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At least 667 records · Page 37

Wave attenuation in the marginal ice zone during LIMEX

The effect of ice cover on ocean-wave attenuation is investigated for waves under flexure in the marginal ice zone (MIZ) with SAR image spectra and the results of models. Directional wavenumber spectra are taken from the SAR image data, and the wave-attenuation rate is evaluated with SAR image spectra and by means of the model by Liu and Mollo-Christensen (1988). Eddy viscosity is described by means of dimensional analysis as a function of ice roughness and wave-induced velocity, and comparisons are made with the remotely sensed data. The model corrects the open-water model by introducing the effects of a continuous ice sheet, and turbulent eddy viscosity is shown to depend on ice thickness, floe sizes, significant wave height, and wave period. SAR and wave-buoy data support the trends described in the model results, and a characteristic rollover is noted in the model and experimental wave-attenuation rates at high wavenumbers.

Liu, Antony K.↗

Onboard Science Data Analysis: Opportunities, Benefits, and Effects on Mission Design

Much of the initial focus for spacecraft autonomy has been on developing new software and systems concepts to automate engineering functions of the spacecraft: guidance, navigation and control, fault protection, and resources management. However, the ultimate objectives of NASA missions are science objectives, which implies that we need a new framework for perfoming science data evaluation and observation planning autonomously onboard spacecraft.

spacecraft autonomy observation planning science d↗

Discrete X-Ray Source Populations and Star-Formation History in Nearby Galaxies

This program aims in understanding the connection between the discrete X-ray source populations observed in nearby galaxies and the history of star-formation in these galaxies. The ultimate goal is to use this knowledge in order to constrain X-ray binary evolution channels. For this reason although the program is primarily observational it has a significant modeling component. During the first year of this study we focused on the definition of a pilot sample of galaxies with well know star-formation histories. A small part of this sample has already been observed and we performed initial analysis of the data. However, the majority of the objects in our sample either have not been observed at all, or the detection limit of the existing observations is not low enough to probe the bulk of their young X-ray binary populations. For this reason we successfully proposed for additional Chandra observations of three targets in Cycle-5. These observations are currently being performed. The analysis of the (limited) archival data for this sample indicated that the X-ray luminosity functions (XLF) of the discrete sources in these galaxies may not have the same shape as is widely suggested. However, any solid conclusions are hampered by the small number of detected sources. For this reason during the second year of this study, we will try to extend the sample in order to include more objects in each evolutionary stage. In addition we are completing the analysis of the Chandra monitoring observations of the Antennae galaxies. The results from this work, apart from important clues on the nature of the most luminous sources (Ultra-luminous X-ray sources; ULXs) provide evidence that source spectral and/or temporal variability does not significantly affect the shape of their X-ray luminosity functions. This is particularly important for comparisons between the XLFs of different galaxies and comparisons with predictions from theoretical models. Results from this work have been presented in several conferences. Refereed journal papers presenting these conclusions are currently in preparation. An important part of this study is the Chandra survey of the Small Magellanic Cloud, our second nearest star- forming galaxy. So far we have been awarded 5 Chandra observations of the central youngest part of the galaxy. These observations will help to study the very faint end of the young X-ray binary populations which is not possible to probe in more distant objects. Results from this study have been presented in several conferences and two papers are in preparation. In addition during year-2 we are planning of undertaking the task of identifying optical counterparts to the X-ray sources, which will help us to isolate interlopers (sources not associated with the SMC) and classify the X-ray binaries which are found to be associated with the SMC. In the theoretical front, the Star-Track X-ray binary population synthesis code which will be used for the modeling of the X-ray binary populations (led by co-I V. Kalogera and C. Belczynski), is complete. A first test using the XLF of the star-forming galaxy NGC-1569 showed remarkable agreement between the observed and the modeled XLF. These results are presented in an ApJ. Letters paper (Belczynski et al, 2004, 601, 147). During year-2 of this study we are planning of performing a parameter study in order to investigate which parameters are most important for the shape of the XLF. In addition we will perform comparisons with observations of other galaxies from our sample as they become available.

Zezas, Andreas↗

Interpolation and extrapolation of creep rupture data by the minimum commitment method. II - Oblique translation

An outline is presented of a new procedure, termed the oblique translation method, which emerged in the development of the focal point convergence method. Approaches for implementing the oblique translation method are discussed. It is shown that the new method is essentially a minimum commitment method when manually-graphically implemented, in the sense that the form of the functions involved are not forced into particular analytical forms. The individual constants and functions are independently determined. The minimum commitment concept is extended to the analysis of creep rupture data wherein each isothermal is to be generated by an oblique translation of the 'master curve' when plotted. Attention is given to a manual-graphical analysis, the preassessment of data, and an analysis by computer code.

Manson, S. S.↗

Fourier functional analysis for unsteady aerodynamic modeling

A method based on Fourier analysis is developed to analyze the force and moment data obtained in large amplitude forced oscillation tests at high angles of attack. The aerodynamic models for normal force, lift, drag, and pitching moment coefficients are built up from a set of aerodynamic responses to harmonic motions at different frequencies. Based on the aerodynamic models of harmonic data, the indicial responses are formed. The final expressions for the models involve time integrals of the indicial type advocated by Tobak and Schiff. Results from linear two- and three-dimensional unsteady aerodynamic theories as well as test data for a 70-degree delta wing are used to verify the models. It is shown that the present modeling method is accurate in producing the aerodynamic responses to harmonic motions and the ramp type motions. The model also produces correct trend for a 70-degree delta wing in harmonic motion with different mean angles-of-attack. However, the current model cannot be used to extrapolate data to higher angles-of-attack than that of the harmonic motions which form the aerodynamic model. For linear ramp motions, a special method is used to calculate the corresponding frequency and phase angle at a given time. The calculated results from modeling show a higher lift peak for linear ramp motion than for harmonic ramp motion. The current model also shows reasonably good results for the lift responses at different angles of attack.

Lan, C. Edward↗

Fourier functional analysis for unsteady aerodynamic modeling

A method based on Fourier analysis is developed to analyze the force and moment data obtained in large amplitude forced oscillation tests at high angles of attack. The aerodynamic models for normal force, lift, drag, and pitching moment coefficients are built up from a set of aerodynamic responses to harmonic motions at different frequencies. Based on the aerodynamic models of harmonic data, the indicial responses are formed. The final expressions for the models involve time integrals of the indicial type advocated by Tobak and Schiff. Results from linear two- and three-dimensional unsteady aerodynamic theories as well as test data for a 70-degree delta wing are used to verify the models. It is shown that the present modeling method is accurate in producing the aerodynamic responses to harmonic motions and the ramp type motions. The model also produces correct trend for a 70-degree delta wing in harmonic motion with different mean angles-of-attack. However, the current model cannot be used to extrapolate data to higher angles-of-attack than that of the harmonic motions which form the aerodynamic model. For linear ramp motions, a special method is used to calculate the corresponding frequency and phase angle at a given time. The calculated results from modeling show a higher lift peak for linear ramp motion than for harmonic ramp motion. The current model also shows reasonably good results for the lift responses at different angles of attack.

Chin, Suei↗

An investigation of correlation between pilot scanning behavior and workload using stepwise regression analysis

An electro-optical device called an oculometer which tracks a subject's lookpoint as a time function has been used to collect data in a real-time simulation study of instrument landing system (ILS) approaches. The data describing the scanning behavior of a pilot during the instrument approaches have been analyzed by use of a stepwise regression analysis technique. A statistically significant correlation between pilot workload, as indicated by pilot ratings, and scanning behavior has been established. In addition, it was demonstrated that parameters derived from the scanning behavior data can be combined in a mathematical equation to provide a good representation of pilot workload.

Waller, M. C.↗

First simultaneous global QCD analysis of kaon and pion parton distributions with lattice QCD constraints

We perform the first simultaneous global QCD analysis of pion and kaon parton distribution functions (PDFs) constrained by pion- and kaon-induced Drell-Yan (DY) and leading neutron electroproduction data together with lattice QCD data on pion and kaon PDF moments. The analysis indicates a softer valence u ¯ distribution in the K − than in the π − and a significantly more peaked valence s -quark density in K − compared with the u ¯ . The effective exponent governing the high- x behavior of the PDF is found to be larger for u ¯ in the kaon, β u ¯ K − = 1.6 ( 2 ) , than in the pion, β u ¯ π − = 1.16 ( 4 ) , in the range 0.7 ≤ x ≤ 0.95 . From the gluon momentum fractions, we find the pion’s gluon content accounts for ≈ 1 / 3 of the mass budget of the pion at μ = 2 GeV , but only ≈ 1 / 4 for the kaon.

Barry, P. C. [Argonne National Laboratory] (ORCID:↗

Illustrated formalisms for total scattering data: a guide for new practitioners

The total scattering method is the simultaneous study of both the real- and reciprocal-space representations of diffraction data. While conventional Bragg-scattering analysis (employing methods such as Rietveld refinement) provides insight into the average structure of the material, pair distribution function (PDF) analysis allows for a more focused study of the local atomic arrangement of a material. Generically speaking, a PDF is generated by Fourier transforming the total measured reciprocal-space diffraction data (Bragg and diffuse) into a real-space representation. However, the details of the transformation employed and, by consequence, the resultant appearance and weighting of the real-space representation of the system can vary between different research communities. As the worldwide total scattering community continues to grow, these subtle differences in nomenclature and data representation have led to conflicting and confusing descriptions of how the PDF is defined and calculated. This paper provides a consistent derivation of many of these different forms of the PDF and the transformations required to bridge between them. Some general considerations and advice for total scattering practitioners in selecting and defining the appropriate choice of PDF in their own research are presented. This contribution aims to benefit people starting in the field or trying to compare their results with those of other researchers.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Soil Moisture Project Evaluation Workshop

Approaches planned or being developed for measuring and modeling soil moisture parameters are discussed. Topics cover analysis of spatial variability of soil moisture as a function of terrain; the value of soil moisture information in developing stream flow data; energy/scene interactions; applications of satellite data; verifying soil water budget models; soil water profile/soil temperature profile models; soil moisture sensitivity analysis; combinations of the thermal model and microwave; determing planetary roughness and field roughness; how crust or a soil layer effects microwave return; truck radar; and truck/aircraft radar comparison.

Gilbert, R. H.↗

Viking satellite orbit determination

During the summer of 1976, the two Viking spacecraft, each consisting of an orbiter-lander combination, were inserted into orbit about Mars. The paper describes the experiences of the Viking Satellite Orbit Determination Team in determining Mars centered ephemerides of the orbiters and positions of the landers from the two-way Doppler and range data, and synthesizes the different phases of the navigation plan which involves pre-flight modeling and error analysis for all Viking navigation functions from launch through landing. The problem of initial orbit convergence is solved by using DPODP's (Double Precision Orbit Determination Program) square-root batch data filter, and gravity models for both Viking I and Viking II were produced from the combination of short arc estimates. The importance of synchronous Viking orbits (with the rotational period of Mars) is stressed and future extended missions of the spacecraft are outlined.

Hildebrand, C. E.↗

Algorithms For Detection Of Correlation Spots

Three algorithms provide for improved postprocessing of outputs of optical correlators based on binary phase-only filters. Detect correlation spots. Function in presence of noise and executed rapidly. First algorithm starts processing correlation-image data while data fed out of video camera and digitized for subsequent analysis. Second involves convolution of correlation image with small-window two-dimensional impulse-response function followed by threshold operation in which negative values of convolution integral set to zero. Third affects generation as well as postprocessing of correlation image.

Scholl, Marija S.↗

Sptrace

Sptrace is a general-purpose space utilization tracing system that is conceptually similar to the commercial Purify product used to detect leaks and other memory usage errors. It is designed to monitor space utilization in any sort of heap, i.e., a region of data storage on some device (nominally memory; possibly shared and possibly persistent) with a flat address space. This software can trace usage of shared and/or non-volatile storage in addition to private RAM (random access memory). Sptrace is implemented as a set of C function calls that are invoked from within the software that is being examined. The function calls fall into two broad classes: (1) functions that are embedded within the heap management software [e.g., JPL's SDR (Simple Data Recorder) and PSM (Personal Space Management) systems] to enable heap usage analysis by populating a virtual time-sequenced log of usage activity, and (2) reporting functions that are embedded within the application program whose behavior is suspect. For ease of use, these functions may be wrapped privately inside public functions offered by the heap management software. Sptrace can be used for VxWorks or RTEMS realtime systems as easily as for Linux or OS/X systems.

Burleigh, Scott C.↗

Python wrapper library and analysis functions for Geotab Altitude API [SWR-24-77]

This software library serves as a Python wrapper for Geotab's Altitude API. It streamlines querying of the API, converts loosely structured API outputs into a standardized tabular data format, and enables analysis of the resulting data tables. It also includes example notebooks showing how to use the library.

Bruchon, Matthew↗

Application of Risk Assessment Tools in the Continuous Risk Management (CRM) Process

Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is currently implementing the Continuous Risk Management (CRM) Program developed by the Carnegie Mellon University and recommended by NASA as the Risk Management (RM) implementation approach. The four most frequently used risk assessment tools in the center are: (a) Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Hazard Analysis (HA), Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), and Probabilistic Risk Analysis (PRA). There are some guidelines for selecting the type of risk assessment tools during the project formulation phase of a project, but there is not enough guidance as to how to apply these tools in the Continuous Risk Management process (CRM). But the ways the safety and risk assessment tools are used make a significant difference in the effectiveness in the risk management function. Decisions regarding, what events are to be included in the analysis, to what level of details should the analysis be continued, make significant difference in the effectiveness of risk management program. Tools of risk analysis also depends on the phase of a project e.g. at the initial phase of a project, when not much data are available on hardware, standard FMEA cannot be applied; instead a functional FMEA may be appropriate. This study attempted to provide some directives to alleviate the difficulty in applying FTA, PRA, and FMEA in the CRM process. Hazard Analysis was not included in the scope of the study due to the short duration of the summer research project.

Paul S. Ray↗

Microbial sensitivity to temperature and sulfate deposition modulates greenhouse gas emissions from peat soils

Abstract Peatlands are among the largest natural sources of atmospheric methane (CH 4 ) worldwide. Microbial processes play a key role in regulating CH 4 emissions from peatland ecosystems, yet the complex interplay between soil substrates and microbial communities in controlling CH 4 emissions as a function of global change remains unclear. Herein, we performed an integrated analysis of multi‐omics data sets to provide a comprehensive understanding of the molecular processes driving changes in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in peatland ecosystems with increasing temperature and sulfate deposition in a laboratory incubation study. We sought to first investigate how increasing temperatures (4, 21, and 35°C) impact soil microbiome–metabolome interactions; then explore the competition between methanogens and sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRBs) with increasing sulfate concentrations at the optimum temperature for methanogenesis. Our results revealed that peat soil organic matter degradation, mediated by biotic and potentially abiotic processes, is the main driver of the increase in CO 2 production with temperature. In contrast, the decrease in CH 4 production at 35°C was linked to the absence of syntrophic communities and the potential inhibitory effect of phenols on methanogens. Elevated temperatures further induced the microbial communities to develop high growth yield and stress tolerator trait‐based strategies leading to a shift in their composition and function. On the other hand, SRBs were able to outcompete methanogens in the presence of non‐limiting sulfate concentrations at 21°C, thereby reducing CH 4 emissions. At higher sulfate concentrations, however, the prevalence of communities capable of producing sufficient low‐molecular‐weight carbon substrates for the coexistence of SRBs and methanogens was translated into elevated CH 4 emissions. The use of omics in this study enhanced our understanding of the structure and interactions among microbes with the abiotic components of the system that can be useful for mitigating GHG emissions from peatland ecosystems in the face of global change.

AminiTabrizi, Roya↗

Uncovering DNA-PKcs ancient phylogeny, unique sequence motifs and insights for human disease

DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) is a key member of the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase-like (PIKK) family of protein kinases with critical roles in DNA-double strand break repair, transcription, metastasis, mitosis, RNA processing, and innate and adaptive immunity. The absence of DNA-PKcs from many model organisms has led to the assumption that DNA-PKcs is a vertebrate-specific PIKK. Here, we find that DNA-PKcs is widely distributed in invertebrates, fungi, plants, and protists, and that threonines 2609, 2638, and 2647 of the ABCDE cluster of phosphorylation sites are highly conserved amongst most Eukaryotes. Furthermore, we identify highly conserved amino acid sequence motifs and domains that are characteristic of DNA-PKcs relative to other PIKKs. These include residues in the Forehead domain and a novel motif we have termed YRPD, located in an α helix C-terminal to the ABCDE phosphorylation site loop. Combining sequence with biochemistry plus structural data on human DNA-PKcs unveils conserved sequence and conformational features with functional insights and implications. The defined generally progressive DNA-PKcs sequence diversification uncovers conserved functionality supported by Evolutionary Trace analysis, suggesting that for many organisms both functional sites and evolutionary pressures remain identical due to fundamental cell biology. The mining of cancer genomic data and germline mutations causing human inherited disease reveal that robust DNA-PKcs activity in tumors is detrimental to patient survival, whereas germline mutations compromising function are linked to severe immunodeficiency and neuronal degeneration. We anticipate that these collective results will enable ongoing DNA-PKcs functional analyses with biological and medical implications.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

Continuous Risk Management at NASA

NPG 7120.5A, "NASA Program and Project Management Processes and Requirements" enacted in April, 1998, requires that "The program or project manager shall apply risk management principles..." The Software Assurance Technology Center (SATC) at NASA GSFC has been tasked with the responsibility for developing and teaching a systems level course for risk management that provides information on how to comply with this edict. The course was developed in conjunction with the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University, then tailored to the NASA systems community. This presentation will briefly discuss the six functions for risk management: (1) Identify the risks in a specific format; (2) Analyze the risk probability, impact/severity, and timeframe; (3) Plan the approach; (4) Track the risk through data compilation and analysis; (5) Control and monitor the risk; (6) Communicate and document the process and decisions. This risk management structure of functions has been taught to projects at all NASA Centers and is being successfully implemented on many projects. This presentation will give project managers the information they need to understand if risk management is to be effectively implemented on their projects at a cost they can afford.

Hammer, Theodore F.↗