Jun 28, 2010 ... Ultracompact binaries represent the end product of a binary star evolution, and are important test cases of theories of extreme gravity. Perhaps ...
Hard Nano-Strutural Coatings Resistant to the Extreme Conditions of Chemical, Abrasive and High Energy Media for Thermonuclear Power, Oil and Gas and Chemical Industries
Graphene nanosheets (GNSs) were synthesized and used as cathode active materials in a nonaqueous lithium-oxygen battery. The GNSs electrode delivered an extremely high discharge capacity in comparison to carbon powders, which is attributed to its unique morphology and structure. PMID:21779551
"What happens to conventional metals near the ocean?" you might ask the workers who are repairing the water tower at Jones Beach. They will tell you that both the tower's steel framework and copper roof show extensive corrosion from the salty air. To power future generations of cars, homes, utility plants, and even particle accelerators, unprecedented levels of efficiency will be needed. Such efficiency will require new unconventional alloys and composite materials that can also withstand high temperatures, intense radiation fluxes, high stresses, and other extreme conditions in highly corrosive environments that accelerate the aging and weakening of materials, as salty air weakens steel and copper. During the lecture, Simos will discuss the demands of next-generation energy systems and focus on the extreme conditions that materials used in these systems will perform under. He will also explain Brookhaven ...
The currently available propellants achieve about 95% of the combustion performance which can be expected theoretically at this time, consequently a technological breakthrough concerning new propellants have been demanded. Among high energy substances which are being studied, polymer azide which can continue combustion without relying on the oxidation reaction is a typical high energy substance to be used for a propellant of the next generation. The composite propellant which has polymer azide as fuel component and ammonium nitrate as oxidizer is considered to be the extremely promising propellant, since it provides no combution product which causes the environmental destruction. (6 figs, 4 refs)
Contrary to the electronic excitation induced phenomena of desorption and sputtering, we observed incorporation of oxygen in a thin Fe film during its irradiation with swift heavy ions. It is observed that the adsorbed oxygen diffuses in to the Fe film. The incorporation of oxygen and its diffusion in the bulk of the film is a manifestation of extremely large electronic energy deposition by the incident ions. It is shown that the experimentally observed high diffusivity of oxygen in Fe during irradiation is due to the existence of transient melt phase of Fe.
Electron Cyclotron Heating experiments have been performed on the TEXT tokamak using Varian gyrotron. Some degradation of electron energy confinement is observed for sawtoothing and non-sawtoothing discharges. Sharp electron temperature profiles are produced in high-q discharges by extremely localized ECH power deposition.
Most of the Turkish lignites have undesired fuel properties and they are extremely polluting. In this study, Sweet Sorghum was chosen as the energy plant. Combustion experiments of lignite and lignite-Sweet Sorghum mixtures were carried out in a fluidised bed system. The fuel-feeding ratio was set such that the thermal output of the system remained constant. Addition of Sweet Sorghum to the lignite reduces the pollutant concentration. The results were supported by experimental results.
Since 1979, scientists and engineers at the Los Alamos National Laboratory have designed, constructed, and operated a radio-frequency (RF) linac free-electron laser (FEL) at wavelengths from 9 to 45 /mu/m. Coupled with success of other research centers investigating wavelengths from the visible to far-infrared, Los Alamos is now proposing a vacuum-ultraviolet and soft x-ray (referred to henceforth as extreme ultraviolet, (XUV)) FEL oscillator/Self-Amplified Spontaneous Emission amplifier with beam energies ranging from 100 MeV to 1 GeV. This paper will focus on the first milestone of the proposed Los Alamos XUV project, i.e., a 250-MeV linac with approximately 50 mA of average current, producing photons with wavelengths below 1000 /angstrom/. 3 refs., 3 figs.
We present the results of a search for Extreme Ultraviolet emission in A4059, a cluster with an X-ray emitting cluster gas. Our analysis of Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE) Deep Survey observations of this cluster shows that it is associated with diffuse EUV emission. Outside the central 2 arcmin radius the entire EUV emission detected is explained by the low energy tail of the X-ray emitting gas. Within the central 2 arcmin region of the cluster we find a deficit of EUV emission compared to that expected from the X-ray gas. This flux deficit is discussed in the context of the cluster's cooling flow. The results derived for A4059 are compared to EUVE results obtained for other clusters such as Coma, Virgo, A1795, and A2199. As part of the study we have carried out a detailed investigation of the stability of the EUVE Deep Survey detector background. Based on long integrations of blank sky over 27 months we disprove ...
Energy storage systems with extremely high specific energy (>400 Wh/kg) have been designed that use lightweight pressure vessels to contain the gases generated by reversible (unitized) regenerative fuel cells (URFCs).[1] URFC systems are being designed and developed for a variety of applications, including high altitude long endurance (HALE) solar rechargeable aircraft (SRA), zero emission vehicles (ZEVs), hybrid energy storage/propulsion systems for spacecraft, energy storage for remote (off-grid) power sources, and peak shaving for on-grid applications.[1-10] Energy storage for HALE SRA was the original application for this set of innovations, and a prototype solar powered aircraft (Pathfinder-Plus) recently set another altitude record for all propeller-driven aircraft on August 6, 1998, when it flew to 80,285 feet (24.47 km).[11
The ``Passivhaus Darmstadt-Kranichstein`` is a 4 unit terrace house with an extremely low total annual energy consumption of less than 32 kWh/m{sup 2} of living area, thereof about 12 kWh are needed for room heating. The determining factors for the low consumption are the superinsulation, airtightness of the thermal envelope in combination with a highly efficient VAV ventilation system, and an improved window construction. The results of a detailed monitoring program allow decisive statements concerning reduction of energy consumption, relief of environment, indoor air quality, and thermal comfort. (author)
Hydrogen piston engines can be simultaneously optimized for improved thermal efficiency and for extremely low emissions. Using these engines in constant-speed, constant-load systems such as series hybrid-electric automobiles or home cogeneration systems can result in significantly improved energy efficiency. For the same electrical energy produced, the emissions from such engines can be comparable to those from natural gas-fired steam power plants. These hydrogen-fueled high-efficiency, low-emission (HELE) engines are a mechanical equivalent of hydrogen fuel cells. HELE engines could facilitate the transition to a hydrogen fuel cell economy using near-term technology.
Cosmological constant a.k.a. dark energy problem is considered to be one major challenge in modern cosmology. Here we present a model where large scale structure formation causes spatially-flat FRW universe to fragment into numerous `FRW islands' surrounded by vacuum. We show that this mechanism can explain the origin of dark energy as well as the late time cosmic acceleration. This explanation of dark energy does not require any exotic matter source nor an extremely fine-tuned cosmological constant. This explanation is given within classical general relativity and relies on the fact that our universe has been undergoing structure formation since its recent past.
A solar energy collection and conversion system is disclosed in which a cassegrain mirror system is rotated about a diurnal axis, which axis is adjusted for seasonal variations in the incidence of the sun's rays on the earth's surface. A black body absorption cavity filled with translucent or transparent fluid material is used for direct absorption of the sun's rays. The incident solar energy is absorbed directly by the fluid medium. The fluid within the cavity may be maintained under extremely high pressures and temperatures in order to utilize this fluid as a heat storage medium. Such heat storage is facilitated by apparatus which permits a change in the volume of the reflective cavity in response to the temperature or pressure of the fluid within the cavity.
Unlike the conventional automotive, modem railway trains are designed with non-openable windows; and a mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning (MVAC) system is installed in each train compartment for better indoor air quality as well as to provide a thermally comfortable environment. The ventilation rate is no doubt a critical element in the design of a MVAC system, especially in Hong Kong where the daily passenger load is extremely heavy. Earlier studies illustrated that carbon dioxide can be controlled at 1000 ppm by increasing the ventilation rate to 25.2 m{sup 3} h{sup -1}; however, it will also lead to an increase in energy consumption. In this paper, the electrical energy consumption at various ventilation rates was studied, and the cost of maintaining a low carbon dioxide level was estimated These provide solid information for the local railway companies to improve the air quality inside the train compartments. ...
Positron-electron pair creation near the threshold energy is extremely difficult to investigate by both experiments and theory. First test experiments were performed at the ILL to determine the cross sections for positron-electron pair creation near threshold using prompt {gamma}-rays from different targets after neutron capture and conventional radioactive sources. Pair creation was studied in a Ge detector, which simultaneously acted as sample and detector. First results are presented which show a significant deviation from theoretical values near threshold.
The wind industry has experienced premature turbine component failures during the past years. With the increase in turbine size, these failures, especially those found in the major drivetrain components, i.e. main shaft, gearbox, and generator, have become extremely costly. Given that the gearbox is the most costly component in the drivetrain to fix, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) initiated the Gearbox Reliability Collaborative (GRC) to determine the causes for premature gearbox failures and subsequently, recommend improvements to gearbox design, manufacture, and operational practices. The GRC has two identical test gearboxes, which are planned for a dynamometer and a field test, respectively.
Constant property, laminar flow heat transfer in a semicircular tube with uniform wall temperature has been analyzed to define the lower bound of heat transfer augmentation in circular tubes with twisted-tape inserts. Two thermal boundary conditions, which correspond to the two extremes of the fin effect of twisted tapes encountered in practical applications, are considered. Numerical solutions, employing finite-difference formulations for the governing momentum and energy equations were carried out for the thermal entrance region and for fully developed flow.
Because there are more than 101 million residential households in the United States today, it is not surprising that existing residential buildings represent an extremely large source of potential energy savings. Because thousands of these homes are renovated each year, Building America is investigating the best ways to make existing homes more energy-efficient, based on lessons learned from research in new homes. The Building America program is aiming for a 20%-30% reduction in energy use in existing homes by 2020. The strategy for the existing homes project of Building America is to establish technology pathways that reduce energy consumption cost-effectively in American homes. The existing buildings project focuses on finding ways to adapt the results from the new homes research to retrofit applications in existing homes. Research activities include a combination of computer ...
Turkey's natural gas (NG) production is very small and is almost all imported. Turkish natural gas production in 2000, 23 billion cubic feet (Bcf), met around 4% of domestic natural gas consumption requirements. NG consumption is estimated at around 700 Bcf in year 2002, accounting for around 17% of Turkey's total energy consumption. Turkish natural gas demand had been projected to increase extremely rapidly in coming years. Country oil production is 50,674 barrels per day (bbl/d) of which 46,674 bbl/d was crude oil in 2002. In 2002, oil consumption was 635,000 bbl/d and net oil imports was 584,326 bbl/d in Turkey. Oil provides around 43% of Turkey's total energy requirements. (Author)
For the preparation of photonic probes for hadron physics the determination of energy and polarization of the photons is essential. In this dissertation in a first part a possibility of the determination of the degree of polarization by use of the asymmetry observables is presented. In a second part a possibility isd discussed to perform an energy and polarization tagging of nearly real photons in electron scattering under small Q{sup 2}. By this method it should be possible to tag billions of photons per second.
Nuclear astrophysics seeks for a possible explanation of the observed abundance distribution of various elements and their isotopes in the universe. Most of the relevant nuclear reactions take place in thermally equilibrium environments with bare nuclei, rather than accelerated and head-on colliding situations with low ionisation states of reactant atoms and molecules that are emulated in the laboratories. Moreover, the temperature of the astrophysical environments is quite often low compared to the centre-of-mass energy of the projectile nuclides, that is required for the reaction to be meaningfully investigated in the laboratory. Therefore, an extrapolation of the data on the reaction cross sections to very low energies and to extremely high density situations is generally called for, which are substantially altered every now and then for a number of astrophysically important reactions. The radioactive ion beams will ...
Radiation damage is considered to be the major problem that still prevents imaging an individual biological molecule for structural analysis. So far, all known mapping techniques using sufficient short wave-length radiation, be it X-rays or high energy electrons, circumvent this problem by averaging over many molecules. Averaging, however, leaves conformational details uncovered. Even the anticipated use of ultra-short but extremely bright X-ray bursts of a Free Electron Laser shall afford averaging over 10^6 molecules to arrive at atomic resolution. Here we present direct experimental evidence for non-destructive imaging of individual DNA molecules. In fact, we show that DNA withstands coherent low energy electron radiation with deBroglie wavelength in the Angstrom regime despite a vast dose of 10^8 electrons/nm^2 accumulated over more than one hour.
In this paper, we investigate the effect of the solid surface on the fluid-fluid intermolecular potential energy. This modified fluid-fluid interaction energy due to the inducement of a solid surface is used in the grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulation of various noble gases, nitrogen, and methane on graphitized thermal carbon black. This effect is such that the effective interaction potential energy between two particles close to surface is less than the potential energy if the solid substrate is not present. With this modification the GCMC simulation results agree extremely well with the experimental data over a wide range of pressures while the simulation results with the unmodified potential energy give rise to a shoulder near the neighborhood of monolayer coverage and the significant overprediction of the second and higher layer coverages. In ...
We describe the stabilization by pressure of enzymes, including a hydrogenase from Methanococcus jannaschii, an extremely thermophilic deep-sea methanogen. This is the first published...Full Text Available
Energy projects are extremely capitalistic and the costs involved have a significant weight on the balance sheets of companies. This paper describes the general rules of financing policies used by companies from the natural gas and petroleum industries: constraints (external and financial markets, partnership, warranties..); implication of financiers; risk analysis (political (nationalization, civil or military troubles, difficult transfer of profits outside the project..), financial (property developer, nature of the project, delay, cost overruns, performance, market..)); financial instruments (proper funds and debt, bankers and insurers, loans etc..). These rules are illustrated with several examples of recent projects of gas pipelines and exploitation of oil fields abroad. (J.S.)
This renewal request for DOE grant DE-FG02-86ER45238, is dedicated to providing a complete thermodynamic profile of solids fluids, and fluid mixtures, over a wide range of temperatures and pressures. We are partially motivated by technological interest in detonation, combustion, superhard high pressure materials, and high temperature superconductors, which are important components of interest of various DOE laboratories. Our work on fluids and solids, composed of simple molecules, involves the determination of structures, phase transitions, pressure-volume relations, phonon, vibron, and libron modes of excitation, sound velocities, specific heats, thermal expansion, virial coefficients, sublimation energies, and orientational translational, and magnetic correlations. We hope that the study of these systems under extreme thermodynamic conditions will lead to exotic new materials of value, as well as enhanced fundamental understanding.
A multiwire proportional counter type detector with thin slits instead of wires is presented. It can detect either charged particles (positive or negative) or radiation. The detector can be used as a counter or as an image converter. In radiography, it can replace photographic film or TV camera systems. It can also be used to measure particle or radiation energy. The slits which replace wires in the anode are introduced between two parallel microstrip conductors with different potentials. A quasi-polar electric field is produced between these strips. To obtain high fields, the slits are extremely narrow. Microstrips less than a micron can be obtained, giving structural dimensions of a few microns, i.e., 100 times smaller than the spacing in a classic wire anode.
We present the design, analysis, and results of the high brightness electron beam experiments currently under investigation at Sandia National Laboratories. The anticipated beam parameters are the following: energy 12 MeV, current 35 endash 40 kA, rms radius 0.5 mm, and pulse duration 40 ns full width at half-maximum. The accelerator is SABRE, a pulsed linear inductive voltage adder modified to higher impedance, and the electron source is a magnetically immersed foilless electron diode. 20 endash 30 T solenoidal magnets are required to insulate the diode and contain the beam to its extremely small-sized (1 mm) envelope. These experiments are designed to push the technology to produce the highest possible electron current in a submillimeter radius beam. Design, numerical simulations, and experimental results are presented. copyright 1997 American Institute of Physics.
One of the major challenges facing the proposed high-energy linear e^+e^ colliders is the preservation of the extremely small vertical emittance from the damping rings to the interaction point (IP). This emittance must be transported through bunch compression sections, the main linac and finally through the beam delivery system to the IP. Historically, the beam dynamics issues of each subsystem have been studied quasi-independently, with the beam conditions and tolerances being specified at the boundaries. As part of the recent International Linear Collider Technical Review Committee, new simulation tools have been developed to simulate the beam transport through the integrated system, including static and dynamic errors, stabilization systems, and tuning algorithms.
The magnetic scattering spectra of RAgSb_2 (R = Ho, Er, Tm) intermetallic compounds are measured and their crystal electric field parameters are determined using inelastic neutron scattering. It is revealed that the ground state is a nonmagnetic singlet for the HoAgSb_2 compound, a Kramers doublet with a strongly anisotropic g factor for the ErAgSb_2 compound, and a quasi-doublet (random doublet) characterized by an extremely anisotropic g factor for the TmAgSb_2 compound. The exchange interaction is estimated in the molecular field approximation. The magnetic properties of the RAgSb_2 compounds are analyzed in terms of the energy level schemes and eigenfunctions determined in this study. The calculated anisotropic magnetic susceptibilities for all compounds are in good agreement with the experimental data obtained for single crystals.
The performance and characteristics of a medical linear accelerator ''NELAC-1018'' for the electron beam therapy were discussed. Measurement of deep dose distribution revealed that the 80% range was 1.9 cm by 6 MeV, 2.8 cm by 9 MeV, 3.9 cm by 12 MeV, 4.9 cm by 15 MeV and 5.5 cm by 18 MeV. Iso-dose distribution with each tubus and cone showed a favorable flatness by any of the energies. The degree of flatness was extremely favorable, being +-1.7% or less.
Assuming the hoop conjecture in classical general relativity and quantum mechanics, any observer who attempts to perform an experiment in an arbitrarily small region will be stymied by the formation of a black hole within the spatial domain of the experiment. This behavior is often invoked in arguments for a fundamental minimum length. Extending a proof of the hoop conjecture for spherical symmetry to include higher curvature terms we investigate this minimum length argument when the gravitational couplings run with energy in the manner predicted by asymptotically safe gravity. We show that argument for the mandatory formation of a black hole within the domain of an experiment fails. Neither is there a proof that a black hole doesn't form. Instead, whether or not an observer can perform measurements in arbitrarily small regions depends on the specific numerical values of the couplings near the UV fixed point. We further argue that when an experiment is localized on ...
The galvanomagnetic properties of single-crystal samples of the Bi{sub 0.93}Sb{sub 0.07} semiconductor alloy with the electron density n = 1.6 x 10{sup 17} cm{sup -3} in magnetic fields up to 14 T at T = 1.6 K have been investigated. The resistivity {rho} and Hall coefficient R have been measured as functions of the magnetic field directed along the binary axis of a crystal for a current flowing through a sample along the bisector axis; i.e., the components {rho}{sub 22} and R{sub 32,1} have been measured. The strong anisotropy of the electron spectrum of the samples makes it possible to separately observe quantum oscillations of the magnetoresistance {rho}{sub 22}(H) for H -parallel C{sub 2} in low magnetic fields for two equivalent ellipsoids with small extremal cross sections (secondary ellipsoids) and in high magnetic fields for electrons of the ellipsoid with a large extremal cross section (main ellipsoid). An increase in the ...
A new characteristics temperature, an adiabatic limit flame temperature, was proposed as the basis to evaluate an effective energy emission and to examine a self combustion limit. Its characteristics were discussed using the reaction system between diatomic molecules as an example, and the low calorific limit of flammability was also discussed. Since the adiabatic limit flame temperature was the inherent temperature of a combustible mixture based on the thermochemical properties of constituents, it was, in particular, very important as considering a combustion system with energy recirculation between products and reactants. The available energy and efficiency of the combustion system should have been estimated on the basis of this temperature, instead of on an adiabatic flame temperature. It was also considerably high even in an extremely lean mixing ratio, however, the flame temperature in a lean ...
The effect of electron and ion beam irradiation on the Sisub(LVV) Auger spectra of SiO_2, Si_3N_4 and Si-oxynitride films was measured by the relative intensity of the 92 eV signal, characteristic for the formation of 'free' silicon during irradiation. While in Si-oxynitride the beam effects were almost negligible, some damage was found in Si_3N_4, but SiO_2 appeared to be extremely sensitive for electron and ion beam irradiation. By low energy electron loss spectroscopy of ion bombarded SiO_2 and Si_3N_4 films new electron states due to broken Si-O and Si-N bonds could be determined within the band gap of the insulators. The measured energy losses were interpreted by means of electron energy level schemes of the amorphous films. (author).
The effect of electron and ion beam irradiation on the Sisub(LVV) Auger spectra of SiO/sub 2/, Si/sub 3/N/sub 4/ and Si-oxynitride films was measured by the relative intensity of the 92 eV signal, characteristic for the formation of 'free' silicon during irradiation. While in Si-oxynitride the beam effects were almost negligible, some damage was found in Si/sub 3/N/sub 4/, but SiO/sub 2/ appeared to be extremely sensitive for electron and ion beam irradiation. By low energy electron loss spectroscopy of ion bombarded SiO/sub 2/ and Si/sub 3/N/sub 4/ films new electron states due to broken Si-O and Si-N bonds could be determined within the band gap of the insulators. The measured energy losses were interpreted by means of electron energy level schemes of the amorphous films.
P.S. Lowell and Co., Inc. (Lowell and Co.) and Jay S. Dweck, Consultant, Inc. (JSD) under contract to the US Department of Energy (DOE) Morgantown Energy Technology Center (METC) have developed and implemented an aqueous electrolyte calculation capability into the ASPEN (Advanced System for Process Engineering) process simulator. This report documents the efforts of Task 1 which were to implement the basic calculational capability. Task 2 involves development of several unit operations models and demonstration of the models in simulating environmental control processes in coal gasification and shale oil processing plants. Task 1 of the project involved several subtasks: selection of a chemical equilibrium algorithm; selection of activity coefficient algorithms; selection of species for inclusion in the initial implementation; collection of required data for the selected species; regression of parameters not found in the data collection effort; ...
We report the direct molecular dynamics simulations for molecular ball bearings composed of fullerene molecules (C{sub 60} and C{sub 20}) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The comparison of friction levels indicates that fullerene ball bearings have extremely low friction (with minimal frictional forces of 5.283 x 10{sup -7} and 6.768 x 10{sup -7} nN/atom for C{sub 60} and C{sub 20} bearings) and energy dissipation (lowest dissipation per cycle of 0.013 and 0.016 meV/atom for C{sub 60} and C{sub 20} bearings). A single fullerene inside the ball bearings exhibits various motion statuses of mixed translation and rotation. The influences of the shaft's distortion on the long-ranged potential energy and normal force are discussed. The phonic dissipation mechanism leads to a non-monotonic function between the friction and the load rate for the molecular bearings.
The tremendous heat generated in a computer chip or very large scale integrated circuit raises many challenging issues to be solved. Recently, liquid metal with a low melting point was established as the most conductive coolant for efficiently cooling the computer chip. Here, by making full use of the double merits of the liquid metal, i.e. superior heat transfer performance and electromagnetically drivable ability, we demonstrate for the first time the liquid-cooling concept for the thermal management of a computer chip using waste heat to power the thermoelectric generator (TEG) and thus the flow of the liquid metal. Such a device consumes no external net energy, which warrants it a self-supporting and completely silent liquid-cooling module. Experiments on devices driven by one or two stage TEGs indicate that a dramatic temperature drop on the simulating chip has been realized without the aid of any fans. The higher the heat load, the larger will be the ...
There are certain factors to take into account when determining the suitability of a healthy house site. Power lines, agricultural spraying, vehicle exhaust, and industrial pollution are all potential sources of indoor air contamination. It is recommended that a environmental assessment be done to determine whether there are specific sources of contamination. Good drainage is required. The surrounding landscaping should be open and sunlit, and with low maintenance requirements. Decks and fences made from pressure-treated or chemical treated lumber should be avoided. One of the early decisions in the design process is the choice of the structural system. The key with all foundation types is to control moisture, whether from rain, from the ground, or the condensation of moisture from the air with cooling. The construction frame is sealed away from the occupants by the air/vapor barrier, so only in extreme cases is it essential to use alternatives to softwood lumber ...
The disappointing progress in toxic emission reductions and sustainable economic development the world over, has been reviewed five years after the Rio de Janeiro Environmental Summit. The author`s conclusion is that there has been no progress at all, and that politicians, once again, seized on the language of sustainable development while emptying it of meaning. Sustainable development requires market regulation and the subordination of economic objectives to social need. Instead, there has been a rise of neo-liberalism. This is a type of historical counter-current that has been developing over the past two decades. It advocates unlimited deregulation, the weakening of governments, and the primacy of economic interests focused on the search for profits. It is the view of this author that so long as the conflict between sustainable development and extreme liberalism is not recognized and discussed, there is little chance that we can advance appreciably. Moreover, ...
Oregon State University (OSU) and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) were funded by the U.S. Department of Energy to conduct research focused on resolving the key technical issues that limited the deployment of efficient and extremely compact microtechnology based heat actuated absorption heat pumps and gas absorbers. Success in demonstrating these technologies will reduce the main barriers to the deployment of a technology that can significantly reduce energy consumption in the building, automotive and industrial sectors while providing a technology that can improve our ability to sequester CO{sub 2}. The proposed research cost $939,477. $539,477 of the proposed amount funded research conducted at OSU while the balance ($400,000) was used at PNNL. The project lasted 42 months and started in April 2001. Recent developments at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Oregon State University suggest that ...
Spent nuclear wastes are inevitable issues to use nuclear power as a sustainable energy. Therefore, every country has their fuel cycles which are best for their environmental and/or political circumstances for the use of nuclear energy. These days agreements are made that spent nuclear fuels should be recycled to minimize waste volume and its toxicity all around the world. Republic of Korea also has a plan to recycle the spent nuclear fuels by using Gen-IV concept burner reactors and pyro-process plants. Not many options of national nuclear strategies are exist because Korea has too many people for its limited land space. KAERI already has been proposing a national fuel cycle concept called 'KIEP-21' that encompasses all the requirements of the advanced nuclear fuel cycle such as reduction of volume, toxicity, HLW heat load and so on. Authors suggest non-national fuel cycle concept called 'PyroGreen' for the sustainable nuclear ...
BackgroundTraumatic paediatric arterial injuries are a great challenge due to low incidence and specific characteristics of paediatric anatomy and physiology. The aim of the present...Full Text Available
The paper presents a review of the current state of knowledge on the likely impacts of extreme weather and climate events on coastal zones and small islands in the context of climate change. Possible response options, including prevention, preparedness and adaptation, are indicated.
Post amputation pain can be debilitating for patients and families. Chronic pain is a common phenomenon after lower extremity amputation, occurring in up to 80% of this population. The purpose of this...Full Text Available
We explore the impact of obliquity variations on planetary habitability in hypothetical systems with high mutual inclination. For the hypothetical systems, we restrict our exploration to systems consisting of a solar-mass star, an Earth-mass planet at 1 AU, and 1 or 2 giant planets. We verify that these systems are stable for 108 years with N-body simulations. We then calculate the obliquity variations induced by the orbital architecture on the Earth-mass planets. We find that in some cases the spin axes can rotate through 360 degrees in as little as 10,000 years (John is that right? Can you look through the systems and find the most extreme case of obliquity variation?) Next, we run energy balance models (EBM) on the terrestrial planets to assess surface temperature and ice coverage on the planets' oceans. Finally, we explore differences in the outer edge of the habitable zone for planets with rapid obliquity variations. We run EBM simulations ...
If geothermal heat pumps (GHPs) are to make a significant mark in the market, we believe that it will be through energy service pricing contracts offered by retailcos. The benefits of GHPs are ideally suited to energy service pricing (ESP) contractual arrangements; however, few retailcos are thoroughly familiar with the benefits of GHPs. Many of the same barriers that have prevented GHPs from reaching their full potential in the current market environment remain in place for retailcos. A lack of awareness, concerns over the actual efficiencies of GHPs, perceptions of extremely high first costs, unknown records for maintenance costs, etc. have all contributed to limited adoption of GHP technology. These same factors are of concern to retailcos as they contemplate long term customer contracts. The central focus of this project was the creation of models, using actual GHP operating data and the experience of seasoned ...
Decaborane (B_1_0H_1_4) cluster ions were implanted into n-Si(100) substrates to fabricate shallow p"+/n junctions. Implant energies of 2 keV, 5 keV, and 20 keV, equivalent to implant energies of the monomer boron ion of 174 eV, 435 eV, and 1.74 keV, respectively, were used at dosages of 1 X 10"1"2 /cm"2 and 1 X 10"1"3 /cm"2. The implanted samples were then subjected to activation annealing at 800 .deg. C, 900 .deg. C, and 1000 .deg. C for 10 s. By using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) depth profiles, we determined that the depth of the shallow junction (D_s) at a dosage of 1 X 10"1"3 /cm"2 was in the range 12 nm - 45 nm after annealing at 1000 .deg. C. D_s and transient enhanced diffusion (TED) were greatly reduced at implant energies lower than 5 keV, but thermal diffusion (TD) smoothly decreased. In particular, TED was suppressed in the p"+/n junction implanted at 2 keV and a dosage of 1 X 10"1"3 /cm"2, and the ...
Future climate change will likely influence the frequency and intensity of weather extremes. As such events are by definition rare, long records are required to understand their characteristics, drivers, and consequences on ecology and society. Herein we provide a unique perspective on regional-scale temperature extremes over the past millennium, using three tree-ring maximum latewood density (MXD) chronologies from higher elevations in the European Alps. We verify the tree-ring-based extremes using documentary evidences from Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Central Europe that allowed the identification of 44 summer extremes over the 1550-2003 period. These events include cold temperatures in 1579, 1628, 1675, and 1816, as well as warm ones in 1811 and 2003. Prior to 1550, we provide ...
Striking differences in differential reflectance and carrier relaxation in In0.4Ga0.6As and In0.4Ga0.6As0.98N0.02 single quantum wells (SQWs) were studied using ultrafast time-resolved photoreflectance. Even with extremely thin SQW of only 60 A within 3000 A wide GaAs confining layers, negative and positive differential reflectance was observed for the excitation photon energy far above the bandgaps at 820 and 880 nm for both samples. Due to absorption by the GaAs confining layer, the peak differential reflectance pumped at 820 nm is an order of magnitude larger than that pumped at 880 nm; and it is larger for InGaAs SQWs than for InGaAsN SQWs. The shorter carrier lifetimes of these samples result from carrier-carrier scattering as pumped at both wavelengths. The longer carrier lifetime as pumped at 880 nm is due to hot phonon decay in InGaAs but may be due to stimulated emission in InGaAsN. The results reveal that the carrier dynamics is ...
A gamma-ray spectrometer (GRS) has been built and delivered to the Mercury MESSENGER spacecraft which launched on August 3, 2004, from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The GRS, a part of seven scientific instruments on board MESSENGER, is based on a coaxial high-purity germanium detector. Gamma-ray detectors based on germanium have the advantage of providing excellent energy resolution, which is critical to achieving the science goals of the mission. However, germanium has the disadvantage that it must operate at cryogenic temperatures (typically {approx}80 K). This requirement is easy to satisfy in the laboratory but difficult near Mercury, which has an extremely hot thermal radiation environment. To cool the detector, a Stirling cycle mechanical cooler is employed. In addition, radiation and conduction techniques a are used to reduce the GRS heat load. Before delivering the flight sensor, a complete thermal prototype was built and tested. The results ...
Lake Erie, the southernmost of the Laurentian Great Lakes, is narrow and relatively shallow in comparison to other Great Lakes. The lake experiences extreme water level fluctuations and storm energy restricts the development of wetlands to protected areas within embayments, lagoons, or behind barriers. However, coastal marshes of western Lake Erie fringe the shorelines of Michigan, Ohio, and Ontario and encompass an area of 268 km/sup 2/. This publication reviews the ecological data and information on the wetlands of Lake Erie, which are some of the more productive areas in the Great Lakes ecosystem. The geologic history of the Lake Erie leading to the development of wetlands, the present environment, and present wetland distribution are presented as background in the opening chapters. Biological information available for the Lake Erie wetlands is discussed in detail, and ecological processes contributing to the evolution of wetlands, ...
PAMELA is a satellite borne experiment designed to study with great accuracy cosmic rays of galactic, solar, and trapped nature in a wide energy range (protons: 80 MeV-700 GeV, electrons 50 MeV-400 GeV). Main objective is the study of the antimatter component: antiprotons (80 MeV-190 GeV), positrons (50 MeV-270 GeV) and search for antimatter with a precision of the order of $10^{-8}$). The experiment, housed on board the Russian Resurs-DK1 satellite, was launched on June, 15 2006 in a $350\\times 600 km$ orbit with an inclination of 70 degrees. The detector is composed of a series of scintillator counters arranged at the extremities of a permanent magnet spectrometer to provide charge, Time-of-Flight and rigidity information. Lepton/hadron identification is performed by a Silicon-Tungsten calorimeter and a Neutron detector placed at the bottom of the device. An Anticounter system is used offline to reject false triggers coming from the ...
Within the past two and one half years of the project ``Surface Physics With Cold and Thermal Neutron Reflectometry`` a new thermal neutron reflectometer was constructed at the Rhode Island Nuclear Science Center (RINSC). It was used to study various liquid and solid surfaces. Furthermore, neutron reflection experiments were be un at different laboratories in collaboration with Dr. G.P. Fetcher (at Argonne National Laboratory), Dr. T. Russell (IBM Almaden) and Drs. S.K. Satija and A. Karim (at the National Institute for Standards and Technology). The available resources allowed partial construction of an imaging system for ultracold neutrons. It is expected to provide an extremely high resolution in momentum and energy transfer in surface studies using neutron reflectometry. Much of the work reported here was motivated by the possibility of later implementation at the planned Advanced Neutron Source at Oak Ridge. In a separate project the first ...
Interaction of the internal states of an atom with spatially dependent standing-wave cavity field can impart position information of the atom passing through it leading to subwavelength atom localization. We recently demonstrated a different regime of atom localization [Phys. Rev. A 72, 013820 (2005)], namely sub-half-wavelength localization through phase control of electromagnetically induced transparency. This regime corresponds to extreme localization of atoms within a chosen half-wavelength region of the standing-wave cavity field. Here we present further investigation of the simplified model considered earlier and show interesting features of the proposal. We show how the model can be used to simulate a variety of energy-level schemes. Furthermore, the dressed-state analysis is employed to explain the emergence and suppression of the localization peaks, and the peak positions and widths. The range of parameters for obtaining clean ...
The authors observed an extremely high permittivity (#approx#35 000 at T_C) in barium zirconate titanate (BaZr_0_._1Ti_0_._9O_3) ceramics with holmium substitution (1-5 mol %) in Ba site. Careful microstructural investigation and energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis of the 1-2 mol % of Ho substituted ceramics showed the enrichment of a Ho-phase along the grain boundaries with a composition close to the Ho_2Ti_2O_7 pyrochlore. The formation of Ho rich phase resulted in the Maxwell-Wagner polarization mechanism, which leads to this unusually high permittivity. Ceramics with 3 mol % or higher Ho content showed lesser permittivity values compared to 1-2 mol %, probably due to the increase in pyrochlore phase. These high dielectric constant ceramics are useful in nanoscale devices.
The present invention concerns a negative ion source electrode which can be preferably used in a neutral particle injection device using negative ions for a thermonuclear reactor. Negative ion beams are deflected to the direction opposite to the deflecting direction by magnetic fields by using an electron suppression electrode having electrode holes with the position previously displaced before negative ion beams are accelerated to have a high energy by an accelerator thereby correcting the orbit of the negative ion beams easily. In addition, since the deflection correction electrode having the electrode holes is disposed, a proper voltage is applied to the deflection correction electrode to correct the orbit of the negative ion beams conveniently. Since the deflection correction electrode has a simple structure of a thin flat plate having electrode holes, the orbit of negative ion beams can be corrected efficiently by an extremely simple ...
The first offshore wind farm in Sweden; Bockstigen, consists of five 500 kW stall controlled wind turbines on mono pile foundations. The main objectives of the technical evaluation are to verify the original design assumptions made for a load carrying mono pile and bedrock, investigate offshore power production versus onshore ditto as well as to determine park effects and analyse meteorological multi-mast statistics which serve as reference data to a newly developed computer code for offshore wind energy potential mapping. The 'main' measurement system has continuously been acquiring data at 1 and 20 Hz/channel since the summer of 1998. A 40 m meteorological mast was built within the wind farm in the summer of 1999 in order to acquire relatively undisturbed wind speed data from 'free' sectors as well as to enable wake measurements. The mono pile and tower of one of the turbines are equipped with strain gauges at several depths ...
PAMELA is a satellite borne experiment designed to study with great accuracy cosmic rays of galactic, solar, and trapped nature in a wide energy range protons: 80 MeV-700 GeV, electrons 50 MeV-400 GeV). Main objective is the study of the antimatter component: antiprotons (80 MeV-190 GeV), positrons (50 MeV-270 GeV) and search for antimatter with a precision of the order of 10^-8). The experiment, housed on board the Russian Resurs-DK1 satellite, was launched on June, 15, 2006 in a 350*600 km orbit with an inclination of 70 degrees. The detector is composed of a series of scintillator counters arranged at the extremities of a permanent magnet spectrometer to provide charge, Time-of-Flight and rigidity information. Lepton/hadron identification is performed by a Silicon-Tungsten calorimeter and a Neutron detector placed at the bottom of the device. An Anticounter system is used offline to reject false triggers coming from the satellite. In ...
Ventilation, cooling and illumination of modern high-rise office buildings with high-quality thermal insulation (average k-value 1.0 W/m12K) and high loads from office machinery (up to 20 W/m12 and beyond) are problematic even for modern facility management systems, with consequences for the building shell, heating system, and window ventilation. [Deutsch] Die Lueftung, Kuehlung und Beleuchtung moderner Buerohochbauten mit extremer Waermedaemmung (mittlerer K-Wert 1,0 W/m{sup 2}K) und hohen Bueromaschinenlasten (bis zu 20 W/m{sup 2} und mehr) verursachen auch heute noch erhebliche Probleme, obwohl die technische Gebaeudeausruestung weiterentwickelt wurde. Dies zeigt sich vor allem bei der Fassadenausbildung der Heizung und Fensterlueftung. (orig.)
Anti-proton and positron Galactic cosmic ray (GCR) spectra are among the key targets for indirect detection of dark matter (DM). The boost factors, corresponding to an enhancement of the signal|linked to the clumpiness properties of the dark matter distribution|, have been taken as high as thousands in the past. The dramatic impact of these boost factors for indirect detection of antiparticles, for instance with the PAMELA satellite or the coming AMS-02 experiment, asks for their detailed calculation. We take into account the state-of-the-art results of high resolution N-body dark matter simulations to calculate the most likely energy dependent boost factors|linked to the GCR propagation properties|, for anti-protons and positrons. The results from extreme, but still possible, configurations of the clumpy dark matter component is also discussed. Starting from the mass and space distributions of sub-halos, the anti-proton and positron ...
This research report discusses the radiation hardening of a commercially available mobile robot, the REMOTEC ANDROS. This hardening effort is culminating in the availability of a megarad hardened mobile platform to access areas in nuclear facilities with extremely high levels of radiation (0.1 to 1 Mrad). These radiation levels may be encountered both during routine repair and monitoring activities and accident situations. The project has completed a phase-I U.S. Department of Energy Small Business Innovative Research contract and is now in a phase-II effort with completion scheduled in early 1995. The research involves the evaluation of the material and electrical components of an ANDROS robot to determine the anticipated radiation hardness of the current production version and evaluation of the components that must be replaced or modified to harden the system to higher radiation levels. The work being reported is based on an evaluation of the ...
Wind power is an increasingly significant renewable energy resource, producing no environmentally damaging C0{sub 2} emissions. The efficient production of electricity by wind turbines relies on aerodynamics: aerodynamics of wind turbines provides the fundamental solutions to efficient wind turbine design. Following a historical introduction, Part 1 of Aerodynamics of Wind Turbines is concerned with basic rotor aerodynamics, while Part 2 deals with structural aspects of the wind turbine and calculation of the loads on it. Topics covered include increasing mass flow through the turbine, performance at low and high wind speeds, assessment of the extreme conditions under which the turbine will perform and the theory for calculating the lifetime of the turbine. The classical Blade Element Momentum method is also covered, as are eigenmodes and the dynamic behaviour of a turbine. Aerodynamics of Wind Turbines is an essential reference for both ...
Wind power is an increasingly significant renewable energy resource, producing no environmentally damaging CO2 emissions. The efficient production of electricity by wind turbines relies on aerodynamics. Aerodynamics of Wind Turbines provides the fundamental solutions to efficient wind turbine design. Following a historical introduction, Part 1 of Aerodynamics of Wind Turbines is concerned with basic rotor aerodynamics, while Part 2 deals with structural aspects of the wind turbine and calculation of the loads on it. Topics covered include increasing mass flow through the turbine, performance at low and high wind speeds, assessment of the extreme conditions under which the turbine will perform and the theory for calculating the lifetime of the turbine. The classical Blade Element Momentum method is also covered, as are eigenmodes and the dynamic behaviour of a turbine. Aerodynamics of Wind Turbines is an essential reference for both engineering ...
Over the last decade {\\it ab initio} modeling of material properties has become widespread in diverse fields of research. It has proved to be a powerful tool for predicting various properties of matter under extreme conditions. We apply modern computational chemistry and materials science methods, including density functional theory (DFT), to solve lingering problems in the modeling of the dense atmospheres of cool white dwarfs ($T_{\\rm eff}\\rm <7000 \\, K$). Our work on the revision and improvements of the absorption mechanisms in the hydrogen and helium dominated atmospheres resulted in a new set of atmosphere models. By inclusion of the Ly-$\\rm \\alpha$ red wing opacity we successfully fitted the entire spectral energy distributions of known cool DA stars. In the subsequent work we fitted the majority of the coolest stars with hydrogen-rich models. This finding challenges our understanding of the spectral evolution of cool white ...
A general space- and energy-dependent formalism is developed in order to analyze zero-power neutron noise experiments in fast reactor systems. A generalized dispersion equation is combined with theoretical expressions for the experimentally measured power spectral density and variance-to-mean ratio which makes it possible to express these quantities in terms of a double moment of the Laplace and Fourier transformed Green's function of a slowing-down operator rather than those of the full Boltzmann operator. Several spatial approximations are analyzed in the context of the general formalism. In each case, the power spectral density and variance-to-mean ratio are written in terms of an appropriate fast reactor dispersion law for the medium which can be calculated from the solution to a simple slowing-down equation. The resultant expression for the power spectral density are analyzed for various combinations of neutron migration descriptions, slowing-down ...
Vehicle heating requires a substantial amount of energy. Engines in conventional cars produce enough waste heat to provide comfort heating and defogging/defrosting, even under very extreme conditions. Electric vehicles (EVs), however, generate little waste heat. Using battery energy for heating may consume a substantial fraction of the energy storage capacity, reducing the vehicle range, which is one of the most important parameters in determining EV acceptability. Water vapor generated by the vehicle passengers is in large part responsible for the high heating loads existing in vehicles. In cold climates, the generation of water vapor inside the car may result in water condensation on the windows, diminishing visibility. Two strategies are commonly used to avoid condensation on windows: windows are kept warm, and a large amount of ambient air is introduced in the vehicle. Either strategy results in a ...
Ensyn is a profitable commercial company which derives its revenues from the conversion of wood residues into liquid biofuel and chemicals. The technology, Rapid Thermal Processing (RTP{sup (TM)})is based on extremely fast ``cracking`` of biomass which results in light liquid yields exceeding 70% by weight, from wood. Whether producing chemicals or liquid biofuel, the RTP plant is configured identically and operated essentially in the same mode. Chemicals production simply allows economical production to occur at a lower plant capacity, as low as 2 tonnes/day, than is feasible for a dedicated fuel plant (typically greater than 100 tonnes/day). Ensyn has developed the commercialisation of RTP{sup TM} from bench to industrial scale in 10 years. A variety of crative funding initiatives in the early years allowed for capital to be raised for R and D without the loss of intellectual property (IP). The transition years of technology demonstration, prior to full ...
Recent two major topics of Large Helical Device (LHD) towards fusion relevant conditions, high-density operation and high-ion-temperature operation, are reported. Super dense core plasma was obtained by the combination of repetitive hydrogen ice pellet injection and high power neutral beam injection (NBI) heating. A very peaked density profile with the highest central density of 1.1x1021 m-3 was produced showing that the particle transport was suppressed very well in the plasma core. The spatial density varies as the position of magnetic axis (Rax), and the steepest profile is obtained at Rax=3.95 m. The highest central ion temperature of 5.6 keV was obtained in hydrogen plasma at electron density of 1.6 x 1019 m-3 by NBI, where a peaked ion-temperature profile with internal ion energy transport barrier was observed. The profile of electron temperature did not change much and was broad even when the ion temperature had a peaked profile. The central ion temperature ...
The role played by planetary boundary layer (PBL) in the development and evolution of a severe convective storm is studied by means of meso-scale modeling and surface and upper air observations. The severe convective precipitation event that occurred on 14 September 1999 in the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula was simulated by means of the mesoscale model MM5 (version 3) using three different PBL schemes. The numerical results show a large impact of the PBL schemes on the precipitation fields associated to the convective storm. The schemes are based on different physical assumptions: the nonlocal first order medium-range forecast (MRF) and blackadar (BLA) scheme and the local, one-and-a-half order ETA scheme. Surface and radar observations are used to validate the model results. The comparison focuses on three aspects: the evolution, the spatial distribution and the 24-h accumulated precipitation. The comparison with rain gauge observations shows that the MRF, BLA and ETA schemes ...
analysis of NaMBT in ethylene glycol-water solutions with high accuracy. It reduces analysis time, requires smaller samples, and is able to detect extremely ...
Oct 1, 2010 ... AEHF 1 is the first of four Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) satellites that will replace the earlier Milstar system. The AEHF ...
Rotifers of class Bdelloidea are common invertebrate animals with highly unusual characteristics, including apparently obligate asexuality, the ability to resume reproduction after desiccation at any...Full Text Available
Cryoanalgesia, the local application of extreme cold to nerves to produce analgesia, has been used to treat patients with intractable perineal pain. The cryoprobe was inserted percutaneously through...Full Text Available
Aging can be defined as a progressive decline in physiological efficiency regulated by an extremely complex multifactorial process. The genetic makeup of an individual appears to dictate this rate...Full Text Available
... perform the inspection in the extremely limited space between adjacent blades and at the blade root, miniature eddy current probes were developed ...
Reclaimed Energy Company, Inc., Connersville, IN, receives waste generated from a wide variety of industrial applications which include paint, printing and degreasing companies. The wastes are stored in separate tanks and then distilled in batches (pot distillation). The recovered solvents can be returned to the originator. The residue, left after the solvents are distilled, is disposed of using an environmentally safe, economical procedure. The company worked with an engineering and fabrication firm to develop a continuous processing system that employs a mechanically agitated thin-film evaporator to distill the solvents. Successful performance of the evaporator was ensured by processing samples of solvents through the evaporator manufacturer's pilot plant facilities before the full-sized system was designed. Reclaimed Energy Company, Inc., has realized a number of advantages by going from pot distillation to the agitated thin-film ...
The Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP), recently announced by DOE Secretary Bodman, poses significant new challenges with regard to securing, safeguarding, monitoring and tracking nuclear materials. In order to reduce the risk of nuclear proliferation, new technologies must be developed to reduce the risk that nuclear material can be diverted from its intended use. Regardless of the specific nature of the fuel cycle, nuclear forensics and attribution will play key roles to ensure the effectiveness of nonproliferation controls and to deter the likelihood of illicit activities. As the leader of the DHS nuclear and radiological pre-detonation attribution program, LLNL is uniquely positioned to play a national leadership role in this effort. Ensuring that individuals or organizations engaged in illicit trafficking are rapidly identified and apprehended following theft or diversion of nuclear material provides a strong deterrent against unlawful activities. Key to ...
The Northeast Gateway Energy Bridge Deepwater Port project was commissioned in 2005 and is based on a proprietary energy bridge shipboard regasification technology. The offshore liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility will be located in federal waters 13 miles southeast of Gloucester and was designed to cope with the extreme weather of the Massachusetts Bay. A dual-buoy system will be capable of ensuring continuous delivery of natural gas. Throughput capacity will range from 400 to over 800 MMcf/d. Vessels used at the port have capacities of 138,000 m{sup 3} and 150,900 m{sup 3} with peak sendout rates of 600 MMcf/d. The vessels have the capacity to rapidly increase and decrease their delivery rates. During periods of peak demand, 2 vessels can be simultaneously accommodated at the port, which has been designed to accommodate larger vessels to maximize future throughput. This presentation presented details of the ...
This handbook presents information and data for high explosives (HEs) of interest to programs at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and other Department of Energy (DOE) facilities. It is intended to be useful to the scientist or engineer, the novice or expert, who needs to develop a new weapon system, design a physics experiment, or select and/or evaluate an existing explosive. This compilation is limited to production HEs and their components. High explosives are divided into two classes: initial detonating (or primary) and noninitiating (or secondary) explosives. The primary HEs, such as azides and fulminates, are extremely sensitive to ignition by heat, shock, and electrical discharge; ignition leads to high-order detonation of the material - even for milligram quantities. The use of these HEs is therefore limited to squibs and starting materials for low-energy detonators. Because primary explosives have ...
The extremely thermophilic anaerobic archaeon strain B1001 was isolated from a hot-spring environment in Japan. The cells were irregular cocci, 0.5 to 1.0 μm in diameter. The new isolate grew...Full Text Available
Intravenous digital subtraction angiography using Fuji computed radiography system (FCR-DSA) was used to evaluate 57 preoperative patients with clinical manifestations of peripheral vascular disease of lower extremity. With its high contrast resolution and good special resolution, image of FCR-DSA could offer optimal information of vascular abnormality in lower extremity distal to midfoot for the diagnosis and the choice of management.
Intravenous digital subtraction angiography using Fuji computed radiography system (FCR-DSA) was used to evaluate 57 preoperative patients with clinical manifestations of peripheral vascular disease of lower extremity. With its high contrast resolution and good special resolution, image of FCR-DSA could offer optimal information of vascular abnormality in lower extremity distal to midfoot for the diagnosis and the choice of management. (orig.).
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. ...
The solvent extraction of 12-phosphotungstic acid, also known as 12-tungstophosphoric acid-H_3PW_1_2O_4_0, the so-called Keggin heteropolyacid - by 0.73 M (20%v/v) tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) in n-octane under conditions comparable to those used previously for the extraction of conventional inorganic mineral acids is described. A simplified phase diagram for the pentanary system comprised of H_3PW_1_2O_4_0, HNO_3, H_2O, TBP, and n-octane reveals an extremely low initial concentration of H_3PW_1_2O_4_0 (1.1 mM) at the LOC (limiting organic concentration) condition, far lower than the most effective third-phase-forming inorganic acid, namely HClO_4. The results from small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) indicate that the interparticle attraction energy - U(r) calculated through application of the Baxter sticky sphere model to the SANS data at the LOC condition - does not approach the -2 k_B T value associated with phase splitting in previous ...
This report discusses the safety approach of the Advanced Liquid Metal reactor program, sponsored by the US Department of Energy, which relies upon passive reactor responses to off-normal condition to limit power and temperature excursions to levels that allow safety margins. Gas expansion modules (GEM) have included in the design to provide negative reactivity to enhance these margins in the extremely unlikely event that pumping power is lost and the highly reliable scram system fails to operate. The feasibility and beneficial features of these devices were first demonstrated in the core of the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) in 1986. Preapplication safety evaluations by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission have identified areas that must be addressed if these devices are to be relied on. One of these areas is the response of the reactor when it is critical and the pumps are turned on, resulting in positive reactivity being added to the core. ...
The safety approach of the Advanced Liquid Metal Reactor program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, relies upon passive reactor responses to off-normal conditions to limit power and temperature excursions to levels that allow large safety margins. Gas expansion modules (GEM) have been included in the design to provide negative reactivity to enhance these margins in the extremely unlikely event that pumping power is lost and the highly reliable scram system fails to operate. The feasibility and beneficial features of these devices were first demonstrated in the core of the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF) in 1986. Pre-application safety evaluations by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission have identified areas that must be addressed if these devices are to be relied on. One of these areas is the response of the reactor when it is critical and the pumps are turned on, resulting in positive reactivity being added to the core. Tests to ...
Sodium monofluoroacetate (1080) is a vertebrate pesticide widely used for possum control in New Zealand. Fluoroacetate is also a toxic component of poisonous plants found in Australia, South Africa, South America, and India. Because of its importance and effectiveness in pest control and the highly toxic nature of this compound, its acute sub-lethal and target organ toxicity have been extensively studied. In relation to its use as a pesticide its environmental fate, persistence, non-target impacts and general toxicology have been and continue to be extensively studied. Toxic baits must be prepared and used with extreme care, otherwise humans, livestock, and non-target wildlife will be put at risk. The high risk of secondary poisoning of dogs is a cause for concern. 1080 acts by interfering with cellular energy production. Possums die from heart failure, usually within 6-18 h of eating baits. Long-term exposure to sub-lethal doses can have ...
The implementation of wind energy conversion systems in the built environment renewed the interest and the research on Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT), which in this application present several advantages over Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWT). The VAWT has an inherent unsteady aerodynamic behavior due to the variation of angle of attack with the angle of rotation, perceived velocity and consequentially Reynolds number. The phenomenon of dynamic stall is then an intrinsic effect of the operation of a Vertical Axis Wind Turbine at low tip speed ratios, having a significant impact in both loads and power. The complexity of the unsteady aerodynamics of the VAWT makes it extremely attractive to be analyzed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models, where an approximation of the continuity and momentum equations of the Navier-Stokes equations set is solved. The complexity of the problem and the need for new design approaches for VAWT for ...
This Report of activity displays the work developed at Centre d`Etude Nucleaires de Bordeaux-Gradignan (CENBG) in the period 1995-1996. A number of 68 short progress notes are presented in the fields of Cosmic particles (3), Nuclear Astrophysics (4), High Spins-Large Deformations (8), Basic Interactions (9), Exotic Nuclei (10), Hybrid Systems (4), Theoretical Physics (28), Cellular Microanalysis by means of Nuclear Probes (3) and Technical Development (3). The main problems attacked at CENBG, established as orientations by scientific board of IN2P3 (CENBG is a UMR of Bordeaux-1 Univ. and CNRS-IN2P3) are the following: the research of Majorana/Dirac nature of neutrino (in the framework of NEMO Experiment) in relation with the problem of origin of mass in the Universe and the cosmological puzzle of dark matter, the investigation of the origin of high energy (20 to 200 GeV) cosmic radiation (in the framework of CELESTE Experiment), the study of ...
Based on the results obtained for C-N and Si-C-N films, a systematic investigation of reactive magnetron sputtering of hard quaternary Si-B-C-N materials has been carried out. The Si-B-C-N films were deposited on p-type Si(100) substrates by dc magnetron co-sputtering using a single C-Si-B target (at a fixed 20% boron fraction in the target erosion area) in nitrogen-argon gas mixtures. Elemental compositions of the films, their surface bonding structure and mechanical properties, together with their oxidation resistance in air, were controlled by the Si fraction (5-75%) in the magnetron target erosion area, the Ar fraction (0-75%) in the gas mixture, the rf induced negative substrate bias voltage (from a floating potential to -500 V) and the substrate temperature (180-350 deg. C). The total pressure and the discharge current on the magnetron target were held constant at 0.5 Pa and 1 A, respectively. The energy and flux of ions bombarding the growing films were ...
The worldwide oil shale resources are extremely large. As an example, the calculated recoverable oil from just the Green River Formation in the tri-state area of Colorado-Utah-Wyoming is as large as the estimated ultimate total conventional oil production from the entire world. In addition there are significant resources in other parts of the USA and in other countries. Despite the great potential, the peace of western oil shale development took a general downturn in 1982 because of a combination of factors led by an uncertainty concerning short to intermediate term pricing for crude oil, a lesser demand for petroleum products, and increased projected costs for development. An example is Exxon's announcement that the Exxon/TOSCO multi-billion dollar project would be discontinued and most of its support equipment sold. In the eastern part of the country, Paraho decided not to move its project to Kentucky unless additional financial support could be ...
A numerical method for studying the flow field of an under-expanded axis-symmetric jet created by a converging-diverging nozzle and impinging on a flat plate is presented. The calculation domain of interest is a region that contains all the features of the jet that leaves the nozzle and impinges onto the plate. Axial symmetry of the domain allows a reduced 2-dimensional model to be used. FLUENT software is utilized to solve the continuity, momentum and energy equations using a coupled implicit scheme. The ideal-gas law is used to determine the gas density along with a k-#epsilon# turbulence model with a special modification to account for compressibility effects. In addition, the temperature dependency of viscosity has been taken into consideration. A number of different modeling techniques are investigated including different approximations to account for the flow inside the nozzle. Performance of non-equilibrium wall functions for near-wall turbulence treatment ...
Full text: In the upper layers of the Earth's atmosphere, molecular nitrogen absorbs the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) solar radiation. The absorption is associated with dipole-allowed excitation of states of singlet ungerade symmetry ("1#SIGMA#"+_u and "1#PI#_u), which are known to undergo predissociation due to coupling with a mainfold of "1#PI#_u states. We determined new N_2 isotopic lifetimes of many "1#SIGMA#"+_u and "1#PI#_u states via line broadening measurements in the frequency domain. Ultrahigh resolution XUV + UV ionization spectra were recorded (bandwidth #approx# 250 MHz, resolving power 10"7), from which the natural linewidth, i.e. lifetime, was determined. These lifetimes provide new information about the predissociation of the singlet ungerade states in N_2. Tunable narrowband XUV radiation was produced by successively pulsed amplification of cw dye laser radiation, frequency doubling the pulsed visible laser beam into the UV and frequency tripling the ...
High quality single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) have been synthesized at large scales by the method of direct evaporation of carbon black and metallic catalyst mixtures, using induction thermal plasma technology. The processing system consists mainly of an RF plasma torch, which generates a plasma jet of extremely high temperature (?15 000 K), with a high energy density and abundance of reactive species (ions and neutrals). With the present reactor system, it has been demonstrated that carbon soot product which contains approximately 40 wt% of SWNT can be continuously synthesized at the high production rate of ?100 g h-1. The processing parameters involved have been examined closely in order to evaluate their individual influences on SWNT synthesis. The results have shown that the quality and purity of the SWNT produced are critically affected by the grade of carbon black, the plasma gas composition and the metallic catalyst employed. ...
A geothermal heat pump-assisted heating system is introduced into Changchun City and a survey is conducted to determine if the system may be popularized in this extremely cold region located in the northeastern part of China. In concrete terms, the hot water that circulates through the office building of Changchun Ground Heat Development Co., Ltd., is switched to hot water prepared by a geothermal heat pump. The test continued from December 2000 to March 2001. It is then concluded that heating by geothermal heat pumps will be fully serviceable to Changchun City. Implemented are (1) the shift from the coal fired boiler system to a geothermal heat pump system comprising 16 subterranean heat exchangers for the heating of the office building which is approximately 1000 m{sup 2} large, (2) long-term monitoring of the operating conditions, (3) measurement of subterranean heat exchanger thermal conductivity and subterranean temperature, and (4) the study of pipe shapes ...
Modern nuclear spectroscopy boosts the study of the nuclear matter towards extreme conditions: large excitation energies, high spins, and new nuclear species with unusual ratio between the numbers of neutrons and protons. One of the 'exotic' nuclear regions, practically not studied until now, is the upper part of the N=Z line, from about N#approx#Z#approx#36 to Sn-100, probably the heaviest bound nucleus with N=Z. These nuclei lie close to the proton-drip line. Due to their special composition, it is expected that their study will reveal some phenomena which are less encountered in the nuclei studied till now. In particular, of outstanding interest is the fact that these are the only nuclei which may provide information on the properties of the neutron-proton pairing forces. In spite of its large interest, this nuclear region is exceedingly difficult to reach with the present techniques. The lecture follows the latest results and efforts in the ...
We present sensitive high angular resolution (0.''57-0.''78) SO, SO_2, CO, C_2H_5OH, HC_3N, and HCOCH_2OH line observations at millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths of the young O-type protostar W51 North made with the Submillimeter Array. We report the presence of a large (about 8000 AU) and hot molecular circumstellar disk around this object, which connects the inner dusty disk with the molecular ring or toroid reported recently and confirms the existence of a single bipolar outflow emanating from this object. The molecular emission from the large disk is observed in layers with the transitions characterized by high excitation temperatures in their lower energy states (up to 1512 K) being concentrated closer to the central massive protostar. The molecular emission from those transitions with low or moderate excitation temperatures is found in the outermost parts of the disk and exhibits an inner cavity with an angular size of around 0.''7. We modeled all lines ...
The Hydrogen Program at Sandia National Laboratories is developing internal combustion engine generators for application in series hybrid vehicles and stationary power units. The program consists of two approaches: investigating the utilization of hydrogen in a conventional crankshaft driven engine and in an advanced free piston configuration. The conventional engine program has taken the direction of utilizing the unique ability to spark ignite homogeneous fuel/air mixtures of hydrogen at low equivalence ratios to achieve low NO{sub x} emissions and high thermal efficiency. The goal is to translate the indicated thermal efficiency of single-cylinder engines into multicylinder configurations achieving at least 40% brake thermal efficiency. When coupled to an electrical generator, the fuel to electricity conversion efficiency would be approximately 37%. A modified Perkins 3.152 Diesel engine is currently being tested and has achieved an indicated thermal efficiency of 45% in preliminary ...
The effect of the wind on the sustain of extreme water waves is investigated experimentally and numerically. A series of experiments conducted in the Large Air-Sea Interactions Facility (LASIF) showed that a wind blowing over a strongly nonlinear short wave group due to the linear focusing of a modulated wave train may increase the life time of the extreme wave event. The expriments suggested that the air flow separation that occurs on the leeward side of the steep crests may sustain longer the maximum of modulation of the focusing-defocusing cycle. Based on a Boundary-Integral Equation Method and a pressure distribution over the steep crests given by the Jeffreys'sheltering theory, similar numerical simulations have confirmed the experimental results
Increased concern about potential health problems related to exposure to nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) has occurred recently. The most recent epidemiological studies have dealt mainly with effects of extremely low frequency EMF on fetal development and cancer. This paper summarizes noteworthy aspects or recent reviews and studies in this area of research. There has been increased concern recently about potential health problems related to exposure to nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF). Although some questions have been raised concerning exposure to radiofrequency radiation (at frequencies up to 300 GHz), the major focus has been on fields of extremely low frequency (especially 60 Hz). The most recent epidemiologic studies have dealt mainly with effects of extremely-low-frequency EMF on fetal development and with the initiation or promotion of cancer.
The importance of temperature in the determination of the yield of an annual crop (groundnut; Arachis hypogaea L. in India) was assessed. Simulations from a regional climate model (PRECIS) were used with a crop model (GLAM) to examine crop growth under simulated current (1961-1990) and future (2071-2100) climates. Two processes were examined: the response of crop duration to mean temperature and the response of seed-set to extremes of temperature. The relative importance of, and interaction between, these two processes was examined for a number of genotypic characteristics, which were represented by using different values of crop model parameters derived from experiments.The impact of mean and extreme temperatures varied geographically, and depended upon the simulated genotypic properties....
The motivation of this work is to develop high reflectance normal-incidence multilayer mirrors in the 8-12 nm wavelength region for applications in astronomy and extreme ultraviolet lithography. To achieve this goal, Mo/Sr and Mo/Y multilayers were studied. These multilayers were deposited with a UHV magnetron sputtering system and their reflectances were measured with synchrotron radiation. High normal-incidence reflectances of 23% at 8.8 nm, 40.8% at 9.4 nm, and 48.3% at 10.5 nm were achieved. However, the reflectance of Mo/Sr multilayers decreased rapidly after exposure to air. Attempts to use thin layers of carbon to passivate the surface of Mo/Sr multilayers were unsuccessful. Experimental results on the refractive index {tilde n} = 1-{delta} + i{beta} of yttrium and molybdenum in the 50-1300 eV energy region are reported in this work. This is the first time ever that values on the refractive index of yttrium are measured in this ...
Studies in our wound ballistics laboratory have shown that excellent healing can occur in complicated assault rifle wounds that are free of tension and well drained. A conservative approach to debridement and excision of tissue in uncomplicated extremity wounds may be a valid and resource-saving technique. PMID:2366941
Functioning adrenocortical oncocytomas are extremely rare and most reported patients are 40-60 yr of age. To our knowledge, only 2 cases of functioning adrenocortical oncocytomas have been reported...Full Text Available
Cellular polarity is a fundamental property of every cell. Due to their extremely fast growth rate (≥1 μm/s) and their highly elongated form, filamentous fungi represent a prime example...Full Text Available
Randomized clinical trials are designed with stopping boundaries to guide data monitoring committees with their decision making concerning ongoing trials. In particular, when extremely positive results...Full Text Available
Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an extremely uncommon cause of myocardial infarction, occurring predominantly in women during or after pregnancy. The exact aetiology...Full Text Available
The technology of gene targeting through homologous recombination has been extremely useful for elucidating gene functions in mice. The application of this technology was thought impossible in the large...Full Text Available
An inexpensive, extremely rapid manual method for simultaneous synthesis of large numbers of oligodeoxyribonucleotides on 50 or 150 nanomole scale is described. The oligonucleotides are assembled in...Full Text Available
BackgroundDistraction osteogenesis is the standard treatment for the management of lower limb length discrepancy of more than 3 cm and bone loss secondary to congenital anomalies,...Full Text Available
... J. Rolph, S. J. Camargo, K. L. Gleason, M. J. Salinger, A. B. Watkins, ... C . Kocot, D. Phillips, R. Whitewood, M. O. Vazquez, E. K. Grover-Kopec, ...
When any new accelerator or storage ring is built that advances the state of the art, the diagnostic system becomes extremely important in tuning the facility to full specification. This paper will discuss the various diagnostic devices planned or under construction for the PSR and their connection into the control system.
Chronic neurogenous pain is often an extremely difficult condition to manage. In the orofacial region, trauma from injury or dental procedures may lead to the development of severe neuralgic pains and...Full Text Available
Current military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan have produced a significant number of complex injury patterns. Multiple extremity trauma and wide zones of injury mandate a flexible approach to these...Full Text Available
IntroductionPrimary tumors of the breast containing bone and cartilage are extremely rare, and an osteogenic sarcoma arising from a cystosarcoma phyllodes is exceptional.Case...Full Text Available
The search for liability genes of the world's 2 major psychotic disorders, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder I (BP-I), has been extremely difficult even though evidence suggests that both are highly...Full Text Available
Skin protects the body from pathogens and degradation. Mummified skin in particular is extremely resistant to decomposition. External influences or the action of micro-organisms, however, can degrade...Full Text Available
Isometric/isokinetic muscle strength and isokinetic endurance of the lower extremities as well as aerobic capacity were evaluated in 67 patients (43 female, 24 male; mean age 53 years, range 23-65)...Full Text Available
Approximately 400 people die from extreme heat each year in the United States, and the risk of heat waves may increase as a result of global climate change. Despite the risk of heat-related morbidity...Full Text Available
Catch is a mechanical state occurring in some invertebrate smooth muscles characterized by high force maintenance and resistance to stretch during extremely slow relaxation. During catch, intracellular...Full Text Available
Endovascular treatment of post-traumatic pseudoaneurysms has become a viable, less invasive option when compared to open repair. Due to the relative youth of this technology, studies have yet to be...Full Text Available
Simulations with a regional chemical transport model show that anthropogenic emissions of volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides (NOx = NO + NO2) lead to a dramatic diurnal...Full Text Available
Equinovarus of the foot is the most common lower extremity deformity following traumatic brain injury. We evaluated outcomes of the split anterior tibialis tendon transfer (SPLATT) for correction of...Full Text Available
... of Viscous Liquids, Glasses, and Crystalline Materials Under Extremes of Pressure and Temperature ... Materials 9624724 ENG AZ U of Arizona Gervay Jacquelyn Synthesis of Novel Materials Utilizing Sialic ...
Objectives. To assess the feasibility of treating musculoskeletal pain in the lower back and/or lower extremities in persons with Parkinson's disease (PD) with cranial electrotherapy...Full Text Available
Antibodies to extractable nuclear antigens (ENA) are found in a variety of collagen vascular diseases. Determining the individual specificities of these antibodies is extremely useful in establishing...Full Text Available
Epignathus is an extremely rare oropharyngeal teratoma that commonly arises from the palate, leading to a high mortality (80–100%) due to airway obstruction in the neonatal period. We present...Full Text Available
An electroencephalogram (EEG) signal is extremely nonstationary, highly composite and very complex, all of which reflects the underlying integral neurodynamics. Understanding the EEG “grammar”,...Full Text Available
Colorectal cancer is extremely rare in children. We report a case of a 12-year-old boy who presented with a five-month history of weight loss and anorexia, associated with vomiting episodes, dizziness,...Full Text Available
Germ cell tumor development in humans has been proposed to be part of testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS), which manifests as undescended testes, sterility, hypospadias, and, in extreme cases,...Full Text Available
Top quark is extremely sensitive to non-standard CP violating phases. General strategies for exposing different types of phases at the NLC are outlined. SUSY phase(s) cause PRA in $t\\to Wb$. The transverse polarization of the $\\tau$ in the reaction $t\\to b\\tau\
Body size variation across the Metazoa is immense, encompassing 17 orders of magnitude in biovolume. Factors driving this extreme diversification in size and the consequences of size variation for biological...Full Text Available
A new method for removing periodic background patterns from pictures is presented. The basic spatial frequency composition of the pattern is determined from an estimate of the power spectrum of the picture. A digital restoration filter is then created from a modified version of the power spectrum. The method is extremely effective and can be automated.
BackgroundKinematic and kinetic measurements used in laboratory settings can quantify upper extremity movement impairment following stroke, but their relationship...Full Text Available
Reciprocal mass crosses and back-crosses were performed between two homogeneous strains of the housefly (Musca domestica L.), representing the extremes in susceptibility and resistance...Full Text Available
The extreme strength and elasticity of spider silks originate from the modular nature of their repetitive proteins. To exploit such materials and mimic spider silks, comprehensive strategies...Full Text Available
Interest to thin film of metals' silicides first of all is conditioned intrinsic al them unique physical properties. On their basis of it is possible to produce extremely sophisticated devices of solid-state electronics, production which needs the controlled change of physics, chemical and electrical properties with high-level of accuracy. On the present time most are in detail investigated composition, structure and properties of three-dimensional samples of metals' silicides. In the last years the intensive are led to researches in the direction of creation and study of physical-chemical properties thin (500-1000 Angstroms) and ultrafine (100-120 Angstroms) films silicides. It has information about composition, morphology of surface and emission of properties of thin film of silicides of barium, of cobalt and of palladium, was obtained in conditions of ultra-high vacuum. Low energy ion implantation and further annealing on composition, ...
Permeable reactive barriers (PRB) are a promising technology for the remediation of groundwater containing a range of organic and inorganic contaminants. Although there are number of different types of reactive barriers, some of the most important are constructed from granular zero valent iron (ZVI). One challenge in the large- scale, long-term implementation of PRBs is to monitor the change in barrier properties over time. For example, mineral precipitates can reduce the effectiveness of the barrier by either insulating the reaction surfaces of the ZVI particles and/or by filling the pore space in the barrier and thus reducing its hydraulic permeability. Previous research has shown that resistivity and induced polarization (IP) measurements are sensitive to corrosion and precipitation due to redox reactions between ions in solution and the ZVI mineral surface. New field studies, supported by additional laboratory studies appear to confirm this work. Resisitivity and IP surveys ...
The Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC) engaged in numerous projects outlined under the scope of work discussed in the United States Department of Energy (DOE) grant number DE-FG26-01BC15336 awarded to the IOGCC. Numerous projects were completed that were extremely valuable to state oil and gas agencies as a result of work performed utilizing resources provided by the grant. There are numerous areas in which state agencies still need assistance. This additional assistance will need to be addressed under another grant because funding resources have been exhausted under The scope of work objectives for the eight projects covered under this grant is as follows: (1) Improve uniformity within state oil and gas data management efforts. (2) Conduct environmental compliance workshops and related educational projects on natural gas and oil exploration and production. (3) Improve regulatory efficiency through partnering opportunities ...
Buildings Energy-Efficient Research Laboratories Energy Efficiency in Federal Facilities Energy Efficiency Standards Group Energy Efficient Windows Collaborative Energy &...
An essential issue in gallium (Ga)-stabilized fcc-phase plutonium ({delta}-Pu) is the formation of helium (He) voids and bubbles emanating from the radiolytic decay of the Pu. The rate of formation of He voids and bubbles is related to the He-defect formation energies and their associated migration barriers. The size and shape distributions of the bubbles are coupled to these critical migration processes. The values of the defect formation energies, internal pressure, and migration barriers can be estimated from atomistic calculations. Complicating this picture is the destruction of He-filled voids and bubbles by subsequent radiolytic decay events. The present study concerns the construction of the necessary potential energy surfaces for the Pu-He and He-He interactions within the modified embedded atom method (MEAM). Once fully tested, the potentials will be used to estimate the He-defect formation ...
Low energy buildings promise significant energy savings and help climate preservation by cutting down on annual heating requirements to values below 70 kWh per m{sup 2} dwelling space. It is expected that low energy constructions will become the common standard by the year 2000 as a result of the forthcoming energy saving ordinance. For making the introduction and implementation of this standard successful, practical experience will be essential. For this reason, the state government of Hesse has supported respective pilot projects 1987. In 1989 the funding programme `30 low energy buildings in Hesse` has been established. Consecutively - between 1989 and 1993 - 29 buildings were erected. At first, the thermal quality of the crafted building construction including the ventilation systems was checked. Consecutively, energy consumption, indoor and outdoor ...
Coal washery wastes comprise tailings finer than 0.5 to 0.1 mm depending on the sophistication of the washery, and coarse reject, typically finer than 50 mm. Subaerial disposal of coal tailings slurry at about 30% solids by mass results in the formation of a delta with an average slope of about 1 in 100, representing one extreme. The ravelling of coarse reject on loose-dumping, results in an angle of repose slope with an angle of about 37{degree} (1 in 1.3), representing the other extreme. The pumped co-disposal of coal tailings and coarse reject results in the formation of an upper delta with an average slope of about to one in ten, between the two extremes. The depositional behaviour of these three waste streams is discussed and compared. The important depositional and material parameters, and a theoretical description of the processes involved, are also presented. Comparisons are made between the depositional behaviour ...
In this paper we consider the adsorption of argon on the surface of graphitized thermal carbon black and in slit pores at temperatures ranging from subcritical to supercritical conditions by the method of grand canonical Monte Carlo simulation. Attention is paid to the variation of the adsorbed density when the temperature crosses the critical point. The behavior of the adsorbed density versus pressure (bulk density) shows interesting behavior at temperatures in the vicinity of and those above the critical point and also at extremely high pressures. Isotherms at temperatures greater than the critical temperature exhibit a clear maximum, and near the critical temperature this maximum is a very sharp spike. Under the supercritical conditions and very high pressure the excess of adsorbed density decreases towards zero value for a graphite surface, while for slit pores negative excess density is possible at extremely high pressures. For imperfect ...
Our long-term goal is to enable highly productive plant species to extract, resist, detoxify, and/or sequester toxic heavy metal pollutants as an environmentally friendly alternative to physical remediation methods. We have focused this phytoremediation research on soil and water-borne ionic and methylmercury. Mercury pollution is a serious world-wide problem affecting the health of human and wild-life populations. Methylmercury, produced by native bacteria at mercury-contaminated wetland sites, is a particularly serious problem due to its extreme toxicity and efficient biomagnification in the food chain. We engineered several plant species (e.g., Arabidopsis, tobacco, canola, yellow poplar, rice) to express the bacterial genes, merB and/or merA, under the control of plant regulatory sequences. These transgenic plants acquired remarkable properties for mercury remediation. (1) Transgenic plants expressing merB (organomercury lyase) extract methylmercury from their ...
For years, the writing has been on the wall about the impact of climate change on the people, plants, animals, and habitats of Latin America and the Caribbean. Now, day-to-day experiences and eye-witness accounts from leading environmental and development groups are proving predictions to be correct. In the late 1990s, the world's pre-eminent group of climate scientists gathered under the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and predicted a devastating range of impacts, including an increase in the intensity and number of extreme weather events exacerbating natural disasters, forest die-off, melting glaciers, and the drying out of temperate grasslands. The region's huge geographical diversity means that patterns of vulnerability to climate change are extremely varied. It also makes modelling difficult, although this is constantly improving. To avoid misunderstanding, it is important to point out that with or ...
The mature spermatozoon of Cricocephalus albus is filiform, tapered at both ends and shows the following features: 2 axonemes of different lengths presenting the 9+''1'' trepaxonematan pattern, 2 bundles of parallel cortical microtubules, a mitochondrion and a nucleus. Nevertheless, the particularity of the spermatozoon of C. albus is its anterior extremity with an apical electron-dense material associated with extramembranar ornamentation, a cytoplasmic dorsolateral expansion and spine-like bodies. To our knowledge, such an anterior extremity of the spermatozoon has not previously been described from a species of the superfamily Pronocephaloidea. Our study provides new data on the mature gamete of C. albus in order to improve our understanding of the pronocephaloidean phylogenetic relatio...
The CDF II eXtremely Fast Tracker (XFT) is the trigger processor which reconstructs charged particle tracks in the CDF II central outer tracking chamber. The XFT tracks are also extrapolated to the electromagnetic calorimeter and muon chambers and are associated to electromagnetic clusters and muon stubs to generate trigger electron and muon candidates. The steady increase of the Tevatron instantaneous luminosity and the resulting higher occupancy of the chamber demanded an upgrade of the original system, which performed tracking only in the transverse plane of the chamber and was consequently affected by a significant level of fake tracks. In the upgraded XFT, tracking is reinforced by using additional data from the stereo layers of the chamber to reduce the level of fake tracks and to perform three-dimensional track reconstruction. A review of this upgrade is presented.
We investigate the existence of time-periodic solutions of the Dirac equation in the Kerr-Newman background metric. To this end, the solutions are expanded in a Fourier series with respect to the time variable $t$ and the Chandrasekhar separation ansatz is applied so that the question of existence of a time-periodic solution is reduced to the solvability of a certain coupled system of ordinary differential equations. First, we prove the already known result that there are no time-periodic solutions in the non-extreme case. Then it is shown that in the extreme case for fixed black hole data there is a sequence of particle masses $(m_N)_{N\\in\\mathbb N}$ for which a time-periodic solution of the Dirac equation does exist. The period of the solution depends only on the data of the black hole described by the Kerr-Newman metric.
The optimal management of men with very favorable clinicopathological factors who develop biochemical recurrence (BCR) after radical prostatectomy (RP) has not been previously reported. Both local and systemic recurrences are unlikely in this cohort. This study examines their management and outcomes. Between October 2000 to March 2010, 1627 men underwent open RP by a single surgeon. In all, 448 (27.5%) met the following criteria for extremely low risk disease: preoperative PSA level <10?ng?ml?1, clinical stage T1c/T2a, Gleason score ?6, estimated cancer volume in the surgical specimen ?5% and no evidence for positive surgical margin. Undetectable PSA was defined as ?0.04?ng?ml?1. BCR was defined as PSA ?0.2?ng?ml...
A new surveillance system for Oil-Filled cable, which can provide continuous monitoring, using a newly developed optical gas sensor that can detect the concentration of the gas dissolved in the oil with extremely high sensitivity has been developed. It was proved that the degree of deterioration of the insulating oil can be detected by measuring C{sub 2}H{sub 2} and CH{sub 4} by investigating the relation between the degree of deterioration and amount of combustible gas generated. In order to detect extremely small amounts of gas, a new gas detecting method using absorption line of the gas using a frequency modulated technique has been developed. The gas detection ability was also confirmed by examination using a 66 kV of cable and the possibility of detection at an early stage is expected.
The aim of this study is to clarify the relation among developmental outcome, nutritional state during the neonatal period, maturational electroencephalographic changes. Thirteen extremely low birth weight infants who completed 6- or 9-year follow-up were a subject of this study. Undernutrition was defined as enteral feeding below 100mL/kg/day at 3weeks of age. Dysmature patterns were defined as the persistence of EEG patterns 2weeks or more immature for post-conceptional age. IQ was examined at 6 and 9years of age. Body height and weight, and head circumference at 6years of age were stratified by the percentile grades. Full and verbal IQ was significantly lower in infants with undernutrition than those with normal nutrition. Among infants with undernutrition, those with persistent dysmatu...
(TSM-TTP)(I3)5/3 is a 1/6 -filled one-dimensional system composed of an extended donor molecule which has two tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) units in a molecule, where TSM-TTP is 2,5-bis[4,5-bis(methylseleno)-1,3-dithiol-2-ylidene]-1,3,4,6-tetrathiapentalene. Nonlinear conductivity is observed in the insulating state below 20K , and the metallic state is restored above a very small threshold electric field of 0.3V/cm at 4.2K . The extremely sensitive nonlinearity is ascribed to the inhomogeneous insulating state generated by the weak and disordered anion potentials on the otherwise highly conducting intramolecular charge order state in the double-TTF molecule.
The use of selective additives such as MgO as a sintering aid and a rare earth oxide as a grain growth inhibitor, has allowed the manufacture of beryllia ceramics having close to theoretical density. The grain size and grain size distribution can be controlled by an optimum firing schedule leaving a remnant porosity which is extremely fine (0.2 {mu}m). This structure is compared with conventional BeO ceramics, densified by liquid phase sintering, which develops a glassy grain boundary and retains large pores up to 3 {mu}m. The significantly improved strength properties, extremely fine pores,the 'pinning effect' of rare earth oxide, and the superior surface finish both in the as-fired and polished state are discussed in relation to the micro-structure. (orig.).
Extensive epidemiological studies have been carried out in recent years to examine the possible effects of exposure to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields on the development of cancer. In some studies, both residential and occupational, a number of cancers, in particular leukaemia and brain cancer, have occurred at an increased incidence at higher levels of exposure. In general, however, no consistent and coherent pattern of results has been obtained and no clear evidence of a cancer risk has been demonstrated. A better understanding of any effect of electromagnetic fields on the development of cancer must await the results of more informative epidemiological studies and an improved understanding of the mechanisms by which these fields may interact with the body and their likely consequences. (author)
It is essential that alumina used for manufacturing electronic devices should contain an extremely low level of alpha-radiation. The principal source of alpha-radiation in alumina is uranium, a minor source being thorium. Uranium in bauxite dissolves into the liquor in the digestion process and is fixed to the red mud as the desilication reaction progresses. A part of uranium remaining in the liquor precipitates together with aluminum hydroxide in the precipitation process. The uranium content of aluminum hydroxide becomes lower as the precipitation velocity per unit surface area of the seed becomes slower. Organic matters in the Bayer liquor has an extremely significant impact on the uranium content of aluminum hydroxide. Aluminum hydroxide free of uranium is obtainable from the liquor that does not contain organic matters.
The needs for more reasonable estimations for rare and extremely rare initiating events (IEs) have been reported in US peer review results. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) PRA standard also proposes guidelines and requirements about the issues. Recently, US NRC addressed problems and the conservative assumptions on loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) analysis and attempted to establish more rigorous methodology for estimating the frequencies depending on break size. The results of peer reviews for KHNP reference plants also represented that the data used in estimating IEs were outdated and the methodology also needed to be improved. In this paper, for more appropriate estimation of rare and extremely rare initiating events (IEs), e.g., LOCAs and steam generator tube ruptures (SGTRs), a new approach considering expert elicitation process is presented and corresponding core damage frequency (CDF) is calculated
The types of investigations undertaken to test for possible biological effects of extremely low frequency electric fields have been numerous. However, neither animal and plant experimentation nor clinical studies nor experience with operating extremely high voltage transmission lines have to date provided convincing evidence of a harmful effect from exposure to electric fields associated with transmission lines in spite of numerous attempts to find such effects. Analysis of internal fields and currents supports these observations as the levels appear to be too low to affect mammalian cells. Thus, while one can never prove the negative (i.e. that there is no effect), the overwhelming body of evidence indicates that the electric fields associated with high-voltage lines have no deleterious biological effects. (author).
The vortex amplifier controller has no moving parts and therefore it can have extremely high reliability and avoid the maintenance problems associated with contaminated equipment. The vortex amplifier and its application to ventilation control of radioactive enclosures is described. Reverse purge vortex amplifier ventilation system control is also discussed. (U.K.).
Plasma is the component of blood from which lead is free to cross cell membranes and cause organ toxicity. Plasma lead levels, however, are extremely low and difficult to measure. Urinary lead originates...Full Text Available
Fragile volatile aggregates with extremely low albedo, gravitationally drawn into the solar system are likely from the dark matter dominating the universal mass. Characteristics of this meteoric population permitted avoiding detection through a half-century's search. Measurements from space probes and in the upper atmosphere prove their existence and confirm their elusive properties.
An interpretation of effects connected with the possible existence of tachyons, i.e. particles moving at a velocity higher than the velocity of light, is given. It is proposed that if there exist in nature particles with super-luminal velocities then they are likely to be found in domains of extremely small space-time intervals #DELTA#xx10"-"1"6cm and #DELTA#t<10"-"2"6s, in which processes involving a violation of spatial and temporal parities are playing an important role.
Spectrophotometric method, using a ratio-recording ultraviolet-absorption spectrophotometer, permits analysis of NaMBT in ethylene glycol-water solutions with high accuracy. It reduces analysis time, requires smaller samples, and is able to detect extremely small concentrations of mercaptobenzothiazole.
The neutron deficient Sr and Zr nuclei are studied in the relativistic mean-field approach. Large deformations and shape coexistence are predicted for these nuclei in the vicinity of the proton drip line. The charge radii are found to increase with the removal of neutrons from the semimagic {sup 88}Sr and {sup 90}Zr, in close agreement with the recent isotopic-shift measurements.
Loss of the sense of smell can be easily confirmed in any physician's office by having the patient try to identify various odors. The etiology of anosmia can be extremely varied, including nasopharyngeal disorders such as rhinitis and tumors; neurologic conditions such as head trauma, neoplasms, vascular lesions and infections of the central nervous system; viral infections; familial and congenital disorders; drugs; industrial exposure; endocrine diseases, and several other disorders. The prognosis of anosmia is guarded, and its treatment depends on the etiology.
Mineral oil based power transmitting fluids, such as automatic transmission fluids, are disclosed which contain 0.05 to 2.0 weight percent of an ester of a thio-bis alkanol and a C/sub 12/-C/sub 50/ hydrocarbon succinic acid or anhydride, the ester being a multifunctional additive providing the properties of friction modification, corrosion inhibition, anti-wear, oxidation inhibition and extreme pressure properties to the fluids.
This study presents the results of an 18-year long investigation of pipe deterioration in cyclone slag slurry transport. The goal was to study pipe behaviour in this extremely abrasive service and select an optimum piping material. Comparisons are given for high quality alloy cast steel pipes and pipes alined with cast basalt rings marketed under the name Abresist.
This study presents the results of an 18-year long investigation of pipe deterioration in cyclone slag slurry transport. The goal was to study pipe behaviour in this extremely abrasive service and select an optimum piping material. Comparisons are given for high quality alloy cast steel pipes and pipes lined with cast basalt rings marketed under the name Abresist. Based on the results, thoughts are offered on the broader meanings of certain findings.
Simultaneous bilateral femoral neck fractures are extremely rare and associated with various conditions. Up to now Most cases had correlations with major trauma, repetitive minor trauma, seizure, parathyroid...Full Text Available
Magnetic resonance imaging can be used in the trauma setting to detect fractures and associated soft tissue injuries of the musculoskeletal system. Magnetic resonance imaging complements plain radiography and CT for evaluating cancellous bone, cartilage and growth-plate injuries, and intra- and extraarticular supporting soft tissue structures. This review outlines typical applications and imaging consideration for injuries of the pelvis and lower extremity. (orig.) With 12 figs., 78 refs.
Klippel-Feil Syndrome (KFS) is a congenital anomaly characterized by a defect in the formation or segmentation of the cervical vertebrae. The clinical triad consists of short neck, low posterior hairline and limited neck movement. Multiple congenital anomalies have been associated with this disease. This is a case of KFS in a young girl along with situs inversus, which is an extremely rare association. Various systemic associations occurring in this multi-system disorder are also discussed. (author)
Isolated situs inversus of the stomach with otherwise normal position of the thoracic and abdominal viscera is an extremely rare anomaly occurring in two distinct forms. Because of its close relationship to the liver, the right-sided stomach may produce interesting and confusing changes in the liver scan. Two cases illustrate the radiologic features of the two principal types of isolated congenital dextrogastria and the effect of one type on the liver scan.
The authors report an extension of the source imaging method for analyzing three-dimensional sources from three-dimensional correlations. The technique consists of expanding the correlation data and the underlying source function in spherical harmonics and inverting the resulting system of one-dimensional integral equations. With this strategy, they can image the source function quickly, even with the extremely large data sets common in three-dimensional analyses.
Thlaspi caerulescens is a heavy metal hyperaccumulator plant species that is able to accumulate extremely high levels of zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd) in its shoots (30,000 μg...Full Text Available
Two clinical strains of Escherichia coli (2138) and Enterobacter cloacae (7506) isolated from the same patient in France and showing resistance to extended-spectrum...Full Text Available
A new reactor concept is described which would enable fission fragments to be continuously extracted from the reactor. Such a reactor has the potential of enabling extremely energetic and ambitious deep space missions. In this talk the basic physics issues involved in the operation of this type of reactor are outlined, and some possible applications to space exploration are described. 3 refs., 2 figs., 3 tabs.
A method is described to smear extremely thin layers of nuclear emulsion on labeled electron microscope preparations and to measure the thicknesses of these layers, Without further separation, preparation and emulsion can be observed after exposure and development in an electron microscope. The source of the tracks formed in the emulsion can be exactly identified and the size and structure determined. This method finds applications in dust research and also in the analysis of medical and biological sections. Further information can be obtained about properties of different emulsions. (auth)
The oceanic bathypelagic realm (1000–4000 m) is a nutrient-poor habitat. Most fishes living there have pelagic larvae using the rich waters of the upper 200 m. Morphological...Full Text Available
An extremely simple and convenient method is presented for computing eigenvalues in quantum mechanics by representing position and momentum operators in matrix form. The simplicity and success of the method is illustrated by numerical results concerning eigenvalues of bound systems and resonances for Hermitian and non-Hermitian Hamiltonians as well as driven quantum systems. Various MATLAB program codes are listed. (author)
This apper discusses whether health risks are associated with exposure to electromagnetic fields that exist beneath high-voltage transmission lines. This is a question receiving increasing attention as the electric utility industry prepares to supply its customers with increased amounts of electric power. 26 refs.
This issue of Exploratorium Magazine focuses on Antarctica. Antarctica has one of the most extreme climates in the world with an untouched environment inviting researchers with great opportunities for study. This issue describes the journey of four Exploratorium staff members to frozen Antarctica. Chapters include: (1) "Life at the Bottom of the World"; (2) "Try This! Dress the Scientist"; (3) "South Pole Astronomy"; and (4) "Ground Truth." (YDS)
This study investigated the effects of electromagnetic fields on enzymes involved in purine metabolism in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro. Cells were obtained from 20 volunteers. We...Full Text Available
Clastic sediments of Albian age provide hydrocarbon source rocks, reservoirs and seals. Major reservoirs occur in sandstones to the north, and have a limited reservoir potential in offshore Qatar. Distal shales are a major seal in offshore Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Local source-rock potential exists in the northern part of the Arabian Gulf and in the extreme SE of Saudi Arabia (in the Rub Al Khali Basin). (author)
In this comprehensive review of current research on isotopic variations of elements in extraterrestrial materials, the variations were classified in terms of the major process involved in the modification of the isotopic composition of the element concerned. Maximum isotopic variations of each element were retrieved from publications which were available in Tokyo up to December 1985, and are presented in tabular form. (author).
The energy strategy of the UK Overseas Development Administration is outlined with specific emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energies. Based on 29 case studies concerning projects and programmes in both developed and developing countries, critical success factors for renewable energy projects are identified. UK)
The Monthly Energy Review provides an overview of the production, distribution, and consumption of energy derived from petroleum natural gas, coal, electricity, and nuclear energy. It also discusses oil and gas resource development, energy prices, and issues relevant to international energy markets.
A survey on electric power and on energy balance especially primary and final energy (gas oil, kerosene,solar energy...) has been implemented in Lebanon in 1993. Results and economic impact of energy consumption and energy production are given in statistics and tables. 10 figs.
The article describes the energy in Lebanon. In 1995, 97% of the imported energy was based on hydrocarbons. Fuel and gas oil present 66% of the final energy. Air pollution is mainly caused by the transportation sector (vehicles and buses...) which presents 70% of the global atmospheric pollution. Renewable energy such as biomass, fossil energy, hydro-energy, solar energy... are also described. The solar energy was defined as a best solution that preserve health in Lebanon. The different applications of the solar for energy production is discussed: photovoltaic , thermal heating, sanitary hot water, electrical heaters, solar water heaters...In conclusion, solar heaters economize 80% of the annual energy expenses
Jet Propulsion Laboratory. California Institute of Technology. Pasadena, California. Energy and Water Conservation. Steve Rigdon. Facilities Energy Manager ...
... is to develop a systematic program of energy consumption reductions in compliance with the stated goals of the Army Facilities Energy Plan (AFEP ...
... projects that will result in the reduction of energy consumption in compliance with the objectives set forth in the Army Facilities Energy Plan, without ...
Sep 1, 2011 ... Description: What amount of extra energy can be generated after subtracting the total energy consumed to produce the biomass energy? ...
Program Plans, Implementation, & Results Energy Management at Federal Facilities Energy Management at DOE Fleet Management Interagency Coordination Interagency Energy...
Electro Energy, Inc. conducted a research project to develop an energy efficient and environmentally friendly bipolar Ni-MH battery for distributed energy storage applications. Rechargeable batteries with long life and low cost potentially play a significant role by reducing electricity cost and pollution. A rechargeable battery functions as a reservoir for storage for electrical energy, carries energy for portable applications, or can provide peaking energy when a demand for electrical power exceeds primary generating capabilities.
Testing deviation of GR is one of the main goals of the proposed {\\emph{Laser Interferometer Space Antenna}}, a space-based gravitational-wave observatory. For the first time, we consistently compute the generation of gravitational waves from extreme-mass ratio inspirals (stellar compact objects into supermassive black holes) in a well-motivated alternative theory of gravity, that to date remains weakly constrained by double binary pulsar observations. The theory we concentrate on is Chern-Simons (CS) modified gravity, a 4-D, effective theory that is motivated both from string theory and loop-quantum gravity, and which enhances the Einstein-Hilbert action through the addition of a dynamical scalar field and the parity-violating Pontryagin density. We show that although point particles continue to follow geodesics in the modified theory, the background about which they inspiral is a modification to the Kerr metric, which imprints a CS correction on the ...
This report contains the operation procedures in extreme situations and lessons learned from blackouts, based on a mandate given by the Operations Committee. Nordic TSOs have had common rules and principles for system operation i.e. System Operation Agreement since the late 1990s. The rules have been revised according to the system security and market changes and needs. The collaboration between system operators is regular and fruitful. The knowledge and capability to manage extreme situations of the Nordic power system has continuously increased and the recent blackouts did not show major deficiencies in operation practices. Regardless of the existing good collaboration it is important to continue development in the future in order to ensure high system security. Important development areas are security of reserve supervision and coordination of calculation procedures for transmission limits, enhancement of data exchange routines between ...
Multilayer mirror coatings which reflect extreme ultraviolet (EUV) radiation are a key enabling technology for EUV lithography. Mo/Si multilayers with reflectances of 67.5% at 13.4 nm are now routinely achieved and reflectances of 70 2% at 11.4 nm were obtained with MO/Be multilayers. High reflectance is achieved with careful control of substrate quality, layer thicknesses, multilayer materials, interface quality, and surface termination. Reflectance and film stress were found to be stable relative to the requirements for application to EUV lithography. The run-to-run reproducibility of the reflectance peak position was characterized to be better than 0.2%, providing the required wavelength matching among the seven multilayer-coated mirrors used in the present lithography system design. Uniformity of coating was improved to better than 0.5% across 150 mm diameter substrates. These improvements in EUV multilayer mirror technology will enable us to meet the stringent ...
The present study was undertaken in 27 children with localized Ewing's sarcoma treated at our hospital. In 9 cases the lesion was central and in 18 peripheral. Treatment consisted of: 1) Chemotherapy with 6 drugs (vincristine, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, bleomycin, dactinomycin and doxorubicin) for one year in all patients; 2) Radiotherapy in 24 patients at a dose of 30-40 Gy in the entire bone with a booster dose of 10-15 Gy in the lesion. In 7 patients debulking surgery was performed followed by irradiation. Two cases with tumor in expendable bones and one with extensive destructive lesion in the tibia underwent radical surgery. One patient suffered local recurrence (femur) and 6 developed distant metastases. The remaining 20 (74%) patients were alive and tumor-free after follow-up periods of 17-80 months. Among the 12 patients with extremity lesions who were alive, 7 (58%) had minimal or mild treatment sequelae, 2 moderate, and 3 severe sequelae but no ...
Increasing the speed and complexity of semiconductor integrated circuits requires advanced processes that put extreme constraints on the level of metal contamination allowed on the surfaces of silicon wafers. Such contamination degrades the performance of the ultrathin SiO sub 2 gate dielectrics that form the heart of the individual transistors. Ultimately, reliability and yield are reduced to levels that must be improved before new processes can be put into production. It should be noted that much of this metal contamination occurs during the wet chemical etching and rinsing steps required for the manufacture of integrated circuits and industry is actively developing new processes that have already brought the metal contamination to levels beyond the measurement capabilities of conventional analytical techniques. The measurement of these extremely low contamination levels has required the use of synchrotron radiation total reflection X-ray ...
Epidemiologic studies suggest a weak link between occupational or residential exposure to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields and cancer, especially tumors of the central nervous and hematopoietic systems. This report discusses these studies with reference to basic research on ELF EMF bioeffects relevant to cancer-promoting mechanisms. Many of the studies suggest a possible interaction of ELF EMF with the immune system, endocrine system, or growth-regulatory signals and morphogenic movements that involve calcium flux through cell membranes. Many bioeffects have been reported only with certain specific combinations of frequency, amplitude, and orientation of the EMF signal with respect to the geomagnetic field. The possibility of signal-specific effects raises a complication in dosimetry for both epidemiologic and experimental studies since ELF EMF effects may not be directly related to field strength. The report concludes with a discussion of design ...
The passive films formed on iron metal, alloys or stainless steel are extremely thin oxides or hydroxides and possess the properties of high chemical stability in the environment. These films show characteristics interested both electrical as well as electrochemical point of view due to the thin thickness of the films. Auger Electron Spectroscopy, X-ray Photoelectron spectroscopy and so on which are the conventional electrochemical measurement methods or the surface analysis methods are used for the analysis and evaluation of these films, however, at present, the application of research technique focusing the superconductor characteristics of the films are tried. Although, the potential modulation reflection spectroscopy method has merits like possibility of in-situ measurement, high precision, possibility of stable analysis even for extremely thin film and so forth, it has also demerits like difficulty to response the potential modulation of ...
Whether exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) cause cancer has been vigorously debated for many years and has been the most vexing issue with which ICNIRP has had to deal during its short existence. There have been three parts of the electromagnetic spectrum that the issue of cancer has raised: static (0 Hz) magnetic fields, extremely low frequency (ELF) fields (defined as > 0-300 Hz, but concerns have been raised almost exclusively at the power frequencies of 50/60 Hz), and radiofrequency (RF) fields (300 Hz -300 GHz). By far the major problems have arisen during the construction of new high voltage transmission lines and mobile telephone systems. Actions by protest groups concerned with possible health effects, especially with cancer in children, has now reached such a scale that it is costing electrical utilities and communications companies billions of dollars annually world-wide. With such high stakes, ICNIRP has had to be extremely ...
Electrification of Teflon (PTFE) particles pneumatically transported while repeating collision with the wall is different from the cases of nylon 66 or PMMA. PTFE is known as negatively charging substance. Extremely little electrification was found when vertically colliding to the wall. By experiments, it was found that: 1. In the case of vertical collision, electrification was extremely low. 2. Chareg amount by collision increases as v cos increases when it is less than 7.5 m/s in a condition that a horizontal component of a collision speed is present. When v cos is more than 7.5 m/s, the charge approaches that of vertical collision. 3. Measured value of collision area roughly coincided with the result of calculation using an equation based on the assumption that the deforamtion depended only on the vertical component of the collision speed. 4. Charge density gets larger for less v cos and more v sin . Charge density of PTFE which was measured ...
Lubricant additives have been known to affect rolling element bearing surface durability for many years. Tapered roller bearings were used in fatigue testing of lubricants formulated with gear oil type additive systems. These systems have sulfur- and phosphoruscontaining compounds used for gear protection as well as bearing lubrication. Several variations of a commercially available base additive formulation were tested having modified sulfur components. The variations represent a range of ''active'' extreme pressure (EP) chemistries. The bearing fatigue test results were compared with respect to EP formulation and test conditions. Inner ring near-surface material in selected test bearings was evaluated on two scales: the micrometer scale using optical metallography and the nanometer scale using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Focused-ion beam (FIB) techniques were used for TEM specimen preparation. Imaging and chemical ...
The current discussion on worldwide climate change suggests that the current situation is unusual or extreme, and that climate changes never - or hardly ever - occurred in the centuries before. The author discusses whether this is really the case, and whether air pollution abatement measures can really help. His answers are based on the findings of palaeoclimatology. [German] Verfolgt man die Diskussion um den derzeitigen Klimawandel, so gewinnt man den Eindruck, Aussergewoehnliches und Extremes wuerde geschehen, und man bekommt zudem ueber Beratungsgremien und Medien vermittelt, dass sich in den Jahrhunderten vor dem heutigen Klimawandel das Klima nicht oder nur wenig geaendert hat. Es wird auch der Eindruck erweckt, man koenne das Klima stabilisieren und durch Emissionsminderungsmassnahmen das Klima schuetzen. Ist Klimaschutz eine loesbare Herausforderung oder ueberschaetzen wir Menschen unsere Moeglichkeiten? Man kann versuchen, sich an die ...
SummaryInitial results from the use of activated dolomite from QUESTOR project L1 have proved extremely encouraging in terms of metallic ion (also phosphate, nitrate and dye) removal from wastewater, with capacities in some instances in excess of commercially available activated carbons.This new project involves investigating actual plant effluent in laboratory scale columns and the design of a pilot scale rig for on site trials. The project also involves investigating disposal options and an economic [continued...
A mechanical model with local resonators is proposed as an acoustic metamaterial that exhibits an unusual frequency-dependent effective stiffness. If treated as an equivalent elastic solid, its effective Young's modulus can become unbounded or vanishingly small at two respective frequencies. Moreover, in a certain frequency range, the effective Young's modulus would become negative, resulting in a band gap that coincides with this frequency range. The wave attenuation behavior and mechanism are studied through numerical simulations on the acoustic metamaterial model. The capability of the metamaterial to selectively block or filter unwanted waves is demonstrated by a numerical simulation example.
Dimensional variability studies and published dimensional variability standards have been used by the foundry industry for years as an indicator of the casting process` ability to produce uniform parts. These studies are an extremely useful tool in the continuous ``dimensional dialogue`` between foundries and customers. The nature of these studies, and of the current tolerancing systems used by casting designers, leaves room for some misinterpretation and misuse of these study results. This paper contains two important discussions. The first part explains exactly what these studies represent. Following this is a brief explanation on dimensional and geometric tolerances and how they communicate dimensional requirements.
The universe is full of exotic particles and waves. Some, such as neutrinos, pass through our neighbourhood unnoticed; others, such as extreme uv radiation, are absorbed by the upper atmosphere before they are able to do too much damage. For a long time, any systematic attempt to understand how our weather can be affected by extra-terrestrial sources other than solar visible and infrared radiation has been a lively and often controversial diversion from mainstream research. But recent scientific and technological breakthroughs and concern over long-term climate change have brought this subject into the spotlight.
A stochastic analysis is presented of the probability of overtopping of a dam. The discussion is based on the case of a dam for a small water storage reservoir which has recently been constructed in the Saar district in the FRG. The problem is first solved by means of a simulation method. However, it is possible to describe the result of the sumulation method by means of a much simpler model which is based on a solution of the failure integral of Freudenthal for uncorrelated resistances and loads. It is shown that the actual safety of this dam against overtopping is extremely sensitive to both the operation rule for the reservoir, and the freeboard allowance. Some general conclusions are derived from this study for assisting in the ongoing discussion of dam safety. (6 figs, 1 tab, 7 refs)
We construct representation of the Separated Variables (SoV) for the quantum SL(2,R) Heisenberg closed spin chain and obtain the integral representation for the eigenfunctions of the model. We calculate explicitly the Sklyanin measure defining the scalar product in the SoV representation and demonstrate that the language of Feynman diagrams is extremely useful in establishing various properties of the model. The kernel of the unitary transformation to the SoV representation is described by the same "pyramid diagram" as appeared before in the SoV representation for the SL(2,C) spin magnet. We argue that this kernel is given by the product of the Baxter Q-operators projected onto a special reference state.
The study of randomness in low-dimensional quantum antiferromagnets is at the forefront of research in the field of strongly correlated electron systems, yet there have been relatively few experimental model systems. Complementary neutron scattering and numerical experiments demonstrate that the spin-diluted Heisenberg antiferromagnet La2Cu(1-z)(Zn,Mg)zO4 is an excellent model material for square-lattice site percolation in the extreme quantum limit of spin one-half. Measurements of the ordered moment and spin correlations provide important quantitative information for tests of theories for this complex quantum-impurity problem.
A technique for quantitative analysis of growth plates in varus or valgus deformity about the knee has been developed. Computer-generated regions of interest are placed on magnification scintigraphs to divide distal femoral and proximal tibial physes into four equal segments. The ratio of counts in the medial half to counts in the lateral half was studied in 31 children (22 normal, 9 with angular deformity). Normal ratios were 0.74 to 0.98 for femora and 0.98 to 1.20 for tibias. In eight of nine patients with deformity, the ratio was abnormal; in two patients the ratio returned to normal when the deformity ceased to progress.
Abstract Prostate leiomyosarcoma is an extremely rare and highly aggressive neoplasm that accounts for less than 0.1% of primary prostate malignancies. Herein, we present a patient with primary leiomyosarcoma of the prostate with lung metastasis diagnosed primarily on fine-needle aspiration cytology. Characteristic cytological features such as small fascicles of spindle cells with blunt-ended nuclei, positivity for desmin and smooth muscle actin along with the radiological features are helpful in the correct diagnosis. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2010. 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The whole computer hardware industry embraced multicores. For these machines, the extreme optimisation of sequential algorithms is no longer sufficient to squeeze the real machine power, which can be only exploited via thread-level parallelism. Decision tree algorithms exhibit natural concurrency that makes them suitable to be parallelised. This paper presents an approach for easy-yet-efficient porting of an implementation of the C4.5 algorithm on multicores. The parallel porting requires minimal changes to the original sequential code, and it is able to exploit up to 7X speedup on an Intel dual-quad core machine.
Over the years, nurses, doctors and scientists have sought ways of assessing the impact of pain on patients. While many of the instruments devised have been extremely useful in identifying the nature and intensity of pain, defining the effect it has on people's lives and perceptions has proved much more problematic. Based on the work she carried out with patients suffering from chronic benign pain, Karen Rose explores one aspect of these effects--the feeling of isolation. By using a four-step anthropological approach to identify the impact of pain, she argues, nurses can arrive at a realistic and accurate assessment of how patients are coping. PMID:7947167
In this article we obtain an alternative formulation of the von Mises type conditions for p-max stable laws in terms of generalized log Pareto distributions (glogPds). Relationship between the rate of convergence of extremes and the remainder terms in the von Mises type conditions is investigated. It is shown that the rate of convergence in the von Mises type conditions for p-max stable laws determines the distance of the underlying distribution function from a glogPd.
A nonlinear dynamic transient analysis merging hand calculations and the NASTRAN structural analysis computer code was conducted for a Fast Flux Test Facility in-reactor test assembly during an extremely unlikely design basis accidental event which is considered a Hypothetical Core Disruptive Accident (HCDA). The finite element modeling of the problem took advantage of NASTRAN's versatility to create loads and nonlinear elements not previously found in NASTRAN's library. The structural criteria for the test assembly to withstand an HCDA stipulates that the test assembly and its spoolpiece shall remain integral with the reactor head such that missiles are not generated.
Formation of the soft magnetic nanostructure in amorphous Fe_1_4Ni_4_0Zr_7B_1_2 alloy due to heat treatment is studied by the Moessbauer, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction techniques. Annealing at temperatures 520-580 "oC leads to the formation of extremely soft nanocrystalline alloy as revealed by the rf-Moessbauer measurements. The superparamagnetic behaviour was observed for the alloy annealed at 620-640 "oC. At higher annealing temperatures good soft magnetic properties deteriorate. (author)
The Dynamic Transmission Electron Microscope (DTEM) is introduced as a novel tool for in situ processing of materials. Examples of various types of dynamic studies outline the advantages and differences of laser-based heating in the DTEM in comparison to conventional (resistive) heating in situ TEM methods. We demonstrate various unique capabilities of the drive laser, namely, in situ processing of nanoscale materials, rapid and high temperature phase transformations, and controlled thermal activation of materials. These experiments would otherwise be impossible without the use of the DTEM drive laser. Thus, the potential of the DTEM to as a new technique to process and characterize the growth of a myriad of micro and nanostructures is demonstrated.
A reduced-form model including nonlinearities is estimated from pooled data from nine European countries during 1982-2004 to show the effects of macroeconomic shocks and financial fragility on bank loan losses. The main ingredients of the model are unanticipated-output and interest-rate shocks estimated from published macroeconomic and naive forecasts. The model fits the data well, capturing the extremely high levels of loan losses witnessed in different financial crises.
The discovery of nearly sixty molecules, often unstable or complexes, in the interstellar space has been one of the greatest surprises of contemporary astronomy. We may, indeed, be surprised that molecules having up to 13 atoms might be synthetized in an extremely diluted space and at a very low temperature. That these molecules are, most of all, organic molecules is another astonishing subject, at least for the non-specialist. The interstellar molecule formation is indeed well understood nowadays, at least for the simplest ones. This article takes stock of interstellar chemistry which is essentially an ionic chemistry very different from laboratory chemistry.
Comparative sequence analysis of the human and the pufferfish Fugu rubripes (fugu) genomes has revealed several novel functional coding and noncoding regions in the human genome. In particular, the fugu genome has been extremely valuable for identifying transcriptional regulatory elements in human loci harboring unusually high levels of evolutionary conservation to rodent genomes. In such regions, the large evolutionary distance between human and fishes provides an additional filter through which functional noncoding elements can be detected with high efficiency.
Aluminium-lithium extrusions possess high inhomogeneity of properties across the cross section. Mechanical properties such as R{sub p0,2}, R{sub m} and hardness, but also fatigue properties, change their value in dependence with the cross section position where test specimens were taken. Positions, where extreme values of properties are measured, are characteristic for a given extrusion shape. The positions with different properties have different structure and texture. Properties and structure inhomogeneity is affected mainly by extrusion shape and heat treatment parameters. (orig.)
The integration of a gas turbine into a new type of coal-fired combined cycle power plant necessitates a multiplicity of far-reaching changes compared with a normal design. The extremely high pre-heating temperature of the air emanating from the heat exchanger of the fluidized bed for the gas turbine combustion chamber has necessitated extensive development work and associated combustion trials. It was possible for these results to influence the design of the burners whereas the manufacture of other components which was on the critical path was already far advanced.
This work is the first active crossflow filter testing of the new strontium-permanganate process for Envelope C at the Savannah River Technology Center. Extreme filtration difficulties with the ferric hydroxide precipitation led to investigations of other chemistries with simulants. The current process includes the isotopic dilution by precipitation from inactive strontium nitrate addition. A permanganate strike to replace ferric reagents was found to provide practical filterability and good lanthanide or transuranic decontamination. That work had been supported with simulant and active beaker testing.
As part of a project to complete a comprehensive catalogue of astrophysically relevant emission lines in support of new-generation X-ray observatories using the Lawrence Livermore electron beam ion traps EBIT-I and EBIT-II, we studied emission lines of argon and sulfur in the soft X-ray and extreme ultraviolet region. Here we present observations of Ar IX through Ar XVI and S VII through S XIV between 20 and 75 {angstrom} to illustrate our work.
Polymer composites are used in numerous applications. In spite of this fact, new developments are still under way to explore in other field of application of these materials and to tailor their properties for more extreme condition. A particular emphasis is focused on fillers content is summarized. Some steps towards the functionally graded materials are illustrated. The FT-IR spectroscopic studies revealed the information about curing of epoxy with fillers. It was observed that mechanical properties like tensile strength, hardness etc get enhanced up with filler contents. The effect of the different formulations were investigated and discussed for optimum process condition. (author)
Fastening systems for parts that endure high vibration shear loads have traditionally been difficult or expensive to produce. This application describes a fastening system with multiple conical surfaces and eccentric offsets. The novel conical fastener system allows parts to be assembled with reduced tolerance controls at interface features while improving alignment precision. The eccentric conical fastening system is particularly well suited for assemblies with high shear loads in high vibration/shock environments, and/or for systems that have extremely precise pointing requirements.
ARIES Baker-Nunn Schmidt telescope project is converting a Baker-Nunn satellite tracking camera for Astronomical research. Original Baker-Nunn camera produces an extremely large (5X30 degree) curved focal plane at the prime focus for photographic imaging. We present here the re-designing of the camera produces a wide (4 X 4 degree) flat field of view for CCD imaging observations, which have many scientific potentials in Astronomy. Imaging performance of the CCD camera is also estimated.
The development of detailed chemical kinetic reaction mechanisms for analysis of autoignition and knocking of hydrocarbon fuels is described. In particular, kinetic processes of concern for the oxidation of complex hydrocarbon fuel molecules are emphasized. The wide ranges of temperature and pressure which are encountered by end gases in automobile engine combustion chambers result in extreme demands on reaction mechanisms which are intended to describe knocking conditions and predict rates of combustion and ignition. The reactions and chemical species which are most important in each temperature and pressure regime are discussed, and the validation of these reaction mechanisms through comparison with idealized experimental results is described. 53 refs., 8 figs., 5 tabs.
In order to investigate the influence of grain boundary cavities on the life time of Alloy 800 H various fatigue tests have been performed at 800/sup 0/C. Cavity formation has been observed only in asymmetrical tests. Compared to the corresponding symmetrical tests, the cyclic life time is shorter. As the cavitation damage increases, the ratio of life times in vacuum and in air steadily decreases from an initial value of 5. In extreme cases it can reach a value close to 1. In this case, cavitation damage dominates over the usual damage mechanism, which is cracks from the surface.
The profitability of combustion turbines intended for export is of extreme importance for Electricite de France. It is principally during the development phase of a project that one can ensure resect of two indissociable factors, essential to the per-kWh production cost: global operating costs and performance in terms of reliability and availability. The approach proposed here advocates the global acquisition of the installation and its logistic support. Generally applicable recommendations are given. They enable integrating in the future plant specifications all requirements relative to plant reliability, availability, maintainability and logistic support. They are structured according to type: expression of needs and management factors. (orig.) 4 refs.
Computed tomography (CT) has already proved extremely effective both in cerebral and abdominal pathology. Several recent publications describing first heterogeneous series [1, 2, 7, 11-17], then studies of a single type of lesion [3-6, 8] have illustrated its usefulness in the study of bone lesions. This report deals with 41 cases of Ewing's sarcoma studied by CT at the Institut Gustave Roussy from October 1977 to July 1981, and tries to show both the limitations and indications of this technique for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of Ewing's sarcoma as well as in the diagnosis of any eventual recurrence. (orig.).
This is a retrospective analysis of bone scans in 72 patients with Ewing's sarcoma. Sites of primary disease were found to be evenly distributed among the axial skeleton and the proximal and distal extremities. Primary disease sites in the axial skeleton were more frequently associated with metastases. Fifty-three of these patients had their first scans done at presentation; among them, 25 were found to have metastases. Unsuspected metastases were picked up in 28 of all the patients. Metastases at presentation were seen to be associated with a poorer prognosis.
Carbon steel, copper, zinc and aluminium samples were exposed in different sizes with known ambient parameters in Gran Canaria Island and atmospheric corrosion was investigated. Weight-loss measurements used to determine corrosion damage were complemented with metallographic and XP S determination in order to characterize the structure and morphology of surface corrosion products. The ambient aggressiveness could be well evaluated from meteorological and pollution data. All atmospheric corrosion and environmental data were statistically processed for establishing general corrosion damage functions for carbon steel, copper, aluminium and zinc in terms of Gran Canaria extreme meteorological and pollution parameters. (Author)
A novel device called the gas expansion model (GEM) is being developed at the Hanford Engineering Development Laboratory for testing in the 400-MW(th) fast flux test facility (FFTF) reactor. Incorporation of the GEM into liquid-metal reactor designs is intended to measurably contribute to the achievement of inherent safety, by allowing the reactor to passively shut down even in the extremely remote (hypothetical) event of an unprotected (no scram) loss-of-flow accident. The purpose of this paper is to describe the GEM and present predictive analyses of the effectiveness of the device during unprotected loss-of-flow experiments in the FFTF.
A novel device called the gas expansion model (GEM) is being developed at the Hanford Engineering Development Laboratory for testing in the 400-MW(th) fast flux test facility (FFTF) reactor. Incorporation of the GEM into liquid-metal reactor designs is intended to measurably contribute to the achievement of inherent safety, by allowing the reactor to passively shut down even in the extremely remote (hypothetical) event of an unprotected (no scram) loss-of-flow accident. The purpose of this paper is to describe the GEM and present predictive analyses of the effectiveness of the device during unprotected loss-of-flow experiments in the FFTF.
The paper considers the cyclic variations in performance parameters of a dual fuel engine fuelled with methane. It is shown that such an engine does display cyclic variations that are greater than the corresponding diesel operation, yet smaller than comparable spark ignition operation. The extent of cyclic variation in peak cylinder pressure and ignition delay increases, for any power output, as the pilot diesel quantity is reduced and the extent of gas substitution is increased. The use of extremely small pilots in the unmodified engine can lead to erratic engine performance. Greater cyclic variations are associated with low lead rather than high load operation.
The Michigan Electric Coordination Center (MEPCC), operated by Consumers Power and Detroit Edison Companies, has the responsibility for scheduling the Ludington pumped storage plant. Ludington has an extremely large economic effect on the Consumers Power and Detroit Edison Companies' system due to its size (over 1800 MW net demonstrated generating capability). This paper presents a dynamic programming algorithm for scheduling large pumped storage plants and shows how this method can be coordinated with the commitment of the thermal units of the system.
In one of the first uses of high Tc superconductors in an end-use product, Lake Shore Cryotronics and a Swiss lab have developed a liquid nitrogen level sensor using a high Tc thin film. The probe is manufactured using a seamless stainless steel tube with an yttrium-based zirconium oxide flame-sprayed on the tube. A plasma-sprayed superconductor compound is deposited on top of that. The probe is coated with a sealant that protects the superconducting film from the atmosphere. This manufacturing method has yielded an extremely durable product. Unaffected by ice formation and related mechanical problems, the superconducting level sensor can be kept in the dewar for long periods of time.
This report presents the full texts of the allocution delivered during the colloquium on the renewable energies and the public policies. It takes stock on the strategical environment and the political will of the renewable energies, the tracks of development in France and the necessity of a law on the renewable energies. (A.L.B.)
Contents: Introduction; Design Criteria for a Green Building; Comparison of Energy Efficiency Measures; Whole House Energy Efficiency; Built Examples of Energy Efficient Houses; and Product Energy of Building Elements.
A-15 compounds are extremely brittle and difficult to process for practical applications. A novel processing technique was developed to greatly improve the mechanical and superconducting properties of A-15 alloys. The new processing technique can be described as follows: (1) to select compounds that can form the A-15 phase (the selected A-15 compounds in this research were Ti3Nb6Mo3Si4 and Nb99.5-(x + y)AlxSiyB0.5 alloys); (2) to rapidly solidify them into the amorphous state; (3) to anneal the quenched amorphous products into ultra fine-grained single A-15 phase. The extreme grain refinement greatly improved the flexibility and the critical current density of the alloys. The melt spinning technique was used to rapidly solidify Ti3Nb6Mo3Si4 and Nb99.5-(x + y)AlxSiyB0.5 alloys. Ti3Nb6Mo3Si4 alloys were relatively easily formed into the amorphous state. Nb3Al alloys required the addition of glass forming elements Si and B. It was found that, ...
A-15 compounds are extremely brittle and difficult to process for practical applications. A novel processing technique was developed to greatly improve the mechanical and superconducting properties of A-15 alloys. The new processing technique can be described as follows: (1) to select compounds that can form the A-15 phase (the selected A-15 compounds in this research were Ti3Nb6Mo3Si4 and Nb99.5-(x + y)AlxSiyB0.5 alloys); (2) to rapidly solidify them into the amorphous state; (3) to anneal the quenched amorphous products into ultra fine-grained single A-15 phase. The extreme grain refinement greatly improved the flexibility and the critical current density of the alloys. The melt spinning technique was used to rapidly solidify Ti3Nb6Mo3Si4 and Nb99.5-(x + y)AlxSiyB0.5 alloys. Ti3Nb6Mo3Si4 alloys were relatively easily formed into the amorphous state. Nb3Al alloys required the addition of glass forming elements Si and B. It was found that, ...
Since Taiwan lacks sufficient self-produced energy, increasing energy efficiency and energy savings are essential aspects of Taiwan's energy policy. This work summarizes the energy savings implemented by 303 firms in Taiwan's textile industry from the on-line Energy Declaration System in 2008. It was found that the total implemented energy savings amounted to 46,074 ton of oil equivalent (TOE). The energy saving was equivalent to 94,614 MWh of electricity, 23,686 kl of fuel oil and 4887 ton of fuel coal. It represented a potential reduction of 143,669 ton in carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to the annual carbon dioxide absorption capacity of a 3848 ha plantation forest. This study summarizes energy-saving measures for energy users and identifies the areas for making ...
An ``energy snapshot`` article is included on housing characteristics in 1993 (survey of 7,111 households). The rest of the document is divided into: energy overview, energy consumption, petroleum, natural gas, oil and gas resource development, coal, electricity, nuclear energy, energy prices, international energy, and appendices (conversion factors, CO2 emission factors from coal, index, glossary).
This is the June report by the Energy Information Administration. The contents of the report include an energy overview, energy consumption, petroleum, natural gas, oil and gas resource development, coal, electricity, nuclear energy, energy prices, and international energy. Included are appendices containing thermal conversion factors, metric and other physical conversion factors, and carbon dioxide emission factors for coal.
Denmark has been one of the first countries in the world to commit itself to a sustainable energy development. This has been substantiated by two official action plans from 1990 and 1996 with emphasis on energy efficiency and supply systems based on renewable energy. In year 2005, renewable energy sources are planned to cover 12-14% and in year 2030 about 35% of total Danish energy demand. This paper reviews the experiences with implementation of renewable energy in Denmark with a focus on wind power and biomass.
The Danish Energy Agency has prepared a report on the Danish geothermal resources and their contribution to the national energy potential.Environmental and socio-economic consequences of geothermal power systems implementation are reviewed. Organizational models and financing of geothermal-seismic research are discussed, and the Committee of the Energy Agency for Geothermal Energy recommends financing of a pilot plant as well as a prompt elucidation of concession/licensing problems. (EG).
Energy production during Feb 95 totaled 5.4 quadrillion Btu (Q), 3.1% over Feb 94. Energy consumption totaled 7.4 Q, 0.7% below Feb 94. Net imports of energy totaled 1.3 Q, 5.6% below Feb 94. This publication is divided into energy overview, energy consumption, petroleum, natural gas, oil and gas resource development, coal, electricity, nuclear energy, energy prices, and international energy.
...Climate Change : News Categories : Department of Energy and Climate Change Articles in Smart energy meters Results There are 2 articles listed in Smart energy ... meters DECC lays foundations for smart meters rollout A crucial step in delivering the UK's energy security and low carbon future was taken today ...Nuclear Prices Renewable energy Renewable Heat Incentive Saving energy and CO2 Science Smart energy meters Statistics Statistics and projections Transparency Wave and tidal Wind ...
A new estimator of the local density of dark energy is suggested which comes from the virial theorem for non-relativistic gravitating systems embedded in the uniform dark energy background.
... Geothermal Energy Equipment in Finland on Environmental Expert Find and compare a variety of geothermal energy equipment in finland on the world's largest environmental ...
... Geothermal Energy Equipment in Belgium on Environmental Expert Find and compare a variety of geothermal energy equipment in belgium on the world's largest environmental ...
placed on direct energy conversion. This is an advanced technology which is ..... Of the direct energy conversion methods discussed, the only one which may ...
With specific energy of more than 200 Wh/kg, the Electric Fuel zinc-air battery delivers as much as eight times the energy of lead-acid traction battery, more than twice the energy of the nearest advanced-battery competitor, and as much energy as a tank of gasoline. (author)
The discussion of energy usage falls naturally into three parts. The first is a review of what the problem is, the second is a description of steps that can be taken to conserve energy at existing facilities, and the third is a review of the implications of energy consumption on future facilities.
A short survey of the energy situation in Iran is given with the aid of some interesting figures. Following remarks on the national and international energy policy, the developments regarding individual energy sources and electricity production are described.
Keywords: energy, management, conservation, program, fiscal, year, 2005, annual, ...S Environmental Protection Agency Energy Management and Conservation Program ...ENVIRONMENTAL P ROTECTION AGENCY Energy Management and Conservation Program Fiscal Year 2005 Annual Report
The Plan identifies the Army's organization, goals, objectives, and policies with respect to energy. It projects energy consumption and costs to the year 2000 and summarizes the programs required to support the long range goals. A summary of current and needed energy related legislation is included. (Author)
...2010-10-01 false Department of Energy Directives. 970.0470 Section...Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY AGENCY SUPPLEMENTARY REGULATIONS ...Matters 970.0470 Department of Energy...
...2010-10-01 false Preferences under the Energy Policy Act. 926.7005 Section...Acquisition Regulations System DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY SOCIOECONOMIC PROGRAMS OTHER SOCIOECONOMIC...Implementation of Section 3021 of the Energy Policy Act of 1992 926.7005...
As a result of a lower value of the energy efficiency coefficient (EPC) for houses and the implementation of the Energy Performance Building Directive (EPBD), both in 2006, the interest in applying renewable energy systems is growing. Therefore, this issue is dedicated to renewable energy and related energy systems. [Dutch] Het begrip 'duurzaam' is van toepassing op twee pijlers: een pijler betreft het gebruik van duurzame materialen, de tweede pijler is duurzame energie. Door verlaging van de Energieprestatiecoefficient (EPC) voor woningen per 2006 en de invoering van de Europese richtlijn Energy Performance Building Directive (EPBD) in 2006, krijgt duurzame energie een nieuwe impuls. Reden voor de redactie van ThemaTech om deze aflevering te wijden aan duurzame energie en verwante ...
The National Energy Modeling System (NEMS) developed by the U.S. Department of Energy`sEnergy Information Administration is a well-recognized model that is used to project the potential impact of new electric generation technologies. The NEMS model does not presently have the capability to model energy storage on the national grid. The scope of this study was to assess the feasibility of, and make recommendations for, the modeling of battery energy storage systems in the Electricity Market of the NEMS. Incorporating storage within the NEMS will allow the national benefits of storage technologies to be evaluated.
Integrating phytotechnologies with energy crop production for biofuels, bioenergy, and bioproducts. In: Sixth International Phytotechnologies Conference ; ...
... Areas of Consultation: All Areas About DECC Bioenergy Carbon capture & storage Carbon Reduction Commitment Climate Change Agreements CRC energy efficiency scheme Development, consents and planning reform Electricity Electricity network Emissions Emissions trading Energy markets Energy network Energy security Feed-in Tariffs Fuel poverty Funding and support Gas Governance Green Deal Hydroelectricity International climate change International energy Legislation Low-carbon Microgeneration News Nuclear Oil Renewable energy Saving energy and CO2 Site Wide Footer Smart ...
... energy absorption characteristics of composite sandwich panels, thermoplastic energy-absorbing subfloor structures, and shoulder belt pre- tensioners. ...
The true potential energy curve for the x "1#SIGMA#"+ state of BeO has been calculated using the RKRV method. The dissociation energy of the ground state has been estimated to be 5.15 +- 0.05 eV by the curve-fitting method using the three-parameter potential energy function of Lippincott with an RKRV potential energy curve. (author).
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).
The Monthly Energy Review (MER) presents an overview of the Energy Information Administration`s recent monthly energy statistics. The statistics cover the major activities of US production, consumption, trade, stocks, and prices for petroleum, natural gas, coal, electricity, and nuclear energy. Also included are international energy and thermal and metric conversion factors. 37 figs., 61 tabs.
This publication presents an overview of the Energy information Administration`s recent monthly energy statistics. The statistics cover the major activities of US production, consumption, trade, stocks, and prices for petroleum, natural gas, coal, electricity, and nuclear energy. Also included are international energy and thermal and metric conversion factors. Two brief ``energy plugs`` (reviews of EIA publications) are included, as well.
Sandia National Laboratories, New Mexico, conducts the Energy Storage Systems Program, which is sponsored by the US Department of Energy`s Office of Utility Technologies. The goal of this program is to assist industry in developing cost-effective energy storage systems as a resource option by 2000. Sandia is responsible for the engineering analyses, contracted development, and testing of energy storage systems for stationary applications. This report details the technical achievements realized during fiscal year 1996.
An overall review of status of energy in Lebanon is presented. Energy consumption and demand, in all sectors of economy, including renewable energy sources (biomass, solar energy, kerosene, gas oils...) are described, enhanced by figures and tables. Recommendations of energy development in Lebanon within national economic policy are formulated. 4 tabs.
The interaction of accretion disks with the magnetospheres of young stars can produce X-winds and funnel flows. With the assumption of axial symmetry and steady state flow, the problem can be formulated in terms of quantities that are conserved along streamlines, such as the Bernoulli integral (BI), plus a partial differential equation (PDE), called the Grad-Shafranov equation (GSE), that governs the distribution of streamlines in the meridional plane. The GSE plus BI yields a PDE of mixed type, elliptic before critical surfaces where the flow speed equals certain characteristic wave speeds are crossed and hyperbolic afterward. The computational difficulties are exacerbated by the locations of the critical surfaces not being known in advance. To overcome these obstacles, we consider a variational principle by which the GSE can be attacked by extremizing an action integral, with all other conserved quantities of the problem explicitly included as part of the overall ...
This study reviews the wireline log responses of some geothermal fields in the Imperial Valley, California. The fields under study include the Heber, the East Mesa, the Brawley, and the Westmoreland. The well logs used in the study did not include all the wireline surveys obtained by the operators. The selected well logs obtained under special arrangements with the operators were chosen to maintain the anonymity of specific well locations but are only representative of each area. Analysis of the well logs indicates that on an individual field basis, the well logs are excellent for correlation purposes. The presence of extremely saline fluids in some fields precludes the monitoring of Q/sub v/ (cation exchange capacity per unit volume) profile for detection of hydrothermally altered zones. The producing sections in all the fields are characterized by low porosity and high resistivity.
The paper considers software development issues for large-scale enterprise information systems (IS) with databases (DB) in global heterogeneous distributed computational environment. Due to high IT development rates, the present-day society has accumulated and rapidly increases an extremely huge data burden. Manipulating with such huge data arrays becomes an essential problem, particularly due to their global distribution, heterogeneous and weak-structured character. The conceptual approach to integrated Internet-based IS design, development and implementation is presented, including formal models, software development methodology and original software development tools for visual problem-oriented development and content management. IS implementation results proved shortening terms and reducing costs of implementation compared to commercial software available.
Abstract Adalimumab is a fully human monoclonal anti-tumor necrosis factor-a agent that is approved for the treatment of Crohn's disease. It has a good safety profile, injection site reactions being the most common adverse effect. We report a case of a 54-year-old woman with a 30-year history of Crohn's disease who developed achromic patches on the trunk and upper extremities after initiating treatment with adalimumab. Cutaneous biopsy confirmed diagnosis of vitiligo and laboratory testing ruled out thyroid disease. Concomitant occurrence of vitiligo and inflammatory bowel disease, although rare, has been described. A common autoimmune basis could explain this fact. Moreover, multiple cutaneous adverse effects have been described in the literature secondary to biologic treatments, includin...
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation provides the only potential curative option in many patients with hematological malignancies. Finding a suitably matched donor in a timely manner is often difficult. However, most patients have a partially HLA-mismatched (HLA-haploidentical) first-degree relative readily available. Historically, HLA-haploidentical bone marrow transplantation (BMT) has been considered extremely high risk due to high rates of life-threatening graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and non-relapse mortality (NRM). Modifications of the stem cell graft, such as T-cell depletion, have resulted in poor rates of engraftment. We have recently completed a phase II clinical trial of nonmyeloablative HLA-haploidentical hematopoietic BMT followed by post-transplantation high-cyclophosp...
The aim of this paper is to numerically explore the non-linear two-dimensional unsteady potential flow over a Savonius rotor and to develop a code for predicting its aerodynamics performances. In the model developed, the rotor is represented in a median plane by two semicircles, displaced along their common diameter. The two semicircles can be considered to produce lifting effects. As a result, they are modelled by a collection of discrete vortices on their contours. The flow field is then governed by the Laplace equation. The versatile Neumann boundary condition, applied over the contour of the semicircles and the Kutta Joukowsky condition applied at the four extremities of the semicircles have been used in the modelling. The torque distribution of the stationary rotor and the unsteady pressure field on the blades of the rotating rotor, predicted by the code developed, have been compared and validated by some experimental data. (author)
"2"0"3Pb, an ideal radionuclide for toxicological studies, can be artificially produced by bombardment of a thallium target but due to the extreme toxicity of thallium the lead has to be separated completely from the thallium. A single step method is here described consisting of removing the thallium from a dilute acid chloride solution using a continuous ethyl ether extraction. Essentially all of the thallium and almost none of the lead is removed in a 3-hr extraction. Because the ether is recycled, only about 30 ml are needed. If other contaminants are introduced from the bombardment and its subsequent manipulations, an additional step is used in which the lead is extracted from an iodide solution with methyl isopropyl keton. (U.K.).
The isothermal flow field for the axial cyclone has been experimentally determined. The velocity fields are used for determination particle paths (particle removal and suspended state), and inter alia of heat and mass transfer processes in the axial cyclone combustion chamber. The results are extremely significant as input value approximations for mathematical modelling, since experimentally obtained results are indispensable for complex flows and geometries. (orig.) [Deutsch] Es ist fuer den Axialzyklon experimentell das isotherme Stroemungsfeld ermittelt. Die Geschwindigkeitsfelder dienen zur Ermittlung der Partikelbahnen (Partikelabscheidung, Schwebebedingung), der Waerme- und Stoffuebertragungsprozesse u.a. in der Axialzyklonbrennkammer. Die Ergebnisse sind als Startwertnaeherung bei einer mathematischen Modellierung sehr wichtig, da bei komplexen Stroemungen und Geometrien versuchstechnische Ergebnisse unumgaenglich sind. (orig.)
Concepts involving combined gas-turbine/steam-turbine power-generation plants, in which the fuel gas for the gas turbine is produced via the gasification of coal, are now extremely advanced. This technology already permits efficiencies of around 50% current development targets view 65% as achievable. In conventional technology, efficiencies are tied to conditions, such as air and cooling-water temperatures, at the particular location. In combined-cycle power plants, the properties of the fuel coal also play an important part. There are, in face, coals which can be more advantageously used in a combined-cycle power plant than in a conventional one. These differences, combined with advantageous concepts for coal-fired combined-cycle power-generating plants, are presented and analyzed. Particular attention is devoted to individual losses occurring at coal conversion, thermodynamic cycles, integration of processes and internal consumptions. 14 refs., 14 figs., 4 tabs.
The discovery that the cosmic expansion is accelerating has been followed by an intense theoretical and experimental response in physics and astronomy. The discovery implies that our most basic notions about how gravity work are violated on cosmological distance scales. One simple fix is the introduction of a cosmological constant into the field equations for general relativity. However, the extremely small value of the cosmological constant, relative to theoretical expectations, has led theorists to explore a wide variety of alternative explanations that involve the introduction of an exotic negative-pressure fluid or a modification of general relativity. Here we briefly review the evidence for cosmic acceleration. We then survey some of the theoretical attempts to account for it, including the cosmological constant, quintessence and its variants, mass-varying neutrinos, and modifications of general relativity, such as scalar-tensor and $f(R)$ theories and ...
Mood in humans is a complex phenomenon that integrates emotion (e.g. happiness and sadness), cognition, perception, ideation, and action in a coherent manner. In bipolar disorder extremes of mood (up or down) occur outside the normal range, in which all the above functions are coherently affected. Mood is controlled by a series of separate but interactive brain circuits that involve much of the brain, but particularly the limbic system. The question addressed in this paper is whether the coordination of all these separate systems into one coherent functional mood is mediated by non-linear dynamics acting between these systems as equal participants; or whether it is affected by a single master regulator controlling the others. The possible roles, as master regulators, of non-linear dynamica...
The Huqf Supergroup of the Sultanate of Oman provides important information on the geological evolution of the Arabian?Persian Gulf region during a protracted period of continental dispersal and reassembly on the periphery of the Gondwanan supercontinent during the Neoproterozoic, and also provides important constraints on the nature of extreme climate swings during this critical period in the evolution of Earth's biosphere. The Huqf Supergroup spans the period ca. 725?540?Ma, and is composed of three groups. The Abu Mahara Group (ca. 725 to ca.ca. 547?540?Ma), which is known mostly from the subsurface, comprises carbonates, evaporites and organic-rich shales, with interbedded ashes, deposited in a large number of N?S trending troughs and platforms.The three groups of the Huqf Supergroup c...
As in all vehicles of this type, low weight and aerodynamic drag must be achieved without compromising safety, and in an extremely rugged structure. This has been done by using a chrome-molybdenum steel space-frame, surrounded by a Kevlar/foam sandwich body shell. The solar panel wing, which uses a laminar flow section to obtain low drag, does not tilt except when the vehicle is stationary. A high degree of redundancy is built into the vehicle; for example there are two motors and transmissions, the solar array is divided into seven parallel sub-arrays, and the power electronics is multiply redundant. Built entirely in the garage of a suburban house, the Australian Geographic Team Marsupial car cost less than US$50,000 to construct.
Most heat shock proteins (Hsps) function as molecular chaperones that help organisms to cope with stress. Although the best empirical evidence is related to heat shock, there is evidence that Hsps and their encoding genes are involved in resistance to other ecologically relevant types of stresses such as those imposed by high population density. We quantified density-dependent gene expression of large (i.e. Hsp40, Hsc70 and Hsp90) and small (Hsp20.5, Hsp20.6 and Hsp20.7) heat shock genes in neural tissue of fifth-instar nymphs of the Australian plague locust, Chortoicetes terminifera, using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Locusts are of particular interest when studying the influence of stress induced by high population density since they show an extreme form of phenotypic plastici...
Using gasoline as an example of additives for cold start improvement, fuel vapor composition of methanol-gasoline mixtures, fuel evaporation rate in consideration of temperature drop due to heat of fuel evaporation, air fuel ratio, stoichiometric air fuel ratio and excess air ratio of fuel vapor were calculated. The mixture formation of methanol-gasoline mixtures at low temperature in otto cycle engines was studied. Van Laar's empirical formula was used to estimate the partial pressure of high-percentage methanol blends. It was found that the most part of fuel vapor is occupied by gasoline, even when a small amount of gasoline is added to methanol resulting to an extremely small excess air ratio. It is obvious that this vapor pressure adjustment using gasoline is the dominant factor for improvement in cold startability. (10 figs, 1 tab, 10 refs)
During the normal operation of a Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), radioactive releases into the atmosphere will be in small quantities. During major accidental situations, though the probability is extremely small, there may be significant release of radioactivity to the environment through the stack or at ground level. To study the external radiation exposure, if any, to the members of public due to releases during the normal operation of a nuclear power plant (NPP) and also to meet the requirement of emergency preparedness for the NPP site, continuous recording and analysis of environmental dose rate data is essential. This paper presents analysis of the gamma dose rates recorded by the Environmental Dose Logging Systems (EDLS) installed around the site during the last six years in the Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) of Tarapur Atomic Power Station (TAPS). (author)
By tests about pipe failure under extreme bending, moment at cross sections affected by circumferential cracks, admissible strains for securing the integrity in the area of a flow link are indicated. These are 7% for austenic and ferritic materials in the undisturbed cross section. From d/t-ratios of 20 onwards the strains are limited by pipe bulging on the pressure-load side. In this connection, circumferential flaws do not have any influence on the behaviour on the strained side, when their expansion does not exceed the investigated limitis of <60 circumferential expansion and crack depth of 0,3 t. (orig.)
A major goal in optomechanics is to observe and control quantum behavior in a system consisting of a mechanical resonator coupled to an optical cavity. Work towards this goal has focused on increasing the strength of the coupling between the mechanical and optical degrees of freedom; however, the form of this coupling is crucial in determining which phenomena can be observed in such a system. Here we demonstrate that avoided crossings in the spectrum of an optical cavity containing a flexible dielectric membrane allow us to realize several different forms of the optomechanical coupling. These include cavity detunings that are (to lowest order) linear, quadratic, or quartic in the membrane's displacement, and a cavity finesse that is linear in (or independent of) the membrane's displacement. All these couplings are realized in a single device with extremely low optical loss and can be tuned over a wide range in situ; in particular, we find that the quadratic ...
SnO2/graphene nanocomposites have been fabricated by a simple chemical method. In the fabrication process, the control of surface charge causes echinoid-like SnO2 nanoparticles to be formed and uniformly decorated on the graphene. The electrostatic attraction between a graphene nanosheet (GNS) and the echinoid-like SnO2 particles under controlled pH creates a unique nanostructure in which extremely small SnO2 particles are uniformly dispersed on the GNS. The SnO2/graphene nanocomposite has been shown to perform as a high capacity anode with good cycling behavior in lithium rechargeable batteries. The anode retained a reversible capacity of 634 mA?h?g?1 with a coulombic efficiency of 98% after 50 cycles. The high reversibility can be attributed to the mechanical buffering by the GNS against...
The probability of damage and the potential resulting hazards are analyzed for a representative rail shipping container for three severe rail accident scenarios. The scenarios are: (1) the rupture of closure bolts and resulting opening of closure lid due to a severe impact, (2) the puncture of container by an impacting rail-car coupler, and (3) the yielding of container due to side impact on a rigid uneven surface. The analysis results indicate that scenario 2 is a physically unreasonable event while the probabilities of a significant loss of containment in scenarios 1 and 3 are extremely small. Before assessing the potential risk for the last two scenarios, the uncertainties in predicting complex phenomena for rare, high- consequence hazards needs to be addressed using a rigorous methodology.
A simple method is presented for the separation of lead-203 from copper-backed thallium cyclotron targets. The procedure involves cation-exchange chromatography in hydrochloric acid and hydrochloric acid-acetone mixtures. Further purification involves anion-exchange chromatography in nitric acid-hydrobromic acid mixtures. A cation-exchange column containing 3.0 g of resin can handle as much as 15 g of thallium and 160 mg of copper. An anion-exchange column containing 3.0 g of resin can separate lead from up to 200 mg of thallium and 10 mg of copper. Separations are extremely sharp and less than 0.1 ..mu..g of thallium and less than 0.1 ..mu..g of copper remain in the lead-203 fraction.
A simple method is presented for the separation of lead-203 from copper-backed thallium cyclotron targets. The procedure involves cation-exchange chromatography in hydrochloric acid and hydrochloric acid-acetone mixtures. Further purification involves anion-exchange chromatography in nitric acid-hydrobromic acid mixtures. A cation-exchange column containing 3.0 g of resin can handle as much as 15 g of thallium and 160 mg of copper. An anion-exchange column containing 3.0 g of resin can separate lead from up to 200 mg of thallium and 10 mg of copper. Separations are extremely sharp and less than 0.1 #mu#g of thallium and less than 0.1 #mu#g of copper remain in the lead-203 fraction. (author).
Scuffing damage is catastrophic and typically not self-healing. It severely affects the life and reliability of engineering components, such as cams, roller bearings, piston rings, cylinder bores and gears. Gray iron and 1080 steel are important materials for these extremely demanding structural components. There have been several scuffing studies done in the past with various types of steel and cast iron. However, in these studies there was no attempt to compare the scuffing resistance of cast iron and steel materials with similar matrices. In the present study, scuffing tests were performed with the matrices of gray iron and 1080 steel being fully pearlitic. This allows for a direct evaluation of the effect of the graphite flakes on scuffing resistance. The scuffing behavior for these ma...
Atomic ensembles, comprising clouds of atoms addressed by laser fields, provide an attractive system for both the storage of quantum information and the coherent conversion of quantum information between atomic and optical degrees of freedom. We describe a scheme for full-scale quantum computing with atomic ensembles, in which qubits are encoded in symmetric collective excitations of many atoms. We consider the most important sources of error-imperfect exciton-photon coupling and photon losses-and demonstrate that the scheme is extremely robust against these processes: the required photon emission and collection efficiency threshold is #approx#>86%. Our scheme uses similar methods to those already demonstrated experimentally in the context of quantum repeater schemes and yet has information processing capabilities far beyond those proposals.
Soil placed over any sealant/barrier system can provide a protective mantle if the soil is not lost by erosion. Vegetation is an attractive choice for controlling erosion because it can provide an economic self-renewing cover that serves to reduce erosion by both wind and water. Vegetation alone, however, may not adequately stabilize the surface in extremely arid areas. In those areas, a properly designed surface treatment of rock cover, perhaps in conjunction with vegetation, may be necessary to stabilize the tailings surfaces. The objective of this program is to establish guidelines for surface stabilization that are compatible with sealant/barrier systems and that are suited to soils and climates at inactive uranium mill tailings sites. These guidelines will provide the means to estimate potential vegetation cover, potential erosion, effects of surface treatments on sealant/barrier systems, and costs of vegetation and rock covers. Methods for establishing ...
A pyrochemical process has been introduced and utilized so that the transmutation of spent PWR fuel in PEACER can produce mainly low and intermediate level waste for near surface disposal. Major radioactive nuclides from PEACER pyroprocessing are composed of TRU and LLFP. In this study, the requirement for the final waste from PEACER is evaluated based on the methodology for establishment of waste acceptance criteria. Also, sensitivity analysis for several input parameters is conducted in order to determine acceptable decontamination factor (DF) and LLFP removal efficiency and to find out input parameter that extremely have an effect on DF. As a result of the study, TRU DF and LLFP removal efficiency have to be achieved more than 1.0E+04 - 1.0E+05 and 96%, respectively. (author)
The removal of color from aquatic systems caused by presence of synthetic dyes is extremely important from the environmental viewpoint because most of these dyes are toxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic. In this present study, the yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims. f. flavicarpa Degener) peel a powdered solid waste, was tested as an alternative low-cost adsorbent for the removal of a basic dye, methylene blue (MB), from aqueous solutions. Adsorption of MB onto this natural adsorbent was studied by batch adsorption isotherms at room temperature. The effects of shaking time and pH on adsorption capacity were studied. An alkaline pH was favorable for the adsorption of MB. The contact time required to obtain the maximum adsorption was 56h at 25degreeC. Yellow passion fruit peel may be ...
Feasibility of using fixed bed column of conventional ion exchangers/sorbent and chemical precipitation based processes have been examined for the effective removal of the very low levels of 106Ru activity from NH4NO3 effluent generated during wet processing of rejected sintered depleted uranium fuel pellets. Based on the results, a simple process involving precipitation of cobalt sulphide along with ferric hydroxide was selected and further optimization of process variables was carried out. The optimized process has been found to be highly efficient in reducing 106Ru activity down to extremely low levels.
The paper deals with the reliability-based design optimization (RBDO) of a riser support installed on a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) unit under operation, extreme, damaged, and one line failure cases and installation loading conditions. The optimization problem is formulated such that probabilistic thickness variables described with random characteristics are determined by minimizing the weight of the riser support structure subjected to stress constraints for the given target reliability. The initial design model is generated based on actual FPSO riser support specifications. The finite element analysis is conducted using NASTRAN, and the probabilistic optimal solutions are obtained via the moving least squares method in the context of RBDO using a response surface me...
Reliability analysis is now being used to a large extent for several civil engineering structures. Such analysis has not been used for rockfill dams, the most common dams in Norway. Following work on reliability analysis for breakwaters, reliability analysis was then used to investigate the ability of the stone material on the upstream face of a rockfill dam to withstand wind generated waves. An attempt is made to follow up this work by including discharge overtopping on a rockfill dam in a reliability analysis. This report primarily goes through previous work on the required weight of protective stones on the downstream face of the dam for specified discharges over the dam and also deals with the probability formulation of extreme floods. A failure function with partial coefficients is formulated. But for reasons of economy the calibration of the partial coefficients remains for a next phase of the project. 14 refs., 17 figs.
We study the effects of quantum production of open strings on the relativistic scattering of D-branes. We find strong corrections to the brane trajectory from copious production of highly-excited open strings, whose typical oscillator level is proportional to the square of the rapidity. In the corrected trajectory, the branes rapidly coincide and remain trapped in a configuration with enhanced symmetry. This is a purely stringy effect which makes relativistic brane collisions exceptionally inelastic. We trace this effect to velocity-dependent corrections to the open string mass, which render open strings between relativistic D-branes surprisingly light. We observe that pair-creation of open strings could play an important role in cosmological scenarios in which branes approach each other at very high speeds. (author)
A significant number of biosorption studies on the removal of heavy metal from aqueous solutions have been conducted worldwide. Nearly all of them have been directed towards optimizing biosorption parameters to obtain the highest removal efficiency while the rest of them are concerned with the biosorption mechanism. Combinations of FTIR, SEM-EDX, TEM as well as classical methods such as titrations are extremely useful in determining the main processes on the surfaces of biosorbents. Diverse functional groups represented by carboxyl, hydroxyl, sulfate and amino groups play significant roles in the biosorption process. Solution pH normally has a large impact on biosorption performance. In brief, ion exchange and complexation can be pointed out as the most prevalent mechanisms for the biosorption of most heavy metals. (Abstract Copyright [2008], Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)
During their catalytic cycle, proteins involved in biological signal transduction undergo unexpectedly large conformational changes, which are at the core of their biological functioning. Until now it has been extremely difficult to obtain experimental insight into the nature of these conformational changes. Mathematical modeling and time-resolved X-ray crystallography have resulted in probable routes along which these conformational changes may take place, but so far this fundamental biological phenomenon has hardly been tackled experimentally. Here, we report on an attempt to observe structural changes in Photoactive Yellow Protein with time-resolved small-angle neutron scattering using diffractometer D22 at the high-flux reactor of the Institut Laue-Langevin, Grenoble, France.
During their catalytic cycle, proteins involved in biological signal transduction undergo unexpectedly large conformational changes, which are at the core of their biological functioning. Until now it has been extremely difficult to obtain experimental insight into the nature of these conformational changes. Mathematical modeling and time-resolved X-ray crystallography have resulted in probable routes along which these conformational changes may take place, but so far this fundamental biological phenomenon has hardly been tackled experimentally. Here, we report on an attempt to observe structural changes in Photoactive Yellow Protein with time-resolved small-angle neutron scattering using diffractometer D22 at the high-flux reactor of the Institut Laue-Langevin, Grenoble, France
Following the 1986 Chernobyl accident there was an understandable increase in public interest in nuclear accidents and emergency planning for them. It became clear that the broad nature, timing and scale of the radiological hazard presented by such accidents was, however, little understood. This Paper sets out in simple terms the basic features of the radiological hazard to persons in the vicinity of a nuclear power plant should a serious accident occur. The Paper starts by stressing the difference between faults -events that may occur relatively frequently - and accidents -unplanned releases of radioactivity that are by design extremely unlikely events. The Paper examines the significance of different exposure pathways and relates them to the protective measures (countermeasures) that may be taken. These countermeasures include sheltering, evacuation and the consumption of stable iodine tablets. The Paper illustrates the effectiveness of these countermeasures, ...
Microprocessor based ''smart'' pressure, level, and flow transmitters were tested to determine the radiation hardness of this class of electronic instrumentation for use in reactor building applications. Commercial grade Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) integrated circuits used in these transmitters were found to fail at total gamma dose levels between 2500 and 10,000 rad. This results in an unacceptably short lifetime in many reactor building radiation environments. Radiation hardened integrated circuits can, in general, provide satisfactory service life for normal reactor operations when not restricted to the extremely low power budget imposed by standard 4--20 mA two-wire instrument loops. The design of these circuits will require attention to vendor radiation hardness specifications, dose rates, process control with respect to radiation hardness factors, and non-volatile programmable memory technology. 3 refs., 2 figs.
Relativistic strongly magnetized winds outflowing from fast-rotating compact objects like millisecond pulsars with surface magnetic fields of $\\sim 10^{15}-10^{16}$ G are plausible sources of cosmological $\\gamma$-ray bursts. In such winds, there are at least three regions where extremely powerful X-ray and $\\gamma$-ray emission may be generated. The first radiating region is the wind photosphere that is at a distance of $\\sim 10^9$ cm from the compact object. The second radiating region is at a distance of $\\sim 10^{13}-10^{14}$ cm. In this region, the striped component of the wind field is transformed into large-amplitude electromagnetic waves. The third radiating region is at a distance of $\\sim 10^{16}-10^{17}$ cm, where deceleration of the wind due to its interaction with an ambient medium becomes important. Radiation from all these regions is considered.
A position-sensitive event-counting electronic readout system for microchannel plates (MCPs) is described that offers the advantages of high spatial resolution and fast time resolution. The technique relies upon a four-quadrant electron-collecting anode located behind the output face of the microchannel plate, so that the electron cloud from each detected event is partly intercepted by each of the four quadrants. The relative amounts of charge collected by each quadrant depend on event position, permitting each event to be localized with two ratio circuits. A prototype quadrant anode system for ion, electron, and extreme ultraviolet imaging is described. The spatial resolution achieved, approx. =10 ..mu.., allows individual MCP channels to be distinguished. (AIP)
A position-sensitive event-counting electronic readout system for microchannel plates (MCPs) is described that offers the advantages of high spatial resolution and fast time resolution. The technique relies upon a four-quadrant electron-collecting anode located behind the output face of the microchannel plate, so that the electron cloud from each detected event is partly intercepted by each of the four quadrants. The relative amounts of charge collected by each quadrant depend on event position, permitting each event to be localized with two ratio circuits. A prototype quadrant anode system for ion, electron, and extreme ultraviolet imaging is described. The spatial resolution achieved, approx. =10 #mu#, allows individual MCP channels to be distinguished.
Recently the authors showed that tetrazolium salts can be obtained during the oxidation of substituted 1,3,5-triarylformazans with potassium permanganate in a two-phase organic solvent-water system. The role of phase-transfer catalyst in this reaction is played by the tetrazolium salt, which is formed in a small amount as the result of oxidation of the formazan at the phase boundary. The method is distinguished by its extreme simplicity. However, the yield of the tetrazolium salts fluctuates within wide limits and does not exceed 62%. This is due to the fact that as the reaction proceeds the pH of the aqueous phase increases from 6 to 12. At the same time it is known that tetrazolium salts are unstable in aqueous alkaline solutions. They found that if the aqueous phase is replaced by aqueous hydrochloric acid (5 wt. %) the yields of the tetrazolium salts (Ia-g) are increased to 70-87%. For convenience of isolation the readily water-soluble tetrazolium chlorides ...
Extraskeletal Ewing's sarcoma (ES) and primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) are widely regarded as clinically and histologically identical tumors which consist of small blue round cells. Extraskeletal ESs/PNETs usually occur in the deep soft tissues of the paraspinal region, chest wall, or lower extremities. However, superficially located cases, so-called cutaneous ESs/PNETs, are exceedingly rare, and the vast majority of the reported cases present as a single small mass. We present magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and clinical course of a unique case of primary cutaneous ES/PNET presenting as numerous huge masses with severe ulceration on them. (orig.)
Abstract Introduction. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an effective procedure for the treatment of neuropathic extremity pain, with success rates approaching 70%. However, mechanical failures, including breakage and migration, can significantly limit the long-term effectiveness of SCS. A systematic analysis of surgical techniques was undertaken by a consensus group, coupled with extensive in vivo and in vitro biomechanical testing of system components. Methods. A computer model based on morphometric data was used to predict movement in a standard SCS system between an anchored lead and pulse generator placed in various locations. These displacements were then used to determine a realistic range of forces exerted on components of the SCS system. Laboratory fixtures were constructed to subj...
Novel fluoroalkyl end-capped vinyltrimethoxysilane oligomeric nanoparticles were prepared by the hydrolysis of the corresponding oligomer under alkaline conditions. The size of fluorinated nanoparticles thus obtained is of submicrometer levels and is not sensitive to the refractive indices of a variety of solvents; however, the turbidity of the dispersed fluorinated nanoparticles is extremely sensitive to the refractive indices of these solvents. In particular, the solvents of which the refractive indices are from 1.378 to 1.408 were found to afford the transparent colorless dispersed particle solutions. More interestingly, the modified glass surface treated with fluorinated nanoparticles exhibited a completely superhydrophobic characteristic (a water contact angle: 180?) with a nonwetting...
Although previous research suggests that preamputation pain is a risk factor for pain after amputation, little is known about the association between acute postsurgical pain and chronic amputation-related pain. The current prospective study examined the associations of preamputation pain and acute postamputation pain with chronic amputation-related pain. The sample consisted of patients with lower limb amputation (N = 57) who provided both preamputation and postamputation data during a 2-year study period. Preamputation pain intensity and duration were assessed before amputation; acute phantom limb pain (PLP) and residual limb pain (RLP) intensity were assessed on postsurgical days 4 and 5. Acute PLP intensity was the only significant independent predictor of chronic PLP intensity at 6 and...
An automotive powertrain includes a conventional piston engine, a continuously variable ratio transmission, an engine speed sensor and a feedback control system. The control system adjusts both the transmission ratio and the throttle valve in the engine carburetor or fuel metering system in response to the position of the accelerator pedal and in response to the crankshaft speed as measured by the engine sensor. The transmission provides extreme overdrive gear ratios which allow the engine to be operated at wide open throttle even during moderate cruising, and, in addition, the engine carburetor or fuel metering system is calibrated to deliver to the engine a stoichiometric air-fuel mixture which is combined, before combustion, with a special proportion of recirculated exhaust gas. As a result of extensive wide open throttle engine operation with the above mentioned intake charge composition, combustion variables are optimized to produce exceptional fuel economy.
A great deal of studies of the Pu metal dissolution by mineral acids have been made /1-3/. Hydrochloric acid was shown to provide the most complete and fastest dissolution /1-2/. The majority of studies describes the use of HNO_3-HF or HNO_3 with reducing or oxidizing agents present for this purpose /4/. But these methods are not quite adequate because of an extreme corrosiveness of the acids and a high cost of structural materials. That is why a search for more reliable and safer process is still in progress. The HNO_3-HCOOH method of dissolving has been investigated. Some physical-chemical properties of formic acid as well as regulations on its use are presented in /5-8/. (author).
The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, established requirements for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop rules for the establishment of enhanced ozone monitoring networks or Photochemical Assessment Monitoring Stations (PAMS) in ozone nonattainment areas designated as serious, severe, and extreme. The subsequent rules require these stations to collect ambient air measurements for a target list of volatile organic compounds including several carbonyls, oxides of nitrogen, ozone, and meteorological measurements, both surface and upper air. Twenty-two areas in the US are obligated to install and operate PAMS stations to aid in the identification, development, and implementation of effective ozone control strategies. This paper will examine the specific requirements of the PAMS rules and will provide information regarding the current status of the networks and overall implementation issues.
Floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels offer a cost-effective field development solution, especially in deepwater areas lacking an adequate pipeline network. Most FPSOs are permanently moored, i.e. the complete system is designed to withstand any kind of extreme environment at the field location. FPSOs that can be quickly disconnected from their moorings and risers have also been designed and deployed. The key feature of this type of disconnectable FPSO is that it can be disconnect and so avoid dangerous environmental conditions such as icebergs, hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico and typhoons in the South China Sea. In this paper, the concept of disconnectable FPSOs for deepwater field development is presented. Key technologies and their engineering analyses are highlight...
Two experiments used the McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) to examine the affective dimension of pain in patients whose pain was secondary to malignancy. In experiment I, segregating groups of cancer patients on the basis of extreme scores (high versus low) on the MPQ failed to produce segregation on independent measures of affect and infirmity. This outcome contrasts with earlier work with chronic benign pain patients. Experiment II compared cancer pain patients matched with benign pain patients on intensity of pain report on the affective dimension of the MPQ. Cancer pain patients reported a reliably higher affective loading to their pain. These data suggest that cancer pain patients employ different criteria than benign pain patients in selecting affective pain descriptors. Possible explanations for this difference are discussed. PMID:7070825
The flow of current inside a conductor leads to its overheating. This conductor is also submitted to other climatic phenomena, such as wind, sun light and ambient temperature. The knowledge of this overheating is important to ensure a functioning temperature compatible with the materials used for the conductor manufacturing and with the dip of overhead power lines above the ground and buildings. On the other hand, according to the Laplace works, the flow of current inside parallel conductors induces electromagnetic forces inside them, proportional to the product of currents in both conductors. In the case of short-circuit between aerial power lines or between flexible cables, electrodynamical stresses (traction and flexion) are applied to insulators and holders and important swinging of the lines can be observed. These stresses can be extremely important and must be considered in the design of overhead lines. These two phenomena are analyzed in this chapter. (J.S.)
This Final Report documents the research accomplishments achieved in the first phase of operations of a new Advanced Photon Source beam line (7-ID MHATT-CAT) dedicated to real-time x-ray studies. The period covered by this report covers the establishment of a world-class facility for time-dependent x-ray studies of materials. During this period many new and innovative research programs were initiated at Sector 7 with support of this grant, most notably using a combination of ultrafast lasers and pulsed synchrotron radiation. This work initiated a new frontier of materials research: namely, the study of the dynamics of materials under extreme conditions of high intensity impulsive laser irradiation.
Monthly rainfall data from June to October for 39 years were used to compute Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) values based on two parameter gamma distribution for a low rainfall and a high rainfall districts of Andhra Pradesh state, India. Comparison of SPI with actual rainfall and rainfall deviation from the mean indicated that SPI values under-estimate the intensity of dryness/wetness when the rainfall is very low/very high, respectively. As a result, the SPI in the worst drought years of 2002 and 2006 in the low rainfall district indicated only moderate dryness instead of extreme dryness. SPI values of the high rainfall district showed slightly better stretching in both positive and negative directions, compared to that of the low rainfall district. Further, the SPI values of long...
This paper presents a numerical study on the formation history of coalbed methane (CBM) reservoir in the southeast edge of Ordos Basin, China. The coal seams studied belong to the Late Palaeozoic coal-bearing series. These coal seams have a burial history and experienced the process of subsidence, rapid subsidence alternated with uplift and then uplift, sequentially, and underwent the geothermal actions at normal, extremely high, and then normal temperatures, respectively. Coal organic matter of the coal seams matured in the Triassic Period and in the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous Period. The results from numerical simulation reveal that CBM reservoir evolution history can be classified into five stages, namely primary, initial, stagnant, active and dissipative stages. In the first (pr...
Due to size and costs of big slewing rings, the common methods of experimental trial and error together with destructive test methods for verification of the inductive hardening process are limited. Thereby it is essential to simulate the hardening process in addition to the tests. With these simulations, it should be possible to get conclusions for the hardening pattern, the residual stress and distortion. With actually existing methods a fully three dimensional simulation is extremely time consuming. For that reason, a new method was developed that combines two dimensional with three dimensional simulation to shorten the time for calculation tremendously. (orig.)
This report describes progress during the first year of a three-year project. The objective of the research is to examine new design approaches for achieving very high conversion efficiencies. The program is divided into two areas. The first centers on exploring new thin-film approaches specifically designed for III-V semiconductors. The second area centers on exploring design approaches for achieving high conversion efficiencies without requiring extremely high quality material. Research activities consisted of an experimental study of minority carrier recombination in n-type, metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD)-deposited GaAs, an assessment of the minority carrier lifetimes in n-GaAs grown by molecular beam epitaxy, and developing a high-efficiency cell fabrication process.
This report describes progress during the first year of a three-year project. The objective of the research is to examine new design approaches for achieving very high conversion efficiencies. The program is divided into two areas. The first centers on exploring new thin-film approaches specifically designed for III-V semiconductors. The second area centers on exploring design approaches for achieving high conversion efficiencies without requiring extremely high quality material. Research activities consisted of an experimental study of minority carrier recombination in n-type, metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD)-deposited GaAs, an assessment of the minority carrier lifetimes in n-GaAs grown by molecular beam epitaxy, and developing a high-efficiency cell fabrication process.
Potassium clusters arrayed in zeolite A are known to show ferromagnetic properties at low temperature. The origin of the spontaneous magnetization has been explained by a model of spin-canting in an antiferromagnetically ordered state. The direct information for the magnetic structure, however, has not been obtained so far. In the present work, we measure the neutron powder diffraction by using pulsed neutron source at KEK-KENS below and above the Curie temperature. No significant temperature-dependence was, however, obtained within the statistical errors, namely, magnetic scattering could not be detected separately. We also estimate the intensity of magnetic scattering by assuming some possible magnetic structures with considering the magnetic form factor of the cluster wave function. The intensity of magnetic scattering is estimated to be extremely weak and higher S/N of {approx}10{sup 4} or more is required to detect the magnetic scattering of this material.
Potassium clusters arrayed in zeolite A are known to show ferromagnetic properties at low temperature. The origin of the spontaneous magnetization has been explained by a model of spin-canting in an antiferromagnetically ordered state. The direct information for the magnetic structure, however, has not been obtained so far. In the present work, we measure the neutron powder diffraction by using pulsed neutron source at KEK-KENS below and above the Curie temperature. No significant temperature-dependence was, however, obtained within the statistical errors, namely, magnetic scattering could not be detected separately. We also estimate the intensity of magnetic scattering by assuming some possible magnetic structures with considering the magnetic form factor of the cluster wave function. The intensity of magnetic scattering is estimated to be extremely weak and higher S/N of ?104 or more is required to detect the magnetic scattering of this material.
We propose a simple mechanism that may explain the observed particle-antiparticle asymmetry in the Universe. In the Einstein-Cartan-Sciama-Kibble theory of gravity, the intrinsic spin of matter generates spacetime torsion. Classical Dirac fields in the presence of torsion obey the nonlinear Hehl-Datta equation which is asymmetric under a charge-conjugation transformation. Accordingly, at extremely high densities that existed in the very early Universe, fermions have higher effective masses than antifermions. As a result, a meson composed of a light quark and a heavy antiquark has a lower effective mass than its antiparticle. Neutral-meson oscillations in thermal equilibrium therefore favor the production of light quarks and heavy antiquarks, which may be related to baryogenesis.
Toadlets of the genus Brachycephalus are endemic to the Atlantic rainforests of southeastern and southern Brazil. The 14 species currently described have snout-vent lengths less than 18mm and are thought to have evolved through miniaturization: an evolutionary process leading to an extremely small adult body size. Here, we present the first comprehensive phylogenetic analysis for Brachycephalus, using a multilocus approach based on two nuclear (Rag-1 and Tyr) and three mitochondrial (Cyt b, 12S, and 16S rRNA) gene regions. Phylogenetic relationships were inferred using a partitioned Bayesian analysis of concatenated sequences and the hierarchical Bayesian method (BEST) that estimates species trees based on the multispecies coalescent model. Individual gene trees showed conflict and also va...
Mechanical alloying is an important pre-requisite for the manufacturing of heat resistant oxide-dispersion-strengthened superalloys. Though the microstructure of these materials after hot extrusion and recrystallization treatment is well documented, little is known about the microstructural evolution during ball-milling. A method was tested to prepare electron transparent foils and extraction replica from powder particles for TEM investigations. The microstructure was found to consist of a Ni-Cr-Al solid solution in which submicron particles of refractory metals were embedded. The extremely fine grainize of about 50 nm is the consequence of severe plastic deformation. Yttria particles could not be detected in the powder after ball milling, but after a heat treatment at 1000 C the well-known fine dispersion of oxide particles was evident. (orig.)
Microgel-clay composite particles were prepared by one-step surfactant-free precipitation polymerization. Laponite nanoparticles present in the reaction mixture become encapsulated during the microgel formation process. Microgel-clay composites based on poly(N-vinylcaprolactam-co-acetoacetoxyethyl methacrylate) containing different amount of incorporated clay nanoparticles were synthesized. The clay content was varied from 2 wt% to 18 wt%. The extremely high incorporation efficiency of the clay nanoparticles into microgels was detected. The size of the hybrid microgels was decreased from 700 nm to 100 nm by increase of the clay concentration in the reaction mixture. Obtained hybrid microgels exhibit negative surface charge and excellent colloidal stability. Microgel-clay composite particle...
A metal spray apparatus is provided with a supersonic nozzle. Molten metal is injected into a gas stream flowing through the nozzle under pressure. By varying the pressure of the injected metal, the droplet can be made in various selected sizes with each selected size having a high degree of size uniformity. A unique one piece graphite heater provides easily controlled uniformity of temperature in the nozzle and an attached tundish which holds the pressurized molten metal. A unique U-shaped gas heater provides extremely hot inlet gas temperatures to the nozzle. A particularly useful application of the spray apparatus is coating of threads of a fastener with a shape memory alloy. This permits a fastener to be easily inserted and removed but provides for a secure locking of the fastener in high temperature environments.
Colloidal nanocrystals attract significant interest due to their potential applications in electronic, magnetic, and optical devices. Nanocrystal supercrystals (NCSCs) are particularly appealing for their well ordered structure and homogeneity. The interactions between organic ligands that passivate the inorganic nanocrystal cores critically influence their self-organization into supercrystals, By investigating the mechanical properties of supercrystals, we can directly characterize the particle-particle interactions in a well-defined geometry, and gain insight into both the self-assembly process and the potential applications of nanocrystal supercrystals. Here we report nanoindentation studies of well ordered lead-sulfide (Pbs) nanocrystal supercrystals. Their modulus and hardness were found to be similar to soft polymers at 1.7 GPa and 70 MPa respectively and the fractures toughness was 39 KPa/m1/2, revealing the extremely brittle nature of these materials.
Iron, zinc, copper and manganese are essential metals for cellular enzyme functions while cadmium, mercury and the metalloid arsenic lack any biological function. Both, essential metals, at high concentrations, and non-essential metals and metalloids are extremely reactive and toxic. Therefore, plants have acquired specialized mechanisms to sense, transport and maintain essential metals within physiological concentrations and to detoxify non-essential metals and metalloids. This review focuses on the recent identification of transporters that sequester cadmium and arsenic in vacuoles and the mechanisms mediating the partitioning of these metal(loid)s between roots and shoots. We further discuss recent models of phloem-mediated long-distance transport, seed accumulation of Cd and As and rec...
An 80-K Joule-Thomson (J-T) cooling system designed for the Probe Infrared Laser Spectrometer (PIRLS) proposed for the Huygens Titan Probe of the Cassini Saturn orbiter mission is presented. The cryogenic cooling requirements of the PIRLS instrument are listed, and the cooler system design including details of a J-T cryostat, cold head, and dewar design is described along with the results of a thermal modeling effort and lab cooler performance testing. It is shown that by using active feedback temperature control of the cold head in combination with the self-regulating action of the J-T cryostat, a temperature stability of less than 0.1 mK/min is achieved by the cooler weighting 1.8 kg.
In a water well sunk in the Grafschaft Bentheim region of northern Germany, small volumes of methane were emitted regularly and large volumes of methane in eruptions at irregular intervals. After some extreme gas eruptions in 2002 and 2004, the Grafschaft Bentheim district government initiated a project to investigate underground conditions in the region between Nordhorn and Bad Bentheim in order to prevent potential hazards to the locals population. The main purpose of the project was to provide information on underground mechanisms as far as possible in order to develop long-term safety strategies for freshwater supply in the region. (orig.)
The program introduced here for determining and describing the multi-axial creep of pipes is based, on the one hand, on the results of the nuclear process heat prototype plant material program and, on the other hand, on the possible load conditions which arise for evaluating accidents or extreme working situations. The basis of a theoretical description of multi-axial creep is the invariant theory in which both the von Mises configuration change hypothesis and the Norton creep law are included. Combined tension and torsion are also considered in detail, the superimposition of cyclic stresses in the tensile threshold area is discussed and cases of partial relaxation are explained. Experimental results for the discussed loads are introduced, which have led to satisfactory agreement between theory and experiment. (orig./MM).
The program introduced here for determining and describing the multi-axial creep of pipes is based, on the one hand, on the results of the nuclear process heat prototype plant material program and, on the other hand, on the possible load conditions which arise for evaluating accidents or extreme working situations. The basis of a theoretical description of multi-axial creep is the invariant theory in which both the von Mises configuration change hypothesis and the Norton creep law are included. Combined tension and torsion are also considered in detail, the superimposition of cyclic stresses in the tensile threshold area is discussed and cases of partial relaxation are explained. Experimental results for the discussed loads are introduced, which have led to satisfactory agreement between theory and experiment. (orig./MM).
Conventional interconnect and switching technology is rapidly becoming a critical issue in the realization of systems using high speed silicon and GaAs based technologies. In recent years clock speeds and on-chip density for VLSI/VHSIC technology has made packaging these high speed chips extremely difficult. A strong case can be made for using optical interconnects for on-chip/on-wafer, chip-to-chip and board-to-board high speed communications. GaAs integrated optoelectronic circuits (IOC's) are being developed in a number of laboratories for performing Input/Output functions at all levels. In this paper integrated optoelectronic materials, electronics and optoelectronic devices are presented. IOC's are examined from the standpoint of what it takes to fabricate the devices and what performance can be expected.
The main purpose of solid or fluid lubricants in ball-bearings is to separate the balls and races from contacting each other in so-called asperity collisions. Steel to steel contacts lead to microwelds which roughen functional rolling-contacting surfaces and deteriorate the lubricant. By using balls with a ceramic TiC coating, two goals are achieved. First, there are fewer asperity collisions because of the extreme smoothness of the high precision polished TiC coated balls. Second, if collisions do occur, there is practically no microwelding taking place, leaving the surfaces and the lubricant in good condition. Examples are given where the bearing lifetime is increased up to 10 times if the steel balls are replaced by TiC-coated balls. (orig.).
To eliminate their classical brittleness and flexibility problems zein films were plasticized by incorporation of different phenolic acids (gallic acid (GA), p-hydroxy benzoic acid (HBA) or ferulic acids (FA)) or flavonoids (catechin (CAT), flavone (FLA) or quercetin (QU)). The use of GA, CAT, FA and HBA at 3 mg/cm2 eliminated the brittleness of films and gave highly flexible films showing elongations between 135% and 189%, while FLA and QU caused no considerable effect on film elongation. The films containing FA and HBA showed extreme swelling and lost their structural integrity when hydrated in distilled water. In contrast, CAT and GA containing films maintained their integrity following hydration. Most of the GA (up to 93%) and a considerable portion of CAT (up to 60%) in the films exis...
Childhood cancer survivors at highest risk of developing a secondary malignancy are those with hereditary retinoblastoma. The majority of such secondary cancers will be sarcomas, most commonly of bone. One-third of these occur outside a typical radiation field, commonly in an extremity. Bone sarcoma is also the most commonly reported secondary cancer to develop among survivors of Ewing's sarcoma. In this group, radiation doses greater than 60 Gy as well as alkylating agent chemotherapy have been identified as contributors to the increased risk. The prognosis for patients with a secondary sarcoma has been poor, with few cures reported to date. However, an aggressive, combined modality approach, including radical resection, postoperative radiation, and adjuvant chemotherapy, may improve the survival rate.
Long-term fishery datasets can provide valuable insights into fishing histories, and represent a baseline against which to examine current status and plan for future management. For coral reef-associated fisheries, however, such datasets are extremely rare. We analyse a unique 45-year set of landings data on six reef fishes of commercial importance in Cubas coastal fisheries, together with information on management interventions, and examine the likely implications of over-fishing and management on the long-term condition of one grouper (Serranidae) and five snapper (Lutjanidae) species. The data clearly demonstrate differential responses to fishing and management according to the biology of the different species examined. In particular, those species that aggregate most predictably, and a...
Beaked whales (Ziphiidae) often show highly specialized features, involving bone morphology or structure, in the rostral region of their skulls. Previous studies revealed an extremely derived and peculiar histological structure in the rostrum of the extant Mesoplodon densirostris. In order to assess if this structure is a general feature of ziphiids, the swollen premaxillae of Aporotus recurvirostris, a Miocene species from the North Sea, were studied histologically. These bones are pachyostotic and strongly osteosclerotic. However, their structural organization is entirely different from that of M. densirostris rostrum: they are basically made of a non-remodeled, laminar tissue that was cyclically deposited by the periosteum. As compared to the generalized structure of the premaxillae of ...
A wavelength division multiplexer/demultiplexer having optical path lengths between a fiber array and a Fourier transform lens, and between a dispersion grating and the lens equal to the focal length of the lens. The optical path lengths reduce losses due to angular acceptance mismatch in the multiplexer. Close orientation of the fiber array about the optical axis and the use of a holographic dispersion grating reduces other losses in the system. Multi-exposure holographic dispersion gratings enable the multiplexer/demultiplexer for extremely broad-band simultaneous transmission and reflection operation. Individual Bragg plane sets recorded in the grating are dedicated to and operate efficiently on discrete wavelength ranges.
Determination of the maximum temperature and temperature distribution along the rake face of the cutting tool is of particular importance because of its controlling influence on tool life, as well as, the quality of the machined part. Numerous attempts have been made to approach the problem with different methods including experimental, analytical and numerical analysis. Although considerable research effort has been made on the thermal problem in metal cutting, there is hardly a consensus on the basics principles. The unique tribological contact phenomenon, which occur in metal cutting is highly localized and non-linear, and occurs at high temperatures, high pressures and high strains. This has made it extremely difficult to predict in a precise manner or even assess the performance of va...
In the emerging restructured power system, the congestion management (CM) has become extremely important in order to ensure the security and reliability of the system. In addition to this, lack of CM can impose a hindrance in electricity trading. This paper presents a novel, growing radial basis function neural network (GRBFNN)-based approach for CM. For achieving CM, Nodal congestion price (NCP) forecasting is performed in real time competitive power market. NCP forecasting is an effective way of price-based preventive CM as it directly indicates the presence as well as the severity of the congestion in the system. In present paper, GRBFNN has been developed for NCP forecasting dividing the whole power system into various congestion zones. An unsupervised learning vector quantization (VQ)...
Nanocrystalline powders of GaN with grain sizes ranging from 2 to 30 nm were examined under high external pressures by in situ diffraction techniques in a diamond anvil cell at DESY (HASYLAB, Station F3). The experiments on densification of pure powders under high pressure were performed without a pressure medium. The mechanism of generation and relaxation of internal strains and their distribution in nanoparticles was deduced from Bragg reflections recorded in situ under high pressures at room temperature. The microstrain was calculated from the full-width at half-maximum (FWHM) values of the Bragg lines. It was found that microstrains in GaN crystallites are generated and subsequently relaxed by two mechanisms: generation of stacking faults and change of the size and shape of the grains occurring under external stress. (author)
Equinovarus of the foot is the most common lower extremity deformity following traumatic brain injury. We evaluated outcomes of the split anterior tibialis tendon transfer (SPLATT) for correction of equinovarus in 47 patients with hemiplegic traumatic brain injury and specifically studied differences in outcomes with two tendon fixation techniques. Seventeen patients constituting Group I underwent fixation with one technique and 30 constituting Group II had another technique. Patients in both groups had appropriate procedures based on dynamic electromyography and gait analyses. Both groups were demographically comparable. All 47 feet were corrected to plantigrade position. Thirty-six of 47 patients became brace-free at final followup. There was a notable decrease in the use of ambulatory a...
The author analyzes conference materials, emphasizing the studies and latest developments useful for industrial heterogeneous catalysis in view of the requirements of green chemistry. Industrial catalysts is developing along a nanometer scale, so especial attention is devoted to analyzing the reports in the Nanochemistry section on the creation of nanocatalysts, the production of active phase nanoparticles, and the formation of new synthesized material properties. The catalysts developed earlier by Russian research in cooperation with Belarusian scientists are considered, and it is shown that not only are expensive nanocontacts extremely promising for industry, but the efficient and economic low-percentage new generation of nanocatalysts synthesized by wet chemistry and containing nanopart...
Coupled continuous time random walks (CTRWs) model normal and anomalous diffusion of random walkers by taking the sum of random jump lengths dependent on the random waiting times immediately preceding each jump. They are used to simulate diffusion-like processes in econophysics such as stock market fluctuations, where jumps represent financial market microstructure like log returns. In this and many other applications, the magnitude of the largest observations (e.g. a stock market crash) is of considerable importance in quantifying risk. We use a stochastic process called a coupled continuous time random maxima (CTRM) to determine the density governing the maximum jump length of a particle undergoing a CTRW. CTRM are similar to continuous time random walks but track maxima instead of sums....
Droughts in Moldova were evaluated using meteorological data since 1955 and a long time series (1891?2009). In addition, yields for corn (Zea mays L.), a crop widely grown in Moldova, were used to demonstrate drought impact. The main aim is to propose use of the S i (S i-a and S i-m) drought index while discussing its potential use in studying the evolution of drought severity in Moldova. Also, a new multi-scalar drought index, the standardized precipitation?evapotranspiration index (SPEI), is tested for the first time in identifying drought variability in Moldova while comparing it with the commonly used standardized precipitation index (SPI). S i-m, SPI, SPEI, and S i-a indices show an increasing tendency toward more intensive and prolonged severely dry and extremely dry summer months. D...
Rapid and reliable diagnostic methods are needed to control methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) transmission. We studied the BD GeneOhm? MRSA Assay which is based on one specific amplification product at the junction of the right extremity sequence of the staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) and the chromosomal sequence of orfX of S. aureus. The test was applied on 95 clinical isolates in Finland: 83% were positive. The isolates giving negative results represented several pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) types and harboured SCCmec types IV, V, VI or were new types with different combinations of ccr genes.
Temperature variations due to climate changes are a major cause of movements in a concrete structure, both in the longitudinal and transversal directions and between different parts of the structure. If these movements are restrained, stresses will be induced which may contribute to cracking. The movements are caused by complex interactions of several factors such as solar radiation, air temperature, long-wave heat radiation and wind speed. To predict the varying thermal conditions in a concrete structure a finite element model has been used. A validation of the model has been performed using field measurements in a concrete slab together with climate data from the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute to be able to use the model for simulations over long time periods and for s...
Concerns are sometimes expressed about an alleged link between exposure to the extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields occurring in proximity to electricity networks or equipment. Transmission lines are specifically mentioned. The underlying physical mechanisms are described by which electric and magnetic fields exist, with particular reference to high voltage transmission lines. Epidemiological and laboratory studies are the two approaches used in research into the subject and the shortcomings inherent in many such studies and the inconsistencies in the results are mentioned. Some of the more recent epidemiological studies are referred to, also the possible interaction mechanisms between fields and the human body. The work of certain international and national bodies which were established to review the results of research into the alleged association between electromagnetic fields and ill-health are reported. (R.P.)
Background: This study was conducted to examine the effects of prophylactic misoprostol prior to intrauterine device (IUD) placement in nulliparous women. Study Design: Nulliparous, reproductive-aged women desiring an IUD for contraception were randomized to receive 400 mcg of buccal misoprostol or placebo 90 min prior to IUD insertion. Subjects completed a series of 100-mm visual analogue scales (VAS, anchors: 0=none, 100 mm=worst imaginable) to measure their perceived pain at several times points (anticipated pain, leg positioning, speculum placement, tenaculum placement, IUD insertion, equipment removal and 5 min postinsertion). Secondary outcomes included provider ''ease of placement'' (100-mm VAS, anchors: 0=easy, 100 mm=extremely difficult), side effects and retention of the IUD afte...
During sporting events, injured athletes often return to competition after icing because of the reduction in pain. Although some controversy exists, several studies suggest that cryotherapy causes a decrease in muscle activity, which may lead to a higher risk of injury upon return to play. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a 20-min knee joint cryotherapy application on the electromyographic activity of leg muscles during a single-leg drop jump in twenty healthy subjects, randomly assigned to an experimental and a control group. After the pre-tests, a crushed-ice bag was applied to the knee joint of the experimental group subjects for 20min, while the control group subjects rested for 20min. All subjects were retested immediately after this period and retested again...
Observed parameter scaling laws show that lower-luminosity ellipticals have higher central densities and smaller core radii; if they formed by mergers, they are very unlike their progenitors. In the extreme case of M32, the central surface brightness is mu0 less than about 12 V mag/sq arcsec and the core radius is r(c) less than about 0.001 kpc, while plausible progenitor disk galaxies have mu0 of about 22 V mag/sq arcsec and r(c) of about 0.5 kpc. M32 must have formed by a dissipative collapse, whether or not a merger was involved. The cooling diagram also shows that low-luminosity ellipticals formed with more dissipation than high-luminosity ellipticals. Thus the merger picture of galalxy formation requires essential aspects of the dissipative collapse picture. 38 refs.
Purpose: To flatten temperature distribution of coolant within a core. Constitution: The control device of the present invention is to vary reactivity of a fast breeder to control a reactor power. In general, the control device of this kind comprises a guide pipe arranged within the core and a control rod movable up and down within the guide pipe, and a coolant flows from bottom toward top within the guide pipe. Since a cooling flow rate has a margin, temperature of coolant outlet is extremely low as compared to a fuel assembly, and therefore temperature gradient in the vicinity of the top of the control rod becomes sharp to possibly impart thermal shock to the structural material. In the present invention, the flow passage of coolant is varied to thereby avoid outflow thereof into the core, thus flattening the temperature distribution of the coolant within the core. (Kamimura, M.).
WELLOG is a system of programs developed at the Earth Science Laboratory to be used to digitize well logs and perform some analysis and plotting of the data. Multiple logs can be plotted side by side for correlation analysis and up to three logs can be plotted in a cross plot. Data entry and editing functions are also provided by the programs. This system of well log interpretation programs is presently operating on the University of Utah UNIVAC 1108 computer. Digitizing of well logs is accomplished by an old model CALMA (off-line) digitizer. Those parts of WELLOG that handle the digitized data tapes are extremely machine dependent. The parts of WELLOG that produce the plots and handle the data beyond the digitized data tape are more portable.
The purpose of this paper is to establish probabilistic models for still-water loads, based on design data, and the combined still-water and wave load effects for semi-probabilistic and probabilistic design of floating production, storage and offloading vessels (FPSO). A new still-water load model for FPSOs is proposed, based on a Poisson square-wave model, with a modified Weibull distribution for load intensity, which accounts for load control during operation. The long-term variation of wave-induced load effects is modelled by a Poisson square-wave process. A new solution for the combined effect is derived. A procedure for determining characteristic extreme values for individual and combined load effects, and load combination factors, is established. The methodology is used to illustrate...
Hyperspherical-harmonics method to investigate the lightest nuclei having three-cluster structure is discussed together with recent experiments. Properties of bound states and methods to explore three-body continuum are presented. The challenges created by large neutron excess and halo phenomena are highlighted. Astrophysical aspects of the "7Li + n "#-># "8Li + #gamma# reaction and the solar-boron-neutrinos problem are analyzed. Three-cluster structure of highly excited states in "8Be is shown to be responsible for extreme isospin mixing. Progress in studies of "6He- and "1"1Li-induced inclusive and exclusive nuclear reactions is demonstrated, providing information on the nature of continuum structures of Borromean nuclei.
{The determination of cluster masses is a complex problem that would be aided by information about the cluster shape and orientation (along the line-of-sight).} {It is in this context, that we have developed a scheme for identifying the intrinsic morphology and inclination of a cluster, by looking for the signature of the true cluster characteristics in the inter-comparison of the different deprojected emissivity profiles (that all project to the same X-ray brightness distribution) and by using SZe data when available.} {We deproject the cluster X-ray surface brightness profile under the assumptions of four different geometry and inclination configurations for the observed system; these 4 configurations correspond to four extreme geometry+inclination scenarios. The deprojection in question is performed by the non-parametric algorithm DOPING. The formalism is tested with model systems and then is applied to a sample of 24 clusters. While the shape determination is ...
Data are presented to support the hypothesis that the initial step in the morphologic transformation of irradiated rodent (BALB/3T3) cells is a frequent cellular event involving a large fraction of the irradiated population. This process appears to involve DNA damage, but not to represent a targeted mutation in specific structural gene(s). Morphologic transformation and immortalization appear to be distinct steps in the overall process of transformation. In contradistinction to rodent cells, immortalization is a very rare event in human diploid cells which is induced at extremely low frequencies. The hypothesis is presented that immortality develops among clones of cells bearing stable chromosomal rearrangements which emerge during the proliferation of a population of radiation damaged cells.
The cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) is a highly conserved transcription factor that integrates signaling through the cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) in many eukaryotes. PKA plays a critical role in Dictyostelium development but no CREB homologue has been identified in this system. Here we show that Dictyostelium utilizes a CREB-like protein, BzpF, to integrate PKA signaling during late development. bzpF^- mutants produce compromised spores, which are extremely unstable and germination defective. Previously, we have found that BzpF binds the canonical CRE motif in vitro. In this paper, we determined the DNA binding specificity of BzpF using protein binding microarray (PBM) and showed that the motif with the highest specificity is a CRE-like sequence. BzpF is necessary to ...
Bilateral breast carcinoma accounts for approximately 5% of all patients with breast cancer, while neuroendocrine breast carcinomas comprise less than 5% of invasive breast carcinomas. In addition, most patients with breast neuroendocrine carcinomas are older. Therefore, bilateral primary breast neuroendocrine carcinoma at a young age is extremely rare. We herein report bilateral neuroendocrine carcinoma of the breast in a 29-year-old woman who underwent bilateral lumpectomy with the initial symptom of bilateral nipple discharge. Grossly, the lesions in both breasts were masses with infinite margins. Histologically, this case was consistent with primary neuroendocrine carcinoma arising in bilateral breasts. Cells from both breast tumors were positive for chromogranin A, neuron-specific eno...
The colonization of an implant surface by bacteria is an extremely important medical problem, which often leads to the failure of medical devices. Modern surface modification techniques, such as ion implantation, can confer to the surfaces very different properties from those of the bulk underlying material. In this work, austenitic stainless steel 316 LVM has been superficially modified by Si^+ ion implantation. The effect of surface modification on the biocompatibility and bacterial adhesion to 316 LVM stainless steel has been investigated. To this aim, human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), as precursor of osteoblastic cells, and bacterial strains relevant in infections related to orthopedic implants, i.e., Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, have been assayed. For the ...
Looking at kriging problems with huge numbers of estimation points and measurements, computational power and storage capacities often pose heavy limitations to the maximum manageable problem size. In the past, a list of FFT-based algorithms for matrix operations have been developed. They allow extremely fast convolution, superposition and inversion of covariance matrices under certain conditions. If adequately used in kriging problems, these algorithms lead to drastic speedup and reductions in storage requirements without changing the kriging estimator. However, they require second-order stationary covariance functions, estimation on regular grids, and the measurements must also form a regular grid. In this study, we show how to alleviate these rather heavy and many times unrealistic restr...
To study interactions between plants and plant-parasitic nematodes, several omics studies have nowadays become extremely useful. Since most data available so far is derived from sedentary nematodes, we decided to improve the knowledge on migratory nematodes by studying the transcriptome of the nematode Pratylenchus coffeae through generating expressed sequence tags (ESTs) on a 454 sequencing platform. In this manuscript we present the generation, assembly and annotation of over 325,000 reads from P. coffeae. After assembling these reads, 56,325 contigs and singletons with an average length of 353bp were selected for further analyses. Homology searches revealed that 25% of these sequences had significant matches to the Swiss-prot/trEMBL database and 29% had significant matches in nematode E...
The high-nickel austenitic alloy 800 (in both the mill-annealed and the solution-treated grades) has several attractive properties that make it a good candidate for service attractive properties that make it a good candidate for service at elevated temperatures in corrosive environments. One such property is creep resistance. This report analyzes the elevated-temperature creep behavior of the mill-annealed grade, generally referred to simply as alloy 800. (The solution-treated grade is known as alloy 800H). Available data over the temperature range from 538 to 760/sup 0/C were collected and evaluated to yield mathematically approximations for creep-rupture and strain-time behavior for use in design calculations. However, the creep behavior of this material is extremely complex, and the analysis presented here contains substantial uncertainties. All results in this report should be considered preliminary because of limited data currently available. 20 figures.
A Pulsed Radiation Dosimetry System designed to measure radiation produced by particle accelerators is described. The problems associated with total-dose measurement of irregular shaped pulses of ionizing radiation have been simplified. The system responds to extremely narrow pulses of charged particles or X-rays using a pin diode as the detector. Direct readout of dose in rads (Si) is displayed on a 3-1/2 digit digital panel meter. The system will operate in either the multiple-pulse or single-pulse mode. The multiple-pulse mode would be useful in monitoring or tuning a linear accelerator. In the single-pulse mode the system will automatically display total dose of a transient event in real time and hold that measurement indefinitely or until the next measurement is made. The system features an automatic reset in either mode.
Composite nitrides (such as BN, TiN) are widely used in various industrial applications because of their extreme wear and corrosion resistance, thermal and electrical properties. in order to obtain composite materials with these optimal properties, it is important to elucidate whether any chemical reactions occur at nitride/metal interfaces, e.g., those involving BN-Ti/TiN. Materials of interest include the deposition by PVD of Ti and TiN on BN substrates. Some of these systems were then subjected to varying degrees of physical and thermal alteration. Detailed X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has therefore been rendered of these interfaces using cross-sectional display and sputter etching. Resulting structural and morphological features have been investigated with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Diffusion of the nitridation, oxynitride formation and interfacial growth are of general interest.
Abstract Large areas of the southern European countries possess a Mediterranean climate, which influences soil properties, land use, fertilizer application practices and pathways of phosphorus (P) loss from agricultural soils. On average, inputs of fertilizer P exceed P exports from the agricultural areas in these countries; however, large differences in P surplus/deficit and soil P test values exist among regions. Losses of P in drainage water are modest except in some irrigated areas and in those regions where intensive animal production is concentrated. Losses of P in runoff water, whether as dissolved reactive or particulate P, can be substantial as a result of the significance of erosive processes under the land uses typical of the Mediterranean region, where extreme rainfall events c...
The work identifies the first lattice decoding solution that achieves, in the general outage-limited MIMO setting and in the high-rate and high-SNR limit, both a vanishing gap to the error-performance of the (DMT optimal) exact solution of preprocessed lattice decoding, as well as a computational complexity that is subexponential in the number of codeword bits. The proposed solution employs lattice reduction (LR)-aided regularized (lattice) sphere decoding and proper timeout policies. These performance and complexity guarantees hold for most MIMO scenarios, all reasonable fading statistics, all channel dimensions and all full-rate lattice codes. In sharp contrast to the above manageable complexity, the complexity of other standard preprocessed lattice decoding solutions is shown here to be extremely high. Specifically the work is first to quantify the complexity of these lattice (sphere) decoding solutions and to prove the surprising result that the complexity ...
The bulk removal of CO/sub 2/ from industrial gases is a frequently applied process in the field of gas-treating. Usually chemical solvents are used in order to increase both the solvent-loading capacity and the absorption rate. These solvents often are aqueous solutions of alkanolamines. The loaded-liquid is regenerated at high temperatures with the aid steam. In the present study absorption rates are experimentally determined in various mixtures of amines over a wide range of concentrations. Simultaneously, a model was developed for the description of mass transfer accompanied by parallel reversible chemical reactions. The equations of this mass transfer model could not be solved analytically and therefore numerical techniques were used to obtain an exact description of this process. This model also includes the asymptotic situations of homogeneous catalysts and shuttle mechanism for which in the literature several approximate solutions have been presented. The observed absorption ...
ObjectivesThe development of novel formulations of nanoparticles in the nanotechnology industry and their increasing importance and use in industry means there is certainty of human environmental exposures in both the workplace and the general environment. The pulmonary route of exposure to airborne nanoparticles is a major one, as nanoparticles are handled in industry, escape from workplaces and products containing nanoparticles undergo attrition in the environment. There is a substantial problem for ris [continued...]DescriptionNanoparticles are extremely small particles, each individual particlel being less than one ten millionth of a metre in size. We are exposed to nanoparticles in busy streets as they are present in traffic exhaust produced from combustion of fuel and such nanoparticles are considered to be important in causing the harmful effects associated with exposure to air pollution. There are other situations where nanoparticles are found in the air, ...
In the present scenario of market driven business, power supply has become more like a commodity. Reliable and quality power need to be ensured to meet customer requirements. In such a situation, it is extremely important that transmission line faults be identified accurately, reliably and in quick time. Advanced signal processing tools such as discrete wavelet transform (DWT) can be used very effectively for parameterisation and characterization of the fault signals. On the other hand, properly configured neural network (NN) can be utilized for classification of the faults based on the DWT signal. The present contribution uses electromagnetic transient program (EMTP) for modeling of a real transmission system and MATLAB for DWT and NN. Various types of faults have been simulated at different locations along the transmission line and an attempt has been made to correctly identify and locate the fault. (author)
In the present scenario of market driven business, power supply has become more like a commodity. Reliable and quality power need to be ensured to meet customer requirements. In such a situation, it is extremely important that transmission line faults be identified accurately, reliably and in quick time. Advanced signal processing tools such as discrete wavelet transform (DWT) can be used very effectively for parameterisation and characterization of the fault signals. On the other hand, properly configured neural network (NN) can be utilized for classification of the faults based on the DWT signal. The present contribution uses electromagnetic transient program (EMTP) for modeling of a real transmission system and MATLAB for DWT and NN. Various types of faults have been simulated at differ...
Purpose: To determine if involved field radiation (IF) is equivalent to standard whole bone radiation (SF) in local tumor control; to establish patterns of failure following treatment; and to determine response, event-free survival (EFS), and overall survival rates from multidisciplinary therapy in Ewing's sarcoma. Methods and Materials: Between 1983 and 1988, 184 children with Ewing's sarcoma were enrolled onto Pediatric Oncology Group 8346 (POG 8346). A total of 178 (97%) met eligibility criteria; 6 had pathology other than Ewing's sarcoma. Induction chemotherapy of cyclophosphamide/doxorubicin (adriamycin )(C/A) x 12 weeks was followed by local treatment either surgery or radiation therapy and C/A, dactinomycin, and vincristine for 50 weeks. Resection was advised for patients with small primary tumors if accomplished without functional loss. Forty patients were randomized to receive SF, whole bone radiation to 39.6 Gy plus a 16.2 Gy boost (total 55.8 Gy) or IF to 55.8 Gy, and the ...
Calculating work-function modifications for flat-lying conjugated molecules on extended metal surfaces using density functional theory (DFT) is an extremely resource intensive task. This prevents fast screening of new molecules for their potential to optimize metal work functions for good electron or hole injection in organic electronic devices. We present a semi-classical model, which avoids that problem. This is achieved by identifying the dominant processes occurring at the interface between metal and adsorbate in the pinning-regime, which are then parameterizing their description using band-structure DFT calculations for a small training set With the resulting interdependent equations at hand, only simple gas-phase calculations are needed to predict the work-function changes induced by new molecules. The model is tested for ten molecules on three different metal surfaces, where it shows excellent agreement with photoelectron spectroscopy data on these systems.
The flexible, insulated, single strand cables are electrically connected with a cylindrical polar tip (PN) by means of cylindrical and conical shafts for the polar tips, which enter the faces of the divided, multiwire strand, clamped by tension half couplings. The flat ends of the polar tips being joined are positioned in two concentric mandrel bushings, an internal fixed one and an external, axially movable bushing (PV). The internal bushing is rigidly attached to the end of the left polar tip and equipped with three or four rounded, radial openings, whose diameter is determined by the external diameter of the locking device hinges (ShF) of the connecting couplings. The right polar tip is equipped with an annular channel of trapezoidal section into which the locking device hinges enter. The external movable bushing on the right side has a conical turning and on the left, a cylindrical into which the cylindrical spring which holds the movable bushing in the extreme ...
Large optical surveys provide an unprecedented census of galaxies in the local Universe, forming an invaluable framework into which more detailed studies of objects can be placed. But how useful are optical surveys for understanding the co-evolution of black holes and galaxies, given their limited wavelength coverage, selection criteria, and depth? In this conference paper I present work-in-progress comparing optical and mid-IR diagnostics of three "unusual" low redshift populations (luminous Seyferts, dusty Balmer-strong AGN, ULIRGs) with a set of ordinary star-forming galaxies from the SDSS. I address the questions: How well do the mid-infrared and optical diagnostics of star formation and AGN strength agree? To what extent do optical surveys allow us to include extreme, dusty, morphologically disturbed galaxies in our "complete" census of black hole-galaxy co-evolution?
An evaporative cooling system developed for operation and qualification testing of silicon pixel and microstrip detectors for the inner tracking detector of the CERN ATLAS spectrometer is described. Silicon detector substrates must be continuously operated between 0 and ???7?C in the high radiation environment near the circulating beams at the CERN Large Hadron Collider (LHC). This requirement imposes unusual constraints on the cooling system and has led to the choice of perfluoro-n-propane (C3F8) refrigerant, which combines good chemical stability under ionizing radiation with high dielectric strength and nonflammability. Since the silicon detectors must also be of extremely light construction to minimize undesirable physics background, coolant tubes are of thin (200 ?m) aluminum wall, wh...
This paper discusses a new control strategy for photovoltaic power generation systems with consideration of dynamic characteristics of the photovoltaic cells. The controller estimates internal currents of an equivalent circuit for the cells. This estimated, or the virtual current and the actual voltage of the cells are fed to a conventional Maximum-Power-Point-Tracking (MPPT) controller. Consequently, this MPPT controller still tracks the optimum point even though it is so designed that the seeking speed of the operating point is extremely high. This system may suit for applications, which are installed in rapidly changeable insolation and temperature-conditions e.g. automobiles, trains, and airplanes. The proposed method is verified by experiment with a combination of this estimating function and the modified Boehringer's MPPT algorithm.
This paper describes the results of a French-Lebanese scientific cooperation, between 2001 and 2005, about 'Rational use of energy in the residential buildings in Lebanon and adaptation of an energy certification procedure'. The aim of this project is to promote the energy efficiency in the existing residential buildings in Lebanon, using an energy certification procedure, and to evaluate the energy certification foresight with prospective methods. The paper first describes an energy investigation in Lebanese residential buildings, and the energy certification procedure. It presents the foresight methodology implemented to identify the key variables and the actors. Finally, the paper exposes the morphological method which allows to elaborate three scenarios of energy performance certification. These scenarios are ...
This presentation outlined the energy policy in the United States and its impact on frontier development in Alaska, deepwater offshore fields and in the western oil shale resources. The energy strategy focuses on technologies that increase domestic production from existing resources as well as technologies that create new sources of energy. In addition to emphasizing the cooperation between Canada and the United States in ensuring energy supply security and stability, this paper discussed the importance of overall bilateral trade between the 2 countries. It was noted that Canada is the United State's most secure and reliable energy partner and is the number 1 supplier of imported oil, natural gas, electricity and uranium. The Bush administration's energy policy is based on the mandate to supply stable, reliable, secure, affordable and ...
Security of supply is defined as the availability and reliability of energy supply at acceptable prices. By security of energy supply we mean a globally large supply of reliable, affordable, clean energy. By virtue of its nature security of supply in the energy sector primarily requires making provisions for the future through exploration, innovation, research, diversification and investments in technology. Energy politics takes place in a tension field defined by the goals of economic efficiency, sustainability and security of supply. In the past there have been repeated shifts within this triad of goals. The task for a rational energy policy is to reconciliate these goals in a meaningful way. European energy policy is understood to comprise all sovereign measures taken by the European Union in the energy sector, in ...
Current hydrocarbon-based energy systems, current energy consumption and the push towards the utilization of renewable energy sources, fuelled by global warming and the need to reduce atmospheric pollution are discussed. The consequences of climatic change and the obligation of Annex B countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions in terms of the Kyoto Protocols are reviewed. The role that renewable energy sources such as hydrogen, solar and wind energy could play in avoiding the most catastrophic consequences of rapidly growing energy consumption and atmospheric pollution in the face of diminishing conventional fossil fuel resources are examined. The focus is on hydrogen energy as a means of storing and transporting primary energy. Some favorable characteristics of hydrogen is its abundance, the fact that it can be ...
Development of renewable energy systems for remote communities is gaining interest among government, utilities, NGOs and the communities themselves as a means of improving lifestyles of community members and showcasing renewable energy systems. The Huu-ay-aht First Nation, whose traditional territory is located on the west side of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, is a community which has energy related problems and energy related opportunities. The objective of this study is to assess possible energy options for the Huu-ay-aht First Nation traditional territory. Current and future energy services within the territory were used as the starting point for developing energy system options. Extensive consultation with community members was instrumental in clearly defining the objectives of the study and understanding the territory's ...
This paper describes a simulation model for predicting end-use energy consumption in residential sectors of a city or region. In this model, the annual energy consumption of a dwelling is simulated from the occupants' schedule of living activities, weather data and energy efficiencies of appliances and dwellings. By summing up the simulation results for various household categories, total energy consumption for the residential sector in a region can be estimated. In this paper, energy consumption for Osaka City is simulated. The result is compared with statistical data. The effects of energy efficiency standards and urban heat island phenomena are examined. (author)
The section on environmental impacts covers global environmental concerns and air pollution. Energy systems includes the following: alternative fuels; co-generation; fossil fuels; mechanical thermal storage; fission/fusion; thermal management; electric and hybrid vehicles. The section on renewable energy sources includes biomass, hydrogen, and solar. This volume also contains separate sections for stirling cycles, policy issues, and new technologies for energy utilization. Separate abstracts were prepared for 150 papers of this volume.
The paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the energy conservation policy conducted in the Central and Eastern European countries - its development from the start of reforms and up to the present. The problems of rational energy consumption are shown to be closely connected with the concrete conditions of the transition from the economy based on the command principles to the market economy. The author indicates the main areas of application for energy conservation activities. He also describes the models for determination of energy intensity in different branches of energy economy, and organisational structure of the measures to be taken foe energy conservation. (author)
Energy productivity and energy intensity within the industrial sector of the economy are examined. Results suggest that relative prices and other economic factors can explain much of the variation in both energy productivity and energy intensity for manufacturing and mining and for the industrial sector as a whole. Cyclical factors, seasonal factors and trend variables are also useful in explaining variation in these data, both for annual and monthly time series. Of the variables examined, it appears that the relative price of energy is a highly significant factor in accounting for the difference between actual industrial energy intensity and that which might have been expected had pre-1973 trends continued.
The Advanced Power Electronics Interfaces for Distributed Energy Workshop, sponsored by the California Energy Commission Public Interest Energy Research program and organized by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, was held Aug. 24, 2006, in Sacramento, Calif. The workshop provided a forum for industry stakeholders to share their knowledge and experience about technologies, manufacturing approaches, markets, and issues in power electronics for a range of distributed energy resources. It focused on the development of advanced power electronic interfaces for distributed energy applications and included discussions of modular power electronics, component manufacturing, and power electronic applications.
Purpose: To evaluate the importance of surgical margins for local and systemic control of Ewing's sarcoma family tumors (ESFT). Methods and Materials: Between 1979 and 1999, 512 patients with ESFTs entered 4 different adjuvant and neoadjuvant studies performed at a single institution. Of these patients, 335 were treated with surgery alone (196) or surgery followed by radiotherapy at doses of 44.8 Gy (139). We compared their outcome with that of the 177 patients who were locally treated by radiotherapy at 60 Gy. Results: Local control (88.8% vs. 80.2%, p < 0.009) and 5-year disease-free survival (63.8% vs. 47.6%, p < 0.0007) were significantly better in patients treated with surgery and, among them, in those with adequate surgical margins (96.6% vs. 71,7%, p < 0.0008, and 69.6% vs. 46.3%, p < 0.0002). Nonetheless, better results were observed only in extremity tumors. Conclusions: Surgery is better than radiotherapy in cases of ...
We have conducted an investigation to determine the occurrence and distribution of erionite, a potential carcinogen, at Yucca Mountain, Nevada. Using x-ray powder diffraction techniques yielding detection limits to below 0.05 wt %, we positively identified erionite in only 3 out of 76 bulk and 12 fracture samples investigated. The three erionite-bearing samples (J12-620/630, UE-25aNo.1-1296.2, and USW G4-1314) all occur above the static water level in clay/zeolite-rich horizons near the top of vitrophyres. Erionite occurs as trace amounts of less than 1 wt % in the whole rock, although it may occur locally in significant amounts as fracture fillings (e.g., UE-25aNo.1-1296.2 where it comprises approximately 45 wt % of the fracture filling material). All three occurrences appear to be extremely isolated cases since erionite was not detected in neighboring samples. Erionite at Yucca Mountain apparently formed only in localized microenvironments, possibly restricted to ...
Our institute has been investigating laser-produced tin, lithium and xenon plasma for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light source of EUV lithography system, and found the highest conversion efficiency of 3% at 13.5 nm in 2% bandwidth. In the present paper, we introduce fabrication methods of density-controlled tin targets to generate relatively monochromatic EUV, and higher conversion efficiency than bulk tin. The first method is the nano-template method, where liquid tin solution was immersed into a polymer film with monodispersed size nano-particle. The density can be controlled by tin concentration of the solution. The target can be classified into mass-limited target. We have shown a tendency of monochromatic EUV emission around 13.5 nm with decreasing of tin density. The intensity was higher than tin foil with bulk density. The tendency has a merit to mitigate heat effect of the first EUV mirror. The fabrication method has another merit to control not only density ...
Our institute has been investigating laser-produced tin, lithium and xenon plasma for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light source of EUV lithography system, and found the highest conversion efficiency of 3% at 13.5 nm in 2% bandwidth. In the present paper, we introduce fabrication methods of density-controlled tin targets to generate relatively monochromatic EUV, and higher conversion efficiency than bulk tin. The first method is the nano-template method, where liquid tin solution was immersed into a polymer film with monodispersed size nano-particle. The density can be controlled by tin concentration of the solution. The target can be classified into mass-limited target. We have shown a tendency of monochromatic EUV emission around 13.5 nm with decreasing of tin density. The intensity was higher than tin foil with bulk density. The tendency has a merit to mitigate heat effect of the first EUV mirror. The fabrication method has another merit to control not only density ...
We studied the strain introduced in a Si(111) substrate due to MeV ion implantation using extremely asymmetric x-ray diffraction and measured the rocking curves of asymmetrical 113 diffraction for the Si substrates implanted with a 1.5 MeV Au"2"+ ion at fluence values of 1x10"1"3, 5x10"1"3, and 1x10"1"4/cm"2. The measured curves consisted of a bulk peak and accompanying subpeak with an interference fringe. The positional relationship of the bulk peak to the subpeak and the intensity variation of those peaks with respect to the wavelengths of the x rays indicated that crystal lattices near the surface were strained; the lattice spacing of surface normal (111) planes near the surface was larger than that of the bulk. Detailed strain profiles along the depth direction were successfully estimated using a curve-fitting method based on Darwin's dynamical diffraction theory. Comparing the shapes of resultant strain profiles, we found that a strain evolution rapidly ...
In order to prevent corrosion failures of machines and structures, it is desirable to know in advance when the corrosion damage will take place, and appropriate measures are needed to mitigate the damage. The corrosion predictions are needed both at development as well as operational stage of machines and structures. There are several forms of corrosion process through which varying degrees of damage can occur. Under certain conditions these corrosion processes at alone and in other set of conditions, several of these processes may occur simultaneously. For a certain type of machine elements and structures, such as gears, bearing, tubes, pipelines, containers, storage tanks etc., are particularly prone to pitting corrosion which is an insidious form of corrosion. The corrosion predictions are usually based on experimental results obtained from test coupons and/or field experiences of similar machines or parts of a structure. Considerable scatter is observed in corrosion processes. The ...
It is necessary to measure strength and creep behavior to guarantee the safe and reliable usage of refractory alloys at extremely high temperatures. In the literature there is very little information available about the properties of Mo-Re alloys at temperatures higher than 1000 C. A special test facility has been designed and built for stress-rupture testing at very high temperatures (up to 3000 C) of refractory metals and alloys in inert atmospheres. - The stress-rupture strength as well as the creep behavior of molybdenum-rhenium alloys with rhenium contents between 41 and 51 wt.% have been determined at temperatures ranging from 1200 to 2000 C, and rupture times of up to 10 hours using this facility. Previous measurements of stress-rupture strength and creep behavior of pure rhenium have been compared with the measurement results of Mo-Re alloys. - The discussion of the values measured is based on metallographic test results and scanning electron microscopy ...
The treatment of bony, osteochondral, and ligamentous injuries of the tibio-talar requires precise preoperative planning by radiological investigation. This is essential to a correct understanding of the underlying pathology and will allow a proper classification of the injury, which is the basis of treatment. Conventional radiography using anteroposterior and lateral X-rays with comparative views of the noninjured side and, if necessary, rotated spot views and tomography are of high value especially in osteochondral fractures of the talus. Intraoperative control images in both planes after osteosynthesis are mandatory. For evaluation of the postoperative course and severity of arthrosis formation, the classification system of Bargon has proved its worth. In addition, tomography of the tibio-talar joint in two planes is useful especially in tibial pilon fractures, some malleolar fractures, and peripheral talar fractures. In talar fracture dislocations with concomitant compartment ...
The sterile insect release technique can often be improved by removal of females before release. Rearing efficiencies can also be increased if removal of the females occurs at early developmental stages. In order to begin to develop genetic sexing strains for the pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders), it was necessary to determine the best dosage of radiation for induction of viable sex linked recessive lethal mutations and to see if stocks containing induced sex linked lethals could be maintained in culture. Sex linked recessive lethal mutations can be detected by distorted sex ratios in the progeny of treated adults. However, in the pink bollworm, highly distorted sex ratios are common even in the absence of induced mutations. Therefore, a visible sex linked trait, purple eye, was used as a marker for the untreated X-chromosomes in crosses. Thus, the presence of a recessive sex linked lethal mutation induced by the radiation treatment may be detected by the combination ...
During secondary oil recovery, water is injected into the formation to sweep out the residual oil. The injected water, however, follows the path of least resistance through the high-permeability zones, leaving oil in the low-permeability zones. Selective plugging of these their zones would divert the waterflood to the residual oil and thus increase the life of the well. Bacteria have been suggested as an alternative plugging agent to the current method of polymer injection. Starved bacteria can penetrate deeply into rock formations where they attach to the rock surfaces, and given the right nutrients can grow and produce exo-polymer, reducing the permeability of these zones. The application of microbial enhanced oil recovery has only been applied to shallow, cool, onshore fields to date. This study has focused on the ability of bacteria to enhance oil recovery offshore in the North Sea, where the environment can be considered extreme. A screen of produced water ...
Research highlights: #-># Red mud residues (RM) were disposed in alumina production. #-># Utilization of Red mud residues was affected by its iron content. #-># Superconducting magnetic separation (HGSMS) was used in iron separation from RM. #-># RM with high and low iron contents were separated in HGSMS. - Abstract: The disposal of bayer red mud tailings now seriously threats the environment safety. Reduction and recycling of red mud is now an urgent work in aluminum industry. High gradient superconducting magnetic separation (HGSMS) system was applied to separate the extreme fine RM particles (<100 #mu#m) into high iron content part and low iron content part. Two sorts of RM were fed in the HGSMS. The iron oxide contents in concentrates were about 65% and 45% when RM 1 and RM 2 were fed respectively. Meanwhile, the residues contained 52.0% or 14.1% iron oxide in residues after eight separation stages when RM 1 and RM 2 were fed respectively. The ...
This paper presents the results of an experiment conducted in the BN-350 fast reactor in Kazakhstan that involved the irradiation of argon-pressurized thin-walled tubes (0--2000 MPa hoop stress) constructed from Fe-16Cr-15Ni-3Mo-Nb stabilized steel in contact with the sodium coolant, which enters the reactor at {approximately}270 C. Tubes in the annealed condition reached 75 dpa at 335 C, and another set in the 20% cold-worked condition reached 81 dpa at 360 C. Upon disassembly all tubes, except those in the stress-free condition, were found to have failed in an extremely brittle fashion. The stress-free tubes exhibited diameter changes that imply swelling levels ranging from 9 to 16%. It is expected that stress-enhancement of swelling induced even larger swelling levels in the stressed tubes. The embrittlement is explained in terms of the sensitivity of the swelling regime to displacement rate and the large, unprecedented levels of swelling reached at 335--360 C ...
Fully fluorinated compounds (perfluoro compounds) represent a class of chemicals which include many extremely inert species-inert to both chemical reaction and photodissociation. Well known examples include SF6 and the perfluorocarbons (PFCs) CF_4 and Teflon. SF_6 is used industrially in electrical switch gear and as an atmospheric tracer. CF_4 and C_2F_6 are released into the atmosphere as a by-product of aluminum manufacture. Several perfluoro compounds have been proposed as substitutes for the ozone-destroying Freons and halons; proposed substitutes include SF_6, c-C_4F_8, C_5F_1_2, and C_6F_1_4. These chemicals were chosen in part because they do not harm the stratospheric ozone layer and were therefore considered environmentally friendly. Recently, Ravishankara et al. reported that perfluoro compounds have significant global warming potential (GWP), contributing to the greenhouse effect due to strong infrared absorption. The perfluoro compounds have ...
A novel, obligately anaerobic, extremely thermophilic, cellulolytic bacterium, designated OB47T, was isolated from Obsidian Pool, Yellowstone National Park, WY, USA. The isolate was a non-motile, non-spore forming, Gram-positive rod approximately 2 m long by 0.2 m wide and grew at temperatures between 55-85oC with the optimum at 78oC. The pH range for growth was 6.0-8.0 with values of near 7.0 being optimal. Growth on cellobiose produced the fastest specific growth rates at 0.75 hr-1. The organism also displayed fermentative growth on glucose, maltose, arabinose, fructose, starch, lactose, mannose, sucrose, galactose, xylose, arabinogalactan, Avicel, xylan, filter paper, processed cardboard, pectin, dilute acid-pretreated switchgrass and Populus. OB47T was unable to grow on mannitol, fucose, lignin, Gelrite, acetate, glycerol, ribose, sorbital, carboxymethylcellulose and casein. Yeast extract stimulated growth and thiosulfate, sulfate, nitrate, and sulfur were not ...
The late effects of "2"3"9Pu have been studied after its administration to perinatal, juvenile and adult rats. Adults and weanlings were injected intravenously, newborns intracardially and 19-day foetuses by intravenous injection of the dam. Dose levels were selected to deliver radiation doses of approximately 7, 23, or 70 rads to the femur of all ages during the first 10 days post injection; in general these values were achieved as shown by tissue analysis. Dose rates subsequently diverged, resulting in widely varying cumulative radiation doses for the four age groups. Survival times of rats exposed post-natally were progressively decreased by increasing dose. No decrement in survival was found for those exposed prenatally. Bone tumour incidence was increased by exposure to Pu in all age groups. The younger rats were less sensitive on an administered dose basis, but perhaps more sensitive on the basis of cumulative radiation dose. Prenatally exposed animals, which were cross-fostered ...
The Meteorological Service of Canada has made weather datasets available in real-time on the Internet, for use by those with an interest in solar applications. Ensemble weather models can be used to produce medium range forecasts of weather events and to predict the likely available kilowatt-hours (kWhrs) of solar energy. As such, solar sites can maximize their harvest and use of solar energy. This presentation highlighted several different types of renewable energy forecasts obtained from weather models, including forecasts of expected kWhrs from solar panels and wind turbines, daily forecasts of expected solar heated water volumes and forecasts of water collection potential from impending precipitation events. The value of renewable energy forecasts in helping the solar energy sector monitor daily energy loads as well as daily and weekly solar ...
The interaction between a lower hybrid wave and a fusion alpha particle displaces the alpha particle simultaneously in space and energy. This results in coupled diffusion. Diffusion of alphas down the density gradient could lead to their transferring energy to the wave. This could, in turn, put energy into current drive. Here we calculate numerical solutions for the alpha energy transfer and study a range of conditions that are favourable for wave amplification from alpha energy. We find that it is possible for fusion alpha particles to transfer a large fraction of their energy to the lower hybrid wave. The numerical calculation shows that the net energy transfer is not sensitive to the value of the diffusion coefficient over a wide range of practical values. An extension of this idea, the use of a lossy boundary to enhance the ...
The interaction between a lower hybrid wave and a fusion alpha particle displaces the alpha particle simultaneously in space and energy. This results in coupled diffusion. Diffusion of alphas down the density gradient could lead to their transferring energy to the wave. This could, in turn, put energy into current drive. Here we calculate numerical solutions for the alpha energy transfer and study a range of conditions that are favourable for wave amplification from alpha energy. We find that it is possible for fusion alpha particles to transfer a large fraction of their energy to the lower hybrid wave. The numerical calculation shows that the net energy transfer is not sensitive to the value of the diffusion coefficient over a wide range of practical values. An extension of this idea, the use of a lossy boundary to enhance the ...
The interaction between a lower hybrid wave and a fusion alpha particle displaces the alpha particle simultaneously in space and energy. This results in coupled diffusion. Diffusion of alphas down the density gradient could lead to their transferring energy to the wave. This could, in turn, put energy into current drive. An initial analytic study was done by Fisch and Rax. Here the authors calculate numerical solutions for the alpha energy transfer and study a range of conditions that are favorable for wave amplification from alpha energy. They find that it is possible for fusion alpha particles to transfer a large fraction of their energy to the lower hybrid wave. The numerical calculation shows that the net energy transfer is not sensitive to the value of the diffusion coefficient over a wide range of practical values. An extension of this ...
The French agency of environment and energy mastery (Ademe) and Deutsche Energie Agentur (DENA) organised in Berlin on November 22 and 23, 2001, the first seminar and forum of ideas and exchanges on the implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy policies in France and in Germany. On this occasion, Ademe asked Energie-Cites - an association of European cities with a long practical experience in 'good practice' exchanges - to prepare a publication describing the experience of about ten French cities or local energy agencies in energy management issues. The case studies presented in this document concern the following cities: Besancon, Dole, Dunkerque, Lille, Montpellier, and the local energy agencies of Clermont-Ferrand (Aduhme), Grenoble, Montreuil-Vincennes, Mulhouse and Rennes. (J.S.)
Primary energy consumption per unit of gross domestic product (GDP) indicates the importance of energy as an input to an economy. The most important determinant of energy consumption per GDP unit is economic structure, although the efficiency with which energy is used and the availability of non-commercial energy sources are also significant. Energy consumption intensities among the industrial nations reflect, in part, the vigor with which energy conservation and substitution policies have been pursued in the past decade. Energy production intensities indicate resource endowment, and may vary from zero to close to 100% of GDP. Comparisons of the seven world regions note that the centrally planned economies distort the figures because of their method of measuring economic output. 1 table.
The IEA has identified energy efficiency as essential to achieving a sustainable energy future. In order to improve energy efficiency in industry one of the priority areas for further action is the promotion of more and higher quality energy management (EM) activity. However, there are significant gaps in the current implementation of EM. One method of bridging these gaps would be the creation of an EM Action NetworK (EMAK) to bring practical support to energy managers, connect energy managers to energy policy makers, and interconnect these networks globally. The paper describes possible aims, activities, scope, structure, timelines and approaches related to EMAK and looks at specific tasks that would be important in the set-up and implementation.
may be possible to meet those loads with renewable energy systems &mdashachieving zero-net- energy performance.Solar-thermal heating systems, ...p/p Spencer and others argue that renewable energy systems should be considered only after the building envelope ...energy loads are brought low enough, however, a renewable energy system may make sense financially. p
...Simplification of the scheme - Department of Energy and Climate Change simplification, crc energy efficiency scheme Simplification of the scheme Simplification of the CRC Energy ...Efficiency Scheme The Government is considering the simplification of the CRC in the light of experience since the scheme began in April 2010. ...will take into account feedback from stakeholders including: the effectiveness of the CRC framework for driving energy efficiency in large private and public sector ... The perceived complexity of the CRC scheme and hence the administrative burden on: - those organisations that are subject to ...
The article explains the method of selecting the optimum energy for correcting the energy selectivity of tomographic projection and the optimum length of the crystals corresponding to it when the dual energy method in computerized tomography is used. Results of numerical calculations for actual materials and count results are presented.
This short article describes the strategies taken into consideration by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy for the promotion of renewable forms of energy in Switzerland. Two basic models are considered and the parts to be played by the Swiss Confederation, the Swiss Cantons, Energy Agencies and professional organisations are discussed. The importance of the activities of partner organisations and actor-networks in various areas such as solar, small hydro, geothermal and wind energy are discussed, as are models for financing the necessary promotion and marketing efforts
This 2001 status on the use of renewable energies in France makes a synthesis of the electric and heat productions of renewable origin. It lists the primary or secondary productions of renewable energies, and details the uses corresponding to each renewable energy production source and their respective satisfaction of consumer's needs (residential, industry and agriculture sectors). A detail statistical status for 1999, 2000 and 2001 is presented in tables. (J.S.)
DescriptionFossil fuels have a detrimental effect on the environment. They lead to the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide which has been documented over the last 150 years. In contrast, some sources of renewable energy are near carbon neutral. Renewable energy produced from biomass constitutes such a type of energy and so has many potential advantages. The Energy White Paper (DTI et al., 2003) identifies bioenergy as an important means of meeting the Government's energy and environment objectives, in [continued...
Clear effects of the Act on Power Generation from Renewable Energy Sources (EEWaermeG) on the market cannot be recognized both for the depth geothermal energy and ground source geothermal energy. Due to the concrete design of the law a position that is inferior to others is attained in relation to some other renewable energy sources.
Contains Executive Summary and Chapters on: Energy and the Internet; Internet Developments; Search Guide; Oil and Gas Industry; Electricity and Utilities; Nuclear Energy; Coal Industry; Alternative Energy; Government and Supranational Agencies; Research Institutions and Universities; Energy Statistics; Commodity Pricing and financial Markets; Company Information; Country Information; Associations; Engineering; Environment; Patents, Trademarks and Standards; News; Industry Events; Miscellaneous. (Author)
The purpose of this analysis is to develop a systematic program of projects that will result in energy consumption reductions in compliance with the stated goals of the Army Facilities Energy Plan for the Stratford Army Engine Plant in Stratford, Connecticut. Reduced energy consumption is a stated goal for the Army Facility Energy Plan.
A series of speeches is presented which cover political aspects of ocean energy, legislation, the status of the DOE Ocean Energy Program, the Maritime Administration OTEC Support Program. Six workshop reports are given covering ocean energy technology and systems concepts, power systems concepts, environmental developments, energy transfer and utilization, construction and test capabilities, and industry development. (LEW)
This quarterly newsletter provides timely news and information about the plans and progress of the Energy Development in Island Nations U.S. Virgin Islands pilot project, including significant events and milestones, work undertaken by each of the five working groups, and EDIN-sponsored renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.
The US Department of Energy, Office of Technical and Financial Assistance (OTFA) promotes the application of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and practices by working cooperatively with state and local governments and private and nonprofit organizations, providing technical and financial assistance and serving as network for sharing information. This report is an overview of some of the programs designed to aid in solving our national energy problems.
The inevitability of sustainable economic development and its linkage to a gradual shift to renewable energy sources, especially solar energy, was discussed. Means to measure sustainability of technology were described, and policy instruments (essentially research, development and demonstration, and punitive taxes on conventional energy carriers) to accelerate the shift to renewable energy sources were outlined.
Mitsubishi Research Institute has analyzed the energy demand of a typical Japanese city, Yokohama, as well as the distribution of fossil-energy flow, and the final consumption by sectors. It has evaluated the effectiveness of various energy conservation measures, (e.g., cogeneration, electric cars, insulation,...) in countering the global warming trend. This study defines a viable methodology which may be utilized, in the future, in examining the effectiveness of environmental policies. (TEC). 1 tab., 4 figs.
As the 20th century draws to a close, both individual countries and the world community face challenging problems related to the supply and use energy. These include local and regional environmental impacts, the prospect of global climate and sea level change associated with the greenhouse effect, and threats to international relations in connection with oil supply or nuclear proliferation. For developing countries, the financial cost of providing energy to provide basic needs and fuel economic development pose an additional burden. To assess the magnitude of future problems and the potential effectiveness of response strategies, it is important to understand how and why energy use has changed in the post and where it is heading. This requires study of the activities for which energy is used, and of how people and technology interact to provide the energy services that are desired. ...
As the 20th century draws to a close, both individual countries and the world community face challenging problems related to the supply and use energy. These include local and regional environmental impacts, the prospect of global climate and sea level change associated with the greenhouse effect, and threats to international relations in connection with oil supply or nuclear proliferation. For developing countries, the financial cost of providing energy to provide basic needs and fuel economic development pose an additional burden. To assess the magnitude of future problems and the potential effectiveness of response strategies, it is important to understand how and why energy use has changed in the post and where it is heading. This requires study of the activities for which energy is used, and of how people and technology interact to provide the energy services that are desired. ...
Environmental Protection Agency Energy Management and Conservation Program ...Environmental Protection Agency Office of Administration and Resources Management 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (3101A) ...MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION 7 Energy Management Infrastructure 7 Senior Agency Official and Energy Team 7
This fact sheet highlights how renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies can and are being used to reduce air emissions and meet environmental goals, showcasing case studies and technology-specific topics.
By placing a discharge or 'dump' tube across an exploding bridgewire load, it is possible to by-pass the electrical energy and terminate the explosion of the wire. The dump tube is triggered by a signal derived from the energy removed from the storage cap...
The melting unit, consisting of a water-cooled cupola furnace, afterburner, heat exchanger, air preheater, consumes most of the supplied energy in the rockwool process. The report maps the energy flows and defines factors of merit according to thermodynam...
In the case of total skin electron therapy without the beam guide, the electron beam is scattered just outside the gantry exit, dose uniformity in the field is broken, and dose is spread outside the light field. The aims of this study were to measure the mean energy of the off-axis incident electron beam without the beam guide and to establish a reference for the clinical situation. For the measurement, a 4 MeV electron beam was selected among several energies from the linear accelerator. A scintillating fiber beam energy monitor measured the mean energy of the incident electron beam. This energy monitor is a small, light-weight piece of equipment composed of a wedge absorber, scintillation fiber, and photodiode. We found the relationship between electron energy and the indicated value of the energy monitor by means of the estimation of ...
The high-energy reaction cross sections of Li and Be isotopes are calculated using a simplified Glauber model and densities constrained by the empirical binding energies. We find excellent agreement with experiment, reproducing the large increase for the most neutron-rich nuclei.
Title: FY 2004 Energy Management and Conservation Program Annual Report ...Energy Management and Conservation Program ...Environmental Protection Agency Office of Administration and Resources Management 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (3101A)
The following manual chapters are outlined and described: overview, boilers, juice evaporators, feed mills, refrigeration, additional energy savings potentials, emerging technologies, optimization of integrated plant energy systems, and economics. (MHR)
;Contents: Energy Use; Building Fabric Performance; Ventilation and Infiltration; Passive Solar Design; Heating Systems and Controls; Hot and Cold Water Provision; and Lighting and Electrical Appliances.
Contents: Energy Use; Building Fabric Performance; Ventilation and Infiltration; Passive Solar Design; Heating Systems and Controls; Hot and Cold Water Provision; and Lighting and Electrical Appliances.
This paper deals with electron flux densities and electron energy flux densities in positive column discharges. Recent kinetic calculations by Uhrlandt and Winkler have revealed the interesting physical phenomenon of radially inward directed energy flux densities in positive column plasmas. We have used a self-consistent positive column model, based on an accurate and highly detailed Monte Carlo code, to study this effect in more depth. The results of this study show a rather complex physical picture of electron particle and energy flux densities. Electrons with low energies usually exhibit radially outward directed particle and energy flux densities. At energies above the threshold for electronic excitation particle and energy flux densities are usually inward directed. Only close to the wall, at total energies above ...
The energy-momentum tensor of a massless spinor field is constructed and studied based on the previously proposed interpretation of quantum effects of such a field in the anisotropic metric of Bianchi type IX. The characteristic properties of the energy-momentum tensor in the mixed universe model are discussed.
The report deals with the energy consumption of traffic and its emissions of hazardous substances into the air, and stresses the advantages of the electric car with respect to energy consumption and noise generation. 5 figs., 3 refs.
Energy study was conducted in an organic fertilizer production plant in Nigeria, to determine the energy consumption patterns and the associated costs for the production of both powdered and pelletised fertilizer. Analysis was conducted for a daily production of 9000 kg of the finished products. Eight and nine defined unit operations were required for production of powder and pellets, respectively. The electrical and manual energy required for the production of powder were 94.5 and 5.6% of the total energy, respectively, with corresponding 93.9 and 5.1% for the production of pellets. The respective average energy intensities were estimated as 0.28 and 0.35 MJ/kg for powder and pellets. The most energy intensive operation was identified as the pulverizing unit with energy intensity of 0.09 MJ/kg, accounting for respective proportions of 33.4 ...
This volume is a summary of the results of the final report of the Energy Engineering Analysis Program (EEAP) Study of 30 selected dining facilities at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
The problems of introducing renewable energy systems into communities having meagre resources are analysed. Topics covered include financial and economic barriers, subsidies and bank policy. It is concluded that without satisfactory financing mechanisms, renewable energies are unlikely to be widespread in the developing world. (UK)
The objective of this project is to reduce energy consumption in 203 buildings by providing a new EMCS (Energy Monitoring Control System) to control and monitor systems.
... Question Chronic fatigue: Can natural remedies boost my energy? Are there any natural remedies that reduce chronic ... AN01764 ">Chronic fatigue: Can natural remedies boost my energy? Guidelines for sites linking to MayoClinic.com ...
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 ...
Computer assisted energy-spectral analyses were obtained on EEG recordings of unilateral non-dominant hemisphere ECT-induced seizures using the different pre-ECT anesthetic agents methohexital (Brevital), Innovar, and ketamine (Ketalar). The previously postulated predominance of electrical energy over the stimulated (right) hemisphere early in ECT-induced seizures is confirmed. There appears to be marked reduction in total seizure energy with methohexital anesthesia, whereas ketamine anesthesia appears to be associated with increased overall seizure energy. The greatest right to left energy transfer during the seizure occurred with Innovar anesthesia. PMID:7172456
This is the first report about a relevant and compiled information on the Mexican Energy Sector. It was realized in one volume by the University Energy Program of the National Autonomous University of Mexico and it comprises information for the period 1996-1997. In the chapter 1 there are presented the numbers of hydrocarbon reserves. Chapter 2 treats about production, events and its results. Likewise chapter 3 shows information about the typical Installations for petroleum, gas and electricity including through of the nuclear energy. In the chapter 4, named Energy Consumption, is presented a National energy balance for 1996 and, finally there are a sections about the prices, the rates and a glossary to facilitate its understanding. (Author)
This report issued by the Energy Economics Group and the Laboratory for Energy Systems Analysis at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) analyses current and future trends in the area of energy and mobility on a global, European level as well as with respect to the German-speaking countries Austria, Germany and Switzerland. In a first step, developments with regard to how mobility is achieved and the energy consumption involved are examined and the impact of business-as-usual trends on global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and future fuel consumption is discussed. In a second step, the paper outlines potential alternative futures in terms of energy and mobility. Finally, the paper derives and presents recommendations for policy-makers.
The feasibility of a high-energy electron cooling device has been studied through tests on a prototype of the electron device. The apparatus consists of a pulsed ((20-60) keV, 2#mu#s) electron gun, a drift region 1 m long and of a depressed collector for recovering the electron energy. Tests on beam optics and energy recovery have been performed, a high-energy recovery efficiency has been attained. Experimental results are discussed in this paper.
The purpose of this paper is to inform commercial building designers about an energy analysis tool which can aid them in making appropriate decisions about daylighting. The energy nomographs are an energy design tool which calculate the annual energy consumption of commercial buildings, including lighting, heating, cooling, domestic hot water, fans, pumps, and miscellaneous items. This paper specifically discusses the daylighting aspects of the tool. The calculation procedure is presented with an example to explain how this design tool can be used to make good energy decisions early in the design process.
A complete guide to 7000 key decision makers and 2800 organizations actively involved in energy today, the 1983 Directory updates the changes in state and Congressional energy offices that resulted from the 1982 elections, the reshuffling at DOE, the shifts of jurisdiction at the Department of the Interior, and the increasing role of the private sector in funding energy research and development. New features include the addition of nearly 100 major venture-capital firms and key public-affairs contacts. The Directory also features an Annual Energy Review highlighting development that will have international effects in the coming year.
In this short communication, we discuss the energy consumption trends in the Malaysian road transport sector, with a special emphasis on the energy losses due to vehicle aerodynamic drag on highways. The recent trends of energy consumption in the Malaysian road transport sector are reviewed. It is evidently shown that the aerodynamic losses represented exceed 1.2MTOE annually since 2002. A novel concept of vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) farms for harvesting aerodynamic energy losses on Malaysian highways is preliminarily proposed. The novel concept aims at providing a sustainable and green energy source for the lighting of the highway network in the country.