bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sample Preparation Optimization for EDXRF Analysis of Portland Cement
Authors: Watson Wayne , Parker Jim , Harding Anthony R.
Published: March 2019

Various sample preparation methods for Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) analysis of Portland cement were compared in order to evaluate improvement in analytical accuracy and precision. Sample preparation requirements for EDXRF are slightly different than for Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (WDXRF), and the methods commonly used in WDXRF are not optimized for EDXRF. Primarily, the work focuses on techniques for producing a fused sample with the lowest practical concentration of lithium borate flux. Determination of minimum detection limits were made from samples with varying proportions of flux in order to evaluate analytical optimization. Ease and reproducibility of preparation of the sample was also considered.
X-ray Diffractometric Determination of Lattice Misfit Between γ and γ' Phases in Ni-Base Superalloys
Authors: Ohno Katsumi , Harada Hirosi , Yamagata Toshihiro , Yamazaki Michio , Ohsumi Kazumasa
Published: March 2019

The lattice misfits between γ and γ' phases in Ni-base superalloys (single crystal) were accurately determined for filings of specimens by using both a conventional X-ray tube focusing diffractometer(CXRFD) and a synchrotron-radiation parallel beam X-ray diffractometer (SRPXRD). All reflection peaks measured with the CXRFD were in a cluster of overlapping peaks because of the very small differences in the lattice parameters of both phases and the instrumental broadening due to X-ray optics including the spectral distribution of Xray source such as CuKα doublet. The deconvolution method was applied to remove the instrumental broadening from the peaks measured with the CXRFD. The window functions for the deconvolution method were calculated from CuKα doublet reflection of Si standard by a nonlinear least-square method.

The instrumental broadening of SRPXRD was much smaller than that of CXRFD since the monochromatic X-rays produced single peak profiles and constant profile shape over a wide 2θ range. A profile fitting with a pseudo-Voigt function was used to determine 2θ angles to 0.0005 deg. for the synchrotron powder data. The peak angle and shape reflected from γ' phases in γ-matrix and those fron electrochemically extracted γ'-phase were significantly different.
Elastic Constants of Alloys Measured with Neutron Diffraction
Authors: Butler B. D. , Murray B. C. , Reichel D. G. , Krawitz A. D.
Published: March 2019

Elastic constants as a function of crystallographic direction have been measured in polycrystalline alloy samples of 17-4PH stainless steel, Ni-Cr-Fe, and Ti-6%AI-4%V using a neutron diffraction technique. The results compare best with the constant stress model of Reuss. It is demonstrated that measurements of stress can be made sampling the bulk of the material using neutrons with an accuracy comparable to more conventional x-ray methods.
Residual Stresses Near SCC Fracture Surfaces of AISI 4340 Steel
Authors: Yajima Zenjiro , Tsuda Masaaki , Hirose Yukio , Tanaka Keisuke
Published: March 2019

X-ray diffraction observation of the material beneath the fracture surface provides failure analysists with useful information to judge the mechanical condition of fracture.

In the present paper, stress corrosion cracking (SCC) tests were conducted by using the bluntly notched compact tension (CT) specimens of 200°C tempered AISI 4340 steel in a 3.5 NaCl solution etwixonmeat. The distribution of the residual stress beneath the fracture surface near the root of the notch was measured with the X-ray diffraction technique. The effect of the notch root radius on crack nucleation with stress corrosion was discussed on the bases of the results of X-ray observation.
Using X-ray Powder Diffraction to Determine the Structure of VPI-5 - A Molecular Sieve with the Largest Known Pores
Authors: Crowder Cyrus E. , Garces Juan M. , Davis Mark E.
Published: March 2019

The synthesis of a new family of aluminophosphate-based molecular sieves containing pores defined by 18 tetrahedrally linked atoms has been described by Davis et al at Virginia Polytechnic Institute (VPI). This development reprsents the first reposted synthesis of a moleoular sieve with pores larger than those defined by 12 tetrahedrally linked atoms. This material has been shown to readily absorb triisopropyl benzene and exhibits a pore size distribution, determined from, its argon adsorption isotherm, which suggests the existence of molecular sieve pores larger than those found in known molecular sieves. Confirmation of a pore defined by 18 tetrahedrally linked aluminum and phosphorus atoms was accomplished by crystallographic structure determination using X-ray powder diffraction data. Single crystal methods were impossible due to an inability to synthesize crystals of suitable size. Details of the structure determination are reported in this work.
Semi-Quantitative XRD Analysis of Fly Ash Using Rutile as an Internal Standard
Authors: Thedchanamoorthy A. , McCarthy G.J.
Published: March 2019

XRD analysis of fly ash was quantitated using the Reference Intensity Ratio (RIR) method and rutile (TiO2) as an internal standard. Rutile RIR's for 15 of the crystalline phases commonly observed in North American fly ash were determined. Error analysis on the various steps in quantitation indicated that precision ranged from ±10% of the amount present for phases that diffract x-rays strongly to ±21% for weakly diffracting phases. Limit of detection in the mostly glassy fly ashes ranged from 0.2% for lime, the most strongly diffracting phase, to 3.5% for weakly diffracting mullite. Accuracy evaluated with a simulated fly ash was within the limits established by precision, but in actual fly ash samples, accuracy will be a function of the match between the crystallinity and composition of the analyte and the analyte standard. Overlaps among peaks of some of the important phases require intensity proportioning; for this reason, the method is best described as semi-quantitative.
The Determination of α-Cristobalite in Airborne Dust by X-ray Diffraction - Theory and Practice
Authors: Jeyaratnam M. , West N.G.
Published: March 2019

One of the earliest occupational diseases to be recognised was silicosis, a pathological condition of the lungs caused by the inhalation of dust containing free crystalline silica. During the industrial, revolution in the UK the incidence of silicosis rose dramatically; for example in the Sheffield cutlery industry, where dry grinding of knives and forks was practised, the life expectancy of workers was reduced on average by twenty five years. At the present day there is a wide spectrum of industry in which exposure to crystalline silica, may occur; in the UK alone it is estimated that more than 100,000 workers are potentially at risk. The great majority of this exposure is to quarts but cristobalite is also commonly encountered where silica rich materials are subject to very high temperature e.g. ceramics, refractories, brick manufacture. Cristobalite is also found in certain natural deposits including bentonite clay and chert.
Use of Scattered Secondary Target Radiation in EDXRF Analysis: A Fundamental-Parameter Method for Matrix Correction
Authors: O'Reilly Tom , King Bi-Shia W.
Published: March 2019

A new fundamental-parameter program has been developed which corrects for light element absorption based on the mean atomic number of the sample. The mean atomic number, in turn, is determined from the Compton/Rayleigh scatter intensity ratio. The program is quite flexible with regard to the number and the type of standards which may be used. The accuracy and precision of the method has been evaluated with several geological and biological standards. The results are in good agreement with those obtained by some other methods (CEMAS, XRF-11).
The Analysis of Carbon and Other Light Elements Using Layered Synthetic Microstructures
Authors: Anzelmo John A. , Boyer Bradley W.
Published: March 2019

Layered Synthetic Microstructures (LSM) for XRF instruments became commercially available in the early 1980's. It was quickly recognized that these devices improved the efficiency of diffraction for the elements boron through magnesium considerably over the LOD soap multilayers and single crystals available at that time. LSM devices of 40, 50, 80, and 120 ang-strom (2D) spacing were offered at first. Gradually, many different 2D spacings and compositions have become available, each with its own special area of application, usually limited to one or two elements.
Advances in High-Resolution Studies of the Chemical Effects in the Molybdenum L Heavy-Ion-Induced X-Ray Satellite Emission (HIXSE) Spectra*
Authors: Rosseel T. M. , Dale J. M. , Hulett L. D. , Pepmiller P. L. , Vane C. R. , Walkiewicz T. A. , Young J. P.
Published: March 2019

High-resolution measurements of the molybdenum L heavy-ion-induced X-ray satellite emission (HIXSE) spectra of a series of Mo alloys and compounds have been obtained with a new, high-efficiency, high-resolution Bragg crystal spectrometer in the von Hamos geometry. The improved resolution (5 eV at 2.3 keV) is sufficient to reveal the LnMm configuration lines in the Lα and Lβ hypersatellite bands. Both sets of lines exhibit the same trend in the variation of the relative yield distribution with the chemical environment as was observed for KLn lines of lower Z targets. Difference spectra, using elemental molybdenum as a subtrahend, enhance the systematic variation. These results confirm the analysis and conclusions of lower resolution studies. They also indicate a potential for even greater sensitivity to the chemical environment.
An X-Ray Fluorescent Spectrometer for the Measurement of Thin Layered Materials on Silicon Wafers
Authors: Arai Tomoya
Published: March 2019

The developments in the analysis of low atomic number elements or the measurements of soft and ultrasoft X-rays have been carried out. Using this technology, a measuring method for thinner layered materials has been developed recently. This type of analysis requires a high excitation and wavelength dispersive devices with high reflectivity.

On the other side, the film technologies related to electronic and optical devices in the field of semiconductor industry have made a remarkable progress. A variety of layered material thickness in the multilayered structure of LSI is in the range of 100Å and 2μm. It is too thick to be measured by electron methods and too thin to be measured by a regular X-ray method using the X-ray wavelength of 0.2-3Å. Accordingly, it is generally said that the soft and ultrasoft X-ray method should be applied to measure the thickness and composition of layered materials on silicon wafers.
Observed and Calculated XRPD Intensities for Single Substance Specimens
Authors: Schreiner Walter N. , Kimmel Giora
Published: March 2019

One of the areas of X-ray powder diffraction receiving considerable attention in recent years is quantitative analysis. This analysis depends on an accurate measurement of integrated diffraction line intensities. In order to study the accuracy of these measurements we have calculated integrated intensities from single crystal data for single substance powders and compared them to experimental data obtained in our laboratory.
Synchrotron X-Ray Scattering for the Structural Characterization of Catalysts
Authors: De Angelis R. J. , Dhere A. G. , Maginnis M. A. , Reucroft P. J. , Ice G. E. , Habenschuss A.
Published: March 2019

Discussions exist in the literature concerning the application of single x-ray diffraction profile analysis to determine the average particle size, particle size distribution and root mean squared strain in catalytic systems. Nandi et al. have shown that the single order analysis can give erroneous strain results and is subject to error in the large particle size range. They further indicated that the initial slope of Stokes corrected Fourier coefficients gives more reliable average p article size than that which is calculated from single order peak shape analysis. There is apparent agreement that the average particle size and the particle size distribution measured by single order profile analysis, in small metal particle systems, are reliable.
A New High-Temperature Camera for Diffraction Studies Above 2200°C
Authors: Mantler Michael , Ebel Horst
Published: March 2019

The presented paper describes design and operational characteristics of a new high-temperature camera. The design is developed from the widely used Anton Paar camera, but several of its major disadvantages were eliminated.

The specimen is directly mounted on an electrically-heated metal strip. The most important improvement over the original camera is a provision for the compensation of the thermal expansion of the heating strip. Fig. 1 shows a Ta-heater after using it at temperatures above 2000°C without adequate compensation; the specimen, which is mounted at the center of the strip, is considerably displaced during the measurement and large errors occur in the measurement of the reflecting angles.

The improved overall design allows temperatures (at the heater) above 3000°C to be reached. The highest temperature measured so far at a tungsten strip was 3350°C, which is only 40° below its melting point.
Use of X-Ray Curved Sensitive Position Detector for Simultaneous Measurement of Several Pole Figures
Authors: Heizmann J.J. , Laruelle C. , Vadon A.
Published: March 2019

At the moment, the time required to obtain a pole figure is about three hours, and generally several pole figures are needed to make a texture analysis. Therefore the time and the cost of texture measurement are widely increased.

Now, new position sensitive X-Ray detectors are appearing, which allow to record at one and the same time the whole 2Θ spectrum, i.e. the beams diffracted by several (hi k1l1) lattice planes. So with this kind of detector, it will be possible to get simultaneously several pole figures.
Correlations Between X-Ray Microstructures and Magnetic Properties of CoCrTa Alloy thin Films
Authors: Huang T. C.
Published: March 2019

Thin film structures determined by X-ray reflection and transmission diffractometer methods has been used to co rrelate with th e magnetic p roperties of CoCrTa thin films. Well-crystallized CoCrTa alloy particles with strong h.c.p. c-axis preferred oriented normal to the film surfaces were found to be mainly responsible for the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy observed in specimens IL and 8L, whereas poorly crystallized CoCrTa particles in the 150Å thick magnetic layers of a third specimen 33L have led to an observed longitudinal magnetization. Microstrains generated by the crystalline - amorphous interface stresses induced an enhanced perpendicular magnetic anisotropy in specimen 8L. Values of crystallite size D determined from the Warren-Averbach analysis were correlated with the coercivities He. Analysis of the He vs. D curve indicated th a t the critical particle size for a magnetic multi- to single-domain transition was 270± 25Å. The retention in coercivity (Hc=175 Oe) at a small particle size (D=75Å) in specimen 8L suggested that strong interparticle interactions existed among the wellcrystallized CoCrTa particles. A much smaller retention in coercivity (Hc=90 Oe) at D=70Å of specimen 33L indicated the inter particle interactions in poorly crystallized CoCrTa layers were relatively weak.
Defect Structure of Synthetic Diamond and Related Phases
Authors: Badzian Andrzej R.
Published: March 2019

This paper examines the relationship between the lattice defects and crystallization process of synthetic diamonds. Diamonds synthesized by high pressure, high temperature methods as well as diamonds vapor deposited under metastable conditions are considered. High pressure crystals precipitated from Ni or Co solutions contain inclusions of metastable carbides and metal atoms distributed throughout a small fraction of the octahedral holes in the diamond lattice.

Diamonds are grown metastabily by a chemical vapor deposition process in which CH4 and H2 are excited by a microwave plasma. Such diamonds are deposited as individual micro-monocrystals or as solid poly crystalline films. The defects in such crystals are related to impurities such as Si and H which produce point defects and tend to nucleate graphite, which can generate planar defects. Nucleation of a diamond phase on β-SiC is also considered, because of the lattice matching between them.

Diamond structure is a prototype of a family of related phases such as cubic BN (sphalerite structure) and solid solutions of diamond and cubic BN, Cubic BN-diamond solid solutions (BN)x(C2)1-x,0<x<l are, in turn, a prototype of AIIIBV-CIV phases, of which (GaP)x(Si2)1-x,0<x<l is an example. Substitution of B-N (or Ga-P) by C-C (or Si-Si) atom pairs at lattice sites is characteristic of these solid solutions.
Residual Stress Analysis in Steels Having Preferred Orientation by Use of Synchrotron Radiation Source
Authors: Yoshioka Yasuo , Matsui Hisaaki
Published: March 2019

In the field of X-ray stress analysis, a diffraction plane at a high Bragg angle region has to be selected in order to determine the precise value of stress. But stress analysis using a most desired (hkl)- plane is not always possible. The use of synchrotron radiation (SR) enables the stress analysis using many (hkl)-planes with high accuracy by providing a perfectly monochromaticed X-ray beam having an optional wave length. Such features of SR ate most suitable for the stress analysis on materials having preferred orientation.
A New Method for Evaluating X-Ray Diffraction Peak Broadening With Engineering Applications
Authors: Kurita Masanori
Published: March 2019

A new method is proposed for evaluating rapidly the diffraction peak broadening by using the standard deviation of a Gaussian function approximating the diffraction peak. This value, called the Gaussian curve parameter (GCF), is given by

The use of the GCP permits rapid and nondestructive measurement of plastic strain and hardness of quenched and tempered steels with an automated X-ray stress analyzer using a personal computer. The GCP increases with increasing hardness of quenched and tempered steels. It also increases with increasing plastic strain by stretching. Furthermore, the GCP can be used for rapidly evaluating hardening of quenched steels.
X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Alloy and Stainless Steels Using a Mercuric Iodide Detector*
Authors: Kelliher Warren C. , Maddox W. Gene
Published: March 2019

Energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry has been used extensively for some time now to do accurate and rapid analysis of a variety of samples. Most XRF Systems today use cryogenically cooled Si(Li) detectors to obtain the resolution needed for analysis of samples containing several elements. The need for the cryogenic coolant results in these XRP systems being rather large and not readily adaptable to portable devices. Detectors that require no cooling, or at least require only cooling obtainable by electrical weans, offer a definite advantage over cryogenically cooled detectors for use in portable devices. Mercuric iodide (HgI2) detectors are one type of such room-temperature detectors. The major disadvantage of any room-temperature detector has been the poor eneygy resolution associated with them.
Advances And Enhancements in Light Element EDXRF
Authors: Bogert James R.
Published: March 2019

One of the strongest analytical qualities of energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) is the wide range of analyte elements that can be detected and analyzed. Historically, the technique has covered all the elements from sodium (Z=11) and above. A useful measure of specific spectrometer performance is analyte sensitivity. X-ray spectrometric sensitivity is usually expressed in terms of minimum detectable amount of analyte or rate of change of analyte line intensity with change in amount of analyte. Many factors affect analyte sensitivity in EDXRF. These include excitation conditions, specimen conditions, system geometry, atmosphere, detector and readout conditions, and of course the specific analyte line. Typically, EDXRF sensitivity is very good, and low ppm concentrations of analytes are routinely analyzed–until one encounters the light elements.
Correction Method for Particle-Size Effect in XRF Analysis of Ore Slurries
Authors: Lankosz Marek
Published: March 2019

In on–stream X–ray fluorescence analysis of ore slurries, the effects due to variation in the particle-size of solids can cause appreciable and sometimes major errors in the measured concentration of an element to be determined. Weight percentage of slurry ore grains with diameter smaller than 75 um (called later W75) is commonly used as measure of ore fineness and can be determined using particle-size analyzers. A method of correcting for W75 variaition is highly desireable, particularly in a case when high analysis accuracy is required for economical reasons.
Energy Dispersive Measurement of X-Ray Tube Spectra
Authors: Aiginger H. , Benedikt M. , Görgl R.
Published: March 2019

A method for measuring spectral distributions of x-ray tubes directly with a solid-state detector is presented. Different anode materials (chromium, molybdenum, rhodium and tungsten) have been measured. Results for various applied voltages and take-off angles have been obtained.
X-Ray Diffraction Analysis of Simultaneous Changes in Stress and Dislocation Densities in Thin Films
Authors: Vermeulen A. C. , Delhez R. , de Keijser Th.H. , Mittemeijer E. J.
Published: March 2019

A method has heen developed to determine the dislocation configuration in a polycrystalline specimen from the direction dependence of line broadening. The method is based on an analytical expression for the integral breadth due to microstrain from sets of parallel edge and/or screw dislocations on the specific slip systems. Analysis of the x-ray-diffraction measurements obtained from poly crystalline aluminium layers, deposited onto silicon wafers and subsequently annealed and cooled to room temperature, shows unequal densities and unequal changes of densities of dislocations with the Burgers vector parallel and with the Burgers vector inclined with respect to the surface of the layer. Stress relaxation and dislocation annihilation occur at room temperature. A model was developed to describe the dependency of the decrease of macrostress on the decrease of the dislocation density.
X-Ray Stress Measurement of Ni-Ai System Intermetallic Compounds
Authors: Goto Tokimasa , Tabata Hiroyuki , Hirose Yukio
Published: March 2019

The microstructures and mechanical properties of Ni-Al system intermetallic compounds used as heat resisting materials have been investigated by many researchers[l,2], but there are few studies applying X-ray stress measurement to these materials[3]. Two problems make it difficult: One is the comparatively coarse grain size, the other is the strong preferred orientation along the direction of the solidification. Therefore, it become possible to evaluate mechanical behavior in these materials, if we can measure the residual stresses correctlv by X-rays.

In this paper, Ni-25mol%AI(Ni3Al) made by the arc-melting method was employed. It consists of comparatively coarse grains and has strong preferred orientation along the direction of the solidification.
Measurement of Residual Stress Distribution of Ground Silicon Nitride by Glancing Incidence X-ray Diffraction Technique
Authors: Sakaida Yoshihisa , Tanaka Keisuke , Harada Shintaro
Published: March 2019

A new method of X-ray stress measurement was proposed to estimate non-destructively the steep residual stress distribution in the surface layer of ground Si3N4. We assumed an exponential decrement of the residual stress near the ground surface, and derived a formula for the lattice strain as a function of sin2Ψ. In the experiments, the diffraction angles were measured on the ground surface for a widest possible range of sin2ѱ using an Ω-goniometer. In order to measure the diffraction angle at very high sin η values, a scintillation counter was located on the -η side and an incident X-ray beam impinged on the ground surface with a very low angle from the +η side using the glancing incidence X-ray diffraction technique. A strong non-linearity was found in the 20-sin2ѱ diagrams especially at very high ѱ -angles. From the analysis of non-linearity, the stress distribution in the surface layer was determined. Tine residual stress took the maximum compression of 2 GPa at a depth of about 0.5 μm from the surface, and then diminished to zero at about 25 μm in depth. In the close vicinity of the ground surface, the compressive residual stress was relieved because of both the surface roughness and microcracking induced during the grinding process.
The X-ray Study on Diamond Film
Authors: Ohtsuka Masaaki , Matsuoka Hideaki , Hirose Yukio , Ishii Hitoshi
Published: March 2019

The properties of the surface on various machine parts are very important. We are required to improve wear resistance, fatigue strength and thermal properties of the surface. Recently, ceramic films coated on various parts were widely used in industry, where they were improved the properties of the surface. Diamond is a new coating film deposited by the CVD method giving a film which is very hard and excels in wear resistance. In the past few years, a diamond film deposited by CVD method has become available for use in industry, however, the properties of the film remain unknown, and it is important to determine these properties.
Peak Broadening in Asymmetric X-Ray Diffraction Resulting from Chi Tilts
Authors: Dragoi Danut , Watkins T. R. , Kozaczek K. J.
Published: March 2019

The objective of this study was to measure the peak broadening inherent in chi (x) tilting and compare that to a geometrical model. The (012) and (300) reflections from a Al2O3 plate (NIST SRM 1976) were each scanned every 100 from -700 to +700x (15 lilts/reflection) to examine the influence of a low and high 2θ, respectively. The absorption correction was not taken into account. The equation y=2m1| tan x | cosθ+m2 fits well the data from both low and high 2θ except the point x =0. The extended equation y=m1cosh(m2tan x cosθ) fits well with all the experimental points.
Results of X-Ray Powder Diffraction Round Robin Tests with Corundum Plates and Powder Samples
Authors: Valvoda V. , Rafaja D. , Jenkins R.
Published: March 2019

Repetitions of the round robin test on powder diffractometer sensitivity and round robin test of intensity measurements, using two almost identical groups of participants, enabled a comparison to be made of results obtained in different tests. Two forms of corundum test samples were used: (i) sintered plates in tests A8 and A9, and (ii) powder samples in test Bl . A rough comparison of the influence of different methods of specimen preparation from the powder material in different laboratories in test Bl is thus possible with respect to the (almost) uniform sintered plates used in tests A8 and A9. The parameters under investigation were the line positions (and/or inter-planar d-spacing) and intensities of eleven reflections occurring at the 20 angles ranging from 25° to 136° for Cu Kα-radiation
The in-Situ Observation of Organic Thin Films During Growth Process by Using Grazing Incidence X-Ray Diffraction and Fluorescence Methods
Authors: Hayashi Kouichi , Horiuchi Toshihisa , Matsushige Kazumi
Published: March 2019

Today, many researchers investigate extensively the molecular arrangement techniques for various organic materials at a nano meter scale in order to fabricate the organic thin films with novel electronic and photonic functions. For achieving this purpose, it is most important to understand the mechanism of molecular orientation during a film growth process. Thus, it have been strongly desired to develop the measuring system, which enables us to evaluate the crystal structures and molecular orientations of organic ultra thin films during the growth process. For inorganic materials, structural observations of the films grown by a molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) technique are generally conducted by using a reflection high energy electron diffraction (RHEED) method. But, this method can not be applying for many organic thin films because an electron beam destroy them. Since the organic molecules are stable to the x-rays, x-ray fluorescent and diffraction methods are suitable for such investigations of organic thin films.
Controlled-Humidity XRD Analyses: Application to the Study of Smectite Expansion/Contraction
Authors: Chipera Steve J. , Carey J. William , Bish David. L.
Published: March 2019

Smectites are clay minerals that expand and contract dramatically in response to changes in water vapor pressure. The expansion/contraction behavior of smectite has considerable importance in engineering applications (such as the stability of building foundations and the integrity of clay barriers) and affects hydrologic properties. To understand this behavior we have analyzed several purified, homoionic smectite standards over a wide range of relative humidities using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and a new computer-automated humidity-control system.

Humidity was controlled by mixing dry N2 with H2O-saturated (“wet”) N2 produced with a gas-washing bubbler held in a constant-temperature bath set at 35°C. Mixing of wet and dry N2 was controlled with automated MKS mass-flow controllers.
A Supported Ultrathin Window for Improved Performance in Gas Flow Proportional Counters
Authors: Nelson Andrew J. , Tingey David , Shoji Takashi , Shimizu Kazuaki
Published: March 2019

Polypropylene windows stretched to 1-1.5 μm in thickness have been traditionally used for soft x-ray detection on gas flow proportional counters. Theoretical calculations show that significant transmission Improvement could result from a thinner window. The trade-offs to ultimate transmission have traditionally been reliability and durability. A 0.3 um window has been fabricated to show significant improvement for light element transmission, A supporting grid was used to back the film and provide additional support and durability to allow for pressure cycling during venting of the spectrometer chamber. Significant transmission improvements were observed for ultra soft x rays in the energy range below 1 KeV.
Diffusivity of Pt in BaxSrl-xTiO3 by XPS Compositional Depth Profiling
Authors: Naziripour Ali , Nelson Art J.
Published: March 2019

This paper investigates the diffusion of Pt into polycrystalline thin-film BaxSr1-xTiO3 synthesized by sputter deposition and metal-organic deposition (MOD). Comparison of these two sets of films demonstrated that no remarkable interdiffusion was observed at the Pt/BSTO interface for the sputtered films. This is contrary to the films prepared by MOD which shows Pt has thoroughly diffused into BSTO films. The deeper diffusion of Pt into BSTO films prepared by MOD is attributed to die microstructure of these films. The effects of die diffusion on some physical properties have been discussed. Moreover, the effect of the heat-treatment on the diffusivity and other parameters is discussed
Psychometric Properties of the Apathy Scale in Advanced Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Wetmore John B. , Arbelo José Matías , Catalán María José , Valldeoriola Francesc , Rodriguez-Blazquez Carmen , Martinez-Martin Pablo
Published: March 2019

Objectives. To assess the psychometric attributes of the Apathy Scale- (AS-) Spanish version in patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease (APD). Materials and Methods. Over 6 months, 61 patients participated in a clinical study of levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) and were evaluated using the AS and other clinical tools. Various psychometric attributes of the AS were assessed. Results. Patients (60.7% men) were aged 68.02 ± 7.43 years, with 12.57 ± 5.97 years from PD diagnosis. Median HY of patients in “on state” was 2 (range, 1–4), and mean levodopa equivalent daily dose was 1455.98 ± 456.00 mg. Overall, the parameters of feasibility/acceptability were satisfactory, except for a moderate-to-high floor effect in AS items but not in its total score (both 3.3%). Cronbach’s alpha was 0.78, while item homogeneity coefficient was 0.21. Almost all items (11/14) reached acceptable item-total corrected correlations (rS = 0.16–0.50). AS total score was moderately correlated with Beck Depression Inventory (0.34) and with Non-Motor Symptoms Scale domains 2 (sleep/fatigue, 0.35), 3 (mood/apathy, 0.56), and 5 (attention/memory, 0.41). There were no significant differences between AS total scores by established groups of sex, time from diagnosis, HY, and Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale. Following LCIG treatment, there was no significant change in the AS total score. The relative change was 5.56%, the standard error of the difference was 4.17, and Cohen’s d effect was 0.10. Conclusions. The AS showed satisfactory feasibility, acceptability, scaling assumptions, internal consistency, and convergent validity. Responsiveness parameters were poor, probably due to the characteristics of the clinical study from which these data came. This trial is registered with NCT02289729.
Validation of an HPLC Method for Determination of Bisphenol-A Migration from Baby Feeding Bottles
Authors: Rodriguez Ruth , Castillo Elianna , Sinuco Diana
Published: March 2019

A simple and economic high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV-Vis) analytical method was validated for the quantitation of specific Bisphenol-A migration from baby feeding bottles. Overall and specific migration assays were done with different food simulating matrices using the filling method. Good linearity was obtained over the concentration range of 0.01–0.6 mg/kg. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were 0.004 and 0.010 mg/kg, respectively. The repeatability of the method (%RSD, n=10) was between 89.5 and 99.0%, while recovery ranged from 83.2 to 98.4%. The method was applied to specific migration assays from baby feeding bottles purchased from different plastic producers in Colombia. The results show that, in a first migration assay, Bisphenol-A was not detectable in all samples. In a second migration test, Bisphenol-A concentrations were higher than the most restricted limit (0.05 mg/kg) with ethanol 95% and isooctane as food simulants.
Time‐Domain Substructure Transient Vibration Transfer Path Analysis Based on Time‐Varying Frequency Response Functions under Operational Excitations
Authors: He Rong , Zhou Hong
Published: March 2019

The time‐domain substructure inverse matrix method has become a popular method to detect and diagnose problems regarding vehicle noise, vibration, and harshness, especially for those impulse excitations caused by roads. However, owning to its reliance on frequency response functions (FRFs), the approach is effective only for time‐invariable linear or weak nonlinear systems. This limitation prevents this method from being applied to a typical vehicle suspension substructure, which shows different nonlinear characteristics under different wheel transient loads. In this study, operational excitation was considered as a key factor and applied to calculate dynamic time‐varying FRFs to perform accurate time‐domain transient vibration transfer path analysis (TPA). The core idea of this novel method is to divide whole coupled substructural relationships into two parts: one involved time‐invariable components; normal FRFs could be obtained through tests directly. The other involved numerical computations of the time‐domain operational loads matrix and FRFs matrix in static conditions. This method focused on determining dynamic FRFs affected by operational loads, especially the severe transient ones; these loads are difficult to be considered in other classical TPA approaches, such as operational path analysis with exogenous inputs (OPAX) and operational transfer path analysis (OTPA). Experimental results showed that this new approach could overcome the limitations of the traditional time‐domain substructure TPA in terms of its strict requirements within time‐invariable systems. This is because in the new method, time‐varying FRFs were calculated and used, which could make the FRFs at the system level directly adapt to time‐varying systems from time to time. In summary, the modified method extends TPA objects studied in time‐invariable systems to time‐varying systems and, thus, makes a methodology and application innovation compared to traditional the time‐domain substructure TPA.
Comparison of Clinical Efficacy and Anatomical Investigation between Retrolaminar Block and Erector Spinae Plane Block
Authors: Onishi Eiko , Toda Noriko , Kameyama Yoshinobu , Yamauchi Masanori
Published: March 2019

Retrolaminar block (RLB) and erector spinae plane block (ESPB) are alternative approaches to paravertebral block (PVB) and are advantageous in that they are easier and safer techniques compared with the traditional PVB. Many clinical reports of these blocks have described their efficacy for ipsilateral thoracic analgesia. The local anesthetic injection points of RLB and ESPB are the lamina and transverse process, respectively. Despite the similarity of the puncture sites, there have been no clinical studies comparing RLB and ESPB. In addition, the underlying mechanism of these blocks has not been clarified. Recent anatomical investigations indicated that the injectate was distributed in the paravertebral space and spread laterally into the intercostal spaces. The limited distribution into the paravertebral space indicated that compared to PVB, RLB and ESPB exert their effects via a different mechanism. In this review, we describe the features of and differences between RLB and ESPB based on current clinical and anatomical reports. We also propose the clinical indication and discuss the differences, clinical outcomes, and anatomical mechanisms of the techniques.
Estimation of Breathing Rate with Confidence Interval Using Single-Channel CW Radar
Authors: Nejadgholi I. , Sadreazami H. , Baird Z. , Rajan S. , Bolic M.
Published: March 2019

Breathing rate monitoring using continuous wave (CW) radar has gained much attention due to its contact-less nature and privacy-friendly characteristic. In this work, using a single-channel CW radar, a breathing rate estimation method is proposed that deals with system nonlinearity of a single-channel CW radar and realizes a reliable breathing rate estimate by including confidence intervals. To this end, time-varying dominant Doppler frequency of radar signal, in the range of breathing rate, is extracted in time-frequency domain. It is shown through simulation and mathematical modeling that the average of the dominant Doppler frequencies over time provides an estimation of breathing rate. However, this frequency is affected by noise components and random body movements over time. To address this issue, the sum of these unwanted components is extracted in time-frequency domain, and from their surrogate versions, bootstrap resamples of the measured signal are obtained. Accordingly, a 95% confidence interval is calculated for breathing rate estimation using the bootstrap approach. The proposed method is validated in three different postures including lying down, sitting, and standing, with or without random body movements. The results show that using the proposed algorithm, estimation of breathing rate is feasible using single-channel CW radar. It is also shown that even in presence of random body movements, average of absolute error of estimation for all three postures is 1.88 breath per minute, which represents 66% improvement as compared to the Fourier transform-based approach.
Probability Weighting Localization Algorithm Based on NLOS Identification in Wireless Network
Authors: Wu Shixun , Zhang Shengjun , Xu Kai , Huang Darong
Published: March 2019

In this paper, a localization scenario that the home base station (BS) measures time of arrival (TOA) and angle of arrival (AOA) while the neighboring BSs only measure TOA is investigated. In order to reduce the effect of non-line of sight (NLOS) propagation, the probability weighting localization algorithm based on NLOS identification is proposed. The proposed algorithm divides these range and angle measurements into different combinations. For each combination, a statistic whose distribution is chi-square in LOS propagation is constructed, and the corresponding theoretic threshold is derived to identify each combination whether it is LOS or NLOS propagation. Further, if those combinations are decided as LOS propagation, the corresponding probabilities are derived to weigh the accepted combinations. Simulation results demonstrate that our proposed algorithm can provide better performance than conventional algorithms in different NLOS environments. In addition, computational complexity of our proposed algorithm is analyzed and compared.
An Unusual Hybrid Salivary Gland Tumor: Molecular Analysis Informs the Potential Pathogenesis of This Rare Neoplasm
Authors: Zhou Yan , Martinez Duarte Ernesto , Eleff David J. , Tafe Laura J. , Leibowitz Jason M. , Kerr Darcy A.
Published: March 2019

Background. The presence of two or more tumor entities growing in adjacent locations within the salivary gland is very rare, and pathologic studies on such lesions are limited, particularly those with molecular information. Since the clinical history and imaging studies are usually nonspecific, accurate diagnosis and clinical management largely depend on a thorough histological examination.Methods and Results. We describe a 71-year-old man with an unusual case of hybrid salivary gland tumor composed of mucoepidermoid carcinoma and basal cell adenoma. Molecular analysis revealed differing driver genetic alterations in each component.Conclusions. Hybrid salivary gland tumors are rare, and their pathogenesis is controversial. The combination of mucoepidermoid carcinoma and basal cell adenoma has not been previously described. While malignant transformation of adenoma to carcinoma seems plausible, gene sequencing was more suggestive of their independent derivation. Key to appropriate surgical management is identifying the more aggressive component, ideally at the time of intraoperative consultation.
N‐Soliton Solutions of the Coupled Kundu Equations Based on the Riemann‐Hilbert Method
Authors: Tao Mengshuang , Dong Huanhe
Published: March 2019

The Kundu equation, which can be used to describe many phenomena in physics and mechanics, has crucial theoretical meaning and research value. In previous studies, the single Kundu equation has been investigated by the Riemann‐Hilbert method, but few researchers have focused on the coupled Kundu equations. To our knowledge, many phenomena in nature can be only described by coupled equations, such as species competition and signal interactions. In this paper, we discuss N‐soliton solutions of the coupled Kundu equations according to the Riemann‐Hilbert method. Starting from the spectral problem, the coupled Kundu equations are generated, and the Riemann‐Hilbert problem is presented. When the jump matrix of the Riemann‐Hilbert problem is the identity matrix, the N‐soliton solutions of the coupled Kundu equations can be expressed explicitly.
Safety Risk Analysis and Protective Control of Existing Pipelines Affected by Deep Pit Excavation in Metro Construction
Authors: Hu Bin , Li Xiaoqing , Huang Dan
Published: March 2019

Urban underground pipelines undertake many tasks closely related to people’s daily life and production, such as water supply, drainage, gas supply, and power supply. Metro projects are usually located in areas with dense underground pipelines; therefore, in the construction process of deep-foundation metro pit, some measures should be taken to protect the safety of underground pipelines. Under the engineering background of the Jiangbei foundation pit of the Wuhan Yangtze River Tunnel, the influence of soil disturbance caused by deep-foundation pit excavation is first simulated using the ABAQUS software on the displacement of underground pipelines and the dangerous area of underground pipelines is analyzed. Second, the most disadvantageous combination is analyzed for the risk factors of pipelines under the influences of multiple risk factors. Finally, a systematic additional partial reinforcement scheme (APRS) is proposed from the aspects of safety and economy to protect the safety of underground pipelines in the dangerous areas with greater risk. The results of measurement prove that the APRS is effective for pipeline protection and can provide reference for similar problems.
Improvement of Pit-and-Fissure Sealant Bonding to Enamel with Subpressure Treatment
Authors: Zhang Chang , Li Yongmei , Zhang Zutai , Tian Yueming , Ding Ning , Ma Yongping
Published: March 2019

This research evaluated the effects of subpressure on the shear bond strength (SBS) of 80 specimens with flat enamel surfaces and on AgNO3 microleakage of 40 specimens with flat enamel surfaces and 40 specimens with 1 mm deep cavities before and after thermocycling. The enamel of 168 specimens was grounded to a flat surface. Two types of sealants (E and H) were selected. Sealants were applied to enamel surface (88 specimens, group F) either subjected or not to subpressure. The bonding interfaces were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the SBS was examined using a universal testing machine before and after thermocycling. The failure mode was also analyzed. For the microleakage test, 80 specimens were grouped as group A (original enamel flat surface) and group B (a round cavity of 1 mm in depth) (40 per group). Sealants were applied to the teeth either subjected or not to subpressure. The specimens were submitted to a microleakage protocol with AgNO3 and analyzed before and after thermocycling. Statistical analysis was performed for the data. The results showed that subpressure eliminated voids on the interface between the enamel and sealants and significantly enhanced specimens’ SBS. Although thermocycling reduced SBS significantly, specimens under subpressure after thermocycling still showed higher SBS than specimens under nonsubpressure before thermocycling. The subpressure groups showed a lower microleakage level compared to nonsubpressure groups, though thermocycling caused deeper silver infiltration. In addition, different sealants showed no significant effect on the SBS and microleakage performance. Overall, subpressure application improves sealant bonding and retention rate and has potential to prevent secondary caries.
Identification and Expression Analysis of Snf2 Family Proteins in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Zhang Dongdong , Gao Sujuan , Yang Ping , Yang Jie , Yang Songguang , Wu Keqiang
Published: March 2019

As part of chromatin-remodeling complexes (CRCs), sucrose nonfermenting 2 (Snf2) family proteins alter chromatin structure and nucleosome position by utilizing the energy of ATP, which allows other regulatory proteins to access DNA. Plant genomes encode a large number of Snf2 proteins, and some of them have been shown to be the key regulators at different developmental stages in Arabidopsis. Yet, little is known about the functions of Snf2 proteins in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). In this study, 45 Snf2s were identified by the homologous search using representative sequences from yeast (S. cerevisiae), fruit fly (D. melanogaster), and Arabidopsis (A. thaliana) against the tomato genome annotation dataset. Tomato Snf2 proteins (also named SlCHRs) could be clustered into 6 groups and distributed on 11 chromosomes. All SlCHRs contained a helicase-C domain with about 80 amino acid residues and a SNF2-N domain with more variable amino acid residues. In addition, other conserved motifs were also identified in SlCHRs by using the MEME program. Expression profile analysis indicated that tomato Snf2 family genes displayed a wide range of expressions in different tissues and some of them were regulated by the environmental stimuli such as salicylic acid, abscisic acid, salt, and cold. Taken together, these results provide insights into the functions of SlCHRs in tomato.