OBJECTIVE AND DESIGNThis study used qualitative and quantitative methods to examine the reasons primary care physicians and nurses offered for their inability to initiate guideline-concordant...Full Text Available
BackgroundSeveral diseases, many of which nowadays pandemic, consist of multifactorial pathologies. Paradigmatic examples come from the immune response to pathogens, in which cases...Full Text Available
The dynamical effects of spatially homogeneous electromagnetic fields on anisotropic Bianchi type-IX models are studied. The Lagrangians and Hamiltonians affecting the evolution of anisotropy (including the gravitational and electromagnetic potentials) are obtained for very general spatially homogeneous metrics by means of the Arnowitt-Deser-Misner Hamiltonian formalism. For models having diagonal metrics an exact solution for the electromagnetic fields is obtained. This solution allows a qualitative solution for the gravitational variables. The total solution is similar to that of Brill. For Bianchi type-IX models having symmetric and general metrics, a discussion of the qualitative behavior of the universe point under the influence of the above potentials is given. In particular, it is shown that in some cases the presence of the electromagnetic potential inhibits some types of singularities.
The dynamical effects of spatially homogeneous electromagnetic fields on anisotropic Bianchi type-IX models are studied. The Lagrangians and Hamiltonians affecting the evolution of anisotropy (including the gravitational and electromagnetic potentials) are obtained for very general spatially homogeneous metrics by means of the Arnowitt-Deser-Misner Hamiltonian formalism. For models having diagonal metrics an exact solution for the electromagnetic fields is obtained. This solution allows a qualitative solution for the gravitational variables. The total solution is similar to that of Brill. For Bianchi type-IX models having symmetric and general metrics, a discussion of the qualitative behavior of the universe point under the influence of the above potentials is given. In particular, it is shown that in some cases the presence of the electromagnetic potential inhibits some types of singularities.
Geostatistical techniques make it possible to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze spatiotemporal inherent characteristics of environmental radiation or radioactivity. Spatial patterns and trend analysis of environmental radioactivity, e.g., {sup 137}Cs and {sup 40}K, in soil around nuclear facilities (Kori, Wolsung, Yeonggwang, Uljin, and Daejeon) will be investigated and discussed.
Spatial ability is a powerful systematic source of individual differences that has been neglected in complex learning and work settings; it has also been neglected in modeling the development of expertise and creative accomplishments. Nevertheless, over 50years of longitudinal research documents the important role that spatial ability plays in educational and occupational settings wherein sophisticated reasoning with figures, patterns, and shapes is essential. Given the contemporary push for developing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) talent in the information age, an opportunity is available to highlight the psychological significance of spatial ability. Doing so is likely to inform research on aptitude-by-treatment interactions and Underwood's (1975) idea to utili...
Nest locations of breeding birds are often spatially clustered. This tendency to nest together has generally been related to a patchy distribution of nesting habitat in landscape studies, but behavioral studies of species with clustered breeding patterns draw attention to the importance of social and biotic factors. Indeed, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the breeding system of many territorial, migrant birds may be semi-colonial. The reasons for, and extent of, spatial clustering in their breeding systems are not well understood. Our goal was to tease apart the influence of habitat availability and social drivers of clustered breeding in a neotropical migrant species, the hooded warbler (Wilsonia citrina). To test alternative hypotheses related to clustered habitat or conspecifi...
English abstract: In the "Intuitive Quantum Physics" course, we use graphical interpretations of mathematical equations and qualitativereasoning to develop and teach a simplified model of quantum physics. Our course contains three units: Wave physics, Development of a conceptual toolbox, and quantum physics. It also contains three key themes: wave-particle duality, the Schroedinger equation, and tunneling of quantum particles. Students learn most new material in lab-tutorials in which students work in small groups (3 to 3 people) on specially designed worksheets. Lecture reinforces the lab-tutorial content and focuses more on issues about the nature of science. Data show that students are able to learn some of the most difficult concepts in the course, and also that students learn to believe that there is a conceptually accessible structure to the physics in the course. German abstract: Im Kurs "Intuitive Quantum Physics" werden graphische ...
Real-time neutron radiography was demonstrated to be a viable and useful tool in studying water flow in unsaturated media. The experiment was designed to test the method for following water flow. The wetting front advance, water-flow patterns, and neutron attenuation density were observed in a 7.7-cm diameter sand column. The advance was fit with a simple i = A t/sup B/ equation yielding an excellent correlation. Theoretical calculations presented estimate the minimum and maximum detectable water content in various sizes of columns. The ability of real-time neutron radiography to allow both qualitative and quantitative spatial and time measurements to be made in an nonintrusive manner was demonstrated.
Real-time neutron radiography was demonstrated to be a viable and useful tool in studying water flow in unsaturated media. The experiment was designed to test the method for following water flow. The wetting front advance, water-flow patterns, and neutron attenuation density were observed in a 7.7-cm diameter sand column. The advance was fit with a simple i = A t/sup B/ equation yielding an excellent correlation. Theoretical calculations presented estimate the minimum and maximum detectable water content in various sizes of columns. The ability of real-time neutron radiography to allow both qualitative and quantitative spatial and time measurements to be made in an nonintrusive manner was demonstrated.
Entorhinal grid cells in mammals fire as a function of animal location, with spatially periodic response patterns. This nonlocal periodic representation of location, a local variable, is unlike other neural codes. There is no theoretical explanation for why such a code should exist. We examined how accurately the grid code with noisy neurons allows an ideal observer to estimate location and found this code to be a previously unknown type of population code with unprecedented robustness to noise. In particular, the representational accuracy attained by grid cells over the coding range was in a qualitatively different class from what is possible with observed sensory and motor population codes. We found that a simple neural network can effectively correct the grid code. To the best of our kn...
A detailed chemical kinetic model to describe the autoignition of gasoline surrogate fuels is presented consisting of the fuels iso-octane, n-heptane, toluene, diisobutylene and ethanol. Model predictions have been compared with shock tube ignition delay time data for surrogates of gasoline over practical ranges of temperature and pressure, and the model has been found to be sensitive to both changes in temperature and pressure. Moreover, the model can qualitatively predict the observed synergistic and antagonistic non-linear blending behaviour in motor octane number (MON) for different combinations of primary reference fuels (PRFs) and non-PRFs by correlating calculated autoignition delay times from peak pressures and temperatures in the MON test to experimental MON values. The reasons for the blending behaviour are interpreted in terms autoignition chemistry. 37 refs., 11 figs., 4 tabs.
A series of 27 reflood experiments has been carried out in a full-length electrically heated rod bundle facility. The primary objective of these tests was to study the effects of a simultaneous upper plenum and downcomer coolant injection and to provide data for the verification of computer codes. The experimental results indicate that an upper plenum injection alone cools the test rods slowly, a simultaneous coolant injection to the downcomer improves cooling significantly, and a downcomer injection alone cools the test rod bundle best if the total value of the coolant flow rate is the same in these three different cases. If the coolant injected to the upper plenum increases the total flow rate, the quench time of the test rods decreases at all elevations. Quenching time and clad temperature histories calculated with the computer codes NORCOOL-I and FLOOD4 are in a reasonable quantitative agreement with experiments in the case of pure downcomer injection. ...
The research project's objective is to create a decision help for owners of residential buildings for several families regarding the renewal of decentralized heating and warm water preparation systems in the flats. The focus lies on a comparison of the costs of typical systems on the basis of a full cost calculation. This is done by taking into consideration the intentions of residential building companies like the reduction of additional costs to be paid by the tenants (both for social reasons and to make the flats easier to rent), low investment costs, low maintenance costs, energy saving, tenants' claims for comfort and acceptance by the tenants, economical reasons, especially regarding flats fully amortized (activation in the balance sheet). In addition to the quantitative comparison, the advantages and disadvantages of the different systems were also compared to one another from the qualitative point ...
Medical imaging using single gamma-ray-emitting radionuclides typically makes use of parallel hole collimators or pinholes in order to achieve good spatial resolution. However, a tradeoff in sensitivity is inherent in the use of a collimator, and modern preclinical single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) systems detect a very small fraction of emitted gamma rays, often less than 0.1%. A system for small animal SPECT imaging which uses no collimators could potentially achieve very high sensitivity-several tens of percent-with reasonably sized detectors. This would allow two significant improvements in preclinical studies: images could be obtained more rapidly, allowing higher throughput for screening applications, or for dynamic processes to be observed with very good time resolution; and images could be obtained with less radioactive tracer, making possible the in vivo imaging of low-capacity receptor systems, aiding research into ...
In this work, we address the problem of road interpretation for driver assistance based on an early cognitive vision system. The structure of a road and the relevant traf?c are interpreted in terms of ego-motion estimation of the car, independently moving objects on the road, lane markers and large scale maps of the road. We make use of temporal and spatial disambiguation mechanisms to increase the reliability of visually extracted 2D and 3D information. This information is then used to interpret the layout of the road by using lane markers that are detected via Bayesian reasoning. We also estimate the ego-motion of the car which is used to create large scale maps of the road and also to detect independently moving objects. Sample results for the presented algorithms are shown on a stereo image sequence, that has been collected from a structured road.
Raniganj and Jharia regions together have been for long the single largest coal supplier in India, now contributing about a quarter of the total output in the country. Numerous reasons such as improper mining techniques and policy, as well as unauthorized mining caused surface and subsurface coalfires in these areas. These coalfires burn millions of tonnes of valuable coal resources, creating severe environmental problems and posing enormous operational difficulties of mining. After first use of remote sensing as a tool to identify coalfires in 1960s, with the time, the efficiency of remote sensing to identify and monitoring coalfires has been well established by several researchers. With the knowledge of local geological setting and density sliced surface temperature image the spatial dis...
Hepatobiliary scintigraphy is the only non-invasive technique providing real-time assessment of hepatocytes function and bile progression from the liver to the intestine; for this reason it is of great importance in the study of jaundice and many other disorders of the liver and the biliary tract in children. Ultrasonography is the initial method of evaluating the intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts dilatation: the differential diagnosis between biliary atresia and neonatal hepatitis cannot however be done without hepatobiliary scintigraphy. Cystic fibrosis patients also require hepatobiliary scintigraphy; liver and biliary tract disease can really occur independently of the underlying disease severity and the presence of steatorrhoea. Hepatobiliary imaging in children who have undergone liver transplantation is of major importance; it can assess vascularity, parenchymal function biliary drainage, possible presence of a bile leak and obstruction; it has very good ...
While dealing with molecular systems, it is highly advantageous to work with a basis set which has definite total spin and also belongs to a definite irreducible representation of its symmetry (point) group. But unfortunately, there hadn't been any general simple technique to deal with the problem, especially when molecule possesses non-Abelian point group symmetry. In a previous paper \\cite{sahoo}, we presented a general technique which is a hybrid method based on Valence Bond basis and the basis of z-component of the total spin. The technique is applicable to all types of point groups and is easy to implement on computer. We illustrated the power of the method by applying it to a molecular magnetic system. Here we extend the method to electronic systems and demonstrate this extended technique by applying it to a model icosahedral half-filled electronic system (12 sites). Reasons we took this model are, its a system with huge Hilbert space (dimension 1,778,966; ...
Inventories of emissions and removals of greenhouse gases will be used under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol to demonstrate compliance with obligations. During the negotiation process of the Kyoto Protocol it has been a concern that uptake of carbon in forest sinks can be difficult to verify. The reason for large uncertainties are high temporal and spatial variability and lack of representative estimation parameters. Additional uncertainties will be a consequence of definitions made in the Kyoto Protocol reporting. In the Nordic countries the national forest inventories will be very useful to estimate changes in carbon stocks. The main uncertainty lies in the conversion from changes in tradable timber to changes in total carbon biomass. The uncertainties in the emissions of the non-CO{sub 2} carbon from forest soils are particularly high. On the other hand the removals reported under the Kyoto ...
The thesis relates to an investigation done on greenhouse gases in coniferous forest soils. The production of nitrous oxide (N{sub 2}O) and carbon dioxide (CO{sub 2}), and the consumption of methane (CH{sub 4}) in a temperate forest soil were studied by a rapid and sensitive gas chromatographic (GC) method for analysing all three greenhouse gases at or below ambient levels. Gas fluxes were measured in soil incubation and lysimeter experiments. 15 soil samples were taken at random within a 100 m{sup 2} area in a Norway spruce forest stand (Picea abies). The fluxes of N{sub 2}O, CH{sub 4} and CO{sub 2} were measured under standardized laboratory incubation conditions to investigate spatial variability in relation to other factors such as nitrogen (N) mineralization rate, nitrification rate, organic carbon (OC), total N and pH. The effects of temperature, soil moisture content, and ammonium addition were also studied in an incubation experiment. A more detailed study ...
Computational transport models are described with applications in three problem areas related to unsaturated zone moisture movement beneath Area G. These studies may be used to support the ongoing maintenance of the site Performance Assessment. The three areas include: a 1-D transient analysis with average tuff hydraulic properties in the near surface region with computed results compared to field data; the influence on near surface transient moisture percolation due to realistic distributions in hydraulic properties derived statistically from the observed variance in the field data; and the west to east moisture flow in a 2-D steady geometry approximation of the Pajarito Plateau. Results indicate that a simple transient model for transport of moisture volume fraction fits field data well compared to a moisture pulse observed in the active disposal unit, pit 37. Using realistic infiltration boundary conditions for summer showers and for spring snow melt conditions, the computed ...
Combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy (CRC) is actually one important way of research in oncology. Theoretical advantages are: (1) Spatial cooperation; (2) Additivity, which is only obtained if the toxicity of each modality are different; (3) Supra-additivity, which needs a rigorous in vitro definition; the only way to prove it is to make an isobologram analysis. This model has however, some limitations: qualitative variable could not be used, results could be different, depending on the cell line and isoeffect chosen...In fact, a supra-additivity was only demonstrated for cis platinum and etoposide. Interactions mechanisms were: (1) at the molecular level, creation of new lesions or inhibition of radiation lesions repair; (2) At the cellular level, either cytokinetic cooperation with S-phase dependent drugs, or synchronization for the drugs which blocked the cells in M-phase; (3) At the tissular level, reoxygenation, cycle ...
Lappeenranta University of Technology (LTKK) and VTT Energy carried out a series of preliminary tests in 1999 to study the behavior of noncondensable (NC) gases in VVER geometry. The tests aimed at studying the effect of NC gases on system thermal-hydraulics and on heat transfer in a horizontal steam generator (HSG). The system behavior can be affected by hydrogen produced in the core in case of a severe accident, by nitrogen from hydro-accumulators released into the primary circuit in case of a loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) and more generally by any NC gas in all cases where cooling is ensured by natural circulation. A secondary objective of the tests - the first series of tests ever performed with NC gas with PACTEL - was to find out, if the instrumentation of PACTEL was adequate for this type of tests and if it was functioning properly. This paper presents the measured and calculated (CATHARE code version V15a mod 2.1) results of the test NCg-l. It was carried out in natural ...
This report summarizes the results of an expert-opinion elicitation activity designed to qualitatively assess the status and capabilities of currently available computer codes and models for accident analysis and reactor safety calculations of advanced sodium fast reactors, and identify important gaps. The twelve-member panel consisted of representatives from five U.S. National Laboratories (SNL, ANL, INL, ORNL, and BNL), the University of Wisconsin, the KAERI, the JAEA, and the CEA. The major portion of this elicitation activity occurred during a two-day meeting held on Aug. 10-11, 2010 at Argonne National Laboratory. There were two primary objectives of this work: (1) Identify computer codes currently available for SFR accident analysis and reactor safety calculations; and (2) Assess the status and capability of current US computer codes to adequately model the required accident scenarios and associated phenomena, and identify important gaps. During the review, ...
The Four years of the IMPACT, 'Integrated Modular Plant Analysis and Computing Technology' project Phase 1 have been completed. The verification study of Severe Accident Analysis Code SAMPSON prototype developed in Phase 1 was conducted in two steps. First, each analysis module was run independently and analysis results were compared and verified against separate-effect test data with good results. Test data are as follows: CORA-13 (FZK) for the Core Heat-up Module; VI-3 of HI/VI Test (ORNL) for the FP Release from Fuel Module; KROTOS-37 (JRC-ISPRA) for the Molten Core Relocation Module; Water Spread Test (UCSB) for the Debris Spreading Model and Benard's Melting Test for Natural Convection Model in the Debris Cooling Module; Hydrogen Burning Test (NUPEC) for the Ex-Vessel Thermal Hydraulics Module; PREMIX, PM10 (FZK) for the Steam Explosion Module; and SWISS-2 (SNL) for the Debris-Concrete Interaction Module. Second, with the Simulation Supervisory System, up to 11 analysis modules ...
Primary dendrite spacings, secondary dendrite spacings, and microsegregation have been examined in PWA-1480 single crystal specimens which were directionally solidified during parabolic maneuvers on the KC-135 aircraft. Experimentally observed growth rate and thermal gradient dependence of primary dendrite spacings are in good agreement with predictions from dendrite growth models for binary alloys. Secondary dendrite coarsening kinetics show a reasonable fit with the predictions from an analytical model proposed by Kirkwood for a binary alloy. The partition coefficients of tantalum, titanium, and aluminum are observed to be less than unity, while that for tungsten and cobalt are greater than unity. This is qualitatively similar to the nickel base binaries. Microsegregation profiles experimentally observed for PWA-1480 superalloy show a good fit with Bower, Brody, and Flemings model developed for binary alloys. Transitions in gravity levels do ...
BackgroundDiagnostic delay in patients with tuberculosis (TB) leads to ongoing TB transmission, higher mortality rates and increased patient and government health expenditure. Qualitative...Full Text Available
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
Spatial epidemiology is the description and analysis of geographic variations in disease with respect to demographic, environmental, behavioral, socioeconomic, genetic, and infectious risk factors....Full Text Available
green (both light and dark tones) and purple, bare areas are seen in ...... spatial scale continue to plague such efforts. Knowledge of the spatial ...
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
Previously, an analytical dose calculation algorithm for MLC-based radiotherapy was developed and commissioned, which includes a detailed model of various MLC effects as a unique feature [1]. The algorithm was originally developed as an independent verification of the treatment planning system's dose calculation and it explicitly modeled spatial and depth dependent MLC effects such as interleaf transmission, the tongue-and-groove effect, rounded leaf ends, MLC scatter, beam hardening, and gradual MLC transmission fall-off with increasing off-axis distance. Originally the algorithm was implemented in Mathematica trademark (Wolfram). To speed up the calculation time and to be able to calculate high resolution 2D dose distributions within a reasonable time frame (<2 s) the algorithm needs to be optimized and to be embedded in a user friendly environment. To achieve this goal, the dose calculation model is implemented in Visual Basic 6.0, which ...
The linear/supralinear behaviour of the TL dose response in LiF:Mg,Ti (TLD-100) and its dependence on ionisation density is a fairly unique phenomenon which cannot be explained by conventional atomic 'conduction band/valence band' kinetic models. The Track Interaction Model (TIM) provides the microscopic framework which, when coupled with other appropriate physical mechanisms (spatial localisation of traps and recombination centres, competing centres, variations in the capture cross sections with temperature, etc.) can be used to describe all the dominant features of the TL supralinearity of LiF:Mg,Ti and similar TL systems. The unique feature of the TIM applied to alpha particles is that it is an integral approach with only one free parameter, the average charge carrier migration distance in the luminescence recombination stage. Although the TIM provides a comprehensive description of the mechanisms underlying supralinearity in TLD-100, ...
High-energy ionizing radiation is a prominent modality for the treatment of many cancers. The approaches to electron dose calculation can be categorized into semi-empirical models (e.g. Fermi-Eyges, convolution-superposition) and probabilistic methods (e.g. Monte Carlo). A third approach to dose calculation has only recently attracted attention in the medical physics community. This approach is based on the deterministic kinetic equations of radiative transfer. We derive a macroscopic partial differential equation model for electron transport in tissue. This model involves an angular closure in the phase space. It is exact for the free streaming and the isotropic regime. We solve it numerically by a newly developed HLLC scheme based on Berthon et al (2007 J. Sci. Comput. 31 347-89) that exactly preserves the key properties of the analytical solution on the discrete level. We discuss several test cases taken from the medical physics literature. A test case with an academic ...
This paper describes a Qualitative/Screening Methodology included in the draft ANS Low Power and Shutdown (LPSD) PRA (Probabilistic Risk Assessment) Standard. The screening methodology can be used to eliminate certain specified shutdown POSs (Plant Operating States) from requiring further quantitative risk assessment in the context of a specified application based on demonstrating that their risk is lower than some predetermined limiting value. The paper also describes a methodology for qualitative risk assessment (QRA) tools that are used to support the screening process. The paper outlines the bases of both methodologies. (authors)
Experiments were conducted to confirm the isotropic spatial resolution of multislice CT with a 0.5 mm slice thickness. Isotropic spatial resolution means that the spatial resolution in the transaxial plane (X-Y plane) and that in the longitudinal direction (Z direction) are equivalent. To obtain point spread function (PSF) values in the X-Y-Z directions, three-dimensional voxel data were obtained by helical scanning of a bead phantom. The modulation transfer function (MTF) values were then obtained by three-dimensional Fourier transform of the PSF. Evaluation of the spatial resolution in the X-Y-Z directions by the MTF values showed that the spatial resolution in the Z direction does not depend on the reconstruction kernel used. It was also found that the spatial resolution in the Z direction, as compared with that in the X-Y plane, is superior with the standard ...
OBJECTIVEEvaluate the qualitative and quantitative differences between moderated and unmoderated on-line social support groups focused on asthma.DESIGNA...Full Text Available
Much progress has been made in understanding the complex pharmacokinetics of trichloroethylene (TCE). Qualitatively, it is clear that TCE is metabolized to multiple metabolites either locally or into...Full Text Available
Spatial skills are a central component of intellect and show marked individual differences. There is evidence that variations in the spatial language young children hear, which directs their attention to important aspects of the spatial environment, may be one of the mechanisms that contributes to these differences. To investigate how play affects variations in language, parents and children were assigned to 1 of 3 conditions: free play with blocks, guided play, or play with preassembled structures (Study 1). Parents in the guided play condition produced significantly higher proportions of spatial talk than parents in the other two conditions, and children in the guided play condition produced significantly more spatial talk than those in the free play condition. Study 2 established baseli...
We analyzed the effect of short-term water deficits at different periods of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) leaf development on the spatial and temporal patterns of tissue expansion...Full Text Available
Although there have been numerous studies investigating subjective spatial impression in rooms, only a few of those studies have addressed the influence of visual cues on the judgment of auditory measures....Full Text Available
BackgroundGeographic Information Systems (GIS) can provide valuable insight into patterns of human activity. Online spatial display applications, such as Google Earth, can democratise...Full Text Available
The effect of spatial auditory information on a listener's ability to detect, identify, and monitor multiple simultaneous speech signals was evaluated using virtual audio technology. Factorial combinations of three variables - the number of localized spee...
Bacterial processes in soil, including biodegradation, require contact between bacteria and substrates. Knowledge of the three-dimensional spatial distribution of bacteria at the microscale is necessary...Full Text Available
Spatial abilities have been associated with many ecologically-relevant behaviors such as territoriality, mate choice, navigation and acquisition of food resources. Differential demands on spatial...Full Text Available
While many lessons have been learned from the spatial analysis of cancer, there are several caveats that apply to many, if not all such analyses. As "flies in the ointment", these can substantially...Full Text Available
Water-maze testing has been used to assess prenatal cocaine (PCOC)- induced deficits in behavioral studies of spatial navigation and memory abilities. Effects of PCOC in acquisition or in probe...Full Text Available
Abstract: HARVEST was designed as a strategic research and planning tool, allowing assessment of the spatial pattern consequences of broad timber management ...
... losing unit should document reasons for rehabilitation in a counseling with a view ... of the reprimand and have received at least one OER or NCOER. ...
... The goal is to understand and describe the work actors do, their information behavior, the context in which they work, and the reasons for their ...
This doctoral thesis addresses some problems in the analysis of spatial and spatial-temporal data and discusses prediction, prediction errors and identification of emission sources. European sulphur data are used as illustration. In an investigation of a spatial-temporal decomposition model for improving estimates of spatial interpolation (prediction) errors from monitoring data, the estimates were improved compared to estimates obtained by the method known as Kriging (an extension of the Wiener-Kolmogorov theory from time series to spatial processes), although the interpolated values were quite similar. A study of a random process model with an unknown, slowly varying trend and a correlated residual process is performed, using both trend estimation (smoothing) and prediction. Local polynomial methods are extended to continuous random processes. A new approach to non-parametric ...
Smoking during pregnancy is widely known to increase health risks to the foetus, and understanding the quitting process during pregnancy is essential in order to realise national government targets. Qualitative studies have been used in order to gain a greater understanding of the quitting process and the objective of this systematic review was to examine and evaluate qualitative studies that have investigated the psychological and social factors around women attempting to quit smoking during pregnancy. Electronic databases and journals were searched with seven articles included in this review. The findings demonstrated that women were aware of the health risks to the foetus associated with smoking; however knowledge of potential health risks was not sufficient to motivate them to quit. Se...
Two hazard risk assessment matrices for the ranking of occupational health risks are described. The qualitative matrix uses qualitative measures of probability and consequence to determine risk assessment codes for hazard-disease combinations. A walk-through survey of an underground metalliferous mine and concentrator is used to demonstrate how the qualitative matrix can be applied to determine priorities for the control of occupational health hazards. The semi-quantitative matrix uses attributable risk as a quantitative measure of probability and uses qualitative measures of consequence. A practical application of this matrix is the determination of occupational health priorities using existing epidemiological studies. Calculated attributable risks from epidemiological studies of hazard-disease combinations in mining and minerals processing are used as examples. These historic response data do not ...
Objectives. We assessed the effectiveness of various systems of community participation in ethical review of environmental health research.Methods. We used situation...Full Text Available
BackgroundInternationally, there is increasing use of telephone consultations, particularly for triaging requests for acute care. However, little is known about how this mode of...Full Text Available
BackgroundThe National Consortium for Multicultural Education for Health Professionals (Consortium) comprises educators representing 18 US medical schools, funded by the National...Full Text Available
In order to maintain a safe operation and availability of generating facilities, qualitative and quantitative assessment of piping vibration was performed vibration sources and damages of piping support was identified on the second piping system of Wolsun...
Background In May 2000, AstraZeneca launched a Web service for asthma patients and health-care providers called LinkMedica, which includes an asthma diary for...Full Text Available
In a Swedish community-based program for the treatment of dental phobic patients, a clinical trial was performed among 99 severely phobic individuals with long-standing avoidance of dental treatment....Full Text Available
PURPOSE: The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the causes and management of blindness and blinding eye conditions as perceived by rural dwellers of two Yoruba communities in Oyo State,...Full Text Available
Probabilities of flucton production have been calculated for the 1p-shell nuclei and its modification by the Yastrov method. The results obtained are in a qualitative agreement with the data resulting from the analysis of experiment in an assumption of a flucton mechanism of proton-nuclear inclusive reactions with the production of cumulative particles.
Background Little is known about how migrants adapt to first-world public health systems. In Norway, patients are assigned a registered general practitioner (RGP) to provide basic care...Full Text Available
Using a feminist approach, we examined the menopausal symptom experience of Hispanic midlife women in the U.S. This was a qualitative online forum study among 27 Hispanic midlife women in the...Full Text Available
Objectives To understand the perspectives of people with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as their illness progresses, and of their informal and professional carers,...Full Text Available
The full impact of secondary stigma (stigma directed at family) on an HIV-positive individual is unknown. This qualitative research explores perceptions of secondary stigma in the Vietnamese...Full Text Available
BackgroundToday, there is a trend towards establishing the medical humanities as a component of medical education. However, medical humanities programs that exist within the context...Full Text Available
BackgroundResearch has shown that the long term management of food allergy is suboptimal. Our study aims to provide direction for improvement, by evaluating food allergy management...Full Text Available
Emergency Departments (ED) are fast-paced, information-intensive environments where patient care team members must address their information needs quickly and accurately. We conducted a qualitative...Full Text Available
BackgroundOsteoporosis affects over 200 million people worldwide, and represents a significant cost burden. Although guidelines are available for best practice in osteoporosis, evidence...Full Text Available
Qualitative and quantitative aspects of the mechanisms involved in the regulation of cytoplasmic pH during an acid-load have been studied in Acer pseudoplatanus cells. Two main processes,...Full Text Available
For sufficiently cool remote gases, the cylindrical stretched flame shows classical ignition-extinction behavior. For remote gas temperatures close to the adiabatic flame temperature, the flame response is qualitatively different, with negative flame speed solutions which may be physically accessible.
BackgroundAlthough the health benefits of breastfeeding are well established, early introduction of formula remains a common practice. Cultural beliefs and practices can have an...Full Text Available
A simulation is developed that qualitatively describes the small-zone-gel-filtration behaviour of a reversibly associating protein. The results reflect the dependence of the apparent molecular weight...Full Text Available
BackgroundComplex situations that follow war and natural disasters have a psychosocial impact on not only the individual but also on the family, community and society. Just as the...Full Text Available
BackgroundThe first vaccine to prevent human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer has been licensed, and in future, vaccination may be routinely offered to 10–14 year...Full Text Available
(B204)Probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) insights are now used by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USNRC) to confirm the level of safety for plant operations and to justify changes in nuclear power plant operating requirements, both on an exception basis and as changeds to a plant's licensing basis. This report examines qualitative and quantitative risk assessments during shutdown plant states, providing feedback to utilities in the use of qualitative models for outage risk management, and also providing input to the development of the American Nuclear Society (ANS) Low Power and Shutdown PRA Standard.
(B204)Probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) insights are now used by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USNRC) to confirm the level of safety for plant operations and to justify changes in nuclear power plant operating requirements, both on an exception basis and as changeds to a plant's licensing basis. This report examines qualitative and quantitative risk assessments during shutdown plant states, providing feedback to utilities in the use of qualitative models for outage risk management, and also providing input to the development of the American Nuclear Society (ANS) Low Power and Shutdown PRA Standard.
The objective of Configuration Risk Management Program(CRMP) is to maintain the safety level by assuring the defense-in-depth of nuclear power plant while the configurations are changed during plant operations, especially for the LP/SD. Such a safety purpose can be achieved by establishing the risk monitoring programs with both quantitative and qualitative features. Generally, the quantitative risk evaluation models, i.e., PRA models are used for the risk evaluation during full power operation, and the qualitative risk evaluation models such as safety function assessment trees are used. Through this study, safety function assessment trees were developed.
Aggregation of fine-resolution land-cover maps to coarser scales indicates that estimates of the proportions of land-cover types vary as a function of spatial resolution. The magnitude of these proportional errors in a forested area in northern California increase significantly as resolution exceeds a 90-m threshold. These errors could pose difficulties for the use of land-cover products generated from coarse-resolution sensors such as the NOAA-AVHRR and the MODIS sensor planned for the EOS program. The magnitude of the errors appears to be a function of the spatial resolution of the map, the original size of the land-cover classes, and the spatial patterns of the classes.
A wavelet transformation is performed over each of the spatial coordinates of the scalar wave equation. This transformed equation is solved directly with a finite-difference scheme for both homogeneous and smooth inhomogeneous media. Wavefield extrapolation is performed completely in the spatial wavelet domain without transforming back into the space domain at each time step. The wavelet coefficients are extrapolated, rather than the wavefield itself. The numerical solution of the scalar wave equation in the spatial wavelet domain is closely related to the finite-difference method because of the compact support of the wavelet bases. Poststack reverse-time migration is implemented as an application. The resolution spaces of the wavelet transform provide a natural framework for multigrid analysis. Migrated images are constructed from various resolution spaces.
The specificity of the hemodynamic response function (HRF) is determined spatially by the vascular architecture and temporally by the evolution of hemodynamic changes. The stimulus duration...Full Text Available
The Morris water maze is widely used to evaluate to evaluate the spatial learning ability of rodents under laboratory settings. The present study demonstrates that reproductive male meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus, are able to acquire and retain a spatial water maze task using celestial cues. Voles were able to acquire a modified outdoor Morris water maze task over 4 trials per day, whereby they had to learn and remember the location of a submerged hidden platform, using the position of the sun and associated celestial cues. Their proficiency on this task was related to the availability of the celestial cues, with voles displaying significantly poorer spatial navigation on overcast than clear days and when the testing time (and position of the sun and associated celestial cues) was shifted from morning to afternoon. These findings with meadow voles support the ecological relevance of the water maze task. PMID:8031502
Spatial Fluorescence Cross Correlation Spectroscopy is a rarely investigated version of Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy, in which the fluorescence signals from differ-ent observation volumes are cross-correlated. In the reported experiments, two observation volumes, typically shifted by a few $\\mu$m, are produced, with a Spatial Light Modulator and two adjustable pinholes. We illustrated the feasibility and potentiality of this technique by: i) measuring molecular flows, in the range 0.2 - 1.5 $\\mu$m/ms, of solutions seeded with fluorescent nanobeads or rhodamine molecules (simulating active transport phenomenons); ii) investigating the perme-ability of phospholipidic membrane of Giant Unilamellar Vesicles versus hydrophilic or hydrophobic molecules (in that case the laser spots were set on both sides of the mem-brane). Theoretical descriptions are proposed together with a discussion about FCS based, alternative methods.
the southern Arabian Gulf region left its signature on the heterogeneous aerosol .... Arabian Gulf region, since large differences in ? may be caused by ...
... The variogram analysis of the high resolution imagery has shown that although more spatial scales have been identified than from the SPOT image ...
The original objective of our EMSP research was to design, develop, and test new in situ field permeameters for use in spatial variability studies of unsaturated hydraulic properties. We initially focused on activities related to development and testing of techniques for inverting permeameter data, development of numerical tools for data inversion, error evaluation for permeameter design, and permeameter component design. However, the results of error evaluations for permeameter design caused us to redirect our research, and reformulate our research objectives. We discovered that small, simple measurement errors lead to significant bias in the estimated hydraulic properties and their spatial statistics. Our reformulated research objective became the evaluation of the origin, impact and relevance of spatial bias in field-and laboratory-estimated unsaturate hydraulic properties, with an emphasis on ...
vetted educational resources. (Gregory Smith, Lafayette, La., 337-266-8501) Award for DARPA Competition: Scott Wilson, spatial analysis branch chief at the USGS National Wetlands...
Even if there have been efforts to validate remote-sensing-based energy balance models, which provide evapotranspiration (ET) maps over a large spatial scale, few studies have been conducted to validate their performance in Korea. In this study, surface energy balance fluxes including ET were estimated and inter-compared with two different models using the Landsat-5 Thematic Mapper (TM) image over a watershed scale in Korea. While there were larger spatial discrepancies for net radiation, soil heat and sensible heat fluxes on a pixel-by-pixel basis between the two models, relatively smaller spatial discrepancies for the latent heat flux and daily ET were detected. The spatial discrepancies for the daily ET were larger in low topography and dense vegetation ranges. Despite the different par...
... coordinates to allow for multisensor fusion, trajectory ... of an image processing toolkit (iPTK ... effectiveness of data-driven registration processing, spatial ...
Cis-acting regulatory sequences are required for the proper temporal and spatial control of gene expression. Variation in gene expression is highly heritable and a significant determinant...Full Text Available
... 1-sigma ZOHF pixel-to-plxel statistical fluctuations ... Spatial frequency filtering shows distinct bands, but miss ... LOS emissivity at the point of closest ...
The association between invasive and native species varies across spatial scales and is affected by phylogenetic relatedness, but these issues have rarely been addressed in aquatic ecosystems. In this study, we used a non-native, highly invasive species of Poaceae (tropical signalgrass) to test the hypotheses that (i) tropical signalgrass success correlates negatively with success of most native species of macrophytes at fine spatial scales, but its success correlates positively or at random with natives at coarse spatial scales, and that (ii) tropical signalgrass is less associated with native species belonging to the family Poaceae than with species belonging to other families (Darwin?s naturalization hypothesis). We used a dataset obtained at fine (0.25?m2) and coarse (ca. 1,000?m2) sca...
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability to enhance distribution of eelgrass (Zostera marina) in the Columbia River Estuary to serve as refuge and feeding habitat for juvenile salmon, Dungeness crab, and other fish and wildlife. We strongly suspected that limited eelgrass seed dispersal has resulted in the present distribution of eelgrass meadows, and that there are other suitable places for eelgrass to survive and form functional meadows. Funded as part of the Bonneville Power Administration's call for Innovative Projects, we initiated a multistage study in 2008 that combined modeling, remote sensing, and field experimentation to: (1) Spatially predict habitat quality for eelgrass; (2) Conduct experimental plantings; and (3) Evaluate restoration potential. Baseline in-situ measurements and remote satellite observations were acquired for locations in the Lower Columbia River Estuary (LCRE) to determine ambient habitat conditions. These were ...
It is proved the mathematical theorem, that the wave function describes the statistical ensemble of particles, but not a single particle. Supposition, that the wave function describes a single particle appears to be incompatible with formalism of quantum mechanics. One discusses the reasons, why this very simple statement has not been proved mathematically for many years. The reason lies in application of the trial and error methods for construction of the quantum mechanics. Application of this method as the main tool of investigation during eighty years generated "fitting mentality" of all microwold researchers.
Drawing on work in epistemology and the philosophy of science, this paper seeks to provide very general reasons for why a comparative perspective needs to be applied to the inferential procedures of research methodologies where these concern the issue of justifying knowledge claims. In particular, the paper explores the role of culture on a number of important patterns of reasoning that figure in inferential arguments in research methodologies. The patterns examined are induction, both enumerative and analytical, hypothetico-deductive reasoning, and abductive inference. In each case it is argued that substantive theories about the world, including cultures, significantly affect inferential procedures. Examples chosen to illustrate this in more detail mostly reflect the impact of Confucian ...
The currently available methods for the diagnosis of dry eye are still far from being perfect for a variety of reasons. This review attempts to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of both traditional...Full Text Available
A reasonable understanding of PWR steam generator corrosion mechanisms such as denting and wastage has been developed, and adequate chemistry control programs defined to obviate the magnitude and effects of these modes of attack. However, relatively unique corrosion attack modes have been encountered at several plants notwithstanding the presence of a reasonable to very good chemistry control program when considered in light of the Steam Generator Owners Group chemistry guidelines. The uniqueness of attack also suggests that parameters not routinely measured or monitored may be playing a significant role. In the authors opinions, the only reasonable method of routinely identifying corrosion accelerating species present in crevices, sludge piles, and deposits in PWR steam generators is by performing detailed chemical return studies during power transients, shutdowns, and long term layups. Although it would be preferable to ...
Increasing evidence suggests that sex differences exist in the etiology, presentation, treatment, and outcome from stroke. The reasons for these sex disparities are becoming increasingly explored, but...Full Text Available
missionaries and cannibals puzzle. He noted that in order to be able to use a boat to cross a river one would need ... a quali cation that the vertical exhaust stack ...
INTRODUCTIONMany surgeons will have encountered the scissors that would not cut, and the artery clip that comes off in a deep difficult location, but it would be reasonable to assume...Full Text Available
It is shown that plasma viscosity does not influence the magnetic island rotation directly. Nevertheless, it leads to nonstationarity of the plasma velocity. This nonstationarity is the reason of the viscosity effect on island rotation. (author)
and JANAP. Unavailable properties were estimated by Boggs using varlous well kno% n and reasonably reliable correlations. The data were compiled into ...
Nowadays it is accepted that natural flavonoids present in fruits and plant-derived-foods are relevant, not only for technological reasons and organoleptic properties, but also because of their potential...Full Text Available
Breast cancer in the elderly has attracted considerable interest in recent years for three main reasons. Firstly, information concerning the profile (clinical and biological) of the disease in the geriatric...Full Text Available
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...
A method for spatializing text content for enhanced visual browsing and analysis. The invention is applied to large text document corpora such as digital libraries, regulations and procedures, archived reports, and the like. The text content from these sources may be transformed to a spatial representation that preserves informational characteristics from the documents. The three-dimensional representation may then be visually browsed and analyzed in ways that avoid language processing and that reduce the analysts' effort.
We demonstrate a two-dimensional device simulator for MOSFET structures that incorporates models for defect distributions and show predicted effects on device switching performance for various spatial distributions of defects in amorphous and polycrystalline silicon.
Multiple memory systems are involved in parallel processing of spatial information during navigation. A series of studies have distinguished between hippocampus-dependent ‘spatial’ navigation,...Full Text Available
BackgroundCholera has persisted in Ghana since its introduction in the early 70's. From 1999 to 2005, the Ghana Ministry of Health officially reported a total of 26,924 cases and...Full Text Available
We used epidemiologic data for human West Nile virus (WNV) disease in Colorado from 2003 and 2007 to determine 1) the degree to which estimates of vector-borne disease occurrence is influenced by spatial...Full Text Available
Spatial distributions of turgor and longitudinal growth were compared in primary roots of maize (Zea mays L. cv FR27 × FRMo 17) growing in vermiculite at high (−0.02...Full Text Available
In this study, a novel compliant mechanism, ''partially compliant spatial slider-crank (RSSP)'' is proposed. All possible configurations of compliant RSSP mechanisms are classified and discussed. A method is derived to determine deflection of the multiple-axis flexural hinge for all positions of the crank. A design procedure for partially compliant RSSP mechanisms is introduced. In order to prove the feasibility of the proposed mathematical model, a real model is built and it is shown that results are consistent.
Numerical errors of PALLAS calculation due to spatial mesh sizes are examined for a typical deep penetration shielding problem of isotropic incident fission neutrons penetrating a 200-cm-thick water slab. The exponential approximation for the source spatial distribution to solve the transport equation based on the direct integration method is verified to be effective for radiation transport in attenuating medium, while the linear approximation employed in the old PALLAS code is found to produce large errors for calculations with large mesh sizes.
DescriptionChanges in glacier mass balance are critically influenced by the distribution of snow accumulation at the start of the melt season, but models of the winter season lag seriously behind those of the melt season. The overall aim is to test physically-based models of the spatial and temporal evolution of the winter snowpack at a temperate ice cap (Langjokull, Iceland), to assess how effectively and also how efficiently they capture variation in winter accumulation. A three-step modelling approach i [continued...
Dimensional metrology and positioning operations are used in many fields of particle accelerator projects. This lecture gives the basic tools to designers in the field of measure by analysing the spatial layout of measurement systems since it is central to dimensional metrology as well as positioning operations. In a second part, a case study dedicated to a synchrotron storage ring is proposed from the detection of the magnetic centre of quadrupoles to the orbit definition of the ring.
In the positive column of a neon glow discharge, two different types of ionization waves occur simultaneously. The low-dimensional chaos arising from the nonlinear interaction between the two waves is controlled by a continuous feedback technique. The control strategy is derived from the time-delayed autosynchronization method. Two spatially displaced points of observation are used to obtain the control information, using the propagation characteristics of the chaotic wave.
Resistive analogous meters for spatial and time characteristics in ocean agitation are most often used in practical oceanography in coastal zones but are based on bridge circuits determined to have shortcomings in their linearity range. This shortcoming is eliminated in the circuit of an instrument developed in an oceanographic laboratory (IMIO, Vana). Principle and block circuits are indicated, and static calibration curves are presented as are the correlative functions in the frequency spectrums obtained with the help of sea agitation recorded at a fixed point and at a depth of 6 meters.
In the context of safety assessment of radioactive waste repositories, complex radionuclide transport models covering key safety-relevant processes play a major role. In recent Swiss safety assessments, such as Kristallin-I, an important drawback was the limitation in geosphere modelling capability to account for geosphere heterogeneities. In marked contrast to this limitation in modelling capabilities, great effort has been put into investigating the heterogeneity of the geosphere as it impacts on hydrology. Structural geological methods have been used to look at the geometry of the flow paths on a small scale and the diffusion and sorption properties of different rock materials have been investigated. This huge amount of information could however be only partially applied in geosphere transport modelling. To make use of these investigations the 'PICNIC project' was established as a joint cooperation of PSI/Nagra and QuantiSci to provide a new geosphere transport ...
In interventional radiology (IVR) of cerebral aneurysms, it is important to understand the form and physical relationships between the cerebral aneurysm and the surrounding vessels. However, because the vessels in the head area are highly complex, it can be difficult to comprehend the structure using conventional angiography. Therefore, three-dimensional rotational angiography (3D-RA) has been used in recent years. This article discusses studies of the spatial resolution of 3D-RA. We reconstructed 3D-RA of an acrylic slit phantom (slit widths: 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.5 mm) and examined spatial resolution by visual evaluation and profile curves. When the slit phantom was arranged to avoid the effect of beam hardening, the spatial resolution of 3D-RA was found to be as high as 0.75 mm. When the slit phantom was placed orthogonal to the rotational axis of the C-arm, the spatial resolution of 3D-RA was decreased ...
Ts presentation, available online as a printable PDF, discusses the global effects of deforestation. It contains the following three pages:an overview of the reasons people have cut forests and how the direct destruction of forests is the primary reason for today's massive extinction of speciesa world map that shows the global forest cover 8,000 years agoa world map that shows the significantly smaller remaining frontier forests as of 1997?intact natural forest ecosystems that are relatively undisturbed and large enough to maintain all of their biodiversity.
Peer assessment provides a powerful avenue for students to receive feedback on their learning. Although student perceptions of peer assessment have been studied extensively in higher education, little qualitative research has been undertaken with medical students in problem-based learning (PBL) curricula. A qualitative study of students' attitudes to, and perceptions of, peer assessment was undertaken within the framework of a larger study of metacognition with first-year medical students at the University of Queensland. A highly structured format for provision of feedback was utilised in the study design. Many recommendations from the higher education literature on optimal implementation of peer-assessment procedures were put into practice. Results indicated the existence of six main themes: (1) increased responsibility for others, (2) improved learning, (3) lack of relevancy, (4) challenges, (5) discomfort, and (6) effects on the PBL process. ...
In Rep. of Korea, active safeguards technology development suitable to phase of a nuclear advanced country is necessary because of below reasons. First reasons are '6th ranked position in the nuclear energy generation all over the world', 'continuously increased outcomes in the various nuclear fields such as research or patent', 'strengthened intention of the new government for nuclear industries', and 'weakness of the R and D foundation related to the safeguards technology'. Second reasons are optimization necessity of the effectiveness and efficiency of safeguards according to enlargement of the SSAC (State Systems of Accounting for and Control) role. The reason of the enlargement of the SSAC is IAEA IS (Integrated Safeguards) application for Korea. Third reasons are necessity for the systematic national development plan considering the Korea R and D level and the degree of the ...
This study assesses the current state of undergraduate instruction in empirical research methods in communication and offers recommendations for enhancing such instruction. Responses to an online questionnaire were received from 149 communication-related programs at four-year colleges and universities. Just over 85% of responding programs offered an empirical methods course. Although the course often covered both qualitative and quantitative methods, instruction was heavily slanted toward quantitative methods and topics common to both qualitative and quantitative inquiry. The empirical methods course was usually required for graduation, but it was typically not well integrated with the rest of the curriculum and taken late in students' undergraduate careers. Additional analyses examined st...
Objective: Given the increasing popularity of motorcycle riding and heightened risk of injury or death associated with being a rider, this study explored rider behavior as a determinant of rider safety and, in particular, key beliefs and motivations that influence such behavior. To enhance the effectiveness of future education and training interventions, it is important to understand riders' own views about what influences how they ride. Specifically, this study sought to identify key determinants of riders' behaviors in relation to the social context of riding, including social and identity-related influences relating to the group (group norms and group identity) as well as the self (moral/personal norm and self-identity). Method: Qualitative research was undertaken via group discussions ...
Osteoporosis is accompanied by predominantly metaphyseal fractures with a delayed and qualitatively reduced healing process. This study addressed the question of whether fracture healing in the context of osteoporosis prophylaxis is improved with estrogen (E) or alendronate (ALN). Thirty-six ovariectomized and 12 sham-operated 12-week-old rats received soy-free (osteoporotic C, sham), E-, or ALN- supplemented diets. After 10?weeks, a metaphyseal tibia osteotomy and standardized T-plate fixation were performed. After a 5-week healing process, the fracture callus was evaluated qualitatively by biomechanical bending test and quantitatively in microradiographic sections. The time course of callus formation was examined using fluorochrome-labeled histological sections. Administration of E impro...
To define the quantitative and qualitative effects of gossypol (GP) on deer (Cervus elaphus) semen, the animals were fed cottonseed (CS). Adult stags each received 350?g of CS for 109?days. Animals received 15?mg of gossypol per kilogram body weight per day. Quantitative and qualitative parameters of experimental ejaculates (n?=?182) were compared to ejaculates (n?=?571) of control animals (n?=?5) collected during three previous natural reproductive seasons. Ejaculate fractions were evaluated by classical methods used in domestic animals. In this paper, we show that mature male deer fed CS exhibited morphological changes and decreased motility of spermatozoa and abnormalities in spermatogenesis. Radioimmunoassay measured concentrations of various steroid hormones (T-testosterone, A4-andros...
Abstract Rationale, aims and objectives- Finding ways to incorporate disparate types of evidence into research syntheses has the potential to build a better evidence base for clinical practice and policy. Yet conducting such mixed research synthesis studies is challenging. Researchers have to determine whether and how to use adjusted and unadjusted quantitative findings in combination with each other and with qualitative findings. Methods- Among quantitative findings, adjustment for confounding, either via study design or statistical analysis, can be a considerable source of heterogeneity. Yet there is no consensus about the best way to synthesize findings resulting from different methods for addressing confounding. When synthesizing qualitative and quantitative findings, additional consid...
Adventure based counselling is a short-term experiential psychotherapeutic approach, which utilises adventurous activities and being in natural environmental in order to facilitate therapeutic change in clients. The present paper critically appraises the results of a qualitative study that investigated how clients with self-reported anxiety and depression experienced participating in an innovative counselling intervention with combined individual counselling with such an adventurous outdoor transaction. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, as described by Smith and Osborn (2008), was used in order record and analyse the experiences of four male and six female students who were treated at the Teesside's University Counselling Service. Interviewees perceived the counselling sessions as ...
We have recently introduced several important improvements in the measurement of distillation curves for complex fluids. The modifications include a composition-explicit data channel for each distillate fraction (for both qualitative and quantitative analysis) and corrosivity assessment of each distillate fraction. The composition-explicit information is achieved with a new sampling approach that allows precise qualitative as well as quantitative analyses of each fraction, on the fly. We have applied the new method to a variety of fluids, including simple n-alkanes, rocket propellant, gasoline, jet fuels, and a hydrocarbon fluid made corrosive with dissolved hydrogen sulfide. In the current contribution, we present the application of the advanced distillation curve method to two samples of...
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. (author).
Viddi, F. A., Hucke-Gaete, R., Torres-Florez, J. P., and Ribeiro, S. 2010. Spatial and seasonal variability in cetacean distribution in the fjords of northern Patagonia, Chile. - ICES Journal of Marine Science, 67: 959-970. Compared with other Chilean coastal areas, little is known about the diversity and distribution of cetaceans in northern Patagonian fjords. Between December 2000 and November 2001, surveys on platforms of opportunity were undertaken in southern Chile to evaluate species richness and the spatial and seasonal distribution of cetaceans. Nine species were recorded, blue, humpback, and minke whales, Peales dolphin, Chilean dolphin, killer whale, false killer whale, bottlenose dolphin, and Cuviers beaked whale. The pattern of cetacean distribution displayed significant season...
We consider Bianchi VI spacetime, which also can be reduced to Bianchi types VI0-V-III-I. We initially consider the most general form of the energy-momentum tensor which yields anisotropic stress and heat flow. We then derive an energy-momentum tensor that couples with the spatial curvature in a way so as to cancel out the terms that arise due to the spatial curvature in the evolution equations of the Einstein field equations. We obtain exact solutions for the universes expanding with constant deceleration parameter. The solutions are reduced to each Bianchi type. The dynamics of the models and fluid are examined briefly, and the models that can approach to isotropy are determined.
As lidar technology is able to provide fast data collection at a resolution of meters in an atmospheric volume, it is imperative to promote a modeling counterpart of the lidar capability. This paper describes an integrated capability based on data from a scanning water vapor lidar and a high-resolution hydrodynamic model (HIGRAD) equipped with a visualization routine (VIEWER) that simulates the lidar scanning. The purpose is to better understand the spatial and temporal representativeness of the lidar measurements and, in turn, to extend their utility in studying turbulence fields in the atmospheric boundary layer. Raman lidar water vapor data collected over the Pacific warm pool and the simulations with the HIGRAD code are used for identifying the underlying physics and potential aliasing effects of spatially resolved lidar measurements. This capability also helps improve the trade-off between spatial-temporal resolution ...
A 100-bit slitlike aperture array spatial light modulator has been developed using 8.8/65/35 PLZT for a high-bit-density 1-D hologram memory. The most desirable characteristics, such as distortion-free diffraction-limited Fourier transform patterns and good uniformity of displayed bit patterns over 100 bits, have been realized. The lowest SNR was 86, and rise time and fall time have been 30 microsec and 8 microsec, respectively, at 190-V halfwave voltage. One-dimensional holographic storage experiments have been successfully performed using this PLZT spatial light modulator. PMID:20216813
We have developed a simulation code with the techniques which enhance both spatial and time resolution of the PM method for which the spatial resolution is restricted by the spacing of structured mesh. The adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) technique subdivides the cells which satisfy the refinement criterion recursively. The hierarchical meshes are maintained by the special data structure and are modified in accordance with the change of particle distribution. In general, as the resolution of the simulation increases, its time step must be shortened and more computational time is required to complete the simulation. Since the AMR enhances the spatial resolution locally, we reduce the time step locally also, instead of shortening it globally. For this purpose we used a technique of hierarchical time steps (HTS) which changes the time step, from particle to particle, depending on the size of the cell in which particles reside. ...
We investigate the quantum cosmology of spatially homogeneous models with compact spatial sections admitting a u(2) isometry algebra. The metric ansatz in these models is that of Bianchi type IX with two scale factors set to be equal. We apply the Hartle-Hawking no-boundary path integral prescription and find the semi-classical contributions to the wave function. Exact formulae are obtainable for certain contributions and otherwise the limits of large and small anisotropy (for the pure vacuum case) and large spatial volume or small anisotropy (for the case with a positive cosmological constant) are considered. For the pure vacuum case we find no semiclassical components which would correspond to Lorentzian universes. For the case with a cosmological constant the Hartle-Hawking boundary conditions formally constrain one of the parameters in the Lorentzian solutions to be purely imaginary. Possible interpretations of this ...
We investigate the quantum cosmology of spatially homogeneous models with compact spatial sections admitting a u(2) isometry algebra. The metric ansatz in these models is that of Bianchi type IX with two scale factors set to be equal. We apply the Hartle-Hawking no-boundary path integral prescription and find the semi-classical contributions to the wave function. Exact formulae are obtainable for certain contributions and otherwise the limits of large and small anisotropy (for the pure vacuum case) and large spatial volume or small anisotropy (for the case with a positive cosmological constant) are considered. For the pure vacuum case we find no semiclassical components which would correspond to Lorentzian universes. For the case with a cosmological constant the Hartle-Hawking boundary conditions formally constrain one of the parameters in the Lorentzian solutions to be purely imaginary. Possible interpretations of this ...
From aerosol spectral optical depths ({tau}{sub p{lambda}}) at wavelengths in the range 380 to 1025 nm estimated at different locations in the near and far coastal regions of the Arabian sea adjoining the western coast of central India, the spatial and spectral characteristics of coastal aerosols and the effect of the proximity to the (urban) continent are investigated. The Aangstroem parameters are deduced from {tau}{sub p{lambda}} values. A significant increase, both in aerosol optical depths at shorter (visible) wavelengths ({lambda} {<=} 600 nm) and the Aangstroem wavelength exponent are observed in the near coastal regions, suggesting an increase in the (relative) concentration of sub micron particles, apparently of anthropogenic origin. The Aangstroem turbidity coefficient remains nearly steady spatially, indicating a (spatially) uniform loading of large particles. 31 refs, 10 figs, 1 tab
Abstract A miniaturized spatial temperature gradient CE system with automated sample introduction for DNA mutation detection was established. Continuous electrokinetic sample injection was achieved by combining an automated slotted vial array sample introduction device to the spatial temperature gradient CE system. The temperature gradient was produced by a radiative heating system with a single graphite block heater, and the stability of the temperature gradient was investigated. The temperature variation of each measure point was 0.12 0.21% RSD (n=7) within 6 h. A 14 cm Teflon AF coated silica capillary was used both as the separation channel and as the liquid core waveguide tube of fluorescence signal. Under a temperature gradient from 54.8 to 59.5 C, a low range control mutation standa...
The PVSCAN is an instrument designed to characterize silicon solar cell materials and devices. It performs a host of measurements that yield spatial maps of dislocation density, grain distribution, reflectance, and photoresponses from near-junction and the bulk of a solar cell.
... M. Taylor, T. Kurt Kyser. (2009) Feather isotope analysis discriminates age-classes of Western, Least, and Semipalmated sandpipers when plumage ... ...
Estrogens have direct effects on the brain areas controlling cognition. One of the most studied of these regions is the dorsal hippocampal formation, which governs the formation of spatial and...Full Text Available
Expressions for the spatial moments and macrodispersion tensor for sorbing solutes in heterogeneous formations were presented using a probabilistic model of a fluid residence time coupled with the particle position analysis. The fluid residence time was defined as a fraction of the actual time during which the particle stayed in the mobile fluid phase of the aquifer. The fluid residence time is a random variable whose variability comes as a result of the non-equilibrium sorption properties. The sorbing solute was assumed to be governed with first-order linear kinetics. The closed-form expressions were based on the stationarity in the kinetic process and on the first-order approximation in the hydraulic conductivity field and in the fluid residence time. The non-equilibrium effects were presented as a function of the spatial variability in hydraulic conductivity and temporal variability in the fluid residence time. The importance of the ...
Background and AimsIn spatially heterogeneous environments, a trade-off between seedling survival and relative growth rate may promote the coexistence of plant species. In temperate...Full Text Available
Recent research has implicated the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in consolidating recently acquired goal-directed appetitive memories, including spatial learning and other instrumental processes. However,...Full Text Available
BackgroundThe sound-induced flash illusion is an auditory-visual illusion – when a single flash is presented along with two or more beeps, observers report seeing two or...Full Text Available
The exocyst is an evolutionarily conserved octameric complex involved in polarized exocytosis from yeast to humans. The Sec3 subunit of the exocyst acts as a spatial landmark for exocytosis through...Full Text Available
BackgroundCholera has claimed many lives throughout history and it continues to be a global threat, especially in countries in Africa. The disease is listed as one of three internationally...Full Text Available
BackgroundIn many of the European countries affected by Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), case clustering patterns have been observed. Most of these patterns have been interpreted...Full Text Available
BackgroundPrevention of Chagas disease depends mainly on control of the insect vectors that transmit infection. Unfortunately, the vectors have been resurgent in some areas. It is...Full Text Available
Observations show the ubiquitous presence of propagating magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) kink waves in the solar atmosphere. Waves and flows are often observed simultaneously. Due to plasma inhomogeneity in the perpendicular direction to the magnetic field, kink waves are spatially damped by resonant absorption. The presence of flow may affect the wave spatial damping. Here, we investigate the effect of longitudinal background flow on the propagation and spatial damping of resonant kink waves in transversely nonuniform magnetic flux tubes. We combine approximate analytical theory with numerical investigation. The analytical theory uses the thin tube (TT) and thin boundary (TB) approximations to obtain expressions for the wavelength and the damping length. Numerically, we verify the previously obtained analytical expressions by means of the full solution of the resistive MHD eigenvalue problem beyond the TT and TB approximations. ...
A previous report of high levels of members of the domain Archaea in Antarctic coastal waters prompted us to investigate the ecology of Antarctic planktonic prokaryotes. rRNA hybridization...Full Text Available
Prostate biopsy is the current gold-standard procedure for prostate cancer diagnosis. Existing prostate biopsy procedures have been mostly focusing on detecting cancer presence. However, they...Full Text Available
The level of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) profoundly influences essential cell behaviors such as proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and migration. The spatial and temporal pattern...Full Text Available
BackgroundIn a world limited by data availability and limited funds for conservation, scientists and practitioners must use indicator groups to define spatial conservation priorities....Full Text Available
We examined the effect of spatial iconicity (a perceptual simulation of canonical locations of objects) and word-order frequency on language processing and episodic memory of orientation. Participants...Full Text Available
An explicit proposal for experiments leading to abrupt transitions in spatially extended bacterial populations in a Petri dish is presented on the basis of an exact formula obtained through an analytic...Full Text Available
...Quality = $290,604 to improve permit compliance and appropriate preservation of wetlands by providing a spatial dataset to locate individual wetland permits on a property using high resolution imagery within specific regions of Virginia; this data set will be compared with the permit Comprehensive Environmental Database System that is currently used ...
The mechanism of cytokinesis has been difficult to define because of the short duration and the temporal-spatial dynamics involved in the formation, activation, force production, and disappearance of...Full Text Available
Localized mRNA provides spatial and temporal protein expression essential to cell development and physiology. To explore the mechanisms involved, considerable effort has been spent in establishing new...Full Text Available
BackgroundRecent research highlights the promise of remotely sensed aerosol optical depth (AOD) as a proxy for ground-level particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤...Full Text Available
Study objectiveThe study aim was to improve our understanding of the relationships between contextual socioeconomic characteristics and coronary heart disease (CHD)...Full Text Available
The compromised abilities to localize sounds and to understand speech are two hallmark deficits in aged individuals. The auditory cortex is necessary for these processes, yet we know little...Full Text Available
It is shown that a relativistic point kinematics with one independent dilation of (scalar) proper time for each spatial freedom degree would give a really rigorous physical significance to the ordinary logical resolution of the clock paradox between systems in relative motion.
SummaryDnaA initiates chromosomal replication in E. coli at a well regulated time in the cell-cycle. To determine how the spatial distribution of DnaA is related...Full Text Available
A two-channel optical system has been developed to provide spatially resolved simultaneous imaging of singlet molecular oxygen (1O2) phosphorescence and photosensitizer (PS) fluorescence...Full Text Available
This study compares the spatial characteristics of industrial R&D networks to those of public research R&D networks (i.e. universities and research organisations). The objective is to measure the impact of geographical separation effects on the constitution of cross-region R&D collaborations for both types of collaboration. We use data on joint research projects funded by the 5th European Framework Programme (FP) to proxy cross-region collaborative activities. The study area is composed of 255 NUTS-2 regions that cover the EU-25 member states (excluding Malta and Cyprus) as well as Norway and Switzerland. We adopt spatial interaction models to analyse how the variation of cross-region industry and public research networks is affected by geography. The results of the spatial analysis provide evidence that geographical factors significantly affect patterns of industrial R&D collaboration, while in the public ...
It has previously been established that muscles become active in response to deviations from a threshold (referent) position of the body or its segments, and that intentional motor actions result from...Full Text Available
Parallel imaging reconstructions result in spatially varying noise amplification characterized by the g-factor, precluding conventional measurements of noise from the final...Full Text Available
We report on a high resolution, monolithic crystal PET detector design concept that provides depth of interaction (DOI) positioning within the crystal. Our design utilizes a novel sensor on...Full Text Available
SummarySpatial control of gene expression, at the level of both transcription and translation, is critical for cellular differentiation [1-Full Text Available
New neurons are generated in the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrus (GCL) throughout adulthood. This process is modulated by many environmental and neurochemical factors. We previously...Full Text Available
Remote sensing data over North America document the ubiquity of secondary aerosols resulting from a combination of primary biogenic and anthropogenic emissions. The spatial and temporal distribution...Full Text Available
We suggest and describe the use of a binary pseudo-random (BPR) grating as a standard test surface for measurement of the modulation transfer function (MTF) of interferometric microscopes. Knowledge of the MTF of a microscope is absolutely necessary to convert the measured height distribution of a surface undergoing metrology into an accurate power spectral density (PSD) distribution. For an'ideal' microscope with an MTF function independent of spatial frequency out to the Nyquist frequency of the detector array with zero response at higher spatial frequencies, a BPR grating would produce a flat 1D PSD spectrum, independent of spatial frequency. For a'real' instrument, the MTF is found as the square root of the ratio of the PSD spectrum measured with the BPR grating to the'ideal,' spatial frequency independent, PSD spectrum. We present the results from a ...
A new method for removing periodic background patterns from pictures is presented. The basic spatial frequency composition of the pattern is determined from an estimate of the power spectrum of the picture. A digital restoration filter is then created from a modified version of the power spectrum. The method is extremely effective and can be automated.
BackgroundMost analyses of spatial clustering of disease have been based on either residence at the time of diagnosis or current residence. An underlying assumption in these analyses...Full Text Available
BackgroundThe fast growing Protein Data Bank contains the three-dimensional description of more than 45000 protein- and nucleic-acid structures today. The large majority of the data...Full Text Available
The use of sub-nanometer resolution electron density as spatial constraints for denovo and ab-initio structure prediction requires knowledge of protein boundaries...Full Text Available
AbstractThis study investigated the distribution of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in herds of cattle in Ireland over the years 1996 through 2000, prior to the introduction of...Full Text Available
... relative suitability of areas for production of commercial timber was determined based on considerations of operability, proximity ... habitats, and an ecologically-based estimate of sustainable timber pr...
The radionuclide X-ray fluorescence and particle induced X-ray emission methods were used for rapid and nondestructive analysis of metallic glasses. The methods were compared for accuracy and precision with the atomic absorption method. Some results of the analyses of Fe_xNi_8_0_-_xB_2_0 materials are briefly reviewed. The distribution of elements along the width as well as the length and a qualitative analysis of the composition of material surfaces are considered. (author).
Radionuclide X-ray fluorescence and particle induced X-ray emission methods were used for a rapid and nondestructive analysis of metallic glasses. The methods are compared in accuracy and precision with the atomic absorption method. Some results of analyses of Fe_xNi_8_0_-_xB_2_0 materials are briefly reviewed. The distribution of elements along the width and length, and a qualitative analysis of the composition of material surfaces are considered. (author) 3 refs.
... Risk (Adverse) for Endangered Species: Risk to aquatic species if anticipated pesticide residue levels equal one-fifth of LD10 or one-tenth of LC50; risk to ...terrestrial species if anticipated pesticide residue levels equal one-fifth of LC10 or one-tenth of LC50. Risk Assessment: Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the ... Risk for Non-Endangered Species: Risk to species if anticipated pesticide residue levels are equal to or greater than LC50. Risk Management: The process ...
The dependence of Tsub(c) on composition and deformation is calculated and compared with the corresponding dependence for Tsub(m). It is shown that superconducting and structural properties of A-15 compounds can be described, at least qualitatively, by the quasi-one-dimensional model previously developed by the authors. The superconductivity mechanism is assumed to be analogous to the BCS theory. The upper critical field Hsub(c2) of the V_3Si or Nb_3Sn compounds is found to be much greater than that in V or Nb.
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.
The Si-L X-ray emission spectrum of amorphous hydrogenated silicon (a-Si:H) is presented and discussed. For a qualitative interpretation of the measured spectra cluster calculations of pure Si clusters (SiSi4) and Si clusters with hydrogen (SiSi3H) have been performed using a simplified LCAO-X scheme. In general the level shifts caused by introduction of hydrogen are small compared with the valence band width.
BackgroundHIV infection causes a qualitative and quantitative loss of CD4+ T cell immunity. The institution of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) restores CD4+ T...Full Text Available
Brachytherapy consists of sealed radioactive source implantation. The diversity in the nature of radioelements, in their energy and activity requires strict implantation and utilization rules. These rules include radioactive source physical parameters check, after-loading machine and treatment planning system quality assurance and safe and reproducible dosimetric systems. Patient and medical workers information guarantee radioprotection and prevention of accidental exposures. (authors)
The quark structure of constituent nucleons is considered by a qualitative comparison of features of different models with experimental data with respect to cumulative meson production. It is shown that the fluctuation of the density of nuclear matter, ie the creation and disintegration of a short lived few-nucleon correlation (flucton), is a type of the quasi-resonance formation in the nucleus which exists without any connection with the incident particle. The cumulative production in the region under investigation is mostly the result of a Regge type dissociation of the flucton. (U.K.).
In this article, the authors recall the factors apt to influence image quality in NMR Imaging and present the european works that have been developed in MRIQA to set 5 quality assurance tests: EUROSPIN 1 to 5.
This report documents the evaluation of risks associated with environmental restoration activities at Brookhaven National Laboratory using two tools supplied by DOE to provide a consistent set of risk estimates across the DOE complex: Risk Data Sheets (RDS) and Relative Risk Ranking. The tools are described, the process taken characterized, results provided and discussed. The two approaches are compared and recommendations provided for continuing improvement of the process.
This device has and head-race pipe with an external part and a coaxial inner part. A measuring head is mounted movable between these 2 parts and has at least a thermocouple and a mobile grid for varying the section and the sodium flow to facilitate the impurities dissolution. This ensemble is completed by a longitudinal body containing the main parts of the indicator and surrounded by a thermal exchanger to cool the sodium.
BackgroundSouth Africa has a high tuberculosis (TB)-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection rate of 73%, yet only 46% of TB patients are tested for HIV. To date, relatively...Full Text Available
It is shown that both the Tsub(c) and Tsub(m) dependences on the deformations and composition for the A-15 compounds can be described at least qualitatively in the quasi-one-dimensional model developed by the authors previously. The mechanism for the superconductivity is supposed to be the same as in the BCS theory. The upper critical field near Tsub(c) is obtained. (author).
The nucleon decay of subbarrier single-particle states with large angular momentum and parity opposite to that of the shell in soft spherical nuclei is considered. It is shown that the reduced probabilities of the nucleon decay into the ground state (0{sup +}) and into the first excited (2{sup +}) state of the daughter nucleus have qualitatively different energy dependences. (orig.).
The nucleon decay of subbarrier single-particle states with large angular momentum and parity opposite to that of the shell in soft spherical nuclei is considered. It is shown that the reduced probabilities of the nucleon decay into the ground state (0"+) and into the first excited (2"+) state of the daughter nucleus have qualitatively different energy dependences. (orig.).
Nucleon decay of underbarrier one-quasiparticle states with large angular momentum in soft spherical nuclei is considered. It is shown that energy dependences of differential probabilities of nucleon decay to the ground (0"+) and first excited (2"+) states of daughter nucleus differ qualitatively from each other due to strong interaction between quasiparticles and low-lying quadrupole states.
The qualitative technique of the analysis of the efficiency of the RF plasma production is presented in which the solution of boundary problem for Maxwell's equations is only necessary. The analysis of the character of the plasma production process with the crankshaft antenna in Uragan-2M stellarator is carried out. The discussion of the calculations results is presented.
...), The SAGE Encyclopaedia of Social Science Research Methods, London: Sage Publications. Corti, L. (2003) 'Data Archives' ...), The SAGE Encyclopaedia of Social Science Research Methods, London: Sage Publications. Corti, L. and Barker, E. ...), The SAGE Encyclopaedia of Social Science Research Methods, London: Sage Publications. Corti, L. (2003) 'Qualitative Research ...
We study the growth of colonies of the yeast Pichia membranaefaciens on agarose film. The growth conditions are controlled in a setup where nutrients are supplied through an agarose film suspended over a solution of nutrients. As the thickness of the agarose film is varied, the morphology of the front of the colony changes. The growth of the front is modeled by coupling it to a diffusive field of inhibitory metabolites. Qualitative agreement with experiments suggests that such a coupling is responsible for the observed instability of the front.
A mathematical and physical model was constructed describing the hydrodynamics of the two-phase mixture in the horizontal steam generator. The HP 9830 A desk-top calculator was used for the computations. The output variable of the solution was the level shape. A quantitative and qualitative comparison was made of the results of computations and experimental data. (author).
A qualitatively different manifestation of the Rayleigh instability is demonstrated, where, instead of the usual extended undulations and breakup of the liquid into many droplets, the instability is localized, leading to an isolated narrowing of the liquid filament. The localized instability, caused by a nonuniform curvature of the liquid domain, plays a key role in the evaporation of thin liquid films off solid surfaces.
BackgroundIntermittent preventive treatment of malaria during pregnancy (IPTp) is a key intervention in the national strategy for malaria control in Tanzania. SP, the current drug...Full Text Available
Three HQE (High Quality of the Environment) realizations are presented to illustrate the environmental quality in the architecture, and to see how the natural gas answers the demands of the HQE. (A.L.B.)
Focused ion beam (FIB) repair of chromium defects on photomasks and reticles leaves a post repair stain in the quartz substrate. The wavelength dependent absorption properties of typical stained regions have been measured, showing transition losses up to 80% in the deep uv. A simple model is in good qualitative agreement with the experimental results. (author).
For most of the history of binary star astronomy, systems have been classified largely on the basis of how they were discovered and qualitative appearance of their spectra and light curves. Present understanding of single and double star evolution has now progressed to the point where most of the classes previously identified, and some new ones, can be arranged into evolutionary sequences, depending primarily on the initial masses and separation of the component stars.
The electron structure of the A-15 compounds is studied by accounting for the Hubbard energy as the highest energy parameter. The conditions for the Cooper instability origination are obtained. The superconducting transition temperature dependence on the degree of filling the d- and p-shells of the transition and nontransition elements is determined. The relationship between the transition temperature and the energy jumpover along the chains, which allows comparison with the experiment, is established. Qualitative explanation of the Mattias empiric rules is presented
The report describes the studies carried out to design a non-destructive system for the radiological characterization of packages containing LLW and MLW. This technique is applied for quantitative and qualitative gamma emitters determination in packages with homogeneous and heterogeneous matrices as well as the development of a maximum activity points location system. Development involves also the automatization for its industrial use.
The applicability of the radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis (RXFA) for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of environmental plant samples is discussed and examples of determination of Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb in samples of apple trees are given. The instrumentation, the standard and sample preparation are also presented.
The defect-induced electron lifetime and energy-gap anisotropy effects on the T/sub c/ of the A-15 compounds are examined. A self-consistent model calculation demonstrates that the various defect dependences of T/sub c/ can be qualitatively understood in terms of the electron-lifetime effect.
The defect-induced electron lifetime and energy-gap anisotropy effects on the T/sub c/ of the A-15 compounds are examined. A self-consistent model calculation demonstrates that the various defect dependences of T/sub c/ can be qualitatively understood in terms of the electron-lifetime effect.
Two crucial properties of QCD, confinement and chiral symmetry breaking, cannot be understand within the context of conventional Feynman perturbation theory. Non-perturbative phenomena enter the theory in a fundamental way at both the classical and quantum level. Over they years a coherent qualitative picture of the interplay between chiral symmetry, quantum mechanical anomalies, and the lattice has emerged and is reviewed here.
Qualitative and quantitative techniques, including a telephone survey of 310 Taiwanese business owners, were used to study the unique features of Taiwanese immigrant businesses in Los Angeles (California). When provided with entrepreneurial capital, Taiwanese enterprises grow rapidly in the context of Los Angeles's economic restructuring. (SLD)
This experiment was undertaken to screen the acaricidal effects of herb essential oils (pennyroyal, ylang ylang, citronella, lemon grass, tea tree, and rosemary) at different doses (0.1, 0.05, 0.025,...Full Text Available
BackgroundIn Nigeria ACT use at the community level has not been evaluated and the use of antimalarial drugs (commonly chloroquine (CQ)) at home has been shown to be largely incorrect....Full Text Available
A unified calculation of neutron-rich isotopes in lithium is performed using the hyperspherical basis in which the underlying symmetry of each isotope exhibits a simple structure. The variation of the binding energy as a function of mass number is qualitatively reproduced, and the asymptotic of radial distribution of each isotope decreases exponentially. The form factors of the lithium isotopes are calculated and display diffraction minima. 27 refs., 3 figs., 3 tabs.
Current projections of the response of the biosphere to global climatic change indicate as much as 50% to 90% spatial displacement of extratropical biomes. The mechanism of spatial shift could be dominated by either (1) competitive displacement of northern biomes by southern biomes, or (2) drought-induced dieback of areas susceptible to change. The current suite of global biosphere models cannot distinguish between these two processes, thus determining the need for a mechanistically based biome model. The model is in an early stage of development and will require several enhancements, including explicit simulation of potential evapotranspiration, extension to boreal and tropical biomes, a shift from steady-state to transient dynamics, and validation on other continents.
To study the plasma evolution and spatial structure at the L/H transition, the double hysteresis is examined by use of the 1-dimensional transport model equations. Three mechanisms for the bipolar losses, i.e., the loss cone loss, collisional bulk viscosity loss of ions and the anomalous loss are simultaneously retained. Five-fold multiple bifurcations are found to exist at the plasma edge, similar to the previous 0-dimensional study. Double hysteresis causes a self-generated oscillation, which is attributed to the compound dither, a kind of ELMs. Spatio-temporal evolution of the compound dither is analyzed. (author)
The role of natural enemies in the regulation of populations is one of the major questions facing population ecologists. Simplification have led to two theoretical ways of incorporating the role of natural enemies in single ecological models: diffusion models and patch-type models. The predictions of the models are different because of the way variability is incorporated. Three equations are presented for diffusion models and one for patch models. Since the two types of models apply at different combinations of spatial and temporal scales, the right model(s) to choose for a particular study requires careful assessment. A continuing dialogue between experimentalists and theoreticians will lead to a better understanding of natural systems such as those that occur in biological control.
This paper describes the design of a high-voltage negative ion source based on a magnetically insulated diode and generating microsecond pulses. Plane an cylindrical cathodes have been tested. The spatial and angular distributions of negative ions in the beam have been measured. The content of negative ions with different masses in the beam are given. The ion current density measured by a Faraday cup was up to 1 A/cm{sup 2} for the radial beam and 30-40 A/cm{sup 2}.
The US study of the posterior compartment of the knee usually allows the clinical suspicion of popliteal cyst to be confirmed. Neverthless, in case of giant Baker's cysts - which are, at any rate, less frequent -US diagnosis is more difficult. CT can help determine the benign nature of the lesion, and hallow an accurate spatial evaluation. Moreover CT, when accurately performed, demonstrates the caudal or cranial cystic spread, together with its clear separation from adjacent muscular tissues. Direct coronal scans are more useful to obtain better spatial definition than reformatted images.
The relaxation oscillation of the amplified spontaneous radiation pulses emitted from a single-mirror Cu/CuBr laser has been observed for the first time and the experimental characteristics of the relaxation oscillation were obtained. In addition, the spatial and temporal distributions of the light pulse intensity of the amplified spontaneous radiation were also measured and found to be comparatively and uniform. The spatial coherence of the amplified spontaneous radiation was found to be better than that of the laser with the same lasant.
Several experiments showed that the classical Kolmogorov power spectral density of the refractive-index sometimes does not properly describe the statistics of the atmosphere. In this paper we show an experimental testbed able to generate non-classical Kolmogorov turbulence by using a liquid crystal spatial light modulator. The testbed is used at Naval Postgraduate School for laboratory investigation of laser beam propagation in maritime environment where a power law different from classical Kolmogorov, 11/ 3, could be present. Applications of this testbed are ship to-ship free space optical communication, imaging and high energy laser weapons.
We proposed and numerically investigated the influence of spatial symmetry on the terahertz frequency region response of composite planar metamaterials based on deformed split ring resonators. Compared with the original simple structures, the composite metamaterials with different spatial symmetries exhibited exotic electromagnetic properties. The electromagnetic response of a specific configuration with C4 symmetry was identical to the structure with simple lattice. Especially, for configurations with broken symmetry, very sharp Drude-like resonances with high quality factor were observed. The electric field and current distribution associated the resonances were analyzed for deep understanding of the underlying physical properties.
It is shown that all contracting, spatially homogeneous, orthogonal Bianchi cosmologies that are sourced by an ultra-stiff fluid with an arbitrary and, in general, varying equation of state asymptote to the spatially flat and isotropic universe in the neighbourhood of the big crunch singularity. This result is employed to investigate the asymptotic dynamics of a collapsing Bianchi type IX universe sourced by a scalar field rolling down a steep, negative exponential potential. A toroidally compactified version of M*-theory that leads to such a potential is discussed and it is shown that the isotropic attractor solution for a collapsing Bianchi type IX universe is supersymmetric when interpreted in an 11-dimensional context.
A simple method allowing easy calculation of the spatial damage energy distributions for ion-implanted materials is presented. The direct procedure takes account of the variation with depth of the lateral spreading of implanted ions, as well as the effects of energy transport by the recoiling target atoms. The subsequent computer program LUPIN-3D provides three-dimensional damage distributions and allows the construction of damage energy mappings. Various substrates of technological interest are investigated and several fields of application of the calculation are envisaged. The density of cascades can therefore be determined and heterogeneous amorphization models can be implemented. (orig.).
Currently there are four different concept studies trying to optimise the detector for the requirements at the ILC. In three of these detector concepts a time projection chamber (TPC) is foreseen as the main tracking device. To achieve the intended spatial resolution of 100 {mu}m, micro pattern gas detectors (MPGD) are considered for gas amplification. The two different MPGDs discussed for the ILC TPC are Micro-Mesh Gaseous Detectors (Micromegas) and Gas Electron Multiplier foils (GEMs). The current thesis shows resolution studies with a TPC prototype equipped with a triple GEM readout structure. A hodoscope made up of silicon strip sensors gives a precision reference track, allowing an unbiased measurement of the spatial resolution. High statistics measurements have been conducted at the DESY test beam facility, which provides positrons with a tunable energy between 1 GeV and 6 GeV. Using the independent measurement of the hodoscope allows ...
Analysis of the use of information sources by family physicians is important for both practical and theoretical reasons. First, analysis of the ways in which family physicians handle information may...Full Text Available
This note is about three interesting 15th and 16th century sightings of comets in Kashmiri chronicles. We provide reasons for their identification as the 1468 S1, 1531 (Halley's), and 1533 M1 comets.
There is a quest for the development of a new generation of vaccines consisting of well-defined subunit antigens. For a number of practical reasons it is attractive to develop vaccines on the basis...Full Text Available
BackgroundDue to the increased accuracy of Copy Number Variable region (CNV) break point mapping, it is now possible to say with a reasonable degree of confidence whether a gene...Full Text Available
Background. For unknown reasons, the prevalence of thyroid autoimmune disorders is higher in patients with Down's syndrome than in the general population. The present case strongly...Full Text Available
BackgroundAn abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) that is identified when the abdomen is imaged for some other reason is known as an incidental AAA. No population-based studies have...Full Text Available
estate in terms of runways, taxiways, and terminal ramp areas. .... queueing time into gate delays. It is therefore reasonable to conclude that minimization of ...... tities chosen are to illustrate the stochastic effect of noncom- ...
Testicular neoplasm accounts for about 1% of all cancers in men. Over the last 40 years, the incidence of testicular cancer has increased in northern European male populations for unknown reasons. When...Full Text Available
ORDINARY HUMAN REASONING MAY LEAD PATIENTS to provide an unreliable history of past experiences because of errors in comprehension, recall, evaluation and expression. Comprehension of a question may...Full Text Available
The reasons for referral to hospital of 147 babies subsequently included in the DHSS study of postneonatal infant mortality were analysed and compared with those of 104 control infants. Although similar...Full Text Available
It is shown that a natural consequence of the binary pulsar's evolution is a neutron star collision. Such a collision is expected to eject neutron-rich matter of an r-process character. Taking reasonable estimates for the number of such events over the history of the galaxy, it may be that they account for all of the r-process nuclei.
...links ensure all of our managed accommodation is easily accessible to both campus sites and our special student arrangement makes travelling on the Metro rapid transit system easily affordable. Our halls are comfortable and they are very reasonable. Download the rents table here Rents 2009-2010 Students living in ...
Driving buses in London is an occupation in which the standards of fitness have been defined and in which the frequency of, and clinical reason for, exclusion from the occupation have been recorded.The...Full Text Available
The authors calculated the stress-strain relation for elastomeric foam from an ab initio theory, which shows that the plateau and densification regions should be described by a hyperbola. The theory seems to agree reasonably well with experiment.
BackgroundA key question in the risk assessment of exposures to multiple chemicals is whether mixture effects may occur when chemicals are combined at low doses which individually...Full Text Available
The performance of the PSI/ETH focused ion beam (FIB) system has been improved to produce ion beams of very low energies down to 40 eV with a reasonable spot size of 1 {mu}m at 200 eV. (author) 2 figs., 1 ref.
Typical aircraft types supported include F4-Phantom, Tornado, MiG-29 ...... attempt to develop a theoretical explanation for learning phenomena [16]. ..... perspective, a primary reason for this is that an exponential curve approximates ...
Speech and language disorders are some of the most common referral reasons to child development centers accounting for approximately 40% of cases. Stuttering is a disorder in which involuntary...Full Text Available
Climate change-induced sea-level rise will have a disproportionate effect along the Gulf Coast shoreline for a number of reasons. This document describes ... ...
BackgroundDifferences in duration of bone healing in various parts of the human skeleton are common experience for orthopaedic surgeons. The reason for these differences is not obvious...Full Text Available
Summarizing the three main reasons why customized programs are commissioned, this book explains and explores the key aspects of successful development programs, with views from corporate sponsors, participants, faculty contributors and case studies of customised programs commissioned by 6 organizations
This paper describes the needs, reasoning, approaches, and technical details to establish a practical accelerated weathering test (AWT) protocol for indoor testing of the photothermal stability of encapsulation materials and encapsulated solar cells and minimodules.
BackgroundAcute low back pain is a very common symptom and reason for many medical consultations. In some unusual circumstances it could be linked to a rare aetiology.Case...Full Text Available
The incidence of arrhythmias after acute myocardial infarction of the inferior wall varies with the affected segment and increases when there is right ventricular involvement. This paper provides a...Full Text Available
Extrusion and subsequent heat treatment of the alloys investigated can lead to reasonable room temperature ductilities and very high strengths being developed compared to the cast + HlPed material. In Ti-45Al-10Nb reasonably room temperature fracture toughness was developed which did not depend on extrusion temperature. For the alloy Ti-48Al-2Cr-0.2C a previously developed solution and ageing heat treatment did not increase the high temperature strength properties when compared to the 'annealed' condition. (orig.)
Four major reasons why municipal resource recovery operations are uneconomical are analyzed. These reasons are: alternative municipal waste disposal methods are artificially underpriced when the costs of meeting modern environmental standards are considered; high capital costs related to the procurement of resource recovery systems and the marketing of recovered resources; uncertainties associated with the costs and performance of resource recovery technologies; and construction and operating risks of municipal waste resource recovery systems. If resource recovery is to become economical, purchasers of plants must develop innovative process designs and equipment and formulate new operating and maintenance procedures. (1 photo)
The Knowledge Associates for Novel Intelligence (KANI) system provides a collection of automated 'associates' to actively support and participate in the information analysis task. In this paper, we describe the Information Integration Associate (IIA), which facilitates analyst interaction with underlying KANI reasoning and extraction associates and provides an interactive representation of the analytic process. We focus on features of the IIA that guide communication between the user and the KANI system in a way that ensures mutual understanding of the analytic task being performed, the capabilities of the system to assist the user, and the status of any reasoning and extraction conducted on behalf of the user by the KANI system.
The long and resource intensive process of drug discovery and development is confronted with the basic challenge of providing effective and safe therapies at reasonably low costs. The better the mechanism of a disease is known, the higher the probability to find an appropriate therapy. Also, the better and earlier a disease can be diagnosed and characterized, the higher the chance to be able to interfere in this process with a chemical entity. This reasoning sets the framework for the use of imaging in drug discovery. We discuss the relevance of magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy to derive anatomical, functional, metabolic and target-related information in the context of pharmacological research in vivo. (author)
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.
A computer software system, CLEO, is used to assist in the planning and performance of the reactor refueling operations at the Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF). It is a recently developed application of artificial intelligence software with both expert systems and automated reasoning aspects. CLEO, an acronym for Cloned LEO, is a logic-based computer program written in Pascal. It imitates the processes that the refueling expert for FFTF performs in organizing the refueling of FFTF. The computer assistant seeks to organize the sequence of core component movements according to the rules and logic used by the expert. In this form, CLEO has aspects that tie it to both the expert systems and automated reasoning areas within the artificial intelligence field.
The adverse effects and diagnostic accuracy of thallium-201 myocardial SPECT after intravenous infusion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were studied and compared with SPECT examinations with other type of loading. The subjects of the study were 147 patients with or without coronary artery disease, who underwent some type of loading SPECT and coronary arteriography (CAG) within 30 days. Myocardial ischemia was evaluated qualitatively in SPECT and was compared with CAG for the diagnostic accuracy of coronary artery disease. The degree of myocardial uptake defect was also calculated semiquantitatively using visual scoring method and compared with coronary artery severity score. The adverse effects occurred in 46.7% of ATP loading SPECT which was more frequent that DIP loading SPECT, but all of them were transient and mild. As for the diagnostic ability the ATP loading SPECT was as effective as other type of loading in qualitative interpretation, ...
The present investigation is a case study of Lucknow, the main metropolis in Northern India, which succumbs to a major problem of municipal solid waste and its management. A qualitative investigation using strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis (SWOT) has been successfully implemented through this community participation study. This qualitative investigation emphasizes the limited capabilities of the municipal corporation's resources to provide proper facilitation of the municipal solid waste management (MSWM) services without community participation in Lucknow city. The SWOT analysis was performed to formulate strategic action plans for MSWM in order to mobilize and utilize the community resources on the one hand and municipal corporation's resources on the other. It has allowed the introduction of a participatory approach for better collaboration between the community and municipal corporation in Lucknow (India). With this ...
A spectral element method embodying Large Eddy Simulation based on Re- Normalization Group theory for simulating Sub Grid Scale viscosity was chosen for this work. This method is embodied in a computer code called NEKTON. NEKTON solves the unsteady, 2D or 3D,incompressible Navier Stokes equations by a spectral element method. The code was later extended to include the variable density and multiple reactive species effects at low Mach numbers, and to compute transport of large particles governed by inertia. Transport of small particles is computed by treating them as trace species. Code computations were performed for a number of test conditions typical of flow past a deep tube bank in a boiler. Results indicate qualitatively correct behavior. Predictions of deposition rates and deposit shape evolution also show correct qualitative behavior. These simulations are the first attempts to compute flow field results at realistic flow Reynolds numbers ...
The study of natural convection flow and heat transfer within a cylindrical annulus has received considerable attention because of its numerous applications, such as in nuclear reactor design, electronic component cooling, thermal storage systems, energy conservation, energy storage, and energy transmission. Here, the effects of multiple geometric perturbations on the inner and outer cylinders of an annulus with impermeable end walls are investigated in this work. A three-dimensional study was done using a numerical scheme based on a Galerkin method of finite element formulation. The nature of the buoyancy-induced flow field has been analyzed in detail. The flow fields for the cases considered were found to be qualitatively similar, and the introduction of each additional perturbation altered the flow field in a regular and recurring manner. The introduction of each perturbation on the outer cylinder causes clockwise and counterclock-wise rotating patterns on ...
The study of natural convection flow and heat transfer within a cylindrical annulus has received considerable attention because of its numerous applications, such as in nuclear reactor design, electronic component cooling, thermal storage systems, energy conservation, energy storage, and energy transmission. Here, the effects of multiple geometric perturbations on the inner and outer cylinders of an annulus with impermeable end walls are investigated in this work. A three-dimensional study was done using a numerical scheme based on a Galerkin method of finite element formulation. The nature of the buoyancy-induced flow field has been analyzed in detail. The flow fields for the cases considered were found to be qualitatively similar, and the introduction of each additional perturbation altered the flow field in a regular and recurring manner. The introduction of each perturbation on the outer cylinder causes clockwise and counterclock-wise rotating patterns on ...
RESUME: Cet article propose une tude du r le croissant que joue l valuation dans la gouvernance des services domicile en Europe. L introduction de quasi march s dans plusieurs pays europ ens va de pair avec un processus d autonomisation de la fonction d valuation qui devient un v ritable outil de r gulation de la concurrence. Une analyse compar e des situations en Belgique, France et Royaume Uni, tant de la demande que de l offre de services, met en vidence les tensions r currentes dans les objectifs de l valuation (qualit des services, ma trise des budgets sociaux, cr ation d emploi), la faible prise en compte de la qualit de l emploi ainsi que les limites des dispositifs standardis s d valuation au regard de la rh torique du libre choix de l usager (consommateur).
We report a detailed augmented-plane-wave energy-band study and wave-function analysis of stoichiometric PdH which shows that, even though the Fermi surface of PdH is qualitatively similar to that of silver, the simple ''proton model'' is not valid. Instead, the screening of the proton in PdH is found to be larger than in an isolated H atom due, in part, to the formation of a H-Pd bonding band below the bottom of the d-band complex. This result, which is in qualitative agreement with Switendick's earlier calculation, is confirmed by ultraviolet photoemission experiments. A partial density-of-states (DOS) analysis in the energy range spanned by the six valence and conduction bands reveals the quantitative details of the bonding mechanism between the Pd and H constituents. At the Fermi energy, the high Pd d to H s DOS ratio approx. 10.3 is found to be far higher than expected in silver, despite the fact that the Fermi-surface geometry is similar. ...
The objective was to study the interaction of a side jet with the incoming supersonic flow and hypersonic flow. Qualitatively same Cp trends have been obtained as found experimentally. Also in aerodynamic coefficients side jet interaction results in additional pitching moment which is because of the high pressure region in upstream of the jet and a low pressure region in the downstream of the jet. Also jet interaction results in the rise in the lift coefficient. Whereas in the incidence case, simulation has been performed for the hypersonic flows over a biconic body with supersonic lateral jet at Mach 9.7 and incidence of 0"o to incidence of -12"o and 12"o. The results obtained were compared with the experimental and CFD code CFL3D results. PAK-3D over predicts the surface pressure as compared to the CFL3D and experimental results, whereas the qualitative trends are the same. Finally the integrated aerodynamic force coefficients were compared ...
Nowadays climate change is one of the environmental problems in the global policy agenda. However, in countries like United States and United Kingdom the media started to report regularly on this issue in 1988. Since then many researches have been carrying out focused on how the media influence, along with other factors, public understanding of climate change through the media construction of the problem in several countries. Given the implications of social acceptance for design and implementation of public policies on mitigation and adaptation to climate change, the overall aim of this report is to review the status of the issue from a qualitative and quantitative approach. Qualitatively, media construction of climate change is described as the result of different processes taking place at macro and micro scales. Interactions among scientists, politicians, industry, the media themselves and the social context are considered macro-scale ...
The principle is described of X-ray fluorescence analysis and the manner of detecting the emitted characteristic radiation. The advantages are presented of radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis which consist primarily in the possibility of conducting a totally non-destructive analysis, and of accurate and relatively narrow localization of the analyzed area, the simultaneous qualitative and quantitative determinations of a large number of elements in the order of concentrations 10"1 to 10"-"4%, stability of excitation radiation flux, simple design and relatively low capital costs. The so-called matrix effect is pointed to. A number of examples is given of the use of the cited method, including its use in the analysis of art objects. (J.B.).
Electronic circular dichroism (ECD) of the n-#pi# and #pi# -#pi# transitions of the amide groups in the ultraviolet has become an indispensable tool for qualitative characterization of proteins in solution. Since the existence of such a spectrum (that is, of natural optical activity) comes from the three dimensional interaction of the chromophores in the molecule, CD is exquisitely sensitive to molecular conformation. However, in proteins, the amide transitions available in the near UV are limited in number and are broads and overlapping. Interactions among them yield information about the polymeric backbone, but since such amide electronic excitation are relatively delocalized, the resulting
In the last two years, the VDMA work group 'Functional security' compiled a qualitative and quantitative procedure for the determination and evaluation of turbo-machine specific risks. With the calibrated risk graph for turbo-machines the requirements (Safety Integrity Level SIL) to the protective functions for turbo-machines (steam turbines, gas turbines, generators and compressors) were determined. With consideration of the legislation, the work group compiled a recommendation for the renewal and/or reconstruction of protective functions with old facilities.
A conceptual climate model describing regional two-way atmosphere-vegetation interaction has been extended by a simple qualitative scheme of ecosystem adaptation to drought stress. The results of this explorative study indicate that the role of terrestrial vegetation under different forcing scenarios depends crucially on the rate of the ecosystems adaptation to drought stress. The faster the adaptation of important ecosystems such as forests the better global climate is protected from abrupt climate changes. (author) 1 fig., 3 refs.
This article analyses the emergence of the Reseau Education Sans Frontieres (RESF) in France, a movement that emerged in response to fear about the deportation of immigrant children who were pupils in French schools. Mobilising ethical concerns about children's welfare, the movement has been able to create public debate about the French State's moral responsibility to protect these children of 'sans-papiers'. Based on qualitative research, this article analyses the membership of RESF and its modes of action to show how this mobilisation has taken place, stressing the importance of 'everyday interactions' in this mobilisation, and the use of new frames of moral injustice concerning children's welfare.
First, the problem of food packaging waste is introduced and one of the solutions, the Tetra Pak, is completely described. The article highlights the political sensitivity concerning the landfilling of packaging waste, as is done with the efforts of the Tetra Pak producer concerning the collection of used Tetra Paks and the results of these efforts. The document also informs us about the different recycling options for Tetra Paks, the qualitative prevention (using cleaner packaging), the quantitative prevention (using less packaging) and the sustainable development (using loner lasting packaging). The proposed four-step plan for a communication strategy is company-specific.
Design methods and parameters are described which are addressed when considering consequences of a postulated pipe rupture event in a nuclear plant design. Parameters discussed are break opening time and size, resultant blowdown characteristics of the effluent from the broken pipe, jet reaction and impingement loading, pipe motion, and pipe impact loading on steel and concrete structures. The impact the various parameters have on overall plant designs and conservatisms inherent in each consideration are evaluated in a qualitative nature. Finally, recommendations are provided for each parameter discussed for further evaluation and study.
Tests for the applicability of a CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) code for simulating activity transport in PNA (Pulsed Neutron Activation) fluid measurements have been performed. The CFD code was combined with a Monte Carlo code used for the calculation of the initial activity distribution. The results from the calculations show that it is possible to use CFD for calculation of the activity distribution in PNA. The mainly qualitative results in this work are encouraging and suggest further work. In the continuation of this work a response function for the gamma detector will be calculated so that a PNA time spectrum can be simulated. A more accurate comparison with experimental data can then be performed
In the rural areas, especially those located far enough from infrastructure facilities (highways and national roads, electricity and gas networks, etc.), energy supply (both quantitatively and qualitatively) is scarcer than in the urban ones. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the use of renewable energy hybrid systems in order to increase the quality and the quantity of energy supplied to the rural settlements. The paper is thus a guide of how to choose the appropriate energy source with higher potential and efficiency, minimal capital and operational costs and better comfort. (authors)
Projects have become a way of getting things done, and have moved increasingly toward achieving qualitative goals. In this article on video game development, the opportunity is taken to relate some particular observations on creative projects and their management. The essential aspects of this approach are its incorporation of individual and group creativity into its foundation, a Lindblomian process of decision making, and a substitution of a time of regular introspection for milestones. Application depends upon the ability to have interim developments available for group examination and fixing a suitable time interval to make such assessments. The approach would seem applicable to a range of possibilities, including film making, script writing, architectural rendering, and equipment desi...
Radon is often used as a natural tracer for geochemical studies. In many cases radon interacts with water. The aim of this study is to assess the time required for radon to dissolve in water and reciprocally to degas from it, and to estimate the partition ratio between the two phases. A special setup has been devised and built for this purpose. Several experiments carried out with this equipment show that both dissolution and degassing are rapidly achieved phenomena. The qualitative consequence of these results in the field of Earth science are shortly discussed in the paper.
The work opened by the A.C.R.O. is in line with in an initiative of evaluation of the radiological quality of marine and continental waters of the Normandy coast. In this perspective, measures of radioactivity were made, not near an emissary (already very watched environment) but in more large scale because in marine environment, more than 640 km of coast are concerned. It was a question of supplying a representative assessment of the radioecological situation, for one year,of the marine environment (along the Normandy coast) and main streams which supplies it. (N.C.)
The theory of spontaneous decay is studied using both quantum electrodynamics (QED) and semiclassical theories of radiation. There are qualitative differences between the theories in the prediction of interference phenomena. In QED, systems which were excited with pulsed laser light do not exhibit quantum interference effects associated with lower state splittings. On the other hand, semiclassical treatments of spontaneous decay do indicate the existence of interference effects not present in QED. In addition to this, differences are found between the predictions of fluorescence intensity in the presence of lower-state level crossings under continuous excitation. (U.S.).
Polymeric waste materials should be considered resources for the manufacture of new products through recycling processes, with a similar status to virgin fossil-based plastics and biopolymers from renewable resources. Several efforts can be made to achieve this qualitative quantum leap in plastics recycling, and consequently introduce recycled products, with competitive performance, to the market. Scientific knowledge about the degradation processes during the life cycle and the development of fast and reliable analytical methods for the quality assessment of recycled plastics are fundamental to guarantee their performance in new applications. Different strategies-restabilisation, rebuilding, compatibilisation, and addition of elastomers and fillers-can be used to upgrade the structure and...
The details of pulsating stochastic flows accompanying the interaction of a microwave filament (regarded as a heated rarefied channel) and an aerodynamic body in supersonic flow are examined numerically using the Euler equations. Symmetrical and asymmetrical filament locations relative to the aerodynamic body are considered. The flowfields are characterized by large scale pulsations and small scale stochastic fluctuations. The mechanisms of the formation of these flow structures are discussed. Two qualitatively different kinds of flowfields are observed depending on the magnitude of the filament radius, with domination of the pulsations of flow parameters or stochastic phenomena. Flow instabilities inherent to the problems under interest are described. The problems are considered in both p...
The main scope of this study has been to calculate the future cost for decommission and dismantling the Isotope central at the Studsvik site using the OMEGA CODE. Detailed empirical information is used in the study for 'bench-marking' purposes, in such cases when there is a need to supplement and correct field data from the industry. In the present study, data has been retrieved and organized such that the estimated costs for decommissioning of the Isotope Central become transparent and reliable. This approach gives a preliminary qualitative indication about the accuracy of the cost estimate delivered by the industry
We discuss how magnetic phenomena affect superconductivity in simple metals, transition metals and alloys thereof, and dilute Rare-Earth alloys. It is shown both qualitatively and quantitatively that superconductors are sensitive probes for studying itinerant spin excitations, local spin excitations associated with nearly magnetic impurities, the effect of the atomic environment on the stability of local magnetic moments, and the nature of the spin order in Rare-Earth alloys. Also, we discuss how magnetic impurities can be used to study the electronic configuration which is responsible for superconductivity in Laves-phase crystals like A-15 compounds and ..beta..-W crystals, for example.
We study diffusion of Cosmic Rays (CRs) in turbulent magnetic fields using test particle simulations. Electromagnetic fields are produced in direct numerical MHD simulations of turbulence and used as an input for particle tracing, particle feedback on turbulence being ignored. Statistical transport coefficients from the test particle runs are compared with earlier analytical predictions. We find qualitative correspondence between them in various aspects of CR diffusion. In the incompressible case, that we consider in this paper, the dominant scattering mechanism occurs to be the non-resonant mirror interactions with the slow-mode perturbations. Perpendicular transport roughly agrees with being produced by magnetic field wandering.
The measurement of air pollutants is no more sufficient. It is necessary to assess the risk induced by air pollution, and then to put in place actions to reduce it. The air quality monitoring takes into account different pollutants: nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, particulates for the traffic; sulfur dioxide and particulates for use of fuel or coal or chemical transformations in air; ozone and nitrogen dioxide from hydrocarbon and nitrogen oxides emissions; the use of simulation methods allow to calculate the concentrations levels for these pollutants taken as indicators. (N.C.)
In Japan, cosmetics claiming hormesis effect are available through Internet. Although these cosmetics show the contents, they never mention the minor elements and radioactive sources. The existence of radioisotopes, however, was observed by measurements of the gamma-rays with a HPGe detector. In this study, in order to clarify the contents of trace elements, the hormesis cosmetics including radioactive sources were analyzed using INAA, PGAA and NAA with multiple gamma-ray detection (NAAMG). Nineteen elements were analyzed quantitatively in hormesis cosmetics by INAA, PGAA and NAAMG and 16 elements were detected qualitatively by SEM-EPMA. (author)
Using an exactly soluble one-dimensional atomic model we explore the idea that the recently observed high-order nonlinearity in optical filaments is due to virtual transitions involving the continuum states. We show that the model's behavior is qualitatively comparable with the experimentally observed cross-over from self-focusing to de-focusing at high intensities, and only occurs at intensities which result in significant ionization. Based on these observations, we conjecture that this continuum electron nonlinear refraction exhibits strong memory effects, and most importantly, the change of its sign is effectively masked by the de-focusing due to free electrons.
This talk will present an overview of the use of mathematical programming techniques in manufacturing management practice. The emphasis is on applied contributions in three areas: conceptual and qualitative results, modelling, and algorithms. The discussion will be limited to methods that have found or are likely to find application in practice. Overall the picture is not heartening and many promising directions have not resulted in practical applications. Yet there are several areas where significant opportunities exist, though they seem to be better for heuristics than for highly structured traditional models. Time will be available for discussion of topics that interest the participants.
Several aspects of low temperature systems (LTS) are discussed in five articles. In the first article the role of municipalities in the Netherlands in the implementation of LTS is outlined. In the second article a brief overview is given of a brochure in which 9 projects with LTS are described. In article three the results of a literature study on qualitative aspects (thermal comfort, air quality, energy consumption, safety and cost) of LTS are presented. In the fourth article it is outlined why one should apply LTS, and the fifth article is a reflection of the discussion that took place at the TVVL symposium on sustainable concepts and sustainable installation
A 2D matrix allows a fairly rapid verification of irradiation parameters transferred on computer processing equipment without expanding the dosimetry means to implement. Associated to 'Multicheck and Verisoft' software it will handle some of the regulatory recommendations of the A.F.S.S.A.P.S. for quality control of accelerators and ensure the traceability of testing carried out. (N.C.)
In order to promote the use of natural gas air-conditioning systems in the tertiary sector, Gaz de France (the French gas utility) in association with Electricite de France (EdF) and the French chamber of council engineers (CICF) have created the Acerclim organization which aims at certifying the quality of the design, realization and exploitation of air processing and air-conditioning installations according to the ISO 9001 criteria. This article describes this quality procedure named 'CHSB Air'. (J.S.)
This paper is aimed to present a fuzzy decision making approach to deal with the performance measurement in supply chain systems. In the manufacturing environment, performance measurement is based on different quantitative and qualitative factors. Some of these factors may have a larger effect on the performance measure than others. Units of measure of the quantitative factors are different such as time, money, percentage, ratio, and counts. Thus, this paper presents a performance measurement approach based on fuzzy set theory and the pair-wise comparison of Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), which ensures the consistency of the designer's assignments of importance of one factor over another to find the weight of each of the manufacturing activity in the departmental organization. In the ...
We have developed EOS7M, a ferrofluid flow and transport module for TOUGH2. EOS7M calculates the magnetic forces on ferrofluid caused by an external magnetic field and allows simulation of flow and advective transport of ferrofluid-water mixtures through porous media. Such flow problems are strongly coupled and well suited to the TOUGH2 framework. Preliminary applications of EOS7M to some simple pressure and flow problems for which experiments were carried out in the lab show good qualitative agreement with the laboratory results.
Theoretical description of Raman scattering in disordered alloys of Ti and Zr with transition metals of groups 5-8 of the Mendeleev Periodic System in critical range of concentrations (CRC) is given. Results of Raman scattering experiment in the system Ti_1_-_xF_x at 0.0005Qualitative adequacy of the hybridization model to the alloys studied near CRC is shown.
Results are presented from an evaluation of the effect of the quality of the iron-ore-bearing raw materials and coke on the performance of blast furnaces at the Novolipetsk Metallurgical Combine. It is shown that the technical-economic indices of the smelting operation are improved by increasing the pellet content of the charge, the basicity of the sinter, and the sinter?s content of the ?5 mm fraction. An analysis of the performance of the blast furnaces on coke with a hot-strength index CSR = 40?60% confirmed the qualitative and quantitative effect of this index on furnace productivity and coke consumption. The analysis also showed that the magnitude of this effect depends on smelting rate and the basicity of the furnace slag.
A study of the #pi#1g/sub 9/2/ orbit size in "8"8Sr, "9"0Zr, and "9"2Mo is presented. The rms radius for the point-proton density is extracted by studying transitions to 8"+ states in these nuclei. The radii are consistently larger than a value determined in a magnetic electron scattering experiment on "9"3Nb. A qualitative discussion of the ground state occupation of the #pi#1g/sub 9/2/ orbit based on the transition amplitudes to the 8"+ states is given.
The decontamination factor is studied as a function of laser fluence for three kinds of clad surfaces viz., plain zircaloy, autoclaved zircaloy and SS with cesium as the test contamination. It has been found that the decontamination factor exhibits a maximal behaviour with the laser fluence and its maximum value occurs at different laser fluences in the three cases. The maximal behaviour is attributed to reduced coupling of energy from the laser beam to the substrate due to the initiation of surface-assisted optical breakdown. The results obtained in the experiment carried out in helium environment qualitatively support this explanation (author)
Dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), a chemical simulant of the nerve gas GB, was decontaminated with a nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma. The decontamination efficiency was measured qualitatively by means of Fourier transform spectroscopy and quantitatively by means of gas chromatography. With helium gas only, 10g/m2 of DMMP on an aluminum surface was 99.9% decontaminated in 2min, furthermore, with the addition of 5% of oxygen gas, it was 99.99% decontaminated in 10min. Given the low input power (<100W) and temperature (<75degreeC), this plasma is eligible for nondestructive decontamination of almost all material surfaces.
Cross sections for the elastic and inelastic scattering of /sup 16/O on /sup 58/Ni, /sup 88/Sr, /sup 40/Ca, and /sup 48/Ca have been calculated in a coupled-channels treatment, including the low-lying 2/sup +/ and 3/sup /minus// states of both projectile and target. Real, energy-independent ion-ion potentials and form factors were used, and fusion was simulated by ingoing wave boundary conditions in all channels. The agreement with the measured scattering data is qualitatively as good as obtained in previous optical-model calculations.
Cross sections for the elastic and inelastic scattering of "1"6O on "5"8Ni, "8"8Sr, "4"0Ca, and "4"8Ca have been calculated in a coupled-channels treatment, including the low-lying 2"+ and 3"- states of both projectile and target. Real, energy-independent ion-ion potentials and form factors were used, and fusion was simulated by ingoing wave boundary conditions in all channels. The agreement with the measured scattering data is qualitatively as good as obtained in previous optical-model calculations.
Development of an assessment framework and indicators can be used to evaluate effectiveness of wetland restoration. Example of these include index of biotic integrity and the hydrogeomorphic method. Both approaches provide qualitative ranks. We propose a new method based on the EPA wetland research program. Similar to other methods, indexes are compared to reference communities; however, the comparisons are quantitative. In this paper we discuss the results of our framework using the Pen Branch riparian wetland system as an example.
We provide a both qualitative and quantitative comparison among different approaches aimed to solve the problem of non-linear diffusive acceleration of particles at shocks. In particular, we show that state-of-the-art models (numerical, Monte Carlo and semi-analytical), even if based on different physical assumptions and implementations, for typical environmental parameters lead to very consistent results in terms of shock hydrodynamics, cosmic ray spectrum and also escaping flux spectrum and anisotropy. Strong points and limits of each approach are also discussed, as a function of the problem one wants to study.
This work gives a global view of legislations in which are included metals chemical states, briefly recalls the conditions to be respected for the CRM (Certified Reference Materials), and describes the results of some current plans for the Norms, Measures and Tests program. (O.M.) 23 refs.
CIRNAT, a one-dimensional code for natural circulation analysis, was described. The homogeneous approach was adopted for the two-phase flow regime and different heat transfer regimes were considered. The code was exhaustively tested for one-phase flow systems. For two phase flows a boiling/condensing system was simulated. The results are qualitatively correct but the oscillations observed at the system were not captured by the model. Other two-phase flow tests must be done to show the limits of the homogeneous approach before the introduction of a more complex model. (author)
CIRNAT, a one-dimensional code for natural circulation analysis, was described. The homogeneous approach was adopted for the two-phase flow regime and different heat transfer regimes were considered. The code was exhaustively tested for one-phase flow systems. For two phase flows a boiling/condensing system was simulated. The results are qualitatively correct but the oscillations observed at the system were not captured by the model. Other two-phase flow tests must be done to show the limits of the homogeneous approach before the introduction of a more complex model. (author)
The diagonal and symmetric Bianchi type IX models are coupled to a homogeneous spinor field. An action for the combined fields is constructed, where the orthonormal basis used is given explicitly in terms of the metric. This allows one to vary the action with respect to the metric and the spinor fields only. Next, a Hamiltonian formulation is given, and a qualitative solution for the problem is presented. We also show that the k = +1 FRW (Friedmann--Robertson--Walker) model is not compatible with a homogeneous spinor field, while the more complicated models are.
The diagonal and symmetric Bianchi type IX models are coupled to a homogeneous spinor field. An action for the combined fields is constructed, where the orthonormal basis used is given explicitly in terms of the metric. This allows one to vary the action with respect to the metric and the spinor fields only. Next, a Hamiltonian formulation is given, and a qualitative solution for the problem is presented. We also show that the k = +1 FRW (Friedmann--Robertson--Walker) model is not compatible with a homogeneous spinor field, while the more complicated models are.
This work describes a procedure for the adaptive time dependent Finite Element Method using an automatic mesh refinement (H-Version) that efficiently reduces estimated errors ( a posteriori) below pre-assigned limits. Classical model problem for steady-state heat transfer are investigated, and the results are compared with the analytical solution. Then some typical time-dependent problem are qualitatively analysed. (author) 10 refs., 7 figs.
Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide a better understanding of how the internet is used as a strategic tool in electronic customer relationship management (e-CRM) in the football sector. In particular, the research questions this paper addresses are: How can the online environment be described? How are the customers served in this online environment? The first research question provides an overview of the online environment and the second research question describes the services offered in this online environment. Design/methodology/approach - The qualitative research is the appropriate approach, in order to collect the required data, as the particular research characterizes a complete and comprehensive view and understanding of a phenomenon in its entity. The research is base...
Micro-compression specimens, 1O-15{mu}m in diameter by 20-30{mu}m in height, were produced from individual parent grains in a polycrystalline U-13at%Nb shape-memory alloy using the focused ion beam (FIB) technique. The specimens were tested in a nanoindentation instrument with a flat diamond tip to investigate stress-strain behavior as a function of crystallographic orientation. The results are in qualitative agreement with a single-crystal accommodation strain (Bain strain) model of the shape-memory effect for this alloy.
Organizational risk indicators are proposed as a tool for risk control during operation of offshore installations, as a complement to QRA-based indicators. An organizational factor framework is developed based on a review of existing organizational factor frameworks, research on safety performance indicators, and previous work on QRA-based indicators. The results comprise a qualitative organizational model, proposed organizational risk indicators, and a quantification methodology for assessing the impact of the organization on risk. The risk indicators, when validated, will aid in a frequent control of the risk in the periods between the updating of the quantitative risk assessments.
We consider a noisy Slepian-Wolf problem where two correlated sources are separately encoded and transmitted over two independent binary memoryless symmetric channels. Each channel capacity is assumed to be characterized by a single parameter which is not known at the transmitter. The receiver has knowledge of both the source correlation and the channel parameters. We call a system universal if it retains near-capacity performance without channel knowledge at the transmitter. Kudekar et al. recently showed that terminated low-density parity-check (LDPC) convolutional codes (a.k.a. spatially-coupled LDPC ensembles) can have belief-propagation thresholds that approach their maximum a-posteriori thresholds. This was proven for binary erasure channels and shown empirically for binary memoryless symmetric channels. They also conjectured that the principle of spatial coupling is very general and the phenomenon of threshold saturation applies to a ...
We explored ways of doing spatial search within a relational database: (1) hierarchical triangular mesh (a tessellation of the sphere), (2) a zoned bucketing system, and (3) representing areas as disjunctive-normal form constraints. Each of these approaches has merits. They all allow efficient point-in-region queries. A relational representation for regions allows Boolean operations among them and allows quick tests for point-in-region, regions-containing-point, and region-overlap. The speed of these algorithms is much improved by a zone and multi-scale zone-pyramid scheme. The approach has the virtue that the zone mechanism works well on B-Trees native to all SQL systems and integrates naturally with current query optimizers - rather than requiring a new spatial access method and concomitant query optimizer extensions. Over the last 5 years, we have used these techniques extensively in our work on SkyServer.sdss.org, and SkyQuery.net.
Household demand for better environmental quality is the key factor in the long-term global applicability of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis. We argue that, for given consumer preferences, the threshold income level at which the EKC turns downwards or the equilibrium income elasticity changes sign from positive to negative depends on the ability to spatially separate production and consumption. We test our hypothesis by estimating the equilibrium income elasticities of five pollutants, using 1990 data for the United States. We find that the change in sign occurs at lower income levels for pollutants for which spatial separation is relatively easy as compared to pollutants for which spatial separation is difficult. Our results suggest that even high-income households in the United States have not yet reached the income level at which their demand for better environmental quality is high enough to cause the ...
We developed a new TLD array for precise dose measurement and verification of the spatial dose distribution in small radiation targets. It consists of a hemicylindrical, tissue-equivalent rod made of polystyrene with 17 parallel moulds for an exact positioning of each TLD. The spatial resolution of the TLD array was evaluated using the Leskell spherical phantom. Dose planning was performed with KULA 4.4 under stereotactic conditions on axial CT images. In the Leksell gamma unit the TLD array was irradiated with a maximal dose of 10 Gy with an unplugged 14 mm collimator. The doses delivered to the TLDs were rechecked by diode detector and film dosimetry and compared to the computer-generated dose profile. We found excellent agreement of our measured values, even at the critical penumbra decline. For the 14 mm and 18 mm collimator and for the 11 mm collimator combination we compared the measured and calculated data at full width at half maximum. ...
Abstract A next generation material for surface passivation of crystalline Si is Al2O3. It has been shown that both thermal and plasma-assisted (PA) atomic layer deposition (ALD) Al2O3 provide an adequate level of surface passivation for both p- and n-type Si substrates. However, conventional time-resolved ALD is limited by its low deposition rate. Therefore, an experimental high-deposition-rate prototype ALD reactor based on the spatially separated ALD principle has been developed and Al2O3 deposition rates up to 1.2-nm/s have been demonstrated. In this work, the passivation quality and uniformity of the experimental spatially separated ALD Al2O3 films are evaluated and compared to conventional temporal ALD Al2O3, by use of quasi-steady-state photo-conductance (QSSPC) and carrier density ...
A thermoluminescence (TL) sheet and its spatial readout system for in vivo measurement of spatial dose distribution around sources has been newly developed for intracavitary high dose-rate radiation therapy. The TL sheet (40 cm x 50 cm x 200 {mu}m), which is composed of teflon mixed with BaSO{sub 4} (Eu doped) powder, has a linear response with a very wide dynamic range from at least 0.002 cGy to 5000 cGy for {sup 60}Co sources. Phantom test of the TL sheet readout system demonstrated that absorbed dose with TL sheet and that with ionization chamber as standard dosimeter agreed well. For clinical application, TL sheet was attached on an applicator of intracavitary radiation therapy for rectal cancer. After irradiation with high dose-rate {sup 60}Co sources, the in vivo dose distribution on the surface of the rectum was determined. The TL sheet was suggested to provide a convenient means of measuring the dose distribution around {sup 60}Co ...
The quantum behavior of the vacuum Bianchi type-IX universe with the cosmological constant is investigated in terms of the Ashtekar variables. An exact solution to the quantum Hamiltonian constraint in the holomorphic representation is given. This solution reduces to the Hartle-Hawking wave function in the spatially isotropic sector and extends in the triad representation to the classically forbidden region where the determinant of the spatial metric becomes negative. The analysis of the quantum Robertson-Walker universe indicates that if the superspace is extended to such a classically forbidden region, the holomorphic representation picks up some restricted class of solutions in general. This observation leads to a new ansatz on the boundary condition of the Universe. In particular, the behavior of the Lorentzian and Euclidean WKB orbits corresponding to the solution suggests a new picture on the semiclassical behavior of the quantum ...
The quantum behavior of the vacuum Bianchi type-IX universe with the cosmological constant is investigated in terms of the Ashtekar variables. An exact solution to the quantum Hamiltonian constraint in the holomorphic representation is given. This solution reduces to the Hartle-Hawking wave function in the spatially isotropic sector and extends in the triad representation to the classically forbidden region where the determinant of the spatial metric becomes negative. The analysis of the quantum Robertson-Walker universe indicates that if the superspace is extended to such a classically forbidden region, the holomorphic representation picks up some restricted class of solutions in general. This observation leads to a new ansatz on the boundary condition of the Universe. In particular, the behavior of the Lorentzian and Euclidean WKB orbits corresponding to the solution suggests a new picture on the semiclassical behavior of the quantum ...
A field survey on cadmium, lead, copper, and zinc was performed in Semarang, the fifth largest city in Indonesia. Water, sediment, and fish samples were collected from 101 grids of 2 x 2 km. The objectives of the study were (1) to identify the spatial distribution of metals in the sediments of the greater Semarang area, (2) to estimate the background concentrations of the metals present in Semarang, (3) to provide a simple tool for deriving standards for metals in the sediment, and (4) to explore the potential use of the guppy (Lebistes reticulatus) as a bioindicator of urban metal pollution. To map the spatial distribution of the metals, concentrations of each metal in sediment were plotted against the corresponding city coordinate. On the basis of these plots, background concentrations of the metals were estimated. A combined pollution index can be derived thereafter by calculating the difference between metals concentrations from a ...
The relationship between the fractal dimensions of spatial distributions of aftershocks and pre-existing active faults is examined. Fourteen mainshocks taking place in Japan were followed by aftershocks, and the aftershocks occur in swarms around the mainshocks. The epicentral distributions of the aftershocks exhibit fractal properties, and the fractal dimensions are estimated by using the two-point correlation integral. The pre-existing active fault systems observed in the 14 aftershock regions have fractal structures, and the fractal dimensions are estimated by using the box-counting method. A positive correlation between the estimated fractal dimensions is found, and it is independent on the mainshock magnitude. The correlation shows that aftershock distributions become less clustered with increasing the fractal dimensions of active fault systems. Namely, the fractal clusters of aftershocks are put under the constraint of the fractal properties of the ...
Present day mammography has not been able to make use of the advantages of digital luminescence radiography because of the limited spatial resolution. The recent development of electromagnetic focusing X-ray tube with effective focal spot sizes from 0.04 to 0.12 mm allows radiographic direct magnification with less geometric blur. It is now possible to combine direct magnification mammography with digital luminescence radiography. By combining high quality storage phosphor screens with an HQ-workstation a spatial resolution of 8 lp/mm is possible for 1.7-fold magnification. For 4-fold spot magnification views spatial resolution can be theoretically increased to approx. 20 lp/mm. One important advantage of digital radiography is the possibility of image-postprocessing. This article presents two sets of standard parameters and three sets of image dependent parameters for better imaging of specific lesions, such as ...
We investigate the quantum cosmology of spatially homogeneous models with compact spatial sections admitting a u(2) isometry algebra. The metric ansatz in these models is that of Bianchi type IX with two scale factors set to be equal. We apply the Hartle-Hawking no-boundary path integral prescription and find the semi-classical contributions to the wave function. Exact formulae are obtainable for certain contributions and otherwise the limits of large and small anisotropy (for the pure vacuum case) and large spatial volume or small anisotropy (for the case with a positive cosmological constant) are considered. For the pure vacuum case we find no rapidly oscillating semiclassical components in the wave function, and hence do not recover lorentzian space-time as a prediction of the no-boundary proposal. For the case with a cosmological constant the wave function does contain rapidly oscillating components and thus predicts ...
We investigate the quantum cosmology of spatially homogeneous models with compact spatial sections admitting a u(2) isometry algebra. The metric ansatz in these models is that of Bianchi type IX with two scale factors set to be equal. We apply the Hartle-Hawking no-boundary path integral prescription and find the semi-classical contributions to the wave function. Exact formulae are obtainable for certain contributions and otherwise the limits of large and small anisotropy (for the pure vacuum case) and large spatial volume or small anisotropy (for the case with a positive cosmological constant) are considered. For the pure vacuum case we find no rapidly oscillating semiclassical components in the wave function, and hence do not recover lorentzian space-time as a prediction of the no-boundary proposal. For the case with a cosmological constant the wave function does contain rapidly oscillating components and thus predicts ...
In this work, the Calibration-Free approach for Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) was applied for the first time to radially resolved spectra emitted by a laser-induced plasma. The radial profiles of plasma temperature and electron number density were used to calculate the local relative concentration of the elements of interest. We analyzed a set of profiles of the local spectral emission coefficient obtained previously by means of spatial deconvolution of the spectra from a copper-based alloy (Cu 93, Fe 5, Mn 1, Ni 1 wt.%) laser-induced plasma. A spatially integrated spectrum of the same plasma was also analyzed for comparison purpose. The relative abundance of the minor components Fe, Mn and Ni was calculated. The results obtained from the central region of the plasma were closer to the nominal concentrations than those obtained from the spatially integrated spectrum. However, an increasing deviation was ...
In this work, the Calibration-Free approach for Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) was applied for the first time to radially resolved spectra emitted by a laser-induced plasma. The radial profiles of plasma temperature and electron number density were used to calculate the local relative concentration of the elements of interest. We analyzed a set of profiles of the local spectral emission coefficient obtained previously by means of spatial deconvolution of the spectra from a copper-based alloy (Cu 93, Fe 5, Mn 1, Ni 1 wt.%) laser-induced plasma. A spatially integrated spectrum of the same plasma was also analyzed for comparison purpose. The relative abundance of the minor components Fe, Mn and Ni was calculated. The results obtained from the central region of the plasma were closer to the nominal concentrations than those obtained from the spatially integrated spectrum. However, an increasing deviation was ...
The globalization of markets has generated more options of purchase of all type of goods and services, these options have generated opportunities and threats for all the companies and have looked for the satisfaction of the client as a strategy to remain or incursion into the global market. The Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas (IIE) is not the exception and therefore it looks for the identification of the qualitative aspects and to systematize its application in the projects that executes by means of the implantation of a system of quality assurance based on the series of ISO 9000 Standards. Some examples are described to identify the qualitative aspects of the projects that are developed in the Institute. [Spanish] La globalizacion de los mercados ha generado mas opciones de compra de todo tipo de bienes y servicios, dichas opciones han generado oportunidades y amenazas para todas las empresas y se ha buscado satisfacer al cliente como ...
The advent, in the near future, of compact X-ray sources like Thomson Back-Scattering (TBS) will allow the clinical application of advanced X-ray imaging techniques, such as phase contrast, with higher sensitivity and lower impact in terms of dose delivery. In this work, we theoretically investigated the possibility of using such sources for phase contrast imaging of micro-calcifications included in a breast tissue. In our study we analyzed the phase and amplitude distribution of the TBS source and we showed that this source can be used for phase contrast imaging since the source coherence at the sample position is sufficiently high for achieving good contrast and micrometer spatial resolution. Indeed the spatial coherence of a TBS source is closer to that of a synchrotron radiation source, and much better than that of a laboratory source. Moreover, we showed the advantages of phase imaging with respect to standard absorption imaging, in the ...
The issue of China?s energy supply security is not only the key problem which affects China?s rapid and sustainable development in the 21st century, but also the one which international attention focuses on. Based on the notable characteristic of spatial imbalance between energy production and consumption in China, this paper takes the evolution of China?s primary energy resources development(excluding hydropower) from 1949 to 2007 as the study object, with the aim to sum up the evolutive characteristics and laws of China?s energy resources development in the past nearly 60 years. Then, based on comprehensive considerations of coal?s, oil?s and natural gas?s basic reserves, qualities, geological conditions, production status, and ecological service function of every province, this paper ad...
The spatial distribution of argon clusters in gas jet is tested using the Rayleigh scattering method. A pulsed laser is used to acquire the whole evolution of the cluster inside one event. The measured results at a fixed axial position show that the argon clusters grow in less than one millisecond after the nozzle is opened and the cluster size keeps constant during the whole open period of 20 ms. Further results show that the scattering signal along the radial direction is almost Gaussian-distributed and the full width half maximum (FWHM) increases almost linearly when the distance from nozzle increases. The scattering signal along the axial direction is Landau-distributed and the area near the nozzle is most effective for laser cluster interaction. (authors)
Individuals with Asperger syndrome (AS) have problems in following conversation, especially in the situations where several people are talking. This might result from impairments in audiovisual speech perception, especially from difficulties in focusing attention to speech-relevant visual information and ignoring distracting information. We studied the effect of visual spatial attention on the audiovisual speech perception of adult individuals with AS and matched control participants. Two faces were presented side by side, one uttering /aka/ and the other /ata/, while an auditory stimulus of /apa/ was played. The participants fixated on a central cross and directed their attention to the face that an arrow pointed to, reporting which consonant they heard. We hypothesized that the adults wi...
We combine establishment-level employment data with trade data by port to examine the impact of accession to the European Economic Community on the spatial distribution of UK manufacturing. We test the predictions from economic geography models of how external trade affects the spatial distribution of employment. We treat accession as a natural experiment which helps mitigate problems of endogeneity. Our results suggest that accession changed the country composition of trade and via the port composition induced an exogenous shock to different locations. In line with theory, we find that better access to export markets and intermediate goods increase employment while increased import competition decreases employment.
A cyclic hexapeptide, annomuricatin A (the molecular formula: C27H38N6O7), was isolated from the seeds of Annona muricata. The types and sequence of the amino acids were confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. The stereochemistry of the title cyclopeptide was clarified by X-ray crystallographic study. The backbone contains two b-turns, one is type I b-turn and the other is type II, which are stabilized by two transannular 41 backbone hydrogen bonds between Ala and Phe. There are intermolecular hydrogen bonds between the cyclopeptide and the solvent molecules which maintained the steady spatial arrangement in crystal.
We present structure calculations of neutral and singly ionized Mg clusters of up to 30 atoms, as well as Na clusters of up to 10 atoms. The calculations have been performed using density functional theory (DFT) within the local (spin-)density approximation, ion cores are described by pseudopotentials. We have utilized a new algorithm for solving the Kohn-Sham equations that is formulated entirely in coordinate space and, thus, permits straightforward control of the spatial resolution. Our numerical method is particularly suitable for modern parallel computer architectures; we have thus been able to combine an unrestricted simulated annealing procedure with electronic structure calculations of high spatial resolution, corresponding to a plane-wave cutoff of 954 eV for Mg. We report the geo...
We describe a position sensitive photon counting microchannel plate based detector with an improved quadrant anode (QA) readout system. The technique relies on a combination of the four planar elements pattern and an additional fifth electrode. The charge cloud induced by single particle detection is split between the electrodes. The measured charge values uniquely define the position of the initial event. QA has been first published in 1976 by Lampton and Malina. This anode configuration was undeservedly forgotten and its potential has been hardly underestimated. The presented approach extends the operating spatial range to the whole sensitive area of the microchannel plate surface and demonstrates good linearity over the field of view. Therefore, the novel image sensor results in spatial resolution better then 50?m and count rates up to one million events per second.
We describe a position sensitive photon counting microchannel plate based detector with an improved quadrant anode (QA) readout system. The technique relies on a combination of the four planar elements pattern and an additional fifth electrode. The charge cloud induced by single particle detection is split between the electrodes. The measured charge values uniquely define the position of the initial event. QA has been first published in 1976 by Lampton and Malina. This anode configuration was undeservedly forgotten and its potential has been hardly underestimated. The presented approach extends the operating spatial range to the whole sensitive area of the microchannel plate surface and demonstrates good linearity over the field of view. Therefore, the novel image sensor results in spatial...
Results of experimental investigation into radiation electromagnetic effect (REM) in samples of germanium crystals under approximately 40 MeV #alpha#-particle irradiation in a cyclotron are presented. A high level of excitation, volumetric character of generation of non-equilibrium carriers and formation of defects as well as the form of their spatial distribution are shown to result in some peculiarities of the EMF of the REM effect on the particle flux, fluence and sample parameters. Agreement of theoretical calculations, conducted with account of specificity of #alpha#-particle interaction with a crystal, and experimental data is obtained. It is revealed that the REM effect can be applied in obtaining data on spatial distribution of non-equilibrium carrier concentrations along the particle trajectory in the crystal.
A position-sensitive event-counting electronic readout system for microchannel plates (MCPs) is described that offers the advantages of high spatial resolution and fast time resolution. The technique relies upon a four-quadrant electron-collecting anode located behind the output face of the microchannel plate, so that the electron cloud from each detected event is partly intercepted by each of the four quadrants. The relative amounts of charge collected by each quadrant depend on event position, permitting each event to be localized with two ratio circuits. A prototype quadrant anode system for ion, electron, and extreme ultraviolet imaging is described. The spatial resolution achieved, approx. =10 ..mu.., allows individual MCP channels to be distinguished. (AIP)
A position-sensitive event-counting electronic readout system for microchannel plates (MCPs) is described that offers the advantages of high spatial resolution and fast time resolution. The technique relies upon a four-quadrant electron-collecting anode located behind the output face of the microchannel plate, so that the electron cloud from each detected event is partly intercepted by each of the four quadrants. The relative amounts of charge collected by each quadrant depend on event position, permitting each event to be localized with two ratio circuits. A prototype quadrant anode system for ion, electron, and extreme ultraviolet imaging is described. The spatial resolution achieved, approx. =10 #mu#, allows individual MCP channels to be distinguished.
The ozone production process in a pulsed positive dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) is studied by measuring the spatial distribution of ozone density using a two-dimensional laser absorption method. DBD occurs in a 6 mm point-to-plane gap with a 1 mm-thick glass plate placed on the plane electrode. First, the propagation of DBD is observed using a short-gated ICCD camera. It is shown that DBD develops in three phases: primary streamer, secondary streamer and surface discharge phases. Next, the spatial distribution of ozone density is measured. It is shown that ozone is mostly produced in the secondary streamer and surface discharge, while only a small amount of ozone is produced in the primary streamer. The rate coefficient of the ozone production reaction, O + O_2 + M #-># O_3 + M, is estimated to be 2.5 x 10"-"3"4 cm"6 s"-"1.
In radio signal-based observing systems, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), the water vapor in the atmosphere will cause delays during the signal transmission. Such delays vary significantly with terrain elevation. In the case when atmospheric delays are to be eliminated from the measured raw signals, spatial interpolators may be needed. By taking advantage of available terrain elevation information during spatial interpolation process, the accuracy of the atmospheric delay mapping can be considerably improved. This paper first reviews three elevation-dependent water vapor interpolation models, i.e., the Best Linear Unbiased Estimator in combination with the water vapor Height Scaling Model (BLUE?+?HSM), the Best Linear Unbiased Es...
The application of a method for determining the temperature of an oxygen-replenished air stream heated to 2600 K by a hydrogen burner is reviewed and discussed. The purpose of the measurements is to determine the spatial uniformity of the temperature in the core flow of a ramjet test facility. The technique involves sampling the product gases at the exit of the test section nozzle to infer the makeup of the reactant gases entering the burner. Knowing also the temperature of the inlet gases and assuming the flow is at chemical equilibrium, the adiabatic flame temperature is determined using an industry accepted chemical equilibrium computer code. Local temperature depressions are estimated from heat loss calculations. A description of the method, hardware and procedures is presented, along with local heat loss estimates and uncertainty assessments. The uncertainty of the method is estimated at {+-}31 K, and the spatial uniformity was measured ...
A well-known diffuse interface model consists of the Navier-Stokes equations nonlinearly coupled with a convective Cahn-Hilliard type equation. This system describes the evolution of an incompressible isothermal mixture of binary-fluids and it has been investigated by many authors. Here we consider a variant of this model where the standard Cahn-Hilliard equation is replaced by its nonlocal version. More precisely, the gradient term in the free energy functional is replaced by a spatial con- volution operator acting on the order parameter phi. Therefore the coupling with the Navier-Stokes equations is difficult to handle even in two spatial dimensions because of the lack of regularity of phi. We establish the global existence of a weak solution.
Classic and recent results for gauge effects on the properties of the normal-to-superconducting phase transition in bulk and thin film superconductors are reviewed. Similar problems in the description of other natural systems (liquid crystals, quantum field theory, early universe) are also discussed. The relatively strong gauge effects on the fluctuations of the ordering field at low spatial dimensionality D and, in particular, in thin (quasi-2D) films are considered in details. A special attention is paid to the fluctuations of the gauge field. It is shown that the mechanism in which these gauge fluctuations affect on the order of the phase transition and other phase transition properties varies with the variation of the spatial dimensionality D. The problem for the experimental confirmation of the theoretical predictions about the order of the phase transitions in gauge systems is discussed.
In this paper, the spatial-temporal dynamics of soil moisture content was investigated in an evergreen broad-leaved forest and a tea tree plantation in Ailao Mountains, which was dominated by Fagaceae (Castanopsis wattii and Lithocarpus xylocarpus). Soil moisture content was studied between January 2005 and December 2006 at different depths (from 0-150 cm) with a neutron probe. The results showed that mean soil moisture content in the evergreen broad-leaved forest was usually higher than in the tea tree plantation in the dry season, whereas it was lower than the tea tree plantation in the rainy season. In addition, mean soil moisture content was depth dependent, and in the 10-50 cm layer the spatial variability was due to the active root zone within this depth area in two types of land use...
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study for any project is a time- consuming process because it has a large number of dependent and independent variables that must be taken into account. Although EIAs are dependent on geo-spatial information in order to make an assessment, there are no standard rules for conducting an environmental assessment. In addition, each assessment objective is case-dependent, based on what information is available. This paper presents a new framework for the analysis phase of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for projects, based on the integration between remote sensing technology, geographic information systems, and spatial modeling. The framework comprehensively analyzes the environmental vulnerability around the project areas and its impact on the...
Summary 1.-The presence of Brucella abortus within free-ranging wildlife populations is an important conservation and management issue because of the risk of brucellosis transmission between wildlife and livestock. Predicting wildlife distributions is necessary to forecast wildlife and livestock spatial overlap and the potential for brucellosis transmission. 2.-We used Global Positioning System data collected from telemetry-collared female elk Cervus elaphus to develop resource selection function (RSF) models during the brucellosis transmission risk period (the abortion and calving periods). We validated extrapolation of predictive models at two nearby elk ranges within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Additionally, we integrated extrapolated RSF maps and domestic livestock distributions...
Purpose: In this paper, we present an alternative to the originally proposed technique for the delivery of spatially fractionated radiation therapy (GRID) using multi-leaf collimator (MLC) shaped fields. We employ the MLC to deliver various pattern GRID treatments to large solid tumors and dosimetrically characterize the GRID fields. Methods and materials: The GRID fields were created with different open to blocked area ratios and with variable separation between the openings using a MLC. GRID designs were introduced into the Pinnacle3 treatment planning system, and the dose was calculated in a water phantom. Ionization chamber and film measurements using both Kodak EDR2 and Gafchromic EBT film were performed in a SolidWater phantom to determine the relative output of each GRID design as w...
The authors are developing a high specificity detector for detecting the increased metabolic rate of breast tumors. Positron emission mammography (PEM) provides a highly efficient, high spatial resolution positron imaging system. PMT plays a very important role in PEM detectors, because most of the systems consist of scintillator arrays coupled with PMT. Our detector is composed of 20 x 20 arrays of 2 mm x 2 mm x 20 mm of Bi_4Ge_3O_1_2 (BGO) scintillators and a novel flat panel position-sensitive PMT (FP-PS-PMT)-Hamamatsu R8400-00-M256. Spatial resolutions of 2.0 mm FWHW and energy resolutions of 23% FWHM are achieved. (authors)
The homogeneity of a helium dielectric barrier discharge, working at atmospheric pressure and containing oxygen as contaminant, is assessed by mapping the spatial distribution of oxygen metastable atoms in relation to the uniformity of surface properties. Tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy is used to monitor the time evolution of the absorption coefficient corresponding to the oxygen metastable atoms on the 35S2 level, as a function of the laser absorbing path, whereas bi-dimensional Abel transform is used to obtain local information on the space distribution of the metastable atoms in the discharge. The radial distribution of the surface properties is investigated using atomic force microscopy, contact angle measurement and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results show that ...
The solution of the governing steady transport equations for momentum, heat and mass transfer in flowing fluids can be very difficult. These difficulties arise from the nonlinear, coupled, nonsymmetric nature of the system of algebraic equations that results from spatial discretization of the PDEs. In this manuscript the authors focus on evaluating a proposed nonlinear solution method based on an inexact Newton method with backtracking. In this context they use a particular spatial discretization based on a pressure stabilized Petrov-Galerkin finite element formulation of the low Mach number Navier-Stokes equations with heat and mass transport. The discussion considers computational efficiency, robustness and some implementation issues related to the proposed nonlinear solution scheme. Computational results are presented for several challenging CFD benchmark problems as well as two large scale 3D flow simulations.
Research in the field of river hydrology has been mainly concerned with the investigation of the rainfall-runoff phenomenon through the analysis of hydrological factors such as meteorology and geography, with the focus being on each river basin. Recently, various forms of digital information such as GIS (Geographic Information System) and RS (Remote Sensing) data have been made available in worldwide digital map format. Therefore, there has been a shift in focus from lumped-parameter models to distributed runoff models, as the latter can consider temporal and spatial variations in water quantity. Distributed runoff models have made possible the comparison of runoff field and rainfall-runoff characteristics considering spatial distribution. Hydrological conditions are differently distribute...
A fast multipole transformation is adapted to the evaluation of summations that occur in global climate calculations when transforming between spatial and spherical harmonic representations. For each summation, the timing of the fast multipole transformation scales linearly with the number of latitude gridpoints, but the timing for direct evaluations scales quadratically. In spite of a larger computational overhead, this scaling advantage renders the fast multipole method faster than direct evaluation for transformations involving greater than approximately 300 to 500 gridpoints. Convergence of the fast multipole transformation is accurate to machine precision. As the resolution in global climate calculations continues to increase, an increasingly large fraction of the computational work involves the transformation between spatial and spherical harmonic representations. The fast multipole transformation offers a significant reduction in ...
Deregulation and restructuring changes in the electric power industry have provided opportunities to build new power plants. These power plants, however, will not enjoy long-term power purchase agreements with the utilities they serve, but will have to respond to the market. This is where the term `merchant plant` originates. Calpine Corp. presented its reasons for believing that now is the best time to be building new merchant plants based on modern natural gas-fired, combined-cycle power plants. Among those reasons are: (1) construction of new nuclear power plants has been rejected by people on both sides of the border, (2) attempts to promote alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and biomass have not added significant generation capacity and are not likely to do so in the near future because of their high cost, and (3) coal-fired plants are also facing environmental challenges. For all these reasons, modern ...
This project is part of PETC`s Advanced Power Systems Program, whose mission is to accelerate the commercialization of affordable, high- efficiency, low emission, coal-fueled electric generating technologies. A process concept - Clear Liquor Scrubbing with Anhydrite Production - was proposed and accepted by PETC as a Phase I project in its Mega-PRDA program. the project integrated three process operations - chloride control upstream of the flue gas desulfurization (FGD) system, a clear liquor process for enhanced SO{sub 2} removal performance, and production of anhydrite (anhydrous calcium sulfate) rather than calcium sulfite or gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate). The first step in the project was to perform batch and flow-through experiments in the laboratory to confirm theoretical calculations and preliminary laboratory results concerning anhydrite formation, these laboratory experiments were designed to prove that anhydrite can be produced under conditions that can be ...
Divided into three sections, this paper briefly presents Kohlberg's theory of moral reasoning; surveys some key research relating childrearing practices to adolescents' social competence, including moral reasoning; and reports research findings concerning the value systems adolescents develop. The first section characterizes preconventional, conventional, and postconventional morality and explores ways of promoting the development of a mature concept of justice, which includes role taking and living in a "just community." The second section focuses on aspects of social learning, which include authoritative parenting, inductive discipline, argumentative discourse, and tradition-based upbringing. In addition, this section explores socialization practices that hinder the development of mature moral reasoning. Focusing initially on characteristics of alienated youth and parental influences on such youth, the third section ...
Some properties of the universe are fixed by physics derived from mathematical symmetries, others may have been selected from an ensemble of possibilities. Some successes and failures of anthropic reasoning in this context are reviewed in the light of recent developments in astrobiology, cosmology and unification physics. Specific issues raised include our spacetime location (including the reason for the present age of the universe), the timescale of biological evolution, the tuning of global cosmological parameters, the origin of the Large Numbers of astrophysics, and the parameters of the Standard Model. Out of the twenty parameters of the Standard Model,the basic behavior and structures of the world (nucleons, nuclei,atoms, molecules, planets, stars, galaxies) depend mainly on five of them: $m_e,m_u,m_d,\\alpha,\\alpha_G$, three of which are independent in the context of Grand Unified Theories (that is, not related by any known symmetry). ...
The aim of this thesis is the design of a faults diagnosis-aiding system in a nuclear facility of the Cea. Actually the existing system allows the optimization of the production processes in regular operating conditions. Meanwhile during accidental events, the alarms, managed by threshold, are bringing no relevant information. To increase the reliability and the safety, the human operator needs a faults diagnosis-aiding system. The developed system, SECAPI, combines problem solving techniques and automatic learning techniques, that allow the diagnosis and the the simulation of various faults happening on nuclear facilities. Its reasoning principle uses case-based and rules-based techniques. SECAPI owns a learning module which reads out knowledge connected with faults. It can then simulate various faults, using the inductive logical computing. SECAPI has been applied on a radioactive tritium treatment operating channel, at the Cea with good results. (A.L.B.)
There are two fundamental reasons or motivations for energy conservation: (1) economics; and (2) consideration of energy - its sources and availability. Economics speaks for itself and needs little explanation: a project is undertaken, the cost is recovered in a given period of time (we hope) and our company realizes cost savings thereafter. We study and propose a project; we estimate the payback. If approved, we implement the project. Then, we eagerly watch for its effectiveness - for the proposed payback. The second consideration in regard to energy conservation might - in the foreseeable future - become by far the most important - that of availability. Very knowledgeable persons have stated that this - in reality - is the most serious problem facing our nation today. Readily available, reasonably priced energy has given to the US the high form of living experienced today. An interruption in this flow could catapult our nation in an awesome ...
The management and combination of uncertain, imprecise, fuzzy and even paradoxical or high conflicting sources of information has always been, and still remains today, of primal importance for the development of reliable modern information systems involving artificial reasoning. In this introduction, we present a survey of our recent theory of plausible and paradoxical reasoning, known as Dezert-Smarandache Theory (DSmT), developed for dealing with imprecise, uncertain and conflicting sources of information. We focus our presentation on the foundations of DSmT and on its most important rules of combination, rather than on browsing specific applications of DSmT available in literature. Several simple examples are given throughout this presentation to show the efficiency and the generality of this new approach.
Industrial premises bear more and more important thermal constraints which can commonly reach 150 W/m{sup 2} and more. The reason is the general development of automation and automatic devices and the better thermal insulation of buildings. Production quality requires also more and more strict ambient conditions (temperature, humidity, air quality, air flow etc..). Thus, the air-conditioning market in the industrial sector is more linked to economic factors such as productivity and profit than to thermal comfort of workers. However, the air-conditioning potentialities in the industrial sector remains under-exploited in France. This paper analyzes the reasons of this situation in terms of investments and equipments. (J.S.)
The fundamental differences in the type of products sold in both Japan and the US, and some of the reasons for these differences, are outlined. Japan is the largest single country market for residential heat pumps, while the US represents the largest single country market for residential heating equipment. Quite different types and associated features of heat pumps are demanded in the USA and Japan. The term `convenience features`, used to describe the physical characteristics of the user interface device, is explained, as well as the fundamental reasons leading to the particular styles of product sold in each country: (1) product strategy and sales channels, (2) design of housing, (3) climatic factors, and (4) energy costs and distribution. It is stressed that there is no big cooling load in Japan. It is rather the comfort issue that drives the market for heat pumps
The second-order spatial subwavelength interference pattern is observed in a modified Michelson interferometer with single-mode continuous-wave laser beams. By analyzing our subwavelength interference experiment based on Feynman's path integral theory, a unified interpretation for all the second-order subwavelength interference is suggested.
27 cases including 7 outpatients, underwent intraarterial DSA using 4-F nylon catheter, by transbrachial arterial approach. Much of DSAs were performed in Fuji Computed Radiography (FCR), which has high spatial resolution. In all cases, image quality satisfied clinical demands. No major complication occured in this series. Transbrachial arterial digital subtraction angiography is excellent and safe method for screening of vascular disease. (author).
Ultrasound tomography is an attractive imaging method for the detection of breast cancer. The complex anatomy of the breast with its different spatial scales and material property contrasts make accurate reconstructions very challenging. This paper proposes a hybrid approach whereby Travel-of-Flight and Diffraction Tomography are combined together to achieve high-resolution and high-accuracy sound-speed reconstructions. The method is validated with several numerical phantoms.
Three types of drift chambers are being constructed for the Fermilab D/O/ experiment. The construction and readout of these chambers stress good spatial resolution, good two hit separation, and dE/dx. A 106 MHz FADC system with hardware zero suppression is being constructed to readout this system. 8 refs., 12 figs., 1 tab.
An interpretation of effects connected with the possible existence of tachyons, i.e. particles moving at a velocity higher than the velocity of light, is given. It is proposed that if there exist in nature particles with super-luminal velocities then they are likely to be found in domains of extremely small space-time intervals #DELTA#xx10"-"1"6cm and #DELTA#t<10"-"2"6s, in which processes involving a violation of spatial and temporal parities are playing an important role.
Larvae of the sunburst diving beetle, Thermonectus marmoratus, have a cluster of six stemmata (E1-6) and one eye patch on each side of the head. Each eye has two retinas: a...Full Text Available
We demonstrate the existence of shear-free cosmological models with rotation and expansion which support inflationary scenarios. The corresponding metrics belong to the family of spatially homogeneous models with the geometry of the closed universe (Bianchi type IX). We show that the global vorticity does not prevent inflation and can even accelerate it.
A near-field microscope which operates in the rf/microwave frequency range is described. In this microscope, a scanning tunneling microscope (STM)-like tip rather than an aperture is used as a point-like evanescent field emitter. A spatial resolution of {approximately}5 {mu}m ({approximately}{lambda}/100000) is achieved in the current version. The design of the microscope as well as the principal factors which affect its performance are discussed. {copyright} {ital 1996 American Institute of Physics.}
We attempt to reformulate eleven dimensional supergravity in terms of an object that unifies the three-form and the metric and makes the M-theory duality group manifest. This short note deals with the case of where the U-duality group SO(5,5) acts in five spatial dimensions.
We describe exact cosmological solutions with rotation and expansion in the low-energy effective string theory. These models are spatially homogeneous (closed Bianchi type IX) and they belong to the family of shear-free metrics which are causal (no closed timelike curves are allowed), admit no parallax effects and do not disturb the isotropy of the background radiation. The dilaton and the axion fields are nontrivial, in general, and we consider both cases with and without the central charge (effective cosmological constant)
We describe exact cosmological solutions with rotation and expansion in the low-energy effective string theory. These models are spatially homogeneous (closed Bianchi type IX) and they belong to the family of shear-free metrics which are causal (no closed timelike curves are allowed), admit no parallax effects and do not disturb the isotropy of the background radiation. The dilaton and the axion fields are nontrivial, in general, and we consider both cases with and without the central charge (effective cosmological constant).
The spatial connection between the zones of deep-lying faults and the narrowly-localized paleo-relief sections posessing an anomolous sedimentation condition in the latter Cretaceous is identified. It is established that this is of significance in choosing the primary regions for conducting oil exploration.
Quantitative digital imaging, using planar laser light scattering techniques is being developed for the analysis of turbulent and reacting flows. Quantitative image data, implying both a direct relation to flowfield variables as well as sufficient signal and spatial dynamic range, can be readily processed to yield two-dimensional distributions of flowfield scalars and in turn two-dimensional images of gradients and turbulence scales. Much of the development of imaging techniques to date has concentrated on understanding the requisite molecular spectroscopy and collision dynamics to be able to determine how flowfield variable information is encoded into the measured signal. From this standpoint the image is seen as a collection of single point measurements. The present effort aims at realizing necessary improvements in signal and spatial dynamic range, signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution in the imaging system as ...
We will examine modeling data for various orbits using modeling software and compare this with actual satellite flight result. In particular, we will discuss the contributions of trapped protons to total dose and the effectiveness of shielding.
It is proven that there do not exist any Bianchi type-IX universes which expand for an infinite time, provided only that the matter satisfies the dominant energy condition and has non-negative average pressure (i.e., a non-negative trace of the spatial projection of the stress-energy tensor). This generalizes a proof recently given by us for the case of diagonal Bianchi type-IX solutions.
It is proven that there do not exist any Bianchi type-IX universes which expand for an infinite time, provided only that the matter satisfies the dominant energy condition and has non-negative average pressure (i.e., a non-negative trace of the spatial projection of the stress-energy tensor). This generalizes a proof recently given by us for the case of diagonal Bianchi type-IX solutions.
...) Abstract: Fluorescence microscopic imaging is widely used in biomedical research to study molecular and cellular processes in cell culture or tissue samples. This is motivated by the high inherent sensitivity of fluorescence techniques, the spatial resolution that compares favorably with cellular dimensions, the stability of the fluorescent labels used and the sophisticated strategies that have been developed for selectively labeling target molecules. More recently, two and ...
... Possibilities for summer activities become better, but socioeconomic factors such as age-structure may weaken the positive impact. Several research needs related to recreation and tourism were identified. The Finnish tourism industry seems to need more detailed and spatially informed scenarios concerning climate change and more information on its impacts on the different activities in the tourism sector. Also communication channels seem to need more attention. More information is ...
Time resolved light scattering from laser-induced electrostrictive gratings was used for the determination of flow velocities in air at room temperature. By measuring the velocity profile across the width of a slit nozzle we demonstrated the high spatial resolution (about 200 mm) of this novel technique. (author) 3 figs., 1 ref.
Laser direct-write etching of the refractory metals Mo and W was developed using reactions in chlorine and nitrogen trifluoride vapors. Rate and high spatial resolution are simultaneously optimized using a two-vapor halogenation/development sequence, based on surface modification. Local-area laser chlorination of the metal surface is used to predispose areas to subsequent bulk etching.
The martensitic phase transition in the A-15 compounds is treated by expanding the free energy in terms of the order parameters and its spatial gradients. The model used is a modified version of that recently proposed by Gorkov. The predictions for a wide range of physical properties are in good agreement with experimental results for V_3Si and Nb_3Sn lending support to the veracity of the model. 25 refs.
We analyze the behavior of some Bianchi type-IX, mixmaster cosmological models possessing extra dimensions. We find that, unlike the three-dimensional case, they do not exhibit chaotic behavior on approach to their initial singularity. A finite sequence of stochastic mixmaster oscillations is, in general, replaced by monotonic contraction of the three-space scale factors on approach to a singularity whenever additional spatial dimensions exist with the metric form we consider.
We analyze the behavior of some Bianchi type-IX, mixmaster cosmological models possessing extra dimensions. We find that, unlike the three-dimensional case, they do not exhibit chaotic behavior on approach to their initial singularity. A finite sequence of stochastic mixmaster oscillations is, in general, replaced by monotonic contraction of the three-space scale factors on approach to a singularity whenever additional spatial dimensions exist with the metric form we consider.
Paraspeckles (PSPs) are nuclear bodies associated with the retention in the nucleus of specific mRNAs. Two isoforms of a long noncoding RNA (NEAT1_v1/Menε and NEAT1_v2/Menβ)...Full Text Available
Spatially homogeneous space-times of Bianchi type IX are considered. A general scheme for the derivation of exact solutions of Einstein's equations corresponding to perfect fluid plus pure radiation fields is outlined. Some simple rotating Bianchi type IX cosmological models are presented. The details of these solutions are also discussed. 9 refs. (author).
We present a field-portable lensfree tomographic microscope, which can achieve sectional imaging of a large volume (?20 mm(3)) on a chip with an axial resolution of Hymenolepis nana egg, which is an infectious parasitic flatworm. Achieving a decent three-dimensional spatial resolution, this field-portable on-chip optical tomographic microscope might provide a useful toolset for telemedicine and high-throughput imaging applications in resource-poor settings. PMID:21573311
The radial distribution function (RDF) derived from wide angle X-ray diffraction patterns gives additional information about the spatial distribution of atoms. Their radial distances and relative average coordination numbers can be calculated using appropriate mathematical procedures. 7 refs.
BackgroundStudies of chronic health effects due to exposures to particulate matter with aerodynamic diameters ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5) are often limited by sparse...Full Text Available
Purpose: In this paper, we present an alternative to the originally proposed technique for the delivery of spatially fractionated radiation therapy (GRID) using multi-leaf collimator (MLC) shaped fields. We employ the MLC to deliver various pattern GRID treatments to large solid tumors and dosimetrically characterize the GRID fields. Methods and materials: The GRID fields were created with different open to blocked area ratios and with variable separation between the openings using a MLC. GRID designs were introduced into the Pinnacle"3 treatment planning system, and the dose was calculated in a water phantom. Ionization chamber and film measurements using both Kodak EDR2 and Gafchromic EBT film were performed in a SolidWater phantom to determine the relative output of each GRID design as well as its spatial dosimetric characteristics. Results: Agreement within 5.0% was observed between the Pinnacle"3 predicted dose distributions and the ...
We have used the unique spatial sensitivity of polarized neutron and soft x-ray beams in reflection geometry to measure the depth dependence of magnetization across the interface between a ferromagnet and antiferromagnet. The new uncompensated magnetization near the interface responds to applied field, while the uncompensated spins in the antiferromagnetic bulk are pinned, thus providing a means to establish exchange bias.
The total radiation rate, angular distribution of the emitted energy and photon correlations of the cooperative spontaneous radiation from two atoms with different resonance frequencies and spontaneous decay rates are calculated. Contrary to the case of two identical atoms oscillations appear in the total radiation rate and the spatial distribution of the total number of emitted photons differs from the single-atom radiation pattern. The effect of the dipole-dipole near-field interaction on the time evolution of the atomic system is discussed. (author).
Characterization and optimization of electron-beam parameters are important aspects of optimizing free-electron laser (FEL) performance. The visible spontaneous emission ({lambda}{approximately}650 nm) from the 5-meter long undulator of the Boeing FEL experiment can be characterized in sufficient detail with a streak/spectrometer to deduce time-resolved electron-beam spatial position and profile, micropulse duration, and energy. 7 refs., 13 figs., 2 tabs.
We measured and evaluated digital, pre-sampling and overall imaging properties (characteristic curve, modulation transfer function (MTF), Wiener spectrum (WS), noise equivalent quanta (NEQ)) for Cannon's flat-panel detector (FPD), Fuji computed radiography (FCR) and screen-film (S/F) systems, respectively. First, the digital and overall characteristic curves of FPD and FCR systems were more wide dynamic range than that of the S/F system. Second, the pre-sampling and overall MTF of FPD system were better than those of FCR system a little at lower spatial frequencies than 0.8 mm"-"1, but the overall MTF of FPD and FCR systems were worse than that of S/F system a little at all spatial frequencies. Third, the digital and overall WS of FPD system were similar or better than those of FCR system, but the overall WS of FPD and FCR systems were worse than that of S/F system. Fourth, the pre-sampling and overall NEQ of FPD system were better than those ...
We measured and evaluated digital, pre-sampling and overall imaging properties (characteristic curve, modulation transfer function (MTF), Wiener spectrum (WS), noise equivalent quanta (NEQ)) for Cannon's flat-panel detector (FPD), Fuji computed radiography (FCR) and screen-film (S/F) systems, respectively. First, the digital and overall characteristic curves of FPD and FCR systems were more wide dynamic range than that of the S/F system. Second, the pre-sampling and overall MTF of FPD system were better than those of FCR system a little at lower spatial frequencies than 0.8 mm{sup -1}, but the overall MTF of FPD and FCR systems were worse than that of S/F system a little at all spatial frequencies. Third, the digital and overall WS of FPD system were similar or better than those of FCR system, but the overall WS of FPD and FCR systems were worse than that of S/F system. Fourth, the pre-sampling and overall NEQ of FPD system were better ...
The neocortex plays a critical role in the gradual formation and storage of remote declarative memories. Because the circuitry mechanisms of systems-level consolidation are not well understood, the...Full Text Available
The impact of a single seizure on cognition remains controversial. We hypothesized that a single early life seizure (sELS) on rat post-natal day (P) 7 would alter only hippocampal-dependent...Full Text Available
DescriptionAt present, measurement of rumen pH for differnt diets and feeding regimes is only possible through direct sampling of the rumen fluid. Such invasive procedures are not practical at the farm level and they have ethical implications for research programmes. This approach also has limitations to its reliability due to spatial variations in acidity within the rumen. Mathematical modelling offers a non-invasive real-time alternative for monitoring rumen pH, and the purpose of the research propose [continued...
Reasons were revealed for the fresh water resistance of sediments of hydrolyzed polyacrylonitrile obtained from interaction of it with Fe/sup 3 +/, Ca/sup 2 +/ and Cu/sup 2 +/ cations which are in the saline solutions of these metals.
The harmful effect of phosphate in yellow cake on the TBP purification process and its removal methods are dealed with. The reason of more uranium loss in residue was analyzed. The harmful effect of phosphate on TBP extraction efficiency and operaton of extraction column was discussed. The limit value of uranium concentration in digestion solution was presented. For TBP purification process, the presence of phosphate in yellow cake does more harm than good. (authors)
The National Radiological Protection Board is to carry out a survey of doses received by patients from the diagnostic use of X-rays, beginning in June 1977, and carried out at over 100 National Health Service hospitals. Details are given of the reasons for carrying out the survey and the survey objectives. The survey working methods are discussed, together with methods of calculation of the genetically significant dose. The radiation doses will be measured by a thermoluminescent dosimeter developed specially for the survey. (U.K.).
Stable strange quark matter produced in the QCD phase transition in the early universe will trap neutrons and repel protons, thus reducing primordial helium production, Ysub(p). For reasonable values of Ysub(p), the radius of strange droplets must exceed 10/sup -6/ cm if strange matter shall solve the dark-matter problem without spoiling Big Bang helium synthesis. (orig.).
Stable strange quark matter produced in the QCD phase transition in the early universe will trap neutrons and repel protons, thus reducing primordial helium production, Ysub(p). For reasonable values of Ysub(p), the radius of strange droplets must exceed 10/sup 6/ cm if strange matter shall solve the dark-matter problem without spoiling Big Bang helium synthesis. (orig.).
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The model of transient enhanced diffusion of ion-implanted As is formulated and the finite-difference method for numerical solution of the system of equations obtained is developed. The nonuniform distribution of point defects near the interface and more accurate description of arsenic clustering are simultaneously taken into account. Simulation of As diffusion during rapid annealing gives a reasonable agreement with the experimental data. (authors)
An integrated multiwell floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) facility was successfully installed at the Tazerka field offshore Tunisia in 1982. Because there is good reason to believe that the installation techniques developed for the Tazerka FPSO can be applied to even larger systems in deeper waters, this paper presents the design and step-by-step installation procedures developed at Tazerka.
Mutual influence of phosphorus and carbon on the tendency to integranular corrosion (IGC) of tempered austenitic stainless steels in boiling solutions of 65% HNO_3 and 27% of HNO_3+40 g/l Cr"6"+ was investigated. It is ascertained that under the action of carbon additions susceptibility of phosphorus-containing steels to IGC increases considerably in pure nitric acid and decreases in nitric acid containing the oxidant. Possible reasons for the effects observed are discussed.
China is continuing to extract oil from kerogen shale despite having a crude production capacity of 100 Mt a year. Among the reasons for this policy are the country's rich oil shale resources, comparatively mature extraction techniques, and a comprehensive utilization of the shale that has proved to be economically profitable. China has oil shale deposits of 340 Gt, equivalent to 24.5 Gt of shale oil, to rank fourth in the world after the U.S., Brazil, and the Soviet Union.
This work presents and describes the natural radioactive occurrence in oil facilities. The origins of the detected radioactivity and the reasons of its settlement are discussed. The measurements results carried out in oil facilities in the Neuquina basin (Argentine) are shown in this work. The aim is to describe the actual situation and to evaluate the magnitude of the problem. Finally, recommendations are proposed to protect the health of the workers, especially of those who carry out the cleaning of the equipment, and to guarantee an appropriate final disposal for the generated radioactive residuals. (author)
Monte Carlo calculations performed to validate observed capture reaction rates of "1"2"9I and "2"3"7Np were in a reasonable agreement with experimental data obtained by the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research. The most significant discrepancy between the measurements and calculations (within a factor of 3) was observed for the NpO_2 sample and Pb target at 3.7 GeV proton energy
Concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K measured in bauxite waste, local building materials, and soils are presented and used in model equations to estimate the effective gamma dose-equivalent increments over background in the center of a standard-sized room in a prototype house. Calculated and measured values compare reasonably well.
During the period covered by this report research has been concerned with the study of photo-induced electron transfer reactions from porphyrins to acceptor molecules with time-resolved Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) methods. Excited-state electron transfer reactions are of importance from a fundamental point of view and in connection with applications in homogeneous and heterogeneous photosensitization, photopolymerization, and solar energy conversions. For this reason, the study of photo-induced electron transfer reactions is of considerable interest.
We report on measurements of the mixing of fuel oil with air at atmospheric pressure in an industrial premixed gas turbine burner. The concentration of the vaporized fuel oil was measured with laser induced fluorescence. We reason that the fuel oil concentration can be considered with good accuracy as proportional to the fluorescence intensity. (author) 6 fig., 3 refs.
Radionuclide (R) sorption from a solution (vapor) by freshly formed crystals with production of substitution solid solutions under different types of self-disordering is studied. Changes of self-defectiveness and macrodefectiveness with time and effect of radiation defects in the presence of P macroquantities are taken into account. An analysis for monodispersed sorbents is performed. It is shown that the achievement of equilibrium within a reasonable time in impurity-solid phase system depends on defectiveness which ensures a required level of the coefficient of impurity diffusion in sorbent crystals.
Both the accuracy and real-time are quite strictly required for the RCS thermal-hydraulic model of the simulation of nuclear power station. So, a large amount of reasonable simplifications should be carried on. The author introduces the RCS thermal-hydraulic model of the full scope simulator of Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station, and emphasizes on the fundamental hypotheses and computation method of its kernel part--DEFI programme.
... The final strand is to invest in new infrastructure, supporting the growth of small and medium-sized businesses and developing new productive industries like pharmaceuticals, locomotive engineering and plastics. Having acted as an adviser to the government, I can see several reasons why the EU should welcome and support this model of economic development. The most important is that Kazakhstan's diversification and its determination to move production up the ...
We report the implementation of positron wave function and lifetime calculations in the all-electron full-potential linearized augmented plane wave method. Calculations of lifetimes for more than 30 materials with two different forms of the enhancement factor were done and compared to prior calculations and experiment. We find that reasonable agreement with experiment can be obtained within the local density approximation when all-electron full-potential calculations are done.
In the case of large capacity steam turbines the conventional nozzle group control is, for mechanical and thermodynamic reasons, diminishing more and more in importance in favour of variable pressure control. A design for constant-pressure operation as an alternative to nozzle group control is described; this demonstrates a series of important advantages compared with the latter. (orig.).
Peritoneal calcification, which can lead to intestinal obstruction and potentially lethal hemoperitoneum, is a rare complication of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. We describe a case in which extensive peritoneal calcification had arisen for this reason. Although the patient was asymptomatic, extensive calcification was present on the parietal and visceral peritoneum, including the hepatic and splenic surface. (author)
The authors describe their experience of endocavitary radiotherapy of adenomas and carcinomas of the lower rectum. The method is an alternative for patients who cannot undergo standard surgical procedure or do no want a permanent colostomy. This method is cheap, fast and causes little discomfort to the patients, gives reasonable long-term results and has low morbidity. 11 refs., 4 figs., 2 tabs.
Isotopically selective IR multiphoton dissociation of molecules (SF_6, CF_3I) in a pulsed gas-dynamic flow interacting with a solid surface was studied for the first time. A noticeable (severalfold) increase in the yield of products (compared to excitation of molecules in an unperturbed flow) without a substantial decrease in the selectivity of the process was observed. Possible reasons for the effect are discussed. (laser applications and other topics in quantum electronics)
Climate change is not only dangerous but also expensive. On the other hand, air pollution abatement measures are costly as well. Scientists of the Microeconomics Department investigated how air pollution abatement and cost efficiency can best be combined. (orig.)
The mainly nonstationary operation of a solar-heated receiver can be simulated with sufficient accuracy only if data about the dynamic behavior are available. For this reason, the dynamic behavior of a solar cavity receiver with parabolic dish collector is investigated. The development of a mathematical simulation considering heat transfer and storage processes is presented and the procedure for a numerical solution is illustrated. The performance of the calculation method is finally demonstrated by simulating the passage of a cloud.
The mainly instationary operation of a solar heated receiver can be simulated with sufficient accuracy only if data about the dynamic behavior are available. For this reason, the dynamic behavior of a solar cavity receiver with parabolic dish collector is investigated. The development of a mathematical simulation considering heat transfer and storage processes is presented and the procedure for a numerical solution is illustrated. The performance of the calculation method is finally demonstrated by simulating the passage of a cloud.
Supplement B to the Terra Nova Development Application provides a description of the floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel system selected for the development, a summary of the reasons for selecting the system, and the impact of this selection on the Development Plan, the Benefits Plan, the Environmental Impact Statement and the Socio-Economic Impact Statement. There is also a description of the contractor alliance approach to be used in the Terra Nova Development. Refs., tabs., figs.
Radionuclide x-ray fluorescence analysis was used for the determination of Y, Ba and Cu in thin high-temperature superconducting films. Atomic emission ICP spectrometry was used to estimate the precision and accuracy of analytical results. Reasonable agreement between both methods was obtained when a polynomial calibration curve was applied. (author) 4 refs.; 4 tabs.
According to the practice operation experience of the outdoors electrical equipment in Guangdong Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station, following to the engineering technical standard applied in China, by analysis and assessment of pollution classes, it is considered that the class four is reasonable. And indicated the voltage distance should be more than 3.5 cm/kV. Some improvements had been executed and effects are good. And further suggest some improving comments
Compton scatter tomography utilizes the electronic collimation characteristics available through the Compton scattering angle-energy correlation to obtain tomographic images. In this work we present particular aspects of the technique, which are relevant to the inverse radiation transport problem of reducing marginal projection data to radial two-phase flow regime maps. The results indicate a viable technique for the tomographic imaging of tow-phase flow using practical source strengths and reasonably few detectors.
Recently, Faria et al. [Phys. Lett. A 305 (2002) 322] discussed an example in which the Heisenberg and the Schroedinger pictures of quantum mechanics gave different results. We identify the mistake in their reasoning and conclude that the example they discussed does not support the inequivalence of these two pictures.
This study reviews 16 cases of chondroblastoma of the patella which constitute mearly 6% of a large group of chondroblastomas scattered throughout the skeleton. Both radiologic and histologic appearances of chondroblastomas of the patella are indistinguishable from those of chondroblastomas arising in other sites. A reasonable differential diagnosis, including chondromalacia patella, is discussed together with important therapeutic considerations. (orig.).
Cathodic reduction of non-terminal vinylaxides on Hg cathodes in the presence of electrophiles gives reasonable yields of N-acylated enamines in an electrochemically totally irreversible reaction. In the presence of added H-donors rather high selectivity for formation of saturated amides is achieveable. The influence of reaction conditions on product distribution is discussed.
The Monte Carlo transport codes LAHET and MCNP were used to calculate energy fluence spectra at three neutron therapy facilities. The results compare very favourably with measured data. Kerma spectra and the ratio of ICRU muscle tissue kerma to A-150 kerma, along the carbon to oxygen kerma ratio, were determined. Absorbed dose rate calculations are in reasonable agreement with measured values. Use of these codes to study modifications to existing therapy beams is briefly discussed. (author).
Late somatic and genetic radiation effects are imperfectly understood, particularly in the human species. However the available information is sufficient to draw reasonably precise risk estimates in man for many types of damage by means of scientifically justifiable procedures and with the necessary caution. This overall absolute risk of major somatic and genetic damage may be set at around 10"-"4/rad of chronic whole-body doses.
The available measurements on the cosmic-ray antiproton/proton ratio show an excess of antiprotons above predictions derived in the framework of the standard picture of cosmic-ray origin and propagation. Calculations are performed of the production from collisions of cosmic rays with the interstellar gas under the condition of distributed reacceleration. It could be shown that the calculated antiproton/proton ratio is enhanced compared to that derived from the leaky box model, but it remains difficult to bring it into agreement with the data by reasonable astrophysical assumptions. 15 references.
An experimental plan for improving the problems of failed fuel location system in Wolsung Unit-2 reactors was established. It is not possible to make an experiment on the failed fuel monitoring nuclides in the cold laboratories because they have very short half life. Therefore, the experiments can be only carried out at the existing monitoring system under reactor operation. For that reason, an experimental plan was drawn up for installing the radiation detection system on reactor site.
We present here the concept of a simple one dimensional photon beam position monitor for use with high power synchrotron radiation beams. It has micron resolution, reasonable linearity in an inexpensive design. Most important, is its insensitivity to diffusely scattered low energy radiation from components upstream of the monitor.
We have studied, by a Monte Carlo simulation code ACAT-DIFFUSE, the fluence-dependence of the amount of retained helium atoms in tungsten carbide at room temperature under helium ion bombardment. The retention behavior may be understood qualitatively in terms of irradiation-dependent diffusion coefficient assumed and range. The emission processes from tungsten carbide under helium ion irradiation derived were compared with each other. We have discussed the retention curves for incident energy of 5 keV at incident angles of 0deg and 80deg and of 500 eV at 0deg. The energy spectra of helium atoms reflected from tungsten carbide for incident energy of 500 eV at 0deg and 80deg were compared with those from graphite and tungsten. (author)
Sexual information seeking is an important element within human information behavior. Seeking sexually related information on the Internet takes many forms and channels, including chat rooms discussions, accessing Websites or searching Web search engines for sexual materials. The study of sexual Web queries provides insight into sexually-related information-seeking behavior, of value to Web users and providers alike. We qualitatively analyzed queries from logs of 1,025,910 Alta Vista and AlltheWeb.com Web user queries from 2001. We compared the differences in sexually-related Web searching between Alta Vista and AlltheWeb.com users. Differences were found in session duration, query outcomes, and search term choices. Implications of the findings for sexual information seeking are discussed. PMID:15006171
The following aspects will be discussed: The main function of the Division of Inspection Services and its role in the Marketing of agricultural products; the shelf life of agricultural products: short review of present methods with a practical example of losses incurred due to limited keeping quality; irradiation and heat treatment: advantages of inhibited microbiological activities and undesirable chemical changes from a quality control point of view; quality standards: the basic principles of quality control; consequences of effective post-harvest treatment: export of deciduous and citrus fruit; the magnitude of the problem of poor keeping quality and quality requirements; other fruit; quantities and export limitations and vegetables; quantity and quality requirements; local marketing: fruit and vegetables subjected to inspection; quantity and quality aspects.
We define {\\em predictive information} $I_{\\rm pred} (T)$ as the mutual information between the past and the future of a time series. Three qualitatively different behaviors are found in the limit of large observation times $T$: $I_{\\rm pred} (T)$ can remain finite, grow logarithmically, or grow as a fractional power law. If the time series allows us to learn a model with a finite number of parameters, then $I_{\\rm pred} (T)$ grows logarithmically with a coefficient that counts the dimensionality of the model space. While logarithmic growth of related information theoretic quantities has been found in previous work on learning, power law growth has not been seen in this context. We find that it is associated, for example, with the learning of infinite parameter (or nonparametric) models such as continuous functions with smoothness constraints. There are connections between the predictive information and measures of complexity that have been defined both in ...
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)
This document reproduces the final project of David San Fabian Ayuso, presented on May 26, 2005, for the obtention of the engineer degree of the Carlos III University of Madrid. A single-phase, isothermal model, including both electron and proton transport, is introduced for the simulation of polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEM). The model is implemented in the commercial code Fluent 6.0, through the use of UDFs (User Defined Functions). In order to validate the model, a single canal of a PEM monocell is simulated in three dimensions. The obtained result are qualitatively satisfactory. It is observed that it is not essential to solve the current collectors when a monocell is considered (and not a stack). in the present study, the number of nodes is the computational grid appears to be too low in the membrane zone in order to make a complete validation of the model. (Author) 20 refs.
Purpose - This paper uses data about the challenges and difficulties confronting organisations and leaders to advance a dualized meaning of corporate leadership in the context of a developing country. The purpose is to describe a leadership frame that is locally contextualised, thereby bringing conceptualisation and thought closer to action, reified reality and applicability. Design/methodology/approach - This research was designed as a series of three studies starting from an applied/interventionist standpoint. The first study used data from applied diagnostic interventions, the second used qualitative interviews and the third used open-ended questionnaires. Data were collected from 25 Ghanaian organisations and 29 corporate executives. Findings - Drawing on a range of everyday issues suc...
The current Risk-informed Regulation (RIR) framework employs both a Level 1 Core Damage Frequency (CDF) and a Level 2 Large Early Release Frequency (LERF) as two surrogate measures for the plant risk. For their use in making regulatory decisions for the plant risk, it has been required to maintain an appropriate level of quality for the plant risk models. The first step for this purpose is to evaluate the quality of the PSA model in a qualitative or quantitative manner. Recently, a similar type of quality evaluation has been made for the KSNP Level 1 PSA model based on an ASME PRA Standard for the RIR application, but not for the corresponding LERF model. The main objective of this paper is to provide the ASME PRA Standard-based evaluation result for the existing KSNP Level 2 LERF model and the insights obtained from the evaluation process.
The current Risk-informed Regulation (RIR) framework employs both a Level 1 Core Damage Frequency (CDF) and a Level 2 Large Early Release Frequency (LERF) as two surrogate measures for the plant risk. For their use in making regulatory decisions for the plant risk, it has been required to maintain an appropriate level of quality for the plant risk models. The first step for this purpose is to evaluate the quality of the PSA model in a qualitative or quantitative manner. Recently, a similar type of quality evaluation has been made for the KSNP Level 1 PSA model based on an ASME PRA Standard for the RIR application, but not for the corresponding LERF model. The main objective of this paper is to provide the ASME PRA Standard-based evaluation result for the existing KSNP Level 2 LERF model and the insights obtained from the evaluation process
A qualitative method, involving supported liquid?liquid extraction (SLE) and ultra high pressure liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS?MS), was developed for the rapid tentative identification of various drugs of abuse in urine. In this study, 28 drugs and metabolites were covered by the screening procedure. Before analysis, urine samples were extracted by SLE and good extraction recoveries were obtained for most investigated compounds. The UHPLC strategy was then selected for the rapid separation of amphetamines, cocaine, opiates and related compounds in urine. Using columns packed with sub-2??m particles, analysis time was reduced down to 2?min, while maintaining acceptable performance. Finally, the detection was by tandem MS operating in the single reaction...
Presented in this report are the quantitative and qualitative aspects of the more than 5,800 applications of Grafoil on-plant. The subject all-graphite product was originally made by the Union Carbide Corporation. Its utilization in the forms of valve packing, gasketing and sealant tapes for leak repair and prevention on-plant since March 1970 is marked with typical zero-leak results. For all practical purposes, the successful results with Grafoil implementation indicate an unqualified control of leakage problems that began in 1967 with the V-11 and V-12 valves in the primary system of N Reactor. Meaningfully, the accruals of savings with existing and future applications shall continue to be incalculable in personnel exposure, maintenance, and capital. Inherent in the savings are the devised methodology and innovative developments coordinately employed in resolving the leak repair problems.
Heavily doped emitters with low saturation current density are of particular interest for selective emitter solar cells. These emitters can be obtained by laser doping through the phosphosilicate glass layer formed after thermal diffusion from POCl3 gas. The experimental results show that in contrast to purely POCl3 furnace-diffused emitters, the saturation current density of laser-doped emitters does not increase linearly as sheet resistance decreases, but rather features two distinct regimes. In one of these regimes, the saturation current density is found to decrease as the sheet resistance decreases, reaching values lower than those of furnace emitters. This peculiar behaviour was explained by both qualitative analysis and numerical simulations.
The biota of the Mississippi River in an ecological recovery zone near Red Wing, MN was studied before and after start-up of a nuclear plant to acquire baseline data and to estimate changes due to thermal addition. Thermal addition produced significant decreases in primary production in a plant region during summer month periods when water temperatures were near 36C. Extensive fisheries studies and sonar tagging/tracking of S. vitreum were performed. Comparison of fisheries results with other riverine, lake, and pond studies indicated a favorable environment for the success of the fish species studied. Qualitative macroinvertebrate surveys were conducted.
Using ultra-high-frequency data extracted from the order flows of 23 stocks traded on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, we study the empirical regularities of order placement in the opening call auction, cool period and continuous auction. The distributions of relative logarithmic prices against reference prices in the three time periods are qualitatively the same with quantitative discrepancies. The order placement behavior is asymmetric between buyers and sellers and between the inside-the-book orders and outside-the-book orders. In addition, the conditional distributions of relative prices in the continuous auction are independent of the bid-ask spread and volatility. These findings are crucial to build an empirical behavioral microscopic model based on order flows for Chinese stocks.
Problems relating to electromagnetic compatibility and power quality were discussed, combined with a discussion of the role that consulting engineers can play in resolving them. The need for the consulting engineer to be aware of design specifications of equipment was considered essential. Similarly, the interrelationship between installations using variable speed drives, halogenous lighting systems, capacitor banks, high-voltage power lines, power transformers, etc., and the need for familiarity with the operating characteristics of different types of power systems were stressed as key ingredients to success in ascertaining events and causes of equipment failure or power system problems on the network. The main sources of disturbances, impact of voltage variations, the importance of controlling voltage imbalance, and system protection were summarized. 4 figs.
Six different groups of non-smoking young male subjects were studied separately for 18 consecutive days each in a closed controlled-environmental human exposure chamber. Each group was subjected to a 5-day control period in fresh air followed successively by an 8-day period of continuous exposure to 50 ppm, 15 ppm or 0 ppm (control) by volume of carbon monoxide (CO) in air, and a 5-day recovery period in fresh air. The subjects performed a 1-h auditory vigilance task every day at the same time of day in a fixed qualitative, quantitative, and temporal relationship with food intake, consumption of stimulating beverages, physical activity, and sleep. It was concluded that such CO exposure, involving the continuous carriage of carboxyhaemoglobin loads up to 7%, was without significant effect on auditory vigilance.
Purpose - This paper discusses the impact of aesthetic design of smartphones on users' emotional reactions and preferences towards the product. To this end, the paper presents a study that explores emotional reaction of males to varying aesthetic design of the BlackBerry and empirically evaluates their preferences for the BlackBerry in different colours and overlay patterns. The paper then presents the statistical results of the study in an innovative graphical representation. Design/methodology/approach - A quantitative and qualitative research design was used, including three types of data-collection instruments (direct observations, rating scales, and interviews) to investigate if males have a stronger positive emotional reaction for visually treated BlackBerry Pearl devices over the or...
Sandia Laboratories, as part of its investigation of the Darrieus Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT), has been involved recently in an economic assessment of the concept. The class of VAWT's investigated use curved, fixed-pitch blades of constant section rigidly attached to a vertical rotating tower. Qualitatively, the main advantages of the VAWT over more conventional, propeller-type machines are the elimination of yaw controls, the placement of mechanical equipment at ground level, its amenability to simple, low-cost blade fabrication techniques, and aerodynamic stall characteristics which eliminate the need for active pitch control devices. The main disadvantages relative to modern propeller machines are a somewhat lower aerodynamic efficiency (about 10% lower), the limited ability of the rotor to self-start, and generally lower rotor operating RPM's, which leads to higher torque capacity requirements for the drive train.
The class of vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT) investigated use curved, fixed-pitch blades of constant section rigidly attached to a vertical rotating tower. Qualitatively, the main advantages of the VAWT over more conventional, propeller-type machines are the elimination of yaw controls, the placement of mechanical equipment at ground level, its amenability to simple, low-cost blade fabrication techniques, and aerodynamic stall characteristics which eliminate the need for active pitch control devices. The main disadvantages relative to modern propeller machines are a somewhat lower aerodynamic efficiency (about 10 percent lower), the limited ability of the rotor to self-start, and generally lower rotor operating RPM's, which leads to higher torque capacity requirements for the drive train.
Reducing count losses and pile-up pulse effects in quantitative and qualitative analysis is necessary for accuracy of analysis. Therefore, the optimum peaking time for particular detector systems is important. For this purpose, pure Se and Zn elements were excited by 59.5 keV ?-rays from a 50 mCi 241Am annular radioactive source in this study. The characteristic x-rays emitted from pure Se and Zn elements were detected by using an ultra low energy Ge (Ultra-LEGe) detector connecting Tennelec TC 244 spectroscopy amplifier at different peaking time modes. Overall pulse widths were determined by HM 203-7 oscilloscope connecting amplifier. The proper peaking time for ultra low energy germanium detector (Ultra-LEGe) is determined about 4 ?s.
The effect of high lift airfoils on the cost effectiveness of HAWT and VAWT (horizontal and vertical axis wind turbine) machines is studied. The scope involved first studying modern two dimensional airfoils, and developing a generalized formulation for their performance in terms of lift, drag, and thickness at appropriate Reynolds numbers. Single element, multi-element, symmetrical, extra thick airfoils and jet flap airfoils were analyzed. The jet flap airfoils were considered to be unacceptable because of excessive power requirements. Then the effect of using the above airfoils on the rotors of a variety of wind turbines was made. Qualitative representation of the type of airfoils studied is given.
Abstract Lysis and extraction of cells are essential sample processing steps for investigations pertaining to metabolism of xenobiotics in cell culture studies. Of particular importance to these procedures are maintaining high lysis efficiency and analyte integrity as they influence the qualitative and quantitative distribution of drug and toxicant metabolites in the intra- and extracellular milieus. In this study we have compared the efficiency of different procedures viz. homogenization, sonication, bead beating, and molecular grinding resin treatment for disruption of HT-29 colon cells exposed to benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) compound and a suspected colon carcinogen. Also, we have evaluated the efficiency of various procedures for extracting BaP parent c...
We have constructed a mathematical model that describes the coherent spontaneous radiation of a macroscopically filled exciton mode. We have demonstrated qualitatively ways in which a coherent subsystem of excitons can be formed. When this occurs under the influence of an external coherent source, exciton free induction occurs, while in the case of a spontaneous transition of the excitons to a coherent state through freezing of the reservoir of intermolecular interactions superradiance occurs. We have concluded that superradiance in the system of Frenkel excitons is possible under the influence of the non-Dicke mechanisms of self-induction of correlations, when the dipole transition moments of the individual atoms are coupled into a single macroscopic effective spin through their electrostatic interaction, this being analogous to the ordering of magnetic dipole moments in a ferromagnet.
The effect of air addition on biomass tar conversion in catalytic packed bed crackers was studied using both an isothermal micro reactor and a fluidised bed bench scale biomass gasification set up with down stream tar crackers. The micro reactor was applied for experiments with artificial biomass producer gas containing naphthalene as a model tar compound. Experiments were carried out with inert silica and catalytically active calcined dolomite bed material both with and without air addition. Experimental results with real tar from the fluidised bed bench scale gasification set up were in qualitative agreement with results from the micro reactor experiments. (author)
The majority of research on homeless youth has focused on the multitude of problems faced by this vulnerable population. The current study, while acknowledging the hazards of life on the streets, seeks to explore the personal strengths and informal resources street youth rely on to navigate their environments. Qualitative data from seven focus groups conducted with street youth ages 18?24 were analyzed using content analysis. These data, rich with interactions among youth participants, highlight three important themes: developing ?street smarts,?? existence of personal strengths, and informal resources relied upon by youth to survive. Results provide valuable insights into the strengths of homeless youth that can be useful to providers in assessing street youths? service needs and increasi...
There is increasing evidence that adolescence, like early life, is a sensitive period in which ongoing brain development can be influenced by environmental factors. This review describes our use of social instability as a model of mild adolescent social stress, its effects on social interactions and on hypothalamic?pituitary?adrenal function over the course of the procedure and in response to new stressors. The effects of social instability are sex-specific, with qualitative differences between the sexes on HPA function over the course of the stressor procedure, and with greater effects in males on behaviour observed during the social instability and greater effects in females on behavioural responses to drugs of abuse into adulthood, long after the stress exposure. The results from invest...
The Teachers` Academy for Mathematics and Science in Chicago (TAMS) is a freestanding institution founded in 1989 by scientists and a variety of other stakeholders, to advance the systemic reform of mathematics and science education in Chicago`s public schools. It focuses on the ``re-tooling`` of its elementary level teachers. The TAMS program, which has been funded in part by the DOE, contributes to strategic goals two through five of the Office of University and Science Education (OUSE). This evaluation of TAMS by the National Center for Improving Science Education is primarily a qualitative study that summarizes the history and current status of the organization and its programs. Data was obtained through extensive interviews, observations, and document review, using a framework of templates to guide data collection and analyses. The findings are organized around a series of lessons learned from the first three years of TAMS and conclusions about its current ...
T-2 toxin, a highly toxic member of the type-A trichothecenes, is produced by various Fusarium moulds that can potentially affect human health. It is strongly cytotoxic for human hematopoietic progenitors. Alimentary toxic aleukia (ATA), a disease typically associated with human, is primarily induced by T-2 toxin. A comparison of the metabolism of T-2 toxin incubated with hepatocytes of rats, piglets, chickens, and the hepatic subcellular fractions (microsomes and cytosol) of piglets, chickens, rats, and carp (common carp and grass carp) was carried out. The activities of the recombinant pig CYP3A29 on the transformation of T-2 and HT-2 toxins were preliminary studied. Metabolites were identified by novel LC/MS-IT-TOF. Qualitative similarities and differences across the species were observ...