Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

With the ubiquitous availability of commercial VME modules and interface chips many experiments in all branches of Experimental Physics are turning to VME as the module packaging and backplane protocol of choice for application specific modules. The current VME backplane, electrical, and mechanical standards are clearly lacking when it comes to implementing the analogue and digital front end modules that Physics experiments rely on to provide the needed high speed and intelligent solutions to their data collection requirements. To address these needs the European ESONE and American VME-P committees are collaborating with the ANSII and ISO standards committees, and the VME VITA/VSO manufacturers associations, to define standard extensions to the VME protocols for such HEP needs as ``sparse data scans``, standard uses and implementations of previously user defined pins and connectors, standardization of the 9U form factor VME ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Cytokinins are hormones that regulate cell division and development. As a result of a lack of specific mutants and biochemical tools, it has not been possible to study the consequences of cytokinin...Full Text Available

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Persistent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 170 million people worldwide. Acute HCV infection is often asymptomatic, but many infected individuals develop persistent infections that may lead to development of end-stage liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Thus, an HCV vaccine that could significantly lower the chronicity rate would have a major impact on the disease burden. Unfortunately, HCV is a highly mutable virus, and escape mutations can undermine vaccine-induced virus-specific immunity. Also, HCV exists as multiple genotypes, and so genotype-specific vaccines might be required to achieve broad protection. Finally, vaccine development has been hampered by the lack of a small animal model and cell culture systems, but these are currently being established. Despite these obstacles, several vaccine candidates tested in the chimpanzee HCV model have shown ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Radixin is a cytoskeletal protein that may be important in linking actin to the plasma membrane. Recent cloning of the murine and porcine radixin cDNAs revealed a protein highly homologous to ezrin and moesin. The authors have cloned and sequenced the human radixin cDNA and found the predicted amino acid sequence for the human protein to be nearly identical to those predicted for radixin in the two other species. By Southern analyses of Chinese hamster x human somatic cell hybrid DNA and of PCR products derived from hybrids, the coding gene (RDX) was mapped to 11q. Fluorescence chromosomal in situ hybridization with a cDNA plasmid further localized this gene to band 11q23. However, PCR amplification with [open quotes]radixin-specific[close quotes] primers on the hybrid DNA panel yielded an additional, very similar DNA sequence that was further characterized by direct sequencing of PCR products. This sequence represents a truncated version and ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundHigh serum uric acid concentration (hyperuricemia) has been studied for its relationship with multiple adverse health outcomes, such as metabolic syndrome. Intervention...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Primary malignant lymphoma of the brain is a disease of unknown etiology, which is increasing in incidence and has an unfavorable prognosis. Despite the lack of specific changes on CT or MRI in most cases, these procedures may typically facilitate the diagnosis: A focal-enhancing mass with subependymal spread on CT or MRI and hyperattenuation on nonenhanced CT are the most reliable features in the diagnosis of primary malignant lymphoma of the brain. Peritumoral edema and mass effect are usually not prominent features. On unenhanced CT scans they usually appear homogeneously isodense to mildly hyperdense relative to the gray matter. On MRI these tumors are slightly hypointense on T1-weighted images and slightly hpyerintense on PD- and T2-weighted images relative to the gray matter. On CT and MRI enhancement is usually homogeneous. Contrast-enhanced MRI, with its multiplanar capability, lack of bone-induced artifacts, and ...

Science.gov (United States)

The advancement of bioprocess monitoring will play a crucial role to meet the future requirements of bioprocess technology. Major issues are the acceleration of process development to reduce the time to the market and to ensure optimal exploitation of the cell factory and further to cope with the requirements of the Process Analytical Technology initiative. Due to the enormous complexity of cellular systems and lack of appropriate sensor systems microbial production processes are still poorly understood. This holds generally true for the most microbial production processes, in particular for the recombinant protein production due to strong interaction between recombinant gene expression and host cell metabolism. Therefore, it is necessary to scrutinise the role of the different cellular compartments in the biosynthesis process in order to develop comprehensive process monitoring concepts by involving the most significant process variables and their ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Host-microorganism interactions in the intestinal tract are complex, and little is known about specific nonpathogenic microbial factors triggering host responses in the gut. In this study, mannose-specific interactions of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v with jejunal epithelium were investigated using an in situ pig Small Intestinal Segment Perfusion model. The effects of L. plantarum 299v wild-type strain were compared with those of two corresponding mutant strains either lacking the gene encoding for the mannose-specific adhesin (msa) or sortase (srtA; responsible for anchoring of cell surface proteins like Msa to the cell wall). A slight enrichment of the wild-type strain associated with the intestinal surface could be observed after 8 h of perfusion when a mixture of wild-type and...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pulsatile hormone secretion is observed in almost every hormonal system. The frequency of episodic hormone release ranges from approximately 10 to 100 pulses in 24 hours. This temporal mode of secretion is an important feature of intercellular information transfer in addition to a dose-response dependent regulation. It has been demonstrated in a number of experiments that changes in the temporal pattern of pulsatile hormone secretion specifically regulate cellular and organ function and structure. Recent evidence links osteoporosis, a disease characterized by loss of bone mass and structure, to changes in the dynamics of pulsatile parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion. In our study we applied nonlinear and linear time series prediction to characterize the secretory dynamics of PTH in both healthy human subjects and patients with osteoporosis. Osteoporotic patients appear to lack periods of high predictability found in normal ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Current trends in nuclear power generation (and particularly in pressurized water reactors) are toward plant life extension and extended fuel burnup. A higher heat generation rate can induce local boiling regimes at the fuel rod surface in the hottest channels of the core, which can strongly modify the chemical environment of the cladding and influence the oxidation rate of zirconium alloys. Tests performed in out-of-pile loops under severe chemical and thermal-hydraulic conditions (nucleate boiling, higher lithium contents compared to PWRs) reveal two important phenomena: an increase of the oxidation rate of Zircaloy-4 cladding materials in 'high' lithiated environments; an enrichment of the chemical additives in the primary water (boron, lithium) at the surface of the cladding under nucleate boiling conditions. The latter phenomenon, also called 'hideout effect', is mainly controlled by some thermal hydraulic parameters such as bubble diameters and nucleation ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Improvements in electric submersible pumping systems have resulted in a demonstrated downhole running life of one year for low horsepower units operating in 180 C brine. The implementation of a prototype pressurized lubrication system to prevent brine intrusion and loss of lubricating oil from the motor and protector sections has been successfully tested. Second generation pressurized lubrication systems have been designed and fabricated and will be utilized in downhole production pumping tests during FY84. Pumping system lifetime is currently limited by available power cable designs that are degraded by high-temperature brine. A prototype metal-sheathed power cable has been designed and fabricated and is currently undergoing destructive and nondestructive laboratory testing. This cable design has the potential for eliminating brine intrusion into the power delivery system through the use of a hermatically sealed cable from the surface to the downhole motor. The ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Acanthamoeba castellanii myosins IA and IB demonstrate the catalytic properties of a myosin and can support analogues of contractile and motile activity in vitro, but their single, low molecular weight heavy chains, roughly globular shapes, and inabilities to self-assemble into filaments make them structurally atypical myosins. The authors present the complete amino acid sequence of the 128-kDa myosin IB heavy chain, which they deduced from the nucleotide sequence of the gene and which reveals that the polypeptide is a fusion of myosin-like and non-myosin-like sequences. Specifically, the amino-terminal #approx# 76 kDa of amino acid sequence is highly similar to the globular head sequences of conventional myosins. By contrast, the remaining #approx# 51 kDa of sequence shows no similarity to any portion of conventional myosin sequences, contains regions that are rich in glycine, proline, and alanine residues, and lacks the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Sacramento Municipal Utility District is developing a number of demonstration projects using geothermal heat pumps. This paper discusses some of the barriers and issues that have emerged over the past two years. The most important barriers are: regulatory impediments; high first cost; and a lack of local design and installation infrastructure.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Although a large number of different organisations offer various forest education programmes within Germany, specific information (i.e., sectoral and programme content and provision at a state level) is lacking. This study used a survey of all 61 forest education organisations (43 respondents) in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, to evaluate its forest education sector, with a specific focus on the organisations, demand for its services, forest educational programmes and framework conditions. Input from expert interviews was also used to develop recommendations. The study indicates that, especially with children as the main target group, many non-formal programmes are offered to support the formal environmental education sector and to promote leisure activities in the forest. Y...

Science.gov (United States)

Single-dose and repeated dose toxicity studies of prulifloxacin, a new antibacterial agent, were conducted in aged beagle dogs. I. A single-dose toxicity study Prulifloxacin was administered orally to aged female dogs at a single dose of 2500 and 5000 mg/kg. No death occurred in any group. Vomiting was observed in one of two animals at 2500 mg/kg and in both animals at 5000 mg/kg 3-4 hr after dosing. At 5000 mg/kg, vomiting was observed in both animals after feeding on the day after dosing. One animal also showed soft stool. Thereafter, no abnormalities were observed in any animal. No test article related changes were noted in food consumption, water consumption, body weight or pathological examination in any group. The results show that the lethal dose of prulifloxacin is judged to be greater than 5000 mg/kg in aged female dogs. II. A repeated dose toxicity study Aged male and female dogs were given the test article orally for 4 weeks at doses of 0 (control), 20, 100 and 500 mg/kg. No ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This booklet outlines the position of Manitoba's heat pump market with the objective of promoting the widespread use of geothermal heat pumps in the province. It makes reference to the size of the market, customer satisfaction with heat pumps, and opinion of key players in the industry regarding the heat pump market. The information in this booklet is drawn on market research and lessons learned in Europe and the United States. In October 2001, a group of key stakeholders in Manitoba's heat pump market attended an industry working meeting to address the issues of market barriers, market enablers and market hot buttons. Market barriers include the high cost of geothermal heat pumps, lack of consumer awareness, lack of consistent standards, and public perception that heat pumps are not reliable. Market enablers include the low and stable operating costs of geothermal heat pumps, high level of comfort, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Advances in the theory and practice of stress corrosion cracking (SCC) are reviewed for the period 1965-1990. The proceedings of two landmark conferences are used as a basis for discussion: Ohio State University (1967) and Kohler, WI (1988). The discussion is developed around the following topics: metal-environment combinations, testing, fractography, metallurgical aspects, electrochemical aspects and crack chemistry, mechanisms, and prediction and mitigation. It is concluded that the main developments since 1967 are the recognition of the lack of specificity of SCC environments, the use of slow strain rate and fracture mechanics testing, quantitative SEM fractography, studies of grain boundary structure and compositions, transient electrochemistry of bare metal surfaces, measurement and modelling of crack chemistry, elaboration of several SCC models, including slip-dissolution and film induced cleavage, and mitigation by alloy development or ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

With the exception of the 1945 Hiroshima and Nagasaki nuclear weapon explosions and the 1986 Tchernobyl reactor accident, most of the radiation accidents concerns the medical and the traditional industrial sectors. The seriousness of the accident is directly function of the absorbed dose. The paper, first, gives the definition of a radiologic accident with its specific criteria and pathological manifestations. Then, some famous historical accidents are reviewed from the discovery of X-rays to recent acute irradiations due to the careless manipulation of radiation sources. From this analysis, three main causes are put forward: the dysfunction of nuclear medicine apparatuses, the victims` lack of training and knowledge of the risks, and the non-identification or the loss of radiation sources. (J.S.). 1 photo.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Action potentials from the brain control the activity of spinal neural networks to produce, by as yet unknown mechanisms, a variety of motor behaviors. Particularly lacking are details on how identified descending neurons integrate diverse sensory inputs to generate specific locomotor patterns. We have examined the operations of the principal neurons in an intriguing midbrain nucleus, the nucleus of the medial longitudinal fasciculus (nMLF), in the larval zebrafish. The nMLF is the most rostral grouping of neurons that projects from the brain well into the spinal cord of teleost fishes, yet there is little direct physiological data available regarding its function. We report here that a distinct set of large, individually-identifiable neurons in nMLF (the MeL and MeM neurons) are activated...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Tailor die quenching in the hot stamping of quenchable steel sheets was developed to produce ultra-high strength steel formed parts having strength distribution. Local portions of the heated sheet were quenched by holding grooved tools at the bottom dead centre during the stamping. Non-contact portions were generated in the sheet by grooving the tools, and thus the strength in the contact portions is high owing to the quenching and that in the non-contact portions is low owing to the lack of the quenching. Hat-shaped products having a tensile strength of approximately 1.5GPa only at four corners were formed.

Science.gov (United States)

The identification of crystallographic phases in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) has been limited by the lack of a simple way to obtain electron diffraction data of an unknown while observing the micro structure of the specimen. With the development of Charge Coupled Device (CCD) based detectors, backscattered electron Kikuchi patterns (BEKP), alternately referred to as electron backscattered diffraction patterns (EBSP), can be easily collected. Previously, BEKP has been limited to crystallographic orientation studies due to the poor pattern quality collected with video rate detector systems. With CCD detectors, a typical BEKP can now be acquired from a micron or sub-micron-sized crystal using an exposure time of 1-10 seconds with an accelerating voltage of 10-40 kV and a beam current as low as 0.1 nA. Crystallographic phase analysis using BEKP is unique in that the properly equipped SEM permits high magnification images, BEKP`s, and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

California utilities have been exploring the use of critical peak prices (CPP) to help reduce needle peaks in customer end-use loads. CPP is a form of price-responsive demand response (DR). Recent experience has shown that customers have limited knowledge of how to operate their facilities in order to reduce their electricity costs under CPP (Quantum 2004). While the lack of knowledge about how to develop and implement DR control strategies is a barrier to participation in DR programs like CPP, another barrier is the lack of automation of DR systems. During 2003 and 2004, the PIER Demand Response Research Center (DRRC) conducted a series of tests of fully automated electric demand response (Auto-DR) at 18 facilities. Overall, the average of the site-specific average coincident demand reductions was 8% from a variety of building types and facilities. Many electricity customers have suggested that automation will help them ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

A nonviral vector for highly efficient site-specific integration would be desirable for many applications in transgenesis, including gene therapy. In this study we directly compared the genomic integration...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Carbon monoxide can be produced in severe accidents from interaction of ex-vessel molten core with concrete. Depending on the particular core-melt scenario, the type of concrete and geometric factors affecting the interaction, the quantities of carbon monoxide produced can vary widely, up to several volume percent in the containment. Carbon monoxide is a combustible gas. The carbon monoxide thus produced is in addition to the hydrogen produced by metal-water reactions and by radiolysis, and represents a possibly significant contribution to the combustible gas inventory in the containment. Assessment of possible accident loads to containment thus requires knowledge of the combustion properties of both CO and H_2 in the containment atmosphere. Extensive studies have been carried out and are still continuing in the nuclear industry to assess the threat of hydrogen in a severe reactor accident. However the contribution of carbon monoxide to the combustion threat has received less ...

Science.gov (United States)

Gas evolution in aluminum electrolytic capacitors constitutes one of their main drawbacks in comparison to other types of capacitors lacking a liquid electrolyte. In this respect, one of the most common causes of failure shown by liquid electrolyte capacitors is electrolyte leakage through the seal or even explosions produced by internal pressure buildup. In order to prevent these hazards, some substances, known as depolarizers, are usually added to the capacitor electrolyte with the purpose of absorbing the hydrogen evolved at the cathode (1, 2). Although the gas evolution problem in electrolytic capacitors has been known for a long time, there is a lack of literature on both direct measurements of the gas evolved and assessments of the amount of depolarizer active for the hydrogen absorption process. Aluminum electrolytic capacitors of 100..mu..F and 40V nominal voltage, miniature type (diam 8 mm, height 18.5 mm), were manufactured under ...

Science.gov (United States)

Lack of access to basic education leads to diminished individual and national capabilities, therewith furthering cycles of poverty. An equitable education system meeting basic learning needs represents not only a human right, but also a means for reducing poverty, promoting productivity, and sustaining development. The Government of China--the most populous developing nation, the majority of whose citizens live in rural areas--has been committed to universalizing nine-year compulsory education among school-aged children and eliminating illiteracy among youths and adults aged 15-45. This study examines lessons learned from China's efforts in these areas. It also reports on current challenges and trends in a new national initiative for achieving high-quality universal basic education by the year 2007.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Statement of problem Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) titanium ceramic restorations were developed with the potential for replacing expensive, high noble metal ceramic restorations. However, there is a lack of information about the clinical performance of CAD/CAM titanium ceramic single crowns. Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate CAD/CAM titanium ceramic single crowns after 3 years in function. Material and methods A total of 41 crowns were fabricated for 21 patients. The titanium copings were CAD/CAM milled (Everest CAD/CAM system) with an even thickness of 0.5 mm, and low-fusing veneering porcelain (Vita Titanium Porcelain) was added incrementally. The crowns were cemented using zinc phosphate cement after confirming that there were no mechanical...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In support of the efforts to apply ceramics to advanced heat engines, a study is being performed of the performance of ceramics at the ring/cylinder interface of advanced (low heat rejection) engines. The objective of the study, managed by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, is to understand the basic mechanisms controlling the wear of ceramics and thereby identify means for applying ceramics effectively. Attempts to operate three different zirconias, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, and plasma-sprayed ceramic coatings without lubrication have not been successful because of excessive friction and high wear rates. Silicon carbide and silicon nitride perform well at ambient temperatures with fully formulated mineral oil lubrication, but are limited to temperatures of 500F because of the lack of suitable liquid lubricants for higher temperatures.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

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...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The risks from mining and processing of ores is reviewed on a generic basis with particular reference to some of the confusions which can arise due to lack of consistency or common logic in the use of exclusion, exemption and clearance. The difference in exclusion and exemption are challenged by comparing doses received in high background radiation areas and the doses received from a mining practice. The common principle of risk to the human species is not applied consistently. The differences between IAEA recommendations and local regulatory conditions are compared, and the use of exemption levels as clearance levels is considered. A case study on management of mine tailings is presented with special focus on the use of clearance levels. In all areas of review the interpretation of regulation is subject to confusion resulting from inconsistencies which can distort free market economics. (author).

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

As Darwin portended but failed to develop, and of which Gould made much, the forensic evidence of evolution points toward Punctuated Equilibrium rather than Phyletic Gradualism; however Gould?s empirical postulation has long suffered from its lack of a testable theoretical basis. This is rectified by the work of Jaroslav Flegr and the Frozen Plasticity Theory, a hypothesis with striking application within semiotic theory and hence to questions of epistemology and ontology. The consequences of applying FPT within Biosemiotics is this: when any particular sign carries a great range of interpretation (semiotic polymorphism) combined with a high degree of mutually supportive referencing (semiotic pleiotropy), that sign is less likely to exhibit plasticity?less able to find new expressions capa...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A procedure for high level tritium labelling at the C2-H position of adenosine 5`-triphosphate ([2-{sup 3}H]-ATP, 1), based on the tritiodehalogenation reaction of 2-bromoadenosine 5`-triphosphate (2) has been elaborated. This precursor was prepared in a six-step synthesis from guanosine. The tritiodehalogenation of (2) for three hours over palladium oxide in phosphate buffer yielded tritium labelled ATP with high specific activity, in good chemical yield. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The two-phase flow program is directed at understanding the hydrodynamics of two-phase flows. The two-phase flow regime is characterized by a series of flow patterns that are designated as bubble, slug, churn, and annular flow. Churn flow has received very little scientific attention. This lack of attention cannot be justified because calculations predict that the churn flow pattern will exist over a substantial portion of the two-phase flow zone in producing geothermal wells. The University of Houston is experimentally investigating the dynamics of churn flow and is measuring the holdup over the full range of flow space for which churn flow exists. These experiments are being conducted in an air/water vertical two-phase flow loop. Brown University has constructed and is operating a unique two-phase flow research facility specifically designed to address flow problems of relevance to the geothermal industry. An important feature of the facility ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The Mixed Waste Management Facility, or MWMF, has been proposed as a national testbed facility for the demonstration and evaluation of technologies that are alternatives to incineration for the treatment of mixed low-level waste. The facility design will enable evaluation of technologies at pilot scale, including all aspects of the processes, from receiving and feed preparation to the preparation of final forms for disposal. The MWMF will reduce the risk of deploying such technologies by addressing the following: (1) Engineering development and scale-up. (2) Process integration and activation of the treatment systems. (3) Permitting and stakeholder issues. In light of the severe financial constraints imposed on the DOE and federal programs, DOE/HQ requested a study to assess the cost benefit for the MWMF given other potential alternatives to meet waste treatment needs. The MVVMF Project was asked to consider alternatives specifically associated with ...

Science.gov (United States)

The Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) has introduced a risk based approach into Section XI that covers Rules for Inservice Inspection of Nuclear Power Plant Components. The risk based approach requires application of the probabilistic risk assessments (PRA). Because no industry consensus standard existed for PRAs, ASME has developed a standard to evaluate the quality level of an available PRA needed to support a given risk based application. The paper describes the PRA standard, Section XI application of PRAs, and plans for broader applications of PRAs to other ASME nuclear codes and standards. The paper addresses several specific topics of interest to Section XI. Important consideration are special methods (surrogate components) used to overcome the lack of PRA treatments of passive components in PRAs. The approach allows calculations of conditional core damage probabilities ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) has introduced a risk based approach into Section XI that covers Rules for Inservice Inspection of Nuclear Power Plant Components. The risk based approach requires application of the probabilistic risk assessments (PRA). Because no industry consensus standard existed for PRAs, ASME has developed a standard to evaluate the quality level of an available PRA needed to support a given risk based application. The paper describes the PRA standard, Section XI application of PRAs, and plans for broader applications of PRAs to other ASME nuclear codes and standards. The paper addresses several specific topics of interest to Section XI. Important consideration are special methods (surrogate components) used to overcome the lack of PRA treatments of passive components in PRAs. The approach allows calculations of conditional core damage probabilities both for ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A micro-mechanistic understanding of bone fracture that encompasses how cracks interact with the underlying microstructure and defines their local failure mode is lacking, despite extensive research on the response of bone to a variety of factors like aging, loading, and/or disease. Micro-mechanical models for fracture incorporating such local failure criteria have been widely developed for metallic and ceramic materials systems; however, few such deliberations have been undertaken for the fracture of bone. In fact, although the fracture event in mineralized tissues such as bone is commonly believed to be locally strain controlled, until recently there has been little experimental evidence to support this widely held belief. In the present study, a series of in vitro experiments involving a double-notch bend test geometry are performed in order to shed further light on the nature of the local cracking events that precede catastrophic fracture in bone and to define ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Changes facing the electricity supply industry are significant, and the challenges these changes pose are enormous. There are major changes to the business environment of transitional electric utilities. There are also changes in the management of the companies in that nontechnical people are taking over the leadership of traditionally technical companies to deal with the new business scenario. This raises the concern that there may be a lack of familiarity by management of the technical issues involved with the result that the quality of the product may be at risk over the long term. This article deals with the future. It describes a vision for the control center energy management systems (EMS) network security applications as a function of the current and expected changes in the electric supply industry. The objective is to present a conceptual specification. It suggests possible approaches to the problems control centers are likely to ...

Science.gov (United States)

Studies of the effectiveness of operant, relaxation, cognitive, and multimodal behavioural approaches to the treatment of chronic benign pain other than headache were evaluated. In general, the quality of the studies was poor, and most investigations lacked appropriate and adequate control conditions, outcome measures, and/or follow-ups. While outcome reports for all four behavioural treatments have been mainly positive, few data were found which conclusively demonstrate that any of the approaches are effective or that they are the treatment of choice. The data do, however, imply that behavioural approaches may help patients lead more normal and productive lives. Specifically, the literature suggests that: (1) the operant method leads to increased activity levels and decreased pain and drug intake, (2) the relaxation approach results in decreased EMG levels and some pain reductions, (3) the cognitive techniques are speculative at this time, and ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

DNA replication in Escherichia coli cells lacking protein HU was studied. HU has been suggested to be involved in the initiation of replication from in vitro studies. The isolated HU mutants, however,...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vertical thin film evaporators have been used to concentrate and dry solutions because their rotating swing blades prevent scale from being deposited on the heated surfaces. Powdering capacity of the vertical thin film evaporator was examined experimentally for drying applications of radioactive liquid waste generated from nuclear power plants. As a result, it was found that the powdering capacity increased with the blade rotation, changing significantly in the low ratational region and scarcely in the high rotational region. The powdering capacity in the high rotational region was restricted by the lack of heat flux which was theoretically evaluated for the concentrating process. As the critical factor in the low rotational region was not clear, a visual test apparatus was made to observe flow patterns in the evaporator, and a powdering model was obtained. This model showed that powdering process was obstructed when the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper proposes a high accuracy numerical method to model oil spill trajectories using a particle-tracking algorithm. The Euler method, used to calculate oil trajectories, can give adequate solutions in most open ocean applications. However, this method may not predict accurate particle trajectories in certain highly non-uniform velocity fields near coastal zones or in river problems. Simple numerical experiments show that the Euler method may also introduce artificial numerical dispersion that could lead to overestimation of spill areas. This article proposes a fourth-order Runge-Kutta method with fourth-order velocity interpolation to calculate oil trajectories that minimise these problems. The algorithm is implemented in the OilTrack model to predict oil trajectories following the 'Nissos Amorgos' oil spill accident that occurred in the Gulf of Venezuela in 1997. Despite lack of adequate field ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In rare instances, carbon monoxide (CO) levels in houses can reach dangerously high concentrations, causing adverse health effects ranging from mild headaches to, under extreme conditions, death. Hundreds of fatal accidental carbon monoxide poisonings occur each year primarily due to the indoor operation of motor vehicles, the indoor use of charcoal for cooking, the operation of malfunctioning vented and unvented combustion appliances, and the misuse combustion appliances. Because there is a lack of simple, inexpensive, and accurate field sampling instrumentation, it is difficult for gas utilities and researchers to conduct field research studies designed to quantify the concentrations of CO in residences. Determining the concentration of CO in residences is the first step towards identifying the high risk appliances and high-CO environments which pose health risks. Thus, there exists an urgent need to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A simple procedure is described for preparing {sup 125}I-labelling hyluronan of high molecular weight. The reducing terminal group of hyaluronic acid was derivatized with tyramine through the formation of a Schiff base which was subsequently reduced with sodium cyanoborohydride. By radioiodination of the aromatic ring, {sup 125}I-labelled hyaluronic acid was obtained in high yield (40%) and high specific activity, 555 GBq/mmol (15 Ci/mmol). (Author).

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

N alpha-Acetylenkephalin carboxypeptidase was co-purified with N-acetyltyrosine deacetylase from monkey kidney. Almost 90% of the activity from the homogenate was recovered in a high-speed supernatant...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

The advanced technologies of Ka-Band systems such as high gain spot .... sometimes used based on link requirements for a specific application. .... received at NASA LeRC from a Ku-band satellite and retransmitted to the USAT at Ka-Band. .... and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The specific white matter location of all the spinal pathways conveying penile input to the rostral medulla is not known. Our previous studies using rats demonstrated the loss of low but not high threshold...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Polyamine oxidase was purified to homogeneity from leaves of water hyacinth by the criterion of sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis (SDS disc PAGE). The enzyme showed a high specificity for spermidine...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

We had previously identified a macrophage surface protein whose expression is highly induced, transient, and specific, as it is restricted to actively fusing macrophages in vitro and in vivo. This protein...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

There is no gold standard diagnostic test for the detection of bovine cryptosporidiosis. Infection is usually highest in 2-week-old calves, and these calves also excrete high numbers of oocysts. These...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundGATA-2 is a transcription factor required for hematopoietic stem cell survival as well as for neuronal development in vertebrates. It has been shown that specific expression...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The mechanisms involved in the glacial inception are still poorly constrained due to a lack of high resolution and cross-dated climate records at various locations. Using air isotopic measurements in the recently drilled NorthGRIP ice core, we show that no evidence exists for stratigraphic disturbance of the climate record of the last glacial inception ({proportional_to}123-100 kyears BP) encompassing Dansgaard-Oeschger events (DO) 25, 24 and 23, even if we lack sufficient resolution to completely rule out disturbance over DO 25. We quantify the rapid surface temperature variability over DO 23 and 24 with associated warmings of 10{+-}2.5 and 16{+-}2.5 C, amplitudes which mimic those observed in full glacial conditions. We use records of {delta}{sup 18}O of O{sub 2} to propose a common timescale for the NorthGRIP and the Antarctic Vostok ice cores, with a maximum uncertainty of 2,500 years, and to examine the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report highlights four main points. (1) A residue substitution in phosphoribulokinase of Synechocystis PCC 6803 renders the mutant light-sensitive. The authors isolated a light-sensitive mutant (BRLS) of the photosynthetic cyanobacterium Synechocystis 6803 that does not survive exposure to bright light; 70% of BRLS cells die upon exposure to light of > 3000 lux for 2 hr. (2) Excitation energy transfer from phycocyanin to chlorophyll in an apcA-defective mutant of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. A greenish mutant of the normally bule-green cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PC 6803, designated UV6p, was isolated and characterized. UV6p possesses functional photosystems I and II but lacks normal light harvesting phycobilisomes because allophycocyanin is absent and core-specific linker proteins are almost entirely absent. (3) Deletion of the psbG1 gene of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 leads to the activation of the cryptic psbG2 ...

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Background: Recent studies have developed a murine model of IgE-mediated food allergy based on oral coadministration of antigen and cholera toxin (CT) to establish a maximal response for studying immunopathogenic mechanisms and immunotherapeutic strategies. However, for studying subtle immunomodulating factors or factors effective during response initiation, this maximal response-based model is less suitable due to a lack of sensitivity. Therefore, in attempts to identify essential parameters to fine-tune the immune response towards a submaximal level, potentially more sensitive, we were interested in characterizing the individual effects of the parameters in the CT-based model: CT dose, antigen type and dose, and number of immunizations. Methods: BALB/c mice were orally sensitized weekly for 3 or 7 weeks with graded doses of CT and various food antigens (soy-trypsin inhibitor, ovalbumin or ovomucoid). Antigen-specific lgG1, IgG2a, IgA and IgE ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the radiochemical reprocessing of spent fuel from nuclear reactors, a considerable amount of liquid, solid, and gaseous waste is formed; this waste is potentially dangerous to humans and requires the development of special and complex technological techniques for its localization and reliable long-term storage. The most hazardous are liquid wastes of high specific activity - water-tailings solutions obtained in the first cycle of extraction after the removal of uranium and plutonium. These solutions contain more than 99.9% of all the other transuranic elements - isotopes of neptunium, americium, and curium. Where necessary, some fission products and actinides may be removed from wastes of high specific activity for subsequent use. The quantity, composition, and activity of these wastes varies within broad limits, depending on the type and power of the reactor, the initial nuclide composition of the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An electrolyte for high voltage lithium metal anode cells must simultaneously satisfy at least the following requirements; (i) high cycling efficiency on the lithium metal anode; (ii) higher oxidation potential than the charging voltage, and (iii) high specific conductivity. We have examined various electrolytes for lithium metal anode cells using a high voltage cathode, LiMn{sub 1.9}Co{sub 0.1}O{sub 4}. Of the electrolytes resistant to high voltage that we used, a system containing 60 to 90 vol.% of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) mixed with ethylene carbonate (EC) and 1.0 M lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF{sub 6}) provided the best cycling efficiency on a lithium metal anode, as well as a high specific conductivity around 10 mS cm{sup -1} at 20 C. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In this book over 250 alloys are organized by AISI number into 10 major sections: Irons, Carbon Steels, Alloy Steels, Low Alloy Constructional Steels, Ultra High Strength Steels, Tool Steels, Maraging Steels, Wrought Stainless Steels, Heat Resistnat Casting Alloys, and Iron Based Rought Superalloys. Each alloy record lists the designation, specifications, UNS number, composition, product forms and a comment on the high-temperature properties and applications. Referenced data is then given for physical properties such as density, specific heat, thermal conductivity, thermal expansion, electrical conductivity, Poisson's ratio, moduli of elasticity and rigidity, etc. Mechanical properties follow, and include tensile properties, shearing and bearing properties, impact properties, creep, stress rupture and stress relaxation and fatigue properties. The last part of the alloy record gives other ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The discovery of a specific high-affinity growth hormone (GH) binding protein (GH-BP) in plasma adds complexity to the dynamics of GH secretion and clearance. Intuitive predictions are that such a protein...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

None of the materials presently in common use for polarized proton targets has a pure carbon nuclear background. The alcohols and diols contain some oxygen, and the ammonia and amine-based materials contain nitrogen and/or other noncarbon species. In the latter cases the noncarbon nuclei are measurably polarized as a concomitant of the process used to polarize the hydrogen nuclei. The relative simplicity of a pure carbon background would be advantageous for most types of scattering experiments and perhaps crucial for some. In addition to simplifying the kinematics of background events, pure carbon is relatively easy to prepare as a dummy'' target for background subtraction. Also, in such a target material, [sup 13]C-enrichment would yield a clean polarized [sup 13]C material. In this note I explore the possibilities for such materials, touching upon only what I consider to be the high'' points. The subject matter is capable ...

Science.gov (United States)

Peer assessment provides a powerful avenue for students to receive feedback on their learning. Although student perceptions of peer assessment have been studied extensively in higher education, little qualitative research has been undertaken with medical students in problem-based learning (PBL) curricula. A qualitative study of students' attitudes to, and perceptions of, peer assessment was undertaken within the framework of a larger study of metacognition with first-year medical students at the University of Queensland. A highly structured format for provision of feedback was utilised in the study design. Many recommendations from the higher education literature on optimal implementation of peer-assessment procedures were put into practice. Results indicated the existence of six main themes: (1) increased responsibility for others, (2) improved learning, (3) lack of relevancy, (4) challenges, (5) discomfort, and (6) effects on the PBL process. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Some of the smaller sports- und travel aircrafts are still propelled by piston engines. The first part of the article looks into some characteristic damage incidents that occur in aircraft engines. Not surprisingly, vibration fatigue failure happens most frequently. Apart from technical faults it is surprisingly lack of fuel that accounts for the high incidence of engine failure (one third). Flight turbines occasionally fail due to vibration fatigue of component parts. Added to this thermal fatigue cracks and damage due to overheating may occur in a gas turbine while the compressor parts may be affected by corrosion. (orig.) [German] Ein erheblicher Teil der kleineren Sport- und Reiseflugzeuge ist auch heute noch mit Kolbentriebwerken ausgestattet. Im ersten Teil des Aufsatzes werden daher einige charakteristische Schaeden an Flugmotoren vorgestellt. Als Versagensart dominiert erwartungsgemaess der Schwingbruch (Dauerbruch). Neben den technisch ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

(001) CZ silicon wafers were implanted with arsenic (As"+) at energies of 10--50 keV to doses of 2 x 10"1"4 to 5 x 10"1"5/cm"2. All implants were amorphizing in nature. The samples were annealed at 700 C for 16 hrs. The resultant defect microstructures were analyzed by XTEM and PTEM and the As profiles were analyzed by SIMS. The As profiles showed significantly enhanced diffusion in all of the annealed specimens. The diffusion enhancement was both energy and dose dependent. The lowest dose implant/annealed samples did not show As clustering which translated to a lack of defects at the projected range. At higher doses, however, projected range defects were clearly observed, presumably due to interstitials generated during As clustering. The extent of enhancement in diffusion and its relation to the defect microstructure is explained by a combination of factors including surface recombination of point defects, As precipitation, As clustering and end of range damage.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tar sand bitumen is petroleum-based ultra-heavy oil, and has a great amount of reserve like coal. However, there are still a lot of problems for its highly effective utilization. This paper discusses whether the light components in bitumen show independent behavior during the thermal cracking of heavy components, or not. Solvent effect and reaction mechanism during the thermal cracking are also derived from the change of their chemical structures. Athabasca tar sand bitumen was separated into light and heavy fractions by vacuum distillation based on D-1660 of ASTM. Mixtures of the both fractions at various ratios were used as samples. Negative effect of the light fraction on cracking of the heavy fraction was observed with dealkylation and paraffin formation Polymerization of the dealkylated light fraction to the heavy fraction was suggested due to lack of hydrogen in the thermal cracking under nitrogen atmosphere, which resulted in the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Societatea Nationala Nuclearelectrica SA is the operator of the Cernavoda nuclear power plant and the second largest energy producer in Romania, after Hidroelectrica, ensuring 18% of the internal energy demand. The production of nuclear power differs from other industrial activities through the risks it involves and through the legacy it leaves to the future generations, i.e. the nuclear waste. Taking into account these considerations, public acceptance represents a constant preoccupation for nuclear companies around the world. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a new practice in the nuclear industry. After a long tradition of involvement in the life of the local community through the Social Program for Cernavoda, Nuclearelectrica has initiated a CSR campaign with the theme 'Welcome a tree in your family', addressed to pupils and high school students from Cernavoda. By this campaign, we aimed at creating relevance, not just green lots and to launch a chain of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Embedded systems have become integral parts of a diverse range of systems from automobiles to critical infrastructure applications such as gas and electric power distribution. Unfortunately, research on computer security in general and intrusion detection in particular, has not kept pace. Furthermore, embedded systems, by their very nature, are application specific and therefore frameworks for developing application-specific intrusion detection systems for distributed embedded systems must be researched, designed, and implemented. In this paper, we present a configurable middleware-based intrusion detection framework. In particular, this paper presents a system model and a concrete implementation of a highly configurable intrusion detection framework that is integrated into MicroQoSCORBA, a highly configurable middleware framework developed for embedded systems. By exploiting the ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The marine environment is becoming increasingly contaminated by environmental pollutants with the potential to damage DNA, with marine sediments acting as a sink for many of these contaminants. Understanding genotoxic responses in sediment-dwelling marine organisms, such as polychaetes, is therefore of increasing importance. This study is an exploration of species-specific and cell-specific differences in cell sensitivities to DNA-damaging agents in polychaete worms, aimed at increasing fundamental knowledge of their responses to genotoxic damage. The sensitivities of coelomocytes from three polychaetes species of high ecological relevance, i.e. the lugworm Arenicola marina, the harbour ragworm Nereis diversicolor and the king ragworm Nereis virens to genotoxic damage are compared, and dif...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We present the results of the low-temperature specific heat of Kondo compound Ce{sub 3-x}La{sub x}Pd{sub 20}Si{sub 6} (x=0, 1, 2 and 2.7) and its magnetic-field dependence for x=0. The magnetic part of specific heat divided by temperature, C{sub m}/T, for x=0 makes a peak as high as 9 J/mol Ce K{sup 2} at 0.2 K. On the other hand, C{sub m}/T for the other x`s keeps increasing monotonically below 0.2 K and the Fermi-liquid ground state is not realized even in diluted samples. It was found that the magnetic field strongly depresses C{sub m}/T at low temperatures. (orig.).

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Research on the emotion of shame has increased significantly in recent years. However, there remains a need for more psychometrically sound measures of shame, including measures of shame in response to specific, idiographic experiences. The Shame Inventory was developed in order to assess both global feelings of shame as well as shame in response to specific life events or personal characteristics. Two studies were conducted to determine the preliminary psychometric properties of the Shame Inventory. Across both studies, results indicate that the inventory has high internal consistency, test-retest reliability, construct validity, and predictive validity. The Shame Inventory holds promise as a new measure designed to assess both global feelings of shame as well as specific shame-eliciting ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An alternative utilization is presented for the gaseous ionization chamber in the detection of energetic heavy ions, which is called Bragg Curve Spectroscopy (BCS). Conceptually, BCS involves using the maximum data available from the Bragg curve of the stopping heavy ion (HI) for purposes of identifying the particle and measuring its energy. A detector has been designed that measures the Bragg curve with high precision. From the Bragg curve the range from the length of the track, the total energy from the integral of the specific ionization over the track, the dE/dx from the specific ionization at the beginning of the track, and the Bragg peak from the maximum of the specific ionization of the HI are determined. This last signal measures the atomic number, Z, of the HI unambiguously.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Mycosis fungoides (MF) in deep-seated lymph nodes, spleen or liver appears to be associated with a lack of response of the disease to topical external therapy. Fourteen patients with mycosis fungoides...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Orphan G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are receptors lacking endogenous ligands. Found by molecular biological analyses, they became the roots of reverse pharmacology, in which receptors are attempted...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a rare cholestatic liver disease with major morbidity and mortality. Therapeutic management is difficult, due to lack of conclusive data and individual disease...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

... is reduced: 1) by lack of oxygen, 2) in hypercapnia associated with closed rooms or tents, 3) by use of sleeping drugs, antipyretics, insulin, and 4 ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Significant ion irradiation during film growth is required for the formation of cubic boron nitride (cBN) films. Meanwhile, a huge level of intrinsic stress possibly induced by the ion bombardment has been frequently reported to result in cracking and/or lack of adhesion of deposited cBN films. The present work has been performed to investigate the interfacial and/or the buffer layer structures with better matching to the cBN film by relaxation of the film stress using ion-beam-assisted deposition (IBAD). Boron nitride films have been synthesized on Si(100) wafer and tungsten carbide (WC) substrates by depositing boron vapor under simultaneous bombardment with nitrogen ions and nitrogen-argon mixture ions in the energy range of 0.5-10 keV. Cubic BN films with enhanced tribological properties have been explored by inserting a BN layer with various B/N compositions as a controlled buffer at the interface. Significant relaxation of the film stress has been observed ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

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.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Studies were conducted of the bifunctional oxygen electrode. The development of a rechargeable metal-oxygen (air) cell has been hampered to a great extent by the lack of a stable and cost effective oxygen electrode capable of use during both charge and discharge. The first type of bifunctional electrode consists of two distinct catalytifc layers. The oxygen reduction catalyst layer containing a supported gold catalyst is in contact with a hydrophilic nickel layer in which evolution of oxygen takes place. Loadings of gold from 0.5 to 1.0 mg/cm/sup 2/ were investigated; carbon, graphite, metal, and spinel oxides were evaluated as substrates. The second part of the research effort was centered on developing a reversible oxygen electrode containing only one catalytic layer for both reduction and evolution of oxygen. The work was directed specifically to the study of perovskite type of oxides with the composition AA/sup 1/BO/sub 3/ where A is an ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

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

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In a given species, injected opioid peptides usually cause changes in temperature similar to those caused by nonpeptide opioids. The main effect in those species most studied, the cat, rat, and mouse, is an increase in the level about which body temperature is regulated; there is a coordinated change in the activity of thermoregulatory effectors such that hyperthermia is produced in both hot and cold environments. Larger doses may depress thermoregulation, thereby causing body temperature to decrease in the cold. Elicitation of different patterns of response over a range of environmental temperatures and studies with naloxone and naltrexone indicate that stimulation of a number of different receptors by both peptide and nonpeptide opioids can evoke thermoregulatory responses. ..beta..-Endorphin is readily antagonized by naloxone whereas methionine-enkephalin can act on naloxone-insensitive receptors. Moreover, synthetic peptide analogs do not necessarily evoke the same response as does ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The helicase action of the Escherichia coli UvrAB complex on a covalently closed circular DNA template was monitored using bacterial DNA topoisomerase I, which specifically removes negative supercoils. In the presence of E. coli DNA topoisomerase I and ATP, the UvrAB complex gradually introduced positive supercoils into the input relaxed plasmid DNA template. Positive supercoils were not produced when E. coli DNA topoisomerase I was replaced by eukaryotic DNA topoisomerase I or when both E. coli and eukaryotic DNA topoisomerases I were added simultaneously. These results suggest that like other DNA helix-tracking processes, the ATP-dependent action of the UvrAM complex on duplex DNA simultaneously generates both positive and negative supercoils, which are not constrained by protein binding but are torsionally strained. The supercoiling activity of UvrAB on UV-damaged DNA was also studied using UV-damaged plasmid DNA and a mutant UvrA protein that ...

Science.gov (United States)

The goal of the present work was to determine the impact of N3-methyladenine (3-mA), an important lesion generated by many environmental agents and anticancer drugs, on in vivo DNA replication and in vitro RNA transcription. Due to 3-mA chemical instability, the stable isostere 3-methyl-3-deazaadenine (3-m-c(3)A) was site specifically positioned into an oligodeoxynucleotide. The oligomer was, then incorporated into a vector system that is rapidly converted to ssDNA inside yeast cells and requires DNA replication opposite the lesion for plasmid clonal selection. For control purposes, an adenine or a stable apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP)-lesion was placed at the same site. The presence of each lesion in the oligonucleotide was confirmed by MALDI-TOF analysis. Plasmids were then transfected into yeast cells. While the AP-site dramatically reduced plasmid replication in all strains, the 3-m-c(3)A had a slight effect in the rad30 background which significantly increased ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The present paper describes the application of the commercial CFD-code FLUENT 6.1 to the numerical simulation of the flow field in a high specific speed radial fan. Two-dimensional as well as three-dimensional computations are performed using the steady 'Frozen-Rotor method' as well as the unsteady 'Sliding-Mesh method'. The predicted performance curves of the radial fan are compared with the results obtained from measurements on a test stand. Due to the relatively low computation times, the 'Frozen-Rotor method' can be used routinely for design purposes. The results of this approach can be improved if the leakage flow through the gap between the inlet nozzle and the impeller is taken into account. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Analyses of food-borne pathogens are of great importance in order to minimize the health risk for customers. Thus, very sensitive and rapid detection methods are required. Current conventional culture techniques are very time consuming. Modern immunoassays and biochemical analysis also require pre-enrichment steps resulting in a turnaround time of at least 24 h. Biomagnetic separation (BMS) is a promising more rapid method. In this study we describe the isolation of high affine and specific peptides from a phage-peptide library, which combined with BMS allows the detection of Salmonella spp. with a similar sensitivity as that of immunomagnetic separation using antibodies.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In view of the importance of the material Alloy 800 in high-temperature reactor plants (HTR), a material data bank was established which is used for statistical evaluation of mechanical and physical material behaviour. Based on investigations on the interconnection between the mechanical properties at high temperatures and the metallurgical parameters, different types of Alloy 800 were specified in compliance with the component requirements. In addition, aspects of corrosion and toughness behaviour were taken into consideration. The specifications and strength characteristics for the different variants of Alloy 800 were incorporated into draft DIN standards after discussion and approval in expert committees. Further important characteristics of the mechanical and physical material behaviour were summarized in HTR material data sheets so as to furnish an improved basis for the design and stress analyses of Alloy 800 ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The H-D exchange reaction has been measured with the D2-H2O system, for Rhodobacter capsulatus JP91, which lacks the hupSL-encoded hydrogenase, and R. capsulatus BSE16, which lacks the HupUV proteins....Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The presence of the nitrogen-fixing shrub, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa, influences the concentration of inorganic nitrogen in surface waters in the Adirondack Mountain region of northern New York. - The purpose of this research was to determine the abundance of the nitrogen-fixing shrub, Alnus incana ssp. rugosa (speckled alder), in shrub wetlands of the Adirondack Mountain region of New York State and to determine whether its abundance affects the concentration or accumulation of inorganic nitrogen in wetland substrates. Alder/willow wetlands are the second most common wetland type in the Adirondack region. The Adirondack Park Agency's digital GIS database of wetland types was used to determine the areal extent of alder/willow wetlands in the Adirondacks. Randomly selected wetlands were sampled to determine the size and abundance of alder. Alder densities averaged {approx}7000 stems ha{sup -1} and alder was present in 75% of the wetlands. As an indication of short-term ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Concentrations of total arsenic (As) and individual compounds were determined in green and hawksbill turtles from Ishigaki Island, Japan. In both species, total As concentrations were highest in muscle among the tissues. Arsenobetaine was a major compound in most tissues of both turtles. High concentrations of trimethylarsine oxide were detected in hawksbill turtles. A significant negative correlation between standard carapace length (SCL), an indicator of age, and total As levels in green turtles was found. In contrast, the levels increased with SCL of hawksbill turtles. Shifts in feeding habitats with growth may account for such a growth-dependent accumulation of As. Although concentrations of As in marine sponges, the major food of hawksbill turtles are not high compared to those in algae eaten by green turtles, As concentrations in hawksbill turtles were higher than those in green turtles, indicating that hawksbill turtles may have a ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Purpose: To determine the diagnostic value of high resolution MR imaging with a circularly polarised (c.p.) body phased-array coil for the staging of pelvic lymph nodes in cervical carcinoma. Material and methods: 42 patients with histologically proven carcinoma of the cervix were studied on a 1.5 T scanner by using a c.p. body phased-array coil. The imaging protocol included T_2-weighted turbo-spin-echo (TSE) and T_1-weighted spin-echo sequences pre and post IV application of Gd-DTPA; slice thickness was 5-7 mm and pixel size 0.53 mm"2. Lymph nodes with a diameter of #>=#8 mm were considered to have metastatic involvement. MR imaging results were compared with histopathologic findings. Results: MR imaging showed enlarged lymph nodes (#>=# 8 mm) in 16 of 18 patients with histologic proof of lymph node metastases (sensitivity 89%). In 22 of 24 cases MR findings were true negative (specificity 92%). Diagnostic accuracy was 91%. Conclusion: ...

Science.gov (United States)

Production engineering measures for improving production techniques to increase the reliability of high voltage, high temperature aluminum electrolytic capacitors have been completed. The required number of capacitors for each contract item were life tested at 85C for 10,000 hours. There were 9,400 capacitors on the extended life test. Reliability for CU13 and CU17 capacitors and contract item 2AG rated 1.5 mfd - 400 V are shown. The verification testing, which was performed at 125 C on 40 capacitors for each contract item, met the requirements of MIL-C-39018A. It further demonstrated that in addition to CU13 styles which are designed to operate at 125 C, the CU17 manufactured for this contract are capable of operating at 125C with derated voltage. Process specifications and Quality Control Manual are included.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Protein motions on all timescales faster than molecular tumbling are encoded in the spectral density. The dissection of complex protein dynamics is typically performed using relaxation rates determined at high and ultra-high field. Here we expand this range of the spectral density to low fields through field cycling using the nucleocapsid protein of the SARS coronavirus as a model system. The field-cycling approach enables site-specific measurements of R{sub 1} at low fields with the sensitivity and resolution of a high-field magnet. These data, together with high-field relaxation and heteronuclear NOE, provide evidence for correlated rigid-body motions of the entire {beta}-hairpin, and corresponding motions of adjacent loops with a time constant of 0.8 ns (mesodynamics). MD simulations substantiate these findings and provide direct verification of the time scale and collective ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The present invention provides an improvement in the art of combined steam turbine and gas turbine power plants of the type wherein the principal source of energy is a fluidized bed combustor fueled by coal. More specifically, the invention pertains to supplemental firing of the gas turbine cycle with a clean hydrocarbon fuel (CHF) at a high incremental efficiency to significantly increase overall plant efficiency.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The Sin3-histone deacetylase (HDAC) corepressor complex is conserved from yeast to humans. Mammals possess two highly related Sin3 proteins, mSin3A and mSin3B, which serve as scaffolds tethering HDAC...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper deals with a model in which the motion of a gas in plasma accerators and high-curent discharges in the present of a skin effect is treated as expulsion by a 'magnetic piston' under the action of surface current flow. Specifically examined is the situation where the initial gas pressure is negligible in comparison with the magnetic pressure, and the motion of the gas may be treated as a self-simulating one. A system of hydrodynamic equations of the problem is derived and integrated by Adam's method. Results are plotted and discussed.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Proteins with a high propensity to aggregate can be largely prevented from doing so with surprisingly small changes to their primary structure. By using a combination of rational design and quantitative measurements of aggregation rates, we show that adding a single charge in specific "gatekeeper" regions is sufficient to change the timescale for amyloid fibril growth from minutes to weeks, thereby dramatically reducing the efficiency of this process.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

A tobermorite/hydroxyapatite composite was prepared by hydrothermal treatment using diatomaceous earth, ?-tricalcium phosphate and slaked lime starting materials. The XRD patterns of the composite confirmed that tobermorite and hydroxyapatite were formed after the hydrothermal process. The bending strength of the composite reached a level higher than 9?MPa after the hydrothermal process. The development of the bending strength was due to the formation of tobermorite and hydroxyapatite during the hydrothermal process. The composite had a high specific surface area due to these newly formed crystals.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The Fusion Technology task performs analyses and systems studies of conceptual fusion reactors based upon inertial and high-#beta# magnetic confinement schemes. Progress in the areas of theoretical analysis (plasma and neutral-gas blanket models), specific reactor studies (toroidal and linear theta pinches, Z pinches, laser fusion) neutronic and nuclear data assessments, materials (metals and insulators) evaluation, and general engineering design is reported.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a monogenic disease characterized by a high variability of disease severity and outcome that points to the role of environmental factors and modulating genes that shape the course...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For verification of cow fertility a /sup 3/H radioimmunoassay of progesterone in milk and blood plasma was developed. It is of high specificity and accuracy as well. Extraction of progesterone from milk was facilitated by application of alcohol. Suggested differences in milk and plasma progesterone levels between pregnant and nonpregnant cows could be revealed.

Science.gov (United States)

The paper discusses recent work on lime enhancement and testing at the bench-scale, followed by evaluation of the more promising sorbents in a pilot plant to develop low cost, retrofittable flue gas cleaning technology specifically the development of highly reactive sorbents. Con...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Red mud is a kind of alumina production, characterized by high content of fine-dispersion Fe, Al and Ti oxyhydrates; it is studied from the viewpoint of its application as a sorbent for Sr. The red mud specific surface constitutes 23-25 m"2/g, the density is of 3.3-3.4 g/cm"3 and the melting temperature is 1350-1370 deg C. It is established that the maximum sorption capacity of the red mud for strontium equals 420 #+-# 24 mg-eq/100 g. The red mud high sorption properties make it possible to recommend it as a sorbent by constructing technogenic barriers at the radioactive wastes disposal sites

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We investigated the effects of additives to the etching solution of 1 M hydrochloric acid on the electrochemical etching behavior for aluminum electrolytic capacitors, using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and AC impedance spectroscopy. For the addition of 1 M sulfuric acid or 5% ethylene glycol to the hydrochloric acid solution, the distribution of etch tunnels was more uniform with high density of etch pits compared with that without addition. The highest specific surface area was obtained from the electrolyte with 5% ethylene glycol additive. The correlation of internal morphologies of etched foils with impedance parameters was interpreted by impedance techniques.

Science.gov (United States)

In April 2002, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) released this overview of its current work. The report summarizes many of the organization's main programs, which are grouped into three broad areas. The first area details the efforts being made to minimize threats and ensure national security. Development of new technologies and advanced systems is highlighted in the second section, and the third looks at investigations into "high-risk, high-payoff technologies." There are numerous references to the war on terrorism that describe DARPA's involvement and specific projects to defend against terrorist acts.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A useful method for preparing radioiodinated photoaffinity labels from alkyl anilines which offer significant advantages over present methods is described. The one-pot synthesis gives good radiochemical yields (40-64%) of pure, high specific activity (350-1500 mCi/{mu}mol) {sup 124}I labelled iodaryl azides while minimising manipulation of radioactive materials. Purification of the ({sup 125}I)iodoazido photoaffinity labels is achieved by high performance liquid chromatography. (author).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The sol-gel-immobilized Tris(2,2'-bipyridyl)ruthenium(II) [Ru(bpy)_3 "2"+] electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) sensor was applied to the reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) determination of phenothiazine derivatives (promazine, chlorpromazine, triflupromazine, thioridazine, and trifluoperazine) and erythromycin in human urine samples. In this method, Ru(bpy)_3 "2"+ was immobilized in sol-gel-derived titania (TiO_2)-Nafion nanocomposite films coated on a dual platinum electrode. This method eliminates an extra pump needed for the delivery of Ru(bpy)_3 "2"+ reagent into a reaction/observation zone in front of photomultiplier tube because the immobilized-Ru(bpy)_3 "2"+ is recycled on the electrode surface by an applied potential at +1.3 V versus Ag/AgCl (3 M NaCl) reference electrode. The resulting analytical performances such as detection limit, working range, sensitivity, and measurement precision were slightly worse than those obtained ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In previous work the authors showed that on photolysis of Escherichia coli ribosomes in the presence of ({sup 3}H)tetracycline (TC) the major protein labeled is S7, and they presented strong evidence that such labeling takes place from a high-affinity site related to the inhibitory action of TC. In this work they use single protein omission reconstitution (SPORE) experiments to identify those proteins that are important for high-affinity TC binding to the 30S subunit, as measured by both cosedimentation and filter binding assays. With respect to both sedimentation coefficients and relative Phe-tRNA{sup Phe} binding, the properties of the SPORE particles they obtain parallel very closely those measured earlier, with the exception of the SPORE particle lacking S13. A total of five proteins, S3, S7, S8, S14, and S19, are shown to be important for TC binding, with the largest effects seen on omission of proteins S7 and S14. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In-reactor testing of bolt-loaded compact tension specimens was performed in 360 C water to determine the irradiation-assisted stress corrosion cracking (IASCC) behavior of HTH Alloy X-750 and direct-aged Alloy 625. New data confirm previous results showing that high irradiation levels reduce SCC resistance in Alloy X-750. Heat-to-heat variability correlates with boron content, with low boron heats showing improved IASCC properties. Alloy 625 is resistant to IASCC, as no cracking was observed in any Alloy 625 specimens. Microstructural, microchemical and deformation studies were performed to characterize the mechanisms responsible for IASCC in Alloy X-750 and the lack of an effect in Alloy 625. The mechanisms under investigation are: boron transmutation effects, radiation-induced changes in microstructure and deformation characteristics, and radiation-induced segregation. Irradiation of Alloy X-750 caused significant strengthening and ductility ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

For obtaining radiation less damagable laser mirrors, a preliminary optimization of film fabrication suitable for the analysis of laser damage mechanism has been done as the first step. Here, the optimization requires not only the stable fabrication process but also the ideal film structure i.e., the amorphous and smooth film structure simultaneously, eliminating latently unwanted secondary effects such as light scattering during laser damage test. For this purpose, we adopted the ion assisted deposition (IAD) method and modified the deposition conditions for titanium and tantalum oxide films, both of which compose typical high index layers, and where SiO_2 layers are also chosen as low index layers because of their amorphous and smooth nature, in alternative multilayer laser mirrors. Surface and cross sectional film structures and film crystallinity are compared and characterized, using a high resolution SEM and a x-ray diffractometer, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Due to the large number of chemicals in commerce without adequate toxicity characterization data, coupled with an ineffective federal policy for chemical management in the United States, many states are grappling with the challenge to identify toxic chemicals that may pose a risk to human health and the environment. Specific populations (e.g., children, elderly) are particularly sensitive to these toxic chemicals. In 2008, the Children's Safe Product Act (CSPA) was passed in Washington State. The CSPA included specific requirements to identify High Priority Chemicals (HPCs) and Chemicals of High Concern to Children (CHCCs). To implement this legislation, a methodology was developed to identify HPCs from authoritative scientific and regulatory sources on the basis of toxicity criteria. Another set of chemicals of concern was then identified from authoritative sources, based on their potential exposure to ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Summary - Hydraulic traits were studied in temperate, woody evergreens in a high-elevation heath community to test for trade-offs between the delivery of water to canopies at rates sufficient to sustain photosynthesis and protection against disruption to vascular transport caused by freeze-thaw-induced embolism. - Freeze-thaw-induced loss in hydraulic conductivity was studied in relation to xylem anatomy, leaf- and sapwood-specific hydraulic conductivity and gas exchange characteristics of leaves. - We found evidence that a trade-off between xylem transport capacity and safety from freeze-thaw-induced embolism affects photosynthetic activity in overwintering evergreens. The mean hydraulically weighted xylem vessel diameter and sapwood-specific conductivity correlated with susceptibility to...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

As portable electronics become more advanced and alternative energy demands become more prevalent, the development of advanced energy storage technologies is becoming ever more critical in today's society. In order to develop higher power and energy density batteries, innovative electrode materials that provide increased storage capacity, greater rate capabilities, and good cyclability must be developed. Nanostructured materials are gaining increased attention because of their potential to mitigate current electrode limitations. Here we report on the use of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VA-MWNTs) as the active electrode material in lithium-ion batteries. At low specific currents, these VA-MWNTs have shown high reversible specific capacities (up to 782mAhg^-^1 at 57mAg^-...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The human articular cartilagineous proteoglycans (PG) R.I.A. is highly specific. The PG used as the standard and the /sup 125/I labelled molecule appear to be pure. Under these conditions, all the potential interfering substances which have been tested show no cross reaction. For instance, the Ag-Ab equilibrium is not affected by adding human IgG, human albumin, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, rat type II collagen or total human serum proteins. This R.I.A. also exhibits a species spcificity since there is no cross reaction with rat PG and negligible cross section with dog PG. The results obtained after addition of enzymes to the antigen demonstrate that the antigenic sites are localized on the protein region and not on the glycosaminoglycan region of the molecule.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB) is a serious but treatable disease. The diagnosis of LNB poses a challenge to clinicians, and improved tests are needed. The C6-peptide ELISA is frequently used on serum but not on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Data on the sensitivity of the C6-peptide ELISA in CSF in patients suffering from LNB have been conflicting. Serum-CSF pairs from 59 LNB patients, 36 Lyme non-neuroborreliosis cases, 69 infectious meningitis/encephalitis controls and 74 neurological controls were tested in a C6-peptide ELISA. With the optimal cut-off of 1.1, the sensitivity of the C6-peptide ELISA for LNB patients in CSF was 95%, and the specificity was 83% in the Lyme non-neuroborreliosis patients, 96% in the infectious controls, and 97% in the neurological controls. These results ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Purpose: To compare the diagnostic quality and adverse events of the water-soluble, non-ionic, iso-osmolar, dimeric contrast media iodixanol and iotrolan in hysterosalpingography (HSG). Material and Methods: One hundred and twenty patients participated in a double-blind randomized parallel-group phase-III study. Questionnaires and patient interviews were used. Diagnostic quality was assessed using a visual analogue scale and the quality in specific regions was rated using a categorical scale. Results: Overall diagnostic quality was equal for the two groups. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in diagnostic quality in the specific regions of interest. No differences between the contrast media were found with regard to adverse events. Conclusion: Both contrast media provided images of high diagnostic quality in HSG. (orig.)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

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 ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The research documented herein was funded by a research contract between the Research Reactors Division (RRD) of Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) Mechanical, Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering Department (MABE). The research was governed by a statement of work (SOW) which clearly defines nine specific tasks. This report is outlined to follow and document the results of each of these nine specific tasks. The primary goal of this phase of the research is to demonstrate, through verification and validation methods, that COMSOL is a viable simulation tool for thermal-hydraulic modeling of the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) core. A secondary goal of this two-dimensional phase of the research is to establish methodology and data base libraries that are also needed in the full three-dimensional COMSOL simulation to follow. COMSOL version 3.5a was used for all of the models ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Oxygenated fuels increase fuel consumption due to their low enthalpy of combustion; however, their high antiknock index renders them suitable for use in engines with a high compression rate, increasing their thermal yield. This study evaluated the performance of biorenewable oxygenated fuels (ethanol and isoamyl alcohol) and partially renewable fuels (ETBE: ethyl tert-butyl ether, TAEE: tert-amyl ethyl ether and di-TAE: di-tert-amyl ether) with high degree of purity and in mixtures with automotive gasoline, based on tests with Otto cycle engines. Among the oxygenated fuels evaluated here, di-TAE was found to present the best characteristics of performance, both individually and in mixtures with gasoline. 40 refs., 5 figs., 2 tabs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

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 ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

There is a need for earlier and more accurate cancer diagnostics as well as new targets for cancer immunotherapy. To this end, it is important to identify sets of tumour antigens specific for different cancer forms. Several methods that identify potential tumour antigens in an arrayed and high-throughput format have been developed during the last years of SEREX (serological identification of antigens by recombinant expression cloning) related research. Such techniques may hold the potential to describe the complete immunogenic part of the cancer proteome, also called the cancer immunoproteome.We have developed a powerful platform for automated serological high-throughput filter screening of tumour cDNA libraries. The screening format of this method is 18,000 single cDNAs clones, which is s...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Understanding the impacts of climate change on viticulture is especially essential in those areas producing high-quality wines. In this work, we create an operational framework to investigate climate change impact on viticulture in the Tuscany region (central Italy) the viticulture industry of which relies on producing high-quality wines to compete in a global market. The framework includes (i) statistical downscaling of General Circulation Model (GCM) outputs for the period 1975?2099 to a local scale; (ii) the use of downscaling outputs as driving variables in specific simulation models; (iii) the spatial interpolation of model outputs to feed an economic and (iv) a quality model. The results show that as a consequence of a progressive increase in temperature and a decrease in rainfall, (...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Manganese dioxide (MnO2) was prepared using the ultrasonic method. Its electrochemical performance was evaluated as the cathode material for a high voltage hybrid capacitor. And the specific capacitance of the MnO2 electrode reached 240 F.g-1. The new hybrid capacitor was constructed, combining Al/Al2O3 as the anode and MnO2 as the cathode with electrolyte for the aluminum electrolytic capacitor to solve the problem of low working voltage of a supercapacitor unit. The results showed that the hybrid capacitor had a high energy density and the ability of quick charging and discharging according to the electrochemical performance test. The capacitance was 84.4 mF, and the volume and mass energy densities were greatly improved compared to those of the traditional aluminum electrolytic capacito...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A pillbox RF output window was developed for the L-band pulsed klystron for the Japanese Hadron Project (JHP) 1-GeV proton linac. The window was designed to withstand a peak RF power of 6 MW, where the pulse width is 600 {mu}sec and the repetition rate is 50 Hz. A high power model was fabricated using an alumina ceramic which has a low loss tangent of 2.5x10{sup -5}. A high power test was successfully performed up to a 113 kW RF average power with a 4 MW peak power, a 565 {mu}sec pulse width and a 50 Hz repetition rate. By extrapolating the data of this high power test, the temperature rise of the ceramic is estimated low enough at the full RF power of 6 MW. Thus this RF window is expected to satisfy the specifications of the L-band Klystron. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper describes the specifications, conceptual design, prototype testing and operating experience of an oil-filled high voltage pulse transmission cable adapted from commercially available air-dielectric RF components. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's Advanced Test Accelerator (ATA) requires a method of transmitting 250kV, 70 nanosecond pulses from the power conditioning equipment to the accelerator. The oil-filled cable approach was chosen over alternative concepts because of its high voltage holding capacity, long life and flexibility. The criteria for cable and connector design are discussed. The results of prototype testing and performance of the final design are presented.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Low transition temperature (low-{Tc}) and high-{Tc} Superconducting QUantum Interference Devices (SQUIDs) have been used to perform high-resolution magnetic measurements on samples whose temperatures are much higher than the operating temperatures of the devices. Part 1 of this work focuses on measurements of the rigidity of flux vortices in high-{Tc} superconductors using two low-{Tc} SQUIDs, one on either side of a thermally-insulated sample. The correlation between the signals of the SQUIDs is a direct measure of the extent of correlation between the movements of opposite ends of vortices. These measurements were conducted under the previously-unexplored experimental conditions of nominally-zero applied magnetic field, such that vortex-vortex interactions were unimportant, and with zero external current. At specific temperatures, the authors observed highly-correlated noise ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)-Carlsbad Field Office (CBFO) has developed draft documentation to present the proposed Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) remote-handled (RH-) transuranic (TRU) waste characterization program to its regulators, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the New Mexico Environment Department. Compliance with Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 191 and 194; the WIPP Land Withdrawal Act (PL 102-579); and the WIPP Hazardous Waste Facility Permit, as well as the Certificates of Compliance for the 72-B and 10-160B Casks, requires that specific waste parameter limits be imposed on DOE sites disposing of TRU waste at WIPP. The DOE-CBFO must control the sites' compliance with the limits by specifying allowable characterization methods. As with the established WIPP contact handled TRU waste characterization program, the DOE-CBFO has proposed a Remote-Handled TRU Waste Acceptance Criteria (RH-WAC) document consolidating ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This volume on specifications for the Saguaro Power Plant includes the following: subsystem interface definition document; solar collector subsystem specification; receiver specification; thermal energy storage specification; solar steam generator specification; and master control system specification.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carbon nanofiber (CNF) supported cobalt oxide composites as high-capacity anode materials were prepared through a facile, effective method for potential use in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The effects of the calcining temperature on the crystallinity, grain size, specific surface area of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} and phase transformation from Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} to CoO were studied in detail. Both the specific surface area and CNF content in CNF-cobalt oxide composites strongly affect the electrochemical performance of these series composites. The CNF-Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} composite with 24.3% CNF pyrolyzed at 500{sup o}C in Ar shows an excellent cycling performance, retaining a specific capacity of 881 mAh g{sup -1} beyond 100 cycles. Homogeneous deposition and distribution of nanosized Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles on the surface of CNF can stabilize the electronic and ionic conductivity as well as the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of this study is to acquire fundamental knowledge about the factors for production and the physical properties of boards when wood powder is used as the main material and powder adhesive is used as the binder in the formation of wood boards under heat and pressure. The effects of temperature for pressing, specific gravity of board, and the ratio of adhesive on bending strength, internal binding force, and size and stability against moisture are investigated. The temperature behavior at the central area of boards under heat and pressure shows similar tendency of stagnation near 140degC which increases thereafter irrespective of the temperature of the hot plate in this experiment. The bending property increases linearly when the resin content is low, and shows the tendency of leveling off gradually when the resin content is larger than 20%. Linear relation with specific gravity if obtained in the 0.6 to 1.0 ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The difficulties created by the lack of generally accepted views on classification, diagnostic criteria and natural history of the cutaneous lymphomata are discussed. Only the lymphomata which remain...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Although genetic engineering techniques for baker's yeast might improve the yeast's fermentation characteristics, the lack of scientific data on the survival of such strains in natural environments...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The objectives of this study were to select and initially characterize mutants of soybean (Glycine max L. Merr. cv Williams) with decreased ability to reduce nitrate. Selection involved...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Treatment of functional bowel disorders of irritable bowel-type (IBS) in children remains a difficult task because of a lack of drugs with low adverse event profile. We here report the results of a...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Successful implementation of bone marrow transplantation for hematopoietic reconstitution is limited by the lack of suitably HLA-matched donors and by the occurrence of graft-versus-host disease that...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Mutant strains of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae which lack functional Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD-1) do not grow aerobically unless supplemented with methionine. The molecular basis of this...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Arriving at a firm diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis continues to pose serious problems, particularly when evidence of granulomatous disease outside the nervous system is lacking. The commonest mode of...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Four infants with obstructive hydrocephalus caused by space occupying third ventricle and mesencephalic cysts are reported. Despite immediate shunt insertion in all patients, there was either lack of...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Major breakthroughs have recently been reported that can help overcome two inherent drawbacks of NMR: the lack of sensitivity and the limited memory of longitudinal magnetization. Dynamic nuclear polarization...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundThe analgesic effect of perioperative low doses intravenous lidocaine has been demonstrated after abdominal surgery. This study aimed to evaluate whether...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

PurposeTo assess the prevalence and the dosimetric and clinical predictors of mandibular osteoradionecrosis (ORN) in patients with head and neck (HN) cancer who underwent...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The water permeability of tissues was investigated by measuring the efflux of ³HHO from previously loaded (in darkness) etiolated bean buds (Phaseolus vulgaris L. var. Red...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The virtual lack of well-characterized metastatic pancreatic cancer tissues for study has limited systematic studies of the metastatic process of this deadly disease. To address this important...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Natural accumulations of skeletal material (death assemblages) have the potential to provide historical data on species diversity and population structure for regions lacking decades of wildlife monitoring,...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundSpecies with heteromorphic sex chromosomes face the challenge of large-scale imbalance in gene dose. Microarray-based studies in several independent male heterogametic...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Mice lacking acyl-CoA:diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1), an enzyme that catalyzes the terminal step in triacylglycerol synthesis, have enhanced insulin sensitivity and are protected from...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A micro-mechanistic understanding of bone fracture thatencompasses how cracks interact with the underlying microstructure anddefines their local failure mode is lacking, despite extensive research nthe response of bone to a variety of factors like aging, loading, and/ordisease.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

IntroductionAutologous chondrocyte transplantation (ACT) is a routine technique to regenerate focal cartilage lesions. However, patients with osteoarthritis (OA) are lacking an appropriate...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Scoping studies have been used across a range of disciplines for a wide variety of purposes. However, their value is increasingly limited by a lack of definition and clarity of purpose. The UK's Service...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundMany commercial banana varieties lack sources of resistance to pests and diseases, as a consequence of sterility and narrow genetic background. Fertile wild relatives,...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundClassification systems may be useful to direct more aggressive treatment to cancer patients with a relatively poor prognosis. The definition of 'poor prognosis' often lacks...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Polymer matrix composites are presently used in many fields due to their excellent mechanical properties such as high specific strength and stiffness. However, not much is known of these composites' response to impact loading, which usually occurs at strain rates much higher than the strain rates used to measure the quasi-static mechanical properties of materials. The use of static properties in the study of structures that undergo dynamic loading can produce excessive design weight or cause unexplained and untimely failure. The studies included in this dissertation provide the results of Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar experiments to determine the ultimate compressive strength and strain of composites at high strain rates. Most researchers are using specimens with different dimensions and geometry. For this reason, it is difficult to compare results of tests done by different people. Herein, the Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Coal was treated at high temperature under high pressure in the binary system mixed solvent of water and organic solvent, and the solvent treated coal was liquefied. When the treated coal was treated again by the explosive method in which high temperature and pressure were released immediately, the oil yield was higher than that by the normal method in which high temperature and pressure were reduced gradually to room temperature and atmospheric pressure. In this study, an explosive treatment unit with increased scale of sample amount was newly fabricated. Illinois No.6 coal was treated by the explosive method in a mixed solvent of water and cyclohexanol using this unit. Changes in shape on the surface, specific surface area, and functional groups were analyzed. The explosively treated coal contained more amount of low boiling point components than the normally treated coal. It was ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This study shows that the physical conditions necessary for thermal waves to materialize in Dual-Phase-Lagging porous media conduction are not attainable in a porous slab subject to a combination of constant heat flux and temperature (Neumann and Dirichlet) boundary conditions. It is demonstrated that the approximate equivalence between Dual-Phase-Lagging (DuPhlag) heat conduction model and the Fourier heat conduction in porous media subject to Lack of Local Thermal Equilibrium (La Lotheq) that suggested the possibility of thermal oscillations and resonance reveals a condition that cannot be fulfilled because of physical constraints. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Acute vertebrobasilar occlusion (VBO) is associated with a high risk of stroke and death. Although local thrombolysis may achieve recanalization and improve outcome, mortality is still between 35% and 75%. However, without recanalization the chance of a good outcome is extremely poor, with mortality rates of 80-90%. Early treatment is a fundamental factor, but detailed studies of the exact time management of the diagnostic and interventional workflow are still lacking. Data on 18 patients were retrospectively evaluated. Time periods between symptom onset, admission to hospital, time of diagnosis, and beginning of intervention were correlated with postinterventional neurological status. The Glasgow Coma Scale and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) were used to examine patients before and after local thrombolysis. Additionally, multivariate statistics were applied to reveal similarities between patients with neurological ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Constructed wetlands may be used for removal of high nutrient loads in greenhouse wastewater prior to discharge into the environment. Temperature affects both the physical and biological activities in wetland systems. Since nitrification and denitrification are temperature-dependent processes, effluent nitrate concentrations will fluctuate due to changes in air and wetland temperature. In a cold climate, constructed wetlands can function in a temperature-controlled, greenhouse environment year-round. This work evaluates four temperature treatments on nitrate removal rates in five planted and five unplanted laboratory-scale wetlands. Wetlands were supplied with a nutrient solution similar to the fertigation runoff solution (100 PPM nitrate-N) used in greenhouse crop production. A first-order kinetic model was used to describe experimental nitrate depletion data and to predict nitrate removal rate constants (k) in the wetlands planted with Iris pseudocoras. The ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Discussions regarding the use of wood fuels for commercial energy production in the Netherlands began in the 1990's. The main reasons for using wood fuel are: the political demand for using renewable energy, the need to reduce CO_2 emissions, and the lack of markets for surplus timber. Only 10 % of the area of Holland is forested. Therefore, early thinning and cleaning are important management tools for improving growth and producing better quality timber. The energy potential from early thinning and plantation cleaning could be between 400 000 and 570 000 dry tons annually. The Netherlands has not experience in harvesting energy wood. However, through the International Energy Agency/Bioenergy Agreement, knowledge gained in other countries, especially Denmark, Sweden and Finland, is being transferred to Holland. In 1996, there have been made field tests with Danish equipment. Although there are few technical barriers to wood fuel in the Netherlands, the economics ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The previous {sup 58}Ni and {sup 60}Ni set of resonance parameters (Endf/B7.O, Jeff-3, etc.) was based on the SAMMY analysis of Oak Ridge National Laboratory neutron transmission, scattering cross section and capture cross section measurements by C.M. Perey et al. The present results were obtained by adding to the SAMMY experimental database the capture cross sections measured recently at the Oak Ridge Linear Electron Accelerator by Guber et al. and the Geel Electron Linear Accelerator and very high-resolution neutron transmission measurements performed by Brusegan et al. A complete resonance parameter covariance matrix (RPCM) was obtained from the SAMMY analysis of the experimental database. The data sets were made consistent, when needed, by adjusting the neutron energy scales, the normalization coefficients, and the background corrections. The RPCM allows the calculation of the cross section uncertainties due mainly to statistical errors in the experimental ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The ternary compound CuInS2 is attractive for solar cells due to its band gap of 1.54 eV which borders the optimum value necessary for conversion of a solar spectrum. Recently, works on thin film cells based on this material (ZnO/CuInS2) has been reported to show efficiency as high as 11.4%. In this paper, the orientation and the morphology of CuInS2 sprayed films are determined by the means of X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Sprayed CuInS2 films deposited onto a transparent Pyrex substrate with standard fabrication parameters show a chalcopyrite structure with a preferential orientation (1 1 2). A model based on the calculation of the relative dielectric function ? has been performed in order to obtain the profile of variation of this parameter and to understand the optical behavior of this material via its transmittance and reflectance in visible and near-infrared regions (0.35-2.5 ?m). In the same way, considering the inhomogeneous material ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

As an unconventional surface alloying process, ion implantation has been utilized to improve the active-passive behavior and the pitting resistance of martensitic M50 engineering alloy. In a field simulation study, Cr-implantation only at 150 kev to a fluence of 2 x 10"1"7 ions/cm"2 prevented pitting. The best pitting resistance of the steel was obtained with multiple implantations of Cr and Mo. The intermixing effect of high fluence P-implantation into 304 stainless produced an amorphous surface alloy. The removal of the grain boundaries and the uniformity of the resulting structure had a great influence on corrosion properties. REED analysis indicated that the anodic passive films formed on P-implanted 304 stainless steel at 250 mV (SCE) in 0.5M H_2SO_4 was amorphous. Phosphorus and boron were implanted into 316 stainless steel to study the passivity of 316 stainless. Electrochemical experiments were carried out to evaluate the effects of phosphorus and boron on ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Natural cooling conditions of the nuclear fuel in the channel type reactor after its shut down are commonly determined with relatively high uncertainty. This is not only to he lack of adequate measurements of thermal parameters i.e. the residual power generation, the coolant flow and temperatures, but also due to indeterminate model of convection mechanism. The numerical simulation of natural convection in multitube fuel assembly in the fuel channel leads to various convection modes including evidently chaotic behaviour. To determine the real cooling conditions in the MARIA research reactor a series of experiments has been performed with fuel assembly equipped with a set of thermocouples. After some forced cooling period (the shortest was half an hour after the reactor shut down) the reactor was left with the only natural convection. Two completely different cooling modes have been observed. The MARIA core consists of series of individual fuel ...

Science.gov (United States)

Many factors such as poverty, ineffective institutions and environmental regulations may prevent developing countries from managing how natural resources are extracted to meet a strong market demand. Extraction for some resources has reached such proportions that evidence is measurable from space. We present recent evidence of the global demand for a single commodity and the ecosystem destruction resulting from commodity extraction, recorded by satellites for one of the most biodiverse areas of the world. We find that since 2003, recent mining deforestation in Madre de Dios, Peru is increasing nonlinearly alongside a constant annual rate of increase in international gold price (?18%/yr). We detect that the new pattern of mining deforestation (1915 ha/year, 2006-2009) is outpacing that of nearby settlement deforestation. We show that gold price is linked with exponential increases in Peruvian national mercury imports over time (R(2)?=?0.93, p?=?0.04, 2003-2009). Given the past rates of ...

Science.gov (United States)

Outbreaks of disease attributable to human error or natural causes can provide unique opportunities to gain new information about host-pathogen interactions and new leads for pathogenesis research. Poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN), a sequela of infection with pathogenic streptococci, is a common cause of preventable kidney disease worldwide. Although PSGN usually occurs after infection with group A streptococci, organisms of Lancefield group C and G also can be responsible. Despite decades of study, the molecular pathogenesis of PSGN is poorly understood. As a first step toward gaining new information about PSGN pathogenesis, we sequenced the genome of Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus strain MGCS10565, a group C organism that caused a very large and unusually severe epidemic of nephritis in Brazil. The genome is a circular chromosome of 2,024,171 bp. The genome shares extensive gene content, including many virulence factors, with genetically related group A ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Although various legislation and regulations have been adopted to promote the use of alternative-fuel vehicles for curbing urban air pollution problems, there is a lack of systematic comparisons of emission control cost-effectiveness among various alternative-fuel vehicle types. In this paper, life-cycle emission reductions and life-cycle costs were estimated for passenger cars fueled with methanol, ethanol, liquefied petroleum gas, compressed natural gas, and electricity. Vehicle emission estimates included both exhaust and evaporative emissions for air pollutants of hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and air-toxic pollutants of benzene, formaldehyde, 1,3-butadiene, and acetaldehyde. Vehicle life-cycle cost estimates accounted for vehicle purchase prices, vehicle life, fuel costs, and vehicle maintenance costs. Emission control cost-effectiveness presented in dollars per ton of emission reduction was calculated for each alternative-fuel vehicle types ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Female rats were given tritiated drinking water (3 microCi/ml) from 30 days before mating up to and throughout pregnancy. At this low dose, the course and the outcome of pregnancy were normal. The differences between newborn body and cerebral weights of the treated rats and those of control animals were on the borderline of significance. In contrast, cerebral DNA and cerebral protein were highly significantly lower. In 30-35% of the treated population the DNA and protein values were more than 2 standard deviations (SD) below the mean values for the control population. Thus the number of the progeny of the mothers exposed to tritiated water that were considered to have outstandingly low levels of DNA and protein was 14-17 times greater than in the control group. The irradiated population also had 3-5% of severely affected individuals with cerebral DNA and protein values more than 2 SD below the mean of the experimental population. However, even in this irradiated ...

Science.gov (United States)

We conducted a retrospective review of the North American Renal Transplant Cooperative Study (NAPRTCS) Registry transplant and dialysis arms to assess anemia and growth patterns in children who returned to dialysis after a failed renal transplant from January 1, 1992 to February 3, 2004. Of the 1807 potential study subjects, 1451 had transplant removal data (TxIn vs. TxOut) available for analysis. Four hundred and twenty-one of 1451 patients (29%) had a transplant nephrectomy at the time of entry into the NAPRTCS Registry Dialysis arm. Anemia rates steadily decreased from 72.2% at 30 days after dialysis initiation to 59.5% at 12 months after dialysis initiation. Factors associated with anemia at 30 days after dialysis initiation included hemodialysis, lack of Epo use, and patients who comprised earlier study era cohorts. At one yr after return to dialysis, earlier study cohort era was the only factor associated with anemia status. Patients did not demonstrate ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alloy 800 has been used for steam generator (SG) tubing for more than 30 years, primarily in CANDU reactors and in reactors in Germany. The grade of Alloy 800 tubing used for this service has a controlled Ti/C ratio (#>=#12 for CANDU SGs), and this specification is sometimes termed Alloy 800 M or Alloy 800 NG . There have been very few corrosion-related flaws detected in this material in SG service, and, until recently, no incidences of cracking. There has been extensive R and D carried out on Alloy 800 tubing, both in Canada and elsewhere, under a variety of operating conditions, including shutdowns, which show that it has excellent resistance to corrosion-related degradation under specified and appropriate operating conditions. These R and D findings are reflected in the in-service experience. It has been shown from the R and D that Alloy 800 is susceptible to corrosion under acidic conditions, in particular those that can arise as a consequence of phosphate ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The accuracy is investigated of both lymphangiography and CT in detecting lymph nodes metastases in 59 patients evaluated preoperatively and subsequently submitted to surgery with selective/systemic pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy. CT accuracy was also investigated in 46 patients with a clinically suspected relapse of ovarian cancer (verified by means of clinical and/or CT follow-up in 36 patients, by laparotomy in 7, by fine-needle biopsy in 1 and by necroscopy in the last 2). In the first group (previously untreated patients) the overall results in the pelvis were, respectively, for lymphangiography and CT: 94.9% vs 89.8% accuracy, 86.6% vs 60% sensitivity, 97.7% vs 100% specificity, and 92.8% vs 100%, 95.5% vs 88% positive and negative predictive values. In the paraaortic region the results were: 89.1% vs 86.5% accuracy, 73.3% vs 66.6% sensitivity, 100% specificity for both techniques, 100% positive predictive value, and 84.6% vs 81.5% ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The US Department of Energy (DOE) Defense Waste Management Plan has the objective of final disposal for high-level waste (HLW) generated from defense programs. The DOE sites that generate HLW are located at the Savannah River Operations Office in Aiken, South Carolina, the Hanford site in Richland, Washington, and the Idaho Operations Office in Idaho Falls, Idaho. The purpose in the development of a quality assurance (QA) specification for organizations involved in HLW production is to establish uniform requirements that ensure that radioactive waste is converted to a waste form and canistered in such a way that it is acceptable in a federal repository licensed by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). A QA specification has been developed that will be applied to those activities important to certification of the product. The basic requirements are defined in national consensus standards and DOE directives. The ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The paper reported on an experiment on measurement of concentration of highly concentrated coal slurry using microwaves carried out at Miike coal preparation works. The purpose of the experiment was to investigate applicability of microwave moisture content measurement of slurry of a mixture of coal and coal particles and to use it to the control of process such as coal preparation and processing. In the experiment, a method for measuring the slurry concentration was adopted in which the container filled with highly concentrated coal slurry was irradiated with microwaves and the damping of strength of the penetrating microwaves was detected. As a result of the experiment, it was found out that there was a big correlation between the capacitive concentration of slurry and the damping ratio of microwaves. When irradiating slurry with microwaves of 1GHz frequency, a big correlation between the concentration and the damping ratio was seen in ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The authors discuss radioimmunoassays (RIAs) for eicosanoids widely used in the field of experimental, clinical and pharmacological research. The main drawback of RIAs is the possibility of low specificity. This was clearly demonstrated during the controversy on plasma levels of 6-keto-PGF_1 #alpha#, the stable hydrolysis product of PGI_2. When extensive purification including reverse phase high pressure liquid chromatography (rp-HPLC) was performed prior to the RIA for 6-keto-PGF_1 #alpha# the levels were at least one order of magnitude less than previously claimed, and did not support the so-called circulating hormone hypothesis.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Waste Acceptance Preliminary Specifications (WAPS) require that the DWPF estimate the inventory of long-lived radionuclides present in the waste glass, and report the values in the Waste Form Qualification Report. In this report, conservative (biased high) estimates of the radionuclide inventory of glass produced from waste currently in the Tank Farm are provided. In most cases, these calculated values compare favorably with actual data. In those cases where the agreement is not good, the values reported here are conservative.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Preliminary results of studies into penetrant testing at high surface temperature (up to 200 deg.C), are presented. Tests were performed to assess the effectiveness of red dye penetrants using Al and NiCr samples containing artificial as well as natural discontinuities. The test results will be used in due course to formulate a specification for non-destructive testing procedure qualification at non-standard (i.e. outside 16-52 deg.C) temperatures.

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Locked nucleic acid (LNA) is a nucleic acid analogue containing one or more LNA nucleotide monomers with a bicyclic furanose unit locked in an RNA mimicking sugar conformation. This conformational restriction results in unprecedented hybridization affinity towards complementary single stranded RNA and thus, makes LNA uniquely suited for mimicking RNA structures and sequence specific targeting of RNA in vitro or in vivo. The focus of this paper is on LNAantisense, LNA-modified siRNA (siLNA), and detection and analysis of microRNAs by LNA-modified oligonucleotide probes.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lithium storage metals and alloys can be suitable high-capacity anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, when the morphology is specifically designed. Here, we compare three different Sn/SnSb multiphase anode materials in powder form, which have been prepared in aqueous and organic solution by chemical precipitation using NaBH{sub 4} or Zn as reductive agents. The obtained morphologies, chemical compositions, and the electrochemical performance will be comparatively discussed. The variety of synthesis parameters which have an effect on the morphology of the obtained anode materials will be particularly highlighted.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The geothermal well-cost model developed by Sandia National Laboratories is being used to analyze the sensitivity of well costs to improvements in geothermal drilling technology. Three interim results from this modeling effort are discussed. The sensitivity of well costs to bit parameters, rig parameters, and material costs; an analysis of the cost reduction potential of an advanced bit; and a consideration of breakeven costs for new cementing technology. All three results illustrate that the well-cost savings arising from any new technology will be highly site-dependent but that in specific wells the advances considered can result in significant cost reductions.

Science.gov (United States)

We proposed and numerically investigated the influence of spatial symmetry on the terahertz frequency region response of composite planar metamaterials based on deformed split ring resonators. Compared with the original simple structures, the composite metamaterials with different spatial symmetries exhibited exotic electromagnetic properties. The electromagnetic response of a specific configuration with C4 symmetry was identical to the structure with simple lattice. Especially, for configurations with broken symmetry, very sharp Drude-like resonances with high quality factor were observed. The electric field and current distribution associated the resonances were analyzed for deep understanding of the underlying physical properties.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Within the framework of the EU power plant conceptual study (PPCS), a modular He-cooled divertor concept with integrated pin array (HEMP) is being developed at the Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe. The design goal is to achieve a high heat flux of at least about 10-15 MW/m"2, which is proposed for a near-term reactor model like DEMO. The development and optimization of the divertor concept require a close link between the main issues: design, analyses, materials and fabrication technology, and experiments with feedbacks between them to be accounted for. Design-specific requirements on materials and fabrication issues will be discussed.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Thirty-seven patients with histologic proof of cholangiocarcinoma at the confluence were examined by computed tomography (CT) to determine whether this examination is of value in the assessment of these patients for surgery and whether there are any features specific to this type of tumor. Thirty-two patients showed intrahepatic duct dilatation; six of these showed dilatation of ducts in one lobe only. Eighteen patients had intrahepatic low-attenuation areas, while eight had a mass lesion in the porta hepatis. The results of this study show that CT provides useful anatomic information preoperatively but that the appearances are nonspecific. Lobar atrophy is highly suggestive of hilar cholangiocarcinoma, either of long-standing or with unilateral portal venous involvement.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The increasing sophistication of modern cars and todays tendency of developing compact vehicles more adapted to urban traffic have led to increased performance requirements from alternators and their bearings. This paper describes todays criteria for the design of alternators and of their bearings (improvement of tightness, design of race, grease, specific steels) and the final validation of the products. The last part of the paper describes the new CARB toroidal roller bearing developed by SKF which can support misalignments and internal axial displacements under high rotation speeds. (J.S.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A large scintillation chamber of 6.7 l volume for direct radon concentration measurements in gas is presented. With two 5 in. photomultipliers on opposite sides, working in coincidence, a concentration as low as about 0.5 mBq/l is detectable with 10% standard deviation after 1000 min measuring time. With the achieved background count rate of 0.42 counts/min and the counting efficiency of 0.607 for [sup 222]Rn and its progenies the absolute minimal detectable specific activity is reached with 0.17 mBq/l at about 12 000 min. The method to determine this minimum detectable activity is outlined. ((orig.))

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

(1) To determine the accuracy of computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation of ligament tear and avulsion in patients with tibial plateau fracture. (2) To evaluate whether the presence or severity of fracture gap and articular depression can predict meniscal injury. A fellowship-trained musculoskeletal radiologist retrospectively reviewed knee CT and MRI examinations of 41 consecutive patients presenting to a level 1 trauma center with tibial plateau fractures. Fracture gap, articular depression, ligament tear and footprint avulsions were assessed on CT examinations. The MRI studies were examined for osseous and soft tissue injuries, including meniscal tear, meniscal displacement, ligament tear, and ligament avulsion. CT demonstrated torn ligaments with 80% sensitivity and 98% specificity. Only 2% of ligaments deemed intact on careful CT evaluation had partial or complete tears on MRI. Although the degree of fracture gap and articular depression was significantly ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

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

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

We prepared cathodes with various types of activated carbon and measured the cathodes' electrochemical performance according to the kind of activated carbon. Activated carbon supplies airflow channels and reaction sites in the cathode of zinc air batteries. When we use activated carbon with a high specific surface area as the cathode's catalyst substrate, we expect high electrochemical performance because this type of carbon provides more air flow channels and reaction sites. We focused on investigating the relationship between the cathode's pore structure and its electrochemical characterizations. We also studied the effects of the various activated carbon materials on the zinc air batteries' performance. Increasing the macropores or mesopores in the activated carbon resulted in achieving more power from the battery. (author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

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...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

For a solar cell, in order to minimize the loss of incident light, transparent glass or plastic material is used at the incident part. When a solar cell is watched from the light incident part, a silicon base material is directly observed with either block or brown color only. This invention enables a solar cell to give brighter color on the incident surface by placing a reflective film which reflects only the light of specific wavelength, without reducing the efficiency of the solar cell. This reflective film consists of multi-layered dielectric with 12 layers and alternative combination of highly refractive and less refractive substances. Highly refractive layer is Y/sub 2/O/sub 3/ with refractive index 1.74 and the less refractive layer is SiO/sub 2/ with refractive index 1.45. (5 figs)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The authors examine the overheating of a chemical detonation wave, which results in hybrid detonation processes, for example, photochemical or electrochemical detonation, depending on the source. The schemes for obtaining the overheated detonation are shown. Analysis has shown that: normal stationary overheated detonation waves are possible when the overheating power density is constant, just as when the specific energy of overheating is constant; the use of the ''gas'' equation of state for describing overheated detonation in condensed explosives yields wave parameters which are too high; and the assumption that the chemical energy released in the explosive is independent of the overheating energy also leads to wave parameters which are too high, and the overestimation increases as the overheating is intensified.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lipophilic tertiary amines attached to cylcopentadienyl technetium-99m tricarbonyl (cytectrene) have been prepared with high radiochemical yield and purity. Biodistribution studies in mice showed that ["9"9"mTc]-cytectrenes, containing in their structure an N-methylpiperidine, were accumulated in the brain up to 2.8% of injected dose with high brain-to-blood ratios at 15 min p.i. They therefore indicate some potential as brain imaging agents. It has to be pointed out that the N-methylpiperidine ester showed similar biological behaviour as the keto derivatives. This indicates that the conversion to polar metabolite(s) via hydrolysis of the ester group - as described for ["9"9"mTc]-ECD -is not essential for brain retention. (Author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The present invention relates generally to an apparatus and method for separating high molecular weight molecules from low molecular weight molecules. More specifically, the invention relates to the use of microdialysis for removal of the salt (low molecular weight molecules) from a nucleotide sample (high molecular weight molecules) for ESI-MS analysis. The dialysis or separation performance of the present invention is improved by (1) increasing dialysis temperature thereby increasing desalting efficiency and improving spectrum quality; (2) adding piperidine and imidazole to the dialysis buffer solution and reducing charge states and further increasing detection sensitivity for DNA; (3) using low concentrations of dialysis buffer and shifting the DNA negative ions to higher charge states, producing a nearly 10-fold increase in detection sensitivity and a slightly decreased desalting efficiency, or (4) any combination of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report presents the results of an investigation into currently used methods for installation of underground high voltage power transmission cable, and offers recommendations for potentially improving these methods. Suggested enhancements cover the emplacement of both high pressure oil filled (HPOPT) pipe type and self contained oil filled (SCOF) cable systems. Cost comparisons of conventionally installed cable systems versus systems using proposed techniques and equipment are developed for a specific site selected for study. The report also documents the test results of laboratory experiments conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of using interference fit pipe couplings in place of welded pipe joints. 10 refs., 31 figs., 15 tabs.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The paper presents some aspects relating to the importance of a good communication and cooperation between all factors involved in procurement process at Societatea Nationala 'Nuclearelectrica', SNN. In order to comply with the internal and international rules related to safety in nuclear field and public procurement requirements and for maintaining a high standard of operational performance of Cernavoda NPP, adequate procurement systems were developed by SNN SA. The importance of human factor and the training activities for all personnel from this chain of procurement process is the main key issue to maintain high quality of their activities considering that procurement documents are reviewed and approved before to be issued by all departments involved in procurement process. The specialized department for public acquisition is supervising that the procurement processes initiated at the level of branches, in accordance with their needs and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A simple model based on surface chemistry is developed, based an simple concepts of contact angle, wetting and spreading. Results of the modeling can be stated by two simplified ``rules of thumb``: (1) A liquid will spread on the surface of a solid if the surface tension of the liquid is lose than the surface free energy of the solid, and (2) The liquid having the surface tension nearest that of the solid will preferentially wet the surface of the solid. These two rules can then be used to define the parameters that constitute a process for formulating a plastic bonded explosive (PBX), which is a crystalline high-explosive material coated with a small amount of plastic polymeric material (the binder). The PBX then can be pressed to a high density, and machined to a specific shape. The pressed and machined explosive material can then be used in a physics experiment to study fundamental properties of either the explosive or ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Low-temperature specific-heat measurements have been carried out between 0.5 and 30--50 K on the high-T/sub c/ copper oxide superconductors La/sub 1.8/Sr/sub 0.2/CuO/sub 4-//sub delta/ and RBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7-//sub delta/ (R = Y, Eu, Ho, Tm, and Yb). The specific heat of the La/sub 1.8/Sr/sub 0.2/CuO/sub 4-//sub delta/ and YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7-//sub delta/ compounds below T/sub c/ can be resolved into a contribution of the form C/sub e/(T) = ..gamma..'T with a finite ..gamma..' and a lattice contribution that consists of Debye and Einstein terms. Specific-heat data for the RBa/sub 3/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7-//sub delta/ compounds with R = Ho, Tm, and Yb exhibit no features due to magnetic order above 0.5 K, but reveal electronic Schottky anomalies associated with crystalline electric field (CEF) splitting of the Hund's-rules ground-state multiplet of the R/sup 3+/ ions. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The PbII binding characteristics of the previously reported PbII binding proteins of rat kidney cytosol were investigated further. Saturation and Scatchard analysis of /sup 203/Pb binding in whole cytosol and in 40% saturated ammonium sulfate precipitated fractions disclosed a class of relatively high-affinity sites with an apparent Kd of approximately 50 nM and binding capacities of approximately 41 and 9 pmol/mg of protein, respectively. Two /sup 203/Pb binding proteins with approximate molecular masses of 63K and 11.5K daltons and a high molecular weight component (greater than 200K) were isolated by Sepharose-6B column chromatography. The time course of association of /sup 203/Pb with cytosol and the 63K protein showed maximum binding at 18 hr which was stable up to 25 hr at 4 degrees C. The approximate half-time dissociation rate (T 1/2) of specifically bound /sup 203/Pb to the 63K protein was 100 min at 4 degrees C ...