Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In this article, the isotope geochemical study for Iceland is reviewed. Iceland is geologically unique because it is a subaerial exposure of Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is caused by the interaction between the ridge and the Icelandic hot spot. To investigate what is happening beneath Iceland, many geochemical studies have been done. The geochemical studies using conventional Sr, Nd, Pb, He and O isotope tracers revealed the heterogeneity not only of the oceanic mantle, but also of the Icelandic hot spot mantle itself. Furthermore, the oxygen isotope studies revealed the reworking of the Icelandic crust which is altered by meteoritic water. The characterization of the Icelandic hot spot from the isotope geochemistry is very important in testing the hypothesis of the mantle-crust recycling. In near future, new tracers such as Li, B or Ce will be ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

There is increasing recognition of intraspecific diversity and population structure within marine fish species, yet there is little direct evidence of the isolating mechanisms that maintain it or documentation...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Positive identification of Martian pseudocraters would be a strong indication of past occurrence of ice at or near the surface of Mars. The basis for suggesting that small cones on Mars are pseudocraters includes: (1) small size, (2) abundant but patchy distribution on what appear to be volcanic plains, (3) presence of other features suggestive of surface or subsurface ice, (4) morphological similarities to Icelandic pseudocraters, and (5) the similarity in distribution of crater/cone diameter ratios to Icelandic pseudocraters. This last morphometric parameter may be the most important, since other possible small terrestrial volcanic analogs have very different crater/cone diameter ratio distributions. In a survey of the available high resolution Viking Orbiter imagery, abundant fields of possible pseudocraters were found. However, only a small fraction of the plains forming units imaged at high resolution were found to contain the small cones. ...

Wastenet

...Corps' tunnel 'expands' understanding of Permafrost Program News Home Warfighter Support Installations Environment Water Resources Information Technology About Us Partnering Opportunities About Us ...News Releases Program News Corps' tunnel 'expands' understanding of Permafrost Corps' tunnel \\

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Primary objective was to investigate the effects of pore structure on capacity of porous metal oxides for removal of SO[sub 2] from power plant fuel gas and H[sub 2]S from hot coal gas. During this period, a comparative study was carried out on the direct reaction with H[sub 2]S and SO[sub 2] of the three limestones used as CaO precursors: Greer limestone, Georgia marble, and Iceland spar calcite. Sulfation was carried out at 750 and 850 C in a thermogravimetric analysis system under simulated high pressure (enough CO[sub 2] to prevent decomposition of CaCO[sub 3]). Results are presented as conversion vs time graphs. Mercury penetration and gas adsorption were used to analyze the structure. Activation energies and effective diffusivities were determined. A variable diffusivity shrinking-core model was used to analyze the data. In the future, this limestone study will be completed, and a study on supported CuO sorbent will be started.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of self expandable metallic stents (SEMS) in patients with malignant esophageal obstruction and fistulas.METHODS: SEMS were implanted in the presence of fluoroscopic...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

... to integrate and synchronize SC efforts and capabilities, as noted in the SC Roadmap, the joint community needs to publish SC policy and expand ...

Science.gov (United States)

I understand that you cannot answer truthfully because of the the janap 146e otherwise you would be commiting treason but please give a more intelligent ...

Science.gov (United States)

4) Expand to include client-server interaction (small-scale archive interactions with the goal of evaluating information management capabilities) -- Early ...

Science.gov (United States)

health research agency, NIMH is dedicated to reducing the burden of mental and behavioral disorders through research on mind, brain, and behavior. As part of that mission, NIMH...

Science.gov (United States)

Lichen striatus begins similarly to lichen planus, with small bumps (papules), but over a period of days expands to form a long streak or band of affected ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The theoretical and experimental investigation of the mechanism of SO2 and H2S removal by CaCO3 -based sorbents (limestones and dolomites) in pressurized uidized-bed coal combustors (PFBC) and high pressure gasiers, respectively, is the main objective of this study. It is planned to carry out reactivity evolution experiments under simulated high pressure conditions or in high pressure thermogravimetric and, if needed, uidized- bed reactor (high pressure) arrangements. The pore structure of fresh, heat-treated, and half-calcined solids (dolomites) will be analyzed using a variety of methods. Our work will focus on limestones and dolomites whose reaction with SO2 or H2S under atmospheric conditions has been studied by us or other research groups in past studies. Several theoret- ical tools will be employed to analyze the obtained experimental data including a variable diusivity shrinking-core model and models for diusion, reaction, and structure evolution in chemically reacting porous ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The propagating of tachyons in an expanding universe is discussed. It is shown that a primordial tachyon in the big-bang universe cannot survive unless it had very large energy initially. In an indefinitely expanding universe the tachyon trajectory turns back in time. This time barrier is found to exist even in the quantum mechanical discussion of tachyons. This property is used to set limits on the mass of a tachyon. The possible astronomical checks on the hypothesis that neutrinos or photons may be tachyonic are also discussed. (author).

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

European phosphorus derivatives manufacturer Italmatch Chemicals SpA has expanded its Phoslite range of fully colourable flame retardants for polymers with the addition of Phoslite B85AX. The company reports that its Phoslite technology is already `successfully consolidated' in polypropylene (PP) applications and, with introduction of the new product, is now starting to expand into polyamide PA6 and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) applications.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A decentralized power system stabilizer output feedback design approach is considered, which is compatible with expanding the construction of multi-machine systems. We presume that the interconnected power system is constructed by connecting closed-loop subsystems one after another. We take the proper stable factorization approach for calculating the local compensators. We apply the result to the new subsystem at each connection stage with unfixed power system stabilizer parameters. We then determine the parameters appropriately, before connection, so that the expanded system is stable after connection. A numerical example is worked out to illustrate the proposed design technique. 14 refs, 5 figs, 3 tabs

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We investigate the asymptotic properties of the Bianchi type IX cosmological model in the brane-world scenario. The matter content is assumed to be a combination of a perfect fluid and a minimimally coupled scalar field that is restricted to the brane. A detailed qualitative analysis of the Bianchi type IX brane-world containing a scalar field having an exponential potential is undertaken. It is found that the brane-Robertson-Walker solution is a local source for the expanding Bianchi type IX models, and if k"2<2 the ever-expanding Bianchi IX models asymptote to the power-law inflationary solution. The only other local sink is the contracting brane-Robertson Walker solution. An analysis of the Bianchi type IX models with a scalar field with a general potential is discussed, and it is shown that in the case of expanding models, for physical scalar field potentials close to the initial singularity, the scalar field is ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Systems biology is a rapidly expanding field that integrates diverse areas of science such as physics, engineering, computer science, mathematics, and biology toward the goal of elucidating the underlying...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Leakage after oesophageal anastomosis or perforation remains a challenge for the surgeon. Traditional management has been operative repair or intensive conservative management. Both treatments are...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

To treat or prevent some of the 795,000 annual strokes in the U.S., self-expanding endo-vascular stents deployed under fluoroscopic image guidance are often used. Neuro-interventionalists need...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Current concepts of the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis suggest that the expanded numbers of activated T-helper/inducer cells at sites of disease activity result, at least in part, from their proliferation...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

As the presence of humans in space expands in scope and duration, the quality of life in space as well as on Earth becomes pertinent. .... Military uses of space, such as the introduction of space-based laser or particle beam weapons, may have a major impact on the way people think and relate to .... AIAA Student Journal. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We study the role of rolling tachyons in the cosmological model with dilatonic gravity. In the string frame, flat space solutions of both initial-stage and late-time are obtained in closed form. In the Einstein frame, we show that every expanding solution is decelerating.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

It is proven that there do not exist any diagonal Bianchi type-IX universes which expand for an infinite time, provided only that the matter satisfies the dominant energy condition and has non-negative average principal pressures.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundThe genus Vibrio is a diverse group of Gram-negative bacteria comprised of 74 species. Furthermore, the genus has and is expected to continue expanding...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Patients with schizophrenia can be taught the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) sorting rules based upon expanded feedback. However, few task manipulations have been reported that differentially...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Anaerobic treatment of a volatile fatty acid (VFA) mixture was investigated under psychrophilic (3 to 8°C) conditions in two laboratory-scale expanded granular sludge bed reactor stages in series....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The authors studied noncancer mortality among phenoxyacid herbicide and chlorophenol production workers and sprayers included in an international study comprising 36 cohorts from 12 countries followed...Full Text Available

Wastenet

...Goods: promote the protection of ldquo;natural parks and reserves, mangroves, reefs and lagoons,rdquo; and ldquo;expanding forest cover and tree integration with agricultural production systems rdquo;; climate change will be reduced through the trading of pollution permits under the Kyoto Protocol. Enhancing Disaster Management Capabilities:...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The dental pulp consists of loose connective tissue encased in rigid dentinal walls. Because of its topography the tissue has low interstitial compliance and limited capacity to expand during fluid...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Family stress theory can explain associations between contextual stressors and parenting. However, the theory has not been tested among Mexican Americans or expanded to include cultural-contextual...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Metazoan development requires complex mechanisms to generate cells with diverse function. Alternative splicing of pre-mRNA not only expands proteomic diversity but also provides a means to regulate...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

... to-noise density than the uplink budget has (74.2 ... in heav:, point-to-point link applications with ... 11.7 Expanded bands allocated (Ku band) (500 MHz ...

Science.gov (United States)

A program was conducted to develop a pop-up artificial-foliage system compatible with the rural Maryland (summertime) background environment. The result of this Phase I effort was a self-expanding leaf module, a number of which are stored flat in a simple...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Failure of a dam is something we hope never happens. But if a failure occurs, it`s important to study the circumstances in order to expand our knowledge base, and then apply what we learn to other structures.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The feasibility of self-expanding nitinol stents for treatment of infragenicular arteries following unsuccessful balloon angioplasty was assessed. Options for lower limb percutaneous revascularization are limited, especially for complex vessel obstruction. Depending on the lesion and the experience of the interventionalist, the failure rate of balloon angioplasty (PTA) ranges between 10 and 40%. Until recently, no self-expanding stent for the use in the infragenicular arteries was available. This is the first report of the results for 18 consecutive patients who received 4F sheath compatible self-expanding nitinol stents following unsuccessful PTA or early restenosis. Twenty-four stents were implanted in 21 lesions for various indications residual stenosis >50% due to heavy calcification, flow-limiting dissection, occluding thrombus resistant to thrombolyis, thrombaspiration, and PTA, and early restenosis after ...

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Gastric evacuation experiments were performed on whiting Merlangius merlangus fed discrete meals of different sizes. Herring Clupea harengus, sandeel Ammodytes tobianus, common goby Pomatoschistus microps, and brown shrimp Crangon crangon were tested as prey. A simple power model to describe gastric evacuation was evaluated and compared with a power model expanded as a function of meal size. The model parameters were estimated by means of nonlinear least squares. When all meal sizes were included the estimates of the power (curvature) parameter in the expanded model were within the range 0.36-0.77 for the different prey. The power estimates in the simple model were generally close to 0.5. The exception was crustacean prey, which gave a higher value. In the simple model the power estimate represents a compromise between the curvatures of the curves fitted to the observations for each meal size and the relationship between meal size and overall ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nitinol has found growing applications in vascular stents, with the recent introduction on the market of a number of new nitinol tubular devices for coronary and peripheral usage. These stents can be produced either through the expansion of a pattern cut on a small tube (pre-cut) or by cutting the deployed design on a tube of a larger size (pre-expanded). The aim of the study was to analyze the differences of properties induced by the two manufacturing methods. For this purpose, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements were performed on various specimens from the two types of stents. A first set of measurements shows that pre-expanded stents exhibit usual A<->R<->M transformations whereas multi-stage transformations occur for pre-cut stents. Two types of DSC specimens were then prepared for each stent, corresponding to the straight sections and the curved parts of the stent. It is shown that the pre-cut ...

Science.gov (United States)

Since some of the earliest evolutionary calculations it has been found that post main sequence stars become red giants (e.g. Sandage and Schwarzschild, 1952). However the exact physical processes that lead to and determine the rate of redward evolution are not completely understood. We hypothesized that the redward evolution might be due to an increase in radiation pressure somewhere in the star that causes the layers above it to be pushed outward, resulting in an expanded envelope and a cooler surface temperature. If the radiative luminosity somewhere in the star approached the Eddington limit, the outer layers would obviously expand. However, due to the presence of gas pressure, the critical value for expansion would be somewhat less than the Eddington limit.

Science.gov (United States)

To quantify the opportunities for natural gas and identify technological advances needed to capture such opportunities, the mineral-wool industry was analyzed with respect to the principal companies, their capabilities, and markets. The mineral-wool industry is stable with a slightly declining market. Of its market segments, only commercial acoustic insulation (which is currently dominant) is likely to be affected by growth in the next ten years. The principal process is based on treatment of blast-furnace slags in a cupola furnace using coke as the fuel and reducing agent. Expanded use of gas, as a substitute for coke, would eliminate environmental problems and expand the latitude of suitable raw materials. The study provides insights into the mineral-wool industry and identifies factors that may constitute bases for future usage of natural gas.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The findings reported in this study highlight several important features of the development of hematopoietic stem cells after transplantation into irradiated recipients. First, they demonstrate the existence of a class of primitive multipotential stem cells that can function for a significant portion of the lifetime of a mouse (15 mo). In addition, they clearly show that these primitive stem cells can be infected with recombinant retroviruses and thus would be appropriate targets for gene therapy in somatic tissues. Second, our data indicate that the progeny of some, but not all, of the primitive stem cells have fully expanded into the various hematopoietic lineages by 2 mo after reconstitution. Finally, our analysis of the secondary recipients provides strong evidence suggesting that the primitive stem cell population can actually clonally expand. Our current experiments are aimed at determining the extent to which this expansion can occur and ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In this work, a powerful analytical method, called He's parameter-expanding methods (HPEM) is used to obtain the exact solutions of non-linear modified Van der Pol's oscillator. The classical Van der Pol equation with delayed feedback and a modified equation where a delayed term provides the damping are considered. It is shown that one term in series expansions is sufficient to obtain a highly accurate solution, which is valid for the whole solution domain. Comparison of the obtained solution with those obtained using perturbation method shows that this method is effective and convenient to solve this problem. This method introduces a capable tool to solve this kind of non-linear problems.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Thermodynamic consideration and process calculations at equilibrium conditions showed that processes for separating gas mixtures by partial condensation at low temperatures using turboexpanders have got less energy losses than processes with quasi isobar partial condensation. Compared to the low-pressure parts of condensing steam turbines in turboexpanders less erosion problems are to expected for such separating processes. Separation of liquid in the machine, however, is more difficult withouf additional measures. (orig.).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This invention relates to an automatically-operating wedge block for maintaining intimate structural contact over wide temperature ranges, including cryogenic use. The wedging action depends on the relative thermal expansion of two materials having very different coefficients of thermal expansion. The wedge block expands in thickness when cooled to cryogenic temperatures and contracts in thickness when returned to room temperature.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The covered self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) has been developed to overcome the problem of tissue in­growth, However, stent migration is a well-known com­­plication of covered...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A solar unit is described which contains a cavity radiation receiver, parabolic-cylindrical concentrator, and reflector arranged between the radiation receiver and the concentrator symmetrically in relation to the optical plane of the latter. In order to expand the range of use, it contains a pair of flat mirrors with 2 working surfaces installed at an angle and symmetrically to the optical plane of the parabolic cylindrical concentrator between them and the reflector, while the latter is made in the form of 2 flat mirrors installed at an angle on the cavity radiation receiver.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We wanted to determine the technical and clinical efficacy of placing a self-expandable PTFE-covered nitinol stent for the management of inoperable malignant biliary obstruction. Thirty six patients with inoperable malignant biliary obstructions were treated by placement of self-expandable PTFE-covered nitinol stents (S and G Biotech Corporation, Seongnam, Korea). Clinical evaluation was done with assessment of the serum bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels, which were measured before and after stent placement within 1 week, at 1 month and at 3 months. The patient survival rate and stent patency rate were calculated with performing Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Successful stent placement was achieved in all the patients without procedure-related complication. Pancreatitis as an early complication occurred in two cases. The serum bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels were significantly decreased after the procedure. During the ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

A survey carried out in 2005 among members of a healthy population of children living in Bolivia and Peru revealed that fecal carriage of Escherichia coli strains resistant to expanded-spectrum...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

It is proven that there do not exist any Bianchi type-IX universes which expand for an infinite time, provided only that the matter satisfies the dominant energy condition and has non-negative average pressure (i.e., a non-negative trace of the spatial projection of the stress-energy tensor). This generalizes a proof recently given by us for the case of diagonal Bianchi type-IX solutions.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The uncertainties of growth in Croatian future energy, particularly electricity demand, together with growing environmental considerations and protection constraints, are such that Croatia needs to have flexibility to respond by having the option of expanding the nuclear sector. The paper deals with nuclear energy as an option for croatian sustainable economic development. The conclusion is that there is a necessity for extended use of nuclear energy in Croatia because most certainly nuclear energy can provide energy necessary to sustain progress. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of this invention is to assure operating reliability of a Mandrel head in tubes of various diameters. This goal is achieved in that it is equipped with movable expanding sectors, which are installed on a rigid conical plunger dye. It is also equipped with spring-loaded conical slides blocks which are installed on a shaft. The upper ends of the sectors of the sectorial head are attached by hinges to a rigid cone shaped plunger dye. The lower ends are installed with the possibility of interacting with the slide blocks.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Measurement-While-Drilling (MWD) sensors can supply much of the critical downhole information needed in a systems approach to improving drilling efficiency. The author looks at some areas where MWD information has helped to improve drilling efficiency. To date, most use of MWD has been for directional survey, pressure prediction, and formation evaluation. As MWD systems become more reliable and cost effective, their applications will expand.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mission-directed public-sector research facilities are experiencing increasingly severe budget environments while seeing expanding missions and responsibilities. In an effort to identify research leveraging methodologies an information search was conducted in conjunction with some efforts to find the proper links to systems engineering fundamentals. The result is an initial model for use in a pre-concept/phase-1 engineering design organization, with a goal of improving the organizations performance.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The martensitic phase transition in the A-15 compounds is treated by expanding the free energy in terms of the order parameters and its spatial gradients. The model used is a modified version of that recently proposed by Gorkov. The predictions for a wide range of physical properties are in good agreement with experimental results for V_3Si and Nb_3Sn lending support to the veracity of the model. 25 refs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The t<0 branch of pre-big bang cosmological scenarios is subject to a gravitational wave instability. The unstable behaviour of tensor perturbations is derived in a very simple way in Hwang's covariant and gauge-invariant formalism developed for extended theories of gravity. A simple interpretation of this instability as the effect of an ''antifriction'' is given, and it is argued that a universe must eventually enter the expanding phase. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

First Solar made 9 CdTe PV devices; found two front- and one back-side structures that show improved Jsc and Voc, respectively, compared to base device structure; best cell efficiency was 14.13%.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The study concludes that while the diversification into nonutility activities by the Rural Electric Cooperatives and the Rural Telephone Cooperatives has been expanding, the regulatory activities by the Rural Electrification Administration and the state public utility commissions have been inadequate to guard against cross-subsidization. In fact, there generally exist no data to identify and investigate illegal cross-subsidization activities of cooperatives. Increasing the regulatory functions of state public utility commissions and the REA was recommended.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We wanted to evaluate the long-term results of a dual expandable nitinol stent for the palliative treatment of malignant gastroduodenal strictures. The dual stent consists of two stents; an outer partially nylon covered stent and an inner bare nitinol stent. The outer stent was placed into the stricture and this was followed by coaxial placement of the inner bare stent. Using fluoroscopic guidance, dual expandable stents were placed in 86 patients with inoperable malignant gastroduodenal strictures. The technical and clinical success, the complication, survival and the stent patency were evaluated during the follow-up period. Stent placement was technically successful in 83 of the 86 patients. After stent placement, 74 of the 85 patients showed improvement of their symptoms. During the mean follow-up period of 133 days, 24 patients (28%) developed recurrent symptoms due to incomplete expansion (n=1), stent migration (n=4), food impaction (n=2), ...

Science.gov (United States)

Physics information for the D and F piles is presented. Thermal conductivity, reactivity, and irradiation levels are included. Concerning the cooling systems: process water control, pressure drip studies, purging studies, corrosion, and gun barrel clearance of expanded graphite are discussed. (GHH)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

By using defined compositions based on industrial wastes of the hard-coal mining and a further waste material (red mud), which is obtained during the extraction process of alumina (BAYER-Process), it is possible to produce expanded-clay granulate requiring suitable preparation, shaping and firing at temperatures of about 1150 C. Some of the investigated parameters and aspects of this manufacturing process will be presented in this paper. (orig.) [German] Aus definierten Mischungen industrieller Reststoffe des Steinkohlenbergbaus (Bergematerial) mit einem weiteren Abfallstoff (Rotschlamm), der bei der Aluminiumoxidgewinnung nach dem BAYER-Verfahren anfaellt, laesst sich nach geeigneter Aufbereitung und Formgebung durch Brennen bei ca. 1150 C Blaehton-Grunulat herstellen. Auf einen Teil der untersuchten Parameter und ermittelten Zusammenhaenge soll im folgenden naeher eingegangen werden. (orig.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

4,4'-bis(N-carbazolyl)tolan (BCT) and 4,4'-bis[N-(3,6-di-t-butyl)carbazolyl]tolan (BCT-t-Bu) were synthesized as ?-expanded analogs of 4,4'-bis(N-carbazolyl)biphenyl. Their photophysical characteristics both in solution and films were thoroughly investigated. Interestingly, the phosphorescence spectrum of BCT was significantly medium-dependent, and the emission maximum was red-shifted by 131 nm from 489 nm in solution at 77 K to 620 nm in a deposited film at 5 K, suggesting the presence of strong intermolecular interactions in the film. BCT and BCT-t-Bu were found to be useful as host materials for fluorescence-based organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). However, their low triplet energy levels in films negated their potential to act as hosts in phosphorescence-based OLEDs. - Research highlights: ? We synthesized N-carbazolyl-tolan derivatives (BCT) as ?-expanded analogues of CBP. ? We found that BCT derivatives are useful as host materials ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Forty-one cases of mediastinal tumor examined by computed tomography were reviewed. CT findings of the mediastinal malignancy were as follows: 1) inhomogeneous density on contrast CT, 2) equivocaton of fat plane surrounding the tumor, 3) irregular margin. Benign teratoma had smooth margin and included fat or calcification density. Mediastinal seminoma was observed as a lobulated mass with no calcification on CT. These findings were similar to the patterns of malignant thymoma or lymphoma. Consequently, it was very difficult to differentiate between malignant thymoma and malignant lymphoma by CT. According to our data, malignant thymoma tended to expand to only one side of the anterior mediastinum and to invade the anterior chest wall. On the other hand, malignant lymphoma of anterior medistinal type expanded into the trachea and the superior vena cava. In patients with sarcoidosis, the enlargement of bilateral hilar lymph nodes was commonly ...

CERN Document Server

We present an analytical model for jets in Fanaroff & Riley Class I (FRI) radio galaxies, in which an initially laminar, relativistic flow is surrounded by a shear layer. We apply the appropriate conservation laws to constrain the jet parameters, starting the model where the radio emission is observed to brighten abruptly. We assume that the laminar flow fills the jet there and that pressure balance with the surroundings is maintained from that point outwards. Entrainment continuously injects new material into the jet and forms a shear layer, which contains material from both the environment and the laminar core. The shear layer expands rapidly with distance until finally the core disappears, and all of the material is mixed into the shear layer. Beyond this point, the shear layer expands in a cone and decelerates smoothly. We apply our model to the well-observed FRI source 3C31 and show that there is a self-consistent solution. We derive ...

CERN Document Server

Optical sections of the cornea are obtained by illumination with a collimated beam expanded in a fan shape by a small rotary cylindrical lens. The light diffused from the cornea is observed by two cameras and processed in order to yield the surfaces' profiles. The optical system used to project a thin rotating line on the cornea consists of a white light source provided with optical fiber bundle output which is first conditioned by a set of lenses so that it would produce a spot on the cornea. A small cylinder lens is used to expand the beam in one direction so that a thin line illuminates the cornea, rather than a spot. The cylinder lens is provided with motor driven rotation about an axis normal to its own in order to rotate the line on the cornea such that the projected line scans the whole cornea; the illuminator is completed with a slit aperture. The cornea is not perfectly transparent, scattering some of the light that traverses it; this ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

According to Schumpeter, the creative process of economic development can be divided into the stages of invention, innovation (commercialization) and imitation. Each stage is associated with specific skills. This paper examines whether Schumpeter?s assertion was correct, i.e. whether the invention and innovation stages should be undertaken by different agents. In addition, we examine whether there is a rationale for the Schumpeterian entrepreneur to include the inventor in the commercialization process. Combining the abilities of the entrepreneur and the inventor may serve to facilitate customer adaptation, strengthen knowledge transfers and reduce uncertainty, thereby expanding market opportunities. Based on a unique database covering Swedish patents granted to individuals and small firms...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In order to realize improve of reliability and economy by duplicate production, rapid supply of repair parts from standardized storage, such were expected as to have continuous order of standardized plant, to ignore site condition, to avoid expansion of regulatory requirement. Standardization program was planned to limitedly promote standardization of safety-related design concept, major specification and basic system composition of reactor and primary systems. The area of standardization had been tried to expand to BOP such as general arrangement and rad-waste system.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In the last 40 years, significant advances have been made in the understanding of the neurophysiologic processes involved in the experience of trauma and pain. This knowledge, together with the rapid growth and understanding in the behavioral health sciences, has expanded to include a much better appreciation of how these fields are converging and contribute to a process called neuroplasticity. These basic mechanisms common to all patients have important implications for clinical outcome and for improving clinical practice. This article is written for clinicians who manage patients with sacroiliac joint dysfunction, a specific type of nonspecific low back pain.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report addresses remote monitoring of coal waste impoundments for stability. Existing automated geotechnical monitoring systems are described and reviewed along with details of instruments suitable for such systems. An impoundment in West Virginia, which was in the construction stage, was instrumented and monitored between July 1979 and May 1981. Sensors that measure surface and subsurface parameters including settlement, horizontal deflection, surface tilt, pore water pressure, seepage, pond level, and meteorlogical parameters were installed. Recommendations for improving and expanding the capabilities of the monitoring system are given.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Outreach Program was designed to solicit creative ideas from academia, research institutions, private enterprises, and the general public and is intended to be helpful in defining promising technical areas and program paths for more detailed study. To the Outreach Program, a number of power system concepts were proposed. In conclusion, there are a number of advanced concepts for space power and propulsion sources that deserve study if we want to expand our ability to not only explore space, but to utilize it. Advanced nuclear concepts and power beaming concepts are two areas worthy of detailed assessments.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper explains how mine operators are taking a closer look at the power of explosives and how primary breakage affects other open-pit mining costs. Slurries have overcome most of the disadvantages attributed to them in their early years and may replace Anfo. Effective blasting is the key to an efficient, low-cost mining operation. Reviews are presented on research in crater studies, computer-aided design, the expanding gas theory, and high-speed motion picture cameras that show the importance of shock energy in fracturing the rock interfaces throughout the burden. The paper concludes with MSHA-approved courses in blasting offered throughout the US.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To expand the information base on molecular accessibility in solvent swelled coal, Argonne Premium Coal Samples (APCS) were swelled in polar, basic solvents before and after moisture loss and upon air oxidation. So far studies have been reported on the changes in pore size distribution as a function of temperature when polar basic swelling solvents are used. Additional studies employing EPR spin probe techniques performed on the breaking up of the hydrogen bonding between bedding planes were later confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging at Argonne National Lab and the University of Illinois.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A 2D matrix allows a fairly rapid verification of irradiation parameters transferred on computer processing equipment without expanding the dosimetry means to implement. Associated to 'Multicheck and Verisoft' software it will handle some of the regulatory recommendations of the A.F.S.S.A.P.S. for quality control of accelerators and ensure the traceability of testing carried out. (N.C.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The near-term availability of domestic and selected foreign uranium resources for use by United States electric utilities is considered in light of projected geopolitical and socioeconomic considerations. No attempt is made to analyze the impact on domestic uranium supply of inflation or cost-price considerations, the introduction of the breeder reactor, limitations in enrichment capacity, or the presently expanding uranium inventory. All data are current as of mid-1980. The period with which this research is concerned is 1980-1995. It is concluded that the United States must promote responsible, environmentally acceptable uranium resource exploration and development, if this nation is to remain self sufficient in this necessary energy commodity.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We have used scale models to measure the predicted coupling of electromagnetic fields simulating the effects of high-altitude nuclear electromagnetic pulses (HEMP) on the interior surfaces of electronic components. Predictive tools for exterior coupling are adequate. For interior coupling, however, such tools are in their infancy. Our methodological approach combines analytical, computational, and laboratory techniques in a complementary way to take advantage of their separate strengths. Computer models are a promising tool, as they can be used to treat complex objects with arbitrary shapes, dielectrics, and cables, and multiple apertures. Laboratory tests can expand the domain of investigation even further.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A previously studied theory of gravitation in flat space-time is applied to homogeneous and isotropic cosmological models. There exist two different classes of models without singularities: (i) ever-expanding models, (ii) oscillating models. The first class contains models with hot big bang. For these models there exist at the beginning of the universe-in contrast to Einstein's theory-very high but finite densities of matter and radiation with a big bang of very short duration. After short time these models pass into the homogeneous and isotropic models of Einstein's theory with spatial curvature equal to zero and cosmological constant ALPHA >= O.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A case has been presented of an expanding, aggressive bone cyst in the scapula of an 11-year-old girl. The lesion had the appearance of a highly aggressive, cyst-like disorder that appeared to be benign. Biopsy and histological preparation confirmed the presence of a solitary bone cyst. The clinical, radiological, and pathological criteria associated with a solitary bone cyst, particularly in the scapula, were discussed and the literature was reviewed. The differential diagnosis was stressed and a number of examples of scapular lesions was presented radiologically, particularly lesions that might be confused with solitary bone cyst. (orig./SHA).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We examine the late-time behavior of initially expanding homogeneous cosmological models satisfying Einstein's equation with a positive cosmological constant ..lambda... It is shown that such models of all Bianchi types except IX exponentially evolve toward the de Sitter solution, with time scale (3/..lambda..)/sup 1/2/. The behavior of Bianchi type-IX universes is similar, provided that ..lambda.. is sufficiently large compared with spatial-curvature terms. Thus, a positive cosmological constant provides an effective means of isotropizing homogeneous universes.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The high-spin states in transitional odd-mass nuclei are studied in terms of an odd quasi-particle coupled to an asymmetric rotor with a variable moment of inertia (VMI). In order to take into account the VMI, the basis states are expanded in terms of the core eigenfunctions. Excitation energies, quadrupole moments, magnetic moments, B(E2) values and B(M1) values are calculated and compared with the experimental data for nuclei in Au and La regions. On comparison with other descriptions it is found that the treatment with VMI provides a more satisfactory explanation of the data. (Auth.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The geodesic equation for space-like objects moving along a circular trajectory in the expanding universe is considered. Our analysis leads to the conclusion that ancient cosmological tachyons may exist in the present-day world and may play an important role in (i) the internal structure of hadrons conceived as nonlocal objects called strings, (ii) the T-symmetry violation observed in the weak K-decays, (iii) the multidimensional unified field theories of Kaluza-Klein type, and in (iv) the classical models of charged particles which combine ordinary electromagnetism with a self-interacting version of Newtonian gravity. 18 refs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Self-expanding metallic stent insertion has been widely applied for the palliative treatment of malignant esophageal strictures. Although it is known as an easy, safe, and effective procedure, complications are well known and include things such as stent migration and esophageal stent occlusion caused by tumor in growth. However, metallic stent fractures have been rarely reported in the esophagus, especially for nitinol stents. We report a case of a stent fracture associated with migration in a patient with a malignant esophageal stricture near the gastroesophageal junction. It is highly probable that the stent fracture was due to chemical erosion of the stent caused by gastric juice

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Purpose: To evaluate the initial and mid-term results of a new self-expanding low strut profile nitinol stent for treatment of atherosclerotic lesions stenoses and occlusions in the superficial femoral artery (SFA). Materials and Methods: In 8 patients (4 male, 4 female, mean age 74.8 {+-} 8.8 years) with SFA lesions and non-satisfying results after PTA treatment alone, 10 self-expanding nitinol Xpert stents were deployed via a 4 F sheath. Stent characteristics and handling were graded by the interventionalist. Fontaine classification, duplex flow measurements and ankle brachial index (ABI) at rest and stress were taken prior and one day after stent placement. Patients were followed 3, 6 and 12 months after the procedure obtaining the same parameters at each appointment. Results: Initial stent treatment was successful in all patients. Stent handling and positioning were rated very good and safe. All patients improved clinically by at least one ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction is a well-described clinical entity. Most IVC obstructions from malignant neoplasms are a direct result of tumor compression [Oviedo J, Cerda S. Vascular invasion by hepatocellular carcinoma. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2001;125: 454-5; Furui S, Sawada S, et al. Gianturco stent placement in malignant caval obstruction: analysis of factors for predicting the outcome. Radiology 1995;195:147-52; Fletcher WS, Lakin PC, et al. Results of treatment of inferior vena cava syndrome with expandable metallic stents. Arch Surg 1998;133:935-8]. The symptoms of IVC obstruction include progressive ascites, scrotal edema and lower body edema. These constellations of symptoms are described as IVC syndrome and are devastating to a patient with end-stage cancer. We describe a palliative therapy utilizing Luminexx nitinol self-expanding stents to treat intracaval hepatoma thrombus obstructing the IVC. The procedure is rapidly ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The radio, optical, x-ray and gamma-ray nebulae that surround many pulsars are thought to arise from synchrotron and inverse Compton emission. The energy powering this emission as well as the magnetic fields and relativistic particles are supplied by a 'wind' driven by the central object. The inner parts of the wind can be described using the equations of MHD, but these break down in the outer parts, when the density of charge carriers drops below a critical value. This paper reviews the wave properties of the inner part (striped wind), and uses a relativistic two-fluid model (cold electrons and positrons) to re-examine the nonlinear electromagnetic modes that propagate in the outer parts. It is shown that in a radial wind, two solutions exist for circularly polarized electromagnetic modes. At large distances one of them turns into a freely expanding flow containing a vacuum wave, whereas the other decelerates, corresponding to a confined flow.

Science.gov (United States)

Using an expanded nuclear data base, the transmutation of PCA, AMCR33 (a reduced activation austenitic steel), HT-9, Rafer2 (a reduced activation ferritic steel), V-15%Cr-5%Ti alloy, and SiAlON (a ceramic) were calculated for two positions in the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF), three positions in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR), and the first wall position of both the STARFIRE and MARS conceptual fusion reactors. The peripheral test (PTP) position, and to a lesser extent the radial beryllium (RB) position, of HFIR show significant transmutations which are often in the opposite direction to the transmutations in the fusion conceptual designs. The positions in FFTF, as well as the hafnium covered location in the HFIR RB position show relative minor transmutations.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Mammalodon colliveri is an unusual toothed archaic mysticete (Cetacea) from the Upper Oligocene Jan Juc Formation of south-east Australia. The morphology of the holotype skull and postcrania are described in detail. Superimposed on the generally plesiomorphic archaeocete-like morphology of Mammalodon are subtle mysticete synapomorphies. Derived features of Mammalodon include a short and bluntly rounded rostrum, reduced premaxillae, and anterodorsally directed orbits. Within Mysticeti, this suite of features is unique. The aberrant rostral morphology of Mammalodon suggests specialization for suction feeding. Janjucetus hunderi is placed in an expanded family Mammalodontidae. Phylogenetic analysis corroborates the monophyly of Basilosauridae, Neoceti, Odontoceti, and Mysticeti, and yields a ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The economic development of eastern Europe was associated during the last 15 years with the following average annual increases in energy consumption: Approximately 1% in the sectors industry, building and transport, almost 7% in the farming sector, approximately 3% in households, and nearly 4% in the municipal sector. This trend will not continue. As the economic system shifts from centrally planned to free economy and as the previously secluded economy is forced to face world market conditions as well as changed pars of exchange and conditions of payment, it not only experiences a transitory, sharp dip of economic growth in general but, in particular, drastic structural changes. - While there is to be expected, on the whole a slump in national economic growth, in tradiational branches of industry (e.g., metallurgy, the chemicals and textile industry) as well as in farming, such sectors as the service industry and small trade are expanding. (orig./UA).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Before expanding on the development of the Terra Nova oilfield, the author discussed the overall business strategy of Petro-Canada and identified where the Terra Nova and offshore Newfoundland oil have their place within this strategy. The principal basins and oilfields offshore Newfoundland were reviewed, then the emphasis shifted to rest on the Terra Nova development project. A whole range of topics were brought up, including the Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facility, the modules layout, the FPSO located at Bull Arm, and the floating production systems. The physical environment of the Grand Banks was highlighted, and the next few sections were devoted to the Terra Nova FPSO, FPSO and drill centres, the Turret General Arrangement, and Spider buoy including the disconnect/reconnect. The last four sections dealt with the animation of riser movement, the wellhead protection animation, Henry Goodrich, and operations readiness.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Magnesium alloys are being increasingly utilized in a variety of fields as an alternative material to organic materials and aluminum alloys, owing to excellent properties. Those include low density, and excellent damping properties. When compared to organic materials, furthermore, Mg alloy excels at recyclability, heat radiation, and electromagnetic-shielding. Though most of magnesium alloy products are manufactured through die-casting and thixo-molding at present, the demand for the expanding of magnesium wrought alloy market is increasing. Taking full advantage of a drawing technique and applying it to the conventional extruded pipe, we have developed a new type of magnesium alloy pipe. The strength of the developed pipe is significantly higher than that of the conventional one, either extruded or die-casting. Some of the excellent properties were obtained from fundamental tests performed with the developed pipe. Both tensile properties and bending formability ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Motivated by the discovery of superconductivity in alkali and alkaline earth fullerides, this program was undertaken both to understand the nature of and expand the range of materials demonstrating superconductivity. The first approach involved attempts to modify the fullerene cage by incorporating heteroatoms in the structure and the preparation and photophysical properties of nitrogen and sulfur doped fullerenes were studied in detail. The second approach involved examining the stoichiometry and effect of preparative conditions on the behavior of alkali, alkaline earth, lanthanide and mixed ion fullerides. In particular, the authors have elaborated on a technique for making such salts using liquid ammonia or aliphatic amines as solvents. Thirdly, modeling studies were undertaken to predict the properties of heterohedral fullerines and metal - C60 complexes, and theoretical guidelines were developed for understanding the reactivity of the fullerene cage to common ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Background: Although research on epistemological beliefs has expanded over the past two decades, there are still some issues that need to be explored, such as whether epistemological beliefs are domain general or domain specific. Purpose: One of the purposes of this research was to determine if high school students' general epistemological beliefs were different from their epistemological beliefs in the domain of physics. Sample: The research was conducted with 15 grade nine students studying in an urban all-boys school. Their average age was 16. Their previous school experiences were traditional oriented. Design and methods: A case study design with qualitative methods was used for the research. Two questionnaires were developed and used in semi-structured interview protocols two times, w...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We have previously reported that periventricular structures are hypoperfused in attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study has expanded the number of patients, who were divided into two groups: six patients with pure ADHD, and 13 patients with ADHD in combination with other neurologic symptoms. By using xenon 133 inhalation and emission tomography, the regional cerebral blood flow distribution was determined and compared with a control group. Striatal regions were found to be hypoperfused and, by inference, hypofunctional in both groups. This hypoperfusion was statistically significant in the right striatum in ADHD, and in both striatal regions in ADHD with other neuropsychologic and neurologic symptoms. The primary sensory and sensorimotor cortical regions were highly perfused. Methylphenidate increased flow to striatal and posterior periventricular regions, and tended to decrease flow to primary sensory regions. Low striatal activity, ...

CERN Document Server

We consider Bianchi VI spacetime, which also can be reduced to Bianchi types VI0-V-III-I. We initially consider the most general form of the energy-momentum tensor which yields anisotropic stress and heat flow. We then derive an energy-momentum tensor that couples with the spatial curvature in a way so as to cancel out the terms that arise due to the spatial curvature in the evolution equations of the Einstein field equations. We obtain exact solutions for the universes expanding with constant deceleration parameter. The solutions are reduced to each Bianchi type. The dynamics of the models and fluid are examined briefly, and the models that can approach to isotropy are determined.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Development Service Order {number sign}90025 requested recommendations for computer hardware, operating systems, and software development utilities based on current and future SIMON software requirements. Since SIMON's main objective is to be dispatched on missions by an operator with little computer experience, user friendly'' hardware and software interfaces are required. Other design criteria include: a fluid software development environment, and hardware and operating systems with minimal maintenance requirements. Also, the hardware should be expandable; extra processor boards should be easily integrated into the existing system. And finally, the use of well established standards for hardware and software should be implemented where practical.

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Wind power is a maturing technology that in a number of countries is likely to contribute a major share to fully renewable energy systems. Denmark has a comparably long history of wind power development and is planning to continue expanding the existing capacity. If a large-scale penetration of wind power is to be achieved, an integrated framework is needed that can respond to the associated challenges. This paper argues for adopting an integrated macro perspective when evaluating and building frameworks to support wind power development. This macro perspective is applied to the case of Denmark, and more specifically to concrete wind power projects in the region of Northern Jutland. The results suggest although certain elements in the legislation have been improved, the feasibility of wind power projects cannot be guaranteed, and there is a tendency to exclude smaller turbines from the development.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Nutrient Data Laboratory (NDL) develops and maintains the USDA National Nutrient Databank System (NDBS). Data are released from the NDBS for scientific and public use through the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference (SR) ( http://www.ars.usda.gov/ba/bhnrc/ndl ). In 1997 the NDL initiated the National Food and Nutrient Analysis Program (NFNAP) to update and expand its food-composition data. The program included: 1) nationwide probability-based sampling of foods; 2) central processing and archiving of food samples; 3) analysis of food components at commercial, government, and university laboratories; 4) incorporation of new analytical data into the NDBS; and 5) dissemination of these data to the scientific community. A key feature and...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Recently, we showed (Yu, Phys. Rev. E 58 (1998) 4991) that the widely used simulation code TDA3D, even though a single-frequency code, can be used to determine the power spectrum in the SASE process with excellent approximation in the exponential growth regime. In this paper, we apply this method to the BNL Cornell Wiggler A SASE experiment as an example. When the gain is not very high, there are many modes in the radiation, which seems to make the analytical calculation very difficult. However, we show that the increment of the radiation due to SASE over the spontaneous radiation can be expanded in terms of guided modes with rapid convergence. Thus when the spontaneous radiation is subtracted from the SASE power during the calculation, there is a good agreement between the analytical theory and the numerical simulation.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We identify a source coincident with SN 2009kr in Hubble Space Telescope pre-explosion images. The object appears to be a single point source with an intrinsic color V - I = 1.1 #+-# 0.25 and M_V = -7.6 #+-# 0.6. If this is a single star, it would be a yellow supergiant of log L/L _s_u_n #approx# 5.1 and a mass of 15"+"5 _-_4 M _s_u_n. The spatial resolution does not allow us yet to definitively determine if the progenitor object is a single star, a binary system, or a compact cluster. We show that the early light curve is similar to a Type IIL SN, but the prominent H#alpha# P-Cygni profiles and the signature of the end of a recombination phase are reminiscent of a Type IIP. The evolution of the expanding ejecta will play an important role in understanding the progenitor object.

CERN Document Server

In this work we investigate the multivariate statistical description of the matter distribution in the nonlinear regime. We introduce the multivariate Edgeworth expansion of the lognormal distribution to model the cosmological matter field. Such a technique could be useful to generate and reconstruct three-dimensional nonlinear cosmological density fields with the information of higher order correlation functions. We explicitly calculate the expansion up to third order in perturbation theory making use of the multivariate Hermite polynomials up to sixth order. The probability distribution function for the matter field includes at this level the two-point, the three-point and the four-point correlation functions. We use the hierarchical model to formulate the higher order correlation functions based on combinations of the two-point correlation function. This permits us to find compact expressions for the skewness and kurtosis terms of the expanded lognormal field ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The microstructure of the layers produced by plasma nitriding austenitic stainless steel at different treatment temperatures (400 and 500 C) were studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) together with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that the microstructures were composed of 'expanded austenite' ({gamma}{sub N}) and {alpha}(ferrite)+CrN following plasma nitriding at lower and higher treatment temperatures, respectively. The former contains stacking faults and deformed twin substructures, while the latter is made up of colonies displaying a lamellar structure. Kurdjumov-Sachs or Nishiyama-Wassermann orientation relationships between the {alpha} and CrN layer were observed. (orig.)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Male infertility, characterized by hypogonadism, decreased semen quality or ejaculatory dysfunction, accounts for approximately 20% of infertility cases. Obesity and metabolic dysfunction have been identified, among other causal factors, to contribute to male infertility. In the context of the Western world's `obesity epidemic', this article discusses three main biological mechanisms linking obesity to impaired male reproductive function: hypogonadism, testicular heat stress/hypoxia-induced apoptosis and endocrine disruption by `obesogens'. Among these, obesity-induced hypogonadism is undoubtedly the most clinically significant and is easily assessed. Rapidly expanding areas of research in this area include leptin modulation of kisspeptins and hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular hormone path...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mass and charge distributions of products from fission of sup(242m)Am induced by thermal neutrons have been investigated by means of the semiconductor spectrometry of ..gamma.. radiation from a mixture of non-separated fragment nuclei. Specimens of the fissible material have been irradiated in the vertical experimental channel of the research reactor then the measurements have been performed with calibrated semiconductor detectors. Three experiments with substantially different irradiation times have been performed to expand the nomenclature of the investigated fission products. The spectra of ..gamma.. radiation from the mixture of fission products, and time dependences of the counting rates at the total absorption peaks have been handled with computers. The obtained yields are compared with data of previous investigations performed with different experimental methods, as well as with the calculated one.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to show that the need to communicate the value of libraries is growing, and especially now during the global financial crisis. As a response library valuation research is expanding and there is now a need for a status report. Design/methodology/approach - The library valuation field is developing towards generating a critical mass of empirical studies. The focus of the meta-analytical review is on the subgroup that reports a return on investment (ROI) or a cost-benefit ratio. Meta-analysis is a quantitative analysis of findings of previous studies, conducted to infer general findings and lessons from prior empirical research. The dataset is 38 library valuation studies reporting a return on investment figure or cost-benefit ratio. Findings - Of the 38...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Culture-independent microbiological technologies that interrogate complex microbial populations without prior axenic culture, coupled with high-throughput DNA sequencing, have revolutionized the scale, speed and economics of microbial ecological studies. Their application to the medical realm has led to a highly productive merger of clinical, experimental and environmental microbiology. The functional roles played by members of the human microbiota are being actively explored through experimental manipulation of animal model systems and studies of human populations. In concert, these studies have appreciably expanded our understanding of the composition and dynamics of human-associated microbial communities (microbiota). Of note, several human diseases have been linked to alterations in th...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A series of sputtered tungsten-carbon multilayer structures with periods ranging from 2 to 12 nm in the as-prepared state and after annealing at 500 degrees C for 4 hours has been studied with high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The evolution with annealing of the microstructure of these multilayers depends on their period.As-prepared structures appear predominantly amorphous from TEM imaging and diffraction. Annealing results in crystallization of the W-rich layers into WC in the larger period samples, and less complete or no crystallization in the smaller period samples. X-ray scattering reveals that annealing expands the period in a systematic way. The layers remain remarkably well-defined after annealing under these conditions.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Tissue-engineered heart valves are prone to early structural deterioration. We hypothesize that cell?scaffold interaction and mechanical deformation results in upregulation of genes related to osteogenic/chondrogenic differentiation and thus changes extracellular matrix (ECM) composition in human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (hBMSC)-derived tissue-engineered grafts. hBMSC were expanded and seeded onto poly-glycolic acid/poly-lactic acid scaffold for 14 days. Seeded tissue-engineered constructs (TEC) were subjected to cyclic flexure for 24?h, whereas control TEC was maintained in roller bottles for the same duration. hBMSC, TEC, and mechanically deformed TEC were subjected to gene-array and histological analysis. Expression levels of RNA and/or protein markers related to chondrogenesis...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Department of Energy (DOE) and its predecessors have conducted research and development (R&D) in geothermal energy since 1971. To develop the technology needed to harness the Nation's vast geothermal resources, DOE's Office of Geothermal and Wind Technologies oversees a network of national laboratories, industrial contractors, universities, and their subcontractors. The following mission and goal statements guide the overall activities of the Office of Geothermal and Wind Technologies. This Federal Geothermal Program Research Update reviews the specific objectives, status, and accomplishments of DOE's Geothermal Program for Federal Fiscal Year (FY) 1999. The information contained in this Research Update illustrates how the mission and goals of the Office of Geothermal and Wind Technologies are reflected in each R&D activity. The Geothermal Program, from its guiding principles to the most detailed research activities, is focused on ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Placement of dental implants in the interforaminal region of the edentulous mandible is considered a safe and routine surgical procedure. Hemorrhage in the floor of the mouth has been reported as a rare, potentially life-threatening complication related to the placement of implants in this region. In this case report the authors present an immediate and a delayed case of massive bleeding in the floor of the mouth after implant placement. This highly vascularized region is vulnerable and bleeding can be induced easily by instrumentation, causing a vascular trauma, usually by perforation of lingual periostium. In almost all cases the expanding hematoma formation starts during surgery. The effect of the vasoconstrictive agent in the local anesthesic combined with an injury of the lingual arte...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The environmental impact caused by local people (ecological footprint of consumption, EFc) and the actual environmental impact that the ecosystem burdens (ecological footprint of production, EFp) in West Jilin Province, Northeast China from 1986 to 2006 were evaluated by using ecological footprint (EF) method. And the major driving forces of EFc and EFp were analyzed by STIRPAT model. Both EFc and EFp showed increasing trends in 1986?2006, accompanied by decreasing ecological deficits but expanding ecological overshoots. Population (P), GDP per capita (A 1), quadratic term of GDP per capita (A 2), urbanization (T a1), and quadratic term of urbanization (T a2) were important influencing factors of EFc, among which T a2 and T a1 were the most dominate driving forces of EFc. A 1, A 2 and T a2...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The study abstracted aims at analyzing the economic effects of energy policies using simulations. Emphasis is on assessing the effects of decisions in favour of an expanding electric power industry based on nuclear energy and hard coal. The study discusses alternative assumptions concerning the cost involved, pollution abatement measures, shutdown and dismantling costs etc. Input-output analyses make the simulation model a consistent vehicle. Besides, the model in question is characterized by its explaining the investment demand of the different sectors by referring to the continuous annual development of innovative technologies.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

As part of the United States Department of Agricultures (USDA) National Food and Nutrient Analysis Program (NFNAP), food composition data for vitamin D in the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference are being updated and expanded, focusing on high priority foods and validated analytical methodology. A lack of certified reference materials and analytical methods validated for these key foods required the development of five matrix-specific control composite materials (CC) (canned salmon and vitamin D3 fortified cereal, orange juice, milk, and cheese). Each of six experienced laboratories (research and commercial) analyzed vitamin D3 in five subsamples of each CC in five separate analytical batches, with one subsample of each material in each run. Research laboratories perform...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

AbstractBackground: The dinitrofluorobenzene/dinitrosulfonic acid (DNFB/DNS) model was originally described as an experimental model of intestinal inflammation resembling human ulcerative colitis (UC). Due to the absence of acceptable UC experimental models for pharmacological preclinical assays, here we examine the immune response induced in this model. Methods: Balb/c mice were sensitized by skin application of DNFB on day 1, followed by an intrarectal challenge with DNS on day 5. We further expanded this model by administering a second DNS challenge on day 15. The features of colonic inflammation and immune response were evaluated. Results: The changes observed in colonic tissue corresponded, in comparison to the trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) colitis model, to a mild mucosal effe...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has the necessary equipment and trained personnel to respond to a large number of hazardous material spills and fires or other emergencies resulting from these spills including injured personnel. This response capability is further expanded by the agreements that LLNL has with a number of outside response agencies. The Hazards Control Department at LLNL functions as the central point for coordinating the response of the equipment and personnel. Emergencies involving hazardous waste are also coordinated through the Hazards Control Department, but the equipment and personnel in the Toxic Waste Control Group would be activated for large volume waste pumpouts. Descriptions of response equipment, hazardous waste locations communication systems, and procedures for personnel involved in the emergency are provided.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Analyses were performed of the safety-related performance of the reactor protection system (RPS) at U.S. Westinghouse and General Electric commercial reactors during the period 1984 through 1995. RPS operational data from these reactors were collected from the Nuclear Plant Reliability Data System (NPRDS) and Licensee Event Reports (LER). The common-cause failure (CCF) modeling in the fault trees developed for these studies and the analysis and use of common-cause failure data were sophisticated, state-of-the-art efforts. The overall CCF effort helped to test and expand the limits of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission's CCF methodology.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Biodegradable helicoidal stent prototypes made up of layers of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and poly(L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymers were fabricated by temperature conditioning the stents at different stages of fabrication. The process incorporated elastic memory, or self-expandability in the stent, which is desirable to minimize stent recoil. The collapse pressures of such stents were studied, with and without in vitro degradation. The effects of thickness and the composition of each layer on the collapse pressure were modeled using the simple series model. Results of the in vitro studies for over 3 months showed that collapse pressure of the stents depended mainly on the degradation and other side-effects brought about by the degradation of different polymer compositions. General...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate how a combination of different scaffold architectures and rotational culture would influence the functional properties of thick cartilaginous tissues engineered using either chondrocytes or bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs). Expanded porcine chondrocytes and BM-MSCs were suspended in 2% agarose and cast in custom-designed moulds to produce either regular solid or channelled construct cylinders. The study consisted of three seperate experimental arms. First, chondrocyte and BM-MSC constructs were cultured in free swelling conditions for 9 weeks. Second, constructs were subjected to rotational culture for a period of 3 weeks. Finally, BM-MSC-seeded constructs were subjected to delayed rotational culture, in which cons...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A burner system particularly useful for downhole deployment includes a tubular combustion chamber unit housed within a tubular coolant jacket assembly. The combustion chamber unit includes a monolithic tube of refractory material whose inner surface defines the combustion zone. A metal reinforcing sleeve surrounds and extends the length of the refractory tube. The inner surface of the coolant jacket assembly and outer surface of the combustion chamber unit are dimensioned so that those surfaces are close to one another in standby condition so that the combustion chamber unit has limited freedom to expand with that expansion being stabilized by the coolant jacket assembly so that compression forces in the refractory tube do not exceed about one-half the safe compressive stress of the material; and the materials of the combustion chamber unit are selected to establish thermal gradient parameters across the combustion chamber unit to maintain the refractory tube in ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The prototype Bragg Curve Counter (BCC) has been tested by {alpha}-source ({sup 241}Am) with a continuous gas flow system (P-10: 90% Ar+10% CH{sub 4}, at 300Torr). Two types of the Frisch grid were prepared for the BCC. One was made of expanded metal meshes, which consist of 175 meshes/inch{sup 2} with a 100{mu}m{sup t} nickel sheet. The other was made of a 1mm pitch wire with {phi} 50 {mu}m of the tungsten. The shape of Bragg peak signal was compared each other. It was found that the energy spectrum obtained by the wire grid is a little sharper than that obtained by the meshes grid. However the meshes grid is superior than the wire grid so far as handling and durability are concerned. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

On 10 dialysis patients we performed 12 balloon dilatations, 2 catheter lyses, 6 stent implants (Palmaz stent) and one atherectomy of central venous stenoses or occlusions (v. subclavia, v. brachiocephalica) at the shunt arm of the patient. The primary success rate was, in balloon PTA and lysis, 12/14 interventions, and in stent placement and atherectomy 7/7. The angiographical and clinical primary result after stent implantation was significantly better than after conventional dilatation. After 66% of the balloon dilatations recidivation occurred within the first year; this can be treated by means of repeated PTA. Whether long-term exclusion of recurrence can be achieved by stent implantation, must be established by means of follow-up studies that are at present in progress. (orig.).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Recently, the leak-before-break (LBB) concept has been used successfully to eliminate some pipe whip restraints, snubbers and jet impingement shields from the primary reactor cooling system piping of pressurized water reactors. This has resulted in substantial savings in maintenance costs, reductions in radiation exposure of plant service personnel, and has enhanced the overall safety of nuclear power plants. This study provides guidelines to utilities in expanding the application of the LBB concept to additional pipe systems and it couples the concept with hardware optimization. Seven high energy piping systems were investigated for technical feasibility in using the LBB concept. The results indicate that some of these seven lines are good candidates for the leak-before-break application.

CERN Document Server

Mono-layers of stearic and behenic acids and mixtures of them in different proportions, deposited with the Langmuir-Blodgett technique, were used to study the alignment and the alignment dynamics in nematic liquid crystal cells. A relaxation process from a splay-bend flow induced metastable orientation to the homeotropic one occurs. The lifetime of the metastable state was found to depend on the mono-layer composition. The transition between the homeotropic and the conical anchoring was found to be irreversible in the case of the mixed aligning mono-layers: on cooling from the isotropic phase a quasi-planar nematic state (schlieren texture) appears. It is stable in a range of a few degrees below the clearing point and, on decreasing the temperature, relaxes to the homeotropic state in form of expanding domains.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To assess the influence of stent design [interlacing (type A) vs. crossing method (type B)] on neointimal hyperplasia using a self-expandable nitinol stent, which crosses the side branches of the abdominal aorta. In seven mongrel dogs, nitinol stents with type A and B intersections were placed in the abdominal aorta across the main branches: 4 Niti-Ms and 3 Niti-Ds. Two months after the stent placement, a DSA was performed for a stent patency evaluation, followed by the extraction of the aortas. The degree of neointimal formation along the wire was evaluated by calculating the area ratio of intimal hyperplasia (type A vs. B). A Student's t-test was employed to investigate the differences in the neointimal hyperplasia between blood types A and B. The total number of wire intersections overlain at the ostia branch ostia was 23 for type A and 36 for type B. The area ratio of the neointimal hyperplasia, for a given area, was 29.09 {+-} 10.82% (type A) and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

RangerMaster{trademark} is the embedded firmware for Quantrad Sensor`s integrated nuclear instrument package, the Ranger{trademark}. The Ranger{trademark}, which is both a gamma-ray and neutron detection system, was originally developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory for in situ surveys at the Plutonium Facility to confirm the presence of nuclear materials. The new RangerMaster{trademark} software expands the library of isotopes and simplifies the operation of the instrument by providing an easy mode suitable for untrained operators. The expanded library of the Ranger{trademark} now includes medical isotopes {sup 99}Tc, {sup 201}Tl, {sup 111}In, {sup 67}Ga, {sup 133}Xe, {sup 103}Pa, and {sup 131}I; industrial isotopes {sup 241}Am, {sup 57}Co, {sup 133}Ba, {sup 137}Cs, {sup 40}K, {sup 60}Co, {sup 232}Th, {sup 226}Ra, and {sup 207}Bi; and nuclear materials {sup 235}U, {sup 238}U, {sup 233}U, and {sup 239}Pu. To accomplish isotopic ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We report the results of a prospective clinical study using a new self-expanding nitinol stent (Enterprise) designed for the treatment of wide-necked intracranial aneurysms. We treated 31 saccular, wide-necked intracranial aneurysms in 30 patients. Ten aneurysms had recanalized after prior endovascular treatment without a stent, and 21 aneurysms had not been treated before. Stent deployment was successful in all procedures. Additional coil embolization was performed in all aneurysms. Initial complete angiographic occlusion was achieved in 6 aneurysms, a neck remnant was left in 18 aneurysms and there were 7 residual aneurysms. Angiographic follow-up examinations of 30 lesions after 6 months demonstrated 15 complete occlusions, 8 neck remnants and 7 residual aneurysms. One patient refused the 6-month angiographic follow-up. Spontaneous occlusion of the aneurysm had occurred in 14 patients, and 6 aneurysms showed recanalization. Four of these residual aneurysms were ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis is a method, which has many advantages for analysing various historic artefacts, as it is relatively cheap, sensitive and non-destructive, and it allows measurements in-situ. However, this analysis has also certain limitations especially concerning sensitivity to chemical elements only, irrespective of the compounds or chemical forms in which these elements have been bonded. In addition, light elements emitting very soft X-rays cannot be measured, and in order to detect a wide range of elements, it is necessary to carry out repeated measurements with different radiation sources. Despite these limitations, valuable information can be obtained about the composition of historic materials and data about the origin and age of these artefacts can be derived. Analyses of wall paintings, ancient metal sculptures or other objects of art provide the basis for historic considerations documented in our results for some objects belonging to the Czech ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The forest products industry is the third largest economic sector in Alberta, producing pulp and paper, dimensional lumber, paneling, and value added products, providing some 40,000 jobs . 'Value added' is a key component of expanding economic activity within the forest products sector. Wood residues can play a key role in obtaining more value from forest resources by providing new products, serving as feedstock to energy and chemical production, and playing a role in agriculture and land reclamation. One of the principal roles of the Forest Products Development Branch of the Alberta Economics Department is to encourage the development of the industry by creating new uses for these materials and developing awareness of the scope of the resource. Distances to markets, economic competition from conventional energy sources and coordination of research efforts are substantial barriers to further development that the Forest Products Development Branch ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This study uses a multi-part, split-sample contingent valuation method (CVM) and fair share (FS) survey to better understand the public's valuation of mitigating global climate change through its willingness to pay for biomass or 'cellulosic' ethanol. In addition to a basic CVM question, a related scenario was developed that asked half of the survey respondents to state their fair share cost to lessen a potential food shortage in the next decade, also through the expanded use of cellulosic ethanol. Three alternative biomass feedstocks were assessed: farming residues, forestry residues and paper mill wastes, and municipal solid wastes. Overall a slightly larger proportion of respondents were WTP extra for cellulosic ethanol in the basic CVM scenario than in the FS scenario, though no significant differences were found in the WTP for the different feedstocks. Bid curve lognormal regression results for the two models were similar, supporting ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Radiation therapy has had a significant and an expanded role in the management of cancer of the pancreas during the last decade. In particular, for locally advanced disease, radiation therapy has improved the median survival of patients to 1 year. Intraoperative electron beam therapy has been applied to unresectable and resectable pancreatic cancer in an attempt to enhance local control of disease and to improve patient survival. This paper presents a survey of the role of radiation therapy in treatment of cancer of the pancreas, provides information on the radiobiological aspects of this treatment modality and details the physical and dosimetric characteristics of intraoperative radiation therapy with electrons. Presented are the design specifics of an applicator system, central axis beam data, applicator parameters, dose distribution data, shielding, treatment planning and means of verification. Emphasis is placed on the collaboration and cooperation necessary ...

CERN Document Server

We use X-ray scattering and molecular simulations to investigate the structural properties of complexes of multivalent cationic lipids and DNA molecules. At low mole fraction of neutral lipids (NLs), $\\Phi_{\\rm NL}$, the complexes show dramatic DNA compaction down to essentially close packed DNA arrays with a DNA interaxial spacing $d_{\\rm DNA}=25\\AA$. A gradual increase in $\\Phi_{\\rm NL}$ does not lead to a continuous increase in $d_{\\rm DNA}$ as observed for DNA complexes of monovalent cationic lipids (CLs). Instead, distinct spacing regimes exist, with sharp transitions between them. Three packing states have been identified: (i) close packed, (ii) condensed, but not close packed, with $d_{\\rm DNA}=27-28\\AA$, and (iii) an expanded state, where $d_{\\rm DNA}$ increases gradually with $\\Phi_{\\rm NL}$. Based on our experimental and computational results, we conclude that the DNA condensation is mediated by the multivalent cationic lipids, which assemble ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a dynamic technology and progresses with time. Since the issuance of IAEA-TECDOC-628 in 1991, the technology has experienced numerous changes. Advancements in knowledge about the behaviour of materials have led to changes in the applicable NDT codes, standards and specifications. In addition, over the last ten years, as a result of extensive research and development activities worldwide, new NDT techniques and equipment have been developed which are accepted by engineering community. To accommodate the latest developments, modifications are required to training materials. The present publication is an updated version of IAEA-TECDOC-628. The modifications were made during an Advisory Group Meeting, held in Vienna from 25-29 June 2001. The content of the first edition of IAEA-TECDOC-628 has been revised based on the experience of the experts, as well as comments of the end-user industries. The time allotment for different topics has been changed without ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A theoretical model is presented to describe the electromagnetic, heat transfer and fluid flow phenomena within a magnetron plasma torch and in the resultant plume, by using a commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code FLUENT. Specific calculations are presented for a pure argon system (i.e., an argon plasma discharging into an argon environment), operated in a turbulent mode. An important finding of this work is that the external axial magnetic field (AMF) may have a significant effect on the behavior of arc plasma and thus affects the resulting plume. The AMF impels the plasma to retract axially and expand radially. As a result, the plasma intensity distribution on the cross section of torch seems to be more uniform. Numerical results also show that with AMF, the highest plasma temperature decreases and the anode arc root moves upstream significantly, while the current density distribution at the anode is more concentrated with a higher peak value. In ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The UNITIL Companies have identified the need to undertake new economic development initiatives and to respond to an increasingly competitive energy marketplace. The economy of UNITIL`s service areas and New England generally have suffered from the perception that energy prices, and electricity prices in particular, are very high and non-competitive. However, opportunities now exist for more competitive priced electricity services to be made available to meet the needs of economic development. The introduction of Energy Bank{trademark} was designed to meet this objective through a competitively priced, market-based option for new or expanding industrial loads. The Energy Bank{trademark} is priced at about 5 cents/kWh, a rate 40% below the regional average industrial rate. As Energy Bank{trademark} grows, it will yield substantial benefits to all customers in UNITIL`s service areas, through increased local economic activity, reduced power costs overall, and cash ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The present study discusses the contribution of the adoption of more rigorous and objective criteria to the selection and analysis of information sources, leading to more scientific rigour when registering phytotherapic drugs. To this end, it is herein proposed the adoption of a previously tested and acknowledged methodology, namely the Systematic Revision, as a standard for phytotherapic drug analyses. In order to show differences brought about by the Systematic Revision during the registration procedures of phytotherapic drugs, the case of the Maytenus ilicifolia (known popularly in Brazil as 'espinheira-santa') is presented. As it is well known, the use of ionizing radiation is expanding, especially in medicine and pharmacy. Therefore, gamma radiation was applied to the microbiological quality control of phytotherapic matrices. Results indicated a positive contribution of Systematic Revision to the registration procedures of phytotherapic ...

Environmental Research Database

ObjectivesThe overall objective is to establish rigorous and verified means of deploying FACTS devices as damping controllers so that stability limits of a congested grid can be expanded, with confidence, toward to the thermal limits. A key to this is to ensure that damping of oscillatory modes of the system are robust to the acknowledged variations of the system.~%~~%~The goals are:~%~~%~a) to apply model order reduction techniques to realistic grid systems and verify modes are adequately expressed,~%~~% [continued...]DescriptionTraditionally, the phenomena of inter-area oscillation between generation groups, e.g. England and Scotland, has been avoided through operating point constraints on tie-lines and acceptance of operation at less than thermal capacity. The need to support long distance trading makes such constraints unacceptable. Stability problems can be solved dynamically, rather than avoided through ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This introductory text treats thermodynamics as an incomplete description of quantum systems with many degrees of freedom. Its main goal is to show that the approach to equilibrium -with equilibrium characterized by maximum ignorance about the open system of interest- neither requires that many particles nor is the precise way of partitioning, relevant for the salient features of equilibrium and equilibration. Furthermore, the text depicts that it is indeed quantum effects that are at work in bringing about thermodynamic behavior of modest-sized open systems, thus making Von Neumann's concept of entropy appear much more widely useful than sometimes feared, far beyond truly macroscopic systems in equilibrium. This significantly revised and expanded second edition pays more attention to the growing number of applications, especially non-equilibrium phenomena and thermodynamic processes of the nano-domain. In addition, to improve readability and reduce unneeded ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text.This paper describes a software tool for generation expansion planning based on dynamic programming, probabilistic production simulation, and environmental assessment. The aim is to determine the units needed to expand a given system in order to minimize either the cost or the environmental impact or some weighed function of the two. The problem of generation expansion planning is solved in stages using Tunnel Dynamic Programming (TDP) with Heuristic rules to limit the number of options analyzed. The production costing methodology is based on combining a probabilistic generation model known as the capacity outage table (COT) with the load duration curve (LDC) of the system to deduce a risk model from which the expected energy not supplied (EENS) is estimated. The generation model is built recursively using an efficient numerical convolution procedure and is combined at each step with the LDC to calculate the expected energy produced by each unit, its ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper presents the experience faced by people who works in PETROBRAS Business Unit (UN-RNCE), located in Rio Grande do Norte Province, Brazil, during the implementation of a pipeline leak detection system. That application involved nine multiphase oil pipelines distributed along several production facilities. Because of the emergency after the leakage that polluted the Guanabara bay and due to the two phases and multi phases pipelines characteristics, the UN-RNCE decided to apply the Pressure Point Analysis (PPA) technology in order to detect leakages. It is a statistical method for leak detection e uses a very simple instrumentation which facilitates the installation and maintenance. However, in order to get the best performance of the system, it is necessary to know thoroughly the whole process and have a fast and reliable SCADA system for long distance communication. Finally it will be shown the test results, the recommendations to expand the system and the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Inherent safety tests were performed during 1986 in the 400-MW (thermal) Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) reactor to demonstrate the effectiveness of an inherent shutdown device called the gas expansion module (GEM). The GEM device provided a strong negative reactivity feedback during loss-of-flow conditions by increasing the neutron leakage as a result of an expanding gas bubble. The best-estimate pretest calculations for these tests were performed using the IANUS plant analysis code (Westinghouse Electric Corporation proprietary code) and the MELT/SIEX3 core analysis code. These two codes were also used to perform the required operational safety analyses for the FFTF reactor and plant. Although it was intended to also use the SASSYS systems (core and plant) analysis code, the calibration of the SASSYS code for FFTF core and plant analysis was not completed in time to perform pretest analyses. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of the posttest ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Plasma nitriding of a Ti substrate is carried out under a low ambient pressure below 3kPa, and a plasma torch is prepared on a trial basis which is provided with a supersonic expansion nozzle considered to expand plasma jet optimally and to be effective for suppressing the occurrence of shock wave. The system used for the study is provided with a specimen holder having the function of adjusting the distance between the nozzle outlet and the substrate inside the vacuum chamber which is provided with a plasma torch in the flange member. The plasma torch is so structured that a supersonic expansion nozzle can be installed at the tip of the plasma torch. In this process wherein plasma jet is employed, hard nitrided layer can be formed by plasma irradiation for a short time even under such low pressure as less than 3kPa by setting adequate experimental conditions. It is made clear that the use of a supersonic nozzle corresponding to the internal pressure of the chamber ...

CERN Document Server

Femtocells are assuming an increasingly important role in the coverage and capacity of cellular networks. In contrast to existing cellular systems, femtocells are end-user deployed and controlled, randomly located, and rely on third party backhaul (e.g. DSL or cable modem). Femtocells can be configured to be either open access or closed access. Open access allows an arbitrary nearby cellular user to use the femtocell, whereas closed access restricts the use of the femtocell to users explicitly approved by the owner. Seemingly, the network operator would prefer an open access deployment since this provides an inexpensive way to expand their network capabilities, whereas the femtocell owner would prefer closed access, in order to keep the femtocell's capacity and backhaul to himself. We show mathematically and through simulations that the reality is more complicated for both parties, and that the best approach depends heavily on whether the multiple access scheme is ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Oil Shale Program is directed toward the development of advanced technologies for extracting shale oil from large, currently unrecoverable oil shale resources. The overall goal of the Oil Shale Program is to foster development by the private sector of an economically competitive and environmentally acceptable oil shale industry whose products can compete with natural petroleum liquids in the marketplace by the year 2000. For the achievement of this goal, a series of interrelated technology development steps must take place, some sponsored by DOE, some by other government agencies, and some by other governments and/or the private sector. These include basic and applied research and development, proof-of-concept activities, first-of-a-kind field tests, and associated commercial scale activity. Activities associated with the Oil Shale Program are designed to achieve one or more of the following: enhanced environmental acceptability; expanded technically ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nuclear structure data pertaining to all known A = 166 nuclides (Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, Hf, Ta, W, Re, Os, Ir, Pt) have been compiled and evaluated, and incorporated into the ENSDF data file. This evaluation for A = 166 supersedes the previous publication (E.N. Shurshikov and N.V. Timofeeva, Nuclear Data Sheets 67, 45 (1992) (literature cutoff date 1 October 1990)) and the revision by C.M. Baglin of {sup 166}W (literature cutoff data 16 April 2000). It includes literature available by 1 March 2008. Subsequent to the previous evaluation, {sup 166}Gd has been observed for the first time and the first observations of excited states in {sup 166}Tb, {sup 166}Re, {sup 166}Os and {sup 166}Ir have been reported: also, knowledge of collective structure in {sup 166}Dy. {sup 166}Ho, {sup 1676}Er, {sup 166}Tm, {sup 166}Yb, {sup 166}Lu, {sup 166}Hf, and {sup 166}Ta has been considerably expanded. However, the structure suggested here for {sup 166}Re is highly tentative ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Infrainguinal peripheral occlusive disease is increasingly being treated by endovascular techniques. Bare metal stainless steel, self-expanding nitinol stents, drug-eluting and covered stents (stent grafts) are becoming increasingly more important adjuncts to percutaneous translumninal angioplasty in the treatment of peripheral artery disease. In this article the available evidence supporting the use of stents in the femoropopliteal and tibial arteries will be described as well as their limitations. Future stent developments will also be discussed. (orig.) [German] Die endovaskulaere Therapie spielt bei der Therapie der peripheren arteriellen Verschlusskrankheit (PAVK) eine wichtige Rolle. Unbeschichtete ballonexpandierbare Stahlstents, selbstexpandierende Nitinolstents sowie medikamentenbeschichtete und ''covered stents'' (Stentgrafts) haben eine zunehmende Bedeutung als Zusatztherapie zusammen mit der primaeren ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A one-dimensional numerical model for the expansion of impact-produced vapor clouds is used to investigate magnetic field generation mechanisms in events such as meteor collisions with the moon. The resulting cloud properties, such as ionization fraction, electrical conductivity, radial expansion velocity, mass density, and energy density are estimated. The model is initiated with the peak shock states and pressure thresholds for incipient and complete vaporization of anorthosite lunar surface materials by iron and GA composition meteorites. The expansion of the spherical gas cloud into a vacuum was traced with a one-dimensional explicit lagrangian hydrodynamic code. The hypervelocity impact plasmas produced are found to be significant in the amplitudes and orientations of the magnetic fields generated. An ambient magnetic field could have been provided by the core dynamo, which would have interacted with the expanding plasmas and formed induced paleomagnetic ...

Wastenet

...Ludwig's Applied Process Design for Chemical and Petrochemical Plants, 4th Edition - EA BOOKS nomographs, data charts and heuristics. About us | My EA Books | Contact us | Authors Home page Feature Books Books DVDs eBooks EA Books Publications Merchandise eJournals Terms and Conditions Subjects Chemical & Process Civil Computers Electrical & Electronics Environmental Management Mechanical Multi-disciplinary Quality Railways Structural Water Australian Authors Australian Rainfall ... Volume Two focuses on distillation and packed towers, and presents the methods and fundamentals of plant design along with supplemental mechanical and related data, nomographs, data charts and heuristics. The Fourth Edition is significantly expanded and updated, with new topics that ensure readers can analyze problems and find practical design methods and solutions to accomplish their process design objectives. It is a true application-driven book, providing ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This study develops a statistical model of industrial US natural gas consumption based upon historical data for the 1958-2003 period. The model specifically addresses interfuel substitution possibilities and changes in the industrial economic base. Using a relatively simple approach, the framework can be simulated repeatedly with little effort over a range of different conditions. It may also provide a valuable input into larger modeling exercises where an organization wants to determine long-run natural gas prices based upon supply and demand conditions. Projections based upon this demand framework indicate that industrial natural gas consumption may grow more slowly over the next 20 yr than being projected by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). This conclusion is based upon the assumption that natural gas prices will follow oil prices, as they have done over recent decades. If natural gas prices should lag well below oil prices, as envisioned by the latest EIA outlook, ...

Science.gov (United States)

Hybrid density functionals, which replaces a fraction of a density functional theory exchange with exact Hartree-Fock (HF) exchange, have been used to study the structural, magnetic, and electronic properties of ?-Pu. The fractions of exact Hartree-Fock exchange used were 25%, 40%, and 55%. Compared to the pure PBE functional, the lattice constants expanded with respect to the experimental value when the PBE-HF hybrid functionals were applied. For pure PBE and hybrids functionals with HF exchange amounts of 25% and 40%, the ground state structure was anti-ferromagnetic, while for 55% HF contribution the ground state was non-magnetic. The 5f electrons tend to exhibit slight delocalization or itinerancy for the pure PBE functional and well-defined localization for the hybrid functionals, with the degree of 5f electron localization increasing with the amount of HF exchange. Overall, the performance of the hybrid density functionals do not seem superior to pure density ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This research focuses on the development and application of high order statistical analyses applied to measurements performed with subcritical fissile systems driven by an introduced neutron source. The signatures presented are derived from counting statistics of the introduced source and radiation detectors that observe the response of the fissile system. It is demonstrated that successively higher order counting statistics possess progressively higher sensitivity to reactivity. Consequently, these signatures are more sensitive to changes in the composition, fissile mass, and configuration of the fissile assembly. Furthermore, it is shown that these techniques are capable of distinguishing the response of the fissile system to the introduced source from its response to any internal or inherent sources. This ability combined with the enhanced sensitivity of higher order signatures indicates that these techniques will be of significant utility in a variety of applications. Potential ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Without stable hardware any program will fail. The frustration and expense of supporting bad hardware can drain an organization, delay progress, and frustrate everyone involved. At Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC), we have created a testing method that helps our group, SLAC Computer Services (SCS), weed out potentially bad hardware and purchase the best hardware at the best possible cost. Commodity hardware changes often, so new evaluations happen periodically each time we purchase systems and minor re-evaluations happen for revised systems for our clusters, about twice a year. This general framework helps SCS perform correct, efficient evaluations. This article outlines SCS's computer testing methods and our system acceptance criteria. We expanded the basic ideas to other evaluations such as storage, and we think the methods outlined in this article has helped us choose hardware that is much more stable and supportable than our previous ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A sum-over-histories generalized quantum theory is developed for homogeneous minisuperspace type A Bianchi cosmological models, focusing on the particular example of the classically recollapsing Bianchi type-IX universe. The decoherence functional for such universes is exhibited. We show how the probabilities of decoherent sets of alternative, coarse-grained histories of these model universes can be calculated. We consider in particular the probabilities for classical evolution defined by a suitable coarse graining. For a restricted class of initial conditions and coarse grainings we exhibit the approximate decoherence of alternative histories in which the universe behaves classically and those in which it does not. For these situations we show that the probability is near unity for the universe to recontract classically if it expands classically. We also determine the relative probabilities of quasiclassical trajectories for initial states of WKB form, recovering ...

Science.gov (United States)

The relationship between processing, microstructure, and properties was studied for A-15 compounds in multifilamentary composites produced by solid-state diffusion and in thin-film samples produced by vapor deposition. Grain sizes of A-15 superconducting compounds were measured by transmission electron microscopy of multifilamentary composites reacted at various temperatures. Critical current densities at 4.2 K and fields up to 6 T were found to be similar for niobium-tin, vanadium-gallium, and vanadium-silicon of the same grain size. Study of the Cu-V-Si phase diagram led to the production of improved multifilamentary vanadium-silicon conductors. The effects of various alloying elements on A-15 layers produced by solid-state diffusion were studied. The most promising new observation was that tantalum can be incorporated into niobium-tin reaction layers, leading to an enhancement of critical currents at high fields. The critical temperature of vapor-deposited, niobium-germanium films ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sufficient passing sight distance is an important control for two-lane rural highway design to minimize the possibility of a head-on collision between passing and opposing vehicles. Traditionally, passing zones are marked by checking passing sight distance that is potentially restricted by static sight obstructions. Such obstructions include crest curves, overpasses, and lateral objects along highways. This paper proposes a new concept of dynamic sight-distance assessment, which involves restricted passing sight distances due to the impeding vehicles that are traveling in the same direction. Using a finite-element model, the dynamic passing sight-distance problem was evaluated, and the writers analyzed the relationships between the available passing sight distance and other factors such as the horizontal curve radius, impeding vehicle dimensions, and a driver s following distance. It was found that the impeding vehicles may cause substantially insufficient passing sight distances, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The 2-step low temperature plasma processes (the combined carburizing and post-nitriding) were carried out for improving both the surface hardness and corrosion resistance of AISI 316L stainless steel. The effects of processing time and temperature on the surface properties during nitriding step were investigated. The expanded austenite (#gamma#N)was formed on all of the treated surface. The thickness of #gamma#N was increased up to about 20 #mu#m and the thickness of entire hardened layer was determined to be about 40 #mu#m. The surface hardness reached up to 1,200 HV_0_._1 which is about 5 times higher than that of untreated sample (250 HV_0_._1). The thickness of #gamma#N and concentration of N on the surface were increased with increasing processing time and temperature. The corrosion resistance in 2-step low temperature plasma processed austenitic stainless steels was enhanced more than that in the untreated austenitic stainless steels due to a high ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability to enhance distribution of eelgrass (Zostera marina) in the Columbia River Estuary to serve as refuge and feeding habitat for juvenile salmon, Dungeness crab, and other fish and wildlife. We strongly suspected that limited eelgrass seed dispersal has resulted in the present distribution of eelgrass meadows, and that there are other suitable places for eelgrass to survive and form functional meadows. Funded as part of the Bonneville Power Administration's call for Innovative Projects, we initiated a multistage study in 2008 that combined modeling, remote sensing, and field experimentation to: (1) Spatially predict habitat quality for eelgrass; (2) Conduct experimental plantings; and (3) Evaluate restoration potential. Baseline in-situ measurements and remote satellite observations were acquired for locations in the Lower Columbia River Estuary (LCRE) to determine ambient habitat conditions. These were used to create a ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Longitudinal compression of space-charge dominated beams can be achieved by imposing a head-to-tail velocity tilt on the beam. This tilt has to be carefully tailored, such that it is removed by the longitudinal space-charge repulsion by the time the beam reaches the end of the drift compression section. The transverse focusing lattice should be designed such that all parts of the beam stay approximately matched, while the beam smoothly expands transversely to the larger beam radius needed in the final focus system following drift compression. In this thesis, several drift compression systems were designed within these constraints, based on a given desired pulse shape at the end of drift compression systems were designed within these constraints, based on a given desired pulse shape at the end of drift compression. The occurrence of mismatches due to a rapidly increasing current was analyzed. In addition, the sensitivity of drift compression to errors in the initial ...

Science.gov (United States)

Hybrid density functionals, which replace a fraction of density functional theory (DFT) exchange with exact Hartree-Fock (HF) exchange, have been used to study the structural, magnetic, and electronic properties of ?-Pu. The fractions of exact Hartree-Fock exchange used were 25%, 40%, and 55%. Compared to the pure PBE functional, the lattice constants expanded with respect to the experimental value when the PBE-HF hybrid functionals were applied. For pure PBE and hybrid functionals with HF exchanges amounts of 25% and 40%, the ground state structure was anti-ferromagnetic, while for 55% HF contribution the ground state was non-magnetic. The 5f electrons tend to exhibit slight delocalization or itinerancy for the pure PBE functional and well-defined localization for the hybrid functionals, with the degree of 5f electron localization increasing with the amount of HF exchange. Overall, the performance of the hybrid density functionals does not seem superior to pure ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A method is described for testing a diverter system on an offshore drilling rig of a type having a marine riser assembly extending to a subsea well, the diverter system having a packer element and at least one port located below the packer element for the passage of drilling fluid flowing upward from the marine riser assembly during drilling. The method consists of connecting a tubular member to the upper end of a packer having an elastomeric expansive seal element; placing the packer in an upper portion of the marine riser assembly below the diverter system and expanding the seal element against the interior of the upper portion; closing the packer element of the diverter system around the tubular member; and finally applying fluid pressure in the space between the packer element of the diverter system and the seal element of the packer to determine if any leakage in the diverter system exists. The patent also describes an offshore drilling rig linked to a subsea ...

CERN Document Server

We report on the detection of SiO and water masers toward a newly found bipolar nebula, IRAS 19312+1950. This object exhibits extreme red IRAS color log (F25/F12)=0.5 and log (F60/F25)=0.7 and a nebulosity having a size of about 30" extended to the South-West in the 2MASS near-infrared image. Toward this object, we have detected emission from the H2O 6(1,6)-5(2,3) transition, the SiO J=1-0, v=1 and 2, and J=2-1, v=1 transitions, and the SO 2(2)--1(1) and H13CN J=1-0 transitions. The thermal lines of SO and H13CN are shifted by about 12 km/s in radial velocity with respect to the maser lines, indicating that thermal emission comes from the background molecular cloud. However, the SiO J=2-1, v=2 spectrum shows another component of SiO emission separated by 26 km/s from the main component, that might be formed in a rotating or expanding shell.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In support of Stockpile Stewardship activities, accelerated aging tests on a plutonium alloy enriched with 7.3 at.% of "2"3"8Pu is underway using dilatometry at 35, 50, and 65 deg. C and immersion density measurements of materials stored at 50 deg. C. Changes in density are expected from radiation damage in the lattice and helium in-growth. After 25 equivalent years of aging, the dilatometry data shows that the alloys at 35 deg. C have expanded in volume by 0.11-0.12% and have started to exhibit a near linear expansion behavior primarily caused by the helium accumulation. The average He-to-vacancy ratio from tested specimens was determined to be around 2.55. The model for the lattice damage and helium in-growth accurately represents the volume swelling at 35 deg. C. The density converted from the dilatometry corresponds well to the decreasing density trend of reference plutonium alloys as a function of time.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Acute pneumothorax is a frequent complication after percutaneous pulmonary radiofrequency (RF) ablation. In this study we present three cases showing delayed development of pneumothorax after pulmonary RF ablation in 34 patients. Our purpose is to draw attention to this delayed complication and to propose a possible approach to avoid this major complication. These three cases occurred subsequent to 44 CT-guided pulmonary RF ablation procedures (6.8%) using either internally cooled or multitined expandable RF electrodes. In two patients, the pneumothorax, being initially absent at the end of the intervention, developed without symptoms. One of these patients required chest drain placement 32 h after RF ablation, and in the second patient therapy remained conservative. In the third patient, a slight pneumothorax at the end of the intervention gradually increased and led into tension pneumothorax 5 days after ablation procedure. Underlying bronchopleural fistula along ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the functional properties of cartilaginous tissues generated by porcine MSCs isolated from different tissue sources, and to compare these properties to those derived from chondrocytes (CCs). MSCs were isolated from bone marrow (BM) and infrapatellar fat pad (FP), while CCs were harvested from the articular surface of the femoro-patellar joint. Culture-expanded CCs and MSCs were encapsulated in agarose hydrogels and cultured in the presence of TGF3. Samples were analysed biomechanically, biochemically and histologically at days 0, 21 and 42. After 42 days in free swelling culture, mean GAG content was 1.50% w/w in CC-seeded constructs, compared to 0.95% w/w in FP- and 0.43% w/w in BM-seeded constructs. Total collagen accumulation was hig...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper presents the Cheng cycle system featured by variable heating/generation ratio for effective operation of cogeneration systems (CGS). In this system, a superheater and reheating burner are added to an exhaust heat recovery (EHR) boiler for conventional gas turbine CGSs, while additional injection steam piping is attached to a gas turbine. Steam is injected through manifolds mounted on the periphery of a combustion chamber, and hot gas mixture of steam and air in a combustion chamber is expanded in a turbine and converted to motive power. This technology thus can improve efficiency and output power, and can operate variably CGSs corresponding to heating and generation demands. This technology has been promoted by introducing the technology of middle class Cheng cycle CGS with 4MW class gas turbine from IPT Co., U.S.A. The first system of 6400 kW is now under production for start of operation in 1996. Its EHR boiler is featured by maximum evaporation of 9.4 ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A new energy concept known as centrifugal potential energy was discussed. This new energy concept is capable of increasing the pressure, temperature and enthalpy of a fluid, without having to apply work or heat transfer to the fluid. It occurs through a change in the centrifugal potential energy of the flowing fluid in a rotating frame of reference or a centrifugal force field, where work is performed internally by the centrifugal weight of the fluid. This energy concept has resulted in new energy equations, such as the Rotational Frame Bernoulli's Equation for liquids and the Rotational Frame Steady-Flow Energy Equation for gases. Applications of these equations have been incorporated into the design of centrifugal field pumps and compressors. Rather than compressing a fluid with a physical load transfer, these devices can compress a fluid via the effect of centrifugal force applied to the object. A large amount of energy is therefore produced when this high pressure ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A modulation transfer function (MTF) calibration method based on binary pseudo-random (BPR) gratings and arrays [Proc. SPIE 7077-7 (2007), Opt. Eng. 47, 073602 (2008)] has been proven to be an effective MTF calibration method for a number of interferometric microscopes and a scatterometer [Nucl. Instr. and Meth. A616, 172 (2010)]. Here we report on a further expansion of the application range of the method. We describe the MTF calibration of a 6 inch phase shifting Fizeau interferometer. Beyond providing a direct measurement of the interferometer's MTF, tests with a BPR array surface have revealed an asymmetry in the instrument's data processing algorithm that fundamentally limits its bandwidth. Moreover, the tests have illustrated the effects of the instrument's detrending and filtering procedures on power spectral density measurements. The details of the development of a BPR test sample suitable for calibration of scanning and transmission electron ...

CERN Document Server

We use two-dimensional hydrodynamical simulations to investigate the properties of dense ejecta clumps (bullets) in a core collapse supernova remnant, motivated by the observation of protrusions probably caused by clumps in the Vela supernova remnant. The ejecta, with an inner flat and an outer steep power law density distribution, were assumed to freely expand into an ambient medium with a constant density, $\\sim 0.1$ H atoms cm$^{-3}$ for the case of Vela. At an age of $10^4$ yr, the reverse shock front is expected to have moved back to the center of the remnant. Ejecta clumps with an initial density contrast $\\chi \\sim 100$ relative to their surroundings are found to be rapidly fragmented and decelerated. In order to cause a pronounced protrusion on the blast wave, as observed in the Vela remnant, $\\chi \\sim 1000$ may be required. In this case, the clump should be near the inflection point in the ejecta density profile, at an ejecta velocity $\\sim 3000 ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Compact heat exchangers have traditionally found wide application in the transportation industry, where they are used as evaporators and condensers in vapor compression cycles for air conditioning and refrigeration. Such heat exchangers possess numerous attractive features including high thermal effectiveness, small size, low weight, design flexibility, and pure counterflow, and they can accommodate multiple streams. Today, there is a widespread interest in expanding the range of application of compact heat exchangers to include phase-change heat transfer in the process industries, among others. An overall objective of this effort is to provide the basis for establishing design technology in this area. In the present study, small channel flow boiling heat transfer was extended to a rectangular channel (4.06 {times} 1.70 mm) using refrigerant 12 (R-12). As with the circular tube studies, the flow channel wall was electrically heated providing a constant heat flux. ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract. Objective: Lapatinib (Tykerb, GW572016), a potent inhibitor of the catalytic activities of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) (ErbB2), inhibits population growth of selected EGFR and HER2 overexpressing cell lines. Previous studies with a small number of cell lines suggest a correlation between overexpression of EGFR and/or HER2 and sensitivity to growth inhibition by lapatinib; however, the precise determinants of lapatinib selectivity for tumour and/or other cells remain unclear. Materials and methods: To clarify the determinants of its selectivity in cultured cells, lapatinib-induced cell population growth inhibition and relative EGFR and HER2 protein expression were quantified in 61 different human tumour cell lines fro...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report is a survey of the English language literature of radiation biology between 1947 and 1987, for the purpose of compiling a literature base on the effects of radiation on animals, which have yielded results that can expand our knowledge about similar radiation effects on human beings. Articles were sought that reported exposure of adult mammals to external sources of ionizing radiation, having endpoints that included effects on the brain, the spinal cord, and behavior of the gastrointestinal, endocrine, and cardiovascular systems and the hematopoietic and immune systems. Effects of interest were those that occurred within the first 12 months after exposure. The survey does not include articles reporting chronic or long term delayed effects of radiation unless they provided insight into mechanisms of morphological and/or functional derangement. Information presented in the report is divided into subtopics (i.e., Brain-Morphological Changes). The brief ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of multiple stents placement in the management of hilar cholangiocarcinoma, especially in the complex cases of which the hepatic ducts are invaded. Methods: Forty-five consecutive patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma were treated with percutaneous transhepatic placement of two or three self-expandable metallic endoprostheses. The cause of hilar obstructions in these patients were all cholangiocarcinoma, including Bismuth classification type II (n 12), IIIa (n 17), IIIb (n 10), and IV (n 6). Two or 3 stents were placed in the configuration of T, Y or X over the strictures. Results: Stent placement with 2 or 3 endoprostheses was successful in all patients. All patients showed significant decrease in serum bilirubin level. The mortality rate within 30 days of stent placement was 2.2% (1/45). The mean survival and stent patency times were 215.3 d (26- 516 d) and 181.5 d (26-473 d), respectively. Conclusion: Deploying of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The ability to test advanced fuels and cladding materials under reactor operating conditions in the United States is limited. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) and the newly expanded post-irradiation examination (PIE) capability at the ORNL Irradiated Fuels Examination Laboratory provide unique support for this type of advanced fuel/cladding development effort. The wide breadth of ORNL's fuels and materials research divisions provides all the necessary fuel development capabilities in one location. At ORNL, facilities are available from test fuel fabrication, to irradiation in HFIR under either thermal or fast reactor conditions, to a complete suite of PIEs, and to final product disposal. There are very few locations in the world where this full range of capabilities exists. New testing capabilities at HFIR have been developed that allow testing of advanced nuclear fuels and cladding materials under prototypic ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Negative ion electrospray ionization (ESI) coupled with high field Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS) allows for the direct detection of acidic NSO compounds in petroleum. The technique requires no chromatographic separation, is able to distinguish 18 different compound classes (e.g., neutral nitrogen, carboxylic acids and oxygenates), and can identify {approx}14,000 distinct masses by ultra-high mass resolution and mass accuracy. We previously studied three crude oils from different geological origins [Organic Geochemistry 33 (2002b) 743-759]. Here, we expand our research by comparing two source-equivalent Smackover oils of different levels of thermal maturity. We observe clear differences in the distribution of NSO compound classes, types (number of rings plus double bonds within a class), and number of alkyl carbons. With increasing thermal stress, the relative amount of sulfur and oxygen containing compounds decreases, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Korea has participated in GIF from early stage, and played an important role in GIF as an original signatory of the GIF Charter. Korea has dispatched two representatives of GIF Policy Group and Expert Group respectively. Korea submitted 10 concepts of Gen IV for Gen IV technology roadmap. Korea's KALIMER and SMART concepts have stood higher in technological evaluation. 7 Korean experts were dispatched for Gen IV technology roadmap (4 from institution, 3 from industry and 1 form academia). Furthermore, USA's NTD (Near term Deployment) will be expanded to I-NTD (International NTD). This study suggested that Korea should propose APR-1400 as I-NTD concept for I-NTD discussion in GIF. Finally, Korea and USA jointly decided to fund 2 million dollars respectively for 2001 I-ERI program and selected 6 projects for the program, which are composed of 4 for LWR area and 2 for I and C area. 27 refs., 6 figs., 11 tabs. (Author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and the retrievability of a new covered retrievable nitinol tracheobronchial stent. Stents were knitted from 0.2mm nitinol wire, covered with polyurethane, and were 20-22mm in diameter and 2cm in length. Under fluoroscopic guidance, a stent was placed in the normal right bronchus intermedius of ten dogs. Using a retrieval hook, stent retrieval was attempted after 1 month(N=5) or 2 months(N=5). After removal, the dogs were sacrificed and their their tracheobronchial trees were examined grossly and histologically. Eleven stents were successfully placed in ten dogs. Migration and expectoration occurred in four of ten stents in nine dogs(40%). Five stents were successfully removed from six dogs(83%). Without significant difference between the two groups, mild to moderate mucosal hyperplasia was noted at the sites of stents as well as above and below them. On microscopy, three of five dogs showed pneumonia in the right middle lobes, but ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text: As one of the Top 5 utilities in Europe, Rheinisch-Westfaelisches Elektrizitaetswerk AG, FWB: RW, RWE, operates a diversified generating capacity of about 45 GW; RWE Power alone generates over 30 GW. Besides a share of approximately 20% nuclear power, a large proportion of the generating base is in lignite and hard coal. RWE has an ambitious, Euro10 bn newbuild program of about 10 GW modern fossil fired plants and further expansion plans across Europe. By 2012, RWE intends to invest between Euro 15 and 20 bn outside Germany.The European Union has a challenging policy to increase the share of renewables, improve energy efficiency, and reduce greenhouse gases by 2020. At the same time, ageing power plants need to be replaced. This requires an enormous investment program across Europe. Nuclear power therefore, as a proven technology with low lifecycle carbon emissions and reasonable lifecycle cost, is a crucial contributor to achieve Europe's 2020 goals. Accordingly, most ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The experimental effect investigation programme on Zircaloy-4/air oxidation was pursued and expanded to isothermal specimen exposure and the comparison of the oxidation between the atmospheres Ar/O{sub 2} and air. In close connection with the EC project OPSA, which is meanwhile terminated, the investigation concerned specimen exposure in a thermobalance to flowing atmospheres, namely dry Ar/O{sub 2} of composition 80/20 or synthetic air, respectively. As test parameters the linear heat-up rate was varied in the range 5 to 40 K/min and the ramp or holding temperature between 800 and 1500 C. Mass increase and reaction rate were continuously recorded or evaluated in temperature/time dependence. The oxide scale growth was found to be accompanied by colour changes, crack formation and spalling of layers, as well as by dimensional substrate growth, which are the reasons for the observed kinetic results. The microstructural investigation confirms nitrogen to be ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of this report is to advise managers on the status of Year 2000 readiness at the Laboratory and provide a summary of critical issues to be addressed in order to ensure that the Year 2000 date rollover will not disrupt Laboratory Operations. The Laboratory`s Year 2000 council members are in the first phase of Year 2000 plans: gathering data and assessing the status of their divisions or programs. This first snapshot of the Laboratory Year 2000 readiness assessment is expected to grow and change over time as more refined assessments, plans, and schedules are developed and as more information becomes available. Here are findings to date: (1) Embedded systems` status not known. (2) Preliminary cost estimates for Year 2000 repairs, testing, and implementation are estimated to be at least $5.9 million, not including embedded systems. (3) The Laboratory is required to make unavoidable purchases of Year 2000-compliant products. (4) The Year 2000 short-term issue forces some ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

There are 760 feederpipes, which they are connected to inlet/outlet of the 380 pressure tube channels on the front of the calandria, in CANDU-type Reactor of Wolsung Nuclear Power Plant. As an ISI(In-Service Inspection) and PSI (Post-Service Inspection) requirements, maintenance activities of measuring the thickness of curvilinear part of feederpipe and inspecting the feederpipe support area within calandria are needed to ensure continued reliable operation of nuclear power plant. And ultrasonic probe is used to measure the thickness of curvilinear part of feederpipe, however workers are exposed to radioactivity irradiation during the measurement period. But, it is exposed to radioactivity irradiation during the measurement period. But, it is impossible to inspect feederpipe support area thoroughly because of narrow and confined accessibility, that is , an inspection space between the pressure tube channels is less than 100 mm and pipes in feederpipe support area are congested. And ...

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Previous investigations have shown promising results in using the directional cross-correlation method to estimate velocity vectors. The velocity vector estimate provides information on both velocity direction and magnitude. The direction is estimated by beamforming signals along directions in the range $[0^{\\circ}; 180^{\\circ}[$ and identifying the direction that produces the largest correlation across emissions. An estimate of the velocity magnitude is obtained from the spatial shift between signals beamformed along the estimated direction. This paper expands these investigations to include estimations of the vector velocities of a larger region by combining the estimations along several scan lines. In combination with a B-mode image, the vector velocities are displayed as an image of the investigated region with a color indicating the magnitude, and arrows showing the direction of the flow. Using the RASMUS experimental ultrasound scanner, measurements have ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To assess the feasibility of transluminal radiofrequency thermal ablation using a stent-type electrode and to determine, by means of in-vivo and in-vivo animal studies, the appropriate parameters. In-vivo: the radiofrequency electrode used was a self-expandable nitinol stent with 1cm insulated ends. A stent was placed in the portal vein of bovine liver, and ablations at target temperatures of 70, 80, 90, and 100 .deg. C were performed. Ablated sizes were measured longitudinally. In vivo: four mongrel dogs were anesthetized, and a stent was inserted in the common bile duct under fluoroscopic guidance through an ultrasound-guided gall bladder puncture site. The ablation temperature was set at 80 .deg. C, and each dog underwent proximal and distal esophageal ablations lasting 12 minutes. They were sacrificed immediately. In-vivo: ablated sizes showed significant correlation with target temperatures (r>0.04; p<0.05). Although most lesions were fusiform, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A common practice of electric utilities experiencing transmission and distribution (T and D) system overloads is to expand the substation, add lines, or upgrade equipment, all of which are capital intensive options. In 1988, it was hypothesized that strategically sited photovoltaics (PV) could benefit parts of T and D systems near or at overloaded conditions. An evaluation methodology was developed and applied to a test case (Kerman Substation near Fresno, California). Analytical results suggested that the value of PV to the T and D system could substantially exceed its energy and generation capacity value. The importance of this finding indicated the need for empirical validation. This led to the construction of a 0.5 MW PV demonstration plant by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG and E) at Kerman, California as part of the PVUSA (PV for Utility Scale Applications) project. PVUSA is a national public-private partnership that is assessing and demonstrating the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Conventional plasma carburizing or nitriding for austenitic stainless steels results in a degradation of corrosion resistance. However, a low temperature plasma surface treatment can improve surface hardness without deteriorating the corrosion resistance. The 2-step low temperature plasma processes (the combined carburizing and post nitriding) offers the increase of both surface hardness and thickness of hardened layer and corrosion resistance than the individually processed low temperature nitriding and low temperature carburizing techniques. In the present paper, attempts have been made to investigate the influence of the introduction of Ar gas (0#approx#20%) in nitriding atmosphere during low temperature plasma nitriding at 370 .deg. C after low temperature plasma carburizing at 470 .deg. C. All treated specimens exhibited the increase of the surface hardness with increasing Ar level in the atmosphere and the surface hardness value reached up to 1050 HV_0_._1, greater than 750 ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Colerectal cancer (CRC) is the second commonest cancer in the Western World. Successful treatment relies significantly on accurate detection and staging of primary disease as well as the early identification of the presence and extent of recurrence. Morphological imaging techniques, particularly computed tomography (CT), are well established and widely available to carry out these tasks in addition to predicting and monitoring response to therapy. This review analyses the current inadequacies for imaging CRC and critically assesses the potential role of functional imaging with positron emission tomography (PET). It was reviewed the current literature, to use the experience from the firs 1000 PET studies carried out at the institution and the perspective of surgical colleagues. It was found little evidence for the use of 2-["1"8F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG)-PET for screening asymptomatic individuals and current modalities appear better suited for detection of symptomatic primary CRC. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Metagenomics projects based on shotgun sequencing of populations of micro-organisms yield insight into protein families. We used sequence similarity clustering to explore proteins with a comprehensive dataset consisting of sequences from available databases together with 6.12 million proteins predicted from an assembly of 7.7 million Global Ocean Sampling (GOS) sequences. The GOS dataset covers nearly all known prokaryotic protein families. A total of 3,995 medium- and large-sized clusters consisting of only GOS sequences are identified, out of which 1,700 have no detectable homology to known families. The GOS-only clusters contain a higher than expected proportion of sequences of viral origin, thus reflecting a poor sampling of viral diversity until now. Protein domain distributions in the GOS dataset and current protein databases show distinct biases. Several protein domains that were previously categorized as kingdom specific are shown to have GOS examples in other kingdoms. About ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To investigate the problems of the Hanaro stent (Solco Intermed, Seoul, Korea) when used in the palliative treatment of patients with inoperable malignant biliary obstruction. Between January 2000 and May 2001, the treatment of 46 patients with malignant biliary obstruction involved percutaneous placement of the Hanaro stent. Five patients encountered problems during removal of the stent's introduction system. The causes of obstruction were pancreatic carcinoma (n=2), cholangiocarcinoma (n=2), and gastric carcinoma with biliary invasion (n=1). In one patient, percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography and stent insertion were performed as a one-step procedure, while the others underwent conventional percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage for at least two days prior to stent insertion. A self-expandable Hanaro stent, 8-10 mm in deameter and 50-100 mm in lengh, and made from a strand of nitinol wire, was used in all cases. Among the five patients who ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The studies of {sup 137}Cs and {sup 239+240}Pu distributions in surface seawater at South China Sea within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Peninsular Malaysia were carried out in June 2008. The analysis results will serve as additional information to the expanded baseline data for Malaysia's marine environment. Thirty locations from extended study area were identified in the EEZ from which large volumes of surface seawater samples were collected. Different co-precipitation techniques were employed to concentrate cesium and plutonium separately. A known amount of {sup 134}Cs and {sup 242}Pu tracers were used as yield determinant. The precipitate slurry was collected and oven dried at 60 {sup o}C for 1-2 days. Cesium precipitate was fine-ground and counted using gamma-ray spectrometry system at 661.62 keV, while plutonium was separated from other radionuclides using anion exchange, electrodeposited and counted using alpha spectrometry. The activity ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The massive star-forming core MM1 of W75N was observed using the Submillimeter Array with #approx#1'' and 2'' spatial resolutions at 217 and 347 GHz, respectively. From the 217 GHz continuum we found that the MM1 core consists of two sources, separated by about 1'': MM1a (#approx#0.6 M_s_u_n) and MM1b (#approx#1.4 M_s_u_n), located near the radio continuum sources VLA 2/VLA 3 and VLA 1, respectively. Within MM1b, two gas clumps were found to be expanding away from VLA 1 at about #+-#3 km s"-"1, as a result of the most recent star formation activity in the region. Observed molecular lines show emission peaks at two positions, MM1a and MM1b: sulfur-bearing species have emission peaks toward MM1a, but methanol and saturated species at MM1b. We identified high-temperature (#approx#200 K) gas toward MM1a and the hot core in MM1b. This segregation may result from the evolution of the massive star-forming core. In the very early phase of star formation, the hot core is ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The effect of severe plastic deformation by cold high pressure torsion (HPT) on radio frequency (RF) plasma nitriding of pure iron, as well as St2K50 and X5CrNi1810 steels was investigated. Nitriding was carried out for 3 h in a nitrogen atmosphere at a pressure of 10"-"5 bar and temperatures of 350 and 400 deg. C. Nitrided specimens were analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction and micro hardness measurements. It was found that HPT enhances the effect of nitriding leading almost to doubling of the thickness of the nitrided layer for pure iron and the high alloyed steel. The largest increase in hardness was observed when HPT was combined with RF plasma nitriding at 350 deg. C. In the case of pure iron, the X-ray diffraction spectra showed the formation of #epsilon# and #gamma#' nitrides in the compound layer, with a preferential formation of #gamma#' at the expense of the #alpha#-phase at the higher nitriding temperature. The corresponding surface hardness was ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

As a result of US Department of Energy (DOE) monitoring activities, it was determined in 1983 that the potential existed for natural gas resources underlying the Naval Oil Shales Reserves Nos. 1 and 3 (NOSrs-1 3) to be drained by privately-owned gas wells that were being drilled along the Reserves borders. In 1985, DOE initiated a limited number of projects to protect the Government's interest in the gas resources by drilling its own offset production'' wells just inside the boundaries, and by formally sharing in the production, revenues and costs of private wells that are drilled near the boundaries ( communitize'' the privately-drilled wells). The scope of these protection efforts must be expanded. DOE is therefore proposing a Natural Gas Protection Program for NOSRs-1 3 which would be implemented over a five-year period that would encompass a total of 200 wells (including the wells drilled and/or communitized since ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The first part of the conference dealt with environmental effects of using coal. Papers dealt with the use of fly ash in agriculture and its effect on plant growth; the effect of airborne emissions on fish and wildlife resources, on watersheds, and on airsheds; the effects of surface mining on the ecology; blast effects; and health hazards associated with coal. The session on policy studies addressed the issue of cost of synthetic fuels and discussed the state and federal pollution regulations on burning coal and waste disposal. The session on combustion presented papers on atmospheric and pressurized fluidized-bed combustion for industrial and utility boilers. It also included papers on MHD power plants, coal-oil and coal-water mixtures, emission characterization and control, and catalytic combustors. The design of gasification plants, reaction kinetics, specific heats of coals and chars, simultaneous production of liquid and gaseous fuels, and economics of fuel substitution with coal ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The design of the first structural wall (FSW) in an inertial confinement fusion (ICF) reactor requires some knowledge of the expected wall loading produced by x-ray and neutron deposition; specifically in the High Yield Lithium Injection Fusion Energy (HYLIFE) reactor, wall loading results from two sources -- gas shock and liquid impact. Gas shock is derived from x-ray deposition in the thin layers of exposed blanket material, producing ionized vapor, which will generate gas shock on the FSW. Liquid impact, on the other hand, results from the acceleration of liquid blanket material by two possible forces -- the drag from vapor expansion through the blanket material and the neutron-induced isochoric disassembly process. Both impacts, however, are coupled by the interaction of hot gas expanding through the liquid blanket. This paper discusses scaling methods for estimating pressure and impulse on the HYLIFE FSW from these impacts. In particular, this paper reviews ...

Science.gov (United States)

In an earlier paper (Phys. Rev. Lett. 66, 41 (1991)), we calculated both the dielectric constant ({epsilon}{sub {infinity}}) and the nonlinear optical susceptibilities for second-harmonic generation ({chi}{sup (2)}) in the static limit for AlP, AlAs, GaP, and GaAs in the local-density approximation with and without a self-energy correction in the form of a scissors operator,'' including local-field effects. In this paper, we expand our presentation of this calculation. Agreement with experiment to within 15% for the nonlinear susceptibility is demonstrated where experiments are available (GaP and GaAs); the dielectric constants are in no worse than 4% agreement with experiment. The virtual hole'' contributions are reformulated to avoid large numerical cancellations in the case of near degeneracies. The virtual electron'' terms dominate over the virtual hole'' terms by about one order of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Promoting the exchange of information related to implementation of the As Low as Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) philosophy is a continuing objective for the Department of Energy (DOE). This report was prepared by the Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) ALARA Center for the DOE Office of Health. It contains the fifth in a series of bibliographies on dose reduction at DOE facilities. The BNL ALARA Center was originally established in 1983 under the sponsorship of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to monitor dose-reduction research and ALARA activities at nuclear power plants. This effort was expanded in 1988 by the DOE`s Office of Environment, Safety and Health, to include DOE nuclear facilities. This bibliography contains abstracts relating to various aspects of ALARA program implementation and dose-reduction activities, with a specific focus on DOE facilities. Abstracts included in this bibliography were selected from proceedings of technical meetings, journals, ...

Science.gov (United States)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Defense (DoD), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) are jointly acquiring the next-generation weather and environmental satellite system; the National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS). NPOESS replaces the current Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellites (POES) managed by NOAA and the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) managed by the DoD. The NPOESS satellites carry a suite of sensors that collect meteorological, oceanographic, climatological, and solar-geophysical observations of the earth, atmosphere, and space. The NPOESS design allows centralized mission management and delivers high quality environmental products to military, civil and scientific users. The ground data processing segment for NPOESS is the Interface Data Processing Segment (IDPS), developed by Raytheon Intelligence and Information Systems. IDPS processes NPOESS ...

Science.gov (United States)

An increased compendium of drugs useful in ocular motor system dysfunction has expanded our capacity to treat selected ocular motility disorders. Adjunctive therapeutic modes (e.g., Fresnel prisms and orthoptic exercises) can also be beneficial. PAN and see-saw nystagmus can be treated with baclofen. Downbeat nystagmus may respond to clonazepam therapy, and prisms may help if the nystagmus can be modified with convergence. Congenital nystagmus may respond minimally to drugs (e.g., baclofen), but prisms or surgical procedures, or both, are still the primary treatment modalities. Innovar may be helpful in patients with severe, incapacitating vestibular disorders, and scopolamine alone or in combination with promethazine may be beneficial in patients with milder ambulatory acute peripheral vestibular disorders. Benign positional vertigo is best treated initially with positional exercises before drug therapy is instituted. Opsoclonus and ocular flutter have been ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

How should lightweight electric-powered vehicles be promoted, after the large-scale fleet test being conducted at Mendrisio (southern Switzerland) is completed in 2001, and are there reasons to put question marks behind the current approach? The demand for electric vehicles, and particularly the one in the automobile category, has remained at a persistently low level. As it proved, any appreciable improvement of this situation is almost impossible, even with substantial financial incentives. However, the unsatisfactory sales figures have little to do with the nature of the fleet test itself or with the specific conditions at Mendrisio. The problem is rather of structural nature. For (battery-operated) electric cars the main problem at present is the lack of an expanding market which could become self-supporting with only a few additional incentives. Various strategies have been evaluated. Two alternatives were considered in particular: a strategy to promote ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the present thesis I discuss the hard spectator interaction amplitude in B {yields} {pi}{pi} at NLO i.e. at O({alpha}{sup 2}{sub s}). This special part of the amplitude, whose LO starts at O({alpha}{sub s}), is defined in the framework of QCD factorization. QCD factorization allows to separate the short- and the long-distance physics in leading power in an expansion in {lambda}{sub QCD}/m{sub b}, where the short-distance physics can be calculated in a perturbative expansion in {alpha}{sub s}. Compared to other parts of the amplitude hard spectator interactions are formally enhanced by the hard collinear scale {radical}({lambda}{sub QCD}m{sub b}), which occurs next to the mb-scale and leads to an enhancement of {alpha}{sub s}. From a technical point of view the main challenges of this calculation are due to the fact that we have to deal with Feynman integrals that come with up to five external legs and with three independent ratios of scales. These Feynman integrals have to be ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In many parts of the United States, as well as other regions of the world, competing demands for fresh water or water suitable for desalination are outstripping sustainable supplies. In these areas, new water supplies are necessary to sustain economic development and agricultural uses, as well as support expanding populations, particularly in the Southwestern United States. Increasing the supply of water will more than likely come through desalinization of water reservoirs that are not suitable for present use. Surface-deployed seismic and electromagnetic (EM) methods have the potential for addressing these critical issues within large volumes of an aquifer at a lower cost than drilling and sampling. However, for detailed analysis of the water quality, some sampling utilizing boreholes would be required with geophysical methods being employed to extrapolate these sampled results to non-sampled regions of the aquifer. The research in this report addresses using ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The high-purity-oxygen activated sludge process will be used to expand secondary treatment capacity and improve water quality in Santa Monica Bay. The facility is operated by the city of Los Angeles Department of Public Works` Bureau of Sanitation. The overall Hyperion Full Secondary Project is 30% complete, including a new headworks, a new primary clarifier battery, an electrical switch yard, and additional support facilities. The upgrading of secondary facilities is 50% complete, and construction of the digester facilities, the waste-activated sludge thickening facility, and the second phase of the three-phase modification to existing primary clarifier batteries has just begun. The expansion program will provide a maximum monthly design capacity of 19,723 L/s(450 mgd). Hyperion`s expansion program uses industrial treatment techniques rarely attempted in a municipal facility, particularly on such a large scale, including: a user-friendly intermediate pumping ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A new generation of transmit-receive single-pass probes, denoted as C6 or X probe, was field tested during the Gentilly II, 2000 steam generator tube inspection. This probe has a performance equivalent to rotating probes and can be used for tubesheet and full-length inspection at an inspection speed equivalent to that of bobbin probes. Existing C3 transmit-receive probes have been demonstrated to be effective in detecting circumferential cracks. The C5 probe can detect both circumferential and axial cracks and volumetric defects but cannot discriminate between them. The C6 probe expands on the capabilities of both probes in a single probe head. It can simultaneously detect and discriminate between circumferential and axial cracks to satisfy different plugging criteria. It has excellent coverage, good defect detectability, and improved sizing and characterization. Probe data is displayed in C-scan format so that the amount of data to be analyzed is similar to ...

Science.gov (United States)

The mechanical properties of metal stents are important parameters in the consideration of stent design, matched to resist arterial recoil and vascular spasm. The purpose of this study was to develop a system for a standardized quantitative evaluation of the mechanical characteristics of various coronary stents. Several types of stents were compressed by external hydrostatic pressure. The stent diameter was assessed by placing a pair of small ultrasonic sono-crystals on the stent. From pressure-strain diagrams the ultimate strength and radial stiffness for each stent were determined. For all stents, except the MICRO-II and the Wiktor stent, the diameter decreased homogeneously until an ultimate compressive strength was exceeded, causing an abrupt collapse. Expanded to 3 mm, the mechanical behavior of the beStent, the Crown and the Palmaz-Schatz stent (PS153-series) were comparable. The spiral articulated Palmaz-Schatz stent showed twice the strength (1.26 atm) of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility and the optimal conditions of radiofrequency (RF) ablation by using the stent-type electrode upon the saphenous vein of goats for the endovenous treatment of varicose veins. A self-expandable nitinol stent electrode (6 mm diameter, 2 cm length, cell size; 1.3 x 2 mm) was designed to expose the distal 1 cm segment to allow for contact with the venous wall. The proximal part of the electrode was connected to the RF generator by insulated copper wires located within the stent electrode introducer. Initially, to optimize the power setting, ablation of 6 saphenous veins in 3 goats was performed with power settings of 10, 20 and 30 W. Pull back rate of the electrode was 2 and 4 cm/min for each power level, respectively. The goats were sacrificed 4-6 weeks later and histologic examinations of the saphenous veins were done. For the second part of the experiment, RF ablation of 4 saphenous veins from 2 goats was ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We investigate the dynamics of an 11-dimensional homogeneous cosmological model. We assume that the t = const hypersurfaces are products of a 3-dimensional Bianchi type-IX space and a 7-dimensional torus. Most results of our investigation hold when the 7-dimensional torus is replaced by an m-dimensional torus T/sup m/. We show that for a large class of vacuum solutions the physical space expands while the microspace contracts providing a natural mechanism of dimensional reduction. Matter satisfying a simple barotropic equation of state always breaks the process of dynamical dimensional reduction. With special attention we study the behavior of our model close to the initial singularity. In contrast with the 4-dimensional Bianchi type-IX cosmological model the Kasner solution always describes an approach to the initial singularity. We study the transition from the Kasner regime to the oscillatory regime. We show that matter does not significantly change this ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

There are 760 feederpipes, which they are connected to inlet/outlet of the 380 pressure tube channels on the front of the calandria, in CANDU-type Reactor of Wolsung Nuclear Power Plant. As an ISI(In-Service Inspection) and PSI (Post- Service Inspection) requirements, maintenance activities of measuring the thickness of curvilinear part of feederpipe and inspecting the feederpipe support area within calandria are needed to ensure continued reliable operation of nuclear power plant. And untrasonic probe is used to measure the thickness of curvilinear part of feederpipe, however workers are exposed to radioactivity irradiation during the measurement period. But, it is impossible to inspect feederpipe support area thoroughlv because of narrow and confined accessibility, that is, an inspection space between the pressure tube channels is less than 100mm and pipes in feederpipe support area are congested. And also, workers involved in inspecting feederpipe support area are under the jeopardy ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In Japan, the development of next-generation Light Water Reactor has been launched since April 2008. The development program will be completed in 2015. The purpose of development is to cope with the replacement for existing nuclear power plants after 2030 in Japan and the expanding demand for nuclear power in the world; 'Nuclear Renaissance.' The reactor also aims to be global standard at around 2030. The requirements for global standard and domestic users have been investigated through the feasibility study of past 2 years, 2006-2007, and six innovative features or 'Core-Concepts' were established as follows. A) Reactor core system with uranium enrichment above 5% for significant decrease of spent fuel discharge and prominent higher availability B) Long-life materials and innovative water chemistry technologies for 80 years plant lifetime and significant reduction of occupational dose C) Seismic isolation technologies to standardize plant design independent from ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The field of neutron imaging has a broad scope of applications and has played a pivotal role in visualizing and quantifying hydrogenous masses in metallic matrices. The field continues to expand into new applications with the installation of new neutron imaging facilities. In this scope, a neutron imaging facility for computed tomography and real-time neutron radiography is currently being developed around 2.0 MW TRIGA MARK-II Reactor at Maamora Nuclear Research Centre in Morocco (CENM). The neutron imaging facility consists of a neutron collimator, a real-time neutron imaging system and imaging process systems. In order to reduce the gamma-ray content in the neutron beam, the reactor tangential channel was selected. For power of 250 kW, the corresponding thermal neutron flux measured at the inlet of the tangential channel is around 3.1011 n*cm2/s. This facility will be based on a conical neutron collimator with two circular diaphragms with diameters of 4 cm and 2 ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The paper discusses recent results on the development of localized arc filament plasma actuators and their use in controlling high-speed and high Reynolds number jet flows. Multiple plasma actuators (up to 8) are controlled using a custom-built 8-channel high-voltage pulsed plasma generator. The plasma generator independently controls pulse repetition rate (0-200 kHz), duty cycle and phase for each individual actuator. Current and voltage measurements demonstrated the power consumption of each actuator to be quite low (20 W at 20% duty cycle). Emission spectroscopy temperature measurements in the pulsed arc filament showed rapid temperature increase over the first 10-20 ?s of arc operation, from below 1000 deg. C to up to about 2000 deg. C. At longer discharge pulse durations, 20-100 ?s, the plasma temperature levels off at approximately 2000 deg. C. Modelling calculations using an unsteady, quasi-one-dimensional arc filament model showed that rapid localized heating in the arc ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper extends the analytical procedure described in another paper in these proceedings to analyze a variety of compact and light-weight OSC-designed radioisotope-heated generators. Those generators employed General Purpose Heat Source (GPHS) modules and a converter containing sixteen AMTEC cells of OSC`s revised five-tube design with enhanced cell wall reflectivity described in a companion paper in these proceedings. OSC found that the performance of the generator is primarily a function of the thermal insulation between the outside of the generator`s 16 cells and the inside of its wall. After examining a variety of insulation options, it was found that the generator`s performance is optimized by employing a hybrid insulation system, in which the space between the cells is filled with fibrous Min-K insulation, and the generator walls are lined with tapered (i.e., graded-length) multifoil insulation. The OSC design results in a very compact generator, with eight AMTEC cells on each ...