation is demonstrated on three 2D examples. Moreover, the formulation of a minimum thickness constraint is applied to a sensitivity-based shape optimization problem of one 2D and one 3D model.

  11. Control of minimum member size in parameter-free structural shape optimization by a medial axis approximation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schmitt, Oliver; Steinmann, Paul

    2017-09-01

    We introduce a manufacturing constraint for controlling the minimum member size in structural shape optimization problems, which is for example of interest for components fabricated in a molding process. In a parameter-free approach, whereby the coordinates of the FE boundary nodes are used as design variables, the challenging task is to find a generally valid definition for the thickness of non-parametric geometries in terms of their boundary nodes. Therefore we use the medial axis, which is the union of all points with at least two closest points on the boundary of the domain. Since the effort for the exact computation of the medial axis of geometries given by their FE discretization highly increases with the number of surface elements we use the distance function instead to approximate the medial axis by a cloud of points. The approximation is demonstrated on three 2D examples. Moreover, the formulation of a minimum thickness constraint is applied to a sensitivity-based shape optimization problem of one 2D and one 3D model.

  12. Quantitative evaluation of distortion in sketching under mono and dual axes whole body vibration.

    PubMed

    Bhiwapurkar, M K; Saran, V H; Harsha, S P

    2011-01-01

    Performance of sedentary activities such as reading and writing, in trains is known to be affected by the vibrations. An experimental study was therefore initiated to investigate the interference perceived in sketching task under low frequency random vibration in both mono and dual axes. Thirty healthy male subjects participated in the study. Random vibration stimuli were excited in various axes in frequency range of 1-20 Hz at magnitudes of 0.4, 0.8 and 1.2 m/s(2). The task required the subjects to sketch the given geometric figures such as circle, rectangle and triangle under vibration environment in two subject postures (sketch pad on lap and on table). Three performance methods were used to measure the effect of vibration stimuli and posture. They consisted of two specifically designed objective methods for percentage distortion measurement and one subjective method using Borg CR10 scale. The results revealed that the percentage distortion and difficulty in sketching increased with an increase in vibration magnitude and was found to be higher for vibration in Y- and Z-axis. Similar trend was observed for percentage distortion and difficulty in sketching for dual axes also. The perceived difficulty and impairment in sketching performance was greater while sketching on lap for X-axis, while the effect was just the reverse for other axes.

  13. Three-dimensional organization of vestibular-related eye movements to off-vertical axis rotation and linear translation in pigeons

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dickman, J. D.; Angelaki, D. E.

    1999-01-01

    During linear accelerations, compensatory reflexes should continually occur in order to maintain objects of visual interest as stable images on the retina. In the present study, the three-dimensional organization of the vestibulo-ocular reflex in pigeons was quantitatively examined during linear accelerations produced by constant velocity off-vertical axis yaw rotations and translational motion in darkness. With off-vertical axis rotations, sinusoidally modulated eye-position and velocity responses were observed in all three components, with the vertical and torsional eye movements predominating the response. Peak torsional and vertical eye positions occurred when the head was oriented with the lateral visual axis of the right eye directed orthogonal to or aligned with the gravity vector, respectively. No steady-state horizontal nystagmus was obtained with any of the rotational velocities (8-58 degrees /s) tested. During translational motion, delivered along or perpendicular to the lateral visual axis, vertical and torsional eye movements were elicited. No significant horizontal eye movements were observed during lateral translation at frequencies up to 3 Hz. These responses suggest that, in pigeons, all linear accelerations generate eye movements that are compensatory to the direction of actual or perceived tilt of the head relative to gravity. In contrast, no translational horizontal eye movements, which are known to be compensatory to lateral translational motion in primates, were observed under the present experimental conditions.

  14. Interdiffusion effect on strained La0.8Ba0.2MnO3 thin films by off-axis sputtering on SrTiO3 (100) substrates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chou, Hsiung; Hsu, S. G.; Lin, C. B.; Wu, C. B.

    2007-02-01

    Strained La0.8Ba0.2MnO3 thin films on SrTiO3 (100) substrate are grown by an off-axis sputtering technique. It is found that the ferromagnetic temperature TC increases for thinner films. Secondary ion mass spectroscopy indicates that Sr diffuses partially into the film, making it structurally nonuniform. The region close to the film/substrate interface acts as La1-x(SryBa1-y)xMnO3 with a near negligible y for the as grown film and a non-negligible amount of y for the high-temperature postannealed film. The enhancement of TC is attributed to the combination of the strain and interdiffusion effects.

  15. High-accuracy Aspheric X-ray Mirror Metrology Using Software Configurable Optical Test System/deflectometry

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

    Huang, Run; Su, Peng; Burge, James H.

    The Software Configurable Optical Test System (SCOTS) uses deflectometry to measure surface slopes of general optical shapes without the need for additional null optics. Careful alignment of test geometry and calibration of inherent system error improve the accuracy of SCOTS to a level where it competes with interferometry. We report a SCOTS surface measurement of an off-axis superpolished elliptical x-ray mirror that achieves <1 nm<1 nm root-mean-square accuracy for the surface measurement with low-order term included.

  16. Off-axis digital holographic camera for quantitative phase microscopy.

    PubMed

    Monemhaghdoust, Zahra; Montfort, Frédéric; Emery, Yves; Depeursinge, Christian; Moser, Christophe

    2014-06-01

    We propose and experimentally demonstrate a digital holographic camera which can be attached to the camera port of a conventional microscope for obtaining digital holograms in a self-reference configuration, under short coherence illumination and in a single shot. A thick holographic grating filters the beam containing the sample information in two dimensions through diffraction. The filtered beam creates the reference arm of the interferometer. The spatial filtering method, based on the high angular selectivity of the thick grating, reduces the alignment sensitivity to angular displacements compared with pinhole based Fourier filtering. The addition of a thin holographic grating alters the coherence plane tilt introduced by the thick grating so as to create high-visibility interference over the entire field of view. The acquired full-field off-axis holograms are processed to retrieve the amplitude and phase information of the sample. The system produces phase images of cheek cells qualitatively similar to phase images extracted with a standard commercial DHM.

  17. Comparison of the Manganese Cluster in Oxygen-Evolving Photosystem II with Distorted Cubane Manganese Compounds through X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy

    PubMed Central

    Cinco, Roehl M.; Rompel, Annette; Visser, Hendrik; Aromí, Guillem; Christou, George; Sauer, Kenneth; Klein, Melvin P.; Yachandra, Vittal K.

    2014-01-01

    X-ray absorption spectroscopy has been employed to assess the degree of similarity between the oxygen-evolving complex (OEC) in photosystem II (PS II) and a family of synthetic manganese complexes containing the distorted cubane [Mn4O3X] core (X = benzoate, acetate, methoxide, hydroxide, azide, fluoride, chloride, or bromide). These [Mn4(μ3-O)3(μ3-X)] cubanes possess C3v symmetry except for the X = benzoate species, which is slightly more distorted with only Cs symmetry. In addition, Mn4O3Cl complexes containing three or six terminal Cl ligands at three of the Mn were included in this study. The Mn K-edge X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) from the oxygen-ligated complexes begin to resemble general features of the PS II (S1 state) spectrum, although the second derivatives are distinct from those in PS II. The extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) of these Mn compounds also displays superficial resemblance to that of PS II, but major differences emerge on closer examination of the phases and amplitudes. The most obvious distinction is the smaller magnitude of the Fourier transform (FT) of the PS II EXAFS compared to the FTs from the distorted cubanes. Curve fitting of the Mn EXAFS spectra verifies the known core structures of the Mn cubanes, and shows that the number of the crucial 2.7 and 3.3 Å Mn–Mn distances differs from that observed in the OEC. The EXAFS method detects small changes in the core structures as X is varied in this series, and serves to exclude the distorted cubane of C3v symmetry as a topological model for the Mn catalytic cluster of the OEC. Instead, the method shows that even more distortion of the cubane framework, altering the ratio of the Mn–Mn distances, is required to resemble the Mn cluster in PS II. PMID:11671305

  18. Cognitive Distortions Associated with Imagination of the Thin Ideal: Validation of the Thought-Shape Fusion Body Questionnaire (TSF-B)

    PubMed Central

    Wyssen, Andrea; Debbeler, Luka J.; Meyer, Andrea H.; Coelho, Jennifer S.; Humbel, Nadine; Schuck, Kathrin; Lennertz, Julia; Messerli-Bürgy, Nadine; Biedert, Esther; Trier, Stephan N.; Isenschmid, Bettina; Milos, Gabriella; Whinyates, Katherina; Schneider, Silvia; Munsch, Simone

    2017-01-01

    Thought-shape fusion (TSF) describes the experience of body-related cognitive distortions associated with eating disorder (ED) pathology. In the laboratory TSF has been activated by thoughts about fattening/forbidden foods and thin ideals. This study aims at validating a questionnaire to assess the trait susceptibility to TSF (i.e., body-related cognitive distortions) associated with the imagination of thin ideals, and developing an adapted version of the original TSF trait questionnaire, the Thought-Shape Fusion Body Questionnaire (TSF-B). Healthy control women (HC, n = 317) and women diagnosed with subthreshold and clinical EDs (n = 243) completed an online-questionnaire. The factor structure of the TSF-B questionnaire was examined using exploratory (EFA) and subsequent confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). EFA pointed to a two-factor solution, confirmed by CFA. Subscale 1 was named Imagination of thin ideals, containing five items referring to the imagination of female thin ideals. Subscale 2 was named Striving for own thin ideal, with seven items about pursuing/abandoning attempts to reach one’s own thin ideal. The total scale and both subscales showed good convergent validity, excellent reliability, and good ability to discriminate between individuals with subthreshold/clinical EDs and HCs. Results indicate that cognitive distortions are also related to the imagination of thin ideals, and are associated with ED pathology. With two subscales, the TSF-B trait questionnaire appropriately measures this construct. Future studies should clarify whether TSF-B is predictive for the development and course of EDs. Assessing cognitive distortions with the TSF-B questionnaire could improve understanding of EDs and stimulate the development of cognitively oriented interventions. Clinical Trial Registration Number: DRKS-ID: DRKS00005709. PMID:29312059

  19. Effects of an Off-Axis Pivoting Elliptical Training Program on Gait Function in Persons With Spastic Cerebral Palsy: A Preliminary Study.

    PubMed

    Tsai, Liang-Ching; Ren, Yupeng; Gaebler-Spira, Deborah J; Revivo, Gadi A; Zhang, Li-Qun

    2017-07-01

    This preliminary study examined the effects of off-axis elliptical training on reducing transverse-plane gait deviations and improving gait function in 8 individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) (15.5 ± 4.1 years) who completed an training program using a custom-made elliptical trainer that allows transverse-plane pivoting of the footplates during exercise. Lower-extremity off-axis control during elliptical exercise was evaluated by quantifying the root-mean-square and maximal angular displacement of the footplate pivoting angle. Lower-extremity pivoting strength was assessed. Gait function and balance were evaluated using 10-m walk test, 6-minute-walk test, and Pediatric Balance Scale. Toe-in angles during gait were quantified. Participants with CP demonstrated a significant decrease in the pivoting angle (root mean square and maximal angular displacement; effect size, 1.00-2.00) and increase in the lower-extremity pivoting strength (effect size = 0.91-1.09) after training. Reduced 10-m walk test time (11.9 ± 3.7 seconds vs. 10.8 ± 3.0 seconds; P = 0.004; effect size = 1.46), increased Pediatric Balance Scale score (43.6 ± 12.9 vs. 45.6 ± 10.8; P = 0.042; effect size = 0.79), and decreased toe-in angle (3.7 ± 10.5 degrees vs. 0.7 ± 11.7 degrees; P = 0.011; effect size = 1.22) were observed after training. We present an intervention to challenge lower-extremity off-axis control during a weight-bearing and functional activity for individuals with CP. Our preliminary findings suggest that this intervention was effective in enhancing off-axis control, gait function, and balance and reducing in-toeing gait in persons with CP.

  20. Off-axis holographic lens spectrum-splitting photovoltaic system for direct and diffuse solar energy conversion.

    PubMed

    Vorndran, Shelby D; Chrysler, Benjamin; Wheelwright, Brian; Angel, Roger; Holman, Zachary; Kostuk, Raymond

    2016-09-20

    This paper describes a high-efficiency, spectrum-splitting photovoltaic module that uses an off-axis volume holographic lens to focus and disperse incident solar illumination to a rectangular shaped high-bandgap indium gallium phosphide cell surrounded by strips of silicon cells. The holographic lens design allows efficient collection of both direct and diffuse illumination to maximize energy yield. We modeled the volume diffraction characteristics using rigorous coupled-wave analysis, and simulated system performance using nonsequential ray tracing and PV cell data from the literature. Under AM 1.5 illumination conditions the simulated module obtained a 30.6% conversion efficiency. This efficiency is a 19.7% relative improvement compared to the more efficient cell in the system (silicon). The module was also simulated under a typical meteorological year of direct and diffuse irradiance in Tucson, Arizona, and Seattle, Washington. Compared to a flat panel silicon module, the holographic spectrum splitting module obtained a relative improvement in energy yield of 17.1% in Tucson and 14.0% in Seattle. An experimental proof-of-concept volume holographic lens was also fabricated in dichromated gelatin to verify the main characteristics of the system. The lens obtained an average first-order diffraction efficiency of 85.4% across the aperture at 532 nm.

  1. Double axis, two-crystal x-ray spectrometer.

    PubMed

    Erez, G; Kimhi, D; Livnat, A

    1978-05-01

    A two-crystal double axis x-ray spectrometer, capable of goniometric accuracy on the order of 0.1", has been developed. Some of its unique design features are presented. These include (1) a modified commercial thrust bearing which furnishes a precise, full circle theta:2theta coupling, (2) a new tangent drive system design in which a considerable reduction of the lead screw effective pitch is achieved, and (3) an automatic step scanning control which eliminates most of the mechanical deficiencies of the tangent drive by directly reading the tangent arm displacement.

  2. Technical Note: Harmonic analysis applied to MR image distortion fields specific to arbitrarily shaped volumes.

    PubMed

    Stanescu, T; Jaffray, D

    2018-05-25

    Magnetic resonance imaging is expected to play a more important role in radiation therapy given the recent developments in MR-guided technologies. MR images need to consistently show high spatial accuracy to facilitate RT specific tasks such as treatment planning and in-room guidance. The present study investigates a new harmonic analysis method for the characterization of complex 3D fields derived from MR images affected by system-related distortions. An interior Dirichlet problem based on solving the Laplace equation with boundary conditions (BCs) was formulated for the case of a 3D distortion field. The second-order boundary value problem (BVP) was solved using a finite elements method (FEM) for several quadratic geometries - i.e., sphere, cylinder, cuboid, D-shaped, and ellipsoid. To stress-test the method and generalize it, the BVP was also solved for more complex surfaces such as a Reuleaux 9-gon and the MR imaging volume of a scanner featuring a high degree of surface irregularities. The BCs were formatted from reference experimental data collected with a linearity phantom featuring a volumetric grid structure. The method was validated by comparing the harmonic analysis results with the corresponding experimental reference fields. The harmonic fields were found to be in good agreement with the baseline experimental data for all geometries investigated. In the case of quadratic domains, the percentage of sampling points with residual values larger than 1 mm were 0.5% and 0.2% for the axial components and vector magnitude, respectively. For the general case of a domain defined by the available MR imaging field of view, the reference data showed a peak distortion of about 12 mm and 79% of the sampling points carried a distortion magnitude larger than 1 mm (tolerance intrinsic to the experimental data). The upper limits of the residual values after comparison with the harmonic fields showed max and mean of 1.4 mm and 0.25 mm, respectively, with only 1.5% of

  3. A neural network-based method for spectral distortion correction in photon counting x-ray CT

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Touch, Mengheng; Clark, Darin P.; Barber, William; Badea, Cristian T.

    2016-08-01

    Spectral CT using a photon counting x-ray detector (PCXD) shows great potential for measuring material composition based on energy dependent x-ray attenuation. Spectral CT is especially suited for imaging with K-edge contrast agents to address the otherwise limited contrast in soft tissues. We have developed a micro-CT system based on a PCXD. This system enables both 4 energy bins acquisition, as well as full-spectrum mode in which the energy thresholds of the PCXD are swept to sample the full energy spectrum for each detector element and projection angle. Measurements provided by the PCXD, however, are distorted due to undesirable physical effects in the detector and can be very noisy due to photon starvation in narrow energy bins. To address spectral distortions, we propose and demonstrate a novel artificial neural network (ANN)-based spectral distortion correction mechanism, which learns to undo the distortion in spectral CT, resulting in improved material decomposition accuracy. To address noise, post-reconstruction denoising based on bilateral filtration, which jointly enforces intensity gradient sparsity between spectral samples, is used to further improve the robustness of ANN training and material decomposition accuracy. Our ANN-based distortion correction method is calibrated using 3D-printed phantoms and a model of our spectral CT system. To enable realistic simulations and validation of our method, we first modeled the spectral distortions using experimental data acquired from 109Cd and 133Ba radioactive sources measured with our PCXD. Next, we trained an ANN to learn the relationship between the distorted spectral CT projections and the ideal, distortion-free projections in a calibration step. This required knowledge of the ground truth, distortion-free spectral CT projections, which were obtained by simulating a spectral CT scan of the digital version of a 3D-printed phantom. Once the training was completed, the trained ANN was used to perform

  4. Deep-turbulence wavefront sensing using digital holography in the on-axis phase shifting recording geometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Thornton, Douglas E.; Spencer, Mark F.; Perram, Glen P.

    2017-09-01

    The effects of deep turbulence in long-range imaging applications presents unique challenges to properly measure and correct for aberrations incurred along the atmospheric path. In practice, digital holography can detect the path-integrated wavefront distortions caused by deep turbulence, and di erent recording geometries offer different benefits depending on the application of interest. Previous studies have evaluated the performance of the off-axis image and pupil plane recording geometries for deep-turbulence sensing. This study models digital holography in the on-axis phase shifting recording geometry using wave optics simulations. In particular, the analysis models spherical-wave propagation through varying deep-turbulence conditions to estimate the complex optical field, and performance is evaluated by calculating the field-estimated Strehl ratio and RMS wavefront error. Altogether, the results show that digital holography in the on-axis phase shifting recording geometry is an effective wavefront-sensing method in the presence of deep turbulence.

  5. Super-global distortion correction for a rotational C-arm x-ray image intensifier.

    PubMed

    Liu, R R; Rudin, S; Bednarek, D R

    1999-09-01

    Image intensifier (II) distortion changes as a function of C-arm rotation angle because of changes in the orientation of the II with the earth's or other stray magnetic fields. For cone-beam computed tomography (CT), distortion correction for all angles is essential. The new super-global distortion correction consists of a model to continuously correct II distortion not only at each location in the image but for every rotational angle of the C arm. Calibration bead images were acquired with a standard C arm in 9 in. II mode. The super-global (SG) model is obtained from the single-plane global correction of the selected calibration images with given sampling angle interval. The fifth-order single-plane global corrections yielded a residual rms error of 0.20 pixels, while the SG model yielded a rms error of 0.21 pixels, a negligibly small difference. We evaluated the accuracy dependence of the SG model on various factors, such as the single-plane global fitting order, SG order, and angular sampling interval. We found that a good SG model can be obtained using a sixth-order SG polynomial fit based on the fifth-order single-plane global correction, and that a 10 degrees sampling interval was sufficient. Thus, the SG model saves processing resources and storage space. The residual errors from the mechanical errors of the x-ray system were also investigated, and found comparable with the SG residual error. Additionally, a single-plane global correction was done in the cylindrical coordinate system, and physical information about pincushion distortion and S distortion were observed and analyzed; however, this method is not recommended due to a lack of calculational efficiency. In conclusion, the SG model provides an accurate, fast, and simple correction for rotational C-arm images, which may be used for cone-beam CT.

  6. X-ray measurements of the strain and shape of dielectric/metallic wrap-gated InAs nanowires

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eymery, J.; Favre-Nicolin, V.; Fröberg, L.; Samuelson, L.

    2009-03-01

    Wrap-gate (111) InAs nanowires (NWs) were studied after HfO2 dielectric coating and Cr metallic deposition by a combination of grazing incidence x-ray techniques. In-plane and out-of-plane x-ray diffraction (crystal truncation rod analysis) allow determining the strain tensor. The longitudinal contraction, increasing with HfO2 and Cr deposition, is significantly larger than the radial dilatation. For the Cr coating, the contraction along the growth axis is quite large (-0.95%), and the longitudinal/radial deformation ratio is >10, which may play a role on the NW transport properties. Small angle x-ray scattering shows a smoothening of the initial hexagonal bare InAs NW shape and gives the respective core/shell thicknesses, which are compared to flat surface values.

  7. Experimental study of an off-axis three mirror anastigmatic system with wavefront coding technology.

    PubMed

    Yan, Feng; Tao, Xiaoping

    2012-04-10

    Wavefront coding (WFC) is a kind of computational imaging technique that controls defocus and defocus related aberrations of optical systems by introducing a specially designed phase distribution to the pupil function. This technology has been applied in many imaging systems to improve performance and/or reduce cost. The application of WFC technology in an off-axis three mirror anastigmatic (TMA) system has been proposed, and the design and optimization of optics, the restoration of degraded images, and the manufacturing of wavefront coded elements have been researched in our previous work. In this paper, we describe the alignment, the imaging experiment, and the image restoration of the off-axis TMA system with WFC technology. The ideal wavefront map is set to be the system error of the interferometer to simplify the assembly, and the coefficients of certain Zernike polynomials are monitored to verify the result in the alignment process. A pinhole of 20 μm diameter and the third plate of WT1005-62 resolution patterns are selected as the targets in the imaging experiment. The comparison of the tail lengths of point spread functions is represented to show the invariance of the image quality in the extended depth of focus. The structure similarity is applied to estimate the relationship among the captured images with varying defocus. We conclude that the experiment results agree with the earlier theoretical analysis.

  8. The T2K ND280 off-axis pi-zero detector

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Assylbekov, S.; Barr, G.; Berger, B. E.; Berns, H.; Beznosko, D.; Bodek, A.; Bradford, R.; Buchanan, N.; Budd, H.; Caffari, Y.; Connolly, K.; Danko, I.; Das, R.; Davis, S.; Day, M.; Dytman, S.; Dziomba, M.; Flight, R.; Forbush, D.; Gilje, K.; Hansen, D.; Hignight, J.; Imber, J.; Johnson, R. A.; Jung, C. K.; Kravtsov, V.; Le, P. T.; Lopez, G. D.; Malafis, C. J.; Manly, S.; Marino, A. D.; McFarland, K. S.; McGrew, C.; Metelko, C.; Nagashima, G.; Naples, D.; Nicholls, T. C.; Nielsen, B.; Paolone, V.; Paul, P.; Pearce, G. F.; Qian, W.; Ramos, K.; Reinherz-Aronis, E.; Rodrigues, P. A.; Ruterbories, D.; Schmidt, J.; Schwehr, J.; Siyad, M.; Steffens, J.; Tadepalli, A. S.; Taylor, I. J.; Thorpe, M.; Toki, W.; Vanek, C.; Warner, D.; Weber, A.; Wilkes, R. J.; Wilson, R. J.; Yanagisawa, C.; Yuan, T.

    2012-09-01

    The pi-zero detector (PØD) is one of the subdetectors that makes up the off-axis near detector for the Tokai-to-Kamioka (T2K) long baseline neutrino experiment. The primary goal for the PØD is to measure the relevant cross-sections for neutrino interactions that generate π0's, especially the cross-section for neutral current π0 interactions, which are one of the dominant sources of background to the νμ→νe appearance signal in T2K. The PØD is composed of layers of plastic scintillator alternating with water bags and brass sheets or lead sheets and is one of the first detectors to use Multi-Pixel Photon Counters (MPPCs) on a large scale.

  9. Anisotropic orbital occupation and Jahn-Teller distortion of orthorhombic YMnO{sub 3} epitaxial films: A combined experimental and theoretical study on polarization-dependent x-ray absorption spectroscopy

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

    Haw, Shu-Chih; Chen, Shin-Ann; National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center

    2014-04-21

    The b-axis oriented orthorhombic YMnO{sub 3} (o-YMnO{sub 3}) epitaxial films on a YAlO{sub 3} (010) substrate were fabricated with pulsed-laser deposition. The anisotropic orbital occupation and Jahn-Teller (JT) distortion of an o-YMnO{sub 3} film were investigated with polarization-dependent x-ray absorption spectra and configuration-interaction multiplet-cluster calculations. A significant energy difference, ∼3.8 eV, for the main white line along E//b and E//a in polarization-dependent Mn K-edge spectra of o-YMnO{sub 3} indicates an extraordinary JT distortion and significant anisotropic Mn–O bonding within the ab plane in the o-YMnO{sub 3} film. Most importantly, although the orbital occupation of 3d electrons in o-YMnO{sub 3} filmsmore » is almost the same as that in single crystalline o-DyMnO{sub 3}, the JT distortion of o-YMnO{sub 3} films is larger than that of single crystalline o-DyMnO{sub 3}, deduced from the multiplet calculations. We speculate that this JT distortion predominantly contributes to the origin of the cycloidal spin deformation in bulk o-YMnO{sub 3}, because of a suppressed nearest-neighbor superexchange interaction and an enhanced next-nearest-neighbor superexchange interaction. These complementary results provide insight into the origin of the E-type magnetic configuration of o-YMnO{sub 3}.« less

  10. A nearly on-axis spectroscopic system for simultaneously measuring UV-visible absorption and X-ray diffraction in the SPring-8 structural genomics beamline.

    PubMed

    Sakaguchi, Miyuki; Kimura, Tetsunari; Nishida, Takuma; Tosha, Takehiko; Sugimoto, Hiroshi; Yamaguchi, Yoshihiro; Yanagisawa, Sachiko; Ueno, Go; Murakami, Hironori; Ago, Hideo; Yamamoto, Masaki; Ogura, Takashi; Shiro, Yoshitsugu; Kubo, Minoru

    2016-01-01

    UV-visible absorption spectroscopy is useful for probing the electronic and structural changes of protein active sites, and thus the on-line combination of X-ray diffraction and spectroscopic analysis is increasingly being applied. Herein, a novel absorption spectrometer was developed at SPring-8 BL26B2 with a nearly on-axis geometry between the X-ray and optical axes. A small prism mirror was placed near the X-ray beamstop to pass the light only 2° off the X-ray beam, enabling spectroscopic analysis of the X-ray-exposed volume of a crystal during X-ray diffraction data collection. The spectrometer was applied to NO reductase, a heme enzyme that catalyzes NO reduction to N2O. Radiation damage to the heme was monitored in real time during X-ray irradiation by evaluating the absorption spectral changes. Moreover, NO binding to the heme was probed via caged NO photolysis with UV light, demonstrating the extended capability of the spectrometer for intermediate analysis.

  11. X- And y-axis driver for rotating microspheres

    DOEpatents

    Weinstein, Berthold W.

    1979-01-01

    Apparatus for precise control of the motion and position of microspheres for examination of their interior and/or exterior. The apparatus includes an x- and y-axis driver mechanism controlled, for example, by a minicomputer for selectively rotating microspheres retained between a pair of manipulator arms having flat, smooth end surfaces. The driver mechanism includes an apertured plate and ball arrangement which provided for coupled equal and opposite movement of the manipulator arms in two perpendicular directions.

  12. Human otolith-ocular reflexes during off-vertical axis rotation: effect of frequency on tilt-translation ambiguity and motion sickness

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wood, Scott J.; Paloski, W. H. (Principal Investigator)

    2002-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to examine how the modulation of tilt and translation otolith-ocular responses during constant velocity off-vertical axis rotation varies as a function of stimulus frequency. Eighteen human subjects were rotated in darkness about their longitudinal axis 30 degrees off-vertical at stimulus frequencies between 0.05 and 0.8 Hz. The modulation of torsion decreased while the modulation of horizontal slow phase velocity (SPV) increased with increasing frequency. It is inferred that the ambiguity of otolith afferent information is greatest in the frequency region where tilt (torsion) and translational (horizontal SPV) otolith-ocular responses crossover. It is postulated that the previously demonstrated peak in motion sickness susceptibility during linear accelerations around 0.3 Hz is the result of frequency segregation of ambiguous otolith information being inadequate to distinguish between tilt and translation.

  13. Modeling human vestibular responses during eccentric rotation and off vertical axis rotation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Merfeld, D. M.; Paloski, W. H. (Principal Investigator)

    1995-01-01

    A mathematical model has been developed to help explain human multi-sensory interactions. The most important constituent of the model is the hypothesis that the nervous system incorporates knowledge of sensory dynamics into an "internal model" of these dynamics. This internal model allows the nervous system to integrate the sensory information from many different sensors into a coherent estimate of self-motion. The essence of the model is unchanged from a previously published model of monkey eye movement responses; only a few variables have been adjusted to yield the prediction of human responses. During eccentric rotation, the model predicts that the axis of eye rotation shifts slightly toward alignment with gravito-inertial force. The model also predicts that the time course of the perception of tilt following the acceleration phase of eccentric rotation is much slower than that during deceleration. During off vertical axis rotation (OVAR) the model predicts a small horizontal bias along with small horizontal, vertical, and torsional oscillations. Following OVAR stimulation, when stopped right- or left-side down, a small vertical component is predicted that decays with the horizontal post-rotatory response. All of the predictions are consistent with measurements of human responses.

  14. The shape of the face template: geometric distortions of faces and their detection in natural scenes.

    PubMed

    Pongakkasira, Kaewmart; Bindemann, Markus

    2015-04-01

    Human face detection might be driven by skin-coloured face-shaped templates. To explore this idea, this study compared the detection of faces for which the natural height-to-width ratios were preserved with distorted faces that were stretched vertically or horizontally. The impact of stretching on detection performance was not obvious when faces were equated to their unstretched counterparts in terms of their height or width dimension (Experiment 1). However, stretching impaired detection when the original and distorted faces were matched for their surface area (Experiment 2), and this was found with both vertically and horizontally stretched faces (Experiment 3). This effect was evident in accuracy, response times, and also observers' eye movements to faces. These findings demonstrate that height-to-width ratios are an important component of the cognitive template for face detection. The results also highlight important differences between face detection and face recognition. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Monoclinic distortion and magnetic coupling in the double perovskite Sr{sub 2−x}Ca{sub x}YRuO{sub 6}

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

    Bernardo, P.L.; Ghivelder, L.; Eslava, G.G.

    2014-12-15

    Abstracts: This work investigates in the insulating double perovskites Sr{sub 2−x}Ca{sub x}YRuO{sub 6}. We address the angular dependence of the strength of the magnetic coupling due to the deviation from planarity of the basal layers of the monoclinic structure, characterized by the in-plane angle α<180°, in order to probe the impact of the structural distortions in the magnetic properties of the compounds. High resolution x-ray powder diffraction, susceptibility, and specific heat measurements were performed. The deviation from planarity significantly increases (α=144° for x=1) while the bond distances vary in a complex way as a consequence of the strong monoclinic distortion.more » We found that the magnetic transition temperature, T{sub M}, shows a linear dependence on cos [(π−α)/2]. This result is discussed in terms of t{sub 2g}(π)–e{sub g}(σ) mixing of the magnetic orbitals of the Ru{sup 5+} ions and unbalanced competitive super-exchange interactions. The deleterious effect of Ca doping for the magnetic coupling is confirmed by the reduction in the short-range antiferromagnetic correlations characteristic of the parent compound at T>>T{sub M} and the enhancement of magnetic frustration for T« less

  16. Undulating fins produce off-axis thrust and flow structures.

    PubMed

    Neveln, Izaak D; Bale, Rahul; Bhalla, Amneet Pal Singh; Curet, Oscar M; Patankar, Neelesh A; MacIver, Malcolm A

    2014-01-15

    While wake structures of many forms of swimming and flying are well characterized, the wake generated by a freely swimming undulating fin has not yet been analyzed. These elongated fins allow fish to achieve enhanced agility exemplified by the forward, backward and vertical swimming capabilities of knifefish, and also have potential applications in the design of more maneuverable underwater vehicles. We present the flow structure of an undulating robotic fin model using particle image velocimetry to measure fluid velocity fields in the wake. We supplement the experimental robotic work with high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics, simulating the hydrodynamics of both a virtual fish, whose fin kinematics and fin plus body morphology are measured from a freely swimming knifefish, and a virtual rendering of our robot. Our results indicate that a series of linked vortex tubes is shed off the long edge of the fin as the undulatory wave travels lengthwise along the fin. A jet at an oblique angle to the fin is associated with the successive vortex tubes, propelling the fish forward. The vortex structure bears similarity to the linked vortex ring structure trailing the oscillating caudal fin of a carangiform swimmer, though the vortex rings are distorted because of the undulatory kinematics of the elongated fin.

  17. Comparison of Calculations and Measurements of the Off-Axis Radiation Dose (SI) in Liquid Nitrogen as a Function of Radiation Length.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-12-01

    radiation lengths. The off-axis dose in Silicon was calculated using the electron/photon transport code CYLTRAN and measured using thermal luminescent...various path lengths out to 2 radiation lengths. The cff-axis dose in Silicon was calculated using the electron/photon transport code CYLTRAN and measured... using thermal luminescent dosimeters (TLD’s). Calculations were performed on a CDC-7600 computer at Los Alamos National Laboratory and measurements

  18. X-PROP: a fast and robust diffusion-weighted propeller technique.

    PubMed

    Li, Zhiqiang; Pipe, James G; Lee, Chu-Yu; Debbins, Josef P; Karis, John P; Huo, Donglai

    2011-08-01

    Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) has shown great benefits in clinical MR exams. However, current DWI techniques have shortcomings of sensitivity to distortion or long scan times or combinations of the two. Diffusion-weighted echo-planar imaging (EPI) is fast but suffers from severe geometric distortion. Periodically rotated overlapping parallel lines with enhanced reconstruction diffusion-weighted imaging (PROPELLER DWI) is free of geometric distortion, but the scan time is usually long and imposes high Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) especially at high fields. TurboPROP was proposed to accelerate the scan by combining signal from gradient echoes, but the off-resonance artifacts from gradient echoes can still degrade the image quality. In this study, a new method called X-PROP is presented. Similar to TurboPROP, it uses gradient echoes to reduce the scan time. By separating the gradient and spin echoes into individual blades and removing the off-resonance phase, the off-resonance artifacts in X-PROP are minimized. Special reconstruction processes are applied on these blades to correct for the motion artifacts. In vivo results show its advantages over EPI, PROPELLER DWI, and TurboPROP techniques. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  19. Acceleration of on-axis and ring-shaped electron beams in wakefields driven by Laguerre-Gaussian pulses

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

    Zhang, Guo-Bo; Key Laboratory for Laser Plasmas; Chen, Min, E-mail: minchen@sjtu.edu.cn, E-mail: yanyunma@126.com

    2016-03-14

    The acceleration of electron beams with multiple transverse structures in wakefields driven by Laguerre-Gaussian pulses has been studied through three-dimensional (3D) particle-in-cell simulations. Under different laser-plasma conditions, the wakefield shows different transverse structures. In general cases, the wakefield shows a donut-like structure and it accelerates the ring-shaped hollow electron beam. When a lower plasma density or a smaller laser spot size is used, besides the donut-like wakefield, a central bell-like wakefield can also be excited. The wake sets in the center of the donut-like wake. In this case, both a central on-axis electron beam and a ring-shaped electron beam aremore » simultaneously accelerated. Further, reducing the plasma density or laser spot size leads to an on-axis electron beam acceleration only. The research is beneficial for some potential applications requiring special pulse beam structures, such as positron acceleration and collimation.« less

  20. Off Axis Growth of Strontium Titanate Films with High Dielectric Constant Tuning and Low Loss

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kampangkeaw, Satreerat

    2002-03-01

    Using off-axis pulsed laser deposition, we have grown strontium titanate (STO) films on neodymium gallate (NGO) and lanthanum aluminate (LAO) substrates. We measured the film dielectric constant and loss tangent as a function of temperature in the 10kHz to 1 MHz frequency range. We found that the loss is less than 0.01 We also obtained a figure of merit from the relative variation of the dielectric constant divided by the loss tangent. The obtained figured of merit at 35K and 1MHz is about 1000 comparable to bulk values. The dielectric constant of these films can be changed by a factor of 4-8 in the presence of a DC electric field up to 5V/μm. The films show significant variations of dielectric properties grown on different substrates at different locations respect to the axis of the plume. The STO films on LAO having high dielectric constant and dielectric tuning were grown in region near the center of the plume. On the other hand, STO on NGO shows this effect only on the films grown far from the plume axis.

  1. Robotic tool positioning process using a multi-line off-axis laser triangulation sensor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pinto, T. C.; Matos, G.

    2018-03-01

    Proper positioning of a friction stir welding head for pin insertion, driven by a closed chain robot, is important to ensure quality repair of cracks. A multi-line off-axis laser triangulation sensor was designed to be integrated to the robot, allowing relative measurements of the surface to be repaired. This work describes the sensor characteristics, its evaluation and the measurement process for tool positioning to a surface point of interest. The developed process uses a point of interest image and a measured point cloud to define the translation and rotation for tool positioning. Sensor evaluation and tests are described. Keywords: laser triangulation, 3D measurement, tool positioning, robotics.

  2. Non percolative nature of the metal-insulator transition and persistence of local Jahn-Teller distortions in the rhombohedral regime of La 1-xCa xMnO 3

    DOE PAGES

    Shatnawi, Mouath; Bozin, Emil S.; Mitchell, J. F.; ...

    2016-04-25

    Evolution of the average and local crystal structure of Ca-doped LaMnO 3 has been studied across the metal to insulator (MI) and the orthorhombic to rhombohedral (OR) structural phase transitions over a broad temperature range for two Ca concentrations (x = 0.18,0.22). Combined Rietveld and high real space resolution atomic pair distribution function (PDF) analysis of neutron total scattering data was carried out with aims of exploring the possibility of nanoscale phase separation (PS) in relation to MI transition, and charting the evolution of local Jahn-Teller (JT) distortion of MnO 6 octahedra across the OR transition at T S~720 K.more » The study utilized explicit two-phase PDF structural modeling, revealing that away from T MI there is no evidence for nanoscale phase coexistence. The local JT distortions disappear abruptly upon crossing into the metallic regime both with doping and temperature, with only a small temperature-independent signature of quenched disorder being observable at low temperature as compared to CaMnO 3. The results hence do not support the percolative scenario for the MI transition in La 1–xCa xMnO 3 based on PS, and question its ubiquity in the manganites. In contrast to LaMnO 3 that exhibits long-range orbital correlations and sizable octahedral distortions at low temperature, the doped samples with compositions straddling the MI boundary exhibit correlations (in the insulating regime) limited to only ~1 nm with observably smaller distortions. In the x = 0.22 sample local JT distortions are found to persist across the OR transition and deep into the R phase (up to ~1050 K), where they are crystallographically prohibited. As a result, their magnitude and subnanometer spatial extent remain unchanged.« less

  3. Plasma shaping effects on tokamak scrape-off layer turbulence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Riva, Fabio; Lanti, Emmanuel; Jolliet, Sébastien; Ricci, Paolo

    2017-03-01

    The impact of plasma shaping on tokamak scrape-off layer (SOL) turbulence is investigated. The drift-reduced Braginskii equations are written for arbitrary magnetic geometries, and an analytical equilibrium model is used to introduce the dependence of turbulence equations on tokamak inverse aspect ratio (ε ), Shafranov’s shift (Δ), elongation (κ), and triangularity (δ). A linear study of plasma shaping effects on the growth rate of resistive ballooning modes (RBMs) and resistive drift waves (RDWs) reveals that RBMs are strongly stabilized by elongation and negative triangularity, while RDWs are only slightly stabilized in non-circular magnetic geometries. Assuming that the linear instabilities saturate due to nonlinear local flattening of the plasma gradient, the equilibrium gradient pressure length {L}p=-{p}e/{{\

  4. THE X-SHAPED BULGE OF THE MILKY WAY REVEALED BY WISE

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

    Ness, Melissa; Lang, Dustin, E-mail: ness@mpia-hd.mpg.de

    2016-07-01

    The Milky Way bulge has a boxy/peanut morphology and an X-shaped structure. This X-shape has been revealed by the “split in the red clump” from star counts along the line of sight toward the bulge, measured from photometric surveys. This boxy, X-shaped bulge morphology is not unique to the Milky Way and such bulges are observed in other barred spiral galaxies. N -body simulations show that boxy and X-shaped bulges are formed from the disk via dynamical instabilities. It has also been proposed that the Milky Way bulge is not X-shaped, but rather, the apparent split in the red clumpmore » stars is a consequence of different stellar populations, in an old classical spheroidal bulge. We present a Wide-Field Infrared Survey Explorer ( WISE ) image of the Milky Way bulge, produced by downsampling the publicly available “unWISE” coadds. The WISE image of the Milky Way bulge shows that the X-shaped nature of the Milky Way bulge is self-evident and irrefutable. The X-shape morphology of the bulge in itself and the fraction of bulge stars that comprise orbits within this structure has important implications for the formation history of the Milky Way, and, given the ubiquity of boxy X-shaped bulges, spiral galaxies in general.« less

  5. Structure and Dynamics of the Southeast Indian Ridge, 129°E to 140°E, and Off-axis Volcanism: Preliminary Results of the STORM Cruise

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Briais, Anne; Barrère, Fabienne; Boulart, Cédric; Ceuleneer, Georges; Ferreira, Nicolas; Hanan, Barry; Hémond, Christophe; Macleod, Sarah; Maia, Marcia; Maillard, Agnès; Merkuryev, Sergey; Park, Sung-Hyun; Révillon, Sidonie; Ruellan, Etienne; Schohn, Alexandre; Watson, Sally; Yang, Yun-Seok

    2016-04-01

    We present observations of the South-East Indian Ridge (SEIR) collected during the STORM cruise (South Tasmania Ocean Ridge and Mantle) on the N/O L'Atalante early 2015. The SEIR between Australia and Antarctica displays large variations of axial morphology despite an almost constant intermediate spreading rate. The Australia-Antarctic Discordance (AAD) between 120°E and 128°E is a section of the mid-ocean ridge where the magma budget is abnormally low, and which marks the boundary between Indian and Pacific mantle domains with distinct geochemical isotopic compositions. The STORM project focuses on the area east of the discordance from 128 to 140°E, where gravity highs observed on satellite-derived maps of the flanks of the SEIR reveal numerous volcanic seamounts. A major objective of the STORM cruise was to test the hypothesis of a mantle flow from the Pacific to the Indian domains. We collected multibeam bathymetry and magnetic data between 136 and 138°E to map off-axis volcanic ridges up to 10 Ma-old crust. We mapped the SEIR axis between 129 and 140°E, and the northern part of the George V transform fault. We collected rock samples on seamounts and in the transform fault, basaltic glass samples along the ridge axis, and near-bottom samples and in-situ measurements in the water column. Our observations reveal that the off-axis seamounts form near the SEIR axis, are not associated to off-axis deformation of the ocean floor, and are often located near the traces of ridge axis discontinuities. We also observe a general shallowing of the ridge axis from the AAD to the George V TF and the presence of robust axial segments near the transform fault. Our new data allow us to describe the complex evolution of the transform fault system. They also permit to locate new hydrothermal systems along the ridge axis.

  6. Stereochemistry of complexes with double and triple metal-ligand bonds: a continuous shape measures analysis.

    PubMed

    Alvarez, Santiago; Menjón, Babil; Falceto, Andrés; Casanova, David; Alemany, Pere

    2014-11-17

    To each coordination polyhedron we can associate a normalized coordination polyhedron that retains the angular orientation of the central atom-ligand bonds but has all the vertices at the same distance from the center. The use of shape measures of these normalized coordination polyhedra provides a simple and efficient way of discriminating angular and bond distance distortions from an ideal polyhedron. In this paper we explore the applications of such an approach to analyses of several stereochemical problems. Among others, we discuss how to discern the off-center displacement of the metal from metal-ligand bond shortening distortions in families of square planar biscarbene and octahedral dioxo complexes. The normalized polyhedron approach is also shown to be very useful to understand stereochemical trends with the help of shape maps, minimal distortion pathways, and ligand association/dissociation pathways, illustrated by the Berry and anti Berry distortions of triple-bonded [X≡ML4] complexes, the square pyramidal geometries of Mo coordination polyhedra in oxido-reductases, the coordination geometries of actinyl complexes, and the tetrahedricity of heavy atom-substituted carbon centers.

  7. Distortion correction of echo-planar diffusion-weighted images of uterine cervix.

    PubMed

    deSouza, Nandita M; Orton, Matthew; Downey, Kate; Morgan, Veronica A; Collins, David J; Giles, Sharon L; Payne, Geoffrey S

    2016-05-01

    To investigate the clinical utility of the reverse gradient algorithm in correcting distortions in diffusion-weighted images of the cervix and for increasing diagnostic performance. Forty-one patients ages 25-72 years (mean 40 ± 11 years) with suspected or early stage cervical cancer were imaged at 3T using an endovaginal coil. T2 -weighted (W) and diffusion-weighted images with right and left phase-encode gradient directions were obtained coronal to the cervix (b = 0, 100, 300, 500, 800 s mm(-2) ). Differences in angle of the endocervical canal to the x-axis between T2 W and right-gradient, left-gradient, and corrected images were measured. Uncorrected and corrected images were assessed for diagnostic performance when viewed together with T2 W images by two independent observers against subsequent histology. The angles of the endocervical canal relative to the x-axis were significantly different between the T2 W images and the right-gradient images (P = 0.007), approached significance for left-gradient images (P = 0.055), and were not significantly different after correction (P = 0.95). Corrected images enabled a definitive diagnosis in 34% (n = 14) of patients classified as equivocal on uncorrected images. Tumor volume in this subset was 0.18 ± 0.44 cm(3) (mean ± SD; sensitivity of detection 100% [8/8], specificity 50% [3/6] for an experienced observer). Correction did not improve diagnostic performance for the less-experienced observer. Distortion-corrected diffusion-weighted images improved correspondence with T2 W images and diagnostic performance in a third of cases. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

  8. Quantifying shape changes of silicone breast implants in a murine model using in vivo micro-CT.

    PubMed

    Anderson, Emily E; Perilli, Egon; Carati, Colin J; Reynolds, Karen J

    2017-08-01

    A major complication of silicone breast implants is the formation of a capsule around the implant known as capsular contracture which results in the distortion of the implant. Recently, a mouse model for studying capsular contracture was examined using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), however, only qualitative changes were reported. The aim of this study was to develop a quantitative method for comparing the shape changes of silicone implants using in vivo micro-CT. Mice were bilaterally implanted with silicone implants and underwent ionizing radiation to induce capsular contracture. On day 28 post-surgery mice were examined in vivo using micro-CT. The reconstructed cross-section images were visually inspected to identify distortion. Measurements were taken in 2D and 3D to quantify the shape of the implants in the normal (n = 11) and distorted (n = 5) groups. The degree of anisotropy was significantly higher in the distorted implants in the transaxial view (0.99 vs. 1.19, p = 0.002) and the y-axis lengths were significantly shorter in the sagittal (9.27 mm vs. 8.55 mm, p = 0.015) and coronal (9.24 mm vs. 8.76 mm, p = 0.031) views, indicating a deviation from the circular cross-section and shortening of the long axis. The 3D analysis revealed a significantly lower average thickness (sphere-fitting method) in distorted implants (6.86 mm vs. 5.49 mm, p = 0.002), whereas the volume and surface area did not show significant changes. Statistically significant differences between normal and distorted implants were found in 2D and 3D using distance measurements performed via micro-CT. This objective analysis method can be useful for a range of studies involving deformable implants using in vivo micro-CT. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 1447-1452, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  9. Off- and Along-Axis Slow Spreading Ridge Segment Characters: Insights From 3d Thermal Modeling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gac, S.; Tisseau, C.; Dyment, J.

    2001-12-01

    the "hotter" segments gives credence to a temporal relationship between the different kinds of segment. The resulting thermal evolution model of slow spreading ridge segments may explain the rhomboedric shapes observed off-axis.

  10. Using CFD Surface Solutions to Shape Sonic Boom Signatures Propagated from Off-Body Pressure

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ordaz, Irian; Li, Wu

    2013-01-01

    The conceptual design of a low-boom and low-drag supersonic aircraft remains a challenge despite significant progress in recent years. Inverse design using reversed equivalent area and adjoint methods have been demonstrated to be effective in shaping the ground signature propagated from computational fluid dynamics (CFD) off-body pressure distributions. However, there is still a need to reduce the computational cost in the early stages of design to obtain a baseline that is feasible for low-boom shaping, and in the search for a robust low-boom design over the entire sonic boom footprint. The proposed design method addresses the need to reduce the computational cost for robust low-boom design by using surface pressure distributions from CFD solutions to shape sonic boom ground signatures propagated from CFD off-body pressure.

  11. Spectral distortions of the cosmic microwave background

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Adams, Fred C.; Mcdowell, Jonathan C.; Freese, Katherine; Levin, Janna

    1989-01-01

    Recent experiments indicate that the spectrum of the cosmic microwave background deviates from a pure blackbody; here, spectral distortions produced by cosmic dust are considered. The main result is that cosmic dust in conjunction with an injected radiation field (perhaps produced by an early generation of very massive stars) can explain the observed spectral distortions without violating existing cosmological constraints. In addition, it is shown that Compton y-distortions can also explain the observed spectral shape, but the energetic requirements are more severe.

  12. Applicability of regular particle shapes in light scattering calculations for atmospheric ice particles.

    PubMed

    Macke, A; Mishchenko, M I

    1996-07-20

    We ascertain the usefulness of simple ice particle geometries for modeling the intensity distribution of light scattering by atmospheric ice particles. To this end, similarities and differences in light scattering by axis-equivalent, regular and distorted hexagonal cylindric, ellipsoidal, and circular cylindric ice particles are reported. All the results pertain to particles with sizes much larger than a wavelength and are based on a geometrical optics approximation. At a nonabsorbing wavelength of 0.55 µm, ellipsoids (circular cylinders) have a much (slightly) larger asymmetry parameter g than regular hexagonal cylinders. However, our computations show that only random distortion of the crystal shape leads to a closer agreement with g values as small as 0.7 as derived from some remote-sensing data analysis. This may suggest that scattering by regular particle shapes is not necessarily representative of real atmospheric ice crystals at nonabsorbing wavelengths. On the other hand, if real ice particles happen to be hexagonal, they may be approximated by circular cylinders at absorbing wavelengths.

  13. The off-axis viewing device: a rifle-mounted sighting system for search and engagement from covered positions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chapman, Thomas; Brady, Christopher

    2007-04-01

    Soldiers involved in urban operations are at a higher risk of receiving a bullet or fragment wound to the head or face compared to other parts of their body. One reason for this vulnerability is the need for the soldier to expose their head when looking and shooting from behind cover. Research conducted by DSTO Australia, using weapon-mounted cameras, has validated the concept of off-axis shooting but has emphasized the requirement for a system that closely integrates with both the soldier and his weapon. A system was required that would not adversely effect the usability, utility or accuracy of the weapon. Several Concept Demonstrators were developed over a two-year period and the result of this development is the Off-Axis Viewing Device (OAVD). The OAVD is an un-powered sighting attachment that integrates with a red dot reflex sight and enables the soldier to scan for and engage targets from a position of cover. The image from the weapon's scope is transmitted through the OAVD's periscopic mirror system to the soldier. Mounted directly behind the sight, the OAVD can also be swiveled to a redundant position on the side of the weapon to allow normal on-axis use of the sight. The OAVD can be rotated back into place behind the sight with one hand, or removed and stored in the soldier's webbing. In May 2004, a rapid acquisition program was initiated to develop the concept to an in-service capability and the OAVD is currently being deployed with the Australian Defence Force.

  14. Ocular Reflex Phase During Off-Vertical Axis Rotation In Humans Is Modified By Head-On-Trunk Position

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wood, Scott; Clement, Gilles; Denise, Pierre; Reschke, Millard

    2005-01-01

    Constant velocity Off-Vertical Axis Rotation (OVAR) imposes a continuously varying orientation of the head and body relative to gravity. The ensuing ocular reflexes include modulation of both horizontal and torsional eye velocity as a function of the varying linear acceleration along the lateral plane. The purpose of this study was to examine whether the modulation of these ocular reflexes would be modified by different head-on-trunk positions. Ten human subjects were rotated in darkness about their longitudinal axis 20 deg off-vertical at constant rates of 45 and 180 deg/s, corresponding to 0.125 and 0.5 Hz. Binocular responses were obtained with video-oculography with the head and trunk aligned, and then with the head turned relative to the trunk 40 deg to the right or left of center. Sinusoidal curve fits were used to derive amplitude, phase and bias velocity of the eye movements across multiple cycles for each head-on-trunk position. Consistent with previous studies, the modulation of torsional eye movements was greater at 0.125 Hz while the modulation of horizontal eye movements was greater at 0.5 Hz. Neither amplitude nor bias velocities were significantly altered by head-on-trunk position. The phases of both torsional and horizontal ocular reflexes, on the other hand, shifted towards alignment with the head. These results are consistent with the modulation of torsional and horizontal ocular reflexes during OVAR being primarily mediated by the otoliths in response to the sinusoidally varying linear acceleration along the interaural head axis.

  15. Model-based estimation and control for off-axis parabolic mirror alignment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fang, Joyce; Savransky, Dmitry

    2018-02-01

    This paper propose an model-based estimation and control method for an off-axis parabolic mirror (OAP) alignment. Current studies in automated optical alignment systems typically require additional wavefront sensors. We propose a self-aligning method using only focal plane images captured by the existing camera. Image processing methods and Karhunen-Loève (K-L) decomposition are used to extract measurements for the observer in closed-loop control system. Our system has linear dynamic in state transition, and a nonlinear mapping from the state to the measurement. An iterative extended Kalman filter (IEKF) is shown to accurately predict the unknown states, and nonlinear observability is discussed. Linear-quadratic regulator (LQR) is applied to correct the misalignments. The method is validated experimentally on the optical bench with a commercial OAP. We conduct 100 tests in the experiment to demonstrate the consistency in between runs.

  16. High strain rate properties of off-axis composite laminates, part 2

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Daniel, I. M.

    1991-01-01

    Unidirectional off-axis graphite/epoxy and graphite/S-glass/epoxy laminates were characterized in uniaxial tension at strain rates ranging from quasi-static to over 500 s(sup -1). Laminate ring specimens were loaded by internal pressure with the tensile stress at 22.5, 30, and 45 degrees relative to the fiber direction. Results were presented in the form of stress-strain curves to failure. Properties determined included moduli, Poisson's ratios, strength, and ultimate strain. In all three laminates of both materials the modulus and strength increase sharply with strain rate, reaching values roughly 100, 150, and 200 percent higher than corresponding static values for the 22.5(sub 8), 30(sub 8), and 45(sub 8) degree laminates, respectively. In the case of ultimate strain no definite trends could be established, but the maximum deviation from the average of any value for any strain rate was less than 18 percent.

  17. Eccentric correction for off-axis vision in central visual field loss.

    PubMed

    Gustafsson, Jörgen; Unsbo, Peter

    2003-07-01

    Subjects with absolute central visual field loss use eccentric fixation and magnifying devices to utilize their residual vision. This preliminary study investigated the importance of an accurate eccentric correction of off-axis refractive errors to optimize the residual visual function for these subjects. Photorefraction using the PowerRefractor instrument was used to evaluate the ametropia in eccentric fixation angles. Methods were adapted for measuring visual acuity outside the macula using filtered optotypes from high-pass resolution perimetry. Optical corrections were implemented, and the visual function of subjects with central visual field loss was measured with and without eccentric correction. Of the seven cases reported, five experienced an improvement in visual function in their preferred retinal locus with eccentric refraction. The main result was that optical correction for better image quality on the peripheral retina is important for the vision of subjects with central visual field loss, objectively as well as subjectively.

  18. Design and test of a high performance off-axis TMA telescope

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fan, Bin; Cai, Wei-jun; Huang, Ying

    2017-11-01

    A new complete Optical Demonstration Model (ODM) of high performance off-axis Three Mirror Anastigmatic (TMA) telescope has been successfully developed in BISME. This 1.75-m focal length, 1/9 relative aperture, 6.2°×1.0°field of view visible telescope, which uses the TDICCD detectors of 7μm pixel size, can provide 2.0-m ground sampling distance and 51-km swath from an altitude of 500 km. With some significant efforts, the main goals of the ODM have been reached: a compact lightweight design while realizing high performance and high stability. The optical system and key technologies have been applied in the multispectral camera of ZY-3 Satellite (the first high resolution stereo mapping satellite of China), which was successfully launched on January 9th, 2012. The main technology of ODM was described. The test results and applications were outlined.

  19. Least-Squares Camera Calibration Including Lens Distortion and Automatic Editing of Calibration Points

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gennery, D. B.

    1998-01-01

    A method is described for calibrating cameras including radial lens distortion, by using known points such as those measured from a calibration fixture. The distortion terms are relative to the optical axis, which is included in the model so that it does not have to be orthogonal to the image sensor plane.

  20. Feasibility study of complex wavefield retrieval in off-axis acoustic holography employing an acousto-optic sensor

    PubMed Central

    Rodríguez, Guillermo López; Weber, Joshua; Sandhu, Jaswinder Singh; Anastasio, Mark A.

    2011-01-01

    We propose and experimentally demonstrate a new method for complex-valued wavefield retrieval in off-axis acoustic holography. The method involves use of an intensity-sensitive acousto-optic (AO) sensor, optimized for use at 3.3 MHz, to record the acoustic hologram and a computational method for reconstruction of the object wavefield. The proposed method may circumvent limitations of conventional implementations of acoustic holography and may facilitate the development of acoustic-holography-based biomedical imaging methods. PMID:21669451

  1. Time distortion for expert and novice online game players.

    PubMed

    Rau, Pei-Luen Patrick; Peng, Shu-Yun; Yang, Chin-Chow

    2006-08-01

    Online game addiction is a new mental disorder. This disorder is difficult to describe because of its comprehensive nature. Many online game players have problems controlling their playing time. They cannot stop playing a game that they enjoy. This research surveyed the past literature on "flow" and time disorder theory. A time distortion experiment was conducted. This research invited 64 children, teenagers, and young adults to investigate player skill and playing time effects on online game break-off. The playing experience and degree of time distortion were measured and analyzed. The results showed that both novice and expert online game players were subject to time distortion. The participants had difficulty breaking off from the game without intrusion by others in the real world. This research also suggests eight questions for self-evaluation for online game addiction.

  2. Determination of lattice parameters, strain state and composition in semipolar III-nitrides using high resolution X-ray diffraction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Frentrup, Martin; Hatui, Nirupam; Wernicke, Tim; Stellmach, Joachim; Bhattacharya, Arnab; Kneissl, Michael

    2013-12-01

    In group-III-nitride heterostructures with semipolar or nonpolar crystal orientation, anisotropic lattice and thermal mismatch with the buffer or substrate lead to a complex distortion of the unit cells, e.g., by shearing of the lattice. This makes an accurate determination of lattice parameters, composition, and strain state under assumption of the hexagonal symmetry impossible. In this work, we present a procedure to accurately determine the lattice constants, strain state, and composition of semipolar heterostructures using high resolution X-ray diffraction. An analysis of the unit cell distortion shows that four independent lattice parameters are sufficient to describe this distortion. Assuming only small deviations from an ideal hexagonal structure, a linear expression for the interplanar distances dhkl is derived. It is used to determine the lattice parameters from high resolution X-ray diffraction 2ϑ-ω-scans of multiple on- and off-axis reflections via a weighted least-square fit. The strain and composition of ternary alloys are then evaluated by transforming the elastic parameters (using Hooke's law) from the natural crystal-fixed coordinate system to a layer-based system, given by the in-plane directions and the growth direction. We illustrate our procedure taking an example of (112¯2) AlκGa1-κN epilayers with Al-contents over the entire composition range. We separately identify the in-plane and out-of-plane strains and discuss origins for the observed anisotropy.

  3. Optimized distortion correction technique for echo planar imaging.

    PubMed

    Chen , N K; Wyrwicz, A M

    2001-03-01

    A new phase-shifted EPI pulse sequence is described that encodes EPI phase errors due to all off-resonance factors, including B(o) field inhomogeneity, eddy current effects, and gradient waveform imperfections. Combined with the previously proposed multichannel modulation postprocessing algorithm (Chen and Wyrwicz, MRM 1999;41:1206-1213), the encoded phase error information can be used to effectively remove geometric distortions in subsequent EPI scans. The proposed EPI distortion correction technique has been shown to be effective in removing distortions due to gradient waveform imperfections and phase gradient-induced eddy current effects. In addition, this new method retains advantages of the earlier method, such as simultaneous correction of different off-resonance factors without use of a complicated phase unwrapping procedure. The effectiveness of this technique is illustrated with EPI studies on phantoms and animal subjects. Implementation to different versions of EPI sequences is also described. Magn Reson Med 45:525-528, 2001. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  4. Wavelength-tunable Hermite-Gaussian modes and an orbital-angular-momentum-tunable vortex beam in a dual-off-axis pumped Yb:CALGO laser.

    PubMed

    Shen, Yijie; Meng, Yuan; Fu, Xing; Gong, Mali

    2018-01-15

    A dual-off-axis pumping scheme is presented to generate wavelength-tunable high-order Hermite-Gaussian (HG) modes in Yb:CaGdAlO 4 lasers. The mode and wavelength can be actively controlled by the off-axis displacements and pump power. The purities of the output HG modes are quantified by intensity distributions and the measured M 2 values. The highest order reaches m=15 for stable HG m,0 mode, and wavelength-tunable width is about 10 nm. Moreover, through externally converting the HG m,0 modes, the vortex beams carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) with a large OAM-tunable range from ±1ℏ to ±15ℏ are produced. This work is effective for largely scaling the spectral and OAM tunable ranges of optical vortex beams.

  5. Recent off-axis volcanism in the eastern Gulf of Aden: Implications for plume-ridge interaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Leroy, Sylvie; d'Acremont, Elia; Tiberi, Christel; Basuyau, Clémence; Autin, Julia; Lucazeau, Francis; Sloan, Heather

    2010-04-01

    Evidence of anomalous volcanism is readily observed in the Gulf of Aden, although, much of this oceanic basin remains as yet unmapped. In this paper, we investigate the possible connection of the Afar hotspot with a major off-axis volcanic structure and its interpretation as a consequence of a the anomalous presence of melt by integrating several data sets, both published and unpublished, from the Encens-Sheba cruise, the Aden New Century (ANC) cruise and several other onshore and marine surveys. These include bathymetric, gravity, magnetic, magneto-telluric data, and rock samples. Based upon these observations, interpretations were made of seafloor morphology, gravity and magnetic models, seafloor age, geochemical analyses and tectonic setting. We discuss the possible existence of a regional melting anomaly in the Gulf of Aden area and of the probability of its connection to the Afar plume. Several models that might explain the anomalous volcanism are taken into account, such as a local melting anomaly unrelated to the Afar plume, an anomalously large volume of melt associated with seafloor spreading, and interaction of the ridge with the Afar plume. A local melting anomaly and atypical seafloor spreading prove inconsistent with our observations. Two previously proposed models of plume-ridge interactions are examined: the diffuse plume dispersion called pancaked flow and channelized along-axis flow. We conclude that the configuration and structure of this young ocean basin may have the effect of channeling material away from the Afar plume along the Aden and Sheba Ridges to produce the off-axis volcanism observed on the ridge flanks. This interpretation implies that the influence of the Afar hotspot may extend much farther eastwards into the Gulf of Aden than previously believed. The segmentation of the Gulf of Aden and the configuration of the Aden-Sheba system may provide a potential opportunity to study channeled flow of solid plume mantle from the plume along

  6. ALMA and GMRT Constraints on the Off-axis Gamma-Ray Burst 170817A from the Binary Neutron Star Merger GW170817

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, S.; Schulze, S.; Resmi, L.; González-López, J.; Higgins, A. B.; Ishwara-Chandra, C. H.; Bauer, F. E.; de Gregorio-Monsalvo, I.; De Pasquale, M.; de Ugarte Postigo, A.; Kann, D. A.; Martín, S.; Oates, S. R.; Starling, R. L. C.; Tanvir, N. R.; Buchner, J.; Campana, S.; Cano, Z.; Covino, S.; Fruchter, A. S.; Fynbo, J. P. U.; Hartmann, D. H.; Hjorth, J.; Jakobsson, P.; Levan, A. J.; Malesani, D.; Michałowski, M. J.; Milvang-Jensen, B.; Misra, K.; O’Brien, P. T.; Sánchez-Ramírez, R.; Thöne, C. C.; Watson, D. J.; Wiersema, K.

    2017-12-01

    Binary neutron-star mergers (BNSMs) are among the most readily detectable gravitational-wave (GW) sources with the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO). They are also thought to produce short γ-ray bursts (SGRBs) and kilonovae that are powered by r-process nuclei. Detecting these phenomena simultaneously would provide an unprecedented view of the physics during and after the merger of two compact objects. Such a Rosetta Stone event was detected by LIGO/Virgo on 2017 August 17 at a distance of ∼44 Mpc. We monitored the position of the BNSM with Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) at 338.5 GHz and the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) at 1.4 GHz, from 1.4 to 44 days after the merger. Our observations rule out any afterglow more luminous than 3× {10}26 {erg} {{{s}}}-1 {{Hz}}-1 in these bands, probing >2–4 dex fainter than previous SGRB limits. We match these limits, in conjunction with public data announcing the appearance of X-ray and radio emission in the weeks after the GW event, to templates of off-axis afterglows. Our broadband modeling suggests that GW170817 was accompanied by an SGRB and that the γ-ray burst (GRB) jet, powered by {E}{AG,{iso}}∼ {10}50 erg, had a half-opening angle of ∼ 20^\\circ , and was misaligned by ∼ 41^\\circ from our line of sight. The data are also consistent with a more collimated jet: {E}{AG,{iso}}∼ {10}51 erg, {θ }1/2,{jet}∼ 5^\\circ ,{θ }{obs}∼ 17^\\circ . This is the most conclusive detection of an off-axis GRB afterglow and the first associated with a BNSM-GW event to date. We use the viewing angle estimates to infer the initial bulk Lorentz factor and true energy release of the burst.

  7. Optical and x-ray alignment approaches for off-plane reflection gratings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Allured, Ryan; Donovan, Benjamin D.; DeRoo, Casey T.; Marlowe, Hannah R.; McEntaffer, Randall L.; Tutt, James H.; Cheimets, Peter N.; Hertz, Edward; Smith, Randall K.; Burwitz, Vadim; Hartner, Gisela; Menz, Benedikt

    2015-09-01

    Off-plane reflection gratings offer the potential for high-resolution, high-throughput X-ray spectroscopy on future missions. Typically, the gratings are placed in the path of a converging beam from an X-ray telescope. In the off-plane reflection grating case, these gratings must be co-aligned such that their diffracted spectra overlap at the focal plane. Misalignments degrade spectral resolution and effective area. In-situ X-ray alignment of a pair of off-plane reflection gratings in the path of a silicon pore optics module has been performed at the MPE PANTER beamline in Germany. However, in-situ X-ray alignment may not be feasible when assembling all of the gratings required for a satellite mission. In that event, optical methods must be developed to achieve spectral alignment. We have developed an alignment approach utilizing a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor and diffraction of an ultraviolet laser. We are fabricating the necessary hardware, and will be taking a prototype grating module to an X-ray beamline for performance testing following assembly and alignment.

  8. Strong potential wave functions with elastic channel distortion

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

    Macek, J.; Taulbjerg, K.

    1989-06-01

    The strong-potential Born approximation is analyzed in a channel-distorted-wave approach. Channel-distorted SPB wave functions are reduced to a conventional form in which the standard off-energy-shell factor /ital g/ has been replaced by a modified factor ..gamma.., which represents a suitable average of /ital g/ over the momentum distribution of the distorted-channel function. The modified factor is evaluated in a physically realistic model for the distortion potential, and it is found that ..gamma.. is well represented by a slowly varying phase factor. The channel-distorted SPB approximation is accordingly identical to the impulse approximation if the phase variation of ..gamma.. can bemore » ignored. This is generally the case in applications to radiative electron capture and to a good approximation for ordinary capture at not too small velocities.« less

  9. Assessment of off-stoichiometric Zr33-xFe52+xSi15 C14 Laves phase compounds as permanent magnet materials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gabay, A. M.; Hadjipanayis, G. C.

    2018-05-01

    Recently, Fe-based rare-earth-free compounds with non-cubic crystal structures were proposed as a base for permanent magnets which would not rely on critical elements. In this work, two series of alloys, Zr27Fe73-wSiw (0 ≤ w ≤ 15) and Zr33-xFe52+xSi15 (0 ≤ x ≤ 11), were prepared and characterized after annealing at 1538 K in order to determine the fundamental magnetic properties of the C36 and C14 hexagonal Laves phase compounds. A mixture of the cubic C15 and Zr6Fe23 structures was observed instead of the expected C36 structure. The hexagonal C14 was found in all Zr33-xFe52+xSi15 alloys with its lattice parameters linearly decreasing as the Fe(Si) atoms occupy the Zr sites in the Laves phase crystal structure. The solubility limit of Fe in the C14 structure at 1538 K corresponds to x = 9.5. The Curie temperature of the C14 compounds increases with deviation from the Laves phase stoichiometry from 290 K to 530 K. The room-temperature spontaneous magnetization also increases reaching, after correcting for the non-magnetic impurities, a value of 6.7 kG. The magnetocrystalline anisotropy of the off-stoichiometric C14 Laves phase was found to be uniaxial with the easy magnetization direction parallel to the hexagonal axis. Unfortunately, the anisotropy field, which does not exceed 10 kOe, is not sufficiently high to make the compounds interesting as permanent magnet materials.

  10. Using High Resolution Design Spaces for Aerodynamic Shape Optimization Under Uncertainty

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Li, Wu; Padula, Sharon

    2004-01-01

    This paper explains why high resolution design spaces encourage traditional airfoil optimization algorithms to generate noisy shape modifications, which lead to inaccurate linear predictions of aerodynamic coefficients and potential failure of descent methods. By using auxiliary drag constraints for a simultaneous drag reduction at all design points and the least shape distortion to achieve the targeted drag reduction, an improved algorithm generates relatively smooth optimal airfoils with no severe off-design performance degradation over a range of flight conditions, in high resolution design spaces parameterized by cubic B-spline functions. Simulation results using FUN2D in Euler flows are included to show the capability of the robust aerodynamic shape optimization method over a range of flight conditions.

  11. Design of an off-axis visual display based on a free-form projection screen to realize stereo vision

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Yuanming; Cui, Qingfeng; Piao, Mingxu; Zhao, Lidong

    2017-10-01

    A free-form projection screen is designed for an off-axis visual display, which shows great potential in applications such as flight training for providing both accommodation and convergence cues for pilots. The method based on point cloud is proposed for the design of the free-form surface, and the design of the point cloud is controlled by a program written in the macro-language. In the visual display based on the free-form projection screen, when the error of the screen along Z-axis is 1 mm, the error of visual distance at each filed is less than 1%. And the resolution of the design for full field is better than 1‧, which meet the requirement of resolution for human eyes.

  12. Structural Design of a 4-Meter Off-Axis Space Telescope for the Habitable-Zone Exoplanet Direct Imaging Mission

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Arnold, William, Sr.; Stahl, H Philip

    2017-01-01

    This design study was conducted to support the HABEX project. There are a number of companion papers at this conference which go into detail on what all the HABEX goals are. The objective of this paper is to establish a baseline primary mirror design which satisfies the following structural related requirements. The designs in this study have a high TRL (Technology Readiness Level), realistic manufacturing limits and performance in line with the HABEX mission. A secondary goal of the study was to evaluate a number competing criteria for the selection. Questions such as differences in the on axis versus off axis static and dynamic response to disturbances. This study concentrates on the structural behavior, companion papers cover thermal and long term stability aspects of the problem.

  13. On- and off-axis spectral emission features from laser-produced gas breakdown plasmas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Harilal, S. S.; Skrodzki, P. J.; Miloshevsky, A.; Brumfield, B. E.; Phillips, M. C.; Miloshevsky, G.

    2017-06-01

    Laser-heated gas breakdown plasmas or sparks emit profoundly in the ultraviolet and visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum with contributions from ionic, atomic, and molecular species. Laser created kernels expand into a cold ambient with high velocities during their early lifetime followed by confinement of the plasma kernel and eventually collapse. However, the plasma kernels produced during laser breakdown of gases are also capable of exciting and ionizing the surrounding ambient medium. Two mechanisms can be responsible for excitation and ionization of the surrounding ambient: photoexcitation and ionization by intense ultraviolet emission from the sparks produced during the early times of their creation and/or heating by strong shocks generated by the kernel during its expansion into the ambient. In this study, an investigation is made on the spectral features of on- and off-axis emission of laser-induced plasma breakdown kernels generated in atmospheric pressure conditions with an aim to elucidate the mechanisms leading to ambient excitation and emission. Pulses from an Nd:YAG laser emitting at 1064 nm with a pulse duration of 6 ns are used to generate plasma kernels. Laser sparks were generated in air, argon, and helium gases to provide different physical properties of expansion dynamics and plasma chemistry considering the differences in laser absorption properties, mass density, and speciation. Point shadowgraphy and time-resolved imaging were used to evaluate the shock wave and spark self-emission morphology at early and late times, while space and time resolved spectroscopy is used for evaluating the emission features and for inferring plasma physical conditions at on- and off-axis positions. The structure and dynamics of the plasma kernel obtained using imaging techniques are also compared to numerical simulations using the computational fluid dynamics code. The emission from the kernel showed that spectral features from ions, atoms, and

  14. On- and off-axis spectral emission features from laser-produced gas breakdown plasmas

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

    Harilal, S. S.; Skrodzki, P. J.; Miloshevsky, A.

    Laser-heated gas breakdown plasmas or sparks emit profoundly in the ultraviolet and visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum with contributions from ionic, atomic, and molecular species. Laser created kernels expand into a cold ambient with high velocities during its early lifetime followed by confinement of the plasma kernel and eventually collapse. However, the plasma kernels produced during laser breakdown of gases are also capable of exciting and ionizing the surrounding ambient medium. Two mechanisms can be responsible for excitation and ionization of surrounding ambient: viz. photoexcitation and ionization by intense ultraviolet emission from the sparks produced during the early timesmore » of its creation and/or heating by strong shocks generated by the kernel during its expansion into the ambient. In this study, an investigation is made on the spectral features of on- and off-axis emission features of laser-induced plasma breakdown kernels generated in atmospheric pressure conditions with an aim to elucidate the mechanisms leading to ambient excitation and emission. Pulses from an Nd:YAG laser emitting at 1064 nm with 6 ns pulse duration are used to generate plasma kernels. Laser sparks were generated in air, argon, and helium gases to provide different physical properties of expansion dynamics and plasma chemistry considering the differences in laser absorption properties, mass density and speciation. Point shadowgraphy and time-resolved imaging were used to evaluate the shock wave and spark self-emission morphology at early and late times while space and time resolved spectroscopy is used for evaluating the emission features as well as for inferring plasma fundaments at on- and off-axis. Structure and dynamics of the plasma kernel obtained using imaging techniques are also compared to numerical simulations using computational fluid dynamics code. The emission from the kernel showed that spectral features from ions, atoms and molecules are

  15. On- and off-axis spectral emission features from laser-produced gas breakdown plasmas

    DOE PAGES

    Harilal, S. S.; Skrodzki, P. J.; Miloshevsky, A.; ...

    2017-06-01

    Laser-heated gas breakdown plasmas or sparks emit profoundly in the ultraviolet and visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum with contributions from ionic, atomic, and molecular species. Laser created kernels expand into a cold ambient with high velocities during its early lifetime followed by confinement of the plasma kernel and eventually collapse. However, the plasma kernels produced during laser breakdown of gases are also capable of exciting and ionizing the surrounding ambient medium. Two mechanisms can be responsible for excitation and ionization of surrounding ambient: viz. photoexcitation and ionization by intense ultraviolet emission from the sparks produced during the early timesmore » of its creation and/or heating by strong shocks generated by the kernel during its expansion into the ambient. In this study, an investigation is made on the spectral features of on- and off-axis emission features of laser-induced plasma breakdown kernels generated in atmospheric pressure conditions with an aim to elucidate the mechanisms leading to ambient excitation and emission. Pulses from an Nd:YAG laser emitting at 1064 nm with 6 ns pulse duration are used to generate plasma kernels. Laser sparks were generated in air, argon, and helium gases to provide different physical properties of expansion dynamics and plasma chemistry considering the differences in laser absorption properties, mass density and speciation. Point shadowgraphy and time-resolved imaging were used to evaluate the shock wave and spark self-emission morphology at early and late times while space and time resolved spectroscopy is used for evaluating the emission features as well as for inferring plasma fundaments at on- and off-axis. Structure and dynamics of the plasma kernel obtained using imaging techniques are also compared to numerical simulations using computational fluid dynamics code. The emission from the kernel showed that spectral features from ions, atoms and molecules are

  16. A graphite crystal polarimeter for stellar X-ray astronomy.

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Weisskopf, M. C.; Berthelsdorf, R.; Epstein, G.; Linke, R.; Mitchell, D.; Novick, R.; Wolff, R. S.

    1972-01-01

    The first crystal X-ray polarimeter to be used for X-ray astronomy is described. Polarization is measured by modulation of the X rays diffracted at an average 45 deg glancing angle from large, curved graphite crystal panels as these rotate about an axis parallel to the incident X-ray flux. Arrangement of the crystal panels, the design of the detector, and the signal-processing circuitry were optimized to minimize systematic effects produced by off-axis pointing of the rocket and cosmic ray induced events. The in-flight performance of the instrument in relation to the observed background signal is discussed.

  17. Petrology and Geochronology of Kaula Volcano lavas: An off-axis window into the Hawaiian Mantle Plume

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garcia, M. O.; Weis, D.; Jicha, B. R.; Tree, J. P.; Bizimis, M.

    2014-12-01

    The Hawaiian Islands extend NW for 625 km from Lō'ihi to Ka'ula island. One anomalous feature cross-cutting the Hawaiian Islands is the Kaua'i Ridge, a 165 km-long bathymetric high with three well-defined gravity highs. These gravity highs are centered under or near the islands of Ka'ula, Ni'ihau and Kaua'i, and represent the cores of three shield volcanoes whose volumes decrease dramatically with distance from the axis of the Hawaiian Chain (Kaua'i, 58 x 103 km3, Ni'ihau x 103 km, Ka'ula 10 x 103 km; Robinson and Eakins 2006). Ka'ula Volcano, on the SW end of the Kaua'i Ridge, is centered 100 km off the axis of the Hawaiian mantle plume. The volcano is capped by a small island, which is a remnant of a nephelinitic tuff cone. The cone contains abundant accidental bombs of lava (tholeiite, phonolite and basanite), peridotite and pyroxenite, and unexploded ordnance from US military bombing. Two JASON dives on the flanks of Ka'ula recovered only alkalic lavas. Three stage of Ka'ula volcanism have been identified from sampling the volcanic bombs and flanks of the volcano. These rocks were dated using 40Ar/39Ar methods for the basalts and K-Ar for the phonolites. A tholeiitic shield basalt yielded an age of 6.2 Ma, the oldest reliable age for any Hawaiian Island tholeiite. Post-shield phonolites gave ages of 4.0 to 4.2 Ma (Garcia et al., 1986) and rejuvenation stage alkalic basalts yielded ages of 1.9 to 0.5 Ma. These ages are nearly identical to those for the same stages for adjacent Ni'ihau volcano but slightly older than on Kauai, 100 km to the NE (Sherrod et al. 2007). Thus, volcanism was nearly simultaneous along Kaua'i Ridge. The new age results extend to 420 km the distance within the Hawaiian Islands that experienced coeval rejuvenated volcanism. Geochemically, the rejuvenated and tholeiitic lavas from the Kaua'i Ridge are very similar with mixed source signatures of Loa and Kea trend compositions. Mixed Loa-Kea sources have been found for many other Hawaiian

  18. Structure and Dynamics of the Southeast Indian Ridge and Off-axis Volcanism, 129°E to 140°E: Preliminary Results of the STORM Cruise

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maia, M.; Briais, A.; Barrere, F.; Boulart, C.; Ceuleneer, G.; Ferreira, N.; Hanan, B. B.; Hemond, C.; MacLeod, S.; Maillard, A. L.; Merkuryev, S. A.; Park, S. H.; Revillon, S.; Ruellan, E.; Schohn, A.; Watson, S. J.; Yang, Y. S.

    2015-12-01

    We present observations of the South-East Indian Ridge (SEIR) collected during the STORM cruise (South Tasmania Ocean Ridge and Mantle) on the N/O L'Atalante early 2015. The SEIR between Australia and Antarctica displays large variations of axial morphology despite an almost constant intermediate spreading rate. The Australia-Antarctic Discordance (AAD) between 120°E and 128°E is a section of the mid-ocean ridge where the magma budget is abnormally low, and which marks the boundary between Indian and Pacific mantle domains with distinct geochemical isotopic compositions. The STORM project focuses on the area east of the discordance from 128 to 140°E, where gravity highs observed on satellite-derived maps of the flanks of the SEIR reveal numerous volcanic seamounts. A major objective of the STORM cruise was to test the hypothesis of a mantle flow from the Pacific to the Indian domains. We collected multibeam bathymetry and magnetic data between 136 and 138°E to map off-axis volcanic ridges up to 10 Ma-old crust. We mapped the SEIR axis between 129 and 140°E, and the northern part of the George V transform fault. We collected rock samples on seamounts and in the transform fault, basaltic glass samples along the ridge axis, and near-bottom samples and in-situ measurements in the water column. Our observations reveal that the off-axis seamounts form near the SEIR axis, and are not associated to off-axis deformation of the ocean floor. They show a general shallowing of the ridge axis from the AAD to the George V TF and the presence of robust axial segments near the transform fault. They allow us to describe the complex evolution of the transform fault system. They also permit to locate new hydrothermal systems along the ridge axis. STORM cruise scientific party: F. Barrere, C. Boulart, G. Ceuleneer, N. Ferreira, B. Hanan, C. Hémond, S. Macleod, M. Maia, A. Maillard, S. Merkuryev, S.H. Park, S. Révillon, E. Ruellan, A. Schohn, S. Watson, and Y.S. Yang.

  19. A study of rotor and platform design trade-offs for large-scale floating vertical axis wind turbines

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Griffith, D. Todd; Paquette, Joshua; Barone, Matthew; Goupee, Andrew J.; Fowler, Matthew J.; Bull, Diana; Owens, Brian

    2016-09-01

    Vertical axis wind turbines are receiving significant attention for offshore siting. In general, offshore wind offers proximity to large populations centers, a vast & more consistent wind resource, and a scale-up opportunity, to name a few beneficial characteristics. On the other hand, offshore wind suffers from high levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and in particular high balance of system (BoS) costs owing to accessibility challenges and limited project experience. To address these challenges associated with offshore wind, Sandia National Laboratories is researching large-scale (MW class) offshore floating vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs). The motivation for this work is that floating VAWTs are a potential transformative technology solution to reduce offshore wind LCOE in deep-water locations. This paper explores performance and cost trade-offs within the design space for floating VAWTs between the configurations for the rotor and platform.

  20. Modification of Eye Movements and Motion Perception during Off-Vertical Axis Rotation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wood, S. J.; Reschke, M. F.; Denise, P.; CLement, G.

    2006-01-01

    Constant velocity Off-Vertical Axis Rotation (OVAR) imposes a continuously varying orientation of the head and body relative to gravity. The ensuing ocular reflexes include modulation of both torsional and horizontal eye movements as a function of the varying linear acceleration along the lateral plane, and modulation of vertical and vergence eye movements as a function of the varying linear acceleration along the sagittal plane. Previous studies have demonstrated that tilt and translation otolith-ocular responses, as well as motion perception, vary as a function of stimulus frequency during OVAR. The purpose of this study is to examine normative OVAR responses in healthy human subjects, and examine adaptive changes in astronauts following short duration space flight at low (0.125 Hz) and high (0.5 Hz) frequencies. Data was obtained on 24 normative subjects (14 M, 10 F) and 14 (13 M, 1F) astronaut subjects. To date, astronauts have participated in 3 preflight sessions (n=14) and on R+0/1 (n=7), R+2 (n= 13) and R+4 (n= 13) days after landing. Subjects were rotated in darkness about their longitudinal axis 20 deg off-vertical at constant rates of 45 and 180 deg/s, corresponding to 0.125 and 0.5 Hz. Binocular responses were obtained with video-oculography. Perceived motion was evaluated using verbal reports and a two-axis joystick (pitch and roll tilt) mounted on top of a two-axis linear stage (anterior-posterior and medial-lateral translation). Eye responses were obtained in ten of the normative subjects with the head and trunk aligned, and then with the head turned relative to the trunk 40 deg to the right or left of center. Sinusoidal curve fits were used to derive amplitude, phase and bias of the responses over several cycles at each stimulus frequency. Eye responses during 0.125 Hz OVAR were dominated by modulation of torsional and vertical eye position, compensatory for tilt relative to gravity. While there is a bias horizontal slow phase velocity (SPV), the

  1. A THREE-DIMENSIONAL NUMERICAL SOLUTION FOR THE SHAPE OF A ROTATIONALLY DISTORTED POLYTROPE OF INDEX UNITY

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

    Kong, Dali; Zhang, Keke; Schubert, Gerald

    2013-02-15

    We present a new three-dimensional numerical method for calculating the non-spherical shape and internal structure of a model of a rapidly rotating gaseous body with a polytropic index of unity. The calculation is based on a finite-element method and accounts for the full effects of rotation. After validating the numerical approach against the asymptotic solution of Chandrasekhar that is valid only for a slowly rotating gaseous body, we apply it to models of Jupiter and a rapidly rotating, highly flattened star ({alpha} Eridani). In the case of Jupiter, the two-dimensional distributions of density and pressure are determined via a hybridmore » inverse approach by adjusting an a priori unknown coefficient in the equation of state until the model shape matches the observed shape of Jupiter. After obtaining the two-dimensional distribution of density, we then compute the zonal gravity coefficients and the total mass from the non-spherical model that takes full account of rotation-induced shape change. Our non-spherical model with a polytropic index of unity is able to produce the known mass of Jupiter with about 4% accuracy and the zonal gravitational coefficient J {sub 2} of Jupiter with better than 2% accuracy, a reasonable result considering that there is only one parameter in the model. For {alpha} Eridani, we calculate its rotationally distorted shape and internal structure based on the observationally deduced rotation rate and size of the star by using a similar hybrid inverse approach. Our model of the star closely approximates the observed flattening.« less

  2. X-ray verification of an optically-aligned off-plane grating module

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Donovan, Benjamin; McEntaffer, Randall; Tutt, James; DeRoo, Casey; Allured, Ryan; Gaskin, Jessica; Kolodziejczak, Jeffery

    2017-08-01

    The next generation of X-ray spectrometer missions are baselined to have order-of-magnitude improvements in both spectral resolving power and effective area when compared to existing X-ray spectrometer missions. Off-plane X-ray reflection gratings are capable of achieving high resolution and high diffraction efficiencies over the entire X-ray bandpass, making them an ideal technology to implement on these future missions. To achieve the high effective area desired while maintaining high spectral resolution, many off-plane gratings must be precisely aligned such that their diffraction arcs overlap at the focal plane. Methods are under development to align a number of these gratings into a grating module using optical metrology techniques in support of the Off-plane Grating Rocket Experiment (OGRE), a suborbital rocket payload scheduled to launch in late 2018. X-ray testing was performed on an aligned grating module at the Straylight Test Facility (SLTF) at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to assess the current alignment methodology and its ability to meet the desired performance of OGRE. We report on the results from the test campaign at MSFC, as well as plans for future development.

  3. X-24B on Lakebed Showing Upper Body Shape

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1972-01-01

    The sleek, futuristic shape of the X-24B lifting body research vehicle can be clearly seen in this look-down view of the aircraft on Rogers Dry Lake, adjacent to the NASA Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. The X-24 was one of a group of lifting bodies flown by the NASA Flight Research Center (now Dryden Flight Research Center), Edwards, California, in a joint program with the U.S. Air Force at Edwards Air Force Base from 1963 to 1975. The lifting bodies were used to demonstrate the ability of pilots to maneuver and safely land wingless vehicles designed to fly back to Earth from space and be landed like an airplane at a predetermined site. Lifting bodies' aerodynamic lift, essential to flight in the atmosphere, was obtained from their shape. The addition of fins and control surfaces allowed the pilots to stabilize and control the vehicles and regulate their flight paths. Built by Martin Aircraft Company, Maryland, for the U.S. Air Force, the X-24A was a bulbous vehicle shaped like a teardrop with three vertical fins at the rear for directional control. It weighed 6,270 pounds, was 24.5 feet long and 11.5 feet wide (measuring just the fuselage, not the distance between the tips of the outboard fins). Its first unpowered glide flight was on April 17, 1969, with Air Force Maj. Jerauld Gentry at the controls. Gentry also piloted its first powered flight on March 19, 1970. The X-24A was flown 28 times in the program that, like the HL-10, validated the concept that a Space Shuttle vehicle could be landed unpowered. The fastest speed achieved by the X-24A was 1,036 miles per hour (mph-Mach 1.6). Its maximum altitude was 71,400 feet. It was powered by an XLR-11 rocket engine with a maximum theoretical vacuum thrust of 8,480 pounds. The X-24A was later modified into the X-24B. The bulbous shape of the X-24A was converted into a 'flying flatiron' shape with a rounded top, flat bottom, and double delta platform that ended in a pointed nose. The X-24B demonstrated

  4. Atomic-scale distortion of optically activated Sm dopants identified with site-selective X-ray absorption spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ishii, Masashi; Crowe, Iain F.; Halsall, Matthew P.; Hamilton, Bruce; Hu, Yongfeng; Sham, Tsun-Kong; Harako, Susumu; Zhao, Xin-Wei; Komuro, Shuji

    2013-10-01

    The local structure of luminescent Sm dopants was investigated using an X-ray absorption fine-structure technique with X-ray-excited optical luminescence. Because this technique evaluates X-ray absorption from luminescence, only optically active sites are analyzed. The Sm L3 near-edge spectrum contains split 5d states and a shake-up transition that are specific to luminescent Sm. Theoretical calculations using cluster models identified an atomic-scale distortion that can reproduce the split 5d states. The model with C4v local symmetry and compressive bond length of Sm-O of a six-fold oxygen (SmO6) cluster is most consistent with the experimental results.

  5. Bonding Thin Mirror Segments Without Distortion for the International X-Ray Observatory

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Evans, Tyler C.; Chan, Kai-Wing; Saha, Timo T.

    2011-01-01

    The International X-Ray Observatory (IXO) uses thin glass optics to maximize large effective area and precise low angular resolution. The thin glass mirror segments must be transferred from their fabricated state to a permanent structure without imparting distortion. IXO will incorporate about fourteen thousand thin mirror segments to achieve the mission goal of 3.0 square meters of effective area at 1.25 keV with an angular resolution of five arcseconds. To preserve figure and alignment, the mirror segment must be bonded with sub-micron movement at each corner. Recent advances in technology development have produced significant x-ray test results of a bonded pair of mirrors. Three specific bonding cycles will be described highlighting the improvements in procedure, temperature control, and precision bonding. This paper will highlight the recent advances in alignment and permanent bonding as well as the results they have produced.

  6. Effect of Off-Axis Fluoroscopy Imaging on Two-Dimensional Kinematics in the Lumbar Spine: A Dynamic In Vitro Validation Study

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Kristin D.; Ben-Abraham, Ephraim I.; Magnuson, Dixon J.; Camp, Jon J.; Berglund, Lawrence J.; An, Kai-Nan; Bronfort, Gert; Gay, Ralph E.

    2016-01-01

    Spine intersegmental motion parameters and the resultant regional patterns may be useful for biomechanical classification of low back pain (LBP) as well as assessing the appropriate intervention strategy. Because of its availability and reasonable cost, two-dimensional (2D) fluoroscopy has great potential as a diagnostic and evaluative tool. However, the technique of quantifying intervertebral motion in the lumbar spine must be validated, and the sensitivity assessed. The purpose of this investigation was to (1) compare synchronous fluoroscopic and optoelectronic measures of intervertebral rotations during dynamic flexion–extension movements in vitro and (2) assess the effect of C-arm rotation to simulate off-axis patient alignment on intervertebral kinematics measures. Six cadaveric lumbar–sacrum specimens were dissected, and active marker optoelectronic sensors were rigidly attached to the bodies of L2–S1. Fluoroscopic sequences and optoelectronic kinematic data (0.15-mm linear, 0.17–0.20 deg rotational, accuracy) were obtained simultaneously. After images were obtained in a true sagittal plane, the image receptor was rotated in 5 deg increments (posterior oblique angulations) from 5 deg to 15 deg. Quantitative motion analysis (qma) software was used to determine the intersegmental rotations from the fluoroscopic images. The mean absolute rotation differences between optoelectronic values and dynamic fluoroscopic values were less than 0.5 deg for all the motion segments at each off-axis fluoroscopic rotation and were not significantly different (P > 0.05) for any of the off-axis rotations of the fluoroscope. Small misalignments of the lumbar spine relative to the fluoroscope did not introduce measurement variation in relative segmental rotations greater than that observed when the spine and fluoroscope were perpendicular to each other, suggesting that fluoroscopic measures of relative segmental rotation during flexion–extension are likely

  7. Effect of Off-Axis Fluoroscopy Imaging on Two-Dimensional Kinematics in the Lumbar Spine: A Dynamic In Vitro Validation Study.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Kristin D; Ben-Abraham, Ephraim I; Magnuson, Dixon J; Camp, Jon J; Berglund, Lawrence J; An, Kai-Nan; Bronfort, Gert; Gay, Ralph E

    2016-05-01

    Spine intersegmental motion parameters and the resultant regional patterns may be useful for biomechanical classification of low back pain (LBP) as well as assessing the appropriate intervention strategy. Because of its availability and reasonable cost, two-dimensional (2D) fluoroscopy has great potential as a diagnostic and evaluative tool. However, the technique of quantifying intervertebral motion in the lumbar spine must be validated, and the sensitivity assessed. The purpose of this investigation was to (1) compare synchronous fluoroscopic and optoelectronic measures of intervertebral rotations during dynamic flexion-extension movements in vitro and (2) assess the effect of C-arm rotation to simulate off-axis patient alignment on intervertebral kinematics measures. Six cadaveric lumbar-sacrum specimens were dissected, and active marker optoelectronic sensors were rigidly attached to the bodies of L2-S1. Fluoroscopic sequences and optoelectronic kinematic data (0.15-mm linear, 0.17-0.20 deg rotational, accuracy) were obtained simultaneously. After images were obtained in a true sagittal plane, the image receptor was rotated in 5 deg increments (posterior oblique angulations) from 5 deg to 15 deg. Quantitative motion analysis (qma) software was used to determine the intersegmental rotations from the fluoroscopic images. The mean absolute rotation differences between optoelectronic values and dynamic fluoroscopic values were less than 0.5 deg for all the motion segments at each off-axis fluoroscopic rotation and were not significantly different (P > 0.05) for any of the off-axis rotations of the fluoroscope. Small misalignments of the lumbar spine relative to the fluoroscope did not introduce measurement variation in relative segmental rotations greater than that observed when the spine and fluoroscope were perpendicular to each other, suggesting that fluoroscopic measures of relative segmental rotation during flexion-extension are likely robust, even when

  8. Reduction of structural defects in thick 4H-SiC epitaxial layers grown on 4° off-axis substrates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yazdanfar, M.; Ivanov, I. G.; Pedersen, H.; Kordina, O.; Janzén, E.

    2013-06-01

    By carefully controlling the surface chemistry of the chemical vapor deposition process for silicon carbide (SiC), 100 μm thick epitaxial layers with excellent morphology were grown on 4° off-axis SiC substrates at growth rates exceeding 100 μm/h. In order to reduce the formation of step bunching and structural defects, mainly triangular defects, the effect of varying parameters such as growth temperature, C/Si ratio, Cl/Si ratio, Si/H2 ratio, and in situ pre-growth surface etching time are studied. It was found that an in-situ pre growth etch at growth temperature and pressure using 0.6% HCl in hydrogen for 12 min reduced the structural defects by etching preferentially on surface damages of the substrate surface. By then applying a slightly lower growth temperature of 1575 °C, a C/Si ratio of 0.8, and a Cl/Si ratio of 5, 100 μm thick, step-bunch free epitaxial layer with a minimum triangular defect density and excellent morphology could be grown, thus enabling SiC power device structures to be grown on 4° off axis SiC substrates.

  9. Equal-Curvature X-Ray Telescopes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Saha, Timo T.; Zhang, William

    2002-01-01

    We introduce a new type of x-ray telescope design; an Equal-Curvature telescope. We simply add a second order axial sag to the base grazing incidence cone-cone telescope. The radius of curvature of the sag terms is the same on the primary surface and on the secondary surface. The design is optimized so that the on-axis image spot at the focal plane is minimized. The on-axis RMS (root mean square) spot diameter of two studied telescopes is less than 0.2 arc-seconds. The off-axis performance is comparable to equivalent Wolter type 1 telescopes.

  10. Continuous Shape Estimation of Continuum Robots Using X-ray Images.

    PubMed

    Lobaton, Edgar J; Fu, Jinghua; Torres, Luis G; Alterovitz, Ron

    2013-05-06

    We present a new method for continuously and accurately estimating the shape of a continuum robot during a medical procedure using a small number of X-ray projection images (e.g., radiographs or fluoroscopy images). Continuum robots have curvilinear structure, enabling them to maneuver through constrained spaces by bending around obstacles. Accurately estimating the robot's shape continuously over time is crucial for the success of procedures that require avoidance of anatomical obstacles and sensitive tissues. Online shape estimation of a continuum robot is complicated by uncertainty in its kinematic model, movement of the robot during the procedure, noise in X-ray images, and the clinical need to minimize the number of X-ray images acquired. Our new method integrates kinematics models of the robot with data extracted from an optimally selected set of X-ray projection images. Our method represents the shape of the continuum robot over time as a deformable surface which can be described as a linear combination of time and space basis functions. We take advantage of probabilistic priors and numeric optimization to select optimal camera configurations, thus minimizing the expected shape estimation error. We evaluate our method using simulated concentric tube robot procedures and demonstrate that obtaining between 3 and 10 images from viewpoints selected by our method enables online shape estimation with errors significantly lower than using the kinematic model alone or using randomly spaced viewpoints.

  11. Phase-linking and the perceived motion during off-vertical axis rotation.

    PubMed

    Holly, Jan E; Wood, Scott J; McCollum, Gin

    2010-01-01

    Human off-vertical axis rotation (OVAR) in the dark typically produces perceived motion about a cone, the amplitude of which changes as a function of frequency. This perception is commonly attributed to the fact that both the OVAR and the conical motion have a gravity vector that rotates about the subject. Little-known, however, is that this rotating-gravity explanation for perceived conical motion is inconsistent with basic observations about self-motion perception: (a) that the perceived vertical moves toward alignment with the gravito-inertial acceleration (GIA) and (b) that perceived translation arises from perceived linear acceleration, as derived from the portion of the GIA not associated with gravity. Mathematically proved in this article is the fact that during OVAR these properties imply mismatched phase of perceived tilt and translation, in contrast to the common perception of matched phases which correspond to conical motion with pivot at the bottom. This result demonstrates that an additional perceptual rule is required to explain perception in OVAR. This study investigates, both analytically and computationally, the phase relationship between tilt and translation at different stimulus rates-slow (45 degrees /s) and fast (180 degrees /s), and the three-dimensional shape of predicted perceived motion, under different sets of hypotheses about self-motion perception. We propose that for human motion perception, there is a phase-linking of tilt and translation movements to construct a perception of one's overall motion path. Alternative hypotheses to achieve the phase match were tested with three-dimensional computational models, comparing the output with published experimental reports. The best fit with experimental data was the hypothesis that the phase of perceived translation was linked to perceived tilt, while the perceived tilt was determined by the GIA. This hypothesis successfully predicted the bottom-pivot cone commonly reported and a reduced sense

  12. Phase-linking and the perceived motion during off-vertical axis rotation

    PubMed Central

    Wood, Scott J.; McCollum, Gin

    2010-01-01

    Human off-vertical axis rotation (OVAR) in the dark typically produces perceived motion about a cone, the amplitude of which changes as a function of frequency. This perception is commonly attributed to the fact that both the OVAR and the conical motion have a gravity vector that rotates about the subject. Little-known, however, is that this rotating-gravity explanation for perceived conical motion is inconsistent with basic observations about self-motion perception: (a) that the perceived vertical moves toward alignment with the gravito-inertial acceleration (GIA) and (b) that perceived translation arises from perceived linear acceleration, as derived from the portion of the GIA not associated with gravity. Mathematically proved in this article is the fact that during OVAR these properties imply mismatched phase of perceived tilt and translation, in contrast to the common perception of matched phases which correspond to conical motion with pivot at the bottom. This result demonstrates that an additional perceptual rule is required to explain perception in OVAR. This study investigates, both analytically and computationally, the phase relationship between tilt and translation at different stimulus rates—slow (45°/s) and fast (180°/s), and the three-dimensional shape of predicted perceived motion, under different sets of hypotheses about self-motion perception. We propose that for human motion perception, there is a phase-linking of tilt and translation movements to construct a perception of one’s overall motion path. Alternative hypotheses to achieve the phase match were tested with three-dimensional computational models, comparing the output with published experimental reports. The best fit with experimental data was the hypothesis that the phase of perceived translation was linked to perceived tilt, while the perceived tilt was determined by the GIA. This hypothesis successfully predicted the bottom-pivot cone commonly reported and a reduced sense of tilt

  13. Shape design and CFD analysis on a 1MW-class horizontal axis tidal current turbine blade

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Singh, P. M.; Choi, Y. D.

    2013-12-01

    This study aims to develop a 1MW-class horizontal axis tidal current turbine rotor blade which can be applied near the southwest island regions of South Korea. On the basis of actual tidal current conditions of southern region of Korea, configuration design of 1MW class turbine rotor blade is carried out by BEMT (Blade element momentum theory). The hydrodynamic performance including the lift and drag forces, is conducted with the variation of the angle of attack using an open source code of X-Foil. The purpose of the study is to study the shape of the hydrofoil used and how it affects the performance of the turbine. After a thorough study of many airfoils, a new hydrofoil is developed using the S814 and DU-91-W2- 250 airfoils, which show good performance for rough conditions. A combination of the upper and lower surface of the two hydrofoils is tested. Three dimensional models were developed and the optimized blade geometry is used for CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) analysis with hexahedral numerical grids. Power coefficient, pressure coefficient and velocity distributions are investigated according to Tip Speed Ratio by CFD analysis.

  14. An alignment method for mammographic X-ray spectroscopy under clinical conditions.

    PubMed

    Miyajima, S; Imagawa, K; Matsumoto, M

    2002-09-01

    This paper describes an alignment method for mammographic X-ray spectroscopy under clinical conditions. A pinhole, a fluorescent screen, a laser device and the case for a detector are used for alignment of the focal spot, a collimator and a detector. The method determines the line between the focal spot and the point of interest in an X-ray field radiographically. The method allows alignment for both central axis and off-axis directions.

  15. Mapping and distortions of auroral structures in the quiet magnetosphere

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kaufmann, Richard L.; Larson, Douglas J.; Lu, Chen

    1990-01-01

    The closed quiet magnetosphere model of Beard (1979) and Beard et al. (1982) is used to identify those features of commonly observed dayside auroras that can be explained by either of two processes: mapping distortions or distortions caused by nearby Birkeland currents. It is shown that single and multiple linear and hooked auroral forms can be easily explained in terms of mapping distortions in a quiet magnetosphere. On the other hand, the shapes of bright twisted or folded auroral forms can be more easily explained as distortions produced by localized Birkeland currents.

  16. Resistance to alveolar shape change limits range of force propagation in lung parenchyma.

    PubMed

    Ma, Baoshun; Smith, Bradford J; Bates, Jason H T

    2015-06-01

    We have recently shown that if the lung parenchyma is modeled in 2 dimensions as a network of springs arranged in a pattern of repeating hexagonal cells, the distortional forces around a contracting airway propagate much further from the airway wall than classic continuum theory predicts. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that this occurs because of the negligible shear modulus of a hexagonal spring network. We simulated the narrowing of an airway embedded in a hexagonal network of elastic alveolar walls when the hexagonal cells of the network offered some resistance to a change in shape. We found that as the forces resisting shape change approach about 10% of the forces resisting length change of an individual spring the range of distortional force propagation in the spring network fell of rapidly as in an elastic continuum. We repeated these investigations in a 3-dimensional spring network composed of space-filling polyhedral cells and found similar results. This suggests that force propagation away from a point of local parenchymal distortion also falls off rapidly in real lung tissue. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. On the Design of Wide-Field X-ray Telescopes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Elsner, Ronald F.; O'Dell, Stephen L.; Ramsey, Brian D.; Weiskopf, Martin C.

    2009-01-01

    X-ray telescopes having a relatively wide field-of-view and spatial resolution vs. polar off-axis angle curves much flatter than the parabolic dependence characteristic of Wolter I designs are of great interest for surveys of the X-ray sky and potentially for study of the Sun s X-ray emission. We discuss the various considerations affecting the design of such telescopes, including the possible use of polynomial mirror surface prescriptions, a method of optimizing the polynomial coefficients, scaling laws for mirror segment length vs. intersection radius, the loss of on-axis spatial resolution, and the positioning of focal plane detectors.

  18. A PENELOPE-based system for the automated Monte Carlo simulation of clinacs and voxelized geometries - application to far-from-axis fields

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

    Sempau, Josep; Badal, Andreu; Brualla, Lorenzo

    Purpose: Two new codes, PENEASY and PENEASYLINAC, which automate the Monte Carlo simulation of Varian Clinacs of the 600, 1800, 2100, and 2300 series, together with their electron applicators and multileaf collimators, are introduced. The challenging case of a relatively small and far-from-axis field has been studied with these tools. Methods: PENEASY is a modular, general-purpose main program for the PENELOPE Monte Carlo system that includes various source models, tallies and variance-reduction techniques (VRT). The code includes a new geometry model that allows the superposition of voxels and objects limited by quadric surfaces. A variant of the VRT known asmore » particle splitting, called fan splitting, is also introduced. PENEASYLINAC, in turn, automatically generates detailed geometry and configuration files to simulate linacs with PENEASY. These tools are applied to the generation of phase-space files, and of the corresponding absorbed dose distributions in water, for two 6 MV photon beams from a Varian Clinac 2100 C/D: a 40 x 40 cm{sup 2} centered field; and a 3 x 5 cm{sup 2} field centered at (4.5, -11.5) cm from the beam central axis. This latter configuration implies the largest possible over-traveling values of two of the jaws. Simulation results for the depth dose and lateral profiles at various depths are compared, by using the gamma index, with experimental values obtained with a PTW 31002 ionization chamber. The contribution of several VRTs to the computing speed of the more demanding off-axis case is analyzed. Results: For the 40 x 40 cm{sup 2} field, the percentages {gamma}{sub 1} and {gamma}{sub 1.2} of voxels with gamma indices (using 0.2 cm and 2% criteria) larger than unity and larger than 1.2 are 0.2% and 0%, respectively. For the 3 x 5 cm{sup 2} field, {gamma}{sub 1} = 0%. These figures indicate an excellent agreement between simulation and experiment. The dose distribution for the off-axis case with voxels of 2.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 mm{sup 3} and

  19. A C. elegans Hox gene switches on, off, on and off again to regulate proliferation, differentiation and morphogenesis.

    PubMed

    Salser, S J; Kenyon, C

    1996-05-01

    Hox genes establish body pattern throughout the animal kingdom, but the role these genes play at the cellular level to modify and shape parts of the body remains a mystery. We find that the C. elegans Antennapedia homolog, mab-5, sequentially programs many independent events within individual cell lineages. In one body region, mab-5 first switches ON in a lineage to stimulate proliferation, then OFF to specify epidermal structures, then ON in just one branch of the lineage to promote neuroblast formation, and finally OFF to permit proper sense organ morphology. In a neighboring lineage, continuous mab-5 expression leads to a different pattern of development. Thus, this Hox gene achieves much of its power to diversify the anteroposterior axis through fine spatiotemporal differences in expression coupled with a changing pattern of cellular response.

  20. AAuAl (A = Ca, Sc, and Ti): Peierls Distortion, Atomic Coloring, and Structural Competition

    DOE PAGES

    Pham, Joyce; Miller, Gordon J.

    2018-04-02

    Using density functional theory, the crystal structure variation of AAuAl (A = Ca, Sc, and Ti) from orthorhombic Co 2Si-type to distorted hexagonal Fe 2P-type and then Ni 2In-type structures is shown to correlate with their electronic structures and valence electron counts, sizes of the active metals A, and site preferences for Au and Al atoms, which are arranged to maximize Au–Al nearest neighbor contacts. An evaluation of chemical pressure imposed by the varying A metals using total energy vs volume calculations indicates that larger unit cell volumes favor the orthorhombic structure, whereas smaller volumes favor the hexagonal structures. Themore » electronic origin of the Mg 2Ga-type crystal structure of ScAuAl, refined as a distorted Fe 2P-type supercell doubled along the c-axis, indicates a Peierls-type distortion mechanism of the Au chains along the c-axis.« less

  1. AAuAl (A = Ca, Sc, and Ti): Peierls Distortion, Atomic Coloring, and Structural Competition

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

    Pham, Joyce; Miller, Gordon J.

    Using density functional theory, the crystal structure variation of AAuAl (A = Ca, Sc, and Ti) from orthorhombic Co 2Si-type to distorted hexagonal Fe 2P-type and then Ni 2In-type structures is shown to correlate with their electronic structures and valence electron counts, sizes of the active metals A, and site preferences for Au and Al atoms, which are arranged to maximize Au–Al nearest neighbor contacts. An evaluation of chemical pressure imposed by the varying A metals using total energy vs volume calculations indicates that larger unit cell volumes favor the orthorhombic structure, whereas smaller volumes favor the hexagonal structures. Themore » electronic origin of the Mg 2Ga-type crystal structure of ScAuAl, refined as a distorted Fe 2P-type supercell doubled along the c-axis, indicates a Peierls-type distortion mechanism of the Au chains along the c-axis.« less

  2. Off-axis electron holography of bacterial cells and magnetic nanoparticles in liquid

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

    Prozorov, Tanya; Almeida, Trevor P.; Kovacs, Andras

    Here, the mapping of electrostatic potentials and magnetic fields in liquids using electron holography has been considered to be unrealistic. Here, we show that hydrated cells of Magnetospirillum magneticum strain AMB-1 and assemblies of magnetic nanoparticles can be studied using off-axis electron holography in a fluid cell specimen holder within the transmission electron microscope. Considering that the holographic object and reference wave both pass through liquid, the recorded electron holograms show sufficient interference fringe contrast to permit reconstruction of the phase shift of the electron wave and mapping of the magnetic induction from bacterial magnetite nanocrystals. We assess the challengesmore » of performing in situ magnetization reversal experiments using a fluid cell specimen holder, discuss approaches for improving spatial resolution and specimen stability, and outline future perspectives for studying scientific phenomena, ranging from interparticle interactions in liquids and electrical double layers at solid–liquid interfaces to biomineralization and the mapping of electrostatic potentials associated with protein aggregation and folding.« less

  3. Off-axis electron holography of bacterial cells and magnetic nanoparticles in liquid

    DOE PAGES

    Prozorov, Tanya; Almeida, Trevor P.; Kovacs, Andras; ...

    2017-10-02

    Here, the mapping of electrostatic potentials and magnetic fields in liquids using electron holography has been considered to be unrealistic. Here, we show that hydrated cells of Magnetospirillum magneticum strain AMB-1 and assemblies of magnetic nanoparticles can be studied using off-axis electron holography in a fluid cell specimen holder within the transmission electron microscope. Considering that the holographic object and reference wave both pass through liquid, the recorded electron holograms show sufficient interference fringe contrast to permit reconstruction of the phase shift of the electron wave and mapping of the magnetic induction from bacterial magnetite nanocrystals. We assess the challengesmore » of performing in situ magnetization reversal experiments using a fluid cell specimen holder, discuss approaches for improving spatial resolution and specimen stability, and outline future perspectives for studying scientific phenomena, ranging from interparticle interactions in liquids and electrical double layers at solid–liquid interfaces to biomineralization and the mapping of electrostatic potentials associated with protein aggregation and folding.« less

  4. Measurement of Muon Antineutrino Oscillations with an Accelerator-Produced Off-Axis Beam

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abe, K.; Andreopoulos, C.; Antonova, M.; Aoki, S.; Ariga, A.; Assylbekov, S.; Autiero, D.; Barbi, M.; Barker, G. J.; Barr, G.; Bartet-Friburg, P.; Batkiewicz, M.; Bay, F.; Berardi, V.; Berkman, S.; Bhadra, S.; Blondel, A.; Bolognesi, S.; Bordoni, S.; Boyd, S. B.; Brailsford, D.; Bravar, A.; Bronner, C.; Buizza Avanzini, M.; Calland, R. G.; Cao, S.; Caravaca Rodríguez, J.; Cartwright, S. L.; Castillo, R.; Catanesi, M. G.; Cervera, A.; Cherdack, D.; Chikuma, N.; Christodoulou, G.; Clifton, A.; Coleman, J.; Collazuol, G.; Cremonesi, L.; Dabrowska, A.; De Rosa, G.; Dealtry, T.; Denner, P. F.; Dennis, S. R.; Densham, C.; Dewhurst, D.; Di Lodovico, F.; Di Luise, S.; Dolan, S.; Drapier, O.; Duffy, K. E.; Dumarchez, J.; Dytman, S.; Dziewiecki, M.; Emery-Schrenk, S.; Ereditato, A.; Feusels, T.; Finch, A. J.; Fiorentini, G. A.; Friend, M.; Fujii, Y.; Fukuda, D.; Fukuda, Y.; Furmanski, A. P.; Galymov, V.; Garcia, A.; Giffin, S. G.; Giganti, C.; Gizzarelli, F.; Gonin, M.; Grant, N.; Hadley, D. R.; Haegel, L.; Haigh, M. D.; Hamilton, P.; Hansen, D.; Hara, T.; Hartz, M.; Hasegawa, T.; Hastings, N. C.; Hayashino, T.; Hayato, Y.; Helmer, R. L.; Hierholzer, M.; Hillairet, A.; Himmel, A.; Hiraki, T.; Hirota, S.; Hogan, M.; Holeczek, J.; Horikawa, S.; Hosomi, F.; Huang, K.; Ichikawa, A. K.; Ieki, K.; Ikeda, M.; Imber, J.; Insler, J.; Intonti, R. A.; Irvine, T. J.; Ishida, T.; Ishii, T.; Iwai, E.; Iwamoto, K.; Izmaylov, A.; Jacob, A.; Jamieson, B.; Jiang, M.; Johnson, S.; Jo, J. H.; Jonsson, P.; Jung, C. K.; Kabirnezhad, M.; Kaboth, A. C.; Kajita, T.; Kakuno, H.; Kameda, J.; Karlen, D.; Karpikov, I.; Katori, T.; Kearns, E.; Khabibullin, M.; Khotjantsev, A.; Kielczewska, D.; Kikawa, T.; Kim, H.; Kim, J.; King, S.; Kisiel, J.; Knight, A.; Knox, A.; Kobayashi, T.; Koch, L.; Koga, T.; Konaka, A.; Kondo, K.; Kopylov, A.; Kormos, L. L.; Korzenev, A.; Koshio, Y.; Kropp, W.; Kudenko, Y.; Kurjata, R.; Kutter, T.; Lagoda, J.; Lamont, I.; Larkin, E.; Laveder, M.; Lawe, M.; Lazos, M.; Lindner, T.; Liptak, Z. J.; Litchfield, R. P.; Li, X.; Longhin, A.; Lopez, J. P.; Ludovici, L.; Lu, X.; Magaletti, L.; Mahn, K.; Malek, M.; Manly, S.; Marino, A. D.; Marteau, J.; Martin, J. F.; Martins, P.; Martynenko, S.; Maruyama, T.; Matveev, V.; Mavrokoridis, K.; Ma, W. Y.; Mazzucato, E.; McCarthy, M.; McCauley, N.; McFarland, K. S.; McGrew, C.; Mefodiev, A.; Mezzetto, M.; Mijakowski, P.; Minamino, A.; Mineev, O.; Mine, S.; Missert, A.; Miura, M.; Moriyama, S.; Mueller, Th. A.; Murphy, S.; Myslik, J.; Nakadaira, T.; Nakahata, M.; Nakamura, K. G.; Nakamura, K.; Nakamura, K. D.; Nakayama, S.; Nakaya, T.; Nakayoshi, K.; Nantais, C.; Nielsen, C.; Nirkko, M.; Nishikawa, K.; Nishimura, Y.; Nowak, J.; O'Keeffe, H. M.; Ohta, R.; Okumura, K.; Okusawa, T.; Oryszczak, W.; Oser, S. M.; Ovsyannikova, T.; Owen, R. A.; Oyama, Y.; Palladino, V.; Palomino, J. L.; Paolone, V.; Patel, N. D.; Pavin, M.; Payne, D.; Perkin, J. D.; Petrov, Y.; Pickard, L.; Pickering, L.; Pinzon Guerra, E. S.; Pistillo, C.; Popov, B.; Posiadala-Zezula, M.; Poutissou, J.-M.; Poutissou, R.; Przewlocki, P.; Quilain, B.; Radicioni, E.; Ratoff, P. N.; Ravonel, M.; Rayner, M. A. M.; Redij, A.; Reinherz-Aronis, E.; Riccio, C.; Rojas, P.; Rondio, E.; Roth, S.; Rubbia, A.; Rychter, A.; Sacco, R.; Sakashita, K.; Sánchez, F.; Sato, F.; Scantamburlo, E.; Scholberg, K.; Schoppmann, S.; Schwehr, J.; Scott, M.; Seiya, Y.; Sekiguchi, T.; Sekiya, H.; Sgalaberna, D.; Shah, R.; Shaikhiev, A.; Shaker, F.; Shaw, D.; Shiozawa, M.; Shirahige, T.; Short, S.; Smy, M.; Sobczyk, J. T.; Sorel, M.; Southwell, L.; Stamoulis, P.; Steinmann, J.; Stewart, T.; Suda, Y.; Suvorov, S.; Suzuki, A.; Suzuki, K.; Suzuki, S. Y.; Suzuki, Y.; Tacik, R.; Tada, M.; Takahashi, S.; Takeda, A.; Takeuchi, Y.; Tanaka, H. K.; Tanaka, H. A.; Terhorst, D.; Terri, R.; Thakore, T.; Thompson, L. F.; Tobayama, S.; Toki, W.; Tomura, T.; Touramanis, C.; Tsukamoto, T.; Tzanov, M.; Uchida, Y.; Vacheret, A.; Vagins, M.; Vallari, Z.; Vasseur, G.; Wachala, T.; Wakamatsu, K.; Walter, C. W.; Wark, D.; Warzycha, W.; Wascko, M. O.; Weber, A.; Wendell, R.; Wilkes, R. J.; Wilking, M. J.; Wilkinson, C.; Wilson, J. R.; Wilson, R. J.; Yamada, Y.; Yamamoto, K.; Yamamoto, M.; Yanagisawa, C.; Yano, T.; Yen, S.; Yershov, N.; Yokoyama, M.; Yoo, J.; Yoshida, K.; Yuan, T.; Yu, M.; Zalewska, A.; Zalipska, J.; Zambelli, L.; Zaremba, K.; Ziembicki, M.; Zimmerman, E. D.; Zito, M.; Żmuda, J.; T2K Collaboration

    2016-05-01

    T2K reports its first measurements of the parameters governing the disappearance of ν¯ μ in an off-axis beam due to flavor change induced by neutrino oscillations. The quasimonochromatic ν¯μ beam, produced with a peak energy of 0.6 GeV at J-PARC, is observed at the far detector Super-Kamiokande, 295 km away, where the ν¯μ survival probability is expected to be minimal. Using a data set corresponding to 4.01 ×1020 protons on target, 34 fully contained μ -like events were observed. The best-fit oscillation parameters are sin2(θ¯ 23)=0.45 and |Δ m¯32 2|=2.51 ×10-3 eV2 with 68% confidence intervals of 0.38 - 0.64 and 2.26 - 2.80 ×10-3 eV2 , respectively. These results are in agreement with existing antineutrino parameter measurements and also with the νμ disappearance parameters measured by T2K.

  5. 47 CFR 25.223 - Off-axis EIRP spectral density limits for feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS. 25.223 Section 25.223 Telecommunication FEDERAL....223 Off-axis EIRP spectral density limits for feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS. (a) This section applies to all applications for earth station licenses in the 17/24 GHz BSS frequency...

  6. 47 CFR 25.223 - Off-axis EIRP spectral density limits for feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS. 25.223 Section 25.223 Telecommunication FEDERAL....223 Off-axis EIRP spectral density limits for feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS. (a) This section applies to all applications for earth station licenses in the 17/24 GHz BSS frequency...

  7. 47 CFR 25.223 - Off-axis EIRP spectral density limits for feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS. 25.223 Section 25.223 Telecommunication FEDERAL....223 Off-axis EIRP spectral density limits for feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS. (a) This section applies to all applications for earth station licenses in the 17/24 GHz BSS frequency...

  8. 47 CFR 25.223 - Off-axis EIRP spectral density limits for feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS. 25.223 Section 25.223 Telecommunication FEDERAL....223 Off-axis EIRP spectral density limits for feeder link earth stations in the 17/24 GHz BSS. (a) This section applies to all applications for earth station licenses in the 17/24 GHz BSS frequency...

  9. Imaging of particles with 3D full parallax mode with two-color digital off-axis holography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kara-Mohammed, Soumaya; Bouamama, Larbi; Picart, Pascal

    2018-05-01

    This paper proposes an approach based on two orthogonal views and two wavelengths for recording off-axis two-color holograms. The approach permits to discriminate particles aligned along the sight-view axis. The experimental set-up is based on a double Mach-Zehnder architecture in which two different wavelengths provides the reference and the object beams. The digital processing to get images from the particles is based on convolution so as to obtain images with no wavelength dependence. The spatial bandwidth of the angular spectrum transfer function is adapted in order to increase the maximum reconstruction distance which is generally limited to a few tens of millimeters. In order to get the images of particles in the 3D volume, a calibration process is proposed and is based on the modulation theorem to perfectly superimpose the two views in a common XYZ axis. The experimental set-up is applied to two-color hologram recording of moving non-calibrated opaque particles with average diameter at about 150 μm. After processing the two-color holograms with image reconstruction and view calibration, the location of particles in the 3D volume can be obtained. Particularly, ambiguity about close particles, generating hidden particles in a single-view scheme, can be removed to determine the exact number of particles in the region of interest.

  10. Continuous Shape Estimation of Continuum Robots Using X-ray Images

    PubMed Central

    Lobaton, Edgar J.; Fu, Jinghua; Torres, Luis G.; Alterovitz, Ron

    2015-01-01

    We present a new method for continuously and accurately estimating the shape of a continuum robot during a medical procedure using a small number of X-ray projection images (e.g., radiographs or fluoroscopy images). Continuum robots have curvilinear structure, enabling them to maneuver through constrained spaces by bending around obstacles. Accurately estimating the robot’s shape continuously over time is crucial for the success of procedures that require avoidance of anatomical obstacles and sensitive tissues. Online shape estimation of a continuum robot is complicated by uncertainty in its kinematic model, movement of the robot during the procedure, noise in X-ray images, and the clinical need to minimize the number of X-ray images acquired. Our new method integrates kinematics models of the robot with data extracted from an optimally selected set of X-ray projection images. Our method represents the shape of the continuum robot over time as a deformable surface which can be described as a linear combination of time and space basis functions. We take advantage of probabilistic priors and numeric optimization to select optimal camera configurations, thus minimizing the expected shape estimation error. We evaluate our method using simulated concentric tube robot procedures and demonstrate that obtaining between 3 and 10 images from viewpoints selected by our method enables online shape estimation with errors significantly lower than using the kinematic model alone or using randomly spaced viewpoints. PMID:26279960

  11. Structural transformations in (1 -x ) Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3-x BaTiO3 single crystals studied by Raman spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    de la Flor, G.; Malcherek, T.; Gorfman, S.; Mihailova, B.

    2017-12-01

    Hard-mode Raman spectroscopy was applied to analyze the temperature-induced transformation processes in perovskite-type (ABO3) single crystals of (1 -x ) Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3-x BaTiO3 (NBT-x BT ) in a wide temperature range between 100 and 1010 K and a composition range of x =0 -0.074 across the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB). The results show abundant uncoupled ferroic structural distortions even at 1010 K and coexistence of two types of mesoscopic-scale ferroic order at lower temperatures. Octahedral BO6 tilting is typical of pure NBT, while the incorporation of A-site Ba2 + suppresses the tilting and promotes the off centering of BO6 octahedra. The temperature evolution of the phonon modes clearly reveals the two macroscopically observed critical temperatures Tm and Td as well as, in the case of x ≠0 , two characteristic temperatures T' and T'' preceding the Tm and Td, respectively, which are attributed to mesoscopic-scale antiferroelectric and ferroelectric coupling processes within the A-site-cation subsystem. At x <xMPB the two sublattices, off-centered A-site cations and off-centered B-site cations, remain incoherent in the entire temperature range. Only when the amount of Ba reaches xMPB the two subsystems couple dynamically, which can explain the enhancement of properties at the MPB. The overall ferroic distortion, however, has a minimum at the MPB, probably because at xMPB the ferroelectric coupling between B-site Ti4 + cations is reduced to a greater extent than the enhancement of ferroelectric coupling between A-site Bi3 + cations.

  12. Evolution of magnetism in single-crystal C a 2 R u 1 - x I r x O 4 ( 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.65 )

    DOE PAGES

    Yuan, S. J.; Terzic, J.; Wang, J. C.; ...

    2015-07-24

    In this paper, we report structural, magnetic, transport, and thermal properties of single-crystal Ca 2Ru 1-xIr xO 4(0≤x≤0.65). Ca 2RuO 4 is a structurally driven Mott insulator with a metal-insulator transition at T MI=357K, which is well separated from antiferromagnetic order at T N=110K. Substitution of a 5d element, Ir, for Ru enhances spin-orbit coupling and locking between the structural distortions and magnetic moment canting. Ir doping intensifies the distortion or rotation of Ru/IrO 6 octahedra and induces weak ferromagnetic behavior along the c axis. In particular, Ir doping suppresses T N but concurrently causes an additional magnetic ordering Tmore » N2 at a higher temperature up to 210 K for x=0.65. The effect of Ir doping sharply contrasts with that of 3d-element doping such as Cr, Mn, and Fe, which suppresses T N and induces unusual negative volume thermal expansion. Finally, the stark difference between 3d- and 5d-element doping underlines a strong magnetoelastic coupling inherent in the Ir-rich oxides.« less

  13. Analysis of off-axis solenoid fields using the magnetic scalar potential: An application to a Zeeman-slower for cold atoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muniz, Sérgio R.; Bagnato, Vanderlei S.; Bhattacharya, M.

    2015-06-01

    In a region free of currents, magnetostatics can be described by the Laplace equation of a scalar magnetic potential, and one can apply the same methods commonly used in electrostatics. Here, we show how to calculate the general vector field inside a real (finite) solenoid, using only the magnitude of the field along the symmetry axis. Our method does not require integration or knowledge of the current distribution and is presented through practical examples, including a nonuniform finite solenoid used to produce cold atomic beams via laser cooling. These examples allow educators to discuss the nontrivial calculation of fields off-axis using concepts familiar to most students, while offering the opportunity to introduce themes of current modern research.

  14. Eigenvector decomposition of full-spectrum x-ray computed tomography.

    PubMed

    Gonzales, Brian J; Lalush, David S

    2012-03-07

    Energy-discriminated x-ray computed tomography (CT) data were projected onto a set of basis functions to suppress the noise in filtered back-projection (FBP) reconstructions. The x-ray CT data were acquired using a novel x-ray system which incorporated a single-pixel photon-counting x-ray detector to measure the x-ray spectrum for each projection ray. A matrix of the spectral response of different materials was decomposed using eigenvalue decomposition to form the basis functions. Projection of FBP onto basis functions created a de facto image segmentation of multiple contrast agents. Final reconstructions showed significant noise suppression while preserving important energy-axis data. The noise suppression was demonstrated by a marked improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) along the energy axis for multiple regions of interest in the reconstructed images. Basis functions used on a more coarsely sampled energy axis still showed an improved SNR. We conclude that the noise-resolution trade off along the energy axis was significantly improved using the eigenvalue decomposition basis functions.

  15. Prospects for Off-axis Current Drive via High Field Side Lower Hybrid Current Drive in DIII-D

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wukitch, S. J.; Shiraiwa, S.; Wallace, G. M.; Bonoli, P. T.; Holcomb, C.; Park, J. M.; Pinsker, R. I.

    2017-10-01

    An outstanding challenge for an economical, steady state tokamak is efficient off-axis current drive scalable to reactors. Previous studies have focused on high field side (HFS) launch of lower hybrid waves for current drive (LHCD) in double null configurations in reactor grade plasmas. The goal of this work is to find a HFS LHCD scenario for DIII-D that balances coupling, power penetration and damping. The higher magnetic field on the HFS improves wave accessibility, which allows for lower n||waves to be launched. These waves penetrate farther into the plasma core before damping at higher Te yielding a higher current drive efficiency. Utilizing advanced ray tracing and Fokker Planck simulation tools (GENRAY+CQL3D), wave penetration, absorption and drive current profiles in high performance DIII-D H-Mode plasmas were investigated. We found LH scenarios with single pass absorption, excellent wave penetration to r/a 0.6-0.8, FWHM r/a=0.2 and driven current up to 0.37 MA/MW coupled. These simulations indicate that HFS LHCD has potential to achieve efficient off-axis current drive in DIII-D and the latest results will be presented. Work supported by U.S. Dept. of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Fusion Energy Sciences, using User Facility DIII-D, under Award No. DE-FC02-04ER54698 and Contract No. DE-FC02-01ER54648 under Scientific Discovery through Advanced Computing Initiative.

  16. A Three-dimensional Non-spherical Calculation Of The Rotationally Distorted Shape And Internal Structure Of A Model Of Jupiter With A Polytropic Index Of Unity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Keke; Kong, D.; Schubert, G.; Anderson, J.

    2012-10-01

    An accurate calculation of the rotationally distorted shape and internal structure of Jupiter is required to understand the high-precision gravitational field that will be measured by the Juno spacecraft now on its way to Jupiter. We present a three-dimensional non-spherical numerical calculation of the shape and internal structure of a model of Jupiter with a polytropic index of unity. The calculation is based on a finite element method and accounts for the full effects of rotation. After validating the numerical approach against the asymptotic solution of Chandrasekhar (1933) that is valid only for a slowly rotating gaseous planet, we apply it to a model of Jupiter whose rapid rotation causes a significant departure from spherical geometry. The two-dimensional distribution of the density and the pressure within Jupiter is then determined via a hybrid inverse approach by matching the a priori unknown coefficient in the equation of state to the observed shape of Jupiter. After obtaining the two-dimensional distribution of Jupiter's density, we then compute the zonal gravity coefficients and the total mass from the non-spherical Jupiter model that takes full account of rotation-induced shape changes. Our non-spherical model with a polytrope of unit index is able to produce the known mass and zonal gravitational coefficients of Jupiter. Chandrasekhar, S. 1933, The equilibrium of distorted polytropes, MNRAS 93, 390

  17. Refractive optics to compensate x-ray mirror shape-errors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Laundy, David; Sawhney, Kawal; Dhamgaye, Vishal; Pape, Ian

    2017-08-01

    Elliptically profiled mirrors operating at glancing angle are frequently used at X-ray synchrotron sources to focus X-rays into sub-micrometer sized spots. Mirror figure error, defined as the height difference function between the actual mirror surface and the ideal elliptical profile, causes a perturbation of the X-ray wavefront for X- rays reflecting from the mirror. This perturbation, when propagated to the focal plane results in an increase in the size of the focused beam. At Diamond Light Source we are developing refractive optics that can be used to locally cancel out the wavefront distortion caused by figure error from nano-focusing elliptical mirrors. These optics could be used to correct existing optical components on synchrotron radiation beamlines in order to give focused X-ray beam sizes approaching the theoretical diffraction limit. We present our latest results showing measurement of the X-ray wavefront error after reflection from X-ray mirrors and the translation of the measured wavefront into a design for refractive optical elements for correction of the X-ray wavefront. We show measurement of the focused beam with and without the corrective optics inserted showing reduction in the size of the focus resulting from the correction to the wavefront.

  18. Large-field high-contrast hard x-ray Zernike phase-contrast nano-imaging beamline at Pohang Light Source.

    PubMed

    Lim, Jun; Park, So Yeong; Huang, Jung Yun; Han, Sung Mi; Kim, Hong-Tae

    2013-01-01

    We developed an off-axis-illuminated zone-plate-based hard x-ray Zernike phase-contrast microscope beamline at Pohang Light Source. Owing to condenser optics-free and off-axis illumination, a large field of view was achieved. The pinhole-type Zernike phase plate affords high-contrast images of a cell with minimal artifacts such as the shade-off and halo effects. The setup, including the optics and the alignment, is simple and easy, and allows faster and easier imaging of large bio-samples.

  19. Application of very high harmonic fast waves for off-axis current drive in the DIII-D and FNSF-AT tokamaks

    DOE PAGES

    Prater, Ronald; Moeller, Charles P.; Pinsker, Robert I.; ...

    2014-06-26

    Fast waves at frequencies far above the ion cyclotron frequency and approaching the lower hybrid frequency (also called “helicons” or “whistlers”) have application to off-axis current drive in tokamaks with high electron beta. The high frequency causes the whistler-like behavior of the wave power nearly following field lines, but with a small radial component, so the waves spiral slowly toward the plasma center. The high frequency also contributes to strong damping. Modeling predicts robust off-axis current drive with good efficiency compared to alternatives in high performance discharges in DIII-D and Fusion Nuclear Science Facility (FNSF) when the electron beta ismore » above about 1.8%. Detailed analysis of ray behavior shows that ray trajectories and damping are deterministic (that is, not strongly affected by plasma profiles or initial ray conditions), unlike the chaotic ray behavior in lower frequency fast wave experiments. Current drive was found to not be sensitive to the launched value of the parallel index of refraction n||, so wave accessibility issues can be reduced. Finally, use of a traveling wave antenna provides a very narrow n|| spectrum, which also helps avoid accessibility problems.« less

  20. Method of making a modular off-axis solar concentrator

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

    Plesniak, Adam P.; Hall, John C.

    A method of making a solar concentrator may include forming a receiving wall having an elongated wall, a first side wall and a second side wall; attaching the first side wall and the second side wall to a reflecting wall to form a housing having an internal volume with an opening; forming a lip on the receiving wall and the reflecting wall; attaching a cover to the receiving wall and the reflecting wall at the lip to seal the opening into the internal volume, thereby creating a rigid structure; and mounting at least one receiver having at least one photovoltaicmore » cell on the elongated wall to receive solar radiation entering the housing and reflected by the receiving wall, the receiver having an axis parallel with a surface normal of the photovoltaic cell, such that the axis is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the vertical axis of the opening.« less

  1. Mitigation of Engine Inlet Distortion Through Adjoint-Based Design

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ordaz, Irian; Rallabhandi, Sriram; Nielsen, Eric J.; Diskin, Boris

    2017-01-01

    The adjoint-based design capability in FUN3D is extended to allow efficient gradient- based optimization and design of concepts with highly integrated aero-propulsive systems. A circumferential distortion calculation, along with the derivatives needed to perform adjoint-based design, have been implemented in FUN3D. This newly implemented distortion calculation can be used not only for design but also to drive the existing mesh adaptation process and reduce the error associated with the fan distortion calculation. The design capability is demonstrated by the shape optimization of an in-house aircraft concept equipped with an aft fuselage propulsor. The optimization objective is the minimization of flow distortion at the aerodynamic interface plane of this aft fuselage propulsor.

  2. Trading off Aircraft Fuel Burn and NO x Emissions for Optimal Climate Policy.

    PubMed

    Freeman, Sarah; Lee, David S; Lim, Ling L; Skowron, Agnieszka; De León, Ruben Rodriguez

    2018-03-06

    Aviation emits pollutants that affect the climate, including CO 2 and NO x , NO x indirectly so, through the formation of tropospheric ozone and reduction of ambient methane. To improve the fuel performance of engines, combustor temperatures and pressures often increase, increasing NO x emissions. Conversely, combustor modifications to reduce NO x may increase CO 2 . Hence, a technology trade-off exists, which also translates to a trade-off between short-lived climate forcers and a long-lived greenhouse gas, CO 2 . Moreover, the NO x -O 3 -CH 4 system responds in a nonlinear manner, according to both aviation emissions and background NO x . A simple climate model was modified to incorporate nonlinearities parametrized from a complex chemistry model. Case studies showed that for a scenario of a 20% reduction in NO x emissions the consequential CO 2 penalty of 2% actually increased the total radiative forcing (RF). For a 2% fuel penalty, NO x emissions needed to be reduced by >43% to realize an overall benefit. Conversely, to ensure that the fuel penalty for a 20% NO x emission reduction did not increase overall forcing, a 0.5% increase in CO 2 was found to be the "break even" point. The time scales of the climate effects of NO x and CO 2 are quite different, necessitating careful analysis of proposed emissions trade-offs.

  3. The energy distribution of subjets and the jet shape

    DOE PAGES

    Kang, Zhong-Bo; Ringer, Felix; Waalewijn, Wouter J.

    2017-07-13

    We present a framework that describes the energy distribution of subjets of radius r within a jet of radius R. We consider both an inclusive sample of subjets as well as subjets centered around a predetermined axis, from which the jet shape can be obtained. For r << R we factorize the physics at angular scales r and R to resum the logarithms of r/R. For central subjets, we consider both the standard jet axis and the winner-take-all axis, which involve double and single logarithms of r/R, respectively. All relevant one-loop matching coefficients are given, and an inconsistency in somemore » previous results for cone jets is resolved. Our results for the standard jet shape differ from previous calculations at next-to-leading logarithmic order, because we account for the recoil of the standard jet axis due to soft radiation. Numerical results are presented for an inclusive subjet sample for pp → jet + X at next-to-leading order plus leading logarithmic order.« less

  4. Reflector surface distortion analysis techniques (thermal distortion analysis of antennas in space)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sharp, R.; Liao, M.; Giriunas, J.; Heighway, J.; Lagin, A.; Steinbach, R.

    1989-01-01

    A group of large computer programs are used to predict the farfield antenna pattern of reflector antennas in the thermal environment of space. Thermal Radiation Analysis Systems (TRASYS) is a thermal radiation analyzer that interfaces with Systems Improved Numerical Differencing Analyzer (SINDA), a finite difference thermal analysis program. The programs linked together for this analysis can now be used to predict antenna performance in the constantly changing space environment. They can be used for very complex spacecraft and antenna geometries. Performance degradation caused by methods of antenna reflector construction and materials selection are also taken into consideration. However, the principal advantage of using this program linkage is to account for distortions caused by the thermal environment of space and the hygroscopic effects of the dry-out of graphite/epoxy materials after the antenna is placed into orbit. The results of this type of analysis could ultimately be used to predict antenna reflector shape versus orbital position. A phased array antenna distortion compensation system could then use this data to make RF phase front corrections. That is, the phase front could be adjusted to account for the distortions in the antenna feed and reflector geometry for a particular orbital position.

  5. Pulse Shape Evolution, HER X-1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    VanParadijs, Johannes A.

    1998-01-01

    This study focuses on the pulse shape evolution and spectral properties of the X-ray binary Her X-1 with regard to the well known 35-day cycle of Her X-1. A follow-up set of RXTE observations has been conducted in RXTE AO-2 phase and the two observation sets are being analyzed together. We presented results of early analysis of pulse shape evolution in "Proceedings of the Fourth Compton Symposium." More advanced analysis was presented at the HEAD meeting in November, 1997 in Estes Park, Colorado. A related study of the 35-day cycle using RXTE/ASM data, which laid out the overall picture within which the more detailed PCA observations could be placed has also been conducted. The results of this study have been published in The Astrophysical Journal, vol. 510, 974. A pair of papers on the detailed pulse evolution and the spectral/color evolution are currently being prepared for publication. Some of the significant results of this study have been a confirmation of the detailed pulse profile changes at the end of the Main High state in Her X-1 first observed by GINGA, observations of the pulse evolution in several Short High states which agree with the pulse evolution pattern predicted using a disk occultation model in the PhD Thesis of Scott 1993, observation of a systematic lengthening of the eclipse egress during the Main High state of the 35-day phase and observation of a new type of extended eclipse ingress during which pulsations cease to observed during the Short High state.

  6. Fiber-based polarization-sensitive OCT of the human retina with correction of system polarization distortions

    PubMed Central

    Braaf, Boy; Vermeer, Koenraad A.; de Groot, Mattijs; Vienola, Kari V.; de Boer, Johannes F.

    2014-01-01

    In polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) the use of single-mode fibers causes unpredictable polarization distortions which can result in increased noise levels and erroneous changes in calculated polarization parameters. In the current paper this problem is addressed by a new Jones matrix analysis method that measures and corrects system polarization distortions as a function of wavenumber by spectral analysis of the sample surface polarization state and deeper located birefringent tissue structures. This method was implemented on a passive-component depth-multiplexed swept-source PS-OCT system at 1040 nm which was theoretically modeled using Jones matrix calculus. High-resolution B-scan images are presented of the double-pass phase retardation, diattenuation, and relative optic axis orientation to show the benefits of the new analysis method for in vivo imaging of the human retina. The correction of system polarization distortions yielded reduced phase retardation noise, and better estimates of the diattenuation and the relative optic axis orientation in weakly birefringent tissues. The clinical potential of the system is shown by en face visualization of the phase retardation and optic axis orientation of the retinal nerve fiber layer in a healthy volunteer and a glaucoma patient with nerve fiber loss. PMID:25136498

  7. Internal process: what is abstraction and distortion process?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fiantika, F. R.; Budayasa, I. K.; Lukito, A.

    2018-03-01

    Geometry is one of the branch of mathematics that plays a major role in the development of science and technology. Thus, knowing the geometry concept is needed for students from their early basic level of thinking. A preliminary study showed that the elementary students have difficulty in perceiving parallelogram shape in a 2-dimention of a cube drawing as a square shape. This difficulty makes the students can not solve geometrical problems correctly. This problem is related to the internal thinking process in geometry. We conducted the exploration of students’ internal thinking processes in geometry particularly in distinguishing the square and parallelogram shape. How the students process their internal thinking through distortion and abstraction is the main aim of this study. Analysis of the geometrical test and deep interview are used in this study to obtain the data. The result of this study is there are two types of distortion and abstraction respectively in which the student used in their internal thinking processes.

  8. Anomalous structural disorder and distortion in metal-to-insulator-transition Ti{sub 2}O{sub 3}

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

    Hwang, In-Hui; Jin, Zhenlan; Park, Chang-In

    2016-01-07

    Mott proposed that impurity bands in corundum-symmetry Ti{sub 2}O{sub 3} at high temperatures caused a collapse in the bandgap. However, the origin of the impurity bands has not yet been clarified. We examine the local structural properties of metal-to-insulator-transition Ti{sub 2}O{sub 3} using in-situ x-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurements at the Ti K edge in the temperature range from 288 to 739 K. The Ti{sub 2}O{sub 3} powder is synthesized by using a chemical reaction method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements from Ti{sub 2}O{sub 3} with a Rietveld refinement demonstrate a single-phased R-3c symmetry without additional distortion. Extended-XAFS combined with XRDmore » reveals a zigzag patterned Ti position and an anomalous structural disorder in Ti-Ti pairs, accompanied by a bond length expansion of the Ti-Ti pairs along the c-axis for T > 450 K. The local structural distortion and disorder of the Ti atoms would induce impurity levels in the band gap between the Ti 3d a{sub 1g} and e{sub g}{sup π} bands, resulting in a collapse of the band gap for T > 450 K.« less

  9. Core break-off mechanism

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Myrick, Thomas M. (Inventor)

    2003-01-01

    A mechanism for breaking off and retaining a core sample of a drill drilled into a ground substrate has an outer drill tube and an inner core break-off tube sleeved inside the drill tube. The break-off tube breaks off and retains the core sample by a varying geometric relationship of inner and outer diameters with the drill tube. The inside diameter (ID) of the drill tube is offset by a given amount with respect to its outer diameter (OD). Similarly, the outside diameter (OD) of the break-off tube is offset by the same amount with respect to its inner diameter (ID). When the break-off tube and drill tube are in one rotational alignment, the two offsets cancel each other such that the drill can operate the two tubes together in alignment with the drill axis. When the tubes are rotated 180 degrees to another positional alignment, the two offsets add together causing the core sample in the break-off tube to be displaced from the drill axis and applying shear forces to break off the core sample.

  10. Second harmonic generation of off axial vortex beam in the case of walk-off effect

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Shunyi; Ding, Panfeng; Pu, Jixiong

    2016-07-01

    Process of off axial vortex beam propagating in negative uniaxial crystal is investigated in this work. Firstly, we get the formulae of the normalized electric field and calculate the location of vortices for second harmonic beam in two type of phase matching. Then, numerical analysis verifies that the intensity distribution and location of vortices of the first order original vortex beam depend on the walk-off angle and off axial magnitude. It is shown that, in type I phase matching, the distribution of vortices is symmetrical about the horizontal axis, the separation distance increases as the off axial magnitude increases or the off axial magnitude deceases. However, in type II phase matching, the vortices are symmetrical along with some vertical axis, and increase of the walk-off angle or off axial magnitude leads to larger separation distance. Finally, the case of high order original off axial vortex beam is also investigated.

  11. Modeling secular changes in seawater chemistry accurately requires inclusion of environmental controls on low-temperature, off-axis, hydrothermal fluxes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Coogan, L. A.; Dosso, S. E.; Higgins, J. A.

    2014-12-01

    There are sharp rises in the Sr- and Li-isotopic composition of seawater at the Eocene-Oligocene boundary that are generally thought to be associated with Himalayan uplift and associated climatic changes and continental weathering variability. In modeling such data the norm is to hold the chemical fluxes associated with off-axis hydrothermal circulation through the oceanic crust constant while varying the river fluxes (and/or isotopic ratios). There is, however, no a priori reason to assume the chemical fluxes (or isotopic compositions) associated with off-axis hydrothermal systems should stay constant. Instead, changing environmental conditions (e.g. seawater composition and bottom water temperature) will lead to changes in these fluxes. An alternative model to explain the sharp rise in the Sr- and Li-isotopic composition of seawater at the Eocene-Oligocene boundary is cooling of the deep ocean. Decreased reaction rates in the oceanic crust, due to decreasing temperature, can be shown to lead to a decrease in the flux of unradiogenic Sr into the ocean. The magnitude matches, within uncertainty, that required to explain the increase in seawater Sr-isotopic composition [Coogan and Dosso, in review]. The story for Li is more uncertain. Two factors may lead to smaller effective fractionation factors between seawater and the (large) Li sink in the oceanic crust when bottom water is warmer: (i) higher temperature will decrease the isotopic fractionation factor; (ii) the more extensive fluid-rock reaction in the ocean crust when bottom water is warmer will make Li uptake by the oceanic crust more efficient. All other things being equal this will lead to a lower Li content of seawater. In turn, a lower Li content in seawater will mean that for a given Li-uptake rate by the crust the effective fractionation factor is smaller, due to Rayleigh distillation of Li-isotopes during fluid-rock reaction in the oceanic crust. In combination these factors predict a significant (many

  12. Heme Distortions in Sperm-Whale Carbonmonoxy Myoglobin: Correlations between Rotational Strengths and Heme Distortions in MD-Generated Structures

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

    KIEFL,CHRISTOPH; SCREERAMA,NARASIMHA; LU,YI

    2000-07-13

    The authors have investigated the effects of heme rotational isomerism in sperm-whale carbonmonoxy myoglobin using computational techniques. Several molecular dynamics simulations have been performed for the two rotational isomers A and B, which are related by a 180{degree} rotation around the {alpha}-{gamma} axis of the heme, of sperm-whale carbonmonoxy myoglobin in water. Both neutron diffraction and NMR structures were used as starting structures. In the absence of an experimental structure, the structure of isomer B was generated by rotating the heme in the structure of isomer A. Distortions of the heme from planarity were characterized by normal coordinate structural decompositionmore » and by the angle of twist of the pyrrole rings from the heme plane. The heme distortions of the neutron diffraction structure were conserved in the MD trajectories, but in the NMR-based trajectories, where the heme distortions are less well defined, they differ from the original heme deformations. The protein matrix induced similar distortions on the heroes in orientations A and B. The results suggest that the binding site prefers a particular macrocycle conformation, and a 180{degree} rotation of the heme does not significantly alter the protein's preference for this conformation. The intrinsic rotational strengths of the two Soret transitions, separated according to their polarization in the heme plane, show strong correlations with the ruf-deformation and the average twist angle of the pyrrole rings. The total rotational strength, which includes contributions from the chromophores in the protein, shows a weaker correlation with heme distortions.« less

  13. Review of signal distortion through metal microelectrode recording circuits and filters.

    PubMed

    Nelson, Matthew J; Pouget, Pierre; Nilsen, Erik A; Patten, Craig D; Schall, Jeffrey D

    2008-03-30

    Interest in local field potentials (LFPs) and action potential shape has increased markedly. The present work describes distortions of these signals that occur for two reasons. First, the microelectrode recording circuit operates as a voltage divider producing frequency-dependent attenuation and phase shifts when electrode impedance is not negligible relative to amplifier input impedance. Because of the much higher electrode impedance at low frequencies, this occurred over frequency ranges of LFPs measured by neurophysiologists for one head-stage tested. Second, frequency-dependent phase shifts are induced by subsequent filters. Thus, we report these effects and the resulting amplitude envelope delays and distortion of waveforms recorded through a commercial data acquisition system and a range of tungsten microelectrodes. These distortions can be corrected, but must be accounted for when interpreting field potential and spike shape data.

  14. Use of the alpha shape to quantify finite helical axis dispersion during simulated spine movements.

    PubMed

    McLachlin, Stewart D; Bailey, Christopher S; Dunning, Cynthia E

    2016-01-04

    In biomechanical studies examining joint kinematics the most common measurement is range of motion (ROM), yet other techniques, such as the finite helical axis (FHA), may elucidate the changes in the 3D motion pathology more effectively. One of the deficiencies with the FHA technique is in quantifying the axes generated throughout a motion sequence. This study attempted to solve this issue via a computational geometric technique known as the alpha shape, which bounds a set of point data within a closed boundary similar to a convex hull. The purpose of this study was to use the alpha shape as an additional tool to visualize and quantify FHA dispersion between intact and injured cadaveric spine movements and compare these changes to the gold-standard ROM measurements. Flexion-extension, axial rotation, and lateral bending were simulated with five C5-C6 motion segments using a spinal loading simulator and Optotrak motion tracking system. Specimens were first tested intact followed by a simulated injury model. ROM and the FHAs were calculated post-hoc, with alpha shapes and convex hulls generated from the anatomic planar intercept points of the FHAs. While both ROM and the boundary shape areas increased with injury (p<0.05), no consistent geometric trends in the alpha shape growth were identified. The alpha shape area was sensitive to the alpha value chosen and values examined below 2.5 created more than one closed boundary. Ultimately, the alpha shape presents as a useful technique to quantify sequences of joint kinematics described by scatter plots such as FHA intercept data. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  15. Off-axis holographic laser speckle contrast imaging of blood vessels in tissues

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abdurashitov, Arkady; Bragina, Olga; Sindeeva, Olga; Sergey, Sindeev; Semyachkina-Glushkovskaya, Oxana V.; Tuchin, Valery V.

    2017-09-01

    Laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) has become one of the most common tools for functional imaging in tissues. Incomplete theoretical description and sophisticated interpretation of measurement results are completely sidelined by a low-cost and simple hardware, fastness, consistent results, and repeatability. In addition to the relatively low measuring volume with around 700 μm of the probing depth for the visible spectral range of illumination, there is no depth selectivity in conventional LSCI configuration; furthermore, in a case of high NA objective, the actual penetration depth of light in tissues is greater than depth of field (DOF) of an imaging system. Thus, the information about these out-of-focus regions persists in the recorded frames but cannot be retrieved due to intensity-based registration method. We propose a simple modification of LSCI system based on the off-axis holography to introduce after-registration refocusing ability to overcome both depth-selectivity and DOF problems as well as to get the potential possibility of producing a cross-section view of the specimen.

  16. Experimental Demonstration of X-Ray Drive Enhancement with Rugby-Shaped Hohlraums

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Philippe, F.; Casner, A.; Caillaud, T.; Landoas, O.; Monteil, M. C.; Liberatore, S.; Park, H. S.; Amendt, P.; Robey, H.; Sorce, C.; Li, C. K.; Seguin, F.; Rosenberg, M.; Petrasso, R.; Glebov, V.; Stoeckl, C.

    2010-01-01

    Rugby-shaped hohlraums have been suggested as a way to enhance x-ray drive in the indirect drive approach to inertial confinement fusion. This Letter presents an experimental comparison of rugby-shaped and cylinder hohlraums used for D2 and DHe3-filled capsules implosions on the Omega laser facility, demonstrating an increase of x-ray flux by 18% in rugby-shaped hohlraums. The highest yields to date for deuterium gas implosions in indirect drive on Omega (1.5×1010 neutrons) were obtained, allowing for the first time the measurement of a DD burn history. Proton spectra measurements provide additional validation of the higher drive in rugby-shaped hohlraums.

  17. Aberration correction considering curved sample surface shape for non-contact two-photon excitation microscopy with spatial light modulator.

    PubMed

    Matsumoto, Naoya; Konno, Alu; Inoue, Takashi; Okazaki, Shigetoshi

    2018-06-18

    In this paper, excitation light wavefront modulation is performed considering the curved sample surface shape to demonstrate high-quality deep observation using two-photon excitation microscopy (TPM) with a dry objective lens. A large spherical aberration typically occurs when the refractive index (RI) interface between air and the sample is a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. Moreover, the curved sample surface shape and the RI mismatch cause various aberrations, including spherical ones. Consequently, the fluorescence intensity and resolution of the obtained image are degraded in the deep regions. To improve them, we designed a pre-distortion wavefront for correcting the aberration caused by the curved sample surface shape by using a novel, simple optical path length difference calculation method. The excitation light wavefront is modulated to the pre-distortion wavefront by a spatial light modulator incorporated in the TPM system before passing through the interface, where the RI mismatch occurs. Thus, the excitation light is condensed without aberrations. Blood vessels were thereby observed up to an optical depth of 2,000 μm in a cleared mouse brain by using a dry objective lens.

  18. Alignment of the Korsch type off-axis 3 mirror optical system using sensitivity table method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Kyoungmuk; Kim, Youngsoo; Hong, Jinsuk; Kim, Sug-Whan; Lee, Haeng-Bok; Choi, Se-Chol

    2018-05-01

    The optical system of the entire mechanical and optical components consist of all silicon carbide (SiC) is designed, manufactured and aligned. The Korsch type Cassegrain optical system has 3-mirrors, the primary mirror (M1), the secondary mirror (M2), the folding mirror (FM) and the tertiary mirror (M3). To assemble the M3 and the FM to the rear side of the M1 bench, the optical axis of the M3 is 65.56 mm off from the physical center. Due to the limitation of the mass budget, the M3 is truncated excluding its optical axis. The M2 was assigned to the coma compensator and the M3 the astigmatism respectively as per the result of the sensitivity analysis. Despite of the difficulty of placing these optical components in their initial position within the mechanical tolerance, the initial wave front error (WFE) performance is as large as 171.4 nm RMS. After the initial alignment, the sensitivity table method is used to reach the goal of WFE 63.3 nm RMS in all fields. We finished the alignment with the final WFE performance in all fields are as large as 55.18 nm RMS.

  19. Use of off-axis injection as an alternative to geometrically merging beams in an energy-recovering linac

    DOEpatents

    Douglas, David R [York County, VA

    2012-01-10

    A method of using off-axis particle beam injection in energy-recovering linear accelerators that increases operational efficiency while eliminating the need to merge the high energy re-circulating beam with an injected low energy beam. In this arrangement, the high energy re-circulating beam and the low energy beam are manipulated such that they are within a predetermined distance from one another and then the two immerged beams are injected into the linac and propagated through the system. The configuration permits injection without geometric beam merging as well as decelerated beam extraction without the use of typical beamline elements.

  20. THE VERTICAL X-SHAPED STRUCTURE IN THE MILKY WAY: EVIDENCE FROM A SIMPLE BOXY BULGE MODEL

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

    Li Zhaoyu; Shen Juntai, E-mail: jshen@shao.ac.cn

    2012-09-20

    A vertical X-shaped structure in the Galactic bulge was recently reported. Here, we present evidence of a similar X-shaped structure in the Shen et al. 2010 bar/boxy bulge model that simultaneously matches the stellar kinematics successfully. The X-shaped structure is found in the central region of our bar/boxy bulge model and is qualitatively consistent with the observed one in many aspects. End-to-end separations of the X-shaped structure in the radial and vertical directions are roughly 3 kpc and 1.8 kpc, respectively. The X-shaped structure contains about 7% of light in the boxy bulge region, but it is significant enough tomore » be identified in observations. An X-shaped structure naturally arises in the formation of bar/boxy bulges and is mainly associated with orbits trapped around the vertically extended x{sub 1} family. Like the bar in our model, the X-shaped structure tilts away from the Sun-Galactic center line by 20 Degree-Sign . The X-shaped structure becomes increasingly symmetric about the disk plane, so the observed symmetry may indicate that it formed at least a few billion years ago. The existence of the vertical X-shaped structure suggests that the formation of the Milky Way bulge is shaped mainly by internal disk dynamical instabilities.« less

  1. Model of the lines of sight for an off-axis optical instrument Pleiades

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sauvage, Dominique; Gaudin-Delrieu, Catherine; Tournier, Thierry

    2017-11-01

    The future Earth observation missions aim at delivering images with a high resolution and a large field of view. These images have to be processed to get a very accurate localisation. In that goal, the individual lines of sight of each photosensitive element must be evaluated according to the localisation of the pixels in the focal plane. But, with off-axis Korsch telescope (like PLEIADES), the classical model has to be adapted. This is possible by using optical ground measurements made after the integration of the instrument. The processing of these results leads to several parameters, which are function of the offsets of the focal plane and the real focal length. All this study which has been proposed for the PLEIADES mission leads to a more elaborated model which provides the relation between the lines of sight and the location of the pixels, with a very good accuracy, close to the pixel size.

  2. EFFECTS OF X-RAY BEAM ANGLE AND GEOMETRIC DISTORTION ON WIDTH OF EQUINE THORACOLUMBAR INTERSPINOUS SPACES USING RADIOGRAPHY AND COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY-A CADAVERIC STUDY.

    PubMed

    Djernaes, Julie D; Nielsen, Jon V; Berg, Lise C

    2017-03-01

    The widths of spaces between the thoracolumbar processi spinosi (interspinous spaces) are frequently assessed using radiography in sports horses; however effects of varying X-ray beam angles and geometric distortion have not been previously described. The aim of this prospective, observational study was to determine whether X-ray beam angle has an effect on apparent widths of interspinous spaces. Thoracolumbar spine specimens were collected from six equine cadavers and left-right lateral radiographs and sagittal and dorsal reconstructed computed tomographic (CT) images were acquired. Sequential radiographs were acquired with each interspinous space in focus. Measurements were performed for each interspinous space in the focus position and up to eight angled positions as the interspinous space moved away from focus (±). Focus position measurements were compared to matching sagittal CT measurements. Effect of geometric distortion was evaluated by comparing the interspinous space in radiographs with sagittal and dorsal reconstructed CT images. A total of 49 interspinous spaces were sampled, yielding 274 measurements. X-ray beam angle significantly affected measured width of interspinous spaces in position +3 (P = 0.038). Changes in width did not follow a consistent pattern. Interspinous space widths in focus position were significantly smaller in radiographs compared to matching reconstructed CT images for backs diagnosed with kissing spine syndrome (P < 0.001). Geometric distortion markedly affected appearance of interspinous space width between planes. In conclusion, X-ray beam angle and geometric distortion influence radiographically measured widths of interspinous spaces in the equine thoracolumbar spine, and this should be taken into consideration when evaluating sport horses. © 2016 American College of Veterinary Radiology.

  3. Shape, zonal winds and gravitational field of Jupiter: a fully self-consistent, multi-layered model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schubert, Gerald; Kong, Dali; Zhang, Keke

    2016-10-01

    We construct a three-dimensional, finite-element, fully self-consistent, multi-layered,non-spheroidal model of Jupiter consisting of an inner core, a metallic electrically conducting dynamo region and an outer molecular electrically insulating envelope. We assume that the Jovian zonal winds are on cylinders parallel to the rotation axis but, due to the effect of magnetic braking, are confined within the outer molecular envelope. Two related calculations are carried out. The first provides an accurate description of the shape and internal density profile of Jupiter; the effect of rotational distortion is not treated as a small perturbation on a spherically symmetric state. This calculation determines the density, size and shape of the inner core, the irregular shape of the 1-bar pressure level, and the internal structure of Jupiter; the full effect of rotational distortion, without the influence of the zonal winds, is accounted for. Our multi-layered model is able to produce the known mass, the known equatorial and polar radii, and the known zonal gravitational coefficient J2 of Jupiter within their error bars; it also yields the coefficients J4 and J6 within about 5% accuracy, and the core equatorial radius 0.09RJ containing 3.73 Earth masses.The second calculation determines the variation of the gravitational field caused solely by the effect of the zonal winds on the rotationally distorted non-spheroidal Jupiter. Four different cases, ranging from a deep wind profile to a very shallow profile, are considered and implications for accurate interpretation of the zonal gravitational coefficients expected from the Juno mission are discussed.

  4. Restoring 2D content from distorted documents.

    PubMed

    Brown, Michael S; Sun, Mingxuan; Yang, Ruigang; Yun, Lin; Seales, W Brent

    2007-11-01

    This paper presents a framework to restore the 2D content printed on documents in the presence of geometric distortion and non-uniform illumination. Compared with textbased document imaging approaches that correct distortion to a level necessary to obtain sufficiently readable text or to facilitate optical character recognition (OCR), our work targets nontextual documents where the original printed content is desired. To achieve this goal, our framework acquires a 3D scan of the document's surface together with a high-resolution image. Conformal mapping is used to rectify geometric distortion by mapping the 3D surface back to a plane while minimizing angular distortion. This conformal "deskewing" assumes no parametric model of the document's surface and is suitable for arbitrary distortions. Illumination correction is performed by using the 3D shape to distinguish content gradient edges from illumination gradient edges in the high-resolution image. Integration is performed using only the content edges to obtain a reflectance image with significantly less illumination artifacts. This approach makes no assumptions about light sources and their positions. The results from the geometric and photometric correction are combined to produce the final output.

  5. VizieR Online Data Catalog: ChaMP. I. First X-ray source catalog (Kim+, 2004)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, D.-W.; Cameron, R. A.; Drake, J. J.; Evans, N. R.; Freeman, P.; Gaetz, T. J.; Ghosh, H.; Green, P. J.; Harnden, F. R. Jr; Karovska, M.; Kashyap, V.; Maksym, P. W.; Ratzlaff, P. W.; Schlegel, E. M.; Silverman, J. D.; Tananbaum, H. D.; Vikhlinin, A. A.; Wilkes, B. J.; Grimes, J. P.

    2004-01-01

    The Chandra Multiwavelength Project (ChaMP) is a wide-area (~14deg2 < survey of serendipitous Chandra X-ray sources, aiming to establish fair statistical samples covering a wide range of characteristics (such as absorbed active galactic nuclei, high-z clusters of galaxies) at flux levels (fX~10-15 to 10-14erg/s/cm2) ) intermediate between the Chandra deep surveys and previous missions. We present the first ChaMP catalog, which consists of 991 near on-axis, bright X-ray sources obtained from the initial sample of 62 observations. The data have been uniformly reduced and analyzed with techniques specifically developed for the ChaMP and then validated by visual examination. To assess source reliability and positional uncertainty, we perform a series of simulations and also use Chandra data to complement the simulation study. The false source detection rate is found to be as good as or better than expected for a given limiting threshold. On the other hand, the chance of missing a real source is rather complex, depending on the source counts, off-axis distance (or PSF), and background rate. The positional error (95% confidence level) is usually less than 1" for a bright source, regardless of its off-axis distance, while it can be as large as 4" for a weak source (~20counts) at a large off-axis distance (Doff-axis>8'). We have also developed new methods to find spatially extended or temporary variable sources, and those sources are listed in the catalog. (5 data files).

  6. Lateral ventricle morphology analysis via mean latitude axis.

    PubMed

    Paniagua, Beatriz; Lyall, Amanda; Berger, Jean-Baptiste; Vachet, Clement; Hamer, Robert M; Woolson, Sandra; Lin, Weili; Gilmore, John; Styner, Martin

    2013-03-29

    Statistical shape analysis has emerged as an insightful method for evaluating brain structures in neuroimaging studies, however most shape frameworks are surface based and thus directly depend on the quality of surface alignment. In contrast, medial descriptions employ thickness information as alignment-independent shape metric. We propose a joint framework that computes local medial thickness information via a mean latitude axis from the well-known spherical harmonic (SPHARM-PDM) shape framework. In this work, we applied SPHARM derived medial representations to the morphological analysis of lateral ventricles in neonates. Mild ventriculomegaly (MVM) subjects are compared to healthy controls to highlight the potential of the methodology. Lateral ventricles were obtained from MRI scans of neonates (9-144 days of age) from 30 MVM subjects as well as age- and sex-matched normal controls (60 total). SPHARM-PDM shape analysis was extended to compute a mean latitude axis directly from the spherical parameterization. Local thickness and area was straightforwardly determined. MVM and healthy controls were compared using local MANOVA and compared with the traditional SPHARM-PDM analysis. Both surface and mean latitude axis findings differentiate successfully MVM and healthy lateral ventricle morphology. Lateral ventricles in MVM neonates show enlarged shapes in tail and head. Mean latitude axis is able to find significant differences all along the lateral ventricle shape, demonstrating that local thickness analysis provides significant insight over traditional SPHARM-PDM. This study is the first to precisely quantify 3D lateral ventricle morphology in MVM neonates using shape analysis.

  7. REVIEW OF SIGNAL DISTORTION THROUGH METAL MICROELECTRODE RECORDING CIRCUITS AND FILTERS

    PubMed Central

    NELSON, Matthew J.; POUGET, Pierre; NILSEN, Erik A.; PATTEN, Craig D.; SCHALL, Jeffrey D.

    2008-01-01

    Interest in local field potentials (LFPs) and action potential shape has increased markedly. The present work describes distortions of these signals that occur for two reasons. First, the microelectrode recording circuit operates as a voltage divider producing frequency-dependent attenuation and phase-shifts when electrode impedance is not negligible relative to amplifier input impedance. Because of the much higher electrode impedance at low frequencies, this occurred over frequency ranges of LFPs measured by neurophysiologists for one head-stage tested. Second, frequency-dependent phase shifts are induced by subsequent filters. Thus, we report these effects and the resulting amplitude envelope delays and distortion of waveforms recorded through a commercial data acquisition system and a range of tungsten microelectrodes. These distortions can be corrected, but must be accounted for when interpreting field potential and spike shape data. PMID:18242715

  8. Soil management shapes ecosystem service provision and trade-offs in agricultural landscapes.

    PubMed

    Tamburini, Giovanni; De Simone, Serena; Sigura, Maurizia; Boscutti, Francesco; Marini, Lorenzo

    2016-08-31

    Agroecosystems are principally managed to maximize food provisioning even if they receive a large array of supporting and regulating ecosystem services (ESs). Hence, comprehensive studies investigating the effects of local management and landscape composition on the provision of and trade-offs between multiple ESs are urgently needed. We explored the effects of conservation tillage, nitrogen fertilization and landscape composition on six ESs (crop production, disease control, soil fertility, water quality regulation, weed and pest control) in winter cereals. Conservation tillage enhanced soil fertility and pest control, decreased water quality regulation and weed control, without affecting crop production and disease control. Fertilization only influenced crop production by increasing grain yield. Landscape intensification reduced the provision of disease and pest control. We also found tillage and landscape composition to interactively affect water quality regulation and weed control. Under N fertilization, conventional tillage resulted in more trade-offs between ESs than conservation tillage. Our results demonstrate that soil management and landscape composition affect the provision of several ESs and that soil management potentially shapes the trade-offs between them. © 2016 The Author(s).

  9. X-ray lithography using holographic images

    DOEpatents

    Howells, M.S.; Jacobsen, C.

    1997-03-18

    Methods for forming X-ray images having 0.25 {micro}m minimum line widths on X-ray sensitive material are presented. A holographic image of a desired circuit pattern is projected onto a wafer or other image-receiving substrate to allow recording of the desired image in photoresist material. In one embodiment, the method uses on-axis transmission and provides a high flux X-ray source having modest monochromaticity and coherence requirements. A layer of light-sensitive photoresist material on a wafer with a selected surface is provided to receive the image(s). The hologram has variable optical thickness and variable associated optical phase angle and amplitude attenuation for transmission of the X-rays. A second embodiment uses off-axis holography. The wafer receives the holographic image by grazing incidence reflection from a hologram printed on a flat metal or other highly reflecting surface or substrate. In this second embodiment, an X-ray beam with a high degree of monochromaticity and spatial coherence is required. 15 figs.

  10. X-ray lithography using holographic images

    DOEpatents

    Howells, Malcolm S.; Jacobsen, Chris

    1997-01-01

    Methods for forming X-ray images having 0.25 .mu.m minimum line widths on X-ray sensitive material are presented. A holgraphic image of a desired circuit pattern is projected onto a wafer or other image-receiving substrate to allow recording of the desired image in photoresist material. In one embodiment, the method uses on-axis transmission and provides a high flux X-ray source having modest monochromaticity and coherence requirements. A layer of light-sensitive photoresist material on a wafer with a selected surface is provided to receive the image(s). The hologram has variable optical thickness and variable associated optical phase angle and amplitude attenuation for transmission of the X-rays. A second embodiment uses off-axis holography. The wafer receives the holographic image by grazing incidence reflection from a hologram printed on a flat metal or other highly reflecting surface or substrate. In this second embodiment, an X-ray beam with a high degree of monochromaticity and spatial coherence is required.

  11. In-Plane Cracking Behavior and Ultimate Strength for 2D Woven and Braided Melt-Infiltrated SiC/SiC Composites Tensile Loaded in Off-Axis Fiber Directions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Morscher, Gregory N.; Yun, Hee Mann; DiCarlo, James A.

    2007-01-01

    The tensile mechanical properties of ceramic matrix composites (CMC) in directions off the primary axes of the reinforcing fibers are important for architectural design of CMC components that are subjected to multi-axial stress states. In this study, 2D-woven melt-infiltrated (MI) SiC/SiC composite panels with balanced fiber content in the 0 degree and 90 degree directions were tensile loaded in-plane in the 0 degree direction and at 45 degree to this direction. In addition, a 2D triaxially-braided MI composite panel with balanced fiber content in the plus or minus 67 degree bias directions and reduced fiber content in the axial direction was tensile loaded perpendicular to the axial direction tows (i.e., 23 degrees from the bias fibers). Stress-strain behavior, acoustic emission, and optical microscopy were used to quantify stress-dependent matrix cracking and ultimate strength in the panels. It was observed that both off-axis loaded panels displayed higher composite onset stresses for through-thickness matrix cracking than the 2D-woven 0/90 panels loaded in the primary 0 degree direction. These improvements for off-axis cracking strength can in part be attributed to higher effective fiber fractions in the loading direction, which in turn reduces internal stresses on critical matrix flaws for a given composite stress. Also for the 0/90 panel loaded in the 45 degree direction, an improved distribution of matrix flaws existed due to the absence of fiber tows perpendicular to the loading direction. In addition, for the +67/0/-67 braided panel, the axial tows perpendicular to the loading direction were not only low in volume fraction, but were also were well separated from one another. Both off-axis oriented panels also showed relatively good ultimate tensile strength when compared to other off-axis oriented composites in the literature, both on an absolute strength basis as well as when normalized by the average fiber strength within the composites. Initial

  12. EFFECT OF MASSIVE NEUTRON EXPOSURE ON THE DISTORTION OF REACTOR GRAPHITE

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

    Helm, J.W.; Davidson, J.M.

    1963-05-28

    Distortion of reactor-grade graphites was studied at varying neutron exposures ranging up to 14 x 10/sup 21/ neutrons per cm/sup 2/ (nvt)/sup */ at temperatures of irradiation ranging from 425 to 800 deg C. This exposure level corresponds to approximately 100,000 megawatt days per adjacent ton of fuel (Mwd/ At) in a graphite-moderated reactor. A conventionalcoke graphite, CSF, and two needle-coke graphites, NC-7 and NC-8, were studied. At all temperatures of irradiation the contraction rate of the samples cut parallel to the extrusion axis increased with increasing neutron exposure. For parallel samples the needle- coke graphites and the CSF graphitemore » contracted approximately the same amount. In the transverse direction the rate of cortraction at the higher irradiation temperntures appeared to be decreasing. Volume contractions derived from the linear contractions are discussed. (auth)« less

  13. Topographic analyses of shape of eyes with pathologic myopia by high-resolution three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging.

    PubMed

    Moriyama, Muka; Ohno-Matsui, Kyoko; Hayashi, Kengo; Shimada, Noriaki; Yoshida, Takeshi; Tokoro, Takashi; Morita, Ikuo

    2011-08-01

    To analyze the topography of human eyes with pathologic myopia by high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with volume rendering of the acquired images. Observational case series. Eighty-six eyes of 44 patients with high myopia (refractive error ≥-8.00 diopters [D] or axial length >26.5 mm) were studied. Forty emmetropic eyes were examined as controls. The participants were examined with an MRI scanner (Signa HDxt 1.5T, GE Healthcare, Waukesha, WI), and T(2)-weighted cubes were obtained. Volume renderings of the images from high-resolution 3-dimensional (3D) data were done by computer workstation. The margins of globes were then identified semiautomatically by the signal intensity, and the tissues outside the globes were removed. The 3D topographic characteristic of the globes and the distribution of the 4 distinct shapes of globes according to the symmetry and the radius of curvature of the contour of the posterior segment: the barrel, cylindric, nasally distorted, and temporally distorted types. In 69.8% of the patients with bilateral high myopia, both eyes had the same ocular shape. The most protruded part of the globe existed along the central sagittal axis in 78.3% of eyes and was slightly inferior to the central axis in the remaining eyes. In 38 of 68 eyes (55.9%) with bilateral pathologic myopia, multiple protrusions were observed. The eyes with 2 protrusions were subdivided into those with nasal protrusions and those with temporal protrusions. The eyes with 3 protrusions were subdivided into nasal, temporal superior, and temporal inferior protrusions. The eyes with visual field defects that could not be explained by myopic fundus lesions significantly more frequently had a temporally distorted shape. Eyes with ≥2 protrusions had myopic chorioretinal atrophy significantly more frequently than eyes with ≤1 protrusion. Our results demonstrate that it is possible to obtain a complete topographic image of human eyes by high-resolution MRI with

  14. Development of an X-Shape airlift photobioreactor for increasing algal biomass and biodiesel production.

    PubMed

    Pham, Hoang-Minh; Kwak, Ho Seok; Hong, Min-Eui; Lee, Jeewon; Chang, Won Seok; Sim, Sang Jun

    2017-09-01

    The aim of this work was to develop a high efficient photobioreactor for increasing biomass and lipid production in microalgae by assessment of the hydrodynamic properties and k L a which are important parameters for improving the algal cultivation efficiency. We designed three different photobioreactors (H-Shape, X-Shape and serial-column). Among them, X-Shape showed the highest hydrodynamic properties and k L a for algal cultivation. Thus, we evaluated the biomass and the lipid production in a 20L scale-up X-Shape photobioreactor. The biomass and lipid production from X-Shape photobioreactor are 1.359±0.007gL -1 and 117.624±3.522mgL -1 , respectively; which are 30.05% and 23.49% higher than those from the control photobioreactor. Finally, we observed the lipid from X-Shape had high MUFAs, CN and low IV, which is suitable for high quality of biodiesel, suggesting that it can be practicably utilized for mass production of algal biofuel. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Seismicity and state of stress near the Japan Trench axis off Miyagi, northeast Japan, after the 2011 Tohoku-Oki earthquake

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Obana, K.; Kodaira, S.; Takahashi, T.; Yamamoto, Y.; Nakamura, Y.; No, T.; Fujie, G.; Hino, R.; Shinohara, M.

    2013-12-01

    The 2011 Tohoku-Oki earthquake ruptured roughly 200 km wide and 500 km long megathrust along the Japan Trench. The rupture propagated to the trench axis with a maximum slip about 50 m near the trench axis. As a consequence of this large near-trench slip, earthquakes have been activated near the axis of the Japan Trench off Miyagi, northeast Japan. We have conducted ocean bottom seismograph (OBS) experiments in the Japan Trench axis area, surrounding area of the IODP JFAST drilling site, since the occurrence of the 2011 Tohoku-Oki earthquake. Although conventionally used OBS cannot be deployed at seafloor deeper than 6000 m water depth, we used newly developed ultra-deep OBS using ceramic sphere, which can be deployed at a depth of 9000 m, for the observations in the trench axis. The ultra-deep OBS has almost equivalent dimensions and weight with the conventionally used OBS, thus we can handle it in the same manner with the conventionally OBS without any special operation. As a result of a series of the OBS observations, we obtained accurate hypocenter locations and focal mechanisms in both seaward and landward of the trench axis. Earthquakes near the trench axis area were located within the overriding and incoming/subducting plates with very few on the plate interface below the inner trench slope landward of the trench axis. Most of the earthquakes both in the overriding and incoming/subducting plates having normal or strike-slip faulting focal mechanisms with T-axis normal to the trench axis. This indicates that tensional stress is dominant in the trench axis area. However, most seaward part of the seismicity within the overriding plate is characterized by a localized cluster of trench-normal compressional earthquakes, which may relate to spatial variation of the frictional behavior of the shallowest part of the megathrust. On the other hand, trench-normal extensional earthquakes in the incoming/subducting Pacific plate were located at depths shallower than about

  16. X-ray lithography using holographic images

    DOEpatents

    Howells, Malcolm R.; Jacobsen, Chris

    1995-01-01

    A non-contact X-ray projection lithography method for producing a desired X-ray image on a selected surface of an X-ray-sensitive material, such as photoresist material on a wafer, the desired X-ray image having image minimum linewidths as small as 0.063 .mu.m, or even smaller. A hologram and its position are determined that will produce the desired image on the selected surface when the hologram is irradiated with X-rays from a suitably monochromatic X-ray source of a selected wavelength .lambda.. On-axis X-ray transmission through, or off-axis X-ray reflection from, a hologram may be used here, with very different requirements for monochromaticity, flux and brightness of the X-ray source. For reasonable penetration of photoresist materials by X-rays produced by the X-ray source, the wavelength X, is preferably chosen to be no more than 13.5 nm in one embodiment and more preferably is chosen in the range 1-5 nm in the other embodiment. A lower limit on linewidth is set by the linewidth of available microstructure writing devices, such as an electron beam.

  17. Masses of the visual components and black holes in X-ray novae: Effects of proximity of the components

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Petrov, V. S.; Antokhina, E. A.; Cherepashchuk, A. M.

    2017-05-01

    It is shown that the approximation of the complex, tidally distorted shape of a star as a circular disc with local line profiles and a linear limb-darkening law, which is usually applied when deriving equatorial stellar rotation velocities from line profiles, leads to overestimation of the equatorial velocity V rot sin i and underestimation of the component mass ratio q = M x / M v . A formula enabling correction of the effect of these simplifying assumptions on the shape of a star is used to re-determine the mass ratios q and the masses of the black holes M x and visual components M v in low-mass X-ray binary systems containing black holes. Taking into account the tidal-rotational distortion of the stellar shape can significantly increase the mass ratios q = M x / M v , reducing M v , while M x changes only slightly. The resulting distribution of M v attains its maximum near M v ≃ 0.35 M ⊙, in disagreement with the results of population synthesis computations realizing standard models for Galactic X-ray novae with black holes. Possible ways to overcome this inconsistency are discussed. The derived distribution of M x also differs strongly from the mass distribution for massive stars in the Galaxy.

  18. Local lattice distortion in NiCoCr, FeCoNiCr and FeCoNiCrMn concentrated alloys investigated by synchrotron X-ray diffraction

    DOE PAGES

    Tong, Yang; Jin, Ke; Bei, Hongbin; ...

    2018-05-26

    Severe lattice distortion is presumptively considered as a core effect of high-entropy alloys, but quantitative measurements are still missing. Here, we demonstrate that the lattice distortion in high-entropy alloys can be quantitatively analyzed based on pair distribution function obtained from synchrotron X-ray diffraction. By applying this method to equiatomic NiCoCr, FeCoNiCr and FeCoNiCrMn concentrated alloys, we found that the local lattice distortion in the NiCoCr (0.23%) and FeCoNiCrMn (0.24%) alloys are comparable while negligible in the FeCoNiCr alloy (0.04%). Furthermore, the origin of local lattice distortion in the NiCoCr and FeCoNiCrMn concentrated alloys was discussed.

  19. Local lattice distortion in NiCoCr, FeCoNiCr and FeCoNiCrMn concentrated alloys investigated by synchrotron X-ray diffraction

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

    Tong, Yang; Jin, Ke; Bei, Hongbin

    Severe lattice distortion is presumptively considered as a core effect of high-entropy alloys, but quantitative measurements are still missing. Here, we demonstrate that the lattice distortion in high-entropy alloys can be quantitatively analyzed based on pair distribution function obtained from synchrotron X-ray diffraction. By applying this method to equiatomic NiCoCr, FeCoNiCr and FeCoNiCrMn concentrated alloys, we found that the local lattice distortion in the NiCoCr (0.23%) and FeCoNiCrMn (0.24%) alloys are comparable while negligible in the FeCoNiCr alloy (0.04%). Furthermore, the origin of local lattice distortion in the NiCoCr and FeCoNiCrMn concentrated alloys was discussed.

  20. The Dominant Folding Route Minimizes Backbone Distortion in SH3

    PubMed Central

    Lammert, Heiko; Noel, Jeffrey K.; Onuchic, José N.

    2012-01-01

    Energetic frustration in protein folding is minimized by evolution to create a smooth and robust energy landscape. As a result the geometry of the native structure provides key constraints that shape protein folding mechanisms. Chain connectivity in particular has been identified as an essential component for realistic behavior of protein folding models. We study the quantitative balance of energetic and geometrical influences on the folding of SH3 in a structure-based model with minimal energetic frustration. A decomposition of the two-dimensional free energy landscape for the folding reaction into relevant energy and entropy contributions reveals that the entropy of the chain is not responsible for the folding mechanism. Instead the preferred folding route through the transition state arises from a cooperative energetic effect. Off-pathway structures are penalized by excess distortion in local backbone configurations and contact pair distances. This energy cost is a new ingredient in the malleable balance of interactions that controls the choice of routes during protein folding. PMID:23166485

  1. On the orbits that generate the X-shape in the Milky Way bulge

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abbott, Caleb G.; Valluri, Monica; Shen, Juntai; Debattista, Victor P.

    2017-09-01

    The Milky Way (MW) bulge shows a boxy/peanut or X-shaped bulge (hereafter BP/X) when viewed in infrared or microwave bands. We examine orbits in an N-body model of a barred disc galaxy that is scaled to match the kinematics of the MW bulge. We generate maps of projected stellar surface density, unsharp masked images, 3D excess-mass distributions (showing mass outside ellipsoids), line-of-sight number count distributions, and 2D line-of-sight kinematics for the simulation as well as co-added orbit families, in order to identify the orbits primarily responsible for the BP/X shape. We estimate that between 19 and 23 per cent of the mass of the bar in this model is associated with the BP/X shape and that the majority of bar orbits contribute to this shape that is clearly seen in projected surface density maps and 3D excess mass for non-resonant box orbits, 'banana' orbits, 'fish/pretzel' orbits and 'brezel' orbits. Although only the latter two families (comprising 7.5 per cent of the total mass) show a distinct X-shape in unsharp masked images, we find that nearly all bar orbit families contribute some mass to the 3D BP/X-shape. All co-added orbit families show a bifurcation in stellar number count distribution with distance that resembles the bifurcation observed in red clump stars in the MW. However, only the box orbit family shows an increasing separation of peaks with increasing galactic latitude |b|, similar to that observed. Our analysis suggests that no single orbit family fully explains all the observed features associated with the MW's BP/X-shaped bulge, but collectively the non-resonant boxes and various resonant boxlet orbits contribute at different distances from the centre to produce this feature. We propose that since box orbits (which are the dominant population in bars) have three incommensurable orbital fundamental frequencies, their 3D shapes are highly flexible and, like Lissajous figures, this family of orbits is most easily able to adapt to

  2. Ground-based x-ray calibration of the Astro-H/Hitomi soft x-ray telescopes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Iizuka, Ryo; Hayashi, Takayuki; Maeda, Yoshitomo; Ishida, Manabu; Tomikawa, Kazuki; Sato, Toshiki; Kikuchi, Naomichi; Okajima, Takashi; Soong, Yang; Serlemitsos, Peter J.; Mori, Hideyuki; Izumiya, Takanori; Minami, Sari

    2018-01-01

    We present the summary of the on-ground calibration of two soft x-ray telescopes (SXT-I and SXT-S), developed by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), onboard Astro-H/Hitomi. After the initial x-ray measurements with a diverging beam at the GSFC 100-m beamline, we performed the full calibration of the x-ray performance, using the 30-m x-ray beamline facility at the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science of Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency in Japan. We adopted a raster scan method with a narrow x-ray pencil beam with a divergence of ˜15″. The on-axis effective area (EA), half-power diameter, and vignetting function were measured at several energies between 1.5 and 17.5 keV. The detailed results appear in tables and figures in this paper. We measured and evaluated the performance of the SXT-S and the SXT-I with regard to the detector-limited field-of-view and the pixel size of the paired flight detector, i.e., SXS and the SXI, respectively. The primary items measured are the EA, image quality, and stray light for on-axis and off-axis sources. The accurate measurement of these parameters is vital to make the precise response function of the ASTRO-H SXTs. This paper presents the definitive results of the ground-based calibration of the ASTRO-H SXTs.

  3. Off-axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy with a mid-infrared interband cascade laser for real-time breath ethane measurements.

    PubMed

    Parameswaran, Krishnan R; Rosen, David I; Allen, Mark G; Ganz, Alan M; Risby, Terence H

    2009-02-01

    Cavity-enhanced tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy is an attractive method for measuring small concentrations of gaseous species. Ethane is a breath biomarker of lipid peroxidation initiated by reactive oxygen species. A noninvasive means of quickly quantifying oxidative stress status has the potential for broad clinical application. We present a simple, compact system using off-axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy with an interband cascade laser and demonstrate its use in real-time measurements of breath ethane. We demonstrate a detection sensitivity of 0.48 ppb/Hz(1/2).

  4. X-ray and Optical Explorations of Spiders

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Roberts, M.; Al Noori, H.; Torres, R.; Russell, D.; Mclaughlin, M.; Gentile, P.

    2017-10-01

    Black widows and redbacks are binary systems consisting of a millisecond pulsar in a close binary with a companion which is having matter driven off of its surface by the pulsar wind. X-rays due to an intrabinary shock have been observed from many of these systems, as well as orbital variations in the optical emission from the companion due to heating and tidal distortion. We have been systematically studying these systems in radio, optical and X-rays. Here we will present an overview of X-ray and optical studies of these systems, including new XMM-Newton data obtained from several of these systems, along with new optical photometry.

  5. Development of a 3-D Defocusing Liquid Crystal Particle Thermometry and Velocimetry (3DDLCPTV) System

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-05-01

    general, off axis imaging can cause distortion and astigmatism in the image if proper precautions are not taken. In this case, the lens selection... astigmatism into the optical system. This astigmatism takes the form of a blurring in each image directed away from the optical axis. This blurring...is non-trivial and makes particle identification nearly impossible. Images of particles from two of the off axis cameras with the astigmatism present

  6. The fitness costs and trade-off shapes associated with the exclusion of nine antibiotics by OmpF porin channels.

    PubMed

    Phan, Katherine; Ferenci, Thomas

    2017-06-01

    The trade-off relationship between antibiotic exclusion and nutrient access across the Gram-negative outer membrane is determined by structural constraints in porin channels. The precise nutritional cost of exclusion is unknown for different antibiotics, as are the shapes of the nutrition-susceptibility trade-off. Using a library of 10 engineered isogenic Escherichia coli strains with structural modifications of OmpF porin expressed at a constant level, susceptibilities were measured for nine antibiotics and the nutritional fitness costs estimated by competitions in chemostats. Different antibiotics exhibited a remarkably varied range of geometries in the nutrition-susceptibility trade-off, including convex, concave and sigmoidal trade-off shapes. The trade-off patterns predict the possibility of adaptations in contributing to antibiotic resistance; exclusion of amoxicillin or trimethoprim in ompF mutants can occur with little loss of fitness whereas kanamycin and streptomycin exclusion has a high cost. Some individual OmpF changes even allow positive correlations (trade-ups), resulting in increased fitness and decreased susceptibility specifically to cephalexin or ciprofloxacin. The surprising plasticity of the nutrition-exclusion relationship means that there are no generalisable rules that apply to decreasing susceptibility for all antibiotics. The protein changes are exquisitely specific in determining nutritional fitness and adaptive outcomes in a structural constraint trade-off.

  7. Geometrical distortion calibration of the stereo camera for the BepiColombo mission to Mercury

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Simioni, Emanuele; Da Deppo, Vania; Re, Cristina; Naletto, Giampiero; Martellato, Elena; Borrelli, Donato; Dami, Michele; Aroldi, Gianluca; Ficai Veltroni, Iacopo; Cremonese, Gabriele

    2016-07-01

    The ESA-JAXA mission BepiColombo that will be launched in 2018 is devoted to the observation of Mercury, the innermost planet of the Solar System. SIMBIOSYS is its remote sensing suite, which consists of three instruments: the High Resolution Imaging Channel (HRIC), the Visible and Infrared Hyperspectral Imager (VIHI), and the Stereo Imaging Channel (STC). The latter will provide the global three dimensional reconstruction of the Mercury surface, and it represents the first push-frame stereo camera on board of a space satellite. Based on a new telescope design, STC combines the advantages of a compact single detector camera to the convenience of a double direction acquisition system; this solution allows to minimize mass and volume performing a push-frame imaging acquisition. The shared camera sensor is divided in six portions: four are covered with suitable filters; the others, one looking forward and one backwards with respect to nadir direction, are covered with a panchromatic filter supplying stereo image pairs of the planet surface. The main STC scientific requirements are to reconstruct in 3D the Mercury surface with a vertical accuracy better than 80 m and performing a global imaging with a grid size of 65 m along-track at the periherm. Scope of this work is to present the on-ground geometric calibration pipeline for this original instrument. The selected STC off-axis configuration forced to develop a new distortion map model. Additional considerations are connected to the detector, a Si-Pin hybrid CMOS, which is characterized by a high fixed pattern noise. This had a great impact in pre-calibration phases compelling to use a not common approach to the definition of the spot centroids in the distortion calibration process. This work presents the results obtained during the calibration of STC concerning the distortion analysis for three different temperatures. These results are then used to define the corresponding distortion model of the camera.

  8. Local Lattice Distortion in the Giant Negative Thermal Expansion Material Mn3Cu1-xGexN

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Iikubo, S.; Kodama, K.; Takenaka, K.; Takagi, H.; Takigawa, M.; Shamoto, S.

    2008-11-01

    Giant negative thermal expansion is achieved in antiperovskite manganese nitrides when the sharp volume change associated with magnetic ordering is broadened by substitution. In this Letter, we address the unique role of the ‘‘magic” element, Ge, for such broadening in Mn3Cu1-xGexN. We present evidence for a local lattice distortion well described by the low-temperature tetragonal (T4) structure of Mn3GeN for a range of x, where the overall structure remains cubic. This structural instability shows a strong correlation with the broadness of the growth of the ordered magnetic moment and, hence, is considered to trigger the broadening of the volume change.

  9. Modulation of vergence by off-vertical yaw axis rotation in the monkey: normal characteristics and effects of space flight

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dai, M.; Raphan, T.; Kozlovskaya, I.; Cohen, B.

    1996-01-01

    Horizontal movements of both eyes were recorded simultaneously using scleral search coils in 2 rhesus monkeys before and after the COSMOS 2229 space-flight of 1992-1993. Another 9 monkeys were tested at comparable time intervals and served as controls. Ocular vergence, defined as the difference in horizontal position between the left and right eyes, was measured during off-vertical yaw axis rotation (OVAR) in darkness. Vergence was modulated sinusoidally as a function of head position with regard to gravity during OVAR. The amplitude of peak-to-peak modulation increased with increments in tilt of the angle of the rotational axis (OVAR tilt angle) that ranged from 15 degrees to 90 degrees. Of the 11 monkeys tested, 1 had no measurable modulation in vergence. In the other 10, the mean amplitude of the peak to peak modulation was 5.5 degrees +/- 1.3 degrees at 90 degrees tilt. Each of these monkeys had maximal vergence when its nose was pointed close to upward (gravity back; mean phase: -0.9 degree +/- 26 degrees). After space flight, the modulation in vergence was reduced by over 50% for the two flight monkeys, but the phase of vergence modulation was not altered. The reduction in vergence modulation was sustained for the 11-day postflight testing period. We conclude that changes in vergence are induced in monkeys by the sinusoidal component of gravity acting along the naso-occipital axis during yaw axis OVAR, and that the modulation of the vergence reflex is significantly less sensitive to linear acceleration after space flight.

  10. Integrated manufacture of a freeform off-axis multi-reflective imaging system without optical alignment.

    PubMed

    Li, Zexiao; Liu, Xianlei; Fang, Fengzhou; Zhang, Xiaodong; Zeng, Zhen; Zhu, Linlin; Yan, Ning

    2018-03-19

    Multi-reflective imaging systems find wide applications in optical imaging and space detection. However, it is faced with difficulties in adjusting the freeform mirrors with high accuracy to guarantee the optical function. Motivated by this, an alignment-free manufacture approach is proposed to machine the optical system. The direct optical performance-guided manufacture route is established without measuring the form error of freeform optics. An analytical model is established to investigate the effects of machine errors to serve the error identification and compensation in machining. Based on the integrated manufactured system, an ingenious self-designed testing configuration is constructed to evaluate the optical performance by directly measuring the wavefront aberration. Experiments are carried out to manufacture a three-mirror anastigmat, surface topographical details and optical performance shows agreement to the designed expectation. The final system works as an off-axis infrared imaging system. Results validate the feasibility of the proposed method to achieve excellent optical application.

  11. An efficient way of high-contrast, quasi-3D cellular imaging: off-axis illumination.

    PubMed

    Hostounský, Zdenĕk; Pelc, Radek

    2006-07-31

    An imaging system enabling a convenient visualisation of cells and other small objects is presented. It represents an adaptation of the optical microscope condenser, accommodating a built-in edge (relief) diaphragm brought close to the condenser iris diaphragm and enabling high-contrast pseudo-relief (quasi-3D) imaging. The device broadens the family of available apparatus based on the off-axis (or anaxial, asymmetric, inclined, oblique, schlieren-type, sideband) illumination. The simplicity of the design makes the condenser a user-friendly, dedicated device delivering high-contrast quasi-3D images of phase objects. Those are nearly invisible under the ordinary (axial) illumination. The phase contrast microscopy commonly used in visualisation of phase objects does not deliver the quasi-3D effect and introduces a disturbing 'halo' effect around the edges. The performance of the device presented here is demonstrated on living cells and tissue replicas. High-contrast quasi-3D images of cell-free preparations of biological origin (paper fibres and microcrystals) are shown as well.

  12. Measurement of Neutrino Oscillation Parameters from Muon Neutrino Disappearance with an Off-Axis Beam

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abe, K.; Adam, J.; Aihara, H.; Akiri, T.; Andreopoulos, C.; Aoki, S.; Ariga, A.; Ariga, T.; Assylbekov, S.; Autiero, D.; Barbi, M.; Barker, G. J.; Barr, G.; Bass, M.; Batkiewicz, M.; Bay, F.; Bentham, S. W.; Berardi, V.; Berger, B. E.; Berkman, S.; Bertram, I.; Bhadra, S.; Blaszczyk, F. d. M.; Blondel, A.; Bojechko, C.; Bordoni, S.; Boyd, S. B.; Brailsford, D.; Bravar, A.; Bronner, C.; Buchanan, N.; Calland, R. G.; Caravaca Rodríguez, J.; Cartwright, S. L.; Castillo, R.; Catanesi, M. G.; Cervera, A.; Cherdack, D.; Christodoulou, G.; Clifton, A.; Coleman, J.; Coleman, S. J.; Collazuol, G.; Connolly, K.; Cremonesi, L.; Curioni, A.; Dabrowska, A.; Danko, I.; Das, R.; Davis, S.; de Perio, P.; De Rosa, G.; Dealtry, T.; Dennis, S. R.; Densham, C.; Di Lodovico, F.; Di Luise, S.; Drapier, O.; Duboyski, T.; Duffy, K.; Dufour, F.; Dumarchez, J.; Dytman, S.; Dziewiecki, M.; Emery, S.; Ereditato, A.; Escudero, L.; Finch, A. J.; Frank, E.; Friend, M.; Fujii, Y.; Fukuda, Y.; Furmanski, A. P.; Galymov, V.; Gaudin, A.; Giffin, S.; Giganti, C.; Gilje, K.; Golan, T.; Gomez-Cadenas, J. J.; Gonin, M.; Grant, N.; Gudin, D.; Hadley, D. R.; Haesler, A.; Haigh, M. D.; Hamilton, P.; Hansen, D.; Hara, T.; Hartz, M.; Hasegawa, T.; Hastings, N. C.; Hayato, Y.; Hearty, C.; Helmer, R. L.; Hierholzer, M.; Hignight, J.; Hillairet, A.; Himmel, A.; Hiraki, T.; Hirota, S.; Holeczek, J.; Horikawa, S.; Huang, K.; Ichikawa, A. K.; Ieki, K.; Ieva, M.; Ikeda, M.; Imber, J.; Insler, J.; Irvine, T. J.; Ishida, T.; Ishii, T.; Ives, S. J.; Iyogi, K.; Izmaylov, A.; Jacob, A.; Jamieson, B.; Johnson, R. A.; Jo, J. H.; Jonsson, P.; Joo, K. K.; Jung, C. K.; Kaboth, A. C.; Kajita, T.; Kakuno, H.; Kameda, J.; Kanazawa, Y.; Karlen, D.; Karpikov, I.; Kearns, E.; Khabibullin, M.; Khotjantsev, A.; Kielczewska, D.; Kikawa, T.; Kilinski, A.; Kim, J.; Kim, S. B.; Kisiel, J.; Kitching, P.; Kobayashi, T.; Kogan, G.; Kolaceke, A.; Konaka, A.; Kormos, L. L.; Korzenev, A.; Koseki, K.; Koshio, Y.; Kreslo, I.; Kropp, W.; Kubo, H.; Kudenko, Y.; Kumaratunga, S.; Kurjata, R.; Kutter, T.; Lagoda, J.; Laihem, K.; Laveder, M.; Lawe, M.; Lazos, M.; Lee, K. P.; Licciardi, C.; Lim, I. T.; Lindner, T.; Lister, C.; Litchfield, R. P.; Longhin, A.; Lopez, G. D.; Ludovici, L.; Macaire, M.; Magaletti, L.; Mahn, K.; Malek, M.; Manly, S.; Marino, A. D.; Marteau, J.; Martin, J. F.; Maruyama, T.; Marzec, J.; Masliah, P.; Mathie, E. L.; Matveev, V.; Mavrokoridis, K.; Mazzucato, E.; McCarthy, M.; McCauley, N.; McFarland, K. S.; McGrew, C.; Metelko, C.; Mijakowski, P.; Miller, C. A.; Minamino, A.; Mineev, O.; Mine, S.; Missert, A.; Miura, M.; Monfregola, L.; Moriyama, S.; Mueller, Th. A.; Murakami, A.; Murdoch, M.; Murphy, S.; Myslik, J.; Nagasaki, T.; Nakadaira, T.; Nakahata, M.; Nakai, T.; Nakamura, K.; Nakayama, S.; Nakaya, T.; Nakayoshi, K.; Naples, D.; Nielsen, C.; Nirkko, M.; Nishikawa, K.; Nishimura, Y.; O'Keeffe, H. M.; Ohta, R.; Okumura, K.; Okusawa, T.; Oryszczak, W.; Oser, S. M.; Otani, M.; Owen, R. A.; Oyama, Y.; Pac, M. Y.; Palladino, V.; Paolone, V.; Payne, D.; Pearce, G. F.; Perevozchikov, O.; Perkin, J. D.; Petrov, Y.; Pinzon Guerra, E. S.; Pistillo, C.; Plonski, P.; Poplawska, E.; Popov, B.; Posiadala, M.; Poutissou, J.-M.; Poutissou, R.; Przewlocki, P.; Quilain, B.; Radicioni, E.; Ratoff, P. N.; Ravonel, M.; Rayner, M. A. M.; Redij, A.; Reeves, M.; Reinherz-Aronis, E.; Retiere, F.; Robert, A.; Rodrigues, P. A.; Rondio, E.; Roth, S.; Rubbia, A.; Ruterbories, D.; Sacco, R.; Sakashita, K.; Sánchez, F.; Sato, F.; Scantamburlo, E.; Scholberg, K.; Schwehr, J.; Scott, M.; Seiya, Y.; Sekiguchi, T.; Sekiya, H.; Sgalaberna, D.; Shiozawa, M.; Short, S.; Shustrov, Y.; Sinclair, P.; Smith, B.; Smith, R. J.; Smy, M.; Sobczyk, J. T.; Sobel, H.; Sorel, M.; Southwell, L.; Stamoulis, P.; Steinmann, J.; Still, B.; Suda, Y.; Suzuki, A.; Suzuki, K.; Suzuki, S. Y.; Suzuki, Y.; Szeglowski, T.; Tacik, R.; Tada, M.; Takahashi, S.; Takeda, A.; Takeuchi, Y.; Tanaka, H. K.; Tanaka, H. A.; Tanaka, M. M.; Taylor, I. J.; Terhorst, D.; Terri, R.; Thompson, L. F.; Thorley, A.; Tobayama, S.; Toki, W.; Tomura, T.; Totsuka, Y.; Touramanis, C.; Tsukamoto, T.; Tzanov, M.; Uchida, Y.; Ueno, K.; Vacheret, A.; Vagins, M.; Vasseur, G.; Wachala, T.; Waldron, A. V.; Walter, C. W.; Wark, D.; Wascko, M. O.; Weber, A.; Wendell, R.; Wilkes, R. J.; Wilking, M. J.; Wilkinson, C.; Williamson, Z.; Wilson, J. R.; Wilson, R. J.; Wongjirad, T.; Yamada, Y.; Yamamoto, K.; Yanagisawa, C.; Yen, S.; Yershov, N.; Yokoyama, M.; Yuan, T.; Zalewska, A.; Zalipska, J.; Zambelli, L.; Zaremba, K.; Ziembicki, M.; Zimmerman, E. D.; Zito, M.; Żmuda, J.

    2013-11-01

    The T2K Collaboration reports a precision measurement of muon neutrino disappearance with an off-axis neutrino beam with a peak energy of 0.6 GeV. Near detector measurements are used to constrain the neutrino flux and cross section parameters. The Super-Kamiokande far detector, which is 295 km downstream of the neutrino production target, collected data corresponding to 3.01×1020 protons on target. In the absence of neutrino oscillations, 205±17 (syst) events are expected to be detected while only 58 muon neutrino event candidates are observed. A fit to the neutrino rate and energy spectrum, assuming three neutrino flavors and normal mass hierarchy yields a best-fit mixing angle sin⁡2(θ23)=0.514±0.082 and mass splitting |Δm322|=2.44-0.15+0.17×10-3eV2/c4. Our result corresponds to the maximal oscillation disappearance probability.

  13. Actuator assembly including a single axis of rotation locking member

    DOEpatents

    Quitmeyer, James N.; Benson, Dwayne M.; Geck, Kellan P.

    2009-12-08

    An actuator assembly including an actuator housing assembly and a single axis of rotation locking member fixedly attached to a portion of the actuator housing assembly and an external mounting structure. The single axis of rotation locking member restricting rotational movement of the actuator housing assembly about at least one axis. The single axis of rotation locking member is coupled at a first end to the actuator housing assembly about a Y axis and at a 90.degree. angle to an X and Z axis providing rotation of the actuator housing assembly about the Y axis. The single axis of rotation locking member is coupled at a second end to a mounting structure, and more particularly a mounting pin, about an X axis and at a 90.degree. angle to a Y and Z axis providing rotation of the actuator housing assembly about the X axis. The actuator assembly is thereby restricted from rotation about the Z axis.

  14. Observation of distorted Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution of epithermal ions in LHD

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ida, K.; Kobayashi, T.; Yoshinuma, M.; Akiyama, T.; Tokuzawa, T.; Tsuchiya, H.; Itoh, K.; LHD Experiment Group

    2017-12-01

    A distorted Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution of epithermal ions is observed associated with the collapse of energetic ions triggered by the tongue shaped deformation. The tongue shaped deformation is characterized by the plasma displacement localized in the toroidal, poloidal, and radial directions at the non-rational magnetic flux surface in toroidal plasma. Moment analysis of the ion velocity distribution measured with charge exchange spectroscopy is studied in order to investigate the impact of tongue event on ion distribution. A clear non-zero skewness (3rd moment) and kurtosis (4th moment -3) of ion velocity distribution in the epithermal region (within three times of thermal velocity) is observed after the tongue event. This observation indicates the clear evidence of the distortion of ion velocity distribution from Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution. This distortion from Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution is observed in one-third of plasma minor radius region near the plasma edge and disappears in the ion-ion collision time scale.

  15. Direct evidence of detwinning in polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys during deformation.

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

    Nie, Z. H.; Lin Peng, R.; Johansson, S.

    2008-01-01

    In situ time-of-flight neutron diffraction and high-energy x-ray diffraction techniques were used to reveal the preferred reselection of martensite variants through a detwinning process in polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys under uniaxial compressive stress. The variant reorientation via detwinning during loading can be explained by considering the influence of external stress on the grain/variant orientation-dependent distortion energy. These direct observations of detwinning provide a good understanding of the deformation mechanisms in shape memory alloys.

  16. Surface relief and refractive index gratings patterned in chalcogenide glasses and studied by off-axis digital holography.

    PubMed

    Cazac, V; Meshalkin, A; Achimova, E; Abashkin, V; Katkovnik, V; Shevkunov, I; Claus, D; Pedrini, G

    2018-01-20

    Surface relief gratings and refractive index gratings are formed by direct holographic recording in amorphous chalcogenide nanomultilayer structures As 2 S 3 -Se and thin films As 2 S 3 . The evolution of the grating parameters, such as the modulation of refractive index and relief depth in dependence of the holographic exposure, is investigated. Off-axis digital holographic microscopy is applied for the measurement of the photoinduced phase gratings. For the high-accuracy reconstruction of the wavefront (amplitude and phase) transmitted by the fabricated gratings, we used a computational technique based on the sparse modeling of phase and amplitude. Both topography and refractive index maps of recorded gratings are revealed. Their separated contribution in diffraction efficiency is estimated.

  17. A first approach to the distortion analysis of nonlinear analog circuits utilizing X-parameters

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Weber, H.; Widemann, C.; Mathis, W.

    2013-07-01

    In this contribution a first approach to the distortion analysis of nonlinear 2-port-networks with X-parameters1 is presented. The X-parameters introduced by Verspecht and Root (2006) offer the possibility to describe nonlinear microwave 2-port-networks under large signal conditions. On the basis of X-parameter measurements with a nonlinear network analyzer (NVNA) behavioral models can be extracted for the networks. These models can be used to consider the nonlinear behavior during the design process of microwave circuits. The idea of the present work is to extract the behavioral models in order to describe the influence of interfering signals on the output behavior of the nonlinear circuits. Hereby, a simulator is used instead of a NVNA to extract the X-parameters. Assuming that the interfering signals are relatively small compared to the nominal input signal, the output signal can be described as a superposition of the effects of each input signal. In order to determine the functional correlation between the scattering variables, a polynomial dependency is assumed. The required datasets for the approximation of the describing functions are simulated by a directional coupler model in Cadence Design Framework. The polynomial coefficients are obtained by a least-square method. The resulting describing functions can be used to predict the system's behavior under certain conditions as well as the effects of the interfering signal on the output signal. 1 X-parameter is a registered trademark of Agilent Technologies, Inc.

  18. Quasi-static shape adjustment of a 15 meter diameter space antenna

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Belvin, W. Keith; Herstrom, Catherine L.; Edighoffer, Harold H.

    1987-01-01

    A 15 meter diameter Hoop-Column antenna has been analyzed and tested to study shape adjustment of the reflector surface. The Hoop-Column antenna concept employs pretensioned cables and mesh to produce a paraboloidal reflector surface. Fabrication errors and thermal distortions may significantly reduce surface accuracy and consequently degrade electromagnetic performance. Thus, the ability to adjust the surface shape is desirable. The shape adjustment algorithm consisted of finite element and least squares error analyses to minimize the surface distortions. Experimental results verified the analysis. Application of the procedure resulted in a reduction of surface error by 38 percent. Quasi-static shape adjustment has the potential for on-orbit compensation for a variety of surface shape distortions.

  19. Correlation of filament distortion and RRR degradation in drawn and rolled PIT and RRP Nb 3 Sn wires

    DOE PAGES

    Brown, M.; Tarantini, C.; Starch, W.; ...

    2016-07-11

    PIT and RRP® Nb3Sn strands are being developed for high field accelerator magnet upgrades for the high luminosity LHC. Here we report a quantitative study of the shape and position of PIT filaments and RRP® sub-elements after rolling lengths of unreacted PIT and RRP® round wires to simulate cabling deformation. In the as-drawn condition, filament shape distortion occurs preferentially in the outer ring filaments. By contrast, rolling induces non-uniform shear bands that generate greater distortion of inner ring filaments. By making a full digitization of the shapes of all filaments, we find that a critical distortion occurs for thickness reductionsmore » between 10% and 20% when filament shapes in inner filament rings heavily degrade, especially in the vicinity of the strong 45° shear bands imposed by the rolling. It is well known that maintaining diffusion barrier integrity is vital to retaining adequate RRR in the stabilizing copper needed for magnet stability. Diffusion barrier breaks occur preferentially in these distorted inner filaments and drive local Sn leakage during reaction, increasing RRR degradation.« less

  20. Soft X-ray spectrometer design for warm dense plasma measurements on DARHT Axis-I

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

    Ramey, Nicholas Bryan; Perry, John Oliver; Coleman, Joshua Eugene

    2017-07-11

    A preliminary design study is being performed on a soft X-ray spectrometer to measure K-shell spectra emitted by a warm dense plasma generated on Axis-I of the Dual-Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Testing (DARHT) facility at Los Alamos National Laboratory. The 100-ns-long intense, relativistic electron pulse with a beam current of 1.7 kA and energy of 19.8 MeV deposits energy into a thin metal foil heating it to a warm dense plasma. The collisional ionization of the target by the electron beam produces an anisotropic angular distribution of K-shell radiation and a continuum of both scattered electrons and Bremsstrahlung up to themore » beam energy of 19.8 MeV. The principal goal of this project is to characterize these angular distributions to determine the optimal location to deploy the soft X-ray spectrometer. In addition, a proof-of-principle design will be presented. The ultimate goal of the spectrometer is to obtain measurements of the plasma temperature and density to benchmark equation-of-state models of the warm dense matter regime.« less

  1. Suppression of the cooperative Jahn-Teller distortion and its effect on the Raman octahedra-rotation modes of TbM n1 -xF exO3

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vilarinho, R.; Passos, D. J.; Queirós, E. C.; Tavares, P. B.; Almeida, A.; Weber, M. C.; Guennou, M.; Kreisel, J.; Moreira, J. Agostinho

    2018-04-01

    This work reports the changes in structure and lattice dynamics induced by substituting the Jahn-Teller-active M n3 + ion by the Jahn-Teller-inactive F e3 + in TbM n1 -xF exO3 over the full composition range. The structural analysis reveals that the amplitude of the cooperative Jahn-Teller distortion decreases linearly from x =0 (pure TbMn O3 ) to x =0.5 , where it is completely suppressed. We then correlate this evolution with the behavior of the Raman modes across the solid solution. In particular, we show that the Raman modes associated with the rotation of octahedra, whose wave number is commonly considered to scale linearly with the tilt angles in orthorhombic Pnma perovskites, are also sensitive to the amplitude of the Jahn-Teller distortion.

  2. Buffering of potassium in seawater by alteration of basalt in low-temperature, off-axis, hydrothermal systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Laureijs, C. T.; Coogan, L. A.

    2016-12-01

    It is generally accepted that the composition of seawater has varied through the Phanerzoic and that the variation is linked to changes in the same global fluxes that control the long-term carbon cycle. However, K is observed to be stable at a value of 10 mmol/L despite variable river and hydrothermal fluxes [1]. Secondary K-bearing phases are widely observed in altered upper oceanic crust, suggesting that reactions between seawater and basalt in low-temperature, off-axis, oceanic hydrothermal systems could buffer the K concentration of seawater [2]. As K-feldspar is a common secondary K-bearing mineral in Cretaceous and rare in Cenozoic oceanic crust, the formation of K-feldspar by breakdown of plagioclase reacting with a model Cretaceous seawater was modeled at 15 ºC using the PhreeqC code (version 3.2) and the associated llnl.dat database. A fluid with a K-content of 11 mmol/L in equilibrium with K-feldspar and calcite was generated, consistent with K-feldspar acting as a buffer for the K-content in Cretaceous seawater and the production of alkalinity stabilizing atmospheric CO2 levels on the long-term timescales. A compilation of the K2O content of lavas from DSDP and ODP drill cores (from: http://www.earthchem.org/petdb) shows that the average K-content of altered crust was higher in the Cretaceous than the Cenozoic. This data is inconsistent with the model for the composition of seawater presented in [2], but is consistent with an updated and modified version of this model, that uses more realistic fluxes [3]. We conclude that oceanic off-axis hydrothermal systems probably do buffer the K-content of seawater. [1] Timofeeff et al. (2006), Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta. 70, 1977-1994; [2] Demicco et al. (2005), Geology 33, 877-880. [3] Coogan & Dosso (2012), Earth Planet. Sci. Lett. 323-324, 92-101.

  3. Effects of inflow distortion profiles on fan tone noise calculated using a 3-D theory

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kobayashi, H.; Groeneweg, J. F.

    1979-01-01

    Calculations of the fan tone acoustic power and modal structure generated by complex distortions in axial inflow velocity are presented. The model used treats the motor as a rotating three-dimensional cascade and calculates the acoustic field from the distortion-produced dipole distribution on the blades including noncompact source effects. Radial and circumferential distortion shapes are synthesized from Fourier-Bessel components representing individual distortion modes. The relation between individual distortion modes and the generated acoustic modes is examined for particular distortion cases. Comparisons between theoretical and experimental results for distortions produced by wakes from upstream radial rods show that the analysis is a good predictor of acoustic power dependence on disturbance strength.

  4. FastICA peel-off for ECG interference removal from surface EMG.

    PubMed

    Chen, Maoqi; Zhang, Xu; Chen, Xiang; Zhu, Mingxing; Li, Guanglin; Zhou, Ping

    2016-06-13

    Multi-channel recording of surface electromyographyic (EMG) signals is very likely to be contaminated by electrocardiographic (ECG) interference, specifically when the surface electrode is placed on muscles close to the heart. A novel fast independent component analysis (FastICA) based peel-off method is presented to remove ECG interference contaminating multi-channel surface EMG signals. Although demonstrating spatial variability in waveform shape, the ECG interference in different channels shares the same firing instants. Utilizing the firing information estimated from FastICA, ECG interference can be separated from surface EMG by a "peel off" processing. The performance of the method was quantified with synthetic signals by combining a series of experimentally recorded "clean" surface EMG and "pure" ECG interference. It was demonstrated that the new method can remove ECG interference efficiently with little distortion to surface EMG amplitude and frequency. The proposed method was also validated using experimental surface EMG signals contaminated by ECG interference. The proposed FastICA peel-off method can be used as a new and practical solution to eliminating ECG interference from multichannel EMG recordings.

  5. Two Red Clumps and the X-shaped Milky Way Bulge

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McWilliam, Andrew; Zoccali, Manuela

    2010-12-01

    From Two Micron All Sky Survey infrared photometry, we find two red clump (RC) populations coexisting in fields toward the Galactic bulge at latitudes |b|>5fdg5, ranging over ~13° in longitude and 20° in latitude. These RC peaks indicate two stellar populations separated by ~2.3 kpc at (l, b) = (+1, - 8) the two RCs are located at 6.5 and 8.8 ± 0.2 kpc. The double-peaked RC is inconsistent with a tilted bar morphology. Most of our fields show the two RCs at roughly constant distance with longitude, also inconsistent with a tilted bar; however, an underlying bar may be present. Stellar densities in the two RCs change dramatically with longitude: on the positive longitude side the foreground RC is dominant, while the background RC dominates negative longitudes. A line connecting the maxima of the foreground and background populations is tilted to the line of sight by ~20°±4°, similar to claims for the tilt of a Galactic bar. The distance between the two RCs decreases toward the Galactic plane; seen edge-on the bulge is X-shaped, resembling some extragalactic bulges and the results of N-body simulations. The center of this X is consistent with the distance to the Galactic center, although better agreement would occur if the bulge is 2-3 Gyr younger than 47 Tuc. Our observations may be understood if the two RC populations emanate, nearly tangentially, from the Galactic bar ends, in a funnel shape. Alternatively, the X, or double funnel, may continue to the Galactic center. From the Sun, this would appear peanut/box shaped, but X-shaped when viewed tangentially.

  6. X-ray verification of an optically aligned off-plane grating module

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Donovan, Benjamin D.; McEntaffer, Randall L.; Tutt, James H.; DeRoo, Casey T.; Allured, Ryan; Gaskin, Jessica A.; Kolodziejczak, Jeffery J.

    2018-01-01

    Off-plane x-ray reflection gratings are theoretically capable of achieving high resolution and high diffraction efficiencies over the soft x-ray bandpass, making them an ideal technology to implement on upcoming x-ray spectroscopy missions. To achieve high effective area, these gratings must be aligned into grating modules. X-ray testing was performed on an aligned grating module to assess the current optical alignment methods. Results indicate that the grating module achieved the desired alignment for an upcoming x-ray spectroscopy suborbital rocket payload with modest effective area and resolving power. These tests have also outlined a pathway towards achieving the stricter alignment tolerances of future x-ray spectrometer payloads, which require improvements in alignment metrology, grating fabrication, and testing techniques.

  7. Economic Choices Reveal Probability Distortion in Macaque Monkeys

    PubMed Central

    Lak, Armin; Bossaerts, Peter; Schultz, Wolfram

    2015-01-01

    Economic choices are largely determined by two principal elements, reward value (utility) and probability. Although nonlinear utility functions have been acknowledged for centuries, nonlinear probability weighting (probability distortion) was only recently recognized as a ubiquitous aspect of real-world choice behavior. Even when outcome probabilities are known and acknowledged, human decision makers often overweight low probability outcomes and underweight high probability outcomes. Whereas recent studies measured utility functions and their corresponding neural correlates in monkeys, it is not known whether monkeys distort probability in a manner similar to humans. Therefore, we investigated economic choices in macaque monkeys for evidence of probability distortion. We trained two monkeys to predict reward from probabilistic gambles with constant outcome values (0.5 ml or nothing). The probability of winning was conveyed using explicit visual cues (sector stimuli). Choices between the gambles revealed that the monkeys used the explicit probability information to make meaningful decisions. Using these cues, we measured probability distortion from choices between the gambles and safe rewards. Parametric modeling of the choices revealed classic probability weighting functions with inverted-S shape. Therefore, the animals overweighted low probability rewards and underweighted high probability rewards. Empirical investigation of the behavior verified that the choices were best explained by a combination of nonlinear value and nonlinear probability distortion. Together, these results suggest that probability distortion may reflect evolutionarily preserved neuronal processing. PMID:25698750

  8. Simbol-X Background Minimization: Mirror Spacecraft Passive Shielding Trade-off Study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fioretti, V.; Malaguti, G.; Bulgarelli, A.; Palumbo, G. G. C.; Ferri, A.; Attinà, P.

    2009-05-01

    The present work shows a quantitative trade-off analysis of the Simbol-X Mirror Spacecraft (MSC) passive shielding, in the phase space of the various parameters: mass budget, dimension, geometry and composition. A simplified physical (and geometrical) model of the sky screen, implemented by means of a GEANT4 simulation, has been developed to perform a performance-driven mass optimization and evaluate the residual background level on Simbol-X focal plane.

  9. Off-axis dose equivalent due to secondary neutrons from uniform scanning proton beams during proton radiotherapy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Islam, M. R.; Collums, T. L.; Zheng, Y.; Monson, J.; Benton, E. R.

    2013-11-01

    The production of secondary neutrons is an undesirable byproduct of proton therapy and it is important to quantify the contribution from secondary neutrons to patient dose received outside the treatment volume. The purpose of this study is to investigate the off-axis dose equivalent from secondary neutrons experimentally using CR-39 plastic nuclear track detectors (PNTD) at ProCure Proton Therapy Center, Oklahoma City, OK. In this experiment, we placed several layers of CR-39 PNTD laterally outside the treatment volume inside a phantom and in air at various depths and angles with respect to the primary beam axis. Three different proton beams with max energies of 78, 162 and 226 MeV and 4 cm modulation width, a 5 cm diameter brass aperture, and a small snout located 38 cm from isocenter were used for the entire experiment. Monte Carlo simulations were also performed based on the experimental setup using a simplified snout configuration and the FLUKA Monte Carlo radiation transport code. The measured ratio of secondary neutron dose equivalent to therapeutic primary proton dose (H/D) ranged from 0.3 ± 0.08 mSv Gy-1 for 78 MeV proton beam to 37.4 ± 2.42 mSv Gy-1 for 226 MeV proton beam. Both experiment and simulation showed a similar decreasing trend in dose equivalent with distance to the central axis and the magnitude varied by a factor of about 2 in most locations. H/D was found to increase as the energy of the primary proton beam increased and higher H/D was observed at 135° compared to 45° and 90°. The overall higher H/D in air indicates the predominance of external neutrons produced in the nozzle rather than inside the body.

  10. Spectral contaminant identifier for off-axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy measurements of liquid water isotopes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brian Leen, J.; Berman, Elena S. F.; Liebson, Lindsay; Gupta, Manish

    2012-04-01

    Developments in cavity-enhanced absorption spectrometry have made it possible to measure water isotopes using faster, more cost-effective field-deployable instrumentation. Several groups have attempted to extend this technology to measure water extracted from plants and found that other extracted organics absorb light at frequencies similar to that absorbed by the water isotopomers, leading to δ2H and δ18O measurement errors (Δδ2H and Δδ18O). In this note, the off-axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy (ICOS) spectra of stable isotopes in liquid water is analyzed to determine the presence of interfering absorbers that lead to erroneous isotope measurements. The baseline offset of the spectra is used to calculate a broadband spectral metric, mBB, and the mean subtracted fit residuals in two regions of interest are used to determine a narrowband metric, mNB. These metrics are used to correct for Δδ2H and Δδ18O. The method was tested on 14 instruments and Δδ18O was found to scale linearly with contaminant concentration for both narrowband (e.g., methanol) and broadband (e.g., ethanol) absorbers, while Δδ2H scaled linearly with narrowband and as a polynomial with broadband absorbers. Additionally, the isotope errors scaled logarithmically with mNB. Using the isotope error versus mNB and mBB curves, Δδ2H and Δδ18O resulting from methanol contamination were corrected to a maximum mean absolute error of 0.93 ‰ and 0.25 ‰ respectively, while Δδ2H and Δδ18O from ethanol contamination were corrected to a maximum mean absolute error of 1.22 ‰ and 0.22 ‰. Large variation between instruments indicates that the sensitivities must be calibrated for each individual isotope analyzer. These results suggest that the properly calibrated interference metrics can be used to correct for polluted samples and extend off-axis ICOS measurements of liquid water to include plant waters, soil extracts, wastewater, and alcoholic beverages. The general technique

  11. Three-dimensional organization of otolith-ocular reflexes in rhesus monkeys. I. Linear acceleration responses during off-vertical axis rotation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Angelaki, D. E.; Hess, B. J.

    1996-01-01

    1. The dynamic properties of otolith-ocular reflexes elicited by sinusoidal linear acceleration along the three cardinal head axes were studied during off-vertical axis rotations in rhesus monkeys. As the head rotates in space at constant velocity about an off-vertical axis, otolith-ocular reflexes are elicited in response to the sinusoidally varying linear acceleration (gravity) components along the interaural, nasooccipital, or vertical head axis. Because the frequency of these sinusoidal stimuli is proportional to the velocity of rotation, rotation at low and moderately fast speeds allows the study of the mid-and low-frequency dynamics of these otolith-ocular reflexes. 2. Animals were rotated in complete darkness in the yaw, pitch, and roll planes at velocities ranging between 7.4 and 184 degrees/s. Accordingly, otolith-ocular reflexes (manifested as sinusoidal modulations in eye position and/or slow-phase eye velocity) were quantitatively studied for stimulus frequencies ranging between 0.02 and 0.51 Hz. During yaw and roll rotation, torsional, vertical, and horizontal slow-phase eye velocity was sinusoidally modulated as a function of head position. The amplitudes of these responses were symmetric for rotations in opposite directions. In contrast, mainly vertical slow-phase eye velocity was modulated during pitch rotation. This modulation was asymmetric for rotations in opposite direction. 3. Each of these response components in a given rotation plane could be associated with an otolith-ocular response vector whose sensitivity, temporal phase, and spatial orientation were estimated on the basis of the amplitude and phase of sinusoidal modulations during both directions of rotation. Based on this analysis, which was performed either for slow-phase eye velocity alone or for total eye excursion (including both slow and fast eye movements), two distinct response patterns were observed: 1) response vectors with pronounced dynamics and spatial/temporal properties

  12. Strain-induced tetragonal distortions and multiferroic properties in polycrystalline Sr 1 - x B a x Mn O 3 ( x = 0.43 - 0.45 ) perovskites

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

    Somaily, H.; Kolesnik, S.; Mais, J.

    Here, we report a comprehensive structure-property phase diagram of unique single-ion type-1 multiferroic pseudocubic Sr 1-xBa xMnO 3 perovskites. Employing a specially designed multi-step reduction-oxidation synthesis technique, we describe the successful synthesis of previously unknown Sr 1-xBa xMnO 3 compositions in their polycrystalline form with a significantly extended Ba solubility limit that is only rivaled by a very limited number of crystals and thin films grown under non-equilibrium conditions. Understanding the multiferroic interplay with structure in Sr 1-xBa xMnO 3 is of great importance as it opens the door wide to the development of newer materials from the parent (AA’)(BB’)more » O 3 system with enhanced properties. To this end, using a combination of time-of-flight neutron and synchrotron x-ray scattering techniques, we determined the exact structures and quantified the Mn and oxygen polar distortions above and below T C and T N. In its ferroelectric state, the system crystalizes in the noncentrosymmetric tetragonal P4mm space group which gives rise to a large electric dipole moment P s, in the z-direction, of 18.4 and 29.5 µC/cm 2 for x = 0.43 and 0.45, respectively. The two independently driven ferroelectric and magnetic order parameters are single-handedly accommodated by the Mn sublattice leading to a novel strain-assisted multiferroic behavior in agreement with many theoretical predictions. Our neutron diffraction results demonstrate the large and tunable suppression of the ferroelectric order at the onset of AFM ordering and confirm the coexistence and strong coupling of the two ferroic orders below T N. The refined magnetic moments confirm the strong covalent bonding between Mn and the oxygen anions which is necessary for stabilizing the ferroelectric phase.« less

  13. Strain-induced tetragonal distortions and multiferroic properties in polycrystalline Sr 1 - x B a x Mn O 3 ( x = 0.43 - 0.45 ) perovskites

    DOE PAGES

    Somaily, H.; Kolesnik, S.; Mais, J.; ...

    2018-05-17

    Here, we report a comprehensive structure-property phase diagram of unique single-ion type-1 multiferroic pseudocubic Sr 1-xBa xMnO 3 perovskites. Employing a specially designed multi-step reduction-oxidation synthesis technique, we describe the successful synthesis of previously unknown Sr 1-xBa xMnO 3 compositions in their polycrystalline form with a significantly extended Ba solubility limit that is only rivaled by a very limited number of crystals and thin films grown under non-equilibrium conditions. Understanding the multiferroic interplay with structure in Sr 1-xBa xMnO 3 is of great importance as it opens the door wide to the development of newer materials from the parent (AA’)(BB’)more » O 3 system with enhanced properties. To this end, using a combination of time-of-flight neutron and synchrotron x-ray scattering techniques, we determined the exact structures and quantified the Mn and oxygen polar distortions above and below T C and T N. In its ferroelectric state, the system crystalizes in the noncentrosymmetric tetragonal P4mm space group which gives rise to a large electric dipole moment P s, in the z-direction, of 18.4 and 29.5 µC/cm 2 for x = 0.43 and 0.45, respectively. The two independently driven ferroelectric and magnetic order parameters are single-handedly accommodated by the Mn sublattice leading to a novel strain-assisted multiferroic behavior in agreement with many theoretical predictions. Our neutron diffraction results demonstrate the large and tunable suppression of the ferroelectric order at the onset of AFM ordering and confirm the coexistence and strong coupling of the two ferroic orders below T N. The refined magnetic moments confirm the strong covalent bonding between Mn and the oxygen anions which is necessary for stabilizing the ferroelectric phase.« less

  14. Improved particle position accuracy from off-axis holograms using a Chebyshev model.

    PubMed

    Öhman, Johan; Sjödahl, Mikael

    2018-01-01

    Side scattered light from micrometer-sized particles is recorded using an off-axis digital holographic setup. From holograms, a volume is reconstructed with information about both intensity and phase. Finding particle positions is non-trivial, since poor axial resolution elongates particles in the reconstruction. To overcome this problem, the reconstructed wavefront around a particle is used to find the axial position. The method is based on the change in the sign of the curvature around the true particle position plane. The wavefront curvature is directly linked to the phase response in the reconstruction. In this paper we propose a new method of estimating the curvature based on a parametric model. The model is based on Chebyshev polynomials and is fit to the phase anomaly and compared to a plane wave in the reconstructed volume. From the model coefficients, it is possible to find particle locations. Simulated results show increased performance in the presence of noise, compared to the use of finite difference methods. The standard deviation is decreased from 3-39 μm to 6-10 μm for varying noise levels. Experimental results show a corresponding improvement where the standard deviation is decreased from 18 μm to 13 μm.

  15. Lattice distortions in complex oxides and their relation to the thermal properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Srivastava, Archana; Gaur, N. K.

    2018-05-01

    We have investigated the various lattice distortions in complex oxides Ca1-xLaxMnO3 and its effect on elastic and thermal properties of these perovskite manganites, especially Debye temperature of these complex oxides. The revealed data on Bulk modulus and Debye temperature studied as a function of lattice distortions using a novel atomistic approach of Atom in Molecules(AIM) theory and Modified Rigid Ion Model (MRIM) are in closer agreement with the available experimental data for some concentrations (x) of Ca1-xLaxMnO3. We demonstrate that the distortions introduced due to electron concentration, size mismatch and JT effects are the dominant factor, whereas charge mismatch and buckling of Mn-O-Mn angle influence the thermal properties to a lesser degree in the ferromagnetic state.

  16. Tunable effective nonlinear refractive index of graphene dispersions during the distortion of spatial self-phase modulation

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

    Wang, Gaozhong; Zhang, Saifeng, E-mail: sfzhang@siom.ac.cn, E-mail: jwang@siom.ac.cn; Cheng, Xin

    2014-04-07

    Spatial self-phase modulation (SSPM) was observed directly when a focused He-Ne laser beam at 633 nm went through liquid-phase-exfoliated graphene dispersions. The diffraction pattern of SSPM was found to be distorted rapidly right after the incident beam horizontally passing through the dispersions, while no distortion for the vertically incident geometry. We show that the distortion is originated mainly from the non-axis-symmetrical thermal convections of the graphene nanosheets induced by laser heating, and the relative change of nonlinear refractive index can be determined by the ratio of the distortion angle to the half-cone angle. Therefore, the effective nonlinear refractive index of graphenemore » dispersions can be tuned by changing the incident intensity and the temperature of the dispersions.« less

  17. Quantifying the (X/peanut)-shaped structure of the Milky Way - new constraints on the bar geometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ciambur, Bogdan C.; Graham, Alister W.; Bland-Hawthorn, Joss

    2017-11-01

    The nature, size and orientation of the Milky Way's bar and `bulge' have been the subject of conflicting interpretations in the literature. Here, we present a novel approach to inferring the properties of the long bar, which extends beyond the inner `bulge', by using information encoded in the Galaxy's X/peanut (X/P)-shaped structure. We perform a quantitative analysis of the X/P feature seen in WISE wide-field images, at 3.4 and 4.6 μm, by measuring the deviations of the isophotes from pure ellipses and using the radial profile of their sixth-order Fourier harmonic (cosine term, B6). In addition to the vertical height and integrated `strength' of the observed X/P instability, we report an intrinsic radius RΠ,int = 1.67 ± 0.27 kpc, and an orientation angle of α = 37°+7°-10° with respect to our line of sight to the Galactic Centre. Based on X/P structures observed in other galaxies, we assume that the Milky Way's X/P structure is intrinsically symmetric, aligned with the long Galactic bar, and that its size is correlated with this bar. The implications for the Galactic bar are that it is oriented at a 37° angle and has a radius of ≈4.2 kpc, but possibly as low as ≈3.2 kpc. We have investigated how the Milky Way's X/P structure compares with analogues in other galaxies, and find that it is consistent with recently established scaling relations, though with a marginally stronger X/P instability than expected. We additionally perform a photometric decomposition of the Milky Way's major axis surface brightness profile, accounting for spiral structure, and determine an average disc scalelength of h = 2.54 ± 0.16 kpc.

  18. Complete Tri-Axis Magnetometer Calibration with a Gyro Auxiliary

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Deng; You, Zheng; Li, Bin; Duan, Wenrui; Yuan, Binwen

    2017-01-01

    Magnetometers combined with inertial sensors are widely used for orientation estimation, and calibrations are necessary to achieve high accuracy. This paper presents a complete tri-axis magnetometer calibration algorithm with a gyro auxiliary. The magnetic distortions and sensor errors, including the misalignment error between the magnetometer and assembled platform, are compensated after calibration. With the gyro auxiliary, the magnetometer linear interpolation outputs are calculated, and the error parameters are evaluated under linear operations of magnetometer interpolation outputs. The simulation and experiment are performed to illustrate the efficiency of the algorithm. After calibration, the heading errors calculated by magnetometers are reduced to 0.5° (1σ). This calibration algorithm can also be applied to tri-axis accelerometers whose error model is similar to tri-axis magnetometers. PMID:28587115

  19. Counting-loss correction for X-ray spectroscopy using unit impulse pulse shaping.

    PubMed

    Hong, Xu; Zhou, Jianbin; Ni, Shijun; Ma, Yingjie; Yao, Jianfeng; Zhou, Wei; Liu, Yi; Wang, Min

    2018-03-01

    High-precision measurement of X-ray spectra is affected by the statistical fluctuation of the X-ray beam under low-counting-rate conditions. It is also limited by counting loss resulting from the dead-time of the system and pile-up pulse effects, especially in a high-counting-rate environment. In this paper a detection system based on a FAST-SDD detector and a new kind of unit impulse pulse-shaping method is presented, for counting-loss correction in X-ray spectroscopy. The unit impulse pulse-shaping method is evolved by inverse deviation of the pulse from a reset-type preamplifier and a C-R shaper. It is applied to obtain the true incoming rate of the system based on a general fast-slow channel processing model. The pulses in the fast channel are shaped to unit impulse pulse shape which possesses small width and no undershoot. The counting rate in the fast channel is corrected by evaluating the dead-time of the fast channel before it is used to correct the counting loss in the slow channel.

  20. Validation of a partial coherence interferometry method for estimating retinal shape

    PubMed Central

    Verkicharla, Pavan K.; Suheimat, Marwan; Pope, James M.; Sepehrband, Farshid; Mathur, Ankit; Schmid, Katrina L.; Atchison, David A.

    2015-01-01

    To validate a simple partial coherence interferometry (PCI) based retinal shape method, estimates of retinal shape were determined in 60 young adults using off-axis PCI, with three stages of modeling using variants of the Le Grand model eye, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Stage 1 and 2 involved a basic model eye without and with surface ray deviation, respectively and Stage 3 used model with individual ocular biometry and ray deviation at surfaces. Considering the theoretical uncertainty of MRI (12-14%), the results of the study indicate good agreement between MRI and all three stages of PCI modeling with <4% and <7% differences in retinal shapes along horizontal and vertical meridians, respectively. Stage 2 and Stage 3 gave slightly different retinal co-ordinates than Stage 1 and we recommend the intermediate Stage 2 as providing a simple and valid method of determining retinal shape from PCI data. PMID:26417496

  1. Validation of a partial coherence interferometry method for estimating retinal shape.

    PubMed

    Verkicharla, Pavan K; Suheimat, Marwan; Pope, James M; Sepehrband, Farshid; Mathur, Ankit; Schmid, Katrina L; Atchison, David A

    2015-09-01

    To validate a simple partial coherence interferometry (PCI) based retinal shape method, estimates of retinal shape were determined in 60 young adults using off-axis PCI, with three stages of modeling using variants of the Le Grand model eye, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Stage 1 and 2 involved a basic model eye without and with surface ray deviation, respectively and Stage 3 used model with individual ocular biometry and ray deviation at surfaces. Considering the theoretical uncertainty of MRI (12-14%), the results of the study indicate good agreement between MRI and all three stages of PCI modeling with <4% and <7% differences in retinal shapes along horizontal and vertical meridians, respectively. Stage 2 and Stage 3 gave slightly different retinal co-ordinates than Stage 1 and we recommend the intermediate Stage 2 as providing a simple and valid method of determining retinal shape from PCI data.

  2. A robust correspondence matching algorithm of ground images along the optic axis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jia, Fengman; Kang, Zhizhong

    2013-10-01

    Facing challenges of nontraditional geometry, multiple resolutions and the same features sensed from different angles, there are more difficulties of robust correspondence matching for ground images along the optic axis. A method combining SIFT algorithm and the geometric constraint of the ratio of coordinate differences between image point and image principal point is proposed in this paper. As it can provide robust matching across a substantial range of affine distortion addition of change in 3D viewpoint and noise, we use SIFT algorithm to tackle the problem of image distortion. By analyzing the nontraditional geometry of ground image along the optic axis, this paper derivates that for one correspondence pair, the ratio of distances between image point and image principal point in an image pair should be a value not far from 1. Therefore, a geometric constraint for gross points detection is formed. The proposed approach is tested with real image data acquired by Kodak. The results show that with SIFT and the proposed geometric constraint, the robustness of correspondence matching on the ground images along the optic axis can be effectively improved, and thus prove the validity of the proposed algorithm.

  3. Frequency shifts in distortion-product otoacoustic emissions evoked by swept tones

    PubMed Central

    Shera, Christopher A.; Abdala, Carolina

    2016-01-01

    When distortion-product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) are evoked using stimuli whose instantaneous frequencies change rapidly and continuously with time (swept tones), the oscillatory interference pattern known as distortion-product fine structure shifts slightly along the frequency axis in the same direction as the sweep. By analogy with the temporal mechanisms thought to underlie the differing efficacies of up- and down-swept stimuli as perceptual maskers (e.g., Schroeder-phase complexes), fine-structure shifts have been ascribed to the phase distortion associated with dispersive wave propagation in the cochlea. This paper tests an alternative hypothesis and finds that the observed shifts arise predominantly as a methodological side effect of the analysis procedures commonly used to extract delayed emissions from the measured time waveform. Approximate expressions for the frequency shifts of DPOAE distortion and reflection components are derived, validated with computer simulations, and applied to account for DPOAE fine-structure shifts measured in human subjects. Component magnitudes are shown to shift twice as much as component phases. Procedures for compensating swept-tone measurements to obtain estimates of the total DPOAE and its components measured at other sweep rates or in the sinusoidal steady state are presented. PMID:27586726

  4. Spatial-heterodyne sampling requirements in the off-axis pupil plane recording geometry for deep-turbulence wavefront sensing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Banet, Matthias T.; Spencer, Mark F.

    2017-09-01

    Spatial-heterodyne interferometry is a robust solution for deep-turbulence wavefront sensing. With that said, this paper analyzes the focal-plane array sampling requirements for spatial-heterodyne systems operating in the off-axis pupil plane recording geometry. To assess spatial-heterodyne performance, we use a metric referred to as the field-estimated Strehl ratio. We first develop an analytical description of performance with respect to the number of focal-plane array pixels across the Fried coherence diameter and then verify our results with wave-optics simulations. The analysis indicates that at approximately 5 focal-plane array pixels across the Fried coherence diameter, the field-estimated Strehl ratios begin to exceed 0:9 which is indicative of largely diffraction-limited results.

  5. Multi-Axis Thrust Measurements of the EO-1 Pulsed Plasma Thruster

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Arrington, Lynn A.; Haag, Thomas W.

    1999-01-01

    Pulsed plasma thrusters are low thrust propulsive devices which have a high specific impulse at low power. A pulsed plasma thruster is currently scheduled to fly as an experiment on NASA's Earth Observing-1 satellite mission. The pulsed plasma thruster will be used to replace one of the reaction wheels. As part of the qualification testing of the thruster it is necessary to determine the nominal thrust as a function of charge energy. These data will be used to determine control algorithms. Testing was first completed on a breadboard pulsed plasma thruster to determine nominal or primary axis thrust and associated propellant mass consumption as a function of energy and then later to determine if any significant off-axis thrust component existed. On conclusion that there was a significant off-axis thrust component with the bread-board in the direction of the anode electrode, the test matrix was expanded on the flight hardware to include thrust measurements along all three orthogonal axes. Similar off-axis components were found with the flight unit.

  6. Lattice distortions in GaN on sapphire using the CBED-HOLZ technique.

    PubMed

    Sridhara Rao, D V; McLaughlin, K; Kappers, M J; Humphreys, C J

    2009-09-01

    The convergent beam electron diffraction (CBED) methodology was developed to investigate the lattice distortions in wurtzite gallium nitride (GaN) from a single zone-axis pattern. The methodology enabled quantitative measurements of lattice distortions (alpha, beta, gamma and c) in transmission electron microscope (TEM) specimens of a GaN film grown on (0,0,0,1) sapphire by metal-organic vapour-phase epitaxy. The CBED patterns were obtained at different distances from the GaN/sapphire interface. The results show that GaN is triclinic above the interface with an increased lattice parameter c. At 0.85 microm from the interface, alpha=90 degrees , beta=8905 degrees and gamma=11966 degrees . The GaN lattice relaxes steadily back to hexagonal further away from the sapphire substrate. The GaN distortions are mainly confined to the initial stages of growth involving the growth and the coalescence of 3D GaN islands.

  7. Effects of X-shaped reduction-sensitive amphiphilic block copolymer on drug delivery.

    PubMed

    Xiao, Haijun; Wang, Lu

    2015-01-01

    To study the effects of X-shaped amphiphilic block copolymers on delivery of docetaxel (DTX) and the reduction-sensitive property on drug release, a novel reduction-sensitive amphiphilic copolymer, (PLGA)2-SS-4-arm-PEG2000 with a Gemini-like X-shape, was successfully synthesized. The formation of nanomicelles was proved with respect to the blue shift of the emission fluorescence as well as the fluorescent intensity increase of coumarin 6-loaded particles. The X-shaped polymers exhibited a smaller critical micelle concentration value and possessed higher micellar stability in comparison with those of linear ones. The size of X-shaped (PLGA)2-SS-4-arm-PEG2000 polymer nanomicelles (XNMs) was much smaller than that of nanomicelles prepared with linear polymers. The reduction sensitivity of polymers was confirmed by the increase of micellar sizes as well as the in vitro drug release profile of DTX-loaded XNMs (DTX/XNMs). Cytotoxicity assays in vitro revealed that the blank XNMs were nontoxic against A2780 cells up to a concentration of 50 µg/mL, displaying good biocompatibility. DTX/XNMs were more toxic against A2780 cells than other formulations in both dose- and time-dependent manners. Cellular uptake assay displayed a higher intracellular drug delivery efficiency of XNMs than that of nanomicelles prepared with linear polymers. Besides, the promotion of tubulin polymerization induced by DTX was visualized by immunofluorescence analysis, and the acceleration of apoptotic process against A2780 cells was also imaged using a fluorescent staining method. Therefore, this X-shaped reduction-sensitive (PLGA)2-SS-4-arm-PEG2000 copolymer could effectively improve the micellar stability and significantly enhance the therapeutic efficacy of DTX by increasing the cellular uptake and selectively accelerating the drug release inside cancer cells.

  8. Economic choices reveal probability distortion in macaque monkeys.

    PubMed

    Stauffer, William R; Lak, Armin; Bossaerts, Peter; Schultz, Wolfram

    2015-02-18

    Economic choices are largely determined by two principal elements, reward value (utility) and probability. Although nonlinear utility functions have been acknowledged for centuries, nonlinear probability weighting (probability distortion) was only recently recognized as a ubiquitous aspect of real-world choice behavior. Even when outcome probabilities are known and acknowledged, human decision makers often overweight low probability outcomes and underweight high probability outcomes. Whereas recent studies measured utility functions and their corresponding neural correlates in monkeys, it is not known whether monkeys distort probability in a manner similar to humans. Therefore, we investigated economic choices in macaque monkeys for evidence of probability distortion. We trained two monkeys to predict reward from probabilistic gambles with constant outcome values (0.5 ml or nothing). The probability of winning was conveyed using explicit visual cues (sector stimuli). Choices between the gambles revealed that the monkeys used the explicit probability information to make meaningful decisions. Using these cues, we measured probability distortion from choices between the gambles and safe rewards. Parametric modeling of the choices revealed classic probability weighting functions with inverted-S shape. Therefore, the animals overweighted low probability rewards and underweighted high probability rewards. Empirical investigation of the behavior verified that the choices were best explained by a combination of nonlinear value and nonlinear probability distortion. Together, these results suggest that probability distortion may reflect evolutionarily preserved neuronal processing. Copyright © 2015 Stauffer et al.

  9. Simple and robust resistive dual-axis accelerometer using a liquid metal droplet

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huh, Myoung; Won, Dong-Joon; Kim, Joong Gil; Kim, Joonwon

    2017-12-01

    This paper presents a novel dual-axis accelerometer that consists of a liquid metal droplet in a cone-shaped channel and an electrode layer with four Nichrome electrodes. The sensor uses the advantages of the liquid metal droplet (i.e., high surface tension, electrical conductivity, high density, and deformability). The cone-shaped channel imposes a restoring force on the liquid metal droplet. We conducted simulation tests to determine the appropriate design specifications of the cone-shaped channel. Surface modifications to the channel enhanced the nonwetting performance of the liquid metal droplet. The performances of the sensor were analyzed by a tilting test. When the acceleration was applied along the axial direction, the device showed 6 kΩ/g of sensitivity and negligible crosstalk between the X- and Y-axes. In a diagonal direction test, the device showed 4 kΩ/g of sensitivity.

  10. The perception of 3-D shape from shadows cast onto curved surfaces.

    PubMed

    Norman, J Farley; Lee, Young-lim; Phillips, Flip; Norman, Hideko F; Jennings, L RaShae; McBride, T Ryan

    2009-05-01

    In a natural environment, cast shadows abound. Objects cast shadows both upon themselves and upon background surfaces. Previous research on the perception of 3-D shape from cast shadows has only examined the informativeness of shadows cast upon flat background surfaces. In outdoor environments, however, background surfaces often possess significant curvature (large rocks, trees, hills, etc.), and this background curvature distorts the shape of cast shadows. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which observers can "discount" the distorting effects of curved background surfaces. In our experiments, observers viewed deforming or static shadows of naturally shaped objects, which were cast upon flat and curved background surfaces. The results showed that the discrimination of 3-D object shape from cast shadows was generally invariant over the distortions produced by hemispherical background surfaces. The observers often had difficulty, however, in identifying the shadows cast onto saddle-shaped background surfaces. The variations in curvature which occur in different directions on saddle-shaped background surfaces cause shadow distortions that lead to difficulties in object recognition and discrimination.

  11. Numerical modeling of the sensitivity of x-ray driven implosions to low-mode flux asymmetries.

    PubMed

    Scott, R H H; Clark, D S; Bradley, D K; Callahan, D A; Edwards, M J; Haan, S W; Jones, O S; Spears, B K; Marinak, M M; Town, R P J; Norreys, P A; Suter, L J

    2013-02-15

    The sensitivity of inertial confinement fusion implosions, of the type performed on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) [1], to low-mode flux asymmetries is investigated numerically. It is shown that large-amplitude, low-order mode shapes (Legendre polynomial P(4), resulting from low-order flux asymmetries, cause spatial variations in capsule and fuel momentum that prevent the deuterium and tritium (DT) "ice" layer from being decelerated uniformly by the hot spot pressure. This reduces the transfer of implosion kinetic energy to internal energy of the central hot spot, thus reducing the neutron yield. Furthermore, synthetic gated x-ray images of the hot spot self-emission indicate that P(4) shapes may be unquantifiable for DT layered capsules. Instead the positive P(4) asymmetry "aliases" itself as an oblate P(2) in the x-ray images. Correction of this apparent P(2) distortion can further distort the implosion while creating a round x-ray image. Long wavelength asymmetries may be playing a significant role in the observed yield reduction of NIF DT implosions relative to detailed postshot two-dimensional simulations.

  12. Real-Time Amplitude and Phase Imaging of Optically Opaque Objects by Combining Full-Field Off-Axis Terahertz Digital Holography with Angular Spectrum Reconstruction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamagiwa, Masatomo; Ogawa, Takayuki; Minamikawa, Takeo; Abdelsalam, Dahi Ghareab; Okabe, Kyosuke; Tsurumachi, Noriaki; Mizutani, Yasuhiro; Iwata, Testuo; Yamamoto, Hirotsugu; Yasui, Takeshi

    2018-06-01

    Terahertz digital holography (THz-DH) has the potential to be used for non-destructive inspection of visibly opaque soft materials due to its good immunity to optical scattering and absorption. Although previous research on full-field off-axis THz-DH has usually been performed using Fresnel diffraction reconstruction, its minimum reconstruction distance occasionally prevents a sample from being placed near a THz imager to increase the signal-to-noise ratio in the hologram. In this article, we apply the angular spectrum method (ASM) for wavefront reconstruction in full-filed off-axis THz-DH because ASM is more accurate at short reconstruction distances. We demonstrate real-time phase imaging of a visibly opaque plastic sample with a phase resolution power of λ/49 at a frame rate of 3.5 Hz in addition to real-time amplitude imaging. We also perform digital focusing of the amplitude image for the same object with a depth selectivity of 447 μm. Furthermore, 3D imaging of visibly opaque silicon objects was achieved with a depth precision of 1.7 μm. The demonstrated results indicate the high potential of the proposed method for in-line or in-process non-destructive inspection of soft materials.

  13. Real-Time Amplitude and Phase Imaging of Optically Opaque Objects by Combining Full-Field Off-Axis Terahertz Digital Holography with Angular Spectrum Reconstruction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamagiwa, Masatomo; Ogawa, Takayuki; Minamikawa, Takeo; Abdelsalam, Dahi Ghareab; Okabe, Kyosuke; Tsurumachi, Noriaki; Mizutani, Yasuhiro; Iwata, Testuo; Yamamoto, Hirotsugu; Yasui, Takeshi

    2018-04-01

    Terahertz digital holography (THz-DH) has the potential to be used for non-destructive inspection of visibly opaque soft materials due to its good immunity to optical scattering and absorption. Although previous research on full-field off-axis THz-DH has usually been performed using Fresnel diffraction reconstruction, its minimum reconstruction distance occasionally prevents a sample from being placed near a THz imager to increase the signal-to-noise ratio in the hologram. In this article, we apply the angular spectrum method (ASM) for wavefront reconstruction in full-filed off-axis THz-DH because ASM is more accurate at short reconstruction distances. We demonstrate real-time phase imaging of a visibly opaque plastic sample with a phase resolution power of λ/49 at a frame rate of 3.5 Hz in addition to real-time amplitude imaging. We also perform digital focusing of the amplitude image for the same object with a depth selectivity of 447 μm. Furthermore, 3D imaging of visibly opaque silicon objects was achieved with a depth precision of 1.7 μm. The demonstrated results indicate the high potential of the proposed method for in-line or in-process non-destructive inspection of soft materials.

  14. Intrinsic Local Distortions and charge carrier behavior in CMR manganites and cobaltites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bridges, Frank

    2010-03-01

    We compare and contrast the local structure and electronic configurations in two oxide systems La1-xSrxCoO3 (LSCO) and La1-yCayMnO3 (LCMO). Although these oxides may appear quite similar they have rather different properties. At x=0, LaCoO3 (LCO) has unusual magnetic properties - diamagnetic at low T but developing a moment near 100K. The Sr doped LSCO materials show ferromagnetism for x > 0.2. For LCO, one of the possible spin state configurations called the intermediate spin (IS) state (S=1), should be Jahn-Teller (JT) active, while the low spin (S=0) and high spin (S=2) states have no JT distortion. Early local structure measurements suggested a JT distortion was present in LCO and therefore supported an IS spin model. However we find no evidence for any significant JT distortion (and hence no support for the IS model) for a range of bulk and nanoparticle cobaltites La1-xSrxCoO3, x = 0 - 0.35. In contrast there are large JT distortions in the manganites LCMO, 0.2 < x < 0.5 (Mn-O bonds), for which CMR behavior is observed. We have shown that the JT distortions in the manganites depend on both temperature T and magnetic field B, and from the B-field dependence, propose the size and nature of the polarons in LCMO. We also present Co K-edge XANES data that shown no significant shift of the edge for the cobaltites as the Sr concentration increases from x =0 to 0.35 indicating essentially no change in the electronic configuration about Co; consequently, the holes introduced via Sr doping appear to go primarily into the O bands. In contrast there is a large shift of the Mn K-edge with Ca doping indicating a change in the average Mn valence, and a corresponding change in the Mn electronic configuration. We briefly discuss some possible models.

  15. Analytical approximation of a distorted reflector surface defined by a discrete set of points

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Acosta, Roberto J.; Zaman, Afroz A.

    1988-01-01

    Reflector antennas on Earth orbiting spacecrafts generally cannot be described analytically. The reflector surface is subjected to a large temperature fluctuation and gradients, and is thus warped from its true geometrical shape. Aside from distortion by thermal stresses, reflector surfaces are often purposely shaped to minimize phase aberrations and scanning losses. To analyze distorted reflector antennas defined by discrete surface points, a numerical technique must be applied to compute an interpolatory surface passing through a grid of discrete points. In this paper, the distorted reflector surface points are approximated by two analytical components: an undistorted surface component and a surface error component. The undistorted surface component is a best fit paraboloid polynomial for the given set of points and the surface error component is a Fourier series expansion of the deviation of the actual surface points, from the best fit paraboloid. By applying the numerical technique to approximate the surface normals of the distorted reflector surface, the induced surface current can be obtained using physical optics technique. These surface currents are integrated to find the far field radiation pattern.

  16. Bandgap tuning in highly c-axis oriented Zn1-xMgxO thin films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Parmod; Malik, Hitendra K.; Ghosh, Anima; Thangavel, R.; Asokan, K.

    2013-06-01

    We propose Mg doping in zinc oxide (ZnO) films for realizing wider optical bandgap in highly c-axis oriented Zn1-xMgxO (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.3) thin films. A remarkable enhancement of 25% in the bandgap by 30% Mg doping was achieved. The bandgap was tuned between 3.25 eV (ZnO) and 4.06 eV (Zn0.7Mg0.3O), which was further confirmed by density functional theory based wien2k simulation employing a combined generalized gradient approximation with scissor corrections. The change of stress and crystallite size in these films were found to be the causes for the observed blueshift in the bandgap.

  17. Three-dimensional reconstruction with x-ray shape-from-silhouette

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Simioni, E.; Ratti, F.; Calliari, I.; Poletto, L.

    2010-09-01

    In the field of restoration of ancient handworks, X-ray tomography is a powerful method to reconstruct the internal structure of the object in non-invasive way. In some cases, such as small objects fully realized with hard metals and completely hidden by clay or products of oxidation, the tomography, although necessary to obtain the 3D appearance of the object, does not give any additional information on its internal monolithic structure. We present here the application of the shape-from-silhouette technique on X-ray images to reconstruct the 3D profile of handworks. The acquisition technique is similar to tomography, since several X-ray images are taken while the object is rotated. Some reference points are placed on a structure co-rotating with the object and are acquired on the images for calibration and registration. The shape-from-silhouette algorithm gives finally the 3D appearance of the handwork. We present the analysis of a tin pendant of VI-VIII century b.C. (Venetian area) completely hidden by solid ground. The 3D reconstruction shows surprisingly that the pendant is a very elaborated piece, with two embraced figures that were completely invisible before restoration.

  18. Depth dose and off-axis characteristics of TLD in therapeutic pion beams.

    PubMed

    Hogstrom, K R; Irifune, T

    1980-07-01

    The thermoluminescent (TL) response of LiF (TLD-100, TLD-600, TLD-700) and Li2B4O7 (TLD-800) has been measured as a function of depth and off-axis position in a therapeutic negative-pion beam in order to evaluate their usefulness in pion radiotherapy. TLD-100, TLD-600, and TLD-800 have been shown to be of little use as in vivo dosemeters because the neutron kerma relative to that in tissue changes grossly with depth. The neutron source comes primarily from pion absorption in the lead-alloy collimator. The 200 degrees C TLD-700 response agrees well with the depth dose spectra, except for small changes due to the varying linear energy transfer (LET) distributions. This variation can be partially accounted for by incorporating the known LET response of LiF. The 260 degrees C peak of TLD-700 has been found to be approximately four times more sensitive than the 200 degrees C peak to high LET dose. Using a simple model of the LET responses, the measured 200 degrees C and 260 degrees C peaks predict total dose within +/- 4% and high LET dose within +/- 50%, therefore indicating TLD-700 to be a good in vivo dosemeter for total dose but only an indicator of high LET dose.

  19. Exploring possibilities of band gap measurement with off-axis EELS in TEM.

    PubMed

    Korneychuk, Svetlana; Partoens, Bart; Guzzinati, Giulio; Ramaneti, Rajesh; Derluyn, Joff; Haenen, Ken; Verbeeck, Jo

    2018-06-01

    A technique to measure the band gap of dielectric materials with high refractive index by means of energy electron loss spectroscopy (EELS) is presented. The technique relies on the use of a circular (Bessel) aperture and suppresses Cherenkov losses and surface-guided light modes by enforcing a momentum transfer selection. The technique also strongly suppresses the elastic zero loss peak, making the acquisition, interpretation and signal to noise ratio of low loss spectra considerably better, especially for excitations in the first few eV of the EELS spectrum. Simulations of the low loss inelastic electron scattering probabilities demonstrate the beneficial influence of the Bessel aperture in this setup even for high accelerating voltages. The importance of selecting the optimal experimental convergence and collection angles is highlighted. The effect of the created off-axis acquisition conditions on the selection of the transitions from valence to conduction bands is discussed in detail on a simplified isotropic two band model. This opens the opportunity for deliberately selecting certain transitions by carefully tuning the microscope parameters. The suggested approach is experimentally demonstrated and provides good signal to noise ratio and interpretable band gap signals on reference samples of diamond, GaN and AlN while offering spatial resolution in the nm range. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Lepton asymmetry, neutrino spectral distortions, and big bang nucleosynthesis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grohs, E.; Fuller, George M.; Kishimoto, C. T.; Paris, Mark W.

    2017-03-01

    We calculate Boltzmann neutrino energy transport with self-consistently coupled nuclear reactions through the weak-decoupling-nucleosynthesis epoch in an early universe with significant lepton numbers. We find that the presence of lepton asymmetry enhances processes which give rise to nonthermal neutrino spectral distortions. Our results reveal how asymmetries in energy and entropy density uniquely evolve for different transport processes and neutrino flavors. The enhanced distortions in the neutrino spectra alter the expected big bang nucleosynthesis light element abundance yields relative to those in the standard Fermi-Dirac neutrino distribution cases. These yields, sensitive to the shapes of the neutrino energy spectra, are also sensitive to the phasing of the growth of distortions and entropy flow with time/scale factor. We analyze these issues and speculate on new sensitivity limits of deuterium and helium to lepton number.

  1. Single Etch-Pit Shape on Off-Angled 4H-SiC(0001) Si-Face Formed by Chlorine Trifluoride

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hatayama, Tomoaki; Tamura, Tetsuya; Yano, Hiroshi; Fuyuki, Takashi

    2012-07-01

    The etch pit shape of an off-angled 4H-SiC Si-face formed by chlorine trifluoride (ClF3) in nitrogen (N2) ambient has been studied. One type of etch pit with a crooked hexagonal shape was formed at an etching temperature below 500 °C. The angle of the etch pit measured from a cross-sectional atomic force microscopy image was about 10° from the [11bar 20] view. The dislocation type of the etch pit was discussed in relation to the etch pit shape and an electron-beam-induced current image.

  2. Hydride vapor phase epitaxy of high structural perfection thick AlN layers on off-axis 6H-SiC

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Volkova, Anna; Ivantsov, Vladimir; Leung, Larry

    2011-01-01

    The employment of more than 10 μm thick AlN epilayers on SiC substrates for AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) substantially raises their performance in high-power energy-efficient amplifiers for 4G wireless mobile stations. In this paper, structural properties and surface morphology of thick AlN epilayers deposited by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) on off-axis conductive 6H-SiC substrates are reported. The epilayers were examined in detail by high-resolution X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Nomarski differential interference contrast (DIC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and selective wet chemical etching. At optimal substrate preparation and growth conditions, a full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of the XRD rocking curve (RC) for the symmetric (00.2) reflex was very close to that of the substrate (less than 40 arcsec) suggesting low screw dislocation density in the epilayer (˜10 6 cm -2) and small in-plane tilt misorientation. Reciprocal space mapping around asymmetric reflexes and measured lattice parameters indicated a fully relaxed state of the epilayers. The unit-cell-high stepped areas of the epilayers with 0.5 nm root mean square (RMS) roughness over 1×1 μm 2 scan were alternated with step-bunching instabilities up to 350 nm in height. Low warp of the substrates makes them suitable for precise epitaxy of HEMT structures.

  3. Characterization of Electrostatic Potential and Trapped Charge in Semiconductor Nanostructures using Off-Axis Electron Holography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gan, Zhaofeng

    Off-axis electron holography (EH) has been used to characterize electrostatic potential, active dopant concentrations and charge distribution in semiconductor nanostructures, including ZnO nanowires (NWs) and thin films, ZnTe thin films, Si NWs with axial p-n junctions, Si-Ge axial heterojunction NWs, and Ge/Li xGe core/shell NW. The mean inner potential (MIP) and inelastic mean free path (IMFP) of ZnO NWs have been measured to be 15.3V+/-0.2V and 55+/-3nm, respectively, for 200keV electrons. These values were then used to characterize the thickness of a ZnO nano-sheet and gave consistent values. The MIP and IMFP for ZnTe thin films were measured to be 13.7+/-0.6V and 46+/-2nm, respectively, for 200keV electrons. A thin film expected to have a p-n junction was studied, but no signal due to the junction was observed. The importance of dynamical effects was systematically studied using Bloch wave simulations. The built-in potentials in Si NWs across the doped p-n junction and the Schottky junction due to Au catalyst were measured to be 1.0+/-0.3V and 0.5+/-0.3V, respectively. Simulations indicated that the dopant concentrations were ~1019cm-3 for donors and ~1017 cm-3 for acceptors. The effects of positively charged Au catalyst, a possible n+-n --p junction transition region and possible surface charge, were also systematically studied using simulations. Si-Ge heterojunction NWs were studied. Dopant concentrations were extracted by atom probe tomography. The built-in potential offset was measured to be 0.4+/-0.2V, with the Ge side lower. Comparisons with simulations indicated that Ga present in the Si region was only partially activated. In situ EH biasing experiments combined with simulations indicated the B dopant in Ge was mostly activated but not the P dopant in Si. I-V characteristic curves were measured and explained using simulations. The Ge/LixGe core/shell structure was studied during lithiation. The MIP for LixGe decreased with time due to increased Li

  4. A 6DOF passive vibration isolator using X-shape supporting structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Zhijing; Jing, Xingjian; Sun, Bo; Li, Fengming

    2016-10-01

    A novel 6 degree of freedom (6-DOF) passive vibration isolator is studied theoretically and validated with experiments. Based on the Stewart platform configuration, the 6-DOF isolator is constructed by 6 X-shape structures as legs, which can realize very good and tunable vibration isolation performance in all 6 directions with a passive manner. The mechanic model is established for static analysis of the working range, static stiffness and loading capacity. Thereafter, the equation of motion of the isolator is derived with the Hamilton principle. The equivalent stiffness and the displacement transmissibility in the six decoupled DOFs direction are then discussed with experimental results for validation. The results reveal that (a) by designing the structure parameters, the system can possess flexible stiffness such as negative, quasi-zero and positive stiffness, (b) due to the combination of the Stewart platform and the X-shape structure, the system can have very good vibration isolation performance in all the 6 directions and in a passive manner, and (c) compared with the simplified linear-stiffness legs, the nonlinearity of the X-shape structures enhance the passive isolator to have much better vibration isolation performance.

  5. Spectral contaminant identifier for off-axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy measurements of liquid water isotopes

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

    Brian Leen, J.; Berman, Elena S. F.; Gupta, Manish

    Developments in cavity-enhanced absorption spectrometry have made it possible to measure water isotopes using faster, more cost-effective field-deployable instrumentation. Several groups have attempted to extend this technology to measure water extracted from plants and found that other extracted organics absorb light at frequencies similar to that absorbed by the water isotopomers, leading to {delta}{sup 2}H and {delta}{sup 18}O measurement errors ({Delta}{delta}{sup 2}H and {Delta}{delta}{sup 18}O). In this note, the off-axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy (ICOS) spectra of stable isotopes in liquid water is analyzed to determine the presence of interfering absorbers that lead to erroneous isotope measurements. The baseline offsetmore » of the spectra is used to calculate a broadband spectral metric, m{sub BB}, and the mean subtracted fit residuals in two regions of interest are used to determine a narrowband metric, m{sub NB}. These metrics are used to correct for {Delta}{delta}{sup 2}H and {Delta}{delta}{sup 18}O. The method was tested on 14 instruments and {Delta}{delta}{sup 18}O was found to scale linearly with contaminant concentration for both narrowband (e.g., methanol) and broadband (e.g., ethanol) absorbers, while {Delta}{delta}{sup 2}H scaled linearly with narrowband and as a polynomial with broadband absorbers. Additionally, the isotope errors scaled logarithmically with m{sub NB}. Using the isotope error versus m{sub NB} and m{sub BB} curves, {Delta}{delta}{sup 2}H and {Delta}{delta}{sup 18}O resulting from methanol contamination were corrected to a maximum mean absolute error of 0.93 per mille and 0.25 per mille respectively, while {Delta}{delta}{sup 2}H and {Delta}{delta}{sup 18}O from ethanol contamination were corrected to a maximum mean absolute error of 1.22 per mille and 0.22 per mille . Large variation between instruments indicates that the sensitivities must be calibrated for each individual isotope analyzer. These results suggest

  6. Measurement of neutrino oscillation with KamLAND: evidence of spectral distortion.

    PubMed

    Araki, T; Eguchi, K; Enomoto, S; Furuno, K; Ichimura, K; Ikeda, H; Inoue, K; Ishihara, K; Iwamoto, T; Kawashima, T; Kishimoto, Y; Koga, M; Koseki, Y; Maeda, T; Mitsui, T; Motoki, M; Nakajima, K; Ogawa, H; Owada, K; Ricol, J-S; Shimizu, I; Shirai, J; Suekane, F; Suzuki, A; Tada, K; Tajima, O; Tamae, K; Tsuda, Y; Watanabe, H; Busenitz, J; Classen, T; Djurcic, Z; Keefer, G; McKinny, K; Mei, D-M; Piepke, A; Yakushev, E; Berger, B E; Chan, Y D; Decowski, M P; Dwyer, D A; Freedman, S J; Fu, Y; Fujikawa, B K; Goldman, J; Gray, F; Heeger, K M; Lesko, K T; Luk, K-B; Murayama, H; Poon, A W P; Steiner, H M; Winslow, L A; Horton-Smith, G A; Mauger, C; McKeown, R D; Vogel, P; Lane, C E; Miletic, T; Gorham, P W; Guillian, G; Learned, J G; Maricic, J; Matsuno, S; Pakvasa, S; Dazeley, S; Hatakeyama, S; Rojas, A; Svoboda, R; Dieterle, B D; Detwiler, J; Gratta, G; Ishii, K; Tolich, N; Uchida, Y; Batygov, M; Bugg, W; Efremenko, Y; Kamyshkov, Y; Kozlov, A; Nakamura, Y; Gould, C R; Karwowski, H J; Markoff, D M; Messimore, J A; Nakamura, K; Rohm, R M; Tornow, W; Wendell, R; Young, A R; Chen, M-J; Wang, Y-F; Piquemal, F

    2005-03-04

    We present results of a study of neutrino oscillation based on a 766 ton/year exposure of KamLAND to reactor antineutrinos. We observe 258 nu (e) candidate events with energies above 3.4 MeV compared to 365.2+/-23.7 events expected in the absence of neutrino oscillation. Accounting for 17.8+/-7.3 expected background events, the statistical significance for reactor nu (e) disappearance is 99.998%. The observed energy spectrum disagrees with the expected spectral shape in the absence of neutrino oscillation at 99.6% significance and prefers the distortion expected from nu (e) oscillation effects. A two-neutrino oscillation analysis of the KamLAND data gives Deltam(2)=7.9(+0.6)(-0.5)x10(-5) eV(2). A global analysis of data from KamLAND and solar-neutrino experiments yields Deltam(2)=7.9(+0.6)(-0.5)x10(-5) eV(2) and tan((2)theta=0.40(+0.10)(-0.07), the most precise determination to date.

  7. Crystalline Silicates in Comets: Modeling Irregularly-Shaped Forsterite Crystals and Its Implications on Condensation Conditions

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wooden, Diane H.; Lindsay, Sean S.

    2011-01-01

    Crystalline silicates in comets are a product of the condensation in the hot inner regions (T > or approx. equals 1400 K [1]) of our proto-planetary disk or annealing at somewhat lower temperatures (T > or approx. equals 1000-1200 K) [2, 3, 4] in shocks coupled with disk evolutionary processes that include radial transport of crystals from their formation locations out to the cold outer regions where comet nuclei formed. The grain shape of forsterite (crystals) could be indicative of their formation pathways at high temperatures through vapor-solid condensation or at lower temperatures through vapor-liquid-solid formation and growth [5, 6, 7]. Experiments demonstrate that crystals that formed from a rapidly cooled highly supersaturated silicate vapor are characterized by bulky, platy, columnar/needle and droplet shapes for values of temperature and supersaturation, T and sigma, of 1000-1450 C and < 97, 700-1000 C and 97-161, 580-820 C and 131-230, and <500 C and > 230, respectively [7]. The experimental columnar/needle shapes, which form by vapor-liquid-solid at lower temperatures (<820 C), are extended stacks of plates, where the extension is not correlated with an axial direction: columnar/needles may be extended in the c-axis or a-axis direction, can change directions, and/or are off-kilter or a bit askew extending in a combination of the a- and c-axis direction.

  8. Real-time distortion correction of spiral and echo planar images using the gradient system impulse response function.

    PubMed

    Campbell-Washburn, Adrienne E; Xue, Hui; Lederman, Robert J; Faranesh, Anthony Z; Hansen, Michael S

    2016-06-01

    MRI-guided interventions demand high frame rate imaging, making fast imaging techniques such as spiral imaging and echo planar imaging (EPI) appealing. In this study, we implemented a real-time distortion correction framework to enable the use of these fast acquisitions for interventional MRI. Distortions caused by gradient waveform inaccuracies were corrected using the gradient impulse response function (GIRF), which was measured by standard equipment and saved as a calibration file on the host computer. This file was used at runtime to calculate the predicted k-space trajectories for image reconstruction. Additionally, the off-resonance reconstruction frequency was modified in real time to interactively deblur spiral images. Real-time distortion correction for arbitrary image orientations was achieved in phantoms and healthy human volunteers. The GIRF-predicted k-space trajectories matched measured k-space trajectories closely for spiral imaging. Spiral and EPI image distortion was visibly improved using the GIRF-predicted trajectories. The GIRF calibration file showed no systematic drift in 4 months and was demonstrated to correct distortions after 30 min of continuous scanning despite gradient heating. Interactive off-resonance reconstruction was used to sharpen anatomical boundaries during continuous imaging. This real-time distortion correction framework will enable the use of these high frame rate imaging methods for MRI-guided interventions. Magn Reson Med 75:2278-2285, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  9. Real-time distortion correction of spiral and echo planar images using the gradient system impulse response function

    PubMed Central

    Campbell-Washburn, Adrienne E; Xue, Hui; Lederman, Robert J; Faranesh, Anthony Z; Hansen, Michael S

    2015-01-01

    Purpose MRI-guided interventions demand high frame-rate imaging, making fast imaging techniques such as spiral imaging and echo planar imaging (EPI) appealing. In this study, we implemented a real-time distortion correction framework to enable the use of these fast acquisitions for interventional MRI. Methods Distortions caused by gradient waveform inaccuracies were corrected using the gradient impulse response function (GIRF), which was measured by standard equipment and saved as a calibration file on the host computer. This file was used at runtime to calculate the predicted k-space trajectories for image reconstruction. Additionally, the off-resonance reconstruction frequency was modified in real-time to interactively de-blur spiral images. Results Real-time distortion correction for arbitrary image orientations was achieved in phantoms and healthy human volunteers. The GIRF predicted k-space trajectories matched measured k-space trajectories closely for spiral imaging. Spiral and EPI image distortion was visibly improved using the GIRF predicted trajectories. The GIRF calibration file showed no systematic drift in 4 months and was demonstrated to correct distortions after 30 minutes of continuous scanning despite gradient heating. Interactive off-resonance reconstruction was used to sharpen anatomical boundaries during continuous imaging. Conclusions This real-time distortion correction framework will enable the use of these high frame-rate imaging methods for MRI-guided interventions. PMID:26114951

  10. Ridge Jumps Associated with Plume-Ridge Interaction 1: Off-axis Heating due to Lithospheric Magma Penetration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mittelstaedt, E.; Ito, G.

    2005-12-01

    In many hot spot-ridge systems, changes in the ridge axis geometry occur between the hot spot centers and nearby mid-ocean ridges in the form of ridge jumps. Such ridge jumps likely occur as a result of anomalous lithospheric stresses associated with mantle plume-lithosphere interaction, as well as weakening of the hot spot lithosphere due to physical and thermal thinning caused by rising buoyant asthenosphere and magma transport through the lithosphere. In this study, we use numerical models to quantify the effects of excess magmatism through the near-ridge lithosphere. Hot spot magmatism can weaken the lithosphere both mechanically through fracturing and thermally through conduction and advection of heat into the plate. Here we focus on the effects of thermal weakening. Using a plane-strain approximation, we examine deformation in a 2-D cross section of a visco-elastic-plastic lithosphere with the finite element code FLAC. The model has isothermal top and bottom boundaries and a prescribed velocity equal to the half spreading rate is imposed on the sides to drive seafloor spreading. The initial condition, as predicted for normal mid-ocean ridges, is a square root of lithospheric age cooling curve with a corner flow velocity field symmetric about the ridge axis. A range of heat inputs are introduced at various plate ages and spreading rates to simulate off-axis magma transport. To reveal the physical conditions that allow for a ridge jump and control its timing, we vary 4 parameters: spreading rate, lithospheric age, crustal thickness and heat input. Results indicate that the heating rate required to produce a ridge jump increases as a function of lithospheric age at the location of magma intrusion. The time necessary for a ridge jump to develop in lithosphere of a particular age decreases with increasing crustal thicknesses. For magma fluxes comparable to those estimated for Galapagos and Iceland, lithospheric heating by the penetrating magma alone is sufficient

  11. Probing Nucleation and Growth Behavior of Twisted Kebabs from Shish Scaffold in Sheared Polyethylene Melts by in situ X-ray Studies

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

    Keum,J.; Burger, C.; Zuo, F.

    2007-01-01

    By utilizing synchrotron rheo-WAXD (wide-angle X-ray diffraction) and rheo-SAXS (small-angle X-ray scattering) techniques, the nucleation and growth behavior of twisted kebabs from the shear-induced shish scaffold in entangled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) melts were investigated. The evolution of the (110) reflection intensity in WAXD at the early stages of crystallization could be described by a simplified Avrami equation, while the corresponding long period of kebabs determined by SAXS was found to decrease with time. The combined SAXS and WAXD results indicate that the kebab growth in sheared HDPE melts consists of two-dimensional geometry with thermal (sporadic) nucleation. The WAXD data clearlymore » exhibited the transformations of (110) reflection from equatorial 2-arc to off-axis 4-arc and of (200) reflection from off-axis 4-arc to meridional 2-arc, which can be explained by the rotation of crystallographic a-axis around the b-axis during twisted kebab growth. This observation is also consistent with the orientation mode changes from 'Keller/Machin II' to 'intermediate' and then to 'Keller/Machin I'.« less

  12. Comparisons of Measurements and Simulations of Turbulence and Transport for DIII-D Discharges with Off-Axis Modulated ECH

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bravenec, R. V.; Ross, D. W.; Austin, M. E.; Gentle, K. W.; Deboo, J. C.; DIII-D Team; McKee, G. R.; Dorland, W.; Rhodes, T. L.; Zeng, L.

    2002-11-01

    Experiments to elucidate the nature of electron thermal transport have been conducted in DIII-D plasmas using modulated off-axis electron-cyclotron heating (ECH). Density fluctuations were measured using beam-emission spectroscopy, microwave reflectometry, and far-infrared scattering. Simulations of the experiment are performed with the gyrokinetic and gyrofluid flux-tube codes GS2(F. Jenko, W. Dorland, M. Kotschenreuther, and B.N. Rogers, Phys. Plasmas 7), 1904 (2000) and refs. therein. and GRYFFIN,(W. Dorland and G.W. Hammett, Phys. Fluids B 5), 812 (1993); M.A. Beer and G.W. Hammett, Phys. Plasmas 3, 4046 (1996). respectively. Comparisons of experiment and simulation results for the fluctuations and transport fluxes (ion and electron) will be presented for both time-averaged and modulated quantities.

  13. Underwater laser weld bowing distortion behavior and mechanism of thin 304 stainless steel plates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, ZunYue; Luo, Zhen; Ao, Sansan; Cai, YangChuan

    2018-10-01

    Underwater laser weld bowing distortion behavior and mechanism of thin 304 stainless steel plates are studied in the paper. The influence of underwater laser welding parameters (such as laser power, welding speed, defocusing distance and gas flow rate) on weld bowing distortion was investigated through central composite rotatable design and an orthogonal test. A quadratic response model was established to evaluate the underwater laser weld bowing distortion by central composite rotatable design and the order of the impacts of the welding parameters on weld bowing distortion was studied by an orthogonal test. The weld bowing distortion after welding was determined by the digital image correlation technique. The weld bowing distortion of in-air laser welding and underwater laser welding were compared and it revealed that the shape of the in-air and underwater laser welded specimens are the same, but the weld bowing distortion amount of in-air welding is larger than that of underwater welding. Weld bowing distortion mechanism was studied by the digital image correlation technique, and it was demonstrated that weld bowing distortion is associated with the welding plate temperature gradient during laser welding. The wider weld width also resulted in larger weld bowing distortion.

  14. The X-ray counterpart to the gravitational-wave event GW170817

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Troja, E.; Piro, L.; van Eerten, H.; Wollaeger, R. T.; Im, M.; Fox, O. D.; Butler, N. R.; Cenko, S. B.; Sakamoto, T.; Fryer, C. L.; Ricci, R.; Lien, A.; Ryan, R. E.; Korobkin, O.; Lee, S.-K.; Burgess, J. M.; Lee, W. H.; Watson, A. M.; Choi, C.; Covino, S.; D'Avanzo, P.; Fontes, C. J.; González, J. Becerra; Khandrika, H. G.; Kim, J.; Kim, S.-L.; Lee, C.-U.; Lee, H. M.; Kutyrev, A.; Lim, G.; Sánchez-Ramírez, R.; Veilleux, S.; Wieringa, M. H.; Yoon, Y.

    2017-11-01

    A long-standing paradigm in astrophysics is that collisions—or mergers—of two neutron stars form highly relativistic and collimated outflows (jets) that power γ-ray bursts of short (less than two seconds) duration. The observational support for this model, however, is only indirect. A hitherto outstanding prediction is that gravitational-wave events from such mergers should be associated with γ-ray bursts, and that a majority of these bursts should be seen off-axis, that is, they should point away from Earth. Here we report the discovery observations of the X-ray counterpart associated with the gravitational-wave event GW170817. Although the electromagnetic counterpart at optical and infrared frequencies is dominated by the radioactive glow (known as a ‘kilonova’) from freshly synthesized rapid neutron capture (r-process) material in the merger ejecta, observations at X-ray and, later, radio frequencies are consistent with a short γ-ray burst viewed off-axis. Our detection of X-ray emission at a location coincident with the kilonova transient provides the missing observational link between short γ-ray bursts and gravitational waves from neutron-star mergers, and gives independent confirmation of the collimated nature of the γ-ray-burst emission.

  15. Projection Exposure with Variable Axis Immersion Lenses: A High-Throughput Electron Beam Approach to “Suboptical” Lithography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pfeiffer, Hans

    1995-12-01

    IBM's high-throughput e-beam stepper approach PRojection Exposure with Variable Axis Immersion Lenses (PREVAIL) is reviewed. The PREVAIL concept combines technology building blocks of our probe-forming EL-3 and EL-4 systems with the exposure efficiency of pattern projection. The technology represents an extension of the shaped-beam approach toward massively parallel pixel projection. As demonstrated, the use of variable-axis lenses can provide large field coverage through reduction of off-axis aberrations which limit the performance of conventional projection systems. Subfield pattern sections containing 107 or more pixels can be electronically selected (mask plane), projected and positioned (wafer plane) at high speed. To generate the entire chip pattern subfields must be stitched together sequentially in a combination of electronic and mechanical positioning of mask and wafer. The PREVAIL technology promises throughput levels competitive with those of optical steppers at superior resolution. The PREVAIL project is being pursued to demonstrate the viability of the technology and to develop an e-beam alternative to “suboptical” lithography.

  16. Array feed synthesis for correction of reflector distortion and Vernier beamsteering

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Blank, Stephen J.; Imbriale, William A.

    1988-01-01

    An algorithmic procedure for the synthesis of planar array feeds for paraboloidal reflectors is described which simultaneously provides electronic correction of systematic reflector surface distortions as well as a Vernier electronic beamsteering capability. Simple rules of thumb for the optimum chioce of planar array feed configuration (i.e., the number and type of elements) are derived from a parametric study made using the synthesis procedure. A number of f/D ratios and distortion models were examined that are typical of large paraboloidal reflectors. Numerical results are presented showing that, for the range of distortion models considered, good on-axis gain restoration can be achieved with as few as seven elements. For beamsteering to +/- 1 beamwidth (BW), 19 elements are required. For arrays with either 7 or 19 elements, the results indicate that the use of high-aperture-efficiency elements (e.g., disk-on-rod and short backfire) in the array yields higher system gain than can be obtained with elements having lower aperture efficiency (e.g., open-ended waveguides). With 37 elements, excellent gain and beamsteering performance to +/- 1.5 BW are obtained independent of the assumed effective aperture of the array element. An approximate expression is derived for the focal-plane field distribution of the distorted reflector. Contour plots of the focal-plane fields are also presented for various distortion and beam scan angle cases. The results obtained show the effectiveness of the array feed approach.

  17. Array feed synthesis for correction of reflector distortion and Vernier Beamsteering

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Blank, S. J.; Imbriale, W. A.

    1986-01-01

    An algorithmic procedure for the synthesis of planar array feeds for paraboloidal reflectors is described which simultaneously provides electronic correction of systematic reflector surface distortions as well as a Vernier electronic beamsteering capability. Simple rules of thumb for the optimum choice of planar array feed configuration (i.e., number and type of elements) are derived from a parametric study made using the synthesis procedure. A number of f/D ratios and distortion models were examined that are typical of large paraboloidal reflectors. Numerical results are presented showing that, for the range of distortion models considered, good on-axis gain restoration can be achieved with as few as seven elements. For beamsteering to +/- 1 beamwidth (BW), 19 elements are required. For arrays with either 7 or 19 elements, the results indicate that the use of high-aperture-efficiency elements (e.g., disk-on-rod and short backfire) in the array yields higher system gain than can be obtained with elements having lower aperture efficiency (e.g., open-ended waveguides). With 37 elements, excellent gain and beamsteering performance to +/- 1.5 BW are obtained independent of the assumed effective aperture of the array element. An approximate expression is derived for the focal-plane field distribution of the distorted reflector. Contour plots of the focal-plane fields are also presented for various distortion and beam scan angle cases. The results obtained show the effectiveness of the array feed approach.

  18. Ultraviolet laser transverse profile shaping for improving x-ray free electron laser performance

    DOE PAGES

    Li, S.; Alverson, S.; Bohler, D.; ...

    2017-08-17

    The photocathode rf gun is one of the most critical components in x-ray free electron lasers. The drive laser strikes the photocathode surface, which emits electrons with properties that depend on the shape of the drive laser. Most free electron lasers use photocathodes with work function in the ultraviolet, a wavelength where direct laser manipulation becomes challenging. In this paper, we present a novel application of a digital micromirror device (DMD) for the 253 nm drive laser at the Linear Coherent Light Source. Laser profile shaping is accomplished through an iterative algorithm that takes into account shaping error and efficiency.more » Next, we use laser shaping to control the X-ray laser output via an online optimizer, which shows improvement in FEL pulse energy. Lastly, as a preparation for electron beam shaping, we use the DMD to measure the photocathode quantum efficiency across cathode surface with an averaged laser rms spot size of 59 μm. In conclusion, our experiments demonstrate promising outlook of using DMD to shape ultraviolet lasers for photocathode rf guns with various applications.« less

  19. Ultraviolet laser transverse profile shaping for improving x-ray free electron laser performance

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

    Li, S.; Alverson, S.; Bohler, D.

    The photocathode rf gun is one of the most critical components in x-ray free electron lasers. The drive laser strikes the photocathode surface, which emits electrons with properties that depend on the shape of the drive laser. Most free electron lasers use photocathodes with work function in the ultraviolet, a wavelength where direct laser manipulation becomes challenging. In this paper, we present a novel application of a digital micromirror device (DMD) for the 253 nm drive laser at the Linear Coherent Light Source. Laser profile shaping is accomplished through an iterative algorithm that takes into account shaping error and efficiency.more » Next, we use laser shaping to control the X-ray laser output via an online optimizer, which shows improvement in FEL pulse energy. Lastly, as a preparation for electron beam shaping, we use the DMD to measure the photocathode quantum efficiency across cathode surface with an averaged laser rms spot size of 59 μm. In conclusion, our experiments demonstrate promising outlook of using DMD to shape ultraviolet lasers for photocathode rf guns with various applications.« less

  20. Ultraviolet laser transverse profile shaping for improving x-ray free electron laser performance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, S.; Alverson, S.; Bohler, D.; Egger, A.; Fry, A.; Gilevich, S.; Huang, Z.; Miahnahri, A.; Ratner, D.; Robinson, J.; Zhou, F.

    2017-08-01

    The photocathode rf gun is one of the most critical components in x-ray free electron lasers. The drive laser strikes the photocathode surface, which emits electrons with properties that depend on the shape of the drive laser. Most free electron lasers use photocathodes with work function in the ultraviolet, a wavelength where direct laser manipulation becomes challenging. In this paper, we present a novel application of a digital micromirror device (DMD) for the 253 nm drive laser at the Linear Coherent Light Source. Laser profile shaping is accomplished through an iterative algorithm that takes into account shaping error and efficiency. Next, we use laser shaping to control the X-ray laser output via an online optimizer, which shows improvement in FEL pulse energy. Lastly, as a preparation for electron beam shaping, we use the DMD to measure the photocathode quantum efficiency across cathode surface with an averaged laser rms spot size of 59 μ m . Our experiments demonstrate promising outlook of using DMD to shape ultraviolet lasers for photocathode rf guns with various applications.

  1. Lepton asymmetry, neutrino spectral distortions, and big bang nucleosynthesis

    DOE PAGES

    Grohs, E.; Fuller, George M.; Kishimoto, C. T.; ...

    2017-03-03

    In this paper, we calculate Boltzmann neutrino energy transport with self-consistently coupled nuclear reactions through the weak-decoupling-nucleosynthesis epoch in an early universe with significant lepton numbers. We find that the presence of lepton asymmetry enhances processes which give rise to nonthermal neutrino spectral distortions. Our results reveal how asymmetries in energy and entropy density uniquely evolve for different transport processes and neutrino flavors. The enhanced distortions in the neutrino spectra alter the expected big bang nucleosynthesis light element abundance yields relative to those in the standard Fermi-Dirac neutrino distribution cases. These yields, sensitive to the shapes of the neutrino energymore » spectra, are also sensitive to the phasing of the growth of distortions and entropy flow with time/scale factor. Finally, we analyze these issues and speculate on new sensitivity limits of deuterium and helium to lepton number.« less

  2. Lepton asymmetry, neutrino spectral distortions, and big bang nucleosynthesis

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

    Grohs, E.; Fuller, George M.; Kishimoto, C. T.

    In this paper, we calculate Boltzmann neutrino energy transport with self-consistently coupled nuclear reactions through the weak-decoupling-nucleosynthesis epoch in an early universe with significant lepton numbers. We find that the presence of lepton asymmetry enhances processes which give rise to nonthermal neutrino spectral distortions. Our results reveal how asymmetries in energy and entropy density uniquely evolve for different transport processes and neutrino flavors. The enhanced distortions in the neutrino spectra alter the expected big bang nucleosynthesis light element abundance yields relative to those in the standard Fermi-Dirac neutrino distribution cases. These yields, sensitive to the shapes of the neutrino energymore » spectra, are also sensitive to the phasing of the growth of distortions and entropy flow with time/scale factor. Finally, we analyze these issues and speculate on new sensitivity limits of deuterium and helium to lepton number.« less

  3. A method for measuring coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering at a far off-axis high-energy neutrino beam target

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

    Brice, S. J.; Cooper, R. L.; DeJongh, F.

    2014-04-03

    We present an experimental method for measuring the process of coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CENNS). This method uses a detector situated transverse to a high-energy neutrino beam production target. This detector would be sensitive to the low-energy neutrinos arising from decay-at-rest pions in the target. We discuss the physics motivation for making this measurement and outline the predicted backgrounds and sensitivities using this approach. We report a measurement of neutron backgrounds as found in an off-axis surface location of the Fermilab Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB) target. The results indicate that the Fermilab BNB target is a favorable location for amore » CENNS experiment.« less

  4. A Study of Pulse Shape Evolution and X-Ray Reprocessing in Her X-1

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cushman, Paula P.

    1998-01-01

    This study focused on the pulse shape evolution and spectral properties of the X-ray binary Her X-1 with regard to the well known 35-day cycle of Her X-1. A follow-up set of RXTE observations has been conducted in RXTE AO-2 phase and the two observation sets are being analyzed together. We presented results of early analysis of pulse shape evolution in "Proceedings of the Fourth Compton Symposium". More advanced analysis was presented at the HEAD meeting in November, 1997 in Estes Park, Colorado. A related study of the 35-day cycle using RXTE/ASM data, which laid out the overall picture within which the more detailed PCA observations could be placed has also been conducted. The results of this study have been published. A pair of papers on the detailed pulse evolution and the spectral/color evolution are currently being prepared for publication. Some of the significant results of this study have been a confirmation of the detailed pulse profile changes at the end of the Main High state in HerX-1 first observed by GINGA, observations of the pulse evolution in several Short High states which agree with the pulse evolution pattern predicted using a disk occultation model, observation of a systematic lengthening of the eclipse egress during the Main High state of the 35-day phase and observation of a new type of extended eclipse ingress during which pulsations cease to observed during the Short High state.

  5. Numerical Modeling of the Sensitivity of X-Ray Driven Implosions to Low-Mode Flux Asymmetries

    DOE PAGES

    Scott, R. H. H.; Clark, D. S.; Bradley, D. K.; ...

    2013-02-01

    In this study, the sensitivity of inertial confinement fusion implosions of the type performed on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) [1] to low-mode flux asymmetries has been investigated numerically. It is shown that large-amplitude, low-order mode shapes (Legendre polynomial P4), resulting from associated low order flux asymmetries, cause spatial variations in capsule and fuel momentum that prevent the DT “ice” layer from being decelerated uniformly by the hot spot pressure. This reduces the transfer of kinetic to internal energy of the central hot spot, thus reducing neutron yield. Furthermore, synthetic gated x-ray images indicate that the P4 component of hotmore » spot self-emission shape is insensitive to P4 hot spot shapes, and a positive P4 asymmetry aliases itself as a negative or oblate P2 in these images. Correction of this apparent P2 distortion can further distort the implosion while creating a round x-ray image. Long wavelength asymmetries may be playing a significant role in the observed yield reduction of NIF DT implosions relative to detailed post-shot 2D simulations.« less

  6. Off-axis phonon and photon propagation in porous silicon superlattices studied by Brillouin spectroscopy and optical reflectance

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

    Parsons, L. C., E-mail: lcparsons@mun.ca; Andrews, G. T., E-mail: tandrews@mun.ca

    2014-07-21

    Brillouin light scattering experiments and optical reflectance measurements were performed on a pair of porous silicon-based optical Bragg mirrors which had constituent layer porosity ratios close to unity. For off-axis propagation, the phononic and photonic band structures of the samples were modeled as a series of intersecting linear dispersion curves. Zone-folding was observed for the longitudinal bulk acoustic phonon and the frequency of the probed zone-folded longitudinal phonon was shown to be dependent on the propagation direction as well as the folding order of the mode branch. There was no conclusive evidence of coupling between the transverse and the foldedmore » longitudinal modes. Two additional observed Brillouin peaks were attributed to the Rayleigh surface mode and a possible pseudo-surface mode. Both of these modes were dispersive, with the velocity increasing as the wavevector decreased.« less

  7. Symmetrical optical imaging system with bionic variable-focus lens for off-axis aberration correction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Xuan-Yin; Du, Jia-Wei; Zhu, Shi-Qiang

    2017-09-01

    A bionic variable-focus lens with symmetrical layered structure was designed to mimic the crystalline lens. An optical imaging system based on this lens and with a symmetrical structure that mimics the human eye structure was proposed. The refractive index of the bionic variable-focus lens increases from outside to inside. The two PDMS lenses with a certain thickness were designed to improve the optical performance of the optical imaging system and minimise the gravity effect of liquid. The paper presents the overall structure of the optical imaging system and the detailed description of the bionic variable-focus lens. By pumping liquid in or out of the cavity, the surface curvatures of the rear PDMS lens were varied, resulting in a change in the focal length. The focal length range of the optical imaging system was 20.71-24.87 mm. The optical performance of the optical imaging system was evaluated by imaging experiments and analysed by ray tracing simulations. On the basis of test and simulation results, the optical performance of the system was quite satisfactory. Off-axis aberrations were well corrected, and the image quality was greatly improved.

  8. Quality of reconstruction of compressed off-axis digital holograms by frequency filtering and wavelets.

    PubMed

    Cheremkhin, Pavel A; Kurbatova, Ekaterina A

    2018-01-01

    Compression of digital holograms can significantly help with the storage of objects and data in 2D and 3D form, its transmission, and its reconstruction. Compression of standard images by methods based on wavelets allows high compression ratios (up to 20-50 times) with minimum losses of quality. In the case of digital holograms, application of wavelets directly does not allow high values of compression to be obtained. However, additional preprocessing and postprocessing can afford significant compression of holograms and the acceptable quality of reconstructed images. In this paper application of wavelet transforms for compression of off-axis digital holograms are considered. The combined technique based on zero- and twin-order elimination, wavelet compression of the amplitude and phase components of the obtained Fourier spectrum, and further additional compression of wavelet coefficients by thresholding and quantization is considered. Numerical experiments on reconstruction of images from the compressed holograms are performed. The comparative analysis of applicability of various wavelets and methods of additional compression of wavelet coefficients is performed. Optimum parameters of compression of holograms by the methods can be estimated. Sizes of holographic information were decreased up to 190 times.

  9. Alignment and use of the optical test for the 8.4-m off-axis primary mirrors of the Giant Magellan Telescope

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    West, S. C.; Burge, J. H.; Cuerden, B.; Davison, W.; Hagen, J.; Martin, H. M.; Tuell, M. T.; Zhao, C.; Zobrist, T.

    2010-07-01

    The Giant Magellan Telescope has a 25 meter f/0.7 near-parabolic primary mirror constructed from seven 8.4 meter diameter segments. Several aspects of the interferometric optical test used to guide polishing of the six off-axis segments go beyond the demonstrated state of the art in optical testing. The null corrector is created from two obliquelyilluminated spherical mirrors combined with a computer-generated hologram (the measurement hologram). The larger mirror is 3.75 m in diameter and is supported at the top of a test tower, 23.5 m above the GMT segment. Its size rules out a direct validation of the wavefront produced by the null corrector. We can, however, use a reference hologram placed at an intermediate focus between the two spherical mirrors to measure the wavefront produced by the measurement hologram and the first mirror. This reference hologram is aligned to match the wavefront and thereby becomes the alignment reference for the rest of the system. The position and orientation of the reference hologram, the 3.75 m mirror and the GMT segment are measured with a dedicated laser tracker, leading to an alignment accuracy of about 100 microns over the 24 m dimensions of the test. In addition to the interferometer that measures the GMT segment, a separate interferometer at the center of curvature of the 3.75 m sphere monitors its figure simultaneously with the GMT measurement, allowing active correction and compensation for residual errors. We describe the details of the design, alignment, and use of this unique off-axis optical test.

  10. Correcting geometric and photometric distortion of document images on a smartphone

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Simon, Christian; Williem; Park, In Kyu

    2015-01-01

    A set of document image processing algorithms for improving the optical character recognition (OCR) capability of smartphone applications is presented. The scope of the problem covers the geometric and photometric distortion correction of document images. The proposed framework was developed to satisfy industrial requirements. It is implemented on an off-the-shelf smartphone with limited resources in terms of speed and memory. Geometric distortions, i.e., skew and perspective distortion, are corrected by sending horizontal and vertical vanishing points toward infinity in a downsampled image. Photometric distortion includes image degradation from moiré pattern noise and specular highlights. Moiré pattern noise is removed using low-pass filters with different sizes independently applied to the background and text region. The contrast of the text in a specular highlighted area is enhanced by locally enlarging the intensity difference between the background and text while the noise is suppressed. Intensive experiments indicate that the proposed methods show a consistent and robust performance on a smartphone with a runtime of less than 1 s.

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

    DOEpatents

    Cassidy, Kelly

    1991-01-01

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

  12. Progress in manufacturing the first 8.4 m off-axis segment for the Giant Magellan Telescope

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martin, H. M.; Burge, J. H.; Cuerden, B.; Davison, W. B.; Kingsley, J. S.; Kittrell, W. C.; Lutz, R. D.; Miller, S. M.; Zhao, C.; Zobrist, T.

    2008-07-01

    The first of the 8.4 m off-axis segments for the primary mirror of the Giant Magellan Telescope is being manufactured at the Steward Observatory Mirror Lab. In addition to the manufacture of the segment, this project includes the development of a complete facility to make and measure all seven segments. We have installed a new 28 m test tower and designed a set of measurements to guide the fabrication and qualify the finished segments. The first test, a laser-tracker measurement of the ground surface, is operational. The principal optical test is a full-aperture interferometric test with a null corrector that includes a 3.75 m spherical mirror, a smaller sphere, and a computer-generated hologram. We have also designed a scanning pentaprism test to validate the measurement of low-order aberrations. The first segment has been cast and generated, and is in the process of loose-abrasive grinding.

  13. Effect of liquid crystal birefringence on the opacity and off-axis haze of PDLC films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pane, S.; Caporusso, M.

    1998-02-01

    PDLC systems are thin films consisting of a dispersion of liquid crystal micro-droplets in a continuous solid phase of polymer matrix. Application of an electric field on a thin layer of PDLC sandwiched between two transparent on-state. This effect make them useful for a wide variety of applications. Among them, smart windows for architectural is the most popular subject in literature. For this application, the key parameters of performance are the haze and the opacity. There are essentially two technologies used to prepare PDLC films, namely micro-encapsulation and phase separation.In the present work we will show the correlation between the opacity and the off-axis haze in PDLC films prepared with a phase separation technology. We will give the general rule in order to select the liquid crystal properties that allow the preparation of high opacity ad low haze PDLC films. Further study about the control of the parameters which influence the performances of PDLC films prepared with phase separation technology and the difference with the NCAP approach are in progress at our laboratory.

  14. Petal Thicknesses and Shape Transformations in Blooming Lilies

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

    Portet, Thomas; Holmes, Peter N.; Bowden, Mark E.

    2013-01-29

    During blooming, flower petals undergo significant shape changes. For lilies, various different mechanisms responsible for the change have been suggested [1,2]. One is that cell growth along the edge of a petal, or, more generally, a tepal, drives a transition from a cup shape (within a bud) to a saddle shape (within a bloom). This mechanism has been previously considered for tepals modeled as shallow elliptical shells whose thickness from the center, t, falls off at least as fast as t = t0 (1 - x2/a2 - y2/b2 ) [1]. Here t0 is the maximum thickness of the shell, amore » and b are the semimajor and semiminoraxes, x and y are the coordinates along the longitudinal and lateral axes. By measuring tepal thicknesses from images collected by x-ray tomography of intact buds and by photography of microtomed buds, we find that this condition is indeed met for both Lilium casablanca and Lilium lancifolium. [1] Liang and Mahadevan. Growth, geometry, and mechanics of a blooming lily.« less

  15. Beyond the structure-property relationship paradigm: influence of the crystal structure and microstructure on the Li+ conductivity of La2/3Li(x)Ti(1-x)Al(x)O3 Oxides.

    PubMed

    García-Martín, Susana; Morata-Orrantía, Ainhoa; Alario-Franco, Miguel A; Rodríguez-Carvajal, Juan; Amador, Ulises

    2007-01-01

    The crystal structures of several oxides of the La(2/3)Li(x)Ti(1-x)Al(x)O(3) system have been studied by selected-area electron diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and powder neutron diffraction, and their lithium conductivity has been by complex impedance spectroscopy. The compounds have a perovskite-related structure with a unit cell radical2 a(p)x2 a(p)x radical2 a(p) (a(p)=perovskite lattice parameter) due to the tilting of the (Ti/Al)O(6) octahedra and the ordering of lanthanum and lithium ions and vacancies along the 2 a(p) axis. The Li(+) ions present a distorted square-planar coordination and are located in interstitial positions of the structure, which could explain the very high ionic conductivity of this type of material. The lithium conductivity depends on the oxide composition and its crystal microstructure, which varies with the thermal treatment of the sample. The microstructure of these titanates is complex due to formation of domains of ordering and other defects such as strains and compositional fluctuations.

  16. GNSS Signal Authentication Via Power and Distortion Monitoring

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wesson, Kyle D.; Gross, Jason N.; Humphreys, Todd E.; Evans, Brian L.

    2018-04-01

    We propose a simple low-cost technique that enables civil Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and other civil global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receivers to reliably detect carry-off spoofing and jamming. The technique, which we call the Power-Distortion detector, classifies received signals as interference-free, multipath-afflicted, spoofed, or jammed according to observations of received power and correlation function distortion. It does not depend on external hardware or a network connection and can be readily implemented on many receivers via a firmware update. Crucially, the detector can with high probability distinguish low-power spoofing from ordinary multipath. In testing against over 25 high-quality empirical data sets yielding over 900,000 separate detection tests, the detector correctly alarms on all malicious spoofing or jamming attacks while maintaining a <0.6% single-channel false alarm rate.

  17. Characterization of Magnetic Nanostructures Using Off-Axis Electron Holography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Desai

    This dissertation research has involved microscopic characterization of magnetic nanostructures using off-axis electron holography and Lorentz microscopy. The nanostructures investigated have included Co nanoparticles (NPs), Au/Fe/GaAs shell/core nanowires (NWs), carbon spirals with magnetic cores, magnetic nanopillars, Ni-Zn-Co spinel ferrite and CoFe/Pd multilayers. The studies have confirmed the capability of holography to describe the behavior of magnetic structures at the nanoscale. The phase changes caused by the fringing fields of chains consisting of Co NPs were measured and calculated. The difference between chains with different numbers of Co NPs followed the trend indicated by calculations. Holography studies of Au/Fe/GaAs NWs grown on (110) GaAs substrates with rotationally non-uniform coating confirmed that Fe was present in the shell and that the shell behaved as a bar magnet. No fringing field was observed from NWs with cylindrical coating grown on (111)B GaAs substrates. The most likely explanation is that magnetic fields are confined within the shells and form closed loops. The multiple-magnetic-domain structure of iron carbide cores in carbon spirals was imaged using phase maps of the fringing fields. The strength and range of this fringing field was insufficient for manipulating the carbon spirals with an external applied magnetic field. No magnetism was revealed for CoPd/Fe/CoPd magnetic nanopillars. Degaussing and MFM scans ruled out the possibility that saturated magnetization and sample preparation had degraded the anisotropy, and the magnetism, respectively. The results suggested that these nanopillars were not suitable as candidates for prototypical bit information storage devices. Observations of Ni-Zn-Co spinel ferrite thin films in plan-view geometry indicated a multigrain magnetic domain structure and the magnetic fields were oriented in-plane only with no preferred magnetization distribution. This domain structure helps explain this

  18. Hotspot-Ridge Interaction: Shaping the Geometry of Mid-Ocean Ridges

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mittelstaedt, E.; Ito, G.

    2004-12-01

    Surface manifestations of hotspot-ridge interaction include geochemical anomalies, elevated ridge topography, negative gravity anomalies, off-axis volcanic lineaments, and ridge reorganization events. The last of these is expressed as either "captured" ridge segments due to asymmetric spreading, such as at the Galapagos, or as discrete jumps of the ridge axis toward the hotspot, such as at the Iceland, Tristan de Cuhna, Discovery, Shona, Louisville, Kerguelen, and Reunion hotspots. Mid-ocean ridge axis reorganizations through discrete jumps will cause variations in local volcanic patterns, lead to changes in overall plate shape and ridge axis morphology, and alter local mantle flow patterns. It has been proposed that discrete ridge jumps are a product of interaction between the lithosphere and a mantle plume. We examine this hypothesis using thin plate theory coupled with continuum damage mechanics to calculate the two-dimensional (plan-view) pattern of depth-integrated stresses in a plate of varying thickness with weakening due to volcanism at the ridge and above the plume center. Forces on the plate include plume shear, plate parallel gravitational forces due to buoyant uplift, and a prescribed velocity of plate motion along the edges of the model. We explore these forces and the effect of damage as mechanisms that may be required to predict ridge jumps.

  19. Time-resolved study of SrTiO3 homoepitaxial pulsed-laser deposition using surface x-ray diffraction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eres, G.; Tischler, J. Z.; Yoon, M.; Larson, B. C.; Rouleau, C. M.; Lowndes, D. H.; Zschack, P.

    2002-05-01

    Homoepitaxy of SrTiO3 by pulsed-laser deposition has been studied using in situ time-resolved surface x-ray diffraction in the temperature range of 310 °C to 780 °C. Using a two-detector configuration, surface x-ray diffraction intensities were monitored simultaneously at the (0 0 1/2) specular and the (0 1 1/2) off-specular truncation rod positions. Abrupt intensity changes in both the specular and off-specular rods after laser pulses indicated prompt crystallization into SrTiO3 layers followed by slower intra- and interlayer surface rearrangements on time scales of seconds. Specular rod intensity oscillations indicated layer-by-layer growth, while off-specular rod intensity measurements suggested the presence of transient in-plane lattice distortions for depositions above 600 °C.

  20. Simulation of time series by distorted Gaussian processes

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Greenhall, C. A.

    1977-01-01

    Distorted stationary Gaussian process can be used to provide computer-generated imitations of experimental time series. A method of analyzing a source time series and synthesizing an imitation is shown, and an example using X-band radiometer data is given.

  1. Glass transition in ferroic glass K x (ND4)1-x D2PO4: a complete x-ray diffraction line shape analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ranjan Choudhury, Rajul; Chitra, R.; Jayakrishnan, V. B.

    2016-03-01

    Quenching of dynamic disorder in glassy systems is termed as the glass transition. Ferroic glasses belong to the class of paracrystalline materials having crystallographic order in-between that of a perfect crystal and amorphous material, a classic example of ferroic glass is the solid solution of ferroelectric deuterated potassium dihydrogen phosphate and antiferroelectric deuterated ammonium dihydrogen phosphate. Lowering temperature of this ferroic glass can lead to a glass transition to a quenched disordered state. The subtle atomic rearrangement that takes place at such a glass transition can be revealed by careful examination of the temperature induced changes occurring in the x-ray powder diffraction (XRD) patterns of these materials. Hence we report here results of a complete diffraction line shape analysis of the XRD patterns recorded at different temperatures from deuterated mixed crystals DK x A1-x DP with mixing concentration x ranging as 0 < x < 1. Changes observed in diffraction peak shapes have been explained on the basis of structural rearrangements induced by changing O-D-O hydrogen bond dynamics in these paracrystals.

  2. Peak distortion effects in analytical ion chromatography.

    PubMed

    Wahab, M Farooq; Anderson, Jordan K; Abdelrady, Mohamed; Lucy, Charles A

    2014-01-07

    The elution profile of chromatographic peaks provides fundamental understanding of the processes that occur in the mobile phase and the stationary phase. Major advances have been made in the column chemistry and suppressor technology in ion chromatography (IC) to handle a variety of sample matrices and ions. However, if the samples contain high concentrations of matrix ions, the overloaded peak elution profile is distorted. Consequently, the trace peaks shift their positions in the chromatogram in a manner that depends on the peak shape of the overloading analyte. In this work, the peak shapes in IC are examined from a fundamental perspective. Three commercial IC columns AS16, AS18, and AS23 were studied with borate, hydroxide and carbonate as suppressible eluents. Monovalent ions (chloride, bromide, and nitrate) are used as model analytes under analytical (0.1 mM) to overload conditions (10-500 mM). Both peak fronting and tailing are observed. On the basis of competitive Langmuir isotherms, if the eluent anion is more strongly retained than the analyte ion on an ion exchanger, the analyte peak is fronting. If the eluent is more weakly retained on the stationary phase, the analyte peak always tails under overload conditions regardless of the stationary phase capacity. If the charge of the analyte and eluent anions are different (e.g., Br(-) vs CO3(2-)), the analyte peak shapes depend on the eluent concentration in a more complex pattern. It was shown that there are interesting similarities with peak distortions due to strongly retained mobile phase components in other modes of liquid chromatography.

  3. Goldstone radar evidence for short-axis mode non-principal-axis rotation of near-Earth asteroid (214869) 2007 PA8

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brozović, Marina; Benner, Lance A. M.; Magri, Christopher; Scheeres, Daniel J.; Busch, Michael W.; Giorgini, Jon D.; Nolan, Michael C.; Jao, Joseph S.; Lee, Clement G.; Snedeker, Lawrence G.; Silva, Marc A.; Lawrence, Kenneth J.; Slade, Martin A.; Hicks, Michael D.; Howell, Ellen S.; Taylor, Patrick A.; Sanchez, Juan A.; Reddy, Vishnu; Dykhuis, Melissa; Le Corre, Lucille

    2017-04-01

    We report radar and optical photometric observations of near-Earth asteroid (214869) 2007 PA8 obtained during October 2-November 13, 2012. We observed 2007 PA8 on sixteen days with Goldstone (8560 MHz, 3.5 cm) and on five days with the 0.6 m telescope at Table Mountain Observatory. Closest approach was on November 5 at a distance of 0.043 au. Images obtained with Goldstone's new chirp system achieved range resolutions as fine as 3.75 m, placing thousands of pixels on the asteroid's surface, and revealing that 2007 PA8 is an elongated, asymmetric object. Surface features include angularities, facets, and a concavity approximately 400 m in diameter. We used the Shape software to estimate the asteroid's 3D shape and spin state. 2007 PA8 has a broad, rounded end and a tapered, angular end with sharp-crested ridges. The asteroid's effective diameter is 1.35 ± 0.07 km, which in combination with the absolute magnitude of 16.30 ± 0.52 gives an optical albedo of pV = 0.29 ± 0.14. The shape modeling of the radar data revealed that 2007 PA8 is a non-principal axis (NPA) rotator in the short-axis mode with an average period of precession by the long axis around the angular momentum vector of 4.26 ± 0.02 days and an oscillatory period around the long axis of 20.55 ± 3.75 days. The amplitude of rolling around the long axis is 42 ± 7° . The angular momentum vector points toward ecliptic longitude and latitude of 273.6 ± 10°, +16.9 ± 5°. 2007 PA8 is only the second confirmed short-axis mode NPA rotator known in the near-Earth asteroid population after (99942) Apophis (Pravec et al., 2014). 2007 PA8 has a geopotential high at the equator, where the equator is defined as the plane that contains the long and intermediate axis. This geopotential extreme could be interpreted as a large, hidden surface depression, or as evidence that 2007 PA8 is a multi-component body.

  4. Shape measurement and vibration analysis of moving speaker cone

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Qican; Liu, Yuankun; Lehtonen, Petri

    2014-06-01

    Surface three-dimensional (3-D) shape information is needed for many fast processes such as structural testing of material, standing waves on loudspeaker cone, etc. Usually measurement is done from limited number of points using electrical sensors or laser distance meters. Fourier Transform Profilometry (FTP) enables fast shape measurement of the whole surface. Method is based on angled sinusoidal fringe pattern projection and image capturing. FTP requires only one image of the deformed fringe pattern to restore the 3-D shape of the measured object, which makes real-time or dynamic data processing possible. In our experiment the method was used for loudspeaker cone distortion measurement in dynamic conditions. For sound quality issues it is important that the whole cone moves in same phase and there are no partial waves. Our imaging resolution was 1280x1024 pixels and frame rate was 200 fps. Using our setup we found unwanted spatial waves in our sample cone.

  5. Micelles for the self-assembly of "off-on-off" fluorescent sensors for pH windows.

    PubMed

    Diaz-Fernandez, Yuri; Foti, Francesco; Mangano, Carlo; Pallavicini, Piersandro; Patroni, Stefano; Perez-Gramatges, Aurora; Rodriguez-Calvo, Simon

    2006-01-11

    A micellar approach is proposed to build a series of systems featuring an "off-on-off" fluorescent window response with changes in pH. The solubilizing properties of micelles are used to self-assemble, in water, plain pyrene with lipophilized pyridine and tertiary amine moieties. Since these components are contained in the small volume of the same micelle, pyrene fluorescence is influenced by the basic moieties: protonated pyridines and free tertiary amines behave as quenchers. Accordingly, fluorescence transitions from the "off" to the "on" state, and viceversa, take place when the pH crosses the pK(a) values of the amine and pyridine fragments. To obtain an "off-on-off" fluorescent response in this investigation we use either a set of dibasic lipophilic molecules (containing covalently linked pyridine and tertiary amine groups) or combinations of separate, lipophilic pyridines and tertiary amines. The use of combinations of dibasic and monobasic lipophilic molecules also gives a window-shaped fluorescence response with changes in pH: it is the highest pyridine pK(a) and the lowest tertiary amine pK(a) that determine the window limits. The pK(a) values of all the examined lipophilic molecules were determined in micelles, and compared with the values found for the same molecules in solvent mixtures in which they are molecularly dispersed. The effect of micellization is to significantly lower the observed protonation constants of the lipophilized species. Moreover, the more lipophilic a molecule is, the lower the observed logK value is. Accordingly, changing the substituents on the basic moieties or modifying their structure, tuning the lipophilicity of the mono- or dibases, and choosing among a large set of possible combination of lipophilized mono- and dibases have allowed us to tune, almost at will, both the width and the position along the pH axis of the obtained fluorescent window.

  6. Development of a Method to Assess the Precision Of the z-axis X-ray Beam Collimation in a CT Scanner

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Yon-Min

    2018-05-01

    Generally X-ray equipment specifies the beam collimator for the accuracy measurement as a quality control item, but the computed tomography (CT) scanner with high dose has no collimator accuracy measurement item. If the radiation dose is to be reduced, an important step is to check if the beam precisely collimates at the body part for CT scan. However, few ways are available to assess how precisely the X-ray beam is collimated. In this regard, this paper provides a way to assess the precision of z-axis X-ray beam collimation in a CT scanner. After the image plate cassette had been exposed to the X-ray beam, the exposed width was automatically detected by using a computer program developed by the research team to calculate the difference between the exposed width and the imaged width (at isocenter). The result for the precision of z-axis X-ray beam collimation showed that the exposed width was 3.8 mm and the overexposure was high at 304% when a narrow beam of a 1.25 mm imaged width was used. In this study, the precision of the beam collimation of the CT scanner, which is frequently used for medical services, was measured in a convenient way by using the image plate (IP) cassette.

  7. Fabrication, Testing, Coating and Alignment of Fast Segmented Optics

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-05-25

    mirror segment, a 100 mm thick Zerodur mirror blank was purchased from Schott. Figure 2 shows the segment and its support for polishing and testing in...Polishing large off-axis segments of fast primary mirrors 2. Testing large segments in an off-axis geometry 3. Alignment of multiple segments of a large... mirror 4. Coatings that reflect high-intensity light without distorting the substrate These technologies are critical because of several unique

  8. SU-E-J-220: Assessment of MRI Geometric Distortion in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Scanned in Immobilized Radiation Treatment Position

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

    Hansen, C; Mohamed, A; Weygand, J

    2015-06-15

    Purpose: Uncertainties about geometric distortion have somewhat hindered MRI simulation in radiation therapy. Most of the geometric distortion studies were performed with phantom measurements but another major aspect of MR distortion is patient related. We studied the geometric distortion in patient images by comparing their MRI scans with the corresponding CT, using CT as the non-distorted gold standard. Methods: Ten H&N cancer patients were imaged with MRI as part of a prospective IRB approved study. All patients had their treatment planning CT done on the same day or within one week of the MRI. MR Images were acquired with amore » T2 SE sequence (1×1×2.5mm voxel size) in the same immobilization position as in the CT scans. MRI to CT rigid registration was then done and geometric distortion comparison was done by measuring the corresponding anatomical landmarks on both the MRI and the CT images by two observers. Several skin to skin (9 landmarks), bone to bone (8 landmarks), and soft tissue (3 landmarks) were measured at specific levels in horizontal and vertical planes of both scans. Results: The mean distortion for all landmark measurements in all scans was 1.8±1.9mm. For each patient 11 measurements were done in the horizontal plane while 9 were done in the vertical plane. The measured geometric distortion were significantly lower in the horizontal axis compared to the vertical axis (1.3±0.16 mm vs 2.2±0.19 mm, respectively, P=0.003*). The magnitude of distortion was lower in the bone to bone landmarks compared to the combined soft tissue and skin to skin landmarks (1.2±0.19 mm vs 2.3±0.17 mm, P=0.0006*). The mean distortion measured by observer one was not significantly different compared toobserver 2 (2.3 vs 2.4 mm, P=0.4). Conclusion: MRI geometric distortions were quantified in H&N patients with mean error of less than 2 mm. JW received a corporate sponsored research grant from Elekta.« less

  9. Analysis of the DFP/AFCS Systems for Compensating Gravity Distortions on the 70-Meter Antenna

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Imbriale, William A.; Hoppe, Daniel J.; Rochblatt, David

    2000-01-01

    This paper presents the theoretical computations showing the expected performances for both systems. The basic analysis tool is a Physical Optics reflector analysis code that was ported to a parallel computer for faster execution times. There are several steps involved in computing the RF performance of the various systems. 1 . A model of the RF distortions of the main reflector is required. This model is based upon measured holography maps of the 70-meter antenna obtained at 3 elevation angles. The holography maps are then processed (using an appropriate gravity mechanical model of the dish) to provide surface distortion maps at all elevation angles. 2. From the surface distortion maps, ray optics is used to determine the theoretical shape of the DFP that will exactly phase compensate the distortions. 3. From the theoretical shape and a NASTRAN mechanical model of the plate, the actuator positions that generate a surface that provides the best RMS fit to the theoretical model are selected. Using the actuator positions and the NASTRAN model provides an accurate description of the actual mirror shape. 4. Starting from the mechanical drawings of the feed, a computed RF feed pattern is generated. This pattern is expanded into a set of spherical wave modes so that a complete near field analysis of the reflector system can be obtained. 5. For the array feed, the excitation coefficients that provide the maximum gain are computed using a phase conjugate technique. The basic experimental geometry consisted of a dual shaped 70-meter antenna system; a refocusing ellipse, a DFP and an array feed system. To provide physical insight to the systems performance, focal plane field plots are presented at several elevations. Curves of predicted performance are shown for the DFP system, monopulse tracking system, AFCS and combined DFP/AFCS system. The calculated results show that the combined DFP/AFCS system is capable of recovering the majority of the gain lost due to gravity

  10. Axis switching and spreading of an asymmetric jet: Role of vorticity dynamics

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zaman, K. B. M. Q.

    1994-01-01

    The effects of vortex generators and periodic excitation on vorticity dynamics and the phenomenon of axis switching in a free asymmetric jet are studied experimentally. Most of the data reported are for a 3:1 rectangular jet at a Reynolds number of 450,000 and a Mach number of 0.31. The vortex generators are in the form of 'delta tabs', triangular shaped protrusions into the flow, placed at the nozzle exit. With suitable placement of the tabs, axis switching could be either stopped or augmented. Two mechanisms are identified governing the phenomenon. One, as described by previous researchers and referred to here as the omega(sub theta)-induced dynamics, is due to difference in induced velocities for different segments of a rolled up azimuthal vortical structure. The other, omega(sub x)-induced dynamics, is due to the induced velocities of streamwise vortex pairs in the flow. Both dynamics can be active in a natural asymmetric jet; the tendency for axis switching caused by the omega(sub theta)-induced dynamics may be, depending on the streamwise vorticity distribution, either resisted or enhanced by the omega(sub x)-induced dynamics. While this simple framework qualitatively explains the various observations made on axis switching, mechanisms actually in play may be much more complex. The two dynamics are not independent as the flow field is replete with both azimuthal and streamwise vortical structures which continually interact. Phase averaged flow field data for a periodically forced case, over a volume of the flow field, are presented and discussed in an effort to gain insight into the dynamics of these vortical structures.

  11. Enhancement of soft X-ray lasing action with thin blade radiators

    DOEpatents

    Suckewer, Szymon; Skinner, Charles H.; Voorhees, David R.

    1988-01-01

    An enhancement of approximately 100 of stimulated emission over spontaneous emission of the CVI 182 Angstrom line was obtained in a recombining magnetically confined plasma column. The plasma was formed by focusing a CO.sub.2 laser beam on a carbon disc. A magnetic solenoid produced a strong magnetic field which confined the plasma to the shape of a column. A single thin carbon blade extended parallel to the plasma column and served to make the column axially more uniform and also acted as a heat sink. Axial and transverse measurements of the soft X-ray lasing action were made from locations off-set from the central axis of the plasma column. Multiple carbon blades located at equal intervals around the plasma column were also found to produce acceptable results. According to another embodiment 10 a thin coating of aluminum or magnesium was placed on the carbon disc and blade. The Z of the coating should preferably be at least 5 greater than the Z of the target. Measurements of the soft X-rays generated at 182 Angstroms showed a significant increase in intensity enhancement.

  12. Modulated solar pressure-based surface shape control of paraboloid space reflectors with an off-axis Sun-line

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Jiafu; McInnes, Colin R.

    2018-03-01

    This paper considers utilizing solar radiation pressure (SRP) to actively control the surface shape of a reflector consisting of a rigid hoop and slack membrane with embedded reflectivity control devices. The full nonlinear static partial differential governing equations for a reflector with negligible elastic deformations are established for the circumferential, radial and transverse directions respectively, in which the SRP force with ideal/non-perfect models, the centripetal force caused by the rotation of the reflector and the internal stresses are considered. The inverse problem is then formulated by assuming that the required surface shape is known, and then the governing algebraic-differential equations used to determine the required surface reflectivity, together with the internal stresses where are presented accordingly. The validity of the approach is verified by comparing the results in this paper with corresponding published results as benchmarks. The feasible regions of the angular velocity and Sun angle for a paraboloidal reflector with an invariant radius and focal length (case 1), and the achievable focal lengths with a specific angular velocity and Sun angle (case 2) are presented for two SRP models respectively, both by considering the constraints on the reflectivity and internal stresses. It is then found that the feasible region is toward a larger angular velocity and Sun angle when using the non-perfect SRP model, compared with the ideal one in case 1. The angular velocity of the spinning reflector should be within a certain range to make the required reflectivity profiles within a practical range, i.e., [0, 0.88], as indicated from prior NASA solar sail studies. In case 2, it is found that the smallest achievable focal length of the reflector with the non-perfect SRP model is smaller than that with the ideal SRP model. It is also found that the stress level is extremely low for all cases considered and that the typical real material strength

  13. Magnetic properties of a quasi-two-dimensional S =1/2 Heisenberg antiferromagnet with distorted square lattice

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamaguchi, Hironori; Tamekuni, Yusuke; Iwasaki, Yoshiki; Otsuka, Rei; Hosokoshi, Yuko; Kida, Takanori; Hagiwara, Masayuki

    2017-06-01

    We successfully synthesize single crystals of the verdazyl radical α -2 ,3 ,5 -Cl3 -V. Ab initio molecular orbital calculations indicate that the two dominant antiferromagnetic interactions, J1 and J2 (α =J2/J1≃0.56 ), form an S =1 /2 distorted square lattice. We explain the magnetic properties based on the S =1 /2 square lattice Heisenberg antiferromagnet using the quantum Monte Carlo method, and examine the effects of the lattice distortion and the interplane interaction contribution. In the low-temperature regions below 6.4 K, we observe anisotropic magnetic behavior accompanied by a phase transition to a magnetically ordered state. The electron spin resonance signals exhibit anisotropic behavior in the temperature dependence of the resonance field and the linewidth. We explain the frequency dependence of the resonance fields in the ordered phase using a mean-field approximation with out-of-plane easy-axis anisotropy, which causes a spin-flop phase transition at approximately 0.4 T for the field perpendicular to the plane. Furthermore, the anisotropic dipole field provides supporting information regarding the presence of the easy-axis anisotropy. These results demonstrate that the lattice distortion, anisotropy, and interplane interaction of this model are sufficiently small that they do not affect the intrinsic behavior of the S =1 /2 square lattice Heisenberg antiferromagnet.

  14. Investigations on the electronic, structural, magnetic properties related to shape-memory behavior in Ti{sub 2}CoX (X=Al, Ga, In)

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

    Wei, Xiao-Ping, E-mail: weixp2008@gmail.com; Chu, Yan-Dong; Sun, Xiao-Wei

    2015-02-15

    Highlights: • The analysis of phase stability trend is studied for Ti{sub 2}CoX(X = Al, Ga, In). • Ti{sub 2}CoGa is more suitable as shape memory alloy. • Total magnetic moments disappear with a increase of c/a ratio for all systems. • Density of states at the Fermi level are also shown. - Abstract: Using the full-potential local orbital minimum-basis method, we have performed a systematic investigations on the electronic, structural, and magnetic properties related to shape memory applications for Ti{sub 2}CoX (X=Al, Ga, In) alloys. Our results confirm that these alloys are half-metallic ferromagnets with total magnetic moment ofmore » 2μ{sub B} per formula unit in austenite phase, and undergo a martensitic transformation at low temperatures. The relative stabilities of the martensitic phases differ considerably between Ti{sub 2}CoX (X=Al, Ga, In). Details of the electronic structures suggest that the differences in hybridizations between the magnetic components are responsible for trends of phase. Quantitative estimates for the energetics and the magnetizations indicate that Ti{sub 2}CoGa is a promising candidate for shape memory applications.« less

  15. Horizontal Axis Levitron--A Physics Demonstration

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Michaelis, Max M.

    2014-01-01

    After a brief history of the Levitron, the first horizontal axis Levitron is reported. Because it is easy to operate, it lends itself to educational physics experiments and analogies. Precession and nutation are visualized by reflecting the beam from a laser pointer off the "spignet". Precession is fundamental to nuclear magnetic…

  16. On the Geometry of the X-Ray Emission from Pulsars. I. Model Formulation and Tests

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cappallo, Rigel; Laycock, Silas G. T.; Christodoulou, Dimitris M.

    2017-12-01

    X-ray pulsars are complex magnetized astronomical objects in which many different attributes shape the pulse profiles of the emitted radiation. For each pulsar, the orientation of the spin axis relative to our viewing angle, the inclination of the magnetic dipole axis relative to the spin axis, and the geometries of the emission regions all play key roles in producing its unique pulse profile. In this paper, we describe in detail a new geometric computer model for X-ray emitting pulsars and the tests that we carried out in order to ensure its proper operation. This model allows for simultaneous tuning of multiple parameters for each pulsar and, by fitting observed profiles, it has the potential to determine the underlying geometries of many pulsars whose pulse profiles have been cataloged and made public in modern X-ray databases.

  17. Trade-off Mechanisms Shaping the Diversity of Bacteria.

    PubMed

    Ferenci, Thomas

    2016-03-01

    Strain-to-strain variations in bacterial biofilm formation, metabolism, motility, virulence, evolvability, DNA repair and resistance (to phage, antibiotics, or environmental stresses) each contribute to bacterial diversity. Microbiologists should be aware that all of these traits are subject to constraints imposed by trade-offs, so adaptations improving one trait may be at the cost of another. A deeper appreciation of trade-offs is thus crucial for assessing the mechanistic limits on important bacterial characteristics. Studies of the negative correlations between various traits have revealed three molecular mechanisms, namely, trade-offs involving resource allocation, design constraint, and information processing. This review further discusses why these trade-off mechanisms are important in the establishment of models capable of predicting bacterial competition, coexistence, and sources of diversity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Observation of Muon Neutrino Charged Current Events in an Off-Axis Horn-Focused Neutrino Beam Using the NOvA Prototype Detector

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

    Diaz, Enrique Arrieta

    2014-01-01

    The NOνA is a long base-line neutrino oscillation experiment. It will study the oscillations between muon and electron neutrinos through the Earth. NOνA consists of two detectors separated by 810 km. Each detector will measure the electron neutrino content of the neutrino (NuMI) beam. Differences between the measurements will reveal details about the oscillation channel. The NOνA collaboration built a prototype detector on the surface at Fermilab in order to develop calibration, simulation, and reconstruction tools, using real data. This 220 ton detector is 110 mrad off the NuMI beam axis. This off-axis location allows the observation of neutrino interactionsmore » with energies around 2 GeV, where neutrinos come predominantly from charged kaon decays. During the period between October 2011 and April 2012, the prototype detector collected neutrino data from 1.67 × 10 20 protons on target delivered by the NuMI beam. This analysis selected a number of candidate charged current muon neutrino events from the prototype data, which is 30% lower than predicted by the NOνA Monte Carlo simulation. The analysis suggests that the discrepancy comes from an over estimation of the neutrino flux in the Monte Carlo simulation, and in particular, from neutrinos generated in charged kaon decays. The ratio of measured divided by the simulated flux of muon neutrinos coming from charged kaon decays is: 0.70 +0.108 -0.094. The NOνA collaboration may use the findings of this analysis to introduce a more accurate prediction of the neutrino flux produced by the NuMI beam in future Monte Carlo simulations.« less

  19. Correction of dichroic mirror-induced PSF distortion in STED microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Yanghui; Zhou, Hui; Liu, Xiaoyu; Xia, Chengliang; Wang, Le

    2018-07-01

    Due to its spectral transmission/reflection properties, dichroic mirror (DM) is widely applied in nearly all microscopes to separate and combine beams with diverse wavelengths. However, its potential distortion effects to the point-spread function (PSF) have been ignored to a large extent. Here, we built a mathematical model to quantify these effects. Specifically, we focus on STED microscopy, whose performance is extremely sensitive to the systematic deficiencies. Both excitation and depletion beams are analysed, and the peak intensity and the shape of the effective PSF are calculated accordingly. More importantly, the strategy to compensate the DM-induced PSF distortion is also given in this paper.

  20. Signal Acquisition Using AXIe

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Narciso, Steven J.

    2011-08-01

    An emerging test and measurement standard called AXIe, AdvancedTCA extensions for Instrumentation, is expected to find wide acceptance within the Physics community as it offers many benefits to applications including shock, plasma, particle and nuclear physics. It is expected that many COTS (commercial off-the-shelf) signal conditioning, acquisition and processing modules will become available from a range of different suppliers. AXIe uses AdvancedTCA® as its basis, but then levers test and measurement industry standards such as PXI, IVI, and LXI to facilitate cooperation and plug-and-play interoperability between COTS instrument suppliers. AXIe's large board footprint and power allows high density in a 19" rack, enabling the development of high-performance signal conditioning, analog-to-digital conversion, and data processing, while offering channel count scalability inherent in modular systems. Synchronization between modules is flexible and provided by two triggering structures: a parallel trigger bus, and radially-distributed, time-matched point-to-point trigger lines. Inter-module communication is also provided with an adjacent module local bus allowing data transfer to 600 Gbits/s in each direction, for example between a front-end digitizer and DSP. AXIe allows embedding high performance computing and a range of COTS AdvancedTCA® computer blades are currently available that provide low cost alternatives to the development of custom signal processing modules. The availability of both LAN and PCI Express allow interconnection between modules, as well as industry-standard high-performance data paths to external host computer systems. AXIe delivers a powerful environment for custom module devel opment. As in the case of VXIbus and PXI before it, commercial development kits are expected to be available. This paper will give an overview of the architectural elements of AXIe 1.0, the compatibility model with AdvancedTCA, and signal acquisition performance of many

  1. An optical supernova associated with the X-ray flash XRF 060218.

    PubMed

    Pian, E; Mazzali, P A; Masetti, N; Ferrero, P; Klose, S; Palazzi, E; Ramirez-Ruiz, E; Woosley, S E; Kouveliotou, C; Deng, J; Filippenko, A V; Foley, R J; Fynbo, J P U; Kann, D A; Li, W; Hjorth, J; Nomoto, K; Patat, F; Sauer, D N; Sollerman, J; Vreeswijk, P M; Guenther, E W; Levan, A; O'Brien, P; Tanvir, N R; Wijers, R A M J; Dumas, C; Hainaut, O; Wong, D S; Baade, D; Wang, L; Amati, L; Cappellaro, E; Castro-Tirado, A J; Ellison, S; Frontera, F; Fruchter, A S; Greiner, J; Kawabata, K; Ledoux, C; Maeda, K; Møller, P; Nicastro, L; Rol, E; Starling, R

    2006-08-31

    Long-duration gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are associated with type Ic supernovae that are more luminous than average and that eject material at very high velocities. Less-luminous supernovae were not hitherto known to be associated with GRBs, and therefore GRB-supernovae were thought to be rare events. Whether X-ray flashes--analogues of GRBs, but with lower luminosities and fewer gamma-rays--can also be associated with supernovae, and whether they are intrinsically 'weak' events or typical GRBs viewed off the axis of the burst, is unclear. Here we report the optical discovery and follow-up observations of the type Ic supernova SN 2006aj associated with X-ray flash XRF 060218. Supernova 2006aj is intrinsically less luminous than the GRB-supernovae, but more luminous than many supernovae not accompanied by a GRB. The ejecta velocities derived from our spectra are intermediate between these two groups, which is consistent with the weakness of both the GRB output and the supernova radio flux. Our data, combined with radio and X-ray observations, suggest that XRF 060218 is an intrinsically weak and soft event, rather than a classical GRB observed off-axis. This extends the GRB-supernova connection to X-ray flashes and fainter supernovae, implying a common origin. Events such as XRF 060218 are probably more numerous than GRB-supernovae.

  2. Magnetic structure and local lattice distortion in giant negative thermal expansion material Mn3Cu1-xGexN

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Iikubo, S.; Kodama, K.; Takenaka, K.; Takagi, H.; Shamoto, S.

    2010-11-01

    Magnetic and local structures in an antiperovskite system, Mn3Cu1-xGexN, with a giant negative thermal expansion have been studied by neutron powder diffraction measurement. We discuss (1) an importance of an averaged cubic crystal structure and a ΓG5g antiferromagnetic spin structure for the large magneto-volume effect (MVE) in this itinerant electron system, (2) an unique role of a local lattice distortion well described by the low temperature tetragonal structure of Mn3GeN for the broadening of MVE.

  3. Quantitative measurement of mean inner potential and specimen thickness from high-resolution off-axis electron holograms of ultra-thin layered WSe2.

    PubMed

    Winkler, Florian; Tavabi, Amir H; Barthel, Juri; Duchamp, Martial; Yucelen, Emrah; Borghardt, Sven; Kardynal, Beata E; Dunin-Borkowski, Rafal E

    2017-07-01

    The phase and amplitude of the electron wavefunction that has passed through ultra-thin flakes of WSe 2 is measured from high-resolution off-axis electron holograms. Both the experimental measurements and corresponding computer simulations are used to show that, as a result of dynamical diffraction, the spatially averaged phase does not increase linearly with specimen thickness close to an [001] zone axis orientation even when the specimen has a thickness of only a few layers. It is then not possible to infer the local specimen thickness of the WSe 2 from either the phase or the amplitude alone. Instead, we show that the combined analysis of phase and amplitude from experimental measurements and simulations allows an accurate determination of the local specimen thickness. The relationship between phase and projected potential is shown to be approximately linear for extremely thin specimens that are tilted by several degrees in certain directions from the [001] zone axis. A knowledge of the specimen thickness then allows the electrostatic potential to be determined from the measured phase. By using this combined approach, we determine a value for the mean inner potential of WSe 2 of 18.9±0.8V, which is 12% lower than the value calculated from neutral atom scattering factors. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Buckling Modes of Structural Elements of Off-Axis Fiber-Reinforced Plastics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Paimushin, V. N.; Polyakova, N. V.; Kholmogorov, S. A.; Shishov, M. A.

    2018-05-01

    The structures of two types of unidirectional fiber-reinforced composites — with an ELUR-P carbon fiber tape, an XT-118 cold-cure binder with an HSE 180 REM prepreg, and a hot-cure binder — were investigated. The diameters of fibers and fiber bundles (threads) of both the types of composites were measured, and their mutual arrangement was examined both in the semifinished products (in the uncured state) and in the finished composites. The defects characteristic of both the types of binder and manufacturing technique were detected in the cured composites. Based on an analysis of the results obtained, linearized problems on the internal multiscale buckling modes of an individual fiber (with and without account of its interaction with the surrounding matrix) or of a fiber bundle are formulated. In the initial atate, these structural elements of the fibrous composites are in a subcritical (unperturbed) state under the action of shear stresses and tension (compression) in the transverse direction. Such an initial stress state is formed in them in tension and compression tests on flat specimens made of off-axis-reinforced composites with straight fibers. To formulate the problems, the equations derived earlier from a consistent variant of geometrically nonlinear equations of elasticity theory by reducing them to the one-dimensional equations of the theory of straight rods on the basis of a refined Timoshenko shear model with account of tensile-compressive strains in the transverse direction are used. It is shown that, in loading test specimens, a continuous rearrangement of composite structure can occur due to the realization and continuous change of internal buckling modes as the wave-formation parameter varies continuously, which apparently explain the decrease revealed in the tangential shear modulus of the fibrous composites with increasing shear strains.

  5. Off-Axis Driven Current Effects on ETB and ITB Formations based on Bifurcation Concept

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pakdeewanich, J.; Onjun, T.; Chatthong, B.

    2017-09-01

    This research studies plasma performance in fusion Tokamak system by investigating parameters such as plasma pressure in the presence of an edge transport barrier (ETB) and an internal transport barrier (ITB) as the off-axis driven current position is varied. The plasma is modeled based on the bifurcation concept using a suppression function that can result in formation of transport barriers. In this model, thermal and particle transport equations, including both neoclassical and anomalous effects, are solved simultaneously in slab geometry. The neoclassical coefficients are assumed to be constant while the anomalous coefficients depend on gradients of local pressure and density. The suppression function, depending on flow shear and magnetic shear, is assumed to affect only on the anomalous channel. The flow shear can be calculated from the force balance equation, while the magnetic shear is calculated from the given plasma current. It is found that as the position of driven current peak is moved outwards from the plasma center, the central pressure is increased. But at some point it stars to decline, mostly when the driven current peak has reached the outer half of the plasma. The higher pressure value results from the combination of ETB and ITB formations. The drop in central pressure occurs because ITB stats to disappear.

  6. A Shape and Spin Axis Model for 607 Jenny

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stephens, Robert D.; Warner, Brian D.

    2018-04-01

    A combination of dense lightcurves obtained by the authors over several apparitions and sparse data was used to model the outer main-belt asteroid 607 Jenny. A reasonably reliable spin axis with ecliptic coordinates of (220°, –40°, 8.52234 h) was found, although one of (35°, –17°, 8.52234 h) cannot be formally excluded.

  7. X-ray mirror prototype based on cold shaping of thin glass foils

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Basso, Stefano; Civitani, Marta; Ghigo, Mauro; Hołyszko, Joanna; Pareschi, Giovanni; Salmaso, Bianca; Vecchi, Gabriele; Burwitz, Vadim; Pelliciari, Carlo; Hartner, Gisela D.; Breunig, Elias

    2017-08-01

    The Slumping Glass Optics technology for the fabrication of astronomical X-ray mirrors has been developed in recent years in USA and Europe. The process has been used for making the mirrors of the Nustar, mission. The process starts with very thin glass foils hot formed to copy the profile of replication moulds. At INAF - Osservatorio Astronomico di Brera a process based on cold shaping is being developed, based on an integration method involving the use of interconnecting ribs for making stacks. Each glass foil in the stack is shaped onto a very precise integration mould and the correct shape is frozen by means of glued ribs that act as spacers between one layer and the next one (the first layers being attached to a thick substrate). Therefore, the increasing availability of flexible glass foils with a thickness of a few tens of microns (driven by electronic market for ultra-thin displays) opens new possibilities for the fabrication of X-ray mirrors. This solution appears interesting especially for the fabrication of mirrors for hard X-rays (with energy > 10 keV) based on multilayer coatings, taking advantage from the intrinsic low roughness of the glass foils that should grant a low scattering level. The stress frozen on the glass due to the cold shaping is not negligible, but it is kept into account in the errors of the X-ray optics design. As an exercise, we have considered the requirements and specs of the FORCE hard Xray mission concept (being studied by JAXA) and we have designed the mirror modules assuming the cold slumping as a fabrication method. In the meantime, a prototype (representative of the FORCE mirror modules) is being design and integrated in order to demonstrate the feasibility and the capacity to reach good angular resolution.

  8. Thin Mirror Shaping Technology for High-Throughput X-ray Telescopes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schattenburg, Mark

    This proposal is submitted to the NASA Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences program (ROSES-2012) in response to NASA Research Announcement NNH12ZDA001N- APRA. It is targeted to the Astronomy and Astrophysics Research and Analysis (APRA) program element under the Supporting Technology category. Powerful x-ray telescope mirrors are critical components of a raft of small-to-large mission concepts under consideration by NASA. The science questions addressed by these missions have certainly never been more compelling and the need to fulfill NASA s core missions of exploring the universe and strengthening our nation s technology base has never been greater. Unfortunately, budgetary constraints are driving NASA to consider the cost/benefit and risk factors of new missions more carefully than ever. New technology for producing x-ray telescopes with increased resolution and collecting area, while holding down cost, are key to meeting these goals and sustaining a thriving high-energy astrophysics enterprise in the US. We propose to develop advanced technology which will lead to thin-shell x-ray telescope mirrors rivaling the Chandra x-ray telescope in spatial resolution but with 10-100X larger area all at significantly reduced weight, risk and cost. The proposed effort builds on previous research at MIT and complements NASA-supported research at other institutions. We are currently pursuing two thin-mirror technology development tracks which we propose to extend and accelerate with NASA support. The first research track utilizes rapidly-maturing thermal glass slumping technology which uses porous ceramic air-bearing mandrels to shape glass mirrors without touching, thus avoiding surface-induced mid-range spatial frequency ripples. A second research track seeks to remove any remaining mid- to long-range errors in mirrors by using scanning ion-beam implant to impart small, highly deterministic and very stable amounts of stress into thin glass, utilizing local

  9. Photogrammetrically Measured Distortions of Composite Structure Microwave Reflectors at -90K

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mule, Peter; Hill, Michael D.; Sampler, Henry P.

    2000-01-01

    The Microwave Anisotropy Probe (MAP) Observatory, scheduled for a late 2000 launch, is designed to measure temperature fluctuations (anisotropy) and produce a high sensitivity and high spatial resolution (better than 0.3 deg. at 90 GHz.) map of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) radiation over the entire sky between 22 and 90 GHz. MAP utilizes back-to-back composite Gregorian telescopes supported on a composite truss structure to focus the microwave signals into 10 differential microwave receivers. Proper position and shape of the telescope reflectors at the operating temperature of -90 K is a critical element to ensure mission success. We describe the methods and analysis used to validate the in-flight position and shape predictions for the reflectors based on photogrammetric metrology data taken under vacuum with the reflectors at -90 K. Contour maps showing reflector distortion were generated. The resulting reflector distortion data are shown to be crucial to the analytical assessment of the MAP instrument's microwave system in-flight performance.

  10. Geometric distortions affect face recognition in chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and monkeys (Macaca mulatta).

    PubMed

    Taubert, Jessica; Parr, Lisa A

    2011-01-01

    All primates can recognize faces and do so by analyzing the subtle variation that exists between faces. Through a series of three experiments, we attempted to clarify the nature of second-order information processing in nonhuman primates. Experiment one showed that both chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) tolerate geometric distortions along the vertical axis, suggesting that information about absolute position of features does not contribute to accurate face recognition. Chimpanzees differed from monkeys, however, in that they were more sensitive to distortions along the horizontal axis, suggesting that when building a global representation of facial identity, horizontal relations between features are more diagnostic of identity than vertical relations. Two further experiments were performed to determine whether the monkeys were simply less sensitive to horizontal relations compared to chimpanzees or were instead relying on local features. The results of these experiments confirm that monkeys can utilize a holistic strategy when discriminating between faces regardless of familiarity. In contrast, our data show that chimpanzees, like humans, use a combination of holistic and local features when the faces are unfamiliar, but primarily holistic information when the faces become familiar. We argue that our comparative approach to the study of face recognition reveals the impact that individual experience and social organization has on visual cognition.

  11. An off Axis Cavity Enhanced Absorption Spectrometer and a Rapid Scan Spectrometer with a Room-Temperature External Cavity Quantum Cascade Laser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Xunchen; Kang, Cheolhwa; Xu, Yunjie

    2009-06-01

    Quantum cascade laser (QCL) is a new type of mid-infrared tunable diode lasers with superior output power and mode quality. Recent developments, such as room temperature operation, wide frequency tunability, and narrow line width, make QCLs an ideal light source for high resolution spectroscopy. Two slit jet infrared spectrometers, namely an off-axis cavity enhanced absorption (CEA) spectrometer and a rapid scan spectrometer with an astigmatic multi-pass cell assembly, have been coupled with a newly purchased room temperature tunable mod-hop-free QCL with a frequency coverage from 1592 cm^{-1} to 1698 cm^{-1} and a scan rate of 0.1 cm^{-1}/ms. Our aim is to utilize these two sensitive spectrometers, that are equipped with a molecular jet expansion, to investigate the chiral molecules-(water)_n clusters. To demonstrate the resolution and sensitivity achieved, the rovibrational transitions of the static N_2O gas and the bending rovibrational transitions of the Ar-water complex, a test system, at 1634 cm^{-1} have been measured. D. Hofstetter and J. Faist in High performance quantum cascade lasers and their applications, Vol.89 Springer-Verlag Berlin & Heidelberg, 2003, pp. 61-98. Y. Xu, X. Liu, Z. Su, R. M. Kulkarni, W. S. Tam, C. Kang, I. Leonov and L. D'Agostino, Proc. Spie, 2009, 722208 (1-11). M. J. Weida and D. J. Nesbitt, J. Chem. Phys. 1997, 106, 3078-3089.

  12. Quantification of Magnetic Surface and Edge States in an FeGe Nanostripe by Off-Axis Electron Holography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Song, Dongsheng; Li, Zi-An; Caron, Jan; Kovács, András; Tian, Huanfang; Jin, Chiming; Du, Haifeng; Tian, Mingliang; Li, Jianqi; Zhu, Jing; Dunin-Borkowski, Rafal E.

    2018-04-01

    Whereas theoretical investigations have revealed the significant influence of magnetic surface and edge states on Skyrmonic spin texture in chiral magnets, experimental studies of such chiral states remain elusive. Here, we study chiral edge states in an FeGe nanostripe experimentally using off-axis electron holography. Our results reveal the magnetic-field-driven formation of chiral edge states and their penetration lengths at 95 and 240 K. We determine values of saturation magnetization MS by analyzing the projected in-plane magnetization distributions of helices and Skyrmions. Values of MS inferred for Skyrmions are lower by a few percent than those for helices. We attribute this difference to the presence of chiral surface states, which are predicted theoretically in a three-dimensional Skyrmion model. Our experiments provide direct quantitative measurements of magnetic chiral boundary states and highlight the applicability of state-of-the-art electron holography for the study of complex spin textures in nanostructures.

  13. Off-axis magmatism along a subaerial back-arc rift: Observations from the Taupo Volcanic Zone, New Zealand.

    PubMed

    Hamling, Ian J; Hreinsdóttir, Sigrun; Bannister, Stephen; Palmer, Neville

    2016-06-01

    Continental rifting and seafloor spreading play a fundamental role in the generation of new crust. However, the distribution of magma and its relationship with tectonics and volcanism remain poorly understood, particularly in back-arc settings. We show evidence for a large, long-lived, off-axis magmatic intrusion located on the margin of the Taupo Volcanic Zone, New Zealand. Geodetic data acquired since the 1950s show evidence for uplift outside of the region of active extension, consistent with the inflation of a magmatic body at a depth of ~9.5 km. Satellite radar interferometry and Global Positioning System data suggest that there was an increase in the inflation rate from 2003 to 2011, which correlates with intense earthquake activity in the region. Our results suggest that the continued growth of a large magmatic body may represent the birth of a new magma chamber on the margins of a back-arc rift system.

  14. Small-angle scattering of polychromatic X-rays: effects of bandwidth, spectral shape and high harmonics.

    PubMed

    Chen, Sen; Luo, Sheng Nian

    2018-03-01

    Polychromatic X-ray sources can be useful for photon-starved small-angle X-ray scattering given their high spectral fluxes. Their bandwidths, however, are 10-100 times larger than those using monochromators. To explore the feasibility, ideal scattering curves of homogeneous spherical particles for polychromatic X-rays are calculated and analyzed using the Guinier approach, maximum entropy and regularization methods. Monodisperse and polydisperse systems are explored. The influence of bandwidth and asymmetric spectra shape are explored via Gaussian and half-Gaussian spectra. Synchrotron undulator spectra represented by two undulator sources of the Advanced Photon Source are examined as an example, as regards the influence of asymmetric harmonic shape, fundamental harmonic bandwidth and high harmonics. The effects of bandwidth, spectral shape and high harmonics on particle size determination are evaluated quantitatively.

  15. Small-angle scattering of polychromatic X-rays: effects of bandwidth, spectral shape and high harmonics

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

    Chen, Sen; Luo, Sheng-Nian

    Polychromatic X-ray sources can be useful for photon-starved small-angle X-ray scattering given their high spectral fluxes. Their bandwidths, however, are 10–100 times larger than those using monochromators. To explore the feasibility, ideal scattering curves of homogeneous spherical particles for polychromatic X-rays are calculated and analyzed using the Guinier approach, maximum entropy and regularization methods. Monodisperse and polydisperse systems are explored. The influence of bandwidth and asymmetric spectra shape are exploredviaGaussian and half-Gaussian spectra. Synchrotron undulator spectra represented by two undulator sources of the Advanced Photon Source are examined as an example, as regards the influence of asymmetric harmonic shape, fundamentalmore » harmonic bandwidth and high harmonics. The effects of bandwidth, spectral shape and high harmonics on particle size determination are evaluated quantitatively.« less

  16. Distortion of DNA Origami on Graphene Imaged with Advanced TEM Techniques.

    PubMed

    Kabiri, Yoones; Ananth, Adithya N; van der Torre, Jaco; Katan, Allard; Hong, Jin-Yong; Malladi, Sairam; Kong, Jing; Zandbergen, Henny; Dekker, Cees

    2017-08-01

    While graphene may appear to be the ultimate support membrane for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging of DNA nanostructures, very little is known if it poses an advantage over conventional carbon supports in terms of resolution and contrast. Microscopic investigations are carried out on DNA origami nanoplates that are supported onto freestanding graphene, using advanced TEM techniques, including a new dark-field technique that is recently developed in our lab. TEM images of stained and unstained DNA origami are presented with high contrast on both graphene and amorphous carbon membranes. On graphene, the images of the origami plates show severe unwanted distortions, where the rectangular shape of the nanoplates is significantly distorted. From a number of comparative control experiments, it is demonstrated that neither staining agents, nor screening ions, nor the level of electron-beam irradiation cause this distortion. Instead, it is suggested that origami nanoplates are distorted due to hydrophobic interaction of the DNA bases with graphene upon adsorption of the DNA origami nanoplates. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  17. Constraints on melt content of off-axis magma lenses at the East Pacific Rise from analysis of 3-D seismic amplitude variation with angle of incidence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aghaei, Omid; Nedimović, Mladen R.; Marjanović, Milena; Carbotte, Suzanne M.; Pablo Canales, J.; Carton, Hélène; Nikić, Nikola

    2017-06-01

    We use 3-D multichannel seismic data to form partial angle P wave stacks and apply amplitude variation with angle (AVA) crossplotting to assess melt content and melt distribution within two large midcrustal off-axis magma lenses (OAMLs) found along the East Pacific Rise from 9°37.5'N to 9°57'N. The signal envelope of the partial angle stacks suggests that both OAMLs are partially molten with higher average melt content and more uniform melt distribution in the southern OAML than in the northern OAML. For AVA crossplotting, the OAMLs are subdivided into seven 1 km2 analysis windows. The AVA crossplotting results indicate that the OAMLs contain a smaller amount of melt than the axial magma lens (AML). For both OAMLs, a higher melt fraction is detected within analysis windows located close to the ridge axis than within the most distant windows. The highest average melt concentration is interpreted for the central sections of the OAMLs. The overall low OAML melt content could be indicative of melt lost due to recent off-axis eruptions, drainage to the AML, or limited mantle melt supply. Based on the results of this and earlier bathymetric, morphological, geochemical, and geophysical investigations, we propose that the melt-poor OAML state is largely the result of limited melt supply from the underlying mantle source reservoir with smaller contribution attributed to melt leakage to the AML. We hypothesize that the investigated OAMLs have a longer period of melt replenishment, lower eruption recurrence rates, and lower eruption volumes than the AML, though some could be single intrusion events.

  18. Three-dimensional-printed gas dynamic virtual nozzles for x-ray laser sample delivery

    PubMed Central

    Nelson, Garrett; Kirian, Richard A.; Weierstall, Uwe; Zatsepin, Nadia A.; Faragó, Tomáš; Baumbach, Tilo; Wilde, Fabian; Niesler, Fabian B. P.; Zimmer, Benjamin; Ishigami, Izumi; Hikita, Masahide; Bajt, Saša; Yeh, Syun-Ru; Rousseau, Denis L.; Chapman, Henry N.; Spence, John C. H.; Heymann, Michael

    2016-01-01

    Reliable sample delivery is essential to biological imaging using X-ray Free Electron Lasers (XFELs). Continuous injection using the Gas Dynamic Virtual Nozzle (GDVN) has proven valuable, particularly for time-resolved studies. However, many important aspects of GDVN functionality have yet to be thoroughly understood and/or refined due to fabrication limitations. We report the application of 2-photon polymerization as a form of high-resolution 3D printing to fabricate high-fidelity GDVNs with submicron resolution. This technique allows rapid prototyping of a wide range of different types of nozzles from standard CAD drawings and optimization of crucial dimensions for optimal performance. Three nozzles were tested with pure water to determine general nozzle performance and reproducibility, with nearly reproducible off-axis jetting being the result. X-ray tomography and index matching were successfully used to evaluate the interior nozzle structures and identify the cause of off-axis jetting. Subsequent refinements to fabrication resulted in straight jetting. A performance test of printed nozzles at an XFEL provided high quality femtosecond diffraction patterns. PMID:27410079

  19. In situ biasing and off-axis electron holography of a ZnO nanowire

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    den Hertog, Martien; Donatini, Fabrice; McLeod, Robert; Monroy, Eva; Sartel, Corinne; Sallet, Vincent; Pernot, Julien

    2018-01-01

    Quantitative characterization of electrically active dopants and surface charges in nano-objects is challenging, since most characterization techniques using electrons [1-3], ions [4] or field ionization effects [5-7] study the chemical presence of dopants, which are not necessarily electrically active. We perform cathodoluminescence and voltage contrast experiments on a contacted and biased ZnO nanowire with a Schottky contact and measure the depletion length as a function of reverse bias. We compare these results with state-of-the-art off-axis electron holography in combination with electrical in situ biasing on the same nanowire. The extension of the depletion length under bias observed in scanning electron microscopy based techniques is unusual as it follows a linear rather than square root dependence, and is therefore difficult to model by bulk equations or finite element simulations. In contrast, the analysis of the axial depletion length observed by holography may be compared with three-dimensional simulations, which allows estimating an n-doping level of 1 × 1018 cm-3 and negative sidewall surface charge of 2.5 × 1012 cm-2 of the nanowire, resulting in a radial surface depletion to a depth of 36 nm. We found excellent agreement between the simulated diameter of the undepleted core and the active thickness observed in the experimental data. By combining TEM holography experiments and finite element simulation of the NW electrostatics, the bulk-like character of the nanowire core is revealed.

  20. Earthquake Response of Reinforced Concrete Building Retrofitted with Geopolymer Concrete and X-shaped Metallic Damper

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Madheswaran, C. K.; Prakash vel, J.; Sathishkumar, K.; Rao, G. V. Rama

    2017-06-01

    A three-storey half scale reinforced concrete (RC) building is fixed with X-shaped metallic damper at the ground floor level, is designed and fabricated to study its seismic response characteristics. Experimental studies are carried out using the (4 m × 4 m) tri-axial shake-table facility to evaluate the seismic response of a retrofitted RC building with open ground storey (OGS) structure using yielding type X-shaped metallic dampers (also called as Added Damping and Stiffness-ADAS elements) and repairing the damaged ground storey columns using geopolymer concrete composites. This elasto-plastic device is normally incorporated within the frame structure between adjacent floors through chevron bracing, so that they efficiently enhance the overall energy dissipation ability of the seismically deficient frame structure under earthquake loading. Free vibration tests on RC building without and with yielding type X-shaped metallic damper is carried out. The natural frequencies and mode shapes of RC building without and with yielding type X-shaped metallic damper are determined. The retrofitted reinforced concrete building is subjected to earthquake excitations and the response from the structure is recorded. This work discusses the preparation of test specimen, experimental set-up, instrumentation, method of testing of RC building and the response of the structure. The metallic damper reduces the time period of the structure and displacement demands on the OGS columns of the structure. Nonlinear time history analysis is performed using structural analysis package, SAP2000.