Readout integrated circuits (ROICs) for focal plane arrays (FPAs) have become increasingly complex to meet the needs of modern infrared systems. BAE Systems has pioneered a number of advanced signal processing architectures for FPA ROICs. Demonstrated signal processing capabilities of BAE Systems FPAs include analog-to-digital conversion, offset subtraction, individual pixel automatic gain compensation, transient noise suppression, on-FPA defect deselection, reconfigurable pixels, spatial neural network processing and subframe noise averaging. BAE Systems FPA advanced signal processing is not just for demonstrations, but is used in many of their deliverable FPAs, improving real system performance.
A self-seeded free electron laser (FEL) provides a high gain and extraction efficiency for the emitted light. An accelerator outputs a beam of electron pulses to a permanent magnet wiggler having an input end for receiving the electron pulses and an output end for outputting light and the electron pulses. An optical feedback loop collects low power light in a small signal gain regime at the output end of said wiggler and returns the low power light to the input end of the wiggler while outputting high power light in a high signal gain regime.
Airborne pollutants can cause failures in switching and computing equipment. This paper focuses on a subset of such pollutants - airborne fine particles (<2.5 [mu]m diameter). It begins by examining the extent to which different improvements in heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems reduce indoor concentrations of fine particles. For each modification, the consequent reduction in soiling rate is derived. The concomitant increase in operating costs is also calculated. These costs are then compared with the costs of failures in telephone switching offices, leading to estimates of failure rate reductions that would make improvements cost-effective. Finally, the reduction in failures required to offset the costs of the improvements are compared with documented differences in failure rates between unimproved and improved environments. This study suggests that, in many telephone switching offices, the added operating costs associated with more ...
Previous analyses of binary cycles for conversion of geothermal energy from moderate temperature resources to electrical energy have shown potential gains in net geofluid effectiveness of on the order of 8%, resulting from selection of turbine-expansion processes whose equilibrium states pass through the two-phase region (assuming major condensation does not occur). If condensation occurs, this gain could be reduced or eliminated by the resulting loss in turbine efficiency. Experience with many fluids, however, indicates that vapor supersaturation (or subcooling) permits metastable pure-vapor states to exist at temperatures considerably below the saturation temperature at a given pressure; thus, by better understanding the condensation process, and properly structuring the cycle, substantial performance gains may be achievable. The present study assessed, qualitatively, the probability for attaining ...
The results of experiments with a short period (9.6 mm) wiggler sheet electron beam (1.0 mm x 2.0 cm) millimeter-wave free electron laser (FEL) amplifier are presented. This FEL amplifier utilized a strong wiggler field for sheet beam confinement in the narrow beam dimension and an offset-pole side-focusing technique for the wide dimension beam confinement. The beam analysis herein includes finite emittance and space-charge effects. High-current beam propagation was achieved as a result of extensive analytical studies and experimental optimization. A design optimization resulted in a low sensitivity to structure errors and beam velocity spread, as well as a low required beam energy. A maximum gain of 24 dB was achieved with a 1-kW injected signal power at 86 GHz, a 450-kV beam voltage, 17-A beam current, 3.8-kG wiggler magnetic field, and a 74-period wiggler length. The maximum gain with a one-watt injected millimeter-wave ...
In this work, the thermal performance of a conventional collector is improved by inserting porous substrates at the inner walls of the collector tubes. The porous substrates improve the convective heat transfer coefficient between the tube wall and the fluid. This improvement is investigated numerically and its effects on the efficiency and the useful gain of the collector are evaluated. It is found that inserting the porous substrate may raise the collector efficiency considerably, especially at high values of the overall heat loss coefficient.
Previous analyses of binary cycles for conversion of geothermal energy from moderate temperature resources to electrical energy have shown potential gains in net geofluid effectiveness on the order of 8%, resulting from selection of turbine-expansion processes whose equilibrium states pass through the two-phase region. If condensation occurs, this gain could be reduced or eliminated by the resulting loss in turbine efficiency. Experience with many fluids, however, indicates that vapor supersaturation permits metastable pure-vapor states to exist at temperatures considerably below the saturation temperature at a given pressure; thus, by better understanding the condensation process, and properly structuring the cycle, substantial performance gains may be possible. The purpose of the present study was to assess the probability for attaining this performance gain by estimating the ...
Preheating processed materials and combustion air can result in processing and fuel-efficiencygains in industrial smelting furnaces. For example, fuel consumption in reverberatory furnaces used in copper smelting would drop by as much as 63% at the same throughput by preheating the charge in a countercurrent mode to 1400/sup 0/F by exhaust gases that have an initial temperature of 2500/sup 0/F. Concurrent charge preheating would result in a maximum decrease of 46% in natural gas consumption. An analysis of these gains also provides equations for calculating investment returns and nomographs for optimizing charge-preheating temperatures for reverberatory furnaces.
The influence of bowl offset on motored mean flow and turbulence in a direct injection diesel engine has been examined with the aid of a multi-dimensional flow code. Results are presented for three piston geometries. The bowl geometry of each piston was the same, while the offset between the bowl and the cylinder axis was varied from 0.0 to 9.6% of the bore. The swirl ratio at intake valve closing was also varied from 2.60 to 4.27. It was found that the angular momentum of the air at TDC was decreased by less than 8% when the bowl was offset. Nevertheless, the mean (squish and swirl) flows were strongly affected by the offset. In addition, the distribution of turbulent kinetic energy (predicted by the /delta/-e model) was modified. Moderate increases (10% or less) in mass averaged turbulence intensity at TDC with offset were observed.
Research in concentrated thermal solar power plants of all types and, in particular, those based on central receiver, namely solar tower plants, has experienced great impetus in the last decade, reaching full commercial operation with the PS10 plant in Spain. In spite of previous demonstration plants testing different receivers and power cycle layouts, this first commercial power plant adopted a cavity receiver generating saturated steam and therefore penalising cycle efficiency in order to gain plant reliability. According to the experience gained, if a competitive Levelised Cost of Electricity is to be reached, capital and maintenance costs must be reduced and efficiencies must be increased. To achieve these goals, modifying the power cycle is deemed essential, whether using superheated ...
The visible semiconductor laser includes an InAlGaP active region surrounded by one or more AlGaAs layers on each side, with carbon as the sole p-type dopant. Embodiments of the invention are provided as vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) and as edge-emitting lasers (EELs). One or more transition layers comprised of a substantially indium-free semiconductor alloy such as AlAsP, AlGaAsP, or the like may be provided between the InAlGaP active region and the AlGaAS DBR mirrors or confinement layers to improve carrier injection and device efficiency by reducing any band offsets. Visible VCSEL devices fabricated according to the invention with a one-wavelength-thick (1{lambda}) optical cavity operate continuous-wave (cw) with lasing output powers up to 8 mW, and a peak power conversion efficiency of up to 11%. 5 figs.
In this paper, we extend the diversity and multiplexing tradeoff (DMT) analysis from point-to-point channels to cellular systems to evaluate the impact of inter-cell interference on the system reliability and efficiency. Fundamental tradeoff among diversity order, multiplexing gain and inter-cell interference intensity is characterized to reveal the capability of multiple antennas in cellular systems. And the detrimental effects of the inter-cell interference on the system performance of diversity and multiplexing is presented and analyzed.
In the paper is studied the physics of a free electron laser (FEL) based on a two-frequency undulator (TFU) which induces large non linear effects, especially on the spectral dynamics. These effects are analyzed in an extended formalism where the spontaneous emission, the low-gain regime and the strong-field saturation regime are studied. Numerical simulations show that the optimized TFU generates a laser field having both a large extraction efficiency and a narrow spectrum.
Recently, organic semiconducting materials have gained a broad interest due to their potential for organic electronic devices such as organic light emitting diode (OLED), organic photovoltaic devices and organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). Optical properties of organic semiconducting materials are important for practical application. For example, the power conversion efficiency of organic photovoltaic devices is mainly affected by absorption properties of organic materials. Proton irradiation is one of the efficient methods to change the optical properties of organic materials. In this paper, we investigate the changes of optical properties of various polymers using the proton irradiation.
This work estimates the power requirements for using photochemical processes driven by space nuclear power to counteract the Earth's ozone layer depletion. The total quantity of ozone (O_3) in the Earth's atmosphere is estimated to be about 4.7 x 10"3"7 molecules. The ozone production and destruction rates in the stratosphere are both on the order of 4.9 x 10"3"1 molecules/s, differing by a small fraction so that the net depletion rate is about 0.16 to 0.26% per year. The delivered optical power requirement for offsetting this depletion is estimated to be on the order of 3 GW. If the power were produced by satellite reactors at 800 km altitude (orbit decay time #approx# 300 years), some means of efficient power beaming would be needed to deliver the power to stratospheric levels (10--50 km). Ultraviolet radiation at 140--150 nm could have higher absorption rates in O_2 (leading to production of atomic oxygen, which can combine with O_2 to form ...
A set of mode-coupled excitation equations for the slowly-growing amplitudes of dielectric waveguide eigenmodes is derived as a description of the electromagnetic signal field of a high-gain free-electron laser, or FEL, including the effects of longitudinal space-charge. This approach to describing the field basis set has notable advantages for FEL analysis in providing an efficient characterization of such eigenmodes, and in allowing a clear connection to free-space propagation of the input (seeding) and output radiation. A simple transformation converts the coupled differential excitation equations into a set of coupled algebraic equations and yields a matrix determinant equation for the FEL eigenmodes. A quadratic index medium is used as a model dielectric waveguide to obtain an expression for the predicted spot size of the dominant eigenmode, in the approximation that it consists of a single gaussian mode.
A range of new nanomaterials to replace the active materials in lithium ion batteries are currently being studied and employed in an attempt to overcome various performance limitations of previous technologies. Nanomaterial production and manufacturing techniques appear to fit into a general trend towards more energy intensive production methods for high-tech goods. This does not necessarily imply an increase in lifecycle energy use; artefacts that consume or transform energy during use could possibly regain this increased initial input via increased efficiency in use. In particular, this paper highlights that larger gains could be possible if the artefact in question allows a given service to be provided via an alternative and more efficient system entirely.The lifecycle energy efficienci...
Properly quantified performance of a solar-thermal cavity receiver must not only account for the energy gains and losses as dictated by the First Law of thermodynamics, but it must also account for the quality of that energy. Energy quality can only be determined from the Second Law. In this paper, an equation developed for the Second-Law efficiency of a cavity receiver is presented as an evolution from the definition of available energy or ''availability'' (occasionally called exergy). The variables required are all either known or readily determined. The importance of considering the Second-Law is emphasized by a comparison of the First- and Second-Law efficiencies around an example of data collected from two receivers that were designed for different purposes, where the attempt was made to demonstrate that a Second-Law approach to quantifying the performance of a solarthermal cavity ...
The two-phase heat-transfer and pressure-drop characteristics of offset-strip-fin heat-exchanger geometries are examined using both experimental and analytical modeling techniques. Newly-obtained boiling-flow heat-transfer data are presented for two large-scale offset fin geometries at low-to-moderate wall-superheat conditions. Data for which nucleate boiling appeared to be completely suppressed were analyzed together with similar results for other offset fin surfaces to study the effects of channel dimensions on the convective evaporation component of the local heat transfer coefficient. Although these data were found to be well correlated in terms of modified forms of the F and Martinelli parameters used in previous studies of round-tube flows, a single F-factor correlation valid for all combinations of fin and channel dimensions did not appear to exist. The two-phase pressure-drop characteristics of ...
SUMMARYHomeostatic synaptic plasticity is a negative feedback mechanism neurons use to offset excessive excitation or inhibition by adjusting their synaptic strengths. Recent...Full Text Available
... 500 ppm, boron increases the 0.2% offset strength; results show that boron doping does not appreciably affect ultimate compressive strength; for 0 ...
The band offsets and subband levels in a double quantum well layer for a 660 nm-Ga_0_._4In_0_._6P/(Al_0_._5Ga_0_._5)_0_._5In_0_._5P quantum well laser are determined by photoreflectance using a 410 nm InGaN laser with current modulation at room temperature. The subband levels are analyzed by numerical calculation of the Schroedinger equation for the layer structure by varying the conduction band offset and compared with the measured photoreflectance spectra. The conduction band offset ratio is determined to be 0.5+0.03. (copyright 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)
switch when this cavity matching condition is determined. This results is a ... MHz offset is provided by an acousto-optic modulator. (AOM). The AOM will be shut ...
nclude sick leave, vacation, holiday leave, military leave, or any type. NAS1- 201OO ..... Employees Retirement System (FERS , and the CSRS Offset. Under the ...
creating such active galactic nuclei as quasars. Strangely, the center of this fiery whirlpool is offset from the exact center of the galaxy - for a reason that for now remains an...
creating such active galactic nuclei as quasars. Strangely, the center of this fiery whirlpool is offset from the exact center of the galaxy - for a reason that for now remains an...
The primary concern of this work is to study the emission characteristics of a series of chiral nematic liquid crystal lasers doped with different laser dyes (DCM, pyrromethene 580, and pyrromethene 597) at varying concentrations by weight (0.5-2 wt %) when optically pumped at 532 nm. Long-wavelength photonic band-edge laser emission is characterized in terms of threshold energy and slope efficiency. At every dye concentration investigated, the pyrromethene 597-doped lasers exhibit the highest slope efficiency (ranging from 15% to 32%) and the DCM-doped lasers the lowest (ranging from 5% to 13%). Similarly, the threshold was found to be, in general, higher for the DCM-doped laser samples in comparison to the pyrromethene-doped laser samples. These results are then compared with the spectral properties, quantum efficiencies and, where possible, fluorescence lifetimes of the dyes dispersed in a common nematic host. In ...
We improve the steady-state ab initio laser theory (SALT) of Tureci et al. by expressing its fundamental self-consistent equation in a basis set of threshold constant flux states that contains the exact threshold lasing mode. For cavities with non-uniform index and/or non-uniform gain, the new basis set allows the steady-state lasing properties to be computed with much greater efficiency. This formulation of the SALT can be solved in the single-pole approximation, which gives the intensities and thresholds, including the effects of nonlinear hole-burning interactions to all orders, with negligible computational effort. The approximation yields a number of analytic predictions, including a "gain-clamping" transition at which strong modal interactions suppress all higher modes. We show that the single-pole approximation agrees well with exact SALT calculations, particularly for high-Q cavities. Within this range of validity, ...
We discuss the possibility of extending solid state laser technology to high average power and of improving the efficiency of such lasers sufficiently to make them reasonable candidates for a number of demanding applications. A variety of new design concepts, materials, and techniques have emerged over the past decade that, collectively, suggest that the traditional technical limitations on power (a few hundred watts or less) and efficiency (less than 1%) can be removed. The core idea is configuring the laser medium in relatively thin, large-area plates, rather than using the traditional low-aspect-ratio rods or blocks. This presents a large surface area for cooling, and assures that deposited heat is relatively close to a cooled surface. It also minimizes the laser volume distorted by edge effects. The feasibility of such configurations is supported by recent developments in materials, fabrication processes, and optical pumps. Two types of ...
This paper describes the performance of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs with 2.4 #mu#m source-drain spacing. So far these are the smallest source-drain spacing AlGaN/GaN HEMTs which have been implemented with a domestic wafer and domestic process. This paper also compares their performance with that of 4 #mu#m source-drain spacing devices. The former exhibit higher drain current, higher gain, and higher efficiency. It is especially significant that the maximum frequency of oscillation noticeably increased. (semiconductor integrated circuits)
This paper reports on three series of laboratory experiments designed to test the performance of the Hahn-Noll revenue neutral auction (RNA). An alternative institution, a no-rebate uniform price auction (UPA), is also examined as a benchmark. In these experiments, the RNA markets were little different from UPA markets in terms of either prices or market efficiencies. The two institutions did differ in terms of the distribution of the gains from exchange and of the propensity of bidders to engage in a certain type of overbidding. 25 refs., 13 figs., 3 tabs.
This paper deals with conversions of solar energy efficiently into electricity and into gas laser radiation. In the first section, a review study of the possibility of a solar-electric thermophotovoltaic (TPV) device has been done. In a proposed extension of the TPV concept, a Cassagranian optical system concentrates solar radiation to heat a blackbody cavity to 2400/sup 0/K. A double-layer solar cell, GaAs and Si, forming the cylindrical surface concentric to the blackbody cavity, receives the blackbody radiation and converts it into electricity efficiently. A cell conversion efficiency of 50% or more would be possible with the TPV system. The second section explores the concept of blackbody radiation pumping of gas laser media as a step toward utilization of solar energy as a laser pumping source. To demonstrate this concept, an experiment was performed in which various gas mixtures of CO/sub 2/ and He were exposed to ...
The authors report on temperature dependent characteristics and single mode performance of one-wave cavity, planar implanted, AlGaInP-based vertical-cavity surface emitting lasers. By optimizing the overlap between the gain peak and the cavity mode of the structure, they demonstrate record device performance, including 8.2 mW maximum output power and 11% power conversion efficiency for multimode operation and 1.9 mW and 9.6% power conversion efficiency for single mode operation at 687 nm. Improved performance at elevated temperatures is also achieved, with 1.5 mW output power demonstrated at 50 C from a 15-{micro}m-diameter device.
The main purpose of the study on the title subject is to gain insight into the strategic options to optimize energy production from waste processing in the Netherlands in the long term. The developed optimization model will be used by the Dutch Ministry of Public Health, Spatial Planning en Environment (VROM) for scenarios to calculate and determine expectations and uncertainties in the development of waste processing in the Netherlands. Attention is paid to (1) the impact of present and future technology on the costs and energetic efficiency of waste processing, (2) several techniques for the generation of electricity and heat, the production of fuels, and recycling, (3) the impact of scale (capacity) on costs and energetic efficiency of waste processing installations, and (4) the impact of transport and heat distribution. The time frame is the year 2020. 66 refs.
The first part of this article in two parts deals with the cupola furnace process regarding the energy consumption figures and efficiencies. The splitting of heat transfer into the two stages of melting and superheating makes the poor use of energy in superheating clear. For this reason the previously published idea of duplication, i.e. melting in a cupola furnace and superheating in an induction channel furnace or coreless induction furnace, has gained in interest. The last section of part I examines and compares cupola and electrode furnaces regarding the use of primary energy, where, surprisingly, roughly equal efficiencies of 20 to 25% are found for the melting processes considered.
The objective of the present investigation was to develop a Bayesian framework for updating and integrating covariate information into key parameters of metabolizable energy (ME) systems for dairy cows. The study addressed specifically the effects of genetic improvements and feed quality on key parameters in current ME systems. These are net and metabolizable energy for maintenance (NEM and MEM, respectively), efficiency of utilization of ME for milk production (kL) and growth (kG), and efficiency of utilization of body stores for milk production (kT). Data were collated from 38 studies, yielding 701 individual cow observations on milk energy, ME intake, and tissue gain and loss. A function based on a linear relationship between milk energy and ME intake and correcting for tissue energy lo...
Properly quantified performance of a solar-thermal cavity receiver must not only account for the energy gains and losses as dictated by the First Law of thermodynamics, but it must also account for the quality of that energy. However, energy quality can only be determined from the Second Law. In this paper an equation for the Second-Law efficiency of a cavity receiver is derived from the definition of available energy or availability (occassionally called exergy), which is a thermodynamic property that measures the maximum amount of work obtainable when a system is allowed to come into unrestrained equilibrium with the surrounding environment. The fundamental concepts of the entropy and availability of radiation are explored from which a convenient relationship among the reflected cone half angle, the insolation, and the concentrator geometric characteristics is developed as part of the derivation of the Second-Law ...
A high power Free-Electron Laser (FEL) has lased at a wavelength of 22 #mu#m at the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute (JAERI). The maximum power on a macro-pulse average is 1.7 kW, and it corresponds to an FEL energy of 160 #mu#J/micro-pulse. Extraction efficiency from the electron beam to the FEL radiation was measured to be 5.3% by an energy analyzer, when the maximum FEL power was coupled out. The rms wavelength spread was measured to be 4.6% at the same time. The extraction efficiency, in general, has a maximum value near the zero detuning length of an optical cavity, where (in contrast) the single-pass gain becomes smallest. A high peak current and a long macro-pulse duration are therefore indispensable for realizing high efficiency. The electron beam energy is 16.5 MeV, and the average current is 5.3 mA at a micro-pulse repetition rate of 10.4 MHz. The macro-pulse duration is 500 #mu#s (5000 ...
The aims of this study are determining the energy use, qualitative analyzing of energy flow and also investigating energy efficiency by Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) in corn production of Iran during a seven years period. Results indicated that the average of total energy input increased from 40.98 GJ ha-1 in 2001 to 63.64 GJ ha-1 in the year of 2007. Similarly, the average of total output energy rose from 89.03 to 107.54 GJ ha-1 in the same years, respectively. Also the results showed that average energy use efficiency, energy productivity, specific energy and net energy gain in the studied period was 2.59, 0.17 kg MJ-1, 7.24 MJ kg-1 and 51.34 GJ ha-1, respectively. DEA considered the yield (kg ha-1) as output and three major energy inputs; fertilizers, diesel fuel and machinery as inpu...
The report sums up the experience gained with energy efficiency pilot campaigns in Schleswig-Holstein (Schoeth et al., to appear, and Wortman et al., 2000, 2001). The information is to help other actors in this field to develop and optimize their own campaigns. [German] Dieser Bericht resuemiert die wesentlichen Erkenntnisse und Erfahrungen mit wirkungsvoller Umweltwerbung auf Basis der ausfuehrlichen Werbewirkungskontrollen zu den Energieeffizienz-Pilotkampagnen in Schleswig-Holstein (vgl. ausfuehrlicher Schoetz et al., im Druck sowie Wortmann et al., 2000, 2001). Die abschliessenden Abschnitte 'Empfehlungen' und 'Ausblick' kennzeichnen den aktuellen Stand des Wissens und sollen anderen Akteuren mit gleicher oder aehnlicher Zielsetzung Hilfestellung und Anregung fuer die optimierte eigene Planung von Kampagnen geben. (orig.)
Loading pattern optimization (LPO) for a PWR in nuclear power plant contains three parts: fuel assembly location optimization, burnable poison placement optimization, and used fuel assembly orientation optimization. To solve the former two parts, this paper devises an innovative stochastic evolutionary algorithm-Interval Bound Algorithm (IBA), which can optimize fuel assembly location and burnable poison placement together. IBA just uses the fuel assembly's infinite multiplication factor to get rid of unfavorable patterns and to explore new promising solution space. To solve the last part, this paper applies Estimation of Distribution Algorithms (EDAs), which also belong to evolutionary algorithms. These three parts depend on each other, so it is better not to solve them separately. In order to optimize these parts in a coupled way, we use Symbiotic Co-evolutionary Algorithm (SCA) to incorporate IBA and EDAs. This technique could reflect the real optimization process. Based on these ...
The difficulty in making good Ohmic contact at the interfaces with p-doped ZnSe is an important problem hindering the realization of blue-light-emitting diode lasers based on the II-VI semiconductor technology. So far no metal or semiconductor material has been found to have a low enough barrier at the (001) interface with ZnSe. A possible solution to this problem is the insertion of a so-called {ital barrier-reduction layer} at the interface with ZnSe. We have investigated the interface formation energies and valence-band offsets at the (001) interface between Al{sub x}Ga{sub 0.5{minus}x}In{sub 0.5}P and ZnSe. The results of our calculations show the existence of a strong interdependence between the valence-band offset and the interface geometric structure. The interface is found to have structural and electronic similarities to the GaAs-ZnSe(001) system. The very low values obtained for the valence-band offset confirm the ...
The cattle industry in Canada has changed greatly over the past several decades. Size of the national dairy herd has reduced steadily but this reduction has been more than offset by an increase in...Full Text Available
Thermohydrogen treatment effect on microstructure and mechanical properties is studied for a cast heat resistant pseudo-#alpha#-titanium alloy Ti-6242 (Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zn-2Mo) widely used as a heat resistant material with operating temperature up to 500 deg C. It is shown that reversible hydrogen alloying is a promising alternative to thermomechanical treatment for transformation of (#alpha#+#beta#)-titanium alloy structure. The application of thermohydrogen treatment is noted to be of particular efficiency for shaped casting technology as it allows a noticeable increase of mechanical properties at a lower cost. The alloy after thermohydrogen treatment and subsequent heat treatment in the (#alpha#+#beta#) - range possesses high values of yield strength fatigue properties, creep resistance and has a satisfactory ductility. A consideration is also given to thermohydrogen treatment effect on fatigue crack propagation and impact strength
The rationale for hybrid fusion-fission reactors is the production of fissile fuel for fission reactors. A new class of reactor, the fission-suppressed hybrid promises unusually good safety features as well as the ability to support 25 light-water reactors of the same nuclear power rating, or even more high-conversion-ratio reactors such as the heavy-water type. One 4000-MW nuclear hybrid can produce 7200 kg of /sup 233/U per year. To obtain good economics, injector efficiency times plasma gain (eta/sub i/Q) should be greater than 2, the wall load should be greater than 1 MW m/sup -2/, and the hybrid should cost less than 6 times the cost of a light-water reactor. Introduction rates for the fission-suppressed hybrid are unusually rapid.
RFID technology is gaining adoption on an increasing scale for tracking and monitoring purposes. Wide deployments of RFID devices will soon generate an unprecedented volume of data. Emerging applications require the RFID data to be filtered and correlated for complex pattern detection and transformed to events that provide meaningful, actionable information to end applications. In this work, we design and develop SASE, a com-plex event processing system that performs such data-information transformation over real-time streams. We design a complex event language for specifying application logic for such transformation, devise new query processing techniques to effi-ciently implement the language, and develop a comprehensive system that collects, cleans, and processes RFID data for deliv-ery of relevant, timely information as well as storing necessary data for future querying. We demonstrate an initial prototype of SASE through a real-world ...
Purpose - Customer relationship management (CRM) indicates a comprehensive strategy and an interactive process intended to achieve an optimum balance between corporate investment and the satisfaction of customer needs to generate the maximum profit. E-CRM refers to CRM using internet technology plus a database, OLAP, data warehouse, data mining, etc. In order to gain an understanding of the efficiency of implementing an e-CRM system within the library context, to develop theoretically and empirically an evaluation process for the e-CRM system and survey its impact on service quality, a pilot scheme was initiated in 2004. The pilot scheme was to design and implement an e-CRM prototype system for a particular academic library in Taiwan and to survey the system's performances. This paper aims...
To gain in efficiency, lightness and volume, the hybrid and electric-powered cars will certainly follow the cellular phone path. The key of success of todays hybrid cars is the Ni-MH battery developed by Matsushita (87.5% of the market in 2004). The lithium-ion batteries will be the next step and would allow to supply 80 to 100% of the energy of the vehicle, the thermal engine becoming just an auxiliary system for additional power, autonomy and air-conditioning. Prototypes can reach today 200 to 450 km of autonomy and 130 km/h speeds with batteries of about 200 kg. If most of the safety problems linked with the Li technology have been solved, the main drawback remains the cost of the Li-ion technology. Short paper. (J.S.)
In light of the global focus on greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption of communication networks has become an important research area. Networks are major energy consumers and are generally dimensioned for peak loads. For extended periods, resources consume power, but are lightly or unused. This research investigates the concept of dynamic topologies, i.e. networks that adapt their topology according to traffic volume. The key aim of this study is to investigate power reductions that can be achieved by dynamic topologies. It proposes a network transformation and introduces mathematical programming models that results in energy optimal topologies for given traffic loads. This paper focuses on the optimisation problems and investigates gains in static environments. Numerical results ar...
X-ray photoemission spectroscopy has been used to measure the valence band offset {Delta}E{sub v} for the AlP/GaP (001) heterojunction interface. The heterojunction samples were prepared by molecular-beam epitaxy. A value of {triangle}E{sub v}=0.43 eV is obtained (staggered band alignment, with AlP valence band below that of GaP). 24 refs., 8 figs., 1 tab.
Like other Central European countries, Poland faces the twin challenges of improving environmental quality while also fostering sustainable economic development. In this study we examine the costs of different standards for air pollution control, and the cost savings from using incentive-based policy instruments in lieu of more rigid command-and-control policies. The comparisons are based on the results of a simulation model of energy use and air pollution control for the Polish economy over 1990-2015. The model simulates least-cost energy supply decisions under different environmental policy assumptions, the corresponding emissions, and the cost of achieving the specified policy objectives. The model results suggest that incentive-based policies will have efficiencygains over command policies that are at least worthy of consideration and may be quite substantial. The size of the gains in practice depends in part on how ...
A Smith-Purcell oscillator with a thick electron beam is analyzed in its exponential gain regime. A threshold current less than 1[A] is found for a 1 mm wavelength; this threshold is much lower than that of a similar oscillator operating in a linear gain regime.
In this paper, a relatively high gain (#approx =# 25 to 40 percent) free-electron laser (FEL) with an optical ring resonator is simulated using the code FELEX. The laser system corresponds to the ''burst mode'' FEL scheduled for operation at Boeing Aerospace Company in 1988. The ring consists of paraboloids, grazing incidence by hyperboloids, and a grating rhomb. The wiggler is 5 m in length and has an adjustable taper, while the electron beam is produced by an RF linac. The optical elements of the ring together with the FEL interaction in the wiggler are modeled in three spatial dimensions to investigate the system from start-up to saturation. Both single frequency and finite pulse simulations are performed. The study illustrates the necessity of mode matching the loaded resonator to maximize the extraction efficiency. The mode matching is necessary because the FEL interaction significantly alters the optical beam focus position and Rayleigh ...
Proposed future space-based beam weapons systems will most probably require an intense neutral particle beam for effective operation across geomagnetic field lines. Such neutral beams can most efficiently be obtained by stripping excess electrons from negative ion beams. The objective of this work is to study the process of dissociative attachment of electrons. Specifically, to measure the cross sections for polar dissociation and dissociative attachment for production of H(-). It is suspected that these dissociative attachment cross sections for the production of H(-) from alkali hydrides are large. The insight gained from this study will be extremely helpful in the fabrication of high current density H(-) beam sources for use in the production of intense neutral hydrogen beams. A selection of alkali hydride molecules will be investigated in order to determine the largest cross sections for the production of H(-) by electron impact. The ...
Cobalt-60 gamma radiation has been found to be an effective means of immobilizing stationary phases onto gas and liquid chromatographic supports. The ability of a phase to crosslink was determined to be highly dependent on its chemical structure. Gamma radiation was employed to immobilize Se-30, a methylsilicone, and 216 PS onto Chromosorb WHP for packed column chromatography. The resultant columns exhibited increased thermal stability and a high degree of efficiency. Several blended phases containing varying ratios of Se-30:216 PS were also immobilized onto chromatographic packings. This work was further extended to the immobilization of Se-30 and 216 PS onto fused silica capillaries via gamma radiation. Columns exhibited excellent efficiency and improved thermal stability. An investigation into the role of immobilization of polymeric phases for HPLC was undertaken. Results indicate that gamma radiation can immobilzied polyoctadecylsiloxane ...
Private transfers of capital from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to developing countries are intended to complement private transfers from the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) by tapping the emerging capital markets in the Middle East. Developing countries will be able to diversify their borrowing and gain additional financing. The long-term investment of oil-producing countries will benefit and the pressures on the banking institutions to recycle funds will lessen. Middle East capital markets include international loans and international bonds. The history of the Kuwaiti dinar (KD) bond market, with its advantages for both investors and borrowers, illustrates the successful development of a capital market. Financial intermediation needs to be improved, however, if the Middle East is to become efficient enough to compete with the Euromarkets. Efficiency will require ...
The advent of light metal alloys and advanced materials (polymer, composites, etc.) have brought the possibility of achieving important energy reductions into the full life cycle of these materials, especially in transportation applications. 1 These materials have gained acceptance in the aerospace industry but use of light metal alloys needs to gain wider acceptance in other commercial transportation areas. Among the main reasons for the relatively low use of these materials are the lack of manufacturability, insufficient mechanical properties, and increased material costs due to processing inefficiencies. Considering the enormous potential energy savings associated with the use of light metal alloys and advanced materials in transportation, there is a need to identify R&D opportunities in the fields of materials fabrication and forming aimed at developing materials with high specific mechanical properties combined with energy ...
In 1986, following comprehensive preliminary studies, a 17 MW battery energy storage plant was set up in the insular power supply system of Berlin (West) for the purpose of frequency and output control and provision of immediate reserve capacities. The present paper reports on the initial task, and the dimensioning and construction of this large-scale demonstration as well as the costs entailed in this. It also relates the experiences gained with the operation of the battery energy storage plant in its function as a fast-responding control unit and gives an account of its economic efficiency. Recent studies on the economic efficiency of the plant in conditions as they exist in the present interconnected power supply system are presented. Finally the author reports on the experiences gained with individual plant components, i.e., battery, battery periphery, and power converter and quantifies the cost of ...
Time contour expression of limited range phenomena on stack chart is examined for further improvement on the result of the ultimate interpretation in the seismic reflection survey. The policy is made clear from the beginning that local phenomena are to be discussed, and data prior CMP stacking is interpreted in detail. For this purpose, it is effective to make use of the time contour expression in the midpoint-offset plane simultaneously with the CMP and COP panels. For the review of data prior to CMP stacking, it is convenient to use the CMP (CDP) stacking chart in which the data is arranged methodically. In this chart, all the channels which are crude data prior to stacking are plotted on midpoint-offset coordinates, which plane is called the MOD (Midpoint Offset Domain) panel. Various panels can be chosen unrestrictedly, and their mutual relations can be easily grasped. When data points are given a time axis, they can be ...
A seismic line was acquired by ARCO Exploration Company in 1977 in southern Freemont County and extends northeast from the deepest part of the Green River basin across the Wind River thrust onto crystalline basement rocks of the Wind River Mountains. A COCORP line across the area has been discussed previously, but the ARCO line shows more detailed information beneath the thrust. The seismic line is significant because it shows a strong reflection at the base of the Precambrian granite, which overlies a sedimentary rocks of the northern Green River basin. It also illustrates an apparent anticline beneath the thrust fault which is the result of lateral velocity variation caused by a shallow wedge of low-velocity Miocene sediments superimposed on a velocity pull-up related to the high-velocity Precambrian granite. The effects of the velocity variations can be analyzed by ray tracing and by studying the near offset and far offset stacks of the ...
A system and a related method for non-destructive evaluation of the surface characteristics of a magnetic material. The sample is excited by an alternating magnetic field. The field frequency, amplitude and offset are controlled according to a predetermined protocol. The Barkhausen response of the sample is detected for the various fields and offsets and is analyzed. The system produces information relating to the frequency content, the amplitude content, the average or RMS energy content, as well as count rate information, for each of the Barkhausen responses at each of the excitation levels applied during the protocol. That information provides a contiguous body of data, heretofore unavailable, which can be analyzed to deduce information about the surface characteristics of the material at various depths below the surface.
This 7th edition reveals the progress in steam engineering and the great future potential of steam engineering applications. Pollution abatement and design experiences gained during the operation of existing plants, and experiences gained in waste incineration are of environmental relevance. Recent materials developments and knowledge, e.g. as regards pipes and fittings, have been making significant contributions to supercritical-steam efficiency improvements. Emphasis is also placed on automation, control engineering, water chemistry etc., and on regulations, licensing procedures, and the training of the staff of plants. (orig./KOW) [Deutsch] Die nunmehr vorliegende 7. Ausgabe zeigt den Fortschritt und das zukuenftig noch erhebliche Potential dieser Technik auf. Erfahrungen mit den nun schon seit Jahren laufenden Anlagen zur Schadstoffminderung, Konstruktion und Auslegung sowie Betriebserfahrungen zur thermischen ...
For InAs-GaAs based quantum dot lasers emitting at 1300 nm, digital modulation showing an open eye pattern up to 12 Gb s{sup -1} at room temperature is demonstrated, at 10 Gb s{sup -1} the bit error rate is below 10{sup -12} at -2 dB m receiver power. Cut-off frequencies up to 20 GHz are realised for lasers emitting at 1.1 {mu}m. Passively mode-locked QD lasers generate optical pulses with repetition frequencies between 5 and 50 GHz, with a minimum Fourier limited pulse length of 3 ps. The uncorrelated jitter is below 1 ps. We use here deeply etched narrow ridge waveguide structures which show excellent performance similar to shallow mesa structures, but a circular far field at a ridge width of 1 {mu}m, improving coupling efficiency into fibres. No beam filamentation of the fundamental mode, low a-factors and strongly reduced sensitivity to optical feedback are observed. QD lasers are thus superior to QW lasers for any system or network. Quantum dot semiconductor ...
2000-003 Wire pad chambers (WPC) have been proposed for the outer Region 4 of the LHCb Muon System. These are double gap MWPCs with small wire spacing allowing to obtain 99% detection efficiency in a 20 ns time window. The chambers have a rectangular shape with the vertical dimension from 20 cm in Station 1 to 30 cm in Station 5. The horizontal dimensions will be different with the maximal size of 3 meters in Station 5. The wires are in the vertical direction. The short wire length allows to use small wire spacing needed for high time resolution. Also, this helps to obtain the uniform gas gain over the whole chamber area. The WPC has one row of the wire pads formed by grouping wires in separate readout channels. Four WPC prototypes have been built at PNPI and tested in the PS beam at CERN. Here we report on the results from these tests. Also, the results of simulation of the WPC performance are presented.
Indoline dye sensitizers were designed and studied theoretically to increase molar extinction coefficients in the visible to near infrared region for solar-cell devices. To gain insight into dye sensitizers' structural, electronic, and optical properties, DFT/TDDFT calculations were performed on a series of dye sensitizers derived from the D149. The good agreement between the experimental and TDDFT calculated absorption spectra of the D149 sensitizer allowed us to provide a detailed assessment of the main spectral features of a series of dye sensitizers. Increase in the conjugation length resulted in a more red-shifted spectral response and less positive oxidation potential than that of the D149. The dye with the dimethylfluorene group showed stronger absorption bands due to a large dipole moment. The calculated dipoles for the dye series correlate well with the observed strong absorption bands of the electronic spectra. These results provided useful clues for the ...
We proposed that a new type of the electrostatic microwiggler with a wiggler period (0.1 mm {le}1{sub w}{le}1 mm) and the wiggler field strength (E{sub w}{le} 100 kV/m) can be produced on the surface of a PZT when a high power and high frequency ultrasonic wave travels through a PZT bar. Numerical simulations in the linear and nonlinear gain regime show that a weak microwiggler (E{sub w}100 kV/m,{lambda}{sub w}{approx}100 periods), operating in magnetoresonance with a strong guide field (B{sub o}{approx} 3.6T), can generate a millimeter and submillimeter radiations with medium electronic efficiency of few percents. It is shown that the maximum output power of the compact FEL using the wiggler system generated on the surface of the piezoelectric material may be upto a few Watts with a relatively low energy and low current electron beam (Ew {approx}100 keV and I{sub b}1 mA).
We study the lipid and phase transferability of our recently developed systematically coarse-grained solvent-free membrane model. The force field was explicitly parameterized to describe a fluid 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-phosphatidylcholine (POPC) bilayer at 310 K with correct structure and area per lipid, while gaining at least three orders of magnitude in computational efficiency (see Wang and Deserno 2010 J. Phys. Chem. B 114 11207-20). Here, we show that exchanging CG tails, without any subsequent re-parameterization, creates reliable models of 1,2-dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC) and 1,2-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) lipids in terms of structure and area per lipid. Furthermore, all CG lipids undergo a liquid-gel transition upon cooling, with characteristics like those observed in experiments and all-atom simulations during phase transformation. These studies suggest a promising transferability of our force field parameters to ...
Steam turbines have reached a high level of technology. Development projects, leading to further improvement of turbines or to new concepts, usually last several years. Turbine manufacturers have therefore already been dealing with the question of market requirements in the 80's for some time. Developments in this decade will be marked less by the need for higher turbine ratings than by the necessity to increase efficiency and improve availability. Only in this way can the considerable increases in fuel costs be effectively countered. Improvements stemming from the steam process must be utilized to a large extent. However, plant availability sets a limit on these endeavours. The application of knowledge gained in the last years, in the field of materials research and numerical methods for problems of flow and mechanical engineering, will make it possible to optimize dimensioning and design of steam turbines, with a view to reaching the above ...
We report on recent progress and improvements in the metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) growth of mid-infrared lasers and using a high speed rotating disk reactor (RDR). The devices contain AlAsSb active regions. These lasers have multi-stage, type I InAsSb/InAsP quantum well active regions. A semi-metal GaAsSb/InAs layer acts as an internal electron source for the multi-stage injection lasers and AlAsSb is an electron confinement layer. These structures are the first MOCVD multi-stage devices. Growth in an RDR was necessary to avoid the previously observed Al memory effects found in conventional horizontal reactors. A single stage, optically pumped laser yielded improved power (greater than 650 mW/facet) at 80K and 3.8um. A multi-stage 3.8-3.9um laser structure operated up to T=170K. At 80K, peak power greater than 100mW and a high slope- efficiency were observed in gain guided lasers.
Combined energy plants operating on the Brayton-Rankine cycle have gained wide acceptance as the most efficient energy conversion system. The technology is well proven and numerous research activities are underway to develop it further past its present plateau of performance. In developed and emerging economies alike, the current situation in the global economic market has caused the liberalisation of the energy industry in some countries, and in others it is causing a rethink of economic and energy policies. A result is that electric utility companies that have enjoyed a monopoly in power generation and distribution are seeing this privilege being eroded. This is opening up opportunities for independent power production and, consequently, for gas/steam turbine plants because of the technical merits of the technology and its ability to fill the vacuum being created in the energy industry. An economic model has been developed for carrying out ...
We consider relay selection technique in a cooperative cellular network where user terminals act as mobile relays to help the communications between base station (BS) and mobile station (MS). A novel relay selection scheme, called Joint Uplink and Downlink Relay Selection (JUDRS), is proposed in this paper. Specifically, we generalize JUDRS in two key aspects: (i) relay is selected jointly for uplink and downlink, so that the relay selection overhead can be reduced, and (ii) we consider to minimize the weighted total energy consumption of MS, relay and BS by taking into account channel quality and traffic load condition of uplink and downlink. Information theoretic analysis of the diversity-multiplexing tradeoff demonstrates that the proposed scheme achieves full spatial diversity in the quantity of cooperating terminals in this network. And numerical results are provided to further confirm a significant energy efficiencygain of the proposed ...
This paper examines the global impacts of a policy that internalizes the external costs (related to air pollution damage, excluding climate costs) of electricity generation using a combined energy systems and macroeconomic model. Starting point are estimates of the monetary damage costs for SO{sub 2}, NO {sub X} , and PM per kWh electricity generated, taking into account the fuel type, sulfur content, removal technology, generation efficiency, and population density. Internalizing these externalities implies that clean and advanced technologies increase their share in global electricity production. Particularly, advanced coal power plants, natural gas combined cycles, natural gas fuel cells, wind and biomass technologies gain significant market shares at the expense of traditional coal- and gas-fired plants. Global carbon dioxide emissions are lowered by 3% to 5%. Sulfur dioxide emissions drop significantly below the already low level. The ...
This paper examines the global impacts of a policy that internalizes the external costs (related to air pollution damage, excluding climate costs) of electricity generation using a combined energy systems and macroeconomic model. Starting point are estimates of the monetary damage costs for SO{sub 2}, NOX, and PM per kWh electricity generated, taking into account the fuel type, sulfur content, removal technology, generation efficiency, and population density. Internalizing these externalities implies that clean and advanced technologies increase their share in global electricity production. Particularly, advanced coal power plants, natural gas combined cycles, natural gas fuel cells, wind and biomass technologies gain significant market shares at the expense of traditional coal- and gas-fired plants. Global carbon dioxide emissions are lowered by 3% to 5%. Sulfur dioxide emissions drop significantly below the already low level. The policy ...
Recent developments in heat pump technology have made geothermal-based heat exchange systems particularly well-suited for the heating and cooling needs of buildings even in cold climates. The principles of geothermally-coupled heat pump heating and cooling systems were presented. Results of an in-situ study conducted by Hydro-Quebec on the efficiency of the geothermal heat pump system installed at the Saint-Hyacinthe professional school were summarized. This investigation was meant to be a case study of the applicability of these new technologies to the needs of the Quebec market. After the first year of service, the Saint-Hyacinthe system clearly demonstrated its cost effectiveness over conventional systems. It was predicted that geothermal heat pump systems will gain in popularity in Quebec because they can fully meet the heating and cooling needs of public buildings at considerable cost reductions, besides offering considerable environmental ...
Electricite de France, (EDF) in the late sixties and China through 10. 5-year Plan adopted the same approach of standardized NPPs to benefit from the series effect and to increase and speed up self reliance and localization. This approach also allows to continuously gather the feedback from design, construction and operation and to use it to constantly improve future and present nuclear power plants, by optimizing design features, construction phase and generation performances for safety, quality, cost and schedule aspects. Daya Bay NPP put into commercial operation in 1994 is posting high level safety and operation results. At Ling Ao NPP Chinese engineers of LANPC, with the contribution of the Chinese industry, have efficiency and successfully managed engineering, construction and operation preparation. GNPJVC / LANPC and EDF are developing permanent and mutual experience feedback exchanges in all areas of engineering, maintenance and operation. The results of ...
The Geothermal Heat Pump (GHP) concept was originally developed in the 1940`s. Recently, because of increasing energy costs, utility interest, and the development of simple and durable ground source heat exchangers, GHP`s have gained international attention as a proven means of energy conservation and electrical peak power demand reduction. GHP systems require installation of a buried heat exchanger to utilize the nearly constant ground temperature making them more efficient than conventional air source heat pumps. However, the high installation cost for both residential and commercial applications is a major obstacle to their market penetration. Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) through its sponsors, the Department of Energy (DOE), and the Department of Defense (DOD), has embarked on a research program to find ways to reduce GHP installation costs and improve performance, thereby increasing their market penetration. The major elements of the ...
In this paper the authors present some final results from a research project focused on introducing automatic control to the operation of cupola iron furnaces. The main aim of this research is to improve the operational efficiency and performance of the cupola furnace, an important foundry process used to melt iron. Previous papers have described the development of appropriate control system architectures for the cupola. In this paper experimental data is used to calibrate the model, which is taken as a first-order multivariable system with time delay. Then relative gain analysis is used to select loop pairings to be used in a multiloop controller. The resulting controller pairs melt rate with blast volume, iron temperature with oxygen addition, and carbon composition with metal-to-coke ratio. Special (nonlinear) filters are used to compute melt rate from actual scale readings of the amount of iron produced and to smooth the temperature ...
Nanoporous materials have become indispensable in many fields ranging from photonics, catalysis and semiconductor processing to biosensor infrastructure. Rapid and energy efficient process fabrication of these materials is, however, nontrivial. In this communication, we describe a simple method for the rapid fabrication of these materials from colloidal dispersions of Polymethyl Silsesquioxane nanoparticles. Nanoparticle-polymer composites above the decomposition temperature of the polymer are examined and the entropic gain experienced by the nanoparticles in this rubric is harnessed to fabricate novel highly porous films composed of nanoparticles. Optically smooth, hydrophobic films with low refractive indices (as low as 1.048) and high surface areas (as high as 1325 m2 g-1) have been achieved with this approach. In this communication we address the behavior of such systems that are both temperature and substrate surface energy dependent. The ...
Inco Ltd., a primary producer of nickel and an important producer of copper, cobalt, precious metals and sulphur products, initiated a project in 1997 to conduct eco-profiles of its worldwide metal production in an effort to improve its internal processing, marketing and environmental management. The study made it possible to recognize some internal and external benefits including the opportunity to gain operating efficiencies and improved process/product design, the development of better environmental performance indicators to guide decision making, and the availability of comprehensive product related environmental data to meet the informational needs of customers, designers, engineers and governments. This paper described the life cycle assessment (LCA) process used by Inco to conduct the study. A life cycle inventory (LCI) was used to quantitatively calculate resource requirements and environmental burdens associated with a product system ...
This thesis reports on the fabrication and test of a new gaseous detector with a very large number of readout channels. This detector is intended for measuring the tracks of charged particles with an unprecedented sensitivity to single electrons of almost 100 %. It combines a metal grid for signal amplification called the Micromegas with a pixel readout chip as signal collecting anode and is dubbed GridPix. GridPix is a potential candidate for a sub-detector at a future electron linear collider (ILC) foreseen to work in parallel with the LHC around 2020--2030. The tracking capability of GridPix is best exploited if the Micromegas is integrated on the pixel chip. This integrated grid is called InGrid and is precisely fabricated by wafer post-processing. The various steps of the fabrication process and the measurements of its gain, energy resolution and ion back-flow property are reported in this document. Studies of the response of the complete detector formed by an ...
This paper introduces an indirect adaptive fuzzy controller as a power system stabilizer used to damp inter-area modes of oscillation following disturbances in power systems. Compared to the IEEE standard multi-band power system stabilizer (MB-PSS), indirect adaptive fuzzy-based stabilizers are more efficient because they can cope with oscillations at different operating points. A nominal model of the power system is identified on-line using a variable structure identifier. A feedback linearization-based control law is implemented using the identified model. The gains of the controller are tuned via a particle swarm optimization routine to ensure system stability and minimum sum of the squares of the speed deviations. A bench-mark problem of a 4-machine 2-area power system is used to demonstrate the performance of the proposed controller and to show its superiority over other conventional stabilizers used in the literature. (author)
Development of renewable energy systems for remote communities is gaining interest among government, utilities, NGOs and the communities themselves as a means of improving lifestyles of community members and showcasing renewable energy systems. The Huu-ay-aht First Nation, whose traditional territory is located on the west side of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, is a community which has energy related problems and energy related opportunities. The objective of this study is to assess possible energy options for the Huu-ay-aht First Nation traditional territory. Current and future energy services within the territory were used as the starting point for developing energy system options. Extensive consultation with community members was instrumental in clearly defining the objectives of the study and understanding the territory's energy demand. The energy demand assessment included an estimation of the electric, heating and transportation loads in the community, ...
The aim was to gain experience on how to produce Alkali Metal Thermo-Electric-Converter (AMTEC) cells, for the demonstration of their principles and potentials, as a basis for future commercialization. These cells should be able to present an efficient and direct conversion of thermal energy to electric energy. The system is based on an electro-chemical concentration cell built around a {beta}`` aluminium oxide membrane that separates the two chambers. This material is a good conductor of sodium and a bad conductor of electrons, and it is this property which is taken advantage of. In the two chambers of the cell is found saturated sodium vapour at two temperatures. The motive power is the expansion over the membrane where the sodium ions are transported through it whilst the electrons are forced through the outer cycle. This concept is described in detail in addition to the choice of materials, performance testing and results. It was found ...
The geological structure of Mesita del Buey at Technical Area 54 (TA-54) was examined using precise surveying of the contact between units 1v and 2 of the Tshirege Member of the Bandelier Tuff at 3.5 km along the north wall of Pajarito Canyon and 0.6 km along the north wall of a tributary to Canada del Buey. Estimated structure contours on this contact indicate typical strikes of N40E to N70E along this part of Mesita del Buey, although the apparent strike of the tuff is E-W at the western part of the survey. Typical dips are 1.0{degree} to 2.0{degree} to the east or southeast, with an estimated maximum dip of 3.2{degree} near the west end of Material Disposal Area G. Thirty seven faults with vertical displacements of 5 to 65 cm were observed in outcrop along the Pajarito Canyon traverse, and, due to the incomplete exposure of the unit 1v-unit 2 contact, many more faults of this magnitude undoubtedly exist. The faults have a wide range in strike and have either down-to-the-west and ...
...global warming is going on we're gonna start to see that ...global warming ...offset the trend of global warming due to greenhouse gases so we gotta get this ...global warming ...the timing and just exactly how global warming will be feedback ...problem with global warming and that the increasing greenhouse gases substantially ...
Experiments contributing to the understanding of the aerodynamics of airfoils operating in the vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) environment are described. These experiments are ultimately intended to reduce VAWT cost of energy and increase system reliability. They include chordwise pressure surveys, circumferential blade acceleration surveys, effects of blade camber, pitch and offset, blade blowing, and use of sections designed specifically for VAWT application.
Experimental investigation was carried out for friction factor and heat transfer coefficient in the case of a rotating tube with a twisted-tape insert for heat transfer augmentation. The data obtained were compared with existing data for a stationary tube with a twisted-tape insert. It has been observed that the enhancement in heat transfer offsets the rise in friction factor due to rotation, with respect to a plain tube under stationary conditions. A correlation has been proposed for the data obtained.
A coherent lidar system has been constructed for the measurement of alpha particles in a burning plasma. The lidar system consists of a pulsed CO{sub 2} laser transmitter and a heterodyne receiver. The receiver local oscillator is a cw, sequence-band CO{sub 2} laser operating with a 63.23 GHz offset from the transmitter.
Synaptic gain control and information storage in neural networks are mediated by alterations in synaptic transmission, such as in long-term potentiation (LTP). Here, we show using both in...Full Text Available
OBJECTIVETo estimate the relationship between the rate of gestational weight gain before the 50-g, 1-hour oral glucose challenge test screening for gestational diabetes...Full Text Available
This study compared the effectiveness of collaborative group composition and instructional method on reasoning gains and achievement in college biology. Based on initial student reasoning ability (i.e.,...Full Text Available
A 10.6-micron wavelength free-electron laser (FEL) amplifier has been operated using a 45-MeV, 600-A electron beam from the Advanced Test Accelerator (ATA) and a 15.36-meter long electromagnetic wiggler. The peak small signal power gain was 27 dB(500). Gain guiding was observed to confine the amplified laser beam.
This presentation outlined the energy policy in the United States and its impact on frontier development in Alaska, deepwater offshore fields and in the western oil shale resources. The energy strategy focuses on technologies that increase domestic production from existing resources as well as technologies that create new sources of energy. In addition to emphasizing the cooperation between Canada and the United States in ensuring energy supply security and stability, this paper discussed the importance of overall bilateral trade between the 2 countries. It was noted that Canada is the United State's most secure and reliable energy partner and is the number 1 supplier of imported oil, natural gas, electricity and uranium. The Bush administration's energy policy is based on the mandate to supply stable, reliable, secure, affordable and environmentally sound energy for the country's growing economy. The energy strategy focuses on increasing energy supplies, ...
This report presents an assessment of the potential energy savings that could accrue from the use of alternative fuels in future transportation engines. Alternative fuels are defined in this study as hydrocarbon fuels which possess characteristics that assure user safety and satisfaction, but require less energy to produce than conventional specification fuels produced from the same resource. In particular, the energy requirements for producing such fuels from domestic coal and oil shale resources are examined from the standpoint of their adaptability to engine types having a high potential for achieving significant efficiencygains over existing transportation engines. Incentives for specific types of engine development are identified in terms of energy savings above those obtainable with current specification fuels. While engine research and development incentives historically are based on economic trade-offs between the fuel and the engine, ...
An abundance of waste corn, a key food of many wildlife species, has helped make possible the widespread success of wildlife management in the United States over the past half century. We found waste corn post harvest in Nebraska declined by 47% from 1978 to 1998 due primarily to improvements in combine headers resulting in a marked decline in ear loss. The reduction in waste coincided with major declines in fat storage by sandhill cranes and white-fronted geese during spring migration. Sandhill cranes, northern pintails, white-fronted geese, and lesser snow geese avoided soybeans while staging in spring in the Rainwater Basin Area and Central Platte River Valley. These findings and other literature suggest soybeans are a marginal food for wildlife particularly during periods of high energy requirements. Soybean acreage has increased by 600% in the United States since 1950 and now comprises nearly one-quarter of the nation>'s cropland. With over 80% of the soybean crop now in ...
This paper deals with the combustion process of the turbocharged dual-fuel engine with regard to improvement to thermal efficiency and exhaust gas emissions. It describes the method of charge-air control used to achieve optimal operation in either a pure diesel engine or a gas engine using the pilot-ignition process (dual-fuel principle). The change-over from gas to diesel operation and vice versa can be made automatically even under full load, i. e. the engine can be changed over from one mode of operation to the other without interruption. The exhaust gas constituents emitted by the dual-fuel engine are less detrimental to the environment than those of other internal-combustion engines: CO is hardly present at all; NOx is no higher than that from good diesel engines, or even lower; SO/sub 2/ does not occur since the natural gas, which is used most frequently, and the pilot fuel are practically free of sulfur; CH (hydrocarbons) in this case are non-toxic and ...
Pulsed operation of an AlGaInP graded-index separate confinement heterostructure laser grown by organometallic vapor phase epitaxy is reported. The laser active region consists of a single 100 A Ga/sub 0.5/In/sub 0.5/P quantum well and 1600 A graded index regions on both sides of the well. The graded index regions were produced by lattice-matched graded composition (Al/sub y/Ga/sub 1-//sub y/)/sub 0.5/In/sub 0.5/P quaternary alloys. This structure reduces the broad-area threshold current compared to a double heterostructure laser, with pulsed thresholds as low as 1050 A/cm/sup 2/. Total pulsed power of 1.4 W at 658 nm is available from an 80 ..mu..m x 300 ..mu..m mesa-stripe laser. A differential quantum efficiency of approx.56% is measured. By examining the cavity length dependence of the threshold current density and quantum efficiency, it is apparent that the quantum well gain has not saturated in these structures. This ...
In addition to the goal of ensuring waste disposal, thermal waste treatment has always been aimed at the energy-efficient utilisation of wastes. Developments in waste management have led to an increase in high-calorific waste arisings. This is attributable to the use of mechanical-biological waste treatment as well as to segregated waste collection systems. High-calorific wastes are equivalent to fossil fuels in terms of their calorific content. Furthermore, they fulfil the legal requirements for conversion to energy. Another source of high-calorific wastes suitable for conversion to energy can be made available through the segregated disposal of industrial wastes, in many cases at low cost. These high-calorific fractions of varying origin and composition are referred to generically as substitute fuels, a term which implies quality and availability by reference to other fuels. Specifically, the term substitute fuel implies that it can be used for energy production ...
Homogeneity for highly asymmetric fields has been studied for a Siemens PRIMUS linear accelerator. The flattening filter has a radius smaller than the primary collimator one, creating inhomogeneities that affect large fields in areas far from the collimator axis, and asymmetric fields with large offset. Profiles and absolute dose have been measured in fields with two jaws at maximal position (20 cm) and the other two at maximal overtravel (10 cm.), corresponding to 10 x 10 fields with extreme offset. Profiles have a remarkable gradient decreasing towards the beam edge, making these fields unsuitable for treatments. Results show that the design of the primary collimator and flattening filter assembly has direct consequences in homogeneity. This can have clinical consequences for treatments involving fields that include these inhomogeneous areas. Comparisons with the treatment planning system (Philips Pinnacle) calculations, that computes under ...
Axial offset anomaly (AOA) is caused by the deposition of crud on the fuel cladding of a PWR. When significant levels of crud build up on the cladding, boron can accumulate in the pores of the crud as a concentrated solution or solid phase, and cause the flux depression. Numerous studies have been conducted on the primary water chemistry to reduce the amount of crud in the primary circuit to avoid radioactivity buildup and unexpected power transition in the plant. However, experiments on the crud are restricted in the laboratory because the crud is a highly radioactive material. The objective of this study is to develop a test method for simulating the deposition of crud in a nuclear power plant
A pre-stack migration algorithm for elastic waves in two-dimensional variable-velocity media is developed, implemented, and tested. The algorithm operates in the time-space domain and is based on reverse-time finite-difference extrapolation of elastic waves. The algorithm is explained and demonstrated in the context of imaging of elastic vertical seismic profile data, but is applicable to any source-recorder geometry. Synthetic test examples include a point diffractor, laterally homogeneous layers, and the flank of a salt dome.
This invention concerns a hydraulic braking system for loads subjected to impacts and vibrations. These double acting telescopic type hydraulic braking systems possess significant drawbacks linked to possibly important hydraulic leaks due to (a) the use of many dynamic seals in such appliances and (b) the effects of the environment of the system on these seals, particularly when employed in nuclear power stations where the seals reach significant temperatures and are subjected to radiation. Under this invention a remedy is suggested to such drawbacks by integrating means to offset automatically the leaks and the accumulation of hydraulic fluid expansions, as well as facilities to show if such leaks have occurred.
We consider the adiabatic demagnetization in the rotating reference frame (ADRF) of a system of dipolar coupled nuclear spins $s=1/2$ in the external magnetic field. The demagnetization starts with the offset of the external magnetic field (in frequency units) from the Larmor frequency being several times greater than the local dipolar field. For different subsystem sizes, we have found from numerical simulations the temperatures at which subsystems of a one-dimensional nine-spin chain and a plane nine-spin cluster become entangled. These temperatures are of the order of microkelvins and are almost independent of the subsystem size. There is a weak dependence of the temperature on the space dimension of the system.
Fastening systems for parts that endure high vibration shear loads have traditionally been difficult or expensive to produce. This application describes a fastening system with multiple conical surfaces and eccentric offsets. The novel conical fastener system allows parts to be assembled with reduced tolerance controls at interface features while improving alignment precision. The eccentric conical fastening system is particularly well suited for assemblies with high shear loads in high vibration/shock environments, and/or for systems that have extremely precise pointing requirements.
Various schemes of cooling have been investigated for the purpose of assessing potential benefits on the operational characteristics of the Syrian MNSR reactor. A detailed thermal hydraulic model for the analysis of MNSR has been developed. The analysis shows that an auxiliary cooling system, installed in the pool which surrounds the lower section of the reactor vessel, will significantly offset the consumption of excess reactivity due to the negative reactivity temperature coefficient, Hence, the maximum operating time of the reactor is extended. Compared with experimental data, the suggested model proves to be valid for the analysis of MNSR behavior under both steady state and transient conditions. (author)
The Eagle Flat basin, an intermontane basin in Trans-Pecos Texas, is being considered as a possible site for the Texas repository of low-level radioactive wastes. Intermontane basins and associated normal faults formed in response to Basin and Range tectonism that began about 24 Ma ago. The most active late Tertiary and Quaternary faults occur within the Hueco Bolson (HB) and the Salt Basin/Salt Flat/Lobo Valley, west and east, respectively, of the proposed repository. Several faults of the southeast HB which are within 50 km of the site, displace middle Pleistocene deposits 10 to 24 m. The most recent surface rupture in the southeast HB probably occurred on the Amargosa fault during the Holocene. Upper Pleistocene deposits are offset 2.5 to 4.5 m, and middle Pleistocene deposits are displaced 24 m. Fault scarps within 50 km east of the proposed repository are associated with faults bounding the Salt Basin/Salt Flat/Lobo Valley. In the southern Salt Basin and ...
We test the evolution of the correlation between black hole mass and bulge velocity dispersion (M{sub BH} - {sigma}), using a carefully selected sample of 14 Seyfert 1 galaxies at z = 0.36 {+-} 0.01. We measure velocity dispersion from stellar absorption lines around Mgb (5175 {angstrom}) and Fe (5270 {angstrom}) using high S/N Keck spectra, and estimate black hole mass from the H{beta} line width and the optical luminosity at 5100 {angstrom}, based on the empirically calibrated photo-ionization method. We find a significant offset from the local relation, in the sense that velocity dispersions were smaller for given black hole masses at z = 0.36 than locally. We investigate various sources of systematic uncertainties and find that those cannot account for the observed offset. The measured offset is {Delta} log M{sub BH} = 0.62 {+-} 0.10 {+-} 0.25, i.e. {Delta} log {sigma} = 0.15 {+-} 0.03 {+-} 0.06, where the error bars ...
... Propulsive efficiency is equivalent to the product of thrust efficiency and the hull/waterjet interaction efficiency. ... t'waterjet pump Ktorque repeated ...
Buildings Energy-Efficient Research Laboratories Energy Efficiency in Federal Facilities Energy Efficiency Standards Group Energy Efficient Windows Collaborative Energy &...
With the aid of a DOE grant (No. DE-FC26-01NT41050), Stolar Research Corporation (Stolar) developed the Horizon Sensor (HS) to distinguish between the different layers of a coal seam. Mounted on mining machine cutter drums, HS units can detect or sense the horizon between the coal seam and the roof and floor rock, providing the opportunity to accurately mine the section of the seam most desired. HS also enables accurate cutting of minimum height if that is the operator's objective. Often when cutting is done out-of-seam, the head-positioning function facilitates a fixed mining height to minimize dilution. With this technology, miners can still be at a remote location, yet cut only the clean coal, resulting in a much more efficient overall process. The objectives of this project were to demonstrate the feasibility of horizon sensing on mining machines and demonstrate that Horizon Sensing can allow coal to be cut cleaner and more ...
The Asia-Pacific region will see tremendous growth in demand for electricity in the next few decades and will be an important market for generation equipment and associated services. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries alone anticipate additional power demand of more than 37,000 NM by the year 2000, with an estimated total expenditure of US $85 billion. Trends in recent years show natural gas-fired combined cycle in plants to be fast gaining in popularity over conventional thermal plants. The advantages include increased primary energy conversion efficiency coupled with significant reduction in pollutant emissions, shorter construction times, faster loading rates and reduced staffing requirements. In the computer model used for generation capacity expansion planning in Tenaga Nasional Berhad, clean coal technology models are not used as candidate plants. In the opinion of the authors, this results from a lack of ...
Eukaryotic genomes encode a zinc finger protein (ZPR1) with tandem ZPR1 domains. In response to growth stimuli, ZPR1 assembles into complexes with eukaryotic translation elongation factor 1A (eEF1A) and the survival motor neurons protein. To gain insight into the structural mechanisms underlying the essential function of ZPR1 in diverse organisms, we determined the crystal structure of a ZPR1 domain tandem and characterized the interaction with eEF1A. The ZPR1 domain consists of an elongation initiation factor 2-like zinc finger and a double-stranded {beta} helix with a helical hairpin insertion. ZPR1 binds preferentially to GDP-bound eEF1A but does not directly influence the kinetics of nucleotide exchange or GTP hydrolysis. However, ZPR1 efficiently displaces the exchange factor eEF1B from preformed nucleotide-free complexes, suggesting that it may function as a negative regulator of eEF1A activation. Structure-based mutational and ...
We studied whether plasma-etching techniques can use standard screen-printed gridlines as etch masks to form self-aligned, patterned-emitter profiles on multicrystalline-silicon (mc-Si) cells from Solarex. We conducted an investigation of plasma deposition and etching processes on full-size mc-Si cells processed in commercial production lines, so that any improvements obtained would be immediately relevant to the PV industry. This investigation determined that reactive ion etching (RIE) is compatible with using standard, commercial, screen-printed gridlines as etch masks to form self-aligned, selectively doped emitter profiles. This process results in reduced gridline contact resistance when followed by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) treatments, an undamaged emitter surface easily passivated by plasma-nitride, and a less heavily doped emitter between gridlines for reduced emitter recombination. This allows for heavier doping beneath the gridlines for even lower ...
In this paper we present some final results from a research project focused on introducing automatic control to the operation of cupola iron furnaces. The main aim of this research is to improve the operational efficiency and performance of the cupola furnace, an important foundry process used to melt iron. Previous papers have described the development of appropriate control system architectures for the cupola. These results are summarized. Then we describe the experimental results obtained with the U.S. Department of Energy Albany Research Center`s research cupola. First, experimental data is used to calibrate the model, which is taken as a first-order multivariable system with time delay. Then relative gain analysis is used to select loop pairings to be used in a multi-loop controller. The resulting controller pairs meltrate with blast volume, iron temperature with oxygen addition, and carbon composition with percent coke. Special ...
I present an exact calculation of free-electron-laser (FEL) eigenmodes (fundamental as well as higher order modes) in the exponential-gain regime. These eigenmodes specify transverse profiles and exponential growth rates of the laser field, and they are self-consistent solutions of the coupled Maxwell-Vlasov equations describing the FEL interaction taking into account the effects due to energy spread, emittance and betatron oscillations of the electron beam, and diffraction and guiding of the laser field. The unperturbed electron distribution is assumed to be of Gaussian shape in four dimensional transverse phase space and in the energy variable, but uniform in longitudinal coordinate. The focusing of the electron beam is assumed to be matched to the natural wiggler focusing in both transverse planes. With these assumptions the eigenvalue problem can be reduced to a numerically manageable integral equation and solved exactly with a kernel iteration method. An ...
The effect of adding hydrogen to methane as a fuel for spark ignited engines has been extensively investigated. Both the possibility of adding a limited amount of hydrogen as well as equal amounts of hydrogen and carbon dioxide to natural gas has been investigated. A 10 vol% addition of hydrogen to the natural gas caused a reduction in UHC of approximately 40%, and an increase in efficiency of approximately three percentage points at the test engine. It is unknown if the gain is representative for large engines. Similar results for UHC reduction and efficiency were obtained for combined hydrogen and carbon dioxide addition. The carbon dioxide was added by exhaust gas recirculation. However, the price of hydrogen, makes this idea uneconomical even when carbon dioxide is readily available through recirculation of engine exhaust. Adiabatic prereforming may be used to convert natural gas into methane, hydrogen and carbon ...
The article focusses on operational experience gained with the following items: scrubbing system with oxidation, regenerative gas preheater, blower/fan, aerosol filter, and product processing. (orig./PW).
Based on a collisional-radiative model, an atomic-kinetic calculation of the gains on the 41.8-nm transitions of Pd-like xenon was performed for the plasma produced due to the interaction of a femtosecond laser pulse with gaseous xenon. The gains g(z,{tau}) averaged over the spatial and temporal coordinates were compared with the known gains which had been measured experimentally in Xe{sup 8+}. The amplification was shown to occur under the conditions of ionisation of the working ions, and the time of output radiation saturation depends on the time of Xe{sup 8+} transformation to higher-ionised ions. Our theoretical investigation enables determining the optimal pump parameters, at which the product of the gain g by the active medium length L is about 20, which exceeds the experimental gL value. (active media)
Based on a collisional-radiative model, an atomic-kinetic calculation of the gains on the 41.8-nm transitions of Pd-like xenon was performed for the plasma produced due to the interaction of a femtosecond laser pulse with gaseous xenon. The gains g(z,?) averaged over the spatial and temporal coordinates were compared with the known gains which had been measured experimentally in Xe8+. The amplification was shown to occur under the conditions of ionisation of the working ions, and the time of output radiation saturation depends on the time of Xe8+ transformation to higher-ionised ions. Our theoretical investigation enables determining the optimal pump parameters, at which the product of the gain g by the active medium length L is about 20, which exceeds the experimental gL value. (active media)
Background:Percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) has gained an increasing acceptance as an alternative to the conventional surgical tracheostomy (ST). In experienced hands, and with...Full Text Available
... Except for isolated radiation accidents over the ensuing years, little practical experience has been gained in the treatment of thermal injuries ...
Experience gained with a wide variety of missile injuries of the brain is presented. Clinical signs and intracranial pressure (ICP) studied in the early post-injury period have been correlated with...Full Text Available
We report the characteristics of visible vertical cavity surface emitting laser diodes. Wafers are grown such that the Fabry--Perot resonance wavelength changes with position from 690 to 620 nm, overlapping to varying degrees with the [ital n]=1 and [ital n]=2 quantum well gain peaks at [similar to]670 and 650 nm. Gain guided devices are tested across the entire wafer, and pulsed room temperature lasing is observed from 634.6 to 663.2 nm. Our results suggest that gain contributions from the second quantized state are required to overcome high cavity losses in order to achieve lasing.
Waveform correlation detectors compare a signal template with successive windows of a continuous data stream and report a detection when the correlation coefficient, or some comparable detection statistic, exceeds a specified threshold. Since correlation detectors exploit the fine structure of the full waveform, they are exquisitely sensitive when compared to power (STA/LTA) detectors. The drawback of correlation detectors is that they require complete knowledge of the signal to be detected, which limits such methods to instances of seismicity in which a very similar signal has already been observed by every station used. Such instances include earthquake swarms, aftershock sequences, repeating industrial seismicity, and many other forms of controlled explosions. The reduction in the detection threshold is even greater when the techniques are applied to arrays since stacking can be performed on the individual channel correlation traces to achieve significant array ...
In 1999, the plasma parameters of reversed shear (RS) plasmas had been extended in 1) DT-equivalent fusion power gain Q_D_T"e"q - 0.5 (n_D(0)#tau#_ET_i(0) - 4x10"2"0 m"-"3#centre dot#keV#centre dot#s) for 0.8 s and 2) full non-inductive current drive with 80% of the bootstrap current fraction. Physics of the internal transport barriers (ITBs) in RS plasmas, including the energy transport and the formation of ITB, were extensively studied. A nearly full current drive (92% non-inductively) was obtained with negative ion based neutral beam (NNB) injection (360 keV, 3.4 MW) in a high #beta#_p H-mode plasma (I_p=1.5 MA, B_T=3.7 T, q_9_5=4.2) with high plasma performance (#beta#_N=2.4 and H_8_9=2.56). Rise in the central electron temperature (T_e - 9 keV) resulted in the current drive efficiency #eta#_C_D of NNB reached 1.3x10"1"9 A/W/m"2, the highest for the neutral beam current drive. As for the H-mode plasmas, decrease in the pedestal ion ...
...events Completing the Trust and Estate Tax Return Completing and filing the trust tax return - filing online, avoiding common mistakes, tax return deadlines and penalties Trusts and Income Tax How different types of trust income are taxed, what management expenses and reliefs can be deducted, understanding the tax pool Trusts and Capital Gains Tax Capital Gains Tax exemptions and reliefs for trustees and notifying HMRC about a trust disposal or ...
An original evaluating method of gain degradation has been found for neutron irradiated transistors. It establishes a correlation between degradation and the product of two coefficients: spectra factor and an electrical parameter which is measured or directly deduced from manufacturer's data. Equivalence for several type of spectra (fission, 14MeV and degradation sensitivity to electrical parameters values of individual components of a batch are obtained.
The polarization characteristics of spontaneous radiation from relativistic electrons moving through helical and planar wiggler fields are evaluated for imperfect beam injection. Maximum coherent gain in free-electron laser systems are seen to occur in optical fields having these polarization characteristics rather than those of the wiggler magnets. Coupling coefficients for an electron beam skewed at an angle to the optical mode are presented.
We report acceleration of electrons moving in free space near an active Nd:YAG slab. The power of a non-relativistic beam of electrons has increased by more than 30% when the medium was excited. It is demonstrated experimentally that the energy gained by the electrons is linearly proportional to the energy stored in the medium. Moreover, the energy gain traces closely the population inversion inferred by monitoring the spontaneous radiation.
In 1992, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) began using a Flow Duration Analysis (FDA) methodology to assess headwater benefits in river basins where use of the Headwater Benefits Energy Gains (HWBEG) model may not result in significant improvements in modeling accuracy. The purpose of this study is to validate the accuracy and appropriateness of the FDA method for determining energy gains in less complex basins. This report presents the results of Oak Ridge National Laboratory`s (ORNL`s) validation of the FDA method. The validation is based on a comparison of energy gains using the FDA method with energy gains calculated using the MWBEG model. Comparisons of energy gains are made on a daily and monthly basis for a complex river basin (the Alabama River Basin) and a basin that is considered relatively simple hydrologically (the Stanislaus River Basin). In addition to ...
Thailand's demand for gas will outstrip supplies in the late 1990s as rapid economic growth continues. Gas will be a cornerstone for Thai energy policy throughout the growth, although sources in neighboring countries need development. Thai gas production will rise 25% from 1992 to average 1 bcfd by 1995. Including production from new discoveries, production could rise to 1.5 bcfd by 2000, up almost 90% from the 1992 level. Increased gas flow output in the mid-1990s will be due largely to development of Gulf of Thailand fields. By 1998, production from Gulf of Thailand fields will not be enough to offset the decline in today's fields. Thailand will need to import more than 1 bcfd by 2005 in the absence of future discoveries in the country. The paper discusses new pipelines and imports.
The existence of multipole components in the dipole and quadrupole magnets is one of the factors limiting the beam stability in the RHIC operations. So, a realistic non-linear model is crucial for understanding the beam behavior and to achieve the ultimate performance in RHIC. A procedure is developed to build a non-linear model using the available multipole component data obtained from measurements of RHIC magnets. We first discuss the measurements performed at different stages of manufacturing of the magnets in relation to their current state in RHIC. We then describe the procedure to implement these measurement data into tracking models, including the implementation of the multipole feed down effect due to the beam orbit offset from the magnet center. Finally, the field quality analysis in the RHIC interaction regions (IR) is presented.
In a new series of modulated electron cyclotron heating (MECH) on RTP the MECH power was deposited either on-axis or off-axis in plasmas with different values of the plasma current (I{sub p}). Besides confirming all previous MECH results on RTP, the new data can be simulated by assuming a radial profile of the incremental diffusivity ({chi}{sup inc}) that is constant ({chi}{sup inc} < 1 m{sup 2}/s) inside the sawtooth region, makes a sharp step near the inversion radius, and has an offset parabolic profile elsewhere with a value of {chi}{sup inc} {approx} 6 m{sup 2}/s at r/a {approx} 0.6. No significant dependence of {chi}{sup inc} on q{sub a} is observed apart from the position of the transition from low to high {chi}{sup inc}. (author) 5 refs., 4 figs.
This patent describes an oil-filled electric cable and a manufacturing method for said cable, in which the solid insulation is formed, at least in part, by separately applied, alternate layers of cellulose paper tape and of film tapes made of plastic. Prior to application of the tapes around the cable conductor, the moisture content of the paper tape is selected and the swelling of the plastic tape by the oil after application is adjusted, if necessary, such as by immersing the plastic tape in the oil prior to application, so that the swelling of the plastic tape by the oil in the formed cable is offset by the shrinkage of the paper tape during drying of the cable. Also, an apparatus for pre-swelling the plastic tape is described. 4 figs.
We investigate how, and to what extent, morphological complexity of the language influences text classification using support vector machines (SVM). The Croatian-English parallel corpus provides the basis for direct comparison of two languages of radically different morphological complexity. We quantified, compared, and statistically tested the effects of morphological normalisation on SVM classifier performance based on a series of parallel experiments on both languages, carried over a large scale of different feature subset sizes obtained by different feature selection methods, and applying different levels of morphological normalisation. We also quantified the trade-off between feature space size and performance for different levels of morphological normalisation, and compared the resul...
To meet BPA`s contractual obligation to supply electrical power to its customers, BPA proposes to acquire power generated by Klickitat Cogeneration Project. BPA has prepared an environmental assessment evaluating the proposed project. Based on the EA analysis, BPA`s proposed action is not a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment within the meaning of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 for the following reasons: (1)it will not have a significant impact land use, upland vegetation, wetlands, water quality, geology, soils, public health and safety, visual quality, historical and cultural resources, recreation and socioeconomics, and (2) impacts to fisheries, wildlife resources, air quality, and noise will be temporary, minor, or sufficiently offset by mitigation. Therefore, the preparation of an environmental impact statement is not required and BPA is issuing this FONSI (Finding of No Significant Impact).
The fast rotating wire scanners installed in the PS and the PS booster are used for the precise transversal profile measurements in horizontal and vertical planes. The scanners may show large position measurement errors if no special treatment is applied to the acquired data. The aim of the calibration is to obtain a correction algorithm for the systematic position measurement error due to mechanical and electronic offsets. A new calibration system has been developed and introduced at CERN for the scanners implementing position feedback control. The calibration method is based on a substitution of a particle beam by a laser one where the laser beam position is well known. According to the previous experience the following crucial requirements to the system have been taking into consideration: heavy and mechanically stable design of the calibration bench to reduce mechanical oscillations of scanner parts; automation of the calibration procedure to exclude human ...
A three-component seismic line acquired over the Zamora gas field, northern Sacramento Valley, California, displays conventional (P-P) and converted-wave (P-SV) seismic anomalies. Well log and seismic modeling results indicate that bright-spot reflection strengths are related to variations in fluid saturation and lithology. The P-SV reflection strengths and interval velocities provide valuable information that complements more conventional strategies such as amplitude with offset and polarity analysis. This integrated strategy can improve risk evaluation and well-site selection in areas where rapid changes in reservoir quality impact resource evaluation.
A three-component seismic line acquired over the Zamora gas field, northern Sacramento Valley, California, displays conventional (P-P) and converted-wave (P-SV) seismic anomalies. Well log and seismic modeling results indicate that bright-spot reflection strengths are related to variations in fluid saturation and lithology. The converted-wave reflection strengths and interval velocities provide valuable information that compliments more conventional strategies such as amplitude with offset and polarity analysis. This integrated strategy can improve risk evaluation and well site selection in areas where rapid changes in reservoir quality impact resource evaluation.
In this paper we present an approximation method for the convolution of two planar curves using pairs of compatible cubic B?zier curves with linear normals (LN). We characterize the necessary and sufficient conditions for two compatible cubic B?zier LN curves with the same linear normal map to exist. Using this characterization, we obtain the cubic spline approximation of the convolution curve. As illustration, we apply our method to the approximation of a font where the letters are constructed as the Minkowski sum of two planar curves. We also present numerical results using our approximation method for offset curves and compare our method to previous results.
BACKGROUND: Calibration by inverse modelling was performed with the MACRO transport and fate model using long-term (>10 years) drainflow and isoproturon (IPU) data from western France. Two lack-of-fit (LOF) indices were used to control the inverse modelling: sum of squares (SS) and an alternative statistic called the vertical-horizontal distance integrator (VHDI), which is designed to account for offsets in observed and predicted arrival times of peak IPU concentration. With these data, SS was artificially inflated because it is limited to comparison of predicted and observed IPU concentrations that are concurrent in time. The LOFs were used along with the index of agreement (d) and the correlation coefficient (r) to ascertain the fit of the calibrated models. RESULTS: Predicted arrival ti...
In the CLIC main linac it is very important to minimise the trajectory excursion and consequently the emittance dilution in order to obtain the required luminosity. Several algorithms have been proposed and lately the ballistic method has proved to be very effective. The trajectory method described in this Note retains the main advantages of the latter while adding some interesting features. It is based on the separation of the unknown variables like the quadrupole misalignments, the offset and slope of the injection straight line and the misalignments of the beam position monitors (BPM). This is achieved by referring the trajectory relatively to the injection line and not to the average pre-alignment line and by using two trajectories each corresponding to slightly different quadrupole strengths. A reference straight line is then derived onto which the beam is bent by a kick obtained by moving the first quadrupole. The other quadrupoles are then aligned on that ...
This was a university-based research project in support of distributed reforming production technologies for hydrogen. Our objective was to examine the steam reforming of bio-ethanol and other related bio-derived liquids over non-precious metal catalyst systems to enable small-scale distributed hydrogen production technologies from renewable sources. The study targeted development of a catalytic system that does not rely on precious metals and that can be active in the 350-550 C temperature range, with high selectivity and high stability. To this end, we adopted a multi-prong research strategy, that included catalyst formulation and synthesis, detailed catalyst characterization, reaction kinetics and reaction engineering, molecular modeling and economic analysis studies. Our approach was an iterative one, where the knowledge gained in one aspect of the study was utilized to modify and fine-tune catalyst development. The research addressed many fundamental and ...
The Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC) engaged in numerous projects outlined under the scope of work discussed in the United States Department of Energy (DOE) grant number DE-FG26-01BC15336 awarded to the IOGCC. Numerous projects were completed that were extremely valuable to state oil and gas agencies as a result of work performed utilizing resources provided by the grant. There are numerous areas in which state agencies still need assistance. This additional assistance will need to be addressed under another grant because funding resources have been exhausted under The scope of work objectives for the eight projects covered under this grant is as follows: (1) Improve uniformity within state oil and gas data management efforts. (2) Conduct environmental compliance workshops and related educational projects on natural gas and oil exploration and production. (3) Improve regulatory efficiency through partnering opportunities provided by the Appalachian ...
The maintenance of a balance between cell gain and cell loss is essential for proper liver function. The exact role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis of liver cells remains unclear, since ligand-dependent activation of AhR has been shown to induce cell cycle arrest, proliferation, differentiation or apoptosis, depending on the cellular model used. AhR can directly interact with retinoblastoma protein in hepatic cells, forming protein complexes that can efficiently block cell cycle progression by inducing G1 arrest, or to induce the expression of inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinases, such as p271. On the other hand, it has been suggested that AhR could play a stimulatory role in cell proliferation, either directly or by mediating a release from contact inhibition. It is now generally accepted that progenitor cells exist in the liver, are activated in various liver diseases and can form a ...
Direct injection diesel engines power most of the heavy-duty vehicles. Due to their superior fuel economy, high power density and low carbon dioxide emissions, turbocharged, small bore, high speed, direct injection diesel engines are being considered to power light duty vehicles. Such vehicles have to meet stringent emission standards. However, it is difficult to meet these standards by modifying the in-cylinder thermodynamic and combustion processes to reduce engine-out emissions. After-treatment devices will be needed to achieve even lower emission targets required in the production engines to account for the anticipated deterioration after long periods of operation in the field. To reduce the size, mass and cost of the after-treatment devices, there is a need to reduce engine-out emissions and optimize both the engine and the aftertreatment devices as one integrated system. For example, the trade-off between engine-out NOx and PM, suggests that one of these species can be minimized ...
The objective of this project is to eliminate three closely inter-related barriers to oil production in Alaska through the use of a geographic information system (GIS) and other information technology strategies. These barriers involve identification of oil development potential from existing wells, planning projects to efficiently avoid conflicts with other interests, and gaining state approvals for exploration and development projects. Each barrier is the result of either current labor-intensive methods or poorly accessible information. This project brings together three parts of the oil exploration, development, and permitting process to form the foundation for a more fully integrated information technology infrastructure for the State of Alaska. This web-based system will enable the public and other review participants to track permit status, submit and view comments, and obtain important project information online. By automating several ...
According to the California Earthquake Authority, only about 12% of current California residences are covered by any form of earthquake insurance, down from about 30% in 1996 following the 1994, M6.7 Northridge earthquake. Part of the reason for this decreasing rate of insurance uptake is the high deductible, either 10% or 15% of the value of the structure, and the relatively high cost of the premiums, as much as thousands of dollars per year. The earthquake insurance industry is composed of the CEA, a public-private partnership; modeling companies that produce damage and loss models similar to the FEMA HAZUS model; and financial companies such as the insurance, reinsurance, and investment banking companies in New York, London, the Cayman Islands, Zurich, Dubai, Singapore, and elsewhere. In setting earthquake insurance rates, financial companies rely on models like HAZUS, that calculate on risk and exposure. In California, the process begins with an official earthquake forecast by the ...
We continue the study of the hole coupling resonator for free electron laser (FEL) application. The previous resonator code is further developed to include the effects of the azimutally asymmetric modes and the FEL gain. The implication of the additional higher order modes is that there are more degeneracies to be avoided in tuning the FEL wavelengths. The FEL interaction is modeled by constructing a transfer map in the small signal regime and incorporating it into the resonator code. The FEL gain is found to be very effective in selecting a dominant mode from the azimuthally symmetric class of modes. Schemes for broad wavelength tuning based on passive mode control via adjustable apertures are discussed. 12 refs., 7 figs., 1 tab.
The light gain due to S/sub 2/ molecules in a supersonically cooled gas mixture is calculated. The S/sub 2/ molecules formed due to the recombination of the sulfur atoms, and the combustion gas mixture was preheated in a precombustion chamber. Optimal gas flow and nozzle parameters are found which correspond to the highest possible light gain using Cs/sub 2/-Ar and S/sub 2/-Ar gas mixtures. The steady state gas flow in the nozzle was calculated, taking into account the chemical reactions in the one-dimensional approximation. It is shown that the maximum gain values vary in the 0.0001-0.002 range for gas pressures in the precombustion chamber in the range 10-100 atm. The optimal initial relative concentration of Cs/sub 2/ molecules and S/sub 2/ molecules are given. 32 references.
In a seeded high-gain free-electron laser (FEL), where a coherent laser pulse interacts with an ultrarelativistic electron beam, the seed laser pulse can be frequency chirped, and the electron beam can be energy chirped. Besides these two chirps, the FEL interaction introduces an intrinsic frequency chirp in the FEL even if the above-mentioned two chirps are absent. We examine the interplay of these three chirps. The problem is formulated as an initial value problem and solved via a Green function approach. Besides the chirp evolution, we also give analytical expressions for the pulse duration and bandwidth of the FEL, which remains fully longitudinally coherent in the high-gain exponential growth regime. Because the chirps are normally introduced for a final compression of the FEL pulse, some conceptual issues are discussed. We show that to get a short pulse duration, an energy chirp in the electron beam is important.
This Letter reports the first experimental results from the world's first distributed optical-klystron (DOK) free-electron laser (FEL), the DOK-1 FEL, at Duke University. The DOK-1 FEL is a hybrid system, comprised of four wigglers: two horizontal and two helical. With the DOK-1 FEL, we have obtained the highest FEL gain among all storage ring based FELs at 47.8% (#+-#2.7%) per pass. We have also demonstrated that the FEL gain can be enhanced by increasing electron bunching using wigglers with a different polarization. Furthermore, we have realized controlled polarization switches of the FEL beam by a nonoptical means through the manipulation of a buncher magnet.
In the previous paper, we have derived a dispersion relation for the free electron laser (FEL) gain in the exponential regime taking account the diffraction and electron`s betatron oscillation. Here, we compare the growth rates obtained by solving the dispersion relation with those obtained by simulation calculation for the waterbag and the Gaussian models for the electron`s transverse phase space distribution. The agreement is found to be good except for the limiting case where the Rayleigh length is much longer than the gain length (1-D limit). We also generalize the analysis to the case where the electron beam cross section is elliptical as is usually the case in storage rings, and derive the first-order dispersion relation.
As a result of US Department of Energy (DOE) monitoring activities, it was determined in 1983 that the potential existed for natural gas resources underlying the Naval Oil Shales Reserves Nos. 1 and 3 (NOSrs-1 3) to be drained by privately-owned gas wells that were being drilled along the Reserves borders. In 1985, DOE initiated a limited number of projects to protect the Government's interest in the gas resources by drilling its own offset production'' wells just inside the boundaries, and by formally sharing in the production, revenues and costs of private wells that are drilled near the boundaries ( communitize'' the privately-drilled wells). The scope of these protection efforts must be expanded. DOE is therefore proposing a Natural Gas Protection Program for NOSRs-1 3 which would be implemented over a five-year period that would encompass a total of 200 wells (including the wells drilled and/or communitized since ...
VSP data are usually acquired in order to obtain high-resolution images of complex structures in reservoirs and near boreholes. The authors present an elastic iterative migration scheme which has few limitations regarding the complexity of the geology, and where the macromodel for both P- and S-wave velocities is automatically improved and updated at each iteration. They avoid wavefield separation (up/down and P/S) and the simplifying assumptions of small dips underlying most such methods. The migration scheme is based on elastic inversion theory. The wavefield extrapolation is based on a high-order, coarse-grid, finite-difference solution to the elastic two-way wave equation. At each iteration, the macromodel is updated using a gradient method, in which the gradient is computed by correlation of forward-modelled fields with back-propagated residual fields. The first iteration of the migration scheme is equivalent to elastic reverse-time migration with an imaging condition similar to ...
Faults in shallow, unconsolidated sediments, particularly in coastal plain settings, are very difficult to discern during subsurface exploration yet have critical impact to groundwater flow, contaminant transport and geotechnical evaluations. This paper presents a case study using cross-over geophysical technologies in an area where shallow faulting is probable and known contamination exists. A comparison is made between Wenner and dipole-dipole resistivity data, ground penetrating radar, and high resolution seismic data. Data from these methods were verified with a cone penetrometer investigation for subsurface lithology and compared to existing monitoring well data. Interpretations from these techniques are compared with actual and theoretical shallow faulting found in the literature. The results of this study suggests that (1) the CPT study, combined with the monitoring well data may suggest that discontinuities in correlatable zones may indicate that faulting is present (2) the ...
Doping of molecular organic materials is important for the functionality of organic electronic devices as e.g solar cells. We investigated the doping behaviour of the acceptor molecules Cl{sub 2}-DCNQI and F{sub 16}CuPc incorporated into a CuPc matrix. In-situ XPS/UPS measurements were performed on coevaporated films. Doping by Cl{sub 2}-DCNQI was not successful. The molecule lost its chlorine atoms during thermal evaporation. For pristine F{sub 16}CuPc layers we observe a strong broadening of the photoemission features with increasing deposition rate indicating different domains probably of different molecular structure of differing electric interface potential. F{sub 16}CuPc incorporated into CuPc shows sharp photoemission features. With increasing F{sub 16}CuPc content Fermi level shifts are observed in both phases. In CuPc the maximum shift is about 0.45 eV towards the HOMO level indicating p-doping. Simultaneously the Fermi level in F{sub 16}CuPc shifts 0.15 eV towards the LUMO ...
Counter-current two-phase flows of air-water in narrow rectangular channels with offset-strip fins have been experimentally investigated in a 760 mm long and 100 mm wide test section with 3.0 and 5.0 mm gap widths. The two-phase flow regime, channel-average void fractions and two-phase pressure gradients were studied. Flow regime transition occurred at lower superficial velocities of air than in the channels without fins. In the bubbly and slug flow regimes, elongated bubbles rose along the subchannel formed by fins without lateral movement. The critical void fraction for the bubbly-to-slug transition was about 0.14 for the 3 mm gap channel and 0.2 for the 5 mm gap channel, respectively. Channel-average void fractions in the channels with fins were almost the same as those in the channels without fins. Void fractions increased as the gap width increased, especially at high superficial velocity of air. The presence of fins enhanced the two-phase distribution ...
Contents: Introduction; Design Criteria for a Green Building; Comparison of Energy Efficiency Measures; Whole House Energy Efficiency; Built Examples of Energy Efficient Houses; and Product Energy of Building Elements.
Composed of Sun sensors, the Canopus sensor, the inertial reference unit, ... The heart of the system was a 100-pound-thrust rocket whose hypergolic, ... The spacecraft's low-gain antenna picked up all incoming signals from the NASA-JPL ...
The paper describes the possibilities of using data warehousing and OLAP technologies in public health care in general and then our own experience with these technologies gained during the implementation...Full Text Available
Strategies to combine aspirated marrow cells with scaffolds to treat connective tissue defects are gaining increasing clinical attention and use. In situations such as large defects where initial...Full Text Available
PurposeIn order to gain insight into the physicians' awareness of and attitude towards management of overactive bladder (OAB) in males, we performed a nationwide survey of the current...Full Text Available
The advanced technologies of Ka-Band systems such as high gain spot .... sometimes used based on link requirements for a specific application. .... received at NASA LeRC from a Ku-band satellite and retransmitted to the USAT at Ka-Band. .... and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project ...
This presentation from the 2006 PTEC Conference presents education research on topics in thermodynamics. Student responses to conceptual thermodynamics questions, and the conceptions they reveal, are presented. Tutorial materials developed to help students gain a better understanding of the topic are also presented.
If bone strength was the only requirement of skeleton, it could be achieved with bulk, but bone must also be light. During growth, bone modelling and remodelling optimize strength, by depositing bone...Full Text Available
A description of the FEL experiment underway at the 10 kA, 5 MeV Experimental Test Accelerator (ETA) is described. The facility has been designed to investigate the high-gain operation of an FEL.
SUMMARYThe biologic and clinical significance of KIT overexpression that associates with KIT gain-of- function mutations occurring in subsets...Full Text Available
Several different neuronal populations are involved in regulating energy homeostasis. Among these, agouti-related protein (AgRP) neurons are thought to promote feeding and weight gain; however, the...Full Text Available
Computer-aided diagnosis of neural diseases from EEG signals (or other physiological signals that can be treated as time series, e.g., MEG) is an emerging field that has gained much attention in past...Full Text Available
BackgroundThe objective of this study was to gain insight into the molecular mechanism of induced cell death (apoptosis) by PYRROLO [1,2-b][1,2,5]BENZOTHIADIAZEPINES...Full Text Available
Outpatient practice after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is gaining momentum due to constantly optimizing results. Furthermore, the availability of limited beds to handle the large volume...Full Text Available
Pedel. 24.8. 0. 0. 38.0. 21.7. 35. Page 38. TABLE VII.- PREFILTER AND FEEDBACK GAIN MATRICES G AND F. FOR DECOUPLED LATERAL AND LONGITUDINAL CONTROLS ...
To gain insight into the process of mitochondrial transmission in yeast, we directly labeled mitochondrial proteins and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and observed their fate after the fusion of two cells....Full Text Available
Gestational exposure to maternal overweight (OW) influences the risk of obesity in adult life. Male offspring from OW dams gain greater body weight and fat mass and develop insulin resistance when fed...Full Text Available
A comparitive analysis is made of the principal characteristics of narrow-band and conventional semiconductor light amplifiers. It is shown that quasi-distributed filtering of the spontaneous radiation ensures a high gain and a low level of the spontaneous noise at the amplifier output.
Statistical data on experience gained from operation of steam generators around the world are presented, problems arising in vertical and horizontal steam generators are described, and the conditions of heattransfer tubes used in them are compared.
To gain insight into ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) function and its potential role in AD pathology, we analyzed the expression of the cholesterol transporter ABCA1...Full Text Available
Main results of the 40-year experience gained from operation of horizontal steam generators in VVER-type reactor installations used in Russia and many foreign countries are described. Existing unresolved problems are pointed out.
Most human diseases are related in some way to the loss or gain in gene functions. Regulation of gene expression is a complex process. In addition to genetic mechanisms, epigenetic causes are...Full Text Available
The discovery that aerobic exercise increases adult hippocampal neurogenesis and can enhance cognitive performance holds promise as a model for regenerative medicine. This study adds two new...Full Text Available
A fully quantized many-particle theory of the standard free-electron laser in the small-signal, cold-beam regime is presented. The approach is based on an evaluation of the time-evolution operator in the interaction picture to first order in the quantum-mechanical recoil. For algebraic convenience we use the moving (Bambini-Renieri) frame, in which resonance occurs for zero electron momentum. Though we neglect space-charge effects, genuine many-particle contributions still show up, because the radiation emitted by one electron can be amplified by another electron. Our main results are gross features of the amplification, such as gain and spread, are virtually without many-particle effects. These effects are mainly important in the case of spontaneous emission. For a sufficiently high current, the buildup of the laser field from vacuum is enhanced by amplified spontaneous emission. Incoherence of the spontaneous radiation from several electrons induces deviations ...
Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling is involved in skeletal development of the vertebrate. Gain-of-function mutations of FGF receptors (FGFR) cause craniosynostosis, premature fusion of the skull,...Full Text Available
Epicuticular wax production was evaluated along the length of expanding leek (Allium porrum L.) leaves to gain insight into the regulation of wax production. Leaf segments from the...Full Text Available
The report gives a comprehensive summary of the experience gained and the problems encountered during the Cat-Ox demonstration program. The report outlines the process design and construction, as well as operating experience and problems. Test results and conclusions derived from...
The use of spatially referenced data in cancer studies is gaining in prominence, fueled by the development and availability of spatial analytic tools and the broadening recognition of the linkages between...Full Text Available
In the study three loss-of-feedwater type experiments which were preformed with the PACTEL facility has been calculated with two computer codes. The purpose of the experiments was to gain information about the behaviour of horizontal steam generator in a ...
The frequency dependence of the lasing power of a He-Ne laser was studied using the electrooptic effect in a KDP crystal. The gain profile of the power curve was found to differ noticeably between the high-frequency and low-frequency edges. (AIP). (AIP)
The amyloidoses are the prototype gain of toxic function protein misfolding diseases. As such, several naturally occurring animal models and their inducible variants provided some of the first...Full Text Available
This article reports on a one-semester Advanced Cell Biology course that endeavors to bridge the gap between gaining basic textbook knowledge about cell biology and learning to think and work as a researcher....Full Text Available
Learning curve models have gained widespread acceptance as a technique for analyzing and ...... flight segment in F4 pilots p 163 A91-30966. WILSON, JOHN W . ...
Dictyostelium discoideum (Dd) is a widely studied model system from which fundamental insights into cell movement, chemotaxis, aggregation and pattern formation can be gained. In this system aggregation...Full Text Available
SummaryHeadache due to the pressure of nasal mucosa in the absence of inflammation of the nose and paranasal sinuses is a clinical entity that has gained wide acceptance. Concha bullosa...Full Text Available
This paper presents a systematic study on the stability of a two-dimensional vibration isolation floating raft system with a time-delayed feedback control. Based on the generalized Sturm criterion, the critical control gain for the delay-independent stability region and critical time delays for the stability switches are derived. The critical conditions can provide a theoretical guidance of chaotification design for line spectra reduction. Numerical simulations verify the correctness of the approach. Bifurcation analyses reveal that chaotification is more likely to occur in unstable region defined by these critical conditions, and the stiffness of the floating raft and mass ratio are the sensitive parameters to reduce critical control gain.
A basic treatment of the principle of the linac-driven free-electron laser (FEL) is given. The first part of the paper describes the FEL in low-gain approximation, and in the second part the high-gain FEL theory is given. The majority of the treatment describes FELs in one dimensional approximation, neglecting effects by diffraction of radiation and by electron beam emittance. Only in the final section a few remarks on these issues are given. The ambition of the paper is by no means any progress in FEL theory but a clear presentation of basic FEL theory concepts with explicit derivation of the formulae from first principles. (orig.)
Laser gain of the NIJI-IV compact storage-ring-based Free Electron Laser (FEL) system at AIST reached #approx#9% at 200 nm for an average beam current of 16.3 mA. In addition to such a drastic gain enhancement, improvement of the laser-cavity performance has led to successful FEL lasing in the vacuum ultraviolet below 200 nm even in a compact system. Temporal and spectral characteristics of the NIJI-IV FEL were examined around 200 nm. FEL performance will be briefly discussed from the application point of view.
The electron-capture processes of highly stripped ions of Fq+ (q=6,7,8) and Neq+ (q=7,8,9) in collisions with He atom were investigated using the energy-gain spectroscopy technique. A single dominant peak is observed in most of the energy-gain spectra except for the Ne7+ and Ne9+ spectra, in which two peaks are observed corresponding to the one-electron capture process into levels with different principal quantum number n.
This paper details the design, construction and testing of a bayonet tube heat exchanger for use in the process industry and potentially as part of an externally fired combined cycle. Detailed analysis of the system has been undertaken, in particular on the tube side. The data is reported in terms of temperature, pressure, heat gain and heat exchanger effectiveness, over a range of Reynolds numbers and shell side mixture ratios. Much of the heat gained by the tubes is in the annular flow of the bayonet tube. Overall the effectiveness of this system could exceed 70%. (Author)
In today's business environment, strong forces of competition and globalization have created an urgency to focus how an organization controls and nurtures its intellectual capital. The concept of knowledge and its management has gained currency and momentum as technology has enabled thoughts and ideas to be more easily generated and distributed. With increased application of technologies such as the Internet, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), and advanced software capabilities, it has been suggested the time has come for discussion of a new paradigm for knowledge management. Toward that end, this article examines the knowledge literature and reviews the experience of a leading private healthcare group, with the objective of gaining a better understanding of the issues that confront e...
The simplest high gain free electron laser (FEL) amplifier concept is proposed. A klystron amplifier has the useful property that the various electronic processes take place in separate portions of the amplifier, rather than overlapping as in FEL amplifier with an uniform undulator. The klystron consists of two fundamental parts: succession of 2-3 cascades (modulator), and an output undulator (radiator) in which the modulated electron beam coherently radiates. Each cascade consists of uniform undulator and dispersion section. Unlike distributed optical klystrons, we have a high gain per cascade pass. This has a few consequences. First, klystron gain does not depend on the bunch compression in the injector linac, i.e. maximum gain per cascade pass at high peak beam current is the same at low peak beam current, without compression. Conventional, short-wavelength FEL amplifier and distributed optical ...
VSP data are usually recorded in common-shot gather and contain less informations. It is difficult, therefore, to obtain good migration result by using conventional migration methods. Both inner interface reflections and interformational multiples can be removed by reverse-time migration with the use of two-way nonreflection wave equation: besides, boundary reflection in VSP can be eliminated using Clayton's absorption boundary condition. It is proved that reverse-time migration is able to improve migration quality. The imaging condition is still obtained by generalizing Claerbout's imaging principle and solving eikonal equation. This is a very practical wave equation migration method. This method is applicable to prestack VSP data, conventional multiple-offset shot gather and the simultaneous migration of VSP data and surface seismic data. Besides, it is adaptable to various velocity variations. Before applying the method to VSP data processing, ...
Subject of this study is the question of whether cone beam CT (CBCT) images with reduced projection data are suitable for use in adaptive radiation therapy (ART) treatment planning. For this purpose image quality and dose calculation accuracy depending on imaging modality were analysed. In this context, two CBCT-methods will be indicated having reduced projection data sets: Scans acquired with 200^o rotation angle in order to accelerate the CBCT process (half scan), or scans with an asymmetric cone beam and detector offset, used to enlarge the field-of-view (half fan). Methods: For three different CBCT-modes (On-Board-Imaging, Varian Medical Systems), two of them based on reduced projection data, and a conventional multidetector CT system, the main image quality parameters were studied. Tr...
Boxy and peanut-shaped bulges are seen in about half of edge-on disc galaxies. Comparisons of the photometry and major-axis gas and stellar kinematics of these bulges to simulations of bar formation and evolution indicate that they are bars viewed in projection. If the properties of boxy bulges can be entirely explained by assuming they are bars, then this may imply that their hosts are pure disc galaxies with no classical bulge. A handful of these bulges, including that of the Milky Way, have been observed to rotate cylindrically, i.e. with a mean stellar velocity independent of height above the disc. In order to assess whether such behaviour is ubiquitous in boxy bulges, and whether a pure disc interpretation is consistent with their stellar populations, we have analysed the stellar kinematics and populations of the boxy or peanut-shaped bulges in a sample of five edge-on galaxies. We placed slits along the major axis of each galaxy and at three offset but ...
This presentation discussed common mechanisms for procuring wind energy in Canada. Mechanisms included renewable portfolio standards (RPSs); offsets; tax subsidies; financial subsidies; command and control mechanisms; and request for proposals (RFPs). A layered approach is required to avoid reliance on any single mechanism. RPSs require a certain minimum percentage of energy to come from renewable sources and aim to encourage the local development of renewable energy. RPSs are market-friendly and often result in the creation of tradable renewable energy credits (RECs) used for compliance purposes. RPSs work in parallel with cap and trade, baseline, and credit and carbon tax systems. RFPs target the lowest price offering, a practice which has often resulted in lower rates of return, high attrition, and a failure to attribute market prices to green attributes. It was concluded that RPSs work with a variety of policy frameworks and encourage the development of ...
Preliminary tests have shown that smart-grid systems can significantly reduce home electricity use. A smart grid negates the need for controlled distribution by giving homeowners the ability to monitor rates in real time and modify their use based on energy availability, need and price. Homeowners can also feed the grid alternative power to offset their costs. Studies in the United States have also suggested that the system could reduce carbon emissions by 60 to 211 million tonnes per year. The smart grid would also be less susceptible to major disturbances because it draws power from multiple sources. An added benefit is that the technology could be developed for a fraction of the cost of building traditional energy plants, such as nuclear. However, the success of the smart-grid depends on several technological advances. The flow of power within the system must be digitally controlled and also merged with multiple communication devices so that monitoring is ...
Physiological functions are carried out by differentiated cells, with finite lifespans, which age and need to be replaced. In young individuals, tissue functions are sustained at optimal levels because cellular dysfunction and cell loss are balanced by the emergence of newly differentiated cells as stem cells and their partially differentiated descendants replicate. However, with the passage of time the mitotic rates of these cells diminish. Eventually, replications occur too infrequently to offset the loss. It is at this point that the tissue begins to show structural changes and declining function which, as they become pervasive, are identified as ageing. In this paper the theory is set forth that: (1) Diminishing mitotic activity in older tissues results from limited stem cell replicative capacity. (2) All stem cells, regardless of tissue, exhibit similar replicative patterns over time, progressing from the actively proliferating to the nonproliferating state. ...
We present maps of the cosmic large-scale structure around the twelve most distant galaxy clusters from the Massive Cluster Survey (MACS) as traced by the projected surface density of galaxies on the cluster red sequence. Taken with the Suprime-Cam wide-field camera on the Subaru telescope, the images used in this study cover a 27x27 arcmin^2 area around each cluster, corresponding to 10 x 10 Mpc^2 at the median redshift of z = 0.55 of our sample. We directly detect satellite clusters and filaments extending over the full size of our imaging data in the majority of the clusters studied, supporting the picture of mass accretion via infall along filaments suggested by numerical simulations of the growth of clusters and the evolution of large-scale structure. A comparison of the galaxy distribution near the cluster cores with the X-ray surface brightness as observed with Chandra reveals, in several cases, significant offsets between the gas and galaxy distribution, ...
A comparative assessment of five different heat transfer configurations for operation in compact heat exchangers is presented. The configurations under consideration are four standaed heat exchanger surfaces - two plain fin, an offset strip and a louvered fin geometry - and one surface with so called vortex generators for heat transfer augmentation. In the case of the standard surfaces, the basic performance characteristics in the form of heat transfer and friction data versus the Reynolds number have been taken from published experimental results. In the case of the vortex generator surface, the performance characteristics have been derived from a numerical prediction of the flow and temperature field in a closely spaced parallel plate channel with vortex generators in the form of delta wings mounted on the channel walls. In comparison to the plain fin surfaces with a rectangular cross section, the vortex generator surface shows best performance characteristics ...
Throughout most of the 1980s, both private organizations and government agencies were concerned about the availability of an adequate supply of qualified nuclear engineers. This concern was primarily the result of a number of nuclear engineering academic programs being eliminated coupled with a continuous decline in graduate and undergraduate enrollments and degrees. By the early 1990s, the number of degrees and available supply had declined to new lows, but cutbacks in funding for the nuclear weapons program and nuclear energy R&D, and in hiring by the electric utility industry, offset in large measure the declining supply. Recently, concerns about environment and waste management and about nuclear safety have again generated questions about the adequacy of supply of qualified personnel for nuclear energy activities. This report briefly examines the nuclear engineering labor market. Trends in employment, new graduates, job openings, and salaries are reviewed ...
In-reactor testing of bolt-loaded compact tension specimens was performed in 360 C water. New data confirms previous results that high irradiation levels reduce SCC resistance in Alloy X-750. Low boron heats show improved IASCC (irradiation-assisted stress corrosion cracking). Alloy 625 is resistant to IASCC. Microstructural, microchemical, and deformation studies were carried out. Irradiation of X-750 caused significant strengthening and ductility loss associated with formation of cavities and dislocation loops. High irradiation did not cause segregation in X-750. Irradiation of 625 resulted in formation of small dislocation loops and a fine body-centered-orthorhombic phase. The strengthening due to loops and precipitates was apparently offset in 625 by partial dissolution of #gamma# precipitates. Transmutation of boron to helium at grain boundaries, coupled with matrix strengthening, is believed to be responsible for IASCC in X-750, and the absence of these two ...
In order to improve the image quality of linear tomography performed with the Fuji Computed Radiography (FCR) system, we have examined one-dimensional unsharp mask filtering to reduce blur formed in the direction of tomographic swing. We determined a mask size and a weighting factor of the image processing suitable to obtain a quality tomogram. The mask size of 41 x 1 pixels for a 14 x 14'' imaging plate, which modifies the original image date and results in demonstrating a peak frequency at 0.2 cycles/mm for spatial frequency spectrum, is superior in showing fine vessel structures and morphological features of pathology in the lung fields. An additional spatial frequency filtration in the direction perpendicular to the tomographic movement reduces the blur and clearly demonstrates object contours running parallel to the tube movement. However, the additional filtration increases the appearance of noise on the processed image and offsets the ...
After a long period of stagnation in the UK, Europe and the USA, there is now a real expectation that new nuclear plants will be under construction shortly. Several factors have contributed to this change of position in the UK: the growing realisation that effective action is needed to offset greenhouse gas emissions; higher prices for fossil fuels; increasing reliance on overseas supplies of oil and gas; the limitations of wind and wave power and distribution; security of supply; the gradual realisation in the deregulated electricity generation market that nuclear power is competitive and the pending closure of most of the UK's nuclear fleet within less than 15 years. All these factors have led to a reversal of the UK Government's attitude to nuclear power, which has now ruled in favour of allowing a new generation of nuclear plants being built. This paper summarises some of the arguments that have led to this decision and the ramifications of it. In particular, ...
The governing equations for heat and mass transfer were derived for hydraulically fractured geothermal reservoirs. When converted to nondimensional form it was shown that the equations can be considerably simplified. The resulting equations can be strongly influenced by the effects of buoyancy; the magnitude of the effect is measured by the ratio of the Grashof and Reynolds numbers, and the ratio of the actual permeability of the fracture and the square of the fracture gap width. Significant quantities of energy can be extracted from hydraulic fractures--even without thermal stress fracturing. The amount is limited by the size of the fracture and the low thermal conductivity of rock. The viscous pressure drop in open fractures is insignificant, and depending upon losses in piping and surface equipment, the entire system could be ''self-pumped'' due to buoyancy. Thermal contraction of the rock tends to increase the fracture gap width--thus decreasing ...
Excitonic transitions in metalorganic vapor phase epitaxially grown In_xGa_1_-_xP/In_0_._4_8(Al_0_._7Ga_0_._3)_0_._5_2P strained single quantum-well structures are characterized using low-temperature photoluminescence and photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectroscopies. The structures consist of several uncoupled quantum wells with thicknesses between 1.2 and 11.3 nm, and compositions x of 0.48 (nominally lattice matched) and 0.56 (#approx#0.6% biaxial compressive strain). The photoluminescence spectra exhibit intense peaks over the wavelength range 550--650 nm, with linewidths between 7 and 23 meV depending on the well thickness. The PLE spectra reveal strong heavy-hole and light-hole transitions, as well as higher-order (n=2) transitions in the thicker wells. The heavy-hole/light-hole splitting shows little dependence on well thickness in the strained structures, indicating a relatively large conduction band offset of #DELTA#E_C#approx#0.75#DELTA#E_G.
The D2 antidopaminergic drug Domperidone was evaluated singly and in combination with synthetic adrenocorticoid and an H2 antihistamine for its ability to reduce the acute emetic effects of /sup 60/Co whole-body radiation. Random-source adult male dogs were fasted 12 hours, fed a standard meal, injected 44 minutes later and irradiated 47 minutes after that. Four groups of dogs were radiated after drug injections as follows: saline (Con), domperidone (Dom), cimetidine + thiethylperazine (Cim+Thi), and dexamethasone + domperidone + cimetidine (Dex+Dom+Cim). Drug quantities for dogs represented 10 mg Dom, 10 mg Thi, 20 mg Dex, and 300 mg Cim for an average human (70 ka, 1.8 m2). Subjects were exposed on an up-down schedule to determine the radiation necessary to produce vomiting in 50% (ED50) of each group. Emesis onset times, offset times, and number of episodes were recorded. The ED50 of Dex+Dom+Cim was higher than Con. Dom produced more emetic episodes than Con or ...
We present a comprehensive, up-to-date compilation of band parameters for the technologically important III - V zinc blende and wurtzite compound semiconductors: GaAs, GaSb, GaP, GaN, AlAs, AlSb, AlP, AlN, InAs, InSb, InP, and InN, along with their ternary and quaternary alloys. Based on a review of the existing literature, complete and consistent parameter sets are given for all materials. Emphasizing the quantities required for band structure calculations, we tabulate the direct and indirect energy gaps, spin-orbit, and crystal-field splittings, alloy bowing parameters, effective masses for electrons, heavy, light, and split-off holes, Luttinger parameters, interband momentum matrix elements, and deformation potentials, including temperature and alloy-composition dependences where available. Heterostructure band offsets are also given, on an absolute scale that allows any material to be aligned relative to any other. [copyright] 2001 American Institute of ...
Nuclear steam generator tubes have become flawed in ways that challenge conventional eddy current probes. In response to the shortcomings of conventional probes, array probes have been developed to improve measurement capabilities. However, the commercially available array probes have exhibited several weaknesses that offset the advantages and limit the applications in steam generator inspections. A primary weakness is the relatively high rate of probe failure coupled with the high unit cost for each probe. This can be costly for a utility in the time lost for probe replacement and increased radiation exposure in addition to the probe costs. Other weaknesses which make array probes undesirable for routine use are: poor mechanical and electrical characteristics; difficulty in operation and calibration; and incomplete coverage of the tube circumference. Several prototype array probes have been built to address the weaknesses of the commercially available array ...
The present work addresses an off-axis Cassegrain optical concentration system. The specific primary collector analyzed, a short focal length parabolic concentrator, is at the University of Florida`s Energy Park. A secondary hyperbolic reflective element was designed to redirect the solar radiation from the primary focal plane to an off-axis target on the polar axis of the primary concentrator. This ground level target will be required for planned experimental work. The analysis was performed using a numerical ray tracing procedure that incorporates both random and systematic errors due to slope and surface irregularities. The optimization process varied secondary element size, curvature, and offset angle, and yielded information required for optimum design. As a single secondary element was found impractical, three elements were designed for use at various time of the year. The numerical analysis predicts that typically 70 to 75 percent of the solar flux incident ...
A divergence correction is conventionally applied to zero-offset data in an effort to preserved amplitude information. The conventional divergence correction compensates for the geometrical spreading of a point source in a horizontally layered medium where velocity varies with depth only. The dip-dependent divergence correction extends the conventional correction for improved amplitude processing of dipping beds. The dip-dependent divergence correction is computed by dynamic ray tracing, and applied to stacked data using a dip decomposition technique. This correction decreases amplitudes relative to the conventional correction for steep dips and late times. In a data example from the Gulf of Mexico, the conventional correction over- amplified the reflection off a salt dome flank by a factor of 1.6. High amplitudes near salt flanks are also associated with the presence of hydrocarbons. Applying the dip-dependent divergence correction ensures that bright ...
A divergence correction is conventionally applied to zero-offset data in an effort to preserved amplitude information. The conventional divergence correction compensates for the geometrical spreading of a point source in a horizontally layered medium where velocity varies with depth only. The dip-dependent divergence correction extends the conventional correction for improved amplitude processing of dipping beds. The dip-dependent divergence correction is computed by dynamic ray tracing, and applied to stacked data using a dip decomposition technique. This correction decreases amplitudes relative to the conventional correction for steep dips and late times. In a data example from the Gulf of Mexico, the conventional correction over- amplified the reflection off a salt dome flank by a factor of 1.6. High amplitudes near salt flanks are also associated with the presence of hydrocarbons. Applying the dip-dependent divergence correction ensures that ``bright spots`` ...
We have discovered seven type Ia cluster supernovae (SNe) in the course of the Wise Observatory Optical Transients Search in the fields of galaxy clusters with redshifts between z=0.06 and z=0.2. Two of these events, SN 1998fc in Abell 403 (z=0.10) and SN 2001al in Abell 2122/4 (z = 0.066), have no obvious hosts. Both events appear projected on the halos of the central cD galaxies, but have velocity offsets of 750-2000 km/s relative to those galaxies, suggesting they are not bound to them. We use deep Keck imaging of the locations of the two SNe to put upper limits on the luminosities of possible dwarf hosts, M_R > -14 mag for SN 1998fc and M_R > -11.8 mag for SN 2001al. The fractions of the cluster luminosities in dwarf galaxies fainter than our limits are less than 3 x 10^-3 and 3 x 10^-4, respectively. Thus, 2/7 of the SNe would be associated with less than 3 x 10^-3 of the luminosity attributed to galaxies. We argue, instead, that the progenitors of both ...
The world's fleet of nuclear power plants is, on average, more than 20 years old. Even though the design life of a nuclear power plant is typically 30-40 years, it is quite feasible that many plants will be able to operate in excess of their design lives, provided that nuclear power plant engineers demonstrate by analysis, trending, equipment and system upgrades, increased vigilance, testing and ageing management that the plant will operate safely. In the operation of nuclear power plants, safety should be always the prime consideration. Plant operators and regulators must always ensure that plant safety is maintained, and where possible enhanced, during a plant's operating lifetime. Nuclear power plant life management (PLiM) has gained increased attention over the past decade, and effective ageing management of systems, structures and components (SSCs) is a key element in PLiM for the safe and reliable long term operation of nuclear power plants. A PLiM programme ...
Our long-term goal is to enable highly productive plant species to extract, resist, detoxify, and/or sequester toxic heavy metal pollutants as an environmentally friendly alternative to physical remediation methods. We have focused this phytoremediation research on soil and water-borne ionic and methylmercury. Mercury pollution is a serious world-wide problem affecting the health of human and wild-life populations. Methylmercury, produced by native bacteria at mercury-contaminated wetland sites, is a particularly serious problem due to its extreme toxicity and efficient biomagnification in the food chain. We engineered several plant species (e.g., Arabidopsis, tobacco, canola, yellow poplar, rice) to express the bacterial genes, merB and/or merA, under the control of plant regulatory sequences. These transgenic plants acquired remarkable properties for mercury remediation. (1) Transgenic plants expressing merB (organomercury lyase) extract methylmercury from their ...
The development and improvement of materials plays a key role in energy technology, particularly in power plant technology, because materials are crucial to plant performance and power availability. This becomes particularly clear when one considers that modern power plants generate temperatures of up to 600 C and pressures of up to 230 bar in order to increase process efficiency, conserve resources and reduce CO{sub 2} emissions. Modern heat-resistant materials for power plant technology are customised materials which have been developed to meet the specific requirements of special applications. After the requirement profile has been determined the material is developed or optimised on the basis of previous experiences gained with materials in power plant technology. Basic heat-resistant materials are ferritic materials containing 9 to 12% Cr as well as additions of Mo, V, Nb and W, amongst other elements. Together with the thermomechanical ...
This paper outlines conceptual framework for safeguards remote sensing, and suggests a strategy for overcoming the challenges to full exploitation of all types of optical satellite imagery. Since the introduction of commercial open-source high-resolution satellite imagery in 1999, it has become an important tool for verification of declarations, baseline mapping, detection and monitoring of changes and investigation of undeclared activities. Its use is still relatively restricted, but there is a growing demand for wider satellite reconnaissance support, and the Satellite Image Analysis Unit (SIAU) has recently been expanded in response. For a number of reasons, IAEA safeguards use of satellite imagery is largely based on visual interpretation by experienced image analysts of high-resolution monochromatic imagery to monitor and characterize buildings and structures on safeguards sites. The very wide range of remote sensing capabilities could be more fully exploited. There is still a ...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between fatty acid (alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), EPA, DHA, palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and arachidonic acids) intake and prospective weight change in the Heidelberg cohort of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study with mean follow-up time of 6.5 years. In a total of 9182 men and 10867 women aged 35 to 64 years, from body weight measurement at recruitment and calibrated body weight during follow-up, weight change was expressed as mean annual weight change relative to baseline weight (%/year) and categorised into four groups (weight loss, or =2.5 to or =7.5%/5 years). Energy-adjusted dietary fatty acid intake data were estimated from the FFQ completed at baseline. Multivariate linear regression models as well as multinomial logistic regression analyses (carbohydrate replacement models) were conducted. RESULTS: Stearic acid intake was linearly associated with weight ...
We will describe recent improvements to the SPEAR reflectometer at the Manuel Lujan Jr. Neutron Scattering Center at Los Alamos. One of the changes consists of wider convergent, incident-beam, collimation to take advantage of optical imaging for specular scattering. In addition, the instrument now views a partially coupled liquid hydrogen moderator as opposed to the decoupled moderator that was previous in-place. While the wavelength distribution is poorer, it matches the time (wavelength) resolution of the reflectometer more closely with the angular resolution. Since the integrated intensity of the partially coupled moderator is higher than the decoupled moderator, we show a similar gain in incident beam flux on the sample without loss of the ability to separate fringes. The increases in intensity from the moderator gain and the improved collimation combine to allow us to measure reflectivities with good statistics down to 10"-"4 in a matter ...
We will describe recent improvements to the SPEAR reflectometer at the Manuel Lujan Jr. Neutron Scattering Center at Los Alamos. One of the changes consists of wider convergent, incident-beam, collimation to take advantage of optical imaging for specular scattering. In addition, the instrument now views a partially coupled liquid hydrogen moderator as opposed to the decoupled moderator that was previous in-place. While the wavelength distribution is poorer, it matches the time (wavelength) resolution of the reflectometer more closely with the angular resolution. Since the integrated intensity of the partially coupled moderator is higher than the decoupled moderator, we show a similar gain in incident beam flux on the sample without loss of the ability to separate fringes. The increases in intensity from the moderator gain and the improved collimation combine to allow us to measure reflectivities with good statistics down to 10{sup -4} in a ...
Modeling free-electron laser (FEL) oscillators requires calculation of both the light-beam interaction within the undulator and the light propagation outside the undulator. We have developed a paraxial optical propagation code that can be combined with various existing models of gain media, for example, Genesis 1.3 for FELs, to model oscillators with full paraxial wave propagation within the resonator. A flexible scripting interface is used both to describe the optical resonator and to control the codes for propagation and amplification. To illustrate its capabilities, we numerically investigate two significantly different FEL oscillators: the free-electron laser for infrared experiments (FELIX) system and the vacuum-ultraviolet (VUV)-FEL oscillator of the proposed high-gain fourth generation light source. For the FELIX system, we find that diffraction losses are a considerable part of the single-pass cavity loss (at a wavelength of 40 #mu#m). ...
The electron-beam qualities with and without free electron laser (FEL) oscillations were investigated in the compact storage ring NIJI-IV. The peak-electron density in a bunch was suppressed by beam instabilities, so that it was limited to about 1.0 x 10"1"7 m"-"3. The maximum FEL gain estimated for 215 and 300 nm using a well-known one-dimension theory was about 2.8% and 4.6%. The cavity loss at 300 nm was evaluated to be about 2% from the threshold beam current. The bunch length and energy spread with FEL oscillations increased by 1.3 times or more due to bunch heating. The ratio of the FEL gain to a cavity loss estimated from the beam qualities with and without FEL oscillations was almost in accord with the ratio evaluated directly with the measured data of the FEL gain and the cavity loss. (author)
We consider the wireless Rayleigh fading relay channel with finite complex input constellations. Assuming global knowledge of the channel state information and perfect synchronization, upper and lower bounds on the achievable rate, for the full-duplex relay, as well as the more practical half-duplex relay (in which the relay cannot transmit and receive simultaneously), are studied. Assuming the power constraint at the source node and the relay node to be equal, the gain in rate offered by the use of relay over the direct transmission (without the relay) is investigated. It is shown that for the case of finite complex input constellations, the relay gain attains the maximum at a particular SNR and at higher SNRs the relay gain tends to become zero. Since practical schemes always use finite complex input constellation, the above result means that the relay offers maximum advantage over the direct transmission when we operate ...
A robust fusion of the agricultural, industrial biotechnology, and energy industries can create a new strategic national capability for energy independence and climate protection. In his State of the Union Address (Bush 2006), President George W. Bush outlined the Advanced Energy Initiative, which seeks to reduce our national dependence on imported oil by accelerating the development of domestic, renewable alternatives to gasoline and diesel fuels. The president has set a national goal of developing cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable alternative energy sources to substantially replace oil imports in the coming years. Fuels derived from cellulosic biomass - the fibrous, woody, and generally inedible portions of plant matter - offer one such alternative to conventional energy sources that can dramatically impact national economic growth, national energy security, and environmental goals. Cellulosic biomass is an attractive energy feedstock because it is an abundant, domestic, renewable ...
We study the consumption-portfolio problem in a setting with capital gain taxes and multiple risky stocks to understand how short selling influences portfolio choice with a shorting-the-box restriction. Our analysis uncovers a novel trading flexibility strategy whereby, to minimize future tax-induced trading costs, the investor optimally shorts one of the stocks (or equivalently, buys put options) even when no stock has an embedded gain. Alternatively, an imperfect form of shorting the box can reduce aggregate equity exposure ex post. Given these two short selling strategies, it is common for an unconstrained investor to short some equity while a constrained investor holds a positive investment in all stocks. With no shorting, the benefit of trading separately in multiple stocks is not eco...
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the toxicological effects of feeding the oils of Calophyllum inophyllum, Pentaclethra macrophylla and Terminalia catappa to rats. The effects on physical appearance, feed intake, weight gain, plasma and tissue cholesterol and triacyglycerol levels in rats with 5% of the oils in normal rat feed were determined. Weekly monitoring of the rats showed good physical appearance and steady weight gain, with no mortality recorded for the period of the study. Haematological analysis of the rats indicated that they were not anaemic. Histopathotogical examination of the sections of the heart, liver, kidney and spleen revealed moderate (T. catappa oil) to severe fatty change and necrosis in the liver. Glomerulonephrotic changes in the kidneys of rats fed with T...
Point contact Josephson junctions can function as millimeter wave heterodyne mixers with conversion gain. The best results achieved thus far show a single sideband conversion gain of 1.3 and a mixer contribution to the system noise temperature of 54"0K. Both of these results are approximately 5 times better than the best published figures for cooled Schottky barrier diode mixers operated at the same frequency. The measured noise for a variety of junctions can be expressed as a universal function of the normalized rf frequency #OMEGA# = h#omega#/2eI/sub c/R. It is about a factor 2 larger than the calculated noise arising from the thermal noise in the junction shunt resistance, R. The noise calculation was done for the resistively shunted junction model using an analog junction simulator.
Motivation: High-throughput transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics methods have revolutionized our knowledge of biological systems. To gain knowledge from comparative omics studies, strong data integration and visualization features are required. Knowledge gained from these studies is often available in the form of graphs, and their visualization is especially useful in a wide range of systems biology topics, including pathway analysis, interaction networks or gene models. Especially, it is necessary to compare biological models with measured data. This allows the identification of new models and new insights into existing ones. Results: We present MGV, a versatile generic graph viewer for multiomics data. MGV is integrated into Mayday (Battke et al., 2010). It extends Maydays visual...
The bandwidth of LIGO-like terrestrial interferometric gravitational wave detectors is set by the pole of the Fabry-Perot cavities within the arms of the Michelson interferometer. This constraint arises because the gain of gravitational wave-induced signal sidebands is limited to frequencies within the linewidth of the cavities. The nature of standard Fabry-Perot cavities is such that one cannot independently adjust for increased gain without suffering a loss of bandwidth. If these quantities could be decoupled, the resulting improvement in bandwidth may lead to viable high frequency detectors. A pair of anti-parallel diffraction gratings within a Fabry-Perot cavity can increase the bandwidth of a LIGO-scale detector by a factor of #approx#1000.
The high repetition rate and low single-pass gain inherent in an rf-driven Free Electron Laser (FEL) dictate that the laser system be configured as an oscillator. This allows the laser's electric field to build up over many passes around a high Q cavity. By way of contrast, the high-current capability of the Induction Linac (IL) system permits high single-pass optical gain, but the relatively low duty factor precludes oscillator operation; the pulses are neither long enough nor often enough to permit a field to accumulate in a cavity. The IL is thus configured as a MOPA (master oscillator/power amplifier) with a conventional laser serving as the MO. This report concentrates on the status of IL-driven FEL research at LLNL and gives a description of several applications for the high-peak-power radiation produced by an induction linac FEL.
Tunable output wavelength is an important character of a free electron laser (FEL). As generally understood, to alter the wavelength of a high-gain harmonic generation (HGHG) FEL laser, the seed laser must be tunable. A few-cycle, high intensity laser obtained by optical compression usually has pretty broad bandwidth in the spectral domain, which can be used as the seed laser of a HGHG and may open the possibility to approach a HGHG scheme with fully tunable wavelength. In this paper, a HGHG FEL seeded by a few-cycle laser is theoretically discussed and numerically investigated. A few-cycle seed laser significantly influences HGHG FEL performance, especially in output wavelength tuning. For a HGHG FEL seeded by a 4-cycle 786 nm laser, output wavelength tunability range up to 14.9% of the central wavelength 262 nm is observed by adjusting the resonant condition.
The document provides: An overview of CCS technology including what plant equipment is novel and what is currently in use within the CCS or other industries; An in depth guide to carbon dioxide to broaden the readers understanding of the material and its health and safety issues; Key design features of plant and pipelines for carbon dioxide service including experience gained from the industrial gases sector; and Key operational information for plant and pipelines for carbon dioxide service including experience gained from the industrial gases sector to ensure that your operating practices take into account the latest operational experiences from carbon dioxide plant. 45 figs., 18 tabs.
Since the advent of the first free electron laser (FEL) in 1976 up to now, a series of principles, configurations and operation modes of these FELs have been devised and partially implemented. The principles refer to transverse FEL, longitudinal FEL, combined FEL, and transverse optical klystron FEL. Configurations may be standard or many-stage and the undulators may be magnetostatic, electrostatic or electromagnetic. The operation regimes may be low-gain Compton type, high-gain Compton type, Raman type, with and without space charge. The operation modes may be the amplification of an external coherent EM radiation, a self-amplified spontaneous emission (SASE), or an oscillator. The paper presents in detail these concepts and the limit between classical approach and the quantum approach of FEL. (Author).
Philosophy of science was once a much more socially engaged endeavor, and can be so again. After a look back at philosophy of science in the 1930s?1950s, I turn to discuss the current potential for returning to a more engaged philosophy of science. Although philosophers of science have much to offer scientists and the public, I am skeptical that much can be gained by philosophers importing off-the-shelf discussions from philosophy of science to science and society. Such efforts will likely look like efforts to do applied ethics by merely applying ethical theories to particular contexts and problems. While some insight can be gained by these kinds of endeavors, the most interesting and pressing problems for the actual practitioners and users of science are rarely addressed. Instead, I recom...
In order to suppress resonance vibrations of a rotor-shaft of rotating machinery, a rotor-shaft system elastically supported by ball bearings which are installed in electromagnetic actuators are proposed and the design method of some compensatory circuits in the controller to control the electromagnetic actuators in the system are explained. These actuators are controlled by the analog PID (proportional, integral, and derivative) controller. The compensation for nonlinearity of electromagnetic force, the negative stiffness of electromagnet, and the time lag of the coil current are discussed and the effective control circuits are proposed. The rotor-shaft system is replaced by the equivalent two-degree-of-freedom system and both impulse and frequency responses are numerically simulated for several parameters of PD-controller gain. By applying the principle of dynamic absorbers, optimum parameters are calculated. The gains of the control circuit ...
In this paper, a neural networks (NN) based adaptive sliding mode controller (SMC) is introduced. The selection of SMC feedback gains is normally based on one operating point and thus the performance of the controller away from the design operating point is, of necessity, a compromise. The adaptive SMC is proposed to overcome the limitations imposed on the effectiveness of the SMC under different operating conditions. Neural networks are used for online prediction of the optimal SMC gains when the operating point changes. The proposed method has been applied to a power system stabilizer (PSS) of a single machine power system. Simulation results are included to demonstrate the performance of the proposed control scheme.
In this paper, a neural networks (NN) based adaptive sliding mode controller (SMC) is introduced. The selection of SMC feedback gains is normally based on one operating point and thus the performance of the controller away from the design operating point is, of necessity, a compromise. The adaptive SMC is proposed to overcome the limitations imposed on the effectiveness of the SMC under different operating conditions. Neural networks are used for online prediction of the optimal SMC gains when the operating point changes. The proposed method has been applied to a power system stabilizer (PSS) of a single machine power system. Simulation results are included to demonstrate the performance of the proposed control scheme.
The detection efficiency of a lithium glass detector was calculated using MCNP code, and the calculation was compared with the published results in Pulsed Sphere Plan. A lithium glass detector of our own was made, and its neutron efficiency was calculated. The calculated neutron efficiency was verified with both pulsed and steady DD neutrons. Characteristics of Neutron response of "6Li detector was discussed. (authors)
Continually rising energy prices in global markets highlights a serious concern about the need to improve energy efficiency and the efficiency in energy sector in many countries. China, as one of the fastest growing countries in the world and the largest coal producer, has high coal consumption but a low recovery rate of coal utilization. Coal efficiency and the efficiency in coal industry have therefore attracted a great deal of attention from Chinese policy makers, coal firms and academics. This study attempts to compare the relative technical efficiency performance of listed coal mining companies in China and the US using CCR and BCC models in the advanced DEA linear programming. The results show that the level of relative efficiency in Chinese coal mining enterprises, regardless of tot...
The influence of the main factors on device efficiency of pulsed liquid jet pump with gas-liquid piston is analysed, the theoretical equation and its time-averaged solution of pulsed liquid jet pump device efficiency are derived. The theoretical and experimental results show that the efficiency of transmission of energy and mass to use pulsed jet is greatly raised, compared with steady jet, in the same device of liquid jet pump. The calculating results of time-averaged efficiency of pulsed liquid jet pump are approximately in agreement with the experimental results in our and foreign countries
A steady-state mathematical model was developed for a bare collector. Results obtained by previous authors for heat transfer and friction in rectangular ducts with periodic disturbances were employed to evaluate the effect of such disturbances on bare collector efficiency and on its pressure drop. An effective efficiency, which takes into account extra heat obtained and additional mechanical (electric) energy consumption for moving air when heat-transfer augmentation devices are employed, was defined. Simulation results are given for a bare collector, with and without perturbations, showing efficiency and effective efficiency dependence on collector dimensions, solar radiation intensity, disturbance diameter and pitch for collector performance optimization. (author).
Purpose of this assessment for this town in the Slovak Republic is to develop information on the building sector energy efficiency and improvement potential for use by town management to support decisions on providing energy services to Handlova citizens. Objectives were to characterize baseline space and water heat energy use and efficiency improvement potential in the residential and nonresidential building sectors. Intention was to identify major areas of efficiency improvement potential and cost-effectiveness. Four levels of energy and fuel prices were used. A significant efficiency resource exists in the space and water heating end uses in these building sectors; it amounts to 42% of the total building sector space and water heat energy consumption.
The clinical manifestation of wounds of the heart is determined by the mode, site and size of the injury as well as the structure of the pericardial and myocardial lesion. Diagnosis can be confirmed by ECG and echocardiography. Only 20% of the patients with penetrating wounds of the heart live for more than 30 minutes. Pericardio-centesis should be used only to gain time for a safe sternotomy, cardiac decompression and suture of the wound of the heart. An aggressive surgical approach is mandatory. Cardiopulmonary bypass is necessary only to correct of concomitant lesions. PMID:1983618
Background: Little is known about the effectiveness of behavioral strategies to prevent long-term weight gain among adolescents and young adults.Objective: The objective...Full Text Available
The wavelength dependence of the threshold in an InGaP-InAlGaP vertical cavity surface emitting laser is investigated using a microscopic theory of the semiconductor gain medium. Good agreement is found between experiment and theory for the minimum threshold lasing wavelength for a range of laser structures.
The wavelength dependence of the threshold in an InGaP-InAlGaP vertical cavity surface emitting laser is investigated using a microscopic theory of the semiconductor gain medium. Good agreement is found between experiment and theory for the minimum threshold lasing wavelength for a range of laser structures.
A decoupled characteristic between the damping of a specific swing mode and the stabilizer gain of the corresponding machine in multimachine power systems is identified. Using this decoupled characteristic a power system stabilizer (PSS) synthesis approach which is based on the phase compensation concept is verified on a 9-machine system and the dynamic performance of this system is significantly improved. This method is proved to be effective, simple and it can provide useful guidance for the PSS field tuning.
This book provides the information required to design and prepare construction drawings, and to install, inspect, test, and commission buried piping. Both pressure and gravity piping are covered, including water, steam, gases, and sewers. Directed primarily toward underground industrial piping systems, this is a succinct, well-organized compilation of practical knowledge. Checklists, examples, tables, charts, nomographs, short cuts, and helpful hints gained through years of experience complete this timely and useful ''how to'' book.
Steady-state and transient behavior of the longitudinally pumped semiconductor laser is theoretically investigated by using a rate-equation model with distributed gain and photon density. Conditions necessary for bistable operation are derived. Dependencies of such major switching characteristics as turn-on and turn-off powers, delay, and rise times on laser parameters are examined. Influences of spontaneous radiation, impurities, and Auger recombination are studied. The results offer an explanation for the observed nonlinear behavior of face-pumped lasers.
We discuss the Sundman-Weierstrass theorem of total collapse in its historical context. This remarkable and relatively simple result, a type of stability criterion, is at the crossroads of some interesting developments in the gravitation Newtonian N-body problem. We use it as motivation to explore the connections to such important concepts as integrability, singularities and tyipicality in order to gain some insight on the transition from a predominantly quantitative to a novel qualitative approach to dynamical problems that took place at the end of the 19th century.
Consensus reached in the last few years that fourth generation light source will most likely be a X-ray or a UV coherent source based on single-pass high-gain free electron laser (FEL), such as Self Amplified Spontaneous Emission (SASE), or seeded high-gain harmonic-generation (HGHG) free electron lasers. High-gain (>10"7) required for single-pass FEL puts great constrain on the quality of electron beam, and demands detailed distribution information of electron beam in six-dimension. The typical accelerator system for single-pass FEL consists of a photocathode RF gun injection system, a linac and magnetic bunch compressors, and a long undulator. The major challenges in beam diagnostics for single-pass FEL are to characterize the pico-seconds high-brightness electron beam in six-dimension produced by photocathode RF gun injector, and improve the stability and reliability of the photocathode RF gun injection system. ...
The Wnt signaling pathway is a robust regulator of skeletal homeostasis. Gain-of-function mutations promote high bone mass, whereas loss of Lrp5 or Lrp6 co-receptors decrease bone mass. Similarly, mutations...Full Text Available
The objective of this research is to gain a better understanding of the corrosion of the aluminized type 316 stainless steel employed in the seal areas of the molten carbonate fuel cell. The seals are formed between the aluminized Type 316 SS surface and the electrolyte (generally a mixture of molten alkali carbonates and lithium aluminate).
We obtain a simple derivation of the optimal quantum state estimation of a two-level system using the no-signaling principle. In particular, we show that the no-signaling principle determines the unique form of the guessing probability, independently to a given figure of merit such as the fidelity or the information gain. This proves that optimal measurements for a two-level quantum system is the same for almost all figures of merit.
This investigation involves a study of the influence of key processing parameters on the heating of materials using microwave energy. Selective and localized heating characteristics of microwaves will be utilized in the sintering of ceramics without hydrostatic pressure. In addition, combustion synthesis will be studied for the production of powders, carbides, and nitrides by combining two or more solids or a solid and a gas to form new materials. The insight gained from the interaction of microwaves with various materials will be utilized in the mobilization and subsequent redeposition of uranium.
This paper will describe the application of power generation by the use of microturbine technology by Capstone Turbine Corporation throughout South America. The purpose of this paper is to describe the technology and the experience gained over the last six years. The microturbines are power generation systems that produce energy from a diverse range of liquid or gaseous fuels. The generator is driven by a small gas turbine with a common shaft for the rotors of the generator and the engine. (author)
As the Operating and Support staffs of the FFTF organization have gained experience, the plant reliability and capacity factors have shown a steadily improving trend. The plant capacity factor for Cycle 4 was 99.5%. It is the purpose of this report to describe the evolution of the maintenance organization at the FFTF site from a general support organization to a technically proficient organization playing a major role in planning and performance of plant maintenance evolutions.
We use the method of Padg approximants and Fourier transform techniques to treat analytically the problem of transverse and longitudinal mode evolution in FELs. We obtain simple relations providing a transparent understanding of the dynamic of pulse propagation effects and of transverse mode guiding. We discuss the interplay with inhomogeneous broadening effects and derive gain formulae including longitudinal and transverse mode couplings.
Heterodyne detection with a point-contact Josephson junction has been investigated both experimentally and theoretically. The measured performance of the device at 36 GHz is in good agreement with the theory. By operating vanadium point contacts at 1.4 K, the authors have achieved a single-sideband (SSB) mixer noise temperature of 54 K with a conversion gain of 1.35 and a signal bandwidth on the order of 1 GHz. A potentially impressive performance for these devices at submillimeter wavelengths can be extrapolated from the results.
This 2001 edition of the guide to UK renewable energy companies examines the geothermal heat pump sector, and discusses the technology involved, installations of geothermal heat pumps, the activity in the UK market with increased interest in UK geothermal heat pump products from abroad, and developments in the building sector. The UK government's increased support for the industry including its sponsorship of the Affordable Warmth programme, and the future potential of ground source systems are discussed.
This 2001 edition of the guide to UK renewable energy companies examines the geothermal heat pump sector, and discusses the technology involved, installations of geothermal heat pumps, the activity in the UK market with increased interest in UK geothermal heat pump products from abroad, and developments in the building sector. The UK government's increased support for the industry including its sponsorship of the Affordable Warmth programme, and the future potential of ground source systems are discussed.
Outbreaks of disease attributable to human error or natural causes can provide unique opportunities to gain new information about host-pathogen interactions and new leads for pathogenesis research....Full Text Available
We present the first results from tests of a MICROMEGAS detector manufactured using the so-called "bulk" technology and having a resistive cathode mesh instead of the conventional metallic one. This detector operates as usual MICROMEGAS, but in the case of sparks, which may appear at high gas gains, the resistive mesh reduces their current and makes the sparks harmless. This approach could be complementary to the ongoing efforts of various groups to develop spark-protected MICROMEGAS with resistive anode planes.
A low voltage FEL operating at 130 kV which can be run cw with a continuous electron beam current level up to 12 mA has been constructed for the X-Band microwave range (8-12 GHz). In this poster, we will report on the dependence on time, after the electron beam is switched on, of the growth and competition of those longitudinal modes in the cavity having nett gain.
Coke strength increases in significance as blast furnace and metallurgical plant gain in size and output requirement. The article underlines the need to apply error computation standards to strength testing routines. The mean square deviation was found for cokes from different plants, related to a single strength determination for M25 and M10, and amounted to 0.61 and 0.35% respectively. The future standards should include a correlation factor for permitted tolerance as between parallel determinations.
Since many years, people take care of hazardous consequences of a non controlled economic growth and the sustainable development concept gains on one. This situation leads to consequences in the building industry and in the energy policy: buildings insulation in consideration, demand of consultants. In this framework, the partnership between Gaz De France and CICF has to be built. (A.L.B.)
Image representations have gained wide acceptance in displaying data collected during optical, ultrasonic, radiographic, and thermographic inspections. Applying imaging techniques to eddy current testing is explored in this article. The authors show that flaw interpretation and characterization are made considerably simpler when images are used to visualize the impedance changes in eddy current probes.
α-Galactosidases from thermophilic organisms have gained interest owing to their applications in the sugar industry. The α-galactosidases AgaA, AgaB and AgaA A355E mutant from Geobacillus...Full Text Available
The new power cars currently being built for commuter services in the Stockholm area have a number of innovative features. Manufacturer Alstom-LHB, who developed the vehicle based on experience gained with the LIREX experimental train, is also offering this model in continental Europe. (orig.)
The CLIC (Compact Linear Collider) high-gradient RF structure testing program has been carried out in order to gain insight into the physical processes involved in RF breakdown, determine the mechanisms that limit gradient and produce damage so that technical concepts can be developed which allow higher accelerating gradients. Two main paths towards higher gradients have emerged from this program, and the performances of two new structures which incorporate them are presented.
The paper will report the experience gained in the implementation of the national assistance projects, including the detailed assessment of the national situation compared to the ITWG Model Action Plan, the upgrading of the technical skills, the training of national experts and the joint analysis of nuclear material at ITU. The status of the work with the 13 future Member States to the European Union will also be reported on during the conference
Electric cars have long been seen as science fiction. This may be changing. As the 1990s began, several companies chose to launch publicity campaigns for electric vehicles. In California, experimental programmes are gaining momentum, in the context of LA's appalling air pollution problems and tightening clean air standards. Supporters claim that electric motive power is a key to solving several environmental problems involving atmospheric pollution. These claims are examined. (author).
This paper presents a case study in the design and implementation of a numerical weather prediction model on a supercomputer (CRAY-1). Following a historical introduction to the evolution of the model, the governing equations of the model are presented and the numerical solution of these forecast equations is described. A brief tutorial on the architecture of the CRAY-1 is presented with a discussion of how it affects the choice of algorithms and code design of the model. A summary of the advantages gained by use of the vector aspects of the CRAY-1 is included.
Continually rising energy prices in global markets highlights a serious concern about the need to improve energy efficiency and the efficiency in energy sector in many countries. China, as one of the fastest growing countries in the world and the largest coal producer, has high coal consumption but a low recovery rate of coal utilization. Coal efficiency and the efficiency in coal industry have therefore attracted a great deal of attention from Chinese policy makers, coal firms and academics. This study attempts to compare the relative technical efficiency performance of listed coal mining companies in China and the US using CCR and BCC models in the advanced DEA linear programming. The results show that the level of relative efficiency in Chinese coal mining enterprises, regardless of total technical efficiency or decomposed pure technical ...
Continually rising energy prices in global markets highlights a serious concern about the need to improve energy efficiency and the efficiency in the energy sector in many countries. China, as one of the fastest growing countries in the world and the largest coal producer, has high coal consumption but a low recovery rate of coal utilization. Coal efficiency and the efficiency in coal industry have therefore attracted a great deal of attention from Chinese policy makers, coal companies and academics. This study attempts to compare the relative technical efficiency performance of listed coal mining companies in China and the US using CCR and BCC models in advanced data envelopment analysis (DEA) linear programming. The results show that the level of relative efficiency in Chinese coal mining enterprises, regardless of total technical ...
Continually rising energy prices in global markets highlights a serious concern about the need to improve energy efficiency and the efficiency in energy sector in many countries. China, as one of the fastest growing countries in the world and the largest coal producer, has high coal consumption but a low recovery rate of coal utilization. Coal efficiency and the efficiency in coal industry have therefore attracted a great deal of attention from Chinese policy makers, coal firms and academics. This study attempts to compare the relative technical efficiency performance of listed coal mining companies in China and the US using CCR and BCC models in the advanced DEA linear programming. The results show that the level of relative efficiency in Chinese coal mining enterprises, regardless of total technical efficiency or decomposed pure technical ...
This article describes how a natural gas-fired combined cycle with increased firing temperature, reduced cooling air usage, improved component efficiencies, and cycle enhancements could achieve a lower heating value plant efficiency of greater than 60%. Today's gas turbine systems feature high fuel-to-electricity efficiencies. Efficiencies, on a lower-heating-value (LHV) basis, for large natural gas-fired combined-cycle systems for the utility market have been demonstrated at 54%. Even though manufacturers will make improvements in the 1990s, efficiency levels will reach a plateau. Cycle innovations and gas turbine design changes will achieve LHV efficiencies in the 60% range for natural gas-fired utility machines.
The dependence of the efficiency of a coaxial IGC-30 Ge detector on the direction of gamma quanta entry, their energy and the distance from the source is examined. A set of point sources QCR-2 (Amersham, UK) has been used which is arranged consecutively in two perpendicular planes passing through the detector axis, at a distance of 0.1 - 1.3 m (pace 0.1) from its geometric centre for 16 different angles in every plane. Dependence curves of the efficiency on the angle of gamma-quanta hits are obtained for energies 60, 81, 122, 356, 662, 834, 1173 and 1332 keV. Changes in efficiency connected with spatial dividing ability are found out. Using the least squares' method the expected spatial distribution of efficiency is examined with a level of authenticity P > 0.9. The possible causes for the efficiency change and its possible effect on the measurements' precision are discussed. ...
Maximum metal loss rate of Alloy 800 coupons was about 0.5 mil/year and occurred at the maximum temperature of 600/sup 0/C. Significantly greater oxide penetration into the alloy occurred in unabraded as-received tubing. Since the corrosion rate of unabraded tubing was less temperature sensitive than polished coupons, and attained a maximum value at temperatures in the range of 550 to 565/sup 0/C, a value of 1 mil/year should be used as the corrosion rate for design purposes. Because daily thermal cycling is inherent in solar central receiver operation, oxidation and chromium depletion rates can be expected to increase if surface oxide layers spall. The oxide layers formed on Alloy 800 appeared to be adherent, and adherence will benefit further from growth-derived compressive stresses in oxide layers on the salt-exposed inner diameter of receiver tubes. Since the lower duty factor in diurnal solar service may offset the accelerated metal loss due to cyclic spalling ...
The Sheep Mountain area, in the southwest Wind River Basin, is the up plunge closure of the Derby Dome-Winkleman Dome producing trend of an echelon folds which comprise the first line of folding down the northeast flank of the Wind River Mountains. The structural style exposed in the Palozoic reservoir rocks of Sheep Mountain may serve as a model for the other structural features in the Wind River Basin. As in the case of the Derby Dome and Winkleman Dome, Sheep Mountain is typically asymmetric to the southwest. Local east-directed thrusts exposed in the core of the anticline place Pennsylvania over Permian age rocks. A major change in the trend of the anticlinal crest within Sheep Mountain, suggests development of separate left-stepping en echelon closures at depth. The northwest end of Sheep Mountain also forms a left-stepping en echelon pattern with Derby Dome. The northwest plunge of Sheep Mountain is facilitated by compartmentalization across an east-northeast trending, high angle ...
The wavefunction of a particle extends into the classically forbidden barrier region of the potential energy surface. The consequence of this partial delocalisation is the phenomenon of quantum tunnelling, an effect which enables a particle to penetrate a potential barrier of magnitude greater than the energy of the particle. The tunnelling probability is an exponential function of the particle mass. The effect is therefore an important contribution to the behaviour of light atoms, in particular the proton. The hydrogen bond has long been appreciated to be an essential component of many biological and chemical systems, and the proton transfer reaction in the hydrogen bond is fundamental to many of these processes. The proton behaviour in the hydrogen bonds of benzoic acid, acetylacetone and calix-4-arene has been studied. A variety of techniques, both experimental and computational, were adopted for the study of the three hydrogen bonded systems. The complementary spectroscopic ...
We investigate the coupling between rock-size solids and gas during the formation of gas giant planets by disk fragmentation in the outer regions of massive disks. In this study, we use three-dimensional radiative hydrodynamic simulations and model solids as a spatial distribution of particles. We assume that half of the total solid fraction is in small grains and half in large solids. The former are perfectly entrained with the gas and set the opacity in the disk, while the latter are allowed to respond to gas drag forces, with the back reaction on the gas taken into account. To explore the maximum effects of gas-solid interactions, we first consider 10 cm size particles. We then compare these results to a simulation with 1 km size particles, which explores the low-drag regime. We show that (1) disk instability planets have the potential to form large cores due to aerodynamic capturing of rock-size solids in spiral arms before fragmentation; (2) temporary clumps can concentrate tens ...
Measurements of human joint motion frequently involve the use of opto-electronic and other motion analysis systems where some type of makers are used to establish joint motion within a global reference coordinate frame. Typically, this global reference coordinate frame is chosen to be most convenient for the person carrying out the experiment in which the joint motion is measured, and Euler angles are chosen as the measure of joint motion. Results, however, may be quite arbitrary and therefore rendered meaningless if the reference frame is not properly chosen with respect to the physical joint axis. In order to make a proper choice of coordinate axes in the reference frame, one must take into consideration both the location and the orientation of die physical joint axis relative to the reference frame`s axes. In nature, joint axes can exist at any orientation and location relative to an arbitrarily chosen global reference frame. An axis that is not properly aligned with the global ...
In-reactor testing of bolt-loaded compact tension specimens was performed in 360 C water to determine the irradiation-assisted stress corrosion cracking (IASCC) behavior of HTH Alloy X-750 and direct-aged Alloy 625. New data confirm previous results showing that high irradiation levels reduce SCC resistance in Alloy X-750. Heat-to-heat variability correlates with boron content, with low boron heats showing improved IASCC properties. Alloy 625 is resistant to IASCC, as no cracking was observed in any Alloy 625 specimens. Microstructural, microchemical and deformation studies were performed to characterize the mechanisms responsible for IASCC in Alloy X-750 and the lack of an effect in Alloy 625. The mechanisms under investigation are: boron transmutation effects, radiation-induced changes in microstructure and deformation characteristics, and radiation-induced segregation. Irradiation of Alloy X-750 caused significant strengthening and ductility loss that was associated with the ...
During 1991 and 1992, we studied 92 wetlands, including open water (ponds) and emergent communities, created as a result of Wyoming Abandoned Mine Lands` (AML) reclamation efforts in northeast Wyoming. Through these activities, over 300 wetlands were filled, reclaimed, created, or otherwise modified. For mitigation purposes wetlands to be filled or modified were first evaluated using a Wetland Habitat Value (WHV) Model. Using the model, wetland losses were mitigated by increasing the WHV of some wetlands or by creating new wetlands elsewhere. We evaluated model performance in offsetting wetland loss and how well the model predicted waterfowl use. We also compared post-reclamation wetland sizes to those predicted by engineering plans and submitted for Section 404 permit approval. In our study, predicted WHVs were overestimated at 100% of the wetlands for which pre-reclamation WHVs were available (n8). The most commonly overestimated variables were size, fraction of ...
Two neutron emesis experiments were conducted at the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI). In both experiments (described as Phase I and Phase II) the radiation dose required to cause emesis in 50% of subjects (ED50) was determined for both neutron reactor and gamma reactor source radiation. Emesis onset, offset and duration times post-exposure are reported. Neutrons were maximized from the reactor by passing the beam through a 15.25 cm (6 in.) thick lead wall to filter out gamma photons. Gamma rays were maximized by thermalizing neutrons in 30.5 cm (12 in.) of water, then absorbing the thermal neutrons in a gadolinium-cadmium shield. In Phase I, 28 dogs were exposed to radiation: 12 were exposed to gamma photons at the rate of 0.69 Gy/min and 16 were exposed to neutrons at 1.2 Gy/min. In Phase II, 58 dogs in 3 groups were exposed to radiation: 19 were exposed in the gamma group at 0.75 Gy/min, 20 were exposed in the undrugged neutron group at 1.62 ...
New Brunswick has appreciable fossil-fuel reserve potential, particularly in oil shales and to a lesser extent in high-sulfur coal. Each of these resources on their own, however, has problems which could restrict their development. To offset these problems it is proposed that coal and oil shale resources can be used together to overcome these difficulties and effect an attractive, economically viable, energy recovery system. One way is o use coal/oil shale blends, rather than the more conventional coal/limestone mixtures, as feed to fluid-bed combustors for steam generation. The sulfur from the coal is fixed on the spent shale, with the shale combustibles contributing to thermal output. Similarly, oil shale can be used in place of limestone as a combustion scrubber medium to clean emissions from existing conventional coal-fired plants. Several scenarios for the co-use of high-sulfur coal and oil shale are proposed in this report. All involve recovery of energy from ...
The Canadian Soldier Information Requirements Technology Demonstration (SIREQ TD) soldier modernization research and development program has conducted experiments to help determine the types and amount of information needed to support wayfinding across a range of terrain environments, the most effective display modality for providing the information (visual, auditory or tactile) that will minimize conflict with other infantry tasks, and to optimize interface design. In this study, seven different visual helmet-mounted display (HMD) designs were developed based on soldier feedback from previous studies. The displays and an in-service compass condition were contrasted to investigate how the visual HMD interfaces influenced navigation performance. Displays varied with respect to their information content, frame of reference, point of view, and display features. Twelve male infantry soldiers used all eight experimental conditions to locate bearings to waypoints. From a constant location, ...
The petroleum industry is increasing its focus on the exploration of reservoirs in turbidite systems. However, these sedimentary environments are often characterized by very complex sand distributions. Hence, reservoir description based on conventional seismic and well-log interpretation may be very uncertain. There is a need to employ more quantitative seismic techniques to reveal reservoirs units in these complex systems from seismic amplitude data. In this study we focus on North Sea turbidite systems. Our goal is to improve the ability to use 3D seismic data to map reservoirs in these systems. A cross-disciplinary methodology for seismic reservoir characterization is presented that combines rock physics, sedimentology, and statistical techniques. We apply this methodology to two turbidite systems of Paleocene age located in the South Viking Graben of the North Sea. First, we investigate the relationship between sedimentary petrography and rock physics properties. Next, we define ...
Discussed in this paper are the P-wave and S-wave zero-offset VSPs carried out utilizing boreholes located in Nada Ward, Kobe City, and Hokudan-cho, Hyogo Prefecture, as part of the deep layer boring survey following Hanshin Earthquake Disaster. This effort aims at the elucidation of P-wave and S-wave velocity structures, high-precision identification of data obtained by the surface reflection method, and collection of basic data for active faults investigation in the future. Among the velocity structures obtained for various layers, the S-wave velocity structures in particular agree with the stratigraphy excellently and may be utilized in seismic analyses to be conducted in the future. Reflection from geological boundaries is received with precision, providing accurate information about correlation between reflection and geological cross sections. The records will be useful in formulating plans for reflection surveys for instance of the boundary between the Osaka ...
The initial development of additives to stabilize the viscosity of biocrude during long-term storage has produced dramatic results. The additives investigated were ethyl acetate, methyl isobuyl ketone and methanol, acetone, methanol, acetone and methanol, and ethanol. These additives represent three chemical families, which all demonstrated the ability to drastically reduce the aging rate of biocrude, as defined by the increase in viscosity with time. Accelerated aging tests were run at 90{degree}C to screen the additives. The additives not only lowered the initial viscosity at 40{degree}C by half but also reduced the aging rate of a hot gas filtered pyrolysis oil made from hybrid poplar (NREL run 175) by factors of 1-18 compared to the original pure oil. With the best additive, methanol, at a 10 wt% level in the pyrolysis oil, the modified biocrude was still a single-phase liquid and still met the ASTM no. 4 diesel fuel specification for viscosity even after 96 h exposure to ...
OBJECTIVE. This study examines variations in the efficient use of hospital resources across individual physicians. DATA SOURCES AND SETTING. The study is conducted over a two-year period (1989-1990)...Full Text Available
Before the influence of divergent factors on gross efficiency (GE) [the ratio of mechanical power output (PO) to metabolic power input (PI)] can be assessed, the variation in GE between days, i.e. the...Full Text Available
The energy strategy of the UK Overseas Development Administration is outlined with specific emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energies. Based on 29 case studies concerning projects and programmes in both developed and developing countries, critical success factors for renewable energy projects are identified. UK)
Generations 5 and 6 (G5 and G6) poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers have been shown to be highly efficient nonviral carriers in in vitro gene delivery. However, their high toxicity...Full Text Available
Amorphous silicon solar cells have been shown to have efficiencies which degrade as a result of long exposure to light. Annealing such cells in air at a temperature of about 200.degree. C. for at least 30 minutes restores their efficiency.
BackgroundLentiviral vectors (LVs) can efficiently transduce a broad spectrum of cells and tissues, including dividing and non-dividing cells. So far the most widely used method...Full Text Available
Economic and performance criteria that should be used in the selection of a scrubber system are presented. Selection should be based on the type of emissions put out by a plant and the removal efficiency required by pollution control standards. Costs and efficiencies for 10 different scrubber systems are reported. (10 diagrams)
A method for recycling laser flashlamp radiation in selected wavelength ranges to decrease thermal loading of the solid state laser matrix while substantially maintaining the pumping efficiency of the flashlamp.
;Contents: Energy Use; Building Fabric Performance; Ventilation and Infiltration; Passive Solar Design; Heating Systems and Controls; Hot and Cold Water Provision; and Lighting and Electrical Appliances.
Contents: Energy Use; Building Fabric Performance; Ventilation and Infiltration; Passive Solar Design; Heating Systems and Controls; Hot and Cold Water Provision; and Lighting and Electrical Appliances.
... counseling, some training, and assure the general health and welfare of the command. ... publications, promotions, OERs/NCOER's (Officer Efficiency ...
In the last two years, rapid progress has been made in the energy conversion efficiencies of GaAs solar cells fabricated from molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) material. The efficiencies of cells fabricated from MBE material are now comparable with those fabricated from metal-organic chemical vapor deposition material, even for cells of dimension 2 cmx4 cm. This paper reviews the progress in MBE cell efficiencies. Also discussed is the role oval defects play in GaAs diode and solar cell performance. (orig.).
An accelerator experiment was performed using a low-energy antiproton beam to measure antiproton detection efficiency of BESS, a balloon-borne spectrometer with a superconducting solenoid. Measured efficiencies showed good agreement with calculated ones derived from the BESS Monte Carlo simulation based on GEANT/GHEISHA. With detailed verification of the BESS simulation, the relative systematic error of detection efficiency derived from the BESS simulation has been determined to be {+-}5%, compared with the previous estimation of {+-}15% which was the dominant uncertainty for measurements of cosmic-ray antiproton flux.
Increasing demand for energy production with low impact on the environment and minimised fuel consumption can be met with high efficient coal fired power plants with advanced steam parameters. An important key to this improvement is the development of high temperature materials with optimised mechanical strength. Based on the results of more than ten years of development a coal fired power plant with an efficiency above 50 % can now be realised. Future developments focus on materials which enable an efficiency of 52-55 %. (orig.) 25 refs.
In this paper, we present FASE (Faster Asynchronous Systems Evaluation), a tool for evaluating the worst-case efficiency of asynchronous systems. The tool is based on some well-established results in the setting of a timed process algebra (PAFAS: a Process Algebra for Faster Asynchronous Systems). To show the applicability of FASE to concrete meaningful examples, we consider three implementations of a bounded buffer and use FASE to automatically evaluate their worst-case efficiency. We finally contrast our results with previous ones where the efficiency of the same implementations has already been considered.
... many intriguing new possibilities in the materials sciences. Or consider solitons, a mathematical ... point out that advanced instrumentation, new materials, novel production methods, and efficient ...
... be easily replaceable, and its compartment or container ... in a simple, efficient manner for storage or disposal. ... and enters the reactor at approximatel ...
... or the Noncommissioned Officer Efficiency Report (NCOER) for promotion ... Providing effective coaching, delegating, counseling, and role modeling ...
An accelerator beam experiment was performed using a low-energy antiproton beam to measure antiproton detection efficiency of the BESS detector. Measured and calculated efficiencies derived from the BESS Monte Carlo simulation based on GRANT/GHEISHA showed good agreement. With detailed verification of the BESS simulation, the relative systematic error of detection efficiency derived from the BESS simulation has been determined to be {+-}5%, compared with the previous estimation of {+-}15% which was the dominant uncertainty for measurements of cosmic-ray antiproton flux. (author)
... Milstar Military Strategic and Tactical Relay Satellite ... (EHF) system, composed of the Military Strategic and Tactical Relay Satellite (Milstar) ...
... nent to the design and construction of metal-semiconductor solar cells, in that both the photovoltage and the efficiency of metal-semiconductor cells ...
We study the temporal evolution of the market efficiency in the stock markets using the complexity, entropy density, standard deviation, autocorrelation function, and probability distribution of the log return for Standard and Poor's 500 (S&P 500), Nikkei stock average index, and Korean composition stock price index (KOSPI). Based on the microscopic spin model, we also find that these statistical quantities in stock markets depend on the market efficiency.
...Simplification of the scheme - Department of Energy and Climate Change simplification, crc energy efficiency scheme Simplification of the scheme Simplification of the CRC Energy ...Efficiency Scheme The Government is considering the simplification of the CRC in the light of experience since the scheme began in April 2010. ...will take into account feedback from stakeholders including: the effectiveness of the CRC framework for driving energy efficiency in large private and public sector ... The perceived complexity of the CRC scheme and hence the administrative burden on: - those organisations that are subject to ...
The author is exploring the efficiency of pulsed plasma processing in the removal of nitrogen dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and other pollutants. This process uses an electrical discharge to create chemical radicals from air molecules. These radicals can react with pollutants and form harmless compounds. Additives such as hydrocarbons are also used to improve the efficiency of the removal. The efficient removal of nitrogen dioxide has required the presence of dilute aqueous solution of ammonia.
This is the third of a series of research reports which builds on the previous contents which dealt with energy efficiency techniques and minimizing the environmental effects of building materials. It presents some specifications for house types and gives built examples of energy efficient homes in Europe. (UK)
A research report describes the energy efficiency techniques to be employed in designing a building which is ``green``. Topics covered include building fabric performance, ventilation and infiltration, passive solar design, heating systems and controls, hot and cold water provision, lighting and electrical appliances. (UK)
Results are presented from analyzing indicators for efficient operation of the fleet of production equipment under conditions of the ''Tsentral'naya'' mine of the production association ''Krasnoarmeyskugol'.'' Measures are presented which make it possible to increase the operating efficiency with minimum adjusted outlays.
Efficiency calibration curves for different densities and geometries are necessary for activity determination of various environmental samples. Commercially available standards or natural radioactive materials are used for calibration. Potassium compounds are especially suitable, since they can be mixed with unknown samples. It is possible to determine efficiency curve and unknown activity of sample knowing "4"0 K activity. (author).
An extended series of measurements at a conventional coal-fired boiler equipped with a wet-limestone flue gas desulfurization unit has shown that sulfate and sulfur dioxide removal efficiencies are dissimilar. The average SO2 scrubbing efficiency was 76% and was observed to decrease over a five-day operating cycle. Total sulfate scrubbing efficiency, averaging about 29%, was invariant throughout the operating cycle. (1 diagram, 3 tables)
A non-linear analysis of a Cerenkov maser is presented. The system consists of a ring configuration of a cylindrical waveguide filled with a dielectric material. A single transverse-magnetic mode is assumed to propagate in the system. A low-density pencil electron beam travels in part of the ring, confined by a strong axial magnetic field. Using the single-particle description for the beam and the wave equation for the field, we obtain a set of two coupled non-linear differential equations describing the slowly varying amplitude and phase of the electromagnetic mode. The gain per path is assumed to be small and the spatial growth of the field is neglected. The resulting time dependent amplitude includes the exponential gain of the linear stage and the saturation to its maximum value. The time dependent frequency is also calculated. The two equations are combined to a single Van Der Pol equation with a non-linear restoring force. This ...
Any mine that uses haultrucks has a dispatching system of some sort, even if it is only a very basic and simple arrangement. The larger, more complex operations have found that, if properly applied, automated computerised dispatching improves the productivity of the equipment as well as improving overall control and reporting. However, not every mine can justify going this far; in these cases a computerised monitoring and reporting system with manual dispatching can still give considerable benefits. Wenco International Mining Systems of Vancouver supplies its computerised system to three different specification levels to suit most open pit mining operations. The article describes the 3 PMCSs (Production Monitoring and Control System) available: PMCS 1000, for monitoring and reporting only; PMCS 2000, for dispatching to maximise production; and PMCS 3000, for dispatching with optimised product quality and production. The major components of the PMCS are: mobile data terminals fitted to ...
We propose to investigate the spontaneous emission of radiation arising out of the interaction of a relativistic electron beam with a metallic grating (the Smith-Purcell effect). The work will concentrate, primarily, in the 50-120 #mu#m part of the infrared spectrum and will be an extension of the work begun by the Oxford-Dartmouth-Essex collaboration; one of the early objectives of the project will be to develop a quantitative understanding of the power spectrum of the emitted radiation over a wide range of emission angles. In particular, the limits of relativistic peaking of forward directed emission will be investigated. The electron beam will be produced by laser irradiation of a metallic cathode in the terminal of a small Van de Graff accelerator located in the Technische Universitaet, Muenchen. Beam energies will be in the range of 2 - 4 MeV. Initial tests on photoproduction of electrons have yielded 10 mA pulses with a width of about 20 ns. The electron pulse length is long ...
The rise of spam in the last decade has been staggering, with the rate of spam exceeding that of legitimate email. While conjectures exist on how spammers gain access to email addresses to spam, most work in the area of spam containment has either focused on better spam filtering methodologies or on understanding the botnets commonly used to send spam. In this paper, we aim to understand the origins of spam. We post dedicated email addresses to record how and where spammers go to obtain email addresses. We find that posting an email address on public Web pages yields immediate and high-volume spam. Surprisingly, even simple email obfuscation approaches are still sufficient today to prevent spammers from harvesting emails. We also find that attempts to find open relays continue to be popular among spammers. The insights we gain on the use of Web crawlers used to harvest email addresses and the commonalities of techniques used by spammers open ...
The far infrared free electron laser (FEL) has been being developed since 1990 using the L-band electron linac at the Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University. The first lasing was obtained in 1994 at wavelengths from 32 to 40 #mu#m. The FEL is now being modified suitable for user experiments. The wiggler with a fixed magnet gap used in the original FEL has been remodeled to make the magnet gap variable. In order to optimize the variable range of the gap, the gain and the diffraction loss were calculated. The peak gain is calculated to be 270% and the diffraction loss to be 22% at 150 #mu#m. The wavelength is expected to be variable from 25 up to at least 150 #mu#m. The two bending magnets in the optical resonator have been remodeled and the vacuum chambers with larger vertical sizes for them have been newly made so that the diffraction loss in these parts becomes smaller than that in the vacuum chamber of the wiggler. ...
This study reports on an examination of the effectiveness of a reading intervention for adults with disabilities in a vocational rehabilitation setting. Participants were 57 adults with disabilities and low reading skills enrolled at the Reading Clinic at the Michigan Career and Technical Institute. As part of a 3-year research and demonstration grant evaluation project, participants received an individualized reading intervention that targeted phonological processing, orthographic pattern recognition, and comprehension for adults with disabilities and low reading levels. The particular program incorporated fluency exercises at every level of the structured, explicit, and systematic intervention curriculum. Results showed that participants made moderate to large gains in passage reading accuracy and comprehension during the course of the intervention. Gains in passage reading rate were not statistically significant. Results are discussed in ...
The atomic explosions in Hiroshima and Nagasaki made the name radiation itself become a nightmare. Notwithstanding this, radiation continued to serve the mankind specially in diagnosis of several human diseases and in the treatment of intractable malignancies. With their latest research tools biologists have now shown a significant shift in the earlier paradigm; even the concept that radiation initiates cancer appears to be no longer tenable. On the contrary, selective radiation doses inhibit growth of cancer cells and radiation in combination with many chemotherapeutic drugs, radiosensitizing chemicals and/or hyperthermia, is emerging as a new modality for cancer treatment which offers high therapeutic advantages. In addition, the deleterious effects of radiation can now be strategically counter poised by the use of many drugs and chemicals. This has been possible by the newer insights gained in the mechanism of biological effects of radiation. The fate of ...
We have studied both theoretically and experimentally a new scheme of active pulse compression in a free electron laser (FEL) amplifier. The pulse compression scheme presented here is the following. A frequency-chirped pulse is injected into the FEL interaction region. Because of the high gain and narrow bandwidth of the FEL interaction, only the resonant frequency band of the pulse is actively amplified, resulting in a short pulse of high power coherent radiation at the output of the laser. For our experimental parameters (beam voltage #approx =# 150 kV, current #approx =# 5.0 A, wiggler period #approx =# 3.5 cm and gain #approx =# 10 dB), pulses of a few nanoseconds were generated at #approx =# 10 GHz after an interaction length of 2.30 m, in good agreement with theoretical expectations. For the same input pulses (width > 100 ns, frequency chirp #alpha#/2#pi# #approx =# 5 MHz/ns), the obtention of such compression ratios would require ...
GaN and Al{sub 1{minus}x}Ga{sub x}N films were grown by the method of ECR-MBE. Absorption constants as a function of wavelength were determined from transmission measurements. Photoconducting detectors were fabricated from these films and characterized in terms of their spectral response and photoconductive gain. Mobility-lifetime products were determined from the measurement of photoconductive gain. The resistivity and mobility-lifetime products of the films were varied from 10--10{sup 9} ohm-cm and 10{sup {minus}3}--10{sup {minus}8} cm{sup 2}/V respectively by changing the microwave power in the ECR discharge from 20--60 watts. The change in the mobility-lifetime product is attributed to change in the lifetimes of the photogenerated carriers. This assumption is supported by direct measurement of detector response times. Finally, the authors report for the first time, the detection of alpha particles using GaN detectors.
GaN and Al_1_-_xGa_xN films were grown by the method of ECR-MBE. Absorption constants as a function of wavelength were determined from transmission measurements. Photoconducting detectors were fabricated from these films and characterized in terms of their spectral response and photoconductive gain. Mobility-lifetime products were determined from the measurement of photoconductive gain. The resistivity and mobility-lifetime products of the films were varied from 10--10"9 ohm-cm and 10"-"3--10"-"8 cm"2/V respectively by changing the microwave power in the ECR discharge from 20--60 watts. The change in the mobility-lifetime product is attributed to change in the lifetimes of the photogenerated carriers. This assumption is supported by direct measurement of detector response times. Finally, the authors report for the first time, the detection of alpha particles using GaN detectors.
This article considers a hypothetical imaging device with a spinning slat collimator that measures parallel-planar-integral data from an object. This device rotates around the object 180 deg. and stops at N positions uniformly distributed over this 180 deg. . At each stop, the device spins on its own axis 180 deg. and acquires measurements at M positions uniformly distributed over this 180 deg. . For a fixed total imaging time, an optimal distribution of the scanning time among the data measurement locations is searched by a nonlinear programming method: Nelder-Mead's simplex method. The optimal dwell time is approximately proportional to the weighting factor in the backprojector of the reconstruction algorithm. By using an optimal dwell-time profile, the reconstruction signal-to-noise ratio has a gain of 23%-24% for the filtered backprojection algorithm and a gain of 10%-18% for the iterative algorithms, compared with the situation when a ...
Certain innovative coke-oven repair techniques are reviewed that represent an engineered approach to a successful rehabilitation of all types of coke-oven batteries. These techniques have been developed during the last 10 years and experience gained on a number of repair projects has shown that these techniques operate as a cohesive and comprehensive method of end flue and through-wall repairs to gain additional years of operating life to coke-oven batteries. Extended operations approaching 10 to 15 additional years of service at lower costs than a pad-up rebuild and, while meeting the environmental emission regulations, are attainable using the techniques of: Proper tie-in joint preparation; Improved bricking up methodology; Preheating refractory during bricking up; Installation of spring-loaded bracing system; and installation of flexible coke-oven doors. Repair methods that do not incorporate the above techniques are subject to premature ...
Collective graphical models exploit inter-instance associative dependence to output more accurate labelings. However existing models support very limited kind of associativity which restricts accuracy gains. This paper makes two major contributions. First, we propose a general collective inference framework that biases data instances to agree on a set of {\\em properties} of their labelings. Agreement is encouraged through symmetric clique potentials. We show that rich properties leads to bigger gains, and present a systematic inference procedure for a large class of such properties. The procedure performs message passing on the cluster graph, where property-aware messages are computed with cluster specific algorithms. This provides an inference-only solution for domain adaptation. Our experiments on bibliographic information extraction illustrate significant test error reduction over unseen domains. Our second major contribution consists of ...
There are certain factors to take into account when determining the suitability of a healthy house site. Power lines, agricultural spraying, vehicle exhaust, and industrial pollution are all potential sources of indoor air contamination. It is recommended that a environmental assessment be done to determine whether there are specific sources of contamination. Good drainage is required. The surrounding landscaping should be open and sunlit, and with low maintenance requirements. Decks and fences made from pressure-treated or chemical treated lumber should be avoided. One of the early decisions in the design process is the choice of the structural system. The key with all foundation types is to control moisture, whether from rain, from the ground, or the condensation of moisture from the air with cooling. The construction frame is sealed away from the occupants by the air/vapor barrier, so only in extreme cases is it essential to use alternatives to softwood lumber for framing exterior ...
The 2,860-acre Conforth Ranch near Umatilla, Oregon is being considered for acquisition and management to partially mitigate wildlife losses associated with McNary Hydroelectric Project. The Habitat Evaluation Procedures (HEP) estimated that management for wildlife would result in habitat unit gains of 519 for meadowlark, 420 for quail, 431 for mallard, 466 for Canada goose, 405 for mink, 49 for downy woodpecker, 172 for yellow warbler, and 34 for spotted sandpiper. This amounts to a total combined gain of 2,495 habitat units -- a 110 percent increase over the existing values for these species combined of 2,274 habitat units. Current water delivery costs, estimated at $50,000 per year, are expected to increase to $125,000 per year. A survey of local interest indicated a majority of respondents favored the concept with a minority opposed. No contaminants that would preclude the Fish and Wildlife Service from agreeing to accept the property were ...
Charge flow and valence/d-band behavior in ion-beam-mixed (IBM) Pd1-xAgx (x = 0.5-0.9) alloys have been studied by X-ray photoemission measurement of the valence bands and of core-level binding energy shifts and X-ray absorption near-edge structure. We correlated the observed Ag 3d5/2 core-level shifts in these IBM alloys, relative to the elemental Ag, with the White Line area changes at the Pd and Ag L3-edge to investigate the charge redistribution at the Ag site. The results indicate that there is a decrease in sp-like conduction electron and a negligible change in the number of d-electrons at the Ag site upon alloying. These results are in line with our previous results in which Pd gains d-charges and loses sp-type charges. This electron redistribution due to hybridization in the alloy leads small net charge transfer from the Ag site to the Pd site in accordance with electronegativity predictions. This result is consistent with the result of recent theoretical ...
This paper presents a spatial gaming model with price caps for deregulated electricity markets. There has been heated debate on price caps that have been enforced in deregulated electricity markets. Opponents argue that price caps may send wrong economic signals while advocates argue that price caps are good for damping market power. This paper does not intend to take a stand in the argument. Given the fact that price caps are enforced in several deregulated regional electricity markets in the US, a logical step is to reflect this reality in gaining modeling. However, current gaining models have not included any price cap formulation. This paper is the first one to address the issue. DC power flow equations are used for representing the spatial nature of an electrical network. An algorithm is proposed to find a generalized Nash equilibrium under the enforcement of price caps based on the Kuhn-Tucker Vector Optimization Theorem. Case studies ...
Shell Oil's exploration of profitable business opportunities afforded by fuel cells and by the emergence of a viable hydrogen economy is discussed. The emphasis in this paper is on the transportation sector, particularly the importance of a refueling infrastructure and the influence that consumer attitudes will have on which technological solution will gain the upper hand in hydrogen-powered vehicle development. Key issues facing the oil industry with regard to development of hydrogen as the new energy carrier are also reviewed. Methanol reformer fuel cell cars are the most likely to gain acceptability in the short term, but the probability of methanol fuel cell vehicles being replaced by gasoline or hydrogen fuelled fuel cell vehicles or be superseded by advances in internal combustion engine and after-treatment technology, are very real. Government regulations, fiscal incentives and societal pressures will be the principal determinants of ...
A brief overview is given of the geological characteristics of each region of the state as they relate to potential geothermal development. Those exploration methods which can lead to the siting of a deep exploration well are described. Requirements and techniques needed for drilling deeper higher temperature exploration and production wells are presented. Electrical generation, direct utilization, and indirect utilization are reviewed. Economic factors of direct use projects are presented. A general guide to the regulatory framework affecting geothermal energy development is provided. The general steps necessary to gain access to explore, develop, distribute, and use geothermal resources are outlined. (MHR)
The Belgian Malinois dog was introduced into the Department of Defense Military Working Dog Program in 1984. All dogs are purchased in Europe and have adapted well to the rigorous training requirements of the program. Most veterinary problems seen in this breed are related to kennel confinement and include traumatic dental disease, tail lesions, a variety of dermatologic conditions, and an inability to gain weight. Epilepsy is a breed problem and has been seen in this population, as has gastric dilatation/volvulus. Both elbow and hip dysplasia exist in the Malinois breed. PMID:1900116
The thesis gives an overview of the validation process for thermal-hydraulic system codes and it presents in more detail the assessment and validation of the French code CATHARE for VVER calculations. Three assessment cases are presented: loop seal clearing, core reflooding and flow in a horizontal steam generator. The experience gained during these assessment and validation calculations has been used to analyze the behavior of the horizontal steam generator and the natural circulation in the geometry of the Loviisa nuclear power plant. Large part of the work has been performed in cooperation with the CATHARE-team in Grenoble, France. (41 refs., 11 figs., 8 tabs.).
We report the first experimental achievement of a storage ring free-electron laser (FEL) oscillation on the third harmonic in the near-infrared region. The FEL gain was evaluated as 0.029% per mA. The measured linewidth of the third-harmonic FEL was less than that of the fundamental FEL, and the measured pulse width of the third-harmonic FEL was wider than that of the fundamental FEL. A higher-harmonic FEL should be developed not only to enhance the wavelength region of the FEL but also to vary the characteristics of an FEL micropulse. (author)
Deregulation of the electric power industry in Alberta holds the prospect of providing greater choice for customers. One such option will be `green power` which is provided by renewable energy technologies. The energy produced would be without environmental impacts such as air emissions, water pollution, flooding, thermal emissions or waste by-products. Wind power, small scale hydro power, photovoltaics and biomass technologies have been termed as `green power`. The choices that customers make will not be focused on price alone. Market forces are emerging to demand reduction in emissions which will result in a market for `green energy` products and facilitate achieving goals for a sustainable future.
The conceptual design for a cyclotron that could possibly deliver a 10 MW proton beam, presented at the previous ADTT conference, is discussed in comparison with the operational experience gained with 0.9 MW beam power in the upgraded cyclotron facility at PSI that has reached the design goal of 1.5 mA at 590 MeV in 1995. Some critical aspects of the design are e.g. RF power and beam loading, beam loss and activation, space charge effects and bunching. 12 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.
A calculation is presented of spontaneous radiation emitted by an electron beam passing through a continuously rotating quadrupole magnetic undulator. It is shown that radiation spectrum emitted in forward direction of beam propagation has four peaks, corresponding to four betatron frequencies. Utilizing the Madey theorem, a stimulated emission is calculated and presented as gain versus frequency curves, for different values of the quadrupole magnetic field. A free-electron laser operating at two or three radiation frequencies with a quadrupole magnetic wiggler is suggested.
The main activities developed at 'Instituto de Energia Atomica' Sao Paulo, Brazil, on the recovery of uranium from ores, the purification of uranium and thorium raw concentrates and their transformation in nuclear grade compounds, are reviewed. The design and assemble of pilot facilities for ammonium diuranate (ADV) uranium tetrafluoride, uranium trioxide, uranium oxide microspheres, uranyl nitrate denitration, uranim hexafluoride and thorium compounds are discussed. The establishment of analytical procedures are emphasized.
A method for conditioning electron beams is proposed, making use of the TM{sub 210} mode of microwave cavities, to reduce the axial velocity spread within the beam, in order to enhance gain in resonant electron beam devices, such as the free-electron laser (FEL). Effectively, a conditioner removes the restriction on beam emittance. The conditioner is analyzed using a simple model for beam transport and ideal RF cavities. Analysis of an FEL is employed to evaluate performance with reduced axial velocity spread. Examples of FELs are presented showing the distinct advantage of conditioning.
CERN has encouraged the US-LARP collaboration to participate in Phase I of the LHC luminosity upgrade by analyzing the benefits gained by using Nb3Sn technology to replace the functionality of select NbTi magnets that CERN is committed to construct. Early studies have shown that the much higher gradients (shorter magnetic lengths) and temperature margins (quench stability) of Nb3Sn magnets compared to their NbTi counterparts is favorable--allowing the insertion of additional absorbers between Q1 and Q2, for example. This paper discusses the relative merits of the NbTi and Nb3Sn options.
An overview of particle and photon beam bunch length measurements is presented in the context of free-electron laser (FEL) challenges. Particle-beam peak current is a critical factor in obtaining adequate FEL gain for both oscillators and self-amplified spontaneous emission (SASE) devices. Since measurement of charge is a standard measurement, the bunch length becomes the key issue for ultrashort bunches. Both time-domain and frequency-domain techniques are presented in the context of using electromagnetic radiation over eight orders of magnitude in wavelength. In addition, the measurement of microbunching in a micropulse is addressed.
A systematic optimization method of choosing the weighting matrix in linear optimal control system design, under the conditions of prespecified closed-loop dominant eigenvalue locations and feedback gain limit constraints, is presented in this paper. Studies show that with the proposed method one can obtain the desired weighting matrix very quickly and conveniently without the heavy burden of choosing a suitable weighting matrix by trail and error. This method can also easily achieve a reduced-order feedback control system. The linear optimal power system stabilizer designed by using the proposed method produces very good performance.
It has been predicted for several years that light is focused (optically guided) as well as amplified by the electron beam in a free electron laser (FEL). The degree of focusing depends strongly on both electron beam and optical beam characteristics. In an FEL oscillator the degree of focusing varies with intracavity optical power during the macropulse. We report the first direct measurements of the evolution of transverse optical model size and shape between small signal and saturation in a short wavelength (Compton regime) FEL oscillator. The mode measurements on the Mark III FEL oscillator are shown to be consistent with theory, requiring both refractive and gain contributions to guiding. (orig.).
The saturation of free electron laser (FEL) output power by the KHI-FEL device was achieved on 3rd, October 2000 at the wavelength of 9.3 #mu#m. The FEL device has operated thereafter successfully in the wavelength region between 4.0 and 16.0 #mu#m. The macropulse average FEL power of 37.5 kW, which is the theoretical saturation level, has been obtained at the wavelength of 7.9 #mu#m. The net FEL gain was estimated to be 16%. (author)
It may be stated that for the calculation of the heat transfer coefficients for natural convection cooling of large-diameter finned surfaces it is necessary to take in consideration the effects of the fin length, fin material and of the azimuthal angle around the cylinder. The present results replace earlier less accurate correlations gained from the same measurements. The new, better correlation was elaborated with the aid of the improved method of evaluation of multiple parameters of a measurement matrix of multiple dimension (one dimension for each parameter), rendering the sum of the squares error a minimum at the same time for the complete matrix. 5 references.
This study illustrates the way to perform protocols, collect samples, and conduct laboratory analyses in order to characterize the physical properties of wood used in the industrial sector of the Valle de Aburra metropalitan area and the gains obtained by characterizing the properties of the most frequently used woods. In this investigation some of the most important sampling parameters are presented, such as taking samples in piles or accumulations of waste, handling of these samples in the laboratory and others of great importance such as the ignition point. the proposed methodology is based upon some of the international astm coal norms, for the similarity it has with wood and for the lack of information on sampling this type in wood
Visceral hypersensitivity is currently considered a key pathophysiological mechanism involved in pain perception in large subgroups of patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In IBS, visceral hypersensitivity has been described in 20%?90% of patients. The contribution of the central nervous system and psychological factors to visceral hypersensitivity in patients with IBS may be significant, although still debated. Peripheral factors have gained increasing attention following the recognition that infectious enteritis may trigger the development of persistent IBS symptoms, and the identification of mucosal immune, neural, endocrine, microbiological, and intestinal permeability abnormalities. Growing evidence suggests that these factors ...
Differences in the biological disposition and in the effects of the stable lithium isotopes, Li-6 and Li-7, in animals were characterized. A somewhat higher toxicity was associated with WLiCl compared to XLiCl with NLiCl intermediate. All lithium treatments increased water intake and resulted in weight gain. Peak plasma concentration was slightly high for 6Li than 7LiCl suppressed action potential amplitudes during tetanic stimulation more than NaCl when added to Renger solution bathing ganglia.
A LiF crystal analyzer has been used to measure phonon creation events when a low energy He beam scatters from a Cu(001) surface at low temperature (16 "0K). As only phonon creation events were observed, the inelastic scattering was subspecular. Atom parallel momentum gain and loss events were observed and both bulk and surface modes contributed to the inelastic scattering. An elastic component of scattering was observed over a wide angular range.
Abstract: The Hanford Tanks Initiative (HTI) is a five-year project resulting from the technical and financial partnership of the U.S. Department of Energy`s Office of Waste Management (EM-30) and Office of Science and Technology Development (EM-50). The HTI project accelerates activities to gain key technical, cost performance, and regulatory information on two high-level waste tanks. The HTI will provide a basis for design and regulatory decisions affecting the remainder of the Tank Waste Remediation System`s tank waste retrieval Program.
An experimental realization of the focusing of an atomic beam by a spontaneous radiation pressure force is reported. A simple light field configuration for focusing an atomic beam is described which is formed by four divergent Gaussian laser beams propagating along the + or - x and + or - y directions of a Cartesian coordinate system. An experimental arrangement for the laser focusing is shown, and the experimental procedure is described. The resulting atomic beam profiles are shown and discussed. It is concluded that the experiments open up the possibility of gaining control over such parameters of atomic beams as their density and divergence. 7 references.
The orbit response matrix (ORM) method [1] is applied to model the Fermilab Booster with parameters such as the BPM gains and rolls, and parameters in the lattice model, including the gradient errors and magnets rolls. We found that the gradients and rolls of the adjacent combined-function magnets were deeply correlated, preventing full determination of the model parameters. Suitable constraints of the parameters were introduced to guarantee an unique, equivalent solution. Simulations show that such solution preserves proper combinations of the adjacent parameters. The result shows that the gradient errors of combined-function magnets are within design limits.
SO/sub 2/ concentrations in the Stuttgart air have been measured continuously since 1965. The two measuring points were located at the bottom of the Stuttgart city basin and 900 m east on the side of one of the surrounding hills. Long-term curves of pollutant loads have been established in consideration of meteorological parameters, as well as curves showing the average daily, weekly, and yearly pollution. The information thus gained may help to plan air pollution abatement measures in city planning.
A large number of fiber optic cables were used in support of a neutron imaging experiment at the Nevada Test Site. This paper describes the quality control testing of fiber components used on this experiment. The principal reason for quality control testing was to ensure reliable, high transmission fibers; a secondary reason was to gain data on a large sample of fiber cables in the field. Also described is the instrumentation developed for carrying out these field measurements. The design of the quality control instrumentation was a compromise between accuracy and simplicity of use.
The increase of the compression ratio of Otto carburator engines up to epsilon = 14 was investigated by Audi in its research department at Neckarsulm. The results are presented in three partial reports. Part one describes the Audi fuel method and demonstrates the effects of the main parameters. Part two shows the influence of the current on the combustion by the help of a new measuring method developed by the Institut fuer Physikalische Elektronik at Stuttgart University. Part three provides a theoretical analysis of the data gained in the investigations.
The notion of hardened systems can be found in several applications (nuclear power plants, alarm systems, research installations..). Their development correspond to the functional necessity to take into account a specific radiative environment. The starting point of each hardening study is the definition of the radiative environmental constraints representative of the application. In addition to these external constraints, the specific functional characteristics of each system are considered: control or interface systems in nuclear industry, in-board control systems, remote handling systems, etc. This paper summarizes the methodology followed according to the experience gained in previous studies and anticipating the future needs. (J.S.). 6 refs., 5 figs.
Purpose Study the radiolysis of solid-state metoclopramide hydrochloride at various absorbed doses. Elucidate the structure of the degradation products to gain information on the radiolysis mechanisms. Methods Solid-state metoclopramide samples were irradiated at several doses with gamma rays and high-energy electrons to evaluate the influence of the dose rate. High-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector was used to measure the chemical potency as a function of the absorbed dose and to quantify the degradation products. The characterization of degradation products was performed by liquid chromatography/atmospheric pressure chemical ionization/tandem mass spectrometry. Results The degradation of solid-state metoclopramide after irradiation was negligible. No qualitati...
A self-tuning PID (proportional-integral-derivative) power system stabilizer (PSS) is presented for improving the dynamic stability of a multimachine power system over a wide range of operating conditions. In order to maintain good damping characteristic when there is a drastic change in system operating condition, the gain settings are adapted in real time based on the continuously measured system inputs and outputs. The proposed self-tuning stabilizer has a decentralized structure and only local measurements within each generating units are required for the adaptation process. The effectiveness of the proposed stabilizer is demonstrated by an example.
The Kyoto Protocol foresees emission trading but does not yet specify verification of (uncertain) emissions. This paper analyses a setting in which parties can meet their emission targets by reducing emissions, by investing in monitoring (reducing uncertainty of emissions) or by (bilaterally) trading permits. We derive the optimality conditions and carry out various numerical simulations. Our applications suggest that including uncertainty could increase compliance costs for the USA, Japan and the European Union. Central Europe and the Former Soviet Union might be able to gain from trading due to higher permit prices. Emissions trading could also lower aggregate uncertainty on emissions.
There have been many recent explosive advances in both IR and Raman spectroscopy which have developed in response to industrial problems of increasing complexity. Probably the biggest factor in these advances has been computerization, which has contributed not only to substantial improvements in data handling but to enormous gains in sensitivities of analyses as well. In this paper numerous examples of Raman and IR applications in industry are given using many of these recent advances, including in-situ techniques, microprobe analyses, unusual combinations of instruments - i.e., hyphenated methods - and new sample handling techniques. The bright future of FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy is also briefly discussed.
The paper deals with the exploitation of the pumped storage plants for the control of the Slovak power system. For that purpose current utilization of pumped storage plants currently in operation was analyzed from the point of view of their part in the operation control of the Slovak power system. The aim of this analysis was to exploit knowledge gained so far for the future outlook up to the year 2010, including the evaluation of the need to construct pumped storage plant Ipel with a weekly storage cycle. (author).
When analyzing the loss-of-coolant accidents at VVER reactor NPP the problem of the effect of noncondensable gases on heat transfer in a horizontal steam generator (HSG) is gaining in importance. Based on the RELAP5/MOD3.2 computer code one analyzed the experiments to condense steam-and-gas mixture in a HSG. The calculations are shown to predict satisfactorily duration of steam generator poisoning from noncondensable gas
A brief overview is given of the geological characteristics of each region of the state as they relate to potential geothermal development. Those exploration methods which can lead to the siting of a deep exploration well are described. Requirements and techniques needed for drilling deeper higher temperature exploration and production wells are presented. Electrical generation, direct utilization, and indirect utilization are reviewed. Economic factors of direct use projects are presented. A general guide to the regulatory framework affecting geothermal energy development is provided. The general steps necessary to gain access to explore, develop, distribute, and use geothermal resources are outlined. (MHR)
The method of aluminium metal activation by liquid eutectics Ga-In (70:30) and Ga-In-Sn-Zn (60:25:10:5) is developed. Subsequent dispersion of the obtained specimens up to a particle size of >0.5mm leads to the drastic interaction of aluminium powder and water with evolving hydrogen. In the present work the oxidation rate of activated aluminium and water is investigated depending on eutectic composition, reaction temperature, and powder particle size. The mechanism of the main eutectic's components influence on the reacting ability of aluminium is discussed. (author)
Research highlights: {yields} Mathematical model represents a power system which consists of synchronous machine connected to infinite bus through transmission line. {yields} Power system stabilizer was designed based on optimal pole shifting controller. {yields} The system performances was tested through load disturbances at different operating conditions. {yields} The system performance with the proposed optimal pole shifting controller is compared with the conventional pole placement controller. {yields} The digital simulation results indicated that the proposed controller has a superior performance. -- Abstract: Power system stabilizer based on optimal pole shifting is proposed. An approach for shifting the real parts of the open-loop poles to any desired positions while preserving the imaginary parts is presented. In each step of this approach, it is required to solve a first-order or a second-order linear matrix Lyapunov equation for shifting one real pole or two complex ...
Research highlights: ? Mathematical model represents a power system which consists of synchronous machine connected to infinite bus through transmission line. ? Power system stabilizer was designed based on optimal pole shifting controller. ? The system performances was tested through load disturbances at different operating conditions. ? The system performance with the proposed optimal pole shifting controller is compared with the conventional pole placement controller. ? The digital simulation results indicated that the proposed controller has a superior performance. -- Abstract: Power system stabilizer based on optimal pole shifting is proposed. An approach for shifting the real parts of the open-loop poles to any desired positions while preserving the imaginary parts is presented. In each step of this approach, it is required to solve a first-order or a second-order linear matrix Lyapunov equation for shifting one real pole or two complex conjugate poles, respectively. This ...
In most countries, residential electricity consumption typically ranges from 20% to 40% of total electricity consumption. This energy is used for heating, cooling, refrigeration and other end-uses. Significant energy savings are possible if new appliance purchases are for models with higher efficiency than that of existing models. There are several ways to ensure or encourage such an outcome, for example, appliance rebates, innovative procurement, and minimum efficiency standards. This paper focuses on the latter approach. At the present time, the US is the only country with comprehensive appliance energy efficiency standards. However, many other countries, such as Australia, Canada, the European Community (EC), Japan and Korea, are considering enacting standards. The greatest potential impact of minimum efficiency standards for appliances is in the developing countries (e.g., China and India), where ...
Operations at the Savannah River Site (SRS) result in releases of small amounts of radioactive materials to the atmosphere and to the Savannah River. For regulatory compliance purposes, potential offsite radiological doses are estimated annually using computer models that follow U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Regulatory Guides. Within the regulatory guides, default values are provided for many of the dose model parameters but the use of site-specific values by the applicant is encouraged. A detailed survey of land and water use parameters was conducted in 1991 and is being updated here. These parameters include local characteristics of meat, milk and vegetable production; river recreational activities; and meat, milk and vegetable consumption rates as well as other human usage parameters required in the SRS dosimetry models. In addition, the preferred elemental bioaccumulation factors and transfer factors to be used in human health exposure calculations at SRS are documented. ...
With the advent of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), the inclusion of heterogeneity corrections is further complicated by the conformal delivery of many small beams forming steep dose gradients. Radiation treatment planning has evolved to take into account even small changes in tissue density so that the dose to tumor can be further optimized. However, different treatment planning systems incorporate different heterogeneity correction algorithms, and it is unclear whether any of these algorithms are superior to others in terms of accurately predicting delivered radiation doses relative to measurement in a clinical setting. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of heterogeneity dose calculations from two widely used IMRT treatment planning systems (Pinnacle and Corvus) against measurement. These two systems handle heterogeneity dose corrections by means of a collapsed-cone convolution superposition algorithm and a finite-size pencil-beam algorithm with ...
New rare earth oxide emitters show greater efficiency than previous emitters. As a result, based on a simple model the efficiency of these emitters was calculated. Results indicate that the emission band of the selective emitter must be at relatively low energy (less than or equal to .52 eV) to obtain maximum efficiency at moderate emitter temperatures (less than or equal to 1500 K). Thus low bandgap energy PV materials are required to obtain an efficient thermophotovoltaic (TPV) system. Of the 4 specific rare earths (Nd, Ho, Er, Yb) studied Ho has the largest efficiency at moderate temperatures (72 percent at 1500 K). A comparison was made between a selective emitter TPV system and a TPV system that uses a thermal emitter plus a band pass filter to make the thermal emitter behave like a selective emitter. Results of the comparison indicate that only for very optimistic filter and ...
The effects of the contrast of the pump field interference pattern, that is, the effectiveness of the dynamic amplitude-phase grid, and various optical arrangements on the lasing efficiency and tuning range of a dynamic distributed-feedback dye laser are investigated. It is shown that the proper choice of prism apex angle, prism material and dye solvent in a laser in the range 400-1000 microns pumped by two beams of different intensity directed through the congruent sides of an isosceles prism in contact with the active medium solution on its third side can lead to optical losses of less than 2% from the boundaries of the prism. Measurements of polymethine dye laser efficiency and tuning range as a function of the relative intensity of the two ruby-laser pump beams reveals that as the contrast of the pump beam interference pattern decreases, the tuning range remains practically constant and the efficiency increases in the ...
Neutron semiconductor detectors for neutron counting and neutron radiography have an increasing importance. Simple silicon neutron detectors are combination of a planar diode with a layer of an appropriate neutron converter such as 6LiF. These devices have limited detection efficiency of not more than 5%. The detection efficiency can be increased by creating a 3D microstructure of dips, trenches or pores in the detector and filling it with a neutron converter. The first results related to the development of such devices are presented. Silicon detectors were fabricated with pyramidal dips on the surface covered with 6LiF and then irradiated by thermal neutrons. Pulse height spectra of the energy deposited in the sensitive volume were compared with simulations. The detection efficiency of these devices was about 6.3%. Samples with different column sizes were fabricated to study the electrical properties of 3D structures. ...
A thermodynamic analysis of a hybrid geothermal heat pump system is carried out. Mass, energy, and exergy balances are applied to the system, which has a cooling tower as a heat rejection unit, and system performance is evaluated in terms of coefficient of performance and exergy efficiency. The heating coefficient of performance for the overall system is found to be 5.34, while the corresponding exergy efficiency is 63.4%. The effect of ambient temperature on the exergy destruction and exergy efficiency is investigated for the system components. The results indicate that the performance of hybrid geothermal heat pump systems is superior to air-source heat pumps.
Considerable potential exists for increasing the annual efficiency of line-focus collectors by reducing receiver heat losses. Five alternate receiver designs are compared with a standard design. The comparison is based on annual collector-field efficiency using optimized receiver designs. Of the receivers studied, the all-glass design and the cavity design provide the greatest increases in efficiency. Average fluid temperatures range from 200/sup 0/ to 450/sup 0/C. As a guide for further study, areas of uncertainty and potential problems are identified.
The authors present the emitter efficiency results for the thin film 25 percent Ho YAG (Yttrium Aluminum Garnet, Y3Al5O12) selective emitter from 1000 to 1700 K with a platinum substrate. Spectral emittance and emissive power measurements were made (1.2 less than lambda less than 3.2 microns) and used to calculate the radiative efficiency. The radiative efficiency and power density of rare earth doped selective emitters are strongly dependent on temperature and experimental results indicate an optimum temperature (1650 K for Ho YAG) for thermophotovoltaic (TPV) applications.
This paper explores the feasibility of integrating energyefficiency program evaluation with the emerging need for the evaluationof programs from different "energy cultures" (demand response, renewableenergy, and climate change). The paper reviews key features andinformation needs of the energy cultures and critically reviews theopportunities and challenges associated with integrating these withenergy efficiency program evaluation. There is a need to integrate thedifferent policy arenas where energy efficiency, demand response, andclimate change programs are developed, and there are positive signs thatthis integration is starting to occur.
More efficient and safe production machines are required for sod peat production. The efficiency and durability of machines is especially important in contract work. Two sod peat harvester types, Pala-14 and Turve-Unsa, were tested by the forest department of the Work Efficiency Associationin summer 1986. Sod peat was collected with these machines at three sod peat production sites. The yield of the Pala-14 harvester was 121 m/sup 3//h for harvesting time, and 56 m/sup 3//h for worksite time, and that of Turve-Unsa was 108 m/sup 3//h and 55 m/sup 3//h, respectively.
Recent studies have provided data that make it possible to estimate the efficiency and cost of future beamlines using a chemical oxygen-iodine laser as a neutralizer. These studies indicate that a 400-keV neutral deuterium beam of more than 20 A will operate at an efficiency >60%, with the capital cost of the neutralizer at less than $2/W of neutral beam output. Beamlines of lower current and less energy will operate at poorer efficiencies and higher neutralizer costs per watt of neutral beam. These are estimates. As they are very sensitive to changes in the assumptions from which they were derived, they must be used with some caution. Additional studies are expected to provide more reliable estimates.
This work reports on the use of three state-of-the-art Monte Carlo codes (MCNPX, PENELOPE, FLUKA) in the efficiency calibration of a Broad-Energy Germanium (BEGe) detector. Initial discrepancies found between the experimental and computational efficiency values are related to the poor knowledge of some physical parameters of the detector (dead-layers, crystal dimensions, etc.). As a consequence, a sensitivity analysis was carried out. Each parameter was systematically analyzed, and an accurate model of the detector was determined. The obtained results are consistent, allowing this model to be used in computational efficiency calibrations of the equipment at stake.
Hydrogen piston engines can be simultaneously optimized for improved thermal efficiency and for extremely low emissions. Using these engines in constant-speed, constant-load systems such as series hybrid-electric automobiles or home cogeneration systems can result in significantly improved energy efficiency. For the same electrical energy produced, the emissions from such engines can be comparable to those from natural gas-fired steam power plants. These hydrogen-fueled high-efficiency, low-emission (HELE) engines are a mechanical equivalent of hydrogen fuel cells. HELE engines could facilitate the transition to a hydrogen fuel cell economy using near-term technology.
We report on multijunction GaInP/GaAs photovoltaic cells with total-area efficiencies of 29.5% at one-sun concentration and air mass (AM) 1.5 global and 25.7% one-sun, AM0. These values represent the highest efficiencies achieved by any solar cell under these illumination conditions. Three key areas in this technology are identified and discussed: the grid design, front surface passivation of the top cell, and bottom surface passivation of both cells. Aspects of cell design related to its operation under different solar spectra and under concentration are also discussed.
Pittston Coal Company recognized the potential economic benefit of improving process efficiency with increased capacity at it`s U.K. No. 1 Coal Preparation Plant. Accordingly, extensive research, both domestically and internationally, was conducted to select the appropriate technologies to achieve the desired circuit in the most cost effective manner while, at the same time, sacrificing neither structural integrity nor process performance. Large diameter heavy media cyclone technology was combined with highly efficient banana type screens and improved high intensity magnetic separators to create a coordinated process circuit that provided high efficiency at very high capacities in an economically attractive package.
This paper discusses design considerations for the recently introduced GaInP/GaAs monolithic tandem concentrator cell. The prototype device achieves a peak efficiency of 30.2% in a range of 140--180 suns, making this the first two-terminal device to demonstrate a verified efficiency exceeding 30%. At 425 suns the efficiency is still above 29%. The authors focus on the issues of grid design, top-cell thickness, and antireflectance coat. They also examine ways in which these aspects of the device may be modified to provide further performance improvements for future devices.
Low-dust flue gases can be washed efficiently of SO/sub 2/, and the flue gas heat can be utilized. The residual heat fraction still required by the process is characterized by a temperature of 15/sup 0/K above the temperature of the purified flue gas. Marketable crystalline ammonium sulfate is produced. The high efficiency and low heat consumption are achieved by combining all process stages in a single, fully integrated cycle process free of heat and materials losses. The process is characterized by high efficiency, low investment and operating costs, recovery of thermal energy, and production of an ammonium sulfate fertilizer.
Large scale steam storage power generation, one of the new energy storage systems for the future of inflexible electric power sources consisting of nuclear and coal power plants has been studied on the subjects of the systems to be attached to coal and nuclear power units, of the definition of storage efficiency and of the vertical steam storage vessel technology. Steam storage power generation may be hopeful for its higher efficiency similarly defined as of pumped storage plants while high temperature heat storage and the internal structure of large vertical steam storage vessel (accumulator) need to be developed.
The problem of efficient capture of nonlinear oscillations into resonance is discussed. The capture is guaranteed by passage through resonance when the system starts in equilibrium and the driving amplitude exceeds a threshold. The threshold problem is described by a universal nonlinear Schroedinger-type equation with a single parameter and cannot be analyzed by perturbation methods. A similar threshold phenomenon is a characteristic of two weakly coupled oscillators with a slow parameter if one of the oscillators starts in equilibrium, allowing efficient capture into resonance and subsequent adiabatic (autoresonant) control of strongly excited nonlinear oscillations.
As an application of ART2 neural networks, computer aided monitoring of pump efficiency is successfully examined for an industrial waste-liquid treatment process with measured data of valve openness and liquid flow rates. By running the neural networks in parallel, we confirm that accuracy to detect system changes is good, and the adjustment of classifier parameters is relatively easy. Investigating the resulting classes carefully, frequency of each class is correlated with pump efficiency. The relative amount of variables are also related to the classes. (author)
This paper studies the pricing of variance swap derivatives with stochastic volatility by the control variate method. A closed form solution is derived for the approximate model with deterministic volatility, which plays the key role in the paper, and an efficient control variate technique is therefore proposed when the volatility obeys the log-normal process. By the analysis of moments for the underlying processes, the optimal volatility function in the approximate model is constructed. The numerical results show the high efficiency of our method; the results coincide with the theoretical results. The idea in the paper is also applicable for the valuation of other types of variance swap, options with stochastic volatility and other financial derivatives with multi-factor models.
Enhancing transport sustainability is the password of national, European, and international policies. The development of innovative solutions is ranging from bio fuels to transport analysis models, materials, traction technologies, mobility management, freight villages.
In the case of a serious accident and as a precautionary measure, several protection actions can be implemented by the prefect during the emergency phase. In France the levels of intervention are given by a ministerial decree of the 13. october 2003, resuming recommendations of the International Atomic Energy Agency. The selected values are: an efficient dose of 10 mSv for the stake under cover and in the listening: the concerned persons have to put under cover in a building, any openings carefully closed and stay in the listening of the orders of the prefect; an efficient dose of 50 mSv for evacuation; an efficient dose to the thyroid of 100 mSv for the taking of stable iodine tablets. In order to help the authorities to choose between the keeping of populations at their place or immediate evacuation the decision criteria are: if the forecasted efficient dose of the first month is under 1 mSv, the ...
In the case of a serious accident and as a precautionary measure, several protection actions can be implemented by the prefect during the emergency phase. In France the levels of intervention are given by a ministerial decree of the 13. october 2003, resuming recommendations of the International Atomic Energy Agency. The selected values are: an efficient dose of 10 mSv for the stake under cover and in the listening: the concerned persons have to put under cover in a building, any openings carefully closed and stay in the listening of the orders of the prefect; an efficient dose of 50 mSv for evacuation; an efficient dose to the thyroid of 100 mSv for the taking of stable iodine tablets. In order to help the authorities to choose between the keeping of populations at their place or immediate evacuation the decision criteria are: if the forecasted efficient dose of the first month is under 1 mSv, the ...
Lentiviral vectors enter cells with high efficiency and deliver stable transduction through integration into host chromosomes, but their preference for integration within actively transcribing genes...Full Text Available
... rivers of the world, the Zaire is not an efficient transportation link because of many rapids and falls to negotiate between Kinshasa and the port city of Matadi. ...
This report describes progress during the first year of a three-year project. The objective of the research is to examine new design approaches for achieving very high conversion efficiencies. The program is divided into two areas. The first centers on exploring new thin-film approaches specifically designed for III-V semiconductors. The second area centers on exploring design approaches for achieving high conversion efficiencies without requiring extremely high quality material. Research activities consisted of an experimental study of minority carrier recombination in n-type, metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD)-deposited GaAs, an assessment of the minority carrier lifetimes in n-GaAs grown by molecular beam epitaxy, and developing a high-efficiency cell fabrication process.
This report describes progress during the first year of a three-year project. The objective of the research is to examine new design approaches for achieving very high conversion efficiencies. The program is divided into two areas. The first centers on exploring new thin-film approaches specifically designed for III-V semiconductors. The second area centers on exploring design approaches for achieving high conversion efficiencies without requiring extremely high quality material. Research activities consisted of an experimental study of minority carrier recombination in n-type, metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD)-deposited GaAs, an assessment of the minority carrier lifetimes in n-GaAs grown by molecular beam epitaxy, and developing a high-efficiency cell fabrication process.
Background: The nail gun is a commonly utilized tool in carpentry and construction. When used properly with appropriate safety precautions, it can facilitate production and boost efficiency;...Full Text Available
... These tankers will be converted to a dual-fuel engine to enable them to run efficiently on the biomethane. The other half will be conditioned and injected into National Gridrsquo;s gas distribution network. This will provide enough renewable energy for all the heating and ...
With the improvements accomplished during the past 15 years in detection techniques and instrumentation and with the opening of space exploration, molecular spectroscopy has become a very efficient way to probe planetary atmospheres.
Network generators that capture the Internet's large-scale topology are crucial for the development of efficient routing protocols and modeling Internet traffic. Our ability to design realistic generators...Full Text Available
The first part of the study goes into the determination of efficient strategies for the reduction of air pollutants. The developed method is not only derived theoretically but is tested with the concrete example of emissions sources of a German state. The second part goes into the question what the government can do in order to attain that air pollution abatement measures recognized as being efficient will be put into practice. As market economy mechanisms have advantages over central state planning in the allocation of economic resources the question arises if not also for environmental protection market economy tools may contribute to an improvement of the efficiency of air pollution abatement. Therefore the suitability of different tools of environmental policy for the realization of efficient air pollution abatement is investigated and evaluated. This is again not done abstractly but with existing ...
Magnetic refrigeration uses the temperature- and field-dependence of the entropy of some magnetic materials to accomplish cooling. Because of the intrinsically high efficiency of the magnetization and demagnetization process and because of the potential for excellent heat transfer between solids and fluids, magnetic refrigerators promise to have higher efficiency than existing gas-cycle refrigerators. Many ground-based and space-based applications could benefit significantly from the cost savings implied by higher efficiency. Other attributes of these devices are high reliability and low volume and mass per unit cooling power. The development of these refrigerators is underway at several places around the world, including the Los Alamos National Laboratory. The progress to date has been encouraging but some problems have been clearly identified. The arguments for high efficiency and the problems that ...
The present study describes an efficient chemoenzymatic method for introducing a core N-glycan of glycoprotein origin into various lipophilic natural products. It was found...Full Text Available
This report uses experimental data to compare the performance of two sodium cooled solar central receivers operated at the International Energy Agency Small Solar Power Systems project near Almeria, Spain. Performance includes point-in-time steady state efficiency, average efficiency, start-up time, and operation time. Point-in-time steady state efficiency calculations were based on the statistical method of least squares using receiver incident and absorbed powers. One receiver, a cavity type, showed a peak steady state receiver efficiency of 87% +- 5% and an average efficiency of about 67%. The other receiver, an external ''billboard'' type, had a peak steady state receiver efficiency of 96% +- 4% and an average efficiency of about 79%. The original design peak steady state ...
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4), is quite efficient for multivibrators because complementary outputs are available ... age or ground, much as is done in the complementary multivibrators. ...
We empirically investigated the relationships between the degree of efficiency and the predictability in financial time-series data. The Hurst exponent was used as the measurement of the degree of efficiency, and the hit rate calculated from the nearest-neighbor prediction method was used for the prediction of the directions of future price changes. We used 60 market indexes of various countries. We empirically discovered that the relationship between the degree of efficiency (the Hurst exponent) and the predictability (the hit rate) is strongly positive. That is, a market index with a higher Hurst exponent tends to have a higher hit rate. These results suggested that the Hurst exponent is useful for predicting future price changes. Furthermore, we also discovered that the Hurst exponent and the hit rate are useful as standards that can distinguish emerging capital markets from mature capital markets.
A methane catalytic decomposition reactor-direct carbon fuel cell-internal reforming solid oxide fuel cell (MCDR-DCFC-IRSOFC) energy system is highly efficient for converting the chemical energy of methane into electrical energy. A gas turbine cycle is also used to output more power from the thermal energy generated in the IRSOFC. In part I of this work, models of the fuel cells and the system are proposed and validated. In this part, exergy conservation analysis is carried out based on the developed electrochemical and thermodynamic models. The ratio of the exergy destruction of each unit is examined. The results show that the electrical exergy efficiency of 68.24% is achieved with the system. The possibility of further recovery of the waste heat is discussed and the combined power-heat exergy efficiency is over 80%. (author)
The document presented defines the plan to be used to coordinate the preparation, review, approval, and issuance of the operating procedure documents required to ensure safe and efficient operation of FFTF.
The document presented defines the plan to be used to coordinate the preparation, review, approval, and issuance of the operating procedure documents required to ensure safe and efficient operation of FFTF.
BackgroundSwine is an important agricultural commodity and biomedical model. Manipulation of the pig genome provides opportunity to improve production efficiency, enhance disease...Full Text Available
Machine-to-machine (M2M) communications is a new and rapidly developing technology for large-scale networking of devices without dependence on human interaction. Energy efficiency is one of the important design objectives for machine-to-machine network architectures that often contain multi-hop wireless subnetworks. Constructing energy-efficient routes for sending data through such networks is important not only for the longevity of the nodes which typically depend on battery energy, but also for achieving an environmentally friendly system design overall, which will be imperative as M2M networks scale in number of nodes as projected. The objective of this survey is to provide a comprehensive look into shortest-path based energy-efficient routing alternatives to provide a reference for sys...
... Wright, and Vogel, 1985; Patton, Vogel, Damo- shorter amount of time at the end of the 45-hour kosh, et al., 1989). Lifting strength was signifi- ...
... of the loop filter based on ... algorithms, including delta-sigma approaches, routinely uses double-precision floating point number representations for ...
An important growth in the power of the photovoltaic systems connected to a grid has recently been observed. In spite of the advances in module technology, the problems in the system design increased, especially regarding the surface of the earth they occupy. In this work we propose a complete model for plant simulation with different wiring diagrams and under dynamic shading. Results obtained from simulations showed that the configuration with the lowest performance was that of only one serial-parallel group, whereas the highest efficiency corresponded to a design of groups of modules in parallel connected then in series. In general, a higher efficiency was obtained diminishing the quantity of modules in series and increasing their number in parallel. The simulation model proposed allows exploring different alternatives of wiring modules and finding the most efficient configurations for photovoltaic plants of medium and ...
... the more the populace backs the TTP or, at ... the FATA, which does not wholly belong to Pakistan. ... While Congress authorizes and funds SA and the ...
In response to the Energy Policy Act of 1992 and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission`s subsequent rulemaking on transmission access, many states are exploring options to restructure their electric industries. In their deliberations on restructuring, policymakers should consider (1) the reliability of the electric system; (2) income-distribution effects on ratepayers and utilities; (3) social consequences such as effects on energy conservation, renewable energy, and the environment; and (4) economic efficiency. We address economic-efficiency considerations in this study. Economic efficiency is important because it is one of the primary reasons that policymakers should consider restructuring in the first place: improving the electric-industry`s efficiency lowers costs and, hence, electric prices. In this study, we look at the sources of (in)efficiency in existing and proposed ...
A process has been proposed to increase the efficiency of an ideal Otto cycle via a quantum heat engine that has no cooler reservoir. We show that such a process is not feasible.
Aging can be defined as a progressive decline in physiological efficiency regulated by an extremely complex multifactorial process. The genetic makeup of an individual appears to dictate this rate...Full Text Available
AIM:The study compares the efficiency, side effects and complications of autologous blood pleurodesis with talcum powder and tetracycline.MATERIALS...Full Text Available
This paper assesses farming eco-efficiency using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) techniques. Eco-efficiency scores at both farm and environmental pressure-specific levels are computed for a sample of Spanish farmers operating in the rain-fed agricultural system of Campos County. The determinants of eco-efficiency are then studied using truncated regression and bootstrapping techniques. We contribute to previous literature in this field of research by including information on slacks in the assessment of the potential environmental pressure reductions in a DEA framework. Our results reveal that farmers are quite eco-inefficient, with very few differences emerging among specific environmental pressures. Moreover, eco-inefficiency is closely related to technical inefficiencies in the managemen...
In this paper an efficient quantum secure direct communication (QSDC) scheme with authentication is presented, which is based on quantum entanglement and polarized single photons. The present protocol uses Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) pairs and polarized single photons in batches. A particle of the EPR pairs is retained in the sender's station, and the other is transmitted forth and back between the sender and the receiver, similar to the ``ping-pong'' QSDC protocol. According to the shared information beforehand, these two kinds of quantum states are mixed and then transmitted via a quantum channel. The EPR pairs are used to transmit secret messages and the polarized single photons used for authentication and eavesdropping check. Consequently, because of the dual contributions of the polarized single photons, no classical information is needed. The intrinsic efficiency and total efficiency are both 1 in this scheme as ...
We provide an efficient computational approach to solve the mixed integer programming (MIP) model developed by Tarim and Kingsman [8] for solving a stochastic lot-sizing problem with service level constraints under the static-dynamic uncertainty strategy. The effectiveness of the proposed method hinges on three novelties: (i) the proposed relaxation is computationally efficient and provides an optimal solution most of the time, (ii) if the relaxation produces an infeasible solution, then this solution yields a tight lower bound for the optimal cost, and (iii) it can be modified easily to obtain a feasible solution, which yields an upper bound. In case of infeasibility, the relaxation approach is implemented at each node of the search tree in a branch-and-bound procedure to efficiently sear...
... 3 Illustration of the hidden terminal problem in ... satellite downlink subject to stochastic power demands ... be immediately served, queueing effects are ...
Fuel treatments are being implemented on public and private lands across the western United States. Although scientists and managers have an understanding ... ...
The organizational structure of medical record departments in Iran is not appropriate for the efficient management of healthcare information. In addition, there is no strong information management division...Full Text Available
Three-dimensional seismic wavefields may be extrapolated in depth, one frequency at a time, by two-dimensional convolution with a circularly symmetric, frequency- and velocity-dependent filter. This depth extrapolation, performed for each frequency independently, lies at the heart of 3-D finite-difference depth migration. The computational efficiency of 3-D depth migration depends directly on the efficiency of this depth extrapolation. McClellan transformations provide an efficient method for both designing and implementing two-dimensional digital filters that have a particular form of symmetry, such as the circularly symmetric depth extrapolation filters used in 3-D depth migration. Given the coefficients of one-dimensional, frequency- and velocity-dependent filters used to accomplish 2-D depth migration, McClellan transformations lead to a simple and efficient algorithm for 3-D depth migration. 21 ...
In multi-organisational contexts, scenario building has been used to engage stakeholders in a critical discussion on issues of mutual importance, and to gain their support with regards to possible future responses. A review of existing literature suggests that much has been written regarding the process of scenario development and the benefits of the process, but the detailed analysis of scenario building outcomes, which encompass a large number of issues and their complex interconnections, has not been made explicit for studying and enhancing understanding of a complex societal problem. This paper presents a systematic method for analysing such complex outcomes in order to facilitate reflective thinking on important issues within the wider context for policy development. The method was em...
In this work, we aim to gain a better understanding of the volatility smile observed in options markets through microsimulation (MS). We adopt two types of active traders in our MS model: speculators and arbitrageurs, and call and put options on one underlying asset. Speculators make decisions based on their expectations of the asset price at the option expiration time. Arbitrageurs trade at different arbitrage opportunities such as violation of put-call parity. Difference in liquidity among options is also included. Notwithstanding its simplicity, our model can generate implied volatility (IV) curves similar to empirical observations. Our results suggest that the volatility smile is related to the competing effect of heterogeneous trading behavior and the impact of differential liquidity.
Abstract The Hippo pathway is an evolutionally conserved protein kinase cascade involved in regulating organ size in vivo and cell contact inhibition in vitro by governing cell proliferation and apoptosis. Deregulation of the Hippo pathway is linked to cancer development. Its first core kinase Warts was identified in Drosophila more than 15 years ago, but it gained much attention when other core components of the pathway were identified 8 years later. Major discoveries of the pathway were made during past several years. The core kinase components Hippo, Salvador, Warts, and Mats in the fly and Mst1/2, WW45, Lats1/2, and Mob1 in mammals phosphorylate and inactivate downstream transcriptional co-activators Yorkie in the fly, Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional co-activator with ...
The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of radiosterilization of drugs aqueous solutions and to evaluate the effects of some additives, such as mannitol, nicotinamide and pyridoxine, which might protect the drug from degradation. Metoclopramide was selected as a model drug. The structures of the degradation products were determined to gain insight on the radiolysis mechanisms in aqueous solution in order to design strategies to lower the drug degradation.Metoclopramide hydrochloride aqueous solutions with and without excipients were irradiated either with gamma rays or high-energy electrons. HPLC-DAD was used to measure the loss of chemical potency and to quantify the degradation products which were also characterized by LC-APCI-MS-MS. Metoclopramide recovery for gamma and elec...
Recently the author showed that the widely used simulation code TDA3D, even though a single frequency code, can be used to determine the power spectrum in the SASE process with excellent approximation in the exponential growth regime. In this paper, the author applies this method to the BNL Cornell Wiggler A SASE experiment as an example. When the gain is not very high, there are many modes in the radiation, which seems to make the analytical calculation very difficult. However, he shows that the increment of the radiation due to SASE over the spontaneous radiation can be expanded in terms of guided modes with rapid convergence. Thus when the spontaneous radiation is substracted from the SASE power during the calculation, there is a good agreement between the analytical theory and the numerical simulation.
Recently, we showed (Yu, Phys. Rev. E 58 (1998) 4991) that the widely used simulation code TDA3D, even though a single-frequency code, can be used to determine the power spectrum in the SASE process with excellent approximation in the exponential growth regime. In this paper, we apply this method to the BNL Cornell Wiggler A SASE experiment as an example. When the gain is not very high, there are many modes in the radiation, which seems to make the analytical calculation very difficult. However, we show that the increment of the radiation due to SASE over the spontaneous radiation can be expanded in terms of guided modes with rapid convergence. Thus when the spontaneous radiation is subtracted from the SASE power during the calculation, there is a good agreement between the analytical theory and the numerical simulation.
Abstract Objectives- Cyclodextrins are useful solubilizing excipients that have gained currency in the formulator's armamentarium based on their ability to temporarily camouflage undesirable physicochemical properties. In this context cyclodextrins can increase oral bioavailability, stabilize compounds to chemical and enzymatic degradation and can affect permeability through biological membranes under certain circumstances. This latter property is examined herein as a function of the published literature as well as work completed in our laboratories. Key findings- Cyclodextrins can increase the uptake of drugs through biological barriers if the limiting barrier component is the unstirred water layer (UWL) that exists between the membrane and bulk water. This means that cyclodextrins are mo...
We study systems of multiple localized closed string tachyons and the phenomena associated with their condensation, in C{sup 3}/Z{sub N} non-supersymmetric noncompact orbifold singularities using gauged linear sigma model constructions, following hep-th/0406039. Our study reveals close connections between the combinatorics of non-supersymmetric flip transitions (between topologically distinct resolutions of the original singularity), the physics of tachyons of different degrees of relevance and the singularity structure of the corresponding residual endpoint geometries. This in turn can be used to study the stability of the phases of gauged linear sigma models and gain qualitative insight into the closed string tachyon potential. (author)
Impacts of gas pipeline rights-of-way (ROWs) through wetlands depend on types of habitat, construction techniques, final elevations, ROW maintenance practices, soil composition, and local climate. In some instances factors unrelated to the presence of the pipeline may have greater impacts on wetland modification than does the pipeline itself. At one site, the required seeding program inhibited natural reestablishment of wetland plants; at another, downstream construction resulted in a major disruption to the adjacent wetland habitat. This paper discusses observation from 13 study sites, each zero to 30 years old, that are located in seven Eastern States.
BACKGROUND: The correlation between pesticide residue levels and formulation of an active substance is often not considered, even if it is reasonable to expect some differences arising from behaviour during dilution and spraying, from adhesion to plant and from degradation. An experimental study to investigate the magnitude of tebuconazole residues as a function of different tebuconazole formulated products was carried out in Italy. The fungicide was applied as wettable powder (WP) and water-dispersible granule (WG) formulations to peach, plum, apricot and nectarine orchards, on four different sites. The fruit samples gained from the field trials were quantitatively analysed by gas chromatography with a nitrogen phosphorus detector (GC/NPD) for tebuconazole residues. RESULTS: Tebuconazole ...
Current decisions on greenhouse gas emissions may have effects on human well being for centuries. This project has aimed to extend the economic models designed for analyzing this particular issue. A closely related topic follows from the fact that emitting CO{sub 2} can be interpreted as a utilization of a free access resource, i.e., when countries gain from utilizing cheap fossil fuels (relative to noncarbon energy sources), the possible loss any country suffers from climate change is only a negligible fraction of the total loss of all countries. Thus, from a global point of view, the incentives for an individual country to abate emissions is low. Economic understanding of these problems calls for dynamic game-theoretical models
The concept of the 'white-light cavity' has recently generated considerable research interest in the context of gravitational wave detection. Cavity designs are proposed using negative (or anomalous) dispersion in an intracavity medium to make the cavity resonate over a large range of frequencies and still maintain a high cavity build-up. This paper presents the first experimental attempt and demonstration of white-light effect in a meter long ring cavity using an intracavity atomic medium. The medium's negative dispersion is caused by bi-frequency Raman gain in an atomic vapor cell. Although the white light condition was not perfectly achieved and improvements in experimental control are still desirable, significantly broad cavity response over bandwidth greater than 20 MHz has been observed. These devices will have potential applications in new generation laser interferometer gravitational wave detectors.
The aim of this study is to evaluate the specificities of the irradiation of drugs in frozen aqueous solution. The structures of the degradation products were determined to gain insight into the radiolysis mechanisms occurring in frozen aqueous solutions. Metoclopramide hydrochloride and metoprolol tartrate were chosen as models. The frozen solutions were irradiated at dry ice temperature by high energy electrons at various doses. The drug purity (chemical potency) and the radiolysis products were quantified by HPLC-DAD. Characterization of the degradation products was performed by LC-APCI-MS-MS. The structures of the radiolysis products detected in irradiated frozen aqueous solutions were compared to those detected in solid-state and aqueous solutions (previous studies). For both metoclop...
This volume is based on the proceedings of the CERN Accelerator School's course on Applied Geodesy for Particle Accelerators held in April 1986. The purpose was to record and disseminate the knowledge gained in recent years on the geodesy of accelerators and other large systems. The latest methods for positioning equipment to sub-millimetric accuracy in deep underground tunnels several tens of kilometers long are described, as well as such sophisticated techniques as the Navstar Global Positioning System and the Terrameter. Automation of better known instruments such as the gyroscope and Distinvar is also treated along with the highly evolved treatment of components in a modern accelerator. Use of the methods described can be of great benefit in many areas of research and industrial geodesy such as surveying, nautical and aeronautical engineering, astronomical radio-interferometry, metrology of large components, deformation studies, etc.
Purpose - This paper seeks to provide a social network-based model for improving knowledge management in multi-level supply chains formed by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Design/methodology/approach - This approach uses social network analysis techniques to propose and represent a knowledge network for supply chains. Empirical experience from an exploratory case study in the construction sector is also presented. Findings - This proposal improves the establishment of inter-organizational relationships into networks to exchange knowledge among the companies along the supply chain and to create specific knowledge by promoting confidence and motivation. Originality/value - This proposed model is useful for academics and practitioners in supply chain management to gain a better un...