Introduction Sr-82 is produced for PET cardiac imaging at the Isotope Production Facility (IPF) with 100-MeV proton beams. During irradiation, the target material (RbCl, Rb) and Inconel capsule are ex-posed for extended periods to intense radiation, thermally and mechanically induced stresses, and chemicals. The structural integrity of the Inconel capsules is of crucial importance to containing the target starting materials and produced Sr-82. Unexpected failure capsules severely affects the reliability of the isotope supply chain and increases in radioactive emission and wastes, maintenance cost, and personnel radia-tion exposure. Knowledge of the structural integrity of a target before irradiation plays an important role in that defects may be identified and rejected prior to irradiation. In the cases of where a breach occurs, the location of the breach can be correlated with the inspected data. Material and Methods RbCl target failure: IPF has a successful irradiation history of RbCl targets at 230 A proton beam current since the facility commissioning in 2004. In 2013 run cycle, three targets irradiated in the medium energy B slot (35–65 MeV) [1] failed unexpectedly. The failure mode was the formation and propagation of cracks at the cor-ner radius along the edge of the target (FIGS. 1a-b). The common failure location was in the rear window relative to the beam direction and at the top of the target. These targets failed relatively early in the course of irradiation and typically after several cycles of beam loss and recovery. Possible failure mechanisms: A calculated von-Mises stress analysis at room temperature of an Inconel capsule under a static pressure load at 4 MPa shows a stress concentration at the corner radius and deformation of the window (FIG. 2). Additionally, a beam loss and recovery process causes the capsule windows to fatique especially at the corner due to a thermal and pressure cyclic loading. Furthermore, there is a thermal stress within the window due a temperature gradient resulting from nonuniform heating by the donut-shaped IPF beam [2]. Finally, Cl vapor in the void region or Rb liquid at the top of the target where the highest temperature of target material (RbCl or Rb) is expected may have contribution to a stress-corrosion cracking. An individual or a combination of these mechanisms aggrevate target failure if defects (voids, cracks, or thinning) exist. When the applied stress exceeds the ultimate tensile strength of Inconel, the target is likely to fail at these locations. Non-destructive evaluation methods: Digital radiographic images were generated using a Philips 450 x-ray source set to 150–190 keV and a Varian panel detector. Ultrasonic (UT) amplitude and time-of-flight (TOF) images were generated with a spherically-focused transducer operated at 50 MHz. Results Inconel capsule halves: Radiographic images of the front and rear parts of 7 RbCl A targets (~65-95 MeV) and 7 RbCl B targets prior to target assembly (FIG. 3). For target A halves (left two columns), there is some variation in thickness between the front and rear parts. Other than thickness variation, no other defects (inclusions, voids, cracks) was detected. For target B halves (right two columns), all rear parts exhibit thinning around their edges, whereas the front parts appear more uniform. UT TOF images were performed on 4 target A halves (155, 156, 157, and 159) and 7 target B halves (154-160). The rear window of 155A appears to thin out (~12.5%) near the rim on the right half. The front of 159A shows a similar thinning (~ 15%) near the rim on the left half. Although there is a thinning along the edges, all parts except 159A front have an average thickness within the stated specification (TABLE 1). Similarly to radiographic data, UT TOF data con-firm a thinning towards the edges of the window on most of target B parts. Only images of 155B are illustrated in FIG. 4. Significant thinning (15%) is observed on 154B (front & rear), and the rear windows of 155B, 157B, 158B, and 159B. Although there is a thinning, all parts have an average thickness within the stated specification (0.0120” ± 0.0005”) except for the rear windows of 154B and 155B. No inclusions or voids are apparent in any of the parts. RbCl filled targets: For comparison purpose, three B (130, 135, 147) and two A (137, 147) filled targets were evaluated. Radiographic data show no defects in the Inconel capsules while the RbCl pucks have numerous features (cracks, voids). The images of targets 130B and 135B illustrate the basic conditions of the RbCl pucks (FIG. 5). UT TOF images of targets 130B and 135B rear and front windows are illustrated in FIG. 6. Average thicknesses of 0.011–0.014” for both rear and front windows of all 5 targets are within the stated specification. However, there is thinning around the edge of the target 135B front window. Rb empty capsule: Radiograph of an unfilled Inconel capsule with and the fill tube is shown in FIG. 7. The predrilled 1-mm OD pinhole on the front window can be easily detected with the instrument’s detection limits of 30-μm pinhole and 5-μm crack. There is no other visible defect or thickness variation. This target was filled with Rb to characterize the reaction released Rb through the pinhole with water and its effects on equipment. Rb metal filled targets: Radiographs of two Rb metal filled targets show the front and side views of Rb distribution and fill tube (FIG. 8). Voids are visible throughout the Rb and small amount of Rb remaining in the fill tube. TOF results indicate the average thicknesses of 0.0201–0.0214” for both rear and front windows of 2 targets. Except the 2B front window, all thicknesses are within stated specification (0.020” ± 0.0005). UT TOF images for the rear and front of each target capsule are shown in FIG. 9. Moiré pat-terns are likely caused by a combination of stress arising in the manufacturing/filling process and some degree of measurement artifact. Target 1B windows exhibit uniform thickness across the bulk of the diameter, with the front window being slightly thinner overall than the rear. There is slight thinning observed near the edges on both windows. Thinning is more pronounced on the left side of the rear window than the right side of the front window. Target 2B shows a more pronounced distortion particularly on the rear window. The rear window appears to have a slightly thinner concentric region approximately one-quarter of diameter in. The front window displays good uniformity, with slight thinning along the inner edge of the left. Both targets 1B and 2B were successfully irradiated up to 230 A for 2 hours. Higher beam current and longer irradiation of Rb targets is underway. Conclusion Radiographic and ultrasonic methods were used in non-destructive evaluation of pre-assembly Inconel parts and fully assembled RbCl and Rb targets. These studies show the potential to identify defective parts and/or targets prior to irradiation, to provide useful information for improving target manufacturing process, and to enable better decision-making in managing risks of target failure. The results also have target quality assurance potential, enable comparison of target features and document data for future interpretation of target failure. The benefits of non-destructive evaluation include improved target reliability, reduced target failure rate, reduced revenue loss and increased productivity of Sr-82.

Submitted by DOUGLAS DE CASTRO AGOSTINHO null (douglas_c_agostinho@hotmail.com) on 2017-03-07T20:51:41Z No. of bitstreams: 1 tese (final).pdf: 2822739 bytes, checksum: 990e18e900efd974bfd4b2cd1d404619 (MD5) / Approved for entry into archive by Juliano Benedito Ferreira (julianoferreira@reitoria.unesp.br) on 2017-03-10T19:08:02Z (GMT) No. of bitstreams: 1 agostinho_dc_dr_sjrp.pdf: 2822739 bytes, checksum: 990e18e900efd974bfd4b2cd1d404619 (MD5) / Made available in DSpace on 2017-03-10T19:08:02Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 agostinho_dc_dr_sjrp.pdf: 2822739 bytes, checksum: 990e18e900efd974bfd4b2cd1d404619 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2017-02-14 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) / A seção Virescentia do gênero Batrachospermum corresponde a espécies com aparência esverdeada e verticilos bem desenvolvidos, carposporófitos grandes produzidos isoladamente ou em pares e inseridos no eixo principal, ramos carpogoniais retos e curtos originados das células pericentrais ou células fasciculares proximais, e carpogônio com tricogínios alongados e pedicelados. O presente estudo teve como objetivo inferir as relações filogenéticas, bem como os limites de variação intra e interespecífico das espécies da seção Virescentia com base na análise morfológica e molecular, utilizando caracteres diagnósticos atualmente aceitos e dois marcadores moleculares: gene plastidial que codifica a subunidade grande da RUBISCO (rbcL – 1.282 pares de base, pb) e as regiões de “barcode” (664 pb) e “mini-barcode” (246 pb) do gene mitocondrial que codifica a subunidade 1 da citocromo c oxidase (cox1). Foram analisadas amostras provenientes das regiões biogeográficas neotropical, neártica e paleártica, além de exsicatas dos espécimes-tipo da seção provenientes do Herbário PC (Paris, França) e exsicatas de espécimes do Brasil e Japão. Análises baseadas nas sequências de rbcL, cox1 e “mini-barcode” foram congruentes, indicando níveis de divergência suficientes para distinguir espécies dentro da seção. Análises moleculares revelaram a seção Virescentia como monofilética e evidenciaram clados bem definidos, com nítida repartição biogeográfica e associados a uma divergência relativamente alta nas sequências entre estes grupos, o que sugere que as amostras das diferentes regiões do globo correspondem a, pelo menos, cinco espécies distintas: B. viride-brasiliense, B. vogesiacum, B. helminthosum, Batrachospermum sp.1 e Batrachospermum sp.2. O exame dos tipos nomenclaturais, bem como de amostras críticas na história do grupo, permitiu reconhecer dez espécies para a seção Virescentia com base em caracteres morfológicos diagnósticos e distribuição biogeográfica: B. bakarense, B. crispatum, B. gombakense, B. gulbenkianum, B. transtaganum, B. helminthosum, B. viride-brasiliense, B. vogesiacum, Batrachospermum sp.1 e Batrachospermum sp.2.

Diatoms are crucially important to the global ecosystem due to their role in regulating the world’s carbon and silicon cycles, and their production of large amounts of organic material in aquatic environments. They are thought to comprise ca. 100,000 species, although some estimates suggest that there could be over a million. Despite their importance and high species diversity, little is known about their phylogeny due to technical issues that hinder the reconstruction of their relationships. However, owing to a new technique that allows for DNA to be amplified from a single isolated cell, it is possible to explore diatom relationships with extensive taxonomic sampling. This thesis aims to demonstrate that the integration of molecular data and morphological characters can provide a new paradigm for future phylogenetic and taxonomic studies of diatoms, especially among closely related and taxonomically complex groups. To achieve this, I examined common species from two naviculoid diatom genera, Frustulia and Navicula using sequence data from three molecular markers (rbcL, atpB, 18S), traditional and fine-scale morphological characters, and frustule shape. The molecular markers rbcL and atpB evolved at a similar rate and performed well at reconstructing species-level phylogenies, whereas 18S was more conserved and best used for resolving relationships at higher taxonomic levels. Hidden diversity was uncovered in what have traditionally been thought as well-circumscribed taxa, and three new species were described. The methods used here show promise for the future of diatom systematics.

O presente trabalho utiliza marcadores moleculares para auxiliar na caracterização e filogenia das espécies de macroalgas vermelhas do gênero Hypnea na costa do Brasil. O gênero Hypnea Lamouroux (1813) apresenta cerca de 67 espécies descritas e possui distribuição geográfica em águas quentes ao redor do mundo. Além disso, o gênero possui grande importância econômica e ecológica, como fonte de alimento e produção industrial de carragenana. Porém, a identificação das espécies de Hypnea com base exclusivamente em dados morfológicos é dificultada em virtude da plasticidade fenotípica presente no grupo, de sua morfologia relativamente simples e da ampla distribuição geográfica de suas espécies. Em vista disso, utilizamos a técnica de \"DNA barcoding\" que permite a análise de um grande número de amostras. Neste trabalho foram utilizados dois \"DNA barcodes\" (a região 5\' do gene mitocondrial cox1 e o \"universal plastid amplicon\" UPA), e para as análises filogenéticas foi utilizado o gene plastidial rbcL. Além disso, estudos morfológicos foram feitos a fim de delimitar o real valor dos caracteres morfo-anatômicos citados na literatura para a separação de espécies do gênero Hypnea. Ao todo, foram obtidas 230 amostras brasileiras de Hypnea, provenientes de 11 estados brasileiros, e 10 amostras de outros países. Um total de 367 sequências de marcadores moleculares foi obtido neste trabalho. Confirmamos a ocorrência de nove espécies para o gênero: H. cervicornis, \"H. flexicaulis\", \"H. musciformis\", H. spinella, \"H. stellulifera\", Hypnea sp. 1, Hypnea sp. 2, Hypnea sp. 3 e Hypnea sp. 4. As amostras coletadas e previamente identificadas em campo como H. cornuta revelaram-se, pelos estudos da biologia molecular, serem \"H. stellulifera\". As espécies H. musciformis, H. nigrescens, H. valentiae foram consideradas variações morfológicas de uma mesma espécie, denominada de \"H. musciformis\". A identificação das espécies com base apenas em características morfológicas mostrou-se insatisfatória, devido principalmente a plasticidade fenotípica presente no grupo, além da existência de espécies com morfologias convergentes. A técnica de \"DNA barcode\", principalmente com relação ao marcador cox1, mostrou-se essencial na identificação e delimitação das espécies, revelando cenários que passariam despercebidos com o uso apenas da morfologia / This study uses molecular markers to aid in the characterization and phylogeny of species of the genus Hypnea, a red macroalgae, on the coast of Brazil. The genus Hypnea Lamouroux (1813) presents about 67 described species and has geographical distribution in warm waters around the world. Furthermore, the genus has great economic and ecological importance as a source of food and industrial production of carrageenan. However, the identification of the species of Hypnea based solely on morphological data is difficult due to phenotypic plasticity present in this group, its relatively simple morphology and broad geographical distribution of its species. In view of this, we use the technique of \"DNA barcoding\" that allows the analysis of a large number of samples. In this work we used two \"DNA barcodes\" (the 5 \'region of the mitochondrial gene cox1 and universal plastid amplicon UPA), and for phylogenetic analysis the plastid gene rbcL was used. In addition, morphological studies were made in order to delimit the actual value of morpho-anatomical caracters cited in the literature for the separation of species of Hypnea. Altogether, 230 Hypnea samples were obtained from 11 Brazilian states, and 10 samples from other countries. A total of 367 sequences of molecular markers were obtained in this study. We confirm the occurrence of nine species of the genus: H. cervicornis, \"H. flexicaulis\", \"H. musciformis\", \"H. spinella, \"H. stellulifera\", Hypnea sp. 1, Hypnea sp. 2, Hypnea sp. 3 and Hypnea sp. 4. Samples collected in the field and previously identified as H. cornuta based on molecular data, proved to be \"H. stellulifera\". The species H. musciformis, H. nigrescens and H. valentiae were considered morphological variations of the same species, named \"H. musciformis\". The identification of species based on morphological characteristics proved unsatisfactory, mainly due to phenotypic plasticity in this group and the existence of species with convergent morphologies. The technique of \"DNA barcode\", especially with respect to cox1 marker, was essential for the identification and definition of species, revealing scenarios that would go unnoticed by using only morphology

Ribulose-1,5-Bifsfosfato (RuBP) carboxilase/oxigenase (RuBisCO) é a enzima chave para a fixação do carbono atmosférico e para a produtividade das plantas. Não há, até o momento, uma metodologia estabelecida para otimizar o processo de fixação do CO2 nas diferentes espécies de plantas. Entretanto, a disponibilidade de um protocolo de transformação genética de cloroplasto de tabaco permite tentativas de manipulação da enzima RuBisCO visando aumento da eficiência fotossintética. Nas plantas, esta proteína é formada por 8 subunidades menores codificadas pelo gene rbcS localizado no genoma nuclear e por 8 subunidades maiores codificadas pelo gene rbcL localizado no genoma de cloroplastos. Neste trabalho, dois genes rbcL-sintéticos, um com a substituição da alanina (A) 378 por uma valina (V) (A378V) e outro sem a substituição foram utilizados para a construção dos vetores pTT629, pTT630, pTT632 e pTT633. Estes vetores foram usados para transformar o cloroplasto de folhas de tabaco, pelo método de biolística. Um total de 35 plantas transplastômicas se desenvolveram sob seleção dos antibióticos espectinomicina (500 mg/L) e estreptomicina (500 mg/L) e a análise molecular dos sítios de restrição AccI, EcoRI, NdeI e NsiI, de fragmentos amplificados da sequência codante atpB::rbcL:: aadA:: accD demonstrou a integração dos genes rbcL-sintéticos em 11 linhagens transplastômicas. Sementes F1 destas plantas demonstraram ser homoplásmicas pela germinação na presença do antibiótico espectinomicina (500 mg/L). Análises fisiológicas das taxas de fotossíntese (A), condutância estomática (gs) e de transpiração (E) das plantas transplastômicas (A378V) mantidas em casa-de-vegetação produziram valores maiores e significativos, quando comparados com as plantas sem a mutação e controle não transgênicos. O aumento da taxa de fotossíntese das linhagens transplastômicas indicam a possibilidade de aumento da atividade catalítica da RuBisCO. A compreensão da interação fotossintética com a atividade fotorrespiratória poderá permitir explorar e estender possíveis benefícios, como o aumento da produtividade em cultivares de interesse agronômico. / Ribulose-1,5-Bifsfosfato (RuBP) carboxylase/ oxygenase (RuBisCO) is the key enzyme for the fixation of atmospheric carbon and productivity of plants. At moment, no single solution to optimize the CO2 fixing process by the different species of plants. The availability of a few efficient chloroplast transformation protocols for all cultivars also directs attempts to manipulate the larger and small subunit of RuBisCO. In plants, this protein consists of coding form eight smaller subunits encoding the rbcS gene and 8 larger subunits of the rbcL gene respectively located in the nucleus and chloroplasts. Using two rbcL-synthetic genes, with an alanine (Ala) 378 substituting a valine (Val) (A378V) and another one without the replacement were used in the construction of pTT629, pTT630, pTT632 and pTT633 vectors, which were used in the method of biolistic to driving these transgenes into the chloroplast genome of tobacco. A total of 35 transplastomic plants were grown under selection of antibiotics spectinomycin (500mg/ L) and streptomycin (500mg/ L) and the molecular analysis using restriction sites AccI, EcoRI, NdeI and NsiI from the amplified fragments of atpB::rbcL:: aadA:: accD sequence displayed the rbcL-synthetic genes integrated into the plastome of the 11 transplastomic lines. The F1 seeds of these plants were shown to be homoplasmic from germinating in the presence of the antibiotic spectinomycin (500mg / L). The physiology analyzes of photosynthesis (A), stomatal conductance (gs) and transpiration (E) rates of these transplastomic lines (A378V) plants kept in green-house produced the highest and significant values when when compared to the control plants without the mutation and non-transgenic control. The increase of the photosynthesis rate form transplastomic lines indicates the possibility of increasing the catalytic activity of RuBisCO. The understanding of the photosynthetic interaction with photorespiration activity may allow explore more the potential benefits, such as increased productivity in crops of agronomic interest.

As algas pardas filamentosas (Phaeophyceae) constituem um grupo essencialmente marinho com morfologia extremamente simples. A identificação taxonômica dessas algas é bastante difícil quando empregados apenas caracteres morfológicos devido à grande plasticidade fenotípica que apresentam. No Brasil, nenhum estudo sistemático foi feito com seus representantes empregando-se dados moleculares. Neste contexto, a diversidade de algas pardas filamentosas dos gêneros Acinetospora, Asteronema, Bachelotia, Ectocarpus, Hincksia e Feldmannia foi investigada pela primeira vez no Brasil sob uma abordagem molecular, complementada com dados morfológicos. As coletas abrangeram a região sudeste do Brasil, incluindo a área de ressurgência dos litorais do Rio de Janeiro e Espírito Santo, que abriga quase que a totalidade de táxons de algas pardas filamentosas citadas para o país. Foi utilizado o marcador mitocondrial do tipo DNA Barcode, COI-5P e o marcador plastidial para inferências filogenéticas, o rbcL. Os estudos moleculares e morfológicos permitiram identificar 10 táxons para o litoral sudeste brasileiro: oito da ordem Ectocarpales: Acinetospora filamentosa, \"Feldmannia\" irregulares, \"Feldmannia irregulares\" 1, \"Feldmannia irregulares\" 2, \"Feldmannia\" mitchelliae, \"Hincksia\" conífera e Hincksia sandriana (família Acinetosporaceae) e Ectocarpus fasciculatus (família Ectocarpaceae) e dois da ordem Scytothamnales: \"Asteronema\" breviarticulatum (família Asteronemataceae) e Bachelotia antillarum (família Bachelotiaceae). A família Acinetosporaceae não é monofilética e se dividiu em dois agrupamentos, Acinetosporaceae 1, que incluiu a maioria dos representantes brasileiros e a espécie tipo da família, Acinetospora crinita, e para o qual o nome da família deve ser retido; e Acinetosporaceae 2, que incluiu os autênticos gêneros Feldmannia, Hincksia e Pylaiella com suas respectivas espécies-tipo, Feldmannia lebelli, Hincksia hincksiae e Pylaiella litorallis, respectivamente, e para o qual, uma nova família deverá ser proposta. Hincksia sandriana foi a única espécie estudada que se agrupou no clado do autêntico gênero Hincksia e é citada pela primeira vez para o Brasil, constituindo um caso de introdução recente. Para os demais representantes agrupados em Acinetosporaceae 1, excluindo Acinetospora, um novo gênero para a ciência deverá ser proposto. Os táxons \"H.\" conífera, \"F.\" irregulares, \"F. irregulares\" 1, \"F. irregulares\" 2 e \"F.\" mitchelliae não pertencem aos autênticos gêneros Feldmannia e Hincksia, já que não se agruparam com as respectivas espécies-tipo dos gêneros, e, portanto, devem ser transferidos para o novo gênero. As análises com os dois marcadores moleculares demonstraram que \"F.\" irregulares, \"F. irregulares\" 1 e \"F. irregulares\" 2, previamente citados sob uma única espécie (F. irregulares), representam três entidades taxonômicas independentes. Sequências do COI-5P de F. irregulares da Itália, considerada próxima à localidade tipo (Mar Adriático), confirmaram que parte do material analisado deve ser mantido sob o epíteto irregulares, enquanto duas novas espécies devem ser propostas para a ciência para acomodar \"F. irregulares\" 1 e \"F. irregulares\" 2. As análises moleculares com o COI-5P dividiu \"F.\" mitchelliae em três agrupamentos com alta divergência genética e variabilidade morfológica indicando que \"F.\" mitchelliae forma um complexo. Uma sequência de \"F.\" mitchelliae procedente dos EUA (Carolina do Norte), próxima à localidade tipo (Massachusetts), gerada no presente estudo, confirmou que o material brasileiro deve ser descrito sob o epíteto mitchelliae, porém acomodado sob um novo gênero. Nossos resultados moleculares demonstraram claramente que o gênero Acinetospora não é monofilético. Acinetospora filamentosa é citada pela primeira vez para o Oceano Atlântico e foi revelada por meio de dados moleculares, tanto pelo COI-5P quanto pelo rbcL. A espécie Acinetospora crinita referida previamente para o litoral sudeste do Brasil não foi recoletada neste estudo. Diferenças morfológicas nas estruturas pluriloculares entre as duas espécies e ausência de monosporângios em A. filamentosa, descritos como típico apenas para A. crinita, confirmaram a ocorrência de A. filamentosa para o Atlântico. Nossos resultados com o rbcL revelaram que a família Asteronemataceae não é monofilética. O táxon \"Asteronema\" breviarticulatum se agrupou com Asterocladon lobatum, espécie tipo do gênero, e deve ser alocado na família Asterocladaceae, assim como transferido para o gênero Asterocladon propondo-se uma combinação nova para resolver o posicionamento taxonômico dessa espécie. A alta divergência genética verificada para os marcadores COI-5P e rbcL demonstraram que Bachelotia antillarum é uma espécie críptica. A utilização da ferramenta molecular no estudo de algas pardas filamentosas na região sudeste do Brasil foi fundamental para desvendar a sua diversidade, que comprovadamente estava subestimada, assim como melhor delimitar seus gêneros e espécies e revelar espécies crípticas. Os dados aqui apresentados são pioneiros e constituem uma fonte relevante de informação sobre a taxonomia e sistemática deste grupo de algas pardas. Mais investigações por meio de uma ampla revisão, especialmente da família Acinetosporaceae, uma maior amostragem no litoral brasileiro e inclusão de mais gêneros de algas pardas filamentosas nas análises podem ainda mudar o panorama da classificação desse grupo / Filamentous brown algae (Phaeophyceae) constitute an essentially marine group that display an extremely simple morphology. The taxonomic identification of these algae is very difficult when based only on morphological characters, due to the high incidence of phenotypic plasticity. In Brazil, no systematic study using molecular data has investigated their representatives. In this context, this study aims to investigate the diversity of filamentous brown algae of the genera Acinetospora, Asteronema, Bachelotia, Ectocarpus, Hincksia and Feldmannia for the first time in Brazil, applying the molecular approach coupled with morphological data. The sampling sites covered the southeastern region of Brazil, including the upwelling area of the Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo coasts, which include almost all the filaments of brown algae mentioned for the country. The DNA barcode mitochondrial marker, COI-5P, and the plastid marker for phylogenetic inferences, rbcL, were sequenced. The molecular and morphological studies allowed the recognition of 10 taxa on the Brazilian southeastern coast, out of which eight taxa correspond to the order Ectocarpales, and two to the order Scytothamnales. Ectocarpales is represented by the families Acinetosporaceae (Acinetospora filamentosa, \"Feldmannia\" irregularis, \"Feldmannia irregularis\" 1, \"Feldmannia irregularis\" 2, \"Feldmannia\" mitchelliae, \"Hincksia\" conifer and Hincksia sandriana), and Ectocarpaceae (Ectocarpus fasciculatus). The order Scytothamnales, in turn, includes the families Asteronemataceae (\"Asteronema\" breviarticulatum) and Bachelotiaceae (Bachelotia antillarum) The Acinetosporaceae family is non-monophyletic and was divided into two clusters: Acinetosporaceae 1 for which the family name should be retained, included the type species of the family (Acinetospora crinite) and most of the Brazilian representatives; and Acinetosporaceae 2 for which a new family should be proposed, included the genera Feldmannia, Hincksia and Pylaiella represented by their respective type species, Feldmannia lebelli, Hincksia hincksiae and Pylaiella litorallis. Hincksia sandriana was the only species studied that grouped in the clade of the authentic genus Hincksia. Besides, this is the first record of H. sandriana for Brazil, which constitutes a case of recent introduction. For the other representatives of Acinetosporaceae 1, except Acinetospora, a new genus for science should be proposed. The taxa \"H.\" conifer, \"F.\" irregularis, \"F. irregularis\" 1, \"F. irregularis\" 2 and \"F.\" mitchelliae do not belong to the authentic genera Feldmannia and Hincksia, since they did not group with the respective generitypes. Therefore, should be transferred to the new genus. Analyzes applying both molecular markers showed that \"F.\" irregularis, \"F. irregularis\" 1 and \"F. irregularis\" 2, previously cited as a single species (F. irregularis), constitute three independent taxonomic entities. COI-5P sequences of F. irregularis from Italy, close to the type locality (Adriatic Sea), demonstrate that part of the analyzed material should be maintained under the epithet irregularis, whereas two new scientific species should be proposed to accommodate \"F. irregularis \"1 and \" F. irregularis \"2. COI-5P molecular analyzes divided \"F.\" mitchelliae into three clusters with high genetic divergence and morphological variability indicating that \"F.\" mitchelliae corresponds to a species complex. A sequence of \"F. mitchelliae from the United States (North Carolina), near the type locality (Massachusetts), obtained and included in the present study, confirmed that the Brazilian material should be described under the epithet mitchelliae and transferred to a new genus. Our molecular results have clearly demonstrated that the genus Acinetospora is non-monophyletic. Acinetospora filamentosa is for the first time mentioned for the Atlantic Ocean and was revealed by molecular data, both by COI-5P and rbcL. The species Acinetospora crinite recorded on the southeastern coast of Brazil was not collected in this study. Morphological differences in plurilocular structures between two species and absence of monosporangia in A. filamentosa, described as typical only for A. crinite, confirmed the occurrence of A. filamentosa for the Atlantic. Our results with the rbcL revealed that the family Asteronemataceae is non-monophyletic. \"Asteronema\" breviarticulatum was grouped with Asterocladon lobatum, the type species of the genus, and should be transferred to the genus Asterocladon and to the family Asterocladaceae. Consequently, a new combination should be proposed to solve taxonomic placement of this species. The high genetic divergence observed for the COI-5P and rbcL markers demonstrated that Bachelotia antillarum is a cryptic species. The use of the molecular tool in the study of filamentous brown algae in the southeastern region of Brazil was fundamental to uncover their diversity, previously underestimated, as well as to allow a better delimitation of their genera and species. The innovative data presented here constitute a relevant source of information to the taxonomy and systematics of filamentous brown algae. More investigations through a broad review, especially of the Acinetosporaceae family, a wider sampling in the Brazilian coast and the inclusion of more genera of filamentous brown algae in the analyses can still change the classification scenario of this group

Hybridization is an important mechanism in diversification. It often makes taxonomy difficult. Lack of strong supported intrageneric classification in genus Pteris (Pteridaceae) could be caused by natural hybridization. Most hybridization documnted in Pteris was based on limited evidence. This study focuses on Pteris cadieri complex, the taxon with putative hybridization. The species complex displayed significant morphological variation and was associated with hybrid origin. Reproductive biology revealed variation in spore number per sporangium, spore size, spore shape and apogamous reproduction, which imply its hybrid origin. Cytology analysis using chromosome counting and flow cytometry identified diploids, triploids, and tetraploids. CpDNA and nuclear DNA supported that Pteris cadieri complex is hybrid origin: paternal and maternal lineages were inferred and 11 taxa were identified. Furthermore, comparing materials form Hainan and Taiwan, , it is clear that the species complex is composed by taxa arisen from multiple hybridization. Systematic inconsistency existed between chloroplast and nuclear phylogenies in Pteris impled that other taxa might have involved in hybridization events, in addition to the Pteris cadieri complex. Hybridization may be very common in Pteris. To infer intrageneric taxonomy of Pteris, effect of reticulate evolution should never be neglected. Finally, based on morphological and evolutionary traits, the taxonomy of Pteris cadieri complex is revised. There are Pteris cadieri Christ, Pteris dimorpha Copel. var. dimorpha, Pteris dimorpha var. plumbea (Christ) Y.-S. Chao, H.-Y. Liu & W.-L. Chiou, Pteris grevilleana Wall. ex Agardh var. grevilleanan, Pteris grevilleana Wall. ex Agardh var. ornata Alderw., and Pteris hainanensis Ching.

O presente trabalho utiliza marcadores moleculares para auxiliar na caracterização e filogenia das espécies de macroalgas vermelhas do gênero Hypnea na costa do Brasil. O gênero Hypnea Lamouroux (1813) apresenta cerca de 67 espécies descritas e possui distribuição geográfica em águas quentes ao redor do mundo. Além disso, o gênero possui grande importância econômica e ecológica, como fonte de alimento e produção industrial de carragenana. Porém, a identificação das espécies de Hypnea com base exclusivamente em dados morfológicos é dificultada em virtude da plasticidade fenotípica presente no grupo, de sua morfologia relativamente simples e da ampla distribuição geográfica de suas espécies. Em vista disso, utilizamos a técnica de \"DNA barcoding\" que permite a análise de um grande número de amostras. Neste trabalho foram utilizados dois \"DNA barcodes\" (a região 5\' do gene mitocondrial cox1 e o \"universal plastid amplicon\" UPA), e para as análises filogenéticas foi utilizado o gene plastidial rbcL. Além disso, estudos morfológicos foram feitos a fim de delimitar o real valor dos caracteres morfo-anatômicos citados na literatura para a separação de espécies do gênero Hypnea. Ao todo, foram obtidas 230 amostras brasileiras de Hypnea, provenientes de 11 estados brasileiros, e 10 amostras de outros países. Um total de 367 sequências de marcadores moleculares foi obtido neste trabalho. Confirmamos a ocorrência de nove espécies para o gênero: H. cervicornis, \"H. flexicaulis\", \"H. musciformis\", H. spinella, \"H. stellulifera\", Hypnea sp. 1, Hypnea sp. 2, Hypnea sp. 3 e Hypnea sp. 4. As amostras coletadas e previamente identificadas em campo como H. cornuta revelaram-se, pelos estudos da biologia molecular, serem \"H. stellulifera\". As espécies H. musciformis, H. nigrescens, H. valentiae foram consideradas variações morfológicas de uma mesma espécie, denominada de \"H. musciformis\". A identificação das espécies com base apenas em características morfológicas mostrou-se insatisfatória, devido principalmente a plasticidade fenotípica presente no grupo, além da existência de espécies com morfologias convergentes. A técnica de \"DNA barcode\", principalmente com relação ao marcador cox1, mostrou-se essencial na identificação e delimitação das espécies, revelando cenários que passariam despercebidos com o uso apenas da morfologia / This study uses molecular markers to aid in the characterization and phylogeny of species of the genus Hypnea, a red macroalgae, on the coast of Brazil. The genus Hypnea Lamouroux (1813) presents about 67 described species and has geographical distribution in warm waters around the world. Furthermore, the genus has great economic and ecological importance as a source of food and industrial production of carrageenan. However, the identification of the species of Hypnea based solely on morphological data is difficult due to phenotypic plasticity present in this group, its relatively simple morphology and broad geographical distribution of its species. In view of this, we use the technique of \"DNA barcoding\" that allows the analysis of a large number of samples. In this work we used two \"DNA barcodes\" (the 5 \'region of the mitochondrial gene cox1 and universal plastid amplicon UPA), and for phylogenetic analysis the plastid gene rbcL was used. In addition, morphological studies were made in order to delimit the actual value of morpho-anatomical caracters cited in the literature for the separation of species of Hypnea. Altogether, 230 Hypnea samples were obtained from 11 Brazilian states, and 10 samples from other countries. A total of 367 sequences of molecular markers were obtained in this study. We confirm the occurrence of nine species of the genus: H. cervicornis, \"H. flexicaulis\", \"H. musciformis\", \"H. spinella, \"H. stellulifera\", Hypnea sp. 1, Hypnea sp. 2, Hypnea sp. 3 and Hypnea sp. 4. Samples collected in the field and previously identified as H. cornuta based on molecular data, proved to be \"H. stellulifera\". The species H. musciformis, H. nigrescens and H. valentiae were considered morphological variations of the same species, named \"H. musciformis\". The identification of species based on morphological characteristics proved unsatisfactory, mainly due to phenotypic plasticity in this group and the existence of species with convergent morphologies. The technique of \"DNA barcode\", especially with respect to cox1 marker, was essential for the identification and definition of species, revealing scenarios that would go unnoticed by using only morphology

As algas pardas filamentosas (Phaeophyceae) constituem um grupo essencialmente marinho com morfologia extremamente simples. A identificação taxonômica dessas algas é bastante difícil quando empregados apenas caracteres morfológicos devido à grande plasticidade fenotípica que apresentam. No Brasil, nenhum estudo sistemático foi feito com seus representantes empregando-se dados moleculares. Neste contexto, a diversidade de algas pardas filamentosas dos gêneros Acinetospora, Asteronema, Bachelotia, Ectocarpus, Hincksia e Feldmannia foi investigada pela primeira vez no Brasil sob uma abordagem molecular, complementada com dados morfológicos. As coletas abrangeram a região sudeste do Brasil, incluindo a área de ressurgência dos litorais do Rio de Janeiro e Espírito Santo, que abriga quase que a totalidade de táxons de algas pardas filamentosas citadas para o país. Foi utilizado o marcador mitocondrial do tipo DNA Barcode, COI-5P e o marcador plastidial para inferências filogenéticas, o rbcL. Os estudos moleculares e morfológicos permitiram identificar 10 táxons para o litoral sudeste brasileiro: oito da ordem Ectocarpales: Acinetospora filamentosa, \"Feldmannia\" irregulares, \"Feldmannia irregulares\" 1, \"Feldmannia irregulares\" 2, \"Feldmannia\" mitchelliae, \"Hincksia\" conífera e Hincksia sandriana (família Acinetosporaceae) e Ectocarpus fasciculatus (família Ectocarpaceae) e dois da ordem Scytothamnales: \"Asteronema\" breviarticulatum (família Asteronemataceae) e Bachelotia antillarum (família Bachelotiaceae). A família Acinetosporaceae não é monofilética e se dividiu em dois agrupamentos, Acinetosporaceae 1, que incluiu a maioria dos representantes brasileiros e a espécie tipo da família, Acinetospora crinita, e para o qual o nome da família deve ser retido; e Acinetosporaceae 2, que incluiu os autênticos gêneros Feldmannia, Hincksia e Pylaiella com suas respectivas espécies-tipo, Feldmannia lebelli, Hincksia hincksiae e Pylaiella litorallis, respectivamente, e para o qual, uma nova família deverá ser proposta. Hincksia sandriana foi a única espécie estudada que se agrupou no clado do autêntico gênero Hincksia e é citada pela primeira vez para o Brasil, constituindo um caso de introdução recente. Para os demais representantes agrupados em Acinetosporaceae 1, excluindo Acinetospora, um novo gênero para a ciência deverá ser proposto. Os táxons \"H.\" conífera, \"F.\" irregulares, \"F. irregulares\" 1, \"F. irregulares\" 2 e \"F.\" mitchelliae não pertencem aos autênticos gêneros Feldmannia e Hincksia, já que não se agruparam com as respectivas espécies-tipo dos gêneros, e, portanto, devem ser transferidos para o novo gênero. As análises com os dois marcadores moleculares demonstraram que \"F.\" irregulares, \"F. irregulares\" 1 e \"F. irregulares\" 2, previamente citados sob uma única espécie (F. irregulares), representam três entidades taxonômicas independentes. Sequências do COI-5P de F. irregulares da Itália, considerada próxima à localidade tipo (Mar Adriático), confirmaram que parte do material analisado deve ser mantido sob o epíteto irregulares, enquanto duas novas espécies devem ser propostas para a ciência para acomodar \"F. irregulares\" 1 e \"F. irregulares\" 2. As análises moleculares com o COI-5P dividiu \"F.\" mitchelliae em três agrupamentos com alta divergência genética e variabilidade morfológica indicando que \"F.\" mitchelliae forma um complexo. Uma sequência de \"F.\" mitchelliae procedente dos EUA (Carolina do Norte), próxima à localidade tipo (Massachusetts), gerada no presente estudo, confirmou que o material brasileiro deve ser descrito sob o epíteto mitchelliae, porém acomodado sob um novo gênero. Nossos resultados moleculares demonstraram claramente que o gênero Acinetospora não é monofilético. Acinetospora filamentosa é citada pela primeira vez para o Oceano Atlântico e foi revelada por meio de dados moleculares, tanto pelo COI-5P quanto pelo rbcL. A espécie Acinetospora crinita referida previamente para o litoral sudeste do Brasil não foi recoletada neste estudo. Diferenças morfológicas nas estruturas pluriloculares entre as duas espécies e ausência de monosporângios em A. filamentosa, descritos como típico apenas para A. crinita, confirmaram a ocorrência de A. filamentosa para o Atlântico. Nossos resultados com o rbcL revelaram que a família Asteronemataceae não é monofilética. O táxon \"Asteronema\" breviarticulatum se agrupou com Asterocladon lobatum, espécie tipo do gênero, e deve ser alocado na família Asterocladaceae, assim como transferido para o gênero Asterocladon propondo-se uma combinação nova para resolver o posicionamento taxonômico dessa espécie. A alta divergência genética verificada para os marcadores COI-5P e rbcL demonstraram que Bachelotia antillarum é uma espécie críptica. A utilização da ferramenta molecular no estudo de algas pardas filamentosas na região sudeste do Brasil foi fundamental para desvendar a sua diversidade, que comprovadamente estava subestimada, assim como melhor delimitar seus gêneros e espécies e revelar espécies crípticas. Os dados aqui apresentados são pioneiros e constituem uma fonte relevante de informação sobre a taxonomia e sistemática deste grupo de algas pardas. Mais investigações por meio de uma ampla revisão, especialmente da família Acinetosporaceae, uma maior amostragem no litoral brasileiro e inclusão de mais gêneros de algas pardas filamentosas nas análises podem ainda mudar o panorama da classificação desse grupo / Filamentous brown algae (Phaeophyceae) constitute an essentially marine group that display an extremely simple morphology. The taxonomic identification of these algae is very difficult when based only on morphological characters, due to the high incidence of phenotypic plasticity. In Brazil, no systematic study using molecular data has investigated their representatives. In this context, this study aims to investigate the diversity of filamentous brown algae of the genera Acinetospora, Asteronema, Bachelotia, Ectocarpus, Hincksia and Feldmannia for the first time in Brazil, applying the molecular approach coupled with morphological data. The sampling sites covered the southeastern region of Brazil, including the upwelling area of the Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo coasts, which include almost all the filaments of brown algae mentioned for the country. The DNA barcode mitochondrial marker, COI-5P, and the plastid marker for phylogenetic inferences, rbcL, were sequenced. The molecular and morphological studies allowed the recognition of 10 taxa on the Brazilian southeastern coast, out of which eight taxa correspond to the order Ectocarpales, and two to the order Scytothamnales. Ectocarpales is represented by the families Acinetosporaceae (Acinetospora filamentosa, \"Feldmannia\" irregularis, \"Feldmannia irregularis\" 1, \"Feldmannia irregularis\" 2, \"Feldmannia\" mitchelliae, \"Hincksia\" conifer and Hincksia sandriana), and Ectocarpaceae (Ectocarpus fasciculatus). The order Scytothamnales, in turn, includes the families Asteronemataceae (\"Asteronema\" breviarticulatum) and Bachelotiaceae (Bachelotia antillarum) The Acinetosporaceae family is non-monophyletic and was divided into two clusters: Acinetosporaceae 1 for which the family name should be retained, included the type species of the family (Acinetospora crinite) and most of the Brazilian representatives; and Acinetosporaceae 2 for which a new family should be proposed, included the genera Feldmannia, Hincksia and Pylaiella represented by their respective type species, Feldmannia lebelli, Hincksia hincksiae and Pylaiella litorallis. Hincksia sandriana was the only species studied that grouped in the clade of the authentic genus Hincksia. Besides, this is the first record of H. sandriana for Brazil, which constitutes a case of recent introduction. For the other representatives of Acinetosporaceae 1, except Acinetospora, a new genus for science should be proposed. The taxa \"H.\" conifer, \"F.\" irregularis, \"F. irregularis\" 1, \"F. irregularis\" 2 and \"F.\" mitchelliae do not belong to the authentic genera Feldmannia and Hincksia, since they did not group with the respective generitypes. Therefore, should be transferred to the new genus. Analyzes applying both molecular markers showed that \"F.\" irregularis, \"F. irregularis\" 1 and \"F. irregularis\" 2, previously cited as a single species (F. irregularis), constitute three independent taxonomic entities. COI-5P sequences of F. irregularis from Italy, close to the type locality (Adriatic Sea), demonstrate that part of the analyzed material should be maintained under the epithet irregularis, whereas two new scientific species should be proposed to accommodate \"F. irregularis \"1 and \" F. irregularis \"2. COI-5P molecular analyzes divided \"F.\" mitchelliae into three clusters with high genetic divergence and morphological variability indicating that \"F.\" mitchelliae corresponds to a species complex. A sequence of \"F. mitchelliae from the United States (North Carolina), near the type locality (Massachusetts), obtained and included in the present study, confirmed that the Brazilian material should be described under the epithet mitchelliae and transferred to a new genus. Our molecular results have clearly demonstrated that the genus Acinetospora is non-monophyletic. Acinetospora filamentosa is for the first time mentioned for the Atlantic Ocean and was revealed by molecular data, both by COI-5P and rbcL. The species Acinetospora crinite recorded on the southeastern coast of Brazil was not collected in this study. Morphological differences in plurilocular structures between two species and absence of monosporangia in A. filamentosa, described as typical only for A. crinite, confirmed the occurrence of A. filamentosa for the Atlantic. Our results with the rbcL revealed that the family Asteronemataceae is non-monophyletic. \"Asteronema\" breviarticulatum was grouped with Asterocladon lobatum, the type species of the genus, and should be transferred to the genus Asterocladon and to the family Asterocladaceae. Consequently, a new combination should be proposed to solve taxonomic placement of this species. The high genetic divergence observed for the COI-5P and rbcL markers demonstrated that Bachelotia antillarum is a cryptic species. The use of the molecular tool in the study of filamentous brown algae in the southeastern region of Brazil was fundamental to uncover their diversity, previously underestimated, as well as to allow a better delimitation of their genera and species. The innovative data presented here constitute a relevant source of information to the taxonomy and systematics of filamentous brown algae. More investigations through a broad review, especially of the Acinetosporaceae family, a wider sampling in the Brazilian coast and the inclusion of more genera of filamentous brown algae in the analyses can still change the classification scenario of this group

Introduction Sr-82 is produced for PET cardiac imaging at the Isotope Production Facility (IPF) with 100-MeV proton beams. During irradiation, the target material (RbCl, Rb) and Inconel capsule are ex-posed for extended periods to intense radiation, thermally and mechanically induced stresses, and chemicals. The structural integrity of the Inconel capsules is of crucial importance to containing the target starting materials and produced Sr-82. Unexpected failure capsules severely affects the reliability of the isotope supply chain and increases in radioactive emission and wastes, maintenance cost, and personnel radia-tion exposure. Knowledge of the structural integrity of a target before irradiation plays an important role in that defects may be identified and rejected prior to irradiation. In the cases of where a breach occurs, the location of the breach can be correlated with the inspected data. Material and Methods RbCl target failure: IPF has a successful irradiation history of RbCl targets at 230 A proton beam current since the facility commissioning in 2004. In 2013 run cycle, three targets irradiated in the medium energy B slot (35–65 MeV) [1] failed unexpectedly. The failure mode was the formation and propagation of cracks at the cor-ner radius along the edge of the target (FIGS. 1a-b). The common failure location was in the rear window relative to the beam direction and at the top of the target. These targets failed relatively early in the course of irradiation and typically after several cycles of beam loss and recovery. Possible failure mechanisms: A calculated von-Mises stress analysis at room temperature of an Inconel capsule under a static pressure load at 4 MPa shows a stress concentration at the corner radius and deformation of the window (FIG. 2). Additionally, a beam loss and recovery process causes the capsule windows to fatique especially at the corner due to a thermal and pressure cyclic loading. Furthermore, there is a thermal stress within the window due a temperature gradient resulting from nonuniform heating by the donut-shaped IPF beam [2]. Finally, Cl vapor in the void region or Rb liquid at the top of the target where the highest temperature of target material (RbCl or Rb) is expected may have contribution to a stress-corrosion cracking. An individual or a combination of these mechanisms aggrevate target failure if defects (voids, cracks, or thinning) exist. When the applied stress exceeds the ultimate tensile strength of Inconel, the target is likely to fail at these locations. Non-destructive evaluation methods: Digital radiographic images were generated using a Philips 450 x-ray source set to 150–190 keV and a Varian panel detector. Ultrasonic (UT) amplitude and time-of-flight (TOF) images were generated with a spherically-focused transducer operated at 50 MHz. Results Inconel capsule halves: Radiographic images of the front and rear parts of 7 RbCl A targets (~65-95 MeV) and 7 RbCl B targets prior to target assembly (FIG. 3). For target A halves (left two columns), there is some variation in thickness between the front and rear parts. Other than thickness variation, no other defects (inclusions, voids, cracks) was detected. For target B halves (right two columns), all rear parts exhibit thinning around their edges, whereas the front parts appear more uniform. UT TOF images were performed on 4 target A halves (155, 156, 157, and 159) and 7 target B halves (154-160). The rear window of 155A appears to thin out (~12.5%) near the rim on the right half. The front of 159A shows a similar thinning (~ 15%) near the rim on the left half. Although there is a thinning along the edges, all parts except 159A front have an average thickness within the stated specification (TABLE 1). Similarly to radiographic data, UT TOF data con-firm a thinning towards the edges of the window on most of target B parts. Only images of 155B are illustrated in FIG. 4. Significant thinning (15%) is observed on 154B (front & rear), and the rear windows of 155B, 157B, 158B, and 159B. Although there is a thinning, all parts have an average thickness within the stated specification (0.0120” ± 0.0005”) except for the rear windows of 154B and 155B. No inclusions or voids are apparent in any of the parts. RbCl filled targets: For comparison purpose, three B (130, 135, 147) and two A (137, 147) filled targets were evaluated. Radiographic data show no defects in the Inconel capsules while the RbCl pucks have numerous features (cracks, voids). The images of targets 130B and 135B illustrate the basic conditions of the RbCl pucks (FIG. 5). UT TOF images of targets 130B and 135B rear and front windows are illustrated in FIG. 6. Average thicknesses of 0.011–0.014” for both rear and front windows of all 5 targets are within the stated specification. However, there is thinning around the edge of the target 135B front window. Rb empty capsule: Radiograph of an unfilled Inconel capsule with and the fill tube is shown in FIG. 7. The predrilled 1-mm OD pinhole on the front window can be easily detected with the instrument’s detection limits of 30-μm pinhole and 5-μm crack. There is no other visible defect or thickness variation. This target was filled with Rb to characterize the reaction released Rb through the pinhole with water and its effects on equipment. Rb metal filled targets: Radiographs of two Rb metal filled targets show the front and side views of Rb distribution and fill tube (FIG. 8). Voids are visible throughout the Rb and small amount of Rb remaining in the fill tube. TOF results indicate the average thicknesses of 0.0201–0.0214” for both rear and front windows of 2 targets. Except the 2B front window, all thicknesses are within stated specification (0.020” ± 0.0005). UT TOF images for the rear and front of each target capsule are shown in FIG. 9. Moiré pat-terns are likely caused by a combination of stress arising in the manufacturing/filling process and some degree of measurement artifact. Target 1B windows exhibit uniform thickness across the bulk of the diameter, with the front window being slightly thinner overall than the rear. There is slight thinning observed near the edges on both windows. Thinning is more pronounced on the left side of the rear window than the right side of the front window. Target 2B shows a more pronounced distortion particularly on the rear window. The rear window appears to have a slightly thinner concentric region approximately one-quarter of diameter in. The front window displays good uniformity, with slight thinning along the inner edge of the left. Both targets 1B and 2B were successfully irradiated up to 230 A for 2 hours. Higher beam current and longer irradiation of Rb targets is underway. Conclusion Radiographic and ultrasonic methods were used in non-destructive evaluation of pre-assembly Inconel parts and fully assembled RbCl and Rb targets. These studies show the potential to identify defective parts and/or targets prior to irradiation, to provide useful information for improving target manufacturing process, and to enable better decision-making in managing risks of target failure. The results also have target quality assurance potential, enable comparison of target features and document data for future interpretation of target failure. The benefits of non-destructive evaluation include improved target reliability, reduced target failure rate, reduced revenue loss and increased productivity of Sr-82.