bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sample Treatment for TXRF - Requirements and Prospects
Authors: Prange Andreas , Schwenke Heinrich
Published: March 2019

Total-reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, abbreviated as TXRF, is known for its high sensitivity down to the low pg-level or sub-ppb level, respectively, and its wide dynamic range of about three to four orders of magnitude (Yoneda and Horiuchi, 1971, Wobrauschek and Aiginger, 1980; Knoth and Schwenke, 1978 and 1980, Aiginger and Wobrausohek, 1985, Michaelis et al., 1985, Prange, 1987). Meanwhile several laboratories have purchased commercially available TXRF spectrometers and have started to report favourable about this technique. Applications have been reported from various disciplines: These are estuarine and marine water quality management and research, air pollution studies, mineralogical investigations, biology and medicine (Prange, 1987, Prange et al, 1985; Prange and Kremling, 1985, Prange et al., 1987, Stöβel and Prange, 1985, Michaelis, 1986, Ketelsen and Knöchel, 1985, Leland et al., 1987, von Bohlen et al., 1987, Junge et al., 1983, Hentschke et al., 1985, Hentschke et al., 1985, Gerwinski and Goetz, 1987, von Bohlen et al., 1987), In spite of its close kinship to conventional EDXRF , TXRF is quite different with respect to operation and performance and provides complementary capabilities.
An Improved Fusion Technique for Major-Element Rock Analysis by XRF
Authors: Couture Rex A.
Published: March 2019

A new apparatus and technique are described for borate flux fusion of rocks for x-ray fluorescence analysis. The method yields homogeneous, strain-free glass discs with flat, smooth surfaces that do not require polishing. The technique is adapted from several previous methods but has advantages over each in terms of sample uniformity, quality of the discs, or capital cost. The ignited rock powder is fused with flux over a burner mounted on a stock laboratory mixer, and is cast into a solid flat, polished Pt-Au mold. The very effective mixing action ensures homogeneity An oxidizing atmosphere, which is necessary to prevent loss of iron to the crucibles, is maintained by injecting air during fusion.

There is no significant loss of alkali metals during fusion, and negligible loss of flux. Duplicate samples of several rock types show excellent reproducibility, approaching counting statistical errors, for 10 major elements.
The Application of P-32 and Sn-113 Radionuclides for the Determination of Noble Metals
Authors: LaBrecque J. J. , Rosales P. A.
Published: March 2019

Recently, a new radioisotope X-ray fluorescence technique was reported in which a small quantity (100μCi) of a selected radioisotope was directly mixed with a small amount of the sample, as a source-sample. Many different types of excitation radiation from various radioisotopes have been previously studied: Na-22, S-35, Fe-55, Co-57, Hi-63, Zn-65, Cd-109, 1-125, Cs-137, Pa-147 and Ara-241.
X-ray Diffraction Studies of Polycrystalline Thin Films Using Glancing Angle Diffractometry
Authors: Larsen R.A. , McNulty T.F. , Goehner R.P. , Crystal K.R.
Published: March 2019

The use of conventional θ/2θ diffraction methods for the characterization of polycrystalline thin films is not in general a satisfactory technique due to the relatively deep penetration of x-ray photons in most materials. Glancing incidence diffraction (GID) can compensate for the penetration problems inherent in the θ/2θ geometry. Parallel beam geometry has been developed in conjunction with GID to eliminate the focusing aberrations encountered when performing these types of measurements. During the past yearwe developed a parallel beam attachment which we have successfully configured to a number of systems.
On the Preparation of Good Quality X-ray Powder Patterns
Authors: Sullenger D. B. , Cantrell J. S. , Beiter T. A. , Tomlin D. W.
Published: March 2019

For several years we have prepared and submitted a variety of quality powder x-ray diffraction patterns to the International Centre for Diffraction Data (ICDD) for inclusion as reference standards in their Powder Diffraction File (PDF). Patterns submitted and/or currently under development include metal hydrides (inorganics), flavanoids and related compounds (organics), organic compounds involved in pollution (e.g., dioxins), explosives (organics and metal organics) and glass-ceramic phases (inorganics).
Simultaneous Thermal and Structural Measurements of Oriented Polymers by DSC/XRD Using an Area Detector
Authors: Correale Steven T. , Sanjeeva Murthy N.
Published: March 2019

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and variable temperature x-ray diffraction (XRD) are two complementary techniques which provide thermal and structural information. By using DSC and XRD simultaneously, one can directly correlate the results from the two techniques. The simultaneous measurements eliminate problems which might arise due to sample inhomogeneity and instrumental differences. In addition, the DSC provides precise control over temperature, and heating and cooling rates.
Vacuum Free-Fall Method for Preparation of Randomly Oriented XRD Samples
Authors: Ludlam Jim , Jacobs Brad , Predecki Paul K.
Published: March 2019

Quantitative phase analysis by XRD requires the attainment of (1) random crystallite orientation and (2) homogeneous and intimate mixing of the constituent phases in the samples. These two requirements must also be met in the preparation of random composite materials, particularly those containing randomly-oriented fibers or whiskers.

The two most common methods for producing random crystallite orientation are spray drying and the air suspension method. In the latter, an air suspension of the crystallites is rapidly collected onto a glass fiber filter. The crystallites then assume the random orientation of the filter fibers on which they are deposited.
Advances in Fundamental-Parameter Methods for Quantitative XRFA
Authors: Mantler Michael
Published: March 2019

The fundamental-parameter technique is an important tool for quantitative x-ray chemical analysis and is routinely applied for the quantification of bulk specimens and single layer films. A method extending it to multiple film layers has recently been introduced by Mantler and results from such applications have been reported by Huang and Parrish. In addition, fundamental-parameter methods can be employed to predict intensity ratios of fluorescent lines as well as the spectral distribution of radiation scattered by the specimen (shape of the background in the vicinity of emission, lines). This is useful for accurate quantitative analysis in the case of a poor peak-to-background ratio, where the precise determination of net intensities is difficult.
Standardless EDXRF Analysis of Cations in Ion-Exchange Resin-Impregnated Membranes
Authors: Bogert James R. , Kibler Jack M. , Schmotzer Jack K.
Published: March 2019

In steam-generating systems of all types, producing and testing pure water is of utmost importance for the life of the system. A 1000-MWe (megawatt electric) power plant generates 6 million pounds of steam per hour if fossil fueled and 11 million pounds per hour if nuclear. Should an impurity have a concentration of only 10 ppb, in a year's time, 550 to 1000 pounds of solids can accumulate in the power-generating cycle. These solids may initiate numerous problems, including preboiler-cycle corrosion, boiler-tube failure, and turbine damage.

At the Babcock & Wilcox (B&W) Alliance (Ohio) Research Center and throughout the industry, three principal methods are used to monitor water chemistry. On-line continuous analyzers measure parameters such as pH, conductivity, chloride, and sodium. Grab sampling (followed by laboratory analysis) is used for parameters that are measured less frequently; for example, sulfate. For some parameters, such as corrosion products, special sampling techniques are required. This is because no on-line instruments are available, and grab-samples are not chemically stable. Corrosion products are collected near the sample tap using a 0.45-micron filter-disc followed by a stack of resin-impregnated membranes.
A Comparison of Several Sample Preparation Techniques for the Analysis of Fly Ash
Authors: Schlorholtz Scott , Demirel Turgut
Published: March 2019

Fly ash is a finely divided particulate material that is removed from the flue gases of pulverized coal burning power plants. Recent emphasis on the utilization of fossil fuel (i.e., coal) has created a serious waste disposal problem in that, of the 60 million tons of fly ash produced annually in the United States, only about 20% is being utilized [1], The remaining fly ash (about 48 million tons per year) must be disposed of in some environmentally safe manner.
X-Ray Diffraction Study of Fracture Surface Made by Fracture Toughness Tests of Blunt Notched CT Specimen of Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Suzuki Akira , Tanji Akira , Yajima Zenjiro , Hirose Yukio , Tanaka Keisuke
Published: March 2019

X-ray fractography is a new method utilizing the X-ray diffraction technique to observe the fracture surface for the analysis of the micro-mechanisms and mechanics of fracture.

In the present paper, X-ray fractography is applied to fracture surfaces of high strength aluminum alloy (JIS 7075-T6). The fracture toughness tests were conducted by using compact tension (CT) specimens with blunt notches and fatigue pre-cracks. The distribution of the residual stress near fracture surfaces was measured by the X-ray diffraction method. The effect of the notch radius on the fracture toughness value was discussed.
Some Examples of Failure in X-Ray Safety
Authors: Lushbaugh C. C.
Published: March 2019

Radiation-induced skin damage has been and still is the major therapeutic problem in radiation medicine. It is the well-known complication of past as well as present radiation therapy for neoplastic and related diseases even though linear accelerators and other modern teletherapy devices have reduced the unintentional incidence of skin damage remarkably. It is not well known, however, that such damage is also the most frequent presenting lesion in industrial radiation accidents even though redesigned radiography equipment as well as intensive training and radiation safety programs, are in place. In addition, state and national radiation safety officers are carrying out strict site inspections routinely. Someone once said it well when he remarked that engineers can design fool-proof radiation generating equipment, but they can't design damn fool-proof interlocks (personal communication, W. W. Burr 1986). This truism is strengthened by the not uncommon practice of constructing "cheater cords" to permit mechanical adjustments to be done while the device is operating. Numerous anecdotes abound relating how horrible destruction of parts of hands and feet has occurred year after year since radioactivity and x-rays were discovered.
Analytical X-Ray Safety at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Authors: Wallace P. L.
Published: March 2019

In this report, we summarize over 30 years of analytical x-ray safety history at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), and describe the safety procedures used in the operation of analytical x-ray equipment in the laboratories managed by the LLNL Chemistry and Materials Science Department (C&MSD). The present safety control system, which was developed by users of the equipment, has proven effective in keeping incidents at LLNL to a rate consistent with the national average.
X-Ray Imaging: Status and Trends
Authors: Ryon R.W. , Martz H.E. , Hernandez J.M. , Haskins J.J. , Day R.A. , Brase J.M. , Cross Brian , Wherry David
Published: March 2019

There is a veritable renaissance occurring in x-ray imaging. X-ray imaging by radiography has been a highly developed technology in medicine and industry for many years. However, high resolution imaging has not generally been practical because sources have been relatively dim and diffuse, optical elements have been nonexistant for most applications, and detectors have been slow and of low resolution. Materials analysis needs have therefore gone unmet. Rapid progress is now taking place because we are able to exploit developments in microelectronics and related material fabrication techniques, and because of the availability of intense x-ray sources.
Small, Area X-Ray Diffraction Techniques: Errors in Strain Measurement
Authors: Nunes Thomas L. , Goldsmith Charles C.
Published: March 2019

The semiconductor industry is continually striving'for smaller, denser devices. Microdiffractometry is an analytical technique which endeavors to apply x-ray diffraction techniques for measuring strain and phase information to areas approaching 50 micrometers diameter or less.

This study extends the work of Goldsmith and Walker in the measurement of strain using the lattice distortion or sin2(ψ) plot method.

The systematic errors arising from both sample and beam displacement relative to the center of rotation of the cample ie examined. A relationship is derived which predicts the influence of these displacements upon the slope of a stress plot. The predictions are compared to experiment.

The influence of random errors arising from particle size and photon counting statistics will also be discussed. Guidelines will be presented which will minimize both systematic and random errors.
Dynamical X-Ray Diffraction Simulations for Asymmetric Reflections for III-V Semiconductors Multilayers
Authors: Macrander A. T. , Berreman D. W. , Slushy S. E. G.
Published: March 2019

A new matrix representation of the dynamical theory of x–ray diffraction which treats asymmetric reflections of coherent (i.e., pseudomorphic) epitaxial single crystal structures has been applied to III–V semiconductor multilayer structures. The laminar approximation is made, and Maxwell‘s equations are integrated in a 8 x 8 matrix form for the sublayers. Diffraction profiles from any multilayer can be obtained by multiplying the sublayer matrices. The method was used to simulate on a computer the intrinsic reflecting power of hypothetical structures in order to probe theoretical sensitivity limits for thin layers. We investigated [100] oriented structures consisting of single In ( l–x )Ga (x)As(l–y)P(y) quaternary (Q) layers on InP substrates as well as double heterostructures (DH‘s) consisting of a thin Q layer sandwiched between an InP substrate and an InP cladding layer.
The ϕ-Integral Method for X-Ray Residual Stress Measurements
Authors: Wagner C.N.J. , Eigenmann B. , Boldrick M.S.
Published: March 2019

Residual stress measurements were made on a ground rail steel (0.75 %C) using the newly developed ϕ-integral method and the conventional ψ-differential method. The strains <εϕψ> were measured as a function of the azimuth angle ϕ, the angle of rotation about an axis perpendicular to the specimen surface, from 0° to 360° in steps of 15°, at fixed tilt angles ψ, the angle between the normals to the specimen surface and the reflecting planes (hkl), set between 0° and 45° in steps of 9°.

It was found that <εϕψ> plotted as a function of ϕ is not periodic with the period of 180° and consequently exhibits the so-called ψ-splitting when plotted as a function of sin2ψ at constant ϕ. The Fourier coefficients of the function <εϕψ> plotted versus ϕ were used to evaluate the strain tensor <εij> in the integral method. Assuming that isotropic elasticity theory is applicable, the stress tensor <σij> was calculated, and excellent agreement was found between the values determined with the ϕ integral and ψ-differential methods.
Macro and Micro-Stress Distributions in Filled Epoxy Systems
Authors: Nguyen L. T. , Noyan I. C.
Published: March 2019

The results of an experimental study on residual stresses within the encapsulation layers of electronic components are described. For this study, silicon wafers were coated with a flexibilized cycloaliphatic formulation filled with 30 and 40 (vol.) % of Cu particles. The residual stresses were determined by measuring the radii of curvature of the encapsulated wafers. The stress in the Cu particles at the surface was also measured by X-Ray diffraction. It was seen that the stresses within the structure are primarily macro-stresses, with little stress present within the Cu particles. Comparison of the experimental values to those calculated from linear elasticity theory also indicate relaxation within the composite during curing.
Residual Stress Determination in Al2O3/SiC (Whisker) Composites By X-Ray Diffraction
Authors: Predecki Paul , Abuhasan Alias , Barrett Charles S.
Published: March 2019

Residual strains and stresses were determined in both phases of a hot pressed α-Al2O3 composite containing 25 wt % β (cubic) SiC whiskers using conventional x-ray diffraction and profile analysis. Both phases in this composite were randomly oriented as confirmed by back reflection pinhole photographs. The reflections found most useful with Cu Kα radiation were: 511 + 333 for β-SiC at -134° 2θ and 146 for α-Al2O3 at -136° 2θ. The peak shift and broadening observed in these reflections, relative to the starting powders, were largely due to the two phases mutually constraining each other elastically. This was confirmed by the reversal of the peak shift and most of the broadening in the SiC reflections when the Al2O3 matrix was etched away. Using the method of Cohen and Noyan, it was found possible to separate the macrostresses from the microstress components in each phase. The microstresses were largely hydrostatic; of the order of 895 MPa (130 ksi) compressive in the whiskers and 370 MPa (54 ksi) tensile in the matrix. The macrostresses were ~79 MPa (11.5 ksi) tensile.
Comparison of Calculated and Experimental Powder X-Ray Diffraction Patterns of Organic Materials
Authors: Cantrell J. S. , Belter T. A. , Sullenger D. B.
Published: March 2019

The Powder Data File (PDF) contains far fewer organic entries than inorganic ones despite the existence of many more organic compounds. The ready availability of many of the missing organic substances affords their potential inclusion via quality experimental patterns. Considerable expansion of the organic portion of the PDF is also available via computation from the extensive published single crystal literature. Careful comparison of calculated and experimental patterns can be quite useful in resolving problems encountered in patterns from each source and ir more fully characterizing "real-life" materials. Examples of this interplay are presented, featuring, particularly, explosive compounds, an especially sparsely populated portion of the PDF.
Applications of Pulsed Neutron Powder Diffraction to Actinide Elements
Authors: Lawson A. C. , Cort B. , Olsen C. E. , Richardson J. W. , Mueller M. H. , Lander G. H. , Goldstone J. A. , Williams A. , Rwei G. H. , Von Dreele R. B. , Faber J. , Hitterman R. L.
Published: March 2019

We have been using the technique of pulsed neutron powder diffraction to study several problems in the physics and chemistry of the actinide elements. In these elements one often encounters very complex structures resulting from polymorphic transformations presumably induced by the presence of 5f-electrons. For exampie, at least five distinct structures of plutonium metal are found between room temperature and its melting point of 640°C, and two of the structures are monoclinic! Single crystals are usually not available, and the high resolution which is intrinsic to the time-of-flight powder technique is a powerful tool in the solution of complex structural problems. The relatively low absorption coefficients for neutrons for at least some actinide isotopes is an advantage when surface oxidation is a problem (as in high-temperature experiments) and provides good particle statistics so that high-quality data are available for Rietveld refinement. The low absorption of neutrons by other materials such as vanadium and fused silica enables the use of these materials for the containment of samples in high- and low-temperature environments, and the fixed geometry of the time-of-flight technique simplifies the design of furnaces and cryostats.
A New Analysis Principle for EDXRF: The Monte Carlo - Library Least-Squares Analysis Principle
Authors: Verghese K. , Mickael M. , He T. , Gardner R.P.
Published: March 2019

A new analysis principle for energy-dispersive X–ray fluorescence has been identified and investigated as to feasibility. It consists of: (1) generating the complete spectral response for a sample of known (assumed) composition by Monte Carlo simulation,(2) keeping track of the individual elemental responses within the Monte Carlo simulation for use as library spectra, (3) use of the library least–squares (linear) analysis method to obtain the elemental amounts for any unknown sample spectrum, and (4) iterating these steps if the unknown amounts are too fax from the assumed composition originally used.

This principle has been investigated for a radioisotope source excited EDXRF system consisting of a 109Cd source and a Si(Li) detector for a Cu-Ni alloy sample (CDA Alloy 715) and a stainless steel sample (304 Stainless Steel) and found to give excellent results. This analysis principle makes unique use of the Monte Carlo “forward” simulation method to provide the elemental library spectra for use in the library least-squares method of analysis.
100 Years of Progress in X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis
Authors: Gilfrich John V.
Published: March 2019

In the 100 years since the landmark work of Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, much progress has been made in X-ray science and applications. X-ray Fluorescence Analysis (XRF) essentially had its beginning not long after that development, when, in 1913, Moseley demonstrated the relationship between the atomic number of an element and the wavelength of its X-ray spectra. As early as the 1930's, workers were analyzing materials for trace elements. By the time of the 1940's, X-ray spectroscopic instruments were becoming commercially available, and analysts were beginning to appreciate the simplicity of the X-ray spectra, and thus the potential for a significant impact on elemental analysis.
X-Ray Point Focusing Using Cylindrically Bent Crystals with Modulated Structures for Synchrotron X-Ray Beams
Authors: Chang W. Z. , Chukhovskii F. N. , Förster E.
Published: March 2019

Micron or submicron spatial resolution for x-ray microfluorescence analysis has been pursued using various x-ray point focusing methods,1-4 such as transmission zone plates, tapered capillaries, and Bragg Fresnel lenses. Point focusing using bent crystals does not seem to be a desirable means for achieving a microbeam size, although it is a traditional technique which utilizes perfectly curved crystal surfaces to focus x rays emanating from the source. It is known that point focusing can only be achieved by bending a crystal two dimensionally, which normally introduces imperfections to the crystal since the crystal is an undevelopable surface. Unavoidably, the introduced imperfections will broaden the reflection curve (rocking curve) of the crystal and, in turn, broadens the focal spot size.
Actual Tasks of Stress Analysis by Diffraction
Authors: Hauk Viktor
Published: March 2019

Studying the literature, drafts of papers, and proposals of test projects, some ideas on new tasks emerge. Not all thougths may be progressive to the experts. There may exist further problems to be solved in the future. Not mentioning them does not mean they are unimportant, but it is hoped the following may stimulate new methods, new tests, new results, new assessment of residual stresses (RS) to the benefit of this scientific branch.

There exists a tremendous volume of literature /\/. In referring to previous papers and results, the procedure of a great old physicist should be followed: mention both the first idea and a comprehensive treatment of the topic.
Analysis of Residual Stress States in Coarse Grained and Single Crystal Nickel-Base Superalloys
Authors: Reimers W.
Published: March 2019

The single crystal measuring and evaluation technique allows the analysis of stress states in large grained and single crystalline materials. The technique is based on the analysis of the orientation of crystallites under study. Using a fouf-circle-diffractometer, the knowledge of the orientation matrix allows the calculation of the diffractometer setting for every given reflection (hkl). After experimental determination of the precise diffraction angles 20 for at least six reflections of an individual crystallite, its strain tensor components can be obtained by applying least-squares methods. The stress tensor referred to the crystal axes system is calculated using the single crystal elastic constants.

The practical use of this measuring and evaluation technique is demonstrated on coarse grained and single crystal nickel-base superalloys and monocrystalline materials.
Elastic Anisotrophy and Residual Stress in Textured Production Electrolytic Chromium Coatings on Steel
Authors: Lee S. L. , Capsimalis G. P.
Published: March 2019

Production electrolytic chromium coatings suffer from cracks, which result from high internal stresses generated during the electrolytic crystallization process. This paper characterizes the anisotropy, texture and residual stress state in high contraction chromium coatings on steel-Strong <111> fiber texture, almost perfect in-plane azimuthal symmetry, and high surface residual stresses were observed. Anisotropy factor and aggregate elastic moduli were calculated from single crystal elastic constants. A matrix inversion method was developed to solve for biaxial residual stress and unstrained lattice parameter in textured chromium coatings. Assuming an isotropic elastic Hill-Neerfeld model, residual stress was also evaluated using the sin2ψ method adapted to multiple families of reflections.
X-Ray Residual Stress Measurement of Ground Tungsten Carbides with Various Cobalt Contents
Authors: Miyano Masaharu , Hirose Yukio
Published: March 2019

The X-ray diffraction method was applied to the measurement of residual stresses on the ground or polished surfaces of WC-Co alloys with various Co contents. The X-ray diffractions of WC 211 by Cu K α radiation were used for the stress measurement. The residual stresses on the ground or polished surfaces were all compression. For the same Co content, the compressive value increased with increasing surface roughness. The maximum residua) stress, which was -2.13 GPa, was observed in WC-5.5wt%Co ground with a #140 diamond wheel.

The bending strengths of each alloys were obtained by three point bending tests. The bending strengths were influenced by grinding conditions and Co contents. The maximum value of 3.6 GPa was obtained in WC-16.0wt%Co ground with a #140 diamond wheel.

For the same Co addition, the bending strengths were closely related to the residual stresses, These relations were approximated by straight lines.
Residual Stress Depth Profiling on Ground and on Polished Surfaces of an Al2O3/SiC(w) Composite
Authors: Zhu X. , Predecki P. , Eatough M. , Goebner R.
Published: March 2019

This study uses the asymmetric grazing incidence x-ray diffraction (GIXD) method and related z-profile retrieval techniques to study the near surface residual stress depth proflles on ground and on polished surfaces of hot-pressed Al2O2SiC(w) composite specimen. The z-profiles of stress components σ11, σ22 and σ33 of the Al2O3 matrix were obtained by using the numerical inversion method as well as the inverse Laplace method. Both τ- and z-profiles of residual stresses are presented.
High Resolution X-ray Diffraction Characterization of [111]B Oriented InGaAs/GaAs Mqw Structures
Authors: Sanz-Hervas A , Sacedón A , Abril E.J , Sanchez-Rojas J.L , Villar C. , De Benito G. , Aguilar M , López M. , Calleja E. , Munoz E
Published: March 2019

In this work we apply high-resolution X-ray diffractometry to the study of InGaAs/GaAs multiple quantum well structures on (001) and(lll)B GaAs substrates. The samples consisted of p-i-n diodes with a multiple quantum well embedded in the i-region and were simultaneously grown on (001) and (111)B substrates by molecular beam epitaxy. For the characterization we have used symmetric and asymmetric reflections at different azimuthal positions. The interpretation of the diffraction profiles has been possible thanks to our recently developed simulation model, which allows the calculation of any reflection regardless of the substrate orientation. X-ray results about composition and thickness are very similar in the samples simultaneously grown on both orientations as expected from our specific growth conditions. The information obtained from X-ray characterization is consistent with the results of photoluminescence and photocurrent measurements within the experimental uncertainty of the techniques. In (lll)B samples, X-ray diffractometry provides structural information which cannot be easily obtained from optical characterization techniques.
X-Ray Fractography on Fatigue Fracture Surfaces of Mg-9mass%Al-1mass%Zn Alloy
Authors: Kishi Yoichi , Takahashi Shigenobu , Hirose Yukio
Published: March 2019

X-ray diffraction observation of fracture surfaces provides fracture analysis with useful information on the mechanisms and mechanical conditions of fracturing. This method is called ” X-ray fractography “ and has been developed especially in Japan as a new engineering tool for fracture analysis.

In the present paper, X-ray fractography is applied to fatigue fracture surfaces of AZ91 magnesium alloy which are used for machine parts. The X-ray stress constant, H,was first determined. The fatigue tests were conducted by using compact tension ( CT ) specimens of AZ91 magnesium alloy. The residual stress was measured on and beneath the fatigue fracture surface. The depth of the plastic zone left on the fatigue fracture surface was evaluated from the residual stress distribution. The results are discussed on the basis of fracture mechanics.
Structure Refinement of High-Density Polyethylene Using X-Ray Powder Diffraction Data and the Rietveld Method
Authors: Schwartz Kenneth B. , Von Dreele Robert B.
Published: March 2019

A full structure analysis of a completely crystallized sample of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) has been achieved using x-ray powder diffraction data collected on a laboratory-based powder diffractometer. The structure refinement is performed using the Rietveld method and includes refinement of the carbon and hydrogen atomic positions and temperature factors. The C-C and C-H bond distances and the C-C-C bond angle along the polyethylene chain have been calculated from the refined atomic positions and are in very good agreement with previous experimental and modelling determinations. Evaluations of the pseudo-Voigt profile parameters for Lorentzian strain broadening and me Scherrer coefficient for Gaussian broadening yield reasonable values for microstrain and particle size for this sample. Refinement of the preferred orientation parameter indicates that the HDPE flakes consist of platy crystals or lamellae that are packed normal to the diffraction vector.
Pc Software for Rim Quantitative X-Ray Diffraction Analysis
Authors: Davis BriantL.
Published: March 2019

Quantitative multicomponent analysis of phases by x-ray diffraction still remains one of the most difficult applications of any element or phase spectroscopic method. The level of quality of XRD quantitative analysis is largely in the hands of the operator, but several relatively new methods for processing basic diffraction data are becoming known and more frequently used, including fulltrace (observed and calculated) subtraction methods (Smith et al, 1988), Rietveld procedures (Bish and Howard, 1988; Taylor and Aldridge, 1993), and chemical “apportionment” target-transformation methods (Starks, et al, 1984). In spite of these new advances, the single or multiple peak reference intensity ratio (RIR, or kj) procedure remains a simple and attractive technique for routine quantitative XRD analysis (Schreiner, 1995; Snyder, 1992; Davis, 1992).
Metal Film Thickness Standards
Authors: England Craig D. , Bechder Laurie , Zierer Steve , Gassaway Lisa , Miner Barbara , Bill Steve
Published: March 2019

Cobalt, titanium and titanium nitride film thickness standards were deposited. All metal film thicknesses were obtained from x-ray reflectivity (XRR) measurement using a conventional powder diffractometer. The cobalt film thicknesses were also thicknesses were also determined from cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images and scanning electron microscope energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDXS) data using the recently developed MUFILM measurement technique. The cobalt film thicknesses obtained using MUFILM agreed well with the XRR results. The metal film standards were used to obtain calibration curves for an in-fab XRF system. The cobalt and titanium nitride film thickness standards were also used to adjust the optical constants used for an in-fab ellipsometer.
An Analytical Expression for X-Ray Fluorescence Intensity Distribution Based on the Probability Theory
Authors: Stoev Krassimir N. , Vutchkov Mitko K. , Artinian Ari A. , Dlouhy Joseph F.
Published: March 2019

An essential problem in X-ray fluorescence analysis is the derivation of a correct analytical expression relating the X-ray fluorescence intensity to the excitation radiation, the experimental geometry and the sample composition. Theoretical formulae have been derived only for evaluation of the average value of the fluorescence X-ray intensity. As far as known by the authors, no theoretical considerations concerning probability density function of the X-ray fluorescence intensity have been applied.
X-Ray Fluorescence Cross-Section Measurements in the Energy Range 4-18 keV
Authors: Stoev Krassimir N. , Dlouhy Joseph F.
Published: March 2019

K, L and M shell x-ray fluorescence cross sections have been measured for elements 11 ≤, Z ≤, 92 at excitation energies corresponding to weighted average energies of K-lines of Ti-K (4.558 keV), Fe-K (6,480 keV), Ge-K (10.024 keV), Se-K (11.391 keV) and Mo-K (17.805 keV) . The measurements were performed with an energy-dispersive x-ray spectrometer in a vacuum chamber using thin ultra-pure targets. Rh x-ray tube and secondary targets were used for excitation of x-ray radiation. The measured x-ray fluorescence cross-sections have been compared to previously published experimental and theoretical results. Presented data can be used for determination of physical parameters such as photoionization cross-sections, fluorescence yields, x-ray emission rates, Coster-Kronig transition probabilities and jump ratios.
Mothers’ and Caregivers’ Knowledge and Experience of Neonatal Danger Signs: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abu-Shaheen Amani , AlFayyad Isamme , Riaz Muhammad , Nofal Abdullah , AlMatary Abdulrahman , Khan Anas , Heena Humariya
Published: March 2019

Introduction. The majority of neonatal deaths in developing countries occur at home. Many of these deaths are related to late recognition of the signs of a serious illness by parents and a delay in the decision to seek medical care. Since the health-seeking behavior of mothers for neonatal care depends on the mothers' knowledge about WHO recognized danger signs, it is essential to investigate their knowledge of these signs. Objective. To investigate the knowledge and the experience of mothers and caregivers towards the WHO suggested neonatal danger signs. Methods. A community-based study was conducted on mothers who had delivered or had nursed a baby in the past two years. Results. A total of 1428 women were included in the analysis. Only 37% of the participant's knowledge covered three or more danger signs. The frequently reported participants’ knowledge of danger signs in this study was for yellow soles (48.0%), not feeding since birth or stopping to feed (46.0%), and signs of local infection (37.0%). The majority (69.0%) of the participants had experienced at least one of the danger signs with their baby. The noteworthy frequent reports of the participants’ experiences were for yellow soles (27.0%), not feeding since birth or stopping to feed (25.0%), and umbilical complications (19.0%). Conclusion. The proportion of mothers with knowledge of at least three neonatal danger signs is low. There is a need for developing interventions to increase a mother’s knowledge of newborns danger signs.
In Silico Integration Approach Reveals Key MicroRNAs and Their Target Genes in Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Hu Shengqing , Liao Yunfei , Zheng Juan , Gou Luoning , Regmi Anita , Zafar Mohammad Ishraq , Chen Lulu
Published: March 2019

To better understand the molecular mechanism for the pathogenesis of follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC), this study aimed at identifying key miRNAs and their target genes associated with FTC, as well as analyzing their interactions. Based on the gene microarray data GSE82208 and microRNA dataset GSE62054, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and microRNAs (DEMs) were obtained using R and SAM software. The common DEMs from R and SAM were fed to three different bioinformatic tools, TargetScan, miRDB, and miRTarBase, respectively, to predict their biological targets. With DEGs intersected with target genes of DEMs, the gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed through the DAVID database. Then a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed by STRING. Finally, the module analysis for PPI network was performed by MCODE and BiNGO. A total of nine DEMs were identified, and their function might work through regulating hub genes in the PPI network especially KIT and EGFR. KEGG analysis showed that intersection genes were enriched in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and microRNAs in cancer. In conclusion, the study of miRNA-mRNA network would offer molecular support for differential diagnosis between malignant FTC and benign FTA, providing new insights into the potential targets for follicular thyroid carcinoma diagnosis and treatment.
Gender Differences in Cardiovascular Risk Profile in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients with Low Disease Activity
Authors: Targońska-Stępniak Bożena , Biskup Małgorzata , Biskup Wojciech , Majdan Maria
Published: March 2019

Objective. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an excess risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD). The objective of the study was to compare CV risk profile in female and male RA patients with low disease activity. Materials and Methods. The study group consisted of 70 RA patients with continuous low disease activity and no CVD (54 women, 16 men) and 33 healthy controls of comparable age. The groups were assessed for blood pressure, serum amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), carotid intima media thickness (cIMT), electrocardiography, ejection fraction (EF), and diastolic dysfunction (DD). Results. Significantly higher burden of atherosclerosis, as revealed by higher cIMT, was found in males [0.93 (0.2) mm] vs females [0.80 (0.2) mm]. The risk of 10-year CVD was significantly higher in men than in women with RA. High/very high risk of fatal CVD was found in 62.5% of male patients. Males were significantly more often current/ex-smokers and had lower HDL-cholesterol and higher atherogenic index. There were no significant differences in NT-proBNP, QTc duration, and parameters of EF and DD. Conclusions. In RA patients with continued low disease activity, a higher burden of atherosclerosis was found in males than in females. The data suggest a significant impact of traditional CV risk factors.
Quality Characteristics of Beef Patties Fortified with Husk Tomato and the Effect on Tannic Acid-Induced Anaemia in Rats
Authors: Al-Kuraieef Amal N. , Alshawi Amal H. , Alsuhaibani Amnah M. A.
Published: March 2019

The study evaluated the properties of beef burgers prepared with different concentrations of husk tomato (HT) powder at levels of 2.5%, 5%, and 10% as a natural source of bioactive compounds and also assessed the effectiveness of the powder in the treatment of anaemia. Rats were classified into the negative control group and anaemic rats that were positive control (untreated) and three treated groups which were fed basal diet had 10% of control beef patties, 2.5% husk tomato beef patties, and 5% HTB groups (CBP, 2.5 HTB, and 5% HTB groups). The obtained results revealed that HT powder is rich in carbohydrates, protein, and fat. The addition of 5% husk tomatoes to burgers decreased the contents of fat and ash and increased fiber and carbohydrates. The addition of 2.5 or 5% husk tomatoes to beef patties gave high scores sensory evaluation. The addition of HT to beef patties reduced lipid oxidation compared to CBP at zero time and after a week of storage. It is concluded that the addition of husk tomatoes increases the quality of the beef burger and has high efficiency in retarding lipid oxidation in the burger. 5% HTB is a functional meat product and could improve the nutritional values and treat iron deficiency anaemia in rats.
A Suspected Case of Lyme Borreliosis in a Dog from Belgium
Authors: Gatellet Marina , Vanderheyden Sébastien , Abee Michel , Adaszek Łukasz , Varloud Marie
Published: March 2019

A 5-year-old Jack Russell Spaniel was presented in December 2017 to his veterinarian in Belgium for sudden weakness, reluctance to move, and pain. Blood analysis showed no deviations and serum increased levels ofB. burgdorferis.l. antibodies were detected. The dog recovered a few days after the onset of doxycycline treatment. This case illustrates the possible relationship between tick-borne diseases and orthopedic problems.
Evolutionary Spiking Neural Networks for Solving Supervised Classification Problems
Authors: López-Vázquez G. , Ornelas-Rodriguez M. , Espinal A. , Soria-Alcaraz J. A. , Rojas-Domínguez A. , Puga-Soberanes H. J. , Carpio J. M. , Rostro-Gonzalez H.
Published: March 2019

This paper presents a grammatical evolution (GE)-based methodology to automatically design third generation artificial neural networks (ANNs), also known as spiking neural networks (SNNs), for solving supervised classification problems. The proposal performs the SNN design by exploring the search space of three-layered feedforward topologies with configured synaptic connections (weights and delays) so that no explicit training is carried out. Besides, the designed SNNs have partial connections between input and hidden layers which may contribute to avoid redundancies and reduce the dimensionality of input feature vectors. The proposal was tested on several well-known benchmark datasets from the UCI repository and statistically compared against a similar design methodology for second generation ANNs and an adapted version of that methodology for SNNs; also, the results of the two methodologies and the proposed one were improved by changing the fitness function in the design process. The proposed methodology shows competitive and consistent results, and the statistical tests support the conclusion that the designs produced by the proposal perform better than those produced by other methodologies.
Inertial Vibration Characteristics of Track Chassis Caused by Reciprocating Motion of Crank Slider
Authors: Tang Zhong , Li Yu , Zhou Yuepeng , Zhang Haotian
Published: March 2019

The crank slider of self‐propelled baling machinery is used for straw compression on the crawler chassis structure. During the reciprocating motion of the crank slider, the inertia of the piston will cause a greater shock to baling machinery. In this paper, the inertia of the crank slider piston was analyzed on crawler chassis. The model and parameter values of the inertia force balance of the crank slider were established by the complete balance method. The test mode was used to analyze the natural mode and mode shape of the piston. The vertical vibration amplitudes of the crawler chassis beam were tested and used to reflect the specific inertial vibration characteristics of the self‐propelled baling machinery caused by the reciprocating motion of the piston. The inertial vibration caused by the reciprocating motion of the crank slider was eliminated by the method of weighting the tail of the track beam. Results indicated that the self‐balancing counterweight of the crank slider was 261.82 kg. The six natural modal frequencies of the piston were 4.62, 17.26, 29.82, 63.85, 83.73, and 141.58 Hz, respectively. During the reciprocating motion of the piston, the first‐order frequency of the piston would be excited by feeding auger excitation frequency of 3.77 Hz and may cause resonance. And, the vertical vibrates of track beam was based on the measuring point 6 as a fulcrum. Adding a counterweight of 265 kg at the end of the track chassis would completely eliminate the self‐propelled baling machinery inertial vibration caused by the reciprocating motion of the crank slider.
Icaritin: A Novel Natural Candidate for Hematological Malignancies Therapy
Authors: Yang Xiao-Jing , Xi Ya-Ming , Li Zi-Jian
Published: March 2019

Hematological malignancies including leukemia and lymphoma can severely impact human health. With the current therapies combined with chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, the prognosis of hematologic malignancies improved significantly. However, most hematological malignancies are still incurable. Therefore, research for novel treatment options was continuing with the natural product as one source. Icaritin is a compound extracted from a traditional Chinese herb,Epimedium Genus, and demonstrated an antitumor effect in various neoplasms including hematological malignancies such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. In hematological malignancies, icaritin showed multiple cytotoxic effects to induce apoptosis, arrest the cell cycle, inhibit proliferation, promote differentiation, restrict metastasis and infiltration, and suppress the oncogenic virus. The proved underlying mechanisms of the cytotoxic effects of icaritin are different in various cell types of hematological malignancies but associated with the critical cell signal pathway, including PI3K/Akt, JAK/STAT3, and MAPK/ERK/JNK. Although the primary target of icaritin is still unspecified, the existing evidence indicates that icaritin is a potential novel therapeutic agent for neoplasms as with hematological malignancies. Here, in the field of hematology, we reviewed the reported activity of icaritin in hematologic malignancies and the underlying mechanisms and recognized icaritin as a candidate for therapy of hematological malignancies.
A Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization‐Cuckoo Search Algorithm and Its Engineering Applications
Authors: Ding Jinjin , Wang Qunjin , Zhang Qian , Ye Qiubo , Ma Yuan
Published: March 2019

This paper deals with the hybrid particle swarm optimization‐Cuckoo Search (PSO‐CS) algorithm which is capable of solving complicated nonlinear optimization problems. It combines the iterative scheme of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm and the searching strategy of the Cuckoo Search (CS) algorithm. Details of the PSO‐CS algorithm are introduced; furthermore its effectiveness is validated by several mathematical test functions. It is shown that Lévy flight significantly influences the algorithm’s convergence process. In the second part of this paper, the proposed PSO‐CS algorithm is applied to two different engineering problems. The first application is nonlinear parameter identification for the motor drive servo system. As a result, a precise nonlinear Hammerstein model is obtained. The second one is reactive power optimization for power systems, where the total loss of the researched IEEE 14‐bus system is minimized using PSO‐CS approach. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the hybrid optimal algorithm is capable of handling nonlinear optimization problems with multiconstraints and local optimal with better performance than PSO and CS algorithms.