We describe the design and implementation of a vacuum compatible laser-based absolute distance measurement gauge with sub-nm resolution. The present system is compatible with operation in the 10{sup -8} Torr range and with some minor modifications could be used in the 10{sup -9} Torr range. The system is based on glancing incidence reflection and dual segmented diode detection. The system has been implemented as a focus sensor for extreme ultraviolet interferometry and microlithography experiments at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory's Advanced Light Source synchrotron radiation facility and 1{sigma} operational measurement noise floor of 0.26 nm has been demonstrated.

One of the key missions of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is to ensure an abundant and affordable energy supply for the nation. As part of the process of producing oil and natural gas, operators also must manage large quantities of water that are found in the same underground formations. The quantity of this water, known as produced water, generated each year is so large that it represents a significant component in the cost of producing oil and gas. Produced water is water trapped in underground formations that is brought to the surface along with oil or gas. It is by far the largest volume byproduct or waste stream associated with oil and gas production. Management of produced water presents challenges and costs to operators. This white paper is intended to provide basic information on many aspects of produced water, including its constituents, how much of it is generated, how it is managed and regulated in different settings, and the cost of its management.

This project explored a new concept for high-pressure xenon ionization chambers by replacing the Frisch grid with coplanar grid electrodes similar to those used in wide bandgap semiconductor gamma-ray spectrometers. This work is the first attempt to apply the coplanar grid anode design in a gas ionization chamber in order to achieve to improved energy resolution. Three prototype detectors, two cylindrical and one parallel plate configurations, were built and tested. While the detectors did not demonstrate energy resolutions as good as other high pressure xenon gamma-ray spectrometers, the results demonstrated that the concept of single polarity charge sending using coplanar grid electrodes will work in a gas detector.

We are currently investigating the use of magnetic particles--polymeric-based spheres containing dispersed magnetic nanocrystalline phases--for the precise delivery of drugs via the human vasculature. According to this review, meticulously prepared magnetic drug targeting holds promise as a safe and effective method of delivering drugs to specific organ, tissue or cellular targets. We have critically examined the wide range of approaches in the design and implementation of magnetic-particle-based drug delivery systems to date, including magnetic particle preparation, drug encapsulation, biostability, biocompatibility, toxicity, magnetic field designs, and clinical trials. However, we strongly believe that there are several limitations with past developments that need to be addressed to enable significant strides in the field. First, particle size has to be carefully chosen. Micrometer-sized magnetic particles are better attracted over a distance than nanometer sized magnetic particles by a constant magnetic field gradient, and particle sizes up to 1 {micro}m show a much better accumulation with no apparent side effects in small animal models, since the smallest blood vessels have an inner diameter of 5-7 {micro}m. Nanometer-sized particles <70 nm will accumulate in organ fenestrations despite an effective surface stabilizer. To be suitable for future human applications, our experimental approach synthesizes the magnetic drug …

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The goal of this Strategic Initiative in Applied Computational Biology has been to apply LLNL's expertise in computational simulation to forge a new laboratory core competency in biological simulation. By every measure, this SI has been very successful in this goal. Based on a strong publication record and large number of conference presentations and invited talks, we have built a recognized niche for LLNL in the burgeoning field of computational biology. Further, many of the projects that were previously part of this LDRD are now externally funded based on the research results and expertise developed under this SI. We have created successful collaborations with a number of outside research groups including several joint projects with the new UC Davis/LLNL Comprehensive Cancer Center. In addition to these scientific collaborations, the staff developed on this SI is involved in computational biology program development and advisory roles with other DOE laboratories and DOE Headquarters. Moreover, a number of capabilities and expertise created by this SI are finding use in LLNL programmatic applications. Finally, and most importantly, this SI project has brought to LLNL the human talent on who will be the ensuring the further success of computational biology at this laboratory.

This goal of this project was to perform feasibility experiments and measurements of the fundamental interactions between hydrogen and single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT) at high pressures. High-pressure is an adjustable experimental parameter for tuning interaction strengths, thereby elucidating and providing insights into the fundamental nature of the H{sub 2}/SWNT system. We have developed and utilized systems and methodologies to make x-ray scattering, optical spectroscopic and electrical transport measurements. These activities have been productive in demonstrating capabilities and measuring properties of SWNTs under high-pressure conditions. We have also developed strong cooperative and complementary relationships with academic research colleagues at Stanford University. Building on these results and relationships, we hope to continue and expand our research as co-investigators in a joint Harvard-LLNL-Stanford proposal to the DOE ''Grand Challenge'' for Basic and Applied Research in Hydrogen Storage (Solicitation No. DE-PS36-03GO93013). Hydrogen storage is an active research topic with important basic science implications and a crucial enabling technology for advanced energy systems. Measurements of the H{sub 2} storage capacity indicate that it may achieve or exceed the storage capacity level (6.5 wt-%) mandated by the DOE hydrogen plan for fielding a hydrogen-fueled vehicle. The H{sub 2}/SWNT system has been the subject of intensive …