UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Objectives To test the hypotheses that, compared with conventional outpatient consultations, joint teleconsultation (virtual outreach) would incur no increased costs to the NHS, reduce...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report contains the results of a survey of reactor coolant pump shaft seal reliability. The survey sample is representatively large (approx. = 27% of total US commercial plant population) and includes the three industry seal suppliers (Bingham-Williamette, Byron Jackson, and Westinghouse). Operationally incurred/induced problems and seal redesign parameters are identified. Failure hypotheses in the form of fault trees have been developed to describe the failure mechanisms. Recommendations are made for seal reliability improvement.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Background- Vitiligo, characterized by destruction of melanocytes, causes a patchy depigmentation of the skin. It has been hypothesized to have an autoimmune pathogenesis. Autoimmune disorders are more common among women and may be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as recurrent abortions, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and pre-eclampsia. Objective- The purpose of this study was to investigate whether patients with vitiligo have increased rates of gestational complications. Methods- A retrospective comparative study was undertaken comparing pregnancy complications of patients with and without vitiligo. The population was composed of all singleton deliveries that occurred at the Soroka University Medical Center in Israel during the years 1988-2006. Women lack...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Here we examine Fe speciation within Fe-encrusted biofilms formed during 2-month seafloor incubations of sulfide mineral assemblages at the Main Endeavor Segment of the Juan de Fuca Ridge. The biofilms were distributed heterogeneously across the surface of the incubated sulfide and composed primarily of particles with a twisted stalk morphology resembling those produced by some aerobic Fe-oxidizing microorganisms. Our objectives were to determine the form of biofilm-associated Fe, and identify the sulfide minerals associated with microbial growth. We used micro-focused synchrotron-radiation X-ray fluorescence mapping (mu XRF), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (mu EXAFS), and X-ray diffraction (mu XRD) in conjunction with focused ion beam (FIB) sectioning, and highresolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The chemical and mineralogical composition of an Fe-encrusted biofilm was queried at different spatial scales, and the spatial ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Objective:The main objective of this work was to study the antipyretic and antibacterial activity of C. erectus (Buch.-Ham.) Verdcourt leaf extract in an...Full Text Available

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Background.There are no suitably powered epidemiological studies of `transient azotaemia' (TA). The objective of this study was to describe the epidemiology of TA and its independent association with hospital mortality. We hypothesized that TA would be associated with an independent increase in the risk of death. Methods.We retrospectively studied all patients admitted to a university-affiliated hospital in Australia between January 2000 and December 2002. Patients were excluded if they were <15 years old, were on chronic dialysis, had kidney transplant or if their length of hospital stay was <24 hours. We defined TA as rapidly recovering acute kidney injury (AKI) (return to no-AKI risk, injury, failure, loss, end stage (RIFLE) class within 72 hours of onset). We performed descriptive and ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

ObjectivesVaricocele is a common cause of infertility, and varicocele-associated testicular hypotrophy has been described as a potential cause of decreased semen quality. We investigated the relationship between testicular hypotrophy and poor semen quality in infertile men with varicoceles. We hypothesized that bilateral hypotrophy is required before the semen quality is severely impaired.MethodsWe retrospectively identified consecutive patients with palpable varicoceles undergoing an infertility evaluation at a single academic center. Each patient was evaluated by the same clinician with history and physical examination. Testicular hypotrophy was defined as a size discrepancy of greater than 3 mL or an absolute size of less than 14 mL. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which obtain their fuel from the grid by charging a battery, are set to be introduced into the mass market and expected to contribute to oil consumption reduction. In this research, scenarios for 2020 EVs penetration and charging profiles are studied integrated with different hypotheses for electricity production mix. The impacts in load profiles, spot electricity prices and emissions are obtained for the Portuguese case study. Simulations for year 2020, in a scenario of low hydro production and high prices, resulted in energy costs for EVs recharge of 20cents/kWh, with 2 million EVs charging mainly at evening peak hours. On the other hand, in an off-peak recharge, a high hydro production and low wholesale prices'...

Environmental Research Database

ObjectivesThe overall scientific aim of this project is, through development of an appropriate numerical modelling tool, to identify and investigate the mechanisms that control the current observed rapid thinning and acceleration of Greenland outlet glaciers and to investigate their likely future behaviour in the context of climate warming. This aim is addressed through the four major specific objectives below. These objectives build on each and therefore the order of priority is driven by the order in wh [continued...]DescriptionCurrently, the Greenland ice sheet is undergoing rapid changes in the coastal regions which have been attributed to a general warming trend to the regions climate over the last decade. Several of the narrow and fast flowing outlet glaciers that drain the ice sheet into the sea are observed to have accelerated their flow and thinned. For instance, Jakobshavn Isbrae on the West coast of Greenland has ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper introduces a robust searching hybrid evolutionary algorithm to solve the multi-objective Distribution Feeder Reconfiguration (DFR). The main objective of the DFR is to minimize the real power loss, deviation of the nodes' voltage, the number of switching operations, and balance the loads on the feeders. Because of the fact that the objectives are different and no commensurable, it is difficult to solve the problem by conventional approaches that may optimize a single objective. This paper presents a new approach based on norm3 for the DFR problem. In the proposed method, the objective functions are considered as a vector and the aim is to maximize the distance (norm2) between the objective function vector and the worst objective function vector while the constraints are met. Since the proposed DFR is a multi ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper discusses the clinical application and main objective of testicular imaging. The authors present cases that represent a spectrum of the abnormalities which might be detected by testicular imaging, with special attention given to testicular torsion and the acute diseases which may mimic it clinically. Accuracy of the test is noted.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundBengal tiger Panthera tigris tigris the National Animal of India, is an endangered species. Estimating populations for such species is the main objective...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Endometrial biopsies were taken for histological assessment from 97 cows which calved in a commercial dairy herd between April and August 1984. The main objectives of this study were to analyze the...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Contact scanner system in Wolsung NPP(model ESE-1565) is an early '70 equipment, so most of components are obsolete. To make it 100% compatible, PCBs for this system is the main object of the study. Most of components used in the system are not available ...

Science.gov (United States)

The main objective of Phase I of this SBIR project was to demonstrate the feasibility for successful development of an antimicrobial wound dressing based on a hydrogel sustained release matrix. This goal has been achieved. In vitro studies of drug diffusi...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objectives of the research in the field of epidemiology , performed at the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK-CEN are (1) to study cancer mortality and morbidity in nuclear workers in Belgium; (2) to document the feasibility of retrospective cohort studies in Belgium; (3) to participate in the IARC study. For radiobiology, the main objectives are: (1) to elucidate the mechanisms of the effects of ionizing radiation on the mammalian embryo during the early phase of its development, (2) to assess the genetic risks of maternal exposure to ionizing radiation, (3) to elucidate the mechanisms by which damage to the brain and mental retardation are caused in man after prenatal irradiation. The main achievements in these domains for 1997 are presented.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The COBE data on cosmic background radiation (CBR) isotropy and spectrum are generally considered to be explicable only in the context of the Big Bang theory and to be confirmation of that theory. However, this data can also be explained by an alternative, non-Big Bang model which hypothesizes an intergalactic radio-absorbing and scattering medium. Dense, force-free magnetic filaments generated by quasars, active galactic nuclei and Herbig-Haro objects can remain stable in the intergalactic medium for many Gy. They will be opaque to radiation with wavelengths longer than 100--400 microns, and essentially transparent to shorter wavelengths. They are thus capable of thermalizing and isotropizing the cosmic background radiation, and of accounting for the observed decrease of radio luminosity of galaxies within increasing distance from earth. A simple, inhomogeneous model of such an absorbing medium can reproduce both the isotropy and spectrum of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The impacts of the expected climate change on Finnish lake ecosystems were studied with the biota of the mesohumic Lake Paeaejaervi, southern Finland. Experimental conditions, from small-scale experiments on single species level to a large-scale ecosystem manipulation, were established to simulate directly the future climate and/or loading of nutrients and dissolved organic matter (DOM) from the drainage area. The experimental studies were accomplished by modelling the carbon flow in the pelagic food web as well as the growth of littoral macrophytes. The main hypothese tested were as follows: As a consequence of the climate change (rising temperature and increasing precipitation) the loading of nutrients and dissolved organic matter (DOM) from the drainage area to the lake will increase. In the pelagic zone this will be first reflected i higher productivity of primary producers and bacteria, but will later affect the entire food chain. Increase ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Background and PurposeHemodynamic insults at arterial bifurcations are hypothesized to play a key role in intracranial aneurysm formation. This study investigates...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Zirconia-based restorations are widely used in prosthetic dentistry; however, their susceptibility to hydrothermal degradation remains elusive. We hypothesized that CAD/CAM machining and subsequent...Full Text Available

Environmental Research Database

ObjectivesThe practical exploitation of tidal stream energy is limited by man's activities in coastal waters: navigation, fishing and~%~leisure pursuits. It is important therefore to make the best use of the sites, which are available. The main objective of the~%~Proposed study is to assess the limits imposed by waves on the performance of tidal stream rotors, and to investigate way:~%~in which these limits might be related by refinements in rotor design and the control of operating conditions. Secondary~ [continued...]DescriptionHorizontal aids wind turbines have been recognised as one of the most successful renewable energy saving devices. The use of the similar concept as a 'tidy stream rotor' in offshore environment appears to be even more compelling. However, the application of this concept will require the confirmation of various operational and environmental limitations due to complexities of offshore environment ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The applicability of conventional strength hypotheses in the long-term creep range was examined by means of multiaxial loaded small and large-scale specimens of 1% CrMoNiV-steel at 550deg C. The experimentally determined deformation behaviour in the primary and secondary creep range was simulated by means of a finite element analysis. The creep deformation capacity is influenced by the degree of multiaxiality. The validity of a strength hypothesis depends on the type of load and on deformation resp. failure criteria. (orig.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The possible role of space-like objects in elementary particle physics (and in quantum mechanics) is reviewed and discussed, mainly by exploiting the explicit consequences of the peculiar relativistic mechanics of Tachyons. Particular attention is paid: (i) to tachyons as the possible carriers of interactions; (ii) to the possibility of ''vacuum decays'' at the classical level; (iii) to a Lorentz-invariant bootstrap model; (iv) to the apparent shape of the tachyonic elementary particles and its possible connection with the de Broglie wave-particle dualism. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This study by CTES, L.C. meets two main objectives. First, evaluate the feasibility of using coiled tubing (CT) to drill 1.0 inches-2.5 inches diameter directional holes in hard rocks. Second, develop a conceptual design for a micro borehole drilling platform (MBDP) meeting specific size, weight, and performance requirements. The Statement of Work (SOW) in Appendix A contains detailed specifications for the feasibility study and conceptual design.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objective of SCK-CEN's R and D programme on decision strategy research are (1) to support and advise the Belgian authorities on specific problems concerning existing and potential hazards from exposure to ionising radiation, both in normal and emergency situations; (2) to perform research on relevant topics that might have an important impact on decision making related to nuclear applications, including social and economic sciences. Main achievements in this area in 1999 are described.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Using a sample of 88 less developed countries, hypotheses were tested over time in panel regression models to determine what type of impact military and arms expenditures have on national economic growth and development. Hypotheses were drawn from three theoretical perspectives. The first set of tested hypotheses came from the modernization literature, which assumes that expenditures have positive ripple effects in national economies that are good for growth and development. The second set is based on the economic dependency and world systems theories. These theories assume that the relationships between countries affect a nation's economic structure and that arms expenditures are a mechanism used by core industrialized nations to increase economic penetration and dependency of periphery unindustrialized countries. Finally, the third set of hypotheses is grounded in literature on the role of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

With an objective to detect gas leaking from an underground gas pipeline, discussions have been given on a method which utilizes acoustic characteristics of leakage. On leaking sound generated from damaged portions, the form of damaging was hypothesized as pinholes, and spectra of leaking sounds from holes with different diameters were measured. The dominant frequency decreases as the hole diameter increases, while it is in a region of relatively high frequency of 1 kHz or higher. However, detection from the ground surface was impossible when cover soil has thickness from 0.5 to 1.5 m. In an experiment to measure leaking sound inside the pipe, pressure in the pipe was adjusted to 0.02 atm which is a standard pressure for a low-pressure pipe, and the sound was measured when the hole diameters were varied. In any of the results obtained by varying the hole diameter, spectra having the dominant frequency in the region of 1 kHz or higher were ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This work concerns the development of a methodology the objective of which is to characterize and diagnose two-phase flow regime transitions. The approach is based on the fundamental assumption that a transition flow is less stationary than a flow with an established regime. During the first time, the efforts focused on: (1) the design and construction of an experimental loop, allowing to reproduce the main horizontal two-phase flow patterns, in a stable and controlled way; (2) the design and construction of an electrical impedance probe, providing an imaged information of the spatial phase distribution in the pipe; and (3) the systematic study of the joint time-frequency and time-scale analysis methods, which permitted to define an adequate parameter quantifying the unstationarity degree. During the second time, in order to verify the fundamental assumption, a series of experiments were conducted, the objective of which ...

CERN Document Server

PAMELA is a satellite borne experiment designed to study with great accuracy cosmic rays of galactic, solar, and trapped nature in a wide energy range (protons: 80 MeV-700 GeV, electrons 50 MeV-400 GeV). Main objective is the study of the antimatter component: antiprotons (80 MeV-190 GeV), positrons (50 MeV-270 GeV) and search for antinuclei with a precision of the order of $10^{-8}$). The experiment, housed on board the Russian Resurs-DK1 satellite, was launched on June, $15^{th}$ 2006 in a $350\\times 600 km$ orbit with an inclination of 70 degrees. In this work we describe the scientific objectives and the performance of PAMELA in its first two years of operation. Data on protons of trapped, secondary and galactic nature - as well as measurements of the December $13^{th}$ 2006 Solar Particle Event - are also provided.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document reports on the work done by the Separations Science and Technology Programs of the Chemical Technology Division, Argonne National Laboratory, in the period April-September 1992. This effort is mainly concerned with developing the TRUEX process for removing and concentrating actinides from acidic waste streams contaminated with transuranic (TRU) elements. The objectives of TRUEX processing are to recover valuable TRU elements and to lower disposal costs for the nonTRU waste product of the process. Two other projects are underway with the objective of developing (1) a membrane-assisted solvent extraction method for treating natural and process waters contaminated by volatile organic compounds and (2) evaporation technology for concentrating radioactive waste and product streams such as those generated by the TRUEX process.

Science.gov (United States)

Progress made during the first phase effort of the Solar-Thermal Full-System Experiment is summarized. This is one of a number of projects in the Solar-Thermal Subprogram involved with the development of solar central receiver hardware and systems for future use by utilities. The main emphasis is on systems that use Brayton-Cycle (gas turbine) equipment. The project summarized involves the planning and design of a complete Brayton-Cycle solar central receiver experimental system that would include all components of a commercial-size electric utility solar power plant. The objective of the overall project is to demonstrate the technical feasibility of a complete Brayton-Cycle, solar-fossil hybrid central receiver system. Major objectives of the Phase I effort summarized are to plan and design the experiment in detail and to organize a utility Test and Operating Group that would be directly involved in the development and ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the Peruvian natural forest there are several kind of woods, some of those are not of commercial interest, because have not resistance at termites and wet, are too soft, or can not be well finished, in the others. The present work is devoted to improvement of the physical properties of wood, such as hardness, traction, wet resistance, etc., by means of the generation of a composite wood-polymers cured by using gamma irradiation. The main objective is to establish the main parameters for the polymerization process (economic technical aspect) that decrease the amount of water absorption, in consequence the volumetric variation of Catahua, Mohena and Capirona woods. Gamma irradiation also provides good protection against the biological agents. In consequence, these woods increase its intrinsic and economic values. (author)

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

We previously reported that acetaminophen (APAP) caused apoptosis of C6 glioma cells. Therefore, we hypothesized that the level of p53, which usually stimulates apoptosis, might be increased...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundFertilization, cell division and embryo development depend on genomic contributions from male and female gametes. We hypothesize that teratozoospermic sperm influences...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The pathogenesis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa disseminated infections depends on bacterial interaction with blood vessels. We have hypothesized that in order to traverse the endothelial barrier, bacteria...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Mouse models for the study of autistic-like behaviors are increasingly needed to test hypotheses about the causes of autism, and to evaluate potential treatments. Both the automated 3-chambered...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Hepatic damage occurs in males and ovariectomized (OVX), not in proestrus (PE), females following trauma-hemorrhage (T-H). The mechanism responsible for hepatoprotection remains unknown. We hypothesized...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Psychological illness influences the experience and expression of pain and disability. We tested three null hypotheses: (1) patients with nonspecific pain (medically unexplained and idiopathic) and...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Human gingival fibroblasts were challenged with Treponema pectinovorum and Treponema denticola to test three specific hypotheses: (i) these treponemes induce different...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Excess caveolin-1 has been reported to play a role in age-dependent hyporesponsiveness to growth factors in vitro. Therefore, we hypothesized that caveolin-1–dependent hyporesponsiveness...Full Text Available

Wastenet

by American scientists, ecosystems containing a greater number of plant species, produce more biomass.This result ...to meet the increasing demand for land for farmland planted with monocultures, buildings and roads.For ...have hypothesized that greater ecological diversity (diversity of plant and animal species) leads to a greater

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In this paper we study the behavior of the solutions of quasi-linear Dirichlet problems when the principal parts H-converge and when the lower order terms have quadratic growth with respect to the gradient. We show that the limit problem consists of a principal part which is the H-limit of the principal parts and of the lower order term which is constructed from the corresponding terms by using a linear corrector result. We assume only natural hypotheses on the correctors (i.e. L"2 equi-integrability and not L"#infinity# boundedness). (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Standard radiation monitoring has been conducted at Sendai nuclear power station for the purpose of estimation of 'source activity' during refueling outage and evaluation of countermeasures to reduce dose rate. Selected objects of the monitoring are radiation dose rate at maintenance area, radiation field at each equipment and piping, coolant chemistry and plant operation condition. Monitored data indicates that 'source activity' variation can be estimated to some extent using influential factors, and that evaluation of change of loose crud activity, which is presumed to be represented by the dose rate at letdown heat exchanger, is necessary to further explain change in radiation field at main work area. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The main objective of this paper is to demonstrate that it makes good business sense to identify risks and hazards of an operation and take appropriate steps to manage them effectively. Developing and implementing an effective risk and hazard management plan also contibutes to other industry requirements and standards. Development of a risk management system, key elements of a risk management plan, and hazards and risk analysis methods are outlined. Comparing potential risk to the cost of prevention is also discussed. It is estimated that the cost of developing and preparing the first risk management plan varies between $50,000 to $200,000. 3 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to test the relationships among perceived risk, consumer satisfaction and repurchase loyalty, and to explore the moderating role of knowledge on the relationship between these constructs. Design/methodology/approach - The results are based on a cross-section sample of 846 households in Vietnam using self-administrating questionnaires, with fish as a main research object, and analyzed using structural equation modelling. Findings - The relationship between perceived risk and satisfaction is negative and satisfaction has a significantly positive effect on repurchase loyalty. This study suggests that perceived risk has an indirect effect on repurchase loyalty through satisfaction. Besides direct effects on perceived risk and satisfaction, knowledge prove...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Differentiating characteristics of magnetic confinement systems having externally generated magnetic fields that are open'' are listed and discussed in the light of their several potential advantages for fusion power systems. It is pointed out that at this stage of fusion research high-Q'' (as deduced from long energy confinement times) is not necessarily the most relevant criterion by which to judge the potential of alternate fusion approaches for the economic generation of fusion power. An example is given of a hypothetical open-geometry fusion power system where low-Q operation is essential to meeting one of its main objectives (low neutron power flux).

Environmental Research Database

Objectives~%~~%~The practical exploitation of tidal stream energy is limited by man's activities in coastal waters: navigation, fishing and~%~leisure pursuits. It is important therefore to make the best use of the sites, which are available. The main objective of the~%~Proposed study is to assess the limits imposed by waves on the performance of tidal stream rotors, and to investigate way:~%~in which these limits might be related by refinements in rotor design and the control of openiting conditions. S~%~ [continued...]DescriptionHorizontal aids wind turbines have been recognised as one of the most successful renewable energy saving devices. The use of the similar concept as a 'tidy~%~~%~stream rotor' in offshore environment appears to be even more compelling. However, the application of this concept will require the confirmation of various operational and environmental limitations due to ...

Science.gov (United States)

Muscular fatigue in the training athlete or military recruit has been hypothesized to cause increased bone strain that may contribute to the development of a stress fracture. Under normal circumstances, muscles exert a protective effect by contracting to reduce bending strains on cortical bone surfaces. In vivo strain studies in dogs show that muscle fatigue following strenuous exercise elevates bone strain and changes strain distribution. However, a similar experiment has yet to be performed in humans. The purpose of this work was to test the hypothesis in humans that strenuous fatiguing exercise causes an elevation in bone strain. It was also hypothesized that this elevation is greater in younger people than in older people due to the decline in muscle strength and endurance that normally occurs with age. To test these hypotheses, strain in the tibiae of seven human volunteers was measured during walking before and after ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

One of the main objectives of the Finnish Research Programme on Climate Change (SILMU) has been to assess the possible impacts of future changes in climate due to the enhanced greenhouse effect on natural systems and human activities in Finland. In order to address this objective, it was first necessary to specify the types of climate changes to be expected in the Finnish region. Estimates of future climate are conventionally obtained using numerical models, which simulate the evolution of the future climate in response to radiative forcing due to changes in the composition of the atmosphere (i.e. of greenhouse gases and aerosols). However, there are large uncertainties in the model estimates because current knowledge and understanding of atmospheric processes remains incomplete. Since accurate predictions of climate change are not available, an alternative approach is to develop scenarios. These are plausible projections ...

CERN Document Server

PAMELA is a satellite borne experiment designed to study with great accuracy cosmic rays of galactic, solar, and trapped nature in a wide energy range (protons: 80 MeV-700 GeV, electrons 50 MeV-400 GeV). Main objective is the study of the antimatter component: antiprotons (80 MeV-190 GeV), positrons (50 MeV-270 GeV) and search for antimatter with a precision of the order of $10^{-8}$). The experiment, housed on board the Russian Resurs-DK1 satellite, was launched on June, 15 2006 in a $350\\times 600 km$ orbit with an inclination of 70 degrees. The detector is composed of a series of scintillator counters arranged at the extremities of a permanent magnet spectrometer to provide charge, Time-of-Flight and rigidity information. Lepton/hadron identification is performed by a Silicon-Tungsten calorimeter and a Neutron detector placed at the bottom of the device. An Anticounter system is used offline to reject false triggers coming from the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document reports on the work done by the Separations Science and Technology Programs of the Chemical Technology Division, Argonne National Laboratory, in the period April-September 1993. This effort is mainly concerned with developing the TRUEX process for removing and concentrating actinides from acidic waste streams contaminated with transuranic (TRU) elements. The objectives of TRUEX processing are to recover valuable TRU elements and to lower disposal costs for the nonTRU waste product of the process. Other projects are underway with the objective of developing (1) evaporation technology for concentrating radioactive waste and product streams such as those generated by the TRUEX process, (2) treatment schemes for liquid wastes stored or being generated at Argonne, (3) a process based on sorbing modified TRUEX solvent on magnetic beads to be used for separation of contaminants from radioactive and hazardous waste ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The second regular inspection of No.2 plant in Sendai Nuclear Power Station was carried out from October 5, 1987 to January 8, 1988. the parallel operation was resumed on December 8, 1987, 65 days after the parallel off. The facilities as the object of inspection were the reactor proper, reactor cooling system, measurement and control system, fuel facilities, radiation control facilities, waste facilities, reactor containment installation, and emergency power generation system. On these facilities as the object of inspection, the appearance, disassembling, leak, function, performance and other inspections were carried out, and abnormality was not found at all. The works related to this regular inspection were accomplished within the range of allowable dose based on the relevant laws. The main reconstruction works carried out during the period of this regular inspection were the change of the degree of enrichment from 3.15 ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

PANDA is a large scale facility for investigating the long-term decay heat removal from the containment of a next generation of 'passive' Advanced Light Water Reactors (ALWR). PANDA was used to examine the long-term LOCA response of the Passive Containment Cooling System (PCCS) for the General Electric (GE) Simplified Boiling Water Reactor (SBWR). The first PANDA test series had the dual objectives of demonstrating the performance of the SBWR PCCS and extending the data base available for containment analysis code qualification. The test objectives also include the study of the effects of mixing and stratification of steam and noncondensible gases in the drywell (DW) and in the suppression chamber or wetwell (WW). Ten tests were conducted in the course of the PANDA SBWR Program. The tests demonstrated a favorable and robust overall PCCS performance under different conditions. The present paper focuses on the main phenomena ...

Environmental Research Database

ObjectivesThe main objective of this study is to address the following specific questions: 1. Are the delayed effects of poor early diet on whole organism performance and senescence contingent on, or exacerbated by, the subsequent occurrence of compensatory growth? 2. Does the rate of growth influence levels of resting metabolism and/or oxidative stress, and if so, for how long does this persist? 3. How are the levels of early nutrition, growth, resting metabolism and oxidative stress linked to the lev [continued...]DescriptionIt is now widely appreciated that, while animals may appear to recover from periods of poor food quality or quantity experienced in early development, adverse effects may occur later in adult life. Such effects can influence the performance of complete cohorts of animals, and have important consequences for population dynamics. The reasons why such delayed effects occur across the animals' lifetimes ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

High-performance heat transfer augmentation methods applicable in the forced convection field of heat exchangers include a method which requires no external drive means, such as the insertion of a turbulence augmentation object into the flow passage and the use of a wave-shaped flow passage, but disturbs the main stream of flow to raise the heat transportation effect thereby to augment heat transfer in the flow passage. The heat transfer characteristics and thermal performance ratio achieved when sinusoidal-shape plates are inserted instead of augmentation objects, such as cylinders, with a high shape-induced resistance were studied. As a result, the relationship between the resistance coefficient, average Nusselt number, heat transfer coefficient, and pitch was clarified. It has been revealed that the use of eddies with a large gap flow and recirculation area should be considered in order to get a higher heat transfer ...

CERN Document Server

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

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The industrial standard process for the purification of natural gas is to remove acid gases, mainly hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide, by the absorption and reaction of these gases with alkanolamines. The natural gas industry requires vapor-liquid equilibrium (VLE) data to develop more energy efficient amine mixtures. Some energy reductions have been realized in the past decade by applying such amine systems as hindered amines, methyldiethanolamine (MDEA), and MDEA based amine mixtures. However, the lack of reliable and accurate VLE data impedes the commercial application of these more efficient alkanolamine systems. The first objective of this project is to improve the accuracy of vapor-liquid equilibrium measurements at low hydrogen sulfide concentrations. The second objective is to make VLE measurements for amine mixtures. By improving the accuracy of the VLE data on MDEA and other amines, energy savings can be ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The industrial standard process for the purification of natural gas is to remove acid gases, mainly hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide, by the absorption and reaction of these gases with alkanolamines. Inadequate data for vapor -- liquid equilibrium (VLE) hinder the industry from converting operations to more energy efficient amine mixtures and conserving energy. Some energy reductions have been realized in the past decade by applying such amine systems as hindered'' amines, methyldiethanolamine (MDEA), and MDEA based amine mixtures. However, the lack of reliable and accurate fundamental VLE data impedes the commercial application of these more efficient alkanolamine systems. The first project objective is to improve the accuracy of vapor -- liquid equilibrium measurements at low hydrogen sulfide concentrations. The second project objective is to measure the VLE for amine mixtures. By improving the ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

We revisit a recently proposed agent-based model of active biological motion and compare its predictions with own experimental findings for the speed distribution of bacterial cells, Salmonella typhimurium. Agents move according to a stochastic dynamics and use energy stored in an internal depot for metabolism and active motion. We discuss different assumptions of how the conversion from internal to kinetic energy d(v) may depend on the actual speed, to conclude that d 2 v ? with either ? = 2 or 1 ? < 2 are promising hypotheses. To test these, we compare the model?s prediction with the speed distribution of bacteria which were obtained in media of different nutrient concentration and at different times. We find that both hypotheses are in line with the experimental observations, with ? bet...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Purpose - A significant trend in the retail sector is women's over-representation in part-time work. Given the feminisation and adverse working conditions of part-time employment, the purpose of this paper is to enhance understanding of the motivation of female sales employees. Design/methodology/approach - Initially, a theoretical framework is presented with the aim of stipulating the research hypotheses. Empirical evidence was obtained from 349 Greek female sales employees using a structured questionnaire. Analyses of covariance and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted with the aim of exploring the research hypotheses. Findings - It was found that part-time and full-time female employees are similar in designating the job motivators that they find important in the workplace. H...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Aim- Two alternative hypotheses attempt to explain the upper elevation limit of tree lines world-wide, the carbon-limitation hypothesis (CLH) and the growth-limitation hypothesis (GLH); the altitudinal decrease of temperature is considered the driver constraining either carbon gain or growth. Using a widely distributed tree line species (Nothofagus pumilio) we tested whether tree line altitude is explained by the CLH or the GLH, distinguishing local from global effects. We elaborated expectations based on most probable trends of carbon charging with altitude according to both hypotheses, considering the alternative effects of drought. Location- Two climatically contrasting tree line ecotones in the southern Andes of Chile: Mediterranean (3654- S) and Patagonia (4604- S). Methods- ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Full load (186 kW/cyl) operation using CWS fuel at 1050 rpm has been achieved on single cylinder GE-7FDL test engine. No major changes in engine parameters were made. With normal inlet air conditions, 3-5% pilot deisel fuel, separately injected or stratified into the main coal charge, was used. Inlet air temperature had to be raised about 40/sup 0/C if no pilot diesel fuel was used. The coal burnout was about 95% and the cycle efficiency was comparable to using diesel fuel. The NO/sub x/ and CO emissions were about 1/2 of those obtained normally with deisel fuel. The maximum heat release rate was higher than diesel fuel operation which resulted in higher maximum cylinder firing pressure. The combustion characteristic and its dependence on some fuel characteristics and inlet air parameters are discussed. Increasing coal burnout while limiting maximum cylinder firing pressure is the main objective of near future studies.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The object of this report is to assemble information on and describe the situation for the development of hybrid vehicles and various alternatives within this field of development. In the report the description is concentrated mainly on the combination of combustion engine and electric battery, which is the most common combination in present day hybrid vehicles. In order to take a glimpse into the future even the combination of fuel cells and electric battery is described. The light duty electric hybrid vehicles which have been developed up to now are mainly parallel hybrids. If the development of hybrid systems takes place it will most certainly concern light duty vehicles which will come to be parallel hybrids equipped with an Otto or a diesel engine, depending on what the manufacturers wish to back. In the report the use of series hybrid vehicles is estimated to be limited to heavy-duty hybrid vehicles. Hybrids will not ...

CERN Document Server

From this vast subject, I will pick out and review three specific topics, namely the formation and evolution of bars, the formation of bulges, and the evolution during multiple major mergers. Bars form naturally in galactic discs. Their evolution is driven by the exchange of angular momentum within the galaxy. This is emitted mainly by near-resonant material in the inner disc (bar), and is absorbed by near-resonant material in the outer disc and in the halo. As a result of this, the bar becomes stronger and rotates slower. Bulges are not a homogeneous class of objects. Based on their formation history, one can distinguish three types. Classical bulges are mainly formed before the actual disc component, from collapses or mergers and the corresponding dissipative processes. Boxy/peanut bulges are parts of bars seen edge-on. Finally, disc-like bulges are formed by the inflow of material to the center due to bar torques. Major ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In this work we investigate an iron oxide thin film grown with atomic layer deposition for a gas sensor application. The objective is to characterize the structural, chemical, and electrical properties of the film, and to demonstrate its gas-sensitivity. The obtained scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy results indicate that the film has a granular structure and that it has grown mainly on the glass substrate leaving the platinum electrodes uncovered. X-ray diffraction results show that iron oxide is in the #alpha#-Fe_2O_3 (hematite) phase. X-ray photoelectron spectra recorded at elevated temperature imply that the surface iron is mainly in the Fe"3"+ state and that oxygen has two chemical states: one corresponding to the lattice oxygen and the other to adsorbed oxygen species. Electric conductivity has an activation energy of 0.3-0.5 eV and almost Ohmic current-voltage dependency. When exposed to O_2 ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Primary objective: Acquired brain injury (ABI) is associated with significant cognitive, behavioural, psychological and physical impairment. Hence, it has been important to leverage assessment approaches in rehabilitation by using current and emerging technologies, including virtual reality (VR). A number of VR rehabilitation programmes have been designed in recent years, mainly to improve upper limb function. However, before this technology gains widespread use, evaluation of the scientific evidence supporting VR-assisted rehabilitation is needed. The present review aimed to assess the rationale, design and methodology of research investigating the clinical impact of VR on ABI upper-limb rehabilitation. Research design: A total of 22 studies were surveyed using a Cochrane-style review. Re...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

? Introduction Old-growth forests on Changbai Mountain are economically and ecologically important but have been fragmented outside Changbai Mountain Biosphere Reserve. The trend of forest landscape degradation on Changbai Mountain threatens forest sustainability and biodiversity conservation in the region. Previous studies have focused mainly on the structure and function of protected forests but have ignored managed forests outside the reserve border. ? Objectives In this paper, deforestation processes are studied for two forestry enterprises, namely Baihe and Lushuihe Forestry Bureaus, with different socioeconomic structure due to their differences in proximity to Changbai Mountain Biosphere Reserve, which attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. Baihe?s income comes from b...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

French law should not be very affected when the NSC enters into force in France. This results from the fact that French law has already achieved most of the `work` to be done in the field of safety of nuclear installations as it integrated the concept of `safety culture` (i.e. high level of safety for nuclear installations) which is, actually, the main objective of this convention. The elaboration of this convention on safety of nuclear power plants took approximately 3 years. The success (i.e. adoption of the draft text by the Diplomatic Conference) was made possible because of the large technical consensus existing among experts in that field. This means that if we intend to do the same in the field of radioactive waste management, we have to get first a similar consensus on fundamental adequate principles. (orig./HP)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Backgrounds and Aims The stem growth habit, determinate or indeterminate, of soybean, Glycine max, varieties affects various plant morphological and developmental traits. The objective of this study is to identify the effect of stem growth habit in soybean on the stomatal conductance of single leaves in relation to their leaf morphology in order to better understand the ecological and agronomic significance of this plant trait. Methods The stomatal conductance of leaves on the main stem was measured periodically under favourable field conditions to evaluate gmax, defined as the maximum stomatal conductance at full leaf expansion, for four varieties of soybean and their respective determinate or indeterminate near isogenic lines (NILs). Leaf morphological traits including stomatal density, ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Deltombe T, Gustin T. Selective tibial neurotomy in the treatment of spastic equinovarus foot in hemiplegic patients: a 2-year longitudinal follow-up of 30 cases. Objective To assess the long-term efficacy of selective tibial neurotomy in the treatment of spastic equinovarus foot in hemiplegic patients. Design Intervention study (before-after trial) with an observational design and 2-year follow-up. Setting Spasticity group in a university hospital. Participants Hemiplegic patients (N=30) with spastic equinovarus foot. Intervention A selective neurotomy was performed at the level of the motor nerve branches of the tibial nerve. Main Outcome Measures Spasticity (Ashworth scale), muscle strength (Medical Research Council scale), passive ankle dorsiflexion, gait parameters (6 min walking test...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

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

Science.gov (United States)

In this work we examine a five-dimensional brane-world model with brane structure driven by a real scalar field. From the deformation of a kink-like defect we find a new class of brane solutions containing internal structures which have implications for the way the background space-time is constructed and the way its curvature behaves. Initially, for spin 0 scalar field, we find a zero mode which can be localized on the deformed brane. However, this result can change by the gravitational interaction with the brane internal structure. Analyzing the massive modes of the scalar field, using two different methods, we find resonance structures similar to those found in the study of gravity localization. The main objective here is to observe the contributions of the deformation procedure to the resonances and to the well known field localization methods.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Actinide recycling by partitioning and transmutation is considered as one of the most promising strategies to reduce the inventory of radioactive waste, thus contributing to make nuclear energy sustainable. To make advances beyond the current state of the art in pyrochemical separations processes, the Domain 2 (DM2) of ACSEPT has been built on considering a process approach based on system studied. Four work packages that represent the main steps of a process block diagram have been identified: head-end steps, core process development, and salt treatment for recycling and waste conditioning. The results obtained in this domain will be integrated in DM 3 (Process) in order to orientate the R and D studies of DM2 and to propose and validate flowsheets at the end of the project. The state of the art on pyrochemical separation within the European Community and the working program of ACSEPT in pyrometallurgy are presented in this work. (authors)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objective of this study was to provide a framework for land use and resource allocation decisions in the Northeast Coal Block of British Columbia. The area was divided into a number of sites, and information gathered in two main areas, 1) status of the resource base, and 2) resource management/planning/development. A map and physical description of each site is provided as well as such information as - air quality, soils, vegetation, water resources, petroleum and natural gas resources, coal resources, and gravel resources, agricultural resources, timber resources, fisheries and wildlife resources, recreatational and aesthetic (visual) resources. The appendix volume provides a summary of the institutional management framework and approval procedures for all significant resource sectors. Provincial legislation and government acts are identified.

Science.gov (United States)

We present here a study based on the migration of protoplanets in an accretion disc of a forming star, as the mainly proposed scenario for the formation of planetary systems. Attention is here focused on the mutual interactions between two protoplanets, both embedded in the accretion disc, as a function of the protoplanets masses, their relative positions, the dynamic properties of the accretion disc particles. The study is performed through a 2D SPH code and preliminary results show an oscillation of the distance between the two protoplanets, together with a slow migration of the two planets towards the central star when two Jupiter-like planets are considered. Less correlated behaviour is observed when at least one of the two protoplanets has an Earth-like mass. The role played by the disc particles initial angular momentum is discussed.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The general objective of the presented work is process intensification by means of reduced furnace chamber volumes in combination with the use of low-NOx burner technologies. Fundamental experimental investigations of the reaction zone of different burner types were made. For the development of new burner designs the CFD code FLUENT was used. Throughout the investigations it was possible to increase the furnace heating density from 62 kW/m3 up to 1133 kW/m3. To demonstrate possible technical applications two simulated industrial furnaces designs have been investigated. One main conclusion the work gave is that process intensification without an increase of pollutant emissions is possible by optimizing furnace and burner design and also position and geometry of the furnace load in a combined strategy. (author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Objective: The aim of this investigation was to compare the healing of laser-irradiated and non-irradiated wounds covered by an occlusive dressing in mice. Background data: Many previous studies of the effects of laser irradiation of experimental wounds in mice and rats did not cover the wounds so that healing occurred mainly by contraction. Healing of covered wounds is slower and mimics more closely wound healing in humans. Materials and Methods: Forty-seven diabetic and twenty non-diabetic mice were used. A single wound (5?mm diameter) was created on the left flank of each animal and covered by Tegaderm HP dressing (Day 1). Wounds were irradiated (660?nm) for 20?s using a lower power (18?mW) or higher power (80?mW) laser starting immediately post-wounding for seven consecutive d...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The current Risk-informed Regulation (RIR) framework employs both a Level 1 Core Damage Frequency (CDF) and a Level 2 Large Early Release Frequency (LERF) as two surrogate measures for the plant risk. For their use in making regulatory decisions for the plant risk, it has been required to maintain an appropriate level of quality for the plant risk models. The first step for this purpose is to evaluate the quality of the PSA model in a qualitative or quantitative manner. Recently, a similar type of quality evaluation has been made for the KSNP Level 1 PSA model based on an ASME PRA Standard for the RIR application, but not for the corresponding LERF model. The main objective of this paper is to provide the ASME PRA Standard-based evaluation result for the existing KSNP Level 2 LERF model and the insights obtained from the evaluation process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Heat transfer augmentation based on the process intensification concept in heat exchangers and thermal reactors has received much attention in recent years, mainly due to energy efficiency and environmental considerations. The concept consists of the development of novel apparatuses and techniques that, compared to those commonly used today, are expected to bring dramatic improvements in manufacturing and processing, substantially decreasing equipment size, energy consumption, and ultimately resulting in cheaper, sustainable technologies. The objective of this paper was to investigate the heat transfer characteristics of tubular thermal reactor using static mixing technology. Glycerin and water were used as the test fluids and water was used as the heating source. The results for heat transfer rate were strongly influenced by tube geometry and flow conditions.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reactor Control Division (RCnD) has been one of the main designers of safety and safety related systems for power reactors. These systems have been built using in-house developed hardware. Since the present set of hardware was designed long ago, a need was felt to design a new family of hardware boards. A Working Group on Electronics Hardware Standardization (WG-EHS) was formed with an objective to develop a family of boards, which is general purpose enough to meet the requirements of the system designers/end users. RCnD undertook the responsibility of design, fabrication and testing of boards for embedded systems. VME and a proprietary I/O bus were selected as the two system buses. The boards have been designed based on present day technology and components. The intelligence of these boards has been implemented on FPGA/CPLD using VHDL. This paper outlines the various boards that have been developed with a brief description. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

It is very important to develop the design guidelines which can be applicable for Korean operators for the purpose of designing the KSNP more safely. The objective of this project is to provide the standards, guidelines and bases applicable for HF-010 through the within-subject experiment for obtaining Korean operators' population stereotype for direction-of-movement of controls associated with displays on the control panels. Through the survey of researches on display compatibility and the classification of types of displays and controls in the main control room of Uljin units 3 and 4, methods for an experiment on the stereotype were established. Experimental interface prototypes for a total of 108 combinations of display and control types were implemented. Experimental data collection and analysis system was built in association with the interface prototypes. The experiment was performed with participation of 250 students as ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Background, aim and scope Treatment performance of constructed wetlands (CWs) is largely dependent on the characteristics of the wastewater. Although livestock wastewater is readily biodegradable in general, its variety in biodegradability can still be significant in practice. In addition, it is a common practice to periodically use disinfectants in livestock activities for health concerns. Obviously, the residual of the disinfectants in livestock wastewater may have serious inhibitory effect on the microbial activities during wastewater treatment. Thus, the main objective of this study was to examine the variety of livestock wastewater in biodegradability and its effect on the performance of a pilot scale tidal flow CWs (TFCWs) in organic matter and nitrogen removal. Furthermore, investig...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Background: Follicular lymphoma (FL) is one of the most common non-Hodgkin's lymphomas of B cells, being closely associated with a t(14;18) translocation. Detection of t(14;18), which is present in 70-95% of FL, might aid in FL diagnosis. Objective: To compare the efficacy of routine polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) techniques in detecting t(14;18) in paraffin-embedded tissue samples of FL patients at different stages. Combined with other immunophenotypic biological determinants, detection of t(14;18) might help to determine patients at increased risk according to the FL International Prognostic Index (FLIPI) and therefore facilitate appropriate treatment. Design and Methods: This study was mainly based on a retrospective examination of...

Science.gov (United States)

Plastic composites have become a large class of construction material for exterior applications. One of the main disadvantages of wood plastic composites resides in the weak adhesion between the polar and hydrophilic surface of wood and the non-polar and hydrophobic polyolefin matrix, hindering the dispersion of the flour in the polymer matrix. To improve interfacial compatibility wood flour can be pretreated with environmentally friendly methods such as cold-atmospheric pressure plasma. The objective of this work is therefore to evaluate the potential of plasma polymerization of acetylene on wood flour to improve the compatibility with polyolefins. This presentation will describe the reactor design used to modify wood flour using acetylene plasma polymerization. The optimum conditions for plasma polymerization on wood particles will also be presented. Finally preliminary results on the wood flour surface properties and use in wood plastic ...

CERN Document Server

The central engine of Gamma Ray Bursts is hidden from direct probing with photons mainly due to the high densities involved. Inferences on their properties are thus made from their cosmological setting, energetics, low-energy counterparts and variability. If GRBs are powered by hypercritical accretion onto compact objects, on small spatial scales the flow will exhibit fluctuations, which could in principle be reflected in the power output of the central engine and ultimately in the high energy prompt emission. Here we address this issue by characterizing the variability in neutrino cooled accretion flows through local shearing box simulations with magnetic fields, and then convolving them on a global scale with large scale dynamical simulations of accretion disks. The resulting signature is characteristic, and sensitive to the details of the cooling mechanism, providing in principle a discriminant for GRB central engine properties.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

In the Mediterranean arc, vines for wine production are mainly grown without the support of irrigation. Under such conditions, site variables affecting the extent and seasonal timing of water deficits are the dominant environmental constraints for grape production. Moreover, water availability and vine water status are the factors most comprehensively determining fruit composition and, thus, wine quality. Therefore, monitoring the extent of water stress in vines might be a valuable tool for the optimisation of grape yield and quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using the reflectance based Water Index (WI) to estimate vine water status at the leaf and canopy levels. The study was conducted on Vitis vinifera cv. Chardonnay potted plants submitted to contra...

Science.gov (United States)

In the Advance Coal Liquefaction Concept Proposal (ACLCP) carbon monoxide (CO) and water have been proposed as the primary reagents in the pretreatment process. The main objective of this project is to develop a methodology for pretreating coal under mild conditions based on a combination of existing processes which have shown great promise in liquefaction, extraction and pyrolysis studies. The aim of this pretreatment process is to partially depolymerise the coal, eliminate oxygen and diminish the propensity for retograde reactions during subsequent liquefaction. The desirable outcome of the CO pretreatment step should be: (1) enhanced liquefaction activity and/or selectivity toward products of higher quality due to chemical modification of the coal structure; (2) cleaner downstream products; (3) overall improvement in operability and process economics.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The problem of passively tracking a moving signal source has importance in a variety of applications such as radar, sonar, seismology, and radio astronomy. In many applications, only limited information is available about the signal source. It will be assumed here that only the signals which are detected by the sensors and the velocity of the source signal are known. The objective of this document is to present a program which passively tracks a target using an array of sensors. This program is available in MATLAB, version 3.5. The algorithm which is implemented consists of three main parts: time delay estimation, passive localization, and data post processing. Each of these parts are discussed, and the mathematical foundation for their solution given. Following, this the organization of the program is presented, and an example of its usage is given.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This is the final report of a one-year, Laboratory-Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). The main objective of this project was to engineer and procure an electron beamline compatible with the operation of a 1-kW free-electron laser (FEL). Another major task is the physics design of the electron beam line from the end of the wiggler to the electron beam dump. This task is especially difficult because electron beam is expected to have 20 kW of average power and to simultaneously have a 25% energy spread. The project goals were accomplished. The high-power electron design was completed. All of the hardware necessary for high-power operation was designed and procured.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The main objective of this dissertation is to build a numerical 3D geological model of a turbidite reservoir using well and seismic data. For the, the first step was to elaborate a depositional model using a high-resolution genetic stratigraphy approach. Simultaneously, the stratigraphic inversion over the seismic data resulted in an optimal acoustic impedance model. Both models, were used to build, by geostatistical methods, a 3-D geological model, which represents the spatial distribution of the reservoir facies. The studied case is the late Cretaceous Namorado turbidite system in the Campos basin, which is the reservoir of the Namorado oil field, located 80 km from the Brazilian coast, under a bathymetry between 110 and 250 m. The reservoir is a turbidite succession with 90 to 180 m thickness. It is composed by sand-supported conglomerates, matrix-supported conglomerate, massive sandstones, shales, marls and limestones. Four lithotypes ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The actual mechanisms that maintain the individual disparities in home computer use and internet access that are collectively termed “the digital divide” remain unclear. We hypothesized...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The goal of this study was to identify and characterize the hypothesized apical cation/H⁺ exchanger responsible for K⁺ and/or Na⁺ secretion in...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Both the accuracy and real-time are quite strictly required for the RCS thermal-hydraulic model of the simulation of nuclear power station. So, a large amount of reasonable simplifications should be carried on. The author introduces the RCS thermal-hydraulic model of the full scope simulator of Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station, and emphasizes on the fundamental hypotheses and computation method of its kernel part--DEFI programme.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The impact of a single seizure on cognition remains controversial. We hypothesized that a single early life seizure (sELS) on rat post-natal day (P) 7 would alter only hippocampal-dependent...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document is the Final Report for the project. Improvements in SISCOM II Technology. It consists of a brief description of the activities carried out during the project, and several Annexes that explain in a deeper way each result. SISCOM II is the main telemetry system currently in use in the Spanish underground coal mining, but it was developed ten years ago and needed a technological update, which was the objective of this project. The aims of the project were: - To develop Hardware and Software for the Outstations currently used (maintenance developments) - To design new hardware and software, easier to use in the current and new applications of SISCOM II Both objectives were met, although not in the way originally intended. The main results were: In the field of old Outstations update: - A new set of boards for the old Outstations was developed - Outstations`s firmware was updated for the new ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The generation of thermal energy is the great importance for the agribusiness of dairy industry to conservation the quality of milk, taking into account that the electricity is the main source currently used for the thermal energy input. The small agribusiness dairy industry currently practiced in Brazil faces several problems related to the cost of electricity and the distance of rural properties of networks of power. In the current scenario of Brazilian dairy production, there is need for the generation of cold for the milk cooling, and also the heat for the production of hot water around 50 deg C to 60 deg C and also for cleaning of equipment used for milk production and processing. The main objective of this study is the modeling and simulation of integrated recovery process of solid waste, effluents and bioconversion. The specific project objectives are: comparison study of options and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper describes a risk based approach and inspection planning as part of the Pipeline Integrity Management (PIM) system for the 95.5 km long 18'' GASVOL gas pipeline in the South eastern region of Brazil transporting circa 5 000 000 m3 dry gas per day. Pipeline systems can be subject to several degradation mechanisms and inspection and monitoring are used to ensure system integrity. Modern pipeline regulations and codes are normally based on a core safety or risk philosophy. The detailed design requirements presented in design codes are practical interpretations established so as to fulfill these core objectives. A given pipeline, designed, constructed and installed according to a pipeline code is therefore the realization of a structure, which, along its whole length, meets the applicable safety objectives of that code. The main objective of Pipeline Integrity Management (PIM) is ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text of publication follows: Low activation ferritic/martensitic steels are receiving a high priority in the European long term materials research. Although extensively investigated, the available experimental data do not cover all required parameter ranges and cannot unambiguously be used to produce hardening/embrittlement trend curves. Therefore, the main objective of this work is to provide a physically-based engineering model offering a rational to experimental observations. From the literature, experimental data were selected to establish a database that mainly consists of 8 to 9Cr-steels irradiated in the range of 50 to 600 deg. C up to 30 dpa and with a He-content up to 5000 appm. The database includes neutron and proton irradiations, He-implanted as well as B- and Ni-doped steels. Because of the difficulty of interpretation inherent to the Charpy impact test, only tensile data were considered. The difficulty ...

KoreaScience (Korea)

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CERN Document Server

The h-cobordism theorem is a noted theorem in differential and PL topology. A generalization of the h-cobordism theorem for possibly non simply connected manifolds is the so called s-cobordism theorem. In this paper, we prove semialgebraic and Nash versions of these theorems. That is, starting with semialgebraic or Nash cobordism data, we get a semialgebraic homeomorphism (respectively a Nash diffeomorphism). The main tools used are semialgebraic triangulation and Nash approximation. One aspect of the algebraic nature of semialgebraic or Nash objects is that one can measure their complexities. We show h and s-cobordism theorems with a uniform bound on the complexity of the semialgebraic homeomorphism (or Nash diffeomorphism) obtained in terms of the complexity of the cobordism data. The uniform bound of semialgebraic h-cobordism cannot be recursive, which gives another example of non effectiveness in real algebraic geometry see [ABB]. Finally ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The main objective of the present study is twofold: (i) to analyze thermal loads of the geothermally and passively heated solar greenhouses; and (ii) to investigate wind energy utilization in greenhouse heating which is modeled as a hybrid solar assisted geothermal heat pump and a small wind turbine system which is separately installed in the Solar Energy Institute of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey. The study shows 3.13% of the total yearly electricity energy consumption of the modeled system (3568 kWh) or 12.53% of the total yearly electricity energy consumptions of secondary water pumping, brine pumping, and fan coil (892 kWh) can be met by using small wind turbine system (SWTS) theoretically. According to this result, modeled passive solar pre heating technique and combined with geothermal heat pump system (GHPS) and SWTS can be economically preferable to the conventional space heating/cooling systems used in agricultural and residential ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A clean benchmark experiment on beryllium was performed with D-T neutrons at the FNS facility of the Japan Atomic Energy Agency. The main objective was to verify the integral data related to the tritium production on lithium isotopes. Tritium production rates, as well as activation reaction rates were measured inside the beryllium assembly that was shaped as a pseudo-cylindrical slab with an area-equivalent diameter of 628 mm and a thickness of 355 mm. Experimental results were analyzed with a three-dimensional Monte Carlo transport code MCNP-4C and FENDL/MC-2.0, JENDL-3.2/3.3 neutron transport libraries. Evaluation of reaction rates was based on the cross section data taken from the JENDL Dosimetry File and ENDF B-VI data libraries. Analysis shows that all calculation combinations (transport and activation cross section libraries) used for evaluation of reaction rates give data that is agreeable with measured values within 10%.

CERN Document Server

Testing deviation of GR is one of the main goals of the proposed {\\emph{Laser Interferometer Space Antenna}}, a space-based gravitational-wave observatory. For the first time, we consistently compute the generation of gravitational waves from extreme-mass ratio inspirals (stellar compact objects into supermassive black holes) in a well-motivated alternative theory of gravity, that to date remains weakly constrained by double binary pulsar observations. The theory we concentrate on is Chern-Simons (CS) modified gravity, a 4-D, effective theory that is motivated both from string theory and loop-quantum gravity, and which enhances the Einstein-Hilbert action through the addition of a dynamical scalar field and the parity-violating Pontryagin density. We show that although point particles continue to follow geodesics in the modified theory, the background about which they inspiral is a modification to the Kerr metric, which imprints a CS ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The main objectives of this study was to determine the bone density for the purposes of i) determining the age of peak bone mass in each study group and ii) quantifying the differences in bone density as functions of age and sex. The results of estimating the age dependence of mineral density for the femoral neck, spine and total body of healthy women and men using DEXA are given. The age changes in concentrations of major minerals and electrolytes found for compact and trabecular bones of healthy male femoral neck with regard for the wet and dry tissue calculations are represented. Information about femoral neck water content depending on the age of healthy men is tabulated. The number of performed observations and analyses is evidently insufficient to make any final decision, however some preliminary conclusions can be drawn. In accordance with DEXA results, BMD maximum for the femoral neck, spine and total body of healthy women is found for ...

CERN Document Server

The DARWIN mission is an Infrared free flying interferometer mission based on the new technique of nulling interferometry. Its main objective is to detect and characterize other Earth-like planets, analyze the composition of their atmospheres and their capability to sustain life, as we know it. DARWIN is currently in definition phase. This PhD work that has been undertaken within the DARWIN team at the European Space Agency (ESA) addresses two crucial aspects of the mission. Firstly, a DARWIN target star list has been established that includes characteristics of the target star sample that will be critical for final mission design, such as, luminosity, distance, spectral classification, stellar variability, multiplicity, location and radius of the star. Constrains were applied as set by planet evolution theory and mission architecture. Secondly, a number of alternative mission architectures have been evaluated on the basis of interferometer ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ice jamming, known to cause high water levels at even moderate river flows, is described as both the main and least understood source of ice-related bridge damages. This paper describes a joint study by the New Brunswick Department of Transportation, the Department of the Environment, local governments, and the National Water Research Institute, designed to address problems associated with the interaction of ice jams and bridges. The study consists of collecting information at each of four sites in New Brunswick including: historical data on ice jam locations, causes, and water levels; channel bathymetry, width and slope within each study centred at the respective bridge; and documentation of ice conditions throughout the ice season, including measurement of ice cover thickness, observation of breakup mechanisms, times, causes, characteristics and possible impacts of ice jam release. Data analysis will include determination of high stages due to ice jams or surges ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

On 30th September 1985, the Federal Government licensed site suitability investigations in three areas with a view to disposal of low-and intermediate-level radioactive waste. This report gives a summary overview of the corresponding research programme at the potential site Oberbauenstock. The first part of the report begins with some comments on the concept of radioactive waste disposal and on some basic aspects of site-specific exploration and investigation. The governmental decision of 30th September and Nagra's two-phase investigation concept are then briefly considered. To close, the objectives of investigation phase I are outlined and possible results are briefly discussed. The research programme developed for investigation of the potential site at Oberbauenstock is presented in the second part of the report. Besides geological and hydrogeological investigations at the surface, the programme mainly comprises investigations and ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The Caspian Sea (CS) region's oil and gas potential has attracted much attention since the breakup of the Soviet Union. The nations in the CS region, namely Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, are already major energy producers, and production will increase with additional investment, technology, and the development of new export outlets. Oil and gas transportation is a crucial and contentious issue in the CS/Central Asia regions. The main objective of the present study is to investigate Turkey's natural gas (NG) pipelines and its role in the CS region. NG consumption has started in 1987 at 0.5 billion cubic meter (Bcm) and reached 16 Bcm in 2001. It is also projected that NG consumption will reach 55 and 82 Bcm annually in 2010 and 2020, respectively. Recent developments have shown once again Turkey's role on the way to demand markets from the supply points in the CS region. (author)

Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)

Abstract in english The main objective of the research presented here is to relate anatomical features of wood species that affect the interactions between polymeric phases and performance of wood plastic composites (WPC). These interactions are related to the probable interlocking volume and surface area for stress transfer in a WPC. Composites were produced from different wood species and analyzed using SEM (scanning electron microscopy). Results showed that wood species with high interfac (more) ial areas may increase mechanical interlocking, reflected in the viscous constant of the Maxwell model. A complicating factor is that the relation of cell wall thickness-lumen diameter and the interconnectivity between wood cells in a wood, affect the potential for cell collapse. When wood cells collapse, the penetration of the thermoplastic into the wood structure is almost always ceased. The collapse of wood cells during extrusion-injection molding ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This Maintenance Implementation Plan (MIP) has been developed for maintenance functions associated with the B Plant/WESF (Waste Encapsulation Storage Facility) complex. The objective of this plan is to provide baseline information for establishing and identifying WHC conformance programs and policies applicable to implementation of DOE order 4330.4B guidelines. In addition, this maintenance plan identifies the actions necessary to develop a cost-effective and efficient maintenance program at B Plant/WESF. The B Plant WESF facility complex consists of three main facilities and several support structures located in the 200 East Area of the Hanford site. B Plant is a transition facility that is required to ensure safe storage and management of WESF (operating facility) cesium and strontium capsules. B Plant/WESF also contains substantial radiological inventory from previous campaigns. There are no production activities at B Plant, but several of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Smoothness-constrained least-squares technique with ABIC minimization was applied to the inversion of phase velocity of surface waves during geophysical exploration, to confirm its usefulness. Since this study aimed mainly at the applicability of the technique, Love wave was used which is easier to treat theoretically than Rayleigh wave. Stable successive approximation solutions could be obtained by the repeated improvement of velocity model of S-wave, and an objective model with high reliability could be determined. While, for the inversion with simple minimization of the residuals squares sum, stable solutions could be obtained by the repeated improvement, but the judgment of convergence was very hard due to the smoothness-constraint, which might make the obtained model in a state of over-fitting. In this study, Love wave was used to examine the applicability of the smoothness-constrained least-squares technique with ABIC minimization. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Work at Institutt for energiteknikk (IFE) comprises both nuclear and non-nuclear activities. The main nuclear program is centered on the Halden Reactor Project. In 1958, the first Halden Reactor Project Agreement was signed by organisations representing 12 European countries. During 1994 France became a full member and associate membership was established with Russia. Accordingly, 16 countries were participating in the Project by the end of the year. The objectives have evolved from being simply a demonstration of the operation of a boiling heavy-water reactor to becoming a substantial research and development programme covering the domains of human-machine interaction, fuel behaviour, materials testing, water chemistry, and instrumentation. In 1994, significant progress was achieved in all of the areas addressed by the project, including the re-instrumentation of irradiated fuel rods, fission gas release, irradiation-assisted stress corrosion ...

CERN Document Server

In this review, I concentrate on describing observations of spatially resolved emission in symbiotic stars at sub-arcsecond scales. In some of the closer objects, the highest resolutions discussed here correspond to linear dimensions similar to the supposed binary separation. A total of 17 stars well accepted as symbiotics are now observed to show sub-arcsecond structure, almost twice the number at the time of the last review in 1987. Furthermore, we now have access to HST imagery to add to radio interferometry. From such observations we can derive fundamental parameters of the central systems, investigate the variation of physical parameters across the resolved nebulae and probe the physical mechanisms of mass loss and interactions between ejecta and the circumstellar medium. Suggestions for future work are made and the potential of new facilities in both the radio and optical domains is described. This review complements that by Corradi (this volume) which ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

First structural wall material (FSW) materials in inertial fusion energy (IFE) power reactors will be irradiated under typical repetition rates of 1-10 Hz, for an operation time as long as the total reactor lifetime. The main objective of the present work is to determine whether a continuous-pulsed (CP) approach can be an efficient method in modeling the pulsed activation process for operating conditions of FSW materials. The accuracy and practicability of this method was investigated both analytically and (for reaction/decay chains of two and three nuclides) by computational simulation. It was found that CP modeling is an accurate and practical method for calculating the neutron-activation of FSW materials. Its use is recommended instead of the equivalent steady-state method or the exact pulsed modeling. Moreover, the applicability of this method to components of an IFE power plant subject to repetition rates lower than those of the FSW is ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Steam generator tubes in nuclear power plants are periodically checked by means of eddy current probes. The output of a probe is composed of three types of signals: known events (rolling zone, support plates, U-bend part), noise (mainly metallurgical noise) and possible flaws. The latter are random transients, both in arrival time and in shape: they have to be detected and then estimated, before to be fed to the high level stages of a diagnostics system. The objective of the study presented is to develop a semi-automatic system, which could manage and process more than 1 M-bytes of data per tube and provide an operator with reliable diagnostics proposals within a few minutes. This can be achieved only by cooperation of several digital signal processing techniques: detection, segmentation, estimation, noise subtraction, adaptive filtering, modelization, pattern recognition. The paper describes some of these items.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Through analysis of archival images and photometry from the Spitzer GLIMPSE and MIPSGAL surveys combined with Two Micron All Sky Survey and MSX data, we have identified 488 candidate young stellar objects (YSOs) in the giant molecular cloud M17 SWex, which extends #approx#50 pc southwest from the prominent Galactic H II region M17. Our sample includes >200 YSOs with masses >3 M _s_u_n that will become B-type stars on the main sequence. Extrapolating over the stellar initial mass function (IMF), we find that M17 SWex contains >1.3 x 10"4 young stars, representing a proto-OB association. The YSO mass function is significantly steeper than the Salpeter IMF, and early O stars are conspicuously absent from M17 SWex. Assuming M17 SWex will form an OB association with a Salpeter IMF, these results reveal the combined effects of (1) more rapid circumstellar disk evolution in more massive YSOs and (2) delayed onset of massive star formation.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Special T-shaped feedwater distribution pipes were installed in steam generators at the Loviisa (Finland) and Rovno (Russia) nuclear power plants. The new shape was tested in an extensive testing programme. Since the tubes frequently suffer from corrosion damage, large-scale water hammer experiments were performed on a model facility in 1996. The main objectives of the water hammer experiments were to find out the prevailing parameters leading to water hammers, as well as the sensitivity of hammering to boundary conditions. A water hammer may occur when the mass flow rate into the steam generator exceeds 6 kg/s and the temperature difference between steam generator and feedwater exceeds 100 degC. Visual experiments and stress analyses of the pipe were also carried out. The weakest part, the T-joint, may hold against such water hammers only for a limited time of the order of few minutes. (M.D.).

CERN Document Server

Web mining is the nontrivial process to discover valid, novel, potentially useful knowledge from web data using the data mining techniques or methods. It may give information that is useful for improving the services offered by web portals and information access and retrieval tools. With the rapid development of biclustering, more researchers have applied the biclustering technique to different fields in recent years. When biclustering approach is applied to the web usage data it automatically captures the hidden browsing patterns from it in the form of biclusters. In this work, swarm intelligent technique is combined with biclustering approach to propose an algorithm called Binary Particle Swarm Optimization (BPSO) based Biclustering for Web Usage Data. The main objective of this algorithm is to retrieve the global optimal bicluster from the web usage data. These biclusters contain relationships between web users and web pages which are useful ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The report contains an overall frame for transformation of knowledge and experience from risk analysis to emergency education. An accident model has been developed to describe the emergency situation. A key concept of this model is uncontrolled flow of energy (UFOE), essential elements are the state, location and movement of the energy (and mass). A UFOE can be considered as the driving force of an accident, e.g., an explosion, a fire, a release of heavy gases. As long as the energy is confined, i.e. the location and movement of the energy are under control, the situation is safe, but loss of confinement will create a hazardous situation that may develop into an accident. A domain model has been developed for representing accident and emergency scenarios occurring in society. The domain model uses three main categories: status, context and objectives. A domain is a group of activities with allied goals and elements and ten specific domains have ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Modelization of crack propagation and theoretical prediction of rupture are the two main objectives of researchers in stress corrosion cracking. Nevertheless, to reach this aim, the behavior of the passive film which appears spontaneously on the substrate in contact with an environment has to be known. This structural and mechanical characterization is all the more difficult because the number of parameters is important: crystallinity rate, defects concentration, thickness (about a few nanometers), electric field, chemical composition (a lot of oxides are present), peeling layers (atomic structure for example) and some hypothesis can be made about their multi-layer structure, their chemical composition or their epitaxial character... Passive films formed on 316L or 304L stainless steels in different aqueous solutions (in ambient air, in MgCl{sub 2} at 117 deg. C...) have been studied and some important remarks about their mechanical properties ...

CERN Document Server

Most of the presently identified exoplanets have masses similar to that of Jupiter and therefore are assumed to be gaseous objects. With the ever-increasing interest in discovering lower-mass planets, several of the so-called super-Earths (i.e., with masses in the interval 1 M_earth < M < 10 M_earth), which are predicted to be rocky, have already been found. Here we report the possible discovery of a planet around the M-type star GJ 436 with a minimum mass of 4.8+/-0.6 M_earth and a true mass of ~5 M_earth, which makes it the least massive planet around a main-sequence star found to date. In contrast with other discoveries, the planet is identified from its perturbations on an inner Neptune-mass transiting planet (GJ 436b), by pumping eccentricity and producing secular variations in the orbital inclination. Analysis of published radial velocity measurements indeed reveals a significant signal corresponding to an orbital period that is ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Purpose - The purpose of this research is to investigate the influence of psychological contracts on the adjustment and organisational commitment of expatriates during international business assignments. The study also aims to investigate the influence of psychological barriers to expatriate adjustment. Design/methodology/approach - A unique survey questionnaire was developed to collect data from 219 Taiwanese business expatriates during the first quarter of 2007. A LISREL analysis is used to test the hypotheses of the research framework. Findings - The study finds that: perceived fulfilment of the psychological contracts of expatriates significantly influences both their adjustment to foreign situations and their organisational commitment; psychological barriers to adjustment have a negat...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Two hypotheses are in the centre of this investigation, on the one hand the question, whether microwaves as exogenous fields alone are able to stimulate human muscle cells above-threshold, and on the other hand, whether microwaves as conditioning to cathodical electrical pulses can modify the excitation threshold and form. No excitation through the application of microwaves alone can be introduced at any subject. The conditioning of above-threshold cathodical electrical pulses with UMTS-microwaves leads not to a transgression of the threshold or the electrical muscle response (EMG) depending on the amplitude, the duration or the dose rate. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The production of process heat for agriculture and industry is one of the applications of solar energy which is very close to economic competitivity. Solar collectors can be produced at a reasonable cost by existing industries and are used optimally through applications which present a good time correlation between energy needs and the possible production of solar heat. This article studies heat consumption in industrial and agricultural sectors, gives hints on collectors choices, rates the different projects by simulation taking into account the nature of agricultural and industrial activities and the geographical location of the projects, examines when the equipment first competes according to hypotheses made on the various energy and collectors cost.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A revision of some basic concepts related to the analysis of variance of repeated measures is presented within an ecological context topics such as the types of experiments in which the technique is applicable, the hypotheses of interest, and its preference over other traditional techniques such as regression and conventional analysis of variance, are discussed. As an example, the technique was successfully applied to an experiment carried out at Cienaga Grande de Santa Marta, Colombia, in which the concentration of cadmium #mu#g/g in leaves of the black mangrove Avicennia germinans was measured in several monitoring stations and throughout several sampling intervals representing seasons.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The main objectives of this project are to quantify the changes in fracture porosity and multi-phase transport properties as a function of confining stress. These changes will be integrated into conceptual and numerical models that will improve our ability to predict and optimize fluid transport in fractured system. This report details our progress on: (a) developing the direct experimental measurements of fracture aperture and topology and fluid occupancy using high-resolution x-ray micro-tomography, (b) counter-current fluid transport between the matrix and the fracture, (c) studying the effect of confining stress on the distribution of fracture aperture and two-phase flow, and (d) characterization of shear fractures and their impact on multi-phase flow. The three-dimensional surface that describes the large-scale structure of the fracture in the porous medium can be determined using x-ray micro-tomography with significant accuracy. Several ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The groundwater flow and transport model of the Faultless underground nuclear test conducted at the Central Nevada Test Area (CNTA) was accepted by the state regulator and the environmental remediation efforts at the site have progressed to the stages of model validation and long-term monitoring design. This report discusses the long-term monitoring strategy developed for CNTA. Subsurface monitoring is an expensive and time-consuming process, and the design approach should be based on a solid foundation. As such, a thorough literature review of monitoring network design is first presented. Monitoring well networks can be designed for a number of objectives including aquifer characterization, parameter estimation, compliance monitoring, detection monitoring, ambient monitoring, and research monitoring, to name a few. Design methodologies also range from simple hydrogeologic intuition-based tools to sophisticated statistical- and optimization-based tools. When ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Plant Life Assessment Network (PLAN) is a Brite Euram Type II Thematic Network, initiated by the European Commission to facilitate structured co-operation between all cost shared action projects already funded by the Commission which fall under this common technical theme. The projects involved address a multiplicity of problems associated with plant life assessment and are drawn from Brite-Euram, Standards, Measurement and Testing, Nuclear Fission Safety and Esprit EC programmes. The main aim of the Network is to initiate, maintain and monitor a fruitful co-operation process between completed, ongoing and future EC R and D projects, thereby promoting improved cross fertilization and enhanced industrial exploitation of R and D results. As the project is in its infancy, this presentation covers the background to the initiative in some detail. In particular two key aspects are highlighted, namely, the requirement of the EC to launch such a network in the area of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This final report of the Manitoba Round Table on Environment and Economy (MRTEE) chronicles its history, objectives, accomplishments and ongoing challenges from 1988-1997. MRTEE`s mandate was to promote environmentally sustainable economic development in Manitoba through policies and programs that combine environmental concerns with economic decisions. The seven main objectives of the MRTEE were: (1) the implementation of a sustainable development strategy for Manitoba, (2) the design of a communications program on environment-economy integration and an action plan to upgrade environmental education, (3) implementation of market-driven and incentive programs to promote environmental protection by business, agriculture and resource users, (4) implementation of sustainable development within the public sector, (5) encouragement of individual businesses, farms and resource users to adopt codes of environmental practice, (6) ...

Science.gov (United States)

Research into methods for reasoning under uncertainty is currently one of the most exciting areas of artificial intelligence, largely because it has recently become possible to record, store, and process large amounts of data. While impressive achievements have been made in pattern classification problems such as handwritten character recognition, face detection, speaker identification, and prediction of gene function, it is even more exciting that researchers are on the verge of introducing systems that can perform large-scale combinatorial analyses of data, decomposing the data into interacting components. For example, computational methods for automatic scene analysis are now emerging in the computer vision community. These methods decompose an input image into its constituent objects, lighting conditions, motion patterns, etc. Two of the main challenges are finding effective representations and models in specific applications and finding ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper describes the modeling of horizontal steam generator with the TRACE code and calculation results of a loss-of-feedwater (LOF-10) experiment at the PACTEL facility. Parallel Channel Test Loop (PACTEL) is an integral test facility for a VVER-440 type nuclear reactor. The main objectives were to prepare a simulation model for its horizontal steam generator with the TRACE thermal hydraulic code and assess different modeling options of the code. PACTEL experiment LOF-10 was chosen for this assessment. The calculation results showed that TRACE is capable in simulating horizontal steam generator behavior both in steady state and during loss-of-feedwater transient. The phenomenon of heat transfer from primary to secondary side, steam superheating and flow reversal in the lowest heat exchange tubes were studied in detail. Different nodalization options were introduced. In the simulation of PACTEL loss-of-feedwater experiment LOF-10, the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The report presents an integrated software system developed at the Norwegian Electric Power Research Institute (EFI), for production scheduling, maintenance handling, network security analysis, inflow forecasting, and load forecasting. The integrated software is being developed with focus on hydro-dominated power supply systems. In specific terms it is expected that application of the software will improve the operational decisions, and make the planning process more effective. The optimal scheduling of hydro resources poses severe computational problems in system operations planning. This necessitates problem decomposition. In the EFI approach, planning is split into three main levels: long-term, mid-term and short-term planning. The long-term planning aims at evaluating the seasonal and pluriannual handling of regional storages in view of firm power supply obligations, inflow statistics, main hydraulic and electric transit limitations, and ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The SGTR project has been carried out within the fifth EURATOM Framework Programme (Contract No FIKS-CT-1999-0007). Its main objective was to provide an experimental database and to develop and/or verify models to support definition of accident management measures in the hypothetical case of a Steam Generator tube Rupture (SGTR) sequence. The project addressed both vertical and horizontal steam generator designs. This report summarises the main results obtained in the intermediate scale experimentation that addressed Western type steam generators. The specific goal of this test programme was to investigate aerosol retention in the break stage of the secondary side of a water-empty steam generator. The test matrix consisted of 12 tests that explored the influence of variables such as break type and orientation and inlet gas flow rate. This work was performed in the PECA facility of the Laboratory for Analysis of Safety ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The main objective of the present thesis was develop and get operational a real-time neutron radiography system, at the IPEN-CNEN/SP. This system is installed inside the shielding of an old facility, designed in 1988, for film radiography, which is installed at the beam-hole 08 of the 5 MW, IEA-R1 Nuclear Research Reactor. The most important modifications at the such facility were the increase of the {gamma}-radiation filter thickness, increase of the inner area of the shielding, design of a neutron collimator and a light tight box. The main characteristics of the neutron beam at the irradiation position are: flux: 1 x 10{sup 6}n/cm{sup 2}s, collimation ratio 70, effective energy 7 meV, diameter 20 cm, neutron/{gamma} ratio {approx} 10{sup 6}n/cm{sup 2}mrem. The real-time images have been obtained by means of an imaging system that consists of a screen scintillator, a light intensifier, a video camera, a digitizing frame ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In 1995, 25,8 % of the world electricity consumption was of nuclear origin, while in the EU this figure is increased up to 50,6 %. In order to maintain and even to increase its share in the electricity generation, Nuclear Energy needs to achieve a good economic performance as a base load source when compared with its competitors, basically coal and gas fired plants. Fossil-fired generation costs have declined over the past ten years, mainly due to lower fossil fuel prices. This factor together with the recently observed tendency of higher discount rates to be applied are challenging the attractiveness of the nuclear energy. Nuclear energy is a capital intensive option. Taken into account extensive standardization programs has been established aiming at cost reductions as well as to increase efficiency of nuclear energy utilization, among their main purposes. Externalities play an important role, as they are already internalized in nuclear ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Alter both oil crisis, of 1973 and 1979, a bad effect of the elevated costs and continuously increment of the oil prices was noted, for this reason, the interest for renewable energies sources widely available in developing countries was increased. All over the world, governments have formulated main objectives for energies savings and search for friendly technologies, taking into account the effects related with the environment. The imminent scarcity of fossil fuels has made humanity the rational use of primary energies, as a result of these; new plants with improved technology have been conceived taking into account energy savings and efficiency improvement. In this context, biomass gasification technologies are important, since they consist in techniques of parallel production of electricity and heat from just one fuel. This work consists in the development of a gasifier down draft of 100 kW for an internal combustion engine, which includes ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objective of this 3.5 year project is to develop a commercially competitive vehicle powered by ethanol (or ethanol blend) that can meet California`s ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) standards and equivalent corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) energy efficiency for a light-duty passenger car application. The definition of commercially competitive is independent of fuel cost, but does include technical requirements for competitive power, performance, refueling times, vehicle range, driveability, fuel handling safety, and overall emissions performance. This report summarizes a system design study completed after six months of effort on this project. The design study resulted in recommendations for ethanol-fuel blends that shall be tested for engine low-temperature cold-start performance and other criteria. The study also describes three changes to the engine, and two other changes to the vehicle to improve low-temperature starting, efficiency, and emissions. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tanzania has recently developed a comprehensive environmental policy which has put high priority on several specific environmental issues. One of the issues is the quality of waste water. A special priority is given to the pollution from the sisal industry. The East-African agro-industries generate very large quantities of organic residues from production and processing of different crops. These residues form a major contribution to the pollution of air, soil and waterways, but, at the same time they constitute a large potential for production of bioenergy through anaerobic digestion as well as potential substrate for other biological fermentation processes. Generally, these residues are regarded as having no or very little value and the different disposal methods are mainly a matter of getting rid of the waste. The generation of residues are very often concentrated on few large units, which makes the exploitation of these resources feasible in large scale biogas ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ObjectivesThe objective of this paper is to describe the complex mixed-methods design of a study conducted to assess health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundDiscrepancies between the conclusions of different meta-analyses (quantitative syntheses of systematic reviews) are often ascribed to methodological differences. The objective...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Context: Some studies suggest altered pituitary functioning and TSH production with aging.Objective: Our objective was to test the hypothesis that less TSH production...Full Text Available

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

According to the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis, environmental degradation increases in the early stages of growth, but it eventually decreases as income exceeds a threshold level. It is thus often argued that if international trade increases incomes then it can also have a positive impact on environmental quality. So far, these hypotheses have been widely empirically tested for the developed countries. However, it is still uncertain whether positive effects of international trade on growth and on the environment may also hold in developing countries. One of the major difficulties in testing these relations in developing countries is the poor quality of environment related data. In this analysis this problem is reduced by constructing a structural equation model (SEM) with three la...

Science.gov (United States)

A bioartificial kidney, which is composed of a membrane cartridge with renal epithelial cells, can substitute important kidney functions in patients with renal failure. A particular challenge is the maintenance of monolayer integrity and specialized renal epithelial cell functions ex vivo. We hypothesized that this can be improved by electro-spun, supramolecular polymer membranes which show clear benefits in ease of processability. We found that after 7?d, in comparison to conventional microporous membranes, renal tubular cells cultured on top of our fibrous supramolecular membranes formed polarized monolayers, which is prerequisite for a well-functioning bioartificial kidney. In future, these supramolecular membranes allow for incorporation of peptides that may increase cell function even further. PMID:20715132

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Individuals with Asperger syndrome (AS) have problems in following conversation, especially in the situations where several people are talking. This might result from impairments in audiovisual speech perception, especially from difficulties in focusing attention to speech-relevant visual information and ignoring distracting information. We studied the effect of visual spatial attention on the audiovisual speech perception of adult individuals with AS and matched control participants. Two faces were presented side by side, one uttering /aka/ and the other /ata/, while an auditory stimulus of /apa/ was played. The participants fixated on a central cross and directed their attention to the face that an arrow pointed to, reporting which consonant they heard. We hypothesized that the adults wi...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Background:- Surgical dislocation of the hip has been developed to deal with the problems causing femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). This is a relatively recent procedure that was historically reserved for larger areas specializing in hip surgery. Methods:- We hypothesized that surgical dislocation can be used for symptomatic FAI in a typical Australasian tertiary orthopaedic centre with acceptable results. This prospective study reviews the results of 53 surgical dislocations in this setting, looking particularly at functional outcomes and early complications. Results:- There were significant improvements in the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index score at 1, 2, 3 and 4 years post-operatively. Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract. The pathogenesis of normal (intraocular) pressure glaucoma has remained unclear so far. As hospital-based studies showed an association of normal-pressure glaucoma with low systemic blood pressure, particularly at night, and with vasospastic symptoms, it has been hypothesized that a vascular factor may play a primary role in the pathogenesis of normal-pressure glaucoma. That assumption may, however, be contradicted by the morphology of the optic nerve head. Eyes with normal-pressure glaucoma and glaucomatous eyes with high-intraocular pressure can show a strikingly similar appearance of the optic nerve head, including a loss of neuroretinal rim, a deepening of the optic cup, and an enlargement of parapapillary atrophy. These features, however, are not found in any (other) vascula...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Fetal exposure to phthalates may be associated with adverse reproductive effects, including cryptorchidism and decreased semen quality. Information about human placental transfer is needed to qualify the hypotheses. A dual recirculating placenta perfusion system to monitor concentrations of eight phthalate monoesters in fetal and maternal perfusates was established. In addition to perfusate background measures of phthalate monoesters, the concentrations in umbilical cord plasma and placenta tissue were measured. Monomethyl phthalate (mMP), monoethyl phthalate (mEP), monobutyl phthalate (mBP), and mono (2-ethyl-hexyl) phthalate (mEHP) were detected in both maternal and fetal perfusate, demonstrating a release of compounds from tissue or blood to perfusates. The distribution of compounds bet...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Red mud suspensions are studied as passivating agents for iron in alkaline chloride media. Red mud particles in alkaline media are negatively charged, and can absorb considerable amounts of protons without significant changes in pH. These particles adhere easily to an iron surface forming aggregates of heterogeneous shape, smaller than 10 {mu}mx10 {mu}m. These adhered particles recrystallise on potential cycling, and hinder metal dissolution and magnetite formation. Carbon steel samples passivated in red mud suspensions become resistant to corrosion in alkaline chloride media. Corrosion potential versus time records and impedance spectroscopy measurements allow formulating some hypotheses about the inhibiting mechanism.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Certain allelochemicals of the marine dinoflagellate Alexandrium tamarense cause lysis of a broad spectrum of target protist cells but the lytic mechanism is poorly defined. We first hypothesized that membrane sterols serve as molecular targets of these lytic compounds, and that differences in sterol composition among donor and target cells may cause insensitivity of Alexandrium and sensitivity of targets to lytic compounds. We investigated Ca^2^+ influx after application of lytic fractions to a model cell line PC12 derived from a pheochromocytoma of the rat adrenal medulla to establish how the lytic compounds affect ion flux associated with lysis of target membranes. The lytic compounds increased permeability of the cell membrane for Ca^2^+ ions even during blockade of Ca^2^+ channels wit...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Mapping the distribution of invasive alien plant species is significant for testing ecological hypotheses and for guiding effective management. Little is known about the distribution of invasive plants at landscape scale, and the factors controlling their dispersal and establishment are still poorly understood. This is the case for Rosa rugosa, an invasive shrub with negative effects on biodiversity in dune ecosystems of NW Europe. The aim of the study was to identify the factors which determine the distribution of R. rugosa in coastal dunes. In a large semi-natural dune area of NW Denmark (2364ha) all patches of the species (1321, 1.3-59.1m2) were GPS mapped. Patch distribution was GIS analysed, based on aerial photographs and vegetation maps. The distance of R. rugosa from the most consp...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

We investigated the impacts of forest thinning, prescribed fire, and contour ripping on community level physiological profiles (CLPP) of the soil microbial population in postmining forest rehabilitation. We hypothesized that these management practices would affect CLPP via an influence on the quality and quantity of soil organic matter. The study site was an area of Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata Donn ex Sm.) forest rehabilitation that had been mined for bauxite 12?years previously. Three replicate plots (20???20?m) were established in nontreated forest and in forest thinned from 3,000?8,000 stems ha?1 to 600?800 stems ha?1 in April (autumn) of 2003, followed either by a prescribed fire in September (spring) of 2003 or left nonburned. Soil samples were collected in August 2004 from two soil ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

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

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Introduction: The orofacial clefts include 30 variant according to Tessier classification: the number 30 contain mandibular arc damage isolated or associated with damage of surrounding soft tissue. Case report: Our patient was a newborn with median mandibular cleft associated with ankyloglossia, bifid tongue and a top cervical fistula. We have not found polymalformative syndrome. The early surgical management included one time and after-effect were simple within 11months. Discussion: We point up difficulties for antenatal diagnosis and controversy about appropriate time for management of bone defect. The last physiopathologic hypotheses were explicated.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The authors examined the effects of large escapements of sockeye salmon in to the Kenai River and into Red and Akalura Lakes on Kodiak Island. Estimated smolt numbers outmigrating from the Kenai River decreased from 30 million in 1989 to under 500,000 in 1992. Decreased overwintering survival of age-0 juvenile sockeye salmon rearing in Skilak and Kenai lakes is the major contributor to this decline. Preliminary examination of limnological data from Skilak and Kenai Lakes provided no obvious explanation for this major decline in winter survival of juvenile sockeye. Due to differences in diel vertical migration of zooplankton among glacial lakes on the Kenai Peninsula with varying planktivores levels, the authors hypothesize that behavioral changes of zooplankton induced by predation may be a major contributor to the juvenile sockeye decline.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Diurnal and seasonal thermal constancy, a greatly delayed seasonal temperature maximum, and summer cool and winter warm conditions characterize the stream environment below a deep-release dam in Colorado. Low diversity index and equitability values and changes in macroinvertebrate species composition may result from failure of the temperature regime to provide the thermal stimuli essential for various life-cycle phenomena. It is hypothesized that the following sublethal effects, directly or indirectly resulting from the modified temperature regime, may further alter macroinvertebrate community structure: reduction of niche overlap and a shift toward an equilibrium community as a consequence of reduced environmental fluctuation; more intense competition associated with greater productivity; elimination of major invertebrate predators; and failure of the limited temperature range to provide optimal temperatures for various physiological processes. Effects of the ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

ABSTRACT This research examined whether the Internet improves life satisfaction. The study surveyed 195 college students, and a structural model was built to explain effects of the Internet on school life satisfaction using a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). In line with social cognitive theory and literature on social effects of the Internet, current data supported the hypotheses that Internet use, perceived online social support, and online social self-efficacy had direct positive impacts on school life satisfaction. Offline extroversion, online extroversion, online social self-efficacy, and online social outcome expectations influenced school life satisfaction indirectly: offline extroversion acted through social online self-efficacy and online extroversion; online social self-effica...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Nest locations of breeding birds are often spatially clustered. This tendency to nest together has generally been related to a patchy distribution of nesting habitat in landscape studies, but behavioral studies of species with clustered breeding patterns draw attention to the importance of social and biotic factors. Indeed, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the breeding system of many territorial, migrant birds may be semi-colonial. The reasons for, and extent of, spatial clustering in their breeding systems are not well understood. Our goal was to tease apart the influence of habitat availability and social drivers of clustered breeding in a neotropical migrant species, the hooded warbler (Wilsonia citrina). To test alternative hypotheses related to clustered habitat or conspecifi...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Nutritional insufficiency and toxicity are deleterious effects of phytoplankton on grazers. We hypothesize that toxic food is likely to have stronger evolutionary selective effects on grazers than nutritionally insufficient food. We explore this hypothesis in comparative studies of egg production and egg hatching of the copepod Acartia hudsonica challenged with both a toxic and a nutritionally insufficient alga. Experiments lasting 6 days, in which mixtures of different proportions of the suspect and a control alga were offered as food to female copepods, showed that the dinoflagellate Alexandrium fundyense, which bears paralytic shellfish toxins, was toxic to A. hudsonica. In contrast, the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum was nutritionally insufficient to A. hudsonica. In another set of e...

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The relative merits and difficlties of the primary and secondry origin hypotheses for the observed cosmic-ray antiprotons, including the new low-energy measurement of Buffington, et al are discussed. We conclude that the cosmic-ray antiproton data may be evidence for antimatter galaxies and baryon symmetric cosmology. The present bar P data are consistent with a primary extragalactic component having /p /equiv 1+/- 3.2/0.7x10 to the -4 independent of energy. We propose that the primary extragalactic cosmic ray antiprotons are most likely from active galaxies and that expected disintegration of bar alpha/alpha ban alpha/alpha. We further predict a value for ban alpha/alpha /equiv 10 to the -5, within range of future cosmic ray detectors.

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'Regional climate change: hydrology and land-use' is a topic that is being intensively discussed for quite a while already. At the same time, this topic demands consequences both on the level of politics and other decision makers. We scientists bear a particular responsibility for the analysis of existing data, targeted additional research to fill information gaps, and the critical evaluation and interpretation of the obtained results. The currently gathered sub-population of the scientific community is, albeit small, quite representative of a wide spectrum of activities and can very well offer a deeper insight into the current state-of-the-art. We deliberately organized the contributions such as to offer both overviews and results from detailed projects, as well as a close proximity of very well founded results with rather provocative hypotheses. (orig.)

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Assembly of icosahedral capsids of proper size and symmetry is not understood. Residue F170 in bacteriophage P22 coat protein is critical for conformational switching during assembly. Substitutions at this site cause assembly of tubes of hexamerically arranged coat protein. Intragenic suppressors of the ts phenotype of F170A and F170K coat protein mutants were isolated. Suppressors were repeatedly found in the coat protein telokin-like domain at position 285, which caused coat protein to assemble into petite procapsids and capsids. Petite capsid assembly strongly correlated to the side chain volume of the substituted amino acid. We hypothesize that larger side chains at position 285 torque the telokin-like domain, changing flexibility of the subunit and intercapsomer contacts. Thus, a sing...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract Imatinib mesylate is the first of a novel group of drugs that specifically target protein tyrosine kinases, which are central to the pathogenesis of human cancer. It has been approved for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia and gastrointestinal stromal tumor and has been found efficacious in other neoplastic diseases. Nilotinib and dasatinib, a second-generation of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), were developed in response to findings of emerging imatinib resistance or intolerance to the drug. Cutaneous reactions are the most common nonhematologic side effect of these drugs, and their management is challenging especially in the absence of alternative anticancer agents. The present review focuses on the clinical characteristics and the hypothesized molecular pathogenesis o...

Science.gov (United States)

We hypothesize that the mushroom-derived active compound may be a potential strategy for increasing survival in response to influenza virus (H1N1) infection through the stimulation of host innate immune response. The validity of the hypothesis can be tested by immune response to influenza infection as seen through survival percentage, virus clearance, weight loss, natural killer cell cytotoxicity, Tumor Necrosis Factor-? (TNF-?) and Interferon-gamma (IFN-?) levels, lytic efficiency in the spleens of mice and inducible nitric oxide synthase mRNA expressions in RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells. The hypothesis may improve people's quality of life, reduce the medical cost of our healthcare system and eliminate people's fears of influenza outbreak. PMID:21660092

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Previous AIX development environment experience with ASC White and Early Delivery systems UV and UM was leveraged to provide a smooth and robust transition to the Purple development environment. Still, there were three major changes that initially caused serious problems for Purple users. The first was making 64-bit builds of executables the default instead of 32-bit. The second was requiring all executables to use large page memory. The third was the phase-out of the popular, but now defunct, third-party C++ compiler KCC, which required the migration of many codes to IBM's xlC C++ compiler. On Purple, the default build environment changed from 32-bit builds to 64-bit builds in order to enable executables to use the 4GB per processor (32GB per node) memory available, and in order for the MPI library to do collective optimizations that required the larger 64-bit address space. The 64-bit build environment was made default by setting the IBM environment variable ...

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This report describes the results of a large project conducted in a corporation between Statistics Denmark and the Danish National Environmental Research Institute. The main objective of the project has been to analyse the possibilities of prescribing the development in the Danish freight transport in a more appropriate and precise way than it is done by existing models. A secondary objective of the project was to develop a model based on the findings of the analysis. The intention was to be able to describe all areas of freight transport. The analysis has proven it impossible to improve the existing calculations in some areas of transport. Hence, the project has been narrowed down to focus exclusively on road freight transport. The developed model distinguishes itself from existing models by a much higher level of detail in the calculations. This enables the model to describe the structural relations between transport and ...

CERN Multimedia

Theo de Visser and Farshid Feyzi in front of main beam of YE3 cart at HHM in Shanghai.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

A method for ranking interval objects is proposed and analyzed; the characteristics of those objects are represented by pessimistic, optimistic, and most probable estimates. The method is based on the approximation of the binary probability preference relation by the binary median preference relation. The method is verified using statistical modeling (the Monte Carlo method). The proposed approach can be used for ranking nonreusable and reusable objects.

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Objective was to develop a glass utilizing the silica waste material from geothermal energy production, and to supply local artists with this glass to make artistic objects. A glass composed of 93% indigenous Hawaiian materials was developed; 24 artists made 110 objects from this glass. A market was found for art objects made from this material.

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A large portion of terrestrial carbon (C) resides in soil organic carbon (SOC). The dynamics of this large reservoir depend on many factors, including climate. Measurements of {sup 13}C:{sup 12}C ratios, C concentrations, and C:N ratios at six forest sites in the Southern Appalachian Mountains (USA) were used to explore several hypotheses concerning the relative importance of factors that control soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition and SOC turnover. Mean {delta}{sup 13}C values increased with soil depth and decreasing C concentrations along a continuum from fresh litter inputs to more decomposed soil constituents. Data from the six forest sites, in combination with data from a literature review, indicate that the extent of change in {delta}{sup 13}C values from forest litter inputs to mineral soil (20 cm deep) is significantly associated with mean annual temperature. The findings support a conceptual model of vertical changes in forest soil {delta}{sup 13}C ...

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For Stage II of the European Dioxin Project the following objectives were set: - Amendment of existing emission data collected for most relevant emission sources in order to reduce uncertainties of emission estimates. Collecting first emission data from countries not yet performing dioxin emission measurement programs. Extending the inventory of dioxin emissions to ambient air produced in Stage I by a complementary study on emissions to land and water. Extending the regional scope of data collection to countries in Central Europe. The report of Stage II of the European Dioxin Project is presented in 3 Volumes. Volume 1 contains an overview on the background and approach of different activities carried out and on the results obtained. These results are put into a broader view regarding the dioxin reduction measures in Europe leading to conclusions and recommendation for future work. Volume 2 of the report contains a detailed presentation of the sub-projects carried ...

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There are a number of factors favoring synfuel production in South Africa; (1) there are suitable coal fields in the immediate vicinity of our main industrial area.; (2) nature has given us relatively favorable geological conditions permitting highly mechanized extraction techniques so that coal can be delivered to the synfuel plants at Secunda at a cost - including return on capital - of less than $10.00 per ton, based on 1980 price levels; and (3) because the industry and its natural market are remote from the coast, it enjoys some transport protection against products refined from imported crude oil. Even more important we realized a long time ago that in trying to close the gap between the cost of synfuels and international oil prices, one is confronted with a moving target which can more effectively be attacked sooner rather than later. With such highly capital intensive projects, cash operating costs are relatively low. Product price increases once the ...

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

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Objective: To assess the efficacy, prospects and future of conservative management of beta thalassemia major patients in a developing country. Design: Patients registered at IHBTS were studied over a period of three years. They consented to being managed on moderate transfusion regimen, aiming to maintain a pre-transfusion haemoglobin(Hgb) level of 9.0 plus minus 1.0 g per dL. We studied their transfusion requirements, status for transfusion transmitted infections (TTls), serum ferritin levels and complications developing as a result of iron overload. Subjects: Initially all registered patients were included in this study. Sporadic patients as well as dropouts occurring due to any reason, (patients concurrently seeking treatment at other centres as well, or complying poorly to advised chelation therapy) were excluded from the study. The data presented here conforms to a cohort of 60 regular patients who adhered best to our selection criteria. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Protecting Earth and planets against the invasion of 'alien life forms' is not military science fiction, but it is the peaceful daily job of engineers and scientists of space agencies. 'Planetary Protection' is preventing microbial contamination of both the target planet and the Earth when sending robots on interplanetary space mission. It is important to preserve the 'natural' conditions of other planets and to not bring with robots 'earthly microbes' (forward contamination) when looking for 'spores of extra terrestrial life'. The Earth and its biosphere must be protected from potential extraterrestrial biological contamination when returning samples of other planets to the Earth (backward contamination). The NASA-Caltech Laboratory for Planetary Protection of Dr. Kasthuri Venkateswaran at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) (California, USA) routinely monitors and characterizes the microbes of NASA spacecraft assembly rooms and space robots prior to flight. They have repeatedly ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Monitoring nuclear plants components enable to save on operation and maintenance costs by reducing incidents gravity and casual plant stoppages thank to early detection and fast diagnosis. Improving the knowledge of the behaviour of the plant will also allow to optimize maintenance and to increase plant life. In order to improve monitoring and diagnosis capabilities in nuclear power plants. Electricite de France (EDF) is extending the existing data processing chains towards automatic aided interpretation and diagnosis. Therefore, EDF has designed an integrated monitoring and diagnosis assistance system: PSAD-Poste de Surveillance et d'Aide au Diagnostic, including several monitoring functions of the main components. It integrates on-line monitoring, off-line diagnosis and knowledge based systems. PSAD stations provide homogeneous aids to diagnosis which enable plant personnel to pinpoint the mechanical behaviour of plant equipment. The ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A series of Model Tests of Embedment Effect on Reactor Buildings has been carried out by the Nuclear Power Engineering Corporation (NUPEC), under the sponsorship of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) of Japan. Seismic response of an embedded reactor building is greatly affected by the non-linearity of the backfill soil. However, quite few experimental data have been obtained so far. The objective of this study is to qualitatively evaluate the non-linear behavior of the backfill soil through shaking table tests. Its effects to the seismic response of a reactor building constructed at a soft rock site can be made clear through the tests. Non-linear effects of the backfill soil on the seismic response of the embedded reactor building model were evaluated experimentally. Based on the sinusoidal and seismic wave excitation tests, the following conclusions were obtained regarding the changes in vibrational characteristics of the building model which ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Radiotherapy recent development in cancer treatment needs strong procedures and quality assessment to improve safety both for patients and professionals. In Ile de France territory, a coordinated action between ASN inspectors and medical doctors specialized in public health (MISP), working as civil servants in health administration, was initiated at the end of 2007. An inspection guideline was implemented in a workshop between ASN and Regional Hospital Agency (ARH). The MISP as health administrator has to verify if care organisation responds to treatment cancer regulatory framework: as a doctor he is authorized to access to patient records to know which treatment was chosen. He has to assure if the therapeutic guidelines are respected. His comprehensive approach is essentially patient-oriented. The MISP inspection coordinated with ASN inspectors is a very pertinent pluri-disciplinary approach, undeniably necessary in such a medical technic. The effectiveness of the radiotherapy ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

There is now an acute need to optimize maintenance to improve both reliability and competitiveness of nuclear power plant operation. There is an increasing tendency to move from the preventive (time based) maintenance concept to one dependent on plant and component conditions. In this context, various on-line and off-line condition monitoring and diagnostics, nondestructive inspection techniques and surveillance are used. Component selection for condition based maintenance, parameter selection for monitoring condition, evaluation of condition monitoring results are issues influencing the effectiveness of condition based maintenance. All these selections of components and parameters to be monitored, monitoring and diagnostics techniques to be used, acceptance criteria and trending for condition evaluation, and the economic aspect of predictive maintenance and condition monitoring should be incorporated into an integrated, effective condition based maintenance programme, which is part of ...

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The Externally-Fired Combined Cycle (EFCC) offers a method for operating high-efficiency gas and steam turbine combined cycles on coal. In the EFCC, an air heater replaces the gas turbine combustor so that the turbine can be indirectly fired. Ceramic materials are required for the heat exchange surfaces to accommodate the operating temperatures of modern gas turbines. The ceramic air heater or heat exchanger is the focus of this program, and the two primary objectives are (1) to demonstrate that a ceramic air heater can be reliably pressurized to a level of 225 psia (1.5 MPa); and (2) to show that the air heater can withstand exposure to the products of coal combustion at elevated temperatures. By replacing the gas turbine combustor with a ceramic air heater, the cycle can use coal or other ash-bearing fuels. Numerous programs have attempted to fuel high efficiency gas turbines directly with coal, often resulting in significant ash deposition upon turbine ...

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This paper discusses the evolution of the horizontal subsea tree and its utilization in increasingly demanding applications. Initially, the Horizontal Tree was seen as a solution for wells requiring high well maintenance, such as those using electrical downhole pumps. Today, the horizontal tree is being applied to natural drive wells because of attractive whole life economics. This raises concern in a number of areas. Tubing hanger seals are permanently exposed to well fluids, and must provide high integrity sealing. This required the development of a new type of radially energized, all metal sealing system, specifically for horizontal tree applications, suitable for oil or gas service at working pressures to 15,000 psi. In addition, horizontal tree pressure integrity depends on the master valve stem, gate and bonnet seals. The need for high seal integrity also dictates that the first master valves should be integral to the main body of the tree, to maximize ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This research has two main goals. First, we wanted to introduce optimization tools in the diffusion code DONJON, mostly for fuel management. The second objective is more practical. The optimization capabilities are applied to the fuel management problem for different CANDU reactors at refueling equilibrium state. Two kinds of approaches are considered and implemented in this study to solve optimization problems in the code DONJON. The first methods are based on gradients and on the quasi-linear mathematical programming. The method initially developed in the code OPTEX is implemented as a reference approach for the gradient based methods. However, this approach has a major drawback. Indeed, the starting point has to be a feasible point. Then, several approaches have been developed to be more general and not limited by the initial point choice. Among the different methods we developed, two were found to be very efficient: the multi-step method ...

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Elf Aquitaine, a major international oil and gas company, has recently undergone a thorough reengineering of its research and development in exploration and production division. The aim of this reengineering, was to align the company R&D with its business strategy, and also to give a clear picture of two major features for a R&D portfolio: a duration profile (short, median or long term?) and a partnership profile (do it yourself, cooperate, outsource or let do elsewhere?). In short, we were trying to answer a basic question: How can we adapt our R&D to a durable context of low oil price (eg 15 $/bbl)? In our opinion, two preliminary statements ought to be made when dealing with the above issue. Firstly, R&D does not contribute equally to the factors of increased profitability, although it is certainly a major contributor to some of them (like obtaining new ventures, reducing costs, discovering new reserves out of current acreage, or improving the overall recovery of ...

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Low-temperature catalytic pretreatment is a promising approach to the development of an improved liquefaction process- This work is a fundamental study on effects of pretreatments on coal structure and reactivity in liquefaction. The main objectives of this project are to study the coal structural changes induced by low-temperature catalytic and thermal pretreatments by using spectroscopic techniques; and to clarify the pretreatment-induced changes in reactivity or convertibility of coals in the subsequent liquefaction. This report describes the recent progress of our work. Substantial progress has been made in the spectroscopic characterization of structure and pretreatment-liquefaction reactions of a Montana subbituminous Coal (DECS-9), and thermochemical analysis of three mw and reacted bituminous coals. Temperature programmed liquefaction has been performed on three low-rank coals both in the presence and absence of dispersed molybdenum ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the context of radiation protection for both workers and the population in general, natural sources of radiation, and in particular radon gas and its short-life decay products assume great importance. In particular, workers in thermal spas can easily be exposed to a level of radon radiation and its decay products comparable to those in uranium mines, though often these workers are unaware of the danger. The main source of radon in thermal baths is the thermal water itself, coming as it often does from deep springs, and this can produce high radon concentrations which are left in those areas in which therapy is carried out. Another factor which cannot be overlooked is the radioactive content of thermal mud, often matured for long periods by contact with thermal water. Thermal cures, though varying slightly from site to site, consist principally of mud cures, hydro-therapy and inhalation in various forms. Both health workers and patients are exposed to radiation, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Background. Metabolic disturbances such as anoxia and hypoglycaemia are important in causing maldevelopment of the neonatal brain. While there have been some pathology studies of the effects of neonatal hypoglycaemia on brain development, reports of MRI findings in such infants have been rare. Objectives. To describe the MRI findings in neurologically handicapped children who had suffered from neonatal hypoglycaemia and to evaluate the relationship between the neurological impairment and neonatal hypoglycaemia. Materials and methods. We retrospectively evaluated the MRI findings in eight full-term infants with neonatal symptomatic hypoglycaemia who later exhibited neurological handicap. The age at which the MRI scans were obtained ranged from 9 months to 8 years 10 months (mean 4 years 1 month, median 4 years). Results. The most striking findings were prolonged T1 weighting and T2 weighting in the parieto-occipital periventricular deep white matter in six patients, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gas turbines are used where large amounts of energy is needed, typically as engines in aircraft, ferries and power plants. From an efficiency point of view it is desirable to increase the service temperature as much as possible. One of the limiting factors is then the maximum allowable metal temperatures in the turbine stages, primarily in the blades of the first stage, that are exposed to the highest gas temperatures. Specially designed materials are used to cope with these severe conditions, such as the nickel base superalloy IN792. In order to be able to design the components for higher temperatures and tighter tolerances, a detailed understanding and computationel models of the material behaviour is needed. The models presented in this work have been developed with the objective of being physically well motivated, and with the intention of avoiding excessive numbers of parameters. The influence of the parameters should also be as easy as possible to interpret. ...

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The three main objectives of this study were: (1) to determine if depletion of proteoglycans from the cartilage matrix that occurs during osteoarthritis causes a measurable increase of cartilage proteoglycan components in the synovial fluid and sera, (2) to observe what effect intracellular cAMP has on the expression of matrix components by chondrocytes, and (3) to determine if freshly isolated chondrocytes contain detectable levels of mRNA for fibronectin. Canine serum keratan sulfate and hyaluronate were measured to determine if there was an elevation of these serum glycosaminoglycans in a canine model of osteoarthritis. A single intra-articular injection of chymopapain into a shoulder joint increased serum keratan sulfate 10 fold and hyaluronate less than 2 fold in 24 hours. Keratan sulfate concentrations in synovial fluids of dogs about one year old were unrelated to the presence of spontaneous cartilage degeneration in the joints. High ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Objective: To apply the obtained results from 3 stages of research in Chinese radiation protection field. Methods: Based on the identification of physical, chemical and biological qualities for element and its radionuclides under equilibrium condition, main application of these results in Chinese radiation protection field have been discussed by using reported methods in literature. Results: Based on developing elemental reference values of organs or tissues, whole body burdens and their distribution for Chinese Reference Man, discussed in the above 3 articles, current dietary elemental intakes of 42 elements have been updated, and related basis for certain important parameters of bio-kinetic model for use in radiation protection (for example, f_l, T_e and T_b) have been provided. The internal doses from primordial radionuclides and transfer coefficients of elements from environment into the critical organs of Chinese adult men have been ...

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The kraft recovery boiler is of critical importance for the paper and pulp industry. From only energy point of view, kraft recovery boilers supply more than 50% of total thermal energy consumed in the paper and pulp industry. A kraft recovery boiler has two main functions: firstly to recover the inorganic cooking chemicals in the black liquor for reuse in the pulping process, and secondly to make use of the chemical energy in the organic portion of the black liquor to generate super-heated steam for the plant. The twin objectives of recovering chemicals and energy makes the recovery boiler design and operation more complex than virtually any other boiler application. Thus there is a demand for development of an analytical tool that can be used to predict the performance of a kraft recovery boiler. This paper presents the results achieved from a project jointly financed by Swedish National Energy Administration and the industry (Iggesund ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Calibration-Free Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) has been proposed several years ago as an approach for quantitative analysis of Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy spectra. Recently developed refinement of the spectral processing method is described in the present work. Accurate quantitative results have been demonstrated for several metallic alloys. However, the degree of accuracy that can be achieved with Calibration-Free Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy analysis of generic samples still needs to be thoroughly investigated. The authors have undertaken a systematic study of errors and biasing factors affecting the calculation in the Calibration-Free Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy spectra processing. These factors may be classified in three main groups: 1) experimental aberrations (intensity fluctuations and inaccuracy in the correction for spectral efficiency of a detection system), 2) inaccuracy in theoretical parameters used for ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Problems of classification and regression estimation in which objects are represented by multidimensional arrays of features are considered. Many practical statements can be reduced to such problems, for example, the popular approach to the description of images as a set of patches and a set of descriptors in each patch or the description of an object in the form of a set of distances from it to certain support objects selected based on a set of features. For solving problems concerning the objects thus described, a generalization of the relevance vector model is proposed. In this generalization, specific regularization coefficients are defined for each dimension of the multidimensional array of the object description; the resultant regularization coefficient for a given element in the mul...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The IAEA has requested several member states to present their proposal of the application of the Integrated Safeguards (IS) system in their nuclear facilities. This report contains a IS proposal for Finland prepared under the Task FIN C 1264 of The Finnish Support Programme to IAEA Safeguards. The comprehensive safeguards system of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been one of the main tools in the fight against nuclear proliferation since the entry-into-force of the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty three decades ago. In the 1990s some of the inherent weaknesses of this so-called traditional safeguards system were revealed first in Iraq and then in North Korea. Therefore, the member states of the LAEA decided to give the Agency additional legal authority in order to make its control system more effective as well as more efficient than before. This was accomplished by the approval of the so-called Model Additional Protocol (INFCIRC/540) in 1997. ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Objective:The identification of biological markers in order to assess different aspects of COPD is an area of growing interest. The objective of this study was to investigate whether...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

OBJECTIVE: The objective was to define and characterize the costs associated with trauma care at a level I trauma center. Once the costs were identified, attending physician-led teams were designed...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ObjectivesModernising Medical Careers (MMC) emerged in response to acknowledged problems in training in the Senior House Officer grade. The objective of this study was to assess...Full Text Available