A Mid-Infrared Galaxy Atlas (MIGA)

A mid-infrared atlas of part of the Galactic plane ($75^\circ < l < 148^\circ, b = \pm6^\circ$) has been constructed using HIRES processed infrared data to provide a mid-infrared data set for the Canadian Galactic Plane Survey (CGPS). The addition of this data set to the CGPS will enable the study of the emission from the smallest components of interstellar dust at an angular resolution comparable to that of the radio, millimetre, and far-infrared data in the CGPS. The Mid-Infrared Galaxy Atlas (MIGA) is a mid-infrared (12 $\mu$m and 25 $\mu$m) counterpart to the far-infrared IRAS Galaxy Atlas (IGA), and consists of resolution enhanced ($\sim 0.5'$ resolution) HIRES images along with ancillary maps. This paper describes the processing and characteristics of the atlas, the cross-beam simulation technique used to obtain high-resolution ratio maps, and future plans to extend both the IGA and MIGA.Comment: 38 pages (including 15 tables), 13 figures (8 dithered GIF and 5 EPS). Submitted to Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series. A preprint with higher resolution figures is available at http://www.cita.utoronto.ca/~kerton/publications.htm

Image-Processing Techniques for the Creation of Presentation-Quality Astronomical Images

The quality of modern astronomical data, the power of modern computers and the agility of current image-processing software enable the creation of high-quality images in a purely digital form. The combination of these technological advancements has created a new ability to make color astronomical images. And in many ways it has led to a new philosophy towards how to create them. A practical guide is presented on how to generate astronomical images from research data with powerful image-processing programs. These programs use a layering metaphor that allows for an unlimited number of astronomical datasets to be combined in any desired color scheme, creating an immense parameter space to be explored using an iterative approach. Several examples of image creation are presented. A philosophy is also presented on how to use color and composition to create images that simultaneously highlight scientific detail and are aesthetically appealing. This philosophy is necessary because most datasets do not correspond to the wavelength range of sensitivity of the human eye. The use of visual grammar, defined as the elements which affect the interpretation of an image, can maximize the richness and detail in an image while maintaining scientific accuracy. By properly using visual grammar, one can imply qualities that a two-dimensional image intrinsically cannot show, such as depth, motion and energy. In addition, composition can be used to engage viewers and keep them interested for a longer period of time. The use of these techniques can result in a striking image that will effectively convey the science within the image, to scientists and to the public.Comment: 104 pages, 38 figures, submitted to A

Long term storage test of titanium material with liquid fluorine propellant

The compatibility of 6AL-4V Ti with propellant grade GF2 and LF2 at 77 K for up to 3 years was investigated. Titanium double coupons, annealed or heat treated, with 16 or 64 RMS finishes, were immersed in F2 in individual Pyrex capsules and stored under LN2 for 29 and 39 months. Pre and post immersion tests were performed on the propellant and coupons. Chemical analysis of the propellant did not reveal any significant changes due to titanium corrosion. Gravimetric, visual, microscopic, and metallurgical examination with pitting analysis did not reveal gross corrosion of the titanium although pitting appears to be greater after 39 months exposure. The increase in pit size and number raises the possibility of unpredictable crack propagation instability. Fracture toughness tests are necessary to define this possibility

Dimpling process in cold roll metal forming by finite element modelling and experimental validation

The dimpling process is a novel cold-roll forming process that involves dimpling of a rolled flat strip prior to the roll forming operation. This is a process undertaken to enhance the material properties and subsequent products’ structural performance while maintaining a minimum strip thickness. In order to understand the complex and interrelated nonlinear changes in contact, geometry and material properties that occur in the process, it is necessary to accurately simulate the process and validate through physical tests. In this paper, 3D non-linear finite element analysis was employed to simulate the dimpling process and mechanical testing of the subsequent dimpled sheets, in which the dimple geometry and material properties data were directly transferred from the dimpling process. Physical measurements, tensile and bending tests on dimpled sheet steel were conducted to evaluate the simulation results. Simulation of the dimpling process identified the amount of non-uniform plastic strain introduced and the manner in which this was distributed through the sheet. The plastic strain resulted in strain hardening which could correlate to the increase in the strength of the dimpled steel when compared to plain steel originating from the same coil material. A parametric study revealed that the amount of plastic strain depends upon on the process parameters such as friction and overlapping gap between the two forming rolls. The results derived from simulations of the tensile and bending tests were in good agreement with the experimental ones. The validation indicates that the finite element analysis was able to successfully simulate the dimpling process and mechanical properties of the subsequent dimpled steel products

Hypervelocity impact testing of cables

The physics and electrical results obtained from simulated micrometeoroid testing of certain Skylab cables are presented. The test procedure, electrical circuits, test equipment, and cable types utilized are also explained

Prevalence and risk factors for mast cell tumours in dogs in England

BACKGROUND: Mast cell tumour (MCT) appears to be a frequent tumour type in dogs, though there is little published in relation to its frequency in dogs in the UK. The current study aimed to investigate prevalence and risk factors for MCTs in dogs attending English primary-care veterinary practices. METHODS: Electronic patient records from practices participating in the VetCompass animal surveillance project between July 2007 and June 2013 were searched for MCT diagnosis. Various search terms and standard diagnostic terms (VeNom codes) identified records containing MCT diagnoses, which were evaluated against clinical criteria for inclusion to the study. MCT prevalence for the entire dataset and specific breed types were calculated. Descriptive statistics characterised MCT cases and multivariable logistic regression methods evaluated risk factors for association with MCT (P < 0.05). RESULTS: Within a population of 168,636 dogs, 453 had MCT, yielding a prevalence of 0.27% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.24% - 0.29%). The highest breed type specific prevalences were for the Boxer at 1.95% (95% CI 1.40% - 2.51%), Golden Retriever at 1.39% (0.98% - 1.81%) and Weimaraner at 0.85% (95% CI 0.17% to 1.53%). Age, insurance status, neuter status, weight and breed type were associated with MCT diagnosis. Of dogs of specific breed type, the Boxer, Pug and Staffordshire Bull Terrier showed greater odds of MCT diagnosis compared with crossbred dogs. Conversely, the German Shepherd Dog, Border Collie, West Highland White Terrier, Springer Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel had reduced odds of MCT diagnosis compared with crossbred dogs. No association was found between MCT diagnosis and sex. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This study highlights a clinically significant prevalence of MCT and identifies specific breed types with predisposition to MCT, potentially aiding veterinarian awareness and facilitating diagnosis

Spatially Explicit Decision Support for Watershed Management on Military Lands: Stream Integrity, Interactive Programming, and Best Management Practices

2012 S.C. Water Resources Conference - Exploring Opportunities for Collaborative Water Research, Policy and Managemen