Examining the Relationship between Trace Lithium in Drinking Water and the Rising Rates of Age-Adjusted Alzheimer's Disease Mortality in Texas.

PubMed

Fajardo, Val Andrew; Fajardo, Val Andrei; LeBlanc, Paul J; MacPherson, Rebecca E K

2018-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) mortality rates have steadily increased over time. Lithium, the current gold standard treatment for bipolar disorder, can exert neuroprotective effects against AD. We examined the relationship between trace levels of lithium in drinking water and changes in AD mortality across several Texas counties. 6,180 water samples from public wells since 2007 were obtained and averaged for 234 of 254 Texas counties. Changes in AD mortality rates were calculated by subtracting aggregated age-adjusted mortality rates obtained between 2000-2006 from those obtained between 2009-2015. Using aggregated rates maximized the number of counties with reliable mortality data. Correlational analyses between average lithium concentrations and changes in AD mortality were performed while also adjusting for gender, race, education, rural living, air pollution, physical inactivity, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Age-adjusted AD mortality rate was significantly increased over time (+27%, p < 0.001). Changes in AD mortality were negatively correlated with trace lithium levels (p = 0.01, r = -0.20), and statistical significance was maintained after controlling for most risk factors except for physical inactivity, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes positively correlated with changes in AD mortality (p = 0.01 and 0.03, respectively), but also negatively correlated with trace lithium in drinking water (p = 0.05 and <0.0001, respectively). Trace lithium in water is negatively linked with changes in AD mortality, as well as obesity and type 2 diabetes, which are important risk factors for AD.

Vitamin and trace element supplementation in grazing dairy ewe during the dry season: effect on milk yield, composition, and clotting aptitude.

PubMed

Tufarelli, Vincenzo; Petrera, F; Khan, R U; Laudadio, Vito

2011-06-01

A study was carried out to evaluate the influence of vitamin and trace mineral supplementation on milk production and composition in grazing dairy ewes during the dry season. Ewes (n = 50) were assigned at weaning to blocks and treatments. Ewes were daily conducted (8 h/day) on a pasture based on Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum). At fold, ewes received a basal diet composed by ad libitum oat hay and a definite amount of a pelleted concentrate. Dietary treatments included: (1) the control concentrate containing background of vitamin and trace mineral only, and (2) the experimental concentrate containing the premix supplement (10 g/kg of dry matter). Vitamin and trace mineral supplementation did not affect ewes' body weight. Milk, fat- and protein-corrected milk, fat percentage, and clotting properties were improved in ewes fed supplemented concentrate. There was a week × treatment interaction (P < 0.05) for yield of milk and corrected milk that was greatest at peak production in ewes fed the premix. Our findings indicate that in grazing dairy ewe, the dietary vitamin and trace mineral supplementation during dry season led to an increase of milk production and quality, with positive improvement in milk clotting aptitude.

STUDIES ON ANALYTICAL METHODS FOR TRACE ELEMENTS IN METALS BY USING RADIOACTIVE ISOTOPE. III. DETERMINATION OF TANTALUM BY MEANS OF ISOTOPE DILUTION METHOD

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Amano, H.

1959-10-01

The determination of tantalum by the isotope dilution method in the presence of niobium was investigated by the use of the radioisotope Ta/sup 185/. Tantalum was separated from niobium as tantalum-tannin precipitate under the optimum conditions of a pH of 1.9 to 2.5 and a tantalum/niobium ratio of up to 1/ 50. If niobium was present in amounts 100 times or more that of tantalum, reprecipitation was needed. The reciprocal of the specific activity of tanthlum pentoxide precipitate was in a linear relation to the change in the amount of tantalum added. The recommended method gave an accurate result inmore » the determination of tantalum in steal. (auth)« less

Redesigned Human Metabolic Simulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duffield, Bruce; Jeng, Frank; Lange, Kevin

2008-01-01

A design has been formulated for a proposed improved version of an apparatus that simulates atmospheric effects of human respiration by introducing controlled amounts of carbon dioxide, water vapor, and heat into the air. Denoted a human metabolic simulator (HMS), the apparatus is used for testing life-support equipment when human test subjects are not available. The prior version of the HMS, to be replaced, was designed to simulate the respiratory effects of as many as four persons. It exploits the catalytic combustion of methyl acetate, for which the respiratory quotient (the molar ratio of carbon dioxide produced to oxygen consumed) is very close to the human respiratory quotient of about 0.86. The design of the improved HMS provides for simulation of the respiratory effects of as many as eight persons at various levels of activity. The design would also increase safety by eliminating the use of combustion. The improved HMS (see figure) would include a computer that would exert overall control. The computer would calculate the required amounts of oxygen removal, carbon dioxide addition, water addition, and heat addition by use of empirical equations for metabolic profiles of respiration and heat. A blower would circulate air between the HMS and a chamber containing a life-support system to be tested. With the help of feedback from a mass flowmeter, the blower speed would be adjusted to regulate the rate of flow according to the number of persons to be simulated and to a temperature-regulation requirement (the air temperature would indirectly depend on the rate of flow, among other parameters). Oxygen would be removed from the circulating air by means of a commercially available molecular sieve configured as an oxygen concentrator. Oxygen, argon, and trace amounts of nitrogen would pass through a bed in the molecular sieve while carbon dioxide, the majority of nitrogen, and other trace gases would be trapped by the bed and subsequently returned to the chamber. If, as recommended, the oxygen concentrator were of a rotating twelve-bed design, then variations in the product stream could be made very small. Carbon dioxide would be added directly to the circulating air by simple injection from a supply tank. The rate of injection would be maintained at the required rate by use of a mass flowmeter/controller. In the same way, nitrogen would be added to make up for the small amount of nitrogen lost through the oxygen concentrator. Water vapor would be added to the circulating air by heating the corresponding required flow of water to steam in a heat exchanger. More heat, required to complete the simulation of the thermal effect of respiration, would be added through another heat exchanger. Heat would be supplied to both heat exchangers via a hot-oil loop.

Effects of source of trace minerals and plane of nutrition on growth and health of transported neonatal dairy calves.

PubMed

Osorio, J S; Wallace, R L; Tomlinson, D J; Earleywine, T J; Socha, M T; Drackley, J K

2012-10-01

The aims of the experiment were to evaluate the effects of source of trace minerals (TM) and plane of nutrition (PN) early in life on growth and health of transported calves. Ninety male Holstein calves <1 wk old were assigned to treatments in a 2×2 factorial arrangement of PN and TM source in a randomized complete block design. Calves assigned to low PN (LPN) received milk replacer [22% crude protein (CP), 20% fat, 568 g of powder/d for wk 1 to 4, and 284 g of powder/d for wk 5] plus ad libitum access to starter [18% CP, dry matter (DM) basis, for wk 1 to 12] and a limited amount of hay (0.5 kg/d as fed, for wk 10 to 12); LPN calves were weaned at 6 wk. During wk 13 to 20, LPN calves were fed 3.2 kg/d of grower mix (16% CP, DM basis) plus chopped hay for ad libitum intake. Calves assigned to high PN (HPN) received variable amounts of milk replacer (28% CP; 20% fat; and 810, 1,136, and 568 g of powder/d for wk 1, 2 to 6, and 7, respectively) plus ad libitum access to starter (22% CP, DM basis, wk 1 to 12) and limited hay (0.5 kg/d as fed, for wk 10 to 12); HPN calves were weaned at wk 7. Calves assigned to HPN were offered grower mix for ad libitum intake plus a limited amount of chopped hay (0.5 kg/d, as-fed basis) from wk 13 to 20. Milk replacers were formulated to contain balanced amounts of either inorganic (I) or organic (O) TM (50, 50, 10, and 100mg/kg of Zn, Mn, Cu, and Fe, respectively), whereas respective ITM or OTM starters and growers contained Zn, Mn, Cu, and Co at 70, 55, 12, and 1mg/kg. The HPN treatments increased final body weight and stature measurements, average daily gain, and gain-to-feed ratio through wk 20. Starter intake was lower for calves fed HPN. The OTM increased growth when supplemented to HPN but not when supplemented to LPN. During the liquid-feeding period, fecal scores were more fluid for calves fed HPN but measures of health status did not differ among diets. Results indicated that an enhanced nutritional program during early life allowed calves to have greater overall growth and maintain a normal health status throughout the preweaning period. High PN and OTM were synergistic in increasing early growth of calves. Copyright © 2012 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Single-shot high-resolution characterization of optical pulses by spectral phase diversity

DOE PAGES

Dorrer, C.; Waxer, L. J.; Kalb, A.; ...

2015-12-15

The concept of spectral phase diversity is proposed and applied to the temporal characterization of optical pulses. The experimental trace is composed of the measured power of a plurality of ancillary optical pulses derived from the pulse under test by adding known amounts of chromatic dispersion. The spectral phase of the pulse under test is retrieved by minimizing the error between the experimental trace and a trace calculated from the optical spectrum using the known diagnostic parameters. An assembly composed of splitters and dispersive delay fibers has been used to generate 64 ancillary pulses whose instantaneous power can be detectedmore » in a single shot with a high-bandwidth photodiode and oscilloscope. Pulse-shape reconstruction for pulses shorter than the photodetection impulse response has been demonstrated.The diagnostic is experimentally shown to accurately characterize pulses from a chirped-pulse–amplification system when its stretcher is detuned from the position for optimal recompression. As a result, various investigations of the performance with respect to the number of ancillary pulses and the range of chromatic dispersion generated in the diagnostic are presented.« less

Single-shot high-resolution characterization of optical pulses by spectral phase diversity

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dorrer, C.; Waxer, L. J.; Kalb, A.

The concept of spectral phase diversity is proposed and applied to the temporal characterization of optical pulses. The experimental trace is composed of the measured power of a plurality of ancillary optical pulses derived from the pulse under test by adding known amounts of chromatic dispersion. The spectral phase of the pulse under test is retrieved by minimizing the error between the experimental trace and a trace calculated from the optical spectrum using the known diagnostic parameters. An assembly composed of splitters and dispersive delay fibers has been used to generate 64 ancillary pulses whose instantaneous power can be detectedmore » in a single shot with a high-bandwidth photodiode and oscilloscope. Pulse-shape reconstruction for pulses shorter than the photodetection impulse response has been demonstrated.The diagnostic is experimentally shown to accurately characterize pulses from a chirped-pulse–amplification system when its stretcher is detuned from the position for optimal recompression. As a result, various investigations of the performance with respect to the number of ancillary pulses and the range of chromatic dispersion generated in the diagnostic are presented.« less

Aerogel volatiles concentrator and analyzer (AVCA) - Collection and concentration of trace volatile organics in aerogel for spectroscopic detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsapin, A.; Jones, S.; Petkov, M.; Borchardt, D.; Anderson, M.

2017-03-01

A study was conducted to determine the efficacy of using silica aerogel to collect and concentrate ambient trace organics for spectroscopic analysis. Silica aerogel was exposed to atmospheres containing trace amounts of polycyclic aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons. The organics present were concentrated in the aerogels by factors varying from 10 to more than 1000 over the levels found in the atmospheres, depending on the specific organic present. Since silica aerogel is transparent over a wide range of optical and near infrared wavelengths, UV-induced fluorescence, Raman and infrared spectroscopies were used to detect and identify the organics collected by the aerogel. Measurements were conducted to determine the sensitivity of these spectroscopic methods for determining organics concentrated by aerogels and the effectiveness of this method for identifying systems containing multiple organic species. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were added to simulated Mars regolith and then vaporized by modest heating in the presence of aerogel. The aerogels adsorbed and concentrated the PAHs, which were detected by induced fluorescence and Raman and FTIR spectroscopies.

Aβ1-16 conformational changes induced by heavy metals, antioxidants, and corn zeins: CD, AFM, SEM, and FT-IR studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murariu, Manuela; Mihai, Marcela; Zaharia, Marius; Drochioiu, Gabi

2014-10-01

Amyloid-beta (known also as Aβ or A-beta or beta-amyloid) is a peptide of 36-43 amino acids that appears to be the main constituent of amyloid plaques in the brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. The transformation process from α-helix to β-sheet structures appears to be one of the major factors in the genesis and evolution of a variety of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD, Parkinson's disease (PD), and several prion diseases [1,2]. Metal-based reactions of some polypeptides and proteins are considered as a common denominator for neurodegenerative diseases (Figure 1) [3,4]. Amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregates are associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD), and may be promoted by the trace amounts of metal ions like aluminium, iron, zinc or copper [5-11]. For example, copper ions cause the peptide aggregation to a great extent and highly increase the neurotoxicity exhibited by Aβ1-40 in cell culture [11].

Fate of tannins in Corsican pine litter.

PubMed

Nierop, Klaas G J; Verstraten, Jacobus M

2006-12-01

Tannins are ubiquitous in higher plants and also in litter and soils where they affect many biogeochemical processes. Despite this well-recognized role, their fate in litter and mineral soils is hardly known, as often only trace amounts, if any, are measured. In this study, we conducted an incubation experiment with Corsican pine litter to which known amounts of tannic acid (TA) or condensed tannins (CTs) from Corsican pine were added. Using Folin-Ciocalteu as a measure for total phenolics and HCl-butanol as an assay specific for CTs, acetone/water extractable phenolics and tannins decreased with time towards very low levels. Application of thermally assisted hydrolysis and methylation to litter before and after acetone/water extraction revealed that TA concentration decreased. By contrast, CTs remained to a great extent in the litter and could not be extracted suggesting that they were tightly bound.

Ambient methods and apparatus for rapid laser trace constituent analysis

DOEpatents

Snyder, Stuart C.; Partin, Judy K.; Grandy, Jon D.; Jeffery, Charles L.

2002-01-01

A method and apparatus are disclosed for measuring trace amounts of constituents in samples by using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy and laser induced fluorescence under ambient conditions. The laser induced fluorescence is performed at a selected wavelength corresponding to an absorption state of a selected trace constituent. The intensity value of the emission decay signal which is generated by the trace constituent is compared to calibrated emission intensity decay values to determine the amount of trace constituent present.

Effect of Zr Inhibitor on Corrosion of Haynes 230 and NS-163 Alloys in Flinak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Yuxiang; Reddy, Ramana G.

The intrinsic corrosion behavior of Haynes 230 and NS-163 alloys after adding corrosion inhibitor Zr to LiF-NaF-KF (FLiNaK) salts was evaluated. Thermodynamic modeling studies were performed to investigate the compatibility of Haynes alloys for solar thermal energy storage applications in the molten salts. Equilibrium conditions were considered for predicting the corrosion products and weight loss of salts at higher temperatures (700 - 1000°C). Weight loss of FLiNaK salt after corrosion with or without inhibitor is less than 5%, indicating no significant change in compositions of FLiNaK even with Zr inhibitor. Furthermore, to compare with experimental data, modeling calculation with known amount of trace impurities (Ni2+, Fe3+ and so on) added to the molten salts, shows similar trend and corrosion product with and without Zr inhibitor.

Utilization of air pollution control residues for the stabilization/solidification of trace element contaminated soil.

PubMed

Travar, I; Kihl, A; Kumpiene, J

2015-12-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the stabilization/solidification (S/S) of trace element-contaminated soil using air pollution control residues (APCRs) prior to disposal in landfill sites. Two soil samples (with low and moderate concentrations of organic matter) were stabilized using three APCRs that originated from the incineration of municipal solid waste, bio-fuels and a mixture of coal and crushed olive kernels. Two APCR/soil mixtures were tested: 30% APCR/70% soil and 50% APCR/50% soil. A batch leaching test was used to study immobilization of As and co-occurring metals Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn. Solidification was evaluated by measuring the unconfined compression strength (UCS). Leaching of As was reduced by 39-93% in APCR/soil mixtures and decreased with increased amounts of added APCR. Immobilization of As positively correlated with the amount of Ca in the APCR and negatively with the amount of soil organic matter. According to geochemical modelling, the precipitation of calcium arsenate (Ca3(AsO4)2/4H2O) and incorporation of As in ettringite (Ca6Al2(SO4)3(OH)12 · 26H2O) in soil/APCR mixtures might explain the reduced leaching of As. A negative effect of the treatment was an increased leaching of Cu, Cr and dissolved organic carbon. Solidification of APCR/soil was considerably weakened by soil organic matter.

Relation of the spectroscopic reflectance of olivine to mineral chemistry and some remote sensing implications.

USGS Publications Warehouse

King, T.V.V.; Ridley, W.I.

1987-01-01

Using high-resolution visible and near-infrared diffuse spectral reflectance, systematically investigates apparent wavelength shifts as a function of mineral chemistry in the Fe/Mg olivine series from Fo11 to Fo91. The study also shows that trace amounts of nickel can be spectrally detected in the olivine structure. Significant spectral variation as a function of grain size is also demonstrated, adding a further complication to the interpretation of remotely sensed data from olivine-rich surfaces. Some permutations of Fe-Mg-Ni relations in olivines are discussed as they apply to the interpretation of asteroid surfaces and other extraterrestrial bodies. -from Authors

Chemical and mineralogical analysis of devonian black-shale samples from Martin County, Kentucky; Carroll and Washington counties, Ohio; Wise County, Virginia; and Overton County, Tennessee, U.S.A.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Leventhal, J.S.; Hosterman, J.W.

1982-01-01

Core samples of Devonian shales from five localities in the Appalachian basin have been analyzed chemically and mineralogically. The amounts of major elements are similar; however, the minor constituents, organic C, S, phosphate and carbonate show ten-fold variations in amounts. Trace elements Mo, Ni, Cu, V, Co, U, Zn, Hg, As and Mn show variations in amounts that can be related to the minor constituents. All samples contain major amounts of quartz, illite, two types of mixed-layer clays, and chlorite in differing quantities. Pyrite, calcite, feldspar and kaolinite are also present in many samples in minor amounts. Dolomite, apatite, gypsum, barite, biotite and marcasite are present in a few samples in trace amounts. Trace elements listed above are strongly controlled by organic C with the exception of Mn which is associated with carbonate minerals. Amounts of organic C generally range from 3 to 6%, and S is in the range of 2-5%. Amounts of trace elements show the following general ranges in ppm (parts per million): Co, 20-40; Cu, 40-70; U, 10-40; As, 20-40; V, 150-300; Ni, 80-150; high values are as much as twice these values. The organic C was probably the concentrating agent, and the organic C and sulfide S together created an environment that immobilized and preserved these trace elements. Closely spaced samples showing an abrupt transition in color also show changes in organic C, S and trace-element contents. Several associations exist between mineral and chemical content. Pyrite and marcasite are the only minerals found to contain sulfide-S. In general, the illite-chlorite mixed-layer clay mineral shows covariation with organic C if calcite is not present. The enriched trace elements are not related to the clay types, although the clay and organic matter are intimately associated as the bulk fabric of the rock. ?? 1982.

Content and persistence of extracellular DNA in native soils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blagodatskaya, Evgenia; Blagodatsky, Sergey; Anderson, Traute-Heidi; Kuzyakov, Yakov

2014-05-01

The long-term persistence of soil extracellular DNA is questionable because of high potential activity of nucleases produced by soil microorganisms. By the other hand, the relative persistence of DNA-like biopolymers could be due to their adsorption on clay minerals and humus substances in soil. High-specific and ultra sensitive reagent PicoGreenTM (Molecular Probes) permits the quantitative assessment of microbial dsDNA in diluted soil extracts giving a good tool for tracing the DNA fate in soil. Our goal was to determine intracellular and extracellular DNA content in cambisol (loamy sand) and in chernozem (silty loam) soils and to investigate the possible adsorption and degradation of extracellular DNA in soil. Optimized procedure of mechanical and enzymatic destruction of cell walls was used for direct extraction of microbial DNA with Tris-EDTA buffer (Blagodatskaya et al., 2003). Extracellular dsDNA was determined in distilled water and in Tris-EDTA extracts without enzymatic or mechanical treatments. DNA content was determined after addition of PicoGreen to diluted soil extracts. Degradation of extracellular DNA was traced during 24 h incubation of 2 µg lambda-phage DNA in soil. Possible DNA adsorption to soil matrix was determined by recovery of lambda -phage DNA added to autoclaved soil. Extracellular dsDNA was absent in water extracts of both soils. The content of extracellular dsDNA extracted by Tris-EDTA buffer was 0.46 µg/g in chernozem and 1.59 µg/g in cambisol amounting 0.43 and 2.8% of total dsDNA content in these soils, respectively. 100% and 64.8% of added extracellular lambda -phage dsDNA was found in cambisol and chernozem soils, respectively, in 5 h after application. 39% and 73.5% of added DNA disappeared in cambisol and in chernozem, respectively, during 24 h incubation. Degradation rate of extracellular DNA depended on microbial biomass content, which was 2.5 times higher in chernozem as compared to cambisol. Maximum adsorption of DNA by soils was observed in cambisol and reached 2.7% of added amount. We speculate that probability of gene transfer could be rather high in soils, taking into account possible increase of extracellular DNA content after transient environmental events (i.e. drying - rewetting and freezing - thawing).

Examination of the Behavior of Bismuth in Shallow-Level Hydrothermal Ore Systems: Constraints Based on Hydrothermal Experiments at 800°C and 100 MPa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilmot, M. S.; Candela, P. A.; Piccoli, P. M.; Simon, A. C.; McDonough, W. F.

2006-05-01

The partitioning of ore metals between melt and crystals affects the concentrations of these metals in an evolving ore fluid, and therefore the efficiency of their removal from the magma by hydrothermal processes. Some porphyry-type W-Mo deposits contain recoverable amounts of Bi, whereas others contain only trace amounts. In order to determine the magmatic controls on the ratio of Bi to other commodities in these and other deposits, we examined the partitioning behavior of bismuth between melt, minerals and aqueous phases. Hydrothermal experiments were performed by using externally heated cold seal vessels and employing a double capsule technique. Experiments contained 40 mg of Bishop Tuff glass (SiO2 = 74% ) and 40 mg of either magnetite or pyrrhotite. Bi was added as elemental Bi (< 1 mg). Two different aqueous solutions were used. Initially, the added aqueous phase comprised the solutes HCl, KCl and NaCl in a molar1:1:1 ratio, with a bulk salinity of 10 wt % NaCl eq. The aqueous phase for later experiments contained only the solutes KCl and NaCl in a 1:1 molar ratio. Pre-fractured quartz was added to the experiments to trap fluid inclusions at run PTX conditions. Experiments were performed in Au or Pt capsules held inside Rene 41 cold-seal vessels at 800°C and 100 MPa for durations of up to 36 hours. Analytical data have been collected from the run product solids by using an electron probe microanalyzer (major and trace elements) and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (trace elements). Bi in Mt is found in concentrations up to 100 ppm, with higher concentrations in runs where Po decomposed to form magnetite. The Bi concentration in the glass ranges up to 100 ppm. In the Po-bearing runs, data were only collected from Po grains in the experiments containing the HCl-free aqueous solution (the Po grains in the other experiments were too small to analyze). Pyrrhotite contained 10-20 ppm Bi, whereas the glass contained 5-10 ppm. Preliminary Nernst- type partition coefficients for Bi between Mt and melt and Po and melt are approximately 5 and 2, respectively. These data reveal that Bi is only slightly compatible in Mt and Po, and that the Po/melt partition coefficient for Bi is much lower than for Cu, Ag and Au, and is comparable to Mn and Zn. Additional experiments are in progress to more compare the partitioning of Bi with that of W and Mo.

The effect of ginger and garlic addition during cooking on the volatile profile of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) soup.

PubMed

Li, Jin-Lin; Tu, Zong-Cai; Zhang, Lu; Sha, Xiao-Mei; Wang, Hui; Pang, Juan-Juan; Tang, Ping-Ping

2016-08-01

Ginger and garlic have long been used in Asian countries to enhance the flavor and to neutralize any unpleasant odors present in fish soup. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the change in the amount of volatile components present in fish soup compared to boiled water solutions of ginger and garlic. The fish soup was prepared by boiling oil-fried grass carp ( Ctenopharyngodon idella ) with or without ginger and/or garlic. Generally, boiling garlic and ginger in water led to a decrease in the amount of the principal volatile constituents of these spices, together with the formation of some new volatiles such as pentanal, hexanal, and nonanal. The results showed that 16 terpenes present in raw ginger, predominantly camphene, β -phellandrene, β -citral, α -zingiberene, and ( E )-neral, were detected in fish soup with added ginger and thus remained in the solution even after boiling. Similarly, 2-propen-1-ol and three sulfur compounds (allyl sulfide, diallyl disulfide, and diallyl trisulfide) present in raw garlic, were present in trace amounts in the boiled garlic solution, but were present in considerably larger amounts in the boiled fish solution with garlic or garlic plus ginger. In conclusion, the effect of adding spices on the volatile profile of grass carp soup can be attributed to the dissolution of flavor volatiles mainly derived from raw spices into the solution, with few additional volatiles being formed during boiling. In addition, boiling previously fried grass carp with spices led to enhanced volatile levels compared to boiled spice solutions.

Parametric Trace Slicing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosu, Grigore (Inventor); Chen, Feng (Inventor); Chen, Guo-fang; Wu, Yamei; Meredith, Patrick O. (Inventor)

2014-01-01

A program trace is obtained and events of the program trace are traversed. For each event identified in traversing the program trace, a trace slice of which the identified event is a part is identified based on the parameter instance of the identified event. For each trace slice of which the identified event is a part, the identified event is added to an end of a record of the trace slice. These parametric trace slices can be used in a variety of different manners, such as for monitoring, mining, and predicting.

Evaluation of simulation alternatives for the brute-force ray-tracing approach used in backlight design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desnijder, Karel; Hanselaer, Peter; Meuret, Youri

2016-04-01

A key requirement to obtain a uniform luminance for a side-lit LED backlight is the optimised spatial pattern of structures on the light guide that extract the light. The generation of such a scatter pattern is usually performed by applying an iterative approach. In each iteration, the luminance distribution of the backlight with a particular scatter pattern is analysed. This is typically performed with a brute-force ray-tracing algorithm, although this approach results in a time-consuming optimisation process. In this study, the Adding-Doubling method is explored as an alternative way for evaluating the luminance of a backlight. Due to the similarities between light propagating in a backlight with extraction structures and light scattering in a cloud of light scatterers, the Adding-Doubling method which is used to model the latter could also be used to model the light distribution in a backlight. The backlight problem is translated to a form upon which the Adding-Doubling method is directly applicable. The calculated luminance for a simple uniform extraction pattern with the Adding-Doubling method matches the luminance generated by a commercial raytracer very well. Although successful, no clear computational advantage over ray tracers is realised. However, the dynamics of light propagation in a light guide as used the Adding-Doubling method, also allow to enhance the efficiency of brute-force ray-tracing algorithms. The performance of this enhanced ray-tracing approach for the simulation of backlights is also evaluated against a typical brute-force ray-tracing approach.

Electrochemical Transformation of Trace Organic Contaminants in the Presence of Halide and Carbonate Ions

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Electrochemical treatment on anodes shows promise for the oxidation of organic contaminants in industrial wastewater and reverse osmosis concentrate from municipal wastewater recycling due to the high conductivity of the matrix and the concomitant low energy demand. The effect of background electrolyte composition (Cl–, HCO3–, and NH4+) on the formation and fate of electrochemically produced heterogeneous (HO•ads and Cl•ads) and homogeneous (HOCl and HOBr) oxidants was evaluated on Ti–IrO2 and boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrodes using a suite of trace organic contaminants that exhibited varying reactivity with HO•, CO3•–, HOCl, and HOBr. The contributions of adsorbed and bulk oxidants to contaminant degradation were investigated. Results show that transformation rates for most contaminants increased in the presence of chloride and trace amounts of bromide; however, elevated concentrations of HCO3– often altered transformation rates due to formation of selective oxidants, with decreases in reactivity observed for electron-poor contaminants and increases in reactivity observed for compounds with amine and phenolic moieties. Using this information, rates of reactions on anode surfaces and measured production and loss rates for reactive homogeneous species were used to predict contaminant removal in municipal wastewater effluent. Despite some uncertainty in the reaction mechanisms, the model accurately predicted rates of removal of electron-rich contaminants but underestimated the transformation rates of compounds that exhibited low reactivity with HOCl and HOBr, possibly due to the formation of halogen radicals. The approach employed in this study provides a means of identifying key reactions for different classes of contaminants and for predicting the conditions under which anodic treatment of wastewater will be practical. PMID:27599127

Electrochemical Transformation of Trace Organic Contaminants in the Presence of Halide and Carbonate Ions.

PubMed

Barazesh, James M; Prasse, Carsten; Sedlak, David L

2016-09-20

Electrochemical treatment on anodes shows promise for the oxidation of organic contaminants in industrial wastewater and reverse osmosis concentrate from municipal wastewater recycling due to the high conductivity of the matrix and the concomitant low energy demand. The effect of background electrolyte composition (Cl(-), HCO3(-), and NH4(+)) on the formation and fate of electrochemically produced heterogeneous (HO(•)ads and Cl(•)ads) and homogeneous (HOCl and HOBr) oxidants was evaluated on Ti-IrO2 and boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrodes using a suite of trace organic contaminants that exhibited varying reactivity with HO(•), CO3(•-), HOCl, and HOBr. The contributions of adsorbed and bulk oxidants to contaminant degradation were investigated. Results show that transformation rates for most contaminants increased in the presence of chloride and trace amounts of bromide; however, elevated concentrations of HCO3(-) often altered transformation rates due to formation of selective oxidants, with decreases in reactivity observed for electron-poor contaminants and increases in reactivity observed for compounds with amine and phenolic moieties. Using this information, rates of reactions on anode surfaces and measured production and loss rates for reactive homogeneous species were used to predict contaminant removal in municipal wastewater effluent. Despite some uncertainty in the reaction mechanisms, the model accurately predicted rates of removal of electron-rich contaminants but underestimated the transformation rates of compounds that exhibited low reactivity with HOCl and HOBr, possibly due to the formation of halogen radicals. The approach employed in this study provides a means of identifying key reactions for different classes of contaminants and for predicting the conditions under which anodic treatment of wastewater will be practical.

Impact of trace element additives on anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge with in-situ carbon dioxide sequestration

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Linville, Jessica L.; Shen, Yanwen; Schoene, Robin P.

Anaerobic digestion (AD) of sludge at wastewater treatment plants can benefit from addition of essential trace metals such as iron, nickel and cobalt to increase biogas production for utilization in combined heat and power systems, fed into natural gas pipelines or as a vehicle fuel. This study evaluated the impact and benefits of Ni/Co and olivine addition to the digester at mesophilic temperatures. These additions supplement previously reported research in which iron-rich olivine (MgSiO4) was added to sequester CO2 in-situ during batch AD of sludge. Trace element addition has been shown to stimulate and stabilize biogas production and have amore » synergistic effect on the mineral carbonation process. AD with 5% w/v olivine and 1.5 mg/L Ni/Co addition had a 17.3% increase in methane volume, a 6% increase in initial exponential methane production rate and a 56% increase in methane yield (mL CH4/g CODdegraded) compared to the control due to synergistic trace element and olivine addition while maintaining 17.7% CO2 sequestration from olivine addition. Both first-order kinetic modeling and response surface methodology modeling confirmed the combined benefit of the trace elements and olivine addition. These results were significantly higher than previously reported results with olivine addition alone [1].« less

Development of a selective and sensitive flotation method for determination of trace amounts of cobalt, nickel, copper and iron in environmental samples.

PubMed

Karimi, H; Ghaedi, M; Shokrollahi, A; Rajabi, H R; Soylak, M; Karami, B

2008-02-28

A simple, selective and rapid flotation method for the separation-preconcentration of trace amounts of cobalt, nickel, iron and copper ions using phenyl 2-pyridyl ketone oxime (PPKO) has been developed prior to their flame atomic absorption spectrometric determinations. The influence of pH, amount of PPKO as collector, type and amount of eluting agent, type and amount of surfactant as floating agent and ionic strength was evaluated on the recoveries of analytes. The influences of the concomitant ions on the recoveries of the analyte ions were also examined. The enrichment factor was 93. The detection limits based on 3 sigma for Cu, Ni, Co and Fe were 0.7, 0.7, 0.8, and 0.7 ng mL(-1), respectively. The method has been successfully applied for determination of trace amounts of ions in various real samples.

Widespread pollution of the South American atmosphere predates the industrial revolution by 240 years

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uglietti, Chiara; Gabrielli, Paolo; Cooke, Colin; Vallelonga, Paul; Thompson, Lonnie

2015-04-01

In the Southern Hemisphere, evidence for preindustrial atmospheric pollution is restricted to a few geological archives of low temporal resolution that record trace element deposition originating from past mining and metallurgical operations in South America. Therefore the timing and the spatial impact of these activities on the past atmosphere remain poorly constrained. Here we present an annually resolved ice-core record (793-1989 AD) from the high altitude drilling site of Quelccaya (Peru) that archives preindustrial and industrial variations in trace elements. During the pre-colonial period (i.e., pre-1532 AD), the deposition of trace elements was mainly dominated by the fallout of aeolian dust and of ash from occasional volcanic eruptions indicating that metallurgic production during the Inca Empire (1438-1532 AD) had a negligible impact on the South American atmosphere. In contrast, a widespread anthropogenic signal is evident after 1540 AD, which corresponds with the beginning of colonial mining and metallurgy in Peru and Bolivia, 240 years prior to the Industrial Revolution. This shift was due to a major technological transition for silver extraction in South America (1572 AD), from lead-based smelting to mercury amalgamation, which precipitated a massive increase in mining activities. However, deposition of toxic trace metals during the Colonial era was still several factors lower than 20th century pollution that was unprecedented over the entirety of human history.

Catalytic determination of molybdenum(VI) by means of an iodide ion-selective electrode and a landolt-type hydrogen peroxide-iodide reaction.

PubMed

Kataoka, M; Nishimura, K; Kambara, T

1983-12-01

A trace amount of molybdenum(VI) can be determined by using its catalytic effect on the oxidation of iodide to iodine by hydrogen peroxide in acidic medium. Addition of ascorbic acid added to the reaction mixture produces the Landolt effect, i.e., the iodine produced by the indicator reaction is reduced immediately by the ascorbic add. Hence the concentration of iodide begins to decrease once all the ascorbic acid has been consumed. The induction period is measured by monitoring the concentration of iodide ion with an iodide ion-selective electrode. The reciprocal of the induction period varies linearly with the concentration of molybdenum(VI). The most suitable pH and concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and potassium iodide are found to be 1.5, 5 and 10mM, respectively. An appropriate amount of ascorbic acid is added to the reaction mixture according to the concentration of molybdenum(VI) in the sample solution. A calibration graph with good proportionality is obtained for the molybdenum(VI) concentration range from 0.1 to 160 muM. Iron(III), vanadium(IV), zirconium(IV), tungsten(VI), copper(II) and chromium(VI) interfere, but iron(III) and copper(II) can be masked with EDTA.

Column amounts of trace gases from ground based FTIR measurements in the late north polar winters 1990 and 1991

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adrian, Gabriele; Blumenstock, Thomas; Fischer, Herbert; Frank, Eckard; Gerhardt, Lothar; Gulde, Thomas; Maucher, Guido; Oelhaf, Hermann; Thomas, Peter; Trieschmann, Olaf

1994-01-01

Two FTIR spectrometers were employed in the late winters 1990 and 1991 in Esrange, North Sweden, and in Ny Aalesund, Spitsbergen to detect zenith column amounts of several trace gases. Time series of column amounts of the trace gases O3, N2O, CH4, HNO3, NO2, CHl, and HF have been derived from the measured spectra. Additionally, some information on the vertical distribution of HCl could be obtained by analyzing the spectral line shapes. The results are interpreted in terms of dynamical and chemical processes.

Indirect spectrophotometric determination of traces of bromide in water

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fishman, M. J.; Skougstad, M.W.

1963-01-01

A rapid, accurate, and sensitive indirect spectrophotometric method for the determination of bromide in natural waters is based on the catalytic effect of bromide on the oxidation of iodine to iodate by potassium permanganate in sulfuric acid solution. The method is applicable to concentrations ranging from 1 to 100 ??g. of bromide per liter, but may be modified to extend the concentration range. Most ions commonly occurring in water do not interfere. The standard deviation is 2.9 at bromide concentrations of 100 ??g. per liter and less at lower concentrations. The determination of bromide in samples containing known added amounts gave values ranging from 99 to 105% of the concentration calculated to be present.

Quelccaya Ice Core Evidence of Widespread Atmospheric Pollution from Colonial Metallurgy after the Spanish Conquest of South America (1532 AD)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gabrielli, P.; Uglietti, C.; Cooke, C. A.; Thompson, L. G.

2014-12-01

A few ice core records recovered from remote arctic regions suggest a widespread impact of toxic trace elements (Pb, Cu, Sb, As and Bi) to the North Hemisphere atmosphere prior to the onset of the Industrial Revolution (1780s-1830s). In the Southern Hemisphere, evidence for preindustrial trace element emissions are, to date, limited to sediment cores recovered from lakes located within the immediate airshed of major metallurgical centers of South America. Thus it remains unresolved whether they could have had a larger scale impact. Here, we present an annually resolved ice core record of anthropogenic trace element deposition from the remote drilling site of the Quelccaya Ice Cap (Peru) that spans 793-1989 AD. During the pre-Inca period (i.e., prior to ~1450 AD) the deposition of trace elements was dominated by the fallout of aeolian dust from the deglaciated margins of the ice cap and of ash from occasional volcanic eruptions. In contrast, the ice core record indicates a clear anthropogenic signal emerging after the onset of large scale colonial mining and metallurgy (1532-1820 AD), ~300 years prior to the Industrial Revolution during the last part of the Little Ice Age. This shift was coincidental with a major technological transition for silver extraction (1572 AD), from lead-based smelting to mercury amalgamation, that initiated a major increase in ore mining and milling that likely resulted in an increase of metallic dust emissions. While atmospheric trace element deposition resulting from colonial metallurgy was certainly much larger than during the pre-Colonial period, trace element fallout during the Colonial era was still several factors lower than during the 20th century, when the construction of the trans-Andean railway and highways promoted a widespread societal and industrial development of South America.

Additives in fibers and fabrics.

PubMed

Barker, R H

1975-06-01

The additives and contaminants which occur in textile fibers vary widely, depending on the type of fiber and the pretreatment which it has received. Synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester contain trace amounts of contaminants such as catalysts and catalyst deactivators which remain after the synthesis of the basic polymers. In addition, there are frequently a number of materials which are added to perform specific functions in almost all man-made fibers. Examples of these would include traces of metals or metal salts used as tracers for identification of specific lots of fiber, TiO2 or similar materials added as delustrants, and a host of organic species added for such special purposes as antistatic agents or flame retardants. There may also be considerable quantities of residual monomer or small oligomers dissolved in the polymer matrix. The situation becomes even more complex after the fibers are converted into fabric form. Numerous materials are applied at various stages of fabric preparation to act as lubricants, sizing agents, antistats, bleaches, and wetting agents to facilitate the processing, but these are normally removed before the fabric reaches the cutters of the ultimate consumers and therefore usually do not constitute potential hazards. However, there are many other chemical agents which are frequently added during the later stages of fabric preparation and which are not designed to be removed. Aside from dyes and printing pigments, the most common additive for apparel fabrics is a durable press treatment. This generally involves the use of materials capable of crosslinking cellulosics by reacting through such functions as N-methylolated amides or related compounds such as ureas and carbamates. These materials pose some potential hazards due to both the nitrogenous bases and the formaldehyde which they usually release. There is usually also some residual catalyst in fabrics which have received such treatments. Other types of chemical treatments which are often applied to fabrics to achieve special effects include flame retardants, soil release agents, antistatic agents, softeners, water and/or oil repellents, ultraviolet absorbers, bacteriostats, and fungistats.

A tool to assure the geographical origin of local food products (glasshouse tomatoes) using labeling with rare earth elements.

PubMed

Bandoniene, Donata; Meisel, Thomas; Rachetti, Alessandra; Walkner, Christoph

2018-05-16

Trace element fingerprinting has been widely used for identification of provenance of regional food. In the case of the products from conventional agriculture, it is expected that the elemental composition will comply that of the commercially available substrate at the plants. Therefore, for products without direct relationship with the regional soil the region-specific differences in elemental composition are no longer recognisable. The idea of this work is labeling of tomatoes with rare earth elements (REE) in the ultra-trace range for food authentication. Labelling of the tomatoes was carried out either by watering the soil with Nd and Er spiked water or by adding these elements as solid oxides to the soil. In both cases enrichment of Nd and Er relative to the control group was detected in tomato fruits and leaves using ICP-MS. Tomato plants rapidly absorb the dissolved REE from the irrigation water, and watering for a short period just before ripeness is sufficient to induce REE labels. Labeling with trace amounts of REE could potentially be used to assure the provenance of tomatoes of local origin and separate these from products of foreign origin. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Study of polymorphic control in an ethanol-water binary solvent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kitano, Hiroshi; Tanaka, Takayuki; Hirasawa, Izumi

2017-07-01

Three polymorphs of L-Citrulline crystals, anhydrate (Form α, γ and δ) and pseudo polymorph (dihydrate), were confirmed. In this study, polymorphic control of L-Citrulline was attempted by changing the ethanol concentration in ethanol-water binary solvents. First, each polymorph of L-Citrulline crystals was added to the prepared ethanol-water binary solvents and samples which were obtained chronologically were measured by XRD. Also, the crystal sizes and shapes in transformation were observed by microscope. Then, polymorphs of the crystals after transformation were determined by XRD pattern. As a result, the transformation from dihydrate to anhydrate was observed by adding dihydrate crystals to the ethanol-water binary solvent. Similarly, the transformation from anhydrate to another anhydrate was observed. Especially in the case of adding dihydrate, the existences of all polymorphs were confirmed by adjusting ethanol-water binary solvent. According to the results, it was revealed that polymorphic transformation was affected by the trace amount of water contained in ethanol-water binary solvent. Moreover, transformation from dihydrate to anhydrate was constructed with three phases, dissolution of dihydrate, nucleation and growth of anhydrate. Therefore, the solution-mediated polymorphic transformation was supposed to be a key mechanism for this transformation.

Autism and Classical Eyeblink Conditioning: Performance Changes of the Conditioned Response Related to Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis

PubMed Central

Welsh, John P.; Oristaglio, Jeffrey T.

2016-01-01

Changes in the timing performance of conditioned responses (CRs) acquired during trace and delay eyeblink conditioning (EBC) are presented for diagnostic subgroups of children having autism spectrum disorder (ASD) aged 6–15 years. Children diagnosed with autistic disorder (AD) were analyzed separately from children diagnosed with either Asperger’s syndrome or Pervasive developmental disorder (Asp/PDD) not otherwise specified and compared to an age- and IQ-matched group of children who were typically developing (TD). Within-subject and between-groups contrasts in CR performance on sequential exposure to trace and delay EBC were analyzed to determine whether any differences would expose underlying functional heterogeneities of the cerebral and cerebellar systems, in ASD subgroups. The EBC parameters measured were percentage CRs, CR onset latency, and CR peak latency. Neither AD nor Asp/PDD groups were impaired in CR acquisition during trace or delay EBC. Both AD and Asp/PDD altered CR timing, but not always in the same way. Although the AD group showed normal CR timing during trace EBC, the Asp/PDD group showed a significant 27 and 28 ms increase in CR onset and peak latency, respectively, during trace EBC. In contrast, the direction of the timing change was opposite during delay EBC, during which the Asp/PDD group showed a significant 29 ms decrease in CR onset latency and the AD group showed a larger 77 ms decrease in CR onset latency. Only the AD group showed a decrease in CR peak latency during delay EBC, demonstrating another difference between AD and Asp/PDD. The difference in CR onset latency during delay EBC for both AD and Asp/PDD was due to an abnormal prevalence of early onset CRs that were intermixed with CRs having normal timing, as observed both in CR onset histograms and mean CR waveforms. In conclusion, significant heterogeneity in EBC performance was apparent between diagnostic groups, and this may indicate that EBC performance can report the heterogeneity in the neurobiological predispositions for ASD. The findings will inform further explorations with larger cohorts, different sensory modalities, and different EBC paradigms and provide a reference set for future EBC studies of children having ASD and non-human models. PMID:27563293

Loop corrections for Kaluza-Klein AdS amplitudes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aprile, F.; Drummond, J. M.; Heslop, P.; Paul, H.

2018-05-01

Recently we conjectured the four-point amplitude of graviton multiplets in AdS5 × S5 at one loop by exploiting the operator product expansion of N = 4 super Yang-Mills theory. Here we give the first extension of those results to include Kaluza-Klein modes, obtaining the amplitude for two graviton multiplets and two states of the first KK mode. Our method again relies on resolving the large N degeneracy among a family of long double-trace operators, for which we obtain explicit formulas for the leading anomalous dimensions. Having constructed the one-loop amplitude we are able to obtain a formula for the one-loop corrections to the anomalous dimensions of all twist five double-trace operators.

Hydrocyclone/Filter for Concentrating Biomarkers from Soil

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ponce, Adrian; Obenhuber, Donald

2008-01-01

The hydrocyclone-filtration extractor (HFE), now undergoing development, is a simple, robust apparatus for processing large amounts of soil to extract trace amounts of microorganisms, soluble organic compounds, and other biomarkers from soil and to concentrate the extracts in amounts sufficient to enable such traditional assays as cell culturing, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis, and isotope analysis. Originally intended for incorporation into a suite of instruments for detecting signs of life on Mars, the HFE could also be used on Earth for similar purposes, including detecting trace amounts of biomarkers or chemical wastes in soils.

Widespread pollution of the South American atmosphere predates the industrial revolution by 240 y.

PubMed

Uglietti, Chiara; Gabrielli, Paolo; Cooke, Colin A; Vallelonga, Paul; Thompson, Lonnie G

2015-02-24

In the Southern Hemisphere, evidence for preindustrial atmospheric pollution is restricted to a few geological archives of low temporal resolution that record trace element deposition originating from past mining and metallurgical operations in South America. Therefore, the timing and the spatial impact of these activities on the past atmosphere remain poorly constrained. Here we present an annually resolved ice core record (A.D. 793-1989) from the high-altitude drilling site of Quelccaya (Peru) that archives preindustrial and industrial variations in trace elements. During the precolonial period (i.e., pre-A.D. 1532), the deposition of trace elements was mainly dominated by the fallout of aeolian dust and of ash from occasional volcanic eruptions, indicating that metallurgic production during the Inca Empire (A.D. 1438-1532) had a negligible impact on the South American atmosphere. In contrast, a widespread anthropogenic signal is evident after around A.D. 1540, which corresponds with the beginning of colonial mining and metallurgy in Peru and Bolivia, ∼240 y before the Industrial Revolution. This shift was due to a major technological transition for silver extraction in South America (A.D. 1572), from lead-based smelting to mercury amalgamation, which precipitated a massive increase in mining activities. However, deposition of toxic trace metals during the Colonial era was still several factors lower than 20th century pollution that was unprecedented over the entirety of human history.

Holographic reconstruction of AdS exchanges from crossing symmetry

DOE PAGES

Alday, Luis F.; Bissi, Agnese; Perlmutter, Eric

2017-08-31

Motivated by AdS/CFT, we address the following outstanding question in large N conformal field theory: given the appearance of a single-trace operator in the O x O OPE of a scalar primary O, what is its total contribution to the vacuum four-point function (OOOO) as dictated by crossing symmetry? We solve this problem in 4d conformal field theories at leading order in 1/N. Viewed holographically, this provides a field theory reconstruction of crossing-symmetric, four-point exchange amplitudes in AdS 5. Our solution takes the form of a resummation of the large spin solution to the crossing equations, supplemented by corrections atmore » finite spin, required by crossing. The method can be applied to the exchange of operators of arbitrary twist τ and spin s, although it vastly simplifies for even-integer twist, where we give explicit results. The output is the set of OPE data for the exchange of all double-trace operators [OO] n,ℓ. We find that the double-trace anomalous dimensions γ n,ℓ are negative, monotonic and convex functions of ℓ, for all n and all ℓ > s. This constitutes a holographic signature of bulk causality and classical dynamics of even-spin fields. We also find that the “derivative relation” between double-trace anomalous dimensions and OPE coefficients does not hold in general, and derive the explicit form of the deviation in several cases. Finally, we study large n limits of γ n,ℓ, relevant for the Regge and bulk-point regimes.« less

Rapid detection of trace amounts of surfactants using nanoparticles in fluorometric assays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Härmä, Harri; Laakso, Susana; Pihlasalo, Sari; Hänninen, Pekka; Faure, Bertrand; Rana, Subhasis; Bergström, Lennart

2010-01-01

Rapid microtiter assays that utilize the time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer or quenching of dye-labeled proteins adsorbed onto the surfaces of polystyrene or maghemite nanoparticles have been developed for the detection and quantification of trace amounts of surfactants at concentrations down to 10 nM.Rapid microtiter assays that utilize the time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer or quenching of dye-labeled proteins adsorbed onto the surfaces of polystyrene or maghemite nanoparticles have been developed for the detection and quantification of trace amounts of surfactants at concentrations down to 10 nM. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Experimental details and Fig. S1 and S2. See DOI: 10.1039/b9nr00172g

Eye movement analysis and cognitive processing: detecting indicators of conversion to Alzheimer’s disease

PubMed Central

Pereira, Marta LG Freitas; Camargo, Marina von Zuben A; Aprahamian, Ivan; Forlenza, Orestes V

2014-01-01

A great amount of research has been developed around the early cognitive impairments that best predict the onset of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Given that mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is no longer considered to be an intermediate state between normal aging and AD, new paths have been traced to acquire further knowledge about this condition and its subtypes, and to determine which of them have a higher risk of conversion to AD. It is now known that other deficits besides episodic and semantic memory impairments may be present in the early stages of AD, such as visuospatial and executive function deficits. Furthermore, recent investigations have proven that the hippocampus and the medial temporal lobe structures are not only involved in memory functioning, but also in visual processes. These early changes in memory, visual, and executive processes may also be detected with the study of eye movement patterns in pathological conditions like MCI and AD. In the present review, we attempt to explore the existing literature concerning these patterns of oculomotor changes and how these changes are related to the early signs of AD. In particular, we argue that deficits in visual short-term memory, specifically in iconic memory, attention processes, and inhibitory control, may be found through the analysis of eye movement patterns, and we discuss how they might help to predict the progression from MCI to AD. We add that the study of eye movement patterns in these conditions, in combination with neuroimaging techniques and appropriate neuropsychological tasks based on rigorous concepts derived from cognitive psychology, may highlight the early presence of cognitive impairments in the course of the disease. PMID:25031536

Trace-Driven Debugging of Message Passing Programs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frumkin, Michael; Hood, Robert; Lopez, Louis; Bailey, David (Technical Monitor)

1998-01-01

In this paper we report on features added to a parallel debugger to simplify the debugging of parallel message passing programs. These features include replay, setting consistent breakpoints based on interprocess event causality, a parallel undo operation, and communication supervision. These features all use trace information collected during the execution of the program being debugged. We used a number of different instrumentation techniques to collect traces. We also implemented trace displays using two different trace visualization systems. The implementation was tested on an SGI Power Challenge cluster and a network of SGI workstations.

Extremal Correlators in the Ads/cft Correspondence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Hoker, Eric; Freedman, Daniel Z.; Mathur, Samir D.; Matusis, Alec; Rastelli, Leonardo

The non-renormalization of the 3-point functions

Noncharacteristic Slip on the Northern San Andreas Fault at the Vedanta Marsh, Marin County, CA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, H.; Niemi, T. M.; Allison, A.; Fumal, T. E.

2004-12-01

Three-dimensional excavations along the 1906 trace of the northern San Andreas fault at the Vedanta marsh paleoseismic site near Olema, CA have yielded new data on the timing and amount of slip during the penultimate earthquake on this fault section. The excavations exposed a 3-m-wide paleochannel that has been offset right-laterally 7.8-8.3 m by coseismic slip during the past two large earthquakes: 1906 and the penultimate earthquake. The paleochannel was eroded into a silty clay marsh deposit and was filled after AD 1400. Both the silty clay layer and the paleochannel deposit are directly overlain by an in situ burn/peat sequence. The penultimate earthquake occurred while the peat was at the ground surface whereas faulting from the 1906 earthquake terminates within an overlying gravel/fill sequence. Preliminary OxCal analyses of radiocarbon dates indicate that the penultimate earthquake occurred in the late 17th to early 18th century. In plan view, two main fault traces were mapped in the excavation. The northwestern portion of the paleochannel is offset across a single fault trace. Just southeast of this portion of the channel the fault splits into two traces. We believe that one of these traces likely slipped only during 1906 and the other trace slipped on during the penultimate earthquake. Unfortunately, the overlying stratigraphic section that could resolve the exact reconstruction of movement on these faults is missing due to the excavation of an artificial drainage ditch at this location in the 1940's. Matching the north margin of the paleochannel to the first exposure of gravel in the zone between the two fault traces gives an offset of 5 m. We have historic records that show the 1906 coseismic slip near the study site was about 5m from field notes of David Starr Jordan (Stanford University Archives) who describes two 16 ft (5m) offsets: one of a tree located about 150m SE of the offset channel and the other of a path to the Shafter barn located about 300m NW. As the locations of these two historical records are so close to the study site, it is reasonable to assume that our excavation site has the same amount of coseismic slip in 1906. Our data indicate that the paleochannel was offset about 2.8 to 3.3 m during the penultimate earthquake which occurred in the late 17th to early 18th century, and that the San Andreas fault at this section is capable of slip in earthquakes smaller than 1906.

Organic cloud condensation nuclei: the effect of phase, surface tension, trace soluble species, and oxidative processing on particle activation.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Broekhuizen, K. E.; Thornberry, T.; Abbatt, J. P.

2003-12-01

The ability of organic aerosols to act as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) will be discussed. A variety of laboratory experiments will be presented which address several key questions concerning organic particle activation. Does the particle phase impact activation? How does surface tension play a role and can a trace amount of a surface active species impact activation? Does a trace amount of a highly soluble species impact the activation of organic particles of moderate to low solubility? Can the activation properties of organic aerosols be enhanced through oxidative processing? To systematically address these issues, the CCN activity of various diacids such as oxalic, malonic, succinic, adipic and azelaic acid have been studied, as well as the addition of trace amounts of nonanoic acid and ammonium sulfate to examine the roles of surface active and soluble species, respectively. The first examination of the role of oxidative processing on CCN activity has involved investigating the effect of ozone oxidation on the activity of oleic acid particles.

Widespread pollution of the South American atmosphere predates the industrial revolution by 240 y

PubMed Central

Uglietti, Chiara; Gabrielli, Paolo; Cooke, Colin A.; Vallelonga, Paul; Thompson, Lonnie G.

2015-01-01

In the Southern Hemisphere, evidence for preindustrial atmospheric pollution is restricted to a few geological archives of low temporal resolution that record trace element deposition originating from past mining and metallurgical operations in South America. Therefore, the timing and the spatial impact of these activities on the past atmosphere remain poorly constrained. Here we present an annually resolved ice core record (A.D. 793–1989) from the high-altitude drilling site of Quelccaya (Peru) that archives preindustrial and industrial variations in trace elements. During the precolonial period (i.e., pre-A.D. 1532), the deposition of trace elements was mainly dominated by the fallout of aeolian dust and of ash from occasional volcanic eruptions, indicating that metallurgic production during the Inca Empire (A.D. 1438−1532) had a negligible impact on the South American atmosphere. In contrast, a widespread anthropogenic signal is evident after around A.D. 1540, which corresponds with the beginning of colonial mining and metallurgy in Peru and Bolivia, ∼240 y before the Industrial Revolution. This shift was due to a major technological transition for silver extraction in South America (A.D. 1572), from lead-based smelting to mercury amalgamation, which precipitated a massive increase in mining activities. However, deposition of toxic trace metals during the Colonial era was still several factors lower than 20th century pollution that was unprecedented over the entirety of human history. PMID:25675506

Enhancement in Thermoelectric Properties of TiS2 by Sn Addition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramakrishnan, Anbalagan; Raman, Sankar; Chen, Li-Chyong; Chen, Kuei-Hsien

2018-06-01

A series of Sn added TiS2 (TiS2:Sn x ; x = 0, 0.05, 0.075 and 0.1) were prepared by solid state synthesis with subsequent annealing. The Sn atoms interacted with sulfur atoms in TiS2 and formed a trace amount of misfit layer (SnS)1+m(TiS2-δ)n compound with sulfur deficiency. A significant reduction in electrical resistivity with moderate decrease in the Seebeck coefficient was observed in Sn added TiS2. Hence, a maximum power factor of 1.71 mW/m-K2 at 373 K was obtained in TiS2:Sn0.05. In addition, the thermal conductivity was decreased with Sn addition and reached a minimum value of 2.11 W/m-K at 623 K in TiS2:Sn0.075, due to the impurity phase (misfit phase) and defects (excess Ti) scattering. The zT values increased from 0.08 in pristine TiS2 to an optimized value of 0.46 K at 623 K in TiS2:Sn0.05.

Efficient strategy for maintaining and enhancing the huperzine A production of Shiraia sp. Slf14 through inducer elicitation.

PubMed

Yan, Riming; Zhang, Zhibin; Wang, Ya; Yang, Huilin; Zeng, Qinggui; Zhu, Du

2014-07-01

Huperzine A (HupA), a naturally occurring lycopodium alkaloid, is a potent, highly specific and reversible inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase and is a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease. However, isolating HupA from Huperziaceae plants is inefficient; thus, extracting this compound from endophytic fungi may be more controllable and sustainable. However, the large-scale production of this chemical from endophytes is limited by the innate instability of endophytic fungi. In this study, we maintained the stability and viability of the HupA-producing endophytic fungus Shiraia sp. Slf14 and enhanced the HupA titers during fermentation by adding Huperzia serrata extracts (HSE), L-lysine, and acetic acid into the culture as inducers. Adding trace amounts of HupA clearly improved the HupA production of Shiraia sp. Slf14, reaching a maximum content of approximately 40 μg g(-1). Moreover, the addition of HSE and L-lysine promoted HupA production in the flask fermentation. The aforementioned bioprocessing strategy may be potentially applied to other endophytic fungal culture systems for the efficient production of plant secondary metabolites.

Simple procedures to obtain exogenous internal controls for use in RT-PCR detection of bovine pestiviruses.

PubMed

Golemba, Marcelo D; Parreño, Viviana; Jones, Leandro R

2008-06-01

Pestiviruses are ubiquitous pathogens of cattle and frequent adventitious viruses in biologicals. Furthermore, it has been suggested that these agents might be related to infantile gastroenteritis and microencephaly. Since the virus is highly prevalent in fetal bovine serum, the risk of contamination is high in most laboratories. Thus, the implementation of detection methods in all laboratories is of worth. Despite continuous surveillance, these agents have been detected in cell lines, fetal bovine serum, live and inactivated animal and human vaccines and interferon for human use. In this report, DNA and RNA internal controls (ICs) which can be implemented in laboratories with minimal equipment are described. The developed standards can be added before RNA purification, allowing to monitor all steps of the protocol (viral RNA extraction, reverse transcription and cDNA amplification). It is shown that inhibitory effects that could lead to decreased sensitivity can be minimized by controlling the amount of mimic molecules added to the samples. A method to avoid the problem of DNA traces present in in vitro transcribed RNA preparations is provided.

Chemical analysis and geochemical associations in Devonian black shale core samples from Martin County, Kentucky; Carroll and Washington counties, Ohio; Wise County, Virginia; and Overton County, Tennessee

USGS Publications Warehouse

Leventhal, Joel S.

1979-01-01

Core samples from Devonian shales from five localities in the Appalachian Basin have been analyzed for major, minor, and trace constituents. The contents of major elements are rather similar; however, the minor constituents, organic C, S, PO4, and CO3, show variations by a factor of 10. Trace elements Mo, Ni, Cu, V, Co, U, Zn, Hg, As, and Mn show variations that can be related graphically and statistically to the minor constituents. Down-hole plots show the relationships most clearly. Mn is associated with CO3 content, the other trace elements are strongly Controlled by organic C. Amounts of organic C are generally in the range of 3-6 percent, and S is in the range of 2-5 percent. Trace-element amounts show the following general ranges (ppm, parts per million)- Co, 20-40; Cu,40-70; U, 10-40; As, 20-40, V, 150-300; Ni, 80-150; high values are as much as twice these values. The organic C was probably the concentrating agent, whereas the organic C and sulfide S created an environment for preservation or immobilization of trace elements. Closely spaced samples showing an abrupt transition in color from black to gray and gray to black shale show similar effects of trace-element changes, that is, black shale contains enhanced amounts of organic C and trace elements. Ratios of trace elements to organic C or sulfide S were relatively constant even though deposition rates varied from 10 to 300 meters in 5 million years.

Double-trace flows and the swampland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giombi, Simone; Perlmutter, Eric

2018-03-01

We explore the idea that large N, non-supersymmetric conformal field theories with a parametrically large gap to higher spin single-trace operators may be obtained as infrared fixed points of relevant double-trace deformations of superconformal field theories. After recalling the AdS interpretation and some potential pathologies of such flows, we introduce a concrete example that appears to avoid them: the ABJM theory at finite k, deformed by \\int O^2, where O is the superconformal primary in the stress-tensor multiplet. We address its relation to recent conjectures based on weak gravity bounds, and discuss the prospects for a wider class of similarly viable flows. Next, we proceed to analyze the spectrum and correlation functions of the putative IR CFT, to leading non-trivial order in 1 /N. This includes analytic computations of the change under double-trace flow of connected four-point functions of ABJM superconformal primaries; and of the IR anomalous dimensions of infinite classes of double-trace composite operators. These would be the first analytic results for anomalous dimensions of finite-spin composite operators in any large N CFT3 with an Einstein gravity dual.

Gypsum treated fly ash as a liner for waste disposal facilities

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sivapullaiah, Puvvadi V., E-mail: siva@civil.iisc.ernet.in; Baig, M. Arif Ali, E-mail: reach2arif@gmail.com

2011-02-15

Fly ash has potential application in the construction of base liners for waste containment facilities. While most of the fly ashes improve in the strength with curing, the ranges of permeabilities they attain may often not meet the basic requirement of a liner material. An attempt has been made in the present context to reduce the hydraulic conductivity by adding lime content up to 10% to two selected samples of class F fly ashes. The use of gypsum, which is known to accelerate the unconfined compressive strength by increasing the lime reactivity, has been investigated in further improving the hydraulicmore » conductivity. Hydraulic conductivities of the compacted specimens have been determined in the laboratory using the falling head method. It has been observed that the addition of gypsum reduces the hydraulic conductivity of the lime treated fly ashes. The reduction in the hydraulic conductivity of the samples containing gypsum is significantly more for samples with high amounts of lime contents (as high as 1000 times) than those fly ashes with lower amounts of lime. However there is a relatively more increase in the strengths of the samples with the inclusion of gypsum to the fly ashes at lower lime contents. This is due to the fact that excess lime added to fly ash is not effectively converted into pozzolanic compounds. Even the presence of gypsum is observed not to activate these reactions with excess lime. On the other hand the higher amount of lime in the presence of sulphate is observed to produce more cementitious compounds which block the pores in the fly ash. The consequent reduction in the hydraulic conductivity of fly ash would be beneficial in reducing the leachability of trace elements present in the fly ash when used as a base liner.« less

A dynamic gravimetric standard for trace water.

PubMed

Brewer, P J; Goody, B A; Woods, P T; Milton, M J T

2011-10-01

A system for generating traceable reference standards of water vapor at trace levels between 5 and 2000 nmol/mol has been developed. It can provide different amount fractions of trace water vapor by using continuous accurate measurements of mass loss from a permeation device coupled with a dilution system based on an array of critical flow orifices. An estimated relative expanded uncertainty of ±2% has been achieved for most amount fractions generated. The system has been used in an international comparison and demonstrates excellent comparability with National Metrology Institutes maintaining standards of water vapor in this range using other methods.

Additives in fibers and fabrics.

PubMed Central

Barker, R H

1975-01-01

The additives and contaminants which occur in textile fibers vary widely, depending on the type of fiber and the pretreatment which it has received. Synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester contain trace amounts of contaminants such as catalysts and catalyst deactivators which remain after the synthesis of the basic polymers. In addition, there are frequently a number of materials which are added to perform specific functions in almost all man-made fibers. Examples of these would include traces of metals or metal salts used as tracers for identification of specific lots of fiber, TiO2 or similar materials added as delustrants, and a host of organic species added for such special purposes as antistatic agents or flame retardants. There may also be considerable quantities of residual monomer or small oligomers dissolved in the polymer matrix. The situation becomes even more complex after the fibers are converted into fabric form. Numerous materials are applied at various stages of fabric preparation to act as lubricants, sizing agents, antistats, bleaches, and wetting agents to facilitate the processing, but these are normally removed before the fabric reaches the cutters of the ultimate consumers and therefore usually do not constitute potential hazards. However, there are many other chemical agents which are frequently added during the later stages of fabric preparation and which are not designed to be removed. Aside from dyes and printing pigments, the most common additive for apparel fabrics is a durable press treatment. This generally involves the use of materials capable of crosslinking cellulosics by reacting through such functions as N-methylolated amides or related compounds such as ureas and carbamates. These materials pose some potential hazards due to both the nitrogenous bases and the formaldehyde which they usually release. There is usually also some residual catalyst in fabrics which have received such treatments. Other types of chemical treatments which are often applied to fabrics to achieve special effects include flame retardants, soil release agents, antistatic agents, softeners, water and/or oil repellents, ultraviolet absorbers, bacteriostats, and fungistats. PMID:1242130

Forensic trace DNA: a review

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

DNA analysis is frequently used to acquire information from biological material to aid enquiries associated with criminal offences, disaster victim identification and missing persons investigations. As the relevance and value of DNA profiling to forensic investigations has increased, so too has the desire to generate this information from smaller amounts of DNA. Trace DNA samples may be defined as any sample which falls below recommended thresholds at any stage of the analysis, from sample detection through to profile interpretation, and can not be defined by a precise picogram amount. Here we review aspects associated with the collection, DNA extraction, amplification, profiling and interpretation of trace DNA samples. Contamination and transfer issues are also briefly discussed within the context of trace DNA analysis. Whilst several methodological changes have facilitated profiling from trace samples in recent years it is also clear that many opportunities exist for further improvements. PMID:21122102

Development of a dual test procedure for DNA typing and methamphetamine detection using a trace amount of stimulant-containing blood.

PubMed

Irii, Toshiaki; Maebashi, Kyoko; Fukui, Kenji; Sohma, Ryoko; Matsumoto, Sari; Takasu, Shojiro; Iwadate, Kimiharu

2016-05-01

Investigation of drug-related crimes, such as violation of the Stimulant Drug Control Law, requires identifying the used drug (mainly stimulant drugs, methamphetamine hydrochloride) from a drug solution and the DNA type of the drug user from a trace of blood left in the syringe used to inject the drug. In current standard test procedures, DNA typing and methamphetamine detection are performed as independent tests that use two separate portions of a precious sample. The sample can be entirely used up by either analysis. Therefore, we developed a new procedure involving partial lysis of a stimulant-containing blood sample followed by separation of the lysate into a precipitate for DNA typing and a liquid-phase fraction for methamphetamine detection. The method enables these two tests to be run in parallel using a single portion of sample. Samples were prepared by adding methamphetamine hydrochloride water solution to blood. Samples were lysed with Proteinase K in PBS at 56°C for 20min, cooled at -20°C after adding methanol, and then centrifuged at 15,000rpm. Based on the biopolymer-precipitating ability of alcohol, the precipitate was used for DNA typing and the liquid-phase fraction for methamphetamine detection. For DNA typing, the precipitate was dissolved and DNA was extracted, quantified, and subjected to STR analysis using the AmpFℓSTR® Identifiler® Plus PCR Amplification Kit. For methamphetamine detection, the liquid-phase fraction was evaporated with N2 gas after adding 20μL acetic acid and passed through an extraction column; the substances captured in the column were eluted with a solvent, derivatized, and quantitatively detected using gas chromatograph/mass spectrometry. This method was simple and could be completed in approximately 2h. Both DNA typing and methamphetamine detection were possible, which suggests that this method may be valuable for use in criminal investigations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The non-destructive identification of early Chinese porcelain by PIXE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, H. S.; Zhang, Z. Q.; Zhang, B.; Yang, F. J.

2004-06-01

PIXE is used for the non-destructive differentiation of early precious Chinese blue and white porcelain made in Yuan (AD 1206-1368), Ming (AD 1368-1644) Dynasty in Jingdezhen from imitations. Also, ancient celadon made in Song Dynasty (AD 960-1279) is identified by measuring the trace elements contained in the glazes.

The efficacy of sugar labeling formats: Implications for labeling policy.

PubMed

Vanderlee, Lana; White, Christine M; Bordes, Isabelle; Hobin, Erin P; Hammond, David

2015-12-01

To examine knowledge of sugar recommendations and test the efficacy of formats for labeling total and added sugar on pre-packaged foods. Online surveys were conducted among 2008 Canadians aged 16-24. Participants were asked to identify recommended limits for total and added sugar consumption. In Experiment 1, participants were randomized to one of six labeling conditions with varying information for total sugar for a high- or low-sugar product and were asked to identify the relative amount of total sugar in the product. In Experiment 2, participants were randomized to one of three labels with different added sugar formats and were asked if the product contained added sugar and the relative amount of added sugar. Few young people correctly identified recommendations for total sugar (5%) or added sugar (7%). In Experiment 1, those who were shown percent daily value information were more likely to correctly identify the relative amount of total sugar (P < 0.05). In Experiment 2, those shown added sugar information were more likely to correctly identify that the product contained added sugar and the relative amount of added sugar in the product (P < 0.05). Improved labeling may improve consumer understanding of the amount of sugars in food products. © 2015 The Obesity Society.

Vertical nutrient and trace element migration in cambisoils after application of residues from anaerobic digestion of pig manure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sager, Manfred; Unterfrauner, Hans

2013-04-01

Cambisols sampled in alpine pastures were packed into soil columns in order to monitor downward migration of nutrient and trace elements, applied within the residue from anaerobic digestion of a pig manure. 2 rain events per week were simulated. The manure added substantial amounts of K, ammonium, Na, Ca, P, S, Cl, B, Zn and Cu to the soil, whereas Mg, Mn, Ni, Cr, Pb, Cd and V were at the same level. In the eluates, total elemental composition as well as nitrate and ammonium were monitored. Addition of soluble Fe (at 1000 mg/l as FeCl3) decreased the release of soluble sulphate, but had no significant effect on the release of Fe and P. During subsequent rain events, exchangeable K remained enriched in the topsoil, wheras total sulfur moved to deeper layers. After 8 weeks, the columns were dismantled and analyzed for quasi-total and mobile fractions. Both in topsoils and subsoils, manure addition finally increased soil pH in case of low P soils, but decreased soil pH in case of high pH soils. Effects of manure applications on groundwater formation processes will be discussed.

Measurement of trace elements in tree rings using the PIXE method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aoki, Toru; Katayama, Yukio; Kagawa, Akira; Koh, Susumu; Yoshida, Kohji

1998-03-01

Standard materials were prepared in order to calculate element concentrations in tree samples using the particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE) method. Five standard solutions (1) Ti, Fe, Cu, As, Rb, Sr; (2) Ca, V, Co, Zn, As, Rb; (3) Ti, Mn, Ni, As, Sr; (4) K, Mn, Co, As, Rb, Sr; and (5) Ca, Mn, Cu, As, Rb, Sr, were added to filter papers. The dried filter papers were used as standard samples. Pellets of Pepperbush leaves (National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES)) and Peach leaves (National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)) were used as references. The peak counts of Ca, Mn, Cu, Zn, Rb, and Sr in samples taken from a kaki ( Diospros kaki Thunb.) were measured and the concentrations (ppm) of the elements were calculated using the yield curve obtained from the standard filter papers. The concentrations of Mn, Zn, Rb, and Ca were compared with the data obtained from a separate INAA analysis. Concentrations of Mn, Zn, and Ca obtained by both methods were almost the same, but the concentrations of Rb differed slightly. The amounts of trace elements in samples taken from a sugi ( Cryptomeria japonica D. Don) were also measured.

Thermal aging of electrolytes used in lithium-ion batteries - An investigation of the impact of protic impurities and different housing materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Handel, Patricia; Fauler, Gisela; Kapper, Katja; Schmuck, Martin; Stangl, Christoph; Fischer, Roland; Uhlig, Frank; Koller, Stefan

2014-12-01

Thermal degradation products in lithium-ion batteries result mainly from hydrolysis sensitivity of lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6). As organic carbonate solvents contain traces of protic impurities, the thermal decomposition of electrolytes is enhanced. Therefore, resulting degradation products are studied with nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The electrolyte contains 1 M LiPF6 in a binary mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and diethylene carbonate (DEC) in a ratio of 1:2 (v/v) and is aged at ambient and elevated temperature. The impact of protic impurities, either added as deionized water or incorporated in positive electrode material, upon aging is investigated. Further, the influence of different housing materials on the electrolyte degradation is shown. Difluorophosphoric acid is identified as main decomposition product by NMR-spectroscopy. Traces of other decomposition products are determined by headspace GC-MS. Acid-base and coulometric titration are used to determine the total amount of acid and water content upon aging, respectively. The aim of this investigation is to achieve profound understanding about the thermal decomposition of one most common used electrolyte in a battery-like housing material.

Modified Eddington-inspired-Born-Infeld gravity with a trace term

DOE PAGES

Chen, Che -Yu; Bouhmadi-Lopez, Mariam; Chen, Pisin

2016-01-22

In this study, a modified Eddington-inspired-Born-Infeld (EiBI) theory with a pure trace term g μνR being added to the determinantal action is analysed from a cosmological point of view. It corresponds to the most general action constructed from a rank two tensor that contains up to first order terms in curvature. This term can equally be seen as a conformal factor multiplying the metric g μν . This very interesting type of amendment has not been considered within the Palatini formalism despite the large amount of works on the Born-Infeld-inspired theory of gravity. This model can provide smooth bouncing solutionsmore » which were not allowed in the EiBI model for the same EiBI coupling. Most interestingly, for a radiation filled universe there are some regions of the parameter space that can naturally lead to a de Sitter inflationary stage without the need of any exotic matter field. Finally, in this model we discover a new type of cosmic “quasi-sudden” singularity, where the cosmic time derivative of the Hubble rate becomes very large but finite at a finite cosmic time.« less

Study of Methanogenesis while Bioutilisation of Plant Residuals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilyin, V. K.; Korniushenkova, I. N.; Starkova, L. V.; Lauriniavichius, K. S.

respect principals of planet ecology, and compatibility with other habitability systems. For these purpose the waste management technologies, relevant to application of the biodegradation properties of bacteria are of great value. Biological treatment method is based upon the biodegradation of organic substances by various microorganisms. vegetable non-edible residual, using artificial inoculum; to study peculiarities of biogas, possibilities to optimize or to reduce the share of methane. fermentation. The biogas production achieved 46 l per 1 kg of substrate. The microbial studies of biodegradation process revealed following peculiarities: (i)gradual quantitative increasing of Lactobacillus sp. (from 103 to 105 colony forming units (CFU) per ml); (ii)activation of Clostridia sp. (from 102 to 104 CFU/ml); (iii) elimination of aerobic conventional pathogens (Enterobacteriaceae sp., Protea sp., staphylococci). methane content measures revealed traces 0.1-0.4%. granules, the amount of methane in biogas reached 80-90%. biodegradation of vegetable wastes. This inoculum consists of active sludge adapted to wastes mixed with excretes of insects which consume plant wastes. Using this inoculum the biodegradation process takes less time, then that using active sludge. Regulation of methane concentration from traces to 90% may be achieved by adding of methane reactor to the plant digester.

High Energy Scattering in the AdS/CFT Correspondence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penedones, Joao

2007-12-01

This work explores the celebrated AdS/CFT correspondence in the regime of high energy scattering in Anti--de Sitter (AdS) spacetime. In particular, we develop the eikonal approximation to high energy scattering in AdS and explore its consequences for the dual Conformal Field Theory (CFT). Using position space Feynman rules, we rederive the eikonal approximation for high energy scattering in flat space. Following this intuitive position space perspective, we then generalize the eikonal approximation for high energy scattering in AdS and other spacetimes. Remarkably, we are able to resum, in terms of a generalized phase shift, ladder and cross ladder Witten diagrams associated to the exchange of an AdS spin j field, to all orders in the coupling constant. By the AdS/CFT correspondence, the eikonal amplitude in AdS is related to the four point function of CFT primary operators in the regime of large 't Hooft coupling, including all terms of the 1/N expansion. We then show that the eikonal amplitude determines the behavior of the CFT four point function for small values of the cross ratios in a Lorentzian regime and that this controls its high spin and dimension conformal partial wave decomposition. These results allow us to determine the anomalous dimension of high spin and dimension double trace primary operators, by relating it to the AdS eikonal phase shift. Finally we find that, at large energies and large impact parameters in AdS, the gravitational interaction dominates all other interactions, as in flat space. Therefore, the anomalous dimension of double trace operators, associated to graviton exchange in AdS, yields a universal prediction for CFT's with AdS gravitational duals.

Optogenetic stimulation of dentate gyrus engrams restores memory in Alzheimer's disease mice.

PubMed

Perusini, Jennifer N; Cajigas, Stephanie A; Cohensedgh, Omid; Lim, Sean C; Pavlova, Ina P; Donaldson, Zoe R; Denny, Christine A

2017-10-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles. APPswe/PS1dE9 (APP/PS1) mice have been developed as an AD model and are characterized by plaque formation at 4-6 months of age. Here, we sought to better understand AD-related cognitive decline by characterizing various types of memory. In order to better understand how memory declines with AD, APP/PS1 mice were bred with ArcCreER T2 mice. In this line, neural ensembles activated during memory encoding can be indelibly tagged and directly compared with neural ensembles activated during memory retrieval (i.e., memory traces/engrams). We first administered a battery of tests examining depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors, as well as spatial, social, and cognitive memory to APP/PS1 × ArcCreER T2 × channelrhodopsin (ChR2)-enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (EYFP) mice. Dentate gyrus (DG) neural ensembles were then optogenetically stimulated in these mice to improve memory impairment. AD mice had the most extensive differences in fear memory, as assessed by contextual fear conditioning (CFC), which was accompanied by impaired DG memory traces. Optogenetic stimulation of DG neural ensembles representing a CFC memory increased memory retrieval in the appropriate context in AD mice when compared with control (Ctrl) mice. Moreover, optogenetic stimulation facilitated reactivation of the neural ensembles that were previously activated during memory encoding. These data suggest that activating previously learned DG memory traces can rescue cognitive impairments and point to DG manipulation as a potential target to treat memory loss commonly seen in AD. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Long-term anaerobic digestion of food waste stabilized by trace elements

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang Lei, E-mail: wxzyfx@yahoo.com; Jahng, Deokjin, E-mail: djahng@mju.ac.kr

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Korean food waste was found to contain low level of trace elements. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Stable anaerobic digestion of food waste was achieved by adding trace elements. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Iron played an important role in anaerobic digestion of food waste. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Cobalt addition further enhanced the process performance in the presence of iron. - Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine if long-term anaerobic digestion of food waste in a semi-continuous single-stage reactor could be stabilized by supplementing trace elements. Contrary to the failure of anaerobic digestion of food waste alone, stable anaerobic digestion of food waste was achievedmore » for 368 days by supplementing trace elements. Under the conditions of OLR (organic loading rates) of 2.19-6.64 g VS (volatile solid)/L day and 20-30 days of HRT (hydraulic retention time), a high methane yield (352-450 mL CH{sub 4}/g VS{sub added}) was obtained, and no significant accumulation of volatile fatty acids was observed. The subsequent investigation on effects of individual trace elements (Co, Fe, Mo and Ni) showed that iron was essential for maintaining stable methane production. These results proved that the food waste used in this study was deficient in trace elements.« less

Effects of complex carbon addition to soil CO2 efflux and isotopic composition to soils near dead and live piñon pine trees

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Powers, H.; McDowell, N.; Breecker, D. O.

2010-12-01

We test the hypothesis that soils collected near dead and living pinus edulous (piñon pine) trees should show a difference in their capacities to decompose complex carbon compounds. Since soils near dead trees have a large amount of cellulose and other complex carbon, the soil microbial community should be selected to metabolize cellulose. We collected soils from both live and dead piñon trees, added cellulose to half of the replicates, and placed them in microcosms for incubation. The microcosms were periodically sampled by a trace gas analyzer (TGA100, Campbell Scientific, USA) for CO2 concentration and δ13C and δ18O analysis. We found that CO2 evolution rates from live soils were significantly higher than rates from dead soils (1.1 and 0.6 ug CO2 g-1 soil s-1 respectively); soils with added cellulose displayed higher rates (1.1 and 0.8 and ug CO2 g-1 soil s-1). We did not see any significant differences in δ13C values between treatments, but there was a difference in δ18O between soils treated with cellulose and soils with no cellulose. Soils from both dead and live trees showed an increase in CO2 efflux when cellulose was added; however there was no distinguishable difference in efflux rate between live and dead soils in the cellulose added treatments.

Immunoaffinity column as clean-up tool for determination of trace amounts of microcystins in tap water.

PubMed

Tsutsumi, T; Nagata, S; Hasegawa, A; Ueno, Y

2000-07-01

Trace amounts of microcystins (MCs) in drinking water should be monitored because of their potential hazard for human health as an environmental tumor promoter. We describe here a new clean-up tool with immunoaffinity column (IAC) for determination of trace amounts of MCs (from pg to microg/litre) in tap water. The water samples were concentrated with IAC clean-up and MCs levels were determined by HPLC with UV detection or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In the combination with HPLC analysis, mean recovery of microcystin-LR (MCLR),-RR and-YR spiked to tap water were 91.8%, 77.3% and 86.4%, respectively, in the range 2.5-100 microg/litre. The chromatogram of MCs-spiked tap water sample cleaned up with IAC showed effective elimination of the impurities compared to that with octadecyl silanized cartridge, which had been cleaned up with a conventional method. Also, in the combination with highly sensitive ELISA, mean recovery of MCLR spiked to tap water was 80% in the range 0.1-1000 ng/litre. The combined methods developed here can detect pg to microg/litre of MCs in tap water. The overall results indicated that IAC will be suitable as a clean-up tool for trace amounts of MCs in tap water.

Detailed history of atmospheric trace elements from the Quelccaya ice core (Southern Peru) during the last 1200 years

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uglietti, C.; Gabrielli, P.; Thompson, L. G.

2013-12-01

The recent increase in trace element concentrations, for example Cr, Cu, Zn, Ag, Pb, Bi, and U, in polar snow and ice has provided compelling evidence of a hemispheric change in atmospheric composition since the nineteenth century. This change has been concomitant with the expansion of the Industrial Revolution and points towards an anthropogenic source of trace elements in the atmosphere. There are very few low latitude trace element ice core records and these are believed to be sensitive to perturbations of regional significance. To date, these records have not been used to document a preindustrial anthropogenic impact on atmospheric composition at low latitudes. Ice cores retrieved from the tropical Andes are particularly interesting because they have the potential to reveal detailed information about the evolution and environmental consequences of mineral exploitation related to the Pre Inca Civilizations, the Inca Empire (1438-1533 AD) and the subsequent Spanish invasion and dominance (1532-1833 AD). The chemical record preserved in the ice of the Quelccaya ice cap (southern Peruvian Andes) offers the exceptional opportunity to geochemically constrain the composition of the tropical atmosphere at high resolution over the last ~1200 years. Quantification of twenty trace elements (Ag, Al, As, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Pb, Rb, Sb, Sn, Ti, Tl, U, V, and Zn) was performed by ICP-SFMS over 105 m of the Quelccaya North Dome core (5600 m asl, 128.57 m) by analyzing 2450 samples. This provides the first atmospheric trace element record in South America spanning continuously and at high resolution for the time period between 1990 and 790 AD. Ag, As, Bi, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Mn, Mo, Sb, Sn, Pb and Zn show increases in concentration and crustal enrichment factor starting at different times between 1450 and 1550 AD, in concomitance with the expansions of the Inca Empire and, subsequently, the Spanish Empire well before the inception of the Industrial Revolution. This indicates that there have been additional anthropogenic sources that have impacted the South American atmosphere during the past ~550 years. Furthermore, As, Bi and Pb record shows, the two most significant increases have occurred in the 20th century, one beginning in ~1905 AD and peaking in the 1920s and the second beginning in ~1955 AD and peaking in the 1970s. Comparison with other trace element records from Greenland and Antarctica reveals concomitant peaks of different amplitude in Pb concentration and crustal enrichment factor, possibly pointing to an unexpected larger than regional scale significance for the Quelccaya ice core record during the last century. In conclusion, the Quelccaya ice core indicates that societal and industrial development influenced the atmospheric composition in South America, from different large scale sources, during the last ~550 years. This is the first time that a low latitude ice core record has been used to reconstruct pre-industrial anthropogenic forcing on the atmosphere.

Distribution of trace levels of therapeutic gallium in bone as mapped by synchrotron x-ray microscopy.

PubMed Central

Bockman, R S; Repo, M A; Warrell, R P; Pounds, J G; Schidlovsky, G; Gordon, B M; Jones, K W

1990-01-01

Gallium nitrate, a drug that inhibits calcium release from bone, has been proven a safe and effective treatment for the accelerated bone resorption associated with cancer. Though bone is a target organ for gallium, the kinetics, sites, and effects of gallium accumulation in bone are not known. We have used synchrotron x-ray microscopy to map the distribution of trace levels of gallium in bone. After short-term in vivo administration of gallium nitrate to rats, trace (nanogram) amounts of gallium preferentially localized to the metabolically active regions in the metaphysis as well as the endosteal and periosteal surfaces of diaphyseal bone, regions where new bone formation and modeling were occurring. The amounts measured were well below the levels known to be cytotoxic. Iron and zinc, trace elements normally found in bone, were decreased in amount after in vivo administration of gallium. These studies represent a first step toward understanding the mechanism(s) of action of gallium in bone by suggesting the possible cellular, structural, and elemental "targets" of gallium. Images PMID:2349224

A first proposal for a general description model of forensic traces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lindauer, Ina; Schäler, Martin; Vielhauer, Claus; Saake, Gunter; Hildebrandt, Mario

2012-06-01

In recent years, the amount of digitally captured traces at crime scenes increased rapidly. There are various kinds of such traces, like pick marks on locks, latent fingerprints on various surfaces as well as different micro traces. Those traces are different from each other not only in kind but also in which information they provide. Every kind of trace has its own properties (e.g., minutiae for fingerprints, or raking traces for locks) but there are also large amounts of metadata which all traces have in common like location, time and other additional information in relation to crime scenes. For selected types of crime scene traces, type-specific databases already exist, such as the ViCLAS for sexual offences, the IBIS for ballistic forensics or the AFIS for fingerprints. These existing forensic databases strongly differ in the trace description models. For forensic experts it would be beneficial to work with only one database capable of handling all possible forensic traces acquired at a crime scene. This is especially the case when different kinds of traces are interrelated (e.g., fingerprints and ballistic marks on a bullet casing). Unfortunately, current research on interrelated traces as well as general forensic data models and structures is not mature enough to build such an encompassing forensic database. Nevertheless, recent advances in the field of contact-less scanning make it possible to acquire different kinds of traces with the same device. Therefore the data of these traces is structured similarly what simplifies the design of a general forensic data model for different kinds of traces. In this paper we introduce a first common description model for different forensic trace types. Furthermore, we apply for selected trace types from the well established database schema development process the phases of transferring expert knowledge in the corresponding forensic fields into an extendible, database-driven, generalised forensic description model. The trace types considered here are fingerprint traces, traces at locks, micro traces and ballistic traces. Based on these basic trace types, also combined traces (multiple or overlapped fingerprints, fingerprints on bullet casings, etc) and partial traces are considered.

Determination of trace amount of formaldehyde base on a bromate-Malachite Green system.

PubMed

Tang, Yufang; Chen, Hao; Weng, Chao; Tang, Xiaohui; Zhang, Miaoling; Hu, Tao

2015-01-25

A novel catalytic kinetic spectrophotometric method for determination of trace amount of formaldehyde (FA) has been established, based on catalytic effect of trace amount of FA on the oxidation of Malachite Green (MG) by potassium bromate in presence of sulfuric acid medium, and was reported for the first time. The method was monitored by measuring the decrease in absorbance of MG at 617 nm and allowed a precise determination of FA in the range of 0.003-0.08 μg mL(-1), with a limit of detection down to 1 ng mL(-1). The relative standard deviation of 10 replicate measurements was 1.63%. The method developed was approved to be sensitive, selective and accurate, and adopted to determinate free FA in samples directly with good accuracy and reproducibility. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Vanadium accelerates polymerase chain reaction and expands the applicability of forensic DNA testing.

PubMed

Kaminiwa, Junko; Honda, Katsuya; Sugano, Yukiko; Yano, Shizue; Nishi, Takeki; Sekine, Yuko

2013-05-01

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has been rapidly established as one of the most widely used techniques in molecular biology. Because most DNA analysis is PCR-based, the analysis of unamplifiable DNA of poor quality or low quantity is nearly impossible. However, we observed that if an appropriate concentration of vanadium chloride is added to the standard reaction mixture, the enzymatic amplification of DNA could be enhanced. Using multiplex PCR with the addition of vanadium, DNA typing was possible from even trace amounts of DNA that we were unable to amplify using normal reaction conditions. This method might be an effective tool for not only criminal investigations and ancient DNA analysis, but also for nearly all fields using DNA technology. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd and Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine. All rights reserved.

Stochastic quantization of conformally coupled scalar in AdS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jatkar, Dileep P.; Oh, Jae-Hyuk

2013-10-01

We explore the relation between stochastic quantization and holographic Wilsonian renormalization group flow further by studying conformally coupled scalar in AdS d+1. We establish one to one mapping between the radial flow of its double trace deformation and stochastic 2-point correlation function. This map is shown to be identical, up to a suitable field re-definition of the bulk scalar, to the original proposal in arXiv:1209.2242.

26 CFR 1.1059A-1 - Limitation on taxpayer's basis or inventory cost in property imported from related persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the... the denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value... customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the dutiable portion of the item...

26 CFR 1.1059A-1 - Limitation on taxpayer's basis or inventory cost in property imported from related persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the... the denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value... customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the dutiable portion of the item...

26 CFR 1.1059A-1 - Limitation on taxpayer's basis or inventory cost in property imported from related persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the... the denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value... customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the dutiable portion of the item...

26 CFR 1.1059A-1 - Limitation on taxpayer's basis or inventory cost in property imported from related persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the... the denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value... customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the dutiable portion of the item...

26 CFR 1.1059A-1 - Limitation on taxpayer's basis or inventory cost in property imported from related persons.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the... the denominator of which is the customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value... customs value of the item and adding this amount to the customs value of the dutiable portion of the item...

Trace Elements and Health

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pettyjohn, Wayne A.

1972-01-01

Summarizes the effects of arsenic, lead, zinc, mercury, and cadmium on human health, indicates the sources of the elements in water, and considers the possibility of students in high schools analyzing water for trace amounts of the elements. (AL)

Inert Reassessment Document for Ethylenediaminetetracetric acid (EDTA)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EDTA is a chelating agent. Its ability to bind heavy metal ions can be used to sequester these trace metals. However, trace amounts of various metals are necessary for the proper functioning of the body.

CALCIUM BINDING TO INTESTINAL MEMBRANES

PubMed Central

Oschman, James L.; Wall, Betty J.

1972-01-01

Flame photometry reveals that glutaraldehyde and buffer solutions in routine use for electron microscopy contain varying amounts of calcium. The presence of electron-opaque deposits adjacent to membranes in a variety of tissues can be correlated with the presence of calcium in the fixative. In insect intestine (midgut), deposits occur adjacent to apical and lateral plasma membranes. The deposits are particularly evident in tissues fixed in glutaraldehyde without postosmication. They are also observed in osmicated tissue if calcium is added to wash and osmium solutions. Deposits are absent when calcium-free fixatives are used, but are present when traces of CaCl2 (as low as 5 x 10-5 M) are added. The deposits occur at regular intervals along junctional membranes, providing images strikingly similar to those obtained by other workers who have used pyroantimonate in an effort to localize sodium. Other divalent cations (Mg++, Sr++, Ba++, Mn++, Fe++) appear to substitute for calcium, while sodium, potassium, lanthanum, and mercury do not. After postfixing with osmium with calcium added, the deposits can be resolved as patches along the inner leaflet of apical and lateral plasma membranes. The dense regions may thus localize membrane constituents that bind calcium. The results are discussed in relation to the role of calcium in control of cell-to-cell communication, intestinal calcium uptake, and the pyroantimonate technique for ion localization. PMID:4569411

Steam stable mesoporous silica MCM-41 stabilized by trace amounts of Al.

PubMed

Tompkins, Jordan T; Mokaya, Robert

2014-02-12

Evaluation of low and ultralow Al content (Si/Al between 50 and 412) aluminosilicate Al-MCM-41 materials synthesized via three contrasting alumination routes, namely, direct mixed-gel synthesis, post-synthesis wet grafting, and post-synthesis dry grafting, indicates that trace amounts of Al introduced via dry grafting can stabilize mesoporous silica MCM-41 to steaming at 900 °C for 4 h. It was found that trace amounts of Al (Si/Al > 400) introduced via so-called dry grafting of Al stabilize the virtually purely siliceous MCM-41 to steaming, whereas Al incorporated via other methods that involve aqueous media such as direct mixed gel synthesis or wet grafting of Al offer only limited protection at low Al content. It is particularly remarkable that a post-synthesis dry grafted Al-MCM-41 material possessing trace amounts of Al (i.e., Si/Al ratio of 412) and surface area and pore volume of 1112 m(2)/g and 1.20 cm(3)/g, respectively, retains 90% (998 m(2)/g) of the surface area and 85% (1.03 cm(3)/g) of the pore volume after exposure to steaming at 900 °C for 4 h. Under similar steam treatment conditions, the mesostructure of pure silica Si-MCM-41 is virtually destroyed and undergoes a 93% reduction in surface area (958 m(2)/g to 69 m(2)/g) and 88% decrease in pore volume (0.97 cm(3)/g to 0.12 cm(3)/g). The steam stable ultralow (i.e., trace) Al containing MCM-41 materials is found to be virtually similar to mesoporous pure silica Si-MCM-41 with hardly any detectable acidity. The improvement in steam stability arises from not only the presence of trace amounts of Al, but also from an apparent increase in the level of silica condensation that is specific to dry grafted alluminosilicate MCM-41 materials. The more highly condensed framework has fewer silanol groups and therefore is more resistant to hydrolysis under steaming conditions.

Trace Metal Accumulation In The Thau Coastal Lagoon and Its Possible Impact On The Waters of The Gulf of Lion In The Mediterranean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdullah, M. I.; Elbaz-Poulichet, Francoise

Coastal lagoons are important marine environments for fisheries resources, wild life sanctuaries as well as many other economic activities. The Thau lagoon (at Sette, south coast of france) a major shell fisheries development in the region, receives inputs from a variety of sources namely seasonal run-off, river discharge, manmade waterways, karstic and thermal underground waters. A wide variety of material is thus added to the lagoon particularly trace metals such as Cu, Zn, Pb, Fe, Mn etc. . Metals added through karstic and thermal waters are particularly significant. Althought the lagoon covers some 75 km2, it is shallow with a maximum depth of only 9 m and with exchange with the Mediterranean being restricted along the narrow canal de Sette. Consequently, metal level can build up to quite high concentration upto x30 of that for normal seawater par- ticularly for metals such as Pb and Cu. While water exchange is severely limited, ma- jor water replacement do occur particularly during prolonged turbulent weather con- ditions with sustained onshore/offshore winds. Such episode occurred during March 2000 when it was observed that a significant proportion of the Thau lagoon was re- place by Mediterranean water. This water was characterized by it lower metal content and REE distribution. Such episodes are known to occur several times annually caus- ing significant amounts of metal-rich Thau water to discharge into the Gulf of Lion. It is concluded that such episodic exchanges constitute an important source of metals to the coastal zone and the Gulf of Lion which has been previously reported to have elevated metal levels.

14CO in Antarctic Glacial Ice as a Tracer of Changes in Atmospheric OH Abundance from 1880 AD to Present

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neff, P. D.; Petrenko, V. V.; Hmiel, B.; Smith, A. W.; Buizert, C.; Etheridge, D. M.; Murray, L. T.; Dyonisius, M.

2017-12-01

OH is the main tropospheric oxidant and determines the lifetime of methane and most other trace gases in the atmosphere, thereby controlling the amount of greenhouse warming that these gases can produce. Changes in [OH] in response to large changes in reactive trace gas emissions (which may occur in the future) are uncertain. Measurements of 14C-containing carbon monoxide (14CO) and other tracers such as methyl chloroform over the last ≈25 years have been successfully used to monitor changes in average OH concentration ([OH]), but there are no observational constraints on [OH] further back in time. Reconstructions of 14CO from ice cores could in principle provide such constraints but are complicated by in-situ production of 14CO by cosmic rays directly in the ice. Recent work in Antarctica and Greenland shows that this in-situ component would be relatively small and can be accurately corrected for at sites with very high snow accumulation rates. We propose to sample firn-air and shallow ice to ≈230 m depth at Law Dome, Antarctica (site DE-08, 1.2 m a-1 ice-equivalent snow accumulation), extracting trapped air from the ice cores on-site using a new large-volume ice melting system. 14CO will be analyzed in firn and ice core air samples, and accurate corrections made for the in-situ cosmogenic 14CO component in the ice—allowing for the atmospheric 14CO history to be reconstructed. This 14CO history will be interpreted with the aid of a chemistry-transport model to place the first observational constraints on the variability of Southern Hemisphere [OH] since ≈1880 AD.

Copper absorption from human milk, cow's milk, and infant formulas using a suckling rat model

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Loennerdal, B.B.; Bell, J.G.; Keen, C.L.

1985-11-01

Since copper deficiency is known to occur during infancy, it becomes important to assess copper uptake from various infant diets. The authors have investigated the uptake of copper from human milk, cow's milk, cow's milk formulas, cereal/milk formula and soy formula, compensating for the decay of /sup 64/Cu and using the suckling rat as a model. Radiocopper was added to the diet in trace amounts. Ultracentrifugation, ultrafiltration, and gel filtration were used to show that the added /sup 64/Cu bound to milk fractions and individual binding compounds in a manner analogous to the distribution of native copper, thus validating themore » use of extrinsically labeled diets. Labeled diets were intubated into 14-day-old suckling rats. Animals were killed after 6 h and tissues removed and counted. Liver copper uptake was 25% from human milk, 23% from cow's milk formula, 18% from cow's milk, 17% from premature (cow's milk based) infant formula, 17% from cereal/milk formula and 10% from soy formula. These results show that the rat pup model may provide a rapid, inexpensive, and sensitive method to assay bioavailability of copper from infant foods.« less

Context-sensitive trace inlining for Java.

PubMed

Häubl, Christian; Wimmer, Christian; Mössenböck, Hanspeter

2013-12-01

Method inlining is one of the most important optimizations in method-based just-in-time (JIT) compilers. It widens the compilation scope and therefore allows optimizing multiple methods as a whole, which increases the performance. However, if method inlining is used too frequently, the compilation time increases and too much machine code is generated. This has negative effects on the performance. Trace-based JIT compilers only compile frequently executed paths, so-called traces, instead of whole methods. This may result in faster compilation, less generated machine code, and better optimized machine code. In the previous work, we implemented a trace recording infrastructure and a trace-based compiler for [Formula: see text], by modifying the Java HotSpot VM. Based on this work, we evaluate the effect of trace inlining on the performance and the amount of generated machine code. Trace inlining has several major advantages when compared to method inlining. First, trace inlining is more selective than method inlining, because only frequently executed paths are inlined. Second, the recorded traces may capture information about virtual calls, which simplify inlining. A third advantage is that trace information is context sensitive so that different method parts can be inlined depending on the specific call site. These advantages allow more aggressive inlining while the amount of generated machine code is still reasonable. We evaluate several inlining heuristics on the benchmark suites DaCapo 9.12 Bach, SPECjbb2005, and SPECjvm2008 and show that our trace-based compiler achieves an up to 51% higher peak performance than the method-based Java HotSpot client compiler. Furthermore, we show that the large compilation scope of our trace-based compiler has a positive effect on other compiler optimizations such as constant folding or null check elimination.

Trace Element Determination from the Guliya Ice Core to Characterize Aerosol Deposition over the Western Tibetan Plateau during the Last 500 Years

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sierra Hernandez, R.; Gabrielli, P.; Beaudon, E.; Wegner, A.; Thompson, L. G.

2014-12-01

The Tibetan Plateau or Third Pole covers over 5 million km2, and has ~46,000 glaciers that collectively contain one of the Earth's largest stores of fresh water. The Guliya ice cap located in the western Kunlun Shan on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, China, is the largest (> 200 km2) ice cap in the subtropical zone. In 1992, a 308.6 m ice core to bedrock was recovered from the Guliya ice cap. The deepest 20 meters yielded the first record extending back through the last glacial cycle found outside of the Polar Regions. Because of its continental location on the northwestern side of the Tibetan Plateau, the atmospheric circulation over the Guliya ice cap is dominated by westerly air flow from the Eurasian region. Therefore the site is expected to be unaffected by the fallout of anthropogenic trace metals originating from the inner Asian continent and rather may serve to characterize trace metal emissions from the western countries. Here we present preliminary results of the determination of 29 trace elements, Rb, Sr, Nb, Mo, Ag, Cd, Sn, Sb, Cs, Ba, Ta, Tl, Pb, Bi, U, Li, Al, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, and As, from Guliya ice core samples spanning the period 1500 - 1992 AD at seasonal (1750-1992 AD) and annual (1500-1750 AD) resolution. This Guliya trace element record will complement the developing records from the Dasuopu glacier, central Himalaya, and from the Puruogangri ice cap in the western Tanggula Shan in central Tibetan Plateau, which in contrast to Guliya are influenced by the monsoon. We investigate the possible sources both natural and anthropogenic of atmospheric trace elements and their fluxes over the Tibetan Plateau during the last 500 years.

PIXE analysis of Chinese ancient greenish white porcelain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Lin; Ding, Xun-liang; Feng, Song-lin; Cheng, Huang-sheng; Zhang, Wen-Jiang; Fan, Chang-Sheng

2006-03-01

This paper reports the results about the PIXE analysis of major, minor and trace elements of Chinese ancient greenish white porcelain and blue-and-white porcelain produced in Hutian Kiln (Jingdezhen district, Jiangxi province) during 10th-14th centuries. The porcelain body and greenish white glaze from northern Song (AD 960), southern Song (AD 1037-1276), early Yuan (AD 1279-1320), later Yuan (AD 1320-1368) were investigated together with white-and-blue glaze from Ming dynasty (AD 1368-1644). The obtained data were further analyzed by factor analysis.

Determination of the Tribological Fundamentals of Solid Lubricated Ceramics. Volume 3. Appendices P through II

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-09-01

9H and tungsten silicides may also be present in the microstructure. The non-SiC eiemental concentrations for NC-203 would not be expected to exceed...lesser amounts of yttrium silicate and tungsten silicide . Trace amounts of a-Si 3N4 , silicon oxynitride, tungsten-iron- silicide , and yttrium silicon...SiC ESK On this sample, we detect Silicon, Carbon, and also Oxygen and Nitrogen, as well as Calcium and Sodium traces. After ionic etching up to about

Intra-Individual Variability of Physical Activity in Older Adults With and Without Mild Alzheimer's Disease.

PubMed

Watts, Amber; Walters, Ryan W; Hoffman, Lesa; Templin, Jonathan

2016-01-01

Physical activity shows promise for protection against cognitive decline in older adults with and without Alzheimer's disease (AD). To better understand barriers to adoption of physical activity in this population, a clear understanding of daily and weekly activity patterns is needed. Most accelerometry studies report average physical activity over an entire wear period without considering the potential importance of the variability of physical activity. This study evaluated individual differences in the amount and intra-individual variability of physical activity and determined whether these differences could be predicted by AD status, day of wear, age, gender, education, and cardiorespiratory capacity. Physical activity was measured via accelerometry (Actigraph GT3X+) over one week in 86 older adults with and without AD (n = 33 and n = 53, respectively). Mixed-effects location-scale models were estimated to evaluate and predict individual differences in the amount and intra-individual variability of physical activity. Results indicated that compared to controls, participants with AD averaged 21% less activity, but averaged non-significantly greater intra-individual variability. Women and men averaged similar amounts of physical activity, but women were significantly less variable. The amount of physical activity differed significantly across days of wear. Increased cardiorespiratory capacity was associated with greater average amounts of physical activity. Investigation of individual differences in the amount and intra-individual variability of physical activity provided insight into differences by AD status, days of monitor wear, gender, and cardiovascular capacity. All individuals regardless of AD status were equally consistent in their physical activity, which may have been due to a highly sedentary sample and/or the early disease stage of those participants with AD. These results highlight the value of considering individual differences in both the amount and intra-individual variability of physical activity.

Trace-metal accumulation, distribution, and fluxes in forests of the northeastern United States

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Friedland, A.J.

1985-01-01

Forest floor was sampled at 78 sites in nine northeastern states in the USA and analyzed for Cu, Zn, Ni, and Cd. Higher levels of trace metals occurred in the southern half of the study region. Earlier work identified that Pb accumulated in the forest floor of the high-elevation regions of New England. The distribution of Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni, and Cd within the forest floor was studied at three different forested states in New England. The greatest concentration of Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni, and Cd occurred in the Oe horizon of the forest floor in all three forests. Thismore » is the zone of greatest biological activity in the forest floor. Because it receives relatively high rates of atmospheric deposition, Camels Hump in northern Vermont was studied in greater detail. Lead concentration and amount in the forest floor increased between 550 and 1160 m elevation. Comparisons with 1966 and 1977 samples from the same stands showed that Pb, Cu, and Zn concentrations increased by as much as 148% in the intervening 14 years. Estimated deposition rates of Pb, Cu, and Zn based on accumulation rates agreed with regional deposition rates reported in the literature. Lead concentrations were an order of magnitude lower in mineral soil and vegetation than in forest floor. Thus the most likely source of forest floor Pb is the atmosphere. Lead was strongly retained by the forest floor and approximately 3% of the current Pb content of the forest floor is added each year by atmospheric deposition. At the current accumulation rates, the amount of Pb in the forest floor will double in three to four decades.« less

From waste water treatment to land management: Conversion of aquatic biomass to biochar for soil amelioration and the fortification of crops with essential trace elements.

PubMed

Roberts, David A; Paul, Nicholas A; Cole, Andrew J; de Nys, Rocky

2015-07-01

Macroalgae can be grown in industrial waste water to sequester metals and the resulting biomass used for biotechnological applications. We have previously cultivated the freshwater macroalga Oedogonium at a coal-fired power station to treat a metal-contaminated effluent from that facility. We then produced biochar from this biomass and determined the suitability of both the biomass and the biochar for soil amelioration. The dried biomass of Oedogonium cultivated in the waste water contained several elements for which there are terrestrial biosolids criteria (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, Se and Zn) and leached significant amounts of these elements into solution. Here, we demonstrate that these biomass leachates impair the germination and growth of radishes as a model crop. However, the biochar produced from this same biomass leaches negligible amounts of metal into solution and the leachates support high germination and growth of radishes. Biochar produced at 750 °C leaches the least metal and has the highest recalcitrant C content. When this biochar is added to a low-quality soil it improves the retention of nutrients (N, P, Ca, Mg, K and Mo) from fertilizer in the soil and the growth of radishes by 35-40%. Radishes grown in the soils amended with the biochar have equal or lower metal contents than radishes grown in soil without biochar, but much higher concentrations of essential trace elements (Mo) and macro nutrients (P, K, Ca and Mg). The cultivation of macroalgae is an effective waste water bioremediation technology that also produces biomass that can be used as a feedstock for conversion to biochar for soil amelioration. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Accumulation of cadmium, zinc, and copper by Helianthus annuus L.: impact on plant growth and uptake of nutritional elements.

PubMed

Rivelli, Anna Rita; De Maria, Susanna; Puschenreiter, Markus; Gherbin, Piergiorgio

2012-04-01

We investigated the effects on physiological response, trace elements and nutrients accumulation of sunflower plants grown in soil contaminated with: 5 mg kg(-1) of Cd; 5 and 300 mg kg(-1) of Cd and Zn, respectively; 5, 300, and 400 mg kg(-1) of Cd, Zn, and Cu, respectively. Contaminants applied did not produce large effects on growth, except in Cd-Zn-Cu treatment in which leaf area and total dry matter were reduced, by 15%. The contamination with Cd alone did not affect neither growth nor physiological parameters, despite considerable amounts of Cd accumulated in roots and older leaves, with a high bioconcentration factor from soil to plant. By adding Zn and then Cu to Cd in soil, significant were the toxic effects on chlorophyll content and water relations due to greater accumulation of trace elements in tissues, with imbalances in nutrients uptake. Highly significant was the interaction between shoot elements concentration (Cd, Zn, Cu, Fe, Mg, K, Ca) and treatments. Heavy metals concentrations in roots always exceeded those in stem and leaves, with a lower translocation from roots to shoots, suggesting a strategy of sunflower to compartmentalise the potentially toxic elements in physiologically less active parts in order to preserve younger tissues.

Molecular adsorption steers bacterial swimming at the air/water interface.

PubMed

Morse, Michael; Huang, Athena; Li, Guanglai; Maxey, Martin R; Tang, Jay X

2013-07-02

Microbes inhabiting Earth have adapted to diverse environments of water, air, soil, and often at the interfaces of multiple media. In this study, we focus on the behavior of Caulobacter crescentus, a singly flagellated bacterium, at the air/water interface. Forward swimming C. crescentus swarmer cells tend to get physically trapped at the surface when swimming in nutrient-rich growth medium but not in minimal salt motility medium. Trapped cells move in tight, clockwise circles when viewed from the air with slightly reduced speed. Trace amounts of Triton X100, a nonionic surfactant, release the trapped cells from these circular trajectories. We show, by tracing the motion of positively charged colloidal beads near the interface that organic molecules in the growth medium adsorb at the interface, creating a high viscosity film. Consequently, the air/water interface no longer acts as a free surface and forward swimming cells become hydrodynamically trapped. Added surfactants efficiently partition to the surface, replacing the viscous layer of molecules and reestablishing free surface behavior. These findings help explain recent similar studies on Escherichia coli, showing trajectories of variable handedness depending on media chemistry. The consistent behavior of these two distinct microbial species provides insights on how microbes have evolved to cope with challenging interfacial environments. Copyright © 2013 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Detection of titanium in human tissues after craniofacial surgery.

PubMed

Jorgenson, D S; Mayer, M H; Ellenbogen, R G; Centeno, J A; Johnson, F B; Mullick, F G; Manson, P N

1997-04-01

Generally, titanium fixation plates are not removed after osteosynthesis, because they have high biocompatability and high corrosion resistance characteristics. Experiments with laboratory animals, and limited studies of analyses of human tissues, have reported evidence of titanium release into local and distant tissues. This study summarizes our results of the analysis of soft tissues for titanium in four patients with titanium microfixation plates. Energy dispersive x-ray analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometry were used to detect trace amounts of titanium in surrounding soft tissues. A single metal inclusion was detected by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray analysis in one patient, whereas, electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometry analyses revealed titanium present in three of four specimens in levels ranging from 7.92 to 31.8 micrograms/gm of dry tissue. Results from this study revealed trace amounts of titanium in tissues surrounding craniofacial plates. At the atomic level, electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometry appears to be a sensitive tool to quantitatively detect ultra-trace amounts of metal in human tissue.

In vitro study of role of trace amount of Cu release from Cu-bearing stainless steel targeting for reduction of in-stent restenosis.

PubMed

Ren, Ling; Xu, Lu; Feng, Jingwen; Zhang, Yang; Yang, Ke

2012-05-01

A novel 316L type Cu-bearing stainless steel was developed in present work, aiming at reducing the occurrence of the in-stent restenosis after implantations of coronary stents, through trace amount of Cu release from surface of the steel in body fluid. It was found that there was a trace amount of Cu released from the Cu-bearing steel in a simulated body fluid, with no cytotoxicity. All the in vitro experimental results proved that this Cu-bearing steel could not only inhibit the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells, reducing the formation of thrombosis, which are the main reasons for happening of the in-stent restenosis, but also promote the proliferation of vascular endothelial cells needed for the revascularization, showing that this novel steel is prospective to be a new material for manufacturing coronary stents with function of reducing the in-stent restenosis.

Probing the Evaporation Dynamics of Ethanol/Gasoline Biofuel Blends Using Single Droplet Manipulation Techniques.

PubMed

Corsetti, Stella; Miles, Rachael E H; McDonald, Craig; Belotti, Yuri; Reid, Jonathan P; Kiefer, Johannes; McGloin, David

2015-12-24

Using blends of bioethanol and gasoline as automotive fuel leads to a net decrease in the production of harmful emission compared to the use of pure fossil fuel. However, fuel droplet evaporation dynamics change depending on the mixing ratio. Here we use single particle manipulation techniques to study the evaporation dynamics of ethanol/gasoline blend microdroplets. The use of an electrodynamic balance enables measurements of the evaporation of individual droplets in a controlled environment, while optical tweezers facilitate studies of the behavior of droplets inside a spray. Hence, the combination of both methods is perfectly suited to obtain a complete picture of the evaporation process. The influence of adding varied amounts of ethanol to gasoline is investigated, and we observe that droplets with a greater fraction of ethanol take longer to evaporate. Furthermore, we find that our methods are sensitive enough to observe the presence of trace amounts of water in the droplets. A theoretical model, predicting the evaporation of ethanol and gasoline droplets in dry nitrogen gas, is used to explain the experimental results. Also a theoretical estimation of the saturation of the environment, with other aerosols, in the tweezers is carried out.

Can Infrared Spectroscopy Be Used to Measure Change in Potassium Nitrate Concentration as a Proxy for Soil Particle Movement?

PubMed Central

Luleva, Mila Ivanova; van der Werff, Harald; Jetten, Victor; van der Meer, Freek

2011-01-01

Displacement of soil particles caused by erosion influences soil condition and fertility. To date, the cesium 137 isotope (137Cs) technique is most commonly used for soil particle tracing. However when large areas are considered, the expensive soil sampling and analysis present an obstacle. Infrared spectral measurements would provide a solution, however the small concentrations of the isotope do not influence the spectral signal sufficiently. Potassium (K) has similar electrical, chemical and physical properties as Cs. Our hypothesis is that it can be used as possible replacement in soil particle tracing. Soils differing in texture were sampled for the study. Laboratory soil chemical analyses and spectral sensitivity analyses were carried out to identify the wavelength range related to K concentration. Different concentrations of K fertilizer were added to soils with varying texture properties in order to establish spectral characteristics of the absorption feature associated with the element. Changes in position of absorption feature center were observed at wavelengths between 2,450 and 2,470 nm, depending on the amount of fertilizer applied. Other absorption feature parameters (absorption band depth, width and area) were also found to change with K concentration with coefficient of determination between 0.85 and 0.99. Tracing soil particles using K fertilizer and infrared spectral response is considered suitable for soils with sandy and sandy silt texture. It is a new approach that can potentially grow to a technique for rapid monitoring of soil particle movement over large areas. PMID:22163843

REE Incorporation into Calcite Individual Crystals as One Time Spike Addition

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gabitov, Rinat; Sadekov, Aleksey; Migdisov, Artas

Experiments on the incorporation of trace elements into calcite were performed, and rare earth elements (REE) were used to mark the growth zones of individual crystals. Experiments were conducted at different pH (7.7 to 8.8) and temperatures (2 °C to 24.6 °C) in NH 4Cl + CaCl 2 solutions, where REE were rapidly consumed by growing calcite. LA-ICP-MS line-scans yielded the distribution of (REE/Ca) calcite within individual crystals in a manner consistent with the addition of REE into fluid. A sharp decrease of (REE/Ca) calcite toward the crystal edge suggests the fast depletion of (REE/Ca) fluid due to strong REEmore » consumption by growing calcite. An attempt was made to estimate the lower limit of the partition coefficients between calcite and fluid using selected REE/Ca data within individual calcite crystals and the amount of REE added into fluid.« less

Aspartame-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells.

PubMed

Horio, Yukari; Sun, Yongkun; Liu, Chuang; Saito, Takeshi; Kurasaki, Masaaki

2014-01-01

Aspartame is an artificial sweetner added to many low-calorie foods. The safety of aspartame remains controversial even though there are many studies on its risks. In this study, to understand the physiological effects of trace amounts of artificial sweetners on cells, the effects of aspartame on apoptosis were investigated using a PC12 cell system. In addition, the mechanism of apoptosis induced by aspartame in PC12 cells and effects on apoptotic factors such as cytochrome c, apoptosis-inducing factor, and caspase family proteins were studied by Western blotting and RT-PCR. Aspartame-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, aspartame exposure increased the expressions of caspases 8 and 9, and cytochrome c. These results indicate that aspartame induces apoptosis mainly via mitochondrial pathway involved in apoptosis due to oxigen toxicity. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Weise, David; Johnson, Timothy J.; Reardon, James

Management of smoke from prescribed fires requires knowledge of fuel quantity and the amount and composition of the smoke produced by the fire to minimize adverse impacts on human health. A five-year study produced new emissions information for more than 100 trace gases and particulate matter in smoke for fuel types found in the southern United States of America using state-of-the-art instrumentation in both laboratory and field experiments. Emission factors for flaming, smoldering, and residual smoldering were developed. Agreement between laboratory and field-derived emission factors was generally good in most cases. Reference spectra of over 50 wildland fire gas-phase smokemore » components were added to a publicly-available database to support identification via infrared spectroscopy. Fuel loading for the field experiments was similar to previously measured fuels. This article summarizes the results of a five-year study to better understand the composition of smoke during all phases of burning for such forests.« less

REE Incorporation into Calcite Individual Crystals as One Time Spike Addition

DOE PAGES

Gabitov, Rinat; Sadekov, Aleksey; Migdisov, Artas

2017-10-26

Experiments on the incorporation of trace elements into calcite were performed, and rare earth elements (REE) were used to mark the growth zones of individual crystals. Experiments were conducted at different pH (7.7 to 8.8) and temperatures (2 °C to 24.6 °C) in NH 4Cl + CaCl 2 solutions, where REE were rapidly consumed by growing calcite. LA-ICP-MS line-scans yielded the distribution of (REE/Ca) calcite within individual crystals in a manner consistent with the addition of REE into fluid. A sharp decrease of (REE/Ca) calcite toward the crystal edge suggests the fast depletion of (REE/Ca) fluid due to strong REEmore » consumption by growing calcite. An attempt was made to estimate the lower limit of the partition coefficients between calcite and fluid using selected REE/Ca data within individual calcite crystals and the amount of REE added into fluid.« less

Repetition priming of words and nonwords in Alzheimer's disease and normal aging

PubMed Central

Ober, Beth A.; Shenaut, Gregory K.

2014-01-01

Objective This study examines the magnitude and direction of nonword and word lexical decision repetition priming effects in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and normal aging, focusing specifically on the negative priming effect sometimes observed with repeated nonwords. Method Probable Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients (30), elderly normal controls (34), and young normal controls (49) participated in a repetition priming experiment using low-frequency words and word-like nonwords with a letter-level orthographic orienting task at study followed by a lexical decision test phase. Results Although participants' reaction times were longer in AD compared to elderly normal, and elderly normal compared to young normal, the repetition priming effect and the degree to which the repetition priming effect was reversed for nonwords compared to words was unaffected by AD or normal aging. Conclusion AD patients, like young and elderly normal participants, are able to modify (in the case of words) and create (in the case of nonwords) long-term memory traces for lexical stimuli, based on a single orthographic processing trial. The nonword repetition results are discussed from the perspective of new vocabulary learning commencing with a provisional lexical memory trace created after orthographic encoding of a novel word-like letter string. PMID:25000325

X-radiography of trace fossils in limestones and dolostones from the Jurassic Smackover Formation, south Alabama

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Esposito, R.A.; Castleman, S.P.; King, D.T. Jr.

X-radiography has been useful in studying biogenic sedimentary structures in unconsolidated sediments but the technique has not been applied often to the study of hard carbonate rock. The authors have applied x-radiography to the study of the lower part of the Smackover to enhance the complete petrologic description of the rock. The lower Smackover has many dense micrite intervals and intervals of monotonous, thin graded beds. Parts of the lower Smackover is also dolomitized. None of the above rocks contains significant amount of skeletal debris and trace fossils are not generally obvious in an etched slab of core. In limestone,more » they have detected well-preserved trace fossils by x-radiography, however. The dolostones show no traces using our method. In limestones, the traces are marked by minute amounts of finely divided iron sulfides. This causes a slight density difference resulting in greater x-ray absorption. They recognize two main trace-fossil types: a Thalassinoides best seen in slabs cut parallel to bedding and a Zoophycos best seen in slabs cut perpendicular to bedding. The technique requires a slab cut 8 mm thick with parallel flat surfaces and a medical x-ray unit using accelerating voltages of 66 kV and 10 mas. Traces are most successfully imaged on industrial-quality films.« less

Iron active electrode and method of making same

DOEpatents

Jackovitz, John F.; Seidel, Joseph; Pantier, Earl A.

1982-10-26

An iron active electrode and method of preparing same in which iron sulfate is calcined in an oxidizing atmosphere at a temperature in the range of from about 600.degree. C. to about 850.degree. C. for a time sufficient to produce an iron oxide with a trace amount of sulfate. The calcined material is loaded into an electrically conductive support and then heated in a reducing atmosphere at an elevated temperature to produce activated iron having a trace amount of sulfide which is formed into an electrode plate.

Immunosensors using a quartz crystal microbalance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurosawa, Shigeru; Aizawa, Hidenobu; Tozuka, Mitsuhiro; Nakamura, Miki; Park, Jong-Won

2003-11-01

Better analytical technology has been demanded for accurate and rapid determination of trace amounts of chemical compounds, such as marker proteins for disease or endocrine disrupters like dioxin, which might be contained in blood, food and the environment. The study of immunosensors using a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) has recently focused on conventional detection methods for the determination of chemical compounds together with the development of reagents and processes. This paper introduces the principle of the detection method of QCM immunosensors developed at AIST and its application to the detection of trace amounts of chemical compounds.

Trace determination of zinc by substoichiometric isotope dilution analysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sandhya, D.; Priya, S.; Subramanian, M.O.S.

1996-09-01

A radiometric method based on substoichiometric isotope dilution analysis using 1,10-phenanthroline and a substoichiometric amount of eosin was developed for determining trace amounts of zinc. Evaluation of various metal ion interferences shows that as little as 0.2 {mu}g Zn could be determined in an aqueous-phase volume of 60 mL. The method has been successfully applied to the determination of Zn in city waste incineration ash, cadmium metal, Fourts-B tablets, Boro-plus ointment, and magnesium alloy samples. 12 refs., 3 figs., 3 tabs.

Thallium as a tracer for preindustrial volcanic eruptions in an ice core record from Illimani, Bolivia.

PubMed

Kellerhals, Thomas; Tobler, Leonhard; Brütsch, Sabina; Sigl, Michael; Wacker, Lukas; Gäggeler, Heinz W; Schwikowski, Margit

2010-02-01

Trace element records from glacier and ice sheet archives provide insights into biogeochemical cycles, atmospheric circulation changes, and anthropogenic pollution history. We present the first continuous high-resolution thallium (Tl) record, derived from an accurately dated ice core from tropical South America, and discuss Tl as a tracer for volcanic eruptions. We identify four prominent Tl peaks and propose that they represent signals from the massive explosive eruptions of the "unknown 1258" A.D. volcano, of Kuwae ( approximately 1450 A.D.), Tambora (1815 A.D.), and Krakatoa (1883 A.D.). The highly resolved record was obtained with an improved setup for the continuous analysis of trace elements in ice with inductively coupled plasma sector field mass spectrometry (ICP-SFMS). The new setup allowed for a stronger initial acidification of the meltwater and shorter tubing length, thereby reducing the risk of memory effects and losses of analytes to the capillary walls. With a comparison of the continuous method to the established conventional decontamination and analysis procedure for discrete samples, we demonstrate the accuracy of the continuous method for Tl analyses.

Estimation of trace amounts of benzene in solvent-extracted vegetable oils and oil seed cakes.

PubMed

Masohan, A; Parsad, G; Khanna, M K; Chopra, S K; Rawat, B S; Garg, M O

2000-09-01

A new method is presented for the qualitative and quantitative estimation of trace amounts (up to 0.15 ppm) of benzene in crude as well as refined vegetable oils obtained by extraction with food grade hexane (FGH), and in the oil seed cakes left after extraction. The method involves the selection of two solvents; cyclohexanol, for thinning of viscous vegetable oil, and heptane, for azeotroping out trace benzene as a concentrate from the resulting mixture. Benzene is then estimated in the resulting azeotrope either by UV spectroscopy or by GC-MS subject to availability and cost effectiveness of the latter. Repeatability and reproducibility of the method is within 1-3% error. This method is suitable for estimating benzene in vegetable oils and oil seed cakes.

Monitoring and tracing of critical software systems: State of the work and project definition

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

analysis, troubleshooting and debugging. Some of these subsystems already come with ad hoc tracers for events like wireless connections or SCSI disk... SQLite ). Additional synthetic events (e.g. states) are added to the database. The database thus consists in contexts (process, CPU, state), event...capability on a [operating] system-by-system basis. Additionally, the mechanics of querying the data in an ad - hoc manner outside the boundaries of the

Method for remote detection of trace contaminants

DOEpatents

Simonson, Robert J.; Hance, Bradley G.

2003-09-09

A method for remote detection of trace contaminants in a target area comprises applying sensor particles that preconcentrate the trace contaminant to the target area and detecting the contaminant-sensitive fluorescence from the sensor particles. The sensor particles can have contaminant-sensitive and contaminant-insensitive fluorescent compounds to enable the determination of the amount of trace contaminant present in the target are by relative comparison of the emission of the fluorescent compounds by a local or remote fluorescence detector. The method can be used to remotely detect buried minefields.

Nutrient content of precipitation over Iowa

Treesearch

M. A. Tabatabai; J. M. Laflen

1976-01-01

Nutrient content and pH of precipitation samples collected at six sites during 1971-1973 were studied to determine the reaction of rainfall and snowmelt and the amounts of N, S, and P added by precipitation over Iowa. The amount of NH4-N added by precipitation per hectare annually at each site was about equal to that added as NO3...

Simultaneous visualization of the subfemtomolar expression of microRNA and microRNA target gene using HILO microscopy.

PubMed

Lin, Yi-Zhen; Ou, Da-Liang; Chang, Hsin-Yuan; Lin, Wei-Yu; Hsu, Chiun; Chang, Po-Ling

2017-09-01

The family of microRNAs (miRNAs) not only plays an important role in gene regulation but is also useful for the diagnosis of diseases. A reliable method with high sensitivity may allow researchers to detect slight fluctuations in ultra-trace amounts of miRNA. In this study, we propose a sensitive imaging method for the direct probing of miR-10b (miR-10b-3p, also called miR-10b*) and its target ( HOXD10 mRNA) in fixed cells based on the specific recognition of molecular beacons combined with highly inclined and laminated optical sheet (HILO) fluorescence microscopy. The designed dye-quencher-labelled molecular beacons offer excellent efficiencies of fluorescence resonance energy transfer that allow us to detect miRNA and the target mRNA simultaneously in hepatocellular carcinoma cells using HILO fluorescence microscopy. Not only can the basal trace amount of miRNA be observed in each individual cell, but the obtained images also indicate that this method is useful for monitoring the fluctuations in ultra-trace amounts of miRNA when the cells are transfected with a miRNA precursor or a miRNA inhibitor (anti-miR). Furthermore, a reasonable causal relation between the miR-10b and HOXD10 expression levels was observed in miR-10b* precursor-transfected cells and miR-10b* inhibitor-transfected cells. The trends of the miRNA alterations obtained using HILO microscopy completely matched the RT-qPCR data and showed remarkable reproducibility (the coefficient of variation [CV] = 0.86%) and sensitivity (<1.0 fM). This proposed imaging method appears to be useful for the simultaneous visualisation of ultra-trace amounts of miRNA and target mRNA and excludes the procedures for RNA extraction and amplification. Therefore, the visualisation of miRNA and the target mRNA should facilitate the exploration of the functions of ultra-trace amounts of miRNA in fixed cells in biological studies and may serve as a powerful tool for diagnoses based on circulating cancer cells.

ENHANCED FORMATION OF DIOXINS AND FURANS FROM COMBUSTION DEVICES BY ADDITION OF TRACE QUANTITIES OF BROMINE

EPA Science Inventory

Past pilot-scale experimental studies have shown a dramatic increase in the formation of certain chlorinated products of incomplete combustion (PICs) caused by the addition of trace amounts of bromine (Br). Emissions of trichloroethylene and tetrachloorethylene, generated as PICs...

Lead isotope constraints on the origin of andesite and dacite magmas at Tungurahua volcano (Ecuador)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nauret, Francois; Ancellin, Marie-Anne; Vlastelic, Ivan; Tournigand, Pierre-Yves; Samaniego, Pablo; Le Pennec, Jean Luc; Gannoun, Mouhcine; Hidalgo, Silvana; Schiano, Pierre

2016-04-01

Understanding the occurrence of large explosive eruptions involving silica-rich magmas at mostly andesitic volcanoes is crucial for volcanic hazard assessment Here we focus on the well-known active Tungurahua volcano (Ecuador), specifically its eruptive sequence for the last 3000 years BP, which are characterized by VEI 3 explosive events involving mostly homogeneous andesitic compositions (56-59 wt.% SiO2). However, some large eruptions (VEI ≥ 4) involving andesitic and dacitic magmas (up to 66 wt.% SiO2) also occur at 3000 BP, 1250 BP and 1886 AD. An additional outburst of siliceous magmas occurred during the last eruptive eruption of this volcano in 2006 [1]. Volcanic products at Tungurahua are described as been generated by a binary mixing between a silica-rich and a silica-poor end-member, but the origin of these components was not discussed [2]. Major, trace elements and Sr-Nd-Pb isotopes were used to investigate the genesis of the andesites and dacites. Andesites are heterogeneous in terms of Pb isotopes (206Pb/204Pb: 18.189-19.154, 207Pb/204Pb:15.658-15.696, 208Pb/204Pb: 38.752-38.918, 207Pb/206Pb: 0.8240-0.8275) but homogeneous in terms of major-trace element. Dacite are characterized by homogenous and low 207Pb/206Pb (0.8235±0.0001), very low Nb/U (1.97 to 4.49) and Ce/Pb (2.52-2.99) and high Th/La ratios (0.24 to 0.49). Triangular distribution of data in major element or trace element ratio vs. Pb isotopes plots suggests that at least three components control geochemical variability at Tungurahua. We interpret andesite compositions as reflecting mainly a deep mixture of two mantle components, with small addition of crustal material. We suggest that dacite results from a mixing between various andesite compositions and a larger amount of a contaminant derived from the volcanic basement of the Tungurahua made of late Cretaceous to Palaeogene oceanic plateau basalts and volcano-sedimentary rocks volcanic. Since andesite and dacite occur during the same eruption, we suggest that crustal contaminated magmas are stored into the crust and are sporadically sampled by andesite magmas ascending from greater depths.. As a result, the amount of assimilated crust (and thus the amount of silica-rich magma) may be used as a proxy of the magnitude of the eruption. [1] Samaniego et al. JVGR (2011) [2] Schiano, P., et al. Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 160(2010) 297-312.

Spectroscopic characterization of digestates obtained from sludge mixed to increasing amounts of fruit and vegetable wastes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Provenzano, Maria Rosaria; Cavallo, Ornella; Malerba, Anna Daniela; Di Maria, Francesco; Ricci, Anna; Gigliotti, Giovanni

2015-04-01

Anaerobic digestion (AD) represents an efficient waste-treatment technology during which microorganisms break down biodegradable material in absence of oxygen yielding a biogas containing methane. The aim of this work was to investigate the transformations occurring in the organic matter during the co-digestion of waste mixed sludge (WMS) with an increasing amount of fruit and vegetable wastes (FVW) in a pilot scale apparatus reproducing a full-scale digester in an existing wastewater treatment plant. Samples comprised: sludge, FVW, sludge mixed with 10-20-30-40% FVW. Ingestates and digestates were analyzed by means of emission fluorescence spectroscopy and FTIR associated to Fourier self deconvolution (FSD) of spectra. With increasing the amount of FVW from 10% to 20% at which percentage biogas production reached the maximum value, FTIR spectra and FSD traces of digestates exhibited a decrease of intensity of peaks assigned to polysaccharides and aliphatics and an increase of peak assigned to aromatics as a result of the biodegradation of rapidly degradable materials and concentration of aromatic recalcitrant compounds. Digestates with 30 and 40% FVW exhibited a relative increase of intensity of peaks assigned to aliphatics likely as a result of the increasing amount of rapidly degradable materials and the consequent reduction of the hydraulic retention time. This may cause inhibition of methanogenesis and accumulation of volatile fatty acids. The highest emission fluorescence intensity was observed for the digestate with 20% FVW confirming the concentration of aromatic recalcitrant compounds in the substrate obtained at the highest biogas production.

Should bioactive trace elements not recognized as essential, but with beneficial health effects, have intake recommendations.

PubMed

Nielsen, Forrest H

2014-10-01

Today, most nutritionists do not consider a trace element essential unless it has a defined biochemical function in higher animals or humans. As a result, even though it has been found that trace elements such as boron and silicon have beneficial bioactivity in higher animals and humans, they generally receive limited attention or mention when dietary guidelines or intake recommendations are formulated. Recently, the possibility of providing dietary intake recommendations such as an adequate intake (AI) for some bioactive food components (e.g., flavonoids) has been discussed. Boron, chromium, nickel, and silicon are bioactive food components that provide beneficial health effects by plausible mechanisms of action in nutritional and supra nutritional amounts, and thus should be included in the discussions. Although the science base may not be considered adequate for establishing AIs, a significant number of findings suggest that statements about these trace elements should be included when dietary intake guidance is formulated. An appropriate recommendation may be that diets should include foods that would provide trace elements not currently recognized as essential in amounts shown to reduce the risk of chronic disease and/or promote health and well-being. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

Infected Atopic Dermatitis Lesions Contain Pharmacologic Amounts of Lipoteichoic Acid

PubMed Central

Travers, Jeffrey B.; Kozman, Amal; Mousdicas, Nico; Saha, Chandan; Landis, Megan; Al-Hassani, Mohammed; Yao, Weiguo; Yao, Yongxue; Hyatt, Ann-Marie; Sheehan, Michael P.; Haggstrom, Anita N.; Kaplan, Mark H.

2009-01-01

Background Bacterial infection with Staphylococcus aureus is a known trigger for worsening of atopic dermatitis (AD); the exact mechanisms by which bacterial infection worsens dermatitis are unknown. Objective We sought to characterize the amounts of the biologically active bacterial lipoprotein lipoteichoic acid (LTA) in infected AD lesions. Methods Eighty-nine children with clinically impetiginized lesions of AD were enrolled in this study. A lesion was graded clinically using the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), and then wash fluid obtained from the lesion for quantitative bacterial culture, and measurement of LTA and cytokines. The staphylococcal isolate was tested for antibiotic susceptibilities. The patients were treated with a regimen that included topical corticosteroids and systemic antibiotics and the lesion was re-analyzed after two weeks. Results S. aureus was identified in 79 of 89 children enrolled in the study. The bacterial CFU correlated with the EASI lesional score (p = 0.04). LTA levels up to 9.8 μg/ml were measured in the wash fluid samples and the amounts correlated with the lesional EASI scores (p = 0.01) and S. aureus CFU (p < 0.001). Approximately 30% of clinically impetiginized AD lesions contained greater than 1 μg/ml LTA, amounts that exert effects on various cell types in vitro. Moreover, injection of skin tissue ex vivo with amounts of LTA found in AD lesions resulted in epidermal cytokine gene expression. Conclusions Pharmacologic levels of LTA are found in many infected atopic dermatitis lesions. Clinical Implications These findings suggest that staphylococcal LTA could be an important mediator of the increased skin inflammation associated with infected AD. Capsule Summary These studies demonstrate high levels of staphylococcal LTA are found on impetiginized AD lesions. Moreover, subjects harboring MRSA exhibited greater total body involvement of AD. PMID:19962742

Climate change consequences for terrestrial ecosystem processes in NW Greeland: Results from the High Arctic Biocomplexity project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Welker, J. M.; Sullivan, P.; Rogers, M.; Sharp, E. D.; Sletten, R.; Burnham, J. L.; Hallet, B.; Hagedorn, B.; Czimiczk, C.

2009-12-01

Greenland is experiencing some of the fastest rates of climate warming across the Arctic including warmer summers and increases in snow fall. The effects of these new states of Greenland are however, uncertain especially for carbon, nitrogen and water biogeochemical processes, soil traits, vegetation growth patterns, mineral nutrition and plant ecophysiological processes. Since 2003 we have conducted a suite of observational and experimental measurements that have been designed to understand the fundamental nature of polar desert, polar semi-desert and fen landscapes in NW Greenland. In addition, we have established a suite of experiments to ascertain ecosystem responses to warming at multiple levels (~2030 and 2050), in conjunction with added summer rain; the consequences of added snow fall (ambient, intermediate and deep) and the effects of increases in nutrient additions (added N, P and N+P), which represent extreme warming conditions. We find that: a) the soil C pools are 6-fold larger than previously measured, b) extremely old C (up to ~30k bp) which has been buried by frost cracking and frost heaving is reaching the modern atmosphere, but in only trace amounts as measured by respired 14CO2, c) warming that simulates 2030, has only a small effect on net C sequestration but warming that simulates 2050 when combined with added summer rain, increases C sequestration by 300%, d) increases in N deposition almost immediately and completely changes the vegetation composition of polar semi-deserts shifting the NDVI values from 0.2 to 0.5 within 2 years. Our findings depict a system that is poised to contribute stronger feedbacks than previously expected as climates in NW Greenland change.

Using bio-dispersive solution of chitosan for green dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction of trace amounts of Cu(II) in edible oils prior to analysis by ICP-OES.

PubMed

Limchoowong, Nunticha; Sricharoen, Phitchan; Techawongstien, Suchila; Chanthai, Saksit

2017-09-01

A green approach using chitosan solution as a novel bio-dispersive agent for the dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) of trace amounts of Cu(II) in edible oils is presented. An emulsion was formed by mixing the oil sample with 300µL of 0.25% (w/v) chitosan solution containing 200µL of 6molL -1 HCl. Deionized water was used to induce emulsion breaking without centrifugation. The centrifuged Cu(II) extract was collected and analyzed using an inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometer. The detection and quantitation limits were 2.1 and 6.8µgL -1 , respectively. Trace amounts of Cu(II) in six edible oil samples were tested under optimum conditions for DLLME, with a recovery ranging from 90.3% to 109.3%. Therefore, the new dispersive agent in DLLME offers superior performance owing to the non-toxic nature of the solvent, short extraction time, high sensitivity, and easy operation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Trace element concentrations and distributions in the main body tissues and the net requirements for maintenance and growth of Dorper × Hu lambs.

PubMed

Zhang, H; Nie, H T; Wang, Q; Wang, Z Y; Zhang, Y L; Guo, R H; Wang, F

2015-05-01

A comparative slaughter trial was conducted to estimate the trace element concentrations and distributions in the main body tissues and the net requirements for maintenance and growth of Dorper × Hu crossbred lambs. Thirty-five lambs of each gender (19.2 ± 0.36 kg initial BW) were used. Seven lambs of each gender were randomly chosen and slaughtered at approximately 20 kg BW as the baseline group for measuring initial body composition. Another 7 lambs of each gender were also randomly chosen and offered a pelleted mixed diet for ad libitum intake and slaughtered at approximately 28 kg BW. The remaining 21 sheep of each gender were randomly divided into 3 groups with 7 sheep each and assigned to ad libitum or 40 or 70% of ad libitum intake of a pelleted mixed diet (42:58 concentrate:roughage, DM basis). The 3 groups of each gender were slaughtered when the sheep fed ad libitum reached approximately 35 kg BW. Empty body (head + feet, hide, viscera + blood, and carcass) trace element contents were determined after slaughter. The results showed that the trace elements were mainly distributed in viscera (blood included), except for Zn, which was mainly distributed in the muscle and bone tissues. The net requirements were calculated using the comparative slaughter technique. For males and females, the daily net trace element requirements for maintenance were 356.1 and 164.1 μg Fe, 4.3 and 3.4 μg Mn, 42.0 and 29.8 μg Cu, and 83.5 and 102.0 μg Zn per kilogram empty body weight (EBW), respectively. Net requirements for growth decreased from 65.67 to 57.27 mg Fe, 0.35 to 0.25 mg Mn, and 3.45 to 2.82 mg Cu and increased from 26.36 to 26.65 mg Zn per kilogram EBW gain (EBWG) for males. Net requirements for growth decreased from 30.66 to 22.14 mg Fe, 0.43 to 0.32 mg Mn, 2.86 to 2.18 mg Cu, and 27.71 to 25.83 mg Zn per kilogram EBWG for females from 20 to 35 kg BW. This study indicated that the net trace element requirements for Dorper × Hu crossbred lambs may be different from those of purebred or other genotypes, and more data are needed for sheep in general.

Trace elements records from vermetids aragonite as millennial paleo-oceanographic archives in the South-East Mediterranean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacobson, Yitzhak; Yam, Ruth; Shemesh, Aldo

2017-04-01

The Mediterranean Sea is a region under high anthropogenic stress, thus a hotspot for climate change studies. Natural conditions, such as SST, productivity, precipitation and dust fluxes along with human induced activity affect seawater chemistry. We study millennial variability of trace elements in East Mediterranean Sea high-resolution records, in attempt to connect them to environmental factors. The Mediterranean reef builder Vermetid, D. petraeum is a sessile gastropod, secreting its aragonite shells in tidal zones. Cores of Vermetid reefs from the South Eastern Mediterranean (Israel) were previously analyzed by Sisma?Ventura et al. (2014) to reconstruct seawater surface temperature (SST) and δ13C of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC). In this study we analyzed trace elements of these vermetid cores, and reconstructed millennial records of elements to calcium (el/Ca) molar ratios. Vermetid trace element contents from recent decades are mostly in agreement with known values for marine biogenic aragonites from corals and mollusk. We divide vermetid trace element records into three element groups: 1) Sr and U are related to SST and DIC. These elements correlate with major climatic events of the last millennium, such as the Medieval Warm Period (900-1300 AD) and the Little Ice Age (1450-1850 AD). 2) Pb and Cd are related to anthropogenic pollution and demonstrate industrial sourced trends throughout the anthropocene (since 1750 AD). 3) Terrogenous elements, including Fe, Al, Mn and V. Al in seawater and sediments has been used to trace water masses and land derived sediment source. We observe a major change in average vermetid Al/Fe ratios from 0.5 to 2.5 over the recorded period (n=72). This vermetid Al/Fe change points at a possible shift from Nilotic sediments (0.1-0.5 Al/Fe molar ratio) to Saharan dust ratio (2-4 Al/Fe molar ratio). Mn and V show a similar variability to Fe. Understanding the variability of vermetid TE can help us interpret the relative dominance of different climate systems and anthropogenic processes on the East Mediterranean environment.

Melting mode and source lithology inferred from trace element systematic in historical olivine from Lanzarote, Canary Islands

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gómez-Ulla, Alejandra; Sigmarsson, Olgeir; Guðfinnsson, Guðmundur H.

2017-04-01

Trace element concentrations and ratios in olivine phenocrysts, such as fractionation-corrected Ni x (FeO/MgO) and Fe/Mn, have been shown useful as probes of pyroxenite derived component in mixtures of primary mantle melts (e.g. Sobolev et al., 2007). For instance, higher Ni and lower Mn and Ca contents are expected in partial melts of pyroxenite compared to those of lherzolite. We have measured trace element concentrations in olivine from 1730-1736 AD (Timanfaya) and 1824 AD eruptions in Lanzarote (Canary Islands), which erupted mafic and mantle nodule bearing magmas, ranging in composition from highly silica-undersaturated basanite through alkali basalt to tholeiite. The early basanite exhibit the largest olivine trace element variation covering the range of those from MORB and OIB worldwide, whereas later erupted tholeiite have values typical from pyroxenite derived melts. The Fo value decreased systematically with time during the 1730-36 eruption and the proportion of silica-saturated primary melt increased in the parental magma mixture with time. At the end of the eruption, tholeiite magmas crystallized olivine with, increasing concentrations of Mn and Ca and higher Ca/Al at relatively uniform Ni x (FeO/MgO) and Fe/Mn, all of which is readily explained by increased decompression melting at lower temperature. The basanite from the eruption that took place in 1824 AD has olivine with even higher Fo value and trace element variability similar those of the Timanfaya basanite. The fact that the Lanzarote basanite contain olivine with trace element systematic spanning that of MORB and pyroxenite melt can be explained by CO2-flux melting of a lithologically heterogeneous source, generating the diverse compositions. Initial reactive porous flow through depleted oceanic lithosphere and equilibration with dunitic restite of percolating pyroxenite melt may have amplified the observed Ni depletion in olivine of the earliest basanite. The fact that olivine compositions and basanite magma were reproduced approximately a century later may reflect episodic carbonatic fluxing in the slowly uprising Canarian mantle plume.

Physiological Effects of Trace Elements and Chemicals in Water

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Varma, M. M.; And Others

1976-01-01

The physiological effects on humans and animals of trace amounts of organic and unorganic pollutants in natural and waste waters are examined. The sensitivity of particular organs and species is emphasized. Substances reviewed include mercury, arsenic, cadmium, lead, chromium, fluorides, nitrates and organics, including polychlounated biphenyls.…

(Pre-) historic changes in natural and anthropogenic heavy metals deposition inferred from two contrasting Swiss Alpine lakes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thevenon, Florian; Guédron, Stéphane; Chiaradia, Massimo; Loizeau, Jean-Luc; Poté, John

2011-01-01

Continuous high-resolution sedimentary record of heavy metals (chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and mercury (Hg)), from lakes Lucerne and Meidsee (Switzerland), provides pollutant deposition history from two contrasting Alpine environments over the last millennia. The distribution of conservative elements (thorium (Th), scandium (Sc) and titanium (Ti)) shows that in absence of human disturbances, the trace element input is primarily controlled by weathering processes (i.e., runoff and erosion). Nonetheless, the enrichment factor (EF) of Pb and Hg (that are measured by independent methods), and the Pb isotopic composition of sediments from the remote lake Meidsee (which are proportionally more enriched in anthropogenic heavy metals), likely detect early mining activities during the Bronze Age. Meanwhile, the deposition of trace elements remains close to the range of natural variations until the strong impact of Roman activities on atmospheric metal emissions. Both sites display simultaneous increases in anthropogenic trace metal deposition during the Greek and Roman Empires (ca 300 BC to AD 400), the Late Middle Ages (ca AD 1400), and the Early Modern Europe (after ca AD 1600). However, the greatest increases in anthropogenic metal pollution are evidenced after the industrial revolution of ca AD 1850, at low and high altitudes. During the twentieth century, industrial releases multiplied by ca 10 times heavy metal fluxes to hydrological systems located on both sides of the Alps. During the last decades, the recent growing contribution of low radiogenic Pb further highlights the contribution of industrial sources with respect to wood and coal burning emissions.

Trace analysis of nitrite ions in environmental samples by using in-situ synthesized Zein biopolymeric nanoparticles as the novel green solid phase extractor.

PubMed

Hatamie, Amir; Nassiri, Mahmoud; Alivand, Meghdad Doust; Bhatnagar, Amit

2018-01-01

For the first time, a novel green method using Zein biopolymeric nanoparticles as a green dispersive solid-phase extractor is reported for the separation and preconcentration of trace amount of nitrite (NO 2 - ) ions in ppb levels. The Zein protein is a biodegradable hydrophobic plant protein that is obtained from corn and is composed of a number of hydrophobic amino acids. Zein bionanoparticles were synthesized in an anti-solvent process and used as a new biosorbent in the extraction technique. In the proposed technique, by using a standard method at first, a mixture of 1-naphthylamine and sulphanilic acid as selective regents was added to the samples, and in the presence of the nitrite ion, a red azo product was formed. After that, the ethanolic Zein solution (equal to 15mg) was injected rapidly into the sample, based on the anti-solvent process. Zein bionanoparticles (BNPs) were produced, the adsorbed colour product was separated by centrifugation, and finally samples were analysed with the spectrophotometric method. The influence of different variables such as pH, buffer and amount of buffer, amount of adsorbent and effect of time on extraction were investigated and Zein BNPs were characterized by TEM, SEM, and FT-IR techniques. The main advantages of Zein as a new solid-phase extractor are that this biopolymer is non-toxic, stable, widely available, biodegradable, very hydrophobic, and can be fabricated easily. Under optimal experimental conditions, the linear correlation coefficient (r 2 ) was found to be 0.9972 at the concentration range of 5.0-1000ngmL -1 . The limit of detection was 2.3ngmL -1 (0.05μM). This method was applied successfully for the analysis of sea and river waters as well as industrial wastewater samples. Finally, this method follows the US EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency) and WHO (World Health Organization) international standards for nitrite analysis. In addition, it has several advantages to warrant its applicability in the near future in separation science as a green biosorbent in both dispersive and normal solid-phase extraction. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Anthropogenically induced environmental changes in the northeastern Adriatic Sea in the last 500 years (Panzano Bay, Gulf of Trieste)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vidović, Jelena; Nawrot, Rafał; Gallmetzer, Ivo; Haselmair, Alexandra; Tomašových, Adam; Stachowitsch, Michael; Ćosović, Vlasta; Zuschin, Martin

2016-11-01

Shallow and sheltered marine embayments in urbanized areas are prone to the accumulation of pollutants, but little is known about the historical baselines of such marine ecosystems. Here we study foraminiferal assemblages, geochemical proxies and sedimentological data from 1.6 m long sediment cores to uncover ˜ 500 years of anthropogenic pressure from mining, port and industrial activities in the Gulf of Trieste, Italy. From 1600 to 1900 AD, normalized element concentrations and foraminiferal assemblages point to negligible effects of agricultural activities. The only significant anthropogenic activity during this period was mercury mining in the hinterlands of the gulf, releasing high amounts of mercury into the bay and significantly exceeding the standards on the effects of trace elements on benthic organisms. Nonetheless, the fluctuations in the concentrations of mercury do not correlate with changes in the composition and diversity of foraminiferal assemblages due to its non-bioavailability. Intensified agricultural and maricultural activities in the first half of the 20th century caused slight nutrient enrichment and a minor increase in foraminiferal diversity. Intensified port and industrial activities in the second half of 20th century increased the normalized trace element concentrations and persistent organic pollutants (PAH, PCB) in the topmost part of the core. This increase caused only minor changes in the foraminiferal community because foraminifera in Panzano Bay have a long history of adaptation to elevated trace element concentrations. Our study underlines the importance of using an integrated, multidisciplinary approach in reconstructing the history of environmental and anthropogenic changes in marine systems. Given the prolonged human impacts in coastal areas like the Gulf of Trieste, such long-term baseline data are crucial for interpreting the present state of marine ecosystems.

Remediation using trace element humate surfactant

DOEpatents

Riddle, Catherine Lynn; Taylor, Steven Cheney; Bruhn, Debra Fox

2016-08-30

A method of remediation at a remediation site having one or more undesirable conditions in which one or more soil characteristics, preferably soil pH and/or elemental concentrations, are measured at a remediation site. A trace element humate surfactant composition is prepared comprising a humate solution, element solution and at least one surfactant. The prepared trace element humate surfactant composition is then dispensed onto the remediation site whereby the trace element humate surfactant composition will reduce the amount of undesirable compounds by promoting growth of native species activity. By promoting native species activity, remediation occurs quickly and environmental impact is minimal.

Analysis of high-purity germanium dioxide by ETV-ICP-AES with preliminary concentration of trace elements.

PubMed

Medvedev, Nickolay S; Shaverina, Anastasiya V; Tsygankova, Alphiya R; Saprykin, Anatoly I

2016-08-01

The paper presents a combined technique of germanium dioxide analysis by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) with preconcentration of trace elements by distilling off matrix and electrothermal (ETV) introduction of the trace elements concentrate into the ICP. Evaluation of metrological characteristics of the developed technique of high-purity germanium dioxide analysis was performed. The limits of detection (LODs) for 25 trace elements ranged from 0.05 to 20ng/g. The accuracy of proposed technique is confirmed by "added-found" («or spiking») experiment and comparing the results of ETV-ICP-AES and ICP-AES analysis of high purity germanium dioxide samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Performance and kinetic evaluation of semi-continuously fed anaerobic digesters treating food waste: role of trace elements.

PubMed

Zhang, Wanqin; Wu, Shubiao; Guo, Jianbin; Zhou, Jie; Dong, Renjie

2015-02-01

This study investigated the effects of trace elements (TEs) on the anaerobic digestion (AD) of food waste (FW) in laboratory-scale semi-continuously fed anaerobic digesters. The duration of digesters operation was approximately 400 days. Organic loading rates (OLRs) ranged from 1.0 to 5.5 g VS L(-1) d(-1) at 37 °C. Results showed that methane production of the digester was severely inhibited at a volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration of 30,000 mg L(-1) at OLR of 4.0 g VS L(-1) d(-1) in the absence of TEs. Contrary to the failed digesters, a stable performance was achieved in the TEs added digesters. High methane yield (approximately 465.4 mL CH4 g(-1)VSadded) was obtained, and no significant accumulation of VFA was observed in the TEs added digesters at OLR of 1.0-5.0 g VS L(-1) d(-1) and HRT of 40 days. These findings strongly indicated that the addition of TEs has an important impact on the operation stability of AD of FW. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Thermal In-Pouch Microwave Sterilization

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-06-30

dynamic range, ’ precision, ■ accuracy, ’ recovery (function of the amount of yogurt added to vial), ■ specificity (TOO Page-24 Quarterly...8217 accuracy, ■ recovery (function of the amount of yogurt added to vial). specificity (TOO Page-24 Quarterly Report For the Period Ending 30 June

Influence of mare uterine tubal fluids on the metabolism of stallion sperm.

PubMed

Engle, C E; Foley, C W; Witherspoon, D M; Scarth, R D; Goetsch, D D

1975-08-01

Three experiments were conducted on the metabolism of stallion sperm. In experiment 1, whole and washed sperm were incubated under aerobic and anaerobic enviroments and analyzed before and after controlled incubation for motility, pH, lactic acid, glucose, fructose, and O2 comsumption. In experiment 2, whole and washed sperm were incubated aerobically and anaerobically with and without uterine tubal fluids. Experiment 3 was the same as experiment 2, except added substrates of glucose and lactic acid were studied. The same examinations were made in experiments 2 and 3 as for experiment 1. Motility decreased significantly during incubation for all treatments, with the greatest decrease occurring for whole semen where only trace amounts of substrate (fructose) were present. Exogenous glucose plus uterine tubal fluid maintained sperm motility better than did added lactate. However, sperm respiration rates were highest when exogenous lactate was the only substrate in the incubation medium. The mean pH values for gel-free stallion semen at the start of controlled aerobic and anaerobic incubation were 7.08 and 7.34. Lactic acid accummulation for 1 hour increased from 0.05 mg to 0.09 mg/10(9) sperm when uterine tubal fluid was added to the incubation medium. Washed spermatozoa incubated in 0.03 M glucose plus uterine tubal fluid utilized less glucose than did sperm incubated in the glucose medium. These results, along with the increased oxygen utilization (ZO2) values produced by adding uterine tubal fluid to the incubation mediums, might indicate utilization of a uterine tubal substrate. Added uterine tubal fluid resulted in increased ZO2 values (expressed in mul of O2 utilized by 10(8) sperm in 1 hour at 37 C) for whole semen from 10.45 to 12.63. Washed spermatozoa also respired at a significantly greater rate than whole sperm. Respiration rates were greater for sperm incubated with 0.01 M lactic acid than for any other substrate or experiment.

Determination of trace amounts of chemical warfare agent degradation products in decontamination solutions with NMR spectroscopy.

PubMed

Koskela, Harri; Rapinoja, Marja-Leena; Kuitunen, Marja-Leena; Vanninen, Paula

2007-12-01

Decontamination solutions are used for an efficient detoxification of chemical warfare agents (CWAs). As these solutions can be composed of strong alkaline chemicals with hydrolyzing and oxidizing properties, the analysis of CWA degradation products in trace levels from these solutions imposes a challenge for any analytical technique. Here, we present results of application of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy for analysis of trace amounts of CWA degradation products in several untreated decontamination solutions. Degradation products of the nerve agents sarin, soman, and VX were selectively monitored with substantially reduced interference of background signals by 1D 1H-31P heteronuclear single quantum coherence (HSQC) spectrometry. The detection limit of the chemicals was at the low part-per-million level (2-10 microg/mL) in all studied solutions. In addition, the concentration of the degradation products was obtained with sufficient confidence with external standards.

Study on the optimal moisture adding rate of brown rice during germination by using segmented moisture conditioning method.

PubMed

Cao, Yinping; Jia, Fuguo; Han, Yanlong; Liu, Yang; Zhang, Qiang

2015-10-01

The aim of this study was to find out the optimal moisture adding rate of brown rice during the process of germination. The process of water addition in brown rice could be divided into three stages according to different water absorption speeds in soaking process. Water was added with three different speeds in three stages to get the optimal water adding rate in the whole process of germination. Thus, the technology of segmented moisture conditioning which is a method of adding water gradually was put forward. Germinated brown rice was produced by using segmented moisture conditioning method to reduce the loss of water-soluble nutrients and was beneficial to the accumulation of gamma aminobutyric acid. The effects of once moisture adding amount in three stages on the gamma aminobutyric acid content in germinated brown rice and germination rate of brown rice were investigated by using response surface methodology. The optimum process parameters were obtained as follows: once moisture adding amount of stage I with 1.06 %/h, once moisture adding amount of stage II with 1.42 %/h and once moisture adding amount of stage III with 1.31 %/h. The germination rate under the optimum parameters was 91.33 %, which was 7.45 % higher than that of germinated brown rice produced by soaking method (84.97 %). The content of gamma aminobutyric acid in germinated brown rice under the optimum parameters was 29.03 mg/100 g, which was more than two times higher than that of germinated brown rice produced by soaking method (12.81 mg/100 g). The technology of segmented moisture conditioning has potential applications for studying many other cereals.

Effects of alkylresorcinols on volume and structure of yeast-leavened bread.

PubMed

Andersson, Annica Am; Landberg, Rikard; Söderman, Thomas; Hedkvist, Sofie; Katina, Kati; Juvonen, Riikka; Holopainen, Ulla; Lehtinen, Pekka; Aman, Per

2011-01-30

Alkylresorcinols (AR) are amphiphilic phenolic compounds found in high amounts in wheat, durum wheat and rye, with different homologue composition for each cereal. The effect of different amounts of added AR from these cereals on bread volume, height, porosity and microstructure was studied. Breads with added rye bran (with high levels of AR) or acetone-extracted rye bran (with low levels of AR) were also baked, as well as breads with finely milled forms of each of these brans. Breads with high amounts of added AR, irrespective of AR homologue composition, had a lower volume, a more compact structure and an adverse microstructure compared with breads with no or low levels of added AR. AR were also shown to inhibit the activity of baker's yeast. There was no difference in bread volume and porosity between bread baked with rye bran and acetone-extracted rye bran or with brans of different particle size. Irrespective of homologue composition, AR had a negative effect on wheat bread properties when added in high amounts as purified extracts from wheat, durum wheat and rye. Natural levels of AR in rye bran, however, did not affect the volume and porosity of yeast-leavened wheat breads. 2010 Society of Chemical Industry.

Trace elements content in the selected medicinal plants traditionally used for curing skin diseases by the natives of Mizoram, India.

PubMed

Rajan, Jay Prakash; Singh, Kshetrimayum Birla; Kumar, Sanjiv; Mishra, Raj Kumar

2014-09-01

To determine the trace elements content in the selected medicinal plants, namely, Eryngium foetidum L., Mimosa pudica L., Polygonum plebeium, and Prunus cerasoides D. Don traditionally used by the natives of the Mizoram, one of the north eastern states in India as their folklore medicines for curing skin diseases like eczema, leg and fingers infection, swelling and wound. A 3 MeV proton beam of proton induced X-ray emission technique, one of the most powerful techniques for its quick multi elemental trace analysis capability and high sensitivity was used to detect and characterized for trace elements. The studies revealed that six trace elements, namely, Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, V, and Co detected in mg/L unit were present in varying concentrations in the selected medicinal plants with high and notable concentration of Fe, Zn, Mn and appreciable amount of the Cu, Co and V in all the plants. The results of the present study support the therapeutic usage of these medicinal plants in the traditional practices for curing skin diseases since they are found to contain appreciable amount of the Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, V and Co. Copyright © 2014 Hainan Medical College. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Patients' willingness-to-pay for an Alzheimer's disease medication in Canada.

PubMed

Oremus, Mark; Tarride, Jean-Eric; Pullenayegum, Eleanor; Clayton, Natasha; Raina, Parminder

2013-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder highlighted by progressive declines in cognition and function. The aim of this article is to assess whether persons with AD would support out-of-pocket payment for an AD medication; to elicit the monthly dollar amounts they would pay. We recruited persons with mild or moderate AD (n = 216) from nine clinics across Canada. During one-on-one interviews, we presented our sample with four scenarios describing a medication that either treated disease symptoms or modified the course of AD; each version of the medication was alternatively presented as having a 0 % or 30 % chance of adverse effects. For each scenario, participants indicated whether they would support paying out-of-pocket for the medication (yes/no). Affirmative responses were followed with questions asking participants whether they would pay $75, $150, or $225 (Canadian dollars) per month. Levels of support ('yes' responses) ranged from 57 % to 83 % and mean willingness-to-pay ranged from $98 to $137, depending on scenario. Participants were more likely to provide affirmative responses and higher willingness-to-pay amounts when the medication modified disease or had a 0 % chance of adverse effects. Age was inversely associated with support in three scenarios and willingness-to-pay amounts in all four scenarios. Positive associations between post-secondary education and willingness-to-pay amounts were found in three scenarios. Persons with mild or moderate AD were often willing to pay out-of-pocket for AD medications. However, the mean maximum willingness-to-pay ($137) for the optimal medication scenario was lower than the average monthly cost of existing AD medications.

Diet reconstruction in the Roman era.

PubMed

Smrcka, V; Jambor, J; Gladykowska-Rzeczycka, J; Marczik, A

2000-01-01

The samples from the proximal femora were taken from 12 cementeries from the Roman period. The skeletons date from the 1st-4th centuries A.D. Trace element analysis was used in order to reconstruct the basic diet. The sites that best corresponded to the model of Old Germanic diet described by ancient authors "meat, milk and cheese" were found in the Pruszcz Gdanski East Pomerania region close to the Baltic sea as well as in region Halle (Niemberg) and not far from Donau (Sládkovicovo). This diet is characterized by a large amount of protein and consequently of zinc. In the original Old Germanic region in a time period of more than 1000 years (from 400 B.C. to 700 A.D.) there is the same type of trace elements sources for bones and also the same type of the diet. This possibly distinguishes Germanic soldiers (aboriginal) from others groups in Roman legionary camps. It seems that the Donau River is very important for predicting the type of diet in the Roman period. North of the river animal component prevails south of the river vegetal component prevails. The rich agricultural land along the Donau River and in the Pannonian plains affects social arrangement as well as the structure of bones in Germans and Sarmats in the 2nd-4th centuries. Lead became a civilization element. It appeared in the diet of the Greek and Romans. Contamination varied with different social classes. We have found higher lead concentration in the femurs of the Germans than in those of the Sarmatians. The highest concentration we found was in Pannonian towns (Gorsium, Sopianae) and legionary camps (Straubing, Gerulata). In reference to age, the maxima of the highest lead concentrations in Gerulata II are between 11 and 13 years of age and between 40 and 50 years.

Trends in added sugars from packaged beverages available and purchased by US households, 2007-2012.

PubMed

Ng, Shu Wen; Ostrowski, Jessica D; Li, Kuo-Ping

2017-07-01

Background: The US Food and Drug Administration's updated nutrition labeling requirements will include added sugars starting in July 2018, but no measure currently exists to identify the added sugar content of products and what it represents among purchases. Beverages are one of the first targets for reducing added sugar consumption, and hence are the focus here. Objective: Our goal was to estimate trends in added sugars in nonalcoholic packaged beverage products available in the United States and to estimate amounts of added sugars obtained from these beverages given the purchases of US households overall and by subpopulations. Design: On the basis of nutrition label data from multiple sources, we used a stepwise approach to derive the added sugar content of 160,713 beverage products recorded as purchased by US households in 2007-2012 (345,193 observations from 110,539 unique households). We estimated the amounts of added sugars obtained from packaged beverages US households reported buying in 2007-2008, 2009-2010, and 2011-2012, overall and by subpopulations based on household composition, race/ethnicity, and income. The key outcomes are added sugars in terms of per capita grams per day and the percentage of calories from packaged beverages. Results: Packaged beverages alone account for per capita consumption of 12 g/d of added sugars purchased by US households in 2007-2012, representing 32-48% of calories from packaged beverages. Whereas the absolute amount of added sugars from beverages has not changed meaningfully over time, the relative contribution of added sugars to calories from beverages has increased. Non-Hispanic black households and low-income households obtain both higher absolute and relative amounts of added sugars from beverages than non-Hispanic white households and high-income households (all P < 0.01). Conclusions: These results provide measures of added sugars from packaged beverages at both the product level and the population level in the United States and can be used for comparisons after the revised nutrition labels are implemented and for future monitoring. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

Constraints on Subduction Zone Temperatures and Chemical Fluxes from Accessory Phase Saturation in Subducted Sediments (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blundy, J.; Skora, S.

2009-12-01

A global correlation between the incompatible trace element chemistry of subducted sediments and that of magmas erupted through the overlying plate testifies to the important role that sediments play in controlling magmagenesis. We report new experimental data on the high pressure (3 GPa) and temperature (700-1300 °C) phase relations of hydrous red clay to evaluate the role of residual accessory phases in controlling the incompatible trace element chemistry of sediment-derived fluids. A particular focus is monazite, which preferentially incorporates LREE and Th, exerting a powerful control on the fluid Th/LREE ratio. Given that arc magmas appear to inherit the Th/LREE ratio of the associated subducting sediment, understanding monazite solubility and stability has the potential to provide new constraints on temperature at the slab surface, a parameter that is notoriously hard to pin down by other means. Experiments on red clay with H2O structurally bound in hydrous minerals (<2 wt%) produced negligible melt fractions for any reasonable temperatures. Experiments with 7-15 wt% added H2O produced copious melting at temperatures only 50-100°C above the solidus (c. 720 °C), e.g. with 15 wt% added H2O, the red clay is >50% molten at 800 °C. Irrespective of the amount of added H2O the residual assemblage comprised garnet and kyanite up to the liquidus (1250 °C with 7 wt% H2O). Phengite is present ≤800 °C; ilmenite and rutile persist to c. 1000 °C; quartz/coesite-out temperature decreases from 1000 °C with 7 wt% H2O to 800 °C with 15%. Monazite was stable to 950 °C in the Th- and LREE-doped starting materials that we used. The trace element contents of the residual melts in equilibrium with monazite-thorite solid solutions were used, in conjunction with published data, to develop a thermodynamic model of LREE and Th solubility in sediment-derived fluids. These models were used to calculate the stability of monazite in a red clay with natural LREE and Th levels. For the case of 7 wt% added H2O, monazite is exhausted at 825 °C; it disappears at 780 °C with 15 wt% added H2O. In our experiments monazite fractionates LREE from Th, such that fluids preserving the original sedimentary ratio must be generated at or above monazite-out temperatures in subducted slabs where red clay is the dominant sedimentary lithology. We propose that the subducted sedimentary signature is imparted by fluxing of H2O derived from hydrated (e.g. serpentinised) portions of the deeper subducting slab, triggering copious “flash melting” of the sediment at the point were its temperature exceeds ~800 °C. Without the addition of H2O sediment melting is too restricted to allow any appreciable fluid release into the overlying mantle. Moreover, under such conditions the Th/LREE ratio is strongly fractionated due to the abundance of residual monazite. The availability of H2O in hydrated portions of subducted slabs, e.g. in the vicinity of fracture zones, may exercise an important control on the spatial distribution of subduction zone magmatism.

Privacy Vulnerability of Published Anonymous Mobility Traces

DOE PAGES

Ma, Chris Y. T.; Yau, David K. Y.; Yip, Nung Kwan; ...

2013-06-01

Mobility traces of people and vehicles have been collected and published to assist the design and evaluation of mobile networks, such as large-scale urban sensing networks. Although the published traces are often made anonymous in that the true identities of nodes are replaced by random identifiers, the privacy concern remains. This is because in real life, nodes are open to observations in public spaces, or they may voluntarily or inadvertently disclose partial knowledge of their whereabouts. Thus, snapshots of nodes’ location information can be learned by interested third parties, e.g., directly through chance/engineered meetings between the nodes and their observers,more » or indirectly through casual conversations or other information sources about people. In this paper, we investigate how an adversary, when equipped with a small amount of the snapshot information termed as side information, can infer an extended view of the whereabouts of a victim node appearing in an anonymous trace. Our results quantify the loss of victim nodes’ privacy as a function of the nodal mobility, the inference strategies of adversaries, and any noise that may appear in the trace or the side information. Generally, our results indicate that the privacy concern is significant in that a relatively small amount of side information is sufficient for the adversary to infer the true identity (either uniquely or with high probability) of a victim in a set of anonymous traces. For instance, an adversary is able to identify the trace of 30%-50% of the victims when she has collected 10 pieces of side information about a victim.« less

Trace elements in hazardous mineral fibres.

PubMed

Bloise, Andrea; Barca, Donatella; Gualtieri, Alessandro Francesco; Pollastri, Simone; Belluso, Elena

2016-09-01

Both occupational and environmental exposure to asbestos-mineral fibres can be associated with lung diseases. The pathogenic effects are related to the dimension, biopersistence and chemical composition of the fibres. In addition to the major mineral elements, mineral fibres contain trace elements and their content may play a role in fibre toxicity. To shed light on the role of trace elements in asbestos carcinogenesis, knowledge on their concentration in asbestos-mineral fibres is mandatory. It is possible that trace elements play a synergetic factor in the pathogenesis of diseases caused by the inhalation of mineral fibres. In this paper, the concentration levels of trace elements from three chrysotile samples, four amphibole asbestos samples (UICC amosite, UICC anthophyllite, UICC crocidolite and tremolite) and fibrous erionite from Jersey, Nevada (USA) were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). For all samples, the following trace elements were measured: Li, Be, Sc, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Rb, Sr, Y, Sb, Cs, Ba, La, Pb, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, Th, U. Their distribution in the various mineral species is thoroughly discussed. The obtained results indicate that the amount of trace metals such as Mn, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn is higher in anthophyllite and chrysotile samples, whereas the amount of rare earth elements (REE) is higher in erionite and tremolite samples. The results of this work can be useful to the pathologists and biochemists who use asbestos minerals and fibrous erionite in-vitro studies as positive cyto- and geno-toxic standard references. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contrasting Patterns of Cortical Input to Architectural Subdivisions of the Area 8 Complex: A Retrograde Tracing Study in Marmoset Monkeys

PubMed Central

Reser, David H.; Burman, Kathleen J.; Yu, Hsin-Hao; Chaplin, Tristan A.; Richardson, Karyn E.; Worthy, Katrina H.; Rosa, Marcello G.P.

2013-01-01

Contemporary studies recognize 3 distinct cytoarchitectural and functional areas within the Brodmann area 8 complex, in the caudal prefrontal cortex: 8b, 8aD, and 8aV. Here, we report on the quantitative characteristics of the cortical projections to these areas, using injections of fluorescent tracers in marmoset monkeys. Area 8b was distinct from both 8aD and 8aV due to its connections with medial prefrontal, anterior cingulate, superior temporal polysensory, and ventral midline/retrosplenial areas. In contrast, areas 8aD and 8aV received the bulk of the projections from posterior parietal cortex and dorsal midline areas. In the frontal lobe, area 8aV received projections primarily from ventrolateral areas, while both 8aD and 8b received dense inputs from areas on the dorsolateral surface. Whereas area 8aD received the most significant auditory projections, these were relatively sparse, in comparison with those previously reported in macaques. Finally, area 8aV was distinct from both 8aD and 8b by virtue of its widespread input from the extrastriate visual areas. These results are compatible with a homologous organization of the prefrontal cortex in New and Old World monkeys, and suggest significant parallels between the present pathways, revealed by tract-tracing, and networks revealed by functional connectivity analysis in Old World monkeys and humans. PMID:22735155

The benefit of using chemical analysis in understanding archaeological glass. Case-study: Roman black glass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cosyns, P.; Cagno, S.; Janssens, K.; Nys, K.

LA-ICP-MS is a well acquainted technique for the quantification of a wide range of minor and trace elements present in the glass matrix. The benefit to understand the changes in technological processes or the added value in assessing the provenance and chronology of the raw glass material is however rarely discussed. By selecting a set of 197 Roman black glass artifacts dating between the 1st and 5th century AD we aimed to contribute to this issue. The obtained data on the production of glass artifacts helps better understand the constantly evolving patterns in glass consumption throughout the Roman imperial period. The key trace elements linked with the sand generally show the use of Levantine and Egyptian raw glass to produce black glass artifacts and result in well defined clusters. These indications are evidence for the use of different raw glasses in the Roman Empire and therefore featuring the work of diverse workshops over time. Specific trace elements such as copper, cobalt and lead reflect the application of recycling glass in Roman times.

Late Carboniferous paleoichnology reveals the oldest full-body impression of a flying insect.

PubMed

Knecht, Richard J; Engel, Michael S; Benner, Jacob S

2011-04-19

Insects were the first animals to evolve powered flight and did so perhaps 90 million years before the first flight among vertebrates. However, the earliest fossil record of flying insect lineages (Pterygota) is poor, with scant indirect evidence from the Devonian and a nearly complete dearth of material from the Early Carboniferous. By the Late Carboniferous a diversity of flying lineages is known, mostly from isolated wings but without true insights into the paleoethology of these taxa. Here, we report evidence of a full-body impression of a flying insect from the Late Carboniferous Wamsutta Formation of Massachusetts, representing the oldest trace fossil of Pterygota. Through ethological and morphological analysis, the trace fossil provides evidence that its maker was a flying insect and probably was representative of a stem-group lineage of mayflies. The nature of this current full-body impression somewhat blurs distinctions between the systematics of traces and trace makers, thus adding to the debate surrounding ichnotaxonomy for traces with well-associated trace makers.

Long-term anaerobic digestion of food waste stabilized by trace elements.

PubMed

Zhang, Lei; Jahng, Deokjin

2012-08-01

The purpose of this study was to examine if long-term anaerobic digestion of food waste in a semi-continuous single-stage reactor could be stabilized by supplementing trace elements. Contrary to the failure of anaerobic digestion of food waste alone, stable anaerobic digestion of food waste was achieved for 368 days by supplementing trace elements. Under the conditions of OLR (organic loading rates) of 2.19-6.64 g VS (volatile solid)/L day and 20-30 days of HRT (hydraulic retention time), a high methane yield (352-450 mL CH(4)/g VS(added)) was obtained, and no significant accumulation of volatile fatty acids was observed. The subsequent investigation on effects of individual trace elements (Co, Fe, Mo and Ni) showed that iron was essential for maintaining stable methane production. These results proved that the food waste used in this study was deficient in trace elements. Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

27 CFR 4.10 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... part. Act. The Federal Alcohol Administration Act. Added brandy. Brandy or wine spirits for use in... water. Restored pure condensed must. Pure condensed must to which has been added an amount of water not exceeding the amount removed in the dehydration process. Sugar. Pure cane, beet, or dextrose sugar in dry...

27 CFR 4.10 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... part. Act. The Federal Alcohol Administration Act. Added brandy. Brandy or wine spirits for use in... water. Restored pure condensed must. Pure condensed must to which has been added an amount of water not exceeding the amount removed in the dehydration process. Sugar. Pure cane, beet, or dextrose sugar in dry...

27 CFR 4.10 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... part. Act. The Federal Alcohol Administration Act. Added brandy. Brandy or wine spirits for use in... water. Restored pure condensed must. Pure condensed must to which has been added an amount of water not exceeding the amount removed in the dehydration process. Sugar. Pure cane, beet, or dextrose sugar in dry...

27 CFR 4.10 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... part. Act. The Federal Alcohol Administration Act. Added brandy. Brandy or wine spirits for use in... water. Restored pure condensed must. Pure condensed must to which has been added an amount of water not exceeding the amount removed in the dehydration process. Sugar. Pure cane, beet, or dextrose sugar in dry...

Convective-diffusion-based fluorescence correlation spectroscopy for detection of a trace amount of E. coli in water.

PubMed

Qing, De-Kui; Mengüç, M Pinar; Payne, Fred A; Danao, Mary-Grace C

2003-06-01

Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) is adapted for a new procedure to detect trace amounts of Escherichia coli in water. The present concept is based on convective diffusion rather than Brownian diffusion and employs confocal microscopy as in traditional FCS. With this system it is possible to detect concentrations as small as 1.5 x 10(5) E. coli per milliliter (2.5 x 10(-16) M). This concentration corresponds to an approximately 1.0-nM level of Rhodamine 6G dyes. A detailed analysis of the optical system is presented, and further improvements for the procedure are discussed.

Analysis of volatile organic compounds. [trace amounts of organic volatiles in gas samples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zlatkis, A. (Inventor)

1977-01-01

An apparatus and method are described for reproducibly analyzing trace amounts of a large number of organic volatiles existing in a gas sample. Direct injection of the trapped volatiles into a cryogenic percolum provides a sharply defined plug. Applications of the method include: (1) analyzing the headspace gas of body fluids and comparing a profile of the organic volatiles with standard profiles for the detection and monitoring of disease; (2) analyzing the headspace gas of foods and beverages and comparing the profile with standard profiles to monitor and control flavor and aroma; and (3) analyses for determining the organic pollutants in air or water samples.

Cause and Effects of Fluorocarbon Degradation in Electronics and Opto-Electronic Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Predmore, Roamer E.; Canham, John S.

2002-01-01

Trace degradation of fluorocarbon or halocarbon materials must be addressed in their application in sensitive systems. As the dimensions and/or tolerances of components in a system decrease, the sensitivity of the system to trace fluorocarbon or halocarbon degradation products increases. Trace quantities of highly reactive degradation products from fluorocarbons have caused a number of failures of flight hardware. It is of utmost importance that the risk of system failure, resulting from trace amounts of reactive fluorocarbon degradation products be addressed in designs containing fluorocarbon or halocarbon materials. Thermal, electrical, and mechanical energy input into the system can multiply the risk of failure.

Selective and sensitized spectrophotometric determination of trace amounts of Ni(II) ion using α-benzyl dioxime in surfactant media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghaedi, Mehrorang

2007-02-01

Highly sensitive and interference-free sensitized spectrophotometric method for the determination of Ni(II) ions is described. The method is based on the reaction between Ni(II) ion and benzyl dioxime in micellar media in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). The absorbance is linear from 0.1 up to 25.0 μg mL -1 in aqueous solution with repeatability (RSD) of 1.0% at a concentration of 1 μg mL -1 and a detection limit of 0.12 ng mL -1 and molar absorption coefficient of 68,600 L mol -1 cm -1. The influence of reaction variables including type and amount of surfactant, pH, and amount of ligand and complexation time and the effect of interfering ions are investigated. The proposed procedure was applied to the determination of trace amounts of Ni(II) ion in tap water, river water, chocolate and vegetable without separation or organic solvent extraction.

Oily Sludge Biodetoxification

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-05-01

by adding Accelerator II from Novozyme 2.0E+03 3.0E+03 4.0E+03 5.0E+03 Jan-07 Mar-07 Apr-07 Jun-07 Aug-07 Sep-07 Nov-07 Jan-08 Month G a ll o n s P... Novozyme Accelerator V which provides trace nutrients should be added to the SBR when the total volume of wastewater that has been treated and

Does Time-on-Task Estimation Matter? Implications for the Validity of Learning Analytics Findings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kovanovic, Vitomir; Gaševic, Dragan; Dawson, Shane; Joksimovic, Srecko; Baker, Ryan S.; Hatala, Marek

2015-01-01

With\twidespread adoption of Learning Management Systems (LMS) and other learning technology, large amounts of data--commonly known as trace data--are readily accessible to researchers. Trace data has been extensively used to calculate time that students spend on different learning activities--typically referred to as time-on-task. These measures…

The Origin of Life in a Terrestrial Hydrothermal Pool? The Importance of a Catalytic Surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sydow, L. A.; Bennett, P.

2013-12-01

A premise of one chemoautotrophic theory for the origin of life is that a recurring reaction catalyzed on the charged surfaces of pyrite served as the first metabolism and was later enveloped by a primitive cellular membrane. This proposed 'surface metabolism' is analogous to the reductive acetyl-CoA pathway (Wächtershäuser 1988) and requires the abiotic formation of methanethiol (CH3SH), the simplest of the alkyl thiols, which would serve the role of coenzyme-A in the surface metabolism. Abiogenic CH3SH has not previously been identified in terrestrial hot springs, but it has been produced in the laboratory under hydrothermal conditions in the presence of a catalyst, usually FeS. Its formation would occur via the following reactions, with reaction 2 requiring catalysis: CO2 + 2H2S --> CS2 + 2H2O (1) CS2 + 3H2 --> CH3SH + H2S (2) We have identified CH3SH in Cinder Pool, an acid-sulfate-chloride hot spring in Yellowstone National Park. This spring is unusual in that it contains a subaqueous molten sulfur layer (~18 m depth) and thousands of iron-sulfur-spherules floating on the surface, which are created by gas bubbling through the molten floor of the spring. Analysis with EDS has shown that cinder material, largely composed of elemental sulfur, also contains trace iron sulfide minerals, meaning it could serve as a reactive and catalytic surface for abiogenic CH3SH formation in Cinder Pool. Furthermore, the cinders themselves are highly porous, and these void spaces could trap necessary reactants near the catalytic surface. Gas samples were collected from Cinder pool in fall of 2011 using the bubble strip method. One sample contained measurable quantities of CH3SH, and all samples contained related reactant sulfur gases such as large amounts of H2S, and smaller amounts of CS2 and dimethyl disulfide. Laboratory microcosm experiments were conducted to replicate these findings in a sterile environment to ensure CH3SH generation was abiotic. Analog Cinder Pool water and either FeS, FeS2, or cinders collected from the pool itself were incubated with H2, CO2, and CS2 as reaction gases for over a week at pool temperatures. An experiment was also conducted without CS2 to see if the solid materials could act as the sole source of sulfur. All of the experimental solids were capable of catalyzing CH3SH production when CS2 was added. Without added CS2, however, only cinders produced CH3SH, while FeS and FeS2 bottles could only make small amounts of H2S. Presumably, the large amount of elemental sulfur in the cinders creates enough H2S for the subsequent generation of CS2 then CH3SH, which is catalyzed by the trace iron-sulfide they also contain. Cinders act as an excellent reaction surface for CH3SH generation, and a similar material may have played a significant part in the advent of life on earth.

Determination of 4-nonylphenol and 4-octylphenol in human blood samples by high-performance liquid chromatography with multi-electrode electrochemical coulometric-array detection.

PubMed

Inoue, K; Yoshimura, Y; Makino, T; Nakazawa, H

2000-11-01

Alkylphenols can affect human health because they disrupt the endocrine system. In this study, an analytical method for determining trace amounts of 4-nonylphenol (NP) and 4-octylphenol (OP) in human blood samples was developed. Reversed-phase HPLC with multi-electrode electrochemical coulometric-array detection was used for the determination of NP and OP in plasma and serum samples prepared with a solid-phase extraction method. The separation was achieved using an isocratic mobile phase of 0.7% phosphoric acid-acetonitrile with a C18 reversed phase column. The detection limits of NP and OP were 1.0 and 0.5 ng ml-1, respectively. The recoveries of NP and OP added to human plasma samples were above 70.0% with a relative standard deviation of less than 15.5%. The method was found to be applicable to the determination of NP and OP in various human blood samples such as serum and plasma.

Effects of microbial processes on gas generation under expected WIPP repository conditions: Annual report through 1992

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Francis, A.J.; Gillow, J.B.

1993-09-01

Microbial processes involved in gas generation from degradation of the organic constituents of transuranic waste under conditions expected at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) repository are being investigated at Brookhaven National Laboratory. These laboratory studies are part of the Sandia National Laboratories -- WIPP Gas Generation Program. Gas generation due to microbial degradation of representative cellulosic waste was investigated in short-term (< 6 months) and long-term (> 6 months) experiments by incubating representative paper (filter paper, paper towels, and tissue) in WIPP brine under initially aerobic (air) and anaerobic (nitrogen) conditions. Samples from the WIPP surficial environment and undergroundmore » workings harbor gas-producing halophilic microorganisms, the activities of which were studied in short-term experiments. The microorganisms metabolized a variety of organic compounds including cellulose under aerobic, anaerobic, and denitrifying conditions. In long-term experiments, the effects of added nutrients (trace amounts of ammonium nitrate, phosphate, and yeast extract), no nutrients, and nutrients plus excess nitrate on gas production from cellulose degradation.« less

Concentration method for the spectrochemical determination of seventeen minor elements in natural water

USGS Publications Warehouse

Silvey, W.D.; Brennan, R.

1962-01-01

A method for the quantitative spectrochemical determination of microgram amounts of 17 minor elements in water is given. The chelating reagents 8-quinolinol, tannic acid, and thionalide are utilized to concentrate traces (1 to 500 ??g.) of aluminum, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, gallium, germanium, manganese, nickel, titanium, vanadium, bismuth, lead, molybdenum, cadmium, zinc, and beryllium. Indium is added as a buffer, and palladium is used as an internal standard. The ashed oxides of these 17 metals are subsequently subjected to direct current arcing conditions during spectrum analysis. The method can be used to analyze waters with dissolved solids ranging from less than 100 to more than 100,000 p.p.m. There is no limiting concentration range for the determination of the heavy metals since any volume of sample can be used that will contain a heavy metal concentration within the analytical range of the method. Both the chemical and spectrographic procedures are described, and precision and accuracy data are given.

Suppressing Crack Formation in Particulate Systems by Utilizing Capillary Forces

PubMed Central

Schneider, Monica; Maurath, Johannes; Fischer, Steffen B.; Weiß, Moritz; Willenbacher, Norbert; Koos, Erin

2017-01-01

Cracks, formed during the drying of particulate films, can reduce the effectiveness or even render products useless. We present a novel, generic approach to suppress crack formation in thin films made from hard particle suspensions, which are otherwise highly susceptible to cracking, using the capillary force between particles present when a trace amount of an immiscible liquid is added to a suspension. This secondary liquid preserves the particle cohesion, modifying the structure and increasing the drying rate. Crack-free films can be produced at thicknesses much greater than the critical cracking thickness for a suspension without capillary interactions, and even persists after sintering. This capillary suspension strategy is applicable to a broad range of materials including suspensions of metals, semiconductive and ceramic oxides or glassy polymeric particles and can be easily implemented in many industrial processes since it is based on well-established unit operations. Promising fields of application include ceramic foils and printed electronic devices. PMID:28263554

Simple procedures for enrichment of chlorinated aromatic pollutants from fat, water and milk for subsequent analysis by high-resolution methods

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Egestad, B.; Curstedt, T.; Sjoevall, J.

1982-01-01

Procedures for enrichment of non-volatile chlorinated aromatic pollutants from fat, water and milk are described. /sup 14/C-DDT was used as a model compound in recovery experiments. A several thousand-fold enrichment of DDT added to butter was achieved by two consecutive straight-phase chromatographies on Lipidex 5000. Trace amounts of DDT in liter volumes of water could be quantitatively extracted by rapid filtration through 2 ml beds of Lipidex 1000. A batch extraction procedure permitted enrichment of DDT from milk after addition of n-pentylamine, methanol and water. DDT could then be eluted from the gel with retention of more than 90% ofmore » the lipids. A reversed-phase system with Lipidex 5000 could be used for separation of TCDD from DDT and PCBs. The liquid-gel chromatographic procedures are simple and suitable for clean-up of samples prior to application of high-resolution methods. 5 tables.« less

Application of SERS spectroscopy for detection of trace components in urinary deposits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pucetaite, Milda; Velicka, Martynas; Tamosaityte, Sandra; Sablinskas, Valdas

2014-03-01

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy can be a useful tool in regard to disease diagnosis and prevention. Advantage of SERS over conventional Raman spectroscopy is its significantly increased signal (up to factor of 106-108) which allows detection of trace amounts of substances in the sample. So far, this technique is successfully used for analysis of food, pieces of art and various biochemical/biomedical samples. In this work, we survey the possibility of applying SERS spectroscopy for detection of trace components in urinary deposits. Early discovery together with the identification of the exact chemical composition of urinary sediments could be crucial for taking appropriate preventive measures that inhibit kidney stone formation or growth processes. In this initial study, SERS spectra (excitation wavelength - 1064 nm) of main components of urinary deposits (calcium oxalate, uric acid, cystine, etc.) were recorded by using silver (Ag) colloid. Spectra of 10-3-10-5 M solutions were obtained. While no/small Raman signal was detected without the Ag colloid, characteristic peaks of the substances could be clearly separated in the SERS spectra. This suggests that even small amounts of the components could be detected and taken into account while determining the type of kidney stone forming in the urinary system. We found for the first time that trace amounts of components constituting urinary deposits could be detected by SERS spectroscopy. In the future study, the analysis of centrifuged urine samples will be carried out.

Vitamin B12 level

MedlinePlus

... 21. Mason JB. Vitamins, trace minerals, and other micronutrients. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman's Cecil ... first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D. ...

78 FR 79287 - Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-30

...We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model CL-600-2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701, & 702), CL-600-2D15 (Regional Jet Series 705), and CL-600-2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report that traces of oil could be found in the crew oxygen system due to the use of incorrect pressure testing procedures during manufacturing. This AD requires cleaning the crew oxygen system. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct oil contaminants, which could cause an ignition and result in a fire in the oxygen system.

Evidence of Chemical Cloud Processing from In Situ Measurements in the Polluted Marine Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hudson, J. G.; Noble, S. R., Jr.

2017-12-01

Chemical cloud processing alters activated cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). Aqueous oxidation of trace gases dissolved within cloud droplets adds soluble material. As most cloud droplets evaporate, the residual material produces CCN that are larger and with a different hygroscopicity (κ). This improves the CCN, lowering the critical supersaturation (Sc), making it more easily activated. This process separates the processed (accumulation) and unprocessed (Aitken) modes creating bimodal CCN distributions (Hudson et al., 2015). Various measurements made during the MArine Stratus/stratocumulus Experiment (MASE), including CCN, exhibited aqueous processing signals. Particle size distributions; measured by a differential mobility analyzer; were compared with CCN distributions; measured by the Desert Research Institute CCN spectrometer; by converting size to Sc using κ to overlay concurrent distributions. By tuning each mode to the best agreement, κ for each mode is determined; processed κ (κp), unprocessed κ (κu). In MASE, 59% of bimodal distributions had different κ for the two modes indicating dominance of chemical processing via aqueous oxidation. This is consistent with Hudson et al. (2015). Figure 1A also indicates chemical processing with larger κp between 0.35-0.75. Processed CCN had an influx of soluble material from aqueous oxidation which increased κp versus κu. Above 0.75 κp is lower than κu (Fig. 1A). When κu is high and sulfate material is added, κp tends towards κ of the added material. Thus, κp is reduced by additional material that is less soluble than the original material. Chemistry measurements in MASE also indicate in-cloud aqueous oxidation (Fig. 1B and 1C). Higher fraction of CCN concentrations in the processed mode are also associated with larger amounts of sulfates (Fig. 1B, red) and nitrates (Fig. 1C, orange) while SO2 (Fig. 1B, black) and O3 (Fig. 1C, blue) have lower amounts. This larger amount of sulfate is at the expense of SO2, indicating aqueous oxidation within cloud as associated with larger concentrations in the processed mode. Thus, in situ measurements indicate that chemical cloud processing alters size, Sc and κ of activated CCN. Hudson et al. (2015), JGRA, 120, 3436-3452.

21 CFR 582.80 - Trace minerals added to animal feeds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

.... Manganese phosphate (dibasic). Manganese sulfate. Manganous oxide. Zinc Zinc acetate. Zinc carbonate. Zinc chloride. Zinc oxide. Zinc sulfate. ... Cobalt Cobalt acetate. Cobalt carbonate. Cobalt chloride. Cobalt oxide. Cobalt sulfate. Copper Copper...

21 CFR 582.80 - Trace minerals added to animal feeds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

.... Manganese phosphate (dibasic). Manganese sulfate. Manganous oxide. Zinc Zinc acetate. Zinc carbonate. Zinc chloride. Zinc oxide. Zinc sulfate. ... Cobalt Cobalt acetate. Cobalt carbonate. Cobalt chloride. Cobalt oxide. Cobalt sulfate. Copper Copper...

Parallel program debugging with flowback analysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Choi, Jongdeok.

1989-01-01

This thesis describes the design and implementation of an integrated debugging system for parallel programs running on shared memory multi-processors. The goal of the debugging system is to present to the programmer a graphical view of the dynamic program dependences while keeping the execution-time overhead low. The author first describes the use of flowback analysis to provide information on causal relationship between events in a programs' execution without re-executing the program for debugging. Execution time overhead is kept low by recording only a small amount of trace during a program's execution. He uses semantic analysis and a technique called incrementalmore » tracing to keep the time and space overhead low. As part of the semantic analysis, he uses a static program dependence graph structure that reduces the amount of work done at compile time and takes advantage of the dynamic information produced during execution time. The cornerstone of the incremental tracing concept is to generate a coarse trace during execution and fill incrementally, during the interactive portion of the debugging session, the gap between the information gathered in the coarse trace and the information needed to do the flowback analysis using the coarse trace. Then, he describes how to extend the flowback analysis to parallel programs. The flowback analysis can span process boundaries; i.e., the most recent modification to a shared variable might be traced to a different process than the one that contains the current reference. The static and dynamic program dependence graphs of the individual processes are tied together with synchronization and data dependence information to form complete graphs that represent the entire program.« less

Trace-fiber color discrimination by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry: a tool for the analysis of dyes extracted from submillimeter nylon fibers.

PubMed

Tuinman, Albert A; Lewis, Linda A; Lewis, Samuel A

2003-06-01

The application of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) to trace-fiber color analysis is explored using acidic dyes commonly employed to color nylon-based fibers, as well as extracts from dyed nylon fibers. Qualitative information about constituent dyes and quantitative information about the relative amounts of those dyes present on a single fiber become readily available using this technique. Sample requirements for establishing the color identity of different samples (i.e., comparative trace-fiber analysis) are shown to be submillimeter. Absolute verification of dye mixture identity (beyond the comparison of molecular weights derived from ESI-MS) can be obtained by expanding the technique to include tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS). For dyes of unknown origin, the ESI-MS/MS analyses may offer insights into the chemical structure of the compound-information not available from chromatographic techniques alone. This research demonstrates that ESI-MS is viable as a sensitive technique for distinguishing dye constituents extracted from a minute amount of trace-fiber evidence. A protocol is suggested to establish/refute the proposition that two fibers--one of which is available in minute quantity only--are of the same origin.

Procedures of determining organic trace compounds in municipal sewage sludge-a review.

PubMed

Lindholm-Lehto, Petra C; Ahkola, Heidi S J; Knuutinen, Juha S

2017-02-01

Sewage sludge is the largest by-product generated during the wastewater treatment process. Since large amounts of sludge are being produced, different ways of disposal have been introduced. One tempting option is to use it as fertilizer in agricultural fields due to its high contents of inorganic nutrients. This, however, can be limited by the amount of trace contaminants in the sewage sludge, containing a variety of microbiological pollutants and pathogens but also inorganic and organic contaminants. The bioavailability and the effects of trace contaminants on the microorganisms of soil are still largely unknown as well as their mixture effects. Therefore, there is a need to analyze the sludge to test its suitability before further use. In this article, a variety of sampling, pretreatment, extraction, and analysis methods have been reviewed. Additionally, different organic trace compounds often found in the sewage sludge and their methods of analysis have been compiled. In addition to traditional Soxhlet extraction, the most common extraction methods of organic contaminants in sludge include ultrasonic extraction (USE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) followed by instrumental analysis based on gas or liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry.

Spectrophotometric determination of boric acid in boron powder with curcumin

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Grotheer, E.W.

1979-12-01

A rapid and accurate method was needed to determine trace amounts of boric acid for quality control and specification testing of elemental boron. The reaction between boric acid and curcumin occurs at a measurable rate only when the curcumin molecule is protonated. Protonation takes place at the carbonyl groups in the presence of a strong acid and occurs completely and rapidly when sulfuric acid is added to a solution of curcumin in acetic acid. Spectrophotometric measurements were made. The extraction of boric acid from boron powder was found to be complete within 2h when either water or the diol solutionmore » was used. Whatman No. 40 cr 42 filter paper was used to obtain diol samples free of boron particles. The extraction efficiency of 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol was evaluated by adding 1 ml of 500 ppM aqueous boric acid and 1 drop of 10% NaOH to accurately weighed samples of boron powder. The water then was evaporated at room temperature and the samples were extracted with diol solution. The data obtained are included. The extraction efficiency also was evaluated by determining the boric acid content of boron which had been recovered from a previous extraction and boric acid determination. The determination of boric acid using curcumin is unaffected by the presence of other compounds, except for fluoride and nitrate ions. 2 tables. (DP)« less

Absence of fractionation of mercury isotopes during trophic transfer of methylmercury to freshwater fish in captivity

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kwon, Sae Yun; Blum, Joel D.; Carvan, Michael J.; Basu, Niladri; Head, Jessica A.; Madenjian, Charles P.; David, Solomon R.

2012-01-01

We performed two controlled experiments to determine the amount of mass-dependent and mass-independent fractionation (MDF and MIF) of methylmercury (MeHg) during trophic transfer into fish. In experiment 1, juvenile yellow perch (Perca flavescens) were raised in captivity on commercial food pellets and then their diet was either maintained on unamended food pellets (0.1 μg/g MeHg) or was switched to food pellets with 1.0 μg/g or 4.0 μg/g of added MeHg, for a period of 2 months. The difference in δ202Hg (MDF) and Δ199Hg (MIF) between fish tissues and food pellets with added MeHg was within the analytical uncertainty (δ202Hg, 0.07 ‰; Δ199Hg, 0.06 ‰), indicating no isotope fractionation. In experiment 2, lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) were raised in captivity on food pellets and then shifted to a diet of bloater (Coregonus hoyi) for 6 months. The δ202Hg and Δ199Hg of the lake trout equaled the isotopic composition of the bloater after 6 months, reflecting reequilibration of the Hg isotopic composition of the fish to new food sources and a lack of isotope fractionation during trophic transfer. We suggest that the stable Hg isotope ratios in fish can be used to trace environmental sources of Hg in aquatic ecosystems.

Real-time PCR as an effective technique to assess the impact of phoresy by Paenibacillus sp. bacteria on Steinernema diaprepesi nematodes in nature.

PubMed

Campos-Herrera, R; El-Borai, F E; Duncan, L W

2012-09-01

Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) is a powerful tool to study species of cryptic organisms in complex food webs. This technique was recently developed to detect and quantify several species of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), which are widely used for biological control of insects, and some natural enemies of EPNs such as nematophagous fungi and the phoretic bacteria Paenibacillus sp. and Paenibacillus nematophilus. A drawback to the use of primers and TaqMan probes designed for Paenibacillus sp. is that the qPCR also amplified Paenibacillus thiaminolyticus and Paenibacillus popilliae, two closely related species that are not phoretically associated with EPNs. Here, we report that the detection of Paenibacillus sp. DNA in nematode samples was two orders of magnitude greater (P < 0.001) when the bacterium was added to soil together with its EPN species-specific host Steinernema diaprepesi than when it was added concomitantly with other EPNs or with species of bacterial-feeding nematodes. Just 6% of samples detected trace amounts of P. thiaminolyticus and P. popilliae exposed to the same experimental conditions. Thus, although the molecular assay detects Paenibacillus spp. DNA in nonphoretic associations, the levels are essentially background compared to the detection of Paenibacillus sp. in association with its nematode host. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Absence of fractionation of mercury isotopes during trophic transfer of methylmercury to freshwater fish in captivity

PubMed Central

Kwon, Sae Yun; Blum, Joel D; Carvan, Michael J; Basu, Niladri; Head, Jessica A; Madenjian, Charles P; David, Solomon R

2015-01-01

We performed two controlled experiments to determine the amount of mass-dependent and mass-independent fractionation (MDF and MIF) of methylmercury (MeHg) during trophic transfer into fish. In Experiment 1, juvenile yellow perch (Perca flavescens) were raised in captivity on commercial food pellets and then their diet was either maintained on un-amended food pellets (0.1 µg/g MeHg), or was switched to food pellets with 1.0 µg/g or 4.0 µg/g of added MeHg, for a period of 2 months. The difference in δ202Hg (MDF) and Δ199Hg (MIF) between fish tissues and food pellets with added MeHg were within the analytical uncertainty (δ202Hg; 0.07 ‰, Δ199Hg; 0.06 ‰) indicating no isotope fractionation. In Experiment 2, lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) were raised in captivity on food pellets, and then shifted to a diet of bloater (Coregonus hoyi) for 6 months. The δ202Hg and Δ199Hg of the lake trout equaled the isotopic composition of the bloater after 6 months, reflecting re-equilibration of the Hg isotopic composition of the fish to new food sources and a lack of isotope fractionation during trophic transfer. We suggest that the stable Hg isotope ratios in fish can be used to trace environmental sources of Hg in aquatic ecosystems. PMID:22681311

Microgravimetric Analysis Method for Activation-Energy Extraction from Trace-Amount Molecule Adsorption.

PubMed

Xu, Pengcheng; Yu, Haitao; Li, Xinxin

2016-05-03

Activation-energy (Ea) value for trace-amount adsorption of gas molecules on material is rapidly and inexpensively obtained, for the first time, from a microgravimetric analysis experiment. With the material loaded, a resonant microcantilever is used to record in real time the adsorption process at two temperatures. The kinetic parameter Ea is thereby extracted by solving the Arrhenius equation. As an example, two CO2 capture nanomaterials are examined by the Ea extracting method for evaluation/optimization and, thereby, demonstrating the applicability of the microgravimetric analysis method. The achievement helps to solve the absence in rapid quantitative characterization of sorption kinetics and opens a new route to investigate molecule adsorption processes and materials.

Reactivation of the chloroplast CF1-ATPase beta subunit by trace amounts of the CF1 alpha subunit suggests a chaperonin-like activity for CF1 alpha.

PubMed

Avni, A; Avital, S; Gromet-Elhanan, Z

1991-04-25

Incubation of tobacco and lettuce thylakoids with 2 M LiCl in the presence of MgATP removes the beta subunit from their CF1-ATPase (CF1 beta) together with varying amounts of the CF1 alpha subunit (CF1 alpha). These 2 M LiCl extracts, as with the one obtained from spinach thylakoids (Avital, S., and Gromet-Elhanan, Z. (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 7067-7072), could form active hybrid ATPases when reconstituted into inactive beta-less Rhodospirillum rubrum chromatophores. Pure CF1 beta fractions that have been isolated from these extracts could not form such active hybrids by themselves, but could do so when supplemented with trace amounts (less than 5%) of CF1 alpha. A mitochondrial F1-ATPase alpha subunit was recently reported to be a heat-shock protein, having two amino acid sequences that show a highly conserved identity with sequences found in molecular chaperones (Luis, A. M., Alconada, A., and Cuezva, J. M. (1990) J. Biol. Chem. 265, 7713-7716). These sequences are also conserved in CF1 alpha isolated from various plants, but not in F1 beta subunits. The above described reactivation of CF1 beta by trace amounts of CF1 alpha could thus be due to a chaperonin-like function of CF1 alpha, which involves the correct, active folding of isolated pure CF1 beta.

Separation of bismuth from gram amounts of thallium and silver by cation-exchange chromatography in nitric acid.

PubMed

Meintjies, E; Strelow, F W; Victor, A H

1987-04-01

Traces and small amounts of bismuth can be separated from gram amounts of thallium and silver by successively eluting these elements with 0.3M and 0.6M nitric acid from a column containing 13 ml (3 g) of AG50W-X4, a cation-exchanger (100-200 mesh particle size) with low cross-linking. Bismuth is retained and can be eluted with 0.2M hydrobromic acid containing 20% v/v acetone, leaving many other trace elements absorbed. Elution of thallium is quite sharp, but silver shows a small amount of tailing (less than 1 gmg/ml silver in the eluate) when gram amounts are present, between 20 and 80 mug of silver appearing in the bismuth fraction. Relevant elution curves and results for the analysis of synthetic mixtures containing between 50 mug and 10 mg of bismuth and up to more than 1 g of thallium and silver are presented, as well as results for bismuth in a sample of thallium metal and in Merck thallium(I) carbonate. As little as 0.01 ppm of bismuth can be determined when the separation is combined with electrothermal atomic-absorption spectrometry.

Method for contour extraction for object representation

DOEpatents

Skourikhine, Alexei N.; Prasad, Lakshman

2005-08-30

Contours are extracted for representing a pixelated object in a background pixel field. An object pixel is located that is the start of a new contour for the object and identifying that pixel as the first pixel of the new contour. A first contour point is then located on the mid-point of a transition edge of the first pixel. A tracing direction from the first contour point is determined for tracing the new contour. Contour points on mid-points of pixel transition edges are sequentially located along the tracing direction until the first contour point is again encountered to complete tracing the new contour. The new contour is then added to a list of extracted contours that represent the object. The contour extraction process associates regions and contours by labeling all the contours belonging to the same object with the same label.

Isotope-Labeled Composition B for Tracing Detonation Signatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manner, Virginia; Podlesak, David; Huber, Rachel; Amato, Ronald; Giambra, Anna; Bowden, Patrick; Hartline, Ernest; Dattelbaum, Dana

2017-06-01

To better understand how solid carbon forms and evolves during detonation, we have prepared Composition B with 13 C and 15 N-labeled 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazacyclohexane (RDX) and 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in order to trace the formation of soot from the carbon and nitrogen atoms in these explosives. Isotope-labeling of explosives has been performed in the recent past for a variety of reasons, including environmental remediation and reaction mechanism studies. Because it is expensive and time consuming to prepare these materials, and our detection equipment only requires trace amounts of isotopes, we have prepared fully-labeled materials and substituted them into unlabeled RDX and TNT at less than the 1% level. We will discuss the preparation and full characterization of this labeled Composition B, the detonation tests performed, along with the results of the post-detonation soot analysis. Various detonation models predict differing amounts and forms of carbon and nitrogen; these isotopically-labeled precursors have allowed these models to be tested.

Menthol and geraniol biotransformation and glycosylation capacity of Levisticum officinale hairy roots.

PubMed

Nunes, Inês S; Faria, Jorge M S; Figueiredo, A Cristina; Pedro, Luis G; Trindade, Helena; Barroso, José G

2009-03-01

The biotransformation capacity of Levisticum officinale W.D.J. Koch hairy root cultures was studied by evaluating the effect of the addition of 25 mg/L menthol or geraniol on morphology, growth, and volatiles production. L. officinale hairy root cultures were maintained for 7 weeks in SH medium, in darkness at 24 degrees C and 80 r.p.m., and the substrates were added 15 days after inoculation. Growth was evaluated by measuring fresh and dry weight and by using the dissimilation method. Volatiles composition was analyzed by GC and GC-MS. Hairy roots morphology and growth were not influenced by substrate addition. No new volatiles were detected after menthol addition and, as was also the case with the control cultures, volatiles of these hairy roots were dominated by (Z)-falcarinol (1-45%), N-octanal (3-8%), palmitic acid (3-10%), and (Z)-ligustilide (2-9%). The addition of geraniol induced the production of six new volatiles: nerol/citronellol/neral (traces-15%), alpha-terpineol (0.2-3%), linalool (0.1-1.2%), and geranyl acetate (traces-2%). The relative amounts of the substrates and some of their biotransformation products decreased during the course of the experiment. Following the addition of beta-glycosidase to the remaining distillation water, analysis of the extracted volatiles showed that lovage hairy roots were able to convert both substrates and their biotransformation products into glycosidic forms. GC:gas chromatography GC-MS:gas chromatography-mass spectrometry SH:Schenk and Hildebrandt (1972) culture medium.

On-line ion-exchange preconcentration and determination of traces of platinum by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry.

PubMed

González García, M M; Sánchez Rojas, F; Bosch Ojeda, C; García de Torres, A; Cano Pavón, J M

2003-04-01

A method to determine trace amounts of platinum in different samples based on electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry is described. The preconcentration step is performed on a chelating resin microcolumn [1,5-bis(2-pyridyl)-3-sulfophenyl methylene thiocarbonohydrazide (PSTH) immobilized on an anion-exchange resin (Dowex 1x8-200)] placed in the autosampler arm. The combination of a peristaltic pump for sample loading and the atomic absorption spectrometer pumps for elution through a selection valve simplifies the hardware. The peristaltic pump and the selection valve are easily controlled electronically with two switches placed in the autosampler, which are activated when the autosampler arm is down. Thus, the process is fully automated without any modification of the software of the atomic absorption spectrometer. Under the optimum conditions with a 60-s preconcentration time, a sample flow rate of 2.4 mL min(-1), and an injection volume of eluent of 40 microL, a linear calibration graph was obtained in the range 0-100 ng mL(-1). The enrichment factor was 14. The detection limit under these conditions is 1 ng mL(-1), and the relative standard deviation (RSD) is 1.6% for 10 ng mL(-1) of Pt. The method has been applied to the determination of platinum in catalyst, vegetation, soil, and natural water samples. The results showed good agreement with the certified value and the recoveries of Pt added to samples were 98-105%.

Internet based post-graduate course in spectacle lens design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jalie, Mo

2014-07-01

The complexity of spectacle lenses has increased enormously over the last three decades. The advent of aspheric lenses for the normal power range and the, now commonplace, progressive lenses for the correction of presbyopia, are just two examples of 21st Century technology. Freeform surfaces are now employed to personalize lenses to wearer's needs and these may be both progressive and atoroidal in nature. At the same time, optometry has taken a sideways step from optics and physics into a more general primary health care profession with an ever-increasing amount of biological and medical content added to an already brimming curriculum, hence the need for persons without optometry training to undertake the study of spectacle lenses. Some years ago a post-graduate course was designed for opticians who had a good grasp of mathematics and the ability to pay close attention to detail in the lengthy trigonometric ray-tracing techniques employed in lens design calculations. The year-long course, is undertaken by distance learning, and has been undertaken via the internet by students from many countries around the world. Final assessment is by means of examination held by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and takes the form of two three-hour papers, Paper One consisting of the determination of the aberrations of a spectacle lens by accurate trigonometric ray tracing and the second, a general paper on the optics of ophthalmic lenses. It leads to the professional qualification, ABDO (Hons) SLD.

A novel technology for the detection, enrichment, and separation of trace amounts of target DNA based on amino-modified fluorescent magnetic composite nanoparticles.

PubMed

Wang, Guannan; Su, Xingguang

2010-06-01

A novel, highly sensitive technology for the detection, enrichment, and separation of trace amounts of target DNA was developed on the basis of amino-modified fluorescent magnetic composite nanoparticles (AFMN). In this study, the positively charged amino-modified composite nanoparticles conjugate with the negatively charged capture DNA through electrostatic binding. The optimal combination of AFMN and capture DNA was measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and UV-vis absorption spectroscopy. The highly sensitive detection of trace amounts of target DNA was achieved through enrichment by means of AFMN. The detection limit for target DNA is 0.4 pM, which could be further improved by using a more powerful magnet. Because of their different melting temperatures, single-base mismatched target DNA could be separated from perfectly complementary target DNA. In addition, the photoluminescence (PL) signals of perfectly complementary target DNA and single-base mismatched DNA as well as the hybridization kinetics of different concentrations of target DNA at different reaction times have also been studied. Most importantly, the detection, enrichment, and separation ability of AFMN was further verified with milk. Simple and satisfactory results were obtained, which show the great potential in the fields of mutation identification and clinical diagnosis.

"Dilute & shoot" approach for rapid determination of trace amounts of nicotine in zero-level e-liquids by reversed phase liquid chromatography and hydrophilic interactions liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry-electrospray ionization.

PubMed

Kubica, Paweł; Kot-Wasik, Agata; Wasik, Andrzej; Namieśnik, Jacek

2013-05-10

Two analytical procedures are proposed where HILIC and RPLC techniques are coupled with tandem mass spectrometry detection for rapid determination of trace amounts of nicotine in zero-level liquids for electronic cigarettes. Samples are prepared on the basis of the approach "dilute & shoot" which makes this important step quick and not complicated. The chromatographic separation was carried out on a Zorbax XDB column (RPLC method) and Ascentis Si column (HILIC mode). Within-run precisions (CVs) measured at three concentration levels were as follows: 0.73%, 0.98% and 1.44% for RPLC method and 1.39%, 1.44% and 0.57% (HILIC mode). Between-run CVs were as follows: 1.94%, 1.02% and 1.22% for RPLC mode and 1.49%, 1.20% and 1.22% for HILIC mode. The detection limits of RPLC and HILIC modes were 4.08 and 3.90 ng/mL respectively. The proposed procedures are rapid, not complicated, sensitive and are suitable for fast determination of trace amounts of nicotine in zero-level liquids for electronic cigarettes. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Influence of zeolite A supplementation during the dry period of dairy cows on feed intake, on the macro and trace element metabolism around calving and milk yield in the following lactation].

PubMed

Grabherr, Hilde; Spolders, Markus; Flachowsky, Gerhard; Fürll, Manfred

2008-01-01

The object of the present study was to determine the influence of zeolite A, a calcium binder from the group of the aluminosilicate, on feed intake, macro and trace element metabolism as well as the milk yield in the following lactation in dairy cows. 46 cows were allotted to 2 groups (A--control group and B--experimental group). They were fed a total mixed ration (TMR) ad libitum 2 weeks before calving. Additionally the cows in group B received 90 g zeolite A/kg dry matter (DM). The individually feed intake was registered daily. The serum was analysed for Ca, Mg, and Pi (inorganic phosphate), Fe, FFA (free fatty acid) and beta-HB (hydroxybutyrate) and the plasma for the trace elements Cu, Zn, and Mn. After calving the milk yield (FCM) and the milk composition (fat, protein, lactose and urea) were analysed. Feed intake of group B, amounting to 6.2 +/- 1.3 kg DM/d was around 48% lower as compared to 12.0 +/- 1.4 kg DM/d for group A. The zeolite addition into the TMR showed a stabilizing effect on the average Ca concentration in the serum around calving. This effect led to a significantly lower Mg concentration on the day of calving and 1 day post partum. The Pi concentration was significantly lower already after the 1st week of zeolite supplementation and on the day of calving as compared to group A. There was no essential effect of zeolite A on the trace element concentration. The depression of feed intake for group B led to a significant increase of FFA one week after beginning zeolite supplementation and of beta-HB around calving. The feed intake post partum as well as the milk yield were not affected by zeolite supplementation. Because decreased feed intake of group B after zeolite supplementation and the occurred hypophosphatemia, it is not acceptable to use zeolite A in the proved dose for preventing milk fever.

Acute Stress Facilitates Trace Eyeblink Conditioning in C57BL/6 Male Mice and Increases the Excitability of Their CA1 Pyramidal Neurons

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weiss, Craig; Sametsky, Evgeny; Sasse, Astrid; Spiess, Joachim; Disterhoft, John F.

2005-01-01

The effects of stress (restraint plus tail shock) on hippocampus-dependent trace eyeblink conditioning and hippocampal excitability were examined in C57BL/6 male mice. The results indicate that the stressor significantly increased the concentration of circulating corticosterone, the amount and rate of learning relative to nonstressed conditioned…

Study of the Effect of Trace Mg Additions on Carbides in Die Steel H13

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Ji; Li, Jing; Wang, Liang-liang; Zhu, Qin-tian

2016-09-01

Carbides in annealed steel H13 without magnesium and with a micro-addition of magnesium (0.0010%) are studied. Trace amounts of magnesium strengthen carbide segregation and reduce their size. Carbides phases M7C3, M6 C, and M(C, N) are detected in steel H13, and this agrees with results of thermodynamic calculations.

Potential role of orexin and sleep modulation in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Roh, Jee Hoon; Jiang, Hong; Finn, Mary Beth; Stewart, Floy R; Mahan, Thomas E; Cirrito, John R; Heda, Ashish; Snider, B Joy; Li, Mingjie; Yanagisawa, Masashi; de Lecea, Luis; Holtzman, David M

2014-12-15

Age-related aggregation of amyloid-β (Aβ) is an upstream pathological event in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis, and it disrupts the sleep-wake cycle. The amount of sleep declines with aging and to a greater extent in AD. Poor sleep quality and insufficient amounts of sleep have been noted in humans with preclinical evidence of AD. However, how the amount and quality of sleep affects Aβ aggregation is not yet well understood. Orexins (hypocretins) initiate and maintain wakefulness, and loss of orexin-producing neurons causes narcolepsy. We tried to determine whether orexin release or secondary changes in sleep via orexin modulation affect Aβ pathology. Amyloid precursor protein (APP)/Presenilin 1 (PS1) transgenic mice, in which the orexin gene is knocked out, showed a marked decrease in the amount of Aβ pathology in the brain with an increase in sleep time. Focal overexpression of orexin in the hippocampus in APP/PS1 mice did not alter the total amount of sleep/wakefulness and the amount of Aβ pathology. In contrast, sleep deprivation or increasing wakefulness by rescue of orexinergic neurons in APP/PS1 mice lacking orexin increased the amount of Aβ pathology in the brain. Collectively, modulation of orexin and its effects on sleep appear to modulate Aβ pathology in the brain. © 2014 Roh et al.

Turbine Chemistry Modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, Nan-Suey; Wey, Thomas

2001-01-01

Many of the engine exhaust species resulting in significant environmental impact exist in trace amounts. Recent research, e.g., conducted at MIT-AM, has pointed to the intra-engine environment as a possible site for important trace chemistry activity. In addition, the key processes affecting the trace species activity occurring downstream in the air passages of the turbine and exhaust nozzle are not well understood. Most recently, an effort has been initiated at NASA Glenn Research Center under the UEET Program to evaluate and further develop CFD-based technology for modeling and simulation of intra-engine trace chemical changes relevant to atmospheric effects of pollutant emissions from aircraft engines. This presentation will describe the current effort conducted at Glenn; some preliminary results relevant to the trace species chemistry in a turbine passage will also be presented to indicate the progress to date.

Addition of granular activated carbon and trace elements to favor volatile fatty acid consumption during anaerobic digestion of food waste.

PubMed

Capson-Tojo, Gabriel; Moscoviz, Roman; Ruiz, Diane; Santa-Catalina, Gaëlle; Trably, Eric; Rouez, Maxime; Crest, Marion; Steyer, Jean-Philippe; Bernet, Nicolas; Delgenès, Jean-Philippe; Escudié, Renaud

2018-07-01

The effect of supplementing granular activated carbon and trace elements on the anaerobic digestion performance of consecutive batch reactors treating food waste was investigated. The results from the first batch suggest that addition of activated carbon favored biomass acclimation, improving acetic acid consumption and enhancing methane production. Adding trace elements allowed a faster consumption of propionic acid. A second batch proved that a synergy existed when activated carbon and trace elements were supplemented simultaneously. The degradation kinetics of propionate oxidation were particularly improved, reducing significantly the batch duration and improving the average methane productivities. Addition of activated carbon favored the growth of archaea and syntrophic bacteria, suggesting that interactions between these microorganisms were enhanced. Interestingly, microbial analyses showed that hydrogenotrophic methanogens were predominant. This study shows for the first time that addition of granular activated carbon and trace elements may be a feasible solution to stabilize food waste anaerobic digestion. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Non-destructive analysis and appraisal of ancient Chinese porcelain by PIXE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, H. S.; Zhang, Z. Q.; Xia, H. N.; Jiang, J. C.; Yang, F. J.

2002-05-01

This paper reports the results of the PIXE analysis on ancient Chinese blue and white porcelain fired at Kuan Kiln (Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province) during 13-19th century. The major, minor and trace element of porcelain body, white glaze and blue glaze were determined by PIXE. In this paper the chemical compositions of porcelain body, white glaze and blue glaze measured from Yuan (AD 1206-1368), Ming (AD 1368-1644) and Qing (AD 1616-1911) blue and white porcelain are present. The cobalt blue pigment used in Yuan, Ming and Qing are also discussed.

Analysis of metals with luster: Roman brass and silver

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fajfar, H.; Rupnik, Z.; Šmit, Ž.

2015-11-01

Non-destructive PIXE analysis using in-air proton beam was used for the studies of earliest brass coins issued during the 1st century BC by Greek cities in Asia Minor, Romans and Celts, and for the studies of plated low grade silver coins of the 3rd century AD. The analysis determined the levels of zinc and important trace elements, notably selenium, which confirms spread of selenium-marked copper from the east. For plating, combined tinning and silvering was identified by the mapping technique for the mid 3rd century AD, which evolved into mere plating by 270 AD.

Type and amount of organic amendments affect enhanced biogenic methane production from coal and microbial community structure

USGS Publications Warehouse

Davis, Katherine J.; Lu, Shipeng; Barnhart, Elliott P.; Parker, Albert E.; Fields, Matthew W.; Gerlach, Robin

2018-01-01

Slow rates of coal-to-methane conversion limit biogenic methane production from coalbeds. This study demonstrates that rates of coal-to-methane conversion can be increased by the addition of small amounts of organic amendments. Algae, cyanobacteria, yeast cells, and granulated yeast extract were tested at two concentrations (0.1 and 0.5 g/L), and similar increases in total methane produced and methane production rates were observed for all amendments at a given concentration. In 0.1 g/L amended systems, the amount of carbon converted to methane minus the amount produced in coal only systems exceeded the amount of carbon added in the form of amendment, suggesting enhanced coal-to-methane conversion through amendment addition. The amount of methane produced in the 0.5 g/L amended systems did not exceed the amount of carbon added. While the archaeal communities did not vary significantly, the bacterial populations appeared to be strongly influenced by the presence of coal when 0.1 g/L of amendment was added; at an amendment concentration of 0.5 g/L the bacterial community composition appeared to be affected most strongly by the amendment type. Overall, the results suggest that small amounts of amendment are not only sufficient but possibly advantageous if faster in situcoal-to-methane production is to be promoted.

Volatile compounds and odor preferences of ground beef added with garlic and red wine, and irradiated with charcoal pack

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Kyung Haeng; Yun, Hyejeong; Lee, Ju Woon; Ahn, Dong Uk; Lee, Eun Joo; Jo, Cheorun

2012-08-01

Irradiation is the most efficient non-thermal technology for improving hygienic quality and extending the shelf-life of food products. One of the adverse effects of food irradiation, however, is off-flavor production, which significantly affects the sensory preferences for certain foods. In this study, garlic (5%, w/w) and red wine (1:1, w/w) were added to ground beef to increase the radiation sensitivity of pathogens and improve meat odor/flavor. Samples were irradiated at 0 or 5 kGy in the presence of charcoal pack. SPME-GC-MS analysis was performed to measure the changes in the volatile compounds and sensory characteristics of the samples. The amount of total volatile compounds produced from ground beef was greater when the sample was irradiated. When garlic and red wine were added to the ground beef, the amount of volatile compounds significantly increased, and the amount of volatile compounds increased even further after irradiation. However, when the samples were irradiated with charcoal pack, the amount of volatile compounds decreased significantly. Sensory evaluation indicated that charcoal pack significantly increased the odor preferences for both irradiated and non-irradiated ground beef added with garlic. These results indicated that addition of charcoal pack to ground beef could reduce off-odor problems induced by irradiation, and this effect was consistent even when certain additives such as garlic and red wine were added.

Stable isotope (2H, 17O, 18O) and hydro chemical patterns of precipitation collected in weekly resolution at Hannover, Germany

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koeniger, Paul; Himmelsbach, Thomas

2016-04-01

Long-term observations of stable isotopes (δ18O and δ2H) in precipitation were initiated in May 2008 at the Federal Institute of Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR) in Hannover, Germany. In 2014 all precipitation samples were re-analyzed because a purchase of a new laser spectrometer (Picarro L2140-i) now allowed measurements of δ17O and a calculation of the 17O-excess parameter. Starting in October 2015 a routine analysis of hydro chemical parameters was added whenever enough sample aliquot was available (major ions, trace elements). A discussion of the stable isotope data of the seven year series of weekly precipitation samples (n = 370) will be presented. Beneath general patterns (seasonality and trends) we also focus on importance of amount weighing procedures, corrections for minor rain amounts, aspects of sample storage and re-analyzes, as well as impacts through changes in analytical equipment (IRMS, CRD spectroscopy) which is visible from the data. For stable isotopes a Thermo Fisher delta plus IRMS (Gasbench and H-Device) was used until 2011 and from 2012 on a Picarro L2120-i water vapor analyzer with long-term accuracies for quality check samples better than 0.2‰ and 0.8‰ for δ18O and δ2H, respectively.

Water in Pyroxene and Olivine from Martian Meteorites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peslier, A. H.

2012-01-01

Water in the interior of terrestrial planets can be dissolved in fluids or melts and hydrous phases, but can also be locked as protons attached to structural oxygen in lattice defects in nominally anhydrous minerals (NAM) like olivine, pyroxene, or feldspar [1-3]. Although these minerals contain only tens to hundreds of ppm H2O, this water can amount to at least one ocean in mass when added at planetary scales because of the modal dominance of NAM in the mantle and crust [4]. Moreover these trace amounts of water can have drastic effects on melting temperature, rheology, electrical and heat conductivity, and seismic wave attenuation [5]. There is presently a debate on how much water is present in the martian mantle. Secondary ionization mass spectrometry (SIMS) studies of NAM [6], amphiboles and glass in melt inclusions [7-10], and apatites [11, 12] from Martian meteorites report finding as much water as in the same phases from Earth's igneous rocks. Most martian hydrous minerals, however, generally have the relevant sites filled with Cl and F instead of H [13, 14], and experiments using Cl [15] in parent melts can reproduce Martian basalt compositions as well as those with water [16]. We are in the process of analyzing Martian meteorite minerals by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) in order to constrain the role of water in this planet s formation and magmatic evolution

Greenhouse effects due to man-made perturbations of trace gases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, W. C.; Yung, Y. L.; Lacis, A. A.; Mo, T.; Hansen, J. E.

1976-01-01

Nitrous oxide, methane, ammonia, and a number of other trace constituents of the earth's atmosphere have infrared absorption bands in the spectral range from 7 to 14 microns. Despite their small amounts, these gases can have a significant effect on the thermal structure of the atmosphere by transmitting most of the thermal radiation from the earth's surface to the lower atmosphere. In the present paper, this greenhouse effect is computed for a number of trace gases. The nature and climatic implications of possible changes in the concentrations of N2O, CH4, NH3, and HNO3 are discussed.

The SNPforID Assay as a Supplementary Method in Kinship and Trace Analysis

PubMed Central

Schwark, Thorsten; Meyer, Patrick; Harder, Melanie; Modrow, Jan-Hendrick; von Wurmb-Schwark, Nicole

2012-01-01

Objective Short tandem repeat (STR) analysis using commercial multiplex PCR kits is the method of choice for kinship testing and trace analysis. However, under certain circumstances (deficiency testing, mutations, minute DNA amounts), STRs alone may not suffice. Methods We present a 50-plex single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) assay based on the SNPs chosen by the SNPforID consortium as an additional method for paternity and for trace analysis. The new assay was applied to selected routine paternity and trace cases from our laboratory. Results and Conclusions Our investigation shows that the new SNP multiplex assay is a valuable method to supplement STR analysis, and is a powerful means to solve complicated genetic analyses. PMID:22851934

Atmospheric Deposition of Trace Elements in Ombrotrophic Peat as a Result of Anthropic Activities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fabio Lourençato, Lucio; Cabral Teixeira, Daniel; Vieira Silva-Filho, Emmanoel

2014-05-01

Ombrotrophic peat can be defined as a soil rich in organic matter, formed from the partial decomposition of vegetable organic material in a humid and anoxic environment, where the accumulation of material is necessarily faster than the decomposition. From the physical-chemical point of view, it is a porous and highly polar material with high adsorption capacity and cation exchange. The high ability of trace elements to undergo complexation by humic substances happens due to the presence of large amounts of oxygenated functional groups in these substances. Since the beginning of industrialization human activities have scattered a large amount of trace elements in the environment. Soil contamination by atmospheric deposition can be expressed as a sum of site contamination by past/present human activities and atmospheric long-range transport of trace elements. Ombrotrophic peat records can provide valuable information about the entries of trace metals into the atmosphere and that are subsequently deposited on the soil. These trace elements are toxic, non-biodegradable and accumulate in the food chain, even in relatively low quantities. Thus studies on the increase of trace elements in the environment due to human activities are necessary, particularly in the southern hemisphere, where these data are scarce. The aims of this study is to evaluate the concentrations of mercury in ombrotrophic peat altomontanas coming from atmospheric deposition. The study is conducted in the Itatiaia National Park, Brazilian conservation unit, situated between the southeastern state of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Minas Gerais. An ombrotrophic peat core is being sampled in altitude (1980m), to measure the trace elements concentrations of this material. As it is conservation area, the trace elements found in the samples is mainly from atmospheric deposition, since in Brazil don't exist significant lithology of trace elements. The samples are characterized by organic matter content which is determined by calcination and pH. For the determination of mercury, an aliquot of 10 mL of sample with 5 mL of the reducing agent 2 % SnCl2, purged with air by atomic absorption spectrophotometry by cold vapor, EAAVF is being used. The determination of other trace elements (Zn, Cd and Pb) is analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS).

Cut Back on Your Kid's Sweet Treats: 10 Tips to Decrease Added Sugars

MedlinePlus

... healthy eating by limiting the amount of added sugars they eat. Sweet treats and sugary drinks have lots of calories but few nutrients. Most added sugars come from sodas; sports, energy, and fruit drinks; ...

Characteristics and environmental aspects of slag: a review

USGS Publications Warehouse

Piatak, Nadine M.; Parsons, Michael B.; Seal, Robert R.

2015-01-01

The composition of ferrous slag is dominated by Ca and Si. Steel slag may contain significant Fe, whereas Mg and Al may be significant in Fe slag. Calcium-rich olivine-group silicates, melilite-group silicates that contain Al or Mg, Ca-rich glass, and oxides are the most commonly reported major phases in ferrous slag. Calcite and trace amounts of a variety of sulfides, intermetallic compounds, and pure metals are typically also present. The composition of non-ferrous slag, most commonly from base-metal production, is dominated by Fe and Si with significant but lesser amounts of Al and Ca. Silicates in the olivine, pyroxene, and melilite groups, as well as glass, spinels, and SiO2 (i.e., quartz and other polymorphs) are commonly found in non-ferrous slag. Sulfides and intermetallic compounds are less abundant than the silicates and oxides. The concentrations of some elements exceed generic USEPA soil screening levels for human contact based on multiple exposure pathways; these elements include Al, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn based on bulk chemical composition. Each slag type usually contains a specific suite of elements that may be of environmental concern. In general, non-ferrous slag may have a higher potential to negatively impact the environment compared to ferrous slag, and is thus a less attractive material for reuse, based on trace element chemistry, principally for base metals. However, the amount of elements released into the environment is not always consistent with bulk chemical composition. Many types of leaching tests have been used to help predict slag’s long-term environmental behavior. Overall, ferrous slags produce an alkaline leachate due to the dissolution of Ca oxides and silicates derived from compounds originally added as fluxing agents, such as lime. Ferrous slag leachate is commonly less metal-rich than leachate from non-ferrous slag generated during base metal extraction; the latter leachate may even be acidic due to the oxidation of sulfides. Because of its characteristics, ferrous slag is commonly used for construction and environmental applications, whereas both non-ferrous and ferrous slag may be reprocessed for secondary metal recovery. Both types of slag have been a source of some environmental contamination. Research into the environmental aspects of slag will continue to be an important topic whether the goal is its reuse, recycling, or remediation.

Ionospheric Tomography Using Faraday Rotation of Automatic Dependant Surveillance Broadcast UHF Signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cushley, A. C.

2013-12-01

The proposed launch of a satellite carrying the first space-borne ADS-B receiver by the Royal Military College of Canada (RMCC) will create a unique opportunity to study the modification of the 1090 MHz radio waves following propagation through the ionosphere from the transmitting aircraft to the passive satellite receiver(s). Experimental work successfully demonstrated that ADS-B data can be used to reconstruct two dimensional (2D) electron density maps of the ionosphere using computerized tomography (CT). The goal of this work is to evaluate the feasibility of CT reconstruction. The data is modelled using Ray-tracing techniques. This allows us to determine the characteristics of individual waves, including the wave path and the state of polarization at the satellite receiver. The modelled Faraday rotation (FR) is determined and converted to total electron content (TEC) along the ray-paths. The resulting TEC is used as input for computerized ionospheric tomography (CIT) using algebraic reconstruction technique (ART). This study concentrated on meso-scale structures 100-1000 km in horizontal extent. The primary scientific interest of this thesis was to show the feasibility of a new method to image the ionosphere and obtain a better understanding of magneto-ionic wave propagation. Multiple feature input electron density profile to ray-tracing program. Top: reconstructed relative electron density map of ray-trace input (Fig. 1) using TEC measurements and line-of-sight path. Bottom: reconstructed electron density map of ray-trace input using quiet background a priori estimate.

Increased transepidermal water loss and decreased ceramide content in lesional and non-lesional skin of dogs with atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Shimada, Kenichiro; Yoon, Ji-Seon; Yoshihara, Toru; Iwasaki, Toshiroh; Nishifuji, Koji

2009-10-01

This study evaluated changes in transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration and intercorneal lipid content in dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD). TEWL and skin hydration were measured in the inguinal skin of 10 dogs with AD and 30 normal dogs. TEWL was significantly higher in both lesional skin (94.3 +/- 38.8 g/m(2)/h) and non-lesional skin (28.8 +/- 9.5) of dogs with AD than healthy controls (12.3 +/- 2.3) (P < 0.05). Water content in the lesional skin of dogs with AD (15.8 +/- 7.0 AU) was significantly lower than that of controls (24.2 +/- 8.8) (P < 0.05), whereas no significant differences were recognized in water content between non-lesional skin of dogs with AD and controls. To compare the lipid content between lesional and non-lesional skin of dogs with AD and controls, intercorneal lipids, extracted from the stratum corneum, were quantified by thin-layer chromatography. The relative amounts of ceramides in the lesional skin (24.4 +/- 5.6%) and non-lesional skin (25.6 +/- 3.8%) of dogs with AD were significantly lower than those in controls (31.4 +/- 6.9%) (P < 0.05). Conversely, no significant differences were recognized in the relative amounts of cholesterols and free fatty acids (FFA) between dogs with AD and controls. Moreover, there are statistical correlations between TEWL and the relative amounts of ceramides, but not those of cholesterols and FFA, in both lesional and non-lesional skin of dogs with AD. These results strongly suggest that decreased ceramide content accelerates TEWL in dogs with AD, similar to the situation seen in the corresponding human disease.

Photoacoustic Effect of Ethene: Sound Generation due to Plant Hormone Gases.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Han Jung; Ide, David; University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Team

2017-01-01

Ethene, which is produced in plants as they mature, was used to study its photoacoustic properties using photoacoustic spectroscopy. Detection of trace amounts, with N2 gas, of the ethylene gas were also applied. The gas was tested in various conditions: temperature, concentration of the gas, gas cell length, and power of the laser, were varied to determine their effect on the photoacoustic signal, the ideal conditions to detect trace gas amounts, and concentration of ethylene produced by an avocado and banana. A detection limit of 10 ppm was determined for pure C2H4. A detection of 5% and 13% (by volume) concentration of ethylene were produced for a ripening avocado and banana, respectively, in closed space.

Concept and analytical basis for revistas - A fast, flexible computer/graphic system for generating periodic satellite coverage patterns

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

King, J. C.

1976-01-01

The generation of satellite coverage patterns is facilitated by three basic strategies: use of a simplified physical model, permitting rapid closed-form calculation; separation of earth rotation and nodal precession from initial geometric analyses; and use of symmetries to construct traces of indefinite length by repetitive transposition of basic one-quadrant elements. The complete coverage patterns generated consist of a basic nadir trace plus a number of associated off-nadir traces, one for each sensor swath edge to be delineated. Each trace is generated by transposing one or two of the basic quadrant elements into a circle on a nonrotating earth model sphere, after which the circle is expanded into the actual 'helical' pattern by adding rotational displacements to the longitude coordinates. The procedure adapts to the important periodic coverage cases by direct insertion of the characteristic integers N and R (days and orbital revolutions, respectively, per coverage period).

Liquid Chromatographic Analysis of Hydraulic Fluids.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-11-01

chemical mixtures of a petroleum- or nonpetroleum-base stock component formulated with various additives which may be present in trace amounts or...absorb UV radiation near the monitoring wavelength may swamp the detector signal and therefore should be avoided in 1JV detection. The recorder trace of...Also, organic phosphites , thiophosphates, and sulfides are used to inhibit oxidative catalysis by metal ions. The oxidation inhibitor in 6083D-0 is BPC

Isolation of levoglucosan from pyrolysis oil derived from cellulose

DOEpatents

Moens, Luc

1994-01-01

High purity levoglucosan is obtained from pyrolysis oil derived from cellulose by: mixing pyrolysis oil with water and a basic metal hydroxide, oxide, or salt in amount sufficient to elevate pH values to a range of from about 12 to about 12.5, and adding an amount of the hydroxide, oxide, or salt in excess of the amount needed to obtain the pH range until colored materials of impurities from the oil are removed and a slurry is formed; drying the slurry azeotropically with methyl isobutyl ketone solvent to form a residue, and further drying the residue by evaporation; reducing the residue into a powder; continuously extracting the powder residue with ethyl acetate to provide a levoglucosan-rich extract; and concentrating the extract by removing ethyl acetate to provide crystalline levoglucosan. Preferably, Ca(OH).sub.2 is added to adjust the pH to the elevated values, and then Ca(OH).sub.2 is added in an excess amount needed.

Isolation of levoglucosan from pyrolysis oil derived from cellulose

DOEpatents

Moens, L.

1994-12-06

High purity levoglucosan is obtained from pyrolysis oil derived from cellulose by: mixing pyrolysis oil with water and a basic metal hydroxide, oxide, or salt in amount sufficient to elevate pH values to a range of from about 12 to about 12.5, and adding an amount of the hydroxide, oxide, or salt in excess of the amount needed to obtain the pH range until colored materials of impurities from the oil are removed and a slurry is formed; drying the slurry azeotropically with methyl isobutyl ketone solvent to form a residue, and further drying the residue by evaporation; reducing the residue into a powder; continuously extracting the powder residue with ethyl acetate to provide a levoglucosan-rich extract; and concentrating the extract by removing ethyl acetate to provide crystalline levoglucosan. Preferably, Ca(OH)[sub 2] is added to adjust the pH to the elevated values, and then Ca(OH)[sub 2] is added in an excess amount needed. 3 figures.

General Khalid Bin Waleed: Understanding the 7th Century Campaign against Sassanid Persian Empire from the Perspective of Operational Art

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-06

ABSTRACT This monograph investigates Khalid Bin Waleed’s seventh century (AD 633-634) campaign against the Sassanid Persian Empire in Mesopotamia to...Khalid Bin Waleed’s seventh century (AD 633-634) campaign against the Sassanid Persian Empire in Mesopotamia to trace the evidence that substantiates...Bin Waleed employed characteristics and elements of operational art to defeat the Persian forces in Mesopotamia . He established operational objectives

Evaluation of the role of CD207 on Langerhans cells in a murine model of atopic dermatitis by in situ imaging using Cr:forsterite laser-based multimodality nonlinear microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jyh-Hong; Tsai, Ming-Rung; Sun, Chi-Kuang; Chiang, Bor-Luen

2012-11-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an allergic inflammatory disease of skin. It remains unclear that CD207 of Langerhans cells (LCs) plays a central role in the development of allergic sensitization. There is little data on LCs within the microenviroment in vivo. We used a murine model of epicutaneous (EC) ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization inducing an inflammatory skin resembling AD to explore the role of CD207 in the pathogenesis of AD. Cr:forsterite laser-based multimodality nonlinear microscopy was applied for in situ imaging. Peritoneal injections of Alexa Fluor 647-rat anti-mouse CD207 into mice were performed to specifically trace the LCs. Peritoneal injections of OVA-Alexa Fluor 647 conjugate into mice were performed to specifically trace the OVA. We found that combining Alexa Fluor fluorescent probes with multimodality nonlinear microscopy permitted the unequivocal in situ imaging of CD207-expressing LCs. The relevant time-course, expressional, and functional studies reveal that CD207 of LCs plays an essential role during the induction of EC sensitization. We establish and validate that Cr:forsterite laser-based multimodality nonlinear microscopy is applicable for the specific detection of labeled mAb-bound LCs and labeled antigen. We suggest that CD207-expressing LCs initiate the allergic response through the CD207 mediated epicutaneous sensitization associated with the development of AD.

12 CFR Appendix A to Part 360 - Non-Monetary Transaction File Structure

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... maturity dates, but all owners are the same Character (25). 7. PH_Hold_Action Hold ActionThe requested hold... = Add 8. PH_Hold_Amt Hold Amount Decimal (14,2). Dollar amount of the FDIC hold to be removed or added 9. PH_Hold_Desc Hold Description Character (225). FDIC hold to be removed or added [73 FR 41197, July 17...

12 CFR Appendix A to Part 360 - Non-Monetary Transaction File Structure

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... maturity dates, but all owners are the same Character (25). 7. PH_Hold_Action Hold ActionThe requested hold... = Add 8. PH_Hold_Amt Hold Amount Decimal (14,2). Dollar amount of the FDIC hold to be removed or added 9. PH_Hold_Desc Hold Description Character (225). FDIC hold to be removed or added [73 FR 41197, July 17...

12 CFR Appendix A to Part 360 - Non-Monetary Transaction File Structure

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... maturity dates, but all owners are the same Character (25). 7. PH_Hold_Action Hold ActionThe requested hold... = Add 8. PH_Hold_Amt Hold Amount Decimal (14,2). Dollar amount of the FDIC hold to be removed or added 9. PH_Hold_Desc Hold Description Character (225). FDIC hold to be removed or added [73 FR 41197, July 17...

12 CFR Appendix A to Part 360 - Non-Monetary Transaction File Structure

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... maturity dates, but all owners are the same Character (25). 7. PH_Hold_Action Hold ActionThe requested hold... = Add 8. PH_Hold_Amt Hold Amount Decimal (14,2). Dollar amount of the FDIC hold to be removed or added 9. PH_Hold_Desc Hold Description Character (225). FDIC hold to be removed or added [73 FR 41197, July 17...

12 CFR Appendix A to Part 360 - Non-Monetary Transaction File Structure

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... maturity dates, but all owners are the same Character (25). 7. PH_Hold_Action Hold ActionThe requested hold... = Add 8. PH_Hold_Amt Hold Amount Decimal (14,2). Dollar amount of the FDIC hold to be removed or added 9. PH_Hold_Desc Hold Description Character (225). FDIC hold to be removed or added [73 FR 41197, July 17...

Ultra-Thin Coatings Beautify Art

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2013-01-01

The craftsmen in the Roman Empire who constructed the Lycurgus Cup 17 centuries ago probably didn't think their artifact would survive for nearly 2,000 years as a prized possession. And they certainly couldn't have known that the technology they used to make it would eventually become an important part of space exploration. Carved from one solid mass, the cup is one of the few complete glass objects from that period, and the only one made from dichroic glass. Meaning "two-colored" in Greek, dichroic glass was originally created by adding trace amounts of gold and silver to a large volume of glass melt. The resulting medium partially reflects the light passing through it, causing an observer to see different colors depending on the direction of the light source. The Lycurgus Cup, for example, is famous for appearing green in daylight and red when lit at night, symbolic of the ripening grapes used to fill it with wine. NASA revitalized the production of dichroic glass in the 1950s and 1960s as a means of protecting its astronauts. Ordinary clear substances cannot protect human vision from the harsh rays of unfiltered sunlight, and everything from the human body to spacecraft sensors and computers are at risk if left unprotected from the radiation that permeates space. The microscopic amounts of metal present in dichroic glass make it an effective barrier against such harmful radiation. While the ancient manufacturing technique called for adding metals to glass melt, NASA developed a process in which metals are vaporized by electron beams in a vacuum chamber and then applied directly to surfaces in an ultra-thin film. The vapor condenses in the form of crystal structures, and the process is repeated for up to several dozen coatings. The resulting material, still only about 30 millionths of an inch thick, is sufficient to reflect radiation even while the glass, or polycarbonate, as in the case of space suit helmets, remains transparent to the human eye.

Consumer-producer relationships for trace metals in Chorthippus brunneus (Thunberg. )

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnson, M.S.

1986-08-01

The behavior of trace metals in terrestrial food chains is a subject of ecological interest, particularly in polluted environments where the potential exists for bioconcentration of metals known to be essential in trace amounts for normal plant and animal metabolism, as well as those with no known metabolic function but recognized toxicological properties. Laboratory studies of food chain relationships afford a means by which direct comparisons can be made between trace metals as a basis for interpretation of data collected from wild plant and animal populations. This study compares the behavior of three trace elements, copper, zinc and cadmium, inmore » terms of their assimilation under experimental conditions by the herbivorous common field grasshopper, Chorthippus brunneus (Thunberg.). This voracious orthopteran is widely distributed in Britain and is particularly prominent in the restricted invertebrate community of some metal smelter-affected grasslands where it forms important seasonal prey for insectivorous small mammals.« less

A new perspective of using sequential extraction: To predict the deficiency of trace elements during anaerobic digestion.

PubMed

Cai, Yafan; Wang, Jungang; Zhao, Yubin; Zhao, Xiaoling; Zheng, Zehui; Wen, Boting; Cui, Zongjun; Wang, Xiaofen

2018-09-01

Trace elements were commonly used as additives to facilitate anaerobic digestion. However, their addition is often blind because of the complexity of reaction conditions, which has impeded their widespread application. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate deficiencies in trace elements during anaerobic digestion by establishing relationships between changes in trace element bioavailability (the degree to which elements are available for interaction with biological systems) and digestion performance. To accomplish this, two batch experiments were conducted. In the first, sequential extraction was used to detect changes in trace element fractions and then to evaluate trace element bioavailability in the whole digestion cycle. In the second batch experiment, trace elements (Co, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Mo and Se) were added to the reaction system at three concentrations (low, medium and high) and their effects were monitored. The results showed that sequential extraction was a suitable method for assessment of the bioavailability of trace elements (appropriate coefficient of variation and recovery rate). The results revealed that Se had the highest (44.2%-70.9%) bioavailability, while Fe had the lowest (1.7%-3.0%). A lack of trace elements was not directly related to their absolute bioavailability, but was instead associated with changes in their bioavailability throughout the digestion cycle. Trace elements were insufficient when their bioavailability was steady or increased over the digestion cycle. These results indicate that changes in trace element bioavailability during the digestion cycle can be used to predict their deficiency. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Method for Assessing the Retention of Trace Elements in Human Body Using Neural Network Technology

PubMed Central

Ragimov, Aligejdar; Faizullin, Rashat; Valiev, Vsevolod

2017-01-01

Models that describe the trace element status formation in the human organism are essential for a correction of micromineral (trace elements) deficiency. A direct trace element retention assessment in the body is difficult due to the many internal mechanisms. The trace element retention is determined by the amount and the ratio of incoming and excreted substance. So, the concentration of trace elements in drinking water characterizes the intake, whereas the element concentration in urine characterizes the excretion. This system can be interpreted as three interrelated elements that are in equilibrium. Since many relationships in the system are not known, the use of standard mathematical models is difficult. The artificial neural network use is suitable for constructing a model in the best way because it can take into account all dependencies in the system implicitly and process inaccurate and incomplete data. We created several neural network models to describe the retentions of trace elements in the human body. On the model basis, we can calculate the microelement levels in the body, knowing the trace element levels in drinking water and urine. These results can be used in health care to provide the population with safe drinking water. PMID:29065586

[Determination of trace amounts of zinc in nickel electrolyte by flow injection on-line enrichment].

PubMed

Zhou, Z; Wang, Y; Dong, Z; Tong, K; Guo, X; Guo, X

1999-10-01

A method for the determination of trace amount of zinc in nickel electrolyte utilizing the flow injection on-line enrichment technique is reported in this paper. Atomic absorption spectrometer was used as detector. Zinc was separated from large amounts of nickel andother components in the electrolyte by absorption its chlorocomplex on a mini-column packed with strongly basic anion exchangers. It was found that sodium chloride containing in the electrolyte offered a sufficient chloride concentration needed for the formation of the zinc chlorocomplex and thus no additional reagent was required for the determination. The throughput of the method is 30 determinations per hour. The detection limit of the method is 0.002 microg x mL(-1) and the precision is 1.9% (RSD). The proposed method is rapid and cost-effective. It has been used for almost three years in the quality control of the electrolyte in the factory with great success.

Method for improving dissolution efficiency in gas-absorption and liquid extraction processes. [Patent application

DOEpatents

Kanak, B.E.; Stephenson, M.J.

1980-01-11

A method is described for improving dissolution efficiency in processes in which a feed fluid is introduced to a zone where it is contacted with a liquid solvent for preferentially removing a component of the feed and where part of the solvent so contacted undergoes transfer into the feed fluid to saturate the same. It has been found that such transfer significantly impairs dissolution efficiency. In accordance with the invention, an amount of the above-mentioned solvent is added to the feed fluid being introduced to the contact zone, the solvent being added in an amount sufficient to effect reduction or elimination of the above-mentioned transfer. Preferably, the solvent is added to the feed fluid in an amount saturating or supersaturating the feed fluid under the conditions prevailing in the contact zone.

Method for improving dissolution efficiency in gas-absorption and liquid extraction processes

DOEpatents

Kanak, Brant E.; Stephenson, Michael J.

1981-01-01

This invention is a method for improving dissolution efficiency in processes in which a feed fluid is introduced to a zone where it is contacted with a liquid solvent for preferentially removing a component of the feed and where part of the solvent so contacted undergoes transfer into the feed fluid to saturate the same. It has been found that such transfer significantly impairs dissolution efficiency. In accordance with the invention, an amount of the above-mentioned solvent is added to the feed fluid being introduced to the contact zone, the solvent being added in an amount sufficient to effect reduction or elimination of the above-mentioned transfer. Preferably, the solvent is added to the feed fluid in an amount saturating or supersaturating the feed fluid under the conditions prevailing in the contact zone.

Uptake coefficients for biosolids-amended dryland winter wheat

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Biosolids regulations developed in the United States employed risk assessment impacts of trace element additions on plant uptake. The US Environmental Protection Agency adapted the uptake coefficient (ratio of plant concentration to quantity of element added) when developing limitations on selected...

Micovascular integration into porous polyHEMA scaffold

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Eugenia H.; Boico, Alina; Wisniewski, Natalie A.; Gant, Rebecca; Helton, Kristen L.; Brown, Nga L.; Register, Janna K.; Vo-Dinh, Tuan; Schroeder, Thies; Klitzman, Bruce

2014-03-01

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy can be a useful tool in regard to disease diagnosis and prevention. Advantage of SERS over conventional Raman spectroscopy is its significantly increased signal (up to factor of 106-108) which allows detection of trace amounts of substances in the sample. So far, this technique is successfully used for analysis of food, pieces of art and various biochemical/biomedical samples. In this work, we survey the possibility of applying SERS spectroscopy for detection of trace components in urinary deposits. Early discovery together with the identification of the exact chemical composition of urinary sediments could be crucial for taking appropriate preventive measures that inhibit kidney stone formation or growth processes. In this initial study, SERS spectra (excitation wavelength - 1064 nm) of main components of urinary deposits (calcium oxalate, uric acid, cystine, etc.) were recorded by using silver (Ag) colloid. Spectra of 10-3-10-5 M solutions were obtained. While no/small Raman signal was detected without the Ag colloid, characteristic peaks of the substances could be clearly separated in the SERS spectra. This suggests that even small amounts of the components could be detected and taken into account while determining the type of kidney stone forming in the urinary system. We found for the first time that trace amounts of components constituting urinary deposits could be detected by SERS spectroscopy. In the future study, the analysis of centrifuged urine samples will be carried out.

The repair of low dose UV light-induced damage to human skin DNA in condition of trace amount Mg 2+

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Fang; Guo, Zhouyi; Zheng, Changchun; Wang, Rui; Liu, Zhiming; Meng, Pei; Zhai, Juan

2008-12-01

Ultraviolet light-induced damage to human skin DNA was widely investigated. The primary mechanism of this damage contributed to form cyclobutane pyrimidine dimmers (CPDs). Although the distribution of UV light-induced CPDs within a defined sequence is similar, the damage in cellular environment which shields the nuclear DNA was higher than that in organism in apparent dose. So we use low UVB light as main study agent. Low dose UV-irradiated HDF-a cells (Human Dermal Fibroblasts-adult cells) which is weaker than epidermic cells were cultured with DMEM at different trace amount of Mg2+ (0mmol/L , 0.1mmol/L , 0.2mmol/L, 0.4mmol/L, 0.8mmol/L, 1.2mmol/L) free-serum DMEM and the repair of DNA strands injured were observed. Treat these cells with DNA strand breaks detection, photoproducts detection and the repair of photoproducts detection. Then quantitate the role of trace amount Mg2+ in repair of UV light-induced damage to human skin. The experiment results indicated that epidermic cells have capability of resistance to UV-radiation at a certain extent. And Mg2+ can regulate the UV-induced damage repair and relative vitality. It can offer a rationale and experiment data to relieve UV light-induced skin disease.

Trace-back and trace-forward tools developed ad hoc and used during the STEC O104:H4 outbreak 2011 in Germany and generic concepts for future outbreak situations.

PubMed

Weiser, Armin A; Gross, Stefan; Schielke, Anika; Wigger, Jan-Frederik; Ernert, Andrea; Adolphs, Julian; Fetsch, Alexandra; Müller-Graf, Christine; Käsbohrer, Annemarie; Mosbach-Schulz, Olaf; Appel, Bernd; Greiner, Matthias

2013-03-01

The Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O104:H4 outbreak in Germany in 2011 required the development of appropriate tools in real-time for tracing suspicious foods along the supply chain, namely salad ingredients, sprouts, and seeds. Food commodities consumed at locations identified as most probable site of infection (outbreak clusters) were traced back in order to identify connections between different disease clusters via the supply chain of the foods. A newly developed relational database with integrated consistency and plausibility checks was used to collate these data for further analysis. Connections between suppliers, distributors, and producers were visualized in network graphs and geographic projections. Finally, this trace-back and trace-forward analysis led to the identification of sprouts produced by a horticultural farm in Lower Saxony as vehicle for the pathogen, and a specific lot of fenugreek seeds imported from Egypt as the most likely source of contamination. Network graphs have proven to be a powerful tool for summarizing and communicating complex trade relationships to various stake holders. The present article gives a detailed description of the newly developed tracing tools and recommendations for necessary requirements and improvements for future foodborne outbreak investigations.

Integrability of the Ad{{S}_{5}}\\times {{S}^{5}} superstring and its deformations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Tongeren, Stijn J.

2014-10-01

This article reviews the application of integrability to the spectral problem of strings on Ad{{S}5}× {{S}5} and its deformations. We begin with a pedagogical introduction to integrable field theories culminating in the description of their finite-volume spectra through the thermodynamic Bethe ansatz (TBA). Next, we apply these ideas to the Ad{{S}5}× {{S}5} string and in later sections discuss how to account for particular integrable deformations. Through the AdS/CFT correspondence this gives an exact description of anomalous scaling dimensions of single trace operators in planar N=4 supersymmetry Yang-Mills theory, its ‘orbifolds’, and β and γ-deformed supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory. We also touch upon some subtleties arising in these deformed theories. Furthermore, we consider complex excited states (bound states) in the su(2) sector and give their TBA description. Finally we discuss the TBA for a quantum deformation of the Ad{{S}5}× {{S}5} superstring S-matrix, with close relations to among others Pohlmeyer reduced string theory, and briefly indicate more recent developments in this area.

Determination of trace elements in dairy milk collected from the environment of coal-fired power plant.

PubMed

Ramamurthy, N; Thillaivelavan, K

2005-01-01

In the present study the environmental effects on herbivores mammals in and around Coal-fired power plant were studied by collecting the various milk samples of Cow and Buffalo in clean polyethylene bottles. Milk samples collected at five different locations along the banks of the Paravanaru river in and around Neyveli area. These samples were prepared for trace metal determination. The concentration of trace metals (Cu, Zn, Ni, Cd, Cr, Mn, Co and Hg) were determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES) and Cold Vapour Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (CVAAS). It is observed that the samples contain greater amounts of trace metals than that in the unexposed areas. Obviously the milk samples are contaminated with these metals due to fly ash released in such environment.

Analysis of memory use for improved design and compile-time allocation of local memory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcniven, Geoffrey D.; Davidson, Edward S.

1986-01-01

Trace analysis techniques are used to study memory referencing behavior for the purpose of designing local memories and determining how to allocate them for data and instructions. In an attempt to assess the inherent behavior of the source code, the trace analysis system described here reduced the effects of the compiler and host architecture on the trace by using a technical called flattening. The variables in the trace, their associated single-assignment values, and references are histogrammed on the basis of various parameters describing memory referencing behavior. Bounds are developed specifying the amount of memory space required to store all live values in a particular histogram class. The reduction achieved in main memory traffic by allocating local memory is specified for each class.

Particulate and trace gas emissions from prescribed burns in southeastern U.S. fuel types: Summary of a 5-year project

Treesearch

David R. Weise; Timothy J. Johnson; James Reardon

2015-01-01

Management of smoke from prescribed fires requires knowledge of fuel quantity and the amount and composition of the smoke produced by the fire to minimize adverse impacts on human health. A five-year study produced new emissions information for more than 100 trace gases and particulate matter in smoke for fuel types found in the southern United States of America using...

Elimination of cadmium trace contaminations from drinking water.

PubMed

Zhao, Xuan; Höll, Wolfgang H; Yun, Guichun

2002-02-01

Raw waters polluted with trace heavy metals present serious problems to the part of the Chinese water supply. One of the important contaminants is cadmium. Removal of trace amounts of heavy metals can be achieved by means of selective sorption processes. One of the possibilities is the application of weak base anion exchangers. LEWIS-base/acid interactions lead to an exclusive sorption of heavy metal cations and an equivalent amount of anions of strong acids. The respective elimination of cadmium from pure solutions and spiked natural water and the regeneration of the exhausted exchanger has been investigated. The results demonstrate a very efficient elimination. The standards for drinking water are met for a very large relative volume of treated water. In addition, even a considerable share of dissolved organic matter is adsorbed. Regeneration requires a first step with sulfuric acid to remove the metals and a second one with sodium hydroxide to neutralize the exchanger and to displace the DOC adsorbed. The heavy metals can be concentrated in a small volume which facilitates the discharge of the waste.

Is violence in part a lithium deficiency state?

PubMed

Goldstein, Mark R; Mascitelli, Luca

2016-04-01

Violence, particularly firearm violence, leading to suicide and homicide is a significant problem worldwide. A majority of suicidal and homicidal violence involves males; homicidal violence is prevalent among young men and suicide is the leading cause of violence worldwide. Lithium, in pharmacological doses, has been used successfully for decades in treating bipolar disorders, and has been shown to decrease violent crime in this situation. Interestingly, lithium, in trace amounts, as occurs in some drinking water, has been inversely related to aggression, and suicidal and homicidal violence. Lithium is naturally found in vegetables, grains and drinking water, and dietary intake varies from nearly zero to 3mg daily. Elemental lithium, in trace doses, has been shown to improve mood in weeks. Moreover, lithium, in trace amounts, has no toxicity. In order to ensure adequate dietary intakes of elemental lithium daily for the purpose of decreasing aggression and violence, we propose considering the fortification of cereal grain products with lithium and also the addition of lithium to vitamin preparations for adults. Importantly, randomized trials in various populations are needed to test this hypothesis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Chemical engineering challenges and investment opportunities in sustainable energy.

PubMed

Heller, Adam

2008-01-01

The chemical and energy industries are transforming as they adjust to the new era of high-priced petroleum and severe global warming. As a result of the transformation, engineering challenges and investment opportunities abound. Rapid evolution and fast growth are expected in cathode and anode materials as well as polymeric electrolytes for vehicular batteries and in high-performance polymer-ceramic composites for wind turbines, fuel-efficient aircraft, and lighter and safer cars. Unique process-engineering opportunities exist in sand-oil, coal, and possibly also shale liquefaction to produce transportation fuel; and also in genetic engineering of photosynthesizing plants and other organisms for their processing into high-performance biodegradable polymers and high-value-added environmentally friendly chemicals. Also, research on the feasibility of mitigation of global warming through enhancement of CO(2) uptake by the southern oceans by fertilization with trace amounts of iron is progressing. Because chemical engineers are uniquely well trained in mathematical modeling of mass transport, flow, and mixing, and also in cost analysis, they are likely to join the oceanographers and marine biologists in this important endeavor.

Three years experience of operating and selling recovered struvite from full-scale plant.

PubMed

Ueno, Y; Fujii, M

2001-11-01

The adoption of phosphorus removal at sewage treatment works (STW) creates two main problems. Firstly large amounts of sludge are produced and secondly the quantity of the effluent deteriorates due to the increase in the phosphorus load of the sidestream. Furthermore, these processes do not remove phosphorus in a form that would enable it to be recycled. Therefore in order to control these process difficulties and produce a recyclable phosphorus product a sidestream struvite crystallisation reactor was developed. The struvite was produced in a fluidised bed reactor using dewatered filtrate from anaerobic sludge digestion. Magnesium hydroxide was added in a magnesium to phosphate ratio of 1:1 and the pH was adjusted to between 8.2-8.8 with the addition of sodium hydroxide. A retention time of 10 days alowed the growth of pellets between 0.5-1.0 mm in size. The recovered struvite contained only minute traces of toxic substances and was sold to fertiliser companies for 27,000 yen tonne(-1). It is used to enhance existing fertilisers, which are widely used on paddy rice, vegetables and flowers.

Production of Mycophenolic Acid by Penicillium brevicompactum Using Solid State Fermentation.

PubMed

Patel, Gopal; Patil, Mahesh D; Soni, Surbhi; Chisti, Yusuf; Banerjee, Uttam Chand

2017-05-01

Solid-state fermentation using the microfungus Penicillium brevicompactum for the production of mycophenolic acid is reported in this paper. Of the initial substrates tested (whole wheat, cracked wheat, long grain Basmati rice, and short grain Parmal rice), Parmal rice proved to be the best. Under initial conditions, using steamed Parmal rice with 80% (w/w) initial moisture content, a maximum mycophenolic acid concentration of 3.4 g/kg substrate was achieved in 12 days of fermentation at 25 °C. The above substrate was supplemented with the following additional nutrients (g/L packed substrate): glucose 40.0, peptone 54.0, KH 2 PO 4 8.0, MgSO4⋅7H 2 O 2.0, glycine 7.0, and methionine 1.65 (initial pH 5.0). A small amount of a specified trace element solution was also added. The final mycophenolic acid concentration was increased to nearly 4 g/kg substrate by replacing glucose with molasses. Replacing Parmal rice with rice bran as substrate further improved the mycophenolic acid production to nearly 4.5 g/kg substrate.

High-sensitivity detection of polysaccharide using phosphodiesters quaternary ammonium salt as probe by decreased resonance light scattering.

PubMed

Chen, Zhanguang; Liu, Guoliang; Chen, Maohuai; Wu, Mingyao

2009-07-15

Phosphodiesters quaternary ammonium salt (PQAS) displayed quite intense light scattering in aqueous solution under the optimum condition. In addition, the resonance light scattering (RLS) signal of PQAS was remarkably decreased after adding trace amount polysaccharide with the maximum peak located at 391 nm. It was found that the decreased RLS intensity of the PQAS-PPGL system (DeltaI(RLS)) was in proportion to PPGL concentration in the range of 0.1-30 ng mL(-1), with a lower detection limit of 0.05 ng mL(-1). Based on this rare decreased RLS phenomenon, the novel method of the determination of purified polysaccharide of Gracilaria Lemaneiformis (PPGL) at nanogram level was proposed in this contribution. The proposed approach was used to determine purified polysaccharide extracted from Gracilaria Lemaneiformis with satisfactory results. Compared with the reported polysaccharide assays, this proposed method has good selectivity, high sensitivity and is especially simple and convenient. Moreover, the mechanism of the reaction between PQAS and polysaccharide was investigated by RLS, fluorescence, and fluorescence lifetime spectra.

Charge-Transfer-Induced Fluorescence Quenching of Anthracene Derivatives and Selective Detection of Picric Acid.

PubMed

Santra, Dines Chandra; Bera, Manas Kumar; Sukul, Pradip Kumar; Malik, Sudip

2016-02-01

2,6-Divinylpyridine-appended anthracene derivatives flanked by two alkyl chains at the 9,10-position of the core have been designed, synthesized, and characterized by NMR, MALDI-TOF, FTIR, and single-crystal XRD. These anthracene derivatives are able to recognize picric acid (2,4,6-trinitrophenol, PA) selectively down to parts per billion (ppb) level in aqueous as well as nonaqueous medium. Fluorescence emission of these derivatives in solution is significantly quenched by adding trace amounts of PA, even in the presence of other competing analogues, such as 2,4-dinitrophenol (2,4-DNP), 4-nitrophenol (NP), nitrobenzene (NB), benzoic acid (BA), and phenol (PH). The high sensitivity of these derivatives toward PA is considered as a combined effect of the proton-induced intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) as well as electron transfer from the electron-rich anthracene to the electron-deficient PA. Moreover, visual detection of PA has been successfully demonstrated in the solid state by using different substrates. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

MIRO: A debugging tool for CLIPS incorporating historical Rete networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tuttle, Sharon M.; Eick, Christoph F.

1994-01-01

At the last CLIPS conference, we discussed our ideas for adding a temporal dimension to the Rete network used to implement CLIPS. The resulting historical Rete network could then be used to store 'historical' information about a run of a CLIPS program, to aid in debugging. MIRO, a debugging tool for CLIPS built on top of CLIPS, incorporates such a historical Rete network and uses it to support its prototype question-answering capability. By enabling CLIPS users to directly ask debugging-related questions about the history of a program run, we hope to reduce the amount of single-stepping and program tracing required to debug a CLIPS program. In this paper, we briefly describe MIRO's architecture and implementation, and the current question-types that MIRO supports. These question-types are further illustrated using an example, and the benefits of the debugging tool are discussed. We also present empirical results that measure the run-time and partial storage overhead of MIRO, and discuss how MIRO may also be used to study various efficiency aspects of CLIPS programs.

INSOLUBILITY AND ALTERATION OF ALLERGENIC ACTIVITY OF WHEAT PROTEINS IN PROCESSED FOODS.

PubMed

Tanaka, Kajiyo; Kanie, Yuuki; Naitou, Michita; Suzuki, Misa; Umemura, Harue; Tagami, Kazunori; Sakai, Kazunori; Furuta, Tomoko; Yamada, Chikako; Izumi, Hidehiko; Yokooji, Tomoharu; Matsuo, Hiroaki; Ito, Komei

2017-01-01

Food processing causes decomposition, denaturation or polymerization of protein, which may alter an allergic reaction. This study aimed to investigate the insolubility and alteration of wheat allergens in processed foods and the reactivity to patient sera. We extracted proteins from wheat flour, udon and bread using different extracts and conducted SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. IgE-immunoblotting was also conducted using sera from children with wheat allergy. Soluble protein was extracted from wheat flour, and gluten fractions were also extracted by adding SDS. However, no proteins were able to be extracted from udon or bread witout severing the disulfide bonds under reducing condition. Only trace amounts of protein were detected in the water after boiling udon noodles. The reactivity of IgE antibody to the extracted protein did not differ among the different processed food types. Wheat allergens became strongly insolubilized after gluten formation and heating. However, the reactivity of IgE antibody to each allergen was not affected by food processing. Further studies are needed for the effects on clinical symptoms.

Determination of uranium in zircon

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cuttitta, F.; Daniels, G.J.

1959-01-01

A routine fluorimetric procedure is described for the determination of trace amounts of uranium in zircon. It employs the direct extraction of uranyl nitrate with ethyl acetate using phosphate as a retainer for zirconium. Submicrogram amounts or uranium are separated in the presence of 100,000 times the amount of zirconium. The modified procedure has been worked out using synthetic mixtures of known composition and zircon. Results of analyses have an accuracy of 97-98% of the contained uranium and a standard deviation of less than 2.5%. ?? 1959.

21 CFR 582.80 - Trace minerals added to animal feeds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Cobalt Cobalt acetate. Cobalt carbonate. Cobalt chloride. Cobalt oxide. Cobalt sulfate. Copper Copper... pyrophosphate. Copper sulfate. Iodine Calcium iodate. Calcium iodobehenate. Cuprous iodide. 3,5-Diiodosalicylic.... Thymol iodide. Iron Iron ammonium citrate. Iron carbonate. Iron chloride. Iron gluconate. Iron oxide...

21 CFR 582.80 - Trace minerals added to animal feeds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Cobalt Cobalt acetate. Cobalt carbonate. Cobalt chloride. Cobalt oxide. Cobalt sulfate. Copper Copper... pyrophosphate. Copper sulfate. Iodine Calcium iodate. Calcium iodobehenate. Cuprous iodide. 3,5-Diiodosalicylic.... Thymol iodide. Iron Iron ammonium citrate. Iron carbonate. Iron chloride. Iron gluconate. Iron oxide...

21 CFR 582.80 - Trace minerals added to animal feeds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Cobalt Cobalt acetate. Cobalt carbonate. Cobalt chloride. Cobalt oxide. Cobalt sulfate. Copper Copper... pyrophosphate. Copper sulfate. Iodine Calcium iodate. Calcium iodobehenate. Cuprous iodide. 3,5-Diiodosalicylic.... Thymol iodide. Iron Iron ammonium citrate. Iron carbonate. Iron chloride. Iron gluconate. Iron oxide...

NARSTO EPA SS ST LOUIS AIR CHEM PM MET DATA

Atmospheric Science Data Center

2018-04-09

... Winds Precipitation Amount Surface Pressure Solar Radiation Surface Air Temperature Particulates Trace Metals ... Earth Related Data:  Environmental Protection Agency Supersites St. Louis SCAR-B Block:  ...

Estimated Loads of Suspended Sediment and Selected Trace Elements Transported through Milltown Reservoir in the Upper Clark Fork Basin, Montana, Water Years 2004-07

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lambing, John H.; Sando, Steven K.

2008-01-01

The purpose of this report is to present estimated daily and annual loads of suspended sediment and selected trace elements for water years 2004-07 at two sites upstream and one site downstream from Milltown Reservoir. Milltown Reservoir is a National Priorities List Superfund site in the upper Clark Fork basin of western Montana where sediments enriched in trace elements from historical mining and ore processing have been deposited since the construction of Milltown Dam in 1907. The estimated loads were used to quantify annual net gains and losses (mass balance) of suspended sediment and trace elements within Milltown Reservoir before and after June 1, 2006, which was the start of Stage 1 of a permanent drawdown of the reservoir in preparation for removal of Milltown Dam. This study was done in cooperation with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Daily loads of suspended sediment were estimated for water years 2004-07 by using either high-frequency sampling as part of daily sediment monitoring or regression equations relating suspended-sediment discharge to streamflow. Daily loads of unfiltered-recoverable arsenic, cadmium, copper, iron, lead, manganese, and zinc were estimated by using regression equations relating trace-element discharge to suspended-sediment discharge. Regression equations were developed from data for eriodic water-quality samples collected during water years 2004-07. The equations were applied to daily records of either streamflow or suspended-sediment discharge to produce estimated daily loads. Variations in daily suspended-sediment and trace-element loads generally coincided with variations in streamflow. For most of the period before June 1, 2006, differences in daily loads transported to and from Milltown Reservoir were minor or indicated small amounts of deposition; however, losses of suspended sediment and trace elements from the reservoir occurred during temporary drawdowns in July-August 2004 and October-December 2005. After the start of Stage 1 of the permanent drawdown on June 1, 2006, losses of suspended sediment and trace elements from the reservoir persisted for all streamflow conditions during the entire interval of the Stage 1 drawdown (June 1, 2006-September 30, 2007) within the study period. Estimated daily loads of suspended sediment and trace elements were summed for each year to produce estimated annual loads used to determine the annual net gains (deposition) or losses (erosion) of each constituent within Milltown Reservoir during water years 2004-07. During water year 2004, there was an annual net gain of suspended sediment in the reservoir. The annual net gains and losses of trace elements were inconsistent in water year 2004, with gains occurring for arsenic ad iron, but losses occurring for cadmium, copper, lead, manganese, and zinc. In water year 2005, there were annual net gains of suspended sediment and all the trace elements within the reservoir. In water year 2006, there were annual net losses of all constituents from the reservoir, likely as the result of sediment erosion from the reservoir during both a temporary drawdown in October-December 2005 and Stage 1 of the permanent drawdown that continued after June 1, 2006. In water year 2007, when the Stage 1 drawdown was in effect for the entire year, there were large annual net losses of suspended sediment and trace elements from the reservoir. The annual net losses of constituents from Milltown Reservoir in water year 2007 were the largest of any year during the 2004-07 study period. In water year 2007, the annual net loss of suspended sediment from the reservoir was 130,000 tons, which was more than double (about 222 percent) the combined inflow to the reservoir. The largest annual net losses of trace elements in water year 2007, in percent of the combined inflow to the reservoir, occurred for cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc-about 190 percent for cadmium, 170 percent for copper, 150 percent for lead, and 238 p

Trace metal dynamics in floodplain soils of the river Elbe: a review.

PubMed

Schulz-Zunkel, Christiane; Krueger, Frank

2009-01-01

This paper reviews trace metal dynamics in floodplain soils using the Elbe floodplains in Germany as an example of extraordinary importance because of the pollution level of its sediments and soils. Trace metal dynamics are determined by processes of retention and release, which are influenced by a number of soil properties including pH value, redox potential, organic matter, type and amount of clay minerals, iron-, manganese- and aluminum-oxides. Today floodplains act as important sinks for contaminants but under changing hydraulic and geochemical conditions they may also act as sources for pollutants. In floodplains such changes may be extremes in flooding or dry periods that particularly lead to altered redox potentials and that in turn influence the pH value, the mineralization of organic matter as well as the charge of the pedogenic oxides. Such reactions may affect the bioavailability of trace metals in soils and it can be clearly seen that the bioavailability of metals is an important factor for estimating trace metal remobilization in floodplain soils. However as bioavailability is not a constant factor, there is still a lack of quantification of metal mobilization particularly on the basis of changing geochemical conditions. Moreover, mobile amounts of metals in the soil solution do not indicate to which extent remobilized metals will be transported to water bodies or plants and therefore potentially have toxicological effects. Consequently, floodplain areas still need to be taken into consideration when studying the role and behavior of sediments and soils for transporting pollutants within river systems, particularly concerning the Water Framework Directive.

Composition of minerals and trace elements at Mamasani thermal source: A possible preventive treatment for some skin diseases.

PubMed

Hamidizadeh, Nasrin; Simaeetabar, Shima; Handjani, Farhad; Ranjbar, Sara; Moghadam, Mohammad Gohari; Parvizi, Mohammad Mahdi

2017-01-01

Some skin diseases are incurable and modern medicine can only control them. In addition, alternative treatment remedies including balneotherapy can be effective in improving skin conditions. However, there are only a limited number of studies on particular mineral or trace elements of mineral sources that have been identified in Iran. In this respect, the amount of minerals and trace elements in Mamasani thermal source, Fars Province, Iran, was measured using electrochemical, titration, and spectrophotometric methods and evaluated. The amount of minerals and trace elements in Mamasani thermal source, Fars Province, Iran, was measured using electrochemical, titration, and spectrophotometric methods. The concentrations of natural gases such as H 2 S and NO 3 in Mamasani thermal source were measured to be 22.10 mg/L and 42.79 mg/L, respectively. The source also contained major ions such as chloride, sulfate, sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carbonate. Due to the high concentration of chloride, sulfate, and sodium ions in comparison with other major ions, the water source is also classified as sulfide water. The existing trace elements in this thermal water source are iron, zinc, copper, selenium, cobalt, chromium, boron, silisium, aluminum, magnesium, and molybdenum. We concluded that bathing in this source could be beneficial. As nitrate concentration is close to the highest standard concentration for drinking water, it can be used in chronic dermatitis, psoriasis, burns, and allergy. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antifungal effects of sulfur-containing water in this source can be helpful in the treatment of leg ulcers, tinea versicolor, tinea corporis, and tinea capitis.

Content of trace elements and chromium speciation in Neem powder and tea infusions.

PubMed

Novotnik, Breda; Zuliani, Tea; Ščančar, Janez; Milačič, Radmila

2015-01-01

Total concentrations of selected trace elements in Neem powder and in Neem tea were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The data revealed that despite high total concentrations of the potentially toxic elements Al and Ni in Neem powder, their amounts dissolved in Neem tea were low. Total concentrations of the other toxic elements Pb, As and Cd were also very low and do not represent a health hazard. In contrast, total concentrations of the essential elements Fe, Cu, Zn, Se Mo and Cr in Neem powder were high and also considerable in Neem tea. Consuming one cup of Neem tea (2g per 200 mL of water) covers the recommended daily intakes for Cr and Se and represents an important source of Mo and Cu. Speciation analysis of Cr by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled to ICP-MS with the use of enriched Cr isotopic tracers to follow species interconversions during the analytical procedure demonstrated that toxic Cr(VI) was not present either in Neem powder or in Neem tea. Its concentrations were below the limits of detection of the HPLC-ICP-MS procedure applied. The speciation analysis data confirmed that even Cr(VI) was added, it was rapidly reduced by the presence of antioxidants in Neem leaves. By the use of enriched Cr isotopic spike solutions it was also demonstrated that for obtaining reliable analytical data it is essential to apply the extraction procedures which prevent Cr species interconversions, or to correct for species transformation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Clouding tracing: Visualization of the mixing of fluid elements in convection-diffusion systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ma, Kwan-Liu; Smith, Philip J.

1993-01-01

This paper describes a highly interactive method for computer visualization of the basic physical process of dispersion and mixing of fluid elements in convection-diffusion systems. It is based on transforming the vector field from a traditionally Eulerian reference frame into a Lagrangian reference frame. Fluid elements are traced through the vector field for the mean path as well as the statistical dispersion of the fluid elements about the mean position by using added scalar information about the root mean square value of the vector field and its Lagrangian time scale. In this way, clouds of fluid elements are traced and are not just mean paths. We have used this method to visualize the simulation of an industrial incinerator to help identify mechanisms for poor mixing.

Ancient Topometry, the Tracing of Towns in the Roman Epoch: Ulpia Traiana Dacica Sarmizegetusa - Romania. Second Part

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stanescu, Florin

2015-05-01

While following the rituals and the ancient topometrical methods used by the Romans in tracing cities according to the Etruscan tradition, this paper presents the historical, anthropological and archaeological aspects, analyzing techniques being used and aims at determining the day when there was inaugurated after the 2nd Dacian-Roman war, 105-106 AD, the new capital, Colonia Ulpia Traiana Augusta Dacica Sarmizegetusa, of the new province of Roman Empire, "Dacia Felix". The aspects of the problem which require a special archaeoastronomical and archaeometrical analysis are the physical horizon and the sun's movement. The provisional results obtained so far lead to the conclusion that the capital might have been traced in the 15-18 september period, that coincided with Emperor Trajan's birthday.

Effects of Trace Metals on the Production of Aflatoxins by Aspergillus parasiticus

PubMed Central

Marsh, Paul B.; Simpson, Marion E.; Trucksess, Mary W.

1975-01-01

Certain metals added as salts to a defined basal culture medium influenced the level of aflatoxin production by Aspergillus parasiticus in the low microgramsper-milliliter range of the added metal. In many cases no change or a relatively small change in mat weight and final pH of the medium accompanied this effect. With zinc at added levels of 0 to 10 μg/ml in the medium, aflatoxin increased 30-to 1,000-fold with increasing of zinc, whereas mat weight increased less than threefold. At 25 μg of added zinc per ml, aflatoxin decreased, but mat weight did not. At an added level of 25 μg or less of the metal per ml, salts of iron, manganese, copper, cadmium, trivalent chromium, silver, and mercury partly or completely inhibited aflatoxin production, without influencing mat weight. PMID:238471

Study for the degumming pretreatment of rubber seed oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, X. Y.; Chen, Y. B.; Zhang, X.; Souliyathai, D.; Yang, S. P.; Wang, Q.

2017-11-01

With the rapid development of the aviation industry, appearing of the aviation carbon tax and the increasingly serious environmental problems have forced the world to research the development of renewable bio-aviation fuel. Renewable biological aviation fuel contains phosphorus that could reduce the synthesis of noble metal catalysts such as Pd, Pt activity. In order to get low content of phosphorus in degummed oil of non-edible vegetable oil, in this paper, with rubber seed oil as raw material, making the experiment of single factor at the influence of temperature, stirring speed, adding amount of monoethanolamine (MEA) and water amount. The experimental results show that the added amount of MEA is 2.5% in the weight of oil, and temperature is 60°C, while the amount of added water is 2% in the weight of oil, reaction time is 40 min, and stirring speed is 200 r/min. Under these conditions, the phosphorus content of rubber seed oil can be reduced to below 3 mg/kg, degumming rate is 91.37%, and the degumming effects are obvious, which also provides some foundation for follow-up studies.

Molybdenite Mineral Evolution: A Study Of Trace Elements Through Time

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McMillan, M. M.; Downs, R. T.; Stein, H. J.; Zimmerman, A.; Beitscher, B. A.; Sverjensky, D. A.; Papineau, D.; Armstrong, J. T.; Hazen, R. M.

2010-12-01

Mineral evolution explores changes through time in Earth’s near-surface mineralogy, including diversity of species, relative abundances of species, and compositional ranges of major, minor and trace elements. Such studies elucidate the co-evolution of the geosphere and biosphere. Accordingly, we investigated trace and minor elements in molybdenite (MoS2) with known ages from 3 billion years to recent. Molybdenite, the commonest mineral of Mo, may prove to be a useful case study as a consequence of its presence in Earth’s early history, the effects of oxidation on Mo mobility, and the possible role of Mo mineral coevolution with biology via its role in the nitrogen fixation enzyme nitrogenase. We employed ICPMS, SEM and electron microprobe analyses to detect trace and minor elements. We detected significant amounts of Mn and Cu (~100 ppm) and greater amounts of Fe, W, and Re (to ~4000 ppm). Molybdenites commonly contain micro inclusions, resulting in local concentrations in otherwise homogeneous samples. Inhomogeneities in Fe, Zn and Sn concentrations, for example, point to the presence of pyrite, sphalerite and cassiterite inclusions, respectively. Analyses examined as a function of time reveal that samples containing significant concentrations (>200 ppm, compared to average values < 100 ppm) of W and Re formed primarily within the last billion years. These trends may reflect changes in the mobility of W and Re in oxic hydrothermal fluids at shallow crustal conditions following the Great Oxidation Event.

Just a Spoonful of Sugar Will Land You Six Feet Underground: Should the Food and Drug Administration Revoke Added Sugar's GRAS Status?

PubMed

Card, Melissa Marie; Abela, John Francis

2015-01-01

This article assesses whether added sugar meets FDA's standard to be generally recognized as safe ("GRAS"). If added sugar is not GRAS, then manufacturers are subject to premarket approval prior to using added sugar in their products. This article advocates that FDA should issue a Federal Register notice determining that added sugar is not GRAS, allowing FDA to regulate the amount of added sugar used in processed foods, decreasing the health adversities that stem from added sugar consumption.

Miller-Urey Experiments to Assess the Production of Amino Acids under Impact Conditions on Early Titan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turse, Carol; Khan, A.; Leitner, J. J.; Firneis, M. G.; Schulze-Makuch, D.

2012-05-01

We performed Miller-Urey type experiments to determine the organic synthesis of amino acids under conditions that have likely occurred on Saturn's moon Titan and are also relevant to Jupiter's moon Europa. We conducted the first set of experiments under early Earth conditions, similar to the original Miller-Urey experiments (Miller, 1953). In brief, the 250ml round bottom flask was filled with approximately 200mL of filtered sterile water and the apparatus was placed under vacuum for 10 minutes to purge the water of gases. The system was then flushed with hydrogen gas and placed under vacuum three times. Gases were then added in the following order: hydrogen gas to 0.1 bar, methane gas to 0.45 bar and ammonia to 0.45 bar ( 1bar total). The water was then brought to a boil and the spark was applied using the tesla coil up to a maximum of 50,000 volts. The apparatus was run for approximately 5-7 days. Between the runs the apparatus was cleaned using a hot 10% sodium hydroxide solution followed by a dilute sulfuric acid wash and four rinses with Millipure water. In the second set of experiments we simulated conditions that could have existed on an early, warm Titan or after an asteroid strike on Titan (Schulze-Makuch and Grinspoon, 2005), particularly if the strike would have occurred in the subpolar areas that exhibit vast ethane-methane lakes. If the asteroid or comet would be of sufficient size, it would also puncture the icy crust and access a vast reservoir of the subsurface liquid ammonia-water mixture. Thompson and Sagan (1992) showed that a liquid water-ammonia body could exist for millions of years on Titan after an asteroid impact. Thus, we modified the experimental conditions as described above and report on the results. Assuming a moderate impact in the subpolar areas of Titan, we used an atmosphere of currently 1.5 bar, but increased the partial pressure of methane to 1 bar (and 0.1 bar ammonia assuming a minor amount of ammonia-water ice being evaporated during the impact) (1) Assuming a major impact that would puncture the icy crust and evaporate a significant portion of ammonia on impact, we increased the ammonia partial pressure to 0.5 bar (keeping methane constant at 1 bar) and used a 30 % ammonia water mixture as liquid reservoir in the experiment. (2) Titan's atmosphere also contains various higher organic trace constituents, commonly referred to as tholins, which include ethylene, ethane, acetylene, hydrogen cyanide and various aromatic compounds. A selection of these compounds was added in trace amounts to the experimental run.

Trace element release from estuarine sediments of South Mosquito Lagoon near Kennedy Space Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Menon, M. P.; Ghuman, G. S.; Emeh, C. O.

1979-01-01

Analytical partitioning of four trace metals in estuarine sediments collected from eight sites in South Mosquito Lagoon near Kennedy Space Center, in terms of four different categories was accomplished using four different extraction techniques. The concentrations of the four trace metals, Zn, Mn, Cd, and Cu, released in interstitial water extract, 1 N ammonium acetate extract, conc. HCl extract and fusion extract of sediments as well as their concentrations in water samples collected from the same location were determined using flame atomic absorption technique. From the analytical results the percentages of total amount of each metal distributed among four different categories, interstitial water phase, acetate extractable, acid extractable and detrital crystalline material, were determined. Our results suggest that analytical partitioning of trace metals in estuarine sediments may be used to study the mechanism of incorporation of trace metals with sediments from natural waters. A correlation between the seasonal variation in the concentration of acetate extractable trace metals in the sediment and similar variation in their concentration in water was observed. A mechanism for the release of trace metals from estuarine sediments to natural water is also suggested.

New insights into trace element wet deposition in the Himalayas: amounts, seasonal patterns, and implications.

PubMed

Cong, Zhiyuan; Kang, Shichang; Zhang, Yulan; Gao, Shaopeng; Wang, Zhongyan; Liu, Bin; Wan, Xin

2015-02-01

Our research provides the first complete year-long dataset of wet deposition of trace elements in the high Himalayas based on a total of 42 wet deposition events on the northern slope of Mt. Qomolangma (Everest). Except for typical crustal elements (Al, Fe, and Mn), the concentration level of most trace elements (Sc, V, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Mo, Cd, Sn, Cs, Pb, Bi, and U) are generally comparable to those preserved in snow pits and ice cores from the nearby East Rongbuk Glacier. Cadmium was the element most affected by anthropogenic emissions. No pronounced seasonal variations are observed for most trace elements despite different transport pathways. In our study, the composition of wet precipitation reflects a regional background condition and is not clearly related to specific source regions. For the trace element record from ice cores and snow pits in the Himalayas, it could be deduced that the pronounced seasonal patterns were caused by the dry deposition of trace elements (aerosols) during their long exposure to the atmosphere after precipitation events. Our findings are of value for the understanding of the trace element deposition mechanisms in the Himalayas.

Impact of Information Management in the University Setting.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sholtys, Phyllis

1985-01-01

Many organizations are establishing the role of "chief information officer," charged with directing the evolution and integration of information processing. The impact on Northern Kentucky University of adding a chief information officer and reorganizing campus information services is traced. Organizational, political, and social factors…

Consumer acceptance of model soup system with varying levels of herbs and salt.

PubMed

Wang, Chao; Lee, Youngsoo; Lee, Soo-Yeun

2014-10-01

Although herbs have been reported as one of the most common saltiness enhancers, few studies have focused on the effect of herbs on reducing added sodium as well as the impact of herbs on consumers' overall liking of foods. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine the effect of varying levels of herbs on reducing added sodium and consumers' overall liking of soups and identify the impact of salt levels on consumers' overall liking of soups. Overall liking of freshly prepared and retorted canned soups with varying levels of herbs was evaluated before and after adding salt by consumers ad libitum until the saltiness of the soup was just about right for them. The results of the study demonstrated that when the perceived herb flavor increased, the amount of salt consumers added to fresh soups decreased (P ≤ 0.006); however, consumers' overall liking decreased (P ≤ 0.013) as well for the highest level of herb tested in the study. Although overall liking of all canned soups was not significantly decreased by herbs, the amount of salt consumers added was also not significantly decreased when herbs were used. Overall liking of all soups significantly increased after more salt was added (P ≤ 0.001), which indicates that salt level was a dominant factor in affecting consumers' overall liking of soups with varying levels of herbs. These findings imply the role of herbs in decreasing salt intake, and the adequate amount of herbs to be added in soup systems. It is challenging for the food industry to reduce sodium in foods without fully understanding the impact of sodium reduction on sensory properties of foods. Herbs are recommended to use in reducing sodium; however, little has been reported regarding the effect of herbs on sodium reduction and how herbs influence consumers’ acceptance of foods. This study provides findings that herbs may aid in decreasing the amount of salt consumers need to add for freshly prepared soups. It was also found that high levels of herbs may decrease consumers’ overall liking of soups. © 2014 Institute of Food Technologists®

Measuring biogeochemical responses to pulses of water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balcerak, Ernie

2012-05-01

Hydrologic pulses, temporary increases in water inputs such as bouts of precipitation, can affect biogeochemical processes in ecosystems by providing water and nutrient resources. However, ecosystem responses to the water vary. Harms and Grimm conducted experiments to determine how hydrologic pulses and existing moisture conditions interact to affect the biogeochemistry of desert floodplains. During dry and monsoon seasons at their study site in the floodplains of the San Pedro River in Arizona, the researchers experimentally added pulses of water and then measured emissions of several trace gases that are indicators of biological processes. They found that the size of the added hydrologic pulse strongly interacted with existing soil moisture conditions in determining emissions of some trace gases. For instance, following dry conditions, pulses of water stimulated carbon dioxide, methane, and nitric oxide emissions, with larger water pulses stimulating more emissions. However, when soil was already wet, the addition of water pulses had less effect on the emission of these gases. (Journal of Geophysical Research-Biogeosciences, doi:10.1029/2011JG001775, 2012)

Ray tracing: Experience at SRC

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Severson, M.

1996-09-01

SHADOW [B. Lai and F. Cerrina, Nucl. Instrum. Methods A {bold 246}, 337 (1986)] is the primary ray-tracing program used at SRC. Ray tracing provides a tremendous amount of information regarding beamline layout, mirror sizes, resolution, alignment tolerances, and beam size at various locations. It also provides a way to check the beamline design for errors. Two recent designs have been ray traced extensively: an undulator-based, 4-meter, normal-incidence monochromator (NIM) [R. Reininger, M.C. Severson, R.W.C. Hansen, W.R. Winter, M.A. Green, and W.S. Trzeciak, Rev. Sci. Instrum. {bold 66}, 2194 (1995)] and an undulator-based, plane-grating monochromator (PGM) [R. Reininger, S.L. Crossley,more » M.A. Lagergren, M.C. Severson, and R.W.C. Hansen, Nucl. Instrum. Methods A {bold 347}, 304 (1994)]. {copyright} {ital 1996 American Institute of Physics.}« less

Aluminum and Alzheimer's disease: after a century of controversy, is there a plausible link?

PubMed

Tomljenovic, Lucija

2011-01-01

The brain is a highly compartmentalized organ exceptionally susceptible to accumulation of metabolic errors. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease of the elderly and is characterized by regional specificity of neural aberrations associated with higher cognitive functions. Aluminum (Al) is the most abundant neurotoxic metal on earth, widely bioavailable to humans and repeatedly shown to accumulate in AD-susceptible neuronal foci. In spite of this, the role of Al in AD has been heavily disputed based on the following claims: 1) bioavailable Al cannot enter the brain in sufficient amounts to cause damage, 2) excess Al is efficiently excreted from the body, and 3) Al accumulation in neurons is a consequence rather than a cause of neuronal loss. Research, however, reveals that: 1) very small amounts of Al are needed to produce neurotoxicity and this criterion is satisfied through dietary Al intake, 2) Al sequesters different transport mechanisms to actively traverse brain barriers, 3) incremental acquisition of small amounts of Al over a lifetime favors its selective accumulation in brain tissues, and 4) since 1911, experimental evidence has repeatedly demonstrated that chronic Al intoxication reproduces neuropathological hallmarks of AD. Misconceptions about Al bioavailability may have misled scientists regarding the significance of Al in the pathogenesis of AD. The hypothesis that Al significantly contributes to AD is built upon very solid experimental evidence and should not be dismissed. Immediate steps should be taken to lessen human exposure to Al, which may be the single most aggravating and avoidable factor related to AD.

Proper temperature of the Schwarzschild AdS black hole revisited

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eune, Myungseok; Kim, Wontae

2017-10-01

The Unruh temperature calculated by using the global embedding of the Schwarzschild AdS spacetime into the Minkowski spacetime was identified with the local proper temperature; however, it became imaginary in a certain region outside the event horizon. So, the temperature was assumed to be zero of non-thermal radiation for that region. In this work, we revisit this issue in an exactly soluble two-dimensional Schwarzschild AdS black hole and present an alternative resolution to this problem in terms of the Tolman's procedure. However, the process appears to be non-trivial in the sense that the original procedure assuming the traceless energy-momentum tensor should be extended in such a way that it should cover the non-vanishing case of the energy-momentum tensor in the presence of the trace anomaly. Consequently, we show that the proper temperature turns out to be real everywhere outside the event horizon without any imaginary value, in particular, it vanishes at both the horizon and the asymptotic infinity.

Quasi-normal modes from non-commutative matrix dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aprile, Francesco; Sanfilippo, Francesco

2017-09-01

We explore similarities between the process of relaxation in the BMN matrix model and the physics of black holes in AdS/CFT. Focusing on Dyson-fluid solutions of the matrix model, we perform numerical simulations of the real time dynamics of the system. By quenching the equilibrium distribution we study quasi-normal oscillations of scalar single trace observables, we isolate the lowest quasi-normal mode, and we determine its frequencies as function of the energy. Considering the BMN matrix model as a truncation of N=4 SYM, we also compute the frequencies of the quasi-normal modes of the dual scalar fields in the AdS5-Schwarzschild background. We compare the results, and we finda surprising similarity.

Blood-collection device for trace and ultra-trace metal specimens evaluated.

PubMed

Moyer, T P; Mussmann, G V; Nixon, D E

1991-05-01

We evaluated the evacuated phlebotomy tube designed specifically for trace metal analysis by Sherwood Medical Co. Pools of human serum containing known concentrations of aluminum, arsenic, calcium, cadmium, copper, chromium, iron, lead, magnesium, manganese, mercury, selenium, and zinc were exposed to the tube and rubber stopper for defined periods ranging from 5 min to 24 h. Analysis for each element was performed in a randomized fashion under rigidly controlled conditions by use of standard electrothermal atomization atomic absorption spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy, and cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry. In addition, for comparative purposes, we collected blood samples from normal volunteers by use of ultra-clean polystyrene phlebotomy syringes as well as standard evacuated phlebotomy tubes. We conclude that, except for lead, there was no significant contribution of any trace element studied from the evaluated tube and stopper to the serum. Because whole blood is the usual specimen for lead testing, the observation of a trace amount of lead in this tube designed for serum collection is trivial.

Variation in Macro and Trace Elements in Progression of Type 2 Diabetes

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Macro elements are the minerals of which the body needs more amounts and are more important than any other elements. Trace elements constitute a minute part of the living tissues and have various metabolic characteristics and functions. Trace elements participate in tissue and cellular and subcellular functions; these include immune regulation by humoral and cellular mechanisms, nerve conduction, muscle contractions, membrane potential regulations, and mitochondrial activity and enzyme reactions. The status of micronutrients such as iron and vanadium is higher in type 2 diabetes. The calcium, magnesium, sodium, chromium, cobalt, iodine, iron, selenium, manganese, and zinc seem to be low in type 2 diabetes while elements such as potassium and copper have no effect. In this review, we emphasized the status of macro and trace elements in type 2 diabetes and its advantages or disadvantages; this helps to understand the mechanism, progression, and prevention of type 2 diabetes due to the lack and deficiency of different macro and trace elements. PMID:25162051

Can oral rehydration solution be safely flavored at home?

PubMed

Nijssen-Jordan, C

1997-12-01

To determine the concentration of sodium, potassium, glucose, and osmolality of oral rehydration solutions (ORS) which have been flavored with varying amounts of unsweetened Kool-Aid powder, Jell-O powder, apple juice, or orange juice. Descriptive. Alberta Children's Hospital Chemistry Laboratory. None. Addition of varying amounts of flavoring easily available in all households to commercially available unsweetened ORS. Concentrations of electrolytes, glucose, and osmolality. Addition of fruit juices or flavor powders to commercially produced ORS does alter the electrolyte content and osmolality. When limited amounts of flavoring or juice is added, the osmolality of the solution approaches iso-osmolality. Small amounts of unsweetened Kool-Aid powder, Jell-O powder, and apple or orange juice can be added to oral rehydration solutions without significantly altering electrolyte composition and osmolality.

Isotope Tracing of Long-Term Cadmium Fluxes in an Agricultural Soil.

PubMed

Salmanzadeh, Mahdiyeh; Hartland, Adam; Stirling, Claudine H; Balks, Megan R; Schipper, Louis A; Joshi, Chaitanya; George, Ejin

2017-07-05

Globally widespread phosphate fertilizer applications have resulted in long-term increases in the concentration of cadmium (Cd) in soils. The accumulation of this biotoxic, and bioaccumulative metal presents problems for the management of soil-plant-animal systems, because the magnitude and direction of removal fluxes (e.g., crop uptake, leaching) have been difficult to estimate. Here, Cd isotopic compositions (δ 114/110 Cd) of archived fertilizer and soil samples from a 66 year-long agricultural field trial in Winchmore, New Zealand, were used to constrain the Cd soil mass balance between 1959 and 2015 AD, informing future soil Cd accumulation trajectories. The isotopic partitioning of soil Cd sources in this system was aided by a change in phosphate source rocks in 1998 AD, and a corresponding shift in fertilizer isotope composition. The dominant influence of mixing between isotopically distinct Cd end-members was confirmed by a Bayesian modeling approach. Furthermore, isotope mass balance modeling revealed that Cd removal processes most likely increased in magnitude substantially between 2000 and 2015 AD, implying an increase in Cd bioaccumulation and/or leaching over that interval. Natural-abundance stable isotopes are introduced here as a powerful tool for tracing the fate of Cd in agricultural soils, and potentially the wider environment.

Influence of Preoperative Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition with Micronutrients after Colorectal Cancer Patients

PubMed Central

Tang, Hsiu-Chih; Hu, Shu-Hui; Yang, Hui-Lan

2015-01-01

Background. The inflammatory reactions are stronger after surgery of malnourished preoperative patients. Many studies have shown vitamin and trace element deficiencies appear to affect the functioning of immune cells. Enteral nutrition is often inadequate for malnourished patients. Therefore, total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is considered an effective method for providing preoperative nutritional support. TPN needs a central vein catheter, and there are more risks associated with TPN. However, peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) often does not provide enough energy or nutrients. Purpose. This study investigated the inflammatory response and prognosis for patients receiving a modified form of PPN with added fat emulsion infusion, multiple vitamins (MTV), and trace elements (TE) to assess the feasibility of preoperative nutritional support. Methods. A cross-sectional design was used to compare the influence of PPN with or without adding MTV and TE on malnourished abdominal surgery patients. Results. Both preoperative groups received equal calories and protein, but due to the lack of micronutrients, patients in preoperative Group B exhibited higher inflammation, lower serum albumin levels, and higher anastomotic leak rates and also required prolonged hospital stays. Conclusion. Malnourished patients who receive micronutrient supplementation preoperatively have lower postoperative inflammatory responses and better prognoses. PPN with added fat emulsion, MTV, and TE provides valid and effective preoperative nutritional support. PMID:26000296

Influence of preoperative peripheral parenteral nutrition with micronutrients after colorectal cancer patients.

PubMed

Liu, Ming-Yi; Tang, Hsiu-Chih; Hu, Shu-Hui; Yang, Hui-Lan; Chang, Sue-Joan

2015-01-01

The inflammatory reactions are stronger after surgery of malnourished preoperative patients. Many studies have shown vitamin and trace element deficiencies appear to affect the functioning of immune cells. Enteral nutrition is often inadequate for malnourished patients. Therefore, total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is considered an effective method for providing preoperative nutritional support. TPN needs a central vein catheter, and there are more risks associated with TPN. However, peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) often does not provide enough energy or nutrients. This study investigated the inflammatory response and prognosis for patients receiving a modified form of PPN with added fat emulsion infusion, multiple vitamins (MTV), and trace elements (TE) to assess the feasibility of preoperative nutritional support. Methods. A cross-sectional design was used to compare the influence of PPN with or without adding MTV and TE on malnourished abdominal surgery patients. Both preoperative groups received equal calories and protein, but due to the lack of micronutrients, patients in preoperative Group B exhibited higher inflammation, lower serum albumin levels, and higher anastomotic leak rates and also required prolonged hospital stays. Malnourished patients who receive micronutrient supplementation preoperatively have lower postoperative inflammatory responses and better prognoses. PPN with added fat emulsion, MTV, and TE provides valid and effective preoperative nutritional support.

Method for detecting trace impurities in gases

DOEpatents

Freund, Samuel M.; Maier, II, William B.; Holland, Redus F.; Beattie, Willard H.

1981-01-01

A technique for considerably improving the sensitivity and specificity of infrared spectrometry as applied to quantitative determination of trace impurities in various carrier or solvent gases is presented. A gas to be examined for impurities is liquefied and infrared absorption spectra of the liquid are obtained. Spectral simplification and number densities of impurities in the optical path are substantially higher than are obtainable in similar gas-phase analyses. Carbon dioxide impurity (.about.2 ppm) present in commercial Xe and ppm levels of Freon 12 and vinyl chloride added to liquefied air are used to illustrate the method.

Method for detecting trace impurities in gases

DOEpatents

Freund, S.M.; Maier, W.B. II; Holland, R.F.; Beattie, W.H.

A technique for considerably improving the sensitivity and specificity of infrared spectrometry as applied to quantitative determination of trace impurities in various carrier or solvent gases is presented. A gas to be examined for impurities is liquefied and infrared absorption spectra of the liquid are obtained. Spectral simplification and number densities of impurities in the optical path are substantially higher than are obtainable in similar gas-phase analyses. Carbon dioxide impurity (approx. 2 ppM) present in commercial Xe and ppM levels of Freon 12 and vinyl chloride added to liquefied air are used to illustrate the method.

[Iodine and thyroid gland with or without nuclear catastrophe].

PubMed

Dilas, Ljiljana Todorović; Bajkin, Ivana; Icin, Tijana; Paro, Jovanka Novaković; Zavisić, Branka Kovacev

2012-01-01

Iodine, as a trace element, is a necessary and limiting substrate for thyroid gland hormone synthesis. It is an essential element that enables the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Synthesis of Thyroid Hormones and Iodine Metabolism. Three iodine molecules are added to make triiodothyronine, and four for thyroxine - the two key hormones produced by the thyroid gland. Iodine deficiency The proper daily amount of iodine is required for optimal thyroid function. Iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism, developmental brain disorders and goiter. Iodine deficiency is the single most common cause of preventable mental retardation and brain damage in the world. It also decreases child survival, causes goiters, and impairs growth and development. Iodine deficiency disorders in pregnant women cause miscarriages, stillbirths, and other complications. Children with iodine deficiency disorders can grow up stunted, apathetic, mentally retarded, and incapable of normal movements, speech or hearing. Excessive Iodine Intake. Excessive iodine intake, which can trigger a utoimmune thyroid disease and dysfunction. is on the other side. Iodine use in Case of Nuclear Catastrophe. In addition to other severe consuquences of radioactivity, high amount of radioactive iodine causes significant increase in incidence of thyroid gland carcinoma after some of the nuclear catastrophes (Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Chernobyl, Fukushima). The incidence of thyroid carcinoma was increased mostly in children. This paper was aimed at clarifying some of the possibilities of prevention according to the recommendations given by the World Health Organization.

Fibronectin alters the rate of formation and structure of the fibrin matrix.

PubMed

Ramanathan, Anand; Karuri, Nancy

2014-01-10

Plasma fibronectin is a vital component of the fibrin clot; however its role on clot structure is not clearly understood. The goal of this study was to examine the influence of fibronectin on the kinetics of formation, structural characteristics and composition of reconstituted fibrin clots or fibrin matrices. Fibrin matrices were formed by adding thrombin to 1, 2 or 4 mg/ml fibrinogen supplemented with 0-0.4 mg/ml fibronectin. The rate of fibrin matrix formation was then monitored by measuring light absorbance properties at different time points. Confocal microscopy of fluorescein conjugated fibrinogen was used to visualize the structural characteristics of fibrin matrices. The amount of fibronectin in fibrin matrices was determined through electrophoresis and immunoblotting of solubilized matrices. Fibronectin concentration positively correlated with the initial rate of fibrin matrix formation and with steady state light absorbance values of fibrin matrices. An increase in fibronectin concentration resulted in thinner and denser fibers in the fibrin matrices. Electrophoresis and immunoblotting showed that fibronectin was covalently and non-covalently bound to fibrin matrices and in the form of high molecular weight multimers. The formation of fibronectin multimers was attributed to cross-linking of fibronectin by trace amounts Factor XIIIa. These findings are novel because they link results from light absorbance studies to microcopy analyses and demonstrate an influence of fibronectin on fibrin matrix structural characteristics. This data is important in developing therapies that destabilize fibrin clots. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Inc.

24 CFR 203.401 - Amount of payment-conveyed and non-conveyed properties.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... be computed by adding to the original principal balance of the mortgage (as increased by the amount... by deducting the amount bid at the sale from the original principal balance of the mortgage (as increased by the amount of open-end advances made by the mortgagee and approved by the Commissioner) which...

Ancient Oceans Had Less Oxygen

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

King, Angela G.

2004-01-01

The amount of dissolved oxygen in the oceans in the mid-Proterozoic period has evolutionary implications since essential trace metals are redox sensitive. The findings suggest that there is global lack of oxygen in seawater.

Premature Craniosynostosis: A Complication of Thyroid Replacement Therapy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Penfold, James L.; Simpson, Donald A.

1975-01-01

Presented are case studies of 3 children, infancy to 9-years-old, whose premature skull ossification (craniosynostosis) is traced to iatrogenic hyperthyroidism from the administration of excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. (CL)

Sucrose consumption in Thai undergraduate students.

PubMed

Promdee, Limthong; Trakulthong, Jindara; Kangwantrakul, Wisut

2007-01-01

Highly added sugar diets have been associated with various health problems such as dental caries, dyslipidemia, obesity and poor quality of life. Unfortunately, sugar consumption, especially sucrose, has increased continuously worldwide. The purpose of the study was to examine sources of sugar consumption and amount of added sucrose consumed in Thai undergraduate students. This study was carried out at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, between the years 2004-2005. A complete 3-day record of items and amounts of sweet consumption were obtained from 202 individuals--38 male and 164 female students. Added sucrose content of each sweetened food and drinks referred to in the record was determined by an enzymatic method. Mean intakes of sucrose were calculated from the sucrose content. The average of sucrose consumption in all subjects was 69+/-38 g/day, ranged from 4 to 182 g/day or 17 teaspoons of added sucrose per day. This amount accounted for 13.8% of total daily energy intake. There was a record of 337 kinds of sweetened foods and drinks found. The major source of added sucrose consumption was sweetened beverage, which was consumed 118 g/day averagely, or 60% of daily sugar consumption. Intake of sucrose per day in both male and female was not statistically difference, neither among different BMI groups. Intake of added sugar in the students was higher than the recommendation of the World Health Organization. These data would be helpful in a health promotion campaign aimed at a reduction of sugar consumption in Thai undergraduate students.

Simple circular odor chart for characterization of trace amounts of odorants discharged from thirteen odor sources

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hoshika, Y.; Nihei, Y.; Muto, G.

1981-04-01

A simple circular odor chart is proposed for the explanation of the relationship between sensory responses (to odor quality and intensity) to odors and chemical analysis data of the odorants responsible for each odor discharged from thirteen odor sources. The odorants were classified into eight odorant groups and were analyzed by a systematic gas chromatographic (GC) technique. The characterization of the trace amounts of the odorants was carried out by using the values of a new proposed unit (pOU) based on the ratio of detected concentration to recognition threshold value. The calculated pOU values of the eight groups were plottedmore » in circular charts. It was found that the shape and size of each circular odor chart represent the quality and the intensity of each odor.« less

Electrochemical Impedance Sensors for Monitoring Trace Amounts of NO3 in Selected Growing Media.

PubMed

Ghaffari, Seyed Alireza; Caron, William-O; Loubier, Mathilde; Normandeau, Charles-O; Viens, Jeff; Lamhamedi, Mohammed S; Gosselin, Benoit; Messaddeq, Younes

2015-07-21

With the advent of smart cities and big data, precision agriculture allows the feeding of sensor data into online databases for continuous crop monitoring, production optimization, and data storage. This paper describes a low-cost, compact, and scalable nitrate sensor based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for monitoring trace amounts of NO3- in selected growing media. The nitrate sensor can be integrated to conventional microelectronics to perform online nitrate sensing continuously over a wide concentration range from 0.1 ppm to 100 ppm, with a response time of about 1 min, and feed data into a database for storage and analysis. The paper describes the structural design, the Nyquist impedance response, the measurement sensitivity and accuracy, and the field testing of the nitrate sensor performed within tree nursery settings under ISO/IEC 17025 certifications.

Electrochemical Impedance Sensors for Monitoring Trace Amounts of NO3 in Selected Growing Media

PubMed Central

Ghaffari, Seyed Alireza; Caron, William-O.; Loubier, Mathilde; Normandeau, Charles-O.; Viens, Jeff; Lamhamedi, Mohammed S.; Gosselin, Benoit; Messaddeq, Younes

2015-01-01

With the advent of smart cities and big data, precision agriculture allows the feeding of sensor data into online databases for continuous crop monitoring, production optimization, and data storage. This paper describes a low-cost, compact, and scalable nitrate sensor based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for monitoring trace amounts of NO3− in selected growing media. The nitrate sensor can be integrated to conventional microelectronics to perform online nitrate sensing continuously over a wide concentration range from 0.1 ppm to 100 ppm, with a response time of about 1 min, and feed data into a database for storage and analysis. The paper describes the structural design, the Nyquist impedance response, the measurement sensitivity and accuracy, and the field testing of the nitrate sensor performed within tree nursery settings under ISO/IEC 17025 certifications. PMID:26197322

Solid phase extraction of trace amounts of Ag, Cd, Cu, and Zn in environmental samples using magnetic nanoparticles coated by 3-(trimethoxysilyl)-1-propantiol and modified with 2-amino-5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole and their determination by ICP-OES.

PubMed

Mashhadizadeh, Mohammad Hossein; Karami, Zahra

2011-06-15

A fast, sensitive, and simple method using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) coated by 3-(trimethoxysilyl)-1-propantiol and modified with 2-amino-5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole, as an adsorbent has been successfully developed for extraction, preconcentration, and determination of trace amounts of Ag, Cd, Cu, and Zn from environmental samples. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These magnetic nanoparticles can be easily dispersed in aqueous samples and retrieved by the application of external magnetic field via a piece of permanent magnet. The main factors affecting the extraction efficiency such as pH value, sample volume, eluent concentration and volume, ultrasonication time, and coexisting ions have been investigated and established. Under the optimal conditions, high concentration factors (194, 190, 170, and 182) were achieved for Ag, Cd, Cu, and Zn with relative standard deviations of 5.31%, 4.03%, 3.62%, and 4.20%, respectively. The limits of detection for Ag, Cd, Cu, and Zn were as low as 0.12, 0.12, 0.13 and 0.11 ng mL(-1). The prepared sorbent was applied for preconcentration of trace amounts of Ag, Cd, Cu, and Zn in the various water samples with satisfactory results. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of the SoFAS (solid fats and added sugars) concept: the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

PubMed

Nicklas, Theresa A; O'Neil, Carol E

2015-05-01

The diets of most US children and adults are poor, as reflected by low diet quality scores, when compared with the recommendations of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs). Contributing to these low scores is that most Americans overconsume solid fats, which may contain saturated fatty acids and added sugars; although alcohol consumption was generally modest, it provided few nutrients. Thus, the 2005 DGAs generated a new recommendation: to reduce intakes of solid fats, alcohol, and added sugars (SoFAAS). What precipitated the emergence of the new SoFAAS terminology was the concept of discretionary calories (a "calorie" is defined as the amount of energy needed to increase the temperature of 1 kg of water by 1°C), which were defined as calories consumed after an individual had met his or her recommended nutrient intakes while consuming fewer calories than the daily recommendation. A limitation with this concept was that additional amounts of nutrient-dense foods consumed beyond the recommended amount were also considered discretionary calories. The rationale for this was that if nutrient-dense foods were consumed beyond recommended amounts, after total energy intake was met then this constituted excess energy intake. In the 2010 DGAs, the terminology was changed to solid fats and added sugars (SoFAS); thus, alcohol was excluded because it made a minor contribution to overall intake and did not apply to children. The SoFAS terminology also negated nutrient-dense foods that were consumed in amounts above the recommendations for the specific food groups in the food patterns. The ambiguous SoFAS terminology was later changed to "empty calories" to reflect only those calories from solid fats and added sugars (and alcohol if consumed beyond moderate amounts). The purpose of this review is to provide an historical perspective on how the dietary recommendations went from SoFAAS to SoFAS and how discretionary calories went to empty calories between the 2005 and 2010 DGAs. This information will provide practitioners, as well as the public, with valuable information to better understand the evolution of SoFAS over time. © 2015 American Society for Nutrition.

Development of the SoFAS (Solid Fats and Added Sugars) Concept: The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans123

PubMed Central

Nicklas, Theresa A; O’Neil, Carol E

2015-01-01

The diets of most US children and adults are poor, as reflected by low diet quality scores, when compared with the recommendations of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs). Contributing to these low scores is that most Americans overconsume solid fats, which may contain saturated fatty acids and added sugars; although alcohol consumption was generally modest, it provided few nutrients. Thus, the 2005 DGAs generated a new recommendation: to reduce intakes of solid fats, alcohol, and added sugars (SoFAAS). What precipitated the emergence of the new SoFAAS terminology was the concept of discretionary calories (a “calorie” is defined as the amount of energy needed to increase the temperature of 1 kg of water by 1°C), which were defined as calories consumed after an individual had met his or her recommended nutrient intakes while consuming fewer calories than the daily recommendation. A limitation with this concept was that additional amounts of nutrient-dense foods consumed beyond the recommended amount were also considered discretionary calories. The rationale for this was that if nutrient-dense foods were consumed beyond recommended amounts, after total energy intake was met then this constituted excess energy intake. In the 2010 DGAs, the terminology was changed to solid fats and added sugars (SoFAS); thus, alcohol was excluded because it made a minor contribution to overall intake and did not apply to children. The SoFAS terminology also negated nutrient-dense foods that were consumed in amounts above the recommendations for the specific food groups in the food patterns. The ambiguous SoFAS terminology was later changed to “empty calories” to reflect only those calories from solid fats and added sugars (and alcohol if consumed beyond moderate amounts). The purpose of this review is to provide an historical perspective on how the dietary recommendations went from SoFAAS to SoFAS and how discretionary calories went to empty calories between the 2005 and 2010 DGAs. This information will provide practitioners, as well as the public, with valuable information to better understand the evolution of SoFAS over time. PMID:25979510

Performance Data Gathering and Representation from Fixed-Size Statistical Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yan, Jerry C.; Jin, Haoqiang H.; Schmidt, Melisa A.; Kutler, Paul (Technical Monitor)

1997-01-01

The two commonly-used performance data types in the super-computing community, statistics and event traces, are discussed and compared. Statistical data are much more compact but lack the probative power event traces offer. Event traces, on the other hand, are unbounded and can easily fill up the entire file system during program execution. In this paper, we propose an innovative methodology for performance data gathering and representation that offers a middle ground. Two basic ideas are employed: the use of averages to replace recording data for each instance and 'formulae' to represent sequences associated with communication and control flow. The user can trade off tracing overhead, trace data size with data quality incrementally. In other words, the user will be able to limit the amount of trace data collected and, at the same time, carry out some of the analysis event traces offer using space-time views. With the help of a few simple examples, we illustrate the use of these techniques in performance tuning and compare the quality of the traces we collected with event traces. We found that the trace files thus obtained are, indeed, small, bounded and predictable before program execution, and that the quality of the space-time views generated from these statistical data are excellent. Furthermore, experimental results showed that the formulae proposed were able to capture all the sequences associated with 11 of the 15 applications tested. The performance of the formulae can be incrementally improved by allocating more memory at runtime to learn longer sequences.

Trace organic solutes in closed-loop forward osmosis applications: influence of membrane fouling and modeling of solute build-up.

PubMed

D'Haese, Arnout; Le-Clech, Pierre; Van Nevel, Sam; Verbeken, Kim; Cornelissen, Emile R; Khan, Stuart J; Verliefde, Arne R D

2013-09-15

In this study, trace organics transport in closed-loop forward osmosis (FO) systems was assessed. The FO systems considered, consisted of an FO unit and a nanofiltration (NF) or reverse osmosis (RO) unit, with the draw solution circulating between both units. The rejection of trace organics by FO, NF and RO was tested. It was found that the rejection rates of FO were generally comparable with NF and lower than RO rejection rates. To assess the influence of fouling in FO on trace organics rejection, FO membranes were fouled with sodium alginate, bovine serum albumin or by biofilm growth, after which trace organics rejection was tested. A negative influence of fouling on FO rejection was found which was limited in most cases, while it was significant for some compounds such as paracetamol and naproxen, indicating specific compound-foulant interactions. The transport mechanism of trace organics in FO was tested, in order to differentiate between diffusive and convective transport. The concentration of trace organics in the final product water and the build-up of trace organics in the draw solution were modeled assuming the draw solution was reconcentrated by NF/RO and taking into account different transport mechanisms for the FO membrane and different rejection rates by NF/RO. Modeling results showed that if the FO rejection rate is lower than the RO rejection rate (as is the case for most compounds tested), the added value of the FO-RO cycle compared to RO only at steady-state was small for diffusively and negative for convectively transported trace organics. Modeling also showed that trace organics accumulate in the draw solution. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tires, Worms and Weathering: Investigating the Role of Earthworm Processes in Urban Soils Receiving Roadway Derived Contaminants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carroll, W.; Lev, S. M.; Szlavecz, K.; Landa, E. R.; Casey, R.; Snodgrass, J. W.

2006-05-01

Increased development around urban centers has altered the biogeochemistry of near surface systems. One major impact of development has been an increase in the availability of potentially toxic trace metals in soils and surface waters. A primary source of trace metals to near surface environments in urban systems is roadway runoff and dust. The potential hazard that roadway runoff and dust pose to biota is not well understood and is an area of extensive investigation in the multi-disciplinary field of environmental biogeochemistry. Because earthworms ingest, transport, process and excrete large amounts of soil on a daily basis, earthworms can have a profound impact on soil chemistry and the bioavailability of potentially toxic trace metals. Therefore, it is important to investigate how earthworms are affecting the distribution and bioavailability of potentially toxic metals in the soils that they re-work. Results from a set of mesocosm experiments using the native endogeic earthworm species Eisenoides loennbergi and soils from the Red Run watershed in Baltimore County, MD, exhibit evidence of the physical and chemical earthworm weathering processes over time periods as short as 3 week. The target element for this experiment was Zn which is highly enriched in roadway dust. In this study, 200 g of soil was amended with roadway dust. The total mass of Zn introduced was 20 mg making the target concentration 159 ppm. Six replicates were prepared with leaf litter added as a food source. Ten earthworms were then introduced into the soils. Two duplicate batches were then held at constant moisture (70%) and temperature (16 degrees C) for three weeks. An additional four were let run for six weeks. Control samples for both time periods show no change in either total Zn or extractable (1 M MgCl2) Zn concentration. The amended samples however, display evidence of extensive mixing and an increase in the extractable Zn that can be attributed to earthworm weathering processes. The results from this initial experimental work suggest that there is an important physical component to trace metal fate and transport in urban soils that is earthworm dominated and that earthworm processing can alter the extractable fraction of roadway dust.

Metallic contamination of food during preparation and storage: development of methods and some preliminary results.

PubMed

Samsahl, K; Wester, P O

1977-09-01

A chemical procedure for studying trace metals leached from metallic cooking utensils and preserving cans used in the preparation and storage of food has been developed. The method consists in the destruction of the major part of organic matter with HNO3-vapour followed by a complete mineralization of residues with small amounts of HNO3 in Teflon bombs at 150-160 degrees C under a pressure of 3-12 kg/cm2, depending on the amount and composition of the samples. Subsequently, an ion-exchange step removes major components and concentrates the trace elements in a dilute HNO3-solution, suitable for analysis. The ion-exchange separation, which is performed with an automatic ion-exchange separator, is practically free from blank level problems, e.g., typically a mean of less than 2 per cent of the sample levels of the elements being determined. Preliminary results show that large amounts of aluminium are released from vessels to the water during boiling at the same pH-range which exist for most drinking water in Sweden.

Snacks for Toddlers

MedlinePlus

... them more likely to overeat. A word about juice. Juice — even 100% fruit juice — contains about the same amount of calories as soda. And juice drinks have excessive amounts of added sugar. Letting ...

Atmospheric trace metal inputs in the Misten bog (East Belgium): Special attention to sampling techniques and site-spatial variability.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allan, Mohammed; Fagel, Nathalie; de Vleeschouwer, François; Mattielli, Nadine; Piotrowska, Natalia; Sikorski, Jarek; Sonke, Jeroen E.; Le Roux, Gaël.

2010-05-01

Peat bogs have a great potential to record anthropogenic inputs via their constituting mosses, because they draw their nutrients only from the atmosphere. These atmospheric inputs can be studied thanks to geochemical characteristics such as trace metal concentrations. Coupling lead isotopes to elemental geochemistry allows one to decipher between natural (erosion of rocks) and anthropogenic (pollution due to industrial development, vehicles...) inputs. The purpose of our work was to study the pollution history of trace metals in the region of Misten (Belgium) at a local and a regional level, and to place modern industrial pollution in this region in a wider historical perspective. Four peat cores (01W, 04W, 05W and 06W) were collected in 2008 in the Misten bog (Hautes-Fagnes plateau, E-Belgium) and studied for their trace metal and lead isotopic signatures. Analyses were accompanied by coupled 210Pb-14C age models in order to estimate the mercury and lead accumulation rates in each core and compare them to other European records. The Hg record was compared to the various anthropogenic sources as determined by Pb isotopes. The Hg concentration profiles resemble those of Pb, an element known to be immobile in peatlands. The correlation between these two metals suggests a predominant anthropogenic source of Hg (and Pb). In the W06 core, low and stable Hg accumulation rates (0.9-3.1 μg m-2 yr-1) are found in the lower layers (503-1823AD). High Hg accumulation rates are found in the surface and sub-surface layers (post-1823AD) and peak at 123.3 μg m-2 yr-1 (1969AD). In 01W, the lead enrichment factor (Pb E.F.) coupled with the continuous drop in 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, 208Pb/204Pb isotopic ratios since 539 AD until 1973AD indicates the growing importance of the non-radiogenic Pb released from anthropogenic activities. The highest concentrations of Pb (613-662 µg g-1) have been found near the surface of the bog dated between 1902 and 1954AD. The Pb E.F. also significantly increased during the Industrial Revolution, and subsequently decreased due to the phasing out of leaded gasoline. Main results for Pb in 01W and Hg in 06W will be compared with the 2 other cores and previously published results collected in 2007 at another location in the same peatland. Differences in concentrations and chronology will be discussed in terms of (1) differences in the topography of the bog, (2) differences in the surface vegetation of the bog, which could have led to differential trapping and retention of lead, for example, and different retention of vegetation during sampling at the sites where the corers were inserted, (3) different effects induced by the operating mechanism of the corers, (4) operator-induced effects, e.g. leading to loss of surface material before or during coring.

AdS charged black holes in Einstein-Yang-Mills gravity's rainbow: Thermal stability and P - V criticality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hendi, Seyed Hossein; Momennia, Mehrab

2018-02-01

Motivated by the interesting non-abelian gauge field, in this paper, we look for the analytical solutions of Yang-Mills theory in the context of gravity's rainbow. Regarding the trace of quantum gravity in black hole thermodynamics, we examine the first law of thermodynamics and also thermal stability in the canonical ensemble. We show that although the rainbow functions and Yang-Mills charge modify the solutions, the first law of thermodynamics is still valid. Based on the phenomenological similarities between the adS black holes and van der Waals liquid/gas systems, we study the critical behavior of the Yang-Mills black holes in the extended phase space thermodynamics. We also investigate the effects of various parameters on thermal instability as well as critical properties by using appropriate figures.

How Markovian is exciton dynamics in purple bacteria?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaughan, Felix; Linden, Noah; Manby, Frederick R.

2017-03-01

We investigate the extent to which the dynamics of excitons in the light-harvesting complex LH2 of purple bacteria can be described using a Markovian approximation. To analyse the degree of non-Markovianity in these systems, we introduce a measure based on fitting Lindblad dynamics, as well as employing a recently introduced trace-distance measure. We apply these measures to a chromophore-dimer model of exciton dynamics and use the hierarchical equation-of-motion method to take into account the broad, low-frequency phonon bath. With a smooth phonon bath, small amounts of non-Markovianity are present according to the trace-distance measure, but the dynamics is poorly described by a Lindblad master equation unless the excitonic dimer coupling strength is modified. Inclusion of underdamped, high-frequency modes leads to significant deviations from Markovian evolution in both measures. In particular, we find that modes that are nearly resonant with gaps in the excitonic spectrum produce dynamics that deviate most strongly from the Lindblad approximation, despite the trace distance measuring larger amounts of non-Markovianity for higher frequency modes. Overall we find that the detailed structure in the high-frequency region of the spectral density has a significant impact on the nature of the dynamics of excitons.

Quantitative Determining of Ultra-Trace Aluminum Ion in Environmental Samples by Liquid Phase Microextraction Assisted Anodic Stripping Voltammetry.

PubMed

Zhang, Liuyang; Luo, Jinju; Shen, Xinyu; Li, Chunya; Wang, Xian; Nie, Bei; Fang, Huaifang

2018-05-10

Direct detecting of trace amount Al(III) in aqueous solution by stripping voltammetry is often frustrated by its irreversible reduction, resided at −1.75 V (vs. Ag/AgCl reference), which is in a proximal potential of proton reduction. Here, we described an electroanalytical approach, combined with liquid phase microextraction (LPME) using ionic liquid (IL), to quantitatively assess trace amount aluminum in environmental samples. The Al(III) was caged by 8-hydroxyquinoline, forming a superb hydrophobic metal⁻chelate, which sequentially transfers and concentrates in the bottom layer of IL-phase during LPME. The preconcentrated Al(III) was further analyzed by a square-wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SW-ASV). The resulting Al-deposited electrodes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and powder X-ray diffraction, showing the intriguing amorphous nanostructures. The method developed provides a linear calibration ranging from 0.1 to 1.2 ng L −1 with a correlation coefficient of 0.9978. The LOD attains as low as 1 pmol L −1 , which reaches the lowest report for Al(III) detection using electroanalytical techniques. The applicable methodology was implemented for monitoring Al(III) in commercial distilled water.

Foundations of a query and simulation system for the modeling of biochemical and biological processes.

PubMed

Antoniotti, M; Park, F; Policriti, A; Ugel, N; Mishra, B

2003-01-01

The analysis of large amounts of data, produced as (numerical) traces of in vivo, in vitro and in silico experiments, has become a central activity for many biologists and biochemists. Recent advances in the mathematical modeling and computation of biochemical systems have moreover increased the prominence of in silico experiments; such experiments typically involve the simulation of sets of Differential Algebraic Equations (DAE), e.g., Generalized Mass Action systems (GMA) and S-systems. In this paper we reason about the necessary theoretical and pragmatic foundations for a query and simulation system capable of analyzing large amounts of such trace data. To this end, we propose to combine in a novel way several well-known tools from numerical analysis (approximation theory), temporal logic and verification, and visualization. The result is a preliminary prototype system: simpathica/xssys. When dealing with simulation data simpathica/xssys exploits the special structure of the underlying DAE, and reduces the search space in an efficient way so as to facilitate any queries about the traces. The proposed system is designed to give the user possibility to systematically analyze and simultaneously query different possible timed evolutions of the modeled system.

Multielemental analysis in vegetable edible oils by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry after solubilisation with tetramethylammonium hydroxide.

PubMed

Savio, Marianela; Ortiz, María S; Almeida, César A; Olsina, Roberto A; Martinez, Luis D; Gil, Raúl A

2014-09-15

Trace metals have negative effects on the oxidative stability of edible oils and they are important because of possibility for oils characterisation. A single-step procedure for trace elemental analysis of edible oils is presented. To this aim, a solubilisation with tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) was assayed prior to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry detection. Small amounts of TMAH were used, resulting in high elemental concentrations. This method was applied to edible oils commercially available in Argentine. Elements present in small amounts (Cu, Ge, Mn, Mo, Ni, Sb, Sr, Ti, and V) were determined in olive, corn, almond and sunflower oils. The limits of detection were between 0.004 μg g(-1) for Mn and Sr, and 0.32 μg g(-1) for Sb. Principal components analysis was used to correlate the content of trace metals with the type of oils. The two first principal components retained 91.6% of the variability of the system. This is a relatively simple and safe procedure, and could be an attractive alternative for quality control, traceability and routine analysis of edible oils. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Incorporation of Differential Global Positioning System Measurements Using an Extended Kalman Filter for Improved Reference System Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-12-01

Kalman filtering. As GPS usage expands throughout the military and civilian communities, I hope this thesis provides a small contribution in this area...of the measurement’equation. In this thesis, some of the INS states not part of a measurement equation need a small amount of added noise to...estimating the state, but the variance often goes negative. A small amount of added noise in the filter keeps the variance of the state positive and does not

Effects of rice bran on sensory and physico-chemical properties of emulsified pork meatballs.

PubMed

Huang, S C; Shiau, C Y; Liu, T E; Chu, C L; Hwang, D F

2005-08-01

Four kinds of bran, which are milled from important rice cultivators in Taiwan, have high contents of dietary fiber, fat and protein. The use of rice bran in Kung-wan, an emulsified pork meatball, was investigated. It was found that protein and fat contents, and white index of meatballs decreased as the amount of bran increased. A texture profile analysis (TPA) also indicated the hardness, gumminess and chewiness of the Kung-wan decreased. The sensory scores of taste, texture and overall acceptability of meatballs with less than 10% added bran showed no significant difference from those for meatballs without bran. However, the added amount of 15% enriched meatballs resulted in inferior sensory scores. The bran's particle size profoundly affected the sensory and physico-chemical properties of the meat products. Meatballs enriched with smaller bran particles possessed higher TPA indices and sensory scores than those added with larger ones. No significant differences in proximate composition, cooking yield, color and sensory quality were found among emulsified meatballs enriched with four different kinds of bran. Conclusively, the suitable amount of rice bran that should be added to emulsified pork meatballs was less than 10% and a smaller particle size would result in better quality.

Evaluation of a new electronic preoperative reference marker for toric intraocular lens implantation by two different methods of analysis: Adobe Photoshop versus iTrace.

PubMed

Farooqui, Javed Hussain; Sharma, Mansi; Koul, Archana; Dutta, Ranjan; Shroff, Noshir Minoo

2017-01-01

The aim of this study is to compare two different methods of analysis of preoperative reference marking for toric intraocular lens (IOL) after marking with an electronic marker. Cataract and IOL Implantation Service, Shroff Eye Centre, New Delhi, India. Fifty-two eyes of thirty patients planned for toric IOL implantation were included in the study. All patients had preoperative marking performed with an electronic preoperative two-step toric IOL reference marker (ASICO AE-2929). Reference marks were placed at 3-and 9-o'clock positions. Marks were analyzed with two systems. First, slit-lamp photographs taken and analyzed using Adobe Photoshop (version 7.0). Second, Tracey iTrace Visual Function Analyzer (version 5.1.1) was used for capturing corneal topograph examination and position of marks noted. Amount of alignment error was calculated. Mean absolute rotation error was 2.38 ± 1.78° by Photoshop and 2.87 ± 2.03° by iTrace which was not statistically significant ( P = 0.215). Nearly 72.7% of eyes by Photoshop and 61.4% by iTrace had rotation error ≤3° ( P = 0.359); and 90.9% of eyes by Photoshop and 81.8% by iTrace had rotation error ≤5° ( P = 0.344). No significant difference in absolute amount of rotation between eyes when analyzed by either method. Difference in reference mark positions when analyzed by two systems suggests the presence of varying cyclotorsion at different points of time. Both analysis methods showed an approximately 3° of alignment error, which could contribute to 10% loss of astigmatic correction of toric IOL. This can be further compounded by intra-operative marking errors and final placement of IOL in the bag.

Composition of minerals and trace elements at Mamasani thermal source: A possible preventive treatment for some skin diseases

PubMed Central

Hamidizadeh, Nasrin; Simaeetabar, Shima; Handjani, Farhad; Ranjbar, Sara; Moghadam, Mohammad Gohari; Parvizi, Mohammad Mahdi

2017-01-01

INTRODUCTION: Some skin diseases are incurable and modern medicine can only control them. In addition, alternative treatment remedies including balneotherapy can be effective in improving skin conditions. However, there are only a limited number of studies on particular mineral or trace elements of mineral sources that have been identified in Iran. In this respect, the amount of minerals and trace elements in Mamasani thermal source, Fars Province, Iran, was measured using electrochemical, titration, and spectrophotometric methods and evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The amount of minerals and trace elements in Mamasani thermal source, Fars Province, Iran, was measured using electrochemical, titration, and spectrophotometric methods. RESULTS: The concentrations of natural gases such as H2S and NO3 in Mamasani thermal source were measured to be 22.10 mg/L and 42.79 mg/L, respectively. The source also contained major ions such as chloride, sulfate, sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carbonate. Due to the high concentration of chloride, sulfate, and sodium ions in comparison with other major ions, the water source is also classified as sulfide water. The existing trace elements in this thermal water source are iron, zinc, copper, selenium, cobalt, chromium, boron, silisium, aluminum, magnesium, and molybdenum. CONCLUSION: We concluded that bathing in this source could be beneficial. As nitrate concentration is close to the highest standard concentration for drinking water, it can be used in chronic dermatitis, psoriasis, burns, and allergy. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antifungal effects of sulfur-containing water in this source can be helpful in the treatment of leg ulcers, tinea versicolor, tinea corporis, and tinea capitis. PMID:29296611

Geomorphological assessment of sediment contamination in an urban stream system

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rhoads, B.L.; Cahill, R.A.

1999-01-01

Little is known about the influence of fluvial-geomorphological features on the dispersal of sediment-related contaminants in urban drainage systems. This study investigates the relation between reach-scale geomorphological conditions and network-scale patterns of trace-element concentrations in a partially urbanized stream system in East-Central Illinois, USA Robust statistical analysis of bulk sediment samples reveals levels of Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni, and Zn exceed contamination thresholds in the portion of the watershed in close proximity to potential sources of pollution-in this case storm-sewer outfalls. Although trace-element concentrations decrease rapidly downstream from these sources, substantial local variability in metal levels exists within contaminated reaches. This local variability is related to reach-scale variation in fluvial-geomorphic conditions, which in turn produces variation in the degree of sorting and organic-matter content of bed material. Metal concentrations at contaminated sites also exhibit considerable variability over time. Analytical tests on specific size fractions of material collected at a highly contaminated site indicate that Cr and Ni are concentrated in the 0.063 to 0.250 mm fraction of the sediment. This fraction also has elevated concentration of Zr. SEM analysis shows that the fine sand fraction contains shards of stainless steel within a matrix of zircon sand, an industrial material associated with a nearby alloy casting operation. Samples of suspended load and bedload at the contaminated site also have elevated amounts of trace metals, but concentrations of Ni and Cr in the bedload are less than concentrations in the bed material, suggesting that these trace elements are relatively immobile. Off the other hand, amounts of CU and Zn in the bedload exceed concentrations in the bed material, implying that these trace metals are preferentially mobilized during transport events.

Solid phase extraction of trace amounts of cadmium(II) ions in water and food samples using iron magnetite nanoparticles modified by sodium dodecyl sulfate and 2-mercaptobenzothiazole.

PubMed

Abbasi, Shahriar; ShanbehDehbalai, Mehdi; Khani, Hossein

2017-03-01

A new, simple and rapid method for solid phase extraction and preconcentration of trace amounts of cadmium ions using 2-mercaptobenzothiazole/sodium dodecyl sulfate immobilized on magnetite nanoparticles (MBT-SDS-MNPs) was proposed. The method is based on the extraction of cadmium ions via complexation with MBT immobilized on SDS-coated MNPs and their determination by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The effects of different parameters - pH; eluent type, concentration and volume; amounts of salt and adsorbent; contact time and interfering ions - on the adsorption of cadmium ions were studied. Under optimized conditions, the calibration curve was linear in the range of 10-5,000 μg L -1 . Detection limit and relative standard deviation of the proposed method were 0.009 μg L -1 and 2.2%, respectively. The adsorption data were analyzed by Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models and a maximum adsorption amount of 24.80 mg g -1 , a Langmuir adsorption equilibrium constant (b) of 4.62 and Freundlich constants K f and n of 6.075 mg 1-1/n L 1/n g -1 and 2.391, respectively, were obtained. Finally, this adsorbent was successfully used for extraction of cadmium from water and food samples.

TENORM: Wastewater Treatment Residuals

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Water and wastes which have been discharged into municipal sewers are treated at wastewater treatment plants. These may contain trace amounts of both man-made and naturally occurring radionuclides which can accumulate in the treatment plant and residuals.

76 FR 65749 - Importer of Controlled Substances; Notice of Registration

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-24

... treatment of wounds which contains trace amounts of the controlled substances normally found in poppy straw... the company's compliance with state and local laws, and a review of the company's background and...

27 CFR 5.23 - Alteration of class and type.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... trace amount of citric acid. (b) Extractions. The removal from any distilled spirits of any constituents... than 15 percent of the fixed acids, or volatile acids, or esters, or soluble solids, or higher alcohols...

27 CFR 5.23 - Alteration of class and type.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... trace amount of citric acid. (b) Extractions. The removal from any distilled spirits of any constituents... than 15 percent of the fixed acids, or volatile acids, or esters, or soluble solids, or higher alcohols...

27 CFR 5.23 - Alteration of class and type.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... trace amount of citric acid. (b) Extractions. The removal from any distilled spirits of any constituents... than 15 percent of the fixed acids, or volatile acids, or esters, or soluble solids, or higher alcohols...

26 CFR 301.6362-5 - Qualified nonresident tax.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... which bears the same ratio to such sum as the amount described in subdivision (i) of this subparagraph... tracing of the profitability of each phase and aspect of the partnership's operations, and shows the State...

The Political Geography of Europe: 1900-2000 A.D.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blouet, Brian W.

1996-01-01

Traces the often chaotic restructuring of European national boundaries from before World War I to after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Offers a concise and interesting overview of the political, economic, and military events that shaped modern Europe. Includes seven detailed maps showing shifting boundaries and alliances. (MJP)

Detecting Runtime Anomalies in AJAX Applications through Trace Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-08-10

statements by adding the instrumentation to the GWT UI classes, leaving the user code untouched. Some content management frameworks such as Drupal [12...Google web toolkit.” http://code.google.com/webtoolkit/. [12] “Form generation – drupal api.” http://api.drupal.org/api/group/form_api/6. 9

Type I Rehearsal and Recognition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Glenberg, Arthur; Adams, Frederick

1978-01-01

Rote, repetitive Type I Rehearsal is defined as the continuous maintenance of information in memory using the minimum cognitive capacity necessary for maintenance. An analysis of errors made on a forced-choice recognition test supported the hypothesis that acoustic-phonemic components of the memory trace are added or strengthened by this…

DETERMINATION OF PERCHLORATE AT TRACE LEVELS IN DRINKING WATER BY ION-PAIR EXTRACTION WITH ELECTROSPRAY IONIZATION MASS SPECTROMETRY.

EPA Science Inventory

Perchlorate has been added to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,s Drinking Water Contaminant Candidate List (CCL). The present work describes the analysis of perchlorate in water by liquid-liquid extraction followed by flow injection electrospray mass spectrometry (ESI/MS...

Adsorption and covalent binding of fibrinogen as a method for probing the chemical composition of poly(styrene/α-tert-butoxy-ω-vinylbenzyl-polyglycidol) microsphere surfaces.

PubMed

Gosecka, Monika; Chehimi, Mohamed M; Basinska, Teresa; Slomkowski, Stanislaw; Makowski, Tomasz

2017-12-01

We investigated the distribution of polyglycidol and polystyrene on the surface of poly(styrene/α-tert-butoxy-ω-vinylbenzyl-polyglycidol) microspheres (random distribution or segregated into hydrophilic and hydrophobic patches), using fibrinogen (Fb) as a macromolecular probe. The fibrinogen was adsorbed or covalently attached to the surface of the poly(styrene-co-α-tert-butoxy-ω-vinylbenzyl-polyglycidol) (P(S/PGLy)) microspheres. The P(S/PGLy) particles were prepared by emulsion copolymerization of styrene and α-tert-butoxy-ω-vinylbenzyl-polyglycidol (PGLy) macromonomer initiated with potassium persulfate. The polymerizations yielded P(S/PGLy) particles with various surface fractions of polyglycidol, depending on the amount of added macromonomer and the addition process. In some syntheses, the entire macromonomer amount was added once at the beginning of the polymerization, while in others, the macromonomer was added gradually after the formation of particle seeds from pure polystyrene. XPS studies revealed that the fraction of polyglycidol in the interfacial layer of the microspheres was larger when the entire amount of macromonomer was added at the beginning of the polymerization than when it was added after formation of the polystyrene seeds. Studies of fibrinogen adsorption provided the first evidence of segregation of the hydrophobic (polystyrene) and hydrophilic (polyglycidol) components at the surface of the composite P(S/PGLy) microspheres into patches. The hydrophobic patches are composed mainly of polystyrene. However, they also contain a small amount of polyglycidol chains, making the adsorption of fibrinogen weaker than the adsorption onto the pure polystyrene. Studies of covalent immobilization of fibrinogen on the microspheres via 1,3,5-trichlorotriazine confirmed these findings. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dr. Liver: A preoperative planning system of liver graft volumetry for living donor liver transplantation.

PubMed

Yang, Xiaopeng; Yang, Jae Do; Yu, Hee Chul; Choi, Younggeun; Yang, Kwangho; Lee, Tae Beom; Hwang, Hong Pil; Ahn, Sungwoo; You, Heecheon

2018-05-01

Manual tracing of the right and left liver lobes from computed tomography (CT) images for graft volumetry in preoperative surgery planning of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is common at most medical centers. This study aims to develop an automatic system with advanced image processing algorithms and user-friendly interfaces for liver graft volumetry and evaluate its accuracy and efficiency in comparison with a manual tracing method. The proposed system provides a sequential procedure consisting of (1) liver segmentation, (2) blood vessel segmentation, and (3) virtual liver resection for liver graft volumetry. Automatic segmentation algorithms using histogram analysis, hybrid level-set methods, and a customized region growing method were developed. User-friendly interfaces such as sequential and hierarchical user menus, context-sensitive on-screen hotkey menus, and real-time sound and visual feedback were implemented. Blood vessels were excluded from the liver for accurate liver graft volumetry. A large sphere-based interactive method was developed for dividing the liver into left and right lobes with a customized cutting plane. The proposed system was evaluated using 50 CT datasets in terms of graft weight estimation accuracy and task completion time through comparison to the manual tracing method. The accuracy of liver graft weight estimation was assessed by absolute difference (AD) and percentage of AD (%AD) between preoperatively estimated graft weight and intraoperatively measured graft weight. Intra- and inter-observer agreements of liver graft weight estimation were assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) using ten cases randomly selected. The proposed system showed significantly higher accuracy and efficiency in liver graft weight estimation (AD = 21.0 ± 18.4 g; %AD = 3.1% ± 2.8%; percentage of %AD > 10% = none; task completion time = 7.3 ± 1.4 min) than the manual tracing method (AD = 70.5 ± 52.1 g; %AD = 10.2% ± 7.5%; percentage of %AD > 10% = 46%; task completion time = 37.9 ± 7.0 min). The proposed system showed slightly higher intra- and inter-observer agreements (ICC = 0.996 to 0.998) than the manual tracing method (ICC = 0.979 to 0.999). The proposed system was proved accurate and efficient in liver graft volumetry for preoperative planning of LDLT. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

26 CFR 1.412(c)(2)-1 - Valuation of plan assets; reasonable actuarial valuation methods.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... computed by— (i) Determining the fair market value of plan assets at least annually, (ii) Adding the...) In determining the adjusted value of plan assets for a prior valuation date, there is added to the... market value, amounts are subtracted from this account and added, to the extent necessary, to raise the...

Simultaneous visualization of the subfemtomolar expression of microRNA and microRNA target gene using HILO microscopy† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: The LED device for the sample photobleaching, a schematic presentation of HILO microscopy, fluorescence spectra and hybridization curves of the molecular beacons, the linear correlation between the miRNA fluorescence intensity and the miRNA copy number, a validation of the miRNA adsorption and miRNA target gene expression via RT-qPCR, a validation of RT-qPCR using capillary electrophoresis, the reproducibility of RT-qPCR and Poisson distribution of the miRNA pipetting as well as a complete list of the oligonucleotides used in this study. See DOI: 10.1039/c7sc02701j Click here for additional data file.

PubMed Central

Lin, Yi-Zhen; Ou, Da-Liang; Chang, Hsin-Yuan; Lin, Wei-Yu; Hsu, Chiun

2017-01-01

The family of microRNAs (miRNAs) not only plays an important role in gene regulation but is also useful for the diagnosis of diseases. A reliable method with high sensitivity may allow researchers to detect slight fluctuations in ultra-trace amounts of miRNA. In this study, we propose a sensitive imaging method for the direct probing of miR-10b (miR-10b-3p, also called miR-10b*) and its target (HOXD10 mRNA) in fixed cells based on the specific recognition of molecular beacons combined with highly inclined and laminated optical sheet (HILO) fluorescence microscopy. The designed dye-quencher-labelled molecular beacons offer excellent efficiencies of fluorescence resonance energy transfer that allow us to detect miRNA and the target mRNA simultaneously in hepatocellular carcinoma cells using HILO fluorescence microscopy. Not only can the basal trace amount of miRNA be observed in each individual cell, but the obtained images also indicate that this method is useful for monitoring the fluctuations in ultra-trace amounts of miRNA when the cells are transfected with a miRNA precursor or a miRNA inhibitor (anti-miR). Furthermore, a reasonable causal relation between the miR-10b and HOXD10 expression levels was observed in miR-10b* precursor-transfected cells and miR-10b* inhibitor-transfected cells. The trends of the miRNA alterations obtained using HILO microscopy completely matched the RT-qPCR data and showed remarkable reproducibility (the coefficient of variation [CV] = 0.86%) and sensitivity (<1.0 fM). This proposed imaging method appears to be useful for the simultaneous visualisation of ultra-trace amounts of miRNA and target mRNA and excludes the procedures for RNA extraction and amplification. Therefore, the visualisation of miRNA and the target mRNA should facilitate the exploration of the functions of ultra-trace amounts of miRNA in fixed cells in biological studies and may serve as a powerful tool for diagnoses based on circulating cancer cells. PMID:28989695

Trace analysis of energetic materials via direct analyte-probed nanoextraction coupled to direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Clemons, Kristina; Dake, Jeffrey; Sisco, Edward; Verbeck, Guido F

2013-09-10

Direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry (DART-MS) has proven to be a useful forensic tool for the trace analysis of energetic materials. While other techniques for detecting trace amounts of explosives involve extraction, derivatization, solvent exchange, or sample clean-up, DART-MS requires none of these. Typical DART-MS analyses directly from a solid sample or from a swab have been quite successful; however, these methods may not always be an optimal sampling technique in a forensic setting. For example, if the sample were only located in an area which included a latent fingerprint of interest, direct DART-MS analysis or the use of a swab would almost certainly destroy the print. To avoid ruining such potentially invaluable evidence, another method has been developed which will leave the fingerprint virtually untouched. Direct analyte-probed nanoextraction coupled to nanospray ionization-mass spectrometry (DAPNe-NSI-MS) has demonstrated excellent sensitivity and repeatability in forensic analyses of trace amounts of illicit drugs from various types of surfaces. This technique employs a nanomanipulator in conjunction with bright-field microscopy to extract single particles from a surface of interest and has provided a limit of detection of 300 attograms for caffeine. Combining DAPNe with DART-MS provides another level of flexibility in forensic analysis, and has proven to be a sufficient detection method for trinitrotoluene (TNT), RDX, and 1-methylaminoanthraquinone (MAAQ). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Trace detection of perchlorate in industrial-grade emulsion explosive with portable surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy.

PubMed

Nuntawong, N; Eiamchai, P; Limwichean, S; Wong-ek, B; Horprathum, M; Patthanasettakul, V; Leelapojanaporn, A; Nakngoenthong, S; Chindaudom, P

2013-12-10

Recent analyses by ion-exchange chromatography (IC) showed that, beside nitrate, the majority of the industrial-grade emulsion explosives, extensively used by most separatists in the southern Thailand insurgency, contained small traces of perchlorate anions. In demand for the faster, reliable, and simple detection methods, the portable detection of nitrate and perchlorate became the great interest for the forensic and field-investigators. This work proposed a unique method to detect the trace amount of perchlorate in seven industrial-grade emulsion explosives under the field tests. We utilized the combination of the portable Raman spectroscope, the developed surfaced-enhanced Raman substrates, and the sample preparation procedures. The portable Raman spectroscope with a laser diode of 785 nm for excitation and a thermoelectric-cooled CCD spectrometer for detection was commercially available. The SERS substrates, with uniformly distributed nanostructured silver nanorods, were fabricated by the DC magnetron sputtering system, based on the oblique-angle deposition technique. The sample preparation procedures were proposed based on (1) pentane extraction technique and (2) combustion technique, prior to being dissolved in the purified water. In comparison to the ion chromatography and the conventional Raman measurements, our proposed methods successfully demonstrated the highly sensitive detectability of the minimal trace amount of perchlorate from five of the explosives with minimal operating time. This work was therefore highly practical to the development for the forensic analyses of the post-blast explosive residues under the field-investigations. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Removal of trace organic chemical contaminants by a membrane bioreactor.

PubMed

Trinh, T; van den Akker, B; Stuetz, R M; Coleman, H M; Le-Clech, P; Khan, S J

2012-01-01

Emerging wastewater treatment processes such as membrane bioreactors (MBRs) have attracted a significant amount of interest internationally due to their ability to produce high quality effluent suitable for water recycling. It is therefore important that their efficiency in removing hazardous trace organic contaminants be assessed. Accordingly, this study investigated the removal of trace organic chemical contaminants through a full-scale, package MBR in New South Wales, Australia. This study was unique in the context of MBR research because it characterised the removal of 48 trace organic chemical contaminants, which included steroidal hormones, xenoestrogens, pesticides, caffeine, pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs). Results showed that the removal of most trace organic chemical contaminants through the MBR was high (above 90%). However, amitriptyline, carbamazepine, diazepam, diclofenac, fluoxetine, gemfibrozil, omeprazole, sulphamethoxazole and trimethoprim were only partially removed through the MBR with the removal efficiencies of 24-68%. These are potential indicators for assessing MBR performance as these chemicals are usually sensitive to changes in the treatment systems. The trace organic chemical contaminants detected in the MBR permeate were 1 to 6 orders of magnitude lower than guideline values reported in the Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling. The outcomes of this study enhanced our understanding of the levels and removal of trace organic contaminants by MBRs.

Hairy black holes and duality in an extended supergravity model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anabalón, Andrés; Astefanesei, Dumitru; Gallerati, Antonio; Trigiante, Mario

2018-04-01

We consider a D = 4, N=2 gauged supergravity with an electromagnetic Fayet-Iliopoulos term. We restrict to the uncharged, single dilaton consistent truncation and point out that the bulk Lagrangian is self-dual under electromagnetic duality. Within this truncation, we construct two families of exact hairy black hole solutions, which are asymptotically AdS 4. When a duality transformation is applied on these solutions, they are mapped to two other inequivalent families of hairy black hole solutions. The mixed boundary conditions of the scalar field correspond to adding a triple-trace operator to the dual field theory action. We also show that this truncation contains all the consistent single dilaton truncations of gauged N=8 supergravity with a possible ω-deformation.

Sedentism, social change, warfare, and the bow in the ancient Pueblo Southwest.

PubMed

Reed, Paul F; Geib, Phil R

2013-01-01

In the ancient American Southwest, use of the bow developed relatively rapidly among Pueblo people by the fifth century AD. This new technology replaced the millennia-old atlatl and dart weaponry system. Roughly 150 years later in the AD 600s, Pueblo socioeconomic organization began to evolve rapidly, as many groups adopted a much more sedentary life. Multiple factors converged to allow this sedentary pattern to emerge, but the role of the bow in this process has not been fully explored. In this paper, we trace the development of the bow and discuss its role as sedentism emerged and social changes occurred in ancient Puebloan society from the fifth through seventh centuries AD. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

ADS's Dexter Data Extraction Applet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demleitner, M.; Accomazzi, A.; Eichhorn, G.; Grant, C. S.; Kurtz, M. J.; Murray, S. S.

The NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS) now holds 1.3 million scanned pages, containing numerous plots and figures for which the original data sets are lost or inaccessible. The availability of scans of the figures can significantly ease the regeneration of the data sets. For this purpose, the ADS has developed Dexter, a Java applet that supports the user in this process. Dexter's basic functionality is to let the user manually digitize a plot by marking points and defining the coordinate transformation from the logical to the physical coordinate system. Advanced features include automatic identification of axes, tracing lines and finding points matching a template. This contribution both describes the operation of Dexter from a user's point of view and discusses some of the architectural issues we faced during implementation.

Distribution of lead in the brain tissues from DNTC patients using synchrotron radiation microbeams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ide-Ektessabi, Ari; Ota, Yukihide; Ishihara, Ryoko; Mizuno, Yutaka; Takeuchi, Tohru

2005-12-01

Diffuse neurofibrillary tangles with calcification (DNTC) is a form of dementia with certain characteristics. Its pathology is characterized by cerebrum atrophy, calcification on globus pallidus and dentate nucleus and diffuse neurofibrillary tangles without senile plaques. In the present study brain tissues were prepared from patients with patients DNTC, calcified and non-calcified Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. The brain tissues were examined non-destructively by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy using synchrotron radiation (SR) microbeams for trace metallic elements Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn and Pb. The XRF analysis showed that there were Pb concentrations in the calcified areas in the brain tissues with both DNTC and AD but there was none in those with non-calcified AD.

Impact of composting strategies on the degradation of nonylphenol in sewage sludge.

PubMed

Zheng, Guodi; Chen, Tongbin; Yu, Jie; Gao, Ding; Shen, Yujun; Niu, Mingjie; Liu, Hongtao

2015-12-01

Nonylphenol can be present in sewage sludge, and this can limit the use of the sewage sludge to amend soil. Composting is one of the most efficient and economical methods of making sewage sludge stable and harmless. The nonylphenol degradation rates during composting with added bulking agents and with aeration applied were studied. Three organic bulking agents (sawdust, corn stalk, and mushroom residue) were added to sewage sludge, and the effects of the bulking agents used and the amount added on nonylphenol degradation were determined. The highest apparent nonylphenol degradation rate (71.6%) was found for sewage sludge containing 20% mushroom residue. The lowest apparent nonylphenol degradation rate (22.5%) was found for sewage sludge containing 20% sawdust. The temperature of the composting pile of sewage sludge containing 20% sawdust became too high for nonylphenol to be efficiently degraded, and the apparent nonylphenol degradation rate was lower than was found for sewage sludge containing 10% sawdust. Increasing the ventilating time from 5 to 15 min increased the apparent nonylphenol degradation rate from 19.7 to 41.6%. Using appropriate aerobic conditions facilitates the degradation of nonylphenol in sewage sludge, decreasing the risks posed by sewage sludge applied to land. Adding too much of a bulking agent can decrease the amount of the nonylphenol degraded. Increasing the ventilating time and the amount of air supplied can increase the amount of nonylphenol degraded even if doing so causes the composting pile temperature to remain low.

One-Loop One-Point Functions in Gauge-Gravity Dualities with Defects.

PubMed

Buhl-Mortensen, Isak; de Leeuw, Marius; Ipsen, Asger C; Kristjansen, Charlotte; Wilhelm, Matthias

2016-12-02

We initiate the calculation of loop corrections to correlation functions in 4D defect conformal field theories (dCFTs). More precisely, we consider N=4 SYM theory with a codimension-one defect separating two regions of space, x_{3}>0 and x_{3}<0, where the gauge group is SU(N) and SU(N-k), respectively. This setup is made possible by some of the real scalar fields acquiring a nonvanishing and x_{3}-dependent vacuum expectation value for x_{3}>0. The holographic dual is the D3-D5 probe brane system where the D5-brane geometry is AdS_{4}×S^{2} and a background gauge field has k units of flux through the S^{2}. We diagonalize the mass matrix of the dCFT making use of fuzzy-sphere coordinates and we handle the x_{3} dependence of the mass terms in the 4D Minkowski space propagators by reformulating these as standard massive AdS_{4} propagators. Furthermore, we show that only two Feynman diagrams contribute to the one-loop correction to the one-point function of any single-trace operator and we explicitly calculate this correction in the planar limit for the simplest chiral primary. The result of this calculation is compared to an earlier string-theory computation in a certain double scaling limit and perfect agreement is found. Finally, we discuss how to generalize our calculation to any single-trace operator, to finite N, and to other types of observables such as Wilson loops.

Reactor for removing ammonia

DOEpatents

Luo, Weifang [Livermore, CA; Stewart, Kenneth D [Valley Springs, CA

2009-11-17

Disclosed is a device for removing trace amounts of ammonia from a stream of gas, particularly hydrogen gas, prepared by a reformation apparatus. The apparatus is used to prevent PEM "poisoning" in a fuel cell receiving the incoming hydrogen stream.

76 FR 30969 - Importer of Controlled Substances; Notice of Registration

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-27

... treatment of wounds which contain trace amounts of the controlled substances normally found in poppy straw... company's background and history. Therefore, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 952(a) and 958(a), and in accordance...

75 FR 9614 - Importer of Controlled Substances; Notice of Registration

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-03

... an ointment for the treatment of wounds which contains trace amounts of controlled substances... background and history. Therefore, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 952(a) and Sec. 958(a), and in accordance with 21...

Dangerous Elements.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pinkham, Jim

1994-01-01

Discusses legislation currently under consideration that sets standards for the amount of radon, aluminum, and arsenic allowable in drinking water. Considers the economic impact of the legislation and traces the status of the Safe Drinking Water Act Regulations from 1989-92. (MDH)

Remote Sensing of Tropospheric Pollution from Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fishman, Jack; Bowman, Kevin W.; Burrows, John P.; Chance, Kelly V.; Edwards, David P.; Martin, Randall V.; Morris, Gary A.; Pierce, R. Bradley; Ziemke, Jerald R.; Al-Saadi, Jassim A.;

Trace element biomonitoring using mosses in urban areas affected by mud volcanoes around Mt. Etna. The case of the Salinelle, Italy.

PubMed

Bonanno, Giuseppe; Lo Giudice, Rosa; Pavone, Pietro

2012-08-01

Trace element impact was assessed using mosses in a densely inhabited area affected by mud volcanoes. Such volcanoes, locally called Salinelle, are phenomena that occur around Mt. Etna (Sicily, Italy) and are interpreted as the surface outflow of a hydrothermal system located below Mt. Etna, releasing sedimentary fluids (hydrocarbons and NaCl brines) along with magmatic gases (mainly CO(2) and He). To date, scarce data are available about the presence of trace elements, and no biomonitoring campaigns are reported about the cumulative effects of such emissions. In this study, concentrations of Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, V, and Zn were detected in the moss Bryum argenteum, in soil and water. Results showed that the trace element contribution of the Salinelle to the general pollution was significant for Al, Mn, Ni, and Zn. The comparison of trace concentrations in mosses from Salinelle and Etna showed that the mud volcanoes release a greater amount of Al and Mn, whereas similar values of Ni were found. Natural emissions of trace elements could be hazardous in human settlements, in particular, the Salinelle seem to play an important role in environmental pollution.

Method for Trace Oxygen Detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Man, Kim Fung (Inventor); Boumsellek, Said (Inventor); Chutjian, Ara (Inventor)

1997-01-01

Trace levels of molecular oxygen are measured by introducing a gas containing the molecular oxygen into a target zone, and impacting the molecular oxygen in the target zone with electrons at the O(-) resonant energy level for dissociative electron attachment to produce O(-) ions. Preferably, the electrons have an energy of about 4 to about 10 eV. The amount of O(-) ions produced is measured, and is correlated with the molecular oxygen content in the target zone. The technique is effective for measuring levels of oxygen below 50 ppb. and even less than 1 ppb. The amount of O(-) can be measured in a quadrupole mass analyzer. Best results are obtained when the electrons have an energy of about 6 to about 8 eV. and preferably about 6.8 eV. The method can be used for other species by selecting the appropriate electron energy level.

Method for quantitative determination and separation of trace amounts of chemical elements in the presence of large quantities of other elements having the same atomic mass

DOEpatents

Miller, C.M.; Nogar, N.S.

1982-09-02

Photoionization via autoionizing atomic levels combined with conventional mass spectroscopy provides a technique for quantitative analysis of trace quantities of chemical elements in the presence of much larger amounts of other elements with substantially the same atomic mass. Ytterbium samples smaller than 10 ng have been detected using an ArF* excimer laser which provides the atomic ions for a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Elemental selectivity of greater than 5:1 with respect to lutetium impurity has been obtained. Autoionization via a single photon process permits greater photon utilization efficiency because of its greater absorption cross section than bound-free transitions, while maintaining sufficient spectroscopic structure to allow significant photoionization selectivity between different atomic species. Separation of atomic species from others of substantially the same atomic mass is also described.

Chronological protein synthesis in regenerating rat liver.

PubMed

He, Jinjun; Hao, Shuai; Zhang, Hao; Guo, Fuzheng; Huang, Lingyun; Xiao, Xueyuan; He, Dacheng

2015-07-01

Liver regeneration has been studied for decades; however, its regulation remains unclear. In this study, we report a dynamic tracing of protein synthesis in rat regenerating liver with a new proteomic technique, (35) S in vivo labeling analysis for dynamic proteomics (SiLAD). Conventional proteomic techniques typically measure protein alteration in accumulated amounts. The SiLAD technique specifically detects protein synthesis velocity instead of accumulated amounts of protein through (35) S pulse labeling of newly synthesized proteins, providing a direct way for analyzing protein synthesis variations. Consequently, protein synthesis within short as 30 min was visualized and protein regulations in the first 8 h of regenerating liver were dynamically traced. Further, the 3.5-5 h post partial hepatectomy (PHx) was shown to be an important regulatory turning point by acute regulation of many proteins in the initiation of liver regeneration. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Separation of chlorogenic acid and concentration of trace caffeic acid from natural products by pH-zone-refining countercurrent chromatography.

PubMed

Lu, Yuanyuan; Dong, Genlai; Gu, Yanxiang; Ito, Yoichiro; Wei, Yun

2013-07-01

Chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid were selected as test samples for separation by the pH-zone-refining countercurrent chromatography (CCC). The separation of these test samples was performed with a two-phase solvent system composed of methyl-tert-butyl-ether/acetonitrile/water at a volume ratio of 4:1:5 v/v/v where trifluoroacetic acid (TFA; 8 mM) was added to the organic stationary phase as a retainer and NH4 OH (10 mM) to the aqueous mobile phase as an eluter. Chlorogenic acid was successfully separated from Flaveria bidentis (L.) Kuntze (F. bidentis) and Lonicerae Flos by pH-zone-refining CCC, a slightly polar two-phase solvent system composed of methyl-tert-butyl-ether/acetonitrile/n-butanol/water at a volume ratio of 4:1:1:5 v/v/v/v was selected where TFA (3 mM) was added to the organic stationary phase as a retainer and NH4 OH (3 mM) to the aqueous mobile phase as an eluter. A 16.2 mg amount of chlorogenic acid with the purity of 92% from 1.4 g of F. bidentis, and 134 mg of chlorogenic acid at the purity of 99% from 1.3 g of crude extract of Lonicerae Flos have been obtained. These results suggest that pH-zone-refining CCC is suitable for the isolation of the chlorogenic acid from the crude extracts of F. bidentis and Lonicerae Flos. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Vegemite Beer: yeast extract spreads as nutrient supplements to promote fermentation.

PubMed

Kerr, Edward D; Schulz, Benjamin L

2016-01-01

Vegemite is an iconic Australian food spread made from spent brewers' yeast extract, which has been reported to be used as an ingredient in illegal home brewing. In this study, we tested the utility of Vegemite and the similar spread Marmite in promoting fermentation. We could not culture microorganisms from either Vegemite or Marmite, consistent with these food-grade spreads being essentially sterile. To test if the addition of Vegemite or Marmite could assist in fermentation when additional viable yeast was also present, solutions containing glucose and a range of concentrations of either Vegemite or Marmite were inoculated with brewers' yeast. No fermentation occurred in any condition without addition of extra brewer's yeast. Fermentation did not occur when yeast was inoculated into solutions containing only glucose, but progressed efficiently with when Vegemite or Marmite was also added. Gas Chromatography confirmed that ethanol was present at ∼3% v/v post-fermentation in all samples which contained glucose, Vegemite or Marmite, and brewers' yeast. Trace amounts of methanol were also detected. Mass spectrometry proteomics identified abundant intracellular yeast proteins and barley proteins in Vegemite and Marmite, and abundant secreted yeast proteins from actively growing yeast in those samples to which extra brewers' yeast had been added. We estimate that the real-world cost of home brewed "Vegemite Beer" would be very low. Our results show that Vegemite or other yeast extract spreads could provide cheap and readily available sources of nutrient supplementation to increase the efficiency of fermentation in home brewing or other settings.

Interactions in higher-spin gravity: a holographic perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sleight, Charlotte

2017-09-01

This review is an elaboration of recent results on the holographic re-construction of metric-like interactions in higher-spin gauge theories on anti-de Sitter space (AdS), employing their conjectured duality with free conformal field theories (CFTs). After reviewing the general approach and establishing the necessary intermediate results, we extract explicit expressions for the complete cubic action on AdSd+1 and the quartic self-interaction of the scalar on AdS4 for the type A minimal bosonic higher-spin theory from the three- and four- point correlation functions of single-trace operators in the free scalar O(N) vector model. For this purpose tools were developed to evaluate tree-level three-point Witten diagrams involving totally symmetric fields of arbitrary integer spin and mass, and the conformal partial wave expansions of their tree-level four-point Witten diagrams. We also discuss the implications of the holographic duality on the locality properties of interactions in higher-spin gauge theories.

T\\overline{T} -deformations, AdS/CFT and correlation functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giribet, Gaston

2018-02-01

A solvable irrelevant deformation of AdS3/CFT2 correspondence leading to a theory with Hagedorn spectrum at high energy has been recently proposed. It consists of a single trace deformation of the boundary theory, which is inspired by the recent work on solvable T\\overline{T} deformations of two-dimensional CFTs. Thought of as a worldsheet σ-model, the interpretation of the deformed theory from the bulk viewpoint is that of string theory on a background that interpolates between AdS3 in the IR and a linear dilaton vacuum of little string theory in the UV. The insertion of the operator that realizes the deformation in the correlation functions produces a logarithmic divergence, leading to the renormalization of the primary operators, which thus acquire an anomalous dimension. We compute this anomalous dimension explicitly, and this provides us with a direct way of determining the spectrum of the theory. We discuss this and other features of the correlation functions in presence of the deformation.

A "shotgun" method for tracing the birth locations of sheep from flock tags, applied to scrapie surveillance in Great Britain.

PubMed

Birch, Colin P D; Del Rio Vilas, Victor J; Chikukwa, Ambrose C

2010-09-01

Movement records are often used to identify animal sample provenance by retracing the movements of individuals. Here we present an alternative method, which uses the same identity tags and movement records as are used to retrace movements, but ignores individual movement paths. The first step uses a simple query to identify the most likely birth holding for every identity tag included in a database recording departures from agricultural holdings. The second step rejects a proportion of the birth holding locations to leave a list of birth holding locations that are relatively reliable. The method was used to trace the birth locations of sheep sampled for scrapie in abattoirs, or on farm as fallen stock. Over 82% of the sheep sampled in the fallen stock survey died at the holding of birth. This lack of movement may be an important constraint on scrapie transmission. These static sheep provided relatively reliable birth locations, which were used to define criteria for selecting reliable traces. The criteria rejected 16.8% of fallen stock traces and 11.9% of abattoir survey traces. Two tests provided estimates that selection reduced error in fallen stock traces from 11.3% to 3.2%, and in abattoir survey traces from 8.1% to 1.8%. This method generated 14,591 accepted traces of fallen stock from samples taken during 2002-2005 and 83,136 accepted traces from abattoir samples. The absence or ambiguity of flock tag records at the time of slaughter prevented the tracing of 16-24% of abattoir samples during 2002-2004, although flock tag records improved in 2005. The use of internal scoring to generate and evaluate results from the database query, and the confirmation of results by comparison with other database fields, are analogous to methods used in web search engines. Such methods may have wide application in tracing samples and in adding value to biological datasets. Crown Copyright 2010. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison between PGAA and ID-AMS analysis for determining chlorine content in whole rock basalt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

di Nicola, L.; Schnabel, C.; Wilcken, K. M.; Gméling, K.

2009-04-01

Accurate determination of chlorine concentrations in terrestrial rocks is of importance for the interpretation of terrestrial in-situ cosmogenic 36Cl. Neutron capture by 35Cl, together with production from Ca and K, is one of the three major production pathways of 36Cl in rocks. Here, we present an inter-comparison of chlorine determinations by two procedures. The first approach is an independent Cl determination by prompt gamma (neutron) activation analysis (PGAA). The second method is isotope dilution based on isotopically-enriched stable chlorine carrier added during chemical sample preparation for accelerator mass spectrometry (ID-AMS). Twenty six (26) whole rock samples have been processed for PGAA and ID-AMS analyses. Elemental analysis by PGAA provides concentrations of major, minor and trace elements including the target elements for 36Cl production (K, Ca, Ti, and Fe), as well as of neutron absorbers and neutron moderators (H, B, Cl, Sm and Gd). The Cl concentrations determined during this study constitute the first inter-comparison for concentrations below 100 μCl/g. Our results show no significant difference in Cl concentrations between methods, and comparable uncertainties. This agreement guarantees that during the procedure we employ for whole rock sample no significant loss of stable chlorine from either the spike or the sample occurs before isotopic equilibration, prior to AgCl precipitation. Furthermore, we show that the elemental analysis by PGAA offers anadvance for the interpretation of 36Cl measurements. It allows simultaneous measurement of major and most trace element concentrations with a precision necessary for calculating the relative contributions to 36Cl production rates of the different mechanisms. Finally, the Cl concentration can be used to optimize the amount of isotopically-enriched spike for AMS-ID sample preparation for 36Cl.

Fish gelatin thin film standards for biological application of PIXE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manuel, Jack E.; Rout, Bibhudutta; Szilasi, Szabolcs Z.; Bohara, Gyanendra; Deaton, James; Luyombya, Henry; Briski, Karen P.; Glass, Gary A.

2014-08-01

There exists a critical need to understand the flow and accumulation of metallic ions, both naturally occurring and those introduced to biological systems. In this paper the results of fabricating thin film elemental biological standards containing nearly any combination of trace elements in a protein matrix are presented. Because it is capable of high elemental sensitivity, particle induced X-ray emission spectrometry (PIXE) is an excellent candidate for in situ analysis of biological tissues. Additionally, the utilization of microbeam PIXE allows the determination of elemental concentrations in and around biological cells. However, obtaining elemental reference standards with the same matrix constituents as brain tissue is difficult. An excellent choice for simulating brain-like tissue is Norland® photoengraving glue which is derived from fish skin. Fish glue is water soluble, liquid at room temperature, and resistant to dilute acid. It can also be formed into a thin membrane which dries into a durable, self-supporting film. Elements of interest are introduced to the fish glue in precise volumetric additions of well quantified atomic absorption standard solutions. In this study GeoPIXE analysis package is used to quantify elements intrinsic to the fish glue as well as trace amounts of manganese added to the sample. Elastic (non-Rutherford) backscattered spectroscopy (EBS) and the 1.734 MeV proton-on-carbon 12C(p,p)12C resonance is used for a normalization scheme of the PIXE spectra to account for any discrepancies in X-ray production arising from thickness variation of the prepared standards. It is demonstrated that greater additions of the atomic absorption standard cause a viscosity reduction of the liquid fish glue resulting in thinner films but the film thickness can be monitored by using simultaneous PIXE and EBS proton data acquisition.

Study of methanogenesis during bioutilization of plant residuals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilyin, V. K.; Korniushenkova, I. N.; Starkova, L. V.; Lauriniavichius, K. S.

2005-02-01

The waste management strategy for the future should meet the benefits of human safety, respect principles of planet ecology, and compatibility with other habitability systems. For these purposes waste management technologies relevant to application of the biodegradation properties of bacteria are of great value. Biological treatment method is based on the biodegradation of organic substances by various microorganisms. The objectives of our study were: to evaluate the effectiveness of microbial biodegradation of vegetable non-edible residual, using artificial inoculum, and to study the peculiarities of biogas, and possibilities of optimizing or reducing the share of methane. The diminution rate of organic gained 76% from initial mass within 9 days of fermentation. The biogas production achieved 46 l/kg of substrate. The microbial studies of biodegradation process revealed the following peculiarities: (i) gradual quantitative increase of Lactobacillus sp. (from 103 to 105 colony-forming units (CFU) per ml); (ii) activation of Clostridia sp. (from 102 to 10 4 CFU/ml); and (iii) elimination of aerobic conventional pathogens (Enterobacteriaceae, Protea sp., Staphylococci). Chromatography analysis revealed the constant presence of carbon dioxide (up to 90.9%). The methane content measures revealed traces 0.1-0.4%. However, when we optimized the methane production in "boiling layer" using methanogenic granules, the amount of methane in biogas reached 80-90%. Based on the results obtained the artificial inoculum was created which was capable of initiating biodegradation of vegetable wastes. This inoculum consisted of active sludge adapted to wastes mixed with excretea of insects which consume plant wastes. Using this inoculum the biodegradation process takes less time than that using active sludge. Regulation of methane concentration from traces to 90% may be achieved by adding methane reactor to the plant digester.

Experimental investigations about the effect of trace amount of propane on the formation of mixed hydrates of methane and propane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, W.; Lu, H.; Huang, X.

2016-12-01

In natural gas hydrates, some heavy hydrocarbons are always detected in addition to methane. However, it is still not well understood how the trace amount of heavy gas affect the hydrate properties. Intensive studies have been carried out to study the thermodynamic properties and structure types of mixed gases hydrates, but comparatively few investigations have been carried out on the cage occupancies of guest molecules in mixed gases hydrates. For understanding how trace amount of propane affects the formation of mixed methane-propane hydrates, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and gas chromatography were applied to the synthesized mixed methane-propane hydrate specimens, to get their structural characteristics (structure type, structural parameters, cage occupancy, etc.) and gas compositions. The mixed methane-propane hydrates were prepared by reacting fine ice powders with various gas mixtures of methane and propane. When the propane content was below 0.4%, the hydrates synthesized were found containing both sI methane hydrate and sII methane-propane hydrate; while the hydrates were found always sII when propane was over certain content. Detail studies about the cage occupancies of propane and methane in sII hydrate revealed that: 1) with the increase in propane content of methane-propane mixture, the occupancy of propane in large cage increased as accompanied with the decrease in methane occupancy in large cage, however the occupancy of methane in small cage didn't experience significant change; 2) temperature and pressure seemed no obvious influence on cage occupancy.

Application of cotton as a solid phase extraction sorbent for on-line preconcentration of copper in water samples prior to inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry determination.

PubMed

Faraji, Mohammad; Yamini, Yadollah; Shariati, Shahab

2009-07-30

Copper, as a heavy metal, is toxic for many biological systems. Thus, the determination of trace amounts of copper in environmental samples is of great importance. In the present work, a new method was developed for the determination of trace amounts of copper in water samples. The method is based on the formation of ternary Cu(II)-CAS-CTAB ion-pair and adsorption of it into a mini-column packed with cotton prior applying inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The experimental parameters that affected the extraction efficiency of the method such as pH, flow rate and volume of the sample solution, concentration of chromazurol S (CAS) and cethyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as well as type and concentration of eluent were investigated and optimized. The ion-pair (Cu(II)-CAS-CTAB) was quantitatively retained on the cotton under the optimum conditions, then eluted completely using a solution of 25% (v/v) 1-propanol in 0.5 mol L(-1) HNO(3) and directly introduced into the nebulizer of the ICP-OES. The detection limit (DL) of the method for copper was 40 ng L(-1) (V(sample)=100mL) and the relative standard deviation (R.S.D.) for the determination of copper at 10 microg L(-1) level was found to be 1.3%. The method was successfully applied to determine the trace amounts of copper in tap water, deep well water, seawater and two different mineral waters, and suitable recoveries were obtained (92-106%).

A solid-phase extraction method using Transcarpathian clinoptilolite for preconcentration of trace amounts of terbium in water samples.

PubMed

Vasylechko, Volodymyr O; Gryshchouk, Galyna V; Zakordonskiy, Victor P; Vyviurska, Olga; Pashuk, Andriy V

2015-01-01

In spite of the fact that terbium is one of the rarest elements in the Earth's crust, it is frequently used for the production of high technological materials. At the result, an effective combination of sample preparation procedure and detection method for terbium ions in different matrices is highly required. The solid-phase extraction procedure with natural Transcarpathian clinoptilolite thermally activated at 350 °C was used to preconcentrate trace amounts of terbium ions in aqueous solutions for a final spectrophotometric determination with arsenazo III. Thermogravimetric investigations confirmed the existence of relations between changes that appeared during dehydratation of calcined zeolite and its sorption affinity. Since the maximum of sorption capacity towards terbium was observed at pH 8.25, a borate buffer medium (2.5 · 10(-4) М) was used to maintain ionic force and solution acidity. Terbium was quantitatively removed from the solid-phase extraction column with a 1.0 M solution of sodium chloride (pH 2.5). The linearity of the proposed method was evaluated in the range of 2.5-200 ng · mL(-1) with detection limit 0.75 ng · mL(-1). Due to acceptable recoveries (93.3-102.0 %) and RSD values (6-7.1) from spiked tap water, the developed method can be successfully applied for the determination of trace amounts of terbium ions in the presence of major components of water. Graphical abstractSorption of terbium(III) ions on clinoptilolite.

Hypothalamic vasopressin and oxytocin mRNA expression in relation to depressive state in Alzheimer's disease: a difference with major depressive disorder.

PubMed

Meynen, G; Unmehopa, U A; Hofman, M A; Swaab, D F; Hoogendijk, W J G

2009-08-01

Arginine vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OXT), produced in the hypothalamic paraventricular (PVN) and supraoptic nucleus (SON), are considered to be involved in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). The objective of this study was to determine, for the first time, the relationship between AVP and OXT gene expression and depressive state in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Post-mortem brain tissue was obtained from six control subjects, and from a prospectively studied cohort of 23 AD patients, using the DSM-IIIR and the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia to determine depression diagnosis and severity. The amount of AVP and OXT mRNA was determined by in situ hybridisation. AD patients did not differ from controls with respect to the amount of AVP or OXT mRNA in the PVN or SON. Also, no differences were found between depressed and nondepressed AD patients and no relationship was found between the depression severity and AVP or OXT mRNA expression. The results indicate that AVP and OXT gene expression in the PVN and SON is unchanged in depressed AD patients compared to nondepressed AD patients. This is in contrast with the enhanced AVP gene expression in MDD, suggesting a difference in pathophysiology between MDD and depression in AD.

77 FR 3818 - Order Making Fiscal Year 2012 Annual Adjustments to Transaction Fee Rates

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-25

... Commission must project the aggregate dollar amount of covered sales of securities on the securities... series {[Delta] 1 , [Delta] 2 , ... , [Delta] 120 {time} . These are given by [mu] = 0.0087 and [sigma...] + [sigma]\\2\\/2), or on average ADS t = 1.017 x ADS t-1 . 6. For December 2011, this gives a forecast ADS of...

Integration of stable isotope and trace contaminant concentration for enhanced forensic acetone discrimination.

PubMed

Moran, James J; Ehrhardt, Christopher J; Wahl, Jon H; Kreuzer, Helen W; Wahl, Karen L

2013-11-15

We analyzed 21 neat acetone samples from 15 different suppliers to demonstrate the utility of a coupled stable isotope and trace contaminant strategy for distinguishing forensically-relevant samples. By combining these two pieces of orthogonal data we could discriminate all of the acetones that were produced by the 15 different suppliers. Using stable isotope ratios alone, we were able to distinguish 8 acetone samples, while the remaining 13 fell into four clusters with highly similar signatures. Adding trace chemical contaminant information enhanced discrimination to 13 individual acetones with three residual clusters. The acetones within each cluster shared a common manufacturer and might, therefore, not be expected to be resolved. The data presented here demonstrates the power of combining orthogonal data sets to enhance sample fingerprinting and highlights the role disparate data could play in future forensic investigations. © 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Determination of minor and trace elements in aromatic spices by micro-wave assisted digestion and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Khan, Naeem; Choi, Ji Yeon; Nho, Eun Yeong; Jamila, Nargis; Habte, Girum; Hong, Joon Ho; Hwang, In Min; Kim, Kyong Su

2014-09-01

This study aimed at analyzing the concentrations of 23 minor and trace elements in aromatic spices by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), after wet digestion by microwave system. The analytical method was validated by linearity, detection limits, precision, accuracy and recovery experiments, obtaining satisfactory values in all cases. Results indicated the presence of variable amounts of both minor and trace elements in the selected aromatic spices. Manganese was high in cinnamon (879.8 μg/g) followed by cardamom (758.1 μg/g) and clove (649.9 μg/g), strontium and zinc were high in ajwain (489.9 μg/g and 84.95 μg/g, respectively), while copper was high in mango powder (77.68 μg/g). On the whole some of the minor and essential trace elements were found to have good nutritional contribution in accordance to RDA. The levels of toxic trace elements, including As, Cd, and Pb were very low and did not found to pose any threat to consumers. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Infrared trace element detection system

DOEpatents

Bien, F.; Bernstein, L.S.; Matthew, M.W.

1988-11-15

An infrared trace element detection system includes an optical cell into which the sample fluid to be examined is introduced and removed. Also introduced into the optical cell is a sample beam of infrared radiation in a first wavelength band which is significantly absorbed by the trace element and a second wavelength band which is not significantly absorbed by the trace element for passage through the optical cell through the sample fluid. The output intensities of the sample beam of radiation are selectively detected in the first and second wavelength bands. The intensities of a reference beam of the radiation are similarly detected in the first and second wavelength bands. The sensed output intensity of the sample beam in one of the first and second wavelength bands is normalized with respect to the other and similarly, the intensity of the reference beam of radiation in one of the first and second wavelength bands is normalized with respect to the other. The normalized sample beam intensity and normalized reference beam intensity are then compared to provide a signal from which the amount of trace element in the sample fluid can be determined. 11 figs.

Infrared trace element detection system

DOEpatents

Bien, Fritz; Bernstein, Lawrence S.; Matthew, Michael W.

1988-01-01

An infrared trace element detection system including an optical cell into which the sample fluid to be examined is introduced and removed. Also introduced into the optical cell is a sample beam of infrared radiation in a first wavelength band which is significantly absorbed by the trace element and a second wavelength band which is not significantly absorbed by the trace element for passage through the optical cell through the sample fluid. The output intensities of the sample beam of radiation are selectively detected in the first and second wavelength bands. The intensities of a reference beam of the radiation are similarly detected in the first and second wavelength bands. The sensed output intensity of the sample beam in one of the first and second wavelength bands is normalized with respect to the other and similarly, the intensity of the reference beam of radiation in one of the first and second wavelength bands is normalized with respect to the other. The normalized sample beam intensity and normalized reference beam intensity are then compared to provide a signal from which the amount of trace element in the sample fluid can be determined.

Optimal conditions for elution of hepatitis B antigen after absorption onto colloidal silica.

PubMed Central

Pillot, J; Goueffon, S; Keros, R G

1976-01-01

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBSAg) adsorbed from sera onto colloidal silica could be completely eluted through the use of 0.25% sodium deoxycholate in 0.01 M borax, pH 9.3, at 56 degrees C. The HBSAg recovered in the eluate represented 100% of that present in the original serum, and it was contaminated by only trace amounts of serum proteins (in decreasing amounts: beta-lipoprotein, immunoglobulin G, albumin). This preliminary step greatly facilitates purification of large amounts of HBSAg and provides small volumes of highly concentrated material for subsequent purification by density gradient centrifugation. PMID:9423

Trace detection of analytes using portable raman systems

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Alam, M. Kathleen; Hotchkiss, Peter J.; Martin, Laura E.

Apparatuses and methods for in situ detection of a trace amount of an analyte are disclosed herein. In a general embodiment, the present disclosure provides a surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) insert including a passageway therethrough, where the passageway has a SERS surface positioned therein. The SERS surface is configured to adsorb molecules of an analyte of interest. A concentrated sample is caused to flow over the SERS surface. The SERS insert is then provided to a portable Raman spectroscopy system, where it is analyzed for the analyte of interest.

Low emissions diesel fuel

DOEpatents

Compere, Alicia L.; Griffith, William L.; Dorsey, George F.; West, Brian H.

1998-01-01

A method and matter of composition for controlling NO.sub.x emissions from existing diesel engines. The method is achieved by adding a small amount of material to the diesel fuel to decrease the amount of NO.sub.x produced during combustion. Specifically, small amounts, less than about 1%, of urea or a triazine compound (methylol melamines) are added to diesel fuel. Because urea and triazine compounds are generally insoluble in diesel fuel, microemulsion technology is used to suspend or dissolve the urea or triazine compound in the diesel fuel. A typical fuel formulation includes 5% t-butyl alcohol, 4.5% water, 0.5% urea or triazine compound, 9% oleic acid, and 1% ethanolamine. The subject invention provides improved emissions in heavy diesel engines without the need for major modifications.

Low emissions diesel fuel

DOEpatents

Compere, A.L.; Griffith, W.L.; Dorsey, G.F.; West, B.H.

1998-05-05

A method and matter of composition for controlling NO{sub x} emissions from existing diesel engines. The method is achieved by adding a small amount of material to the diesel fuel to decrease the amount of NO{sub x} produced during combustion. Specifically, small amounts, less than about 1%, of urea or a triazine compound (methylol melamines) are added to diesel fuel. Because urea and triazine compounds are generally insoluble in diesel fuel, microemulsion technology is used to suspend or dissolve the urea or triazine compound in the diesel fuel. A typical fuel formulation includes 5% t-butyl alcohol, 4.5% water, 0.5% urea or triazine compound, 9% oleic acid, and 1% ethanolamine. The subject invention provides improved emissions in heavy diesel engines without the need for major modifications.

Theoretical considerations for Reaction-Formed Silicon Carbide (RFSC) formation by molten silicon infiltration into slurry-derived preforms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Behrendt, D. R.; Singh, M.

1993-01-01

For reaction-formed silicon carbide (RFSC) ceramics produced by silicon melt infiltration of porous carbon preforms, equations are developed to relate the amount of residual silicon to the initial carbon density. Also, for a slurry derived preform containing both carbon and silicon powder, equations are derived which relate the amount of residual silicon in the RFSC to the relative density of the carbon in the preform and to the amount of silicon powder added to the slurry. For a porous carbon preform that does not have enough porosity to prevent choking-off of the silicon infiltration, these results show that complete silicon infiltration can occur by adding silicon powder to the slurry mixture used to produce these preforms.

78 FR 39338 - Importer of Controlled Substances; Notice of Registration; Catalent CTS., Inc.

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-01

... plans to import an ointment for the treatment of wounds, which contains trace amounts of the controlled..., verification of the company's compliance with state and local laws, and a review of the company's background...

75 FR 9613 - Importer of Controlled Substances; Notice of Registration

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-03

... for the treatment of wounds which contain trace amounts of the controlled substance normally found in..., and a review of the company's background and history. Therefore, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 952(a) and 958...

Helium Find Thaws the Cold Fusion Trail.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pennisi, E.

1991-01-01

Reported is a study of cold fusion in which trace amounts of helium, possible evidence of an actual fusion reaction, were found. Research methodology is detailed. The controversy over the validity of experimental results with cold fusion are reviewed. (CW)

Reduction of serum TARC levels in atopic dermatitis by topical anti-inflammatory treatments.

PubMed

Yasukochi, Yumi; Nakahara, Takeshi; Abe, Takeru; Kido-Nakahara, Makiko; Kohda, Futoshi; Takeuchi, Satoshi; Hagihara, Akihito; Furue, Masutaka

2014-09-01

Serum thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC) levels are associated with the disease activity of patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and sensitively reflect short-term changes in skin conditions. The main treatment for AD is topical agent application. This study investigated the relationship between serum TARC levels and the dosage of topical agents, including corticosteroids and/or tacrolimus, in patients with AD. The serum TARC levels of 56 AD patients and the amounts of topical agents prescribed to them were investigated retrospectively. The weekly reduction in serum TARC levels and weekly dosage of topical agents among AD patients were compared and their associations were evaluated. The dosage of topical agents was closely related to serum TARC levels. One gram of strong rank steroid or the equivalent amount of steroid/tacrolimus is required to reduce serum TARC levels by 9.94 pg/mL weekly in moderate to severe AD patients. Higher initial TARC levels require more topical agent, which results in a more rapid decrease in TARC levels. The serum TARC levels and eosinophil numbers in peripheral blood are significantly correlated. Serum TARC level improvement and topical agent dosage are strongly correlated. TARC and eosinophil numbers are significantly correlated, but the wider range of TARC levels seems to be clinically more useful for monitoring AD severity. The serum TARC level is a very sensitive biomarker for monitoring the severity and treatment response in AD.

Changes in Trace Gas Nitrogen Emissions as a Response to Ecosystem Type Conversion in a Semi-Arid Climate.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andrews, H.; Eberwein, J. R.; Jenerette, D.

2016-12-01

As humans continue to introduce exotic plants and to alter climate and fire regimes in semi-arid ecosystems, many plant communities have begun to shift from perennial forbs and shrubs to annual grasses with different functional traits. Shifts in plant types are also associated with shifts in microclimate, microbial activity, and litter inputs, all of which contribute to the efficiency of nitrogen processing and the magnitude of trace gas emissions (NOx and N2O), which are increasingly important fluxes in water-limited systems. Here, we explored how changes in plant litter impact trace gas emissions, asking the question: How does conversion from a native shrubland to exotic grassland ecosystem alter NOx and N2O fluxes in a semi-arid climate? We posed two hypotheses to explain the impacts of different types of litter on soils disturbed by exotic grasses and those that were still considered shrublands: 1.) Soils that have undergone conversion by exotic grasses release higher amounts of NOx and N2O than do those of unconverted shrublands, due to disruptions of native plant and soil processes by exotic grasses, and 2.) Because litter of exotic grasses has lower C:N than that of shrubs, litter inputs from exotic grasses will increase NOx and N2O emissions from soils more than will litter inputs from shrubs. As a preliminary study, we experimentally wetted mesocosms in a laboratory incubation containing converted and unconverted soils that had been mixed with no litter or either exotic grass or coastal sage scrub (CSS) litter. We measured N2O fluxes from mesocosms over a 48-hour period. 24 hours after wetting, samples with grass litter produced higher amounts of N2O than those with CSS litter; similarly, converted soils produced higher amounts of N2O than unconverted soils. These two effects combined resulted in exotic grassland conditions (converted soils with exotic grass litter) producing 10 times the amount of N2O as those containing native shrubland conditions (unconverted soils with CSS litter). Additionally, soils with no litter peaked in N2O emissions earlier than those with litter (12 hours after wetting compared to 24 hours after wetting). Following preliminary results, we suggest that differences in plant traits, such as litter, play a significant role in the magnitude and timing of trace gas nitrogen emissions.

Trace Determination of Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonates: Application in Artificially Polluted Soil—Carrots System

PubMed Central

Sablayrolles, Caroline; Montréjaud-Vignoles, Mireille; Silvestre, Jérôme; Treilhou, Michel

2009-01-01

Surfactants are widely used in household and industrial products. The risk of incorporation of linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS) from biosolids, wastewater, and fertilizers land application to the food chain is being assessed at present by the European Union. In the present work, a complete analytical method for LAS trace determination has been developed and successfully applied to LAS (C10–C13) uptake in carrot plants used as model. These carrots were grown in soil with the trace organics compounds added directly into the plant containers in pure substances form. LAS trace determination (μg kg−1 dry matter) in carrots samples was achieved by Soxtec apparatus and high-performance liquid chromatography-fluorescence detection. The methodology developed provides LAS determination at low detection limits (5 μg kg−1 dry matter) for carrot sample (2 g dry matter) with good recoveries rate (>90%). Transfer of LAS has been followed into the various parts of the carrot plant. LAS are generally found in the carrot leaves and percentage transfer remains very low (0.02%). PMID:20107562

Monitoring trace elements in Antarctic penguin chicks from South Shetland Islands, Antarctica.

PubMed

Jerez, Silvia; Motas, Miguel; Benzal, Jesús; Diaz, Julia; Barbosa, Andrés

2013-04-15

The concentration of human activities in the near-shore ecosystems from the northern Antarctic Peninsula area can cause an increasing bioavailability of pollutants for the vulnerable Antarctic biota. Penguin chicks can reflect this potential impact in the rookeries during the breeding season. They also can reflect biomagnification phenomena since they are on the top of the Antarctic food chain. The concentrations of Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Cd and Pb were measured by ICP-MS in samples of liver, kidney, muscle, bone, feather and stomach content of gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguin chicks (n=15 individuals) collected opportunistically in the Islands of King George and Deception (South Shetland Islands, Antarctica). The detected levels of some trace elements were not as low as it could be expected in the isolated Antarctic region. Penguin chicks can be useful indicators of trace elements abundance in the study areas. Carcasses of Antarctic penguin chicks were used to evaluate the bioavailability of trace elements in the Islands of King George and Deception. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Photosensitive filler minimizes internal stresses in epoxy resins

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dillon, J. N.

1967-01-01

Photosensitive filler is added to curable epoxy resins to minimize stress from internal shrinkage during curing or polymerization. Cinnamic acid resins and cinnamal ketones may be added in the amount of 1 to 3 percent by weight of the resin mixture.

Mastering Mehndi

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sturgell, Stacy

2011-01-01

Mehndi, a traditional art form that dates back to before the twelfth century A.D., are temporary works of art created by painting with henna plant extract. Henna stain found on the fingers and toes of mummified pharaohs has led some people to believe that mehndi can be traced back to ancient Egypt. Indian weddings are not complete without a mehndi…

Biological Investigations of Adaptive Networks: Neuronal Control of Conditioned Responses

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-07-01

The program also controls A/D sampling of voltage trace from NMR transducer and disk files for NMR, neural spikes, and synchronization. * HSAD . Basic...format which ANALYZE (by John Desmond) can read. e FIG.HIRES Reads C-64 HSAD files and EVENT NMR files and generates oscilloscope-like figures showing

The First Arab Bibliography: Fihrist al-'Ulum. Occasional Papers Number 175.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wellisch, Hans H.

The history of the "Fihrist al-'Ulum" ("The Index of the Sciences"), the first comprehensive and detailed Arabic bibliography, is traced from the work's completion in A.D. 987/988 to the discovery and translation of surviving manuscripts in modern times. The bibliography's content, classification scheme, and author are…

75 FR 67999 - Notice of Inventory Completion: Anthropological Studies Center, Archaeological Collections...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-04

... occupation between A.D. 1500 and 1856. Although the exact age and identity of the individual is unknown, more... relationship of shared group identity that can be reasonably traced between the Native American human remains... January 1982, human remains representing a minimum of one individual were removed from the Diamond H...

Effects of mineral and vitamin supplementation to pasteurized whole milk diets on growth and health of preruminant Holstein bull calves

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Our objective was to determine whether supplementation of vitamins and trace minerals (VTM), formulated to meet or exceed NRC requirements when added to pasteurized whole milk (PWM), increases challenge resolution and prevents intestinal macromolecular permeability after injection with bacterial lip...

Building Systems: Passing Fad or Basic Tool?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rezab, Donald

Building systems can be traced back to a 1516 A.D. project by Leonardo da Vinci and to a variety of prefabrication projects in every succeeding century. When integrated into large and repetitive spatial units through careful design, building systems can produce an architecture of the first order, as evidenced in the award winning design of…

Effect of copper chloride on the emissions of PCDD/Fs and PAHs from PVC combustion.

PubMed

Wang, Dongli; Xu, Xiaobai; Zheng, Minghui; Chiu, Chung H

2002-09-01

The influences of temperature, air flow and the amount of copper chloride upon the types and amount of the toxic emissions such as polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) during combustion of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) were investigated. The mechanism concerning the effect of temperature and copper chloride on the PCDD/Fs and PAHs formation was discussed. The results shown that without copper chloride, trace amounts of PCDD/Fs and large amounts of PAHs were found in the emissions from the pure PVC combustion under various combustion conditions. The addition of copper chloride enhanced PCDD/Fs formation, but it seems that the formation of PAHs decreased with increasing amount of copper chloride, and greater total amount of PAHs were produced at the higher temperature under our experimental conditions.

Investigation of the required length for fully developed pipe flow with drag-reducing polymer solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farsiani, Yasaman; Elbing, Brian

2015-11-01

Adding trace amounts of long chain polymers into a liquid flow is known to reduce skin friction drag by up to 80%. While polymer drag reduction (PDR) has been successfully implemented in internal flows, diffusion and degradation have limited its external flow applications. A weakness in many previous PDR studies is that there was no characterization of the polymer being injected into the turbulent boundary layer, which can be accomplished by testing a sample in a pressure-drop tube. An implicit assumption in polymer characterization is that the flow is fully developed at the differential pressure measurement. While available data in the literature shows that the entry length to achieve fully developed flow increases with polymeric solutions, it is unclear how long is required to achieve fully developed flow for non-Newtonian turbulent flows. In the present study, the pressure-drop is measured across a 1.05 meter length section of a 1.04 cm inner diameter pipe. Differential pressure is measured with a pressure transducer for different entry lengths, flow and polymer solution properties. This presentation will present preliminary data on the required entrance length as well as characterization of polymer solution an estimate of the mean molecular weight.

Thallium release from acid mine drainages: Speciation in river and tap water from Valdicastello mining district (northwest Tuscany).

PubMed

Campanella, Beatrice; Casiot, Corinne; Onor, Massimo; Perotti, Martina; Petrini, Riccardo; Bramanti, Emilia

2017-08-15

In this work we present an advantageous method for the simultaneous separation and detection of Tl(I) and Tl(III) species through ion chromatography coupled with on-line inductively coupled plasma - mass spectrometry. Chromatographic separation between Tl(III) and Tl(I) was achieved in less than two minutes. The method was validated by recovery experiments on real samples, and by comparing the sum of the concentrations of individual Tl species with total thallium values obtained from continuous flow ICP-MS. The experimental procedure offers an accurate, sensitive and interference-free method for Tl speciation at trace levels in environmental samples. This allowed us to investigate the Tl speciation in acid mine drainages (AMD), surface waters and springs in a mining catchment in Valdicastello Carducci (Tuscany, Italy), where severe Tl contamination ad been evidenced previously. This study shows for the first time that Tl(III), in addition to Tl(I), is present in considerable amounts in water samples affected by acid mining outflow, raising the question of the origin of this thermodynamically unstable species. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Metal concentrations in cosmetics commonly used in Nigeria.

PubMed

Orisakwe, Orish Ebere; Otaraku, Jonathan Oye

2013-01-01

Trace amounts of potentially toxic metals can be either intentionally added to cosmetics or present as impurities in the raw materials. In the present study, the levels of lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, and mercury have been assessed in 28 body creams and lotions, 10 powders, 3 soaps, 5 eye make-ups, and 4 lipsticks widely available on Nigerian markets. The increases over suggested or mandated levels of lead in these creams and lotions ranged from 6.1 to 45.9 and from 1.2 to 9.2 mg kg⁻¹ when compared with Cosmetic Ingredients Review Expert Panel 2007 and German safe maximum permissible limit of lead in cosmetics, respectively. About 61% of the body cosmetics, the lotions, and the creams contained detectable levels of nickel ranging from 1.1 to 6.4-9.2 mg kg⁻¹. Chromium and mercury were undetected in 100% of the cosmetic product. Taken together, lead and cadmium were high in creams and lotions. Most of the imported creams and creamy white coloured cosmetics contained higher levels of metal contaminants than the other colours. Regulatory Agencies in developing nations should take appropriate action for cosmetics that contain lead and cadmium beyond the reference limits.

Occurrence and abatement of volatile sulfur compounds during biogas production.

PubMed

Andersson, Fräs Annika T; Karlsson, Anna; Svensson, Bo H; Ejlertsson, Jörgen

2004-07-01

Volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) in biogas originating from a biogas production plant and from a municipal sewage water treatment plant were identified. Samples were taken at various stages of the biogas-producing process, including upgrading the gas to vehicle-fuel quality. Solid-phase microextraction was used for preconcentration of the VSCs, which were subsequently analyzed using gas chromatography in combination with mass spectrometry. Other volatile organic compounds present also were identified. The most commonly occurring VSCs in the biogas were hydrogen sulfide, carbonyl sulfide, methanethiol, dimethyl sulfide, and dimethyl disulfide, and hydrogen sulfide was not always the most abundant sulfur (S) compound. Besides VSCs, oxygenated organic compounds were commonly present (e.g., ketones, alcohols, and esters). The effect of adding iron chloride to the biogas reactor on the occurrence of VSCs also was investigated. It was found that additions of 500-g/m3 substrate gave an optimal removal of VSCs. Also, the use of a prefermentation step could reduce the amount of VSCs formed in the biogas process. Moreover, in the carbon dioxide scrubber used for upgrading the gas, VSCs were removed efficiently, leaving traces (ppbv levels). The scrubber also removed other organic compounds.

Measurement of OH Radicals in Pulsed Corona and Pulsed Dielectric Barrier Discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ono, Ryo; Oda, Tetsuji

OH radicals are measured in a pulsed corona or a pulsed dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) using laserinduced fluorescence (LIF) method. The pulsed discharges occur in nitrogen-oxygen mixture with 2.4% water vapor at atmospheric pressure. The pulse width is 100ns and the peak voltage is 35kV. The electrode configuration is a needle to plate electrode with 16-mm gap for corona discharge, and with 5-mm gap for DBD where the barrier is 2mm thick glass plate. It is shown that OH density is approximately proportional to the energy consumed by the discharge. The OH density per the discharge energy is about 2-4×1014cm-3/mJ for both discharges in H2O(2.4%)/N2 mixture. It is shown that OH density increases with oxygen content in DBD, whereas OH density reaches a maximum at 3% oxygen content in corona discharge. The existence of oxygen accelerates OH decay rate in both discharges. A trace amount of trichloroethylene (TCE) is added to the ambient gas. It is shown that the addition of 100ppm TCE to corona discharge reduces discharge current by about 50%. That leads to decrease of OH production.

Quantification of endocrine disruptors and pesticides in water by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Method validation using weighted linear regression schemes.

PubMed

Mansilha, C; Melo, A; Rebelo, H; Ferreira, I M P L V O; Pinho, O; Domingues, V; Pinho, C; Gameiro, P

2010-10-22

A multi-residue methodology based on a solid phase extraction followed by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was developed for trace analysis of 32 compounds in water matrices, including estrogens and several pesticides from different chemical families, some of them with endocrine disrupting properties. Matrix standard calibration solutions were prepared by adding known amounts of the analytes to a residue-free sample to compensate matrix-induced chromatographic response enhancement observed for certain pesticides. Validation was done mainly according to the International Conference on Harmonisation recommendations, as well as some European and American validation guidelines with specifications for pesticides analysis and/or GC-MS methodology. As the assumption of homoscedasticity was not met for analytical data, weighted least squares linear regression procedure was applied as a simple and effective way to counteract the greater influence of the greater concentrations on the fitted regression line, improving accuracy at the lower end of the calibration curve. The method was considered validated for 31 compounds after consistent evaluation of the key analytical parameters: specificity, linearity, limit of detection and quantification, range, precision, accuracy, extraction efficiency, stability and robustness. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Neutral gas temperature estimates and metastable resonance energy transfer for argon-nitrogen discharges

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Greig, A., E-mail: amelia.greig@anu.edu.au; Charles, C.; Boswell, R. W.

2016-01-15

Rovibrational spectroscopy band fitting of the nitrogen (N{sub 2}) second positive system is a technique used to estimate the neutral gas temperature of N{sub 2} discharges, or atomic discharges with trace amounts of a N{sub 2} added. For mixtures involving argon and N{sub 2}, resonant energy transfer between argon metastable atoms (Ar*) and N{sub 2} molecules may affect gas temperature estimates made using the second positive system. The effect of Ar* resonance energy transfer is investigated here by analyzing neutral gas temperatures of argon-N{sub 2} mixtures, for N{sub 2} percentages from 1% to 100%. Neutral gas temperature estimates are highermore » than expected for mixtures involving greater than 5% N{sub 2} addition, but are reasonable for argon with less than 5% N{sub 2} addition when compared with an analytic model for ion-neutral charge exchange collisional heating. Additional spatiotemporal investigations into neutral gas temperature estimates with 10% N{sub 2} addition demonstrate that although absolute temperature values may be affected by Ar* resonant energy transfer, spatiotemporal trends may still be used to accurately diagnose the discharge.« less

Effects of Chemically Doped Bioactive Borate Glass on Neuron Regrowth and Regeneration.

PubMed

Gupta, Brinda; Papke, Jason B; Mohammadkhah, Ali; Day, Delbert E; Harkins, Amy B

2016-12-01

Peripheral nerve injuries present challenges to regeneration. Currently, the gold standard for nerve repair is an autograft that results in another region of the body suffering nerve damage. Previously, bioactive borate glass (BBG) has been studied in clinical trials to treat patients with non-healing wounds, and we have reported that BBG is conducive for soft tissue repair. BBG provides structural support, degrades in a non-cytotoxic manner, and can be chemically doped. Here, we tested a wide range of chemical compounds that are reported to have neuroprotective characteristics to promote regeneration of peripheral neurons after traumatic injury. We hypothesized that chemical dopants added in trace amounts to BBG would improve neuronal survival and neurite outgrowth from dorsal root ganglion (DRG) explants. We measured neurite outgrowth from whole DRG explants, and survival rates of dissociated neurons and support cells that comprise the DRG. Results show that chemically doped BBGs have differentially variable effects on neuronal survival and outgrowth, with iron, gallium, and zinc improving outgrowth of neurons, and iodine causing the most detriment to neurons. Because chemically doped BBGs support increased nerve regrowth and survival, they show promise for use in peripheral nerve regeneration.

Metal Concentrations in Cosmetics Commonly Used in Nigeria

PubMed Central

Orisakwe, Orish Ebere; Otaraku, Jonathan Oye

2013-01-01

Trace amounts of potentially toxic metals can be either intentionally added to cosmetics or present as impurities in the raw materials. In the present study, the levels of lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, and mercury have been assessed in 28 body creams and lotions, 10 powders, 3 soaps, 5 eye make-ups, and 4 lipsticks widely available on Nigerian markets. The increases over suggested or mandated levels of lead in these creams and lotions ranged from 6.1 to 45.9 and from 1.2 to 9.2 mg kg−1 when compared with Cosmetic Ingredients Review Expert Panel 2007 and German safe maximum permissible limit of lead in cosmetics, respectively. About 61% of the body cosmetics, the lotions, and the creams contained detectable levels of nickel ranging from 1.1 to 6.4–9.2 mg kg−1. Chromium and mercury were undetected in 100% of the cosmetic product. Taken together, lead and cadmium were high in creams and lotions. Most of the imported creams and creamy white coloured cosmetics contained higher levels of metal contaminants than the other colours. Regulatory Agencies in developing nations should take appropriate action for cosmetics that contain lead and cadmium beyond the reference limits. PMID:24385889

Dexter: Data Extractor for scanned graphs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demleitner, Markus

2011-12-01

The NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS) now holds 1.3 million scanned pages, containing numerous plots and figures for which the original data sets are lost or inaccessible. The availability of scans of the figures can significantly ease the regeneration of the data sets. For this purpose, the ADS has developed Dexter, a Java applet that supports the user in this process. Dexter's basic functionality is to let the user manually digitize a plot by marking points and defining the coordinate transformation from the logical to the physical coordinate system. Advanced features include automatic identification of axes, tracing lines and finding points matching a template.

The next generation of iron fertilization experiments in the Southern Ocean.

PubMed

Smetacek, V; Naqvi, S W A

2008-11-13

Of the various macro-engineering schemes proposed to mitigate global warming, ocean iron fertilization (OIF) is one that could be started at short notice on relevant scales. It is based on the reasoning that adding trace amounts of iron to iron-limited phytoplankton of the Southern Ocean will lead to blooms, mass sinking of organic matter and ultimately sequestration of significant amounts of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) in the deep sea and sediments. This iron hypothesis, proposed by John Martin in 1990 (Martin 1990 Paleoceanography 5, 1-13), has been tested by five mesoscale experiments that provided strong support for its first condition: stimulation of a diatom bloom accompanied by significant CO2 drawdown. Nevertheless, a number of arguments pertaining to the fate of bloom biomass, the ratio of iron added to carbon sequestered and various side effects of fertilization, continue to cast doubt on its efficacy. The idea is also unpopular with the public because it is perceived as meddling with nature. However, this apparent consensus against OIF is premature because none of the published experiments were specifically designed to test its second condition pertaining to the fate of iron-induced organic carbon. Furthermore, the arguments on side effects are based on worst-case scenarios. These doubts, formulated as hypotheses, need to be tested in the next generation of OIF experiments. We argue that such experiments, if carried out at appropriate scales and localities, will not only show whether the technique will work, but will also reveal a wealth of insights on the structure and functioning of pelagic ecosystems in general and the krill-based Southern Ocean ecosystem, in particular. The outcomes of current models on the efficacy and side effects of OIF differ widely, so data from adequately designed experiments are urgently needed for realistic parametrization. OIF is likely to boost zooplankton stocks, including krill, which could have a positive effect on recovery of the great whale populations. Negative effects of possible commercialization of OIF can be controlled by the establishment of an international body headed by scientists to supervise and monitor its implementation.

Climate signals in Late Holocene sediments from Maxwell Bay and English Strait (South Shetland Islands, Antarctica)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hass, H. Christian; Schröder, Simon; Kuhn, Gerhard

2017-04-01

Climate fluctuations of the past two millennia such as the Little Ice Age and the Medieval Warm Period are reported mainly from the Northern Hemisphere. Evidence from Antarctica is comparably sparse and reveals regional and temporal differences, which are particularly evident at the western and eastern sides of the Antarctic Peninsula. High-resolution coastal-marine sediment cores from the northernmost tip of the West Antarctic Peninsula reveal periods dominated by finer sediments between periods that lack the finer sediment component. In Maxwell Bay this fine sediment (grain size mode around 16 µm) has been traced back to sediment related to the occurrence of glacial meltwater. It was found in sheltered places and meltwater creeks of Potter Cove, a small tributary fjord to Maxwell Bay. In the sediment core this sediment occurs predominantly between 600 and 1250 AD (Medieval Warm Period) whereas it is only sparsely affecting the record between 1450 and 1900 AD (Little Ice Age). The temporal pattern is very similar to global-temperature reconstructions and even resembles temperature reconstructions from the Northern Hemisphere. To avoid local effects that may occur in Maxwell Bay more sediment cores were taken from bays and straits further south of King George Island during Cruise PS97 of RV "Polarstern" in 2016. A core from English Strait reveals completely different sedimentary conditions with no detectable meltwater signal (16 µm). However, the mean grain size record resembles that of the cores from Maxwell Bay. The lack of a clear-cut meltwater sediment class as it occurs further north is likely the result of a much smaller hinterland (Greenwich and Robert islands) when compared to Maxwell Bay between Nelson Island and the much bigger King George Island where glaciers and ice sheets discharge large quantities of very turbid meltwater directly into the bay. It is concluded that during the warmer climate periods a large amount of meltwater was released along the NW Antarctic Peninsula. The related plume sediments were distributed downstream to overprint coastal sediments even though the amount was likely not sufficient to produce a discrete sediment class.

Effects and quantification of acid runoff from sulfide-bearing rock deposited during construction of Highway E18, Norway

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hindar, Atle; Nordstrom, D. Kirk

2015-01-01

The Highway E18 between the cities of Grimstad and Kristiansand, southern Norway, constructed in the period 2006–2009, cuts through sulfide-bearing rock. The geology of this area is dominated by slowly-weathering gneiss and granites, and oxidation of fresh rock surfaces can result in acidification of surface water. Sulfide-containing rock waste from excavations during construction work was therefore deposited in three waste rock deposits off-site. The deposits consist of 630,000–2,360,000 metric tons of waste rock material. Shell sand and limestone gravel were added in layers in adequate amounts to mitigate initial acid runoff in one of the deposits. The shell sand addition was not adequate in the two others. The pH in the effluents from these two was reduced from 4.9–6.5 to 4.0–4.6, and Al concentrations increased from below 0.4 mg/L to 10–20 mg/L. Stream concentrations of trace metals increased by a factor of 25–400, highest for Ni, and then in decreasing order for Co, Mn, Cd, Zn and Cu. Concentrations of As, Cr and Fe remained unchanged. Ratios of Co/Ni and Cd/Zn indicate that the metal sources for these pair of metals are sphalerite and pyrite, respectively. Based on surveys and established critical limits for Al, surface waters downstream became toxic to fish and invertebrates. The sulfur release rates were remarkably stable in the monitoring period at all three sites. Annual sulfur release was 0.1–0.4% of the total amount of sulfur in the deposit, indicating release periods of 250–800 years. Precipitates of Al-hydroxysulfates, well-known from mining sites, were found at the base of the deposits, in streams and also along the ocean shore-line. The effects of added neutralization agents in the deposits and in treatment areas downstream gradually decreased, as indicated by reduced stream pH over time. Active measures are needed to avoid harmful ecological effects in the future.

Effective electrostatic interactions among charged thermo-responsive microgels immersed in a simple electrolyte

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

González-Mozuelos, P.

This work explores the nature and thermodynamic behavior of the effective electrostatic interactions among charged microgels immersed in a simple electrolyte, taking special interest in the effects due to the thermally induced variation of the microgel size while the remaining parameters (microgel charge and concentration, plus the amount of added salt) are kept constant. To this end, the rigorous approach obtained from applying the precise methodology of the dressed ion theory to the proper definition of the effective direct correlation functions, which emerge from tracing-out the degrees of freedom of the microscopic ions, is employed to provide an exact descriptionmore » of the parameters characterizing such interactions: screening length, effective permittivity, and renormalized charges. A model solution with three components is assumed: large permeable anionic spheres for the microgels, plus small charged hard spheres of equal size for the monovalent cations and anions. The two-body correlations among the components of this model suspension, used as the input for the determination of the effective interaction parameters, are here calculated by using the hyper-netted chain approximation. It is then found that at finite microgel concentrations the values of these parameters change as the microgel size increases, even though the ionic strength of the supporting electrolyte and the bare charge of the microgels remain fixed during this process. The variation of the screening length, as well as that of the effective permittivity, is rather small, but still interesting in view of the fact that the corresponding Debye length stays constant. The renormalized charges, in contrast, increase markedly as the microgels swell. The ratio of the renormalized charge to the corresponding analytic result obtained in the context of an extended linear response theory allows us to introduce an effective charge that accounts for the non-linear effects induced by the short-ranged association of microions to the microgels. The behavior of these effective charges as a function of the amount of added salt and the macroion charge, size, and concentration reveals the interplay among all these system parameters.« less

Simple system for measuring tritium Ad/absorption using a 2. pi. counter and thermal desorption spectrometer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Miyake, H.; Matsuyama, M.; Watanabe, K.

1992-03-01

In this paper, the authors develop a simple system using tritium tracer and thermal desorption techniques to measure the tritium adsorption and/or absorption on/in a material having typical surface conditions: namely, not cleaned surface. The tritium counting devices used were a 2{pi} counter and conventional proportional counter. With this system, the amounts of ad/absorption could be measured without exposing the samples to air after exposing them to tritium gas. The overall efficiency (F) of the 2{pi} counter was described at F = exp({minus}2.64h), where h is the distance from the sample to the detector. Ad/absorption measurements were carried out formore » several materials used for fabricating conventional vacuum systems. The results were, in the order of decreasing amounts of ad/absorption, as (fiber reinforced plastics(FRP)) {gt} (nickel(Ni), molybdenum disulfide(MoS{sub 2})) {gt} (stainless steel (SS304), iron(Fe), aluminum alloy(A2219)) {gt} (boron nitride(h-BN), silicon carbide (SiC), SS304 passivated by anodic oxidation layers(ASS) and that by boron nitride segregation layers (BSS)). The relative amounts were abut 100 for Ni and 0.1 for ASS and BSS, being normalized to Fe = 1.« less

Neutron activation analyses and half-life measurements at the usgs triga reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Larson, Robert E.

Neutron activation of materials followed by gamma spectroscopy using high-purity germanium detectors is an effective method for making measurements of nuclear beta decay half-lives and for detecting trace amounts of elements present in materials. This research explores applications of neutron activation analysis (NAA) in two parts. Part 1. High Precision Methods for Measuring Decay Half-Lives, Chapters 1 through 8 Part one develops research methods and data analysis techniques for making high precision measurements of nuclear beta decay half-lives. The change in the electron capture half-life of 51Cr in pure chromium versus chromium mixed in a gold lattice structure is explored, and the 97Ru electron capture decay half-life are compared for ruthenium in a pure crystal versus ruthenium in a rutile oxide state, RuO2. In addition, the beta-minus decay half-life of 71mZn is measured and compared with new high precision findings. Density Functional Theory is used to explain the measured magnitude of changes in electron capture half-life from changes in the surrounding lattice electron configuration. Part 2. Debris Collection Nuclear Diagnostic at the National Ignition Facility, Chapters 9 through 11 Part two explores the design and development of a solid debris collector for use as a diagnostic tool at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). NAA measurements are performed on NIF post-shot debris collected on witness plates in the NIF chamber. In this application NAA is used to detect and quantify the amount of trace amounts of gold from the hohlraum and germanium from the pellet present in the debris collected after a NIF shot. The design of a solid debris collector based on material x-ray ablation properties is given, and calculations are done to predict performance and results for the collection and measurements of trace amounts of gold and germanium from dissociated hohlraum debris.

Reviewing the anaerobic digestion and co-digestion process of food waste from the perspectives on biogas production performance and environmental impacts.

PubMed

Chiu, Sam L H; Lo, Irene M C

2016-12-01

In this paper, factors that affect biogas production in the anaerobic digestion (AD) and anaerobic co-digestion (coAD) processes of food waste are reviewed with the aim to improve biogas production performance. These factors include the composition of substrates in food waste coAD as well as pre-treatment methods and anaerobic reactor system designs in both food waste AD and coAD. Due to the characteristics of the substrates used, the biogas production performance varies as different effects are exhibited on nutrient balance, inhibitory substance dilution, and trace metal element supplement. Various types of pre-treatment methods such as mechanical, chemical, thermal, and biological methods are discussed to improve the rate-limiting hydrolytic step in the digestion processes. The operation parameters of a reactor system are also reviewed with consideration of the characteristics of the substrates. Since the environmental awareness and concerns for waste management systems have been increasing, this paper also addresses possible environmental impacts of AD and coAD in food waste treatment and recommends feasible methods to reduce the impacts. In addition, uncertainties in the life cycle assessment (LCA) studies are also discussed.

Modeling the Diagnostic Criteria for Alcohol Dependence with Genetic Animal Models

PubMed Central

Kendler, Kenneth S.; Hitzemann, Robert J.

2012-01-01

A diagnosis of alcohol dependence (AD) using the DSM-IV-R is categorical, based on an individual’s manifestation of three or more symptoms from a list of seven. AD risk can be traced to both genetic and environmental sources. Most genetic studies of AD risk implicitly assume that an AD diagnosis represents a single underlying genetic factor. We recently found that the criteria for an AD diagnosis represent three somewhat distinct genetic paths to individual risk. Specifically, heavy use and tolerance versus withdrawal and continued use despite problems reflected separate genetic factors. However, some data suggest that genetic risk for AD is adequately described with a single underlying genetic risk factor. Rodent animal models for alcohol-related phenotypes typically target discrete aspects of the complex human AD diagnosis. Here, we review the literature derived from genetic animal models in an attempt to determine whether they support a single-factor or multiple-factor genetic structure. We conclude that there is modest support in the animal literature that alcohol tolerance and withdrawal reflect distinct genetic risk factors, in agreement with our human data. We suggest areas where more research could clarify this attempt to align the rodent and human data. PMID:21910077

24 CFR 241.565 - Maximum loan amount.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... Purchase and Installation of Energy Conserving Improvements, Solar Energy Systems, and Individual Utility... energy conserving improvements including the purchase thereof, cost of installation, architect's fees... of the energy conserving improvements. (b) An amount which, when added to the existing outstanding...

24 CFR 241.565 - Maximum loan amount.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Purchase and Installation of Energy Conserving Improvements, Solar Energy Systems, and Individual Utility... energy conserving improvements including the purchase thereof, cost of installation, architect's fees... of the energy conserving improvements. (b) An amount which, when added to the existing outstanding...

24 CFR 241.565 - Maximum loan amount.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Purchase and Installation of Energy Conserving Improvements, Solar Energy Systems, and Individual Utility... energy conserving improvements including the purchase thereof, cost of installation, architect's fees... of the energy conserving improvements. (b) An amount which, when added to the existing outstanding...

24 CFR 241.565 - Maximum loan amount.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... Purchase and Installation of Energy Conserving Improvements, Solar Energy Systems, and Individual Utility... energy conserving improvements including the purchase thereof, cost of installation, architect's fees... of the energy conserving improvements. (b) An amount which, when added to the existing outstanding...

24 CFR 241.565 - Maximum loan amount.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Purchase and Installation of Energy Conserving Improvements, Solar Energy Systems, and Individual Utility... energy conserving improvements including the purchase thereof, cost of installation, architect's fees... of the energy conserving improvements. (b) An amount which, when added to the existing outstanding...

Water Contents of the Mantle Beneath the Rio Grande Rift: FTIR Analysis of Kilbourne Hole Peridotite Xenoliths

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schaffer, Lillian A.; Peslier, Anne; Brandon, Alan

2013-01-01

Although nominally anhydrous mantle minerals contain only trace amounts of water, they are the main reservoir of water in the mantle. Added up at the scale of the Earth's mantle, these trace amounts of water represent oceans worth in mass]. Mantle xenoliths from Kilbourne Hole in southern New Mexico are ideal to study mantle water distribution in a rift tectonic setting as they come from a recently-erupted maar in the middle of the Rio Grande Rift. Eleven lherzolites, one harzburgite, and one dunite are being analyzed for water contents by FTIR. The xenoliths will also be analyzed for major and trace element composition, Fe3+/Summation (Fe) ratios, and characterized petrologically. Olivines exhibit variable water contents with less water at the rims compared to the cores. This is probably due to H loss during decompression and xenolith transport by the host magma. Mantle water contents appear to have been primarily preserved in the core of the olivines, based on diffusion modeling of the typically plateau-shaped water content profiles across these grains. Water concentrations are in equilibrium between clino- and orthopyroxene, but olivine concentrations are typically not in equilibrium with those of either pyroxene. Lherzolites analyzed so far have water contents of 2-12 ppm H2O in olivines, 125-165 ppm H2O in orthopyroxenes, and 328-447 ppm H2O in clinopyroxenes. These water contents are similar to, but with a narrower range, than those for the respective minerals in other continental peridotite xenoliths. The lherzolites have bulk-rock (BR) Al2O3 contents that range between 3.17 and 3.78 wt%, indicating similar degrees of partial melting, which could explain the narrow range of their pyroxene water contents. Primitive mantle normalized rare earth element (REE) profiles of the bulk lherzolites vary from light REE depleted to flat, with no significant differences between, nor relation to, their mineral water contents. Consequently, the metasomatic agents that enriched LREEs in these lherzolites were most likely water-poor. The harzburgite and the dunite have lower weight percent Al2O3 compared to the lherzolites (2.11% and 0.34% respectively) indicating higher degrees of melting. Their olivine water contents, however, are similar to those of the lherzolites. Moreover, no correlations are observed between pyroxene water contents and indices of melting or metasomatism between the lherzolite group, the harzburgite, and the dunite, although the latter has the lowest pyroxene water contents. More samples will be analyzed to determine if the water contents are controlled by melting, metasomatism, or a combination of the two in the Kilbourne Hole mantle.

A study of the impact of moist-heat and dry-heat treatment processes on hazardous trace elements migration in food waste.

PubMed

Chen, Ting; Jin, Yiying; Qiu, Xiaopeng; Chen, Xin

2015-03-01

Using laboratory experiments, the authors investigated the impact of dry-heat and moist-heat treatment processes on hazardous trace elements (As, Hg, Cd, Cr, and Pb) in food waste and explored their distribution patterns for three waste components: oil, aqueous, and solid components. The results indicated that an insignificant reduction of hazardous trace elements in heat-treated waste-0.61-14.29% after moist-heat treatment and 4.53-12.25% after dry-heat treatment-and a significant reduction in hazardous trace elements (except for Hg without external addition) after centrifugal dehydration (P < 0.5). Moreover, after heat treatment, over 90% of the hazardous trace elements in the waste were detected in the aqueous and solid components, whereas only a trace amount of hazardous trace elements was detected in the oil component (<0.01%). In addition, results indicated that heat treatment process did not significantly reduce the concentration of hazardous trace elements in food waste, but the separation process for solid and aqueous components, such as centrifugal dehydration, could reduce the risk considerably. Finally, combined with the separation technology for solid and liquid components, dry-heat treatment is superior to moist-heat treatment on the removal of external water-soluble ionic hazardous trace elements. An insignificant reduction of hazardous trace elements in heat-treated waste showed that heat treatment does not reduce trace elements contamination in food waste considerably, whereas the separation process for solid and aqueous components, such as centrifugal dehydration, could reduce the risk significantly. Moreover, combined with the separation technology for solid and liquid components, dry-heat treatment is superior to moist-heat treatment for the removal of external water-soluble ionic hazardous trace elements, by exploring distribution patterns of trace elements in three waste components: oil, aqueous, and solid components.

Amplification of trace amounts of nucleic acids

DOEpatents

Church, George M [Brookline, MA; Zhang, Kun [Brighton, MA

2008-06-17

Methods of reducing background during amplification of small amounts of nucleic acids employ careful analysis of sources of low level contamination. Ultraviolet light can be used to reduce nucleic acid contaminants in reagents and equipment. "Primer-dimer" background can be reduced by judicious design of primers. We have shown clean signal-to-noise with as little as starting material as one single human cell (.about.6 picogram), E. coli cell (.about.5 femtogram) or Prochlorococcus cell (.about.3 femtogram).

Protective Immunity Against a Lethal Respiratory Yersinia pestis Challenge Induced by V Antigen or the F1 Capsular Antigen Incorporated into Adenovirus Capsid

PubMed Central

Boyer, Julie L.; Sofer-Podesta, Carolina; Ang, John; Hackett, Neil R.; Chiuchiolo, Maria J.; Senina, Svetlana; Perlin, David

2010-01-01

Abstract The aerosol form of the bacterium Yersinia pestis causes pneumonic plague, a rapidly fatal disease that is a biothreat if deliberately released. At present, no plague vaccines are available for use in the United States, but subunit vaccines based on the Y. pestis V antigen and F1 capsular protein show promise when administered with adjuvants. In the context that adenovirus (Ad) gene transfer vectors have a strong adjuvant potential related to the ability to directly infect dendritic cells, we hypothesized that modification of the Ad5 capsid to display either the Y. pestis V antigen or the F1 capsular antigen on the virion surface would elicit high V antigen- or F1-specific antibody titers, permit boosting with the same Ad serotype, and provide better protection against a lethal Y. pestis challenge than immunization with equivalent amounts of V or F1 recombinant protein plus conventional adjuvant. We constructed AdYFP-pIX/V and AdLacZ-pIX/F1, E1–, E3– serotype 5 Ad gene transfer vectors containing a fusion of the sequence for either the Y. pestis V antigen or the F1 capsular antigen to the carboxy-terminal sequence of pIX, a capsid protein that can accommodate the entire V antigen (37 kDa) or F1 protein (15 kDa) without disturbing Ad function. Immunization with AdYFP-pIX/V followed by a single repeat administration of the same vector at the same dose resulted in significantly better protection of immunized animals compared with immunization with a molar equivalent amount of purified recombinant V antigen plus Alhydrogel adjuvant. Similarly, immunization with AdLacZ-pIX/F1 in a prime–boost regimen resulted in significantly enhanced protection of immunized animals compared with immunization with a molar-equivalent amount of purified recombinant F1 protein plus adjuvant. These observations demonstrate that Ad vaccine vectors containing pathogen-specific antigens fused to the pIX capsid protein have strong adjuvant properties and stimulate more robust protective immune responses than equivalent recombinant protein-based subunit vaccines administered with conventional adjuvant, suggesting that F1-and/or V-modified capsid Ad-based recombinant vaccines should be considered for development as anti-plague vaccines. PMID:20180652

Evaluating and modeling the effects of surface sampling factors on the recovery of organic chemical attribution signatures using the accelerated diffusion sampler and solvent extraction.

PubMed

Mo, Kai-For; Heredia-Langner, Alejandro; Fraga, Carlos G

2017-03-01

In this study, an experimental design matrix was created and executed to test the effects of various real-world factors on the ability of (1) the accelerated diffusion sampler with solid phase micro-extraction (ADS-SPME) and (2) solvent extraction to capture organic chemical attribution signatures (CAS) from dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) spiked onto painted wall board (PWB) surfaces. The DMMP CAS organic impurities sampled by ADS-SPME and solvent extraction were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The number of detected DMMP CAS impurities and their respective GC/MS peak areas were determined as a function of DMMP stock, DMMP spiked volume, exposure time, SPME sampling time, and ADS headspace pressure. Based on the statistical analysis of experimental results, several general conclusions are made: (1) the amount of CAS impurity detected using ADS-SPME and GC/MS was most influenced by spiked volume, stock, and ADS headspace pressure, (2) reduced ADS headspace pressure increased the amount of detected CAS impurity, as measured by GC/MS peak area, by up to a factor of 1.7-1.9 compared to ADS at ambient headspace pressure, (3) the ADS had no measurable effect on the number of detected DMMP impurities, that is, ADS (with and without reduced pressure) had no practical effect on the DMMP impurity profile collected from spiked PWB, and (4) solvent extraction out performed ADS-SPME in terms of consistently capturing all or most of the targeted DMMP impurities from spiked PWB. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Quantification of fluorine traces in solid samples using CaF molecular emission bands in atmospheric air Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alvarez-Llamas, C.; Pisonero, J.; Bordel, N.

2016-09-01

Direct solid determination of trace amounts of fluorine using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is a challenging task due to the low excitation efficiency of this element. Several strategies have been developed to improve the detection capabilities, including the use of LIBS in a He atmosphere to enhance the signal to background ratios of F atomic emission lines. An alternative method is based on the detection of the molecular compounds that are formed with fluorine in the LIBS plasma. In this work, the detection of CaF molecular emission bands is investigated to improve the analytical capabilities of atmospheric air LIBS for the determination of fluorine traces in solid samples. In particular, Cu matrix samples containing different fluorine concentration (between 50 and 600 μg/g), and variable amounts of Ca, are used to demonstrate the linear relationships between CaF emission signal and F concentration. Limits of detection for fluorine are improved by more than 1 order of magnitude using CaF emission bands versus F atomic lines, in atmospheric-air LIBS. Furthermore, a toothpaste powder sample is used to validate this analytical method. Good agreement is observed between the nominal and the predicted fluorine mass-content.

Construction of uniformly sized pseudo template imprinted polymers coupled with HPLC-UV for the selective extraction and determination of trace estrogens in chicken tissue samples.

PubMed

Wang, Shu; Li, Yun; Wu, Xiaoli; Ding, Meijuan; Yuan, Lihua; Wang, Ruoyu; Wen, Tingting; Zhang, Jun; Chen, Lina; Zhou, Xuemin; Li, Fei

2011-02-28

To assess the potential risks associated with the environmental exposure of steroid estrogens, a novel highly efficient and selective estrogen enrichment procedure based on the use of molecularly imprinted polymer has been developed and evaluated. Herein, analogue of estrogens, namely 17-ethyl estradiol (EE(2)) was used as the pseudo template, to avoid the leakage of a trace amount of the target analytes. The resulting pseudo molecularly imprinted polymers (PMIPs) showed large sorption capacity, high recognition ability and fast binding kinetics for estrogens. Moreover, using these imprinted particles as dispersive solid-phase extraction (DSPE) materials, the amounts of three estrogens (E(1), E(2) and E(3)) which were detected by HPLC-UV from the chicken tissue samples were 0.28, 0.31 and 0.17 μg g(-1), and the recoveries were 72.5-78.7%, 90.3-95.2% and 80.5-83.6% in spiked chicken tissue samples with RSD <7%, respectively. All these results reveal that EE(2)-PMIPs as DSPE materials coupled with HPLC-UV could be applied to the highly selective separation and sensitive determination of trace estrogens in chicken tissue samples. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Variable thickness double-refracting plate

DOEpatents

Hadeishi, Tetsuo

1976-01-01

This invention provides an A.C., cyclic, current-controlled, phase retardation plate that uses a magnetic clamp to produce stress birefringence. It was developed for an Isotope-Zeeman Atomic Absorption Spectrometer that uses polarization modulation to effect automatic background correction in atomic absorption trace-element measurements. To this end, the phase retardation plate of the invention is a variable thickness, photoelastic, double-refracting plate that is alternately stressed and released by the magnetic clamp selectively to modulate specific components selected from the group consisting of circularly and plane polarized Zeeman components that are produced in a dc magnetic field so that they correspond respectively to Zeeman reference and transmission-probe absorption components. The polarization modulation changes the phase of these polarized Zeeman components, designated as .sigma. reference and .pi. absorption components, so that every half cycle the components change from a transmission mode to a mode in which the .pi. component is blocked and the .sigma. components are transmitted. Thus, the Zeeman absorption component, which corresponds in amplitude to the amount of the trace element to be measured in a sample, is alternately transmitted and blocked by a linear polarizer, while the circularly polarized reference components are continuously transmitted thereby. The result is a sinusoidally varying output light amplitude whose average corresponds to the amount of the trace element present in the sample.

Preparation of modified magnetic nanoparticles as a sorbent for the preconcentration and determination of cadmium ions in food and environmental water samples prior to flame atomic absorption spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirabi, Ali; Dalirandeh, Zeinab; Rad, Ali Shokuhi

2015-05-01

A new method has been developed for the separation/preconcentration of trace level cadmium ions using diphenyl carbazone/sodium dodecyl sulfate immobilized on magnetic nanoparticle Fe3O4 as a new sorbent SPE and their determination by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Synthesized nanoparticle was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Various influencing parameters on the separation and preconcentration of trace level cadmium ions such as, pH value, amount of nanoparticles, amount of diphenyl carbazone, condition of eluting solution, the effects of matrix ions were examined. The cadmium ions can be eluted from the modified magnetic nanoparticle using 1 mol L-1 HCl as a desorption reagent. The detection limit of this method for cadmium was 3.71 ng ml-1 and the R.S.D. was 0.503% (n=6). The advantages of this new method include rapidity, easy preparation of sorbents and a high concentration factor. The proposed method has been applied to the determination of Cd ions at trace levels in real samples such as, green tea, rice, tobacco, carrot, lettuce, ginseng, spice, tap water, river water, sea water with satisfactory results.

78 FR 69131 - Importer of Controlled Substances; Notice of Registration; Catalent CTS, LLC

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-18

... treatment of wounds which contains trace amounts of the controlled substances normally found in poppy straw... company's background and history. Therefore, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 952(a) and 958(a), and in accordance...

RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN LABORATORY AND PILOT-SCALE COMBUSTION OF SOME CHLORINATED HYDROCARBONS

EPA Science Inventory

Factors governing the occurence of trace amounts of residual organic substance emmissions (ROSEs) in full-scale incierators are not fully understood. Pilot-scale spray combustion expereiments involving some liquid chlorinated hydrocarbons (CHCs) and their dilute mixtures with hy...

Deformation and Plateau Region of Functionally Graded Aluminum Foam by Amount Combinations of Added Blowing Agent.

PubMed

Hangai, Yoshihiko; Utsunomiya, Takao; Kuwazuru, Osamu; Kitahara, Soichiro; Yoshikawa, Nobuhiro

2015-10-21

Recently, to further improve the performance of aluminum foam, functionally graded (FG) aluminum foams, whose pore structure varies with their position, have been developed. In this study, three types of FG aluminum foam of aluminum alloy die casting ADC12 with combinations of two different amounts of added blowing agent titanium(II) hydride (TiH₂) powder were fabricated by a friction stir welding (FSW) route precursor foaming method. The combinations of 1.0-0 mass %, 0.4-0 mass %, and 0.2-0 mass % TiH₂ were selected as the amounts of TiH₂ relative to the mass of the volume stirred by FSW. The static compression tests of the fabricated FG aluminum foams were carried out. The deformation and fracture of FG aluminum foams fundamentally started in the high-porosity (with TiH₂ addition) layer and shifted to the low-porosity (without TiH₂ addition) layer. The first and second plateau regions in the relationship between compressive stress and strain independently appeared with the occurrence of deformations and fractures in the high- and low-porosity layers. It was shown that FG aluminum foams, whose plateau region varies in steps by the combination of amounts of added TiH₂ ( i.e. , the combination of pore structures), can be fabricated.

Mix proportions and properties of CLSC made from thin film transition liquid crystal display optical waste glass.

PubMed

Wang, Her-Yung; Chen, Jyun-Sheng

2010-01-01

In this study, controlled low-strength concrete (CLSC) is mixed using different water-to-binder (W/B) ratios (1.1, 1.3 and 1.5) and various percentages of sand substituted by waste LCD glass sand (0%, 10%, 20% and 30%). The properties of the fresh concrete, including compressive strength, electrical resistivity, ultrasonic pulse velocity, permeability ratio and shrinking of the CLSC, are examined. Results show that increases in amount of waste glass added result in better slump and slump flow, longer initial setting time and smaller unit weight. Compressive strength decreases with increasing W/B ratio and greater amounts of waste glass added. Both electrical resistivity and ultrasonic pulse velocity increase with increases in amount of waste glass and decreases in W/B ratio. On the contrary, the permeability ratio increases with increases in W/B ratio, but decreases with greater amounts of waste glass added. CLSC specimens cured for different durations show little changes in length with shrinkage below 0.025%. Our findings reveal that CLSC mixed using waste LCD glass in place of sand can meet design requirements. Recycling of waste LCD glass not only offers an economical substitute for aggregates, but also an ecological alternative for waste management. 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Determination of trace metals in spirits by total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siviero, G.; Cinosi, A.; Monticelli, D.; Seralessandri, L.

2018-06-01

Eight spirituous samples were analyzed for trace metal content with Horizon Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence (TXRF) Spectrometer. The expected single metal amount is at the ng/g level in a mixed aqueous/organic matrix, thus requiring a sample preparation method capable of achieving suitable limits of detection. On-site enrichment and Atmospheric Pressure-Vapor Phase Decomposition allowed to detect Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr and Pb with detection limits ranging from 0.1 ng/g to 4.6 ng/g. These results highlight how the synergy between instrument and sample preparation strategy may foster the use of TXRF as a fast and reliable technique for the determination of trace elements in spirituous samples, either for quality control or risk assessment purposes.

Collaborative Study of Analysis of High Resolution Infrared Atmospheric Spectra Between NASA Langley Research Center and the University of Denver

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldman, Aaron

1999-01-01

The Langley-D.U. collaboration on the analysis of high resolution infrared atmospheric spectra covered a number of important studies of trace gases identification and quantification from field spectra, and spectral line parameters analysis. The collaborative work included: Quantification and monitoring of trace gases from ground-based spectra available from various locations and seasons and from balloon flights. Studies toward identification and quantification of isotopic species, mostly oxygen and Sulfur isotopes. Search for new species on the available spectra. Update of spectroscopic line parameters, by combining laboratory and atmospheric spectra with theoretical spectroscopy methods. Study of trends of atmosphere trace constituents. Algorithms developments, retrievals intercomparisons and automatization of the analysis of NDSC spectra, for both column amounts and vertical profiles.

Exploring the Potential of Value-Added Performance Measures to Affect the Quality of the Teacher Workforce

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldhaber, Dan

2015-01-01

The past decade has seen a tremendous amount of research on the use of value-added modeling to assess individual teachers, and a significant number of states and districts are now using, or plan to use, value added as a component of a teacher's summative performance evaluation. In this article, I explore the various mechanisms through which the…

Effects of preoperative oral carbohydrates and trace elements on perioperative nutritional status in elective surgery patients.

PubMed

Oyama, Yoshimasa; Iwasaka, Hideo; Shiihara, Keisuke; Hagiwara, Satoshi; Kubo, Nobuhiro; Fujitomi, Yutaka; Noguchi, Takayuki

2011-10-01

In order to enhance postoperative recovery, preoperative consumption of carbohydrate (CHO) drinks has been used to suppress metabolic fluctuations. Trace elements such as zinc and copper are known to play an important role in postoperative recovery. Here, we examined the effects of preoperatively consuming a CHO drink containing zinc and copper. Subjects were 122 elective surgery patients divided into two groups (overnight fasting and CHO groups); each group was further divided into morning or afternoon surgery groups. Subjects in the CHO group consumed 300 mL of a CHO drink the night before surgery, followed by 200 ml before morning surgery or 700 ml before afternoon surgery (> or =2 hours before anesthesia induction). Blood levels of glucose, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), retinol-binding protein, zinc, and copper were determined. One subject in the CHO group was excluded after refusing the drink. There were no adverse effects from the CHO drink. NEFA levels increased in the fasting groups. Although zinc levels increased in the CHO group immediately after anesthesia induction, no group differences were observed the day after surgery. Preoperative consumption of a CHO drink containing trace elements suppressed preoperative metabolic fluctuations without complications and prevented trace element deficiency. Further beneficial effects during the perioperative period can be expected by adding trace elements to CHO supplements.

Boosting Bifunctional Oxygen Electrolysis for N-Doped Carbon via Bimetal Addition.

PubMed

Wang, Jian; Ciucci, Francesco

2017-04-01

The addition of transition metals, even in a trace amount, into heteroatom-doped carbon (M-N/C) is intensively investigated to further enhance oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity. However, the influence of metal decoration on the electrolysis of the reverse reaction of ORR, that is, oxygen evolution reaction (OER), is seldom reported. Moreover, further improving the bifunctional activity and corrosion tolerance for carbon-based materials remains a big challenge, especially in OER potential regions. Here, bimetal-decorated, pyridinic N-dominated large-size carbon tubes (MM'-N/C) are proposed for the first time as highly efficient and durable ORR and OER catalysts. FeFe-N/C, CoCo-N/C, NiNi-N/C, MnMn-N/C, FeCo-N/C, NiFe-N/C, FeMn-N/C, CoNi-N/C, MnCo-N/C, and NiMn-N/C are systematically investigated in terms of their structure, composition, morphology, surface area, and active site densities. In contrast to conventional monometal and N-decorated carbon, small amounts of bimetal (≈2 at%) added during the one-step template-free synthesis contribute to increased pyridinic N content, much longer and more robust carbon tubes, reduced metal particle size, and stronger coupling between the encapsulated metals and carbon support. The synergy of those factors accounts for the dramatically improved ORR and OER activity and stability. By comparison, NiFe-N/C and MnCo-N/C stand out and achieve superior bifunctional oxygen catalytic performance, exceeding most of state-of-the-art catalysts. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Glycoproteomics of cerebrospinal fluid in neurodegenerative disease

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sihlbom, Carina; Davidsson, Pia; Emmett, Mark R.; Marshall, Alan G.; Nilsson, Carol L.

2004-05-01

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from individual patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) was separated by narrow range two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis and analyzed by electrospray FT-ICR MS in this glycoproteomic study. Because several altered proteins in the comparison between AD patients and healthy controls individuals are isoforms of glycoproteins, it is important to determine if the modifying glycans are also altered. FT-ICR MS and fragmentation of glycopeptides with infrared multiphoton dissociation (IRMPD) offers abundant fragment ions through breakage at the glycosidic linkages with excellent mass accuracy, which facilitates the structural determination of the site-specific N-linked glycosylation. We present results from a structural comparison of proteins from three AD patients and three control individuals of different glycosylated isomers of [alpha]-1-antitrypsin, [beta]-trace and apolipoprotein J.

Responses of phytoplankton community to the input of different aerosols in the East China Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, X.; Chen, Y.; Wang, B.; Ma, Q. W.; Wang, F. J.

2016-07-01

Atmospheric deposition can affect marine phytoplankton by supplying macronutrients and trace elements. We conducted mesocosm experiments by adding aerosols with different composition (dominated by mineral dust, biomass burning and high Cu, and secondary aerosol, respectively) to the surface seawater of the East China Sea. Chlorophyll a concentrations were found to be the highest and lowest after adding aerosols containing the highest Fe and dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), respectively. The relative abundance of Haptophyceae increased significantly after adding mineral dust, whereas diatom, Dinophyceae and Cryptophyceae reached the maximum accompanied with the highest DIN. Our results suggest that Fe may be more important than DIN in promoting primary productivity in the sampled seawater. The input of mineral dust and anthropogenic aerosols may result in distinct changes of phytoplankton community structure.

Evidence on Anaerobic Methane Oxidation (AOM) in a boreal cultivated peatland with natural and added electron acceptors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dorodnikov, Maxim; Silvennoinen, Hanna; Martikainen, Pertti; Dörsch, Peter

2015-04-01

Anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) is a process of methane (CH4) consumption under anoxic conditions driven by microorganisms, which oxidize CH4 with various alternate electron acceptors (AEA): sulfate, nitrate, nitrite, metals-(Fe, Mn, Cu), organic compounds. AOM is common in marine ecosystems, where microbial sulfate reduction (SR) consumes most of the CH4 produced in sediments. Despite the global significance of AOM, the exact mechanisms and relevance of the process in terrestrial ecosystems are almost unknown. In the current study the occurrence of AOM was tested for two organic soil horizons (30 and 40 cm depth) and one mineral sub-soil (sand, 50 cm depth) of a cultivated boreal peatland (Linnansuo, Eastern Finland, energy crop Phalaris arundinacea - reed canarygrass) under controlled conditions with the addition of 13C-labeled CH4 and two common AEAs - SO4-2 and Fe+3. Concentrations of CH4, CO2 and O2 were continuously measured during 10 days of incubation and CO2 was sampled periodically under anaerobic conditions for stable 13C analysis. Oxygen dynamics revealed negligible O2 contamination during incubation and its trace amounts (0.05-0.8% from the atmospheric) were accounted in the net CH4 uptake. Application of 13C-enriched CH4 (4.9 atom%) allowed to track the label in CO2 as the end-product of AOM. The highest 13CO2 enrichment (up to 60‰) was observed in mineral sub-soil, however AOM was quantitatively more pronounced in the upper 30 cm horizon (2.1 vs. 0.2 μg CO2 g soil DW-1 in the 50 cm sub-soil). The highest AOM rate of 8.9 ng CO2 g soil DW-1 h-1 was estimated for the control treatment where no AEAs were added indicating sufficient amount of naturally available AEAs, likely organic compounds. This rate was 50 times more intensive (on the C basis) than the CH4 production potential of the same soil. In contrast, external AEAs decreased AOM rates but added Fe+3 stimulated decomposition of native SOM (as seen from the most depleted 13CO2 signatures). Thus, the experiments revealed that this organic soil had capacity for AOM with its natural electron acceptors. Further AOM assessments may change the existing concept of carbon/CH4 cycling in terrestrial ecosystems and will improve current process-based models of regional and global carbon balance.

Determination of trace metals in drinking water in Irbid City-Northern Jordan.

PubMed

Alomary, Ahmed

2013-02-01

Drinking water samples from Irbid, the second populated city in Jordan were analyzed for trace metals (As, Ba, Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn, Ni, and Se) content. The study was undertaken to determine if the metal concentrations were within the national and international guidelines. A total of 90 drinking water samples were collected from Al-Yarmouk University area. The samples were collected from three different water types: tap water (TW), home-purified water (HPW), and plant-purified water (PPW). All the samples were analyzed for trace metals using an inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. All the samples analyzed were within the United States Environmental Protection Agency admissible pH limit (6.5-8.5). The results showed that concentrations of the trace metals vary significantly between the three drinking water types. The results showed that HPW samples have the lowest level of trace metals and the concentrations of some essential trace metals in these samples are less than the recommended amounts. Slight differences in the metal contents were found between HPW samples, little differences between PPW samples; however, significant differences were found between TW samples. Although some TW samples showed high levels of trace metals, however, the mean level of most elements determined in the samples were well within the Jordanian standards as well as the World Health Organization standards for drinking water.

Constructing Space-Time Views from Fixed Size Statistical Data: Getting the Best of both Worlds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schmidt, Melisa; Yan, Jerry C.

1997-01-01

Many performance monitoring tools are currently available to the super-computing community. The performance data gathered and analyzed by these tools fall under two categories: statistics and event traces. Statistical data is much more compact but lacks the probative power event traces offer. Event traces, on the other hand, can easily fill up the entire file system during execution such that the instrumented execution may have to be terminated half way through. In this paper, we propose an innovative methodology for performance data gathering and representation that offers a middle ground. The user can trade-off tracing overhead, trace data size vs. data quality incrementally. In other words, the user will be able to limit the amount of trace collected and, at the same time, carry out some of the analysis event traces offer using space-time views for the entire execution. Two basic ideas arc employed: the use of averages to replace recording data for each instance and formulae to represent sequences associated with communication and control flow. With the help of a few simple examples, we illustrate the use of these techniques in performance tuning and compare the quality of the traces we collected vs. event traces. We found that the trace files thus obtained are, in deed, small, bounded and predictable before program execution and that the quality of the space time views generated from these statistical data are excellent. Furthermore, experimental results showed that the formulae proposed were able to capture 100% of all the sequences associated with 11 of the 15 applications tested. The performance of the formulae can be incrementally improved by allocating more memory at run-time to learn longer sequences.

Constructing Space-Time Views from Fixed Size Statistical Data: Getting the Best of Both Worlds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schmidt, Melisa; Yan, Jerry C.; Bailey, David (Technical Monitor)

1996-01-01

Many performance monitoring tools are currently available to the super-computing community. The performance data gathered and analyzed by these tools fall under two categories: statistics and event traces. Statistical data is much more compact but lacks the probative power event traces offer. Event traces, on the other hand, can easily fill up the entire file system during execution such that the instrumented execution may have to be terminated half way through. In this paper, we propose an innovative methodology for performance data gathering and representation that offers a middle ground. The user can trade-off tracing overhead, trace data size vs. data quality incrementally. In other words, the user will be able to limit the amount of trace collected and, at the same time, carry out some of the analysis event traces offer using spacetime views for the entire execution. Two basic ideas are employed: the use of averages to replace recording data for each instance and "formulae" to represent sequences associated with communication and control flow. With the help of a few simple examples, we illustrate the use of these techniques in performance tuning and compare the quality of the traces we collected vs. event traces. We found that the trace files thus obtained are, in deed, small, bounded and predictable before program execution and that the quality of the space time views generated from these statistical data are excellent. Furthermore, experimental results showed that the formulae proposed were able to capture 100% of all the sequences associated with 11 of the 15 applications tested. The performance of the formulae can be incrementally improved by allocating more memory at run-time to learn longer sequences.

Nonbranded or branded direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising-which is more effective?

PubMed

Rollins, Brent L; King, Karen; Zinkhan, George; Perri, Matthew

2011-01-01

Recently, pharmaceutical manufacturers have increased the amount of nonbranded, disease-education focused, direct-to-consumer advertisements. A comparison to branded, product-specific, ads was examined through a series of survey questions measuring consumer attitudes and the role of involvement. Nonbranded ads compared favorably to branded ads and should remain a viable part of the marketing mix. Consumers' level of disease state involvement was the strongest determinant of attitudes overall and within the two ad groupings, as highly involved consumers had significantly more positives attitudes regarding the nonbranded ads. Regardless of involvement level, however, nonbranded ads maintained positive attitude levels.

Biomethanation of Sewage Sludge with Food Waste Leachate Via Co-Digestion.

PubMed

Shin, Jingyeong; Kim, Young Beom; Jeon, Jong Hun; Choi, Sangki; Park, In Kyu; Kim, Young Mo

2017-08-28

Anaerobic mono- and co-digestion of sewage sludge and food waste leachate (FWL) were performed by assessing methane production and characterizing microbial communities. Anaerobic digestion (AD) of waste activated sludge (WAS) alone produced the lowest methane (281 ml CH 4 ), but an approximately 80% increase in methane production was achieved via co-digestion of WAS and FWL (506 ml CH 4 ). There were less differences in the diversity of bacterial communities in anaerobic digesters, while archaeal (ARC) and bacterial (BAC) amounts reflected AD performance. Compared with the total ARC and BAC amounts in the mono-digestion of WAS, the ARC and BAC amounts increased two and three times, respectively, during co-digestion of FWL and WAS. In characterized archaeal communities, the dominant ratio of hydrogenotrophic methanogens in the mono-digestion of WAS approached nearly a 1:1 ratio of the two acetoclastic and hydrogenotrophic methanogens in the co-digestion of FWL and WAS. The ARC/BAC ratio in the digesters varied in the range of 5.9% to 9.1%, indicating a positive correlation with the methane production of AD.

[Effect of concomitant substances and addition order on the adsorption of Tween 80 on sand].

PubMed

Xu, Wei; Zhao, Yong-sheng; Li, Sui; Dai, Ning

2008-08-01

Adsorption of Tween 80 on sand was investigated, and the effect of inorganic salts (CaCl2), anionic surfactant (SDS) and lignosulphonates (sodium lignosulphonate or ammonium lignosulphonate) on the adsorption of Tween 80 on sand were evaluated at 25 degrees C. The results show that saturated adsorption amount of Tween 80 on sand enhance when CaCl2 or SDS is added into flushing solution of Tween 80. And the adsorption of Tween 80 on sand increase with the increase of molar fraction of CaCl2 or SDS in mixed flushing solution. And adsorption amount of Tween 80 on sand also enhance when SDS is added into sand firstly. The effects of mixing ratios and addition order of lignosulphonates on adsorption of Tween 80 were considered. The results show that with the increase of molar fraction of lignosulphonates in mixing flushing solution, adsorption amount of Tween 80 on sand decrease. The adsorption amount of Tween 80 reduce 20%-75% due to the exist of ammonium lignosulphonate is superior to sodium lignosulphonate (10%-60%) when mix the lignosulphonates-Tween 80 at the total mass ratios of 1:10, while the adsorption amount of Tween 80 reduce 70%-90% at the total mass ratios of 1:2. Lignosulphonates added into sand firstly is more efficient than that together. Therefore,use of lignosulphonates as a preflush can reduce the adsorption of surfactants on sand and is a better method to applied in in situ flushing.

Paper-based SERS swab for rapid trace detection on real-world surfaces.

PubMed

Lee, Chang H; Tian, Limei; Singamaneni, Srikanth

2010-12-01

One of the important but often overlooked considerations in the design of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates for trace detection is the efficiency of sample collection. Conventional designs based on rigid substrates such as silicon, alumina, and glass resist conformal contact with the surface under investigation, making the sample collection inefficient. We demonstrate a novel SERS substrate based on common filter paper adsorbed with gold nanorods, which allows conformal contact with real-world surfaces, thus dramatically enhancing the sample collection efficiency compared to conventional rigid substrates. We demonstrate the detection of trace amounts of analyte (140 pg spread over 4 cm2) by simply swabbing the surface under investigation with the novel SERS substrate. The hierarchical fibrous structure of paper serves as a 3D vasculature for easy uptake and transport of the analytes to the electromagnetic hot spots in the paper. Simple yet highly efficient and cost-effective SERS substrate demonstrated here brings SERS-based trace detection closer to real-world applications.

Effects of reaction conditions on the emission behaviors of arsenic, cadmium and lead during sewage sludge pyrolysis.

PubMed

Han, Hengda; Hu, Song; Syed-Hassan, Syed Shatir A; Xiao, Yiming; Wang, Yi; Xu, Jun; Jiang, Long; Su, Sheng; Xiang, Jun

2017-07-01

Sewage sludge is an important class of bioresources whose energy content could be exploited using pyrolysis technology. However, some harmful trace elements in sewage sludge can escape easily to the gas phase during pyrolysis, increasing the potential of carcinogenic material emissions to the atmosphere. This study investigates emission characteristics of arsenic, cadmium and lead under different pyrolysis conditions for three different sewage sludge samples. The increased temperature (within 723-1123K) significantly promoted the cadmium and lead emissions, but its influence on arsenic emission was not pronounced. The releasing rate order of the three trace elements is volatile arsenic compounds>cadmium>lead in the beginning of pyrolysis. Fast heating rates promoted the emission of trace elements for the sludge containing the highest amount of ash, but exhibited an opposite effect for other studied samples. Overall, the high ash sludge released the least trace elements almost under all reaction conditions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

7 CFR 1980.391 - Equity sharing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

..., principal reduction, and value added by any capital improvements. (i) Market value. Market value of the... amount of the insurance payment is generally a good indication of value; however, tax records or... exceed market value contribution as indicated by a sales comparison analysis. Generally, the value added...

7 CFR 1980.391 - Equity sharing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

..., principal reduction, and value added by any capital improvements. (i) Market value. Market value of the... amount of the insurance payment is generally a good indication of value; however, tax records or... exceed market value contribution as indicated by a sales comparison analysis. Generally, the value added...

7 CFR 1980.391 - Equity sharing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

..., principal reduction, and value added by any capital improvements. (i) Market value. Market value of the... amount of the insurance payment is generally a good indication of value; however, tax records or... exceed market value contribution as indicated by a sales comparison analysis. Generally, the value added...

7 CFR 1980.391 - Equity sharing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

..., principal reduction, and value added by any capital improvements. (i) Market value. Market value of the... amount of the insurance payment is generally a good indication of value; however, tax records or... exceed market value contribution as indicated by a sales comparison analysis. Generally, the value added...

7 CFR 1980.391 - Equity sharing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

..., principal reduction, and value added by any capital improvements. (i) Market value. Market value of the... amount of the insurance payment is generally a good indication of value; however, tax records or... exceed market value contribution as indicated by a sales comparison analysis. Generally, the value added...

40 CFR 80.74 - Recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., oxygenate blender, carrier, distributor, reseller, retailer, or wholesale-purchaser who sells, offers for... reformulated gasoline or RBOB recovered from transmix and the type and amount of any blendstock added, if... (iii) The volume, type, and purity of the oxygenate which was added, and documents which show the...

Muscarinic receptors in amygdala control trace fear conditioning.

PubMed

Baysinger, Amber N; Kent, Brianne A; Brown, Thomas H

2012-01-01

Intelligent behavior requires transient memory, which entails the ability to retain information over short time periods. A newly-emerging hypothesis posits that endogenous persistent firing (EPF) is the neurophysiological foundation for aspects or types of transient memory. EPF is enabled by the activation of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) and is triggered by suprathreshold stimulation. EPF occurs in several brain regions, including the lateral amygdala (LA). The present study examined the role of amygdalar mAChRs in trace fear conditioning, a paradigm that requires transient memory. If mAChR-dependent EPF selectively supports transient memory, then blocking amygdalar mAChRs should impair trace conditioning, while sparing delay and context conditioning, which presumably do not rely upon transient memory. To test the EPF hypothesis, LA was bilaterally infused, prior to trace or delay conditioning, with either a mAChR antagonist (scopolamine) or saline. Computerized video analysis quantified the amount of freezing elicited by the cue and by the training context. Scopolamine infusion profoundly reduced freezing in the trace conditioning group but had no significant effect on delay or context conditioning. This pattern of results was uniquely anticipated by the EPF hypothesis. The present findings are discussed in terms of a systems-level theory of how EPF in LA and several other brain regions might help support trace fear conditioning.

Trace elements and radionuclides in palm oil, soil, water, and leaves from oil palm plantations: A review.

PubMed

Olafisoye, O B; Oguntibeju, O O; Osibote, O A

2017-05-03

Oil palm (Elaeisguineensis) is one of the most productive oil producing plant in the world. Crude palm oil is composed of triglycerides supplying the world's need of edible oils and fats. Palm oil also provides essential elements and antioxidants that are potential mediators of cellular functions. Experimental studies have demonstrated the toxicity of the accumulation of significant amounts of nonessential trace elements and radionuclides in palm oil that affects the health of consumers. It has been reported that uptake of trace elements and radionuclides from the oil palm tree may be from water and soil on the palm plantations. In the present review, an attempt was made to revise and access knowledge on the presence of some selected trace elements and radionuclides in palm oil, soil, water, and leaves from oil palm plantations based on the available facts and data. Existing reports show that the presence of nonessential trace elements and radionuclides in palm oil may be from natural or anthropogenic sources in the environment. However, the available literature is limited and further research need to be channeled to the investigation of trace elements and radionuclides in soil, water, leaves, and palm oil from oil palm plantations around the globe.

Using column experiments to examine transport of As and other trace elements released from poultry litter: Implications for trace element mobility in agricultural watersheds.

PubMed

Oyewumi, Oluyinka; Schreiber, Madeline E

2017-08-01

Trace elements are added to poultry feed to control infection and improve weight gain. However, the fate of these trace elements in poultry litter is poorly understood. Because poultry litter is applied as fertilizer in many agricultural regions, evaluation of the environmental processes that influence the mobility of litter-derived trace elements is critical for predicting if trace elements are retained in soil or released to water. This study examined the effect of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in poultry litter leachate on the fate and transport of litter-derived elements (As, Cu, P and Zn) using laboratory column experiments with soil collected from the Delmarva Peninsula (Mid-Atlantic, USA), a region of intense poultry production. Results of the experiments showed that DOC enhanced the mobility of all of the studied elements. However, despite the increased mobility, 60-70% of Zn, As and P mass was retained within the soil. In contrast, almost all of the Cu was mobilized in the litter leachate experiments, with very little retention in soil. Overall, our results demonstrate that the mobility of As, Cu, Zn and P in soils which receive poultry litter application is strongly influenced by both litter leachate composition, specifically organic acids, and adsorption to soil. Results have implications for understanding fate and transport of trace elements released from litter application to soil water and groundwater, which can affect both human health and the environment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Economic benefit analysis of cultivating Pleurotus ostreatus with rape straw

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guan, Qinlan; Gong, Mingfu; Tang, Mei

2018-04-01

The cultivation of Pleurotus ostreatus with rape straw not only can save the cultivation cost of P. ostreatus, but also can reuse the resources and protect the environment. By adding different proportion of rape straw to the cultivation material of P. ostreatus, the reasonable amount of rape straw was selected and the economic benefit of P. ostreatus cultivated with the optimum amount of rape straw was analyzed. The results showed that adding 10% to 40% rape straw to the cultivation material of P. ostreatus did not affect the yield and biological conversion rate of P. ostreatus, and the ratio of production and investment of the amount of rape straw in the range of 10% to 50% was higher than of cottonseed husk alone as the main material of the formula.

The Etymology of Basic Concepts in the Experimental Analysis of Behavior

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dinsmoor, James A.

2004-01-01

The origins of many of the basic concepts used in the experimental analysis of behavior can be traced to Pavlov's (1927/1960) discussion of unconditional and conditional reflexes in the dog, but often with substantial changes in meaning (e.g., stimulus, response, and reinforcement). Other terms were added by Skinner (1938/1991) to describe his…

Air Pollution, Acid Rain, and the Future of Forests. Worldwatch Paper 58.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Postel, Sandra

This book traces centuries of human use and abuse of forest ecosystems by discussing past decades of intense burning, grazing, and timber cutting that added to the natural acidification of the soil. Air pollutants and acids generated by industrial activities worldwide are also considered. Many forests in Europe and North America now receive as…

Differential-optoacoustic absorption detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shumate, M. S.

1977-01-01

Two-cell spectrophone detects trace amounts of atmospheric pollutants by measuring absorption coefficients of gases with various laser sources. Device measures pressure difference between two tapered cells with differential manometer. Background signal is reduced by balanced window heating and balanced carrier gas absorption in two cells.

Lead Speciation And Bioavailability In Apatite-Amended Sediments

EPA Science Inventory

The in situ sequestration of lead (Pb) in sediment with a phosphate amendment was investigated by Pb speciation and bioavailability. Sediment Pb in preamendment samples was identified as galena (PbS) with trace amounts of absorbed Pb. Sediment exposed to atmospheric conditions ...

Detection of Staphylococcal Enterotoxin in Food

PubMed Central

Casman, Ezra P.; Bennett, Reginald W.

1965-01-01

Methods are described for the extraction and serological detection of trace amounts of enterotoxins A and B in foods incriminated in outbreaks of staphylococcal food poisoning. Evidence is presented for the probable applicability of the methods for the detection of unidentified enterotoxins. PMID:14325876

Acrylamide in processed potato products

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Trace amounts of acrylamide are found in many foods cooked at high temperatures. Acrylamide in processed potato products is formed from reducing sugars and asparagine and is a product of the Maillard reaction. Processed potato products including fries and chips are relatively high in acrylamide comp...

75 FR 21241 - Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon Steel Plate from the People's Republic of China: Initiation of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-23

... steel plate from PRC producers containing small amounts of boron resulting in the classification of the... Iron and Steel Co., Ltd. and/ or imported by Toyota Tsusho America with small amounts of boron added... to add insignificant amounts of boron to their steel products for the purpose of securing a higher...

Consumption of added sugar among U.S. children and adolescents, 2005-2008.

PubMed

Ervin, R Bethene; Kit, Brian K; Carroll, Margaret D; Ogden, Cynthia L

2012-03-01

Approximately 16% of children and adolescents’ total caloric intakes came from added sugars. Boys consumed more added sugars than girls. Preschool-aged children consumed the fewest calories from added sugars. Although girls consumed a smaller absolute amount of calories from added sugars than boys, their intakes were not that different from boys when the amounts are expressed as a percentage of total caloric intakes. Non-Hispanic white children and adolescents consumed a larger percentage of their calories from added sugars than Mexican-American children and adolescents. Also, Non-Hispanic black girls consumed a larger percentage of their calories from added sugars than Mexican-American girls. There was very little difference in added sugar consumption based on PIR. More of the added sugars calories came from foods as opposed to beverages. Previous research has demonstrated that sodas are the single leading food source of added sugars intakes among children, adolescents, and adults (2,4). Our results showed a little more than 40% of calories from added sugars came from beverages. Poti and Popkin (5) have suggested that eating location impacts daily energy intake in children and adolescents and that foods prepared away from home, are contributing to their increased total energy intake. Our results showed that more of the added sugars calories were consumed at home rather than away from home. A substantial percentage of calories in the diets of children and adolescents between 2005 and 2008 came from added sugars. According to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines "reducing the consumption of these sources of added sugars will lower the caloric content of the diet, without compromising its nutrient adequacy (3)." This strategy could play an important role in reducing the high prevalence of obesity in the United States (6) without compromising adequate nutrition. All material appearing in this report is in the public domain and may be reproduced or copied without permission; citation as to source, however, is appreciated.

A Mathematical Relationship for Hydromorphone Loading into Liposomes with Trans-Membrane Ammonium Sulfate Gradients

PubMed Central

TU, SHENG; MCGINNIS, TAMARA; KRUGNER-HIGBY, LISA; HEATH, TIMOTHY D.

2014-01-01

We have studied the loading of the opioid hydromorphone into liposomes using ammonium sulfate gradients. Unlike other drugs loaded with this technique, hydromorphone is freely soluble as the sulfate salt, and, consequently, does not precipitate in the liposomes after loading. We have derived a mathematical relationship that can predict the extent of loading based on the ammonium ion content of the liposomes and the amount of drug added for loading. We have adapted and used the Berthelot indophenol assay to measure the amount of ammonium ions in the liposomes. Plots of the inverse of the fraction of hydromorphone loaded versus the amount of hydromorphone added are linear, and the slope should be the inverse of the amount of ammonium ions present in the liposomes. The inverse of the slopes obtained closely correspond to the amount of ammonium ions in the liposomes measured with the Berthelot indophenol assay. We also show that loading can be less than optimal under conditions where osmotically driven loss of ammonium ions or leakage of drug after loading may occur. PMID:20014429

A mathematical relationship for hydromorphone loading into liposomes with trans-membrane ammonium sulfate gradients.

PubMed

Tu, Sheng; McGinnis, Tamara; Krugner-Higby, Lisa; Heath, Timothy D

2010-06-01

We have studied the loading of the opioid hydromorphone into liposomes using ammonium sulfate gradients. Unlike other drugs loaded with this technique, hydromorphone is freely soluble as the sulfate salt, and, consequently, does not precipitate in the liposomes after loading. We have derived a mathematical relationship that can predict the extent of loading based on the ammonium ion content of the liposomes and the amount of drug added for loading. We have adapted and used the Berthelot indophenol assay to measure the amount of ammonium ions in the liposomes. Plots of the inverse of the fraction of hydromorphone loaded versus the amount of hydromorphone added are linear, and the slope should be the inverse of the amount of ammonium ions present in the liposomes. The inverse of the slopes obtained closely correspond to the amount of ammonium ions in the liposomes measured with the Berthelot indophenol assay. We also show that loading can be less than optimal under conditions where osmotically driven loss of ammonium ions or leakage of drug after loading may occur. (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association

Method for producing redox shuttles

DOEpatents

Pupek, Krzysztof Z.; Dzwiniel, Trevor L.; Krumdick, Gregory K.

2015-03-03

A single step method for producing a redox shuttle having the formula 2,5-di-tert-butyl-1,4-phenylene tetraethyl bis(phosphate) is provided, the method comprising phosphorylating tert butyl hydroquinone with a phosphate-containing reagent. Also provided is method for producing 2,5-di-tert-butyl-1,4-phenylene tetraethyl bis(phosphate), the method comprising solubilizing tert-butyl hydroquinone and tetrabutylammonium bromide with methyltetrahydrofuran to create a mixture; heating the mixture while adding base to the mixture in an amount to turn the mixture orange; and adding diethyl chlorophosphate to the orange mixture in an amount to phosphorylate the hydroquinone.

Carbon or boron modified titanium silicide

DOEpatents

Thom, A.J.; Akinc, M.

1998-07-14

A titanium silicide material based on Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} intermetallic compound exhibits substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures. In particular, carbon is added to a Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.6 weight % C) effective to impart substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures, such as about 1000 C. Boron is added to a Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.3 weight % B) to this same end. 3 figs.

Carbon or boron modified titanium silicide

DOEpatents

Thom, A.J.; Akinc, M.

1997-12-02

A titanium silicide material based on Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} intermetallic compound exhibits substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures. In particular, carbon is added to a Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.6 weight % C) effective to impart substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures, such as about 1000 C. Boron is added to a Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.3 weight % B) to this same end. 3 figs.

Carbon or boron modified titanium silicide

DOEpatents

Thom, Andrew J.; Akinc, Mufit

1996-12-03

A titanium silicide material based on Ti.sub.5 Si.sub.3 intermetallic compound exhibits substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures. In particular, carbon is added to a Ti.sub.5 Si.sub.3 base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.6 weight % C) effective to impart substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures, such as about 1000.degree. C. Boron is added to a Ti.sub.5 Si.sub.3 base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.3 weight % B) to this same end.

Carbon or boron modified titanium silicide

DOEpatents

Thom, Andrew J.; Akinc, Mufit

1997-12-02

A titanium silicide material based on Ti.sub.5 Si.sub.3 intermetallic compound exhibits substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures. In particular, carbon is added to a Ti.sub.5 Si.sub.3 base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.6 weight % C) effective to impart substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures, such as about 1000.degree. C. Boron is added to a Ti.sub.5 Si.sub.3 base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.3 weight % B) to this same end.

Carbon or boron modified titanium silicide

DOEpatents

Thom, A.J.; Akinc, M.

1996-12-03

A titanium silicide material based on Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} intermetallic compound exhibits substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures. In particular, carbon is added to a Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.6 weight % C) effective to impart substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures, such as about 1000 C. Boron is added to a Ti{sub 5}Si{sub 3} base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.3 weight % B) to this same end. 3 figs.

Carbon or boron modified titanium silicide

DOEpatents

Thom, Andrew J.; Akinc, Mufit

1998-07-14

A titanium silicide material based on Ti.sub.5 Si.sub.3 intermetallic compound exhibits substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures. In particular, carbon is added to a Ti.sub.5 Si.sub.3 base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.6 weight % C) effective to impart substantially improved oxidative stability at elevated temperatures, such as about 1000.degree. C. Boron is added to a Ti.sub.5 Si.sub.3 base material in an amount (e.g. about 0.3 to about 3.3 weight % B) to this same end.

42 CFR 484.215 - Initial establishment of the calculation of the national 60-day episode payment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... visit by the national mean utilization summed in the aggregate for the six disciplines. (4) By adding to the amount derived in paragraph (d)(3) of this section, amounts for nonroutine medical supplies, an...

Estimating added sugars in US consumer packaged goods: An application to beverages in 2007-08.

PubMed

Ng, Shu Wen; Bricker, Gregory; Li, Kuo-Ping; Yoon, Emily Ford; Kang, Jiyoung; Westrich, Brian

2015-11-01

This study developed a method to estimate added sugar content in consumer packaged goods (CPG) that can keep pace with the dynamic food system. A team including registered dietitians, a food scientist and programmers developed a batch-mode ingredient matching and linear programming (LP) approach to estimate the amount of each ingredient needed in a given product to produce a nutrient profile similar to that reported on its nutrition facts label (NFL). Added sugar content was estimated for 7021 products available in 2007-08 that contain sugar from ten beverage categories. Of these, flavored waters had the lowest added sugar amounts (4.3g/100g), while sweetened dairy and dairy alternative beverages had the smallest percentage of added sugars (65.6% of Total Sugars; 33.8% of Calories). Estimation validity was determined by comparing LP estimated values to NFL values, as well as in a small validation study. LP estimates appeared reasonable compared to NFL values for calories, carbohydrates and total sugars, and performed well in the validation test; however, further work is needed to obtain more definitive conclusions on the accuracy of added sugar estimates in CPGs. As nutrition labeling regulations evolve, this approach can be adapted to test for potential product-specific, category-level, and population-level implications.

Estimating added sugars in US consumer packaged goods: An application to beverages in 2007–08

PubMed Central

Ng, Shu Wen; Bricker, Gregory; Li, Kuo-ping; Yoon, Emily Ford; Kang, Jiyoung; Westrich, Brian

2015-01-01

This study developed a method to estimate added sugar content in consumer packaged goods (CPG) that can keep pace with the dynamic food system. A team including registered dietitians, a food scientist and programmers developed a batch-mode ingredient matching and linear programming (LP) approach to estimate the amount of each ingredient needed in a given product to produce a nutrient profile similar to that reported on its nutrition facts label (NFL). Added sugar content was estimated for 7021 products available in 2007–08 that contain sugar from ten beverage categories. Of these, flavored waters had the lowest added sugar amounts (4.3g/100g), while sweetened dairy and dairy alternative beverages had the smallest percentage of added sugars (65.6% of Total Sugars; 33.8% of Calories). Estimation validity was determined by comparing LP estimated values to NFL values, as well as in a small validation study. LP estimates appeared reasonable compared to NFL values for calories, carbohydrates and total sugars, and performed well in the validation test; however, further work is needed to obtain more definitive conclusions on the accuracy of added sugar estimates in CPGs. As nutrition labeling regulations evolve, this approach can be adapted to test for potential product-specific, category-level, and population-level implications. PMID:26273127

Flame atomic absorption spectrometric determination of trace amounts of nickel after extraction and preconcentration onto natural modified analcime zeolite loaded with 2-(5-bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-diethylaminophenol.

PubMed

Afzali, Darush; Taher, Mohammad Ali; Mostafavi, Ali; Mahani, Mohammad Khayatzadeh

2005-01-01

Nickel is a moderately toxic element compared with other transition metals. However, inhalation of nickel and its compounds leads to serious problems, including cancer of the respiratory system and a skin disorder, nickel-eczema. Thus, attention has focused on the toxicity of nickel at low concentrations, and the development of reliable, analytical approaches for the determination of trace amounts of nickel is needed. This paper describes a simple, rapid, and sensitive flame atomic absorption spectrometric method for the determination of trace amounts of nickel in various samples after adsorption of its 2-(5-bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-diethylaminophenol complex on a modified Analcime column in the pH range of 7.5-10.5. The retained analyte on the Analcime is recovered with 5.0 mL 2 M nitric acid and determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The detection limit is 20 ng/mL, and the calibration curve is linear for analyte concentrations in the range of 0.1-8 microg/mL final solution, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9993. Eight replicate determinations of nickel at 2 microg/mL in the final solution gave an absorbance of 0.1222, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of +/-1.2%. The interference of a large number of anions and cations was studied, and the proposed method was used for the determination of nickel in various standard reference samples. The accuracy of the proposed method was evaluated by analyzing standard reference samples, and the results were satisfactory (recoveries of >96%; RSD of <3.5%).

Determination and stereochemistry of proteinogenic and non-proteinogenic amino acids in Saudi Arabian date fruits.

PubMed

Ali, Hatem Salama Mohamed; Alhaj, Omar Amin; Al-Khalifa, Abdulrahman Saleh; Brückner, Hans

2014-09-01

Whereas an abundance of literature is available on the occurrence of common proteinogenic amino acids (AAs) in edible fruits of the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.), recent reports on non-proteinogenic (non-coded) AAs and amino components are scarce. With emphasis on these components we have analyzed total hydrolysates of twelve cultivars of date fruits using automated ion-exchange chromatography, HPLC employing a fluorescent aminoquinolyl label, and GC-MS of total hydrolysates using the chiral stationary phases Chirasil(®)-L-Val and Lipodex(®) E. Besides common proteinogenic AAs, relatively large amounts of the following non-proteinogenic amino acids were detected: (2S,5R)-5-hydroxypipecolic acid (1.4-4.0 g/kg dry matter, DM), 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (1.3-2.6 g/kg DM), γ-amino-n-butyric acid (0.5-1.2 g/kg DM), (2S,4R)-4-hydroxyproline (130-230 mg/kg DM), L-pipecolic acid (40-140 mg/kg DM), and 2-aminoethanol (40-160 mg/kg DM) as well as low or trace amounts (<70 mg/kg DM) of L-ornithine, 5-hydroxylysine, β-alanine, and in some samples (<20 mg/kg DM) of (S)-β-aminoisobutyric acid and (<10 mg/kg DM) L-allo-isoleucine. In one date fruit, traces of α-aminoadipic acid could be determined. Enantiomeric analysis of 6 M DCl/D2O hydrolysates of AAs using chiral capillary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed the presence of very low amounts of D-Ala, D-Asp, D-Glu, D-Ser and D-Phe (1.2-0.4%, relative to the corresponding L-enantiomers), besides traces (0.2-1%) of other D-AAs. The possible relevance of non-proteinogenic amino acids in date fruits is briefly addressed.

Standoff detection of trace amounts of solids by nonlinear Raman spectroscopy using shaped femtosecond pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katz, O.; Natan, A.; Silberberg, Y.; Rosenwaks, S.

2008-04-01

We demonstrate a single-beam, standoff (>10m) detection and identification of various materials including minute amounts of explosives under ambient light conditions. This is obtained by multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering spectroscopy (CARS) using a single femtosecond phase-shaped laser pulse. We exploit the strong nonresonant background for amplification of the backscattered resonant CARS signals by employing a homodyne detection scheme. The simple and highly sensitive spectroscopic technique has a potential for hazardous materials standoff detection applications.

Can Dynamic Bubble Templating Play a Role in Corrosion Product Morphology?

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-02-01

FeOOH (goethite) with moderate amounts of metallic luster Fe304 (magnetite), and trace amounts of CaC03 (calcite). In addition, the core was marbled ...cathodically produced gas bubbles (i.e., H2). By physically separating the anode and cathode. Stone and Goldstein26 generated tubular structures electro...D.A. Stone , RE. Goldstein. Proc. MatL Acad. Set U.S-A. 101 (2004): p. 11537. G. Butler, H.C.K. Ison, Nature 182 (1958): p. 1229. B. McEnaney. D.C

Effect of doping in the Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O superconductor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Akbar, S. A.; Wong, M. S.; Botelho, M. J.; Sung, Y. M.; Alauddin, M.; Drummer, C. E.; Fair, M. J.

1991-01-01

The results of the effect of doping on the superconducting transition in the Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O system are reported. Samples were prepared under identical conditions with varying types (Pb, Sb, Sn, Nb) and amounts of dopants. All samples consisted of multiple phases, and showed stable and reproducible superconducting transitions. Stabilization of the well known 110 K phase depends on both the type and amount of dopant. No trace of superconducting phase of 150 K and above was observed.

Risk of subacute ruminal acidosis in sheep with separate access to forage and concentrate.

PubMed

Commun, L; Mialon, M M; Martin, C; Baumont, R; Veissier, I

2009-10-01

This study aimed to investigate whether sheep offered free-choice intake of forage and concentrate develop subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) and to identify SARA-associated feeding behavior components. In a crossover design over two 28-d periods, 11 rumen-cannulated wethers received wheat and alfalfa hay in 2 separate compartments. Concentrate and forage were provided for ad libitum access or in a fixed amount corresponding to 80% of ad libitum hay intake with a concentrate:forage ratio of 60:40 on a DM basis. In both diets, sheep were fed 2 equal portions at 0800 and 1600 h. Ruminal pH, voluntary intake, and feeding behavior were recorded continuously from d 1 to 9 and d 15 to 23 in each period. When no measurements were performed, the animals were housed in larger pens with straw bedding. When fed for ad libitum intake, the sheep ingested 1,340 g of DM/d consisting of 49.1% wheat, whereas with the fixed diet they ate 872 g of DM/d consisting of 58.4% wheat. Sheep fed for ad libitum intake spent more time with ruminal pH < 5.6 than when fed in fixed amounts (7.77 vs. 3.05 h/d, P < 0.001). The time spent with ruminal pH <5.6 was mainly linked to the amount of feed ingested and especially the amount of wheat (P < 0.001). Our results suggest that when fed for ad libitum intake with free choice wheat, the achieved concentrate:forage ratio of near 50:50 and a larger hay intake enable sheep to consume more wheat. When sheep were fed for ad libitum intake, feeding bouts were spread evenly throughout the day. Although ruminal pH reached the same minimum level in both diets after main meals, time to reach pH nadir was longer with ad libitum diet (P < 0.001). In addition, after reaching this minimum value, ruminal pH increased more slowly in this diet, inducing a decreased preprandial ruminal pH (P < 0.001). Consequently, the ad libitum diet led to a longer time below pH 5.6. A slow decrease in ruminal pH may enable sheep to consume larger quantities of food. However, free access to concentrate maintains continuously elevated content of ruminal fermentation end products and so requires more time for pH to return to neutral values. Thus, interval between feed distributions should be as large as possible to help resume the preprandial ruminal pH and to limit time spent with pH <5.6.

Evaluation of a new electronic preoperative reference marker for toric intraocular lens implantation by two different methods of analysis: Adobe Photoshop versus iTrace

PubMed Central

Farooqui, Javed Hussain; Sharma, Mansi; Koul, Archana; Dutta, Ranjan; Shroff, Noshir Minoo

2017-01-01

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to compare two different methods of analysis of preoperative reference marking for toric intraocular lens (IOL) after marking with an electronic marker. SETTING/VENUE: Cataract and IOL Implantation Service, Shroff Eye Centre, New Delhi, India. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifty-two eyes of thirty patients planned for toric IOL implantation were included in the study. All patients had preoperative marking performed with an electronic preoperative two-step toric IOL reference marker (ASICO AE-2929). Reference marks were placed at 3-and 9-o'clock positions. Marks were analyzed with two systems. First, slit-lamp photographs taken and analyzed using Adobe Photoshop (version 7.0). Second, Tracey iTrace Visual Function Analyzer (version 5.1.1) was used for capturing corneal topograph examination and position of marks noted. Amount of alignment error was calculated. RESULTS: Mean absolute rotation error was 2.38 ± 1.78° by Photoshop and 2.87 ± 2.03° by iTrace which was not statistically significant (P = 0.215). Nearly 72.7% of eyes by Photoshop and 61.4% by iTrace had rotation error ≤3° (P = 0.359); and 90.9% of eyes by Photoshop and 81.8% by iTrace had rotation error ≤5° (P = 0.344). No significant difference in absolute amount of rotation between eyes when analyzed by either method. CONCLUSIONS: Difference in reference mark positions when analyzed by two systems suggests the presence of varying cyclotorsion at different points of time. Both analysis methods showed an approximately 3° of alignment error, which could contribute to 10% loss of astigmatic correction of toric IOL. This can be further compounded by intra-operative marking errors and final placement of IOL in the bag. PMID:28757694

Official Methods for the Determination of Minerals and Trace Elements in Infant Formula and Milk Products: A Review.

PubMed

Poitevin, Eric

2016-01-01

The minerals and trace elements that account for about 4% of total human body mass serve as materials and regulators in numerous biological activities in body structure building. Infant formula and milk products are important sources of endogenic and added minerals and trace elements and hence, must comply with regulatory as well as nutritional and safety requirements. In addition, reliable analytical data are necessary to support product content and innovation, health claims, or declaration and specific safety issues. Adequate analytical platforms and methods must be implemented to demonstrate both the compliance and safety assessment of all declared and regulated minerals and trace elements, especially trace-element contaminant surveillance. The first part of this paper presents general information on the mineral composition of infant formula and milk products and their regulatory status. In the second part, a survey describes the main techniques and related current official methods determining minerals and trace elements in infant formula and milk products applied for by various international organizations (AOAC INTERNATIONAL, the International Organization for Standardization, the International Dairy Federation, and the European Committe for Standardization). The third part summarizes method officialization activities by Stakeholder Panels on Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals and Stakeholder Panel on Strategic Food Analytical Methods. The final part covers a general discussion focusing on analytical gaps and future trends in inorganic analysis that have been applied for in infant formula and milk-based products.

Utility of the clue - From assessing the investigative contribution of forensic science to supporting the decision to use traces.

PubMed

Bitzer, Sonja; Albertini, Nicola; Lock, Eric; Ribaux, Olivier; Delémont, Olivier

2015-12-01

In an attempt to grasp the effectiveness of forensic science in the criminal justice process, a number of studies introduced some form of performance indicator. However, most of these indicators suffer from different weaknesses, from the definition of forensic science itself to problems of reliability and validity. We suggest the introduction of the concept of utility of the clue as an internal evaluation indicator of forensic science in the investigation. Utility of the clue is defined as added value of information, gained by the use of traces. This concept could be used to assess the contribution of the trace in the context of the case. By extension, a second application of this concept is suggested. By formalising and considering, a priori, the perceived utility of using traces, we introduce the notion of expected utility that could be used as decision factor when choosing which traces to use, once they have been collected at the crime scene or from an object in the laboratory. In a case-based approach, utility can be assessed in the light of the available information to evaluate the investigative contribution of forensic science. In the decision-making process, the projection or estimation of the utility of the clue is proposed to be a factor to take into account when triaging the set of traces. Copyright © 2015 The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

SPEAR Trial: Smartphone Pediatric ElectrocARdiogram Trial

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Hoang H.; Van Hare, George F.; Rudokas, Michael; Bowman, Tammy; Silva, Jennifer N. A.

2015-01-01

Objectives Smartphone-enabled ECG devices have the potential to improve patient care by enabling remote ECG assessment of patients with potential and diagnosed arrhythmias. This prospective study aimed to assess the usefulness of pediatric ECG tracings generated by the AliveCor device (Oklahoma City, OK) and to assess user satisfaction. Study Design Enrolled pediatric patients with documented paroxysmal arrhythmia used the AliveCor device over a yearlong study period. Pediatric electrophysiologists reviewed all transmitted ECG tracings. Patient completed surveys were analyzed to assess user satisfaction. Results 35 patients were enrolled with the following diagnoses: supraventricular tachycardia (SVT, 57%), atrial fibrillation (AF, 11%), ectopic atrial tachycardia (EAT, 6%), atrial tachycardia (AT, 3%), and ventricular tachycardia (VT, 23%). A total of 238 tracings were received from 20 patients, 96% of which were of diagnostic quality for sinus rhythm, sinus tachycardia, SVT, and AF. 126 patient satisfaction surveys (64% from parents) were completed. 98% of the survey responses indicated that it was easy to obtain tracings, 93% found it easy to transmit the tracings, 98% showed added comfort in managing arrhythmia by having the device, and 93% showed interest in continued use of the device after the study period ended. Conclusions Smartphone-enabled ECG devices can generate tracings of diagnostic quality in children. User satisfaction was extremely positive. Use of the device to manage certain patients with AF and SVT showcases the future role of remote ECGs in the successful outpatient management of arrhythmias in children by potentially reducing Emergency Department visits and healthcare costs. PMID:26295569

Glow discharge detector

DOEpatents

Koo, Jackson C.; Yu, Conrad M.

2002-01-01

A highly sensitive electronic ion cell for the measurement of trace elements in He carrier gas which involves glow discharge. A constant wave (CW) glow discharge detector which is controlled through a biased resistor, can detect the change of electron density caused by impurities in the He carrier gas by many orders of magnitude larger than that caused by direct ionization or electron capture. The glow discharge detector utilizes a floating pseudo-electrode to form a probe in or near the plasma. By using this probe, the large variation of electron density due to trace amounts of impurities can be directly measured.

Compton scattering artifacts in electron excited X-ray spectra measured with a silicon drift detector.

PubMed

Ritchie, Nicholas W M; Newbury, Dale E; Lindstrom, Abigail P

2011-12-01

Artifacts are the nemesis of trace element analysis in electron-excited energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry. Peaks that result from nonideal behavior in the detector or sample can fool even an experienced microanalyst into believing that they have trace amounts of an element that is not present. Many artifacts, such as the Si escape peak, absorption edges, and coincidence peaks, can be traced to the detector. Others, such as secondary fluorescence peaks and scatter peaks, can be traced to the sample. We have identified a new sample-dependent artifact that we attribute to Compton scattering of energetic X-rays generated in a small feature and subsequently scattered from a low atomic number matrix. It seems likely that this artifact has not previously been reported because it only occurs under specific conditions and represents a relatively small signal. However, with the advent of silicon drift detectors and their utility for trace element analysis, we anticipate that more people will observe it and possibly misidentify it. Though small, the artifact is not inconsequential. Under some conditions, it is possible to mistakenly identify the Compton scatter artifact as approximately 1% of an element that is not present.

Seasonal variations of trace elements in precipitation at the largest city in Tibet, Lhasa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Junming; Kang, Shichang; Huang, Jie; Zhang, Qianggong; Tripathee, Lekhendra; Sillanpää, Mika

2015-02-01

Precipitation samples were collected from March 2010 to August 2012 at an urban site in Lhasa, the capital and largest city of Tibet. The volume weighted mean (VWM) concentrations of 17 trace elements in precipitation were higher during the non-monsoon season than in the monsoon season, but inverse seasonal variations occurred for wet deposition fluxes of most of the trace elements. Concentrations for most of trace elements were negatively correlated with precipitation amount, indicating that below-cloud scavenging of trace elements was an important mechanism contributing to wet deposition of these elements. The elements Al, Sc, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Mn, Ni, and U displayed low crustal enrichment factors (EFs), whereas Co, Cu, Zn, As, Cd Sn, Pb, and Bi showed high EF values in precipitation, suggesting that anthropogenic activities might be important contributors of these elements at Lhasa. However, this present work indicates a much lower anthropogenic emission at Lhasa than in seriously polluted regions. Our study will not only provide insights for assessing the current status of the atmospheric environment in Lhasa but also enhance our understanding for updating the baseline for environmental protection over the Tibetan Plateau.

Effect of calcium oxide on the efficiency of ferrous ion oxidation and total iron precipitation during ferrous ion oxidation in simulated acid mine drainage treatment with inoculation of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans.

PubMed

Liu, Fenwu; Zhou, Jun; Jin, Tongjun; Zhang, Shasha; Liu, Lanlan

2016-01-01

Calcium oxide was added into ferrous ion oxidation system in the presence of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans at concentrations of 0-4.00 g/L. The pH, ferrous ion oxidation efficiency, total iron precipitation efficiency, and phase of the solid minerals harvested from different treatments were investigated during the ferrous ion oxidation process. In control check (CK) system, pH of the solution decreased from 2.81 to 2.25 when ferrous ions achieved complete oxidation after 72 h of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans incubation without the addition of calcium oxide, and total iron precipitation efficiency reached 20.2%. Efficiency of ferrous ion oxidation and total iron precipitation was significantly improved when the amount of calcium oxide added was ≤1.33 g/L, and the minerals harvested from systems were mainly a mixture of jarosite and schwertmannite. For example, the ferrous ion oxidation efficiency reached 100% at 60 h and total iron precipitation efficiency was increased to 32.1% at 72 h when 1.33 g/L of calcium oxide was added. However, ferrous ion oxidation and total iron precipitation for jarosite and schwertmannite formation were inhibited if the amount of calcium oxide added was above 2.67 g/L, and large amounts of calcium sulfate dihydrate were generated in systems.

Car MAX-DOAS measurements of the tropospheric Formaldehyde (HCHO) column around Bucharest (Romania) and in the Rhein-Main area (Germany)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Donner, Sebastian; Shaiganfar, Reza; Riffel, Katharina; Dörner, Steffen; Lampel, Johannes; Remmers, Julia; Wagner, Thomas

2016-04-01

The DOAS (differential optical absorption spectroscopy)-method analyses the absorptions of atmospheric trace gases in spectra of scattered sun light. It is an excellent way to determine the concentrations of different trace gases (e.g. NO2, SO2, HCHO…) simultaneously. MAX (Multi-AXis)-DOAS measurements observe scattered sun light under different elevation angles. From such measurements tropospheric vertical column densities (VCDs) or even vertical profiles of the measured trace gases and aerosols can be determined. We performed mobile MAX-DOAS measurements using two instruments on the roof of a car in summer 2015 in Romania during the AROMAT2 campaign and in the Winter/Spring 2016 in the Rhein-Main area (Germany). The latter is one of the densest populated areas in Germany. One instrument is a commercial Mini-MAX-DOAS instrument from the Hoffmann company, the other a self-built instrument using an AVANTES spectrometer with better optical characteristics. The instruments were looking in two different directions (one forward and one backward). Mobile MAX-DOAS measurements cover a quite large area in a short period of time. This enables to map existing gradients of concentrations of tropospheric trace gases, e.g. NO2 and HCHO. The results of those measurements then can be used to validate satellite measurements or can be compared to model results. In this study we focus on formaldehyde (HCHO). In small amounts it is emitted directly by industries and other anthropogenic and biogenic activities. Large amounts are mostly secondary produced. As it is an intermediate product of basic oxidation cycles of other hydrocarbons its concentrations are determined by the abundances of other hydrocarbons. Therefore it can be used as an indicator for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Furthermore HCHO plays an important role in photochemical smog chemistry and tropospheric O3 chemistry. In this work we present the measurement setup and preliminary HCHO results of the AROMAT2 campaign and first results of the measurements in the Rhein-Main area. We characterize the amounts, spatial gradients and identify potential emission sources of HCHO.

Predicting Water Quality Problems Associated with Coal Fly Ash Disposal Facilities Using a Trace Element Partitioning Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhattacharyya, S.; Donahoe, R. J.; Graham, E. Y.

2006-12-01

For much of the U.S., coal-fired power plants are the most important source of electricity for domestic and industrial use. Large quantities of fly ash and other coal combustion by-products are produced every year, the majority of which is impounded in lagoons and landfills located throughout the country. Many older fly ash disposal facilities are unlined and have been closed for decades. Fly ash often contains high concentrations of toxic trace elements such as arsenic, boron, chromium, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, lead, strontium and vanadium. Trace elements present in coal fly ash are of potential concern due to their toxicity, high mobility in the environment and low drinking water MCL values. Concern about the potential release of these toxic elements into the environment due to leaching of fly ash by acid rain, groundwater or acid mine drainage has prompted the EPA to develop national standards under the subtitle D of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) to regulate ash disposal in landfills and surface impoundments. An attempt is made to predict the leaching of toxic elements into the environment by studying trace element partitioning in coal fly ash. A seven step sequential chemical extraction procedure (SCEP) modified from Filgueiras et al. (2002) is used to determine the trace element partitioning in seven coal fly ash samples collected directly from electric power plants. Five fly ash samples were derived from Eastern Bituminous coal, one derived from Western Sub-bituminous coal and the other derived from Northern Lignite. The sequential chemical extraction procedure gives valuable information on the association of trace elements: 1) soluble fraction, 2) exchangeable fraction, 3) acid soluble fraction, 4) easily reducible fraction, 5) moderately reducible fraction, 6) poorly reducible fraction and 7) oxidizable organics/sulfide fraction. The trace element partitioning varies with the composition of coal fly ash which is influenced by the type of coal burned. Preliminary studies show that in some fly ash samples, significant amounts of As, B, Mo, Se, Sr and V are associated with the soluble and exchangeable fraction, and thus would be highly mobile in the environment. Lead, on the other hand, is mainly associated with the amorphous Fe and Mn oxide fractions and would be highly immobile in oxidizing conditions, but mobile in reducing conditions. Ni and Cr show different associations in different fly ash samples. In most fly ash samples, significant amounts of the trace elements are associated with more stable fractions that do not threaten the environment. The study of trace element partitioning in coal fly ash thus helps us to predict their leaching behavior under various conditions.

AIR EMISSIONS FROM LASER DRILLING OF PRINTED WIRING BOARD MATERIALS

EPA Science Inventory

The paper gives results of a study to characterize gases generated during laser drilling of printed wiring board (PWB) material and identifies the pollutants and generation rates found during the drilling process. Typically found in the missions stream were trace amounts of carbo...

GENERATION AND CONTROL OF AIR POLLUTANTS FROM ORIMULSION (R) COMBUSTION

EPA Science Inventory

The paper discusses a study requested in 1997 by the U.S. Congress to provide technical information regarding Orimulsion (R) and its environmental impacts. (NOTE: Orimulsion is an emulsified fuel, composed of approximately 70% Venezuelan bitumen, 30% water, and trace amounts of ...

Lighting for Our Schools.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rankin, John C.

In this speech, the author traces the history of lighting in schools, discusses the variables affecting the amount of illuminance needed, and provides a table of illuminances recommended for Ontario schools. Other factors that affect vision--glare, veiling reflection, color, and brightness balance--are outlined. Planners are admonished to…

Measuring protein isoelectric points by AFM-based force spectroscopy using trace amounts of sample

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Shifeng; Zhu, Xiaoying; Jańczewski, Dominik; Lee, Serina Siew Chen; He, Tao; Teo, Serena Lay Ming; Vancso, G. Julius

2016-09-01

Protein charge at various pH and isoelectric point (pI) values is important in understanding protein function. However, often only trace amounts of unknown proteins are available and pI measurements cannot be obtained using conventional methods. Here, we show a method based on the atomic force microscope (AFM) to determine pI using minute quantities of proteins. The protein of interest is immobilized on AFM colloidal probes and the adhesion force of the protein is measured against a positively and a negatively charged substrate made by layer-by-layer deposition of polyelectrolytes. From the AFM force-distance curves, pI values with an estimated accuracy of ±0.25 were obtained for bovine serum albumin, myoglobin, fibrinogen and ribonuclease A over a range of 4.7-9.8. Using this method, we show that the pI of the ‘footprint’ of the temporary adhesive proteins secreted by the barnacle cyprid larvae of Amphibalanus amphitrite is in the range 9.6-9.7.

Integrated Utilization of Sewage Sludge and Coal Gangue for Cement Clinker Products: Promoting Tricalcium Silicate Formation and Trace Elements Immobilization

PubMed Central

Yang, Zhenzhou; Zhang, Yingyi; Liu, Lili; Seetharaman, Seshadri; Wang, Xidong; Zhang, Zuotai

2016-01-01

The present study firstly proposed a method of integrated utilization of sewage sludge (SS) and coal gangue (CG), two waste products, for cement clinker products with the aim of heat recovery and environment protection. The results demonstrated that the incremental amounts of SS and CG addition was favorable for the formation of tricalcium silicate (C3S) during the calcinations, but excess amount of SS addition could cause the impediment effect on C3S formation. Furthermore, it was also observed that the C3S polymorphs showed the transition from rhombohedral to monoclinic structure as SS addition was increased to 15 wt %. During the calcinations, most of trace elements could be immobilized especially Zn and cannot be easily leached out. Given the encouraging results in the present study, the co-process of sewage sludge and coal gangue in the cement kiln can be expected with a higher quality of cement products and minimum pollution to the environment. PMID:28773400

Highly sensitive spectrofluorimetric determination of trace amounts NADP using Europium ion-doxycycline complex probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Qian; Hou, Faju; Jiang, Chongqiu

2006-09-01

A new spectrofluorimetric method was developed for determination of trace amount of Coenzyme II (NADP). Using europium ion-doxycycline (DC) as a fluorescent probe, in the buffer solution of pH 8.44, NADP can remarkably enhance the fluorescence intensity of the Eu 3+-DC complex at λ = 612 nm and the enhanced fluorescence intensity is in proportion to the concentration of NADP. Optimum conditions for the determination of NADP were also investigated. The dynamic range for the determination of NADP is 3.3 × 10 -7 to 6.1 × 10 -6 mol l -1 with detection limit of 6.8 × 10 -8 mol l -1. This method is simple, practical and relatively free interference from coexisting substances and can be successfully applied to determination of NADP in synthetic water samples and in serum samples. Moreover, the enhancement mechanisms of the fluorescence intensity in the Eu 3+-DC system and the Eu 3+-DC-NADP system have been also discussed.

Measurement of trace impurities in ultra pure hydrogen and deuterium at the parts-per-billion level using gas chromatography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ganzha, V.; Ivshin, K.; Kammel, P.; Kravchenko, P.; Kravtsov, P.; Petitjean, C.; Trofimov, V.; Vasilyev, A.; Vorobyov, A.; Vznuzdaev, M.; Wauters, F.

2018-02-01

A series of muon experiments at the Paul Scherrer Institute in Switzerland deploy ultra-pure hydrogen active targets. A new gas impurity analysis technique was developed, based on conventional gas chromatography, with the capability to measure part-per-billion (ppb) traces of nitrogen and oxygen in hydrogen and deuterium. Key ingredients are a cryogenic admixture accumulation, a directly connected sampling system and a dedicated calibration setup. The dependence of the measured concentration on the sample volume was investigated, confirming that all impurities from the sample gas are collected in the accumulation column and measured with the gas chromatograph. The system was calibrated utilizing dynamic dilution of admixtures into the gas flow down to sub-ppb level concentrations. The total amount of impurities accumulated in the purification system during a three month long experimental run was measured and agreed well with the calculated amount based on the measured concentrations in the flow.

Applications of organo-silica nanocomposites for SPNE of Hg(II)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaur, Anupreet

2016-02-01

An analytical method using modified SiO2 nanoparticles as solid-phase extractant has been developed for the preconcentration of trace amounts of Hg(II) in different water samples. Conditions of the analysis such as preconcentration factor, effect of pH, sample volume, shaking time, elution conditions and effects of interfering ions for the recovery of analyte were investigated. The adsorption capacity of nanometer SiO2-APTMS was found to be 181.42 µmol g-1 at optimum pH and the detection limit (3σ) was 0.45 µg L-1. The extractant showed rapid kinetic sorption. The adsorption equilibrium of Hg(II) on nanometer SiO2-APTMS was achieved just in 15 min. Adsorbed Hg(II) was easily eluted with 4 mL of 2.0 M hydrochloric acid. The maximum preconcentration factor was 75. The method was applied for the determination of trace amounts of Hg(II) in various synthetic samples and water samples.

Comparison of activated carbon and oxidized multiwalled carbon nanotubes modified with bis(3-nitrobenzylidene)-1,2-ethanediamine for enrichment of trace amounts of some metal ions.

PubMed

Ghaedi, Mehrorang; Montazerozohori, Mortaza; Tabatabie, Maryam; Noormohamadi, Hamid; Haghighi, Alireza Borhan

2012-01-01

The efficiency of modified activated carbon (AC) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) for the separation/preconcentration and determination of Co, Cd, Pb, Zn, and Cu following their complexation by bis(3-nitrobenzylidene)-1,2-ethanediamine has been described and compared. A one-at-a-time optimization method investigated the influence of various parameters that significantly influence the recoveries of the studied metal ions. At the optimum values of all variables, the response was linear over the range of 0.01-0.3 microg/mL, and detection limit (3 SDb/m, n = 10) was between 1.41-2.05 ng/mL for both sorbents while the preconcentration factor was 100 for AC and 500 for MWCNTs. The method was successfully applied for preconcentration and determination of trace amount of the aforementioned ions in various real samples such as orange, lettuce, bread, and pear.

Novel fluorimetric assay of trace analysis of epinephrine in human serum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adeniyi, William K.; Wright, Ashleigh R.

2009-12-01

A simple, rapid, and sensitive spectrofluorimetric technique for the microdetermination of epinephrine in human serum is described. The investigation shows that trace amounts of epinephrine, antidepressant of clinical importance, can be determined without the conventional derivatization or use of fluorophores by diazotization. The method is based on the optimization of experimental parameters, such as pH, temperature, careful selection of excitation and emission wavelengths and on the use of anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), to enhance sensitivity. The measurement was carried out at 360 nm with excitation at 286 nm. Under the optimum conditions, a linear relationship was obtained between the fluorescence intensity and epinephrine concentration in the range of 0.10 and 1.0 μg/mL; the correlation coefficient and detection limit are 0.9953 and 0.05 μg/mL, respectively. Recovery tests indicated an efficiency of 95.5-98.7% by using known amounts of epinephrine spiked with human serum.

Biotinylated dextran amine anterograde tracing of the canine corticospinal tract.

PubMed

Han, Xiao; Lv, Guangming; Wu, Huiqun; Ji, Dafeng; Sun, Zhou; Li, Yaofu; Tang, Lemin

2012-04-15

In this study, biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) was microinjected into the left cortical motor area of the canine brain. Fluorescence microscopy results showed that a large amount of BDA-labeled pyramidal cells were visible in the left cortical motor area after injection. In the left medulla oblongata, the BDA-labeled corticospinal tract was evenly distributed, with green fluorescence that had a clear boundary with the surrounding tissue. The BDA-positive corticospinal tract entered into the right lateral funiculus of the spinal cord and descended into the posterior part of the right lateral funiculus, close to the posterior horn, from cervical to sacral segments. There was a small amount of green fluorescence in the sacral segment. The distribution of BDA labeling in the canine central nervous system was consistent with the course of the corticospinal tract. Fluorescence labeling for BDA gradually diminished with time after injection. Our findings indicate that the BDA anterograde tracing technique can be used to visualize the localization and trajectory of the corticospinal tract in the canine central nervous system.

Preparation of Some Homologous TEMPO Nitroxides and Oxoammonium Salts; Notes on the NMR Spectroscopy of Nitroxide Free Radicals; Observed Radical Nature of Oxoammonium Salt Solutions Containing Trace Amounts of Corresponding Nitroxides in an Equilibrium Relationship.

PubMed

Bobbitt, James M; Eddy, Nicholas A; Cady, Clyde X; Jin, Jing; Gascon, Jose A; Gelpí-Dominguez, Svetlana; Zakrzewski, Jerzy; Morton, Martha D

2017-09-15

Three new homologous TEMPO oxoammonium salts and three homologous nitroxide radicals have been prepared and characterized. The oxidation properties of the salts have been explored. The direct 13 C NMR and EPR spectra of the nitroxide free radicals and the oxoammonium salts, along with TEMPO and its oxoammonium salt, have been successfully measured with little peak broadening of the NMR signals. In the spectra of all ten compounds (nitroxides and corresponding oxoammonium salts), the carbons in the 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine core do not appear, implying paramagnetic properties. This unpredicted overall paramagnetism in the oxoammonium salt solutions is explained by a redox equilibrium as shown between oxoammonium salts and trace amounts of corresponding nitroxide. This equilibrium is confirmed by electron interchange reactions between nitroxides with an N-acetyl substituent and oxoammonium salts with longer acyl side chains.