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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 1,099 records · Page 61

Reviews and syntheses: Opportunities for robust use of peak intensities from high-resolution mass spectrometry in organic matter studies

Abstract. Earth's biogeochemical cycles are intimately tied to the biotic and abiotic processing of organic matter (OM). Spatial and temporal variations in OM chemistry are often studied using direct infusion, high-resolution Fourier transform mass spectrometry (FTMS). An increasingly common approach is to use ecological metrics (e.g., within-sample diversity) to summarize high-dimensional FTMS data, notably Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS). However, problems can arise when FTMS peak-intensity data are used in a way that is analogous to abundances in ecological analyses (e.g., species abundance distributions). Using peak-intensity data in this way requires the assumption that intensities act as direct proxies for concentrations. Here, we show that comparisons of the same peak across samples (within-peak) may carry information regarding variations in relative concentration, but comparing different peaks (between-peak) within or between samples does not. We further developed a simulation model to study the quantitative implications of using peak intensities to compute ecological metrics (e.g., intensity-weighted mean properties and diversity) that rely on information about both within-peak and between-peak shifts in relative abundance. We found that, despite analytical limitations in linking concentration to intensity, ecological metrics often perform well in terms of providing robust qualitative inferences and sometimes quantitatively accurate estimates of diversity and mean molecular characteristics. We conclude with recommendations for the robust use of peak intensities for natural organic matter studies. A primary recommendation is the use and extension of the simulation model to provide objective guidance on the degree to which conceptual and quantitative inferences can be made for a given analysis of a given dataset. Broad use of this approach can help ensure rigorous scientific outcomes from the use of FTMS peak intensities in environmental applications.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

A new metrics framework for quantifying and intercomparing atmospheric rivers in observations, reanalyses, and climate models

We present a new atmospheric river (AR) analysis and benchmarking tool, namely Atmospheric River Metrics Package (ARMP). It includes a suite of new AR metrics that are designed for quick analysis of AR characteristics via statistics in gridded climate datasets such as model output and reanalysis. This package can be used for climate model evaluation in comparison with reanalysis and observational products. Integrated metrics such as mean bias and spatial pattern correlation are efficient for diagnosing systematic AR biases in climate models. For example, the package identifies the fact that, in CMIP5 and CMIP6 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phases 5 and 6) models, AR tracks in the South Atlantic are positioned farther poleward compared to ERA5 reanalysis, while in the South Pacific, tracks are generally biased towards the Equator. For the landfalling AR peak season, we find that most climate models simulate a completely opposite seasonal cycle over western Africa. This tool can also be used for identifying and characterizing structural differences among different AR detectors (ARDTs). For example, ARs detected with the Mundhenk algorithm exhibit systematically larger size, width, and length compared to the TempestExtremes (TE) method. The AR metrics developed from this work can be routinely applied for model benchmarking and during the development cycle to trace performance evolution across model versions or generations and set objective targets for the improvement of models. They can also be used by operational centers to perform near-real-time climate and extreme event impact assessments as part of their forecast cycle.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗

Model-based analysis of solute transport and potential carbon mineralization in the active layer of a hillslope underlain by permafrost with seasonal variability and climate change

Permafrost carbon, stored in frozen organic matter across vast Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, represents a substantial and increasingly vulnerable carbon reservoir. As global temperatures rise, the accelerated thawing of permafrost releases greenhouse gases, exacerbating climate change. However, freshly thawed permafrost carbon may also experience lateral transport by groundwater flow to surface water recipients such as rivers and lakes, increasing the terrestrial-to-aquatic transfer of permafrost carbon. Mobilization and subsurface transport mechanisms are poorly understood and not accounted for in global climate models, leading to high uncertainties in the predictions of the permafrost carbon feedback. Here, we focus on a hillslope in Endalen Valley, Svalbard, as a representative example of a high-Arctic hillslope underlain by continuous permafrost. We analyze solute transport in the form of a non-reactive tracer representing dissolved organic carbon (DOC) using a physics-based numerical model with the objective to study governing cryotic and hydrodynamic transport mechanisms relevant for warming permafrost regions. We first analyze transport times for DOC pools at different locations within the active layer under present-day climatic conditions and proceed to study susceptibility for deeper ancient carbon release in the upper permafrost due to thaw under different warming scenarios. Results suggest that DOC in the active layer near the permafrost table experiences rapid lateral transport upon thaw due to saturated conditions and lateral flow, while DOC close to the ground surface experiences slower transport due to flow in unsaturated soil. Deeper permafrost carbon release exhibits vastly different transport behaviors depending on warming and thaw rate. Gradual warming leads to small fractions of DOC being mobilized every year, while the majority moves vertically through percolation and cryosuction. Abrupt thaw resulting from a single very warm year leads to faster lateral transport times, similar to active layer DOC released in saturated conditions. Lastly, we analyze the potential susceptibility of DOC to mineralization to CO 2 prior to export due to soil moisture and temperature conditions. We find that high liquid saturation during transport coincides with very low mineralization rates and potentially inhibits mineralization into CO 2 before export. Overall, the results highlight the importance of subsurface hydrologic and thermal conditions for the retention and lateral export of permafrost carbon by subsurface flow.

Hamm, Alexandra [Stockholm Univ. (Sweden)] (ORCID:↗

Remarks about X-rays from Eta Carinae.

Two current models for Eta Carinae are discussed. It is shown that the recently observed soft X-ray flux seems to indicate a surprisingly high density for the ambient gas around Eta Carinae, and that some useful constraints on models of this object may result from X-ray observations.

Davidson, K.↗

Observations of Cygnus X-3 by ANS

The hard X-ray experiment (1 - 28 keV) on ANS observed Cygnus X-3 in November 1974, and in May 1975. The average flux intensities for these time periods were found to be 22.4 + or - 0.5 cts/sec and 12.8 + or - 0.3 cts/sec (1.3 - 7.1 keV), the former being the highest average value ever observed. The spectrum studies show an excess in the flux above the fitted continuum which can be interpreted as a line emission of FeXXIV and/or FeXXV, at approximately 6.5 keV. The strength of this feature varied in phase with the 4.8 hr X-ray modulation, and remained at a constant relative intensity. The period of the X-ray modulation is refined to 0.1996813 + or - 0.0000006 day and obtained at a 2 sigma upper limit to a continuous change in the period of 50 to the minus 13th power/sec. This new limit places serious constraints on several models for this object.

Parsignault, D. R.↗

Aeroheating model advancements featuring electroless metallic plating

Discussed are advancements in wind tunnel model construction methods and hypersonic test data demonstrating the methods. The general objective was to develop model fabrication methods for improved heat transfer measuring capability at less model cost. A plated slab model approach was evaluated with cast models containing constantan wires that formed single-wire-to-plate surface thermocouple junctions with a seamless skin of electroless nickel alloy. The surface of a space shuttle orbiter model was selectively plated with scaled tiles to simulate, with high fidelity, the probable misalignments of the heatshield tiles on a flight vehicle. Initial, Mach 8 heating results indicated a minor effect of tile misalignment roughness on boundary layer transition, implying a possible relaxation of heatshield manufacturing tolerances. Some loss of the plated tiles was experienced when the model was tested at high heating rates.

Stalmach, C. J., Jr.↗

X-ray bursts from magnetized accretion disks

A model for the X-ray bursts of MXB 1730-335 and 3U 1820-30 (identified with the globular cluster NGC 6624) is presented in which a burst is due to the flarelike release of magnetic energy generated and stored as a toroidal field in an accretion disk. To fit the observed parameters, this model requires compact objects of the order of 10 solar masses, presumably black holes.

Wheeler, J. C.↗

Planetesimals to planets - Numerical simulation of collisional evolution

In a simulation of collisional and gravitational interaction in the early solar system, planets of approximately 500 km diameter are generated from an initial swarm of kilometer-sized planetesimals. Collisions are treated in accordance with experimental and theoretical impact results (such as rebound, cratering, and catastrophic fragmentation) for a variety of materials whose parameters span plausible values for early solid objects. In this model, the small planets form in approximately 10,000 yr; during this time, most of the mass of the system continues to reside in particles near the original size. It is thought that the few 500-km planets may act as 'seeds' for the subsequent gradual accretional growth into full-sized planets.

Greenberg, R.↗

Active external store flutter suppression in the YF-17 flutter model

A single activated trailing-edge (T.E.) control system (spanning 7% of each wing) is applied to the YF-17 flutter model with the object of suppressing the external store flutter of three different store configurations. The control law is derived by the use of the aerodynamic energy concept and its gains are maintained constant for all three configurations. The results obtained show that the activated T.E. control system leads to very significant increases in the flutter dynamic pressures Q(DF) of all three configurations; these increases range between 160-240% increase in Q(DF). These increases in Q(DF) are maintained over a very wide range of flight altitudes and flight velocities.

Nissim, E.↗

Investigation of advanced thrust vectoring exhaust systems for high speed propulsive lift

The paper presents the results of a wind tunnel investigation conducted at the NASA-Langley research center to determine thrust vectoring/induced lift characteristics of advanced exhaust nozzle concepts installed on a supersonic tactical airplane model. Specific test objectives include: (1) basic aerodynamics of a wing body configuration, (2) investigation of induced lift effects, (3) evaluation of static and forward speed performance, and (4) the effectiveness of a canard surface to trim thrust vectoring/induced lift forces and moments.

Hutchison, R. A.↗

Stray light in the Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS)

Changes made to the telescope and critical objects considered in modeling these changes into the APART program are described. The optical system was analyzed for scattered light, diffracted then scattered radiation, and thermally emitted radiation. The damaged area of the primary to mirror was also examined. Results are presented in tables and graphs.

Lange, S. R.↗

Spectropolarimetry and the physical structure of proto-planetary nebulae

Optical spectropolarimetry and spectrophotometry are presented of the two bipolar nebulae GL 618 and M2-9. A comparison of the polarization in the emission lines and the continuum is used to construct geometrical and physical models for each object. It is found that the forbidden lines arise largely in the visible nebulae, whereas the permitted lines are formed in a central high-density region and are scattered with the stellar continuum by dust grains in the lobes. Condensations are found to be an important component of the lobes, reinforcing the view that these bipolars represent a very early phase in the life of a planetary nebula.

Schmidt, G. D.↗

Technology needs assessment of an atmospheric observation system for tropospheric research missions, part 1

The technology advancements needed to implement the atmospheric observation satellite systems for air quality research were identified. Tropospheric measurements are considered. The measurements and sensors are based on a model of knowledge objectives in atmospheric science. A set of potential missions and attendant spacecraft and sensors is postulated. The results show that the predominant technology needs will be in passive and active sensors for accurate and frequent global measurements of trace gas concentration profiles.

Alvarado, D. R.↗

Development and application of an analysis of axisymmetric body effects on helicopter rotor aerodynamics using modified slender body theory

A computationally efficient body analysis designed to couple with a comprehensive helicopter analysis is developed in order to calculate the body-induced aerodynamic effects on rotor performance and loads. A modified slender body theory is used as the body model. With the objective of demonstrating the accuracy, efficiency, and application of the method, the analysis at this stage is restricted to axisymmetric bodies at zero angle of attack. By comparing with results from an exact analysis for simple body shapes, it is found that the modified slender body theory provides an accurate potential flow solution for moderately thick bodies, with only a 10%-20% increase in computational effort over that of an isolated rotor analysis. The computational ease of this method provides a means for routine assessment of body-induced effects on a rotor. Results are given for several configurations that typify those being used in the Ames 40- by 80-Foot Wind Tunnel and in the rotor-body aerodynamic interference tests being conducted at Ames. A rotor-hybrid airship configuration is also analyzed.

Yamauchi, G.↗

Research in computer science

The research efforts of University of Virginia students under a NASA sponsored program are summarized and the status of the program is reported. The research includes: testing method evaluations for N version programming; a representation scheme for modeling three dimensional objects; fault tolerant protocols for real time local area networks; performance investigation of Cyber network; XFEM implementation; and vectorizing incomplete Cholesky conjugate gradients.

Ortega, J. M.↗

X-ray, optical and UV observations of the young supernova remnant in the irregular galaxy NGC 4449

A powerful young supernova remnant (SNR) similar to Cas A has recently been discovered in the irregular galaxy NGC 4449. X-ray, optical and ultraviolet data have been obtained which allow possible models for this object to be investigated and its age to be estimated. Several lines of argument indicate a massive star of order 25 solar masses as the precursor to this remnant. If the X-ray emision is attributed to a reverse shock in the ejecta, the remnant should be about 120 years old.

Blair, W. P.↗