30-year lidar observations of the stratospheric aerosol layer state over Tomsk (Western Siberia, Russia)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuev, Vladimir V.; Burlakov, Vladimir D.; Nevzorov, Aleksei V.; Pravdin, Vladimir L.; Savelieva, Ekaterina S.; Gerasimov, Vladislav V.

2017-02-01

There are only four lidar stations in the world which have almost continuously performed observations of the stratospheric aerosol layer (SAL) state over the last 30 years. The longest time series of the SAL lidar measurements have been accumulated at the Mauna Loa Observatory (Hawaii) since 1973, the NASA Langley Research Center (Hampton, Virginia) since 1974, and Garmisch-Partenkirchen (Germany) since 1976. The fourth lidar station we present started to perform routine observations of the SAL parameters in Tomsk (56.48° N, 85.05° E, Western Siberia, Russia) in 1986. In this paper, we mainly focus on and discuss the stratospheric background period from 2000 to 2005 and the causes of the SAL perturbations over Tomsk in the 2006-2015 period. During the last decade, volcanic aerosol plumes from tropical Mt. Manam, Soufrière Hills, Rabaul, Merapi, Nabro, and Kelut and extratropical (northern) Mt. Okmok, Kasatochi, Redoubt, Sarychev Peak, Eyjafjallajökull, and Grímsvötn were detected in the stratosphere over Tomsk. When it was possible, we used the NOAA HYSPLIT trajectory model to assign aerosol layers observed over Tomsk to the corresponding volcanic eruptions. The trajectory analysis highlighted some surprising results. For example, in the cases of the Okmok, Kasatochi, and Eyjafjallajökull eruptions, the HYSPLIT air mass backward trajectories, started from altitudes of aerosol layers detected over Tomsk with a lidar, passed over these volcanoes on their eruption days at altitudes higher than the maximum plume altitudes given by the Smithsonian Institution Global Volcanism Program. An explanation of these facts is suggested. The role of both tropical and northern volcanic eruptions in volcanogenic aerosol loading of the midlatitude stratosphere is also discussed. In addition to volcanoes, we considered other possible causes of the SAL perturbations over Tomsk, i.e., the polar stratospheric cloud (PSC) events and smoke plumes from strong forest fires. At least two PSC events were detected in 1995 and 2007. We also make an assumption that the Kelut volcanic eruption (Indonesia, February 2014) could be the cause of the SAL perturbations over Tomsk during the first quarter of 2015.

Exploring Dust Impacts on Tropical Systems from the NASA HS-3 Field Campaign

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nowottnick, Ed; Colarco, Pete; da Silva, Arlindo; Barahona, Donifan; Hlavka, Dennis

2015-01-01

One of the overall scientific goals of the NASA Hurricane and Severe Storm Sentinel (HS-3) field campaign is to better understand the role of the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) in tropical storm development. During the 2012 HS-3 deployment, the Cloud Physics Lidar (CPL) observed dust within SAL air in close proximity to a developing Nadine (September 11, 2012). Throughout the mission, the NASA GEOS-5 modeling system supported HS-3 by providing 0.25 degrees resolution 5-day global forecasts of aerosols, which were used to support mission planning. The aerosol module was radiatively interactive within the GEOS-5 model, but aerosols were not directly coupled to cloud and precipitation processes. In this study we revisit the aerosol forecasts with an updated version of the GEOS-5 model. For the duration of Hurricane Nadine, we run multiday climate simulations leading up to each respective Global Hawk flight with and without aerosol direct interaction. For each set of simulations, we compare simulated dust mass fluxes to identify differences in SAL entrainment related to the interaction between dust aerosols and the atmosphere. We find that the direct effects of dust induce a low level anticyclonic circulation that temporarily shields Nadine from the intrusion of dry air, leading to a more intense storm.

Saharan Air and Atlantic Tropical Cyclone Suppression From a Global Modeling Perspective

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reale, O.; Lau, W. K. M.; daSilva, A.; Kim, K.-M.

2007-01-01

During summer 2006, the NASA African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analysis (NAMMA) organized a field campaign in Africa called Special Observation Period (SOP-3), in which scientists in the field were involved in a number of surface network and aircraft measurements. One of the scientific goals of the campaign was to understand the nature and causes for tropical cyclogenesis originating out of African Easterly Waves (AEWs, westward propagating atmospheric disturbances sometimes associated with precursors of hurricanes), and the role that the Saharan Air Layer (SAL, a hot and dry air layer advecting large amounts of dust) can play in the formation or suppression of tropical cyclones. During the NAMMA campaign a high-resolution global model, the NASA GEOS-5, was operationally run by the NASA Global Modeling and Assimilation Office (GMAO) in support to the mission. The daily GEOS-5 forecasts were found to be very useful by decision-making scientists in the field as an aid to discriminate between developing and non-developing AEWs and plan the flight tracks. In the post-event analyses which were performed mostly by the Goddard Laboratory for Atmospheres, two events were highlighted: a non-developing AEW which appeared to have been suppressed by Saharan air, compared to a developing AEW which was the precursor of hurricane Helene. Both events were successfully predicted by the GEOS-5 during the real-time forecasts provided in support to the mission. In this work it is found that very steep moisture gradients and a strong thermal dipole, with relatively warm air in the mid-troposphere and cool air below, are associated with SAL in both the GEOS-5 forecasts and the NCEP analyses, even at -great distance- from the Sahara. The presence of these unusual thermodynamic features over the Atlantic Ocean, at several thousands of kilometers from the African coastline, is suggestive that SAL mixing is very minimal and that the model's capability of retaining the different properties of air masses during transport are important to represent effectively the role of dry air intrusions in the tropical circulation.

Providing the Caribbean community with VIIRS-derived weather satellite and dust model output in preparation for African dust impacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuciauskas, A. P.; Xian, P.; Hyer, E. J.; Oyola, M. I.; Campbell, J. R.

2016-12-01

The Naval Research Laboratory Marine Meteorology Division (NRL-MMD) predicts, monitors, and trains Caribbean agencies in preparing for and mitigating unhealthy episodes of Saharan-based dust. Of critical concern is the Saharan Air Layer (SAL), an elevated air mass of hot, dry, and often very dusty conditions that can be environmentally persistent and dangerous to the downstream Caribbean populace, resulting in respiratory illnesses; some of the world's highest asthma rates and associated premature deaths have been documented within the Caribbean islands. The SAL not only impacts the greater Caribbean, but also the Gulf of Mexico, northern South America, and southern and central US. One of the major responsibilities of the National Weather Service forecast office at San Juan, Puerto Rico (NWS-PR) is preparing the public within their area of responsibility for such events. The NRL-MMD has been at the forefront of implementing and demonstrating the positive impact of Suomi-VIIRS during SAL events. In preparation for SAL events, NRL-MMD is currently supporting the NWS-PR with near real time web-based products, primarily from VIIRS datasets. Preliminary studies have shown that VIIRS has demonstrated improvements in the assessment and prediction of dust intensities related to SAL passages. The upcoming launches of JPSS-1 and GOES-R are eagerly anticipated in possibly revolutionizing the R&D related toward further improvements in understanding Saharan dust dynamics and characteristics. Besides NWS-PR, NRL-MMD also collaborates with the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) in both providing and gathering in-situ measurements that stretch from the French Guyana northward through the West Indies island chain. Finally, NRL-MMD is involved with the Caribbean Aerosol Health Network (CAHN),an international network of health and environmental agencies whose mission is to improve the understanding of the impacts (e.g., air quality, health, climate, weather, ecosystems) that atmospheric particles have particularly over the greater Caribbean region. The goal of this talk is to acquaint the audience with the SAL phenomena, its impact on urban activities, and current and future research underway to provide improvements in African dust prediction capabilities.

Saharan Dust as a Causal Factor of Significant Cloud Cover Along the Saharan Air Layer in the Atlantic Ocean

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kishcha, Pavel; Da Silva, Arlindo M.; Starobinet, Boris; Alpert, Pinhas

2016-01-01

The tropical Atlantic is frequently affected by Saharan dust intrusions. Based on MODIS cloud fraction (CF) data during the ten-year study period, we found that these dust intrusions contribute to significant cloud cover along the Saharan Air Layer (SAL). Below the temperature inversion at the SAL's base, the presence of large amounts of settling dust particles, together with marine aerosols, produces meteorological conditions suitable for the formation of shallow stratocumulus clouds. The significant cloud fraction along the SAL together with clouds over the Atlantic Inter-tropical Convergence Zone contributes to the 20% hemispheric CF asymmetry between the tropical North and South Atlantic. This leads to the imbalance in strong solar radiation, which reaches the sea surface between the tropical North and South Atlantic, and, consequently, affects climate formation in the tropical Atlantic. Therefore, despite the fact that, over the global ocean, there is no noticeable hemispheric asymmetry in cloud fraction, over the significant area such as the tropical Atlantic the hemispheric asymmetry in CF takes place. Saharan dust is also the major contributor to hemispheric aerosol asymmetry over the tropical Atlantic. The NASA GEOS-5 model with aerosol data assimilation was used to extend the MERRA reanalysis with five atmospheric aerosol species (desert dust, sulfates, organic carbon, black carbon, and sea-salt). The obtained ten-year (2002 - 2012) MERRA-driven aerosol reanalysis dataset (aka MERRAero) showed that, over the tropical Atlantic, dust and carbonaceous aerosols were distributed asymmetrically relative to the equator, while other aerosol species were distributed more symmetrically.

Collagen fibre characterisation in arterial tissue under load using SALS.

PubMed

Gaul, R T; Nolan, D R; Lally, C

2017-11-01

The collagen fibre architecture of arterial tissue is known to play a key role in its resultant mechanical behaviour, while maladaptive remodelling of this architecture may be linked to disease. Many of the techniques currently used to analyse collagen fibre architecture require time consuming tissue preparation procedures and are destructive in nature. The aim of this study is to fully explore Small Angle Light Scattering (SALS) as a means to non-destructively assess collagen fibre architecture in arterial tissue and subsequently gain insights into load induced reorientation. The optimised configuration of the SALS system for arterial tissue was determined using quantitative comparisons to histological analyses of porcine carotid artery as its basis. Once established, layer specific fibre orientation and the influence of tissue loading was determined for thin sections of carotid artery using SALS. This process was subsequently repeated for intact carotid artery layers. A single family of circumferentially orientated collagen fibres were found in the intima (- 0.1 ± 1.4° (5.5°)) and media (- 1.7 ± 1.9° (4.7°)) while two perpendicular families of fibres were identified in the adventitia (- 6.4 ± 0.7° (37.7°)) and (118.3 ± 2.7 (39.9°)). An increase in fibre alignment in response to a 20% circumferential strain was also identified using SALS, characterised by an increase in scattered light eccentricity. determined using SALS agreed with those found using traditional destructive techniques, however SALS has the important benefits of allowing vessel layers to remain intact, and has a fast processing time. SALS unique ability to identify load induced reorganisation in intact arterial layers offers an efficient means to gain crucial insights into arterial disease and its development over time. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Seasonal provenance changes in present-day Saharan dust collected in and off Mauritania

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friese, Carmen A.; van Hateren, Johannes A.; Vogt, Christoph; Fischer, Gerhard; Stuut, Jan-Berend W.

2017-08-01

Saharan dust has a crucial influence on the earth climate system and its emission, transport and deposition are intimately related to, e.g., wind speed, precipitation, temperature and vegetation cover. The alteration in the physical and chemical properties of Saharan dust due to environmental changes is often used to reconstruct the climate of the past. However, to better interpret possible climate changes the dust source regions need to be known. By analysing the mineralogical composition of transported or deposited dust, potential dust source areas can be inferred. Summer dust transport off northwest Africa occurs in the Saharan air layer (SAL). In continental dust source areas, dust is also transported in the SAL; however, the predominant dust input occurs from nearby dust sources with the low-level trade winds. Hence, the source regions and related mineralogical tracers differ with season and sampling location. To test this, dust collected in traps onshore and in oceanic sediment traps off Mauritania during 2013 to 2015 was analysed. Meteorological data, particle-size distributions, back-trajectory and mineralogical analyses were compared to derive the dust provenance and dispersal. For the onshore dust samples, the source regions varied according to the seasonal changes in trade-wind direction. Gibbsite and dolomite indicated a Western Saharan and local source during summer, while chlorite, serpentine and rutile indicated a source in Mauritania and Mali during winter. In contrast, for the samples that were collected offshore, dust sources varied according to the seasonal change in the dust transporting air layer. In summer, dust was transported in the SAL from Mauritania, Mali and Libya as indicated by ferroglaucophane and zeolite. In winter, dust was transported with the trades from Western Sahara as indicated by, e.g., fluellite.

Sahara Dust Cloud

NASA Image and Video Library

2005-07-15

In July of 2005, a continent-sized cloud of hot air and dust originating from the Sahara Desert crossed the Atlantic Ocean and headed towards Florida and the Caribbean, captured by the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder onboard NASA Aqua satellite. A Saharan Air Layer, or SAL, forms when dry air and dust rise from Africa's west coast and ride the trade winds above the Atlantic Ocean. These dust clouds are not uncommon, especially during the months of July and August. They start when weather patterns called tropical waves pick up dust from the desert in North Africa, carry it a couple of miles into the atmosphere and drift westward. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA00448

Sahara Dust Cloud

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

[figure removed for brevity, see original site] Dust Particles Click on the image for Quicktime movie from 7/15-7/24

A continent-sized cloud of hot air and dust originating from the Sahara Desert crossed the Atlantic Ocean and headed towards Florida and the Caribbean. A Saharan Air Layer, or SAL, forms when dry air and dust rise from Africa's west coast and ride the trade winds above the Atlantic Ocean.

These dust clouds are not uncommon, especially during the months of July and August. They start when weather patterns called tropical waves pick up dust from the desert in North Africa, carry it a couple of miles into the atmosphere and drift westward.

In a sequence of images created by data acquired by the Earth-orbiting Atmospheric Infrared Sounder ranging from July 15 through July 24, we see the distribution of the cloud in the atmosphere as it swirls off of Africa and heads across the ocean to the west. Using the unique silicate spectral signatures of dust in the thermal infrared, AIRS can detect the presence of dust in the atmosphere day or night. This detection works best if there are no clouds present on top of the dust; when clouds are present, they can interfere with the signal, making it much harder to detect dust as in the case of July 24, 2005.

In the Quicktime movie, the scale at the bottom of the images shows +1 for dust definitely detected, and ranges down to -1 for no dust detected. The plots are averaged over a number of AIRS observations falling within grid boxes, and so it is possible to obtain fractional numbers. [figure removed for brevity, see original site] Total Water Vapor in the Atmosphere Around the Dust Cloud Click on the image for Quicktime movie

The dust cloud is contained within a dry adiabatic layer which originates over the Sahara Desert. This Saharan Air Layer (SAL) advances Westward over the Atlantic Ocean, overriding the cool, moist air nearer the surface. This burst of very dry air is visible in the AIRS retrieved total water vapor product as a region of depressed water vapor (brown in the images) migrating slowly Westward toward the Caribbean. The SAL phenomenon inhibits the formation of tropical cyclones and thus has given the West Indies and the East Coast of the US a respite from hurricanes.

The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder Experiment, with its visible, infrared, and microwave detectors, provides a three-dimensional look at Earth's weather. Working in tandem, the three instruments can make simultaneous observations all the way down to the Earth's surface, even in the presence of heavy clouds. With more than 2,000 channels sensing different regions of the atmosphere, the system creates a global, 3-D map of atmospheric temperature and humidity and provides information on clouds, greenhouse gases, and many other atmospheric phenomena. The AIRS Infrared Sounder Experiment flies onboard NASA's Aqua spacecraft and is managed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif., under contract to NASA. JPL is a division of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena.

Ice nucleating particles in the Saharan Air Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boose, Yvonne; Sierau, Berko; García, M. Isabel; Rodríguez, Sergio; Alastuey, Andrés; Linke, Claudia; Schnaiter, Martin; Kupiszewski, Piotr; Kanji, Zamin A.; Lohmann, Ulrike

2016-07-01

This study aims at quantifying the ice nucleation properties of desert dust in the Saharan Air Layer (SAL), the warm, dry and dust-laden layer that expands from North Africa to the Americas. By measuring close to the dust's emission source, before aging processes during the transatlantic advection potentially modify the dust properties, the study fills a gap between in situ measurements of dust ice nucleating particles (INPs) far away from the Sahara and laboratory studies of ground-collected soil. Two months of online INP concentration measurements are presented, which were part of the two CALIMA campaigns at the Izaña observatory in Tenerife, Spain (2373 m a.s.l.), in the summers of 2013 and 2014. INP concentrations were measured in the deposition and condensation mode at temperatures between 233 and 253 K with the Portable Ice Nucleation Chamber (PINC). Additional aerosol information such as bulk chemical composition, concentration of fluorescent biological particles as well as the particle size distribution was used to investigate observed variations in the INP concentration. The concentration of INPs was found to range between 0.2 std L-1 in the deposition mode and up to 2500 std L-1 in the condensation mode at 240 K. It correlates well with the abundance of aluminum, iron, magnesium and manganese (R: 0.43-0.67) and less with that of calcium, sodium or carbonate. These observations are consistent with earlier results from laboratory studies which showed a higher ice nucleation efficiency of certain feldspar and clay minerals compared to other types of mineral dust. We find that an increase of ammonium sulfate, linked to anthropogenic emissions in upwind distant anthropogenic sources, mixed with the desert dust has a small positive effect on the condensation mode INP per dust mass ratio but no effect on the deposition mode INP. Furthermore, the relative abundance of biological particles was found to be significantly higher in INPs compared to the ambient aerosol. Overall, this suggests that atmospheric aging processes in the SAL can lead to an increase in ice nucleation ability of mineral dust from the Sahara. INP concentrations predicted with two common parameterization schemes, which were derived mostly from atmospheric measurements far away from the Sahara but influenced by Asian and Saharan dust, were found to be higher based on the aerosol load than we observed in the SAL, further suggesting aging effects of INPs in the SAL.

Reply [to: Atlantic Tropical Cyclogenetic Processes during SOP-3 NAMMA in the GEOS-5 Global Data Assimilation and Forecast System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reale, Oreste; Lau, William K.

2010-01-01

This article is a Reply to a Comment by Scott Braun on a previously published article by O. Reale, K.-M. Lau, and E. Brin: "Atlantic tropical cyclogenetic processes during SOP-3 NAMMA in the GEOS-5 global data assimilation and forecast system", by Reale, Lau and Brin, hereafter referred to as RA09. RA09 investigated the role of the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) in tropical cyclogenetic processes associated with a non-developing easterly wave observed during the Special Observation Period (SOP-3) phase of the 2006 NASA African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analyses (MAMMA). The wave was chosen because both interact heavily with Saharan air. Results showed: a) very steep moisture gradients are associated with the SAL in forecasts and analyses even at great distance from the Sahara; b) a thermal dipole (warm above, cool below) in the non-developing case. RA09A suggested that radiative effect of dust may play some role in producing a thermal structure less favorable to cyclogenesis, and also indicated that only global horizontal resolutions on the order of 20-30 kilometers can capture the large-scale transport and the fine thermal structure of the SAL Braun (2010) questions those results attributing the wave dissipation to midlatitude air. The core discussion is on a dry filament preceding the wave, on the presence of dust, and on the origin of the air contained in this dry filament. In the 'Reply', higher resolution analyses than the ones used by Braun, taken at almost coincident times with Aqua and Terra passes, are shown, to emphasize how the channel of dry air associated with W1 is indeed rich in dust. Backtrajectories on a higher resolution grid are also performed, leading to results drastically different from Braun (2010), and in particularly showing that there is a clear contribution of Saharan air. Finally, the 'Reply' presents evidence on that analyses at a horizontal resolution of one degree are inadequate to investigate such feature.

Aerobic training reduces oxidative stress in skeletal muscle of rats exposed to air pollution and supplemented with chromium picolinate.

PubMed

Marmett, Bruna; Nunes, Ramiro Barcos; de Souza, Kellen Sábio; Lago, Pedro Dal; Rhoden, Cláudia Ramos

2018-12-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of chromium picolinate (CrPic) supplementation associated with aerobic exercise using measures of oxidative stress in rats exposed to air pollution. Sixty-one male Wistar rats were divided into eight groups: residual oil fly ash (ROFA) exposure and sedentary (ROFA-SED); ROFA exposure, sedentary and supplemented (ROFA-SED-CrPic); ROFA exposure and trained (ROFA-AT); ROFA exposure, supplemented and trained (ROFA-AT-CrPic); sedentary (Sal-SED); sedentary and supplemented (Sal-SED-CrPic); trained (Sal-AT); and supplemented and trained (Sal-AT-CrPic). Rats exposed to ROFA (air pollution) received 50 µg of ROFA daily via intranasal instillation. Supplemented rats received CrPic (1 mg/kg/day) daily by oral gavage. Exercise training was performed on a rat treadmill (5×/week). Oxidative parameters were evaluated at the end of protocols. Trained groups demonstrated lower gain of body mass (P < .001) and increased exercise tolerance (P < .0001). In the gastrocnemius, trained groups demonstrated increased SOD activity (P < .0001) and decrease levels of TBARS (P = .0014), although CAT activity did not differ among groups (P = .4487). Air pollution exposure did not lead to alterations in oxidative markers in lungs and heart, and exercise training was responsible for decreasing oxidative stress of the gastrocnemius.

Forces between Two Glass Surfaces with Adsorbed Hexadecyltrimethylammonium Salicylate.

PubMed

Imae, T; Kato, M; Rutland, M

2000-02-22

Forces have been measured for hexadecyltrimethylammonium salicylate (C(16)TASal) layers on glass beads. During the inward process, hydrophobic attraction occurred at lower adsorption of C(16)TASal and electrostatic repulsion interactions happened at higher adsorption. While the jump-in phenomenon was observed for solutions of concentrations below the critical micelle concentration (cmc = 0.15 mM), the step-in phenomenon was characteristic for solutions at the cmc and above the cmc, suggesting the push-out of adsorbed C(16)TASal layers and/or inserted micelles. The remarkable pull-off phenomenon on the outward process occurred for all solutions, indicating a strong interaction between C(16)TASal molecules. For aqueous 0.15 mM C(16)TASal solutions of various NaSal concentrations, on the inward process, the electrostatic repulsive interaction decreased with adding NaSal. This is due to the electrostatic shielding by salt excess. The height of the force wall on the inward process reached a maximum at 0.01 M NaSal, but the interlocking between molecules on two surfaces during the outward process was minimized at 0.1 M NaSal. These tendencies, which are different from that of the electrostatic repulsion interaction, imply the strong cohesion between adsorbed C(16)TASal layers.

Atlantic Tropical Cyclogenetic Processes during SOP-3 NAMMA in the GEOS-5 Global Data Assimilation and Forecast System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reale, Oreste; Lau, William K.; Kim, Kyu-Myong; Brin, Eugenia

2009-01-01

This article investigates the role of the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) in tropical cyclogenetic processes associated with a non-developing and a developing African easterly wave observed during the Special Observation Period (SOP-3) phase of the 2006 NASA African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analyses (NAMMA). The two waves are chosen because both interact heavily with Saharan air. A global data assimilation and forecast system, the NASA GEOS-5, is being run to produce a set of high-quality global analyses, inclusive of all observations used operationally but with denser satellite information. In particular, following previous works by the same Authors, the quality-controlled data from the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) used to produce these analyses have a better coverage than the one adopted by operational centers. From these improved analyses, two sets of 31 5-day high resolution forecasts, at horizontal resolutions of both half and quarter degrees, are produced. Results show that very steep moisture gradients are associated with the SAL in forecasts and analyses even at great distance from the Sahara. In addition, a thermal dipole (warm above, cool below) is present in the non-developing case. Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) show that aerosol optical thickness is higher in the non-developing case. Altogether, results suggest that radiative effect of dust may play some role in producing a thermal structure less favorable to cyclogenesis. Results also indicate that only global horizontal resolutions on the order of 20-30 kilometers can capture the large-scale transport and the fine thermal structure of the SAL, inclusive of the sharp moisture gradients, reproducing the effect of tropical cyclone suppression which has been hypothesized by previous authors from observational and regional modeling perspectives. These effects cannot be fully represented at lower resolutions. Global resolution of a quarter of a degree is a minimum critical threshold to investigate Atlantic tropical cyclogenesis from a global modeling perspective.

Analysis of Aerosol Optical and Physical Properties and Their Impact on Surface Radiative Energy Budget and Atmospheric Thermodynamics during Aerose Campaigns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flores, A.; Joseph, E.; Nalli, N. R.; Morris, V.; Aerose Team

2010-12-01

Western Africa is one of the largest sources of mineral dust aerosol in the world. With uncertainty of how dust impacts on weather and climate, the trans-Atlantic Aerosols and Ocean Science Expeditions (AEROSE) are good opportunities to address this issue. Recent studies have suggested that the Saharan air layer (SAL) can alter the dynamics, microphysics and thermodynamics of tropical systems (e.g., Dunion and Velden 2004), cools the sea surface temperature (e.g., Lau and Kim 2007), suppress deep convection (e.g., Mapes and Zuidema 1996; Wong and Dessler 2005), and alter the radiation balance of the atmosphere (e.g., Slingo et al. 2006). AEROSE constitutes a comprehensive approach, in terms of both measurements and modeling, for gaining understanding of the impacts of long-range transport of mineral dust in the tropical Atlantic (Morris et al. 2006; Nalli et al. 2010). Sounding data from AEROSE shows a well-maintained and static stability of the SAL well across the Atlantic (Nalli et al. 2005). Results of the current study may shed light on the role of dust on the thermodynamics of the SAL and its impact on sea surface temperature. This work will involve using radiative transfer models for calculating total heating rates during heavy dusty days encountered during AEROSE campaigns and analysis of the physical properties of the aerosols.

Satellite Sounder Observations of Contrasting Tropospheric Moisture Transport Regimes: Saharan Air Layers, Hadley Cells, and Atmospheric Rivers

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

Nalli, Nicholas R.; Barnet, Christopher D.; Reale, Tony

This paper examines the performance of satellite sounder atmospheric vertical moisture proles (AVMP) under tropospheric conditions encompassing moisture contrasts driven by convection and advection transport mechanisms, specifically Atlantic Ocean Saharan air layers (SALs) and Pacific Ocean moisture conveyer belts (MCBs) commonly referred to as atmospheric rivers (ARs), both of these being mesoscale to synoptic meteorological phenomena within the vicinity of subtropical Hadley subsidence zones. Operational AVMP environmental data records retrieved from the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (SNPP) NOAA-Unique Combined Atmospheric Processing System (NUCAPS) are collocated with dedicated radiosonde observations (RAOBs) obtained from ocean-based intensive field campaigns; these RAOBs provide uniquelymore » independent correlative truth data not assimilated into numerical weather prediction models for satellite sounder validation over open ocean. Using these marine-based data, we empirically assess the performance of the operational NUCAPS AVMP product for detecting and resolving these tropospheric moisture features over otherwise RAOB-sparse regions.« less

The footprints of Saharan air layer and lightning on the formation of tropical depressions over the eastern Atlantic Ocean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Centeno Delgado, Diana C.; Chiao, Sen

2015-02-01

The roles of the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) and lightning during genesis of Tropical Depression (TD) 8 (2006) and TD 12 (2010) were investigated in relation to the interaction of the dust outbreaks with each system and their surrounding environment. This study applied data collected from the 2006 NASA African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analysis and 2010 Genesis and Rapid Intensification Processes projects. Satellite observations from METEOSAT and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)—Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) were also employed for the study of the dust content. Lightning activity data from the Met Office Arrival Time Difference (ATD) system were used as another parameter to correlate moist convective overturning and a sign of cyclone formation. The AOD and lightning analysis for TD 8 demonstrated the time-lag connection through their positive contribution to TC-genesis. TD 12 developed without strong dust outbreak, but with lower wind shear (2 m s-1) and an organized Mesoscale Convective System (MCS). Overall, the results from the combination of various data analyses in this study support the fact that both systems developed under either strong or weak dust conditions. From these two cases, the location (i.e., the target area) of strong versus weak dust outbreaks, in association with lightning, were essential interactions that impacted TC-genesis. While our dust footprints hypothesis applied under strong dust conditions (i.e., TD 8), other factors (e.g., vertical wind shear, pre-existing vortex and trough location, thermodynamics) need to be evaluated as well. The results from this study suggest that the SAL is not a determining factor that affects the formation of tropical cyclones (i.e., TD 8 and TD 12).

Atlantic Tropical Cyclogenetic Processes During SOP-3 NAMMA in the GEOS-5 Global Data Assimilation and Forecast System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reale, Oreste; Lau, William K.; Kim, Kyu-Myong; Brin, Eugenia

2009-01-01

This article investigates the role of the Saharan air layer (SAL) in tropical cyclogenetic processes associated with a nondeveloping and a developing African easterly wave observed during the Special Observation Period (SOP-3) phase of the 2006 NASA African. Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analyses (NAMMA). The two waves are chosen because they both interact heavily with Saharan air. A glottal data assimilation and forecast system, the NASA Goddard Earth Observing System. version 5 (GEOS-5), is being run to produce a set of high-9 uality global analyses, inclusive of all observations used operationally but with additional satellite information. In particular, following previous works by the same authors, the duality-controlled data from the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) used to produce these analyses have a better coverage than the one adopted by operational centers. From these improved analyses, two sets of 31 five-day high-resolution forecasts, at horizontal resolutions of both half and quarter degrees, are produced. Results indicate that very steep moisture gradients are associated with the SAL in forecasts and analyses, even at great distances from their source over the Sahara. In addition, a thermal dipole in the vertiieat (warm above, cool below) is present in the nondeveloping case. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spoctroradiometer (MODIS) aboard NASA's Terra and Aqua satellites shows that aerosol optical thickness, indicative of more dust as opposed to other factors, is higher in the nondeveloping case. Altogether, results suggest that the radiative effect of dust may play some role in producing a thermal structure less favorable to cyclogenesis. Results also indicate that only global horizontal resolutions on the order of 20-30 km can capture the large-scale transport and the tine thermal structure of the SAL, inclusive of the sharp moisture gradients, reproducing the effect of tropical cyclone suppression that has been hypothesized by previous authors from observational and regional modeling perspectives. Thcse effects cannot be fully represented at lower resolutions, therefore global resolution of a quarter of a degree is a minimum critical threshold necessary to investigate Atlantic tropical cyclogenesis from a global modeling perspective

Engineering topological superconductors using surface atomic-layer/molecule hybrid materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uchihashi, Takashi

2015-08-01

Surface atomic-layer (SAL) superconductors consisting of epitaxially grown metal adatoms on a clean semiconductor surface have been recently established. Compared to conventional metal thin films, they have two important features: (i) space-inversion symmetry-breaking throughout the system and (ii) high sensitivity to surface adsorption of foreign species. These potentially lead to manifestation of the Rashba effect and a Zeeman field exerted by adsorbed magnetic organic molecules. After introduction of the archetypical SAL superconductor Si(111)-(√7 × √3)-In, we describe how these features are utilized to engineer a topological superconductor with Majorana fermions and discuss its promises and expected challenges.

Analysis of Measurements of Saharan Dust by Airborne and Ground-based Remote Sensing Methods during the Puerto Rico Dust Experiment (PRIDE)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reid, Jeffrey S.; Kinney, James E.; Westphal, Douglas L.; Holben, Brent N.; Welton, E. Judd; Tsay, Si-Chee; Eleuterio, Daniel P.; Campbell, James; Christopher, Sundar A.; Jonsson, Haflidi H.

2003-01-01

For 26 days in mid-June and July 2000, a research group comprised of U.S. Navy, NASA, and university scientists conducted the Puerto Rico Dust Experiment (PRIDE). In this paper we give a brief overview of mean meteorological conditions during the study. We focus on findings on African dust transported into the Caribbean utilizing Navajo aircraft and AERONET Sun photometer data. During the study midvisible aerosol optical thickness (AOT) in Puerto Rico averaged 0.25, with a maximum less than 0.5 and with clean marine periods of _0.08. Dust AOTs near the coast of Africa (Cape Verde Islands and Dakar) averaged _0.4, 30% less than previous years. By analyzing dust vertical profiles in addition to supplemental meteorology and MPLNET lidar data we found that dust transport cannot be easily categorized into any particular conceptual model. Toward the end of the study period, the vertical distribution of dust was similar to the commonly assumed Saharan Air Layer (SAL) transport. During the early periods of the study, dust had the highest concentrations in the marine and convective boundary layers with only a, weak dust layer in the SAL being present, a state usually associated with wintertime transport patterns. We corroborate the findings of Maring et al. that in most cases, there was an unexpected lack of vertical stratification of dust particle size. We systematically analyze processes which may impact dust vertical distribution and determine and speculate that dust vertical distribution predominately influenced by flow patterns over Africa and differential advection couple with mixing by easterly waves and regional subsidence.

Two Ti13-oxo-clusters showing non-compact structures, film electrode preparation and photocurrent properties.

PubMed

Hou, Jin-Le; Luo, Wen; Wu, Yin-Yin; Su, Hu-Chao; Zhang, Guang-Lin; Zhu, Qin-Yu; Dai, Jie

2015-12-14

Two benzene dicarboxylate (BDC) and salicylate (SAL) substituted titanium-oxo-clusters, Ti13O10(o-BDC)4(SAL)4(O(i)Pr)16 (1) and Ti13O10(o-BDC)4(SAL-Cl)4(O(i)Pr)16 (2), are prepared by one step in situ solvothermal synthesis. Single crystal analysis shows that the two Ti13 clusters take a paddle arrangement with an S4 symmetry. The non-compact (non-sphere) structure is stabilized by the coordination of BDC and SAL. Film photoelectrodes are prepared by the wet coating process using the solution of the clusters and the photocurrent response properties of the electrodes are studied. It is found that the photocurrent density and photoresponsiveness of the electrodes are related to the number of coating layers and the annealing temperature. Using ligand coordinated titanium-oxo-clusters as the molecular precursors of TiO2 anatase films is found to be effective due to their high solubility, appropriate stability in solution and hence the easy controllability.

Aircraft and ground measurements of dust aerosols over the west African coast in summer 2015 during ICE-D and AER-D

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Dantong; Taylor, Jonathan W.; Crosier, Jonathan; Marsden, Nicholas; Bower, Keith N.; Lloyd, Gary; Ryder, Claire L.; Brooke, Jennifer K.; Cotton, Richard; Marenco, Franco; Blyth, Alan; Cui, Zhiqiang; Estelles, Victor; Gallagher, Martin; Coe, Hugh; Choularton, Tom W.

2018-03-01

During the summertime, dust from the Sahara can be efficiently transported westwards within the Saharan air layer (SAL). This can lead to high aerosol loadings being observed above a relatively clean marine boundary layer (MBL) in the tropical Atlantic Ocean. These dust layers can impart significant radiative effects through strong visible and IR light absorption and scattering, and can also have indirect impacts by altering cloud properties. The processing of the dust aerosol can result in changes in both direct and indirect radiative effects, leading to significant uncertainty in climate prediction in this region. During August 2015, measurements of aerosol and cloud properties were conducted off the coast of west Africa as part of the Ice in Cloud Experiment - Dust (ICE-D) and AERosol properties - Dust (AER-D) campaigns. Observations were obtained over a 4-week period using the UK Facility for Atmospheric Airborne Measurements (FAAM) BAe 146 aircraft based on Santiago Island, Cabo Verde. Ground-based observations were collected from Praia (14°57' N, 23°29' W; 100 m a.s.l.), also located on Santiago Island. The dust in the SAL was mostly sampled in situ at altitudes of 2-4 km, and the potential dust age was estimated by backward trajectory analysis. The particle mass concentration (at diameter d = 0.1-20 µm) decreased with transport time. Mean effective diameter (Deff) for supermicron SAL dust (d = 1-20 µm) was found to be 5-6 µm regardless of dust age, whereas submicron Deff (d = 0.1-1 µm) showed a decreasing trend with longer transport. For the first time, an airborne laser-induced incandescence instrument (the single particle soot photometer - SP2) was deployed to measure the hematite content of dust. For the Sahel-influenced dust in the SAL, the observed hematite mass fraction of dust (FHm) was found to be anti-correlated with the single scattering albedo (SSA, λ = 550 nm, for particles d < 2.5 µm); as potential dust age increased from 2 to 7 days, FHm increased from 2.5 to 4.5 %, SSA decreased from 0.97 to 0.93 and the derived imaginary part (k) of the refractive index at 550 nm increased from 0.0015 to 0.0035. However, the optical properties of Sahara-influenced plumes (not influenced by the Sahel) were independent of dust age and hematite content with SSA ˜ 0.95 and k ˜ 0.0028. This indicates that the absorbing component of dust may be source dependent, or that gravitational settling of larger particles may lead to a higher fraction of more absorbing clay-iron aggregates at smaller sizes. Mie calculation using the measured size distribution and size-resolved refractive indices of the absorbing components (black carbon and hematite) reproduces the measured SSA to within ±0.02 for SAL dust by assuming a goethite / hematite mass ratio of 2. Overall, hematite and goethite constituted 40-80 % of the absorption for particles d < 2.5 µm, and black carbon (BC) contributed 10-37 %. This highlights the importance of size-dependent composition in determining the optical properties of dust and also the contribution from BC within dust plumes.

Impact of tropical cyclone Matmo on mixed zone of the Yellow and Bohai seas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Jie; Ji, Diansheng; Hou, Chawei; Guo, Kai; Ji, Ling

2017-12-01

The Bohai Sea is a low-lying semi-enclosed sea area that is linked to the Yellow Sea via the Bohai straits (mixed zone). Its off shore seabed is shallow, which makes it vulnerable to serious marine meteorological disasters associated with the northward passage of Pacifi c tropical cyclones. Analyses on data of remote sensing and buoy of the mixed zone of the Yellow and Bohai seas indicate that all the wind speed, signifi cant wave height, and salinity (SAL) increased, sea surface temperature decreased, and wind energy density changed considerably during the passage of tropical cyclone Matmo on July 25, 2014. It was found that the SAL inversion layer in the mixed zone of the Yellow and Bohai Seas was caused by the tropical cyclone. Furthermore, it was found that the tropical cyclone transported the northern Yellow Sea cold water mass (NYSCWM) into the mixed zone of the Yellow and Bohai Seas. The NYSCWM has direct infl uence on both the aquaculture and the ecological environment of the region. Therefore, further research is needed to establish the mechanism behind the formation of the SAL inversion layer in the mixed zone, and to determine the infl uence of tropical cyclones on the NYSCWM.

Concentrations of Semivolatile Organic Compounds Associated with African Dust Air Masses in Mali, Cape Verde, Trinidad and Tobago, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, 2001-2008

USGS Publications Warehouse

Garrison, Virginia H.; Foreman, William T.; Genualdi, Susan A.; Majewski, Michael S.; Mohammed, Azad; Simonich, Staci Massey

2011-01-01

Every year, billions of tons of fine particles are eroded from the surface of the Sahara Desert and the Sahel of West Africa, lifted into the atmosphere by convective storms, and transported thousands of kilometers downwind. Most of the dust is carried west to the Americas and the Caribbean in the Saharan Air Layer (SAL). Dust air masses predominately impact northern South America during the Northern Hemisphere winter and the Caribbean and Southeastern United States in summer. Dust concentrations vary considerably temporally and spatially. In a dust source region (Mali), concentrations range from background levels of 575 micrograms per cubic meter (mu/u g per m3) to 13,000 mu/u g per m3 when visibility degrades to a few meters (Gillies and others, 1996). In the Caribbean, concentrations of 200 to 600 mu/u g per m3 in the mid-Atlantic and Barbados (Prospero and others, 1981; Talbot and others, 1986), 3 to 20 mu/u g per m3 in the Caribbean (Prospero and Nees, 1986; Perry and others, 1997); and >100 mu/u g per m3 in the Virgin Islands (this dataset) have been reported during African dust conditions. Mean dust particle size decreases as the SAL traverses from West Africa to the Caribbean and Americas as a result of gravitational settling. Mean particle size reaching the Caribbean is <1 micrometer (mu/u m) (Perry and others, 1997), and even finer particles are carried into Central America, the Southeastern United States, and maritime Canada. Particles less than 2.5 mu/u m diameter (termed PM2.5) can be inhaled deeply into human lungs. A large body of literature has shown that increased PM2.5 concentrations are linked to increased cardiovascular/respiratory morbidity and mortality (for example, Dockery and others, 1993; Penn and others, 2005).

Turbulence in the presence of internal waves in the bottom boundary layer of the California inner shelf

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allen, Rachel M.; Simeonov, Julian A.; Calantoni, Joseph; Stacey, Mark T.; Variano, Evan A.

2018-05-01

Turbulence measurements were collected in the bottom boundary layer of the California inner shelf near Point Sal, CA, for 2 months during summer 2015. The water column at Point Sal is stratified by temperature, and internal bores propagate through the region regularly. We collected velocity, temperature, and turbulence data on the inner shelf at a 30-m deep site. We estimated the turbulent shear production ( P), turbulent dissipation rate ( ɛ), and vertical diffusive transport ( T), to investigate the near-bed local turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) budget. We observed that the local TKE budget showed an approximate balance ( P ≈ ɛ) during the observational period, and that buoyancy generally did not affect the TKE balance. On a finer resolution timescale, we explored the balance between dissipation and models for production and observed that internal waves did not affect the balance in TKE at this depth.

Low and Mid Level Tropical Atmosphere Characterization during African Dust Outbreaks Using Particle Size Distribution Data Retrieved from ICE-T and PRADACS Field Studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-Sánchez, O.; Mayol-Bracero, O. L.; Sepulveda-Vallejo, P.; Heymsfield, A.

2013-12-01

Cloud formation in the tropical atmosphere is difficult to characterize when factors such as the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) play a role influencing the dynamic and thermodynamic processes. In order to characterize particle number size distribution across the Eastern Caribbean with the possible influence of African dust at low and mid levels, data collected during July 2011 from ground-based instruments and an aircraft platform were analyzed. Aerosol measurements from the ocean surface to ~8 km were performed below and in and around clouds by the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) C130 aircraft during the Ice in Clouds Experiment-Tropical (ICE-T) using the Passive Cavity Aerosol Spectrometer Probe (PCASP), while low-level measurements of aerosols were performed at the University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras Campus (UPRRP) during the Puerto Rican African Dust and Cloud Study (PRADACS) using an Optical Particle Counter (OPC) and a Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer (SMPS). Preliminary results using HYSPLIT back trajectories, flight tracks, SAL images and OPC/SMPS/PCASP time series all indicate peaks and troughs in aerosol concentrations at both low and mid levels over time, but the concentration was influenced by how strong the dust outbreak was as well as its horizontal travel speed. These and additional results regarding correlations between wind directions, cloud cover and atmospheric inversions will be presented.

Landslide-Generated Waves in a Dam Reservoir: The Effects of Landslide Rheology and Initial Submergence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yavari Ramsheh, S.; Ataie-Ashtiani, B.

2017-12-01

Recent studies revealed that landslide-generated waves (LGWs) impose the largest tsunami hazard to our shorelines although earthquake-generated waves (EGWs) occur more often. Also, EGWs are commonly followed by a large number of landslide hazards. Dam reservoirs are more vulnerable to landslide events due to being located in mountainous areas. Accurate estimation of such hazards and their destructive consequences help authorities to reduce their risks by constructive measures. In this regard, a two-layer two-phase Coulomb mixture flow (2LCMFlow) model is applied to investigate the effects of landslide characteristics on LGWs for a real-sized simplification of the Maku dam reservoir, located in the North of Iran. A sensitivity analysis is performed on the role of landslide rheological and constitutive parameters and its initial submergence in LGW characteristics and formation patterns. The numerical results show that for a subaerial (SAL), a semi-submerged (SSL), and a submarine landslide (SML) with the same initial geometry, the SSLs can create the largest wave crest, up to 60% larger than SALs, for dense material. However, SMLs generally create the largest wave troughs and SALs travel the maximum runout distances beneath the water. Regarding the two-phase (solid-liquid) nature of the landslide, when interestial water is isolated from the water layer along the water/landslide interface, a LGW with up to 30% higher wave crest can be created. In this condition, increasing the pore water pressure within the granular layer results in up to 35% higher wave trough and 40% lower wave crest at the same time. These results signify the importance of appropriate description of two-phase nature and rheological behavior of landslides in accurate estimation of LGWs which demands further numerical, physical, and field studies about such phenomena.

The footprints of Saharan Air Layer and lightning on the formation of tropical depressions over the eastern Atlantic Ocean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Centeno Delgado, Diana C.

In this study, the results of an observational analysis and a numerical analysis on the role of the Saharan Air Layer during tropical cyclogenesis (TC-genesis) are described. The observational analysis investigates the interaction of dust particles and lightning during the genesis stage of two developed cases (Hurricanes Helene 2006 and Julia 2010). The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) and WRF-Chemistry models were used to include and monitor the aerosols and chemical processes that affect TC-genesis. The numerical modeling involved two developed cases (Hurricanes Helene 2006 and Julia 2010) and two non-developed cases (Non-Developed 2011 and Non-Developed 2012). The Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) and lightning analysis for Hurricane Helene 2006 demonstrated the time-lag connection through their positive contribution to TC-genesis. The observational analyses supported the fact that both systems developed under either strong or weak dust conditions. From the two cases, the location of strong versus weak dust outbreaks in association with lightning was essential interactions that impacted TC-genesis. Furthermore, including dust particles, chemical processes, and aerosol feedback in the simulations with WRF-CHEM provides results closer to observations than regular WRF. The model advantageously shows the location of the dust particles inside of the tropical system. Overall, the results from this study suggest that the SAL is not a determining factor that affects the formation of tropical cyclones.

Simulations of Hurricane Nadine (2012) during HS3 Using the NASA Unified WRF with Aerosol-Cloud Microphysics-Radiation Coupling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, J. J.; Braun, S. A.; Sippel, J. A.; Tao, W. K.; Tao, Z.

2014-12-01

The impact of the SAL on the development and intensification of hurricanes has garnered significant attention in recent years. Many past studies have shown that synoptic outbreaks of Saharan dust, which usually occur from late spring to early fall and can extend from western Africa across the Atlantic Ocean into the Caribbean, can have impacts on hurricane genesis and subsequent intensity change. The Hurricane and Severe Storm Sentinel (HS3) mission is a multiyear NASA field campaign with the goal of improving understanding of hurricane formation and intensity change. One of HS3's primary science goals is to obtain measurements to help determine the extent to which the Saharan air layer impacts storm intensification. HS3 uses two of NASA's unmanned Global Hawk aircrafts equipped with three instruments each to measure characteristics of the storm environment and inner core. The Goddard microphysics and longwave/shortwave schemes in the NASA Unified Weather Research and Forecasting (NU-WRF) model have been coupled in real-time with the Goddard Chemistry Aerosol Radiation and Transport (GOCART) model in WRF-Chem to account for the direct (radiation) and indirect (microphysics) impact. NU-WRF with interactive aerosol-cloud-radiation physics is used to generate 30-member ensemble simulations of Nadine (2012) with and without the aerosol interactions. Preliminary conclusions related to the impact of the SAL on the evolution of Nadine from the HS3 observations and model output will be described.

Air modelling as an alternative to sampling for low-level radioactive airborne releases

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

Morgenstern, M.Y.; Hueske, K.

1995-05-01

This paper describes our efforts to assess the effect of airborne releases at one DOE laboratory using air modelling based on historical data. Among the facilities affected by these developments is Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in New Mexico. RCRA, as amended by the Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments (HSWA) in 1984, requires all facilities which involve the treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste obtain a RCRA/HSWA waste facility permit. LANL complied with CEARP by initiating a process of identifying potential release sites associated with LANL operations prior to filing a RCRA/HSWA permit application. In the process of preparingmore » the RCRA/HSWA waste facility permit application to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a total of 603 Solid Waste Management Units (SWMUs) were identified as part of the requirements of the HSWA Module VIH permit requirements. The HSWA Module VIII permit requires LANL to determine whether there have been any releases of hazardous waste or hazardous constituents from SWMUs at the facility dating from the 1940`s by performing a RCRA Facility Investigation to address known or suspected releases from specified SWMUs to affected media (i.e. soil, groundwater, surface water, and air). Among the most troublesome of the potential releases sites are those associated with airborne radioactive releases. In order to assess health risks associated with radioactive contaminants in a manner consistent with exposure standards currently in place, the DOE and LANL have established Screening Action Levels (SALs) for radioactive soil contamination. The SALs for each radionuclide in soil are derived from calculations based on a residential scenario in which individuals are exposed to contaminated soil via inhalation and ingestion as well as external exposure to gamma emitters in the soil. The applicable SALs are shown.« less

Direct Radiative Effect of Mineral Dust on the Development of African Easterly Wave in Late Summer, 2003-2007

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ma, Po-Lun; Zhang, Kai; Shi, Jainn Jong; Matsui, Toshihisa; Arking, Albert

2012-01-01

Episodic events of both Saharan dust outbreaks and African Easterly Waves (AEWs) are observed to move westward over the eastern tropical Atlantic Ocean. The relationship between the warm, dry, and dusty Saharan Air Layer (SAL) on the nearby storms has been the subject of considerable debate. In this study, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model is used to investigate the radiative effect of dust on the development of AEWs during August and September, the months of maximum tropical cyclone activity, in years 2003-2007. The simulations show that dust radiative forcing enhances the convective instability of the environment. As a result, most AEWs intensify in the presence of a dust layer. The Lorenz energy cycle analysis reveals that the dust radiative forcing enhances the condensational heating, which elevates the zonal and eddy available potential energy. In turn, available potential energy is effectively converted to eddy kinetic energy, in which local convective overturning plays the primary role. The magnitude of the intensification effect depends on the initial environmental conditions, including moisture, baroclinity, and the depth of the boundary layer. We conclude that dust radiative forcing, albeit small, serves as a catalyst to promote local convection that facilitates AEW development.

The C-2 derivatives of salvinorin A, ethoxymethyl ether Sal B and β-tetrahydropyran Sal B, have anti-cocaine properties with minimal side effects.

PubMed

Ewald, Amy W M; Bosch, Peter J; Culverhouse, Aimee; Crowley, Rachel Saylor; Neuenswander, Benjamin; Prisinzano, Thomas E; Kivell, Bronwyn M

2017-08-01

Kappa-opioid receptor (KOPr) agonists have pre-clinical anti-cocaine and analgesic effects. However, side effects including sedation, dysphoria, aversion, anxiety and depression limit their therapeutic development. The unique structure of salvinorin A has been used to develop longer acting KOPr agonists. We evaluate two novel C-2 analogues of salvinorin A, ethoxymethyl ether Sal B (EOM Sal B) and β-tetrahydropyran Sal B (β-THP Sal B) alongside U50,488 for their ability to modulate cocaine-induced behaviours and side effects, pre-clinically. Anti-cocaine properties of EOM Sal B were evaluated using the reinstatement model of drug seeking in self-administering rats. EOM Sal B and β-THP Sal B were evaluated for effects on cocaine-induced hyperactivity, spontaneous locomotor activity and sucrose self-administration. EOM Sal B and β-THP Sal B were evaluated for aversive, anxiogenic and depressive-like effects using conditioned place aversion (CPA), elevated plus maze (EPM) and forced swim tests (FSTs), respectively. EOM Sal B (0.1, 0.3 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.)) dose dependently attenuated drug seeking, and EOM Sal B (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) and β-THP Sal B (1 mg/kg, i.p.) attenuated cocaine-induced hyperactivity. No effects on locomotor activity, open arm times (EPM) or swimming behaviours (FST) were seen with EOM (0.1 or 0.3 mg/kg, i.p.) or β-THP Sal B (1 or 2 mg/kg, i.p.). However, β-THP Sal B decreased time spent in the drug-paired chamber. EOM Sal B is more potent than Sal A and β-THP Sal B in reducing drug-seeking behaviour with fewer side effects. EOM Sal B showed no effects on sucrose self-administration (0.1 mg/kg), locomotor, depressive-like, aversive-like or anxiolytic effects.

Salinomycin sensitizes antimitotic drugs-treated cancer cells by increasing apoptosis via the prevention of G2 arrest

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

Kim, Ju-Hwa; Yoo, Hye-In; Kang, Han Sung

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Sal sensitizes antimitotic drugs-treated cancer cells. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Sal sensitizes them by prevention of G2 arrest and reduced cyclin D1 levels. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Sal also sensitizes them by increasing DNA damage and reducing p21 level. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer A low concentration of Sal effectively sensitized the cancer cells to antimitotic drugs. -- Abstract: Here, we investigated whether Sal could sensitize cancer cells to antimitotic drugs. We demonstrated that Sal sensitized paclitaxcel (PAC)-, docetaxcel (DOC)-, vinblastin (VIN)-, or colchicine (COL)-treated cancer cell lines, suggesting that Sal has the ability to sensitize the cells to any form of microtubule-targeting drugs. Sensitization to the antimitoticmore » drugs could be achieved with very low concentrations of Sal, suggesting that there is a possibility to minimize Sal toxicity associated with human cancer patient treatments. Sensitization by Sal increased apoptosis, which was observed by C-PARP production. Sal sensitized the cancer cells to antimitotic drugs by preventing G2 arrest, suggesting that Sal contributes to the induction of mitotic catastrophe. Sal generally reduced cyclin D1 levels in PAC-, DOC-, and VIN-treated cells. In addition, Sal treatment increased pH2AX levels and reduced p21 levels in antimitotic drugs-treated cells. These observations suggest that the mechanisms underlying Sal sensitization to DNA-damaging compounds, radiation, and microtubule-targeting drugs are similar. Our data demonstrated that Sal sensitizes cancer cells to antimitotic drugs by increasing apoptosis through the prevention of G2 arrest via conserved Sal-sensitization mechanisms. These results may contribute to the development of Sal-based chemotherapy for cancer patients treated with antimitotic drugs.« less

sal Genes Determining the Catabolism of Salicylate Esters Are Part of a Supraoperonic Cluster of Catabolic Genes in Acinetobacter sp. Strain ADP1

PubMed Central

Jones, Rheinallt M.; Pagmantidis, Vassilis; Williams, Peter A.

2000-01-01

A 5-kbp region upstream of the are-ben-cat genes was cloned from Acinetobacter sp. strain ADP1, extending the supraoperonic cluster of catabolic genes to 30 kbp. Four open reading frames, salA, salR, salE, and salD, were identified from the nucleotide sequence. Reverse transcription-PCR studies suggested that these open reading frames are organized into two convergent transcription units, salAR and salDE. The salE gene, encoding a protein of 239 residues, was ligated into expression vector pET5a. Its product, SalE, was shown to have esterase activity against short-chain alkyl esters of 4-nitrophenol but was also able to hydrolyze ethyl salicylate to ethanol and salicylic acid. A mutant of ADP1 with a Kmr cassette introduced into salE had lost the ability to utilize only ethyl and methyl salicylates of the esters tested as sole carbon sources, and no esterase activity against ethyl salicylate could be detected in cell extracts. SalE was induced during growth on ethyl salicylate but not during growth on salicylate itself. salD encoded a protein of undetermined function with homologies to the Escherichia coli FadL membrane protein, which is involved in facilitating fatty acid transport, and a number of other proteins detected during aromatic catabolism, which may also function in hydrocarbon transport or uptake processes. A Kmr cassette insertion in salD deleteriously affected cell growth and viability. The salA and salR gene products closely resemble two Pseudomonas proteins, NahG and NahR, respectively encoding salicylate hydroxylase and the LysR family regulator of both salicylate and naphthalene catabolism. salA was cloned into pUC18 together with salR and salE, and its gene product showed salicylate-inducible hydroxylase activity against a range of substituted salicylates, with the same relative specific activities as found in wild-type ADP1 grown on salicylate. Mutations involving insertion of Kmr cassettes into salA and salR eliminated expression of salicylate hydroxylase activity and the ability to grow on either salicylate or ethyl salicylate. Studies of mutants with disruptions of genes of the β-ketoadipate pathway with or without an additional salE mutation confirmed that ethyl salicylate and salicylate were channeled into the β-ketoadipate pathway at the level of catechol and thence dissimilated by the cat gene products. SalR appeared to regulate expression of salA but not salE. PMID:10715011

Simulating Emission and Chemical Evolution of Coarse Sea-Salt Particles in the Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) Model

EPA Science Inventory

Chemical processing of sea-salt particles in coastal environments significantly impacts concentrations of particle components and gas-phase species and has implications for human exposure to particulate matter and nitrogen deposition to sensitive ecosystems. Emission of sea-sal...

Glycopyrronium once-daily significantly improves lung function and health status when combined with salmeterol/fluticasone in patients with COPD: the GLISTEN study—a randomised controlled trial

PubMed Central

Frith, Peter A; Thompson, Philip J; Ratnavadivel, Rajeev; Chang, Catherina L; Bremner, Peter; Day, Peter; Frenzel, Christina; Kurstjens, Nicol

2015-01-01

Background The optimal use of various therapeutic combinations for moderate/severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unclear. The GLISTEN trial compared the efficacy of two long-acting anti-muscarinic antagonists (LAMA), when combined with an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting β2 agonist (LABA). Methods This randomised, blinded, placebo-controlled trial in moderate/severe COPD patients compared once-daily glycopyrronium (GLY) 50 µg, once-daily tiotropium (TIO) 18 µg or placebo (PLA), when combined with salmeterol/fluticasone propionate (SAL/FP) 50/500 µg twice daily. The primary objective was to determine the non-inferiority of GLY+SAL/FP versus TIO+SAL/FP on trough FEV1 after 12 weeks. An important secondary objective was whether addition of GLY to SAL/FP was better than SAL/FP alone. Results 773 patients (mean FEV1 57.2% predicted) were randomised; 84.9% completed the trial. At week 12, GLY+SAL/FP demonstrated non-inferiority to TIO+SAL/FP for trough FEV1: least square mean treatment difference (LSMdiff) −7 mL (SE 17.4) with a lower limit for non-inferiority of −60 mL. There was significant increase in week 12 trough FEV1 with GLY+SAL/FP versus PLA+SAL/FP (LSMdiff 101 mL, p<0.001). At 12 weeks, GLY+SAL/FP produced significant improvement in St George's Respiratory Questionnaire total score versus PLA+SAL/FP (LSMdiff −2.154, p=0.02). GLY+SAL/FP demonstrated significant rescue medication reduction versus PLA+SAL/FP (LSMdiff −0.72 puffs/day, p<0.001). Serious adverse events were similar for GLY+SAL/FP, TIO+SAL/FP and PLA+SAL/FP with an incidence of 5.8%, 8.5% and 5.8%, respectively. Conclusions GLY+SAL/FP showed comparable improvements in lung function, health status and rescue medication to TIO+SAL/FP. Importantly, addition of GLY to SAL/FP demonstrated significant improvements in lung function, health status and rescue medication compared to SAL/FP. Trial registration number NCT01513460. PMID:25841237

Oral immunization with a novel attenuated Salmonella Typhimurium encoding influenza HA, M2e and NA antigens protects chickens against H7N9 infection.

PubMed

Kim, Je Hyoung; Hajam, Irshad Ahmed; Lee, John Hwa

2018-02-01

Attenuated Salmonella strains constitute a promising technology for the development of efficient protein-based influenza vaccines. H7N9, a low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) virus, is a major public health concern and currently there are no effective vaccines against this subtype. Herein, we constructed a novel attenuated Salmonella Typhimurium strain for the delivery and expression of H7N9 hemagglutinin (HA), neuraminidase (NA) or the conserved extracellular domain of the matrix protein 2 (M2e). We demonstrated that the constructed Salmonella strains exhibited efficient HA, NA and M2e expressions, respectively, and the constructs were safe and immunogenic in chickens. Our results showed that chickens immunized once orally with Salmonella (Sal) mutants encoding HA (Sal-HA), M2e (Sal-M2e) or NA (Sal-NA), administered either alone or in combination, induced both antigen-specific humoral and cell mediated immune (CMI) responses, and protected chickens against the lethal H7N9 challenge. However, chickens immunized with Sal-HA+Sal-M2e+Sal-NA vaccine constructs exhibited efficient mucosal and CMI responses compared to the chickens that received only Sal-HA, Sal-M2e or Sal-M2e+Sal-NA vaccine. Further, chickens immunized with Sal-HA+Sal-M2e+Sal-NA constructs cleared H7N9 infection at a faster rate compared to the chickens that were vaccinated with Sal-HA, Sal-M2e or Sal-M2e+Sal-NA, as indicated by the reduced viral shedding in cloacal swabs of the immunized chickens. We conclude that this vaccination strategy, based on HA, M2e and NA, stimulated efficient induction of immune protection against the lethal H7N9 LPAI virus and, therefore, further studies are warranted to develop this approach as a potential prophylaxis against LPAI viruses affecting poultry birds.

Critical difference applied to exercise-induced salivary testosterone and cortisol using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA): distinguishing biological from statistical change.

PubMed

Hayes, Lawrence D; Sculthorpe, Nicholas; Young, John D; Baker, Julien S; Grace, Fergal M

2014-12-01

Due to its noninvasive, convenient, and practical nature, salivary testosterone (sal-T) and cortisol (sal-C) are frequently used in a clinical and applied setting. However, few studies report biological and analytical error and even fewer report the 'critical difference' which is the change required before a true biological difference can be claimed. It was hypothesized that (a) exercise would result in a statistically significant change in sal-C and sal-T and (b) the exercise-induced change would be within the critical difference for both salivary hormones. In study 1, we calculated the critical difference of sal-T and sal-C of 18 healthy adult males aged 23.2 ± 3.0 years every 60 min in a seated position over a 12-h period (08:00-20:00 hours [study 1]). As proof-of-concept, sal-C and sal-T was also obtained pre and at 5 and 60 min post a maximal exercise protocols in a separate group of 17 healthy males (aged 20.1 ± 2.8 years [study 2]). The critical difference of sal-T calculated as 90 %. For sal-C, the critical difference was 148 % (study 1). Maximal exercise was associated with a statistically significant (p < 0.05) changes in sal-T and sal-C. However, these changes were all within the critical difference range. Results from this investigation indicate that a large magnitude of change for sal-C and sal-T is required before a biologically significant mean change can be claimed. Studies utilizing sal-T and sal-C should appreciate the critical difference of these measures and assess the biological significance of any statistical changes.

Development of Lipid-Shell and Polymer Core Nanoparticles with Water-Soluble Salidroside for Anti-Cancer Therapy

PubMed Central

Fang, Dai-Long; Chen, Yan; Xu, Bei; Ren, Ke; He, Zhi-Yao; He, Li-Li; Lei, Yi; Fan, Chun-Mei; Song, Xiang-Rong

2014-01-01

Salidroside (Sal) is a potent antitumor drug with high water-solubility. The clinic application of Sal in cancer therapy has been significantly restricted by poor oral absorption and low tumor cell uptake. To solve this problem, lipid-shell and polymer-core nanoparticles (Sal-LPNPs) loaded with Sal were developed by a double emulsification method. The processing parameters including the polymer types, organic phase, PVA types and amount were systemically investigated. The obtained optimal Sal-LPNPs, composed of PLGA-PEG-PLGA triblock copolymers and lipids, had high entrapment efficiency (65%), submicron size (150 nm) and negatively charged surface (−23 mV). DSC analysis demonstrated the successful encapsulation of Sal into LPNPs. The core-shell structure of Sal-LPNPs was verified by TEM. Sal released slowly from the LPNPs without apparent burst release. MTT assay revealed that 4T1 and PANC-1 cancer cell lines were sensitive to Sal treatment. Sal-LPNPs had significantly higher antitumor activities than free Sal in 4T1 and PANC-1 cells. The data indicate that LPNPs are a promising Sal vehicle for anti-cancer therapy and worthy of further investigation. PMID:24573250

Development of lipid-shell and polymer core nanoparticles with water-soluble salidroside for anti-cancer therapy.

PubMed

Fang, Dai-Long; Chen, Yan; Xu, Bei; Ren, Ke; He, Zhi-Yao; He, Li-Li; Lei, Yi; Fan, Chun-Mei; Song, Xiang-Rong

2014-02-25

Salidroside (Sal) is a potent antitumor drug with high water-solubility. The clinic application of Sal in cancer therapy has been significantly restricted by poor oral absorption and low tumor cell uptake. To solve this problem, lipid-shell and polymer-core nanoparticles (Sal-LPNPs) loaded with Sal were developed by a double emulsification method. The processing parameters including the polymer types, organic phase, PVA types and amount were systemically investigated. The obtained optimal Sal-LPNPs, composed of PLGA-PEG-PLGA triblock copolymers and lipids, had high entrapment efficiency (65%), submicron size (150 nm) and negatively charged surface (-23 mV). DSC analysis demonstrated the successful encapsulation of Sal into LPNPs. The core-shell structure of Sal-LPNPs was verified by TEM. Sal released slowly from the LPNPs without apparent burst release. MTT assay revealed that 4T1 and PANC-1 cancer cell lines were sensitive to Sal treatment. Sal-LPNPs had significantly higher antitumor activities than free Sal in 4T1 and PANC-1 cells. The data indicate that LPNPs are a promising Sal vehicle for anti-cancer therapy and worthy of further investigation.

Capability of U-Pb dating of zircons from Quaternary tephra: Jemez Mountains, NM, and La Sal Mountains, UT, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krautz, Jana; Hofmann, Mandy; Gärtner, Andreas; Linnemann, Ulf; Kleber, Arno

2018-01-01

Two Quaternary tephras derived from the Jemez Mountains, New Mexico - the Guaje and Tsankawi tephras - are difficult to distinguish due to their similar glass-shard chemical composition. Differences in bulk chemical composition are small as well. Here we examine the feasibility to assign an age to a distal tephra layer in the La Sal Mountains, Utah, by U-Pb dating of zircons and to correlate it with one of the two Jemez eruptions. We also dated original Jemez tephras for comparison. Even though the tephras are very young, we obtained reasonable age determinations using the youngest cluster of zircon grains overlapping in age at 2σ. Thereafter, the Guaje tephra is 1.513 ± 0.021 Myr old. The La Sal Mountains tephra is correlated with the Tsankawi tephra. Three samples yielded a common age range of 1.31-1.40 Myr. All ages are in slight disagreement with published age determinations obtained by 40Ar / 39Ar dating. These findings indicate that distal Jemez tephras can be distinguished by U-Pb dating. Furthermore, we encourage giving this method a try for age assignments even of Quaternary volcanic material.

40 CFR 141.402 - Ground water source microbial monitoring and analytical methods.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... for the presence of E. coli, enterococci, or coliphage: Analytical Methods for Source Water Monitoring... Microbiology, 62:3881-3884. 10 EPA Method 1601: Male-specific (F+) and Somatic Coliphage in Water by Two-step... 20460. 11 EPA Method 1602: Male-specific (F+) and Somatic Coliphage in Water by Single Agar Layer (SAL...

40 CFR 141.402 - Ground water source microbial monitoring and analytical methods.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... for the presence of E. coli, enterococci, or coliphage: Analytical Methods for Source Water Monitoring... Microbiology, 62:3881-3884. 10 EPA Method 1601: Male-specific (F+) and Somatic Coliphage in Water by Two-step... 20460. 11 EPA Method 1602: Male-specific (F+) and Somatic Coliphage in Water by Single Agar Layer (SAL...

Different occupations associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: is diesel exhaust the link?

PubMed

Pamphlett, Roger; Rikard-Bell, Anna

2013-01-01

The cause of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS) remains unknown. We attempted to find out if occupational exposure to toxicants plays a part in the pathogenesis of this disease. In an Australia-wide case-control study we compared the lifetime occupations of 611 SALS and 775 control individuals. Occupations were coded using country-specific as well as international classifications. The risk of SALS for each occupation was calculated with odds ratios using logistic regression. In addition, the literature was searched for possible toxicant links between our findings and previously-reported occupational associations with SALS. Male occupations in our study that required lower skills and tasks tended to have increased risks of SALS, and conversely, those occupations that required higher skills and tasks had decreased risks of SALS. Of all the occupations, only truck drivers, where exposure to diesel exhaust is common, maintained an increased risk of SALS throughout all occupational groups. Another large case-control study has also found truck drivers to be at risk of SALS, and almost two-thirds of occupations, as well as military duties, that have previously been associated with SALS have potential exposure to diesel exhaust. In conclusion, two of the largest case-control studies of SALS have now found that truck drivers have an increased risk of SALS. Since exposure to diesel exhaust is common in truck drivers, as well as in other occupations that have been linked to SALS, exposure to this toxicant may underlie some of the occupations that are associated with SALS.

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

Yu, Shu; Cheng, Qiong; Li, Lu

Salidroside is proven to be a neuroprotective agent of natural origin, and its analog, 2-(4-Methoxyphenyl)ethyl-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β-D-pyranoside (named SalA-4 g), has been synthesized in our lab. In this study, we showed that SalA-4 g promoted neuronal survival and inhibited neuronal apoptosis in primary hippocampal neurons exposed to oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) and in rats subjected to ischemia by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), respectively, and that SalA-4 g was more neuroprotective than salidroside. We further found that SalA-4 g elevated glucose uptake in OGD-injured primary hippocampal neurons and increased the expression and recruitment of glucose transporter 3 (GLUT3) in ischemicmore » brain. Signaling analysis revealed that SalA-4 g triggered the phosphorylation of CREB, and increased the expression of PKA RII in primary hippocampal neurons exposed to OGD injury, while inhibition of PKA/CREB by H-89 alleviated the elevation in glucose uptake and GLUT3 expression, and blocked the protective effects of SalA-4 g. Moreover, SalA-4 g was noted to inhibit intracellular Ca{sup 2+} influx and calpain1 activation in OGD-injured primary hippocampal neurons. Our results suggest that SalA-4 g neuroprotection might be mediated by increased glucose uptake and elevated GLUT3 expression through calpain1/PKA/CREB pathway. - Highlights: • A salidroside (Sal) analog (SalA-4 g) is prepared to be more neuroprotective than Sal. • SalA-4 g protected hippocampal neurons from oxygen and glucose deprivation insult. • SalA-4 g reduced ischemic injury after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats. • Neuroprotection of SalA-4 g was mediated by GLUT3 level via calpain/PKA/CREB pathway.« less

Aquatic photolysis of β2-agonist salbutamol: kinetics and mechanism studies.

PubMed

Zhou, Lei; Wang, Qi; Zhang, Ya; Ji, Yuefei; Yang, Xi

2017-02-01

Salbutamol (SAL) has been widely used as medicine both in treating asthma and in animal primary production; an increasing number of reports have detected SAL in natural waters. The photolysis kinetic and pathway of SAL in aquatic system were studied, as well as the effect of several natural water constituents, such as nitrate, dissolved oxygen (DO) and ferric ions. According to our research, the direct photolysis of SAL followed pseudo-first-order reaction kinetics. Alkaline condition could promote the degradation of SAL; the increase of solution pH would simultaneously increase the fraction of the deprotonated forms of SAL (including the deprotonated and zwitterionic species), which were easier to be excited, and result in the bathochromic shift of the UV-Vis spectrum and, finally, accelerate the degradation rate of SAL. The presence of nitrate could enhance the removal rate of SAL via generation hydroxyl radical (·OH) under irradiation. In addition, the absence of oxygen in the reaction solution could decrease the photolysis. Moreover, Fe(III) was able to chelate with SAL to form an octahedral complex, which was photochemically reactive. The octahedral complex could generate ·OH to oxidize SAL itself in turn. The pathways of SAL photolysis were also investigated by means of the solid phase extraction (SPE)-LC-MS method. The major pathways of SAL photodegradation included oxidation and side-chain cleavage.

Different Occupations Associated with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Is Diesel Exhaust the Link?

PubMed Central

Pamphlett, Roger; Rikard-Bell, Anna

2013-01-01

The cause of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS) remains unknown. We attempted to find out if occupational exposure to toxicants plays a part in the pathogenesis of this disease. In an Australia-wide case-control study we compared the lifetime occupations of 611 SALS and 775 control individuals. Occupations were coded using country-specific as well as international classifications. The risk of SALS for each occupation was calculated with odds ratios using logistic regression. In addition, the literature was searched for possible toxicant links between our findings and previously-reported occupational associations with SALS. Male occupations in our study that required lower skills and tasks tended to have increased risks of SALS, and conversely, those occupations that required higher skills and tasks had decreased risks of SALS. Of all the occupations, only truck drivers, where exposure to diesel exhaust is common, maintained an increased risk of SALS throughout all occupational groups. Another large case-control study has also found truck drivers to be at risk of SALS, and almost two-thirds of occupations, as well as military duties, that have previously been associated with SALS have potential exposure to diesel exhaust. In conclusion, two of the largest case-control studies of SALS have now found that truck drivers have an increased risk of SALS. Since exposure to diesel exhaust is common in truck drivers, as well as in other occupations that have been linked to SALS, exposure to this toxicant may underlie some of the occupations that are associated with SALS. PMID:24244728

Characterisation of SalRAB a Salicylic Acid Inducible Positively Regulated Efflux System of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv viciae 3841

PubMed Central

Tett, Adrian J.; Karunakaran, Ramakrishnan; Poole, Philip S.

2014-01-01

Salicylic acid is an important signalling molecule in plant-microbe defence and symbiosis. We analysed the transcriptional responses of the nitrogen fixing plant symbiont, Rhizobium leguminosarum bv viciae 3841 to salicylic acid. Two MFS-type multicomponent efflux systems were induced in response to salicylic acid, rmrAB and the hitherto undescribed system salRAB. Based on sequence similarity salA and salB encode a membrane fusion and inner membrane protein respectively. salAB are positively regulated by the LysR regulator SalR. Disruption of salA significantly increased the sensitivity of the mutant to salicylic acid, while disruption of rmrA did not. A salA/rmrA double mutation did not have increased sensitivity relative to the salA mutant. Pea plants nodulated by salA or rmrA strains did not have altered nodule number or nitrogen fixation rates, consistent with weak expression of salA in the rhizosphere and in nodule bacteria. However, BLAST analysis revealed seventeen putative efflux systems in Rlv3841 and several of these were highly differentially expressed during rhizosphere colonisation, host infection and bacteroid differentiation. This suggests they have an integral role in symbiosis with host plants. PMID:25133394

Conversion of salvianolic acid B into salvianolic acid A in tissues of Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae using high temperature, high pressure and high humidity.

PubMed

Xia, Hongrui; Sun, Longru; Lou, Hongxiang; Rahman, M Mukhlesur

2014-05-15

Salvianolic acid A (Sal A), an important constituent of Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae (RSM), is effective for the treatment of myocardial infarction (MI) and coronary heart disease due to its potential in the improvement of acute myocardial ischemia. However, its content is very low in RSM. So it is obvious to find a rich source of Sal A or to improve its content by conversion of other related components into Sal A modifying reaction conditions. In this research we focused on the conversion of Sal B into Sal A in aqueous solutions of RSM by using different reaction conditions including pH, temperature, pressure and humidity. During the reactions, the contents of Sal A, Sal B and danshensu in the RSM were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS). The results indicated that the conversion of Sal B into Sal A in RSM tissues under the conditions of a high temperature, high pressure and high humidity was efficient and thereby, was readily utilized to prepare rich Sal A materials in practice. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

SalB inactivation modulates culture supernatant exoproteins and affects autolysis and viability in Enterococcus faecalis OG1RF.

PubMed

Shankar, Jayendra; Walker, Rachel G; Wilkinson, Mark C; Ward, Deborah; Horsburgh, Malcolm J

2012-07-01

The culture supernatant fraction of an Enterococcus faecalis gelE mutant of strain OG1RF contained elevated levels of the secreted antigen SalB. Using differential fluorescence gel electrophoresis (DIGE) the salB mutant was shown to possess a unique complement of exoproteins. Differentially abundant exoproteins were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. Stress-related proteins including DnaK, Dps family protein, SOD, and NADH peroxidase were present in greater quantity in the OG1RF salB mutant culture supernatant. Moreover, several proteins involved in cell wall synthesis and cell division, including d-Ala-d-Lac ligase and EzrA, were present in reduced quantity in OG1RF salB relative to the parent strain. The salB mutant displayed reduced viability and anomalous cell division, and these phenotypes were exacerbated in a gelE salB double mutant. An epistatic relationship between gelE and salB was not identified with respect to increased autolysis and cell morphological changes observed in the salB mutant. SalB was purified as a six-histidine-tagged protein to investigate peptidoglycan hydrolytic activity; however, activity was not evident. High-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of reduced muropeptides from peptidoglycan digested with mutanolysin revealed that the salB mutant and OG1RF were indistinguishable.

Protective effect of salidroside against bone loss via hypoxia-inducible factor-1α pathway-induced angiogenesis

PubMed Central

Li, Ling; Qu, Ye; Jin, Xin; Guo, Xiao Qin; Wang, Yue; Qi, Lin; Yang, Jing; Zhang, Peng; Li, Ling Zhi

2016-01-01

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α plays a critical role in coupling angiogenesis with osteogenesis during bone development and regeneration. Salidroside (SAL) has shown anti-hypoxic effects in vitro and in vivo. However, the possible roles of SAL in the prevention of hypoxia-induced osteoporosis have remained unknown. Two osteoblast cell lines, MG-63 and ROB, were employed to evaluate the effects of SAL on cell viability, apoptosis, differentiation and mineralization in vitro. Rats subjected to ovariectomy-induced bone loss were treated with SAL in vivo. Our results showed that pre-treatment with SAL markedly attenuated the hypoxia-induced reductions in cell viability, apoptosis, differentiation and mineralization. SAL down-regulated HIF-1α expression and inhibited its translocation; however, SAL increased its transcriptional activity and, consequently, up-regulated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In vivo studies further demonstrated that SAL caused decreases in the mineral, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and BGP concentrations in the blood of ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Moreover, SAL improved the trabecular bone microarchitecture and increased bone mineral density in the distal femur. Additionally, SAL administration partially ameliorated this hypoxia via the HIF-1α-VEGF signalling pathway. Our results indicate that SAL prevents bone loss by enhancing angiogenesis and osteogenesis and that these effects are associated with the activation of HIF-1α signalling. PMID:27558909

Tsunami vulnerability and damage assessment in the coastal area of Rabat and Salé, Morocco

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atillah, A.; El Hadani, D.; Moudni, H.; Lesne, O.; Renou, C.; Mangin, A.; Rouffi, F.

2011-12-01

This study, a companion paper to Renou et al. (2011), focuses on the application of a GIS-based method to assess building vulnerability and damage in the event of a tsunami affecting the coastal area of Rabat and Salé, Morocco. This approach, designed within the framework of the European SCHEMA project (www.schemaproject.org) is based on the combination of hazard results from numerical modelling of the worst case tsunami scenario (inundation depth) based on the historical Lisbon earthquake of 1755 and the Portugal earthquake of 1969, together with vulnerability building types derived from Earth Observation data, field surveys and GIS data. The risk is then evaluated for this highly concentrated population area characterized by the implementation of a vast project of residential and touristic buildings within the flat area of the Bouregreg Valley separating the cities of Rabat and Salé. A GIS tool is used to derive building damage maps by crossing layers of inundation levels and building vulnerability. The inferred damage maps serve as a base for elaborating evacuation plans with appropriate rescue and relief processes and to prepare and consider appropriate measures to prevent the induced tsunami risk.

Characterization and cytotoxicity evaluation of biocompatible amino acid esters used to convert salicylic acid into ionic liquids.

PubMed

Moshikur, Rahman Md; Chowdhury, Md Raihan; Wakabayashi, Rie; Tahara, Yoshiro; Moniruzzaman, Muhammad; Goto, Masahiro

2018-07-30

The technological utility of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is greatly enhanced when they are transformed into ionic liquids (ILs). API-ILs have better solubility, thermal stability, and the efficacy in topical delivery than solid or crystalline drugs. However, toxicological issue of API-ILs is the main challenge for their application in drug delivery. To address this issue, 11 amino acid esters (AAEs) were synthesized and investigated as biocompatible counter cations for the poorly water-soluble drug salicylic acid (Sal) to form Sal-ILs. The AAEs were characterized using 1 H and 13 C NMR, FTIR, elemental, and thermogravimetric analyses. The cytotoxicities of the AAE cations, Sal-ILs, and free Sal were investigated using mammalian cell lines (L929 and HeLa). The toxicities of the AAE cations greatly increased with inclusion of long alkyl chains, sulfur, and aromatic rings in the side groups of the cations. Ethyl esters of alanine, aspartic acid, and proline were selected as a low cytotoxic AAE. The cytotoxicities of the Sal-ILs drastically increased compared with the AAEs on incorporation of Sal into the cations, and were comparable to that of free Sal. Interestingly, the water miscibilities of the Sal-ILs were higher than that of free Sal, and the Sal-ILs were miscible with water at any ratio. A skin permeation study showed that the Sal-ILs penetrated through skin faster than the Sal sodium salt. These results suggest that AAEs could be used in biomedical applications to eliminate the use of traditional toxic solvents for transdermal delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Compositional Abstraction and Refinement for Aspects (CARA)

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-03-01

tight. 5 5 The SAL Language Manual by Leonardo de Moura, Sam Owre, and N. Shankar. Avail- able as [9]. The heart of the SAL system is its language , also...called SAL. The SAL language provides an attractive language for writing specifications, and it is also suitable as a target for translating...key part of the SAL framework is a language for describing transition systems. This language serves as a specification language and as the target for

Comparative Genomics and Transcriptional Analysis of Prophages Identified in the Genomes of Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus salivarius, and Lactobacillus casei†

PubMed Central

Ventura, Marco; Canchaya, Carlos; Bernini, Valentina; Altermann, Eric; Barrangou, Rodolphe; McGrath, Stephen; Claesson, Marcus J.; Li, Yin; Leahy, Sinead; Walker, Carey D.; Zink, Ralf; Neviani, Erasmo; Steele, Jim; Broadbent, Jeff; Klaenhammer, Todd R.; Fitzgerald, Gerald F.; O'Toole, Paul W.; van Sinderen, Douwe

2006-01-01

Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323, Lactobacillus salivarius subsp. salivarius UCC 118, and Lactobacillus casei ATCC 334 contain one (LgaI), four (Sal1, Sal2, Sal3, Sal4), and one (Lca1) distinguishable prophage sequences, respectively. Sequence analysis revealed that LgaI, Lca1, Sal1, and Sal2 prophages belong to the group of Sfi11-like pac site and cos site Siphoviridae, respectively. Phylogenetic investigation of these newly described prophage sequences revealed that they have not followed an evolutionary development similar to that of their bacterial hosts and that they show a high degree of diversity, even within a species. The attachment sites were determined for all these prophage elements; LgaI as well as Sal1 integrates in tRNA genes, while prophage Sal2 integrates in a predicted arginino-succinate lyase-encoding gene. In contrast, Lca1 and the Sal3 and Sal4 prophage remnants are integrated in noncoding regions in the L. casei ATCC 334 and L. salivarius UCC 118 genomes. Northern analysis showed that large parts of the prophage genomes are transcriptionally silent and that transcription is limited to genome segments located near the attachment site. Finally, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis followed by Southern blot hybridization with specific prophage probes indicates that these prophage sequences are narrowly distributed within lactobacilli. PMID:16672450

Salidroside mediates apoptosis and autophagy inhibition in concanavalin A-induced liver injury

PubMed Central

Feng, Jiao; Niu, Peiqin; Chen, Kan; Wu, Liwei; Liu, Tong; Xu, Shizan; Li, Jingjing; Li, Sainan; Wang, Wenwen; Lu, Xiya; Yu, Qiang; Liu, Ning; Xu, Ling; Wang, Fan; Dai, Weiqi; Xia, Yujing; Fan, Xiaoming; Guo, Chuanyong

2018-01-01

Salidroside (Sal) is a glycoside extract from Rhodiola rosea L. with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer and cardioprotective properties. The present study explored the protective effects and the possible mechanisms of Sal on concanavalin A (ConA)-induced liver injury in mice. Balb/C mice were divided into five groups: Normal control (injected with normal saline), ConA (25 mg/kg), Sal (10 mg/kg) +ConA, Sal (20 mg/kg) + ConA (Sal injected 2 h prior to ConA injection) and Sal (20 mg/kg) only. The serum levels of liver enzymes, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and apoptosis- and autophagy-associated marker proteins were determined at 2, 8 and 24 h after ConA injection. LY294002 was further used to verify whether the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway was activated. Primary hepatocytes were isolated to verify the effect of Sal in vitro. The results indicated that Sal was a safe agent to reduce pathological damage and serum liver enzymes in ConA-induced liver injury. Sal suppressed inflammatory reactions in serum and liver tissues, and activated the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to inhibit apoptosis and autophagy in vivo and in vitro, which could be reversed by LY294002. In conclusion, Sal attenuated ConA-induced liver injury by modulating PI3K/Akt pathway-mediated apoptosis and autophagy in mice.

iRGD-conjugated DSPE-PEG2000 nanomicelles for targeted delivery of salinomycin for treatment of both liver cancer cells and cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Mao, Xiaoli; Liu, Junjie; Gong, Zhirong; Zhang, He; Lu, Ying; Zou, Hao; Yu, Yuan; Chen, Yan; Sun, Zhiguo; Li, Wei; Li, Bohua; Gao, Jie; Zhong, Yanqiang

2015-01-01

To develop novel iRGD (internalizing Arg-Gly-Asp peptide)-conjugated DSPE-PEG2000 nanomicelles (M-SAL-iRGD) for delivery of salinomycin to both liver cancer cells and cancer stem cells (CSCs). The characterization, antitumor activity and mechanism of action of M-SAL-iRGD were evaluated. M-SAL-iRGD possessed a small size of around 10 nm, and drug encapsulation efficacy higher than 90%. M-SAL-iRGD showed significantly increased cytotoxic effect toward both nontargeted M-SAL (salinomycin-loaded DSPE-PEG2000 nanomicelles) and salinomycin in both liver cancer cells and CSCs. The tissue distribution and antitumor assays in mice bearing liver cancer xenograft confirmed the superior penetration tumor efficacy and antitumor activity of M-SAL-iRGD. M-SAL-iRGD represent a potential effective nanomedicine against liver cancer.

Oxidative DNA damage and mammary cell proliferation by alcohol-derived salsolinol.

PubMed

Murata, Mariko; Midorikawa, Kaoru; Kawanishi, Shosuke

2013-10-21

Drinking alcohol is a risk factor for breast cancer. Salsolinol (SAL) is endogenously formed by a condensation reaction of dopamine with acetaldehyde, a major ethanol metabolite, and SAL is detected in blood and urine after alcohol intake. We investigated the possibility that SAL can participate in tumor initiation and promotion by causing DNA damage and cell proliferation, leading to alcohol-associated mammary carcinogenesis. SAL caused oxidative DNA damage including 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG), in the presence of transition metal ions, such as Cu(II) and Fe(III)EDTA. Inhibitory effects of scavengers on SAL-induced DNA damage and the electron spin resonance study indicated the involvement of H₂O₂, which is generated via the SAL radical. Experiments on scavengers and site specificity of DNA damage suggested ·OH generation via a Fenton reaction and copper-peroxide complexes in the presence of Fe(III)EDTA and Cu(II), respectively. SAL significantly increased 8-oxodG formation in normal mammary epithelial MCF-10A cells. In addition, SAL induced cell proliferation in estrogen receptor (ER)-negative MCF-10A cells, and the proliferation was inhibited by an antioxidant N-acetylcysteine and an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor AG1478, suggesting that reactive oxygen species may participate in the proliferation of MCF-10A cells via EGFR activation. Furthermore, SAL induced proliferation in estrogen-sensitive breast cancer MCF-7 cells, and a surface plasmon resonance sensor revealed that SAL significantly increased the binding activity of ERα to the estrogen response element but not ERβ. In conclusion, SAL-induced DNA damage and cell proliferation may play a role in tumor initiation and promotion of multistage mammary carcinogenesis in relation to drinking alcohol.

Role of Lipase from Community-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strain USA300 in Hydrolyzing Triglycerides into Growth-Inhibitory Free Fatty Acids

PubMed Central

Cadieux, Brigitte; Vijayakumaran, Vithooshan; Bernards, Mark A.; McGavin, Martin J.

2014-01-01

Part of the human host innate immune response involves the secretion of bactericidal lipids on the skin and delivery of triglycerides into abscesses to control invading pathogens. Two Staphylococcus aureus lipases, named SAL1 and SAL2, were identified in the community-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus strain USA300, which, presumably, are produced and function to degrade triglycerides to release free fatty acids. We show that the SAL2 lipase is one of the most abundant proteins secreted by USA300 and is proteolytically processed from the 72-kDa proSAL2 to the 44-kDa mature SAL2 by the metalloprotease aureolysin. We show that spent culture supernatants had lipase activity on both short- and long-chain fatty acid substrates and that deletion of gehB, encoding SAL2, resulted in the complete loss of these activities. With the use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, we show that SAL2 hydrolyzed trilinolein to linoleic acid, a fatty acid with known antistaphylococcal properties. When added to cultures of USA300, trilinolein and, to a lesser extent, triolein inhibited growth in a SAL2-dependent manner. This effect was shown to be due to the enzymatic activity of SAL2 on these triglycerides, since the catalytically inactive SAL2 Ser412Ala mutant was incapable of hydrolyzing the triglycerides or yielding delayed growth in their presence. Overall, these results reveal that SAL2 hydrolyzes triglycerides of both short- and long-chain fatty acids and that the released free fatty acids have the potential to cause significant delays in growth, depending on the chemical nature of the free fatty acid. PMID:25225262

Role of lipase from community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain USA300 in hydrolyzing triglycerides into growth-inhibitory free fatty acids.

PubMed

Cadieux, Brigitte; Vijayakumaran, Vithooshan; Bernards, Mark A; McGavin, Martin J; Heinrichs, David E

2014-12-01

Part of the human host innate immune response involves the secretion of bactericidal lipids on the skin and delivery of triglycerides into abscesses to control invading pathogens. Two Staphylococcus aureus lipases, named SAL1 and SAL2, were identified in the community-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus strain USA300, which, presumably, are produced and function to degrade triglycerides to release free fatty acids. We show that the SAL2 lipase is one of the most abundant proteins secreted by USA300 and is proteolytically processed from the 72-kDa proSAL2 to the 44-kDa mature SAL2 by the metalloprotease aureolysin. We show that spent culture supernatants had lipase activity on both short- and long-chain fatty acid substrates and that deletion of gehB, encoding SAL2, resulted in the complete loss of these activities. With the use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, we show that SAL2 hydrolyzed trilinolein to linoleic acid, a fatty acid with known antistaphylococcal properties. When added to cultures of USA300, trilinolein and, to a lesser extent, triolein inhibited growth in a SAL2-dependent manner. This effect was shown to be due to the enzymatic activity of SAL2 on these triglycerides, since the catalytically inactive SAL2 Ser412Ala mutant was incapable of hydrolyzing the triglycerides or yielding delayed growth in their presence. Overall, these results reveal that SAL2 hydrolyzes triglycerides of both short- and long-chain fatty acids and that the released free fatty acids have the potential to cause significant delays in growth, depending on the chemical nature of the free fatty acid. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

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

Yue, Jianmei; Department of Endocrinology, The First Hospital of Zibo, 4# E Mei Shan Dong Road, Zibo 255200; Li, Bo, E-mail: libosubmit@163.com

Objectives: Cholesterol efflux has been thought to be the main and basic mechanism by which free cholesterol is transferred from extra hepatic cells to the liver or intestine for excretion. Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) has been widely used for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic diseases. Here, we sought to investigate the effects of Sal B on the cholesterol efflux in THP-1 macrophages. Methods: After PMA-stimulated THP-1 cells were exposed to 50 mg/L of oxLDL and [{sup 3}H] cholesterol (1.0 μCi/mL) for another 24 h, the effect of Sal B on cholesterol efflux was evaluated in the presence of apoA-1, HDL{sub 2}more » or HDL{sub 3}. The expression of ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ), and liver X receptor-alpha (LXRα) was detected both at protein and mRNA levels in THP-1 cells after the stimulation of Sal B. Meanwhile, specific inhibition of PPAR-γ and LXRα were performed to investigate the mechanism. Results: The results showed that Sal B significantly accelerated apoA-I- and HDL-mediated cholesterol efflux in both dose- and time-dependent manners. Meanwhile, Sal B treatment also enhanced the expression of ABCA1 at both mRNA and protein levels. Then the data demonstrated that Sal B increased the expression of PPAR-γ and LXRα. And the application of specific agonists and inhibitors of further confirmed that Sal exert the function through PPAR-γ and LXRα. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that Sal B promotes cholesterol efflux in THP-1 macrophages through ABCA1/PPAR-γ/LXRα pathway. - Highlights: • Sal B promotes the expression of ABCA1. • Sal B promotes cholesterol efflux in macrophages. • Sal B promotes the expression of ABCA1 and cholesterol efflux through PPAR-γ/LXRα signaling pathway.« less

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles conjugated with CD133 aptamers for targeted salinomycin delivery to CD133+ osteosarcoma cancer stem cells

PubMed Central

Ni, Miaozhong; Xiong, Min; Zhang, Xinchao; Cai, Guoping; Chen, Huaiwen; Zeng, Qingmin; Yu, Zuochong

2015-01-01

Background Cancer stem cells (CSCs) possess the characteristics associated with normal stem cells and are responsible for cancer initiation, recurrence, and metastasis. CD133 is regarded as a CSCs marker of osteosarcoma, which is the most common primary bone malignancy in childhood and adolescence. Salinomycin, a polyether ionophore antibiotic, has been shown to kill various CSCs, including osteosarcoma CSCs. However, salinomycin displayed poor aqueous solubility that hinders its clinical application. The objective of this study was to develop salinomycin-loaded nanoparticles to eliminate CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs. Methods The salinomycin-loaded PEGylated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (SAL-NP) conjugated with CD133 aptamers (Ap-SAL-NP) were developed by an emulsion/solvent evaporation method, and the targeting and cytotoxicity of Ap-SAL-NP to CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs were evaluated. Results The nanoparticles are of desired particle size (~150 nm), drug encapsulation efficiency (~50%), and drug release profile. After 48 hours treatment of the Saos-2 CD133+ osteosarcoma cells with drugs formulated in Ap-SAL-NP, SAL-NP, and salinomycin, the concentrations needed to kill 50% of the incubated cells were found to be 2.18, 10.72, and 5.07 μg/mL, respectively, suggesting that Ap-SAL-NP could be 4.92 or 2.33 fold more effective than SAL-NP or salinomycin, respectively. In contrast, Ap-SAL-NP was as effective as SAL-NP, and less effective than salinomycin in Saos-2 CD133− cells, suggesting that Ap-SAL-NP possess specific cytotoxicity toward Saos-2 CD133+ cells. Ap-SAL-NP showed the best therapeutic effect in Saos-2 osteosarcoma xenograft mice, compared with SAL-NP or salinomycin. Significantly, Ap-SAL-NP could selectively kill CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs both in vitro and in vivo, as reflected by the tumorsphere formation and proportion of Saos-2 CD133+ cells. Conclusion Our results suggest that CD133 is a potential target for drug delivery to osteosarcoma CSCs and that it is possible to significantly inhibit the osteosarcoma growth by killing CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs. We demonstrated that Ap-SAL-NP have the potential to target and kill CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs. PMID:25848270

Salivary cortisol and cortisone responses to short-term psychological stress challenge in late adolescent and young women with different hyperandrogenic states.

PubMed

Mezzullo, Marco; Fanelli, Flaminia; Di Dalmazi, Guido; Fazzini, Alessia; Ibarra-Gasparini, Daniela; Mastroroberto, Marianna; Guidi, Jenny; Morselli-Labate, Antonio Maria; Pasquali, Renato; Pagotto, Uberto; Gambineri, Alessandra

2018-05-01

Hyperandrogenic disorders have been associated with psychological distress, reduced quality of life, anxiety and depression. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays a pivotal role in the adaptive response to stressor events. Salivary cortisol (SalF) and cortisone (SalE) testing have been proven to be useful in the evaluation of HPA-axis activity. This study investigated whether SalF and SalE responses to two putative stressor levels differed between the hyperandrogenic states in late adolescent and young women, thus measuring the HPA-axis adaptive response to acute stress events. We selected 161 drug-free females aged 16-19 years from a large population previously enrolled in a cross-sectional epidemiological study. Saliva was collected in the morning before and after two putative stressor events consisting in a self-filled questionnaire (weaker stressor) and in a structured interview plus physical examination by an endocrinologist (stronger stressor). SalF and SalE, as well as blood steroids, were assessed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Subjects were subdivided into different groups according to the presence of: isolated menstrual irregularities (MI, oligo-amenorrhea; n = 22), isolated hirsutism (HIR, modified Ferriman-Gallwey score ≥ 8; n = 26), isolated hyperandrogenaemia (HT, testosterone >0.438 ng/mL; n = 14), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS, MI with HIR and/or HT, n = 16). The remaining 83 apparently healthy subjects were used as controls. SalF and SalE significantly decreased after the weaker stressor, following the physiologic diurnal loss, in all the groups except for isolated HIR, where they remained unchanged (P = 0.091 and P = 0.118, respectively). In contrast, SalF and SalE remained unchanged after the stronger stressor in isolated MI, isolated HT and controls, whereas SalF increased significantly in isolated HIR (P = 0.011), and SalE increased significantly both in isolated HIR (P = 0.005) and in PCOS (P = 0.011) groups. SalF percentage variation in response to the stronger stressor was positively associated with systolic blood pressure in PCOS (P = 0.018), and both SalF and SalE percentage variations were positively associated with diastolic blood pressure in the isolated HIR group (P = 0.010 and P = 0.006, respectively). In addition, in the isolated HIR group, the SalF percentage variation was negatively associated with HDL cholesterol levels (P = 0.005). Finally, SalF and SalE percentage variations were positively associated with circulating androstenedione (P = 0.031 and P = 0.011, respectively) and DHEA (P = 0.020 and P = 0.003, respectively) in the isolated HIR group. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that hirsute and PCOS adolescent and young women are characterized by HPA-axis overactivity in response to stressful stimuli, as detectable by salivary glucocorticoid measurements. These data also indicate that the higher the HPA-axis activity, the higher the adrenal androgen output and the worse the metabolic profile. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Polymerization reactivity of sulfomethylated alkali lignin modified with horseradish peroxidase.

PubMed

Yang, Dongjie; Wu, Xiaolei; Qiu, Xueqing; Chang, Yaqi; Lou, Hongming

2014-03-01

Alkali lignin (AL) was employed as raw materials in the present study. Sulfomethylation was conducted to improve the solubility of AL, while sulfomethylated alkali lignin (SAL) was further polymerized by horseradish peroxidase (HRP). HRP modification caused a significant increase in molecular weight of SAL which was over 20 times. It was also found to increase the amount of sulfonic and carboxyl groups while decrease the amount of phenolic and methoxyl groups in SAL. The adsorption quantity of self-assembled SAL film was improved after HRP modification. Sulfonation and HRP modification were mutually promoted. The polymerization reactivity of SAL in HRP modification was increased with its sulfonation degree. Meanwhile, HRP modification facilitated SAL's radical-sulfonation reaction. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Concentration and quantification of somatic and F+ coliphages from recreational waters.

PubMed

McMinn, Brian R; Huff, Emma M; Rhodes, Eric R; Korajkic, Asja

2017-11-01

Somatic and F+ coliphages are promising alternative fecal indicators, but current detection methods are hindered by lower levels of coliphages in surface waters compared to traditional bacterial fecal indicators. We evaluated the ability of dead-end hollow fiber ultrafiltration (D- HFUF) and single agar layer (SAL) procedure to concentrate and enumerate coliphages from 1L and 10L volumes of ambient surface waters (lake, river, marine), river water with varying turbidities (3.74-118.7 NTU), and a simulated combined sewer overflow (CSO) event. Percentage recoveries for surface waters were 40-79% (somatic) and 35-94% (F+). The method performed equally well in all three matrices at 1L volumes, but percent recoveries were significantly higher in marine waters at 10L volumes when compared to freshwater. Percent recoveries at 1L and 10L were similar, except in river water where recoveries were significantly lower at higher volume. In highly turbid waters, D-HFUF-SAL had a recovery range of 25-77% (somatic) and 21-80% (F+). The method produced detectable levels of coliphages in diluted wastewater and in unspiked surface waters, emphasizing its applicability to CSO events and highlighting its utility in recovery of low coliphage densities from surface waters. Thus D-HFUF-SAL is a good candidate method for routine water quality monitoring of coliphages. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Evidence for a SAL1-PAP chloroplast retrograde pathway that functions in drought and high light signaling in Arabidopsis.

PubMed

Estavillo, Gonzalo M; Crisp, Peter A; Pornsiriwong, Wannarat; Wirtz, Markus; Collinge, Derek; Carrie, Chris; Giraud, Estelle; Whelan, James; David, Pascale; Javot, Hélène; Brearley, Charles; Hell, Rüdiger; Marin, Elena; Pogson, Barry J

2011-11-01

Compartmentation of the eukaryotic cell requires a complex set of subcellular messages, including multiple retrograde signals from the chloroplast and mitochondria to the nucleus, to regulate gene expression. Here, we propose that one such signal is a phosphonucleotide (3'-phosphoadenosine 5'-phosphate [PAP]), which accumulates in Arabidopsis thaliana in response to drought and high light (HL) stress and that the enzyme SAL1 regulates its levels by dephosphorylating PAP to AMP. SAL1 accumulates in chloroplasts and mitochondria but not in the cytosol. sal1 mutants accumulate 20-fold more PAP without a marked change in inositol phosphate levels, demonstrating that PAP is a primary in vivo substrate. Significantly, transgenic targeting of SAL1 to either the nucleus or chloroplast of sal1 mutants lowers the total PAP levels and expression of the HL-inducible ASCORBATE PEROXIDASE2 gene. This indicates that PAP must be able to move between cellular compartments. The mode of action for PAP could be inhibition of 5' to 3' exoribonucleases (XRNs), as SAL1 and the nuclear XRNs modulate the expression of a similar subset of HL and drought-inducible genes, sal1 mutants accumulate XRN substrates, and PAP can inhibit yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) XRNs. We propose a SAL1-PAP retrograde pathway that can alter nuclear gene expression during HL and drought stress.

Evidence for a SAL1-PAP Chloroplast Retrograde Pathway That Functions in Drought and High Light Signaling in Arabidopsis[C][W][OA

PubMed Central

Estavillo, Gonzalo M.; Crisp, Peter A.; Pornsiriwong, Wannarat; Wirtz, Markus; Collinge, Derek; Carrie, Chris; Giraud, Estelle; Whelan, James; David, Pascale; Javot, Hélène; Brearley, Charles; Hell, Rüdiger; Marin, Elena; Pogson, Barry J.

2011-01-01

Compartmentation of the eukaryotic cell requires a complex set of subcellular messages, including multiple retrograde signals from the chloroplast and mitochondria to the nucleus, to regulate gene expression. Here, we propose that one such signal is a phosphonucleotide (3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphate [PAP]), which accumulates in Arabidopsis thaliana in response to drought and high light (HL) stress and that the enzyme SAL1 regulates its levels by dephosphorylating PAP to AMP. SAL1 accumulates in chloroplasts and mitochondria but not in the cytosol. sal1 mutants accumulate 20-fold more PAP without a marked change in inositol phosphate levels, demonstrating that PAP is a primary in vivo substrate. Significantly, transgenic targeting of SAL1 to either the nucleus or chloroplast of sal1 mutants lowers the total PAP levels and expression of the HL-inducible ASCORBATE PEROXIDASE2 gene. This indicates that PAP must be able to move between cellular compartments. The mode of action for PAP could be inhibition of 5′ to 3′ exoribonucleases (XRNs), as SAL1 and the nuclear XRNs modulate the expression of a similar subset of HL and drought-inducible genes, sal1 mutants accumulate XRN substrates, and PAP can inhibit yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) XRNs. We propose a SAL1-PAP retrograde pathway that can alter nuclear gene expression during HL and drought stress. PMID:22128124

Combined Effects of Rosuvastatin and Exercise on Gene Expression of Key Molecules Involved in Cholesterol Metabolism in Ovariectomized Rats

PubMed Central

Ngo Sock, Emilienne Tudor; Mayer, Gaétan; Lavoie, Jean-Marc

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of three weeks of rosuvastatin (Ros) treatment alone and in combination with voluntary training (Tr) on expression of genes involved in cholesterol metabolism (LDLR, PCSK9, LRP-1, SREBP-2, IDOL, ACAT-2 and HMGCR) in the liver of eight week-old ovariectomized (Ovx) rats. Sprague Dawley rats were Ovx or sham-operated (Sham) and kept sedentary for 8 weeks under a standard diet. Thereafter, rats were transferred for three weeks in running wheel cages for Tr or kept sedentary (Sed) with or without Ros treatment (5mg/kg/day). Six groups were formed: Sham-Sed treated with saline (Sal) or Ros (Sham-Sed-Sal; Sham-Sed-Ros), Ovx-Sed treated with Sal or Ros (Ovx-Sed-Sal; Ovx-Sed-Ros), Ovx trained treated with Sal or Ros (Ovx-Tr-Sal; Ovx-Tr-Ros). Ovx-Sed-Sal rats depicted higher (P < 0.05) body weight, plasma total cholesterol (TC) and LDL-C, and liver TC content compared to Sham-Sed-Sal rats. In contrast, mRNA levels of liver PCSK9, LDLR, LRP-1 as well as plasma PCSK9 concentrations and protein levels of LRP-1 were reduced (P < 0.01) in Ovx-Sed-Sal compared to Sham-Sed-Sal rats. However, protein levels of LDLR increased (P < 0.05) in Ovx-Sed-Sal compared to Sham-Sed-Sal rats. Treatment of Ovx rats with Ros increased (P < 0.05) mRNA and protein levels of LRP-1 and PCSK9 but not mRNA levels of LDLR, while its protein abundance was reduced at the level of Sham rats. As a result, plasma LDL-C was not reduced. Exercise alone did not affect the expression of any of these markers in Ovx rats. Overall, Ros treatment corrected Ovx-induced decrease in gene expression of markers of cholesterol metabolism in liver of Ovx rats, but without reducing plasma LDL-C concentrations. Increased plasma PCSK9 levels could be responsible for the reduction of liver LDLR protein abundance and the absence of reduction of plasma LDL-C after Ros treatment. PMID:27442011

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

Xu, Xiaomei; Hu, Yan; Zhai, Xiaohan

Salvianolic acid A (SalA) is a phenolic carboxylic acid derivative extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza. It has many biological and pharmaceutical activities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of SalA on concanavalin A (ConA)-induced acute hepatic injury in Kunming mice and to explore the role of SIRT1 in such an effect. The results showed that in vivo pretreatment with SalA significantly reduced ConA-induced elevation in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities and decreased levels of the hepatotoxic cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Moreover, the SalA pretreatment ameliorated the increasesmore » in NF-κB and in cleaved caspase-3 caused by ConA exposure. Whereas, the pretreatment completely reversed expression of the B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xL). More importantly, the SalA pretreatment significantly increased the expression of SIRT1, a NAD{sup +}-dependent deacetylase, which was known to attenuate acute hypoxia damage and metabolic liver diseases. In our study, the increase in SIRT1 was closely associated with down-regulation of the p66 isoform (p66shc) of growth factor adapter Shc at both protein and mRNA levels. In HepG2 cell culture, SalA pretreatment increased SIRT1 expression in a time and dose-dependent manner and such an increase was abrogated by siRNA knockdown of SIRT1. Additionally, inhibition of SIRT1 significantly reversed the decreased expression of p66shc, and attenuated SalA-induced p66shc down-regulation. Collectively, the present study indicated that SalA may be a potent activator of SIRT and that SalA can alleviate ConA-induced hepatitis through SIRT1-mediated repression of the p66shc pathway. - Highlights: • We report for the first time that SalA protects against ConA-induced hepatitis. • We find that SalA is a potential activator of SIRT1. • SalA's protection against hepatitis involves SIRT1-mediated repression of p66shc.« less

Characterization of the Transcriptional Activators SalA and SyrF, Which Are Required for Syringomycin and Syringopeptin Production by Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae

PubMed Central

Wang, Nian; Lu, Shi-En; Records, Angela R.; Gross, Dennis C.

2006-01-01

Production of the phytotoxins syringomycin and syringopeptin by Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae is controlled by the regulatory genes salA and syrF. Analysis with 70-mer oligonucleotide microarrays established that the syr-syp genes responsible for synthesis and secretion of syringomycin and syringopeptin belong to the SyrF regulon. Vector pMEKm12 was successfully used to express both SalA and SyrF proteins fused to a maltose-binding protein (MBP) in Escherichia coli and P. syringae pv. syringae. Both the MBP-SalA and MBP-SyrF fusion proteins were purified by maltose affinity chromatography. Gel shift analysis revealed that the purified MBP-SyrF, but not the MBP-SalA fusion protein, bound to a 262-bp fragment of the syrB1 promoter region containing the syr-syp box. Purified MBP-SalA caused a shift of a 324-bp band containing the putative syrF promoter. Gel filtration analysis and cross-linking experiments indicated that both SalA and SyrF form homodimers in vitro. Overexpression of the N-terminal regions of SalA and SyrF resulted in decreased syringomycin production by strain B301D and reduced levels of β-glucuronidase activities of the sypA::uidA and syrB1::uidA reporters by 59% to 74%. The effect of SalA on the expression of the syr-syp genes is mediated by SyrF, which activates the syr-syp genes by directly binding to the promoter regions. Both SalA and SyrF resemble other LuxR family proteins in dimerization and interaction with promoter regions of target genes. PMID:16621822

Transport of salicylic acid through monolayers of a kidney epithelial cell line (LLC-PK1).

PubMed

Chatton, J Y; Roch-Ramel, F

1992-05-01

LLC-PK1 cells were used as a model of renal proximal epithelium to study the nonionic diffusion of salicylic acid (SAL). The apparent [14C]SAL transcellular permeability (PSal) and intracellular content were estimated at 20-21 degrees C from fluxes measured across cell monolayers grown on filters, in both apical-to-basolateral and basolateral-to-apical directions. The medium pH of the cis-side was varied from 6.0 to 7.4, and the medium pH of the trans-side was kept at 7.4. In the apical-to-basolateral direction, PSal increased linearly with the calculated concentration of nonionized SAL, indicating that SAL permeability was essentially the result of nonionic diffusion. In the basolateral-to-apical direction, PSal was about 2.5-fold higher than in the apical-to-basolateral direction and was not linearly related to the concentration of nonionized SAL molecules (0-4.5 nM), suggesting that besides nonionic diffusion, SAL was transported in its ionized form by a facilitated mechanism still active at 21 degrees C. This was confirmed by measuring basolateral-to-apical fluxes at 37 degrees C and observing that probenecid, an inhibitor of organic anion secretion, and cold SAL decreased PSal. Interestingly, at 37 degrees C, PSal in the apical-to-basolateral direction was also decreased by probenecid and cold SAL, suggesting the existence of a facilitated transport in this direction. These data demonstrated that the secretory transport of SAL is present in LLC-PK1 cells. The facilitated transport observed in the apical-to-basolateral direction suggests that in proximal tubule, SAL reabsorption might occur by facilitated mechanism and nonionic diffusion.

Effect of Atmospheric Turbulence on Synthetic Aperture LADAR Imaging Performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schumm, Bryce Eric

Synthetic aperture LADAR (SAL) has been widely investigated over the last 15 years with many studies and experiments examining its performance. Comparatively little work has been done to investigate the effect of atmospheric turbulence on SAL performance. The turbulence work that has been accomplished is in related fields or under weak turbulence assumptions. This research investigates some of the fundamental limits of turbulence on SAL performance. Seven individual impact mechanisms of atmospheric turbulence are examined including: beam wander, beam growth, beam breakup, piston, coherence diameter/length, isoplanatic angle (anisoplanatism) and coherence time. Each component is investigated separately from the others through modeling to determine their respective effect on standard SAL image metrics. Analytic solutions were investigated for the SAL metrics of interest for each atmospheric impact mechanism. The isolation of each impact mechanism allows identification of mitigation techniques targeted at specific, and most dominant, sources of degradation. Results from this work will be critical in focusing future research on those effects which prove to be the most deleterious. Previous research proposed that the resolution of a SAL system was limited by the SAL coherence diameter/length r˜_0 which was derived from the average autocorrelation of the SAL phase history data. The present research confirms this through extensive wave optics simulations. A detailed study is conducted that shows, for long synthetic apertures, measuring the peak widths of individual phase histories may not accurately represent the true resolving power of the synthetic aperture. The SAL wave structure function and degree of coherence are investigated for individual turbulence mechanisms. Phase is shown to be an order of magnitude stronger than amplitude in its impact on imaging metrics. In all the analyses, piston variation and coherence diameter make up the majority of errors in SAL image formation.

Erigeron mancus elevational density gradient as a baseline to detect future climate change in LaSal Mountain habitats

Treesearch

James F. Fowler; Barb Smith

2010-01-01

The LaSal daisy, Erigeron mancus, is endemic to timberline and alpine habitats of the LaSal Mountains in Utah (Nesom 2006)(Fig. 1), an insular, laccolithic mountain range on the Colorado Plateau in southeastern Utah (Blakey and Ranney 2008). Erigeron mancus occurs in alpine herbaceous communities from timberline to the crestline of the Middle Group of the LaSals (Smith...

Erigeron mancus (Asteraceae) density as a baseline to detect future climate change in La Sal Mountain habitats

Treesearch

James F. Fowler; Barb Smith

2010-01-01

The La Sal Daisy, Erigeron mancus Rydb., is endemic to timberline and alpine habitats of the La Sal Mountains in Utah, an insular, laccolithic mountain range on the Colorado Plateau in southeastern Utah. It occurs in alpine herbaceous communities from timberline to the crestline of the La Sals. Our primary goal in this study was to measure basic population biology...

Cover beds older than the mid-pleistocene revolution and the provenance of their eolian components, La Sal Mountains, Utah, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krautz, Jana; Gärtner, Andreas; Hofmann, Mandy; Linnemann, Ulf; Kleber, Arno

2018-04-01

We used uranium-lead (U-Pb) dating of zircons from a tephra layer deposited in the La Sal Mountains to assign an age of more than c. 1.3 Ma to underlying loess-mixed slope deposits (cover beds) and paleosols developed therein. For the first time, we show that properties of cover beds and soils before the Mid-Pleistocene Revolution were similar to those formed after the revolution. However, the deepest exposed carbonate-enriched horizon is much farther developed than younger ones, indicating that there was a period of enrichment by far exceeding intensities of younger calcic horizons some time before the revolution, possibly in Neogene times. Remarkable differences between age distributions of detrital zircons (DZ) within the cover beds allow reconstructing the regional provenance of mixed eolian matter with high accuracy: we were able to trace particular cover beds back to areas with outcropping Permian and Upper Cretaceous rocks.

Novel Rhenium(III, IV, and V) Tetradentate N2O2 Schiff Base Mononuclear and Dinuclear Complexes

PubMed Central

Rotsch, David A.; Reinig, Kimberly M.; Weis, Eric M.; Taylor, Anna B.; Barnes, Charles L.

2013-01-01

Reaction of (Bu4N)[ReOCl4] with the tetradentate Schiff base ligand α, α’-[(1,1-dimethylethylene)dinitrilo]di-o-cresol (sal2ibnH2) yields cis-[ReVOCl(sal2ibn)], which quickly forms trans-[μ-O(ReVO(sal2ibn))2] in solution. The dinuclear complex can also be isolated by the addition of base (Et3N) to the reaction mixture. Conversely, the mononuclear complex can be trapped as cis-[ReVO(NCS)(sal2ibn)] by addition of (Bu4N)SCN to the reaction mixture. Reduction of cis-[ReVO(NCS)sal2ibn] with triphenylphosphine gives the unique trans-[ReIII(NCS)(PPh3)(sal2ibn)] and rare μ-oxo Re(IV) dimer trans-[μ-O(ReIV(NCS)(sal2ibn))2]. All of the complexes were characterized by 1H and 13C NMR, FT-IR spectroscopy, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), cyclic voltammetry and single crystal X-ray diffraction. PMID:23824208

The cardioprotective effect of salidroside against myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in rats by inhibiting apoptosis and inflammation.

PubMed

Zhu, Lingpeng; Wei, Tingting; Gao, Jin; Chang, Xiayun; He, He; Luo, Fen; Zhou, Rui; Ma, Chunhua; Liu, Yu; Yan, Tianhua

2015-11-01

The main purpose of this study was to investigate effect of salidroside (Sal) on myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in rats and the underlying mechanism. Myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MI/RI) model was treated with 30 min of left anterior descending (LAD) occlusion followed by 24 h of reperfusion. The male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 7 groups: (1) Sham; (2) Sham + diltiazem (Dit, 10 mg/kg); (3) Sham + Sal (40 mg/kg); (4) I/R; (5) I/R + diltiazem (Dit, 10 mg/kg); (6) I/R + Sal (20 mg/kg); (7) I/R + Sal (40 mg/kg). Sal could ameliorate myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury as evidenced by Histopathological examination and triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. Moreover, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nickend labeling (TUNEL) assay demonstrated that Sal suppressed myocardial apoptosis, which may be related to up-regulation of Bcl-2/Bax ratio and inhibition of caspase-3, caspase-9 activation. Pretreatment with Sal affected serum biochemical parameters and cardiac dysfunction compared with I/R group. Sal also attenuated the pro-inflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 in serum by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Sal exerts strong favorable cardioprotective function on myocardial I/R injury which may relate to the down-regulation of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and the inhibition of cell apoptosis.

The evolving genetic risk for sporadic ALS.

PubMed

Gibson, Summer B; Downie, Jonathan M; Tsetsou, Spyridoula; Feusier, Julie E; Figueroa, Karla P; Bromberg, Mark B; Jorde, Lynn B; Pulst, Stefan M

2017-07-18

To estimate the genetic risk conferred by known amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-associated genes to the pathogenesis of sporadic ALS (SALS) using variant allele frequencies combined with predicted variant pathogenicity. Whole exome sequencing and repeat expansion PCR of C9orf72 and ATXN2 were performed on 87 patients of European ancestry with SALS seen at the University of Utah. DNA variants that change the protein coding sequence of 31 ALS-associated genes were annotated to determine which were rare and deleterious as predicted by MetaSVM. The percentage of patients with SALS with a rare and deleterious variant or repeat expansion in an ALS-associated gene was calculated. An odds ratio analysis was performed comparing the burden of ALS-associated genes in patients with SALS vs 324 normal controls. Nineteen rare nonsynonymous variants in an ALS-associated gene, 2 of which were found in 2 different individuals, were identified in 21 patients with SALS. Further, 5 deleterious C9orf72 and 2 ATXN2 repeat expansions were identified. A total of 17.2% of patients with SALS had a rare and deleterious variant or repeat expansion in an ALS-associated gene. The genetic burden of ALS-associated genes in patients with SALS as predicted by MetaSVM was significantly higher than in normal controls. Previous analyses have identified SALS-predisposing variants only in terms of their rarity in normal control populations. By incorporating variant pathogenicity as well as variant frequency, we demonstrated that the genetic risk contributed by these genes for SALS is substantially lower than previous estimates. © 2017 American Academy of Neurology.

A SAL1 Loss-of-Function Arabidopsis Mutant Exhibits Enhanced Cadmium Tolerance in Association with Alleviation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress.

PubMed

Xi, Hongmei; Xu, Hua; Xu, Wenxiu; He, Zhenyan; Xu, Wenzhong; Ma, Mi

2016-06-01

SAL1, as a negative regulator of stress response signaling, has been studied extensively for its role in plant response to environmental stresses. However, the role of SAL1 in cadmium (Cd) stress response and the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Using an Arabidopsis thaliana loss-of-function mutant of SAL1, we assessed Cd resistance and further explored the Cd toxicity mechanism through analysis of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response. The loss of SAL1 function greatly improved Cd tolerance and significantly attenuated ER stress in Arabidopsis. Exposure to Cd induced an ER stress response in Arabidopsis as evidenced by unconventional splicing of AtbZIP60 and up-regulation of ER stress-responsive genes. Damage caused by Cd was markedly reduced in the ER stress response double mutant bzip28 bzip60 or by application of the ER stress-alleviating chemical agents, tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) and 4-phenyl butyric acid (4-PBA), in wild-type plants. The Cd-induced ER stress in Arabidopsis was also alleviated by loss of function of SAL1. These results identified SAL1 as a new component mediating Cd toxicity and established the role of the ER stress response in Cd toxicity. Additionally, the attenuated ER stress in the sal1 mutant might also shed new light on the mechanism of diverse abiotic stress resistance in the SAL1 loss-of-function mutants. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Japanese Society of Plant Physiologists. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Suppressing Receptor-Interacting Protein 140: a New Sight for Salidroside to Treat Cerebral Ischemia.

PubMed

Chen, Tong; Ma, Zhanqiang; Zhu, Lingpeng; Jiang, Wenjiao; Wei, Tingting; Zhou, Rui; Luo, Fen; Zhang, Kai; Fu, Qiang; Ma, Chunhua; Yan, Tianhua

2016-11-01

The purpose of the current study was to detect the effect of salidroside (Sal) on cerebral ischemia and explore its potential mechanism. Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was performed to investigate the effects of Sal on cerebral ischemia. The rats were randomly divided into five groups: sham group, vehicle group, clopidogrel (7.5 mg/kg) group, Sal (20 mg/kg) group, and Sal (40 mg/kg) group. SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury to verify the protective effect of Sal in vitro. We also built the stable receptor-interacting protein 140 (RIP140)-overexpressing SH-SY5Y cells. The results showed that Sal significantly reduces brain infarct size and cerebral edema. Sal could effectively decrease the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in serum of the MCAO rats and supernatant of I/R-induced SH-SY5Y cells. Immunohistochemical and Western blot results demonstrated that Sal inhibited RIP140-mediated inflammation and apoptosis in the MCAO rats and SH-SY5Y cells. In addition, we further confirmed that RIP140/NF-κB signaling plays a crucial role by evaluating the protein expression in RIP140-overexpressing SH-SY5Y cells. Our findings suggested that Sal could be used as an effective neuroprotective agent for cerebral ischemia due to its significant effect on preventing neuronal cell injury after cerebral ischemia both in vivo and in vitro by the inhibitions of RIP140-mediated inflammation and apoptosis.

Effects of self-attraction and loading at a regional scale: a test case for the Northwest European Shelf

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Irazoqui Apecechea, Maialen; Verlaan, Martin; Zijl, Firmijn; Le Coz, Camille; Kernkamp, Herman

2017-06-01

The impact of the self-attraction and loading effect (SAL) in a regional 2D barotropic tidal model has been assessed, a term with acknowledged and well-understood importance for global models but omitted for boundary-forced, regional models, for which the implementation of SAL is non-trivial due to its non-local nature. In order to understand the impact of the lack of SAL effects in a regional scale, we have forced a regional model of the Northwest European Continental Shelf and the North Sea (continental shelf model (CSM)) with the SAL potential field derived from a global model (GTSM), in the form of a pressure field. Impacts have been studied in an uncalibrated setup and with only tidal forcing activated, in order to isolate effects. Additionally, the usually adopted simple SAL parameterization, in which the SAL contribution to the total tide is parameterized as a percentage of the barotropic pressure gradient (typically chosen 10%), is also implemented and compared to the results obtained with a full SAL computation. A significant impact on M2 representation is observed in the English Channel, Irish Sea and the west (UK East coast) and south (Belgian and Dutch Coast) of the North Sea, with an impact of up to 20 cm in vector difference terms. The impact of SAL translates into a consistent M2 amplitude and propagation speeds reduction throughout the domain. Results using the beta approximation, with an optimal domain-wide constant value of 1.5%, show a somewhat comparable impact in phase but opposite direction of the impact in amplitude, increasing amplitudes everywhere. In relative terms, both implementations lead to a reduction of the tidal representation error in comparison with the reference run without SAL, with the full SAL approach showing further impacted, improved results. Although the overprediction of tidal amplitudes and propagation speeds in the reference run might have additional sources like the lack of additional dissipative processes and non-considered bottom friction settings, results show an overall significant impact, most remarkable in tidal phases. After showing evidence of the SAL impact in regional models, the question of how to include this physical process in them in an efficient way arises, since SAL is a non-local effect and depends on the instantaneous water levels over the whole ocean, which is non-trivial to implement.

Antibacterial activity of Pd(II) complexes with salicylaldehyde-amino acids Schiff bases ligands.

PubMed

Rîmbu, Cristina; Danac, Ramona; Pui, Aurel

2014-01-01

Palladium(II) complexes with Schiff bases ligands derived from salicylaldehyde and amino acids (Ala, Gly, Met, Ser, Val) have been synthesized and characterized by Fourier transform (FT)-IR, UV-Vis and (1)H-NMR spectroscopy. The electrospray mass spectrometry (ES-MS) spectrometry confirms the formation of palladium(II) complexes in 1/2 (M/L) molar ratio. All the Pd(II) complexes 1, [Pd(SalAla)2]Cl2; 2, [Pd(SalGly)2]Cl2; 3, [Pd(SalMet)2]Cl2; 4, [Pd(SalSer)2]Cl2; 5, [Pd(SalVal)2]Cl2; have shown antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli.

Oxovanadium(IV)-catalysed oxidation of dibenzothiophene and 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene.

PubMed

Ogunlaja, Adeniyi S; Chidawanyika, Wadzanai; Antunes, Edith; Fernandes, Manuel A; Nyokong, Tebello; Torto, Nelson; Tshentu, Zenixole R

2012-12-07

The reaction between [V(IV)OSO(4)] and the tetradentate N(2)O(2)-donor Schiff base ligand, N,N-bis(o-hydroxybenzaldehyde)phenylenediamine (sal-HBPD), obtained by the condensation of salicylaldehyde and o-phenylenediamine in a molar ratio of 2 : 1 respectively, resulted in the formation of [V(IV)O(sal-HBPD)]. The molecular structure of [V(IV)O(sal-HBPD)] was determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction, and confirmed the distorted square pyramidal geometry of the complex with the N(2)O(2) binding mode of the tetradentate ligand. The formation of the polymer-supported p[V(IV)O(sal-AHBPD)] proceeded via the nitrosation of sal-HBPD, followed by the reduction with hydrogen to form an amine group that was then linked to Merrifield beads followed by the reaction with [V(IV)OSO(4)]. XPS and EPR were used to confirm the presence of oxovanadium(IV) within the beads. The BET surface area and porosity of the heterogeneous catalyst p[V(IV)O(sal-AHBPD)] were found to be 6.9 m(2) g(-1) and 180.8 Å respectively. Microanalysis, TG, UV-Vis and FT-IR were used for further characterization of both [V(IV)O(sal-HBPD)] and p[V(IV)O(sal-AHBPD)]. Oxidation of dibenzothiophene (DBT) and 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene (4,6-DMDBT) was investigated using [V(IV)O(sal-HBPD)] and p[V(IV)O(sal-AHBPD)] as catalysts. Progress for oxidation of these model compounds was monitored with a gas chromatograph fitted with a flame ionization detector. The oxidation products were characterized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, microanalysis and NMR. Dibenzothiophene sulfone (DBTO(2)) and 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene sulfone (4,6-DMDBTO(2)) were found to be the main products of oxidation. Oxovanadium(IV) Schiff base microspherical beads, p[V(IV)O(sal-AHBPD)], were able to catalyse the oxidation of sulfur in dibenzothiophene (DBT) and 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene (4,6-DMDBT) to a tune of 88.0% and 71.8% respectively after 3 h at 40 °C. These oxidation results show promise for potential application of this catalyst in the oxidative desulfurization of crude oils.

Activation of rhenium(I) toward substitution in fac-[Re(N,O'-Bid)(CO)3(HOCH3)] by Schiff-base bidentate ligands (N,O'-Bid).

PubMed

Brink, Alice; Visser, Hendrik G; Roodt, Andreas

2013-08-05

A series of fac-[Re(N,O'-Bid)(CO)3(L)] (N,O'-Bid = monoanionic bidentate Schiff-base ligands with N,O donor atoms; L = neutral monodentate ligand) has been synthesized, and the methanol substitution reactions have been investigated. The complexes were characterized by NMR, IR, and UV-vis spectroscopy. X-ray crystal structures of the compounds fac-[Re(Sal-mTol)(CO)3(HOCH3)], fac-[Re(Sal-pTol)(CO)3(HOCH3)], fac-[Re(Sal-Ph)(CO)3(HOCH3)], and fac-[Re(Sal-Ph)(CO)3(Py)] (Sal-mTol = 2-(m-tolyliminomethyl)phenolato; Sal-pTol = 2-(p-tolyliminomethyl)phenolato; Sal-Ph = 2-(phenyliminomethyl)phenolato; Py = pyridine) are reported. Significant activation for the methanol substitution is induced by the use of the N,O bidentate ligand as manifested by the second order rate constants, with limiting kinetics being observed for the first time. Rate constants (25 °C) (k1 or k3) and activation parameters (ΔHk‡, kJ mol(-1); ΔSk‡, J K(-1) mol(-1)) from Eyring plots for entering nucleophiles as indicated are as follows: fac-[Re(Sal-mTol)(CO)3(HOCH3)] 3-chloropyridine: (k1) 2.33 ± 0.01 M(-1) s(-1); 85.1 ± 0.6, 48 ± 2; fac-[Re(Sal-mTol)(CO)3(HOCH3)] pyridine: (k1) 1.29 ± 0.02 M(-1) s(-1); 92 ± 2, 66 ± 7; fac-[Re(Sal-mTol)(CO)3(HOCH3)] 4-picoline: (k1) 1.27 ± 0.05 M(-1) s(-1); 88 ± 2, 53 ± 6; (k3) 3.9 ± 0.03 s(-1); 78 ± 8, 30 ± 27; (kf) 1.7 ± 0.02 M(-1) s(-1); 86 ± 2, 49 ± 6; fac-[Re(Sal-mTol)(CO)3(HOCH3)] DMAP (k3) 1.15 ± 0.02 s(-1); 88 ± 2, 52 ± 7. An interchange dissociative mechanism is proposed.

Salinomycin nanoparticles interfere with tumor cell growth and the tumor microenvironment in an orthotopic model of pancreatic cancer.

PubMed

Daman, Zahra; Faghihi, Homa; Montazeri, Hamed

2018-05-02

Recently, salinomycin (SAL) has been reported to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in various tumors. The aim of this study was to deliver SAL to orthotopic model of pancreatic cancer by the aid of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs). The NPs were physico-chemically characterized and evaluated for cytotoxicity on luciferase-transduced AsPC-1 cells in vitro as well as implanted orthotopically into the pancreas of nude mice. SAL (3.5 mg/kg every other day) blocked tumor growth by 52% compared to the control group after 3 weeks of therapy. Western blotting of tumor protein extracts indicated that SAL treatment leads to up-regulation of E-cadherin, β-catenin, and transforming growth factor beta receptor (TGFβR) expressions in AsPC-1 orthotopic tumor. Noteworthy, immunofluorescence staining of adjacent tumor sections showed that treatment with SAL NPs cause significant apoptosis in the tumor cells rather than the stroma. Further investigations also revealed that TGFβR2 over-expression was induced in stroma cells after treatment with SAL NPs. These results highlight SAL-loaded PLGA NPs as a promising system for pancreatic cancer treatment, while the mechanistic questions need to be subsequently tested.

Resistance of extraocular motoneuron terminals to effects of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis sera

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mosier, D. R.; Siklos, L.; Appel, S. H.

2000-01-01

In sporadic ALS (s-ALS), axon terminals contain increased intracellular calcium. Passively transferred sera from patients with s-ALS increase intracellular calcium in spinal motoneuron terminals in vivo and enhance spontaneous transmitter release, a calcium-dependent process. In this study, passive transfer of s-ALS sera increased spontaneous release from spinal but not extraocular motoneuron terminals, suggesting that the resistance to physiologic abnormalities induced by s-ALS sera in mice parallels the resistance of extraocular motoneurons to dysfunction and degeneration in ALS.

Salvinorin A regulates dopamine transporter function via a kappa opioid receptor and ERK1/2-dependent mechanism.

PubMed

Kivell, Bronwyn; Uzelac, Zeljko; Sundaramurthy, Santhanalakshmi; Rajamanickam, Jeyaganesh; Ewald, Amy; Chefer, Vladimir; Jaligam, Vanaja; Bolan, Elizabeth; Simonson, Bridget; Annamalai, Balasubramaniam; Mannangatti, Padmanabhan; Prisinzano, Thomas E; Gomes, Ivone; Devi, Lakshmi A; Jayanthi, Lankupalle D; Sitte, Harald H; Ramamoorthy, Sammanda; Shippenberg, Toni S

2014-11-01

Salvinorin A (SalA), a selective κ-opioid receptor (KOR) agonist, produces dysphoria and pro-depressant like effects. These actions have been attributed to inhibition of striatal dopamine release. The dopamine transporter (DAT) regulates dopamine transmission via uptake of released neurotransmitter. KORs are apposed to DAT in dopamine nerve terminals suggesting an additional target by which SalA modulates dopamine transmission. SalA produced a concentration-dependent, nor-binaltorphimine (BNI)- and pertussis toxin-sensitive increase of ASP(+) accumulation in EM4 cells coexpressing myc-KOR and YFP-DAT, using live cell imaging and the fluorescent monoamine transporter substrate, trans 4-(4-(dimethylamino)-styryl)-N-methylpyridinium) (ASP(+)). Other KOR agonists also increased DAT activity that was abolished by BNI pretreatment. While SalA increased DAT activity, SalA treatment decreased serotonin transporter (SERT) activity and had no effect on norepinephrine transporter (NET) activity. In striatum, SalA increased the Vmax for DAT mediated DA transport and DAT surface expression. SalA up-regulation of DAT function is mediated by KOR activation and the KOR-linked extracellular signal regulated kinase-½ (ERK1/2) pathway. Co-immunoprecipitation and BRET studies revealed that DAT and KOR exist in a complex. In live cells, DAT and KOR exhibited robust FRET signals under basal conditions. SalA exposure caused a rapid and significant increase of the FRET signal. This suggests that the formation of KOR and DAT complexes is promoted in response to KOR activation. Together, these data suggest that enhanced DA transport and decreased DA release resulting in decreased dopamine signalling may contribute to the dysphoric and pro-depressant like effects of SalA and other KOR agonists. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Defining the electronic and geometric structure of one-electron oxidized copper-bis-phenoxide complexes.

PubMed

Storr, Tim; Verma, Pratik; Pratt, Russell C; Wasinger, Erik C; Shimazaki, Yuichi; Stack, T Daniel P

2008-11-19

The geometric and electronic structure of an oxidized Cu complex ([CuSal](+); Sal = N,N'-bis(3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylidene)-1,2-cyclohexane-(1R,2R)-diamine) with a non-innocent salen ligand has been investigated both in the solid state and in solution. Integration of information from UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy, magnetic susceptibility, electrochemistry, resonance Raman spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations provides critical insights into the nature of the localization/delocalization of the oxidation locus. In contrast to the analogous Ni derivative [NiSal](+) (Storr, T.; et al. Angew. Chem., Int. Ed. 2007, 46, 5198), which exists solely in the Ni(II) ligand-radical form, the locus of oxidation is metal-based for [CuSal](+), affording exclusively a Cu(III) species in the solid state (4-300 K). Variable-temperature solution studies suggest that [CuSal](+) exists in a reversible spin-equilibrium between a ligand-radical species [Cu(II)Sal(*)](+) (S = 1) and the high-valent metal form [Cu(III)Sal](+) (S = 0), indicative of nearly isoenergetic species. It is surprising that a bis-imine-bis-phenolate ligation stabilizes the Cu(III) oxidation state, and even more surprising that in solution a spin equilibrium occurs without a change in coordination number. The oxidized tetrahydrosalen analogue [CuSal(red)](+) (Sal(red) = N,N'-bis(3,5-di- tert-butylhydroxybenzyl)-1,2-cyclohexane-(1R,2R)-diamine) exists as a temperature-invariant Cu(II)-ligand-radical complex in solution, demonstrating that ostensibly simple variations of the ligand structure affect the locus of oxidation in Cu-bis-phenoxide complexes.

Salivary testosterone measurement by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry in adult males and females.

PubMed

Keevil, B G; MacDonald, P; Macdowall, W; Lee, D M; Wu, F C W

2014-05-01

Salivary testosterone (Sal-T) may be a useful surrogate of serum free testosterone. The study aims were to use a novel liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assay to determine whether Sal-T concentrations accurately reflect Sal-T concentrations in both sexes and to investigate practical aspects of sample collection. Saliva and serum samples were collected in 104 male and 91 female subjects. A more sensitive LC-MS/MS assay was developed to enable Sal-T quantitation in the low concentrations found in females. Saliva (200 µL) was extracted with 1 mL of methyl-tert-butyl ether following the addition of D5-testosterone. Quantitation was performed using a Waters TQ-S mass spectrometer. The assay achieved a lower limit of quantification of 5 pmol/L, sufficiently sensitive to measure testosterone in female saliva. Sal-T showed a diurnal variation but samples taken at weekly and monthly intervals showed no significant differences. Sal-T was stable at ambient temperature for up to 5 days, after freeze-thawing and 3 years frozen storage. Reference intervals for Sal-T were 93-378 pmol/L in males and 5-46 pmol/L in females. Sal-T correlated significantly with serum calculated free-T in males (r = 0.71, P < 0.001) and in females (r = 0.39, P < 0.001). These results confirm that testosterone can be reliably and accurately measured by LC-MS/MS in both adult male and female saliva samples. These results lay the foundation for further exploration of the clinical application of Sal- T as a reliable alternative to serum testosterone in the diagnosis and management of androgen disorders and assessment of androgen status in clinical research.

Salvianolic acid B attenuates apoptosis and inflammation via SIRT1 activation in experimental stroke rats.

PubMed

Lv, Hongdi; Wang, Ling; Shen, Jinchang; Hao, Shaojun; Ming, Aimin; Wang, Xidong; Su, Feng; Zhang, Zhengchen

2015-06-01

Silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), a histone deacetylase, has been suggested to be effective in ischemic brain diseases. Salvianolic acid B (SalB) is a polyphenolic and one of the active components of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge. Previous studies suggested that SalB is protective against ischemic stroke. However, the role of SIRT1 in the protective effect of SalB against cerebral ischemia has not been explored. In this study, the rat brain was subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Before this surgery, rats were intraperitoneally administrated SalB with or without EX527, a specific SIRT1 inhibitor. The infarct volume, neurological score and brain water content were assessed. In addition, levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in the brain tissues were detected by commercial ELISA kits. And the expression levels of SIRT, Ac-FOXO1, Bcl-2 and Bax were detected by Western blot. The results suggested that SalB exerted a cerebral-protective effect, as shown by reduced infarct volume, lowered brain edema and increased neurological scores. SalB also exerted anti-inflammatory effects as indicated by the decreased TNF-α and IL-1β levels in the brain tissue. Moreover, SalB upregulated the expression of SIRT1 and Bcl-2 and downregulated the expression of Ac-FOXO1 and Bax. These effects of SalB were abolished by EX527 treatment. In summary, our results demonstrate that SalB treatment attenuates brain injury induced by ischemic stoke via reducing apoptosis and inflammation through the activation of SIRT1 signaling. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[When Should We Perform Surgery for N2 Lung Cancer?;Induction Chemoradiotherapy or Surgery for Local Recurrence or Residual Tumor after Definitive Chemoradiotherapy].

PubMed

Ito, Hiroyuki; Nakayama, Haruhiko

2018-04-01

Standard treatment for locally advanced clinical N2 lung cancer is definitive chemoradiotherapy, and induction chemoradiotherapy(IND-CRT) followed by surgery is an option. Most of them recurs remotely within a few years after initial therapy. Patients who received salvage surgery(SAL) after definitive chemoradiotherapy had no remote relapse for some period after definitive chemoradiotherapy, thus the outcome of SAL may be better than those of IND-CRT, but the operative risks of both procedures seem to be high. To compare the prognosis and risk of SAL and IND-CRT. From January 2001 through December 2015, 39 patients with clinical N2 primary lung cancer underwent surgery after chemoradiotherapy. Twenty-six patients received IND-CRT, and 13 underwent SAL. Perioperative factors, overall survival rates at 5 years, lung-cancer-specific mortality, relapse-free survival rates, and the rates of perioperative complications were compared between the groups. The median follow up period was 41.0 months(5~120 months). Twelve patients were women, and 27 were men. The average age was 60.2 years. The patients comprised 1.7% of the 2,330 anatomical resections performed during the same period. The radiation dose was 46.4 Gy who received IND-CRT and 61.4 Gy in those who received SAL(p<0.001). In patients who received IND-CRT, median period from the end of the initial treatment to surgery was 1.2 months in IND-CRT and 17.2 months in SAL. Lobectomy was performed in 37 patients, pneumonectomy in 2 patients. In patients who received IND-CRT, an average operation time was 236 minutes, mean bleeding volume was 135 g. In patients who underwent SAL, they were 236 minutes and 188 g(p=0.998, p=0.365). There was no perioperative and in-hospital death in either group. Postoperative complications developed in 5 of INDCRT(19.2%)and 3 in SAL(23.1%). The 5-year overall survival rate of all cases was 60.4%(IND-CRT 53.9, SAL 81.8%;p=0.737). The lung cancer-specific survival rate at 5 years was 60.4% overall, 57.5% in IND-CRT, and 90.0% in SAL(p=0.176). The 5-year relapse-free survival rate was 52.7% overall, 37.6% in IND-CRT, 57.7% in SAL(p=0.175). Although the differences were not statistically significant, SAL tended to have better outcomes. SAL did not differ significantly from IND-CRT with respect to postoperative complications or surgical invasiveness in patients with clinical N2 lung cancer and had good outcomes. SAL and IND-CRT seem to be a sufficiently meaningful treatment but should be performed by surgeons with sufficient knowledge and experience.

Self-targeted salinomycin-loaded DSPE-PEG-methotrexate nanomicelles for targeting both head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cancer cells and cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Zhu, Minhui; Chen, Shicai; Hua, Libo; Zhang, Caiyun; Chen, Mengjie; Chen, Donghui; Dong, Yinmei; Zhang, Yingying; Li, Meng; Song, Xianmin; Chen, Huaiwen; Zheng, Hongliang

2017-02-01

To target both head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells and cancer stem cells (CSCs) by salinomycin-loaded DSPE-PEG-MTX (synthesized using DSPE-PEG2000-NH2 and methotrexate) nanomicelles (M-SAL-MTX). The characterization, antitumor activity and mechanism of M-SAL-MTX were evaluated. M-SAL-MTX showed enhanced inhibitory effect toward both HNSCC CSCs and non-CSCs compared with a single treatment of methotrexate and salinomycin. In nude mice-bearing HNSCC xenografts, M-SAL-MTX suppressed tumor growth more effectively than other controls including combination of methotrexate and salinomycin. Therefore, M-SAL-MTX may provide a strategy for treating HNSCC by targeting both HNSCC CSCs and HNSCC cells.

Spectroscopic and structural studies of the first complex formed between salinomycin and organic amine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antoszczak, Michał; Janczak, Jan; Brzezinski, Bogumił; Huczyński, Adam

2017-02-01

For the first time, the crystalline complex of salinomycin with benzylamine was obtained and its molecular structure was studied using single crystal X-ray diffraction, FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, 2D NMR and ESI MS methods. These studies provided evidence that the proton from the carboxylic group of salinomycin (SAL) is transferred to the amine group of benzylamine (BnA) forming the host-guest complex (SAL-BnA). It was shown that the SAL-BnA complex both in solid state and in chloroform solution is stabilized by the intramolecular O-H⋯O hydrogen bonds and also by the intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions of the carboxylate, ketone and/or hydroxyl groups of SAL with water molecules present in the investigated system. The solvated acetonitrile molecules are additionally located in the voids between the SAL-BnA complex molecules in the crystal structure, while water molecules involved in the dihydrated crystalline SAL-BnA complex partially move into the solvent upon dissolution in chloroform.

75 FR 51238 - Manti-La Sal National Forest Resource Advisory Committee

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-19

... DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Forest Service Manti-La Sal National Forest Resource Advisory Committee AGENCY: Forest Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice of meeting. SUMMARY: The Manti-La Sal National Forest..., 319 North Carbon Avenue, Price, Utah. Written comments should be sent to Rosann Fillmore, Manti- La...

Installation Restoration Program, Phase 1. Records Search, Wheeler Air Force Base, Oahu, Hawaii

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-07-01

the 3vegetation was already exotic, consisting of trees such as guava , koa haole, eucalyptus and silver oak, and shrubs and 3 grasses including lantana...Alkalioo Soap 5 gal GrounOd S~r Of f Base Fire Pit fir.Pit Of f Base PmecI" CoCAClo 20$ P 680 1S Sa.L Cro-..d tAint 10-20 gal 8w L..dt±u Off km. Thinmar

Comparison of the sedative effects of nalbuphine and butorphanol, alone or in combination with acepromazine in dogs.

PubMed

Gomes, Viviane H; Oliveira, Renato Ls; Marques, Juliana Lr; Coelho, Cassia Mm; Silva, Marta Fa

2018-01-01

To compare sedation and effects on heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and respiratory rate (f R ) of nalbuphine and butorphanol, alone or combined with acepromazine in dogs. Prospective, randomized experimental trial. Eight healthy Beagle dogs, aged (mean ± standard deviation) 3.4 ± 0.5 years and weighing 11.0 ± 1.3 kg. Each dog was treated four times: physiological saline (1 mL) combined with nalbuphine (0.5 mg kg -1 ; SAL-NAL) or butorphanol (0.15 mg kg -1 ; SAL-BUT), and acepromazine (0.05 mg kg -1 ) combined with nalbuphine (0.5 mg kg -1 ; ACP-NAL) or butorphanol (0.15 mg kg -1 ; ACP-BUT), intravenously (IV). The degree of sedation, assessed by a numeric descriptive scale (NDS) and simple numerical scale (SNS), HR, MAP, f R and rectal temperature (RT), were recorded before and 20 minutes after administration of saline or acepromazine, then 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes after nalbuphine or butorphanol. Values were compared with baseline and among treatments. Mild sedation was recorded for SAL-NAL and SAL-BUT, and moderate sedation for ACP-NAL and ACP-BUT. NDS and SNS scores were higher for SAL-BUT and ACP-BUT at some time points when compared with SAL-NAL and ACP-NAL, respectively (p < 0.001). HR was lower in ACP-NAL than in ACP-BUT at 120 minutes and f R was lower in SAL-BUT than in SAL-NAL at 30 and 120 minutes (p < 0.05). RT was lower in SAL-BUT (37.5 ± 0.5 °C) compared with SAL-NAL (38.0 ± 0.5 °C) at 60-120 minutes (p < 0.05). Butorphanol promoted a higher sedative effect than nalbuphine when alone and combined with acepromazine. IV administration of nalbuphine or butorphanol, with or without acepromazine, at the doses studied, resulted in minimal decreases in MAP, HR, f R and RT. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Determination of trace uranium by resonance fluorescence method coupled with photo-catalytic technology and dual cloud point extraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jiekang; Li, Guirong; Han, Qian

2016-12-01

In this paper, two kinds of salophens (Sal) with different solubilities, Sal1 and Sal2, have been respectively synthesized, and they all can combine with uranyl to form stable complexes: [UO22 +-Sal1] and [UO22 +-Sal2]. Among them, [UO22 +-Sal1] was used as ligand to extract uranium in complex samples by dual cloud point extraction (dCPE), and [UO22 +-Sal2] was used as catalyst for the determination of uranium by photocatalytic resonance fluorescence (RF) method. The photocatalytic characteristic of [UO22 +-Sal2] on the oxidized pyronine Y (PRY) by potassium bromate which leads to the decrease of RF intensity of PRY were studied. The reduced value of RF intensity of reaction system (ΔF) is in proportional to the concentration of uranium (c), and a novel photo-catalytic RF method was developed for the determination of trace uranium (VI) after dCPE. The combination of photo-catalytic RF techniques and dCPE procedure endows the presented methods with enhanced sensitivity and selectivity. Under optimal conditions, the linear calibration curves range for 0.067 to 6.57 ng mL- 1, the linear regression equation was ΔF = 438.0 c (ng mL- 1) + 175.6 with the correlation coefficient r = 0.9981. The limit of detection was 0.066 ng mL- 1. The proposed method was successfully applied for the separation and determination of uranium in real samples with the recoveries of 95.0-103.5%. The mechanisms of the indicator reaction and dCPE are discussed.

The effects of training volume and competition on the salivary cortisol concentrations of Olympic weightlifters.

PubMed

Crewther, Blair T; Heke, Taati; Keogh, Justin W L

2011-01-01

This study examined the effects of training volume and competition on the salivary cortisol (Sal-C) concentrations of Olympic weightlifters. Male (n = 5) and female (n = 4) Olympic weightlifters provided saliva samples across a 5-week experimental = period. The first aim was to assess the weekly effects of high (≥ 200 sets) and low (≤ 100 sets) training volume on Sal-C. The second aim was to compare Sal-C concentrations and 1 repetition maximum (1RM) performance during 2 simulated and 2 actual competitions. Performance was assessed using the snatch, clean and jerk, and the Olympic total lift. Data from each competition setting were pooled before analysis. There were no significant weekly changes in Sal-C levels (p > 0.05). The actual competitions produced higher (128-130%) Sal-C concentrations (p < 0.001) and superior 1RM lifts (1.9-2.6%) for the clean and jerk, and the Olympic total, than the simulated competitions (p < 0.05). Individual Sal-C concentrations before the simulated competitions were positively correlated to all of the 1RM lifts (r = 0.48-0.49, p < 0.05). In conclusion, actual competitions produced greater Sal-C responses than simulated competitions, and this appeared to benefit the 1RM performance of Olympic weightlifters. Individuals with higher Sal-C concentrations also tended to exhibit superior 1RM lifts during the simulated competitions. Given these findings, greater emphasis should be placed upon the monitoring of C to establish normative values, training standards and to assist with performance prediction.

An Overview of SAL

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bensalem, Saddek; Ganesh, Vijay; Lakhnech, Yassine; Munoz, Cesar; Owre, Sam; Ruess, Harald; Rushby, John; Rusu, Vlad; Saiedi, Hassen; Shankar, N.

2000-01-01

To become practical for assurance, automated formal methods must be made more scalable, automatic, and cost-effective. Such an increase in scope, scale, automation, and utility can be derived from an emphasis on a systematic separation of concerns during verification. SAL (Symbolic Analysis Laboratory) attempts to address these issues. It is a framework for combining different tools to calculate properties of concurrent systems. The heart of SAL is a language, developed in collaboration with Stanford, Berkeley, and Verimag for specifying concurrent systems in a compositional way. Our instantiation of the SAL framework augments PVS with tools for abstraction, invariant generation, program analysis (such as slicing), theorem proving, and model checking to separate concerns as well as calculate properties (i.e., perform, symbolic analysis) of concurrent systems. We. describe the motivation, the language, the tools, their integration in SAL/PAS, and some preliminary experience of their use.

Genetic epidemiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Zou, Zhang-Yu; Zhou, Zhi-Rui; Che, Chun-Hui; Liu, Chang-Yun; He, Rao-Li; Huang, Hua-Pin

2017-07-01

Genetic studies have shown that C9orf72 , SOD1 , TARDBP and FUS are the most common mutated genes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Here, we performed a meta-analysis to determine the mutation frequencies of these major ALS-related genes in patients with ALS. We performed an extensive literature research to identify all original articles reporting frequencies of C9orf72 , SOD1 , TARDBP and FUS mutations in ALS. The mutation frequency and effect size of each study were combined. Possible sources of heterogeneity across studies were determined by meta-regression, sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis. 111 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The overall pooled mutation frequencies of these major ALS-related genes were 47.7% in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) and 5.2% in sporadic ALS (SALS). A significant difference was identified regarding the frequencies of mutations in major ALS genes between European and Asian patients. In European populations, the most common mutations were the C9orf72 repeat expansions (FALS 33.7%, SALS 5.1%), followed by SOD1 (FALS 14.8%, SALS 1.2%), TARDBP (FALS 4.2%, SALS 0.8%) and FUS mutations (FALS 2.8%, SALS 0.3%), while in Asian populations the most common mutations were SOD1 mutations (FALS 30.0%, SALS 1.5%), followed by FUS (FALS 6.4%, SALS 0.9%), C9orf72 (FALS 2.3%, SALS 0.3%) and TARDBP (FALS 1.5%, SALS 0.2%) mutations. These findings demonstrated that the genetic architecture of ALS in Asian populations is distinct from that in European populations, which need to be given appropriate consideration when performing genetic testing of patients with ALS. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

SALVIANOLIC ACID B ALLEVIATING MYOCARDIUM INJURY IN ISCHEMIA REPERFUSION RATS.

PubMed

Qiao, Zengyong; Xu, Yawei

2016-01-01

Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) Bunge is one of the widely-used Chinese medicinal herbs. Salvianolic acid B (Sal B), a bioactive compound isolated from the Chinese herb Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae, has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidantive effects. To study the cardioprotective effects of salvianolic acid B (Sal B) on acute myocardial ischemia reperfusion (MIR) injury rats, on the basis of this investigation, the possible mechanism of salvianolic acid B was elucidated. Male Sprague- Dawley rats (200-220 g) were randomly divided into five groups: sham-operated, MIR, MIR + Sal B (10 mg/kg/day, orally), MIR + Sal B (20 mg/kg/ day, orally) and MIR + Sal B (30 mg/kg/ day, orally). Before operation, the foregoing groups were pretreated with homologous drug once a day for 7 days, respectively. After twelve hours in MIR, the cardioprotective effects of SPJ were evaluated by infarct size, biochemical values, and the antioxidative and antiapoptotic relative gene expressions. Sal B significantly improved heart function and decreased infarct size; remarkably decreased levels of serum TNF-α and IL-Ιβ levels, increased contents of myocardium antioxidant enzymes activities; western blot results showed that Sal B ameliorate the increased Bax and caspase-3 protins expressions and decreased Bcl-2 proteins expression and ratios of Bcl-2 to Bax. In ischemic myocardium, oxidative stress caused the overgeneration and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which was central of cardiac ischemic injury. Sal B exerted beneficially cardioprotective effects on myocardial ischemia injury rats, mainly scavenging oxidative stress-triggered overgeneration and accumulation of ROS, alleviating myocardial ischemia injury and cardiac cell death. List of abbreviations: salvianolic acid B (Sal B); myocardial ischemia reperfusion (MIR); reactive oxygen species (ROS); Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP); left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV); Malondialdehyde (MDA); superoxide dismutase (SOD); catalase (CAT); Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px); glutathione reductase (GR).

Jejunal Infusion of Glucose Decreases Energy Intake to a Greater Extent than Fructose in Adult Male Rats12

PubMed Central

Moghadam, Alexander A; Moran, Timothy H; Dailey, Megan J

2016-01-01

Background: Intestinal nutrient infusions result in variable decreases in energy intake and body weight based on nutrient type and specific intestinal infusion site. Objective: The objective was to test whether an intrajejunal fructose infusion (FRU) would lower energy intake and body weight and induce similar increases in gut hormones as those found after intrajejunal glucose infusions (GLU). Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats received an intrajejunal infusion of either an equal kilocalorie load of glucose or fructose (11.4 kcal) or saline (SAL) for 5 d while intake of a standard rodent diet was continuously recorded; body weight was measured daily. Immediately after the infusion on the final day, rats were killed and plasma was collected to measure hormones. Results: Daily energy intake was significantly lower in the GLU group than in the SAL group, but the FRU group did not differ from the GLU or SAL groups when the 11.4 kcal of the infusate was included as energy intake. Lower energy intake was due to smaller meal sizes during the infusion period in the GLU group than in the FRU and SAL groups; the FRU and SAL groups did not differ. The percentage of change in body weight was lower in the GLU group than in the FRU and SAL groups. Plasma glucagon-like-peptide 1 (GLP-1) concentrations were greater in the GLU group than in the SAL group; the FRU group did not differ from the GLU or SAL groups. The plasma insulin concentration was greater in the FRU group than in both the GLU and SAL groups. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that glucose induces a greater decrease in energy intake and increase in GLP-1 at distal intestinal sites than fructose in rats, which may explain differential effects of these monosaccharides between studies when delivered orally or along the proximal to distal axis of the intestine. PMID:27581579

Modeling and Analysis of Asynchronous Systems Using SAL and Hybrid SAL

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tiwari, Ashish; Dutertre, Bruno

2013-01-01

We present formal models and results of formal analysis of two different asynchronous systems. We first examine a mid-value select module that merges the signals coming from three different sensors that are each asynchronously sampling the same input signal. We then consider the phase locking protocol proposed by Daly, Hopkins, and McKenna. This protocol is designed to keep a set of non-faulty (asynchronous) clocks phase locked even in the presence of Byzantine-faulty clocks on the network. All models and verifications have been developed using the SAL model checking tools and the Hybrid SAL abstractor.

Potentiation activity of multiple antibacterial agents by Salvianolate from the Chinese medicine Danshen against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

PubMed

Liu, Qing-Qing; Han, Jun; Zuo, Guo-Ying; Wang, Gen-Chun; Tang, Hua-Shu

2016-05-01

Salvianolate (SAL) is a prescribed medicine from the Chinese herb Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge). It has been widely used in treatment of coronary and other diseases with significant effects. The in vitro antimicrobial activities of SAL against infectious pathogens were assayed and its combined effects on 10 clinical isolates of SCCmec III type methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with ten antibiotics were evaluated. Susceptibility to each agent alone was tested using a broth microdilution method, and the chequerboard and time-kill experiments were used for the combined activities. The results showed MIC was 128-256 mg/L for SAL used alone against MRSA. Significant synergies were observed for SAL/Ampicillin (Fosfomycin, Erythromycin, Piperacillin-tazobactam or Clindamycin) combination against over half of the isolates, with their MICs reduced by times of dilution (TOD) to 4-32 (FICIs 0.375-0.5), respectively. SAL/AMP combination showed the best combined effect of synergy on bacteriostatic and bactericidal activities, while SAL/AMK combination reversed the resistance of MRSA to AMK. The results demonstrated that SAL enhanced widely the in vitro anti-MRSA efficacy of the ten antibacterial agents, which had potential for combinatory therapy of patients infected with MRSA and warrants further investigations. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Combined Salvianolic Acid B and Ginsenoside Rg1 Exerts Cardioprotection against Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Rats

PubMed Central

Deng, Yanping; Yang, Min; Xu, Feng; Zhang, Qian; Zhao, Qun; Yu, Haitao; Li, Defang; Zhang, Ge; Lu, Aiping; Cho, Kenka; Teng, Fukang; Wu, Peng; Wang, Linlin; Wu, Wanying; Liu, Xuan; Guo, De-an; Jiang, Baohong

2015-01-01

Lack of pharmacological strategies in clinics restricts the patient prognosis with myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardioprotection of combined salvianolic acid B (SalB) and ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) against myocardial I/R injury and further investigate the underlying mechanism. I/R injury was induced by coronary artery ligation for Wistar male rats and hypoxia/reoxygenation injury was induced on H9c2 cells. Firstly, the best ratio between SalB and Rg1was set as 2:5 based on their effects on heart function detected by hemodynamic measurement. Then SalB-Rg1 (2:5) was found to maintain mitochondrial membrane potential and resist apoptosis and necrosis in H9c2 cell with hypoxia/reoxygenation injury. Companying with same dose of SalB or Rg1 only, SalB-Rg1 showed more significant effects on down-regulation of myocardial infarct size, maintenance of myocardium structure, improvement on cardiac function, decrease of cytokine secretion including TNF-α, IL-1β, RANTES and sVCAM-1. Finally, the SalB-Rg1 improved the viability of cardiac myocytes other than cardiac fibroblasts in rats with I/R injury using flow cytometry. Our results revealed that SalB-Rg1 was a promising strategy to prevent myocardial I/R injury. PMID:26280455

Comparison of methods for the detection of coliphages in recreational water at two California, United States beaches.

PubMed

Rodríguez, Roberto A; Love, David C; Stewart, Jill R; Tajuba, Julianne; Knee, Jacqueline; Dickerson, Jerold W; Webster, Laura F; Sobsey, Mark D

2012-04-01

Methods for detection of two fecal indicator viruses, F+ and somatic coliphages, were evaluated for application to recreational marine water. Marine water samples were collected during the summer of 2007 in Southern California, United States from transects along Avalon Beach (n=186 samples) and Doheny Beach (n=101 samples). Coliphage detection methods included EPA method 1601 - two-step enrichment (ENR), EPA method 1602 - single agar layer (SAL), and variations of ENR. Variations included comparison of two incubation times (overnight and 5-h incubation) and two final detection steps (lysis zone assay and a rapid latex agglutination assay). A greater number of samples were positive for somatic and F+ coliphages by ENR than by SAL (p<0.01). The standard ENR with overnight incubation and detection by lysis zone assay was the most sensitive method for the detection of F+ and somatic coliphages from marine water, although the method takes up to three days to obtain results. A rapid 5-h enrichment version of ENR also performed well, with more positive samples than SAL, and could be performed in roughly 24h. Latex agglutination-based detection methods require the least amount of time to perform, although the sensitivity was less than lysis zone-based detection methods. Rapid culture-based enrichment of coliphages in marine water may be possible by further optimizing culture-based methods for saline water conditions to generate higher viral titers than currently available, as well as increasing the sensitivity of latex agglutination detection methods. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Diverse Communications Project at Vandenberg Air Force Base

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-07-25

genus Euphilotes, the El Segundo blue butterfly spends its entire life cycle in intimate association with a species of buckwheat, in this case coast...to LF 24, Parquee Road. Approximately 1,300 feet of line would cross under Point Sal Road and continue along the northern edge of Parquee Road to...would tie MH 1964 A1 to LF 23. Approximately 1,000 feet of communication line would be installed from MH 1964 A1 north and along the northern border of

Observation of Thermal Electron Detachment from Cyclo-C4F8 in FALP experiments

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-01-01

Maxwell- Boltzmann distri- electron affinity of C6 F6 was thought to be in bution of internal energy among the cyclo- the neighborhood of 1 eV, but...is not known but may be unimolecular rate for thermal electron detach- estimated as 0.63 eV from the results of the ment from C 6 F6 in the...delivery via SAL (Surface Air Lift) mail is ensured: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Horg Kong, India, Israel, Japan, Malaysia , Mexico, New

On convection and static stability during the AMMA SOP3 campaign

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Embolo Embolo, G. B.; Lenouo, André; Nzeukou, Armand T.; Vondou, Derbetini A.; Kamga, F. Mkankam

2017-01-01

Using radiosonde dataset from 15 weather stations over West Africa, this paper investigates the contribution of the couple convection-static stability in the framework of the African monsoon multidisciplinary analyses Special Observing Period 3 (AMMA SOP3) experiment. Within this 31-day period, the boundary layer-winds depictions have revealed the West African monsoon's (WAM) depth (around 1500 m) is not thick enough to trigger intense convection. However, the midlevel winds distribution (700-600 hPa) has shown the average African easterly jet core strength (15 m s-1) is sufficient to allow the development of African easterly waves (AEWs) necessary for squall lines activities. In return, in the upper levels (200-100 hPa), the speed (below 18 m s-1) of the mean Tropical easterly jet (TEJ) core cannot favor midlevel updrafts. The free tropospheric humidity (FTH) depiction has indicated convective events are more likely in the western Sahel where the highest FTH (FTH >50 %) are recorded. The static stability analysis has testified that convection is stronger in the semi-arid (SA) area during night time (0000 GMT). However, convective activities are inhibited in the wet equatorial (WE) region due to mean low-level stability. We used METEOSAT Second Generation (MSG) infrared (IR10.8) imagery of the 8th September 2006 to confirm that result. Furthermore, a maximum midtropospheric static stability combined with maximum relative humidity (RH) was found on the fringe of the Saharan air layer's (SAL) top (altitude around 5.3 km) in the WE region.

Investigation of the binding of Salvianolic acid B to human serum albumin and the effect of metal ions on the binding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Tingting; Cao, Hui; Zhu, Shajun; Lu, Yapeng; Shang, Yanfang; Wang, Miao; Tang, Yanfeng; Zhu, Li

2011-10-01

The studies on the interaction between HSA and drugs have been an interesting research field in life science, chemistry and clinical medicine. There are also many metal ions present in blood plasma, thus the research about the effect of metal ions on the interaction between drugs and plasma proteins is crucial. In this study, the interaction of Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) with human serum albumin (HSA) was investigated by the steady-state, synchronous fluorescence and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopies. The results showed that Sal B had a strong ability to quench the intrinsic fluorescence of HSA through a static quenching mechanism. Binding parameters calculated showed that Sal B was bound to HSA with the binding affinities of 10 5 L mol -1. The thermodynamic parameters studies revealed that the binding was characterized by positive enthalpy and positive entropy changes, and hydrophobic interactions were the predominant intermolecular forces to stabilize the complex. The specific binding distance r (2.93 nm) between donor (HSA) and acceptor (Sal B) was obtained according to Förster non-radiative resonance energy transfer theory. The synchronous fluorescence experiment revealed that Sal B cannot lead to the microenvironmental changes around the Tyr and Trp residues of HSA, and the binding site of Sal B on HSA is located in hydrophobic cavity of subdomain IIA. The CD spectroscopy indicated the secondary structure of HSA is not changed in the presence of Sal B. Furthermore, The effect of metal ions (e.g. Zn 2+, Cu 2+, Co 2+, Ni 2+, Fe 3+) on the binding constant of Sal B-HSA complex was also discussed.

Salvianolic acid B protects against paraquat-induced pulmonary injury by mediating Nrf2/Nox4 redox balance and TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling

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

Liu, Bin, E-mail: iamicehe@163.com

The present study was aimed at exploring the protective effects of Salvianolic acid B (SalB) against paraquat (PQ)-induced lung injury in mice. Lung fibrotic injuries were induced in mice by a single intragastrical administration of 300 mg/kg PQ, then the mice were administrated with 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg SalB, 100 mg/kg vitamin C (Vit C) and dexamethasone (DXM) for 14 days. PQ-triggered structure distortion, collagen overproduction, excessive inflammatory infiltration, pro-inflammatory cytokine release, and oxidative stress damages in lung tissues and mortality of mice were attenuated by SalB in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, SalB was noted to enhance the expression andmore » nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) and reduce expression of the reactive oxygen species-generating enzyme Nox4 [NADPH (reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) oxidase-4]. SalB also inhibited the increasing expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and the phosphorylation of its downstream target Smad3 which were enhanced by PQ. These results suggest that SalB may exert protective effects against PQ-induced lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis. Its mechanisms involve the mediation of Nrf2/Nox4 redox balance and TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling. - Highlights: • Salvianolic acid B (SalB) reduced Paraquat-induced mortality and pulmonary injury in mice. • SalB has anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrogenic effects simultaneously. • Its mechanisms were targeting Nrf2-Nox4 redox balance and TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling.« less

Pretreatment with 2-(4-Methoxyphenyl)ethyl-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β-D-pyranoside Attenuates Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Injury In Vitro and In Vivo

PubMed Central

Chen, Xia; Deng, Aiqing; Zhou, Tianqiu; Ding, Fei

2014-01-01

Salidroside, extracted from the root of Rhodiola rosea L, is known for its pharmacological properties, in particular its neuroprotective effects. 2-(4-Methoxyphenyl) ethyl-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β-D- pyranoside (GlcNAc-Sal), an analog of salidroside, was recently synthesized and shown to possess neuroprotective properties. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of GlcNAc-Sal against oxygen–glucose deprivation-reperfusion (OGD-R)-induced neurotoxicity in vitro and global cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (GCI-R) injury in vivo. Cell viability tests and Hoechst 33342 staining confirmed that GlcNAc-Sal pretreatment markedly attenuated OGD-R induced apoptotic cell death in immortalized mouse hippocampal HT22 cells. Western blot, immunofluorescence and PCR analyses revealed that GlcNAc-Sal pretreatment restored the balance of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins and inhibited the activation of caspase-3 and PARP induced by OGD-R treatment. Further analyses showed that GlcNAc-Sal pretreatment antagonized reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, iNOS-derived NO production and NO-related apoptotic cell death during OGD-R stimulation. GCI-R was induced by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) and reperfusion in mice in vivo. Western blot analysis showed that GlcNAc-Sal pretreatment decreased the expression of caspase-3 and increased the expression of Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2)/Bax (Bcl-2-associated X protein) induced by GCI-R treatment. Our findings suggest that GlcNAc-Sal pretreatment prevents brain ischemia reperfusion injury by the direct or indirect suppression of cell apoptosis and GlcNAc-Sal could be developed as a broad-spectrum agent for the prevention and/or treatment of cerebral ischemic injury. PMID:24991917

Pharmacokinetics and physiologic effects of intramuscularly administered xylazine hydrochloride-ketamine hydrochloride-butorphanol tartrate alone or in combination with orally administered sodium salicylate on biomarkers of pain in Holstein calves following castration and dehorning.

PubMed

Baldridge, Sarah L; Coetzee, Johann F; Dritz, Steve S; Reinbold, James B; Gehring, Ronette; Havel, James; Kukanich, Butch

2011-10-01

To determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of xylazine, ketamine, and butorphanol (XKB) administered IM and sodium salicylate (SAL) administered PO to calves and to compare drug effects on biomarkers of pain and distress following sham and actual castration and dehorning. 40 Holstein bull calves from 3 farms. Calves weighing 108 to 235 kg (n = 10 calves/group) received one of the following treatments prior to sham (period 1) and actual (period 2) castration and dehorning: saline (0.9% NaCl) solution IM (placebo); SAL administered PO through drinking water at concentrations from 2.5 to 5 mg/mL from 24 hours prior to period 1 to 48 hours after period 2; butorphanol (0.025 mg/kg), xylazine (0.05 mg/kg), and ketamine (0.1 mg/kg) coadministered IM immediately prior to both periods; and a combination of SAL and XKB (SAL+XKB). Plasma drug concentrations, average daily gain (ADG), chute exit velocity, serum cortisol concentrations, and electrodermal activity were evaluated. ADG (days 0 to 13) was significantly greater in the SAL and SAL+XKB groups than in the other 2 groups. Calves receiving XKB had reduced chute exit velocity in both periods. Serum cortisol concentrations increased in all groups from period 1 to period 2. However, XKB attenuated the cortisol response for the first hour after castration and dehorning and oral SAL administration reduced the response from 1 to 6 hours. Administration of XKB decreased electrodermal activity scores in both periods. SAL administered PO through drinking water decreased cortisol concentrations and reduced the decrease in ADG associated with castration and dehorning in calves.

Determination of trace uranium by resonance fluorescence method coupled with photo-catalytic technology and dual cloud point extraction.

PubMed

Li, Jiekang; Li, Guirong; Han, Qian

2016-12-05

In this paper, two kinds of salophens (Sal) with different solubilities, Sal1 and Sal2, have been respectively synthesized, and they all can combine with uranyl to form stable complexes: [UO2(2+)-Sal1] and [UO2(2+)-Sal2]. Among them, [UO2(2+)-Sal1] was used as ligand to extract uranium in complex samples by dual cloud point extraction (dCPE), and [UO2(2+)-Sal2] was used as catalyst for the determination of uranium by photocatalytic resonance fluorescence (RF) method. The photocatalytic characteristic of [UO2(2+)-Sal2] on the oxidized pyronine Y (PRY) by potassium bromate which leads to the decrease of RF intensity of PRY were studied. The reduced value of RF intensity of reaction system (ΔF) is in proportional to the concentration of uranium (c), and a novel photo-catalytic RF method was developed for the determination of trace uranium (VI) after dCPE. The combination of photo-catalytic RF techniques and dCPE procedure endows the presented methods with enhanced sensitivity and selectivity. Under optimal conditions, the linear calibration curves range for 0.067 to 6.57ngmL(-1), the linear regression equation was ΔF=438.0 c (ngmL(-1))+175.6 with the correlation coefficient r=0.9981. The limit of detection was 0.066ngmL(-1). The proposed method was successfully applied for the separation and determination of uranium in real samples with the recoveries of 95.0-103.5%. The mechanisms of the indicator reaction and dCPE are discussed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Genetic selection for coping style predicts stressor susceptibility.

PubMed

Veenema, A H; Meijer, O C; de Kloet, E R; Koolhaas, J M

2003-03-01

Genetically selected aggressive (SAL) and nonaggressive (LAL) male wild house-mice which show distinctly different coping styles, also display a differential regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis after exposure to an acute stressor. To test the hypothesis that coping style predicts stressor susceptibility, the present study examined line differences in response to a chronic stressor. Chronic psychosocial stress was evoked using two paradigms. In the first paradigm, a SAL or LAL male was living in sensory contact (except tactile contact) with a dominant SAL male for 25 days (sensory contact stress). In the second paradigm, a SAL or LAL male was, in addition to the first paradigm, defeated by a SAL male for 21 consecutive days (defeat stress). The sensory contact stressor induced in LAL mice chronic body weight loss and increased plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone levels compared to SAL mice and increased corticosterone levels, thymus involution and lower hippocampal mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) : glucocorticoid receptor (GR) ratio compared to LAL controls. The defeat stressor increased corticosterone secretion and caused adrenal hypertrophy and thymus involution in both mouse lines. Defeated LAL mice showed long-lasting body weight loss and higher corticosterone concentrations than SAL mice and lower hippocampal MR : GR ratio and decreased immobility behaviour in the forced swimming test than LAL controls. Hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone mRNA expression was higher in defeated SAL than in controls. The present data show that both stress paradigms induced line-dependent physiological and neuroendocrine changes, but that the sensory contact stressor produced chronic stress symptoms in LAL mice only. This latter stress paradigm therefore seems promising to analyse the role of genetic factors in the individual differences in stress-related psychopathology.

HDAC inhibitors, MS-275 and salermide, potentiates the anticancer effect of EF24 in human pancreatic cancer cells.

PubMed

Yar Saglam, Atiye Seda; Yilmaz, Akin; Onen, Hacer Ilke; Alp, Ebru; Kayhan, Handan; Ekmekci, Abdullah

2016-01-01

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) play a major role in the regulation of chromatin structure and gene expression by changing acetylation status of histone and non-histone proteins. MS-275 (entinostat, MS) is a well-known benzamide-based HDACI and Salermide (SAL), a reverse amide compound HDACI, have antiproliferative effects on several human cancer cells. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of HDACIs (MS and SAL) alone and/or combined use with EF24 (EF), a novel synthetic curcumin analog, on human pancreatic cancer cell line (BxPC-3). In vitro, BxPC-3 cells were exposed to varying concentrations of MS, SAL with or without EF, and their effects on cell viability, acetylated Histone H3 and H4 levels, cytotoxicity, and cleaved caspase 3 levels, and cell cycle distribution were measured. The viability of BxPC-3 cells decreased significantly after treatment with EF, MS and SAL treatments. MS and SAL treatment increased the acetylation of histone H3 and H4 in a dose dependent manner. MS and SAL alone or combined with EF were increased the number of cells in G1 phase. In addition, treatment with agents significantly decreased the ratio of cell in G2/M phase. There were significant dose-dependent increases at cleaved Caspase 3 levels after MS treatment but not after SAL treatment. Our results showed that HDAC inhibitors (MS and SAL), when combined with EF, may effectively reduce pancreatic cancer cell (BxPC-3) progression and stop the cell cycle at G1 phase. Further molecular analyses are needed to understand the fundamental molecular consequences of HDAC inhibition in pancreas cancer cells.

The Impact of Chronic Intrauterine Inflammation on the Physiologic and Neurodevelopmental Consequences of Intermittent Umbilical Cord Occlusion in Fetal Sheep

PubMed Central

Nitsos, Ilias; Newnham, John P.; Rees, Sandra M.; Harding, Richard

2014-01-01

Objective: To determine the effect of intrauterine inflammation on fetal responses to umbilical cord occlusion (UCO). Study Design: In pregnant sheep, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or saline (SAL) was infused intra-amniotically for 4 weeks from 80 days of gestation (d). At 110 d, fetuses were instrumented for UCOs (5 × 2-minutes, 30-minute intervals: LPS + UCO, n = 6; SAL + UCO, n = 8) or no UCO (sham, n = 6) on 117 and 118 d. Tissues were collected at 126 d. Results: Fetal physiological responses to UCO were similar between LPS + UCO and SAL + UCO. Histologic chorioamnionitis and increased amniotic fluid interleukin 8 (IL-8) were observed in LPS + UCO pregnancies (versus SAL + UCO, P < .05). CNPase-positive oligodendrocyte number in the cerebral white matter was lower in LPS + UCO and SAL + UCO than sham (P < .05); there was no effect on astrocytes or activated microglia/macrophages. Two of the SAL + UCO fetuses had white matter lesions; none were observed in LPS + UCO or sham. Conclusion: Chronic pre-existing intrauterine inflammation did not exacerbate fetal brain injury induced by intermittent UCO. PMID:21421894

[Salubrinal improves cardiac function in rats with heart failure post myocardial infarction through reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated apoptosis].

PubMed

Liu, Y; Qi, S Y; Ru, L S; Ding, C; Wang, H J; Li, A Y; Xu, B Y; Zhang, G H; Wang, D M

2016-06-24

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays an important role in ischemia-mediated cell death. The aim of the current study is to investigate the effects of salubrinal (Sal), a selective eIF2a dephosphorylation inhibitor, on heart failure rats and related mechanisms. Heart failure was induced by coronary artery ligation (MI) in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. To ensure comparable MI sizes post coronary artery ligation on various groups, echocardiography examination was performed before and 30 minutes after ligation in MI groups. Then rats were randomly assigned to 4 groups: Sham group (n=12), MI group (n=10), MI plus vehicle injections group (DMSO group, n=12) and MI plus Sal injection group (Sal group, n=12). Sal (1 mg/kg) or DMSO was injected via the tail vein daily for the first 3 days (starting at 30 minutes after ligation of the left coronary artery), followed by subcutaneous injections twice per week for 8 weeks. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and cell apoptosis assessed by flow cytometric analysis after 8 weeks. Protein and mRNA levels of ER stress markers were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and real time RT-PCR respectively. Eight weeks later, LVEF was significantly higher, while LVESD and LVEDD values were significantly lower in Sal group compared to MI and DMSO groups (all P<0.05); LV/BW ratio was significantly higher in MI group than in Sham group ((2.30±0.40) mg/g vs.(1.78±0.31) mg/g, P<0.05), which was significantly reduced in Sal group ((1.88±0.25) mg/g), but not in DMSO group((2.25±0.36) mg/g, P<0.05 vs. MI). In addition, flow cytometric analysis showed that Sal treatment significantly reduced apoptosis but not necrosis in post MI. Immunohistochemistry and real time PCR analysis showed that the myocardial protein and mRNA expression of ER stress markers were significantly lower in Sal group than in MI group, myocardial caspase-12 expression was significantly upregulated in MI group and significantly reduced by Sal treatment. Our results suggest that reduction of ER stress and myocardial apoptosis through inhibition of eIF2α dephosphorylation may serve as the potential mechanisms for the improved cardiac function and attenuated cardiac remodeling post Sal treatment in this heart failure rat model.

Salvianolic Acid B (Sal B) Protects Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells from Oxidative Stress-Induced Cell Death by Activating Glutaredoxin 1 (Grx1)

PubMed Central

Liu, Xiaobin; Xavier, Christy; Jann, Jamieson; Wu, Hongli

2016-01-01

Protein glutathionylation, defined as the formation of protein mixed disulfides (PSSG) between cysteine residues and glutathione (GSH), can lead to cell death. Glutaredoxin 1 (Grx1) is a thiol repair enzyme which catalyzes the reduction of PSSG. Therefore, Grx1 exerts strong anti-apoptotic effects by improving the redox state, especially in times of oxidative stress. However, there is currently no compound that is identified as a Grx1 activator. In this study, we identified and characterized Salvianolic acid B (Sal B), a natural compound, as a Grx1 inducer, which potently protected retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells from oxidative injury. Our results showed that treatment with Sal B protected primary human RPE cells from H2O2-induced cell damage. Interestingly, we found Sal B pretreatment upregulated Grx1 expression in RPE cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), the key transcription factor that regulates the expression of Grx1, was activated in Sal B treated RPE cells. Further investigation showed that knockdown of Grx1 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) significantly reduced the protective effects of Sal B. We conclude that Sal B protects RPE cells against H2O2-induced cell injury through Grx1 induction by activating Nrf2 pathway, thus preventing lethal accumulation of PSSG and reversing oxidative damage. PMID:27827892

Genetically modified "obligate" anaerobic Salmonella typhimurium as a therapeutic strategy for neuroblastoma.

PubMed

Guo, Zhu-Ling; Yu, Bin; Ning, Bo-Tao; Chan, Shing; Lin, Qiu-Bin; Li, James Chun-Bong; Huang, Jian-Dong; Chan, Godfrey Chi-Fung

2015-08-19

Neuroblastoma currently has poor prognosis, therefore we proposed a new strategy by targeting neuroblastoma with genetically engineered anaerobic Salmonella (Sal-YB1). Nude and nonobese diabetic-severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD-SCID) orthotopic mouse models were used, and Sal-YB1 was administered via tail vein. The therapeutic effectiveness, bio-safety, and mechanisms were studied. No mice died of therapy-related complications. Tumor size reduction was 70 and 30% in nude and NOD-SCID mice, respectively. No Salmonella was detected in the urine; 75% mice had positive stool culture if diaminopimelic acid was added, but all turned negative subsequently. Tumor tissues had more Sal-YB1 infiltration, necrosis, and shrinkage in Sal-YB1-treated mice. Significantly higher expression of TLR4, TNF-stimulated gene 6 protein (TSG6), and cleaved caspase 1, 3, 8, and 9 was found in the tumor masses of the Sal-YB1-treated group with a decrease of interleukin 1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) and nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor alpha (IκBα). There was a high release of TNFα both in human macrophages and mouse tumor tissues with Sal-YB1 treatment. The antitumor effect of the supernatant derived from macrophages treated with Sal-YB1 could be reversed with TNFα and pan-caspase inhibitors. This new approach in targeting neuroblastoma by bio-engineered Salmonella with the assistance of macrophages indirectly may have a clinical therapeutic impact in the future.

Seasonal radiogenic isotopic variability of the African dust outflow to the tropical Atlantic Ocean and across to the Caribbean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Ashwini; Abouchami, W.; Galer, S. J. G.; Singh, Satinder Pal; Fomba, K. W.; Prospero, J. M.; Andreae, M. O.

2018-04-01

In order to assess the impact of mineral dust on climate and biogeochemistry, it is paramount to identify the sources of dust emission. In this regard, radiogenic isotopes have recently been used successfully for tracing North African dust provenance and its transport across the tropical Atlantic to the Caribbean. Here we present two time series of radiogenic isotopes (Pb, Sr and Nd) in dusts collected at the Cape Verde Islands and Barbados in order to determine the origin of the dust and examine the seasonality of westerly dust outflow from Northern Africa. Aerosol samples were collected daily during two campaigns - February 2012 (winter) and June-July 2013 (summer) - at the Cape Verde Atmospheric Observatory (CVAO) on the island of São Vicente (16.9°N, 24.9°W). A one-year-long time series of aerosols from Barbados (13.16°N, 59.43°W) - a receptor region in the Caribbean - was sampled at a lower, monthly resolution. Our results resolve a seasonal isotopic signal at Cape Verde shown by daily variations, with a larger radiogenic isotope variability in winter compared to that in summer. This summer signature is also observed over Barbados, indicating similar dust provenance at both locations, despite different sampling years. This constrains the isotope fingerprint of Saharan Air Layer (SAL) dust that is well-mixed during its transport. This result provides unequivocal evidence for a permanent, albeit of variable strength, long-range transport of African dust to the Caribbean and is in full agreement with atmospheric models of North African dust emission and transport across the tropical Atlantic in the SAL. The seasonal isotopic variability is related to changes in the dust source areas - mainly the Sahara and Sahel regions - that are active all-year-round, albeit with variable contributions in summer versus the winter months. Our results provide little support for much dust contributed from the Bodélé Depression in Chad - the "dustiest" place on Earth - reaching Cape Verde and Barbados during the summer, while contributions during the winter months are likely patchy and minor at most. Importantly, a short-term isotopic excursion is resolved in the Cape Verde winter record during a dust outbreak on 06-08 February 2012. This features a highly radiogenic Pb and Sr and unradiogenic Nd signature, marking a clear shift in dust provenance relative to that of normal days. As the dust storm waned, continuous gradual changes are observed, reflecting mixing and progressive dilution with dust typical of normal days. These inferences from radiogenic isotope tracers are corroborated by both satellite images (CALIPSO and MODIS) and back-trajectory analyses. The radiogenic isotope fingerprinting of these presently-active North African dust sources, and especially the Saharan Air Layer, will prove invaluable in studies of past dust emission from Northern Africa, where imagery and back trajectory analysis are unavailable.

Synthetic aperture lidar as a future tool for earth observation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turbide, Simon; Marchese, Linda; Terroux, Marc; Bergeron, Alain

2017-11-01

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) is a tool of prime importance for Earth observation; it provides day and night capabilities in various weather conditions. State-of-the-art satellite SAR systems are a few meters in height and width and achieve resolutions of less than 1 m with revisit times on the order of days. Today's Earth observation needs demand higher resolution imaging together with timelier data collection within a compact low power consumption payload. Such needs are seen in Earth Observation applications such as disaster management of earthquakes, landslides, forest fires, floods and others. In these applications the availability of timely reliable information is critical to assess the extent of the disaster and to rapidly and safely deploy rescue teams. Synthetic aperture lidar (SAL) is based on the same basic principles as SAR. Both rely on the acquisition of multiple electromagnetic echoes to emulate a large antenna aperture providing the ability to produce high resolution images. However, in SAL, much shorter optical wavelengths (1.5 μm) are used instead of radar ones (wavelengths around 3 cm). Resolution being related to the wavelength, multiple orders of magnitude of improvement could be theoretically expected. Also, the sources, the detector, and the components are much smaller in optical domain than those for radar. The resulting system can thus be made compact opening the door to deployment onboard small satellites, airborne platforms and unmanned air vehicles. This has a strong impact on the time required to develop, deploy and use a payload. Moreover, in combination with airborne deployment, revisit times can be made much smaller and accessibility to the information can become almost in real-time. Over the last decades, studies from different groups have been done to validate the feasibility of a SAL system for 2D imagery and more recently for 3D static target imagery. In this paper, an overview of the advantages of this emerging technology will be presented. As well, simulations and laboratory demonstrations of deformation mapping using a tabletop synthetic aperture lidar system operated at 1.5 μm are reviewed. The transmitter and receptor of the fiber-based system are mounted on a translation stage which move at a constant speed relatively to the target (sand) located 25 cm away. The change in the 3D profile of the target is thereafter monitored with sub-millimeter precision using the multiple-pass SAL system. Results obtained with a SAL laboratory prototype are reviewed along with the potential applications for Earth observation.

Initiating or changing to a fixed-dose combination of Fluticasone propionate/Formoterol over Fluticasone propionate/Salmeterol: A real-life effectiveness and cost impact evaluation.

PubMed

Wan Yau Ming, Simon; Haughney, John; Small, Iain; Wolfe, Stephanie; Hamill, John; Gruffydd-Jones, Kevin; Daly, Cathal; Soriano, Joan B; Gardener, Elizabeth; Skinner, Derek; Stagno d'Alcontres, Martina; Price, David B

2017-08-01

Asthma has a substantial impact on quality of life and health care resources. The identification of a more cost-effective, yet equally efficacious, treatment could positively influence the economic burden of this disease. Fluticasone propionate/Formoterol (FP/FOR) may be as effective as Fluticasone Salmeterol (FP/SAL). We evaluated non-inferiority of asthma control in terms of the proportion of patients free from exacerbations, and conducted a cost impact analysis. This historical, matched cohort database study evaluated two treatment groups in the Optimum Patient Care Research Database in the UK: 1) an FP/FOR cohort of patients initiating treatment with FP/FOR or changing from FP/SAL to FP/FOR and; 2) an FP/SAL cohort comprising patients initiating, or remaining on FP/SAL pMDI combination therapy. The main outcome evaluated non-inferiority of effectiveness (defined as prevention of severe exacerbations, lower limit of the 95% confidence interval (CI) of the mean difference between groups in patient proportions with no exacerbations is -3.5% or higher) in patients treated with FP/FOR versus FP/SAL. After matching 1:3, we studied a total of 2472 patients: 618 in the FP/FOR cohort (174 patients initiated on FP/FOR and 444 patients changed to FP/FOR) and 1854 in the FP/SAL cohort (522 patients initiated FP/SAL and 1332 continued FP/SAL). The percentage of patients prescribed FP/FOR met non-inferiority as the adjusted mean difference in proportion of no severe exacerbations (95%CI) was 0.008 (-0.032, 0.047) between the two cohorts. No other significant differences were observed except acute respiratory event rates, which were lower for patients prescribed FP/FOR (rate ratio [RR] 0.82, 95% CI 0.71, 0.94). Changing to, or initiating FP/FOR combination therapy, is associated with a non-inferior proportion of patients who are severe exacerbation-free at a lower average annual cost compared with continuing or initiating treatment with FP/SAL. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Protection by free oxygen radical scavenging enzymes against salicylate-induced embryonic malformations in vitro.

PubMed

Karabulut, A K; Ulger, H; Pratten, M K

2000-08-01

Salicylates are among the oldest and most widely used drugs and are known to lead to foetal death, growth retardation and congenital abnormalities in experimental animals. In this study, the effects of acetyl salicylic acid (ASA), salicylic acid (SAL) and sodium salicylate (NaSAL) on early organogenesis and the interaction of these molecules with free radicals has been investigated. Postimplantation rat embryos were cultured in vitro from day 9.5 of gestation for 48 hr. ASA, SAL and NaSAL were added to whole rat serum at concentrations between 0.1 and 0.6 mg/ml. Also, the lowest effective concentration of ASA for all parameters (0.3 mg/ml) and the same concentration of NaSAL and SAL was added to the culture media in the presence of superoxide dismutase (SOD) (30 U/ml) or glutathione (0.5 micromol/ml). The growth and development of embryos was compared and each embryo was evaluated for the presence of any malformations. When compared to growth of control embryos, the salicylates decreased all growth and developmental parameters in a concentration-responsive manner. There was also a concentration-related increase in overall dysmorphology, including the incidence of haematoma in the yolk sac and neural system, open neural tube, abnormal tail torsion and the absence of fore limb bud. When SOD was added in the presence of ASA, growth and developmental parameters were improved and there was a significant decrease in the incidence of malformations. Addition of SOD also decreased the incidence of malformations in the presence of SAL, but did not effect the growth and developmental parameters of SAL and NaSAL. There was no significant difference between the embryos grown in the presence of these three molecules on the addition of glutathione. The effects of salicylates might involve free oxygen radicals by the non-enzymatic production of the highly teratogenic metabolites 2,3- and 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid. An enhanced production of these metabolites in embryonic tissues may be directly related to the increased risk of congenital malformations.

Distribution of Salivary Testosterone in Men and Women in a British General Population-Based Sample: The Third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal-3)

PubMed Central

Clifton, Soazig; Tanton, Clare; Macdowall, Wendy; Copas, Andrew J.; Lee, David; Field, Nigel; Mitchell, Kirstin R.; Sonnenberg, Pam; Bancroft, John; Mercer, Cath H.; Johnson, Anne M.; Wellings, Kaye; Wu, Frederick C. W.

2017-01-01

Introduction: Measurement of salivary testosterone (Sal-T) to assess androgen status offers important potential advantages in epidemiological research. The utility of the method depends on the interpretation of the results against robustly determined population distributions, which are currently lacking. Aim: To determine age-specific Sal-T population distributions for men and women. Methods: Morning saliva samples were obtained from participants in the third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles, a probability sample survey of the British general population. Sal-T was measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Linear and quantile regression analyses were used to determine the age-specific 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles for the general population (1675 men and 2453 women) and the population with health exclusions (1145 men and 1276 women). Results: In the general population, the mean Sal-T level in men decreased from 322.6 pmol/L at 18 years of age to 153.9 pmol/L at 69 years of age. In women, the decrease in the geometric mean Sal-T level was from 39.8 pmol/L at 18 years of age to 19.5 pmol/L at 74 years of age. The annual decrease varied with age, with an average of 1.0% to 1.4% in men and 1.3% to 1.5% in women. For women, the 2.5th percentile fell below the detection limit (<6.5 pmol/L) from age 52 years onward. The mean Sal-T level was approximately 6 times greater in men than in women, and this remained constant over the age range. The Sal-T level was lowest for men and highest for women in the summer. The results were similar for the general population with exclusions. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first study to describe the sex- and age-specific distributions for Sal-T in a large representative population using a specific and sensitive LC-MS/MS technique. The present data can inform future population research by facilitating the interpretation of Sal-T results as a marker of androgen status. PMID:29264442

Insertion of a specific fungal 3'-phosphoadenosine-5'-phosphatase motif into a plant homologue improves halotolerance and drought tolerance of plants.

PubMed

Gašparič, Meti Buh; Lenassi, Metka; Gostinčar, Cene; Rotter, Ana; Plemenitaš, Ana; Gunde-Cimerman, Nina; Gruden, Kristina; Zel, Jana

2013-01-01

Soil salinity and drought are among the most serious agricultural and environmental problems of today. Therefore, investigations of plant resistance to abiotic stress have received a lot of attention in recent years. In this study, we identified the complete coding sequence of a 3'-phosphoadenosine-5'-phosphatase protein, ApHal2, from the halotolerant yeast Aureobasidium pullulans. Expression of the ApHAL2 gene in a Saccharomyces cerevisiae hal2 mutant complemented the mutant auxotrophy for methionine, and rescued the growth of the hal2 mutant in media with high NaCl concentrations. A 21-amino-acids-long region of the ApHal2 enzyme was inserted into the Arabidopsis thaliana homologue of Hal2, the SAL1 phosphatase. The inserted sequence included the META motif, which has previously been implicated in increased sodium tolerance of the Hal2 homologue from a related fungal species. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing this modified SAL1 (mSAL1) showed improved halotolerance and drought tolerance. In a medium with an elevated salt concentration, mSAL1-expressing plants were twice as likely to have roots in a higher length category in comparison with the wild-type Arabidopsis and with plants overexpressing the native SAL1, and had 5% to 10% larger leaf surface area under moderate and severe salt stress, respectively. Similarly, after moderate drought exposure, the mSAL1-expressing plants showed 14% increased dry weight after revitalisation, with no increase in dry weight of the wild-type plants. With severe drought, plants overexpressing native SAL1 had the worst rehydration success, consistent with the recently proposed role of SAL1 in severe drought. This was not observed for plants expressing mSAL1. Therefore, the presence of this fungal META motif sequence is beneficial under conditions of increased salinity and moderate drought, and shows no drawbacks for plant survival under severe drought. This demonstrates that adaptations of extremotolerant fungi should be considered as a valuable resource for improving stress-tolerance in plant breeding in the future.

The crystal structure and crystal chemistry of fernandinite and corvusite

USGS Publications Warehouse

Evans, H.T.; Post, J.E.; Ross, D.R.; Nelen, J.A.

1994-01-01

Using type material of fernandinite from Minasragra, Peru, and corvusite from the Jack Claim, La Sal Mountains, Utah, the properties and crystal chemistry of these minerals have been determined by Rietveld analysis of the powder X-ray-diffraction patterns. The crystal structure of both species is isotypic with the V2O5 -type layer first found for ??-Ag0.68V2O5; it consists of chains of VO6 octahedra linked by opposite corners (parallel to b) condensed by edge-sharing to form the layer. The vanadium has average valence 4.8, and the resulting layer-charge is balanced by varying amounts of Ca, Na, and K in the interlayer region accompanied by labile water. This study has confirmed the validity of fernandinite as a unique mineral species. It is closely related to corvusite, from which it is distinguished on the basis of the dominant interlayer cation: Ca for fernandinite, Na for curvusite. -Authors

An Experiment to Study Sporadic Sodium Layers in the Earth's Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swenson, Charles M.

2002-01-01

The Utah State University / Space Dynamics Lab was funded under a NASA Grant. This investigation has been part of Rockwell Universities Sudden Atom Layer Investigation (SAL). USU/SDL provided an electron density measurement instrument, the plasma frequency probe, which was launched on the vehicle 21.117 from Puerto-Rico in February of 1998. The instrument successfully measured electron density as designed and measurement techniques included in this version of the Plasma Frequency probe provided valuable insight into the electron density structures associated with sudden sodium layers in a collisional plasma. Electron density data was furnished to Rockwell University but no science meetings were held by Rockwell Data from the instrument was presented to the scientific community at the URSI General Session in 1999. A paper is in preparation for publication in Geophysical Research Letters. The following document provides a summary of the experiment and data obtained as a final report on this grant.

Comparative acute nephrotoxicity of salicylic acid, 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid, and 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid in young and middle aged Fischer 344 rats.

PubMed

McMahon, T F; Stefanski, S A; Wilson, R E; Blair, P C; Clark, A M; Birnbaum, L S

1991-03-11

Experimental evidence suggests that the oxidative metabolites 2,3- and 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DIOH) may be responsible for the nephrotoxicity of salicylic acid (SAL). In the present study, enzymuria in conjunction with glucose (GLU) and protein (PRO) excretion were used as endpoints to compare the relative nephrotoxicity of SAL with 2,3- and 2,5-DIOH. In addition, the effect of age on enzymuria and GLU and PRO excretion following treatment with SAL or 2,3- and 2,5-DIOH was investigated because the elderly are at greater risk for SAL-induced nephrotoxicity. Three and 12-month male Fischer 344 rats were administered either no treatment, vehicle, SAL, 2,3-DIOH, or 2,5-DIOH at 500 mg/kg p.o. in 5 ml/kg corn oil/DMSO (5:1). Effects of these treatments on functional integrity of renal tissue was assessed from 0--72 h after dosing by measurement of urinary creatinine, GLU, and PRO, as well as excretion of proximal and distal tubular renal enzymes. Enzymes measured as indicators of proximal tubular damage were N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase (NAG), gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (AP), while urinary lactate dehydrogenase (LD) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured as indicators of distal tubular damage. In comparison to 3-month vehicle-treated rats, 2,3- and 2,5-DIOH caused a significant increase between 0-8 h in excretion of urinary GLU and activities of AST, NAG, and LD, with peak effects occurring between 4-8 h. Toxic effects of either metabolite were not evident beyond 24 h, and toxicity of 2,5-DIOH was significantly greater in comparison to 2,3-DIOH. SAL treatment resulted in similar effects on enzymuria as well as GLU and PRO excretion, but peak effects did not occur until 16-24 h, and often persisted until 72 h after dosing. Maximal enzymuria in response to SAL treatment was significantly greater in 12- vs. 3-month rats for AST, NAG, and LD. In response to 2,3-DIOH treatment, the maximal response was significantly greater in 12- vs. 3-month rats for LD and AST, and for NAG in response to 2,5-DIOH treatment. The results of this study suggest that both 2,3- and 2,5-DIOH are nephrotoxic metabolites of SAL, but implicate 2,5-DIOH as the more potent nephrotoxic metabolite. The relative lack of an age effect for 2,3- and 2,5-DIOH vs. SAL supports the hypothesis [2] that age-related differences in biotransformation of SAL, and not increased tissue sensitivity to 2,3- or 2,5-DIOH, contribute to the age-related increase in susceptibility to SAL-induced nephrotoxicity.

Restriction of a bacteriophage of Streptomyces albus G involving endonuclease SalI.

PubMed Central

Chater, K F; Wilde, L C

1976-01-01

The bacteriophage Pa16, isolated from soil on Streptomyces albus G, was restricted when transferred from an alternative host back to S. albus G. Extracted unmodified Pa16 deoxyribonucleic acid was cleaved at a single site by a cell-free extract of S. albus G. Fractions cleaving Pal6 deoxyribonucleic acid contained the endonuclease SalI first described by J. Arrand, P. Myers, and R. J. Roberts (unpublished data). A mutant of S. albus G was isolated which was defective in both restriction and modification of Pal6. This mutant lacked SalI activity. It is concluded that SalI is the agent of restriction of Pal6 by S. albus G. Images PMID:977549

Airborne observations of bioaerosol over the Southeast United States using a Wideband Integrated Bioaerosol Sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ziemba, Luke D.; Beyersdorf, Andreas J.; Chen, Gao; Corr, Chelsea A.; Crumeyrolle, Suzanne N.; Diskin, Glenn; Hudgins, Charlie; Martin, Robert; Mikoviny, Tomas; Moore, Richard; Shook, Michael; Thornhill, K. Lee; Winstead, Edward L.; Wisthaler, Armin; Anderson, Bruce E.

2016-07-01

Biological aerosols represent a diverse subset of particulate matter that is emitted directly to the atmosphere in the form of (but not limited to) bacteria, fungal spores, pollens, viruses, and plant debris. These particles can have local air quality implications, but potentially play a larger climate role by acting as efficient ice nucleating particles (INPs) and cloud condensation nuclei. We have deployed a Wideband Integrated Bioaerosol Sensor on the NASA DC-8 aircraft to (1) quantify boundary layer (BL) variability of fluorescent biological aerosol particle (FBAP) concentrations in the Southeast United States (SEUS), (2) link this variability explicitly to land cover heterogeneity in the region, and (3) examine the vertical profile of bioaerosols in the context of convective vertical redistribution. Flight-averaged FBAP concentrations ranged between 0.1 and 0.43 scm-3 (cm-3 at standard temperature and pressure) with relatively homogeneous concentrations throughout the region; croplands showed the highest concentrations in the BL (0.37 scm-3), and lowest concentrations were associated with evergreen forests (0.24 scm-3). Observed FBAP concentrations are in generally good agreement with model parameterized emission rates for bacteria, and discrepancies are likely the result of fungal spore contributions. Shallow convection in the region is shown to be a relatively efficient lofting mechanism as the vertical transport efficiency of FBAP is at least equal to black carbon aerosol, suggesting that ground-level FBAP survives transport into the free troposphere to be available for INP activation. Comparison of the fraction of coarse-mode particles that were biological (fFBAP) suggested that the SEUS (fFBAP = 8.5%) was a much stronger source of bioaerosols than long-range transport during a Saharan Air Layer (SAL) dust event (fFBAP = 0.17%) or summertime marine emissions in the Gulf of Mexico (fFBAP = 0.73%).

Application of Sal classification to parotid gland fine-needle aspiration cytology: 10-year retrospective analysis of 312 patients.

PubMed

Kilavuz, Ahmet Erdem; Songu, Murat; İmre, Abdulkadir; Arslanoğlu, Secil; Özkul, Yilmaz; Pinar, Ercan; Ateş, Düzgün

2018-05-01

The accuracy of fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is controversial in parotid tumors. We aimed to compare FNAB results with the final histopathological diagnosis and to apply the "Sal classification" to our data and discuss its results and its place in parotid gland cytology. The FNAB cytological findings and final histological diagnosis were assessed retrospectively in 2 different scenarios based on the distribution of nondefinitive cytology, and we applied the Sal classification and determined malignancy rate, sensitivity, and specificity for each category. In 2 different scenarios FNAB sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were found to be 81%, 87%, 54.7%, and 96.1%; and 65.3%, 100%, 100%, and 96.1%, respectively. The malignancy rates and sensitivity and specificity were also calculated and discussed for each Sal category. We believe that the Sal classification has a great potential to be a useful tool in classification of parotid gland cytology. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Development of analytical method for ultrasensitive detection of salbutamol utilizing DNA labeled-immunoprobe.

PubMed

Lei, Yajing; Li, Xiaoyi; Akash, Muhammad Sajid Hamid; Zhou, Lifang; Tang, Xiaojing; Shi, Weixing; Liu, Zhiming; Chen, Shuqing

2015-03-25

Salbutamol (SAL) is known as quick-acting β-2 receptor agonist and its use in humans for pulmonary diseases and/or in animal feed is limited because of associated potential hazardous effects on health. Several techniques are available for the detection of SAL, but are expensive and time consuming. Here for the first time, a novel pre-assembled DNA immunoprobe-based immuno-PCR assay was developed to investigate the levels of SAL in human urine samples and compared the proposed immuno-PCR assay for the detection of SAL with that of direct competitive ELISA. Under the optimized conditions, the assay showed a linear range over seven orders of magnitude, whereas the limit of detection of SAL in buffer was found to be 21 fg/mL. Current immuno-PCR assay exhibited a 300-fold better detection limit for SAL as compared to one achieved with direct competitive ELISA using the same antibody. In conclusion, it has been found that the developed method is highly sensitive and simple method that can significantly enhance the detection sensitivity for small molecules. Moreover it can be modified and used for detecting other small molecules and/or chemicals that exist in the environment and are responsible for the environmental pollution. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Suppressor of AAC2 Lethality SAL1 Modulates Sensitivity of Heterologously Expressed Artemia ADP/ATP Carrier to Bongkrekate in Yeast

PubMed Central

Wysocka-Kapcinska, Monika; Torocsik, Beata; Turiak, Lilla; Tsaprailis, George; David, Cynthia L.; Hunt, Andrea M.; Vekey, Karoly; Adam-Vizi, Vera; Kucharczyk, Roza; Chinopoulos, Christos

2013-01-01

The ADP/ATP carrier protein (AAC) expressed in Artemia franciscana is refractory to bongkrekate. We generated two strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae where AAC1 and AAC3 were inactivated and the AAC2 isoform was replaced with Artemia AAC containing a hemagglutinin tag (ArAAC-HA). In one of the strains the suppressor of ΔAAC2 lethality, SAL1, was also inactivated but a plasmid coding for yeast AAC2 was included, because the ArAACΔsal1Δ strain was lethal. In both strains ArAAC-HA was expressed and correctly localized to the mitochondria. Peptide sequencing of ArAAC expressed in Artemia and that expressed in the modified yeasts revealed identical amino acid sequences. The isolated mitochondria from both modified strains developed 85% of the membrane potential attained by mitochondria of control strains, and addition of ADP yielded bongkrekate-sensitive depolarizations implying acquired sensitivity of ArAAC-mediated adenine nucleotide exchange to this poison, independent from SAL1. However, growth of ArAAC-expressing yeasts in glycerol-containing media was arrested by bongkrekate only in the presence of SAL1. We conclude that the mitochondrial environment of yeasts relying on respiratory growth conferred sensitivity of ArAAC to bongkrekate in a SAL1-dependent manner. PMID:24073201

Physiology at near-critical temperatures, but not critical limits, varies between two lizard species that partition the thermal environment.

PubMed

Telemeco, Rory S; Gangloff, Eric J; Cordero, Gerardo A; Polich, Rebecca L; Bronikowski, Anne M; Janzen, Fredric J

2017-10-01

The mechanisms that mediate the interaction between the thermal environment and species ranges are generally uncertain. Thermal environments may directly restrict species when environments exceed tolerance limits (i.e. the fundamental niche). However, thermal environments might also differentially affect relative performance among species prior to fundamental tolerances being met (i.e. the realized niche). We examined stress physiology (plasma glucose and corticosterone), mitochondrial performance and the muscle metabolome of congeneric lizards that naturally partition the thermal niche, Elgaria multicarinata (southern alligator lizards; SALs) and Elgaria coerulea (northern alligator lizards; NALs), in response to a thermal challenge to quantify variation in physiological performance and tolerance. Both NAL and SAL displayed physiological stress in response to high temperature, but neither showed signs of irreversible damage. NAL displayed a higher baseline mitochondrial respiration rate than SAL. Moreover, NAL substantially adjusted their physiology in response to thermal challenge, whereas SAL did not. For example, the metabolite profile of NAL shifted with changes in key energetic molecules, whereas these were unaffected in SAL. Our results indicate that near-critical high temperatures should incur greater energetic cost in NAL than SAL via an elevated metabolic rate and changes to the metabolome. Thus, SAL displace NAL in warm environments that are within NAL's fundamental thermal niche, but relatively costly. Our results suggest that subcritical thermal events can contribute to biogeographic patterns via physiological differences that alter the relative costs of living in warm or cool environments. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Animal Ecology © 2017 British Ecological Society.

The association between perceived emotional support, maternal mood, salivary cortisol, salivary cortisone, and the ratio between the two compounds in response to acute stress in second trimester pregnant women.

PubMed

La Marca-Ghaemmaghami, Pearl; La Marca, Roberto; Dainese, Sara M; Haller, Marina; Zimmermann, Roland; Ehlert, Ulrike

2013-10-01

Little is known about the effect of social support on the reactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis during pregnancy. Moreover, when investigating the HPA axis most studies do not consider the activity of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), an enzyme within the salivary glands that inactivates cortisol to cortisone. This study explores the association between perceived emotional support and the maternal psychobiological stress response to a standardized naturalistic stressor by assessing maternal mood and the reactivity of salivary cortisol (SalF), salivary cortisone (SalE), and the SalE/(E+F) ratio as a marker of 11β-HSD2 activity. Repeated saliva samples and measures of maternal mood were obtained from 34 healthy second trimester pregnant women undergoing amniocentesis which served as a psychological stressor. The pregnant women additionally responded to a questionnaire of perceived emotional support and provided sociodemographic (e.g., maternal educational degree) and pregnancy-specific data (e.g., planned versus unplanned pregnancy). Perceived emotional support neither showed a significant effect on mood nor on the SalF or SalE response to stress. However, a moderately strong positive association was found between perceived emotional support and SalE/(E+F) (r=.49). Additionally, the final regression analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between educational degree, planned/unplanned pregnancy and SalE/(E+F). Findings suggest a higher metabolization of cortisol to cortisone in pregnant women with higher emotional support. In contrast, higher maternal education and unplanned pregnancy appear to be associated with decreased salivary 11β-HSD2 activity. The current study emphasizes the importance of taking the activity of 11β-HSD2 into account when examining SalF. © 2013.

Treatment with salvianolic acid B restores endothelial function in angiotensin II-induced hypertensive mice.

PubMed

Ling, Wei Chih; Liu, Jian; Lau, Chi Wai; Murugan, Dharmani Devi; Mustafa, Mohd Rais; Huang, Yu

2017-07-15

Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) is one of the most abundant phenolic acids derived from the root of Danshen with potent anti-oxidative properties. The present study examined the vasoprotective effect of Sal B in hypertensive mice induced by angiotensin II (Ang II). Sal B (25mg/kg/day) was administered via oral gavage for 11days to Ang II (1.2mg/kg/day)-infused C57BL/6J mice (8-10weeks old). The vascular reactivity (both endothelium-dependent relaxations and contractions) in mouse arteries was examined by wire myography. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), protein level and localization of angiotensin AT 1 receptors and the proteins involved in ROS formation were evaluated using dihydroethidium (DHE) fluorescence, lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence, immunohistochemistry and Western blotting, respectively. The changes of ROS generating proteins were also assessed in vitro in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) exposed to Ang II with and without co-treatment with Sal B (0.1-10nM). Oral administration of Sal B reversed the Ang II-induced elevation of arterial systolic blood pressure in mice, augmented the impaired endothelium-dependent relaxations and attenuated the exaggerated endothelium-dependent contractions in both aortas and renal arteries of Ang II-infused mice. In addition, Sal B treatment normalized the elevated levels of AT 1 receptors, NADPH oxidase subunits (NOx-2 and NOx-4) and nitrotyrosine in arteries of Ang II-infused mice or in Ang II-treated HUVECs. In summary, the present study provided additional evidence demonstrating that Sal B treatment for 11days reverses the impaired endothelial function and with a marked inhibition of AT 1 receptor-dependent vascular oxidative stress. This vasoprotective and anti-oxidative action of Sal B most likely contributes to the anti-hypertensive action of the plant-derived compound. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Long-range Transported African Dust in the Caribbean Region: Dust Concentrations and Water-soluble Ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santos-Figueroa, G.; Avilés-Piñeiro, G. M.; Mayol-Bracero, O. L.

2017-12-01

Long-range transported African dust (LRTAD) particles reach the Caribbean region every year during the summer months causing an increase in PM10 concentrations and by consequence degradation of air quality. During African dust (AD) incursions at the Caribbean region, PM10 concentration could exceeds the exposure limit of 50 µg/m³ 24-hour mean established by the World Health Organization (WHO). To have a better understanding of the impacts of AD particles to climate and public health at the Caribbean region it is necessary to study and determine the spatial and temporal distribution of dust particles. In order to address this, aerosols samples were collected during and absence of AD incursions during the summer of 2017 using a Hi-Volume (Hi-Vol) sampler for total suspended particles (TSP) at two sampling stations in Puerto Rico. The first station is a marine site located at Cabezas de San Juan (CSJ) Nature Reserve in Fajardo, and the second station is an urban site located at the Facundo Bueso (FB) building at the University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras. Aerosol samples were collected using Whatman 41 grade filters from which we determined the concentration of dust particles and the water-soluble ions (e.g., Na+, NH4+, Ca+2, Cl-, SO4-2) in the presence and absence of LRTAD particles. Saharan Air Layer (SAL) imagery, the results from the air mass backward trajectories calculated with the NOAA Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory Model (HYSPLIT), and the spectral coefficients from measurements at CSJ were used to monitor and confirm the presence of air masses coming from North Africa. Average dust concentrations using the Stacked-Filter Units (SFUs) at CSJ are around 4 μg/m3. LRTAD concentrations and ionic speciation results using the Hi-Vol for the marine and urban sites will be presented at the conference.

The SalGI restriction endonuclease. Purification and properties

PubMed Central

Maxwell, Anthony; Halford, Stephen E.

1982-01-01

The type II restriction endonuclease SalGI has been purified to near homogeneity. At least 80% of the protein remaining after the final stage of the preparation is SalGI restriction endonuclease; no contaminating nucleases remain detectable. The principal form of the protein under both native and denaturing conditions is a monomer of Mr about 29000. The optimal conditions for both enzyme stability and enzyme activity have been determined. ImagesFig. 1. PMID:6285898

Synthetic Aperture Imaging Polarimeter: Postprint

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-01

mechanical design of the SAlP prototype revol .... es around the concept of a modular array. The modular aspect allows for the array to be built in...imagery of source . The top row images are of the actual fringe pattern incident on the SAlP prototype array. These pictures were taken through the...processed images associated with each of the inputs. The results demonstrated that the SAlP prototype array works in conjunction with the algorithm

Preparation and evaluation of lignosulfonates as a dispersant for gypsum paste from acid hydrolysis lignin.

PubMed

Matsushita, Yasuyuki; Yasuda, Seiichi

2005-03-01

In order to effectively utilize a by-product of the acid saccharification process of woody materials, the chemical conversion of guaiacyl sulfuric acid lignin (SAL), one of the acid hydrolysis lignins, into water-soluble sulfonated products with high dispersibitity was investigated. At first, SAL was phenolated (P-SAL) to enhance the solubility and reactivity. Lignosulfonates were prepared from P-SAL by three methods of hydroxymethylation followed by neutral sulfonation (two-step method), sulfomethylation (one-step method) and arylsulfonation. Surprisingly, all prepared lignosulfonates possessed 30 to 70% higher dispersibility for gypsum paste than the commercial lignosulfonate. Evaluation of the preparations for gypsum paste suggested that the higher molecular weights and sulfur contents of the preparations increased their dispersibility.

Environmental Impact Analysis Process. Final Environmental Impact Statement. Proposed Alaskan Radar System Over-the-Horizon Backscatter Radar Program

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-01-30

Support Center, Kodiak, Alaska, and my concern is basically is the--or is the Air Force concerned with monopolizing a frequency or even shifting frequencies...facilities and schools and social recreation, or Tok, where they--oh, and Glennallen they also have a hospital --I think it would be much better. Thank...notification that this Request for Pro-,sals is coming out. Our intent right now is to submit this Request . ?roposals to the industry for comment. I would

Handbook of Supersonic Aerodynamics. Section 18. Shock Tubes

DTIC Science & Technology

1959-12-01

f942. 13. Sal i, M. N. "Ionization of the Solar Chromosphere," Phil . Map., Vol. 40 (1920), p. 472. a p.p ._ "Elements in the Sun," Phil . Mag., Vol...Monica, Calif.: Rand Corporation, 1955. 36. Hilsenrath, J. and Beckett , C. W. Thermodynamic Properties of Argon-Free Air. NBS Re ort 3991. Washington...University of Toronoi- TM-. 79. King, L. V. "On the Convection of Hent from Small Cylinders in a Stream of Fluid," Phil . Trans. RoY. Soc. London, A214 (1914

Molecular and neurochemical substrates of the audiogenic seizure strains: The GASH:Sal model.

PubMed

Prieto-Martín, Ana I; Aroca-Aguilar, J Daniel; Sánchez-Sánchez, Francisco; Muñoz, Luis J; López, Dolores E; Escribano, Julio; de Cabo, Carlos

2017-06-01

Animal models of audiogenic epilepsy are useful tools to understand the mechanisms underlying human reflex epilepsies. There is accumulating evidence regarding behavioral, anatomical, electrophysiological, and genetic substrates of audiogenic seizure strains, but there are still aspects concerning their neurochemical basis that remain to be elucidated. Previous studies have shown the involved of γ-amino butyric acid (GABA) in audiogenic seizures. The aim of our research was to clarify the role of the GABAergic system in the generation of epileptic seizures in the genetic audiogenic seizure-prone hamster (GASH:Sal) strain. We studied the K + /Cl - cotransporter KCC2 and β2-GABAA-type receptor (GABAAR) and β3-GABAAR subunit expressions in the GASH:Sal both at rest and after repeated sound-induced seizures in different brain regions using the Western blot technique. We also sequenced the coding region for the KCC2 gene both in wild- type and GASH:Sal hamsters. Lower expression of KCC2 protein was found in GASH:Sal when compared with controls at rest in several brain areas: hippocampus, cortex, cerebellum, hypothalamus, pons-medulla, and mesencephalon. Repeated induction of seizures caused a decrease in KCC2 protein content in the inferior colliculus and hippocampus and an increase in the pons-medulla. When compared to controls, the basal β 2 -GABA A R subunit in the GASH:Sal was overexpressed in the inferior colliculus, rest of the mesencephalon, and cerebellum, whereas basal β 3 subunit levels were lower in the inferior colliculus and rest of the mesencephalon. Repeated seizures increased β2 both in the inferior colliculus and in the hypothalamus and β 3 in the hypothalamus. No differences in the KCC2 gene-coding region were found between GASH:Sal and wild-type hamsters. These data indicate that GABAergic system functioning is impaired in the GASH:Sal strain, and repeated seizures seem to aggravate this dysfunction. These results have potential clinical relevance and support the validity of employing the GASH:Sal strain as a model to study the neurochemistry of genetic reflex epilepsy. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Genetic and Reflex Epilepsies, Audiogenic Seizures and Strains: From Experimental Models to the Clinic". Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Incidence of oral thrush in patients with COPD prescribed inhaled corticosteroids: Effect of drug, dose, and device.

PubMed

Dekhuijzen, P N Richard; Batsiou, Maria; Bjermer, Leif; Bosnic-Anticevich, Sinthia; Chrystyn, Henry; Papi, Alberto; Rodríguez-Roisin, Roberto; Fletcher, Monica; Wood, Lucy; Cifra, Alessandra; Soriano, Joan B; Price, David B

2016-11-01

Little information is available on real-life occurrence of oral thrush in COPD patients treated with ICS. We investigated oral thrush incidence in COPD patients prescribed FDC ICS/LABA therapies and assessed whether it is modulated by the ICS type, dose, and delivery device. We conducted a historical, observational, matched cohort study (one baseline year before and one outcome year after initiation of therapy) using data from the UK Optimum Patient Care Research Database. We assessed oral thrush incidence in patients initiating long-acting bronchodilators or FDC ICS/LABA therapy. We then compared different combination therapies (budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate [BUD/FOR] and fluticasone propionate/salmeterol xinafoate [FP/SAL]) and devices (DPI and pMDI). Patients prescribed FDC ICS/LABA had significantly greater odds of experiencing oral thrush than those prescribed long-acting bronchodilators alone (adjusted OR 2.18 [95% CI 1.84-2.59]). Significantly fewer patients prescribed BUD/FOR DPI developed oral thrush compared with FP/SAL DPI (OR 0.77 [0.63-0.94]) when allowing for differences in prescribed doses between the drugs. A significantly smaller proportion of patients developed oral thrush in the FP/SAL pMDI arm than in the FP/SAL DPI arm (OR 0.67 [0.55-0.82]). Additionally, in the FP/SAL cohort (both DPI and pMDI), increased risk of oral thrush was significantly associated with high ICS daily dose (OR 1.97 [1.22-3.17] vs low daily dose). ICS use increases oral thrush incidence in COPD and this effect is dose-dependent for FP/SAL therapies. Of the therapies assessed, FP/SAL pMDI and BUD/FOR DPI may be more protective against oral thrush. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evidence-Based Practice in Liposuction.

PubMed

Collins, Patrick S; Moyer, Kurtis E

2018-06-01

The goal of this study is to examine the existing peer reviewed literature comparing modern adjunctive techniques in liposuction including laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) and ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) to standard suction-assisted liposuction (SAL). We intend to interpret these findings into a literature-based clinical application to influence practice patterns. A literature review was conducted using a keyword search in PubMed. Keyword search items included liposuction, lipoplasty, suction assisted liposuction, ultrasound assisted liposuction, laser assisted liposuction, tumescent, liposuction comparison, liposuction review, and combinations therein. Exclusion criteria included articles with a primary focus on histologic effects of energy devices, primary animal models, primary opinion papers with no reference to available data, and industry-sponsored publications. Inclusion criteria included articles with direct comparison of liposuction modalities, randomized or blinded studies, and studies with objective outcomes. Twenty-five articles that met the inclusion criteria comparing SAL to UAL or LAL out of 9972 articles identified were obtained. The selected literature was assigned into 3 categories: evidence demonstrating an advantage of 1 modality (SAL, UAL, or LAL) over another, evidence that showed no benefit of 1 modality over another, and evidence that demonstrated risks of complications of 1 modality over another. The benefits of UAL and LAL over SAL include the following: (1) UAL over SAL in the treatment of gynecomastia, (2) LAL and UAL over SAL with decreased hemoglobin/hematocrit in high-volume lipoaspirates, and (3) LAL over SAL with skin tightening in select areas specifically the submental area. Otherwise, the literature demonstrates equivocal results among the described techniques with no clear benefit to set one apart from the other. There appears to be no demonstrable added benefit to the addition of either UAL or LAL that would urge a change in practice patterns outside the exceptions listed.

Thermochemical formation of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans on the fly ash matrix from metal smelting sources.

PubMed

Wu, Xiaolin; Zheng, Minghui; Zhao, Yuyang; Yang, Hongbo; Yang, Lili; Jin, Rong; Xu, Yang; Xiao, Ke; Liu, Wenbin; Liu, Guorui

2018-01-01

Metal smelting processes are important sources of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs). The present work aims to clarify the formation characteristics of PCDD/Fs by heterogeneous mechanisms on fly ash from typical multiple secondary aluminum (SAl), secondary lead (SPb) smelting, and iron ore sintering (SNT) sources in China. The formation characteristics of PCDD/Fs on fly ash were studied in the temperature range 250-450 °C for 10-150 min. Substantial thermochemical formation of PCDD/Fs on SAl and SNT ash was observed. The maximum increase of PCDD/F concentrations under 350 °C for 30 min was 604 times greater than the initial concentration in SAl ash. The concentration of PCDD/Fs was 77 times greater than that of SNT fly ash under 350 °C for 30 min. However, the maximum increase of PCDD/F concentrations was less than 8 times that in raw SPb ash under 350 °C. Contents of total organic carbon (TOC), Cu, Al, Zn and Cl, which are widely recognized as important elements for promoting PCDD/F formation, were obviously higher in SAl and SNT ash than in SPb ash. This may explain the greater observed formation times of PCDD/Fs on SAl and SNT ash than that on SPb ash. It was found that several congeners tended to form at higher temperatures than those for SAl ash. Activation energy calculation according to the Arrhenius equations could explain the dominant formation of those congeners at much higher temperatures on SAl ash. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric methodology for simultaneous assay of salsolinol, dopamine, norepinephrine, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and dihydroxyphenylethanol.

PubMed

Duncan, M W; Smythe, G A; Clezy, P S

1985-03-01

Synthesis of deuterated (2H4)salsolinol from (2H4)dopamine via a Pictet-Spengler condensation is described. This (2H4)salsolinol is an ideal internal standard to determine picomole (ng) amounts of salsolinol (SAL) in a variety of sample types including urine, plasma, beverages and fruits. The deuterated standard is completely free of contamination by the non-deuterated species. The extraction procedure described is fast, highly efficient and does not lead to artifactual salsolinol formation even in the face of high dopamine concentrations. As well as SAL the method described allows simultaneous determination of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA) and its two metabolites dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and dihydroxyphenylethanol (DOPET). Each of the analytes is measured as its trifluoroacetyl derivative. Using trifluoroacetic anhydride in conjunction with trifluoroethanol allows simultaneous one-step derivatization of the acid function of DOPAC. All compounds were measured in the single ion monitoring (SIM) mode and quantified using appropriate deuterated internal standards. SAL, DA, DOPET, DOPAC and NE have been quantified in a variety of food and beverage sources. Soy sauce and dried banana have been identified as rich dietary sources of SAL. These data suggest diet should be considered a potentially important source of 'mammalian alkaloids' such as SAL, and the presence of SAL in mammalian systems is not necessarily evidence for an in vivo Pictet-Spengler condensation.

Plastic fats from sal, mango and palm oil by lipase catalyzed interesterification.

PubMed

Shankar Shetty, Umesha; Sunki Reddy, Yella Reddy; Khatoon, Sakina

2014-02-01

Speciality plastic fats with no trans fatty acids suitable for use in bakery and as vanaspati substitute were prepared by interesterification of blends of palm stearin (PSt) with sal and mango fats using Lipozyme TLIM lipase as catalyst. The blends containing PSt/sal or PSt/mango showed short melting range and hence are not suitable as bakery shortenings. Lipase catalysed interesterification extended the plasticity or melting range of all the blends. The blends containing higher proportion of PSt with sal fat (50/50) were harder having high solids at and above body temperature and hence cannot be used as bakery shortenings. The blends with PSt/sal (30-40/60-70) after interesterification showed melting profiles similar to those of commercial hydrogenated bakery fats. Similarly, the blends containing PSt/mango (30-40/60-70) after interesterification also showed melting profiles similar to those of commercial hydrogenated shortenings. The slip melting point and solidification characteristics also confirm the plastic nature of these samples. The improvement in plasticity after interesterification is due to formation of higher melting as well as lower melting triglycerides during lipase catalysed interesterification.

Terbinafine Resistance Mediated by Salicylate 1-Monooxygenase in Aspergillus nidulans

PubMed Central

Graminha, Marcia A. S.; Rocha, Eleusa M. F.; Prade, Rolf A.; Martinez-Rossi, Nilce M.

2004-01-01

Resistance to antifungal agents is a recurring and growing problem among patients with systemic fungal infections. UV-induced Aspergillus nidulans mutants resistant to terbinafine have been identified, and we report here the characterization of one such gene. A sib-selected, 6.6-kb genomic DNA fragment encodes a salicylate 1-monooxygenase (salA), and a fatty acid synthase subunit (fasC) confers terbinafine resistance upon transformation of a sensitive strain. Subfragments carrying salA but not fasC confer terbinafine resistance. salA is present as a single-copy gene on chromosome VI and encodes a protein of 473 amino acids that is homologous to salicylate 1-monooxygenase, a well-characterized naphthalene-degrading enzyme in bacteria. salA transcript accumulation analysis showed terbinafine-dependent induction in the wild type and the UV-induced mutant Terb7, as well as overexpression in a strain containing the salA subgenomic DNA fragment, probably due to the multicopy effect caused by the transformation event. Additional naphthalene degradation enzyme-coding genes are present in fungal genomes, suggesting that resistance could follow degradation of the naphthalene ring contained in terbinafine. PMID:15328121

Therapeutic PEG-ceramide nanomicelles synergize with salinomycin to target both liver cancer cells and cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Wang, Meiping; Xie, Fangyuan; Wen, Xikai; Chen, Han; Zhang, Hai; Liu, Junjie; Zhang, He; Zou, Hao; Yu, Yuan; Chen, Yan; Sun, Zhiguo; Wang, Xinxia; Zhang, Guoqing; Yin, Chuan; Sun, Duxin; Gao, Jie; Jiang, Beige; Zhong, Yanqiang; Lu, Ying

2017-05-01

Salinomycin (SAL)-loaded PEG-ceramide nanomicelles (SCM) were prepared to target both liver cancer cells and cancer stem cells. The synergistic ratio of SAL/PEG-ceramide was evaluated to prepare SCM, and the antitumor activity of SCM was examined both in vitro and in vivo. SAL/PEG-ceramide molar ratio of 1:4 was chosen as the synergistic ratio, and SCM showed superior cytotoxic effect and increased apoptosis-inducing activity in both liver cancer cells and cancer stem cells. In vivo, SCM showed the best tumor inhibitory effect with a safety profile. Thus, PEG-ceramide nanomicelles could serve as an effective and safe therapeutic drug carrier to deliver SAL into liver cancer, opening up the avenue of using PEG-ceramide as therapeutic drug carriers.

Milk composition, milk fatty acid profile, digestion, and ruminal fermentation in dairy cows fed whole flaxseed and calcium salts of flaxseed oil.

PubMed

Côrtes, C; da Silva-Kazama, D C; Kazama, R; Gagnon, N; Benchaar, C; Santos, G T D; Zeoula, L M; Petit, H V

2010-07-01

Four ruminally lactating Holstein cows averaging 602+/-25 kg of body weight and 64+/-6 d in milk at the beginning of the experiment were randomly assigned to a 4 x 4 Latin square design to determine the effects of feeding whole flaxseed and calcium salts of flaxseed oil on dry matter intake, digestibility, ruminal fermentation, milk production and composition, and milk fatty acid profile. The treatments were a control with no flaxseed products (CON) or a diet (on a dry matter basis) of 4.2% whole flaxseed (FLA), 1.9% calcium salts of flaxseed oil (SAL), or 2.3% whole flaxseed and 0.8% calcium salts of flaxseed oil (MIX). The 4 isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were fed for ad libitum intake. Experimental periods consisted of 21 d of diet adaptation and 7 d of data collection and sampling. Dry matter intake, digestibility, milk production, and milk concentrations of protein, lactose, urea N, and total solids did not differ among treatments. Ruminal pH was reduced for cows fed the CON diet compared with those fed the SAL diet. Propionate proportion was higher in ruminal fluid of cows fed CON than in that of those fed SAL, and cows fed the SAL and CON diets had ruminal propionate concentrations similar to those of cows fed the FLA and MIX diets. Butyrate concentration was numerically higher for cows fed the SAL diet compared with those fed the FLA diet. Milk fat concentration was lower for cows fed SAL than for those fed CON, and there was no difference between cows fed CON and those fed FLA and MIX. Milk yields of protein, fat, lactose, and total solids were similar among treatments. Concentrations of cis-9 18:1 and of intermediates of ruminal biohydrogenation of fatty acids such as trans-9 18:1 were higher in milk fat of cows fed SAL and MIX than for those fed the CON diet. Concentration of rumenic acid (cis-9, trans-11 18:2) in milk fat was increased by 63% when feeding SAL compared with FLA. Concentration of alpha-linolenic acid was higher in milk fat of cows fed SAL and MIX than in milk of cows fed CON (75 and 61%, respectively), whereas there was no difference between FLA and CON. Flaxseed products (FLA, SAL, and MIX diets) decreased the n-6 to n-3 fatty acid ratio in milk fat. Results confirm that flax products supplying 0.7 to 1.4% supplemental fat in the diet can slightly improve the nutritive value of milk fat for better human health. Copyright (c) 2010 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Airborne Sunphotometry of African Dust and Marine Boundary Layer Aerosols in PRIDE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Livingston, John M.; Redemann, Jens; Russell, Philip; Schmid, Beat; Reid, Jeff; Pilewskie, Peter; Hipskind, R. Stephen (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

The Puerto Rico Dust Experiment (PRIDE) was conducted during summer 2000 to study the radiative, microphysical and transport properties of Saharan dust in the Caribbean region. During PRIDE, NASA Ames Research Center's six-channel airborne autotracking sunphotometer (AATS-6) was operated aboard a Piper Navajo airplane based at Roosevelt Roads Naval Station on the northeast coast of Puerto Rico. AATS-6 measurements were taken during 21 science flights off the coast of Puerto Rico in the western Caribbean. Data were acquired within and above the Marine Boundary Layer (MBL) and the Saharan Aerosol Layer (SAL) up to 5.5 km altitude tinder a wide range of dust loadings. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) spectra and columnar water vapor (CWV) values have been calculated from the AATS-6 measurements by using sunphotometer calibration data obtained at Mauna Loa Observatory (3A kin ASL) before (May) and after (October) PRIDE. Mid-visible AOD values measured near the surface during PRIDE ranged from 0.07 on the cleanest day to 0.55 on the most turbid day. Values measured above the MBL were as high as 0.35; values above the SAL were as low as 0.01. The fraction of total column AOD due to Saharan dust cannot be determined precisely from AATS-6 AOD data alone due to the uncertainty in the extent of vertical mixing of the dust down through the MBL. However, analyses of ground-based and airborne in-situ aerosol sampling measurements and ground-based aerosol lidar backscatter data should yield accurate characterization of the vertical mixing that will enable calculation of the Saharan dust AOD component from the sunphotometer data. Examples will be presented showing measured AATS-6 AOD spectra, calculated aerosol extinction and water vapor density vertical profiles, and aerosol size distributions retrieved by inversion of the AOD spectra. Near sea-surface AOD spectra acquired by AATS-6 during horizontal flight legs at 30 m ASL are available for validation of AOD derived from coincident satellite sensor (TOMS, MODIS, MISR) measurements. AATS-6 AOD data acquired during numerous aircraft ascents and descents through the MBL and the SAL should permit atmospheric column closure analyses with respect to aerosol optical depth, extinction, and size distribution by comparison with coincident aircraft-based in-situ particle size distribution measurements and ground-based (Cabras Island, Puerto Rico) micropulse lidar aerosol backscatter measurements. The aerosol information derived from the column closure analyses can be used subsequently to calculate radiative flux changes, which can then be compared with coincident spectral flux measurements taken from aboard the aircraft with a solar spectral flux radiometer.

University students' achievement goals and approaches to learning in mathematics.

PubMed

Cano, Francisco; Berbén, A B G

2009-03-01

Achievement goals (AG) and students' approaches to learning (SAL) are two research perspectives on student motivation and learning in higher education that have until now been pursued quite independently. This study sets out: (a) to explore the relationship between the most representative variables of SAL and AG; (b) to identify subgroups (clusters) of students with multiple AG; and (c) to examine the differences between these clusters with respect to various SAL and AG characteristics. The participants were 680 male and female 1st year university students studying different subjects (e.g. mathematics, physics, economics) but all enrolled on mathematics courses (e.g. algebra, calculus). Participants completed a series of questionnaires that measured their conceptions of mathematics, approaches to learning, course experience, personal 2 x 2 AG, and perceived AG. SAL and AG variables were moderately associated and related to both the way students perceived their academic environment and the way they conceived of the nature of mathematics (i.e. the perceptual-cognitive framework). Four clusters of students with distinctive multiple AG were identified and when the differences between clusters were analysed, we were able to attribute them to various constructs including perceptual-cognitive framework, learning approaches, and academic performance. This study reveals a consistent pattern of relationships between SAL and AG perspectives across different methods of analysis, supports the relevance of the 2 x 2 AG framework in a mathematics learning context and suggests that AG and SAL may be intertwined aspects of students' experience of learning mathematics at university.

Genomic variants in the FTO gene are associated with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Greek patients.

PubMed

Mitropoulos, Konstantinos; Merkouri Papadima, Eleni; Xiromerisiou, Georgia; Balasopoulou, Angeliki; Charalampidou, Kyriaki; Galani, Vasiliki; Zafeiri, Krystallia-Vassiliki; Dardiotis, Efthymios; Ralli, Styliani; Deretzi, Georgia; John, Anne; Kydonopoulou, Kyriaki; Papadopoulou, Elpida; di Pardo, Alba; Akcimen, Fulya; Loizedda, Annalisa; Dobričić, Valerija; Novaković, Ivana; Kostić, Vladimir S; Mizzi, Clint; Peters, Brock A; Basak, Nazli; Orrù, Sandro; Kiskinis, Evangelos; Cooper, David N; Gerou, Spyridon; Drmanac, Radoje; Bartsakoulia, Marina; Tsermpini, Evangelia-Eirini; Hadjigeorgiou, Georgios M; Ali, Bassam R; Katsila, Theodora; Patrinos, George P

2017-12-08

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating disease whose complex pathology has been associated with a strong genetic component in the context of both familial and sporadic disease. Herein, we adopted a next-generation sequencing approach to Greek patients suffering from sporadic ALS (together with their healthy counterparts) in order to explore further the genetic basis of sporadic ALS (sALS). Whole-genome sequencing analysis of Greek sALS patients revealed a positive association between FTO and TBC1D1 gene variants and sALS. Further, linkage disequilibrium analyses were suggestive of a specific disease-associated haplotype for FTO gene variants. Genotyping for these variants was performed in Greek, Sardinian, and Turkish sALS patients. A lack of association between FTO and TBC1D1 variants and sALS in patients of Sardinian and Turkish descent may suggest a founder effect in the Greek population. FTO was found to be highly expressed in motor neurons, while in silico analyses predicted an impact on FTO and TBC1D1 mRNA splicing for the genomic variants in question. To our knowledge, this is the first study to present a possible association between FTO gene variants and the genetic etiology of sALS. In addition, the next-generation sequencing-based genomics approach coupled with the two-step validation strategy described herein has the potential to be applied to other types of human complex genetic disorders in order to identify variants of clinical significance.

Administrative claims analysis of asthma-related health care utilization for patients who received inhaled corticosteroids with either montelukast or salmeterol as combination therapy.

PubMed

Allen-Ramey, Felicia C; Bukstein, Don; Luskin, Allan; Sajjan, Shiva G; Markson, Leona E

2006-05-01

To compare asthma-related health care resource utilization among a matched cohort of asthma patients using inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) plus either montelukast (MON) or salmeterol (SAL) as combination therapy for asthma, during a time prior to the availability of fixed-dose combinations of ICS/SAL. A retrospective analysis using the PHARMetrics patient-centric claims database was conducted for the period preceding the market introduction of combination fluticasone-SAL in September 2000. Patients had to meet the following criteria for inclusion in the study: they had to be between the ages of 4 and 55 years; they had to have been continuously enrolled for 2 years; they had to have initiated ICS/MON or ICS/SAL therapy between July 1, 1998, and June 30, 1999; and they had to have had either (a) a diagnosis of asthma (based on International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes of 493.xx) for 2 outpatient visits, 1 or more emergency department (ED) visits, or 1 or more hospitalizations within 1 year or (b) pharmacy claim records that contained a National Drug Code for an antiasthma medication (betaagonist, theophylline, ICS, cromolyn, or leukotriene) 2 or more times within 1 year. ICS/MON and ICS/SAL patients were matched 1 to 1 on age and propensity score. Outcomes included asthma-related hopitalizations and ED visits with ICD-9-CM codes of 493.xx, and oral corticosteroid (OCS) fills and short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) fills. Multivariate regression analyses were performed. Subgroup analyses based on sequential or concurrent initiation of combination therapy were also conducted. A total of 1,216 patients were matched (ICS/MON = 608; ICS/SAL= 608). Decreased odds of ED visits and/or hospitalizations were observed with ICS/MON (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.35- 0.98) versus ICS/SAL. The odds of postindex OCS fills were not different for ICS/MON and ICS/SAL patients (adjusted OR = 1.04; 95% CI, 0.79-1.38). Postindex pharmacy claims for SABAs were significantly higher among ICS/MON patients versus ICS/SAL patients (adjusted relative risk [RR] = 1.33; 95% CI, 1.17-1.52), and this difference remained regardless of prior use or no prior use of ICSs. In subgroup analyses, mean change in SABA fills varied by how combination therapy was initiated, with sequential addition of asthma controllers leading to a reduction in SABA fills in both groups. For patients with concurrent initiation of combination therapy, the odds of ED visits/hospitalizations were significantly lower in patients initiating ICS/MON (adjusted OR = 0.25; 95% CI, 0.08-0.79). In this matched cohort, use of ICS/MON compared with ICS/SAL resulted in similar odds of OCS fills, decreased odds of ED visits and asthmarelated hospitalizations, but higher utilization of SABA.

The impact of climate change on the distribution of two threatened Dipterocarp trees.

PubMed

Deb, Jiban C; Phinn, Stuart; Butt, Nathalie; McAlpine, Clive A

2017-04-01

Two ecologically and economically important, and threatened Dipterocarp trees Sal ( Shorea robusta ) and Garjan ( Dipterocarpus turbinatus ) form mono-specific canopies in dry deciduous, moist deciduous, evergreen, and semievergreen forests across South Asia and continental parts of Southeast Asia. They provide valuable timber and play an important role in the economy of many Asian countries. However, both Dipterocarp trees are threatened by continuing forest clearing, habitat alteration, and global climate change. While climatic regimes in the Asian tropics are changing, research on climate change-driven shifts in the distribution of tropical Asian trees is limited. We applied a bioclimatic modeling approach to these two Dipterocarp trees Sal and Garjan. We used presence-only records for the tree species, five bioclimatic variables, and selected two climatic scenarios (RCP4.5: an optimistic scenario and RCP8.5: a pessimistic scenario) and three global climate models (GCMs) to encompass the full range of variation in the models. We modeled climate space suitability for both species, projected to 2070, using a climate envelope modeling tool "MaxEnt" (the maximum entropy algorithm). Annual precipitation was the key bioclimatic variable in all GCMs for explaining the current and future distributions of Sal and Garjan (Sal: 49.97 ± 1.33; Garjan: 37.63 ± 1.19). Our models predict that suitable climate space for Sal will decline by 24% and 34% (the mean of the three GCMs) by 2070 under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively. In contrast, the consequences of imminent climate change appear less severe for Garjan, with a decline of 17% and 27% under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively. The findings of this study can be used to set conservation guidelines for Sal and Garjan by identifying vulnerable habitats in the region. In addition, the natural habitats of Sal and Garjan can be categorized as low to high risk under changing climates where artificial regeneration should be undertaken for forest restoration.

Installation Restoration Program. Phase II. Confirmation/Quantification. Stage 1. Homestead Air Force Base, Florida.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-03-07

8217 CLS7 PA SPOONER ET AL, 87 MAR Big F/G 12 11111g 1.0 03,2 i 1111111L_ MICROCOP RE ION TEST NATtnNAL HURLAIl )IF SIANDAPFrl £, , , 11 11I% AD-A 171 579...North Gate - ’FPT-?\\ Sal) West Gate ,o > e-.? ! •• ai Bouganville \\>°( ,, FigreES-. ocaio of SiesI etgae CE Storagje Compound SP1 SP-7 - FPTA-3...determine the areal sample and analyze for extent of groundwater target compounds identified contamination. in 1-9 (or for volatile organics using EPA

Association study between XRCC1 gene polymorphisms and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Coppedè, Fabio; Migheli, Francesca; Lo Gerfo, Annalisa; Fabbrizi, Maria Rita; Carlesi, Cecilia; Mancuso, Michelangelo; Corti, Stefania; Mezzina, Nicoletta; del Bo, Roberto; Comi, Giacomo P; Siciliano, Gabriele; Migliore, Lucia

2010-01-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible contribution of three common functional polymorphisms in the DNA repair protein X-ray repair cross-complementing group 1 (XRCC1), namely Arg194Trp (rs1799782), Arg280His (rs25489) and Arg399Gln (rs25487), to sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS). We genotyped 206 Italian SALS patients and 203 matched controls for XRCC1 Arg194Trp, Arg280His and Arg399Gln polymorphisms by means of PCR/RFLP technique, searching for association between any of the studied polymorphisms and disease risk, age and site of onset. We observed a statistically significant difference in XRCC1 Gln399 allele frequencies between SALS cases and controls (0.39/0.28; p=0.001). The present study suggests that the XRCC1 Arg399Gln polymorphism might contribute to SALS risk.

Shared Authentic Leadership in Research Teams: Testing a Multiple Mediation Model.

PubMed

Guenter, Hannes; Gardner, William L; Davis McCauley, Kelly; Randolph-Seng, Brandon; Prabhu, Veena P

2017-12-01

Research teams face complex leadership and coordination challenges. We propose shared authentic leadership (SAL) as a timely approach to addressing these challenges. Drawing from authentic and functional leadership theories, we posit a multiple mediation model that suggests three mechanisms whereby SAL influences team effectiveness: shared mental models (SMM), team trust, and team coordination. To test our hypotheses, we collected survey data on leadership and teamwork within 142 research teams that recently published an article in a peer-reviewed management journal. The results indicate team coordination represents the primary mediating mechanism accounting for the relationship between SAL and research team effectiveness. While teams with high trust and SMM felt more successful and were more satisfied, they were less successful in publishing in high-impact journals. We also found the four SAL dimensions (i.e., self-awareness, relational transparency, balanced processing, and internalized moral perspective) to associate differently with team effectiveness.

Shared Authentic Leadership in Research Teams: Testing a Multiple Mediation Model

PubMed Central

Guenter, Hannes; Gardner, William L.; Davis McCauley, Kelly; Randolph-Seng, Brandon; Prabhu, Veena P.

2017-01-01

Research teams face complex leadership and coordination challenges. We propose shared authentic leadership (SAL) as a timely approach to addressing these challenges. Drawing from authentic and functional leadership theories, we posit a multiple mediation model that suggests three mechanisms whereby SAL influences team effectiveness: shared mental models (SMM), team trust, and team coordination. To test our hypotheses, we collected survey data on leadership and teamwork within 142 research teams that recently published an article in a peer-reviewed management journal. The results indicate team coordination represents the primary mediating mechanism accounting for the relationship between SAL and research team effectiveness. While teams with high trust and SMM felt more successful and were more satisfied, they were less successful in publishing in high-impact journals. We also found the four SAL dimensions (i.e., self-awareness, relational transparency, balanced processing, and internalized moral perspective) to associate differently with team effectiveness. PMID:29187779

Bacterial self-resistance to the natural proteasome inhibitor salinosporamide A

PubMed Central

Kale, Andrew J.; McGlinchey, Ryan P.; Lechner, Anna; Moore, Bradley S.

2011-01-01

Proteasome inhibitors have recently emerged as a therapeutic strategy in cancer chemotherapy but susceptibility to drug resistance limits their efficacy. The marine actinobacterium Salinispora tropica produces salinosporamide A (NPI-0052, marizomib), a potent proteasome inhibitor and promising clinical agent in the treatment of multiple myeloma. Actinobacteria also possess 20S proteasome machinery, raising the question of self-resistance. We identified a redundant proteasome β-subunit, SalI, encoded within the salinosporamide biosynthetic gene cluster and biochemically characterized the SalI proteasome complex. The SalI β-subunit has an altered substrate specificity profile, 30-fold resistance to salinosporamide A, and cross-resistance to the FDA-approved proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. An A49V mutation in SalI correlates to clinical bortezomib resistance from a human proteasome β 5-subunit A49T mutation, suggesting that intrinsic resistance to natural proteasome inhibitors may predict clinical outcomes. PMID:21882868

Mechanism of insulin-stimulated clearance of plasma nonesterified fatty acids in humans.

PubMed

Carpentier, André C; Frisch, Frédérique; Brassard, Pascal; Lavoie, François; Bourbonnais, Annie; Cyr, Denis; Giguère, Robert; Baillargeon, Jean-Patrice

2007-03-01

Insulin increases plasma nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) clearance in humans, but whether this is independent of change in plasma NEFA appearance is currently unknown. Nine nondiabetic men (age: 28+/-3 yr, body mass index: 27.2+/-1.7 kg/m2) underwent euglycemic clamps to maintain low (LINS) vs. high (HINS) physiological insulin levels for 6 h. An intravenous infusion of heparin+Intralipid (HI) was performed during 4 of the 6 h of the clamps (in the last 4 h at LINS and in the first 4 h at HINS), whereas saline infusion (SAL) was administered in the remaining 2 h to modulate plasma NEFA levels independently of plasma insulin levels. Four experimental conditions were obtained in each individual: LINS with saline (LINS/SAL) and with HI infusion (LINS/HI) and HINS with saline (HINS/SAL) and with HI infusion (HINS/HI). Plasma palmitate appearance during HINS/SAL was lower than during the three other experimental conditions (P<0.05). In contrast, plasma linoleate appearance, as expected, was increased by HI independently of insulin level (P<0.02). Plasma palmitate clearance during HINS/SAL was higher than LINS/SAL and LINS/HI (P<0.008), and this increase was blunted during HINS/HI. We observed a linear decrease in plasma palmitate clearance with increasing plasma NEFA appearance independent of insulin levels. Plasma NEFA levels increased exponentially with increase in plasma NEFA appearance. We conclude that insulin stimulates plasma NEFA clearance by reducing the endogenous appearance rate of NEFA. The relationship between plasma NEFA level and appearance rate is nonlinear.

Suppressed invasive and migratory behaviors of SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells through the regulation of Src, Rac1 GTPase, and MMP13.

PubMed

Xu, Wenxiao; Wan, Qiaoqiao; Na, Sungsoo; Yokota, Hiroki; Yan, Jing-Long; Hamamura, Kazunori

2015-12-01

Chondrosarcoma is the second frequent type of primary bone cancer. In response to stress to the endoplasmic reticulum, activation of eIF2α-mediated signaling is reported to induce apoptosis. However, its effects on invasive and migratory behaviors of chondrosarcoma have not been understood. Focusing on potential roles of Src kinase, Rac1 GTPase, and MMP13, we investigated eIF2α-driven regulation of SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells. In particular, we employed two chemical agents (salubrinal, Sal; and guanabenz, Gu) that elevate the level of eIF2α phosphorylation. The result revealed that both Sal and Gu reduced invasion and motility of SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells in a dose dependent manner. Live imaging using a fluorescent resonance energy transfer (FRET) technique showed that Sal and Gu downregulated activities of Src kinase as well as Rac1 GTPase in an eIF2α dependent manner. RNA interference experiments supported an eIF2α-mediated regulatory network in the inhibitory role of Sal and Gu. Partial silencing of MMP13 also suppressed malignant phenotypes of SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells. However, MMP13 was not regulated via eIF2α since administration of Sal but not Gu reduced expression of MMP13. In summary, we demonstrate that eIF2α dependent and independent pathways regulate invasion and motility of SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells, and inactivation of Src, Rac1, and MMP13 by Sal could provide a potential adjuvant therapy for combating metastatic chondrosarcoma cells. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The comparative effects of 3% saline and 0.5M sodium lactate on cardiac function:a randomised, crossover study in volunteers.

PubMed

Nalos, Marek; Kholodniak, Euguenia; Smith, Louise; Orde, Sam; Ting, Iris; Slama, Michel; Seppelt, Ian; McLean, Anthony S; Huang, Stephen

2018-06-01

To investigate the metabolic and cardiac effects of intravenous administration of two hypertonic solutions - 3% saline (SAL) and 0.5M sodium lactate (LAC). A randomised, doubleblind, crossover study in ten human volunteers. Intravenous bolus of either SAL or LAC at 3 mL/kg over 20 min followed by a 2 mL/kg infusion over 60 min. Acid base parameters and echocardiographic indices of cardiac function, cardiac output (CO), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and mitral annular peak systolic velocity (Sm) before and after infusion of SAL or LAC. Despite haemodilution, we observed an increase in sodium (139 ± 2 mmol/L to 142 ± 2 mmol/L in both groups) and respective anions, chloride (106 ± 2 mmol/L to 112 ± 3 mmol/L) and lactate (1.01 ± 0.28 mmol/L to 2.38 ± 0.38 mmol/L) with SAL and LAC, respectively. The pH (7.37 ± 0.03 to 7.45 ± 0.03; P < 0.01) and simplified strong ion difference (SID) (36.3 ± 4.6 mmol/L to 39.2 ± 3.6 mmol/L; P < 0.01) increased during the LAC infusion. The pH was unchanged, but SID decreased during SAL infusion (36.3 ± 2.5 mmol/L to 33.9 ± 3.1 mmol/L; P = 0.01). Both solutions led to an increase in preload and cardiac function, CO (4.36 ± 0.79 L/min to 4.98 ± 1.37 L/ min v 4.62 ± 1.30 L/min to 5.13 ± 1.44 L/min), LVEF (61 ± 6% to 63 ± 8% v 64 ± 6% to 68 ± 7%). The averaged Sm improved in the LAC group as compared with the SAL group (0.088 ± 0.008 to 0.096 ± 0.016 v 0.086 ± 0.012 to 0.082 ± 0.012; P = 0.032). The administration of SAL or LAC has opposing effects on acid base variables such as SID. Hypertonic fluid infusion lead to increased cardiac preload and performance with Sm, suggesting better left ventricular systolic function during LAC as compared with SAL. Lactated hypertonic solutions should be evaluated as resuscitation fluids.

Morphological and functional changes after benzalkonium chloride treatment of the small intestinal Thiry-Vella loop in rats.

PubMed

Móricz, K; Gyetvai, B; Bárdos, G

1998-08-01

The aim of this work was to study the effects of benzalkonium chloride (BAC) treatment on the small intestine and its functioning in rats surgically prepared with Thiry-Vella intestinal loop. The loops were treated with either BAC, which ablated much of the myenteric plexus and extrinsic innervation, or with physiological saline (SAL). In vivo drinking experiments were performed to examine the effect on fluid intake and behavioral indices of distending the loop with a balloon. Spontaneous motility and its changes induced by acetylcholine (ACh) and histamine (His) were studied on isolated stripes in vitro. Finally, samples from the loops were examined histologically. Though reduction of the cell number was less than expected and no differences of the thickness of the muscular layer between the two groups was observed, BAC treatment altered the pattern of spontaneous activity and also the sensitivity to ACh and His in isolated stripes. In vivo distension of the SAL-treated loops reduced fluid intake and produced signs of aversivity; these effects were absent in the BAC-treated group. Our results show that despite the differences in the degree of ablation from those obtained by others, BAC treatment can be used to study the mechanisms underlying the effects of the enteral stimuli on the behavior.

A history of semi-active laser dome and window materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sullivan, Roger M.

2014-05-01

Semi-Active Laser (SAL) guidance systems were developed starting in the mid-1960's and today form an important class of precision guided weapons. The laser wavelengths generally fall in the short wave infrared region of the spectrum. Relative to passive, image based, infrared seekers the optical demands placed on the domes or windows of SAL seekers is very modest, allowing the use of low cost, easily manufactured materials, such as polycarbonate. This paper will examine the transition of SAL window and dome science and technology from the laboratory to battlefield, with special emphasis on the story of polycarbonate domes.

Human papillomavirus type 16 E6 inhibits p21{sup WAF1} transcription independently of p53 by inactivating p150{sup Sal2}

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

Parroche, Peggy; Institut Federatif de Recherche 128 BioSciences Gerland-Lyon Sud; Touka, Majid

2011-09-01

HPV16 E6 deregulates G1/S cell cycle progression through p53 degradation preventing transcription of the CDK inhibitor p21{sup WAF1}. However, additional mechanisms independent of p53 inactivation appear to exist. Here, we report that HPV16 E6 targets the cellular factor p150{sup Sal2}, which positively regulates p21{sup WAF1} transcription. HPV16 E6 associates with p150{sup Sal2}, inducing its functional inhibition by preventing its binding to cis elements on the p21{sup WAF1} promoter. A HPV16 E6 mutant, L110Q, which was unable to bind p150{sup Sal2}, did not affect the ability of the cellular protein to bind p21{sup WAF1} promoter, underlining the linkage between these events.more » These data describe a novel mechanism by which HPV16 E6 induces cell cycle deregulation with a p53-independent pathway. The viral oncoprotein targets p150{sup Sal2}, a positive transcription regulator of p21{sup WAF1} gene, preventing G1/S arrest and allowing cellular proliferation and efficient viral DNA replication.« less

Photodegradation of veterinary ionophore antibiotics under UV and solar irradiation.

PubMed

Sun, Peizhe; Pavlostathis, Spyros G; Huang, Ching-Hua

2014-11-18

The veterinary ionophore antibiotics (IPAs) are extensively used as coccidiostats and growth promoters and are released to the environment via land application of animal waste. Due to their propensity to be transported with runoff, IPAs likely end up in surface waters where they are subject to photodegradation. This study is among the first to investigate the photodegradation of three commonly used IPAs, monensin (MON), salinomycin (SAL) and narasin (NAR), under UV and solar irradiation. Results showed that MON was persistent in a deionized (DI) water matrix when exposed to UV and sunlight, whereas SAL and NAR could undergo direct photolysis with a high quantum yield. Water components including nitrate and dissolved organic matter had a great impact on the photodegradation of IPAs. A pseudosteady state kinetic model was successfully applied to predict IPAs' photodegradation rates in real water matrices. Applying LC/MS/MS, multiple photolytic transformation products of IPAs were observed and their structures were proposed. The direct photolysis of SAL and NAR occurred via cleavage on the ketone moiety and self-sensitized photolysis. With the presence of nitrate, MON was primarily degraded by hydroxyl radicals, whereas SAL showed reactivity toward both hydroxyl and nitrogen-dioxide radicals. Additionally, toxicity tests showed that photodegradation of SAL eliminated its antibiotic properties against Bacillus subtilis.

Progression of gyrate atrophy measured with ultra-wide-field imaging.

PubMed

Salcedo-Villanueva, Guillermo; Paciuc-Beja, Miguel; Villanueva-Mendoza, Cristina; Harasawa, Mariana; Smith, Jesse M; Velez-Montoya, Raul; Olson, Jeffrey L; Oliver, Scott C; Mandava, Naresh; Quiroz-Mercado, Hugo

2016-02-01

The study aims to determine the progression of gyrate atrophy by measuring the area growth of chorioretinal atrophic lesions using ultra-wide-field images (UWFI). A retrospective, observational, and comparative study was conducted and UWFI (200°) were obtained from two patients with gyrate atrophy at baseline and follow-up. Measurements of atrophy were obtained for three types of lesions: Solitary atrophic lesions (SAL), De novo solitary lesions (DNSL), and peripapillary atrophy (PPA). Comparison of baseline and follow-up was done using t tests. Two patients with gyrate atrophy were included. Patient 1 presented 16 SAL, 5 DNSL, and PPA measured for both eyes (BE). Overall area growth (OAG) for SAL (expressed in decimals) presented a mean of 3.41, σ 3.07. DNSL area for BE presented a mean of 1586.08 P (2), σ 1069.55. OAG for PPA presented a mean of 1.21, σ 0.17. Patient 2 presented 5 SAL, no DNSL, and PPA was measured for BE. OAG for SAL presented a mean of 1.58, σ 1.05 (range 1.02-3.47). OAG for PPA presented a mean of 1.05, σ 0.001. Gyrate atrophy progression can be determined by measuring the changes in area using UWFI.

Outer membrane protein a of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium activates dendritic cells and enhances Th1 polarization

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Typhoid, which is caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, remains a major health concern worldwide. Multidrug-resistant strains of Salmonella have emerged which exhibit increased survivability and virulence, thus leading to increased morbidity. However, little is known about the protective immune response against this microorganism. The outer membrane protein (Omp)A of bacteria plays an important role in pathogenesis. Results We purified OmpA from S. enterica serovar Typhimurium (OmpA-sal) and characterized the role of OmpA-sal in promoting adaptive and innate immune responses. OmpA-sal functionally activated bone marrow-derived dendritic cells by augmenting expression of CD80, CD86, and major histocompatibility complex classes I and II. Interestingly, OmpA-sal induced production of interferon-γ from T cells in mixed lymphocyte reactions, thus indicating Th1-polarizing capacity. The expression of surface markers and cytokine production in dendritic cells was mediated by the TLR4 signaling pathway in a TLR4 Knock-out system. Conclusions Our findings suggest that OmpA-sal modulates the adaptive immune responses to S. enterica serovar Typhimurium by activating dendritic cells and driving Th1 polarization, which are important properties to consider in the development of effective S. enterica serovar Typhimurium vaccines and immunotherapy adjuvant. PMID:20950448

Genetic analysis of patients with familial and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in a Brazilian Research Center.

PubMed

Chadi, Gerson; Maximino, Jessica Ruivo; Jorge, Frederico Mennucci de Haidar; Borba, Fabrício Castro de; Gilio, Joyce Meire; Callegaro, Dagoberto; Lopes, Camila Galvão; Santos, Samantha Nakamura Dos; Rebelo, Gabriela Natania Sales

2017-05-01

To investigate gene mutations in familial form (FALS) and sporadic form (SALS) of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in a highly miscegenated population. Frequencies of mutations in the C9orfF72, TARDBP, SOD1, FUS and VAPB genes were investigated in a cohort of FALS (n = 39) and SALS (n = 189) subjects from the Research Centre of the University of São Paulo School of Medicine. All patients were subjected to C9orf72 and TARDBP analyses. SOD1, FUS and VAPB were also evaluated in FALS subjects. Mutations were identified in FALS (61.3%) and SALS (5.3%) patients. Mutations in C9orf72 (12.8%, >45 GGGGCC hexanucleotide repeats), VAPB (43.6%, P56S) and SOD1 (7.7%, L145S) were identified in FALS subjects. Pathogenic C9orf72 expansions (2.64%) were identified in some SALS patients. Similar changes of TARDBP were found in SALS (2.64%) but not in FALS subjects. No FUS mutations were seen in any FALS subjects. TARDBP and C9orf72 mutations in this cohort were similar to those found in other centres worldwide. VAPB mutation (P56S) was highly prevalent in Brazilian FALS patients.

The effects of short-cycle sprints on power, strength, and salivary hormones in elite rugby players.

PubMed

Crewther, Blair T; Cook, Christian J; Lowe, Tim E; Weatherby, Robert P; Gill, Nicholas

2011-01-01

This study examined the effects of short-cycle sprints on power, strength, and salivary hormones in elite rugby players. Thirty male rugby players performed an upper-body power and lower-body strength (UPLS) and/or a lower-body power and upper-body strength (LPUS) workout using a crossover design (sprint vs. control). A 40-second upper-body or lower-body cycle sprint was performed before the UPLS and LPUS workouts, respectively, with the control sessions performed without the sprints. Bench throw (BT) power and box squat (BS) 1 repetition maximum (1RM) strength were assessed in the UPLS workout, and squat jump (SJ) power and bench press (BP) 1RM strength were assessed in the LPUS workout. Saliva was collected across each workout and assayed for testosterone (Sal-T) and cortisol (Sal-C). The cycle sprints improved BS (2.6 ± 1.2%) and BP (2.8 ± 1.0%) 1RM but did not affect BT and SJ power. The lower-body cycle sprint produced a favorable environment for the BS by elevating Sal-T concentrations. The upper-body cycle sprint had no hormonal effect, but the workout differences (%) in Sal-T (r = -0.59) and Sal-C (r = 0.42) concentrations correlated to the BP, along with the Sal-T/C ratio (r = -0.49 to -0.66). In conclusion, the cycle sprints improved the BP and BS 1RM strength of elite rugby players but not power output in the current format. The improvements noted may be explained, in part, by the changes in absolute or relative hormone concentrations. These findings have practical implications for prescribing warm-up and training exercises.

Defining the Electronic and Geometric Structure of One-Electron Oxidized Copper–Bis-phenoxide Complexes

PubMed Central

Storr, Tim; Verma, Pratik; Pratt, Russell C.; Wasinger, Erik C.; Shimazaki, Yuichi; Stack, T. Daniel P.

2009-01-01

The geometric and electronic structure of an oxidized Cu complex ([CuSal]+; Sal = N, N′-bis(3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylidene)-1,2-cyclohexane-(1R,2R)-diamine) with a non-innocent salen ligand has been investigated both in the solid state and in solution. Integration of information from UV–vis–NIR spectroscopy, magnetic susceptibility, electrochemistry, resonance Raman spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations provides critical insights into the nature of the localization/delocalization of the oxidation locus. In contrast to the analogous Ni derivative [NiSal]+ (Storr, T.; et al. Angew. Chem., Int. Ed. 2007, 46, 5198), which exists solely in the Ni(II) ligand-radical form, the locus of oxidation is metal-based for [CuSal]+, affording exclusively a Cu(III) species in the solid state (4–300 K). Variable-temperature solution studies suggest that [CuSal]+ exists in a reversible spin-equilibrium between a ligand-radical species [Cu(II)Sal•]+ (S = 1) and the high-valent metal form [Cu(III)Sal]+ (S = 0), indicative of nearly isoenergetic species. It is surprising that a bis-imine–bis-phenolate ligation stabilizes the Cu(III) oxidation state, and even more surprising that in solution a spin equilibrium occurs without a change in coordination number. The oxidized tetrahydrosalen analogue [CuSalred]+ (Salred = N, N′-bis(3,5-di-tert-butylhydroxybenzyl)-1,2-cyclohexane-(1R,2R)-diamine) exists as a temperature-invariant Cu(II)–ligand-radical complex in solution, demonstrating that ostensibly simple variations of the ligand structure affect the locus of oxidation in Cu–bis-phenoxide complexes. PMID:18939830

Paraoxonase promoter and intronic variants modify risk of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

PubMed Central

Cronin, Simon; Greenway, Matthew J; Prehn, Jochen H M; Hardiman, Orla

2007-01-01

Background The paraoxonases, PON1–3, play a major protective role both against environmental toxins and as part of the antioxidant defence system. Recently, non‐synonymous coding single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), known to lower serum PON activity, have been associated with sporadic ALS (SALS) in a Polish population. A separate trio based study described a detrimental allele at the PON3 intronic variant INS2+3651 (rs10487132). Association between PON gene cluster variants and SALS requires external validation in an independent dataset. Aims To examine the association of the promoter SNPs PON1−162G>A and PON1−108T>C; the non‐synonymous functional SNPs PON1Q192R and L55M and PON2C311S and A148G; and the intronic marker PON3INS2+3651A>G, with SALS in a genetically homogenous population. Methods 221 Irish patients with SALS and 202 unrelated control subjects were genotyped using KASPar chemistries. Statistical analyses and haplotype estimations were conducted using Haploview and Unphased software. Multiple permutation testing, as implemented in Unphased, was applied to haplotype p values to correct for multiple hypotheses. Results Two of the seven SNPs were associated with SALS in the Irish population: PON155M (OR 1.52, p = 0.006) and PON3INS2+3651 G (OR 1.36, p = 0.03). Two locus haplotype analysis showed association only when both of these risk alleles were present (OR 1.7, p = 0.005), suggesting a potential effect modification. Low functioning promoter variants were observed to influence this effect when compared with wild‐type. Conclusions These data provide additional evidence that genetic variation across the paroxanase loci may be common susceptibility factors for SALS. PMID:17702780

Salvianolic acid A alleviates ischemic brain injury through the inhibition of inflammation and apoptosis and the promotion of neurogenesis in mice.

PubMed

Chien, Mei-Yin; Chuang, Cheng-Hung; Chern, Chang-Ming; Liou, Kou-Tong; Liu, Der-Zen; Hou, Yu-Chang; Shen, Yuh-Chiang

2016-10-01

Salvianolic acid A (SalA), a chemical type of caffeic acid trimer, has drawn great attention for its potent bioactivities against ischemia-induced injury both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we evaluated SalA's protective effects against acute ischemic stroke by inducing middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO) injuries in mice. Treatment of the mice with SalA (50 and 100μg/kg, i.v.) at 2h after MCAO enhanced their survival rate, improved their moving activity, and ameliorated the severity of brain infarction and apoptosis seen in the mice by diminishing pathological changes such as the extensive breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), nitrosative stress, and the activation of an inflammatory transcriptional factor p65 nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and a pro-apoptotic kinase p25/Cdk5. SalA also intensively limited cortical infarction and promoted the expression of neurogenesis protein near the peri-infarct cortex and subgranular zone of the hippocampal dentate gyrus by compromising the activation of GSK3β and p25/Cdk5, which in turn upregulated β-catenin, doublecortin (DCX), and Bcl-2, most possibly through the activation of PI3K/Akt signaling via the upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. We conclude that SalA blocks inflammatory responses by impairing NF-κB signaling, thereby limiting inflammation/nitrosative stress and preserving the integrity of the BBB; SalA also concomitantly promotes neurogenesis-related protein expression by compromising GSK3β/Cdk5 activity to enhance the expression levels of β-catenin/DCX and Bcl-2 for neuroprotection. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of salicylate on outer hair cell plasma membrane viscoelasticity: studies using optical tweezers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ermilov, Sergey A.; Brownell, William E.; Anvari, Bahman

2004-06-01

The plasma membrane (PM) of mammalian outer hair cells (OHCs) generates mechanical forces in response to changes in the transmembrane electrical potential. The resulting change in the cell length is known as electromotility. Salicylate (Sal), the anionic, amphipathic derivative of aspirin induces reversible hearing loss and decreases electromotile response of the OHCs. Sal may change the local curvature and mechanical properties of the PM, eventually resulting in reduced electromotility or it may compete with intracellular monovalent anions, particularly Cl-, which are essential for electromotility. In this work we have used optical tweezers to study the effects of Sal on viscoelastic properties of the OHC PM when separated from the underlying composite structures of the cell wall. In this procedure, an optically trapped microsphere is brought in contact with PM and subsequently pulled away to form a tether. We measured the force exerted on the tether as a function of time during the process of tether growth at different pulling rates. Effective tether viscosity, steady-state tethering force extrapolated to zero pulling rate, and the time constant for tether growth were estimated from the measurements of the instantaneous tethering force. The time constant for the tether growth measured for the OHC basal end decreased 1.65 times after addition of 10 mM Sal, which may result from an interaction between Sal and cholesterol, which is more prevalent in the PM of OHC basal end. The time constants for the tether growth calculated for the OHC lateral wall and control human embryonic kidney cells as well as the other calculated viscoelastic parameters remained the same after Sal perfusion, favoring the hypothesis of competitive inhibition of electromotility by salicylate.

Evaluating the levels of interleukin-1 family cytokines in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Italiani, Paola; Carlesi, Cecilia; Giungato, Paola; Puxeddu, Ilaria; Borroni, Barbara; Bossù, Paola; Migliorini, Paola; Siciliano, Gabriele; Boraschi, Diana

2014-05-23

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive motor neuron disease leading to the death of affected individuals within years. The involvement of inflammation in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS, is increasingly recognized but still not well understood. The aim of this study is to evaluate the levels of inflammation-related IL-1 family cytokines (IL-1β, IL-18, IL-33, IL-37) and their endogenous inhibitors (IL-1Ra, sIL-1R2, IL-18BP, sIL-1R4) in patients with sporadic ALS (sALS), METHODS: Sera were collected from 144 patients (125 patients were characterized by disease form, duration, and disability, using the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R) and from 40 matched controls. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was collected from 54 patients with sALS and 65 patients with other non-infectious non-oncogenic diseases as controls. Cytokines and inhibitors were measured by commercial ELISA. Among the IL-1 family cytokines tested total IL-18, its endogenous inhibitor IL-18BP, and the active form of the cytokine (free IL-18) were significantly higher in the sALS sera than in controls. No correlation between these soluble mediators and different clinical forms of sALS or the clinical setting of the disease was found. IL-18BP was the only mediator detectable in the CSF of patients. Among the IL-1 family cytokines, only IL-18 correlates with this disease and may therefore have a pathological role in sALS. The increase of total IL-18 suggests the activation of IL-18-cleaving inflammasome. Whether IL-18 upregulation in circulation of sALS patients is a consequence of inflammation or one of the causes of the pathology still needs to be addressed.

Evaluating the levels of interleukin-1 family cytokines in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive motor neuron disease leading to the death of affected individuals within years. The involvement of inflammation in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS, is increasingly recognized but still not well understood. The aim of this study is to evaluate the levels of inflammation-related IL-1 family cytokines (IL-1β, IL-18, IL-33, IL-37) and their endogenous inhibitors (IL-1Ra, sIL-1R2, IL-18BP, sIL-1R4) in patients with sporadic ALS (sALS), Methods Sera were collected from 144 patients (125 patients were characterized by disease form, duration, and disability, using the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R) and from 40 matched controls. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was collected from 54 patients with sALS and 65 patients with other non-infectious non-oncogenic diseases as controls. Cytokines and inhibitors were measured by commercial ELISA. Results Among the IL-1 family cytokines tested total IL-18, its endogenous inhibitor IL-18BP, and the active form of the cytokine (free IL-18) were significantly higher in the sALS sera than in controls. No correlation between these soluble mediators and different clinical forms of sALS or the clinical setting of the disease was found. IL-18BP was the only mediator detectable in the CSF of patients. Conclusions Among the IL-1 family cytokines, only IL-18 correlates with this disease and may therefore have a pathological role in sALS. The increase of total IL-18 suggests the activation of IL-18-cleaving inflammasome. Whether IL-18 upregulation in circulation of sALS patients is a consequence of inflammation or one of the causes of the pathology still needs to be addressed. PMID:24884937

An alternative option for "resect and discard" strategy, using magnifying narrow-band imaging: a prospective "proof-of-principle" study.

PubMed

Takeuchi, Yoji; Hanafusa, Masao; Kanzaki, Hiromitsu; Ohta, Takashi; Hanaoka, Noboru; Yamamoto, Sachiko; Higashino, Koji; Tomita, Yasuhiko; Uedo, Noriya; Ishihara, Ryu; Iishi, Hiroyasu

2015-10-01

The "resect and discard" strategy is beneficial for cost savings on screening and surveillance colonoscopy, but it has the risk to discard lesions with advanced histology or small invasive cancer (small advanced lesion; SALs). The aim of this study was to prove the principle of new "resect and discard" strategy with consideration for SALs using magnifying narrow-band imaging (M-NBI). Patients undergoing colonoscopy at a tertiary center were involved in this prospective trial. For each detected polyp <10 mm, optical diagnosis (OD) and virtual management ("leave in situ", "discard" or "send for pathology") were independently made using non-magnifying NBI (N-NBI) and M-NBI, and next surveillance interval were predicted. Histological and optical diagnosis results of all polyps were compared. While the management could be decided in 82% of polyps smaller than 10 mm, 24/31 (77%) SALs including two small invasive cancers were not discarded based on OD using M-NBI. The sensitivity [90% confidence interval (CI)] of M-NBI for SALs was 0.77 (0.61-0.89). The risk for discarding SALs using N-NBI was significantly higher than that using M-NBI (53 vs. 23%, p = 0.02). The diagnostic accuracy (95% CI) of M-NBI in distinguishing neoplastic from non-neoplastic lesions [0.88 (0.86-0.90)] was significantly better than that of N-NBI [0.84 (0.82-0.87)] (p = 0.005). The results of our study indicated that our "resect and discard" strategy using M-NBI could work to reduce the risk for discarding SALs including small invasive cancer (UMIN-CTR, UMIN000003740).

FUS-immunoreactive inclusions are a common feature in sporadic and non-SOD1 familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

PubMed Central

Deng, Han-Xiang; Zhai, Hong; Bigio, Eileen H.; Yan, Jianhua; Fecto, Faisal; Ajroud, Kaouther; Mishra, Manjari; Ajroud-Driss, Senda; Heller, Scott; Sufit, Robert; Siddique, Nailah; Mugnaini, Enrico; Siddique, Teepu

2014-01-01

Objective Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disorder of motor neuron degeneration. Most cases of ALS are sporadic (SALS), but about 5-10% of ALS cases are familial (FALS). Recent studies have shown that mutations in FUS are causal in approximately 4-5% of FALS and some apparent SALS cases. The pathogenic mechanism of the mutant FUS-mediated ALS and potential roles of FUS in non-FUS ALS remain to be investigated. Methods Immunostaining was performed on postmortem spinal cords from 78 ALS cases, including SALS (n=52), ALS with dementia (ALS/dementia, n=10) and FALS (n=16). In addition, postmortem brains or spinal cords from 22 cases with or without frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) were also studied. In total, 100 cases were studied. Results FUS-immunoreactive inclusions were observed in spinal anterior horn neurons in all sporadic and familial ALS cases, except for those with SOD1 mutations. The FUS-containing inclusions were also immunoreactive with antibodies to TDP43, p62 and ubiquitin. A fraction of tested FUS antibodies recognized FUS inclusions and an unusual antigen retrieval appeared to be important for detection of the skein-like FUS inclusions. Interpretation Although mutations in FUS account for only a small fraction of FALS and SALS, our data suggest that FUS protein may be a common component of the cellular inclusions in non-SOD1 ALS and some other neurodegenerative conditions, implying a shared pathogenic pathway underlying SALS, non-SOD1 FALS, ALS/dementia and related disorders. Our data also indicate that SOD1-linked ALS may have a distinct pathogenic pathway from SALS and other types of FALS. PMID:20517935

Wild-type and mutant SOD1 share an aberrant conformation and a common pathogenic pathway in ALS

PubMed Central

Bosco, Daryl A.; Morfini, Gerardo; Karabacak, N. Murat; Song, Yuyu; Gros-Louis, Francois; Pasinelli, Piera; Goolsby, Holly; Fontaine, Benjamin A.; Lemay, Nathan; McKenna-Yasek, Diane; Frosch, Matthew P.; Agar, Jeffery N.; Julien, Jean-Pierre; Brady, Scott T.; Brown, Robert H.

2010-01-01

Many mutations confer upon copper/zinc superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) one or more toxic function(s) that impair motor neuron viability and cause familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS). Using a conformation-specific antibody that detects misfolded SOD1 (C4F6), we demonstrate that oxidized WT-SOD1 and mutant-SOD1 share a conformational epitope that is not present in normal WT-SOD1. In a subset of human sporadic ALS (SALS) cases, motor neurons in the lumbosacral spinal cord displayed striking C4F6 immunoreactivity, denoting the presence of aberrant WT-SOD1 species. Recombinant, oxidized WT-SOD1 and WT-SOD1 immunopurified from SALS tissues inhibited kinesin-based fast axonal transport in a manner similar to FALS-linked mutant SOD1. Studies here suggest that WT-SOD1 can be pathogenic in SALS and identifies an SOD1-dependent pathogenic mechanism common to FALS and SALS. PMID:20953194

Suction-assisted liposuction with a y-connector.

PubMed

Uysal, Cagri A; Coskun, Erhan; Ozkan, Burak; Cologlu, Harun; Borman, Huseyin

2012-12-01

Liposuction appears to be one of the simplest aesthetic techniques to date, and its popularity has spread worldwide. The authors have been using a Y-connector that enables two plastic surgeons to work at the same with the same suction-assisted liposuction (SAL) machine. For 12 patients whose liposuction procedures were performed using one-cannula SAL, the mean surgical time was 114 ± 10.8 min, whereas for 11 patients whose liposuction procedures were performed with Y-connector SAL, the mean surgical time was 62 ± 7.8 min. This difference between the two groups is statistically significant (p < 0.05). The authors believe the Y-connector may be a less tiring alternative for plastic surgeons who still think SAL is the gold standard for liposuction. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Small-Molecule-Based Self-Assembled Ligands for G-Quadruplex DNA Surface Recognition.

PubMed

Rivera-Sánchez, María Del C; García-Arriaga, Marilyn; Hobley, Gerard; Morales-de-Echegaray, Ana V; Rivera, José M

2017-10-31

Most drugs are small molecules because of their attractive pharmacokinetics, manageable development and manufacturing, and effective binding into the concave crevices of bio-macromolecules. Despite these features, they often fall short when it comes to effectively recognizing the surfaces of bio-macromolecules. One way to overcome the challenge of biomolecular surface recognition is to develop small molecules that become self-assembled ligands (SALs) prior to binding. Herein, we report SALs made from 8-aryl-2'-deoxyguanosine derivatives forming precise hydrophilic supramolecular G-quadruplexes (SGQs) with excellent size, shape, and charge complementarity to G-quadruplex DNA (QDNA). We show that only those compounds forming SGQs act as SALs, which in turn differentially stabilize QDNAs from selected oncogene promoters and the human telomeric regions. Fluorescence resonance energy-transfer melting assays are consistent with spectroscopic, calorimetric, and light scattering studies, showing the formation of a "sandwichlike" complex QDNA·SGQ·QDNA. These results open the door for the advent of SALs that recognize QDNAs and potentially the surfaces of other bio-macromolecules such as proteins.

Exogenous sialic acid transport contributes to group B streptococcus infection of mucosal surfaces.

PubMed

Pezzicoli, Alfredo; Ruggiero, Paolo; Amerighi, Fulvia; Telford, John L; Soriani, Marco

2012-09-15

By sequence analysis of available group B streptococcus (GBS) genomes, we discovered a conserved putative operon involved in the catabolism of sialic acid, containing a tripartite transporter formed by two integral membrane components and a sugar-binding unit, named SAL0039. Expression analysis in the presence of different substrates revealed that SAL0039 was specifically upregulated by the presence of sialic acid and downregulated when bacteria were grown in human blood or in the presence of a high concentration of glucose. The role of SAL0039 in sugar transport was supported by the inability of the sal0039 deletion mutant strain to import exogenous sialic acid and to grow in semidefined medium supplemented with this sugar. Furthermore, in vivo evidence showed that the presence of exogenous sialic acid significantly increased the capacity of GBS to infect mice at the mucosal level. These findings suggest that transport of sialic acid may also contribute to GBS infections.

alpha-Phenyl-N-tert-butyl nitrone attenuates methamphetamine-induced depletion of striatal dopamine without altering hyperthermia.

PubMed

Cappon, G D; Broening, H W; Pu, C; Morford, L; Vorhees, C V

1996-10-01

Methamphetamine (MA) administration to adult rats (4 x 10 mg/kg s.c.) induces neurotoxicity predominately characterized by a persistent reduction of neostriatal dopamine (DA) content. Hyperthermia following MA administration potentiates the resulting DA depletion. DA-derived free radicals are postulated to be a mechanism through which MA-induced neurotoxicity is produced. The spin trapping agent PBN reacts with free radicals to form nitroxyl adducts, thereby preventing damaging free radical reactions with cellular substrates. MA with saline pretreatment (Sal-MA) reduced neostriatal DA by 55% (P < 0.01 vs. Sal-Sal). MA with PBN pretreatment (PBN-MA) at 36 or 60 mg/kg reduced neostriatal DA by 36 and 22%, respectively (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01 vs Sal-MA) indicating partial protection. PBN pretreatment did not alter MA-induced hyperthermia. Thus, PBN does not attenuate MA-induced neurotoxicity by reducing MA-induced hyperthermia. These results support a role for free radicals in the generation of MA-induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity.

Glucose administration after traumatic brain injury exerts some benefits and no adverse effects on behavioral and histological outcomes

PubMed Central

Shijo, Katsunori; Ghavim, Sima; Harris, Neil G.; Hovda, David A.; Sutton, Richard L.

2015-01-01

The impact of hyperglycemia after traumatic brain injury (TBI), and even the administration of glucose–containing solutions to head injured patients, remains controversial. In the current study adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were tested on behavioral tasks and then underwent surgery to induce sham injury or unilateral controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury followed by injections (i.p.) with either a 50% glucose solution (Glc; 2 g/kg) or an equivalent volume of either 0.9% or 8% saline (Sal) at 0, 1, 3 and 6 h post-injury. The type of saline treatment did not significantly affect any outcome measures, so these data were combined. Rats with CCI had significant deficits in beam-walking traversal time and rating scores (p’s <0.001 versus sham) that recovered over test sessions from 1 to 13 days post-injury (p’s <0.001), but these beam-walking deficits were not affected by Glc versus Sal treatments. Persistent post-CCI deficits in forelimb contraflexion scores and forelimb tactile placing ability were also not differentially affected by Glc or Sal treatments. However, deficits in latency to retract the right hind limb after limb extension were significantly attenuated in the CCI-Glc group (p<0.05 versus CCI-Sal). Both CCI groups were significantly impaired in a plus maze test of spatial working memory on days 4, 9 and 14 post-surgery (p<0.001 versus sham), and there was no effect of Glc versus Sal on this cognitive outcome measure. At 15 days post-surgery the loss of cortical tissue volume (p<0.001 versus sham) was significantly less in the CCI-Glc group (30.0%; p<0.05) compared to the CCI-Sal group (35.7%). Counts of surviving hippocampal hilar neurons revealed a significant (~40%) loss ipsilateral to CCI (p<0.001 versus sham), but neuronal loss in the hippocampus was not different in the CCI-Sal and CCI-Glc groups. Taken together, these results indicate that an early elevation of blood glucose may improve some neurological outcomes and, importantly, the induction of hyperglycemia after isolated TBI did not adversely affect any sensorimotor, cognitive or histological outcomes. PMID:25911580

Cathodes for lithium-air battery cells with acid electrolytes

DOEpatents

Xing, Yangchuan; Huang, Kan; Li, Yunfeng

2016-07-19

In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a layered metal-air cathode for a metal-air battery. Generally, the layered metal-air cathode comprises an active catalyst layer, a transition layer bonded to the active catalyst layer, and a backing layer bonded to the transition layer such that the transition layer is disposed between the active catalyst layer and the backing layer.

Characterization of the nest site preferences of Saltmarsh and Nelson's Sparrows, and hybrids

EPA Science Inventory

Saltmarsh Sparrows (hereafter SALS) are named on the National Audubon Society’s current WatchList as a species of global conservation concern (National Audubon Society 2007). Anthropogenic climate change is perhaps the largest threat to SALS populations because sea level ri...

Study of the HFE gene common polymorphisms in French patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Praline, Julien; Blasco, Hélène; Vourc'h, Patrick; Rat, Valérian; Gendrot, Chantal; Camu, William; Andres, Christian R

2012-06-15

Our objective was to investigate whether the C282Y (p.Cys 282 Tyr) and H63D (p. His 63 Asp) HFE polymorphisms were associated with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS) in the French population. We searched for a relation of HFE polymorphisms with the clinical characteristics of the disease. The HFE polymorphisms were studied in 824 patients with SALS and 583 controls. We compared the frequency of the polymorphisms between SALS and controls groups by univariate and multivariate statistics, taking into account gender, site, age-at-onset and survival. We did not observe significant difference in the frequency of H63D polymorphism between SALS and control group. We observed a significant difference for C282Y between patients and controls with a low frequency of the Y allele in patients (3.2%) compared to our control group (5.9%). Disease duration, distribution of gender, site-of-onset, age-at-onset did not differ between groups taking into account genotypes of each polymorphism. Our results in this large cohort of ALS patients indicate that H63D polymorphism is not associated with SALS in the French population. This conclusion does not exclude a weak effect of the HFE gene polymorphisms in certain ALS populations, or an effect of other rare HFE gene variants. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Exploring Epistemological Beliefs and Learning Approaches in Context: A Sociocultural Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phan, Huy P.

2008-01-01

Background: Research investigation into epistemological beliefs and students' approaches to learning (SAL) from a qualitative perspective has been limited to a few studies. In particular, very research has attempted to explore the origin of personal epistemology and its relation with SAL, taking into account the sociocultural background and …

An effective parameter optimization technique for vibration flow field characterization of PP melts via LS-SVM combined with SALS in an electromagnetism dynamic extruder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xian, Guangming

2018-03-01

A method for predicting the optimal vibration field parameters by least square support vector machine (LS-SVM) is presented in this paper. One convenient and commonly used technique for characterizing the the vibration flow field of polymer melts films is small angle light scattering (SALS) in a visualized slit die of the electromagnetism dynamic extruder. The optimal value of vibration vibration frequency, vibration amplitude, and the maximum light intensity projection area can be obtained by using LS-SVM for prediction. For illustrating this method and show its validity, the flowing material is used with polypropylene (PP) and fifteen samples are tested at the rotation speed of screw at 36rpm. This paper first describes the apparatus of SALS to perform the experiments, then gives the theoretical basis of this new method, and detail the experimental results for parameter prediction of vibration flow field. It is demonstrated that it is possible to use the method of SALS and obtain detailed information on optimal parameter of vibration flow field of PP melts by LS-SVM.

Estimation of the molar absorption coefficient of copper salicylate within the spectral range 300-350 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lavrik, N. L.; Mulloev, N. U.

2017-12-01

Additional absorption was detected in absorption spectra within the range 300-350 nm after addition of copper sulfate CuSO4(aq) to a solution of sodium salicylate NaНSal (рН = 7.8). The additional maximum absorption was observed at 320 nm. Assuming that the additional absorption depends on the formation of copper salicylate CuSal, the molar absorption coefficient εCuSal of this complex was determined to be (3.8 ± 0.02) · 103 М- 1 сm- 1. This value is almost equal to that of monoanion HSal-, εHSal - = (3.6 ± 0.04) · 103 М- 1 сm- 1, and is 2.5 times as much as εFe3 + HSal - = (1.55 ± 0.05) · 103 М- 1 сm- 1 for iron salicylate. The difference in εCuSal and εFe3 + HSal - is due to the difference in the initial electron states of Cu2 + and Fe3 + ions that have the d9 and d5 configurations, respectively.

Preliminary investigation of the elemental variation and diagenesis of a tabular uranium deposit, La Sal Mine, San Juan County, Utah

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brooks, Robert A.; Campbell, John A.

1976-01-01

Ore in the La Sal mine, San Juan County, Utah, occurs as a typical tabular-type uranium deposit of the-Colorado Plateau. Uranium-vanadium occurs in the Salt Wash Member of the Jurassic Morrison Formation. Chemical and petrographic analyses were used to determine elemental variation and diagenetic aspects across the orebody. Vanadium is concentrated in the dark clay matrix, which constitutes visible ore. Uranium content is greater above the vanadium zone. Calcium, carbonate carbon, and lead show greater than fifty-fold increase across the ore zone, whereas copper and organic carbon show only a several-fold increase. Large molybdenum concentrations are present in and above the tabular layer, and large selenium concentrations occur below the uranium zone within the richest vanadium zone. Iron is enriched in the vanadium horizon. Chromium is depleted from above the ore and strongly enriched below. Elements that vary directly with the vanadium content include magnesium, iron, selenium, zirconium, strontium, titanium, lead, boron, yttrium, and scandium. The diagenetic sequence is as follows: (1) formation of secondary quartz overgrowths as cement; (2) infilling and lining of remaining pores with amber opaline material; (3) formation of vanadium-rich clay matrix, which has replaced overgrowths as well as quartz grains; (4) replacement of overgrowths and detrital grains by calcite; (5) infilling of pores with barite and the introduction of pyrite and marcasite.

Allergy to fish parvalbumins: studies on the cross-reactivity of allergens from 9 commonly consumed fish.

PubMed

Van Do, Thien; Elsayed, Said; Florvaag, Erik; Hordvik, Ivar; Endresen, Curt

2005-12-01

Fish-hypersensitive patients can probably tolerate some fish species while being allergic to others. To determine the allergenic cross-reactivity between 9 commonly edible fish: cod, salmon, pollack, mackerel, tuna, herring, wolffish, halibut, and flounder. Sera from 10 patients allergic to fish and rabbit antisera against 3 parvalbumins (Gad c 1, Sal s 1, and The c 1) were used. Cross-reactivity was investigated by SDS/PAGE and IgE immunoblotting, IgG ELISA, IgE ELISA inhibition, and skin prick test (SPT). Cod (Gad c 1), salmon (Sal s 1), pollack (The c 1), herring, and wolffish share antigenic and allergenic determinants as shown by immunoblots and IgE ELISA, whereas halibut, flounder, tuna, and mackerel displayed lowest cross-reactivities. The highest mean IgE ELISA inhibition percent of 10 sera was obtained by Gad c 1, followed by The c 1, herring, Sal s 1, wolffish, halibut, flounder, tuna, and mackerel with the least inhibition. Nine of the 10 patients showed positive SPT to cod, salmon, and pollack; 8 patients reacted to recombinant (r) Sal s 1. Positive SPTs to rGad c 1 and rThe c 1 were demonstrated in 1 patient. Gad c 1, Sal s 1, The c 1, herring, and wolffish contained the most potent cross-reacting allergens, whereas halibut, flounder, tuna, and mackerel were the least allergenic in the current study. The latter could probably be tolerated by some of the tested patients.

Impact of LbSapSal Vaccine in Canine Immunological and Parasitological Features before and after Leishmania chagasi-Challenge.

PubMed

Resende, Lucilene Aparecida; Aguiar-Soares, Rodrigo Dian de Oliveira; Gama-Ker, Henrique; Roatt, Bruno Mendes; Mendonça, Ludmila Zanandreis de; Alves, Marina Luiza Rodrigues; Silveira-Lemos, Denise da; Corrêa-Oliveira, Rodrigo; Martins-Filho, Olindo Assis; Araújo, Márcio Sobreira Silva; Fujiwara, Ricardo Toshio; Gontijo, Nelder Figueiredo; Reis, Alexandre Barbosa; Giunchetti, Rodolfo Cordeiro

2016-01-01

Dogs represent the most important domestic reservoir of L. chagasi (syn. L. infantum). A vaccine against canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) would be an important tool for decreasing the anxiety related to possible L. chagasi infection and for controlling human visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Because the sand fly salivary proteins are potent immunogens obligatorily co-deposited during transmission of Leishmania parasites, their inclusion in an anti-Leishmania vaccine has been investigated in past decades. We investigated the immunogenicity of the "LbSapSal" vaccine (L. braziliensis antigens, saponin as adjuvant, and Lutzomyia longipalpis salivary gland extract) in dogs at baseline (T0), during the post-vaccination protocol (T3rd) and after early (T90) and late (T885) times following L. chagasi-challenge. Our major data indicated that immunization with "LbSapSal" is able to induce biomarkers characterized by enhanced amounts of type I (tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, interleukin [IL]-12, interferon [IFN]-γ) cytokines and reduction in type II cytokines (IL-4 and TGF-β), even after experimental challenge. The establishment of a prominent pro-inflammatory immune response after "LbSapSal" immunization supported the increased levels of nitric oxide production, favoring a reduction in spleen parasitism (78.9%) and indicating long-lasting protection against L. chagasi infection. In conclusion, these results confirmed the hypothesis that the "LbSapSal" vaccination is a potential tool to control the Leishmania chagasi infection.

Effects of Corticotropin Releasing Factor (CRF) on Sleep and Body Temperature Following Controllable Footshock Stress in Mice

PubMed Central

Yang, L; Wellman, LL; Tang, X; Sanford, LD

2011-01-01

Rapid eye movement sleep (REM) is increased after controllable stress (modeled by escapable footshock, ES) and decreased after uncontrollable stress (modeled by inescapable footshock, IS). Decreases in REM after IS are exacerbated by corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) and attenuated by a CRF antagonist. In this study, we trained mice with ES following injections of CRF, astressin (AST), or saline (SAL) to determine whether CRF would alter REM after ES. Male BALB/cJ mice (n=7) were implanted for recording sleep, activity and body temperature via telemetry and with a guide cannula aimed into a lateral ventricle. After recovery from surgery, sleep following exposure to a novel chamber was recorded as a handling control (HC). The mice received one day of training with ES without injection followed by weekly training sessions in which they received counterbalanced intracerebroventricular (ICV) microinjections of either SAL or CRF (days 7 & 14) or SAL or AST (days 21 & 28) prior to ES. On each experimental day, sleep was recorded for 20 hours. Compared to HC, the mice showed significantly increased REM when receiving either SAL or AST prior to ES whereas CRF prior to ES significantly reduced REM. Stress-induced hyperthermia had longer duration after ES compared to HC, and was not significantly altered by CRF or AST compared to SAL. The current results demonstrate that activity in the central CRF system is an important regulator of stress-induced alterations in REM. PMID:21651923

Effect of Long-Term Sodium Salicylate Administration on Learning, Memory, and Neurogenesis in the Rat Hippocampus

PubMed Central

Niu, Haichen; Ding, Sheng; Li, Haiying; Wei, Jianfeng; Ren, Chao; Wu, Xiujuan

2018-01-01

Tinnitus is thought to be caused by damage to the auditory and nonauditory system due to exposure to loud noise, aging, or other etiologies. However, at present, the exact neurophysiological basis of chronic tinnitus remains unknown. To explore whether the function of the limbic system is disturbed in tinnitus, the hippocampus was selected, which plays a vital role in learning and memory. The hippocampal function was examined with a learning and memory procedure. For this purpose, sodium salicylate (NaSal) was used to create a rat animal model of tinnitus, evaluated with prepulse inhibition behavior (PPI). The acquisition and retrieval abilities of spatial memory were measured using the Morris water maze (MWM) in NaSal-treated and control animals, followed by observation of c-Fos and delta-FosB protein expression in the hippocampal field by immunohistochemistry. To further identify the neural substrate for memory change in tinnitus, neurogenesis in the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus (DG) was compared between the NaSal group and the control group. The results showed that acquisition and retrieval of spatial memory were impaired by NaSal treatment. The expression of c-Fos and delta-FosB protein was also inhibited in NaSal-treated animals. Simultaneously, neurogenesis in the DG was also impaired in tinnitus animals. In general, our data suggest that the hippocampal system (limbic system) may play a key role in tinnitus pathology.

A relevant IgE-reactive 28kDa protein identified from Salsola kali pollen extract by proteomics is a natural degradation product of an integral 47kDa polygalaturonase.

PubMed

Mas, Salvador; Oeo-Santos, Carmen; Cuesta-Herranz, Javier; Díaz-Perales, Araceli; Colás, Carlos; Fernández, Javier; Barber, Domingo; Rodríguez, Rosalía; de Los Ríos, Vivian; Barderas, Rodrigo; Villalba, Mayte

2017-08-01

A highly prevalent IgE-binding protein band of 28kDa is observed when Salsola kali pollen extract is incubated with individual sera from Amaranthaceae pollen sensitized patients. By an immunoproteomic analysis of S. kali pollen extract, we identified this protein band as an allergenic polygalacturonase enzyme. The allergen, named Sal k 6, exhibits a pI of 7.14 and a molecular mass of 39,554.2Da. It presents similarities to Platanaceae, Poaceae, and Cupressaceae allergenic polygalacturonases. cDNA-encoding sequence was subcloned into the pET41b vector and produced in bacteria as a His-tag fusion recombinant protein. The far-UV CD spectrum determined that rSal k 6 was folded. Immunostaining of the S. kali pollen protein extract with a rSal k 6-specific pAb and LC-MS/MS proteomic analyses confirmed the co-existence of the 28kDa band together with an allergenic band of about 47kDa in the pollen extract. Therefore, the 28kDa was assigned as a natural degradation product of the 47kDa integral polygalacturonase. The IgE-binding inhibition to S. kali pollen extract using rSal k 6 as inhibitor showed that signals directed to both protein bands of 28 and 47kDa were completely abrogated. The average prevalence of rSal k 6 among the three populations analyzed was 30%, with values correlating well with the levels of grains/m 3 of Amaranthaceae pollen. Sal k 6 shares IgE epitopes with Oleaceae members (Fraxinus excelsior, Olea europaea and Syringa vulgaris), with IgE-inhibition values ranging from 20% to 60%, respectively. No IgE-inhibition was observed with plant-derived food extracts. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Asthma control using fluticasone propionate/salmeterol in Asian and non-Asian populations: a post hoc analysis of the GOAL study.

PubMed

Bousquet, Jean; Barnes, Neil; Gibbs, Michael; Gul, Nadeem; Tomkins, Susan A; Zhou, Xin; Cho, Young-Joo; Park, Hae-Sim; Busse, William; Zhong, Nanshan

2017-04-28

To analyse the efficacy of fluticasone propionate (FP) alone and combined with salmeterol (SAL) in achieving guideline-defined asthma control in Asian patients. A post hoc analysis of the GOAL study in which patients were stratified by prior-medication use into inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)-naïve (Stratum [S] 1), low-dose ICS (S2), and medium-dose ICS (S3), and randomised to receive FP/SAL or FP. Doses were stepped-up every 12 weeks until Totally Controlled asthma or maximum dose was reached (PhI) and then maintained until study end (PhII). The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving Well-Controlled asthma during PhI. Additional endpoints included Total Control and adverse events. Asian and non-Asian patients were analysed separately. In Asian patients in PhI, 74% (n = 87/118) in S1 achieved Well-Controlled asthma with FP/SAL versus 74% (n = 89/121) with FP alone (p = 0.839); corresponding values were 76% (n = 81/107) versus 60% (n = 62/104; p = 0.005) in S2, and 58% (n = 59/102) versus 43% (n = 41/95; p = 0.015) in S3. More patients in all three strata achieved Totally Controlled asthma with FP/SAL versus FP alone. Control was achieved more rapidly and with lower ICS doses with FP/SAL versus FP. A high proportion of patients who achieved control during PhI maintained control during PhII. Similar trends were found in non-Asian patients. No new safety concerns were identified. A greater proportion of Asian patients (S2 and S3, for Well-Controlled; all strata, for Totally Controlled) achieved guideline-defined asthma control with FP/SAL versus FP alone. High proportions of Asian patients in S1 achieved Well-Controlled asthma in both treatment groups.

A longitudinal analysis of salivary testosterone concentrations and competitiveness in elite and non-elite women athletes.

PubMed

Crewther, Blair T; Cook, Christian J

2018-05-01

There is evidence linking women's testosterone (T) to competitive behaviours in sport and exercise. To advance this work, we examined the longitudinal relationships between salivary T (sal-T) and competitiveness in athletic women who differ in training status. Elite (n = 9) and non-elite (n = 21) women athletes were monitored on days 6-8 (follicular phase), 13-15 (ovulatory phase) and 20-22 (Luteal phase) of a menstrual cycle with two repeats. Salivary T levels were assessed before breakfast, followed by two questions (each rated on a 1-7 scale) on competitive desire and training motivation. Using a linear mixed model, we evaluated the menstrual phase and training status effects on each variable, before assessing the within-subject effects of sal-T on competitiveness. Salivary T concentrations were higher at ovulation (effect size [ES] difference = 0.2-1.4), relative to the follicular and luteal phases, with a more marked response among elite women (p < .01). The competitiveness ratings showed similar menstrual-phase variation (ES difference = 0.6-1.0 at ovulation). A positive effect of sal-T on competitiveness emerged in both groups (p < .001), but with different slope patterns (p < .015). Specifically, the elite sal-T relationships with desire to compete (standardized β = 1.147, SE = 0.132) and training motivation (β = 1.195, SE = 0.124) were stronger compared with non-elite women (β = 0.631, SE = 0.114; β = 0.778, SE = 0.114), respectively. Morning sal-T concentrations, competitive desire and training motivation all peaked around ovulation in women athletes. Notably, sal-T availability and its relationship with competitiveness was stronger among high-performing athletes. Our findings confirm menstrual fluctuations in T and competitiveness among naturally-cycling women, with population context as a moderating factor. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Synthesis of Nano-Zinc Oxide Loaded on Mesoporous Silica by Coordination Effect and Its Photocatalytic Degradation Property of Methyl Orange.

PubMed

Shen, Zhichuan; Zhou, Hongjun; Chen, Huayao; Xu, Hua; Feng, Chunhua; Zhou, Xinhua

2018-05-09

Salicylaldimine-modified mesoporous silica (Sal-MCM-3 and Sal-MCM-9) was prepared through a co-condensation method with different amounts of added salicylaldimine. With the coordination from the salicylaldimine, zinc ions were impregnated on Sal-MCM-3 and Sal-MCM-9. Then, Zn-Sal-MCM-3 and Zn-Sal-MCM-9 were calcined to obtain nano-zinc oxide loaded on mesoporous silica (ZnO-MCM-3 and ZnO-MCM-9). The material structures were systematically studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), N₂ adsorption/desorption measurements, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), zeta potential, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet diffused reflectance spectrum (UV-vis DRS), and thermogravimetry (TGA). Methyl orange (MO) was used to investigate the photocatalysis behavior of ZnO-MCM-3 and ZnO-MCM-9. The results confirmed that nano ZnO was loaded in the channels as well as the outside surface of mesoporous silica (MCM-41). The modification of salicylaldimine helped MCM-41 to load more nano ZnO on MCM-41. When the modification amount of salicylaldimine was one-ninth and one-third of the mass of the silicon source, respectively, the load of nano ZnO on ZnO-MCM-9 and ZnO-MCM-3 had atomic concentrations of 1.27 and 2.03, respectively. ZnO loaded on ZnO-MCM-9 had a wurtzite structure, while ZnO loaded on ZnO-MCM-3 was not in the same crystalline group. The blocking effect caused by nano ZnO in the channels reduced the orderliness of MCM-41. The photodegradation of MO can be divided in two processes, which are mainly controlled by the surface areas of ZnO-MCM and the loading amount of nano ZnO, respectively. The pseudo-first-order model was more suitable for the photodegradation process.

Glucose administration after traumatic brain injury exerts some benefits and no adverse effects on behavioral and histological outcomes.

PubMed

Shijo, Katsunori; Ghavim, Sima; Harris, Neil G; Hovda, David A; Sutton, Richard L

2015-07-21

The impact of hyperglycemia after traumatic brain injury (TBI), and even the administration of glucose-containing solutions to head injured patients, remains controversial. In the current study adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were tested on behavioral tasks and then underwent surgery to induce sham injury or unilateral controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury followed by injections (i.p.) with either a 50% glucose solution (Glc; 2g/kg) or an equivalent volume of either 0.9% or 8% saline (Sal) at 0, 1, 3 and 6h post-injury. The type of saline treatment did not significantly affect any outcome measures, so these data were combined. Rats with CCI had significant deficits in beam-walking traversal time and rating scores (p's < 0.001 versus sham) that recovered over test sessions from 1 to 13 days post-injury (p's < 0.001), but these beam-walking deficits were not affected by Glc versus Sal treatments. Persistent post-CCI deficits in forelimb contraflexion scores and forelimb tactile placing ability were also not differentially affected by Glc or Sal treatments. However, deficits in latency to retract the right hind limb after limb extension were significantly attenuated in the CCI-Glc group (p < 0.05 versus CCI-Sal). Both CCI groups were significantly impaired in a plus maze test of spatial working memory on days 4, 9 and 14 post-surgery (p < 0.001 versus sham), and there was no effect of Glc versus Sal on this cognitive outcome measure. At 15 days post-surgery the loss of cortical tissue volume (p < 0.001 versus sham) was significantly less in the CCI-Glc group (30.0%; p < 0.05) compared to the CCI-Sal group (35.7%). Counts of surviving hippocampal hilar neurons revealed a significant (~40%) loss ipsilateral to CCI (p < 0.001 versus sham), but neuronal loss in the hippocampus was not different in the CCI-Sal and CCI-Glc groups. Taken together, these results indicate that an early elevation of blood glucose may improve some neurological outcomes and, importantly, the induction of hyperglycemia after isolated TBI did not adversely affect any sensorimotor, cognitive or histological outcomes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ground-Water Quality Beneath Irrigated Cropland of the Northern and Southern High Plains Aquifer, Nebraska and Texas, 2003-04

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stanton, Jennifer S.; Fahlquist, Lynne

2006-01-01

A study of the quality of ground water beneath irrigated cropland was completed for the northern and southern High Plains aquifer. Ground-water samples were collected from 30 water-table monitoring wells in the northern agricultural land-use (NAL) study area in Nebraska in 2004 and 29 water-table monitoring wells in the southern agricultural land-use (SAL) study area in Texas in 2003. The two study areas represented different agricultural and hydrogeologic settings. The primary crops grown in the NAL study area were corn and soybeans, and the primary crop in the SAL study area was cotton. Overall, pesticide and fertilizer application rates were larger in the NAL study area. Also, precipitation and recharge rates were greater in the NAL study area, and depths to water and evapotranspiration rates were greater in the SAL study area. Ground-water quality beneath irrigated cropland was different in the two study areas. Nitrate concentrations were larger and pesticide detections were more frequent in the NAL study area. Nitrate concentrations in NAL samples ranged from 1.96 to 106 mg/L (milligrams per liter) as nitrogen, with a median concentration of 10.6 mg/L. Water in 73 percent of NAL samples had at least one pesticide or pesticide degradate detected. Most of the pesticide compounds detected (atrazine, alachlor, metolachlor, simazine, and degradates of those pesticides) are applied to corn and soybean fields. Nitrate concentrations in SAL samples ranged from 0.96 to 21.6 mg/L, with a median of 4.12 mg/L. Water in 24 percent of SAL samples had at least one pesticide or pesticide degradate detected. The pesticide compounds detected were deethylatrazine (a degradate of atrazine and propazine), propazine, fluometuron, and tebuthiuron. Most of the pesticides detected are applied to cotton fields. Dissolved-solids concentrations were larger in the SAL area and were positively correlated with both nitrate and chloride concentrations, suggesting a combination of human and natural sources. Dissolved-solids concentrations in NAL samples ranged from 272 to 2,160 mg/L, with a median of 442 mg/L, and dissolved solids in SAL samples ranged from 416 to 3,580 mg/L, with a median of 814 mg/L.

77 FR 46781 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated; Order Approving a...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-06

... rules. See id. A. SAL SAL is a feature within CBOE's Hybrid System designed to provide price improvement... before being booked in the electronic complex order book (``COB'') or on a PAR workstation.\\22\\ To the... rules of a national securities exchange be designed to prevent fraudulent and manipulative acts and...

Future Time Orientation and Learning Conceptions: Effects on Metacognitive Strategies, Self-Efficacy Beliefs, Study Effort and Academic Achievement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gutiérrez-Braojos, Calixto

2015-01-01

During the past decade, research on the constructive learning process has been conducted mainly from two perspectives: student approaches to learning (SAL) and self-regulated learning (SRL). The SAL perspective has highlighted the role of learning conceptions with respect to other topics involved in constructive learning processes, whereas…

76 FR 9403 - Finding That the Lebanese Canadian Bank SAL Is a Financial Institution of Primary Money...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-17

... Bank SAL Is a Financial Institution of Primary Money Laundering Concern AGENCY: Financial Crimes...'') is a financial institution of primary money laundering concern. DATES: The finding made in this... Law 107-56. Title III of the USA PATRIOT Act amended the anti- money laundering provisions of the Bank...

Spin-crossover phenomena of the mononuclear Mn(III) complex tuned by metal dithiolene counteranions.

PubMed

Chen, Ying; Cao, Fan; Wei, Rong-Min; Zhang, Yang; Zhang, Yi-Quan; Song, You

2014-03-07

Three ion-pair complexes based on spin-crossover [Mn(5-Br-sal-N-1,5,8,12)]ClO4 with TBA2[Ni(mnt)2], TBA2[Pt(mnt)2] (mnt = maleonitriledithiolate) and TBA[Ni(dmit)2] respectively (dmit = 2-thioxo-1,3-dithiole-4,5-dithiolato) have been synthesized and structurally characterized. Complexes [Mn(5-Br-sal-N-1,5,8,12)]2[Ni(mnt)2] and [Mn(5-Br-sal-N-1,5,8,12)]2[Pt(mnt)2] are isomorphic and show the axial compression of the octahedral coordination environment of Mn(III) ions. With the temperature increasing the equatorial metal-ligand bond lengths show significant elongation, but the axial bond lengths remain unchanged. Complex [Mn(5-Br-sal-N-1,5,8,12)][Ni(dmit)2]·CH3CN contains π-π, p-π and H-bonds weak interactions. Magnetic investigation shows the spin-crossover phenomena for and , and T1/2 has been increased by 230 K comparing with the reactant complex. However, no spin-crossover was observed in complex , and theoretical calculations show that there are weak antiferromagnetic couplings mediated through π-π interactions.

Inhibition of Siderophore Biosynthesis in Mycobacterium tuberculosis with Nucleoside Bisubstrate Analogues: Structure–Activity Relationships of the Nucleobase Domain of 5′-O-[N-(Salicyl)sulfamoyl]adenosine

PubMed Central

Neres, João; Labello, Nicholas P.; Somu, Ravindranadh V.; Boshoff, Helena I.; Wilson, Daniel J.; Vannada, Jagadeshwar; Chen, Liqiang; Barry, Clifton E.; Bennett, Eric M.; Aldrich, Courtney C.

2009-01-01

5′-O-[N-(salicyl)sulfamoyl]adenosine (Sal-AMS) is a prototype for a new class of antitubercular agents that inhibit the aryl acid adenylating enzyme (AAAE) known as MbtA involved in biosynthesis of the mycobactins. Herein, we report the structure-based design, synthesis, biochemical, and biological evaluation of a comprehensive and systematic series of analogues, exploring the structure–activity relationship of the purine nucleobase domain of Sal-AMS. Significantly, 2-phenyl-Sal-AMS derivative 26 exhibited exceptionally potent antitubercular activity with an MIC99 under iron-deficient conditions of 0.049 µM while the N-6-cyclopropyl-Sal-AMS 16 led to improved potency and to a 64-enhancement in activity under iron-deficient conditions relative to iron-replete conditions, a phenotype concordant with the designed mechanism of action. The most potent MbtA inhibitors disclosed here display in vitro antitubercular activity superior to most current first line TB drugs, and these compounds are also expected to be useful against a wide range of pathogens that require aryl-capped siderphores for virulence. PMID:18690677

Skin Friction Reduction by Micro-Blowing Technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hwang, Danny P. (Inventor)

1998-01-01

A system and method for reducing skin friction of an object in relative motion to a fluid. A skin forming a boundary between the object and the fluid, the skin having holes through which micro-blowing of air is blown and a transmitting mechanism for transmitting air through the skin. The skin has an inner layer and an outer layer. the inner layer being a low permeable porous sheet, the outer layer being a plate having high aspect ratio high porosity. and small holes. The system may further include a suction apparatus for suctioning air from the outer layer. The method includes the steps of transmitting air through the inner layer and passing the air transmitted through the inner layer to the outer layer. The method may further include the step of bleeding air off the outer layer using the suction apparatus.

The aortic valve microstructure: effects of transvalvular pressure.

PubMed

Sacks, M S; Smith, D B; Hiester, E D

1998-07-01

We undertook this study to establish a more quantitative understanding of the microstructural response of the aortic valve cusp to pressure loading. Fresh porcine aortic valves were fixed at transvalvular pressures ranging from 0 mmHg to 90 mmHg, and small-angle light scattering (SALS) was used to quantify the gross fiber structure of the valve cusps. At all pressures the fiber-preferred directions coursed along the circumferential direction. Increasing transvalvular pressure induced the greatest changes in fiber alignment between 0 and 1 mmHg, with no detectable change past 4 mmHg. When the fibrosa and ventricularis layers of the cusps were re-scanned separately, the fibrosa layer revealed a higher degree of orientation while the ventricularis was more randomly oriented. The degree of fiber orientation for both layers became more similar once the transvalvular pressure exceeded 4 mmHg, and the layers were almost indistinguishable by 60 mmHg. It is possible that, in addition to retracting the aortic cusp during systole, the ventricularis mechanically may contribute to the diastolic cuspal stiffness at high transvalvular pressures, which may help to prevent over distention of the cusp. Our results suggest a complex, highly heterogeneous structural response to transvalvular pressure on a fiber level that will have to be duplicated in future bioprosthetic heart valve designs.

[Spectroscopic Study of Salbutamol Molecularly Imprinted Polymers].

PubMed

Ren, Hui-peng; Guan, Yu-yu; Dai, Rong-hua; Liu, Guo-yan; Chai, Chun-yan

2016-02-01

In order to solve the problem of on-site rapid detection of salbutamol residues in feed and animal products, and develop a new method of fast detection of salbutamol on the basis of the molecular imprinting technology, this article uses the salbutamol (SAL) working as template molecule, methacrylic acid (MAA) working as functional monomer. On this basis, a new type of core-shell type salbutamol molecularly imprinted polymers were prepared with colloidal gold particles as triggering core. Superficial characteristics of the MIPs and the related compounds were investigated by ultraviolet (UV) spectra and infrared (IR) spectra, Raman spectra, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) respectively. The results indicated that a stable hydrogen bonding complex has been formed between the carboxyl groups of SAL and MA with a matching ratio of 1:1. The complex can be easily eluted by the reagent containing hydrogen bonding. The chemical binding constant K reaches -0.245 x 10⁶ L² · mol⁻². The possible binding sites of the hydrogen bonding was formed between the hydrogen atoms of -COOH in MA and the oxygen atoms of C==O in SAL. IR and Raman spectrum showed that, compared with MA, a significant red shift of -OH absorption peak was manifested in MIPs, which proved that SAL as template molecule occurred a specific bond between MA. Red shift of stretching vibration absorption peak of C==O was also detected in the un-eluted MIPs and obvious energy loss happened, which demonstrated a possible binding sites is SAL intramolecular of C==O atom of oxygen. If the hydrogen atoms of -COOH in MA wanted to generate hydrogen bond. However, the shapes of absorption peak of other functional groups including C==C, C==O, and -OH were very similar both in MIPs and NIPs. Specific cavities were formed after the template molecules in MIPs were removed. It was proved by the adsorption experiment that the specific sites in these cavities highly match with the chemical and space structure of SAL. Besides, colloidal gold type core-shell molecularly imprinted polymers have looser surface, more cavities in the surface compared with ordinary molecularly imprinted polymers, which increased the effective area of adsorption to target molecules. So it have better performance in adsorption. Based on the principle that these cavities can specificly recognize and combine with target molecule in the test sample, and the excellent ability of colloidal gold core-shell molecularly imprinted polymers, the development of novel methods for fast determination of SAL based on the molecular imprinting technology can be expected in the near future.

75 FR 502 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; Chicago Board Options Exchange, Incorporated; Order Approving...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-05

... electronic matching algorithm from CBOE Rule 6.45B shall apply to SAL executions (e.g., pro-rata, price-time... entitlement when the pro-rata algorithm is in effect for SAL in selected Hybrid 3.0 classes as part of a pilot... what it would have been under the pre-pilot allocation algorithm. The Exchange will reduce the DPM/LMM...

Metabolic and histologic effects of sodium pyruvate treatment in the rat after cortical contusion injury.

PubMed

Fukushima, Masamichi; Lee, Stefan M; Moro, Nobuhiro; Hovda, David A; Sutton, Richard L

2009-07-01

This study determined the effects of intraperitoneal sodium pyruvate (SP) treatment on the levels of circulating fuels and on cerebral microdialysis levels of glucose (MD(glc)), lactate (MD(lac)), and pyruvate (MD(pyr)), and the effects of SP treatment on neuropathology after left cortical contusion injury (CCI) in rats. SP injection (1000 mg/kg) 5 min after sham injury (Sham-SP) or CCI (CCI-SP) significantly increased arterial pyruvate (p < 0.005) and lactate (p < 0.001) compared to that of saline-treated rats with CCI (CCI-Sal). Serum glucose also increased significantly in CCI-SP compared to that in CCI-Sal rats (p < 0.05), but not in Sham-SP rats. MD(pyr) was not altered after CCI-Sal, whereas MD(lac) levels within the cerebral cortex significantly increased bilaterally (p < 0.05) and those for MD(glc) decreased bilaterally (p < 0.05). MD(pyr) levels increased significantly in both Sham-SP and CCI-SP rats (p < 0.05 vs. CCI-Sal) and were higher in left/injured cortex of the CCI-SP group (p < 0.05 vs. sham-SP). In CCI-SP rats the contralateral MD(lac) decreased below CCI-Sal levels (p < 0.05) and the ipsilateral MD(glc) levels exceeded those of CCI-Sal rats (p < 0.05). Rats with a single low (500 mg/kg) or high dose (1000 mg/kg) SP treatment had fewer damaged cortical cells 6 h post-CCI than did saline-treated rats (p < 0.05), but three hourly injections of SP (1000 mg/kg) were needed to significantly reduce contusion volume 2 weeks after CCI. Thus, a single intraperitoneal SP treatment increases circulating levels of three potential brain fuels, attenuates a CCI-induced reduction in extracellular glucose while increasing extracellular levels of pyruvate, but not lactate, and can attenuate cortical cell damage occurring within 6 h of injury. Enduring (2 week) neuronal protection was achieved only with multiple SP treatments within the first 2 h post-CCI, perhaps reflecting the need for additional fuel throughout the acute period of increased metabolic demands induced by CCI.

Metabolic and Histologic Effects of Sodium Pyruvate Treatment in the Rat after Cortical Contusion Injury

PubMed Central

Fukushima, Masamichi; Lee, Stefan M.; Moro, Nobuhiro; Hovda, David A.

2009-01-01

Abstract This study determined the effects of intraperitoneal sodium pyruvate (SP) treatment on the levels of circulating fuels and on cerebral microdialysis levels of glucose (MDglc), lactate (MDlac), and pyruvate (MDpyr), and the effects of SP treatment on neuropathology after left cortical contusion injury (CCI) in rats. SP injection (1000 mg/kg) 5 min after sham injury (Sham-SP) or CCI (CCI-SP) significantly increased arterial pyruvate (p < 0.005) and lactate (p < 0.001) compared to that of saline-treated rats with CCI (CCI-Sal). Serum glucose also increased significantly in CCI-SP compared to that in CCI-Sal rats (p < 0.05), but not in Sham-SP rats. MDpyr was not altered after CCI-Sal, whereas MDlac levels within the cerebral cortex significantly increased bilaterally (p < 0.05) and those for MDglc decreased bilaterally (p < 0.05). MDpyr levels increased significantly in both Sham-SP and CCI-SP rats (p < 0.05 vs. CCI-Sal) and were higher in left/injured cortex of the CCI-SP group (p < 0.05 vs. sham-SP). In CCI-SP rats the contralateral MDlac decreased below CCI-Sal levels (p < 0.05) and the ipsilateral MDglc levels exceeded those of CCI-Sal rats (p < 0.05). Rats with a single low (500 mg/kg) or high dose (1000 mg/kg) SP treatment had fewer damaged cortical cells 6 h post-CCI than did saline-treated rats (p < 0.05), but three hourly injections of SP (1000 mg/kg) were needed to significantly reduce contusion volume 2 weeks after CCI. Thus, a single intraperitoneal SP treatment increases circulating levels of three potential brain fuels, attenuates a CCI-induced reduction in extracellular glucose while increasing extracellular levels of pyruvate, but not lactate, and can attenuate cortical cell damage occurring within 6 h of injury. Enduring (2 week) neuronal protection was achieved only with multiple SP treatments within the first 2 h post-CCI, perhaps reflecting the need for additional fuel throughout the acute period of increased metabolic demands induced by CCI. PMID:19594384

Anti-pulmonary fibrotic activity of salvianolic acid B was screened by a novel method based on the cyto-biophysical properties

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

Liu, Miao; Zheng, Mingjing; Xu, Hanying

Various methods have been used to evaluate anti-fibrotic activity of drugs. However, most of them are complicated, labor-intensive and lack of efficiency. This study was intended to develop a rapid method for anti-fibrotic drugs screening based on biophysical properties. A549 cells in vitro were stimulated with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and fibrogenesis was confirmed by conventional immunological assays. Meanwhile, the alterations of cyto-biophysical properties including morphology, roughness and stiffness were measured utilizing atomic force microscopy (AFM). It was found that fibrogenesis was accompanied with changes of cellular biophysical properties. TGF-β1-stimulated A549 cells became remarkably longer, rougher and stiffer than the control.more » Then, the effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) as a positive drug on ameliorating fibrogenesis in TGF-β1-stimulated A549 cells was verified respectively by immunological and biophysical markers. The result of Principal Component Analysis showed that stiffness was a leading index among all biophysical markers during fibrogenesis. Salvianolic acid B (SalB), a natural anti-oxidant, was detected by AFM to protect TGF-β1-stimulated A549 cells against stiffening. Then, SalB treatment was provided in preventive mode on a rat model of bleomycin (BLM) -induced pulmonary fibrosis. The results showed that SalB treatment significantly ameliorated BLM-induced histological alterations, blocked collagen accumulations and reduced α-SMA expression in lung tissues. All these results revealed the anti-pulmonary fibrotic activity of SalB. Detection of cyto-biophysical properties were therefore recommended as a rapid method for anti-pulmonary fibrotic drugs screening. - Highlights: • Fibrogenesis was accompanied with the changes of cyto-biophysical properties. • Cyto-biophysical properties could be markers for anti-fibrotic drugs screening. • Stiffness is a leading index among all biophysical markers. • SalB was detected to protect TGF-β1-stimulated A549 cells against stiffening. • SalB treatment ameliorated pulmonary fibrosis induced by BLM in rats.« less

The protective effect of dexpanthenol on testicular atrophy at 60th day following experimental testicular torsion.

PubMed

Etensel, Barlas; Ozkisacik, Sezen; Ozkara, Esra; Serbest, Yeşim Aksu; Oztan, Onur; Yazici, Mesut; Gürsoy, Harun

2007-03-01

Despite the prompt diagnosis and treatment of testicular torsion (TT), there are problems with fertility and atrophy after testicular salvage. Dexpanthenol (Dxp) is the biologically active alcohol of pantothenic acid (PA). Dxp is converted to PA in tissues. PA increases the content of reduced glutathione (GSH), Coenzyme A and ATP synthesis in cells. GSH and glutathione-dependent peroxidases (GPX) are the major defense systems against oxidative stress. GPX-4 is the major antioxidant in testicular tissue. However, the activity of GPX-4 appeared and increased only after puberty. We investigated the effect of Dxp on testicular atrophy after TT at the 60th day. Rats were separated randomly into four groups. Group C: control group, group Td: torsion + detorsion, group Sal: torsion + saline + detorsion, group Dxp: torsion + Dxp + detorsion. The left testis was rotated 720 degrees for 2 h. In group Sal, normal saline and in group Dxp, Dexpanthenol were injected intraperitonally, 30 min before detorsion. After 60 days, the testicular weights and volumes were measured. Histopathology of the left testis was evaluated with mean seminiferous tubular diameter (MSTD) and mean testicular biopsy score (MTBS). The left (torsed) testicular weight and volume of groups Td and Sal were significantly lower compared to group Dxp. The MSTD and MTBS of group Td and Sal were significantly lower than group Dxp. Contralateral testicular weight and volume of groups Td, Sal and Dxp had no significant difference compared to the control group. Dxp significantly prevented testicular atrophy after 60 days of TT. Dxp has FDA approval, is safe, cost effective and readily available. Its relevance for clinical trials may especially be for the problem of testicular atrophy catastrophe, seen very frequently following testicular salvage.

Varenicline impairs extinction and enhances reinstatement across repeated cycles of nicotine self-administration in rats.

PubMed

Macnamara, Claire L; Holmes, Nathan M; Westbrook, R Fred; Clemens, Kelly J

2016-06-01

Varenicline is a partial nicotine receptor agonist widely prescribed as a smoking cessation medication. Repeated (or long-term) use of varenicline has been proposed as a treatment option for tobacco addiction. However the effect of repeated varenicline use on motivation for nicotine is unknown. Here the intravenous nicotine self-administration paradigm in rats was used to model the consequences of varenicline treatment across repeated cycles of administration, extinction and reinstatement. Rats acquired nicotine self-administration across 20 days before undergoing 6 days of extinction, where each extinction session was preceded by a single injection of varenicline or saline. This was followed by a single varenicline-free nicotine-primed reinstatement test. All rats then reacquired nicotine self-administration for 10 days followed by a second cycle of extinction. Across this period, rats either received a second cycle of varenicline (VAR-VAR) or saline (SAL-SAL), or the alternative treatment (SAL-VAR, VAR-SAL), followed by a final reinstatement test. Treatment with varenicline increased responding across the first cycle of extinction, but did not affect responding in the reinstatement test. Across the second cycle, varenicline again increased responding across extinction, and critically, rats treated with varenicline across cycle 1 and saline across cycle 2 (Group VAR-SAL) exhibited more reinstatement than rats in any other group. The effect of VAR on nicotine seeking was not due to its effects on locomotor activity. Instead, the results suggest that a history of VAR can increase vulnerability to reinstatement/relapse when its treatment is discontinued. The possible mechanisms of this increased vulnerability are discussed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

ANXA11 mutations prevail in Chinese ALS patients with and without cognitive dementia.

PubMed

Zhang, Kang; Liu, Qing; Liu, Keqiang; Shen, Dongchao; Tai, Hongfei; Shu, Shi; Ding, Qingyun; Fu, Hanhui; Liu, Shuangwu; Wang, Zhili; Li, Xiaoguang; Liu, Mingsheng; Zhang, Xue; Cui, Liying

2018-06-01

To investigate the genetic contribution of ANXA11 , a gene associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), in Chinese ALS patients with and without cognitive dementia. Sequencing all the coding exons of ANXA11 and intron-exon boundaries in 18 familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS), 353 unrelated sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS), and 12 Chinese patients with ALS-frontotemporal lobar dementia (ALS-FTD). The transcripts in peripheral blood generated from a splicing mutation were examined by reverse transcriptase PCR. We identified 6 nonsynonymous heterozygous mutations (5 novel and 1 recurrent), 1 splice site mutation, and 1 deletion of 10 amino acids (not accounted in the mutant frequency) in 11 unrelated patients, accounting for a mutant frequency of 5.6% (1/18) in FALS, 2.3% (8/353) in SALS, and 8.3% (1/12) in ALS-FTD. The deletion of 10 amino acids was detected in 1 clinically undetermined male with an ALS family history who had atrophy in hand muscles and myotonic discharges revealed by EMG. The novel p. P36R mutation was identified in 1 FALS index, 1 patient with SALS, and 1 ALS-FTD. The splicing mutation (c.174-2A>G) caused in-frame skipping of the entire exon 6. The rest missense mutations including p.D40G, p.V128M, p.S229R, p.R302C and p.G491R were found in 6 unrelated patients with SALS. The ANXA11 gene is one of the most frequently mutated genes in Chinese patients with SALS. A canonical splice site mutation leading to skipping of the entire exon 6 further supports the loss-of-function mechanism. In addition, the study findings further expand the ANXA11 phenotype, first highlighting its pathogenic role in ALS-FTD.

Matrin 3 Is a Component of Neuronal Cytoplasmic Inclusions of Motor Neurons in Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.

PubMed

Tada, Mikiko; Doi, Hiroshi; Koyano, Shigeru; Kubota, Shun; Fukai, Ryoko; Hashiguchi, Shunta; Hayashi, Noriko; Kawamoto, Yuko; Kunii, Misako; Tanaka, Kenichi; Takahashi, Keita; Ogawa, Yuki; Iwata, Ryo; Yamanaka, Shoji; Takeuchi, Hideyuki; Tanaka, Fumiaki

2018-02-01

Mutations in the MATR3 gene have been identified as a cause of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, but involvement of the matrin 3 (MATR3) protein in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS) pathology has not been fully assessed. We immunohistochemically analyzed MATR3 pathology in the spinal cords of SALS and control autopsy specimens. MATR3 immunostaining of the motor neuron nuclei revealed two distinct patterns: mild and strong staining. There were no differences in the ratio of mild versus strong nuclear staining between the SALS and control cases. MATR3-containing neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions (NCIs) were observed in 60% of SALS cases. Most motor neurons with MATR3-positive NCIs exhibited a mild nuclear staining pattern. Although 16.8% of NCIs positive for transactivating response region DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) were estimated as double-labeled by MATR3, no MATR3-positive or TDP-43-negative NCIs were observed. Although a previous study found that MATR3-positive NCIs are present only in cases with C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion, ubiquitin-positive granular NCIs were not observed in the cerebellum, which have been reported as specific to C9orf72-related ALS. Six ALS cases were confirmed to be negative for the GGGGCC hexanucleotide. Our results reveal that MATR3 is a component of TDP-43-positive NCIs in motor neurons, even in SALS, and indicate the broader involvement of MATR3 in ALS pathology and the heterogeneity of TDP-43-positive NCIs. Copyright © 2018 American Society for Investigative Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evidence that exercise-induced heat storage is dependent on adrenomedullary secretion.

PubMed

Rodrigues, A G; Lima, N R V; Coimbra, C C; Marubayashi, U

2008-06-09

To investigate the influence of medullary adrenal secretion on thermoregulation during exercise, Phy (Eserine, 5x10(-3) M) was injected into the lateral cerebral ventricle of normal (INT) or bilaterally adrenodemedullated (ADM) untrained rats. Body temperature (Tb) and metabolic rate were measured in the rats while they were exercising on a treadmill (20 m min(-1), 5% inclination) until fatigue or while they were at rest after drug injection. In resting rats, Phy increased oxygen consumption in both INT or ADM rats without any effect on core temperature. During the dynamic phase of exercise (first 20 min), ADM attenuated the exercise-induced increase in core temperature (0.86+/-0.12 degrees C ADM Sal vs 1.48+/-0.21 degrees C INT Sal), thus reducing heat storage (HS) levels. Icv injection of Phy in ADM rats significantly reduced the increase in Tb (0.012+/-0.10 degrees C min(-1) Phy vs 0.042+/-0.006 degrees C min(-1) Sal; p<0.02) and HS (65.8+/-56.1 cal Phy vs 207.7+/-32.7 cal Sal; p<0.04) compared to ADM Sal rats. In conclusion, the exercise-induced increase in heat storage was attenuated by adrenodemedullation in rats. Furthermore, the activation of heat loss mechanisms by the central cholinergic system during exercise occurs independently of adrenal medullary secretion suppression and can be improved by previous adrenodemedullation. Our data indicate the existence of a dual mechanism of heat loss control during the dynamic phase of exercise: one involving sympathoadrenal system activation that impairs heat loss and another that counteracts the increased sympathoadrenal activity through the hypothalamic cholinergic system to promote heat loss.

Corticotropin Releasing Factor (CRF) Modulates Fear-Induced Alterations in Sleep in Mice

PubMed Central

Yang, Linghui; Tang, Xiangdong; Wellman, Laurie L.; Liu, Xianling; Sanford, Larry D.

2009-01-01

Contextual fear significantly reduces rapid eye movement sleep (REM) during post-exposure sleep in mice and rats. Corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) plays a major role in CNS responses to stressors. We examined the influence of CRF and astressin (AST), a non-specific CRF antagonist, on sleep after contextual fear in BALB/c mice. Male mice were implanted with transmitters for recording sleep via telemetry and with a guide cannula aimed into the lateral ventricle. Recordings for vehicle and handling control were obtained after ICV microinjection of saline (SAL) followed by exposure to a novel chamber. Afterwards, the mice were subjected to shock training (20 trials, 0.5 mA, 0.5 s duration) for 2 sessions. After training, separate groups of mice received ICV microinjections of SAL (0.2 microl, n=9), CRF (0.4 microg, n=8), or AST (1.0 microg, n=8) prior to exposure to the shock context alone. Sleep was then recorded for 20 hours (8-hour light and 12-hour dark period). Compared to handling control, contextual fear significantly decreased REM during the 8-h light period in mice receiving SAL and in mice receiving CRF, but not in the mice receiving AST. Mice receiving CRF exhibited reductions in REM during the 12-h dark period after contextual fear, whereas mice receiving SAL or AST did not. CRF also reduced non-REM (NREM) delta (slow wave) amplitude in the EEG. Only mice receiving SAL prior to contextual fear exhibited significant reductions in NREM and total sleep. These findings demonstrate a role for the central CRF system in regulating alterations in sleep induced by contextual fear. PMID:19376095

Layers of air in the water beneath the floating fern Salvinia are exposed to fluctuations in pressure.

PubMed

Mayser, Matthias J; Barthlott, Wilhelm

2014-12-01

Superhydrophobic, hierarchically structured, technical surfaces (Lotus-effect) are of high scientific and economic interest because of their remarkable properties. Recently, the immense potential of air-retaining superhydrophobic surfaces, for example, for low-friction transport of fluids and drag-reducing coatings of ships has begun to be explored. A major problem of superhydrophobic surfaces mimicking the Lotus-effect is the limited persistence of the air retained, especially under rough conditions of flow. However, there are a variety of floating or diving plant and animal species that possess air-retaining surfaces optimized for durable water-repellency (Salvinia-effect). Especially floating ferns of the genus Salvinia have evolved superhydrophobic surfaces capable of maintaining layers of air for months. Apart from maintaining stability under water, the layer of air has to withstand the stresses of water pressure (up to 2.5 bars). Both of these aspects have an application to create permanent air layers on ships' hulls. We investigated the effect of pressure on air layers in a pressure cell and exposed the air layer to pressures of up to 6 bars. We investigated the suppression of the air layer at increasing pressures as well as its restoration during decreases in pressure. Three of the four examined Salvinia species are capable of maintaining air layers at pressures relevant to the conditions applying to ships' hulls. High volumes of air per surface area are advantageous for retaining at least a partial Cassie-Baxter-state under pressure, which also helps in restoring the air layer after depressurization. Closed-loop structures such as the baskets at the top of the "egg-beater hairs" (see main text) also help return the air layer to its original level at the tip of the hairs by trapping air bubbles. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology. All rights reserved. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Anti-rewet felt for use in a papermaking machine

DOEpatents

Beck, David A.

2003-09-09

An anti-rewet fabric is used for carrying a fiber web through an air press. The anti-rewet fabric includes at least one air distribution fabric layer, one air distribution fabric layer being configured for contacting the fiber web, and a perforated film layer, the perforated film layer being made of a polyester film. The perforated film layer has a first film side and a second film side, the first film side being one of laminated and attached to the one air distribution fabric layer.

Permanent-Magnet Free Biasing of MR Sensors with Tunable Sensitivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Halloran, Sean; Dasilva, Fabio; Pappas, David

2007-03-01

Exchange coupling^1 has been previously observed in a trilayer structure of ferromagnet (FM)/non-magnetic/antiferromagnet (AFM) and the exchange bias was found to be a function of the thickness of the buffer layer.^2,3,4 This unique coupling is used as a stabilizing bias for the sense layer with the additional ability to tailor the magnetic gain of the sensor for various applications. The elimination of permanent magnet bias results in the elimination of one patterning and one deposition step. Ruthenium (Ru) is used as the buffer layer and is self aligned with the FM and AFM layers and the thickness is varied to change the slope of the transfer curve in the linear region. Sensor devices are fabricated with a bipolar output, a medium sensitivity, and a wide field range. The results show that this biasing scheme is well suited for barber pole and soft adjacent layer (SAL) anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) stripes used in magnetic field sensors with a FM layer of Permalloy (NiFe) and an AFM layer of Iridium-Manganese (IrMn). Applications include a 256 channel read head used for magnetic forensics. 1N.J. Gokemeijer, T. Ambrose, C.L. Chien, N. Wang and K.K. Fung, J. Appl. Phys. 81 (8), 4999, 15 April 1997. 2W.H. Meiklejohn and C.P. Bean, Phys. Rev. 102, 1413 1956; 105, 904, 1957. 3L. Thomas, A.J. Kellock and S.S.P. Parkin, J. Appl. Phys. 87 (9), 5061, 1 May 2000. 4D. Wang, J. Daughton, C. Nordman, P. Eames and J. Fink, J. Appl. Phys. 99, 2006.

Influence of the characteristics of atmospheric boundary layer on the vertical distribution of air pollutant in China's Yangtze River Delta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chenggang; Cao, Le

2016-04-01

Air pollution occurring in the atmospheric boundary layer is a kind of weather phenomenon which decreases the visibility of the atmosphere and results in poor air quality. Recently, the occurrence of the heavy air pollution events has become more frequent all over Asia, especially in Mid-Eastern China. In December 2015, the most severe air pollution in recorded history of China occurred in the regions of Yangtze River Delta and Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei. More than 10 days of severe air pollution (Air Quality Index, AQI>200) appeared in many large cities of China such as Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang and Baoding. Thus, the research and the management of the air pollution has attracted most attentions in China. In order to investigate the formation, development and dissipation of the air pollutions in China, a field campaign has been conducted between January 1, 2015 and January 28, 2015 in Yangtze River Delta of China, aiming at a intensive observation of the vertical structure of the air pollutants in the atmospheric boundary layer during the time period with heavy pollution. In this study, the observation data obtained in the field campaign mentioned above is analyzed. The characteristics of the atmospheric boundary layer and the vertical distribution of air pollutants in the city Dongshan located in the center of Lake Taihu are shown and discussed in great detail. It is indicated that the stability of the boundary layer is the strongest during the nighttime and the early morning of Dongshan. Meanwhile, the major air pollutants, PM2.5 and PM10 in the boundary layer, reach their maximum values, 177.1μg m-3 and 285μg m-3 respectively. The convective boundary layer height in the observations ranges from approximately 700m to 1100m. It is found that the major air pollutants tend to be confined in a relatively shallow boundary layer, which represents that the boundary layer height is the dominant factor for controlling the vertical distribution of the air pollutants. In the observations, several strong temperature inversion layers are also found in the surface layer and the middle part of the boundary layer, which lead to the suppression of the vertical mixing of the air pollutants. The jet stream occurring in the boundary layer also contributes to the prevention of the vertical dissipation of the air pollutants. It is also observed that the temporal and spatial evolution of the air pollutants and the hygroscopic growth of the aerosols in the boundary layer are heavily dependent on the humidity of the air.

Disturbances to Air-Layer Skin-Friction Drag Reduction at High Reynolds Numbers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dowling, David; Elbing, Brian; Makiharju, Simo; Wiggins, Andrew; Perlin, Marc; Ceccio, Steven

2009-11-01

Skin friction drag on a flat surface may be reduced by more than 80% when a layer of air separates the surface from a flowing liquid compared to when such an air layer is absent. Past large-scale experiments utilizing the US Navy's Large Cavitation Channel and a flat-plate test model 3 m wide and 12.9 m long have demonstrated air layer drag reduction (ALDR) on both smooth and rough surfaces at water flow speeds sufficient to reach downstream-distance-based Reynolds numbers exceeding 100 million. For these experiments, the incoming flow conditions, surface orientation, air injection geometry, and buoyancy forces all favored air layer formation. The results presented here extend this prior work to include the effects that vortex generators and free stream flow unsteadiness have on ALDR to assess its robustness for application to ocean-going ships. Measurements include skin friction, static pressure, airflow rate, video of the flow field downstream of the injector, and profiles of the flowing air-water mixture when the injected air forms bubbles, when it is in transition to an air layer, and when the air layer is fully formed. From these, and the prior measurements, ALDR's viability for full-scale applications is assessed.

Pathogenesis of Salmonellosis: Salmonella Exotoxins

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-03-08

Newport; Sal. 9633 - serotype Newport; and Sal. 9186 - serotype Newport. Salmonella enteritidis serotype typhimurium strain 2000 was obtained from...7054 Table 1I CULTURE MEDIA SURVEY Salmonella enteritidis Salmonella typhimurium serotype Javiana #10016 SRlI Culture Media C H 0 Cell Factor C H 0 Cell...C r AD REPORT NUMBER 2 0 Pathogenesis of Salmonellosis: Salmonella Exotoxins Annual Progress Report (9/1/78-9/1/79) Johnny W. Peterson, Ph.D. March 8

An open, comparative study of 10% potassium hydroxide solution versus salicylic and lactic acid combination in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum in children.

PubMed

Köse, Osman; Özmen, İbrahim; Arca, Ercan

2013-08-01

To evaluate and compare the safety and efficacy of 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution and salicylic and lactic acid (SAL + LAC) combination in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum (MC). 26 patients with MC randomized into two treatment groups. 12 patients treated with 10% KOH solution and 14 patients treated with SAL + LAC combination for 6 weeks. Parents of patients were instructed to apply medication once daily only to lesions at study onset. Assessment of response of the treated lesions and side effects was performed at 2, 4 and 6 weeks of the treatment. Newly acquired lesions were not included in the study. At the end of therapy, 83.3% (n = 10) of KOH group demonstrated complete remission and 16.7% (n = 2) of them showed partial remission; four patients (33%) developed new lesions during the study. All the patients in the SAL + LAC combination group (100%) demonstrated complete remission of study entry lesions at the end of 6 weeks with five patients (35%) acquiring new lesions during the study. Minor side effects were observed in two groups. 10% KOH solution and SAL + LAC combination were found to be equally effective in the treatment of MC in children.

Clean Air Slots Amid Atmospheric Pollution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hobbs, Peter V.

2002-01-01

Layering in the Earth's atmosphere is most commonly seen where parts of the atmosphere resist the incursion of air parcels from above and below - for example, when there is an increase in temperature with height over a particular altitude range. Pollutants tend to accumulate underneath the resulting stable layers. which is why visibility often increases markedly above certain altitudes. Here we describe the occurrence of an opposite effect, in which stable layers generate a layer of remarkably clean air (we refer to these layers as clean-air 'slots') sandwiched between layers of polluted air. We have observed clean-air slots in various locations around the world, but they are particularly well defined and prevalent in southern Africa during the dry season August-September). This is because at this time in this region, stable layers are common and pollution from biomass burning is widespread.

Polymeric efficiency in remove impurities during cottonseed biodiesel production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, H. L.; Liang, Y. H.; Yan, J.; Lin, H. D.; Espinosa, A. R.

2016-07-01

This paper describes a new process for developing biodiesel by polymer from crude cottonseed oil. The study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of the alkali transesterification-flocculation-sedimentation process on fast glycerol and other impurities in the separation from biodiesel by using quaternary polyamine-based cationic polymers SL2700 and polyacylamide cationic polymer SAL1100. The settling velocity of glycerol and other impurities in biodiesel was investigated through settling test experiments; the quality of the biodiesel was investigated by evaluating the viscosity and density. The results revealed that SL2700, SAL1100 and their combination dramatically improved the settling velocity of glycerol and other impurities materials than traditional method. SL 2700 with molecular weight of 0.2 million Da and charge density of 50% then plus SAL1100 with molecular weight of 11 million Da and charge density of 10% induced observable particle aggregation with the best settling performance.

Is erythropoietin gene a modifier factor in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis?

PubMed

Ghezzi, Serena; Del Bo, Roberto; Scarlato, Marina; Nardini, Martina; Carlesi, Cecilia; Prelle, Alessandro; Corti, Stefania; Mancuso, Michelangelo; Briani, Chiara; Siciliano, Gabriele; Murri, Luigi; Bresolin, Nereo; Comi, Giacomo Pietro

2009-05-01

To investigate the role of erythropoietin (EPO) as genetic determinant in the susceptibility to sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (SALS). We sequenced a 259-bp region spanning the 3'hypoxia-responsive element of the EPO gene in 222 Italian SALS patients and 204 healthy subjects, matched for age and ethnic origin. No potentially causative variation was detected in SALS subjects; in addition, two polymorphic variants (namely C3434T and G3544T) showed the same genotype and haplotype frequencies in patients and controls. Conversely, a weak but significant association between G3544T and age of disease onset was observed (p=0.04). Overall, our data argue against the hypothesis of EPO as a genetic risk factor for motor neuron dysfunction, at least in Italian population. However, further studies on larger cohort of patients are needed to confirm the evidence of EPO gene as modifier factor.

The Simultaneous Electrochemical Detection of Catechol and Hydroquinone with [Cu(Sal-β-Ala)(3,5-DMPz)2]/SWCNTs/GCE

PubMed Central

Alshahrani, Lina Abdullah; Li, Xi; Luo, Hui; Yang, Linlin; Wang, Mengmeng; Yan, Songling; Liu, Peng; Yang, Yuqin; Li, Quanhua

2014-01-01

A glassy carbon electrode was modified with a copper(II) complex [Cu(Sal-β-Ala) (3,5-DMPz)2] (Sal = salicylaldehyde, β-Ala = β-alanine, 3,5-DMPz = 3,5-dimethylpyrazole) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The modified electrode was used to detect catechol (CT) and hydroquinone (HQ) and exhibited good electrocatalytic activities toward the oxidation of CT and HQ. The peak currents were linear with the CT and HQ concentrations over the range of 5–215 μmol·L−1 and 5–370 μmol·L−1 with corresponding detection limits of 3.5 μmol·L−1 and 1.46 μmol·L−1 (S/N = 3) respectively. Moreover, the modified electrode exhibited good sensitivity, stability and reproducibility for the determination of CT and HQ, indicating the promising applications of the modified electrode in real sample analysis. PMID:25429411

The radiation enhancement of the sterility assurance levels of sterile fluids — A case study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plessis, T. A. Du.; Rosekilly, I. C.

1995-02-01

A study was undertaken to determine the effect of low-dose gamma irradiation on aseptically admixed total parenteral nutrition (TPN) solutions to which large inocula of three test bacterial species, recognised as common contaminants of these products, were added. Attainable SALs of TPN solutions containing test bacteria were subsequently calculated. Results showed that a minimum absorbed radiation dose as low as 1.5 kGy improved the SAL of aseptically prepared TPN solutions from a SAL of 10 -3 to a value of less than 10 -8 for the microorganisms investigated. No measurable changes in amino acid, electrolyte, glucose and lipid components of the solutions were detected up to a dose of 8.3 kGy. Practical experience applying this radiation treatment of TPNs rendered excellent results leading to the routine application of the process in South Africa.

Dust Concentrations and Composition During African Dust Incursions in the Caribbean Region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mayol-Bracero, O. L.; Santos-Figueroa, G.; Morales-Garcia, F.

2016-12-01

The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that exposure to PM10 concentrations higher than 50 µg/m³ 24-hour mean in both developed and developing countries could have an adverse impact on public health. Recent studies showed that in the Caribbean region the PM10 concentrations often exceed the WHO guidelines for PM10. These exceedances are largely driven by the presence of African Dust particles that reach the Caribbean region every year during the summer months. These dust particles also influence the Earth's radiative budget directly by scattering solar radiation in the atmosphere and indirectly by affecting cloud formation and, thus, cloud albedo. In order to have a better understanding of the impacts of African Dust on public health and climate, we determine the concentration of dust particles, the carbonaceous fraction (total, elemental and organic carbon: TC, EC, and OC) and water-soluble ions (e.g., Na+, Cl-, Ca+2, NH4+, SO4-2) of aerosol samples in the presence and absence of African Dust. Samples were collected using a Hi-Vol and Stacked-Filter Units for the sampling of total suspended particles (TSP) at two stations in Puerto Rico: a marine site located at Cabezas de San Juan (CSJ) Nature Reserve, in Fajardo, and an urban site located at the University of Puerto Rico, in San Juan. The presence of African Dust was supported with Saharan Air Layer (SAL) imagery and with the results from the air mass backward trajectories calculated with the NOAA Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory Model (HYSPLIT). Preliminary results showed that the total mass concentration of aerosols obtained at the urban site is about two times that at the marine site for SFU samples during African Dust incursions. The average dust concentration obtained at CSJ for Hi Vol samples was 22 µg/m³ during the summer 2015. African Dust concentrations, TC, EC, OC, and ionic speciation results for the marine and urban sites will be presented at the conference.

Using thermal infrared (TIR) data to characterize dust sources, dust fall and the linkage to climate in the Middle East

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohammad, R.; Ramsey, M.; Scheidt, S. P.

2010-12-01

Prior to mineral dust deposition affecting albedo, aerosols can have direct and indirect effects on local to regional scale climate by changing both the shortwave and longwave radiative forcing. In addition, mineral dust causes health hazards, such as respiratory-related illnesses and deaths, loss of agricultural soil, and safety hazards to aviation and motorists due to reduced visibility. Previous work utilized satellite and ground-based TIR data to describe the direct longwave radiative effect of the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) over the Atlantic Ocean originating from dust storms in the Western Sahara. TIR emission spectroscopy was used to identify the spectral absorption features of that dust. The current research focuses on Kuwait and utilizes a comprehensive set of spatial, analytical and geological tools to characterize dust emissions and its radiative effects. Surface mineral composition maps for the Kuwait region were created using ASTER images and GIS datasets in order to identify the possible sources of wind-blown dust. Backward trajectory analysis using the Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) model suggests the dust source areas were located in Iraq, Syria, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Samples collected from two dust storms (May and July 2010) were analyzed for their mineral composition and to validate the dust source areas identified by the modeling and remote sensing analysis. These air fall dust samples were collected in glass containers on a 13 meter high rooftop in the suburb of Rumaithiya in Kuwait. Additional samples will be collected to expand the analysis and their chemical compositions will be characterized by a combination of laboratory X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and TIR emission spectroscopy. The overarching objective of this ongoing research is to both characterize the effects of mineral dust on climate as well as establish a predictive tool that can identify dust storm sources and potentially aid in establishing a more accurate prediction and warning system in the Middle East region.

Regenerator cross arm seal assembly

DOEpatents

Jackman, Anthony V.

1988-01-01

A seal assembly for disposition between a cross arm on a gas turbine engine block and a regenerator disc, the seal assembly including a platform coextensive with the cross arm, a seal and wear layer sealingly and slidingly engaging the regenerator disc, a porous and compliant support layer between the platform and the seal and wear layer porous enough to permit flow of cooling air therethrough and compliant to accommodate relative thermal growth and distortion, a dike between the seal and wear layer and the platform for preventing cross flow through the support layer between engine exhaust and pressurized air passages, and air diversion passages for directing unregenerated pressurized air through the support layer to cool the seal and wear layer and then back into the flow of regenerated pressurized air.

Some non-atlas work at ESO Sky Atlas Laboratory.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Madsen, C.

The ESO Sky Atlas Laboratory (SAL) was set up in 1972 with the aim of producing the ESO Quick Blue Survey and later the joint ESO/SERC Survey of the Southern Sky. With the establishment of a Scientific Group, it became apparent that ESO had additional photographic needs, the fullfilment of which was also entrusted to SAL. Thus, in the course of the years, the "Photographic Section" evolved as a subdivision of the Sky Atlas Laboratory.

Foreign Military Sales: A Growing Concern. Departments of State and Defense

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-06-01

See p. 27.) --Implications of providing lo1.stical sup- port for de ~ense articles sold to foreign countries. (Seep. 28.) --Recovery of full cost ...items. we have taken exception to De - f~nse’s decision to exclude certain costs in its FMS pricing. ~ From November 1969 to December 1~75, we issued 10...Force readiness Follow-on support Recovering costs of sal~s Legislation to control growing arms sales \\ Opportunities identified by GAO for

Targeted delivery of epirubicin to tumor-associated macrophages by sialic acid-cholesterol conjugate modified liposomes with improved antitumor activity.

PubMed

Zhou, Songlei; Zhang, Ting; Peng, Bo; Luo, Xiang; Liu, Xinrong; Hu, Ling; Liu, Yang; Di, Donghua; Song, Yanzhi; Deng, Yihui

2017-05-15

With the knowledge that the receptors of sialic acid are overexpressed on the surface of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which play a crucial role in the tumor's progression and metastasis, a sialic acid-cholesterol conjugate (SA-CH) was synthesized and modified on the surface of epirubicin (EPI)-loaded liposomes (EPI-SAL) to improve the delivery of EPI to the TAMs. The liposomes were developed using remote loading technology via a pH gradient. The liposomes were evaluated for particle size, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release, stability, in vitro cytotoxicity and pharmacokinetics. And the in vitro and in vivo cellular uptake studies demonstrated EPI-SAL achieved enhanced accumulation of EPI into TAMs. The antitumor studies indicated that EPI-SAL provided the strongest antitumor activity compared with the other formulations (EPI-S, EPI-CL and EPI-PL represent EPI solution, conventional liposomal EPI, PEGylated liposomal EPI, respectively), and the survival percent of tumor-bearing mice was 83.3%. The superior antitumor efficacy was probably attributed to the killing of TAMs by EPI-SAL, and modulating the tumor microenvironment with the depletion of TAMs. These findings suggested that SA-CH decorated EPI-loaded liposomes may present an effective strategy to eradicate TAMs, which may be a promising approach for cancer therapy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of internal tidal dissipation and self-attraction and loading on semidiurnal tides in the Bohai Sea, Yellow Sea and East China Sea: a numerical study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Teng, Fei; Fang, Guohong; Xu, Xiaoqing

2017-09-01

A parameterized internal tide dissipation term and self-attraction and loading (SAL) tide term are introduced in a barotropic numerical model to investigate the dynamics of semidiurnal tidal constituents M 2 and S 2 in the Bohai Sea, Yellow Sea and East China Sea (BYECS). The optimal parameters for bottom friction and internal dissipation are obtained through a series of numerical computations. Numerical simulation shows that the tide-generating force contributes 1.2% of M 2 power for the entire BYECS and up to 2.8% for the East China Sea deep basin. SAL tide contributes 4.4% of M 2 power for the BYECS and up to 9.3% for the East China Sea deep basin. Bottom friction plays a major role in dissipating tidal energy in the shelf regions, and the internal tide effect is important in the deep water regions. Numerical experiments show that artificial removal of tide-generating force in the BYECS can cause a significant difference (as much as 30 cm) in model output. Artificial removal of SAL tide in the BYECS can cause even greater difference, up to 40 cm. This indicates that SAL tide should be taken into account in numerical simulations, especially if the tide-generating force is considered.

Medial Prefrontal Administration of MK-801 Impairs T-maze Discrimination Reversal Learning in Weanling Rats

PubMed Central

Watson, Deborah J.; Stanton, Mark E.

2009-01-01

Several executive functions rely on the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) in the rat. Aspiration and neurotoxic lesions of the mPFC impair reversal learning in adult rats [1, 16, 34, 55]. Systemic administration of MK-801, an NMDA receptor antagonist, impairs T-maze reversal learning in weanling rats but the role of mPFC NMDA receptor antagonism in this effect is not known in either adult or young animals. This set of studies showed that mPFC NMDA receptors are specifically involved in T-maze discrimination reversal in weanling rats. In Experiment 1, 26-day-old rats (P26) demonstrated a dose-dependent impairment following bilateral mPFC administration of either 2.5 or 5.0 µg MK-801 or saline (vehicle) during the reversal training phase only. In Experiment 2, P26 rats were trained on the same task, but 4 groups of rats received bilateral mPFC infusions during acquisition only (MK-SAL), reversal only (SAL-MK), both phases (MK-MK) or neither phase (SAL-SAL). MK-801 impaired performance only when infused during reversal. This suggests that NMDA receptor antagonism in the mPFC is selectively involved in reversal learning during development and this may account for the previously reported effects of systemic MK-801 on T-maze discrimination reversal in weanling rats. PMID:19643149

Belliella buryatensis sp. nov., isolated from alkaline lake water.

PubMed

Kozyreva, Lyudmila; Egorova, Darya; Anan'ina, Lyudmila; Plotnikova, Elena; Ariskina, Elena; Prisyazhnaya, Natalya; Radnaeva, Larisa; Namsaraev, Bair

2016-01-01

Two bacterial isolates from water of the alkaline brackish Lake Solenoe (Buryatia, Russia), 2C and 5CT, were characterized by using a polyphasic taxonomic approach. The strains were small, non-motile, Gram-stain-negative rods that formed small orange-red colonies on the surface of marine agar. Studies based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the strains were related closely to Belliella pelovolcani CC-SAL-25T (98.7 % sequence similarity). The G+C content of the DNA was 38-40 mol%. DNA-DNA hybridization values between strains 2C and 5CT and B. pelovolcani CC-SAL-25T were 56-58 mol%. A menaquinone with seven isoprene units (MK-7) was the major respiratory quinone. The fatty acid profiles were slightly different from that of B. pelovolcani CC-SAL-25T. The novel strains could be distinguished from the phylogenetically closest species B. pelovolcani CC-SAL-25T based on matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectra of whole cells and a range of physiological and biochemical characteristics. The data obtained suggest that strains 2C and 5CT represent a novel species of the genus Belliella, for which the name Belliella buryatensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 5CT ( = VKM B-2724T = KCTC 32194T).

Influence of Moisture Content and Compression Axis on Physico-mechanical Properties of Shorea robusta Seeds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shashikumar, C.; Pradhan, R. C.; Mishra, S.

2018-06-01

Shorea robusta (Sal) is mainly harvested and processed for its seed oil, which has diverse application in commercial food and non-food based industries. Before extraction of its oil, seeds undergo into various post-harvest unit operations. Physical and mechanical properties play an important role in the handling and other processing activity. In this study influence of moisture content and compression axis of sal seed on physico-mechanical properties were studied and their application are highlighted. The experiments were conducted at five different moisture levels of 6.38, 10.49, 13.63, 17.64, and 21.95% (d.b) at two different orientations. The first orientation is on major axis (LEN) of the seed, and the other orientation is on intermediate or minor axis (WID), which is right angle to the major axis. It was observed that 68% of sal seeds were of medium size group at initial moisture content of 10.49% (d.b). The mean length and width of sal seed was found to be 26.7 mm and 12.8 mm, respectively. It was found that values of hardness, deformation at hardness, deformation at hardness percentage and energy for rupture were higher in minor axis (WID) as compared to the major axis (LEN). The results provide necessary data that may be useful to engineers, scientists, industries in the design of a suitable post-harvest processing machine.

Relationships between salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations and training performance in Olympic weightlifters.

PubMed

Crewther, B T; Christian, Cook

2010-09-01

This study examined the relationships between salivary testosterone (Sal-T) and cortisol (Sal-C) concentrations and training performance in Olympic weightlifters. Four male and four female Olympic weightlifters each provided saliva samples before and after four workouts during a four-week training period. Training involved the same three exercises; snatch, clean and jerk, and front squat with the one repetition maximum (1RM) calculated for each exercise during each workout. Significant (P < 0.05-0.01) training improvements in 1RM performance (4.0-5.2%) were noted during the snatch and clean and jerk exercises, along with the Olympic total lift. For male participants only, the pre-workout concentrations of Sal T were significantly (P < 0.05-0.01) correlated with the snatch (r = 0.70) and clean and jerk 1RM (r = 0.62), and the Olympic total lift (r = 0.66). A short period of training improved the 1RM performance of Olympic weightlifters in two exercises (snatch and clean and jerk) and the Olympic total. For male participants, their Sal-T concentrations before each workout was also related to 1RM performance during these exercises, thereby highlighting one possible short-term causative mechanism. Limitations of this study include the short duration of hormonal monitoring, the limited number of workouts assessed and the small number of participants recruited. Also, correlations between the outcome variables still only reflect casual associations.

Spectroscopic studies of the intramolecular hydrogen bonding in o-hydroxy Schiff bases, derived from diaminomaleonitrile, and their deprotonation reaction products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szady-Chełmieniecka, Anna; Kołodziej, Beata; Morawiak, Maja; Kamieński, Bohdan; Schilf, Wojciech

2018-01-01

The structural study of five Schiff bases derived from diaminomaleonitrile (DAMN) and 2-hydroxy carbonyl compounds was performed using 1H, 13C and 15N NMR methods in solution and in the solid state as well. ATR-FTIR and X-Ray spectroscopies were used for confirmation of the results obtained by NMR method. The imine obtained from DAMN and benzaldehyde was synthesized as a model compound which lacks intramolecular hydrogen bond. Deprotonation of all synthesized compounds was done by treating with tetramethylguanidine (TMG). NMR data revealed that salicylidene Schiff bases in DMSO solution exist as OH forms without intramolecular hydrogen bonds and independent on the substituents in aromatic ring. In the case of 2-hydroxy naphthyl derivative, the OH proton is engaged into weak intramolecular hydrogen bond. Two of imines (salDAMN and 5-BrsalDAMN) exist in DMSO solution as equilibrium mixtures of two isomers (A and B). The structures of equilibrium mixture in the solid state have been studied by NMR, ATR-FTIR and X-Ray methods. The deprotonation of three studied compounds (salDAMN, 5-BrsalDAMN, and 5-CH3salDAMN) proceeded in two different ways: deprotonation of oxygen atom (X form) or of nitrogen atom of free primary amine group of DAMN moiety (Y form). For 5-NO2salDAMN and naphDAMN only one form (X) was observed.

Recent progress in the genetics of motor neuron disease.

PubMed

Finsterer, Josef; Burgunder, Jean-Marc

2014-02-01

Genetic background and pathogenesis of motor neuron diseases (MNDs) have been increasingly elucidated over recent years. To give an overview about publications during the last year concerning the genetic background and phenotypic manifestations of MNDs, such as familial or sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS, sALS), spinal muscular atrophies (SMA), bulbospinal muscular atrophy (BSMA), and unclassified MNDs. Pubmed search for literature about ALS, SMA, and BSMA for the period 10/2012 to 9/2013. An increasing number of mutated genes is recognised in fALS but also sALS patients. Genes mutated in sALS include C9orf72, SOD1, TARDBP, FUS, UBQL2, SQSTM1, DCTN1, and UNC13A. Juvenile (onset <20y) and adult ALS (early onset 20-60y, late onset >60y) are differentiated. Juvenile fALS is most frequently caused by mutations in ALS2, SETX, spatacsin, or Sigmar1 and adult fALS by mutations in C9orf72, SOD1, TARDBP, and FUS. Onset, phenotype, progression, and outcome of ALS are variable between different mutations, different genes, and different countries. Differentiation between sALS and fALS cases becomes artificial. Further progress has been made over the last year in the clarification and understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of MNDs. However, further effort is needed to answer the many remaining questions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Influence of Moisture Content and Compression Axis on Physico-mechanical Properties of Shorea robusta Seeds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shashikumar, C.; Pradhan, R. C.; Mishra, S.

2018-02-01

Shorea robusta (Sal) is mainly harvested and processed for its seed oil, which has diverse application in commercial food and non-food based industries. Before extraction of its oil, seeds undergo into various post-harvest unit operations. Physical and mechanical properties play an important role in the handling and other processing activity. In this study influence of moisture content and compression axis of sal seed on physico-mechanical properties were studied and their application are highlighted. The experiments were conducted at five different moisture levels of 6.38, 10.49, 13.63, 17.64, and 21.95% (d.b) at two different orientations. The first orientation is on major axis (LEN) of the seed, and the other orientation is on intermediate or minor axis (WID), which is right angle to the major axis. It was observed that 68% of sal seeds were of medium size group at initial moisture content of 10.49% (d.b). The mean length and width of sal seed was found to be 26.7 mm and 12.8 mm, respectively. It was found that values of hardness, deformation at hardness, deformation at hardness percentage and energy for rupture were higher in minor axis (WID) as compared to the major axis (LEN). The results provide necessary data that may be useful to engineers, scientists, industries in the design of a suitable post-harvest processing machine.

Protective activity of salidroside against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer via the MAPK/NF-κB pathway in vivo and in vitro.

PubMed

Chang, Xiayun; Luo, Fen; Jiang, Wenjiao; Zhu, Lingpeng; Gao, Jin; He, He; Wei, Tingting; Gong, Shilin; Yan, Tianhua

2015-09-01

Salidroside (Sal) is a traditional Chinese medicine with various pharmacological effects. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effect of Sal on ethanol-induced acute gastric ulcer and H2O2-induced gastric epithelial cell damage. 0.2 ml ethanol and 400 μM H2O2 were applied to establish a gastric ulcer model in vivo and in vitro respectively. The production of interleukin (IL)-6, interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α was analyzed, as well as myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). MTT assay was used to detect cell viability. In addition, MAPK/NF-κB signal pathway-related proteins p-ERK, p-JNK, p-p38, p-IκBα and p-NF-κBp65 were analyzed to determine the underlying protective mechanism. Downstream genes such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and leukotrienes B4 (LTB4) were also measured. Obtained data indicated that Sal inhibited the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhanced antioxidant activity. Collectively, it is assumed that Sal could alleviate ethanol-induced acute gastric ulcer and H2O2-induced gastric epithelial cell damage through the MAPK/NF-κB pathway. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dynamic NMDAR-mediated properties of place cells during the object place memory task.

PubMed

Faust, Thomas W; Robbiati, Sergio; Huerta, Tomás S; Huerta, Patricio T

2013-01-01

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR) in the hippocampus participate in encoding and recalling the location of objects in the environment, but the ensemble mechanisms by which NMDARs mediate these processes have not been completely elucidated. To address this issue, we examined the firing patterns of place cells in the dorsal CA1 area of the hippocampus of mice (n = 7) that performed an object place memory (OPM) task, consisting of familiarization (T1), sample (T2), and choice (T3) trials, after systemic injection of 3-[(±)2-carboxypiperazin-4yl]propyl-1-phosphate (CPP), a specific NMDAR antagonist. Place cell properties under CPP (CPP-PCs) were compared to those after control saline injection (SAL-PCs) in the same mice. We analyzed place cells across the OPM task to determine whether they signaled the introduction or movement of objects by NMDAR-mediated changes of their spatial coding. On T2, when two objects were first introduced to a familiar chamber, CPP-PCs and SAL-PCs showed stable, vanishing or moving place fields in addition to changes in spatial information (SI). These metrics were comparable between groups. Remarkably, previously inactive CPP-PCs (with place fields emerging de novo on T2) had significantly weaker SI increases than SAL-PCs. On T3, when one object was moved, CPP-PCs showed reduced center-of-mass (COM) shift of their place fields. Indeed, a subset of SAL-PCs with large COM shifts (>7 cm) was largely absent in the CPP condition. Notably, for SAL-PCs that exhibited COM shifts, those initially close to the moving object followed the trajectory of the object, whereas those far from the object did the opposite. Our results strongly suggest that the SI changes and COM shifts of place fields that occur during the OPM task reflect key dynamic properties that are mediated by NMDARs and might be responsible for binding object identity with location.

Microbiology of broiler carcasses and chemistry of chiller water as affected by water reuse.

PubMed

Northcutt, J K; Smith, D; Huezo, R I; Ingram, K D

2008-07-01

A study was conducted to determine the effects of treating and reusing poultry chiller water in a commercial poultry processing facility. Broiler carcasses and chiller water were obtained from a commercial processing facility which had recently installed a TOMCO Pathogen Management System to recycle water in sections 2 and 3 of two 3-compartment chillers. In this system, reused water is blended with fresh water to maintain the chiller volume. Carcasses were sampled prechill and postchill (final exit), and chiller water was sampled from the beginning and end of each of the 3 sections. Carcasses were subjected to a whole carcass rinse (WCR) in 0.1% peptone. Numbers of Escherichia coli (EC), coliforms (CF), and Campylobacter (CPY) were determined from the WCR and chiller water samples. Prevalence of Salmonella (SAL) was also determined on the WCR and chiller water samples. On average, prechill levels of bacteria recovered from rinses were 2.6, 2.9, and 2.6 log10 cfu/mL for EC, CF, and CPY, respectively. Ten out of 40 (25%) prechill carcasses were positive for SAL. After chilling, numbers of EC, CF, and CPY recovered from carcass rinses decreased by 1.5, 1.5, and 2.0 log10 cfu/mL, respectively. However, 9 out of 40 (22%) postchill carcasses were positive for SAL. When the chiller water samples were tested, counts of EC, CF, and CPY were found only in water collected from the first section of the chiller (inlet and outlet). Two of 4 water samples collected from the inlet of the first section tested positive for SAL. This study shows that fresh and reused water can be used to cool poultry in chiller systems to achieve a reduction in numbers of bacteria (EC, CF, and CPY) or equivalent prevalence (SAL) of bacteria recovered from broiler carcasses.

The energy density of laser light differentially modulates the skin morphological reorganization in a murine model of healing by secondary intention

PubMed Central

Novaes, Rômulo D; Gonçalves, Reggiani V; Cupertino, Marli C; Araújo, Bruna M; Rezende, Rafael M; Santos, Eliziária C; Leite, João Paulo V; Matta, Sérgio Luis P

2014-01-01

This study investigates the influence of gallium–arsenide (GaAs) laser photobiostimulation applied with different energy densities on skin wound healing by secondary intention in rats. Three circular wounds, 10 mm in diameter, were made on the dorsolateral region of 21 Wistar rats weighting 282.12 ± 36.08 g. The animals were equally randomized into three groups: Group SAL, saline solution 0.9%; Group L3, laser GaAs 3 J/cm2; Group L30, laser GaAs 30 J/cm2. Analyses of cells, blood vessels, collagen and elastic fibres, glycosaminoglycans and wound contraction were performed on the scar tissue from different wounds every 7 days for 21 days. On day 7, 14 and 21, L3 and L30 showed higher collagen and glycosaminoglycan levels compared to SAL (P < 0.05). At day 21, elastic fibres were predominant in L3 and L30 compared to SAL (P < 0.05). Type-III collagen fibres were predominant at day 7 in both groups. There was gradual reduction in these fibres and accumulation of type-I collagen over time, especially in L3 and L30 compared with SAL. Elevated density of blood vessels was seen in L30 on days 7 and 14 compared to the other groups (P < 0.05). On these same days, there was higher tissue cellularity in L3 compared with SAL (P < 0.05). The progression of wound closure during all time points investigated was higher in the L30 group (P < 0.05). Both energy densities investigated increased the tissue cellularity, vascular density, collagen and elastic fibres, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, with the greater benefits for wound closure being found at the density of 30 J/cm2. PMID:24354418

Integration of air separation membrane and coalescing filter for use on an inlet air system of an engine

DOEpatents

Moncelle, Michael E.

2003-01-01

An intake air separation system suitable for combustion air of an internal combustion engine. An air separation device of the system includes a plurality of fibers, each fiber having a tube with a permeation barrier layer on the outer surface thereof and a coalescing layer on the inner surface thereof, to restrict fluid droplets from contacting the permeation barrier layer.

Ocean Simulation Model. Version 2. First Order Frontal Simulation

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-05-01

REAL DEP(NXVS),TEMP(MXVS),SAL(MXVS),SIG(MXVS), DVF (MXVS), * DEP2(MXVS),TEMP2(MXVS),SAL2(MXVS),SIG2CMXVS),BVF2(MXVS), * DEPO(MXVS), TEMPO(MX)VS),SALO...processing parameters to desired values. Generating the Front Position Directive FRNT uses the current clock time as initial seed to call the intrinsic...potentially be very time consuming if the parameter ITER is set to a large number. Directive RES was designed to allow the user to resume the HELM

Solving the AI Planning Plus Scheduling Problem Using Model Checking via Automatic Translation from the Abstract Plan Preparation Language (APPL) to the Symbolic Analysis Laboratory (SAL)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Butler, Ricky W.; Munoz, Cesar A.; Siminiceanu, Radu I.

2007-01-01

This paper describes a translator from a new planning language named the Abstract Plan Preparation Language (APPL) to the Symbolic Analysis Laboratory (SAL) model checker. This translator has been developed in support of the Spacecraft Autonomy for Vehicles and Habitats (SAVH) project sponsored by the Exploration Technology Development Program, which is seeking to mature autonomy technology for the vehicles and operations centers of Project Constellation.

Point Source X-Ray Lithography System for Sub-0.15 Micron Design Rules

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-05-22

consist of a SAL developed stepper, an SRL developed Dense Plasma Focus , (DPF), X-Ray source, and a CXrL developed beam line. The system will be...existing machine that used spark gap switching, SRL has developed an all solid state driver and improved head electrode assembly for their dense plasma ... focus X-Ray source. Likewise, SAL has used their existing Model 4 stepper installed at CXrL as a design starting point, and has developed an advanced

Numerical modelling of transient heat and moisture transport in protective clothing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Łapka, P.; Furmański, P.; Wisniewski, T. S.

2016-01-01

The paper presents a complex model of heat and mass transfer in a multi-layer protective clothing exposed to a flash fire and interacting with the human skin. The clothing was made of porous fabric layers separated by air gaps. The fabrics contained bound water in the fibres and moist air in the pores. The moist air was also present in the gaps between fabric layers or internal fabric layer and the skin. Three skin sublayers were considered. The model accounted for coupled heat transfer by conduction, thermal radiation and associated with diffusion of water vapour in the clothing layers and air gaps. Heat exchange due to phase transition of the bound water were also included in the model. Complex thermal and mass transfer conditions at internal or external boundaries between fabric layers and air gaps as well as air gap and skin were assumed. Special attention was paid to modelling of thermal radiation which was coming from the fire, penetrated through protective clothing and absorbed by the skin. For the first time non-grey properties as well as optical phenomena at internal or external boundaries between fabric layers and air gaps as well as air gap and skin were accounted for. A series of numerical simulations were carried out and the risk of heat injures was estimated.

Investigation of wintertime cold-air pools and aerosol layers in the Salt Lake Valley using a lidar ceilometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, Joseph Swyler

This thesis investigates the utility of lidar ceilometers, a type of aerosol lidar, in improving the understanding of meteorology and air quality in persistent wintertime stable boundary layers, or cold-air pools, that form in urbanized valley and basin topography. This thesis reviews the scientific literature to survey the present knowledge of persistent cold-air pools, the operating principles of lidar ceilometers, and their demonstrated utility in meteorological investigations. Lidar ceilometer data from the Persistent Cold-Air Pool Study (PCAPS) are then used with meteorological and air quality data from other in situ and remote sensing equipment to investigate cold-air pools that formed in Utah's Salt Lake Valley during the winter of 2010-2011. The lidar ceilometer is shown to accurately measure aerosol layer depth and aerosol loading, when compared to visual observations. A linear relationship is found between low-level lidar backscatter and surface particulate measurements. Convective boundary layer lidar analysis techniques applied to cold-air pool ceilometer profiles can detect useful layer characteristics. Fine-scale waves are observed and analyzed within the aerosol layer, with emphasis on Kelvin-Helmholz waves. Ceilometer aerosol backscatter profiles are analyzed to quantify and describe mixing processes in persistent cold-air pools. Overlays of other remote and in-situ observations are combined with ceilometer particle backscatter to describe specific events during PCAPS. This analysis describes the relationship between the aerosol layer and the valley inversion as well as interactions with large-scale meteorology. The ceilometer observations of hydrometers are used to quantify cloudiness and precipitation during the project, observing that 50% of hours when a PCAP was present had clouds or precipitation below 5 km above ground level (AGL). Then, combining an objective technique for determining hourly aerosol layer depths and correcting this subjectively during periods with low clouds or precipitation, a time series of aerosol depths was obtained. The mean depth of the surface-based aerosol layer during PCAP events was 1861 m MSL with a standard deviation of 135 m. The aerosol layer depth, given the approximate 1300 m altitude of the valley floor, is thus about 550 m, about 46% of the basin depth. The aerosol layer is present during much of the winter and is removed only during strong or prolonged precipitation periods or when surface winds are strong. Nocturnal fogs that formed near the end of high-stability PCAP episodes had a limited effect on aerosol layer depth. Aerosol layer depth was relatively invariant during the winter and during the persistent cold-air pools, while PM10 concentrations at the valley floor varied with bulk atmospheric stability associated primarily with passage of large-scale high- and low-pressure weather systems. PM10 concentrations also increased with cold-air pool duration. Mean aerosol loading in the surface-based aerosol layer, as determined from ceilometer backscatter coefficients, showed weaker variations than those of surface PM10 concentrations, suggesting that ineffective vertical mixing and aerosol layering are present in the cold-air pools. This is supported by higher time-resolution backscatter data, and it distinguishes the persistent cold-air pools from well-mixed convective boundary layers where ground-based air pollution concentrations are closely related to time-dependent convective boundary layer/aerosol depths. These results are discussed along with recommendations for future explorations of the ceilometer and cold-air pool topics.

Leaping shampoo glides on a 500-nm-thick lubricating air layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Erqiang; Lee, Sanghyun; Marston, Jeremy; Bonito, Andrea; Thoroddsen, Sigurdur

2013-11-01

When a stream of shampoo is fed onto a pool in one's hand, a jet can leap sideways or rebound from the liquid surface in an intriguing phenomenon known as the Kaye effect. Earlier studies have debated whether non-Newtonian effects are the underlying cause of this phenomenon, making the jet glide on top of a shear-thinning liquid layer, or whether an entrained air layer is responsible. Herein we show unambiguously that the jet slides on a lubricating air layer [Lee et al., Phys. Rev. E 87, 061001 (2013)]. We identify this layer by looking through the pool liquid and observing its rupture into fine micro-bubbles. The resulting micro-bubble sizes suggest that the thickness of this air layer is around 500 nm. This thickness estimate is also supported by the tangential deceleration of the jet during the rebounding, with the shear stress within the thin air layer sufficient for the observed deceleration. Particle tracking within the jet shows uniform velocity, with no pronounced shear, which would be required for shear-thinning effects. The role of the surfactant may primarily be to stabilize the air film.

Worm-like micelles of CTAB and sodium salicylate under turbulent flow.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Roberta K; da Silva, Marcelo A; Sabadini, Edvaldo

2008-12-16

Polymers with high molecular weight and worm-like micelles are drag-reducing agents under turbulent flow. However, in contrast to the polymeric systems, the worm-like micelles do not undergo mechanical degradation due to the turbulence, because their macromolecular structure can be spontaneously restored. This very favorable property, together with their drag-reduction capability, offer the possibility to use such worm-like micelles in heating and cooling systems to recirculate water while expending less energy. The formation, growth, and stability of worm-like micelles formed by cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and sodium salicylate (NaSal) were investigated using the self-fluorescence of salicylate ions and the ability of the giant micelles to promote hydrodynamic drag reduction under turbulent flow. The turbulence in solutions of CTAB-Sal was produced within the double-gap cell of a rotational rheometer. Detailed diagrams were obtained for different ratios of Sal and CTAB, which revealed transitions associated with the thermal stability of giant micelles under turbulent flow.

Medium chain and behenic acid incorporated structured lipids from sal, mango and kokum fats by lipase acidolysis.

PubMed

Bebarta, Biranchi; M, Jhansi; Kotasthane, Pranitha; Sunkireddy, Yella Reddy

2013-01-15

Medium chain (MC) and behenic fatty acids were incorporated into kokum, sal and mango fats using 1,3-specific lipase catalysed acidolysis. The incorporation of fatty acids increased with increase in concentration of fatty acids and duration of reaction. The order of incorporation of fatty acids was C22:0>C10:0>C8:0, to the extent of 53%, 42.5%, 35.8%, respectively, after 16 h, using kokum as substrate. The same trend was observed with sal or mango fats as substrates though the percentages incorporated were different. The modified products with higher contents of MC were liquids with no solid fats, even at 0°C, and which showed low cloud point due to an increase in triacylglycerols containing lower chain fatty acids. The modified products after incorporating both MC and C22:0 showed long melting ranges and were suitable for use in bakery, confectionery, etc. as vanaspati substitutes. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A comparison between maropitant and metoclopramide for the prevention of morphine-induced nausea and vomiting in dogs

PubMed Central

Lorenzutti, Augusto M.; Martín-Flores, Manuel; Litterio, Nicolás J.; Himelfarb, Martín A.; Invaldi, Sergio H.; Zarazaga, María P.

2017-01-01

Morphine is widely used as a preanesthetic agent in dogs, but it often produces signs of nausea and vomiting. Maropitant (MRP) and metoclopramide (MCP) prevent emesis attributable to the opioid agent apomorphine in dogs. We evaluated the antiemetic efficacy and the discomfort in response to SQ injection of MRP [1 mg/kg body weight (BW)], MCP (0.5 mg/kg BW), and normal saline (SAL; 0.1 mL/kg BW) administered to 63 dogs, 45 minutes prior to morphine (0.5 mg/kg BW) and acepromazine (0.05 mg/kg BW). Dogs were observed for signs of nausea (ptyalism, lip licking, and increased swallowing) and vomiting for 30 minutes after morphine/acepromazine. The incidence of emesis was 0% for MRP, 38% for MCP, and 71% for SAL (P < 0.001). The incidence of signs of nausea was not different between groups. Discomfort due to injection was higher after MRP (48%), than after MCP (9.8%) and SAL (4.8%) (P < 0.001). PMID:28042152

A comparison between maropitant and metoclopramide for the prevention of morphine-induced nausea and vomiting in dogs.

PubMed

Lorenzutti, Augusto M; Martín-Flores, Manuel; Litterio, Nicolás J; Himelfarb, Martín A; Invaldi, Sergio H; Zarazaga, María P

2017-01-01

Morphine is widely used as a preanesthetic agent in dogs, but it often produces signs of nausea and vomiting. Maropitant (MRP) and metoclopramide (MCP) prevent emesis attributable to the opioid agent apomorphine in dogs. We evaluated the antiemetic efficacy and the discomfort in response to SQ injection of MRP [1 mg/kg body weight (BW)], MCP (0.5 mg/kg BW), and normal saline (SAL; 0.1 mL/kg BW) administered to 63 dogs, 45 minutes prior to morphine (0.5 mg/kg BW) and acepromazine (0.05 mg/kg BW). Dogs were observed for signs of nausea (ptyalism, lip licking, and increased swallowing) and vomiting for 30 minutes after morphine/acepromazine. The incidence of emesis was 0% for MRP, 38% for MCP, and 71% for SAL ( P < 0.001). The incidence of signs of nausea was not different between groups. Discomfort due to injection was higher after MRP (48%), than after MCP (9.8%) and SAL (4.8%) ( P < 0.001).

FUS GENE MUTATIONS IN FAMILIAL AND SPORADIC AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS

PubMed Central

Rademakers, Rosa; Stewart, Heather; DeJesus-Hernandez, Mariely; Krieger, Charles; Graff-Radford, Neill; Fabros, Marife; Briemberg, Hannah; Cashman, Neil; Eisen, Andrew; Mackenzie, Ian R. A.

2010-01-01

Introduction Mutations in the fused in sarcoma (FUS) gene have recently been found to cause familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS). Methods We screened FUS in a cohort of 200 ALS patients [32 FALS and 168 sporadic ALS (SALS)]. Results In one FALS proband, we identified a mutation (p.R521C) that was also present in her affected daughter. Their clinical phenotype was remarkably similar and atypical of classic ALS, with symmetric proximal pelvic and pectoral weakness. Distal weakness and upper motor neuron features only developed late. Neuropathological examination demonstrated FUS-immunoreactive neuronal and glial inclusions in the spinal cord and many extramotor regions, but no TDP-43 pathology. We also identified a novel mutation (p.G187S) in one SALS patient. Overall, FUS mutations accounted for 3% of our non-SOD1, non-TARDBP FALS cases and 0.6% of SALS. Discussion This study demonstrates that the phenotype with FUS mutations extends beyond classical ALS. It suggests there are specific clinicogenetic correlations and provides the first detailed neuropathological description. PMID:20544928

Lack of association between the APEX1 Asp148Glu polymorphism and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Coppedè, Fabio; Lo Gerfo, Annalisa; Carlesi, Cecilia; Piazza, Selina; Mancuso, Michelangelo; Pasquali, Livia; Murri, Luigi; Migliore, Lucia; Siciliano, Gabriele

2010-02-01

Impairments in DNA repair enzymes have been observed in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) tissues, particularly in the activity of the apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APEX1). Moreover, it was suggested that the common APEX1 Asp148Glu polymorphism might be associated with ALS risk. To further address this question we performed the present study aimed at evaluating the contribution of the APEX1 Asp148Glu polymorphism in sporadic ALS (sALS) risk and clinical presentation, including age and site of onset and disease progression. We screened 134 sALS Italian patients and 129 matched controls for the presence of the APEX1 Asp148Glu polymorphism. No difference in APEX1 Asp148Glu allele and genotype frequencies was found between the groups, nor was the polymorphism associated with age and site of onset or disease progression. Present results do not support a role for the APEX1 Asp148Glu polymorphism in sALS pathogenesis in the Italian population.

Discovery and characterization of a marine bacterial SAM-dependent chlorinase

PubMed Central

Eustáquio, Alessandra S; Pojer, Florence; Noel, Joseph P; Moore, Bradley S

2009-01-01

Halogen atom incorporation into a scaffold of bioactive compounds often amplifies biological activity, as is the case for the anticancer agent salinosporamide A (1), a chlorinated natural product from the marine bacterium Salinispora tropica. Significant effort in understanding enzymatic chlorination shows that oxidative routes predominate to form reactive electrophilic or radical chlorine species. Here we report the genetic, biochemical and structural characterization of the chlorinase SalL, which halogenates S-adenosyl-l-methionine (2) with chloride to generate 5′-chloro-5′-deoxyadenosine (3) and l-methionine (4) in a rarely observed nucleophilic substitution strategy analogous to that of Streptomyces cattleya fluorinase. Further metabolic tailoring produces a halogenated polyketide synthase substrate specific for salinosporamide A biosynthesis. SalL also accepts bromide and iodide as substrates, but not fluoride. High-resolution crystal structures of SalL and active site mutants complexed with substrates and products support the SN2 nucleophilic substitution mechanism and further illuminate halide specificity in this newly discovered halogenase family. PMID:18059261

The relationship between surface tension and the industrial performance of water-soluble polymers prepared from acid hydrolysis lignin, a saccharification by-product from woody materials.

PubMed

Matsushita, Yasuyuki; Imai, Masanori; Iwatsuki, Ayuko; Fukushima, Kazuhiko

2008-05-01

In this study, water-soluble anionic and cationic polymers were prepared from sulfuric acid lignin (SAL), an acid hydrolysis lignin, and the relationship between the surface tension of these polymers and industrial performance was examined. The SAL was phenolized (P-SAL) to enhance its solubility and reactivity. Sulfonation and the Mannich reaction with aminocarboxylic acids produced water-soluble anionic polymers and high-dispersibility gypsum paste. The dispersing efficiency increased as the surface tension decreased, suggesting that the fluidity of the gypsum paste increased with the polymer adsorption on the gypsum particle surface. Water-soluble cationic polymers were prepared using the Mannich reaction with dimethylamine. The cationic polymers showed high sizing efficiency under neutral papermaking conditions; the sizing efficiency increased with the surface tension. This suggests that the polymer with high hydrophilicity spread in the water and readily adhered to the pulp surface and the rosin, showing good retention.

Role of Ocean Initial Conditions to Diminish Dry Bias in the Seasonal Prediction of Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall: A Case Study Using Climate Forecast System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koul, Vimal; Parekh, Anant; Srinivas, G.; Kakatkar, Rashmi; Chowdary, Jasti S.; Gnanaseelan, C.

2018-03-01

Coupled models tend to underestimate Indian summer monsoon (ISM) rainfall over most of the Indian subcontinent. Present study demonstrates that a part of dry bias is arising from the discrepancies in Oceanic Initial Conditions (OICs). Two hindcast experiments are carried out using Climate Forecast System (CFSv2) for summer monsoons of 2012-2014 in which two different OICs are utilized. With respect to first experiment (CTRL), second experiment (AcSAL) differs by two aspects: usage of high-resolution atmospheric forcing and assimilation of only ARGO observed temperature and salinity profiles for OICs. Assessment of OICs indicates that the quality of OICs is enhanced due to assimilation of actual salinity profiles. Analysis reveals that AcSAL experiment showed 10% reduction in the dry bias over the Indian land region during the ISM compared to CTRL. This improvement is consistently apparent in each month and is highest for June. The better representation of upper ocean thermal structure of tropical oceans at initial stage supports realistic upper ocean stability and mixing. Which in fact reduced the dominant cold bias over the ocean, feedback to air-sea interactions and land sea thermal contrast resulting better representation of monsoon circulation and moisture transport. This reduced bias of tropospheric moisture and temperature over the Indian land mass and also produced better tropospheric temperature gradient over land as well as ocean. These feedback processes reduced the dry bias in the ISM rainfall. Study concludes that initializing the coupled models with realistic OICs can reduce the underestimation of ISM rainfall prediction.

Oceanic signals in rapid polar motion: results from a barotropic forward model with explicit consideration of self-attraction and loading effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schindelegger, Michael; Quinn, Katherine J.; Ponte, Rui M.

2017-04-01

Numerical modeling of non-tidal variations in ocean currents and bottom pressure has played a key role in closing the excitation budget of Earth's polar motion for a wide range of periodicities. Non-negligible discrepancies between observations and model accounts of pole position changes prevail, however, on sub-monthly time scales and call for examination of hydrodynamic effects usually omitted in general circulation models. Specifically, complete hydrodynamic cores must incorporate self-attraction and loading (SAL) feedbacks on redistributed water masses, effects that produces ocean bottom pressure perturbations of typically about 10% relative to the computed mass variations. Here, we report on a benchmark simulation with a near-global, barotropic forward model forced by wind stress, atmospheric pressure, and a properly calculated SAL term. The latter is obtained by decomposing ocean mass anomalies on a 30-minute grid into spherical harmonics at each time step and applying Love numbers to account for seafloor deformation and changed gravitational attraction. The increase in computational time at each time step is on the order of 50%. Preliminary results indicate that the explicit consideration of SAL in the forward runs increases the fidelity of modeled polar motion excitations, in particular on time scales shorter than 5 days as evident from cross spectral comparisons with geodetic excitation. Definite conclusions regarding the relevance of SAL in simulating rapid polar motion are, however, still hampered by the model's incomplete domain representation that excludes parts of the highly energetic Arctic Ocean.

Effects of acute amphetamine (AMPH) treatment on rat striatal dopamine (DA) receptor activity

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

Roseboom, P.H.; Iwaniec, L.M.; Ackerman, J.M.

1986-03-05

Upon administration of AMPH rats display a complex series of dose and time dependent behaviors and changes in dopaminergic activity. They found a decrease in D1 DA receptor-stimulated adenylate cyclase (DA-AC) activity in rat striatal membranes after acute in vivo AMPH at a dose and time of intense stereotyped behavior. The Ka for D1-AC activity increased and the Vmax decreased in striatal membranes from rats given 7.5 mg/kg AMPH i.p. and killed 1 hr later as compared to saline (SAL) controls. They examined whether the decrease of DA-AC was due to a change in receptor number or activation of GTP-bindingmore » protein, Ns. Female Holtzman rats were injected with SAL or 7.5 mg/kg AMPH and killed 1 hr later. A 27,000 x g striatal particulate fraction was prepared for AC assay or (/sup 3/H)DA binding with 10 nM spiroperidol. They found no difference in stimulation of AC by NaF, GTP or GppNHp at any dose tested in membranes from SAL- and AMPH-treated rats. Calmodulin-stimulated AC was also unchanged after AMPH. Specific binding at a saturating concentration of (/sup 3/H)DA was 191 +/- 31 and 117 +/- 14 fmol/mg prot in membranes from SAL- and AMPH-treated rats, respectively. This suggests an alteration is occurring at the level of the D1 receptor rather than at coupling of Ns with the AC catalytic subunit.« less

Salvianolic acid B protects hepatocytes from H2O2 injury by stabilizing the lysosomal membrane.

PubMed

Yan, Xiao-Feng; Zhao, Pei; Ma, Dong-Yan; Jiang, Yi-Lu; Luo, Jiao-Jiao; Liu, Liu; Wang, Xiao-Ling

2017-08-07

To investigate the capability of salvianolic acid B (Sal B) to protect hepatocytes from hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 )/carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 )-induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to measure cell viability. Apoptosis and death were assayed through flow cytometry. BrdU incorporation was used to detect cell proliferation. Serum alanine aminotransferase activity and liver malondialdehyde (MDA) content were measured. Liver histopathological changes were evaluated using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Lysosomal membrane permeability was detected with LysoTracker Green-labeled probes and acridine orange staining. The levels of protein carbonyl content (PCC), cathepsins (Cat)B/D, and lysosome-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) were evaluated through western blotting. Cytosol CatB activity analysis was performed with chemiluminescence detection. The mRNA level of LAMP1 was evaluated through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results indicated that H 2 O 2 induced cell injury/death. Sal B attenuated H 2 O 2 -induced cell apoptosis and death, restored the inhibition of proliferation, decreased the amount of PCC, and stabilized the lysosome membrane by increasing the LAMP1 protein level and antagonizing CatB/D leakage into the cytosol. CCl 4 also triggered hepatocyte death. Furthermore, Sal B effectively rescued hepatocytes by increasing LAMP1 expression and by reducing lysosomal enzyme translocation to the cytosol. Sal B protected mouse embryonic hepatocytes from H 2 O 2 /CCl 4 -induced injury/death by stabilizing the lysosomal membrane.

Novel acyloxy derivatives of branched mono- and polyol esters of sal fat: multiviscosity grade lubricant base stocks.

PubMed

Kamalakar, Kotte; Sai Manoj, Gorantla N V T; Prasad, Rachapudi B N; Karuna, Mallampalli S L

2014-12-10

Sal fat, a nontraditional seed oil, was chemically modified to obtain base stocks with a wide range of specifications that can replace mineral oil base stocks. Sal fatty acids were enriched to 72.6% unsaturation using urea adduct method and reacted with branched mono alcohol, 2-ethylhexanol (2-EtH), and polyols namely neopentyl glycol (NPG) and trimethylolpropane (TMP) to obtain corresponding esters. The esters were hydroxylated and then acylated using propionic, butyric, and hexanoic anhydrides to obtain corresponding acylated derivatives. The acylated TMP esters exhibited very high viscosities (427.35-471.93 cSt at 40 °C) similar to those of BS 150 mineral oil base stock range, ISO VG 460, while the acylated NPG esters (268.81-318.84 cSt at 40 °C) and 2-EtH esters viscosities (20.94-24.44 cSt at 40 °C) exhibited viscosities in the range of ISO VG 320 and 22 respectively with good viscosity indices. Acylated NPG esters were found suitable for high temperature and acylated 2-ethylhexyl esters for low viscosity grade industrial applications. It was observed that the thermo-oxidative stabilities of all acylated products were found better compared to other vegetable oil based base stocks. Overall, all the sal fat based lubricant base stocks are promising candidates with a wide range of properties, which can replace most of the mineral oil base stocks with appropriate formulations.

Atomic Structure of Salutaridine Reductase from the Opium Poppy (Papaver somniferum)

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

Higashi, Yasuhiro; Kutchan, Toni M.; Smith, Thomas J.

The opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. In the biosynthetic pathway for morphine and codeine, salutaridine is reduced to salutaridinol by salutaridine reductase (SalR; EC 1.1.1.248) using NADPH as coenzyme. Here, we report the atomic structure of SalR to a resolution of {approx}1.9 {angstrom} in the presence of NADPH. The core structure is highly homologous to other members of the short chain dehydrogenase/reductase family. The major difference is that the nicotinamide moiety and the substrate-binding pocket are covered by a loop (residues 265-279), on top of which lies a large 'flap'-like domain (residuesmore » 105-140). This configuration appears to be a combination of the two common structural themes found in other members of the short chain dehydrogenase/reductase family. Previous modeling studies suggested that substrate inhibition is due to mutually exclusive productive and nonproductive modes of substrate binding in the active site. This model was tested via site-directed mutagenesis, and a number of these mutations abrogated substrate inhibition. However, the atomic structure of SalR shows that these mutated residues are instead distributed over a wide area of the enzyme, and many are not in the active site. To explain how residues distal to the active site might affect catalysis, a model is presented whereby SalR may undergo significant conformational changes during catalytic turnover.« less

Spectroscopic studies of the intramolecular hydrogen bonding in o-hydroxy Schiff bases, derived from diaminomaleonitrile, and their deprotonation reaction products.

PubMed

Szady-Chełmieniecka, Anna; Kołodziej, Beata; Morawiak, Maja; Kamieński, Bohdan; Schilf, Wojciech

2018-01-15

The structural study of five Schiff bases derived from diaminomaleonitrile (DAMN) and 2-hydroxy carbonyl compounds was performed using 1 H, 13 C and 15 N NMR methods in solution and in the solid state as well. ATR-FTIR and X-Ray spectroscopies were used for confirmation of the results obtained by NMR method. The imine obtained from DAMN and benzaldehyde was synthesized as a model compound which lacks intramolecular hydrogen bond. Deprotonation of all synthesized compounds was done by treating with tetramethylguanidine (TMG). NMR data revealed that salicylidene Schiff bases in DMSO solution exist as OH forms without intramolecular hydrogen bonds and independent on the substituents in aromatic ring. In the case of 2-hydroxy naphthyl derivative, the OH proton is engaged into weak intramolecular hydrogen bond. Two of imines (salDAMN and 5-BrsalDAMN) exist in DMSO solution as equilibrium mixtures of two isomers (A and B). The structures of equilibrium mixture in the solid state have been studied by NMR, ATR-FTIR and X-Ray methods. The deprotonation of three studied compounds (salDAMN, 5-BrsalDAMN, and 5-CH 3 salDAMN) proceeded in two different ways: deprotonation of oxygen atom (X form) or of nitrogen atom of free primary amine group of DAMN moiety (Y form). For 5-NO 2 salDAMN and naphDAMN only one form (X) was observed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of Newly Developed Chemical Castration Method: Changes in Hormone Gene Expression of Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis

PubMed Central

Kwak, Byung Kuk; Lee, Sung-Ho

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Surgical castration (also known as orchidectomy, ORX) has been frequently performed to avoid uncontrolled breeding. However, it has some serious disadvantages. Several laboratories have developed chemical castration methods, using bilateral intratesticular injection (BITI) of simple chemical solutions. The present study was undertaken to compare the effects of ORX and of hypertonic saline BITI on the androgen-sensitive tissues such as pituitary and hypothalamus. Serum testosterone (T) levels of ORX animals and hypertonic saline BITI animals (SAL) after 4 weeks of the manipulations exhibited significantly drops as compared with the levels of intact animals (Intact:ORX:SAL = 7.74± 1.31:1.34±0.19:1.28±0.18 ng/ml, p<0.001). Both ORX and BITI method induced similar stimulatory effects on the pituitary gonadotropin subunits and hypothalamic KiSS-1 gene expressions. In contrast, the effects of ORX and hypertonic saline BITI on hypothalamic GnRH gene expression were different from these gene expressions, shown an inverse relationship between the two groups (Intact:ORX:SAL = 1:0.45±0.06:1:2.07±0.41:1.51±0.37 AU; ORX, p<0.001; SAL, p<0.05). In conclusion, we provided evidence that hypertonic saline BITI method has equivalent efficacy of T depletion to surgical castration in rats. The present study suggests the hypertonic saline BITI could be a promising substitute to conventional surgical castration. PMID:29082346

Milk diets influence doxorubicin-induced intestinal toxicity in piglets.

PubMed

Shen, Rene L; Pontoppidan, Peter E L; Rathe, Mathias; Jiang, Pingping; Hansen, Carl Frederik; Buddington, Randal K; Heegaard, Peter M H; Müller, Klaus; Sangild, Per T

2016-08-01

Chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity is a common adverse effect of cancer treatment. We used preweaned piglets as models to test our hypothesis that the immunomodulatory and GI trophic effects of bovine colostrum would reduce the severity of GI complications associated with doxorubicin (DOX) treatment. Five-day-old pigs were administered DOX (1 × 100 mg/m(2)) or an equivalent volume of saline (SAL) and either fed formula (DOX-Form, n = 9, or SAL-Form, n = 7) or bovine colostrum (DOX-Colos, n = 9, or SAL-Colos, n = 7). Pigs were euthanized 5 days after initiation of chemotherapy to assess markers of small intestinal function and inflammation. All DOX-treated animals developed diarrhea, growth deficits, and leukopenia. However, the intestines of DOX-Colos pigs had lower intestinal permeability, longer intestinal villi with higher activities of brush border enzymes, and lower tissue IL-8 levels compared with DOX-Form (all P < 0.05). DOX-Form pigs, but not DOX-Colos pigs, had significantly higher plasma C-reactive protein, compared with SAL-Form. Plasma citrulline was not affected by DOX treatment or diet. Thus a single dose of DOX induces intestinal toxicity in preweaned pigs and may lead to a systemic inflammatory response. The toxicity is affected by type of enteral nutrition with more pronounced GI toxicity when formula is fed compared with bovine colostrum. The results indicate that bovine colostrum may be a beneficial supplementary diet for children subjected to chemotherapy and subsequent intestinal toxicity. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

Chronic Continuous Exenatide Infusion Does Not Cause Pancreatic Inflammation and Ductal Hyperplasia in Non-Human Primates

PubMed Central

Fiorentino, Teresa Vanessa; Owston, Michael; Abrahamian, Gregory; La Rosa, Stefano; Marando, Alessandro; Perego, Carla; Di Cairano, Eliana S.; Finzi, Giovanna; Capella, Carlo; Sessa, Fausto; Casiraghi, Francesca; Paez, Ana; Adivi, Ashwin; Davalli, Alberto; Fiorina, Paolo; Guardado Mendoza, Rodolfo; Comuzzie, Anthony G.; Sharp, Mark; DeFronzo, Ralph A.; Halff, Glenn; Dick, Edward J.; Folli, Franco

2016-01-01

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of exenatide (EXE) treatment on exocrine pancreas of nonhuman primates. To this end, 52 baboons (Papio hamadryas) underwent partial pancreatectomy, followed by continuous infusion of EXE or saline (SAL) for 14 weeks. Histological analysis, immunohistochemistry, Computer Assisted Stereology Toolbox morphometry, and immunofluorescence staining were performed at baseline and after treatment. The EXE treatment did not induce pancreatitis, parenchymal or periductal inflammatory cell accumulation, ductal hyperplasia, or dysplastic lesions/pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia. At study end, Ki-67–positive (proliferating) acinar cell number did not change, compared with baseline, in either group. Ki-67–positive ductal cells increased after EXE treatment (P = 0.04). However, the change in Ki-67–positive ductal cell number did not differ significantly between the EXE and SAL groups (P = 0.13). M-30–positive (apoptotic) acinar and ductal cell number did not change after SAL or EXE treatment. No changes in ductal density and volume were observed after EXE or SAL. Interestingly, by triple-immunofluorescence staining, we detected c-kit (a marker of cell transdifferentiation) positive ductal cells co-expressing insulin in ducts only in the EXE group at study end, suggesting that EXE may promote the differentiation of ductal cells toward a β-cell phenotype. In conclusion, 14 weeks of EXE treatment did not exert any negative effect on exocrine pancreas, by inducing either pancreatic inflammation or hyperplasia/dysplasia in nonhuman primates. PMID:25447052

Synthesis and characterization of ion-imprinted resin based on carboxymethyl cellulose for selective removal of UO₂²⁺.

PubMed

Monier, M; Abdel-Latif, D A

2013-09-12

In this work, the surface ion-imprinting technique was employed for the preparation of surface ion-imprinted chelating microspheres resin based on modified salicylaldehyde-carboxymethyl cellulose (U-CMC-SAL) in presence of uranyl ions as a template and formaldehyde as a cross-linker. Various instrumental techniques such as elemental analysis, scanning electron microscope (SEM), FTIR and X-ray diffraction spectra were utilized for full characterization of the prepared polymeric samples. The prepared resin exhibited a higher capability for selective removal of UO₂²⁺ when compared to the non-imprinted resin (N-CMC-SAL). Also, different important parameters such as pH, temperature, time and initial metal ion concentration were examined in order to evaluate the optimum condition for the adsorption process. The results indicated that pH 5 was the best for the UO₂²⁺ uptake, in addition, the adsorption was exothermic in nature, follows the second-order kinetics and the adsorption isotherm showed the best fit with Langmuir isotherm model with maximum adsorption capacity of 180 ± 1 and 97 ± 1 mg/g for both U-CMC-SAL and N-CMC-SAL respectively. Desorption and regeneration were carried out using 0.5M HNO3 solution and the results confirmed that the resin keeps about 92% of its original efficiency after five consecutive adsorption-desorption operations. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development and validation of a UFLC-MS/MS method for determination of 7'(Z)-(8″S, 8‴S)-epi-salvianolic acid E, (7'R, 8'R, 8″S, 8‴S)-epi-salvianolic acid B and salvianolic acid B in rat plasma and its application to pharmacokinetic studies.

PubMed

Xie, Xiuman; Sun, Wanyang; Miao, Jingzhuo; Huang, Jingyi; Xu, Jingyao; Liu, Xiaolin; Sun, Henry; Tong, Ling; Sun, Guoxiang

2016-06-01

7'(Z)-(8″S, 8‴S)-epi-Salvianolic acid E (compound 1) and (7'R, 8'R, 8″S, 8‴S)-epi-salvianolic acid B (compound 2), two novel analogs of salvianolic acid B (Sal B), have been recently isolated from Salvianolic acid for injection. They both show powerful antioxidant effects, including inducing NQO1 activity and scavenging DPPH free radical, and potential protecting effects for cerebral ischemia. However, no reports have been described the pharmacokinetic study of them. In this study, an ultra-fast liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UFLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the determination of compound 1, compound 2 and Sal B in rat plasma, respectively. Plasma samples were pretreated by liquid-liquid extraction with ethyl acetate. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Waters Acquity UPLC(®) HSS T3 column (1.7μm particles, 2.1mm i.d.×100mm) with the mobile phase of 0.1% aqueous formic acid (A)-acetonitrile (B) (65:35, v/v). Quantification was performed on a triple quadruple tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization (ESI) by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) in the negative ion mode. Monitored transitions were set at m/z 717.0→519.0, 717.1→519.1, 717.2→518.9 and 320.9→152.1 for compound 1, compound 2, Sal B and chloramphenicol (internal standard, IS), respectively. Linear calibration curves were acquired over the concentration range of 2.0-1000ng/mL for the three analytes in rat plasma. The extraction recoveries, matrix effects, intra- and inter-day precisions and accuracies of the three analytes were all within acceptable limits. The validated method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of compound 1, compound 2 and Sal B after intravenous administration of 6.0mg/kg in rats, respectively. The results indicated that compound 1 and compound 2 were both eliminated more slowly than Sal B. Exposure levels of both compound 1 and Sal B were higher than compound 2 in the same dosage range. This study provided critical reference for the pharmacokinetic study of compound 1 and compound 2. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Leaping shampoo glides on a lubricating air layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, S.; Li, E. Q.; Marston, J. O.; Bonito, A.; Thoroddsen, S. T.

2013-06-01

When a stream of shampoo is fed onto a pool in one's hand, a jet can leap sideways or rebound from the liquid surface in an intriguing phenomenon known as the Kaye effect. Earlier studies have debated whether non-Newtonian effects are the underlying cause of this phenomenon, making the jet glide on top of a shear-thinning liquid layer, or whether an entrained air layer is responsible. Herein we show unambiguously that the jet slides on a lubricating air layer. We identify this layer by looking through the pool liquid and observing its rupture into fine bubbles. The resulting microbubble sizes suggest this air layer is of submicron thickness. This thickness estimate is also supported by the tangential deceleration of the jet during the rebounding.

Leaping shampoo glides on a lubricating air layer.

PubMed

Lee, S; Li, E Q; Marston, J O; Bonito, A; Thoroddsen, S T

2013-06-01

When a stream of shampoo is fed onto a pool in one's hand, a jet can leap sideways or rebound from the liquid surface in an intriguing phenomenon known as the Kaye effect. Earlier studies have debated whether non-Newtonian effects are the underlying cause of this phenomenon, making the jet glide on top of a shear-thinning liquid layer, or whether an entrained air layer is responsible. Herein we show unambiguously that the jet slides on a lubricating air layer. We identify this layer by looking through the pool liquid and observing its rupture into fine bubbles. The resulting microbubble sizes suggest this air layer is of submicron thickness. This thickness estimate is also supported by the tangential deceleration of the jet during the rebounding.

Air pollution assessment of Salé's city (Morocco)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bounakhla, M.; Fatah, A.; Embarch, K.; Ibn Majah, M.; Azami, R.; Sabir, A.; Nejjar, A.; Cherkaoui, R.; Gaudry, A.

2003-05-01

Four sites were selected in Sale's city in Morocco in order to contribute in air pollution level assessment and determination of its effects on public health. The sites were selected so that they are close to the most important industrialized areas, they have a very high demographic density and they cover a heavy traffic. Two approaches of air sampling and subsequent analysis methods of elements in atmospheric aerosols have been performed. The first is a classical approach, which consists in sampling total airborne materials with a High Volume Sampler and analysing the samples using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The second is having its interest for studies relating effects of particles on human health. It consists in employing a Dichotomous Sampler to collect inhalable particles and the X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) for elemental analysis. With such system, it was possible to collect separately respirable and inhalable aerosols. The ED-XRF analysis method used is appropriate for monitoring airborne polluants in living and working areas with advantage of simple preparation, nondestructive nature, rapidity and suitable limits of detection. Using this method, it was possible to identify and quantify S, Ca, CI, Fe, Cu, and Pb. With Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Analysis Method, we quantified Cd. This study have been completed by measuring NOx SO2 and solid suspended particles or airborne particulate matter (APM).

Boundary layer flow of air over water on a flat plate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nelson, John; Alving, Amy E.; Joseph, Daniel D.

1993-01-01

A non-similar boundary layer theory for air blowing over a water layer on a flat plate is formulated and studied as a two-fluid problem in which the position of the interface is unknown. The problem is considered at large Reynolds number (based on x), away from the leading edge. A simple non-similar analytic solution of the problem is derived for which the interface height is proportional to x(sub 1/4) and the water and air flow satisfy the Blasius boundary layer equations, with a linear profile in the water and a Blasius profile in the air. Numerical studies of the initial value problem suggests that this asymptotic, non-similar air-water boundary layer solution is a global attractor for all initial conditions.

In-situ single submicron particle composition analysis of ice residuals from mountain-top mixed-phase clouds in Central Europe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, S.; Schneider, J.; Klimach, T.; Mertes, S.; Schenk, L. P.; Curtius, J.; Kupiszewski, P.; Hammer, E.; Vochezer, P.; Lloyd, G.; Ebert, M.; Kandler, K.; Weinbruch, S.; Borrmann, S.

2015-02-01

This paper presents results from the "INUIT-JFJ/CLACE 2013" field campaign at the high alpine research station Jungfraujoch in January/February 2013. The chemical composition of ice particle residuals (IPR) in a size diameter range of 200-900 nm was measured in orographic, convective and non-convective clouds with a single particle mass spectrometer (ALABAMA) under ambient conditions characterized by temperatures between -28 and -4 °C and wind speed from 0.1 to 21 km h-1. Additionally, background aerosol particles in cloud free air were investigated. The IPR were sampled from mixed-phase clouds with two inlets which selectively extract small ice crystals in-cloud, namely the Counterflow Virtual Impactor (Ice-CVI) and the Ice Selective Inlet (ISI). The IPR as well as the aerosol particles were classified into seven different particle types: (1) black carbon, (2) organic carbon, (3) black carbon internally mixed with organic carbon, (4) minerals, (5) one particle group (termed "BioMinSal") that may contain biological particles, minerals, or salts, (6) industrial metals, and (7) lead containing particles. For any sampled particle population it was determined by means of single particle mass spectrometer how many of the analyzed particles belonged to each of these categories. Accordingly, between 20 and 30% of the IPR and roughly 42% of the background particles contained organic carbon. The measured fractions of minerals in the IPR composition varied from 6 to 33%, while the values for the "BioMinSal" group were between 15 and 29%. Four percent to 31% of the IPR contained organic carbon mixed with black carbon. Both inlets delivered similar results of the chemical composition and of the particle size distribution, although lead was found only in the IPR sampled by the Ice-CVI. The results show that the ice particle residual composition varies substantially between different cloud events, which indicates the influence of different meteorological conditions, such as origin of the air masses, temperature and wind speed.

Size-controlled synthesis of gold bipyramids using an aqueous mixture of CTAC and salicylate anions as the soft template.

PubMed

Yoo, Hyojong; Jang, Min Hoon

2013-08-07

One-dimensional (1D) gold (Au) bipyramids are successfully synthesized through a facile seed-mediated method using cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC), Au seed nanoparticles, Ag(+) ions, and ascorbic acid. The length and optical properties of the synthesized Au bipyramids are controlled with precision by varying the amount of salicylate anions (Sal(-)) added during the synthesis. The micelles formed from CTA(+)-Sal(-) mixtures in aqueous solutions act as effective templates for the size-controlled synthesis of 1D nanocrystals.

9 Closed chest compressions reduce survival in a model of haemorrhage-induced traumatic cardiac arrest.

PubMed

Watts, Sarah; Smith, Jason; Gwyther, Robert; Kirkman, Emrys

2017-12-01

Closed chest compressions (CCC) are a key component of resuscitation from medical causes of cardiac arrest, but when haemorrhage, the leading cause of preventable battlefield deaths, is the likely cause there is little evidence to support their use. Resuscitation protocols for traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) highlight the importance of addressing reversible causes, such as the administration of fluids to treat hypovolaemia. This study evaluated whether CCC were beneficial following haemorrhage-induced TCA and additionally whether resuscitation with blood improved physiological outcomes. The study was conducted with the authority of UK Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 using 39 terminally anesthetised Large White pigs (35 kg, 29-40 kg) instrumented for invasive physiological monitoring. Following instrumentation and baseline measurements, animals underwent tissue injury (captive bolt to the right thigh) and controlled haemorrhage (30% blood volume). Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was maintained at 45 mmHg for 60 min, followed by a further controlled haemorrhage to a MAP of 20 mmHg. As arterial blood and pulse pressures spontaneously deteriorated further over a 5 min period, the randomised resuscitation protocol was initiated as follows: CCC (n=6); IV 0.9% saline (Sal n=8); IV autologous whole blood (WB n=8); IV saline +chest compressions (Sal +CCC n=9); and IV whole blood +chest compressions (WB +CCC n=8). 3×10 ml/kg fluid boluses were administered using the Belmont Rapid Infuser (200 ml/min). CCC were performed using the LUCAS II Chest Compression System.Outcome was attainment of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) 15 min post-resuscitation. ROSC was categorised by MAP (MAP ≥50 mmHg=ROSC; MAP >20 <50 mmHg=partial ROSC; MAP ≤20 mmHg=dead).emermed;34/12/A866-a/F1F1F1Figure 1 RESULTS: Outcome was significantly worse in the group that received CCC compared to WB and Sal groups (6/6 dead versus 0/8 and 0/8 respectively) (p<0.0001).A significantly higher number of animals attained ROSC in WB compared to Sal group (6/8 versus 0/8 ROSC and 2/8 versus 8/8 partial ROSC respectively) (p=0.0069).There were some none significant differences between WB and WB+CCC groups (6/8 versus 5/8 ROSC, 2/8 versus 1/8 partial ROSC and 0/8 versus 2/8 dead respectively) (p=0.4411).No animals attained ROSC in the Sal and Sal+CCC groups however significantly more animals died in the Sal+CCC group (0/8 versus 0/9 ROSC, 8/8 versus 2/9 partial ROSC and 0/8 versus 7/9 dead respectively) (p=0.0023). CCC were associated with increased mortality compared to intravenous fluid resuscitation. Resuscitation with whole blood demonstrated the greatest physiological benefit as demonstrated by highest numbers of animals achieving ROSC. © 2017, Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Salvianolic acid B reverses multidrug resistance in nude mice bearing human colon cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Guo, Piaoting; Wang, Jianchao; Gao, Wencang; Liu, Xia; Wu, Shaofei; Wan, Boshun; Xu, Lei; Li, Yanhua

2018-05-29

Salvianolic acid B (SalB) is a water‑soluble phenolic compound, extractable from Salvia miltiorrhiza, and has previously been demonstrated to reverse tumor multidrug resistance (MDR) in colon cancer cells. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are closely associated with drug resistance. Therefore, establishing a nude mouse model bearing human colon CSCs is important for the study of the mechanisms underlying colon cancer drug resistance as well as the reversal of drug resistance. The present study aimed to establish a nude mouse model bearing human colon CSCs and to investigate the effects of SalB on the drug resistance exhibited by the nude mouse model as well as determine its underlying mechanism. Cells from two colon cancer cell lines (LoVo and HCT‑116) were cultured in serum‑free medium to obtain CSCs‑enriched spheroid cells. Following this, nude mice were transplanted with LoVo and HCT‑116 colon CSCs to establish the CSC nude mouse model, which was subsequently demonstrated to exhibit MDR. The results of the present study revealed that following treatment with SalB, the chemotherapeutic drug resistance of xenografts was reversed to a certain extent. Western blot analysis was performed to investigate the expression levels of cluster of differentiation (CD)44, CD133, transcription factor sox‑2 (SOX2) and ATP‑binding cassette sub‑family G member 2 (ABCG2) proteins, and the results demonstrated that treatment with SalB downregulated the expression of CD44, SOX2 and ABCG2 proteins in both LoVo and HCT‑116 colon CSCs xenografts. In conclusion, the results of the present study revealed that a serum‑free suspension method can be performed to successfully isolate colon CSCs. In addition, a nude mice bearing colon CSCs animal model was successfully established, and associated tumors were confirmed to exhibit MDR. Furthermore, SalB was demonstrated to successfully reverse MDR in nude mice bearing LoVo and HCT‑116 colon CSCs, as well as suppress the expression of CD44, SOX2 and ABCG2 proteins.

Effects of Growth Hormone/IGF-I and Exercise on Unloaded Bones

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harper, J. S.; Arnaud, S. B.; Gosselink, K. L.; Grindeland, R. E.

1994-01-01

Growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) in combination with exercise prevent muscle atrophy induced by unloading in the tail-suspension rat model for space flight (Gosselink et al, FASEB J 1994). This study evaluated the effects of these treatments on bone. Hypophysectomized rats were suspended (S) and treated with 1mg/kg/day CH plus IGF-I (H) or vehicle (Sal) daily by injection and exercised (Ex) by 3 climbs up a 1m ladder carrying a load equal to 30% the initial body weight (BW) 3x/day for 10 days. Tibial epiphysis (Epi) widths were measured by micrometry and femoral Bone Mineral Content (fBMC) in excised femurs by DEXA (Lunar DPX-L). Serum calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (Pi) were measured by COBAS Autoanalyzer (Roche Diag.). Ambulatory (Amb)-H treated rats showed growth rates of 6.6+-0.9 g/day, similar to S-H-Ex and higher than S-H (3.210.6, p less than 0.05) and S-Sal (-0.711.0, p less than 0.05). Epi widths were 10% lower in S-Sal, and S-Sal-Ex, and increased 100% in all H groups. fBMC was less in S than Amb, only when all S groups are compared to both Amb groups (p less than 0.03). H treatment increased fBMC (p less than 0.05) but reduced fBMC/100g BW in all H groups (p less than 0.001). The reduced density of H bone cannot be attributed to low circulating Ca. and Pi since they were higher in H than Sal (p less than 0.001). H treatment for 10 days in doses sufficient to support normal growth in BW failed to produce normal Epi widths or fBMC, even when combined with exercise. The suspension effect observed in Epi widths was not corrected by H or Ex alone, but was improved by H plus a This regimen. although effective in preventing muscle atrophy, failed to return bone measures, Epi widths and fBMC, to normal.

The SAL-PAP Chloroplast Retrograde Pathway Contributes to Plant Immunity by Regulating Glucosinolate Pathway and Phytohormone Signaling.

PubMed

Ishiga, Yasuhiro; Watanabe, Mutsumi; Ishiga, Takako; Tohge, Takayuki; Matsuura, Takakazu; Ikeda, Yoko; Hoefgen, Rainer; Fernie, Alisdair R; Mysore, Kirankumar S

2017-10-01

Chloroplasts have a crucial role in plant immunity against pathogens. Increasing evidence suggests that phytopathogens target chloroplast homeostasis as a pathogenicity mechanism. In order to regulate the performance of chloroplasts under stress conditions, chloroplasts produce retrograde signals to alter nuclear gene expression. Many signals for the chloroplast retrograde pathway have been identified, including chlorophyll intermediates, reactive oxygen species, and metabolic retrograde signals. Although there is a reasonably good understanding of chloroplast retrograde signaling in plant immunity, some signals are not well-understood. In order to understand the role of chloroplast retrograde signaling in plant immunity, we investigated Arabidopsis chloroplast retrograde signaling mutants in response to pathogen inoculation. sal1 mutants (fry1-2 and alx8) responsible for the SAL1-PAP retrograde signaling pathway showed enhanced disease symptoms not only to the hemibiotrophic pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 but, also, to the necrotrophic pathogen Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum EC1. Glucosinolate profiles demonstrated the reduced accumulation of aliphatic glucosinolates in the fry1-2 and alx8 mutants compared with the wild-type Col-0 in response to DC3000 infection. In addition, quantification of multiple phytohormones and analyses of their gene expression profiles revealed that both the salicylic acid (SA)- and jasmonic acid (JA)-mediated signaling pathways were down-regulated in the fry1-2 and alx8 mutants. These results suggest that the SAL1-PAP chloroplast retrograde pathway is involved in plant immunity by regulating the SA- and JA-mediated signaling pathways.

Measuring high spatiotemporal variability in saltation intensity using a low-cost Saltation Detection System: Wind tunnel and field experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Winter, W.; van Dam, D. B.; Delbecque, N.; Verdoodt, A.; Ruessink, B. G.; Sterk, G.

2018-04-01

The commonly observed over prediction of aeolian saltation transport on sandy beaches is, at least in part, caused by saltation intermittency. To study small-scale saltation processes, high frequency saltation sensors are required on a high spatial resolution. Therefore, we developed a low-cost Saltation Detection System (SalDecS) with the aim to measure saltation intensity at a frequency of 10 Hz and with a spatial resolution of 0.10 m in wind-normal direction. Linearity and equal sensitivity of the saltation sensors were investigated during wind tunnel and field experiments. Wind tunnel experiments with a set of 7 SalDec sensors revealed that the variability of sensor sensitivity is at maximum 9% during relatively low saltation intensities. During more intense saltation the variability of sensor sensitivity decreases. A sigmoidal fit describes the relation between mass flux and sensor output measured during 5 different wind conditions. This indicates an increasing importance of sensor saturation with increasing mass flux. We developed a theoretical model to simulate and describe the effect of grain size, grain velocity and saltation intensity on sensor saturation. Time-averaged field measurements revealed sensitivity equality for 85 out of a set of 89 horizontally deployed SalDec sensors. On these larger timescales (hours) saltation variability imposed by morphological features, such as sand strips, can be recognized. We conclude that the SalDecS can be used to measure small-scale spatiotemporal variabilities of saltation intensity to investigate saltation characteristics related to wind turbulence.

Karyotype characteristics, larval morphology and chromosomal polymorphism peculiarities of Glyptotendipes salinus Michailova, 1983 (Diptera, Chironomidae) from Tambukan Lake, Central Caucasus

PubMed Central

Karmokov, Mukhamed Kh.; Akkizov, Azamat Y.

2016-01-01

Abstract Data on the karyotype characteristics, larval morphology and features of chromosomal polymorphism of a population of Glyptotendipes salinus Michailova, 1983 (Diptera, Chironomidae) from Tambukan Lake (on the northern macroslope of the central Caucasus) are presented. It was found that diagnostic larval characters of Glyptotendipes salinus from Caucasus in general are similar to those described in previous studies, but with some significant differences. By some morphological characteristics Caucasian larvae appeared to be closer to Glyptotendipes barbipes than to ones provided for European larvae of Glyptotendipes salinus by Contreras-Lichtenberg (1999). Obtained morphological data make possible to conclude that Caucasian population of Glyptotendipes salinus can be a markedly diverged population of the species, probably even subspecies. In the Caucasian population 12 banding sequences were found: two in arms A, B, C, E, and G, and one in arms D and F. Eight of these are already known for this species, and four, salA2, salB2, salEX, and salG3, are described for the first time. Genetic distances between all the previously studied populations of Glyptotendipes salinus were measured using Nei criteria (1972). The population of the central Caucasus occupies a distinct position on the dendrogram compared with populations from Altai and Kazakhstan. All the obtained morphological and cytogenetic data can indicate the plausible relative isolation and complexity of the Caucasus from the viewpoint of microevolution. More researches are required in other parts of Caucasus and other geographically distant regions for more specific allegations. PMID:28123679

Prenatal exposure to dexamethasone in the mouse alters cardiac growth patterns and increases pulse pressure in aged male offspring.

PubMed

O'Sullivan, Lee; Cuffe, James S M; Paravicini, Tamara M; Campbell, Sally; Dickinson, Hayley; Singh, Reetu R; Gezmish, Oksan; Black, M Jane; Moritz, Karen M

2013-01-01

Exposure to synthetic glucocorticoids during development can result in later cardiovascular and renal disease in sheep and rats. Although prenatal glucocorticoid exposure is associated with impaired renal development, less is known about effects on the developing heart. This study aimed to examine the effects of a short-term exposure to dexamethasone (60 hours from embryonic day 12.5) on the developing mouse heart, and cardiovascular function in adult male offspring. Dexamethasone (DEX) exposed fetuses were growth restricted compared to saline treated controls (SAL) at E14.5, but there was no difference between groups at E17.5. Heart weights of the DEX fetuses also tended to be smaller at E14.5, but not different at E17.5. Cardiac AT1aR, Bax, and IGF-1 mRNA expression was significantly increased by DEX compared to SAL at E17.5. In 12-month-old offspring DEX exposure caused an increase in basal blood pressure of ~3 mmHg. In addition, DEX exposed mice had a widened pulse pressure compared to SAL. DEX exposed males at 12 months had an approximate 25% reduction in nephron number compared to SAL, but no difference in cardiomyocyte number. Exposure to DEX in utero appears to adversely impact on nephrogenesis and heart growth but is not associated with a cardiomyocyte deficit in male mice in adulthood, possibly due to compensatory growth of the myocardium following the initial insult. However, the widened pulse pressure may be indicative of altered vascular compliance.

Airborne Sunphotometer Measurements of Aerosol Optical Depth and Columnar Water Vapor During the Puerto Rico Dust Experiment, and Comparison with Land, Aircraft, and Satellite Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Livingston, John M.; Russell, Philip B.; Reid, Jeffrey; Redemann, Jens; Schmid, Beat; Allen, Duane A.; Torres, Omar; Levy, Robert C.; Remer, Lorraine A.; Holben, Brent N.;

[Isolation and characterization of siphovirus phages infecting bovine Streptococcus agalactiae].

PubMed

Bai, Qinqin; Yang, Yongchun; Lu, Chengping

2016-02-04

To isolate and identify Streptococcus agalactiae phages and screen candidate phages to control infection caused by bovine S. agalactiae. We used two methods for isolation of S. agalactiae phages, namely (1) isolation of phages from milk and environmental samples, and (2) isolation of phages via induction of lysogens with Mitomycin C. Double-layer agar culture method was used to purify phages. Then the newly obtained phages, with S. agalactiae phage JX01 isolated from mastitis milk, were comparatively analyzed in the following aspects: morphology of phages by transmission electron microscopy, host range of phages to 55 S. agalactiae strains and other Streptococcus strains, phages DNA using EcoR I, Xba I, Pst I and Sal I, the optical multiplicity of infection, absorption curve and one step growth curve, and the stability of phages at different storage conditions. The comparative analysis of the 3 novel phages LYGO9, HZ04 and pA11 (induced from S. agalctiae bovine clinical isolate HAJL2011070601) with JX01 showed that the 4 phages were classified as the member of Siphovirdae family. EcoR I, Sal I, Xba I and Pst I separately digested the 4 phages DNA provided 4, 3, 3 and 2 profiles, respectively. This suggested that they were different strains. All the 4 phages specifically infected bovine S. agalactiae isolates. LYGO9, pA11, JX01 and HZ04 could lyse 12, 13, 20 and 23 of 42 tested bovine S. agalctiae isolates, respectively. This clearly indicated that these 4 phages are closely related. The 3 new phages which specifically lyse bovine S. agalactiae isolates are siphovirus phages. Phage LYGO9 was shown having a short latent period and a larger burst size.

Pharmacological performance of novel poly-(ionic liquid)-grafted chitosan-N-salicylidene Schiff bases and their complexes.

PubMed

Elshaarawy, Reda F M; Refaee, Ayaat A; El-Sawi, Emtithal A

2016-08-01

In our endeavor to develop a new class of pharmacological candidates with antimicrobial and anticancer efficacy, a series of biopolymeric chitosan Schiff bases bearing salicylidene ionic liquid (IL-Sal) brushes (ILCSB1-3, poly-(GlcNHAc-GlcNH2-(GlcN-Sal-IL)) was successfully synthesized by adopting efficient synthetic routes. Unfortunately, metalation trials of these biopolymeric Schiff bases afford the corresponding Ag(I)/M(II) complexes (where M=Co, Pd). These designed architectures were structurally characterized and pharmacologically evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial, against common bacterial and fungal pathogens, and anticancer activities against human colon carcinoma (HCT-116) cell line. In conclusion functionalization of chitosan with IL-Sal brushes coupled with metalation of formed ILCSBs were synergistically enhanced its antimicrobial and antitumor properties to a great extent. Noteworthy, Ag-ILCSB2 (IC50=9.13μg/mL) was ca. 5-fold more cytotoxic against HCT-116 cell line than ILCSB2 (IC50=43.30μg/mL). Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Oleanolic acid improves pulmonary morphofunctional parameters in experimental sepsis by modulating oxidative and apoptotic processes.

PubMed

Santos, Raquel Souza; Silva, Pedro Leme; de Oliveira, Gisele Pena; Santos, Cintia Lourenço; Cruz, Fernanda Ferreira; de Assis, Edson Fernandes; de Castro-Faria-Neto, Hugo Caire; Capelozzi, Vera Luiza; Morales, Marcelo Marcos; Pelosi, Paolo; Gattass, Cerli Rocha; Rocco, Patricia Rieken Macedo

2013-12-01

We compared the effects of oleanolic acid (OA) vs. dexamethasone on lung mechanics and histology, inflammation, and apoptosis in lung and distal organs in experimental sepsis. Seventy-eight BALB/c mice were randomly divided into two groups. Sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture, while the control group underwent sham surgery. 1h after surgery, all animals were further randomized to receive saline (SAL), OA and dexamethasone (DEXA) intraperitoneally. Both OA and DEXA improved lung mechanics and histology, which were associated with fewer lung neutrophils and less cell apoptosis in lung, liver, and kidney than SAL. However, only animals in the DEXA group had lower levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and KC (murine analog of IL-8) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid than SAL animals. Conversely, OA was associated with lower inducible nitric oxide synthase expression and higher superoxide dismutase than DEXA. In the experimental sepsis model employed herein, OA and DEXA reduced lung damage and distal organ apoptosis through distinct anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

US EPA Nonattainment Areas and Designations-PM10 (1987 NAAQS)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This web service contains the following layer: PM10 Nonattainment Areas (1987 NAAQS). Full FGDC metadata records for each layer may be found by clicking the layer name at the web service endpoint (https://gispub.epa.gov/arcgis/rest/services/OAR_OAQPS/NAA1987PM10/MapServer) and viewing the layer description. These layers identify areas in the U.S. where air pollution levels have not met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria air pollutants and have been designated nonattainment?? areas (NAA). The data are updated weekly from an OAQPS internal database. However, that does not necessarily mean the data have changed. The EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six principal pollutants, which are called criteria pollutants. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which is intended to improve the quality of the air we breathe, EPA is required to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six common air pollutants. These commonly found air pollutants (also known as criteria pollutants) are found all over the United States. They are particle pollution (often referred to as particulate matter), ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. For each criteria pollutant, there are specific procedures used for measuring ambient concentrations and for calculating long-term (quarterly or annual) and/or short-term (24-hour) exposure levels. The metho

US EPA Nonattainment Areas and Designations-Lead (2008 NAAQS)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This web service contains the following layers: Lead NAA 2008 NAAQS and Lead NAA Centroids 2008 NAAQS. Full FGDC metadata records for each layer may be found by clicking the layer name at the web service endpoint (https://gispub.epa.gov/arcgis/rest/services/OAR_OAQPS/NAA2008Lead/MapServer) and viewing the layer description. These layers identify areas in the U.S. where air pollution levels have not met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria air pollutants and have been designated nonattainment?? areas (NAA). The data are updated weekly from an OAQPS internal database. However, that does not necessarily mean the data have changed. The EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six principal pollutants, which are called criteria pollutants. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which is intended to improve the quality of the air we breathe, EPA is required to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six common air pollutants. These commonly found air pollutants (also known as criteria pollutants) are found all over the United States. They are particle pollution (often referred to as particulate matter), ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. For each criteria pollutant, there are specific procedures used for measuring ambient concentrations and for calculating long-term (quarterly or annual) and/or short-term (24-hour) exposure l

US EPA Nonattainment Areas and Designations-8 Hour Ozone (2008 NAAQS)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This web service contains the following layers: Ozone 2008 NAAQS NAA State Level and Ozone 2008 NAAQS NAA National Level. Full FGDC metadata records for each layer may be found by clicking the layer name at the web service endpoint (https://gispub.epa.gov/arcgis/rest/services/OAR_OAQPS/NAA2008Ozone8hour/MapServer) and viewing the layer description. These layers identify areas in the U.S. where air pollution levels have not met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria air pollutants and have been designated nonattainment?? areas (NAA). The data are updated weekly from an OAQPS internal database. However, that does not necessarily mean the data have changed. The EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six principal pollutants, which are called criteria pollutants. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which is intended to improve the quality of the air we breathe, EPA is required to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six common air pollutants. These commonly found air pollutants (also known as criteria pollutants) are found all over the United States. They are particle pollution (often referred to as particulate matter), ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. For each criteria pollutant, there are specific procedures used for measuring ambient concentrations and for calculating long-term (quarterly or annual) and/or short-

US EPA Nonattainment Areas and Designations-8 Hour Ozone (1997 NAAQS)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This web service contains the following layers: Ozone 1997 NAAQS NAA State Level and Ozone 1997 NAAQS NAA National Level. Full FGDC metadata records for each layer may be found by clicking the layer name at the web service endpoint (https://gispub.epa.gov/arcgis/rest/services/OAR_OAQPS/NAA1997Ozone8hour/MapServer) and viewing the layer description. These layers identify areas in the U.S. where air pollution levels have not met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria air pollutants and have been designated nonattainment?? areas (NAA). The data are updated weekly from an OAQPS internal database. However, that does not necessarily mean the data have changed. The EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six principal pollutants, which are called criteria pollutants. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which is intended to improve the quality of the air we breathe, EPA is required to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six common air pollutants. These commonly found air pollutants (also known as criteria pollutants) are found all over the United States. They are particle pollution (often referred to as particulate matter), ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. For each criteria pollutant, there are specific procedures used for measuring ambient concentrations and for calculating long-term (quarterly or annual) and/or short

Preliminary paleohydrological interpretation of an Amazon floodplain system based on seismic stratigraphy: Varzea do Lago Grande do Curuai, Pará, Brazil.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amorim, M. A.; Moreira-Turcq, P.; Turcq, B.

2009-04-01

The aquatic lacustrine ecosystems are depositional environments that register in yours sediments the process that occurs on the own site and in the all drainage basin. The Amazonas River and its tributaries are followed along your upward and downward course by several floodplains that cover a large area of environs 300.000 km2. These sites are dynamic and complexes systems. Floodplains affect the erosion the transport and the sedimentation flux in the system and it has a special importance for carbon cycle due yours high productivity. In the floodplains systems the sediment deposition occurs in a different scale of time period. In these work, we study the "Varzea Grande do Curuai" which size varies from 1340km2 during the dry season, to 3600 km2 during the wet season, according to the level of the river. This floodplain is located on the southern margin of the Amazonas River, close to the city of Óbidos, Pará-Brazil, in the Lower Amazonas. The floodplain contains several white water lakes such as Grande, Poção, Santa Ninha and Salé Lakes, and black water lakes such as the Curumucuri and Açaí Lakes. These lakes are connected to each other and to the Amazonas River by small channels, some of which are permanently connected to the river and others not, depending on the variations of the water level. The purpose of this work is to reconstruct past sedimentary processes using seismic stratigraphy profiles realized all along the floodplain lakes and sediment cores collected at strategic sites. The sedimentary patterns observed in the seismic profiles are horizontal layers, highly reflective unpenetrated levels and paleochannels that could have been formed during the Holocene. The larger quantity of paleochannels along the lakes has been observed in the Grande and Salé lakes. The paleochannels in the Grande Lake would indicate a migration of actual depositional ridge that separates the floodplain from the river. In the Salé Lake, the paleochannels indicate that the region has suffered hydrological alterations. A comparison between the images of the floodplain in two different seasons (flooded and dry) with the stratigraphy profile, indicate that at sites that are emerged in the dry season there is no penetration of acoustic waves, the bottom of the lakes forming then a strong reflector.These sediments are hard due to a lower water content. The typical layers found in almost all the lakes were planar strata, characteristic of lacustrine sedimentation. These strata are covering the paleochannel structures and a second lower horizontal strong reflector. It should indicate a past environment where the water level was lower; the sediment surface was exposed during low water periods and eroded by channels draining the water to a lowered river during the lowering water season. This lower river and floodplain levels must be related to a lower sea level and/or to a dryer or more contrasted climate during the Holocene.

Ozone Laminae and Their Entrainment Into a Valley Boundary Layer, as Observed From a Mountaintop Monitoring Station, Ozonesondes, and Aircraft Over California's San Joaquin Valley

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faloona, I. C.; Conley, S. A.; Caputi, D.; Trousdell, J.; Chiao, S.; Eiserloh, A. J., Jr.; Clark, J.; Iraci, L. T.; Yates, E. L.; Marrero, J. E.; Ryoo, J. M.; McNamara, M. E.

2016-12-01

The San Joaquin Valley of California is wide ( 75 km) and long ( 400 km), and is situated under strong atmospheric subsidence due, in part, to the proximity of the midlatitude anticyclone of the Pacific High. The capping effect of this subsidence is especially prominent during the warm season when ground level ozone is a serious air quality concern across the region. While relatively clean marine boundary layer air is primarily funneled into the valley below the strong subsidence inversion at significant gaps in the upwind Coast Range mountains, airflow aloft also spills over these barriers and mixes into the valley from above. Because this transmountain flow occurs under the influence of synoptic subsidence it tends to present discrete, laminar sheets of differing air composition above the valley boundary layer. Meanwhile, although the boundary layers tend to remain shallow due to the prevailing subsidence, orographic and anabatic venting of valley boundary layer air around the basin whips up a complex admixture of regional air masses into a "buffer layer" just above the boundary layer (zi) and below the lower free troposphere. We present scalar data of widely varying lifetimes including ozone, methane, NOx, and thermodynamic observations from upwind and within the San Joaquin Valley to better explain this layering and its subsequent erosion into the valley boundary layer via entrainment. Data collected at a mountaintop monitoring station on Chews Ridge in the Coast Range, by coastal ozonesondes, and aircraft are analyzed to document the dynamic layering processes around the complex terrain surrounding the valley. Particular emphasis will be made on observational methods whereby distal ozone can be distinguished from the regional ozone to better understand the influence of exogenous sources on air quality in the valley.

LSST communications middleware implementation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mills, Dave; Schumacher, German; Lotz, Paul

2016-07-01

The LSST communications middleware is based on a set of software abstractions; which provide standard interfaces for common communications services. The observatory requires communication between diverse subsystems, implemented by different contractors, and comprehensive archiving of subsystem status data. The Service Abstraction Layer (SAL) is implemented using open source packages that implement open standards of DDS (Data Distribution Service1) for data communication, and SQL (Standard Query Language) for database access. For every subsystem, abstractions for each of the Telemetry datastreams, along with Command/Response and Events, have been agreed with the appropriate component vendor (such as Dome, TMA, Hexapod), and captured in ICD's (Interface Control Documents).The OpenSplice (Prismtech) Community Edition of DDS provides an LGPL licensed distribution which may be freely redistributed. The availability of the full source code provides assurances that the project will be able to maintain it over the full 10 year survey, independent of the fortunes of the original providers.

Sensors Technology and Advanced Signal Processing Concepts for Layered Warfare/Layered Sensing

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-04-01

for challenged environments will require contributions from many diverse technical disciplines across AFRL, the Air Force and beyond. By providing a...APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE; DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED. STINFO COPY AIR FORCE...UNITED STATES AIR FORCE AIR FORCE MATERIEL COMMAND NOTICE AND SIGNATURE PAGE Using Government drawings, specifications, or other data

Efficacy and Safety of Fluticasone Furoate/Vilanterol Compared With Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol Combination in Adult and Adolescent Patients With Persistent Asthma

PubMed Central

Bleecker, Eugene R.; Lötvall, Jan; O’Byrne, Paul M.; Bateman, Eric D.; Medley, Hilary; Ellsworth, Anna; Jacques, Loretta; Busse, William W.

2013-01-01

Background: The combination of fluticasone furoate (FF), a novel inhaled corticosteroid (ICS), and vilanterol (VI), a long-acting β2 agonist, is under development as a once-daily treatment of asthma and COPD. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of FF/VI with fluticasone propionate (FP)/salmeterol (SAL) in patients with persistent asthma uncontrolled on a medium dose of ICS. Methods: In a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, parallel group study, 806 patients received FF/VI (100/25 μg, n = 403) once daily in the evening delivered through ELLIPTA (GlaxoSmithKline) dry powder inhaler, or FP/SAL (250/50 μg, n = 403) bid through DISKUS/ACCUHALER (GlaxoSmithKline). The primary efficacy measure was 0- to 24-h serial weighted mean (wm) FEV1 after 24 weeks of treatment. Results: Improvements from baseline in 0- to 24-h wmFEV1 were observed with both FF/VI (341 mL) and FP/SAL (377 mL); the adjusted mean treatment difference was not statistically significant (−37 mL; 95% CI, −88 to 15, P = 0.162). There were no differences between 0- to 4-h serial wmFEV1, trough FEV1, and asthma control and quality-of-life questionnaire scores. There was no difference in reported exacerbations between treatments. Both treatments were well tolerated, with no clinically relevant effect on urinary cortisol excretion or vital signs and no treatment-related serious adverse events. Conclusions: The efficacy of once-daily FF/VI was similar to bid FP/SAL in improving lung function in patients with persistent asthma. No safety issues were identified. Trial registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; No.: NCT01147848; URL: www.clinicaltrials.gov PMID:23846316

Development and comparison of immunochromatographic strips with three nanomaterial labels: Colloidal gold, nanogold-polyaniline-nanogold microspheres (GPGs) and colloidal carbon for visual detection of salbutamol.

PubMed

Liu, Bing; Wang, Lingling; Tong, Bei; Zhang, Yan; Sheng, Wei; Pan, Mingfei; Wang, Shuo

2016-11-15

In this study, the three nanomaterials: colloidal gold, nanogold-polyaniline-nanogold microspheres (GPGs) and colloidal carbon were respectively labeled with the antibody against salbutamol (SAL). We aimed to develop immunochromatographic strips with these nanomaterial labels and determine their performance in visual detection of SAL. For the colloidal gold-based strip, the detection limit of SAL was 1.0µgL(-1) in standard solution and 5.0µgkg(-1) in meat samples. For the GPG- and colloidal carbon-based strips, the limit of detection was 2.0µgL(-1) in standard solution and 10µgkg(-1) in meat samples. The results obtained using the test strips were found to be highly consistent with those obtained using a commercial kit, indicating the high accuracy of these strips. The three strips were also found to be stable up to 18 weeks under laboratory conditions. In terms of sensitivity, the colloidal gold-based strip was slightly better than the other two. For the GPG- and colloidal carbon-based strips, the difference between the results obtained for different batches was small (high consistency), and the stability was much better than that of the colloidal gold-based one. Our results indicate that colloidal carbon can be used as a label in immunochromatographic tests; it can also help reduce the cost involved and scale-up the production. The use of immunochromatographic test strips labeled with colloidal carbon can be a rapid and inexpensive method for SAL assays in on-site applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Priming Effect of a Morning Meal on Hepatic Glucose Disposition Later in the Day

PubMed Central

Smith, Marta S.; Farmer, Ben; Kraft, Guillaume; Shiota, Masakazu; Williams, Phillip E.; Cherrington, Alan D.

2017-01-01

We used hepatic balance and tracer ([3H]glucose) techniques to examine the impact of “breakfast” on hepatic glucose metabolism later in the same day. From 0–240 min, 2 groups of conscious dogs (n = 9 dogs/group) received a duodenal infusion of glucose (GLC) or saline (SAL), then were fasted from 240–360 min. Three dogs from each group were euthanized and tissue collected at 360 min. From 360–600 min, the remaining dogs underwent a hyperinsulinemic (4× basal) hyperglycemic clamp (arterial blood glucose 146 ± 2 mg/dL) with portal GLC infusion. The total GLC infusion rate was 14% greater in dogs infused with GLC than in those receiving SAL (AUC360–600min 2,979 ± 296 vs. 2,597 ± 277 mg/kg, respectively). The rates of hepatic glucose uptake (5.8 ± 0.8 vs. 3.2 ± 0.3 mg ⋅ kg−1 ⋅ min−1) and glycogen storage (4.7 ± 0.6 vs. 2.9 ± 0.3 mg ⋅ kg−1 ⋅ min−1) during the clamp were markedly greater in dogs receiving GLC compared with those receiving SAL. Hepatic glycogen content was ∼50% greater, glycogen synthase activity was ∼50% greater, glycogen phosphorylase activity was ∼50% lower, and the amount of phosphorylated glycogen synthase was 34% lower, indicating activation of the enzyme, in dogs receiving GLC compared with those receiving SAL. Thus, morning GLC primed the liver to extract and store more glucose in the presence of hyperinsulinemic hyperglycemia later in the same day, indicating that breakfast enhances the liver’s role in glucose disposal in subsequent same-day meals. PMID:28174290

Very Mild Hypothermia (35°C) Postischemia Reduces Infarct Volume and Blood/Brain Barrier Breakdown Following tPA Treatment in the Mouse.

PubMed

Cechmanek, Brian K; Tuor, Ursula I; Rushforth, David; Barber, Philip A

2015-12-01

Reperfusion therapies for stroke diminish in effectiveness and safety as time to treatment increases. Hypothermia neuroprotection for stroke is established, but its clinical translation has been hampered by uncertainties regarding optimal temperature and complications associated with moderate hypothermia. Also, hypothermia targeting temperatures of 32-33°C is associated with clinical and logistical problems related to induction and adverse side effects. We hypothesized that ischemic damage and tPA-exacerbated blood/brain barrier (BBB) breakdown produced following 30 minutes of middle cerebral artery occlusion and either 1 hour of saline or tPA infusion would be reduced by treatment with very mild cooling of 1.5°C for 48 hours followed by 24 hours of gradual rewarming. Infarct volume was reduced by 29.6% (p<0.001) and 41.9% (p<0.001) in hypothermic-tPA (Hypo_tPA)-treated and hypothermic-saline (Hypo_Sal)-treated animals compared to normothermic-tPA (Norm_tPA) and saline (Norm_Sal)-treated animals, respectively. Hypothermia also reduced IgG extravasation in tPA-treated, but not saline-treated groups compared to their normothermic controls (p<0.001). The ipsilateral-contralateral changes in optical density for IgG extravasation were 18.4% greater in the Norm_tPA than Norm_Sal (p<0.001) group. The ipsilateral-contralateral changes in optical density for IgG extravasation were reduced by 17.8% (p<0.001) in the Hypo_tPA compared to Norm_tPA group. No significant mean difference in IgG extravasation was seen between Hypo_tPA and Hypo_Sal groups (p>0.05). Very modest hypothermia to reduce the BBB breakdown could improve the availability and safety of reperfusion treatments for stroke.

LBSapSal-vaccinated dogs exhibit increased circulating T-lymphocyte subsets (CD4+ and CD8+) as well as a reduction of parasitism after challenge with Leishmania infantum plus salivary gland of Lutzomyia longipalpis

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The development of a protective vaccine against canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is an alternative approach for interrupting the domestic cycle of Leishmania infantum. Given the importance of sand fly salivary proteins as potent immunogens obligatorily co-deposited during transmission of Leishmania parasites, their inclusion in an anti-Leishmania vaccine has been investigated in the last few decades. In this context, we previously immunized dogs with a vaccine composed of L. braziliensis antigens plus saponin as the adjuvant and sand fly salivary gland extract (LBSapSal vaccine). This vaccine elicited an increase in both anti-saliva and anti-Leishmania IgG isotypes, higher counts of specific circulating CD8+ T cells, and high NO production. Methods We investigated the immunogenicity and protective effect of LBSapSal vaccination after intradermal challenge with 1 × 107 late-log-phase L. infantum promastigotes in the presence of sand fly saliva of Lutzomyia longipalpis. The dogs were followed for up to 885 days after challenge. Results The LBSapSal vaccine presents extensive antigenic diversity with persistent humoral and cellular immune responses, indicating resistance against CVL is triggered by high levels of total IgG and its subtypes (IgG1 and IgG2); expansion of circulating CD5+, CD4+, and CD8+ T lymphocytes and is Leishmania-specific; and reduction of splenic parasite load. Conclusions These results encourage further study of vaccine strategies addressing Leishmania antigens in combination with proteins present in the saliva of the vector. PMID:24507702

Bothrops jararaca envenomation: Pathogenesis of hemostatic disturbances and intravascular hemolysis.

PubMed

Senise, Luana V; Yamashita, Karine M; Santoro, Marcelo L

2015-11-01

To attain fully functional biological activity, vitamin-K dependent coagulation factors (VKDCF) are γ-carboxylated prior to secretion from liver. Warfarin impairs the γ-carboxylation, and consequently their physiological function. Bothrops jararaca snake venom (BjV) contains several activators of blood coagulation, especially procoagulant enzymes (prothrombin and factor X activators) and thrombin-like enzymes. In order to clarify the relative contribution of prothrombin and factor X activators to the hemostatic disturbances occurring during experimental B. jararaca envenomation, warfarin was used to deplete VKDCF, prior to BjV administration. Male Wistar rats were pretreated with saline (Sal) or warfarin (War) and inoculated subsequently with BjV or saline, thus forming four groups: Sal + Sal (negative control), Sal + BjV (positive control), War + Sal (warfarinization control), and War + BjV. Three hours after inoculation, prothrombin and factor X levels fell 40% and 50%, respectively; levels of both factors decreased more than 97% in the War + Sal and War + BjV groups. Platelet counts dropped 93% and 76% in Sal + BjV and War + BjV, respectively, and plasma fibrinogen levels decreased 86% exclusively in Sal + BjV. After 6 and 24 h, platelet counts and fibrinogen levels increased progressively. A dramatic augmentation in plasma hemoglobin levels and the presence of schizocytes and microcytes in the Sal + BjV group indicated the development of intravascular hemolysis, which was prevented by warfarin pretreatment. Our findings show that intravascular thrombin generation has the foremost role in the pathogenesis of coagulopathy and intravascular hemolysis, but not in the development of thrombocytopenia, in B. jararaca envenomation in rats; in addition, fibrinogenases (metalloproteinases) may contribute to coagulopathy more than thrombin-like enzymes. © 2015 by the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine.

Prenatal treatment prevents learning deficit in Down syndrome model.

PubMed

Incerti, Maddalena; Horowitz, Kari; Roberson, Robin; Abebe, Daniel; Toso, Laura; Caballero, Madeline; Spong, Catherine Y

2012-01-01

Down syndrome is the most common genetic cause of mental retardation. Active fragments of neurotrophic factors release by astrocyte under the stimulation of vasoactive intestinal peptide, NAPVSIPQ (NAP) and SALLRSIPA (SAL) respectively, have shown therapeutic potential for developmental delay and learning deficits. Previous work demonstrated that NAP+SAL prevent developmental delay and glial deficit in Ts65Dn that is a well-characterized mouse model for Down syndrome. The objective of this study is to evaluate if prenatal treatment with these peptides prevents the learning deficit in the Ts65Dn mice. Pregnant Ts65Dn female and control pregnant females were randomly treated (intraperitoneal injection) on pregnancy days 8 through 12 with saline (placebo) or peptides (NAP 20 µg +SAL 20 µg) daily. Learning was assessed in the offspring (8-10 months) using the Morris Watermaze, which measures the latency to find the hidden platform (decrease in latency denotes learning). The investigators were blinded to the prenatal treatment and genotype. Pups were genotyped as trisomic (Down syndrome) or euploid (control) after completion of all tests. two-way ANOVA followed by Neuman-Keuls test for multiple comparisons, P<0.05 was used to denote statistical significance. Trisomic mice who prenatally received placebo (Down syndrome-placebo; n = 11) did not demonstrate learning over the five day period. DS mice that were prenatally exposed to peptides (Down syndrome-peptides; n = 10) learned significantly better than Down syndrome-placebo (p<0.01), and similar to control-placebo (n = 33) and control-peptide (n = 30). In conclusion prenatal treatment with the neuroprotective peptides (NAP+SAL) prevented learning deficits in a Down syndrome model. These findings highlight a possibility for the prevention of sequelae in Down syndrome and suggest a potential pregnancy intervention that may improve outcome.

Is the transposition of the nipple-areolar complex necessary in Simon grade 2b gynecomastia operations using suction-assisted liposuction?

PubMed

Özalp, Burhan; Berköz, Ömer; Aydınol, Mustafa

2018-02-01

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of suction-assisted liposuction (SAL) in Simon grade 2b gynecomastia and its effect on sternal notch to nipple areola (SNN) distance. A retrospective analysis was performed on 21 patients with grade 2b gynecomastia who underwent SAL. Preoperative and postoperative SNN distances of the patients were measured, the results were analysed using a Mann-Whitney U test and a p-value <.05 was accepted as statistically significant. Aesthetic results were evaluated by the surgical team considering five criteria: breast size, breast shape, nipple-areolar complex positioning, scarring, and skin tightness of the breast envelope. A 10-point Likert scale was used to assess patient satisfaction with SAL surgery. All of the patients were followed up for an average period of 17.8 months (range = 12-28 months). The mean amount of lipoaspirate was 232 mL per breast (range = 190-310 mL). The mean preoperative SNN distance was 22.3 cm (range = 20-23.5 cm), whereas postoperative was 21.3 cm (range = 19.2-22.8 cm); the difference was statistically significant (p < .05). There was one case of nipple areola necrosis, three hypoesthesia, five persistent pains, and four slight buttonhole deformities. The aesthetic result was evaluated as very good by the surgical team, and the overall patient satisfaction rate in terms of breast shape and volume was 92%. It was concluded that SAL provides a good aesthetic outcome in patients with Simon grade 2b gynecomastia and shortens the SNN distance by 1 cm, but further clinical studies are required to support this conclusion.

Effects of growth hormone treatment on the pituitary expression of GHRH receptor mRNA in uremic rats.

PubMed

Ferrando, Susana; Rodríguez, Julián; Santos, Fernando; Weruaga, Ana; Fernández, Marta; Carbajo, Eduardo; García, Enrique

2002-09-01

A decreased ability of pituitary cells to secrete growth hormone (GH) in response to growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) stimulation has been shown in young uremic rats. The aim of the current study was to examine the effect of uremia and GH treatment on pituitary GHRH receptor expression. Pituitary GHRH receptor mRNA levels were analyzed by RNase protection assay in young female rats made uremic by subtotal nephrectomy, either untreated (UREM) or treated with 10 IU/kg/day of GH (UREM-GH), and normal renal function animals fed ad libitum (SAL) or pair-fed with the UREM group (SPF). Rats were sacrificed 14 days after the second stage nephrectomy. Renal failure was confirmed by concentrations (X +/- SEM) of serum urea nitrogen (mmol/L) and creatinine (micromol/L) in UREM (20 +/- 1 and 89.4 +/- 4.5) and UREM-GH (16 +/- 1 and 91.4 +/- 6.9) that were much higher (P < 0.001) than those of sham animals (SAL, 3 +/- 0 and 26.5 +/- 2.2; SPF, 4 +/- 0 and 26.5 +/- 2.1). UREM rats became growth retarded as shown by a daily longitudinal tibia growth rate below (P < 0.05) that observed in SAL animals (156 +/- 3 vs. 220 +/- 5 microm/day). GH treatment resulted in significant growth rate acceleration (213 +/- 6 microm/day). GHRH receptor mRNA levels were no different among the SAL (0.43 +/- 0.03), SPF (0.43 +/- 0.08) and UREM (0.44 +/- 0.04) groups, whereas UREM-GH rats had significantly higher values (0.72 +/- 0.07). The status of pituitary GHRH receptor is not modified by nutritional deficit or by severe uremia causing growth retardation. By contrast, the growth promoting effect of GH administration is associated with stimulated GHRH receptor gene expression.

Changes in B-mode ultrasound echo intensity following injection of bupivacaine hydrochloride to rat hind limb muscles in relation to histologic changes.

PubMed

Fujikake, T; Hart, R; Nosaka, Kazunori

2009-04-01

This study tested the hypothesis that infiltration of inflammatory cells in muscle fibers would increase echo intensity (image brightness) of B-mode ultrasound images. Bupivacaine hydrochloride (BPVC) or saline solution (SAL) was injected to the tibialis anterior (TA) muscles of 14- to 23-wk-old male Wistar rats. Ultrasound images were taken from the muscles before and at 0, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 24, 48, 72, 120, 168 and 336 h after the injection and analyzed for the echo intensity (echogenicity) expressed as the mean value of image pixel value of a region-of-interest. Changes in the echo intensity were compared between BPVC-injected and control or SAL-injected muscles. In the subsequent study, rats (n = 2 per time point) were sacrificed after taking ultrasound image at 0, 2, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 168 h after BPVC injection to the right TA and SAL injection to the left TA to observe histologic changes under a light microscope and the relationship between echo intensity and inflammatory cells was assessed. No significant changes in echo intensity were observed for the control, but BPVC induced significant (p < 0.05) increases in the echo intensity peaking 0 to 24 h postinjection. SAL also increased echo intensity immediately after injection but returned to the baseline by 24 h postinjection. The time course of changes in the echo intensity did not match with the time course of increases in inflammatory cells in the muscle. It is concluded that infiltration of inflammatory cells is not a direct cause of the increased echo intensity.

Dietary fish protein hydrolysates containing bioactive motifs affect serum and adipose tissue fatty acid compositions, serum lipids, postprandial glucose regulation and growth in obese Zucker fa/fa rats.

PubMed

Drotningsvik, Aslaug; Mjøs, Svein A; Pampanin, Daniela M; Slizyte, Rasa; Carvajal, Ana; Remman, Tore; Høgøy, Ingmar; Gudbrandsen, Oddrun A

2016-10-01

The world's fisheries and aquaculture industries produce vast amounts of protein-containing by-products that can be enzymatically hydrolysed to smaller peptides and possibly be used as additives to functional foods and nutraceuticals targeted for patients with obesity-related metabolic disorders. To investigate the effects of fish protein hydrolysates on markers of metabolic disorders, obese Zucker fa/fa rats consumed diets with 75 % of protein from casein/whey (CAS) and 25 % from herring (HER) or salmon (SAL) protein hydrolysate from rest raw material, or 100 % protein from CAS for 4 weeks. The fatty acid compositions were similar in the experimental diets, and none of them contained any long-chain n-3 PUFA. Ratios of lysine:arginine and methionine:glycine were lower in HER and SAL diets when compared with CAS, and taurine was detected only in fish protein hydrolysate diets. Motifs with reported hypocholesterolemic or antidiabetic activities were identified in both fish protein hydrolysates. Rats fed HER diet had lower serum HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol, and higher serum TAG, MUFA and n-3:n-6 PUFA ratio compared with CAS-fed rats. SAL rats gained more weight and had better postprandial glucose regulation compared with CAS rats. Serum lipids and fatty acids were only marginally affected by SAL, but adipose tissue contained less total SFA and more total n-3 PUFA when compared with CAS. To conclude, diets containing hydrolysed rest raw material from herring or salmon proteins may affect growth, lipid metabolism, postprandial glucose regulation and fatty acid composition in serum and adipose tissue in obese Zucker rats.

Cocaine induces state-dependent learning of sexual conditioning in male Japanese quail.

PubMed

Gill, Karin E; Rice, Beth Ann; Akins, Chana K

2015-01-01

State dependent learning effects have been widely studied in a variety of drugs of abuse. However, they have yet to be studied in relation to sexual motivation. The current study investigated state-dependent learning effects of cocaine in male Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) using a sexual conditioning paradigm. Cocaine-induced state-dependent learning effects were investigated using a 2×2 factorial design with training state as one factor and test state as the other factor. During a 14-day training phase, male quail were injected once daily with 10mg/kg cocaine or saline and then placed in a test chamber after 15min. In the test chamber, sexual conditioning trials consisted of presentation of a light conditioned stimulus (CS) followed by sexual reinforcement. During the state dependent test, half of the birds received a shift in drug state from training to testing (Coc→Sal or Sal→Coc) while the other half remained in the same drug state (Coc→Coc or Sal→Sal). Results showed that male quail that were trained and tested in the same state (Coc→Coc or Sal→Sal) showed greater sexual conditioning than male quail that were trained and tested in different states (Sal→Coc) except when cocaine was administered chronically prior to the test (Coc→Sal). For the latter condition, sexual conditioning persisted from cocaine training to the saline test. The findings suggest that state dependent effects may alter sexual motivation and that repeated exposure to cocaine during sexual activity may increase sexual motivation which, in turn, may lead to high risk sexual activities. An alternative explanation for the findings is also discussed. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of injectable anaesthesia with five medetomidine-midazolam based combinations in Egyptian fruit bats ( Rousettus aegyptiacus).

PubMed

Tuval, Avishag; Las, Liora; Shilo-Benjamini, Yael

2018-01-01

Egyptian fruit bats are increasingly used as model animals in neuroscience research. Our aim was to characterize suitable injectable anaesthesia for this species, possibly replacing inhalant anaesthesia, thus minimizing occupational health hazards. Eight bats were randomly assigned by a crossover design for subcutaneously administered combinations of medetomidine-midazolam with: saline (MM-Sal), ketamine (MM-Ket), fentanyl (MM-Fen), morphine (MM-Mor), or butorphanol (MM-But). The anaesthetic depth and vital signs were monitored at baseline and every 10 min until bats recovered. If after 180 min the bats did not recover, atipamezole was administered. Mean induction times were 7-11.5 min with all combinations. Twitching during induction was common. All combinations produced anaesthesia, with significantly decreased heart rate (from 400 to 200 bpm) and respiratory rate (from 120-140 to 36-65 rpm). Arrhythmia and irregular breathing patterns occurred. MM-Fen, MM-Mor, and MM-But depressed respiration significantly more than MM-Sal. Time to first movement with MM-Ket and MM-But lasted significantly longer than with MM-Sal. Recovery time was significantly shorter in the MM-Sal (88 min) in comparison to all other treatments, and it was significantly longer in the MM-But (159 min), with atipamezole administered to four of the eight bats. In conclusion, all five anaesthetic protocols are suitable for Egyptian fruit bats; MM-Ket produces long anaesthesia and minimal respiratory depression, but cannot be antagonized completely. MM-Fen, MM-Mor, and MM-But depress respiration, but are known to produce good analgesia, and can be fully antagonized. Administration of atipamezole following the use of MM-But in Egyptian fruit bats is recommended.

Involvement of β3-adrenergic receptors in the control of food intake in rats.

PubMed

Kanzler, S A; Januario, A C; Paschoalini, M A

2011-11-01

This study examined the food intake changes evoked by intracerebroventricular (icv) injection of a selective agonist (BRL37344, 2 and 20 nmol) or antagonist (SR59230A, 10 and 50 nmol) of β3-adrenergic receptors in 24-h fasted rats (adult male Wistar rats, 200-350 g, N = 6/treatment). The animals were also pretreated with saline icv (SAL) or SR59230A (50 nmol) followed by BRL37344 (20 nmol) or SAL in order to determine the selectivity of the effects evoked by BRL37344 on food intake or the selectivity of the effects evoked by SR59230A on risk assessment (RA) behavior. The highest dose of BRL37344 (N = 7) decreased food intake 1 h after the treatment (6.4 ± 0.5 g in SAL-treated vs 4.2 ± 0.8 g in drug-treated rats). While both doses of SR59230A failed to affect food intake (5.1 ± 1.1 g for 10 nmol and 6.0 ± 1.8 g for 50 nmol), this treatment reduced the RA frequency (number/30 min) (4 ± 2 for SAL-treated vs 1 ± 1 for 10 nmol and 0.5 ± 1 for 50 nmol SR59230A-treated rats), an ethological parameter related to anxiety. While pretreatment with SR59230A (7.0 ± 0.5 g) abolished the hypophagia induced by BRL37344 (3.6 ± 0.9 g), BRL37344 suppressed the reduction in RA frequency caused by SR59230A. These results show that the hypophagia caused by BRL37344 is selectively mediated by β3-adrenergic receptors within the central nervous system. Moreover, they suggest the involvement of these receptors in the control of anxiety.

Prior sprint cycling did not enhance training adaptation, but resting salivary hormones were related to workout power and strength.

PubMed

Crewther, Blair T; Lowe, Tim; Weatherby, Robert P; Gill, Nicholas

2009-04-01

This study examined the effect of cycle sprints as a potentiating stimulus for power and strength adaptation in semi-elite athletes. Eighteen rugby players were assigned into training groups that completed either a 40-s cycle sprint (T(SPRINT)) or rested (T(CONTROL)) before each workout (n = 6-8) of a 4-week programme. Squat jump (SJ) peak power (PP) and mean power (MP), and box squat (BS) one repetition maximum (1RM) strength were assessed every workout. Saliva was collected across each workout and assayed for testosterone (Sal-T) and cortisol (Sal-C). The T(SPRINT) and T(CONTROL) groups both showed significant improvements in SJ PP (8.2 +/- 2.9 vs. 11.9 +/- 3.6%), SJ MP (11.8 +/- 2.6 vs. 18.6 +/- 4.8%) and BS 1RM (20.5 +/- 2.6 vs. 23.2 +/- 1.3%), respectively. However, there were no group differences in training adaptation, workout performance or the workout hormonal responses. As a combined group (all players), significant relationships were demonstrated between resting Sal-T and/or Sal-C concentrations and absolute SJ power (r = 0.20-0.30) and BS strength (r = 0.36-0.44) across all workouts. For individual players, the respective relationships with SJ power (r = 0.22-0.42) and BS strength (r = 0.41-0.49) were, on average, found to be stronger. In conclusion, leg workouts performed with or without prior cycle sprints can produce similar power and strength improvements in semi-elite rugby players. Resting salivary hormone concentrations appear important for workout performance, especially for individuals, thereby potentially moderating training adaptation.

Impact of introducing subsidized combination treatment with artemether-lumefantrine on sales of anti-malarial monotherapies: a survey of private sector pharmacies in Huambo, Angola.

PubMed

Lussiana, Cristina; Floridia, Marco; Martinho do Rosário, Joana; Fortes, Filomeno; Allan, Richard

2016-12-01

Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) against malaria are subsidized in many African countries, but the impact of subsidy programs in reducing the sales of concomitantly available antimalarial monotherapies is poorly defined. Data from The MENTOR initiative, that introduced subsidized artemether-lumefantrine (sAL) in the private sector of Huambo province, Angola, were used. The main response variable was represented by sales of sAL and of monotherapies, measured as number of treatment courses. Sales in private pharmacies of sAL and four antimalarial monotherapies between 2009 and 2013 were organized in four time-periods, and analyzed using generalized linear models for repeated measures. A secondary analysis evaluated changes in relative market share. We analyzed data from 34 pharmacies at four time points, taken from a larger survey that involved 165 pharmacies between June 2009 and March 2013. The sAL, following its introduction, became the dominant antimalarial treatment in the private sector, usually exceeding the total sales of all antimalarial monotherapies combined (1480/2800 total treatment courses, 52.8% of all sales in March 2013). Sales of monotherapies decreased significantly, but did not stop, representing 36.7% (1028/2800) of sales at the end of the survey. Subsidized ACTs can attain rapidly a high relative market share. Their introduction reduced, but did not eliminate the demand for less effective monotherapies, that might favor parasite resistance. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Dynamic factor analysis of long-term growth trends of the intertidal seagrass Thalassia hemprichii in southern Taiwan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuo, Yi-Ming; Lin, Hsing-Juh

2010-01-01

We examined environmental factors which are most responsible for the 8-year temporal dynamics of the intertidal seagrass Thalassia hemprichii in southern Taiwan. A dynamic factor analysis (DFA), a dimension-reduction technique, was applied to identify common trends in a multivariate time series and the relationships between this series and interacting environmental variables. The results of dynamic factor models (DFMs) showed that the leaf growth rate of the seagrass was mainly influenced by salinity (Sal), tidal range (TR), turbidity ( K), and a common trend representing an unexplained variability in the observed time series. Sal was the primary variable that explained the temporal dynamics of the leaf growth rate compared to TR and K. K and TR had larger influences on the leaf growth rate in low- than in high-elevation beds. In addition to K, TR, and Sal, UV-B radiation (UV-B), sediment depth (SD), and a common trend accounted for long-term temporal variations of the above-ground biomass. Thus, K, TR, Sal, UV-B, and SD are the predominant environmental variables that described temporal growth variations of the intertidal seagrass T. hemprichii in southern Taiwan. In addition to environmental variables, human activities may be contributing to negative impacts on the seagrass beds; this human interference may have been responsible for the unexplained common trend in the DFMs. Due to successfully applying the DFA to analyze complicated ecological and environmental data in this study, important environmental variables and impacts of human activities along the coast should be taken into account when managing a coastal environment for the conservation of intertidal seagrass beds.

Sertraline inhibits formalin-induced nociception and cardiovascular responses

PubMed Central

Santuzzi, C.H.; Futuro Neto, H.A.; Pires, J.G.P.; Gonçalves, W.L.S.; Tiradentes, R.V.; Gouvea, S.A.; Abreu, G.R.

2011-01-01

The objective of the present study was to determine the antihyperalgesic effect of sertraline, measured indirectly by the changes of sciatic afferent nerve activity, and its effects on cardiorespiratory parameters, using the model of formalin-induced inflammatory nociception in anesthetized rats. Serum serotonin (5-HT) levels were measured in order to test their correlation with the analgesic effect. Male Wistar rats (250-300 g) were divided into 4 groups (N = 8 per group): sertraline-treated group (Sert + Saline (Sal) and Sert + Formalin (Form); 3 mg·kg−1·day−1, ip, for 7 days) and saline-treated group (Sal + Sal and Sal + Form). The rats were injected with 5% (50 µL) formalin or saline into the right hind paw. Sciatic nerve activity was recorded using a silver electrode connected to a NeuroLog apparatus, and cardiopulmonary parameters (mean arterial pressure, heart rate and respiratory frequency), assessed after arterial cannulation and tracheotomy, were monitored using a Data Acquisition System. Blood samples were collected from the animals and serum 5-HT levels were determined by ELISA. Formalin injection induced the following changes: sciatic afferent nerve activity (+50.8 ± 14.7%), mean arterial pressure (+1.4 ± 3 mmHg), heart rate (+13 ± 6.8 bpm), respiratory frequency (+4.6 ± 5 cpm) and serum 5-HT increased to 1162 ± 124.6 ng/mL. Treatment with sertraline significantly reduced all these parameters (respectively: +19.8 ± 6.9%, -3.3 ± 2 mmHg, -13.1 ± 10.8 bpm, -9.8 ± 5.7 cpm) and serum 5-HT level dropped to 634 ± 69 ng/mL (P < 0.05). These results suggest that sertraline plays an analgesic role in formalin-induced nociception probably through a serotonergic mechanism. PMID:22086464

Effect of dry air on interface smoothening in reactive sputter deposited Co/Ti multilayer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biswas, A.; Porwal, A.; Bhattacharya, Debarati; Prajapat, C. L.; Ghosh, Arnab; Nand, Mangla; Nayak, C.; Rai, S.; Jha, S. N.; Singh, M. R.; Bhattacharyya, D.; Basu, S.; Sahoo, N. K.

2017-09-01

Top surface roughness and interface roughness are one of the key elements which determine the performance of X-ray and neutron thin film multilayer devices. It has been observed that by mixing air with argon in sputtering ambience during deposition of Co layers, polarized neutron reflectivity (PNR) of Co/Ti supermirror polarizers can be improved substantially. Cross-sectional HRTEM measurement reveals that sharper interfaces in the supermirror can be achieved in case of deposition of the multilayer under mixed ambience of argon and air. In order to investigate this interface modification mechanism further, in this communication two sets of tri-layer Co/Ti/Co samples and 20-layer Co/Ti periodic multilayer samples have been prepared; in one set all the layers are deposited only under argon ambience and in the other set, Co layers are deposited under a mixed ambience of argon and air. These samples have been characterized by measuring specular and non-specular X-ray reflectivities (GIXR) with X-rays of 1.54 Å wavelength and polarized neutron reflectivity (PNR) with neutron of 2.5 Å wavelength at grazing angle of incidence. It has been observed that the X-ray and neutron specular reflectivities at Bragg peaks of 20 layer periodic multilayer increase when Co layers are deposited under mixed ambience of argon and air. The detail information regarding the effect of air on the interfaces and magnetic properties has been obtained by fitting the measured spectra. The above information has subsequently been supplemented by XRD and magnetic measurements on the samples. XPS and XANES measurements have also been carried out to investigate whether cobalt oxide or cobalt nitride layers are being formed due to use of air in sputtering ambience.

US EPA Nonattainment Areas and Designations-SO2 (2010 NAAQS)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This web service contains the following layer: SO2 2010 NAAQS State Level. Full FGDC metadata records for each layer may be found by clicking the layer name at the web service endpoint (https://gispub.epa.gov/arcgis/rest/services/OAR_OAQPS/NAA2010SO21hour/MapServer) and viewing the layer description. These layers identify areas in the U.S. where air pollution levels have not met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria air pollutants and have been designated nonattainment?? areas (NAA). The data are updated weekly from an OAQPS internal database. However, that does not necessarily mean the data have changed. The EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six principal pollutants, which are called criteria pollutants. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which is intended to improve the quality of the air we breathe, EPA is required to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six common air pollutants. These commonly found air pollutants (also known as criteria pollutants) are found all over the United States. They are particle pollution (often referred to as particulate matter), ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. For each criteria pollutant, there are specific procedures used for measuring ambient concentrations and for calculating long-term (quarterly or annual) and/or short-term (24-hour) exposure levels. The methods and a

US EPA Nonattainment Areas and Designations-24 Hour PM2.5 (2006 NAAQS)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This web service contains the following layers: PM2.5 24hr 2006 NAAQS State Level and PM2.5 24hr 2006 NAAQS National. Full FGDC metadata records for each layer may be found by clicking the layer name at the web service endpoint (https://gispub.epa.gov/arcgis/rest/services/OAR_OAQPS/NAA2006PM2524hour/MapServer) and viewing the layer description. These layers identify areas in the U.S. where air pollution levels have not met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria air pollutants and have been designated nonattainment?? areas (NAA). The data are updated weekly from an OAQPS internal database. However, that does not necessarily mean the data have changed. The EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six principal pollutants, which are called criteria pollutants. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which is intended to improve the quality of the air we breathe, EPA is required to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six common air pollutants. These commonly found air pollutants (also known as criteria pollutants) are found all over the United States. They are particle pollution (often referred to as particulate matter), ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. For each criteria pollutant, there are specific procedures used for measuring ambient concentrations and for calculating long-term (quarterly or annual) and/or short-ter

US EPA Nonattainment Areas and Designations-Annual PM2.5 (1997 NAAQS)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This web service contains the following layers: PM2.5 Annual 1997 NAAQS State Level and PM2.5 Annual 1997 NAAQS National . It also contains the following tables: maps99.FRED_MAP_VIEWER.%fred_area_map_data and maps99.FRED_MAP_VIEWER.%fred_area_map_view. Full FGDC metadata records for each layer may be found by clicking the layer name at the web service endpoint (https://gispub.epa.gov/arcgis/rest/services/OAR_OAQPS/NAA1997PM25Annual/MapServer) and viewing the layer description.These layers identify areas in the U.S. where air pollution levels have not met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria air pollutants and have been designated nonattainment?? areas (NAA). The data are updated weekly from an OAQPS internal database. However, that does not necessarily mean the data have changed. The EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six principal pollutants, which are called criteria pollutants. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which is intended to improve the quality of the air we breathe, EPA is required to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six common air pollutants. These commonly found air pollutants (also known as criteria pollutants) are found all over the United States. They are particle pollution (often referred to as particulate matter), ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. For each criteria pollutant, there

US EPA Nonattainment Areas and Designations-Annual PM2.5 (2012 NAAQS)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This web service contains the following layer: PM2.5 Annual 2012 NAAQS State Level. Full FGDC metadata records for each layer may be found by clicking the layer name at the web service endpoint (https://gispub.epa.gov/arcgis/rest/services/OAR_OAQPS/NAA2012PM25Annual/MapServer) and viewing the layer description. These layers identify areas in the U.S. where air pollution levels have not met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria air pollutants and have been designated nonattainment?? areas (NAA). The data are updated weekly from an OAQPS internal database. However, that does not necessarily mean the data have changed. The EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six principal pollutants, which are called criteria pollutants. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which is intended to improve the quality of the air we breathe, EPA is required to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six common air pollutants. These commonly found air pollutants (also known as criteria pollutants) are found all over the United States. They are particle pollution (often referred to as particulate matter), ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. For each criteria pollutant, there are specific procedures used for measuring ambient concentrations and for calculating long-term (quarterly or annual) and/or short-term (24-hour) exposure levels. The me

US EPA Nonattainment Areas and Designations

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This web service contains the following state level layers:Ozone 8-hr (1997 standard), Ozone 8-hr (2008 standard), Lead (2008 standard), SO2 1-hr (2010 standard), PM2.5 24hr (2006 standard), PM2.5 Annual (1997 standard), PM2.5 Annual (2012 standard), and PM10 (1987 standard). Full FGDC metadata records for each layer may be found by clicking the layer name at the web service endpoint (https://gispub.epa.gov/arcgis/rest/services/OAR_OAQPS/NonattainmentAreas/MapServer) and viewing the layer description. These layers identify areas in the U.S. where air pollution levels have not met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria air pollutants and have been designated nonattainment?? areas (NAA). The data are updated weekly from an OAQPS internal database. However, that does not necessarily mean the data have changed. The EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS) has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six principal pollutants, which are called criteria pollutants. Under provisions of the Clean Air Act, which is intended to improve the quality of the air we breathe, EPA is required to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six common air pollutants. These commonly found air pollutants (also known as criteria pollutants) are found all over the United States. They are particle pollution (often referred to as particulate matter), ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and lead. For each

Clear-air radar observations of the atmospheric boundary layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ince, Turker

2001-10-01

This dissertation presents the design and operation of a high-resolution frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FM- CW) radar system to study the structure and dynamics of clear-air turbulence in the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL). This sensitive radar can image the vertical structure of the ABL with both high spatial and temporal resolutions, and provide both qualitative information about the morphology of clear-air structures and quantitative information on the intensity of fluctuations in refractive-index of air. The principles of operation and the hardware and data acquisition characteristics of the radar are described in the dissertation. In October 1999, the radar participated in the Cooperative Atmosphere-Surface Exchange Study (CASES'99) Experiment to characterize the temporal structure and evolution of the boundary-layer features in both convective and stable conditions. The observed structures include clear-air convection, boundary layer evolution, gravity waves, Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities, stably stratified layers, and clear-air turbulence. Many of the S-band radar images also show high- reflectivity returns from Rayleigh scatterers such as insects. An adaptive median filtering technique based on local statistics has, therefore, been developed to discriminate between Bragg and Rayleigh scattering in clear-air radar observations. The filter is tested on radar observations of clear air convection with comparison to two commonly used image processing techniques. The dissertation also examines the statistical mean of the radar-measured C2n for clear-air convection, and compares it with the theoretical predictions. The study also shows that the inversion height, local thickness of the inversion layer, and the height of the elevated atmospheric layers can be estimated from the radar reflectivity measurements. In addition, comparisons to the radiosonde-based height estimates are made. To examine the temporal and spatial structure of C2n , the dissertation presents two case studies with the measurements of remote (the FM-CW radar and Doppler lidar) and in-situ (research aircraft, kite, and radiosonde) sensors from the stable nighttime boundary layer. It also presents a unique observation of evolution of the convective and nocturnal boundary layers by the S-band radar, and provides description of the observed boundary layer characteristics with the aid of in-situ measurements by the 55m instrumented tower and radiosonde.

Vehicle cabin cooling system for capturing and exhausting heated boundary layer air from inner surfaces of solar heated windows

DOEpatents

Farrington, Robert B.; Anderson, Ren

2001-01-01

The cabin cooling system includes a cooling duct positioned proximate and above upper edges of one or more windows of a vehicle to exhaust hot air as the air is heated by inner surfaces of the windows and forms thin boundary layers of heated air adjacent the heated windows. The cabin cooling system includes at least one fan to draw the hot air into the cooling duct at a flow rate that captures the hot air in the boundary layer without capturing a significant portion of the cooler cabin interior air and to discharge the hot air at a point outside the vehicle cabin, such as the vehicle trunk. In a preferred embodiment, the cooling duct has a cross-sectional area that gradually increases from a distal point to a proximal point to the fan inlet to develop a substantially uniform pressure drop along the length of the cooling duct. Correspondingly, this cross-sectional configuration develops a uniform suction pressure and uniform flow rate at the upper edge of the window to capture the hot air in the boundary layer adjacent each window.

Thickened boundary layer theory for air film drag reduction on a van body surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Xiaopeng; Cao, Lifeng; Huang, Heng

2018-05-01

To elucidate drag reduction mechanism on a van body surface under air film condition, a thickened boundary layer theory was proposed and a frictional resistance calculation model of the van body surface was established. The frictional resistance on the van body surface was calculated with different parameters of air film thickness. In addition, the frictional resistance of the van body surface under the air film condition was analyzed by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation and different air film states that influenced the friction resistance on the van body surface were discussed. As supported by the CFD simulation results, the thickened boundary layer theory may provide reference for practical application of air film drag reduction on a van body surface.

Co-localization of polar replication fork barriers and rRNA transcription terminators in mouse rDNA.

PubMed

López-estraño, C; Schvartzman, J B; Krimer, D B; Hernández, P

1998-03-27

We investigated the replication of the region where transcription terminates in mouse rDNA. It contains a replication fork barrier (RFB) that behaves in a polar manner, arresting only replication forks moving in the direction opposite to transcription. This RFB consists of several closely spaced fork arrest sites that co-localize with the transcription terminator elements, known as Sal boxes. Sal boxes are the target for mTTF-I (murine transcription termination factor I). These results suggest that both termination of rRNA transcription and replication fork arrest may share cis-acting as well as trans-acting factors. Copyright 1998 Academic Press Limited.

An all-optronic synthetic aperture lidar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turbide, Simon; Marchese, Linda; Terroux, Marc; Babin, François; Bergeron, Alain

2012-09-01

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is a mature technology that overcomes the diffraction limit of an imaging system's real aperture by taking advantage of the platform motion to coherently sample multiple sections of an aperture much larger than the physical one. Synthetic Aperture Lidar (SAL) is the extension of SAR to much shorter wavelengths (1.5 μm vs 5 cm). This new technology can offer higher resolution images in day or night time as well as in certain adverse conditions. It could be a powerful tool for Earth monitoring (ship detection, frontier surveillance, ocean monitoring) from aircraft, unattended aerial vehicle (UAV) or spatial platforms. A continuous flow of high-resolution images covering large areas would however produce a large amount of data involving a high cost in term of post-processing computational time. This paper presents a laboratory demonstration of a SAL system complete with image reconstruction based on optronic processing. This differs from the more traditional digital approach by its real-time processing capability. The SAL system is discussed and images obtained from a non-metallic diffuse target at ranges up to 3m are shown, these images being processed by a real-time optronic SAR processor origiinally designed to reconstruct SAR images from ENVISAT/ASAR data.

Mutations in UBQLN2 and SIGMAR1 genes are rare in Korean patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Kim, Hee-Jung; Kwon, Min-Jung; Choi, Won-Jun; Oh, Ki-Wook; Oh, Seong-Il; Ki, Chang-Seok; Kim, Seung Hyun

2014-08-01

Mutations in the UBQLN2 and SIGMAR1 genes were recently identified in X-linked dominant amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and/or frontotemporal dementia (ALS and/or FTD) and FTD and/or motor neuron disease, respectively. Subsequent studies, however, found that UBQLN2 mutations were rare, and the pathogenicity of SIGMAR1 mutation in FTD and/or motor neuron disease was controversial. In the present study, we analyzed mutations in the UBQLN2 and SIGMAR1 genes in a Korean cohort of 258 patients with familial ALS (n = 9) or sporadic (sALS; n = 258) ALS. One novel UBQLN2 variant (p.D314E) was observed in 2 patients with sALS and 5 of 727 controls indicating that this variant might be a rare polymorphism rather than a disease-causing mutation. A novel SIGMAR1 gene variant in the 3'-untranslated region (c.*58T>C) was found in 1 sALS and was absent in 727 control samples. Taken together, our data suggest that causative mutations in the UBQLN2 and SIGMAR1 genes are rare in Korean patients with either familial or sporadic ALS. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Metabolic fate of glucose in rats with traumatic brain injury and pyruvate or glucose treatments: A NMR spectroscopy study.

PubMed

Shijo, Katsunori; Sutton, Richard L; Ghavim, Sima S; Harris, Neil G; Bartnik-Olson, Brenda L

2017-01-01

Administration of sodium pyruvate (SP; 9.08 μmol/kg, i.p.), ethyl pyruvate (EP; 0.34 μmol/kg, i.p.) or glucose (GLC; 11.1 μmol/kg, i.p.) to rats after unilateral controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury has been reported to reduce neuronal loss and improve cerebral metabolism. In the present study these doses of each fuel or 8% saline (SAL; 5.47 nmoles/kg) were administered immediately and at 1, 3, 6 and 23 h post-CCI. At 24 h all CCI groups and non-treated Sham injury controls were infused with [1,2 13 C] glucose for 68 min 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra were obtained from cortex + hippocampus tissues from left (injured) and right (contralateral) hemispheres. All three fuels increased lactate labeling to a similar degree in the injured hemisphere. The amount of lactate labeled via the pentose phosphate and pyruvate recycling (PPP + PR) pathway increased in CCI-SAL and was not improved by SP, EP, and GLC treatments. Oxidative metabolism, as assessed by glutamate labeling, was reduced in CCI-SAL animals. The greatest improvement in oxidative metabolism was observed in animals treated with SP and fewer improvements after EP or GLC treatments. Compared to SAL, all three fuels restored glutamate and glutamine labeling via pyruvate carboxylase (PC), suggesting improved astrocyte metabolism following fuel treatment. Only SP treatments restored the amount of [4 13 C] glutamate labeled by the PPP + PR pathway to sham levels. Milder injury effects in the contralateral hemisphere appear normalized by either SP or EP treatments, as increases in the total pool of 13 C lactate and labeling of lactate in glycolysis, or decreases in the ratio of PC/PDH labeling of glutamine, were found only for CCI-SAL and CCI-GLC groups compared to Sham. The doses of SP, EP and GLC examined in this study all enhanced lactate labeling and restored astrocyte-specific PC activity but differentially affected neuronal metabolism after CCI injury. The restoration of astrocyte metabolism by all three fuel treatments may partially underlie their abilities to improve cerebral glucose utilization and to reduce neuronal loss following CCI injury. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Metabolic fate of glucose in rats with traumatic brain injury and pyruvate or glucose treatments: A NMR spectroscopy study

PubMed Central

Shijo, Katsunori; Sutton, Richard L.; Ghavim, Sima S.; Harris, Neil G.; Bartnik-Olson, Brenda L.

2016-01-01

Administration of sodium pyruvate (SP; 9.08 μmol/kg, i.p.), ethyl pyruvate (EP; 0.34 μmol/kg, i.p.) or glucose (GLC; 11.1 μmol/kg, i.p.) to rats after unilateral controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury has been reported to reduce neuronal loss and improve cerebral metabolism. In the present study these doses of each fuel or 8% saline (SAL; 5.47 nmoles/kg) were administered immediately and at 1, 3, 6 and 23 h post-CCI. At 24 h all CCI groups and non-treated Sham injury controls were infused with [1,2 13C] glucose for 68 min 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra were obtained from cortex + hippocampus tissues from left (injured) and right (contralateral) hemispheres. All three fuels increased lactate labeling to a similar degree in the injured hemisphere. The amount of lactate labeled via the pentose phosphate and pyruvate recycling (PPP + PR) pathway increased in CCI-SAL and was not improved by SP, EP, and GLC treatments. Oxidative metabolism, as assessed by glutamate labeling, was reduced in CCI-SAL animals. The greatest improvement in oxidative metabolism was observed in animals treated with SP and fewer improvements after EP or GLC treatments. Compared to SAL, all three fuels restored glutamate and glutamine labeling via pyruvate carboxylase (PC), suggesting improved astrocyte metabolism following fuel treatment. Only SP treatments restored the amount of [4 13C] glutamate labeled by the PPP + PR pathway to sham levels. Milder injury effects in the contralateral hemisphere appear normalized by either SP or EP treatments, as increases in the total pool of 13C lactate and labeling of lactate in glycolysis, or decreases in the ratio of PC/PDH labeling of glutamine, were found only for CCI-SAL and CCI-GLC groups compared to Sham. The doses of SP, EP and GLC examined in this study all enhanced lactate labeling and restored astrocyte-specific PC activity but differentially affected neuronal metabolism after CCI injury. The restoration of astrocyte metabolism by all three fuel treatments may partially underlie their abilities to improve cerebral glucose utilization and to reduce neuronal loss following CCI injury. PMID:27919624

Air-stable electrical conduction in oxidized poly[2-methoxy-5-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-p-phenylene vinylene] thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hossein-Babaei, F.; Shabani, P.; Azadinia, M.

2013-11-01

Oxidation-caused electroluminescence and electrical conduction deteriorations in poly[2-methoxy-5-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-p-phenylene vinylene] (MEH-PPV) have prevented the material from being used in applications requiring air exposure. Here, we report air-stable electrical conduction in oxidized MEH-PPV layers produced by room temperature annealing of MEH-PPV thin films in air. Oxidized layers exhibit lower, but stable, conductivities. As the process is irreversible, the final conductivity is retained in vacuum, inert gas, hydrogen, and oxygen. The oxidation rates recorded at different conditions for layers of varied thickness and electrode configuration are described by a surface oxidation model. Potentials of the oxidized MEH-PPV layers in sensor technology are demonstrated.

Novel Approach for Modeling of Nonuniform Slag Layers and Air Gap in Continuous Casting Mold

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xudong; Kong, Lingwei; Yao, Man; Zhang, Xiaobing

2017-02-01

Various kinds of surface defects on the continuous casting slab usually originate from nonuniform heat transfer and mechanical behavior, especially during the initial solidification inside the mold. In this article, a model-coupled inverse heat transfer problem incorporating the effect of slag layers and air gap is developed to study the nonuniform distribution of liquid slag, solid slag, and air gap layers. The model considers not only the formation and evolution of slag layers and air gap but also the temperatures in the mold copper as measured by thermocouples. The simulation results from the model and the measured temperatures from experiments are shown to be in good agreement with each other. At the casting speed of 0.65 m/min, the liquid slag film disappears and transforms into solid slag entirely at about 400 mm away from meniscus, and an air gap begins to form. Until the mold exit, the maximum thickness of the solid slag layer and air gap gradually increases to 1.34 and 0.056 mm, respectively. The results illustrate that the magnitude and nonuniform distribution of the slag layers and air gap along the cross direction, correlating with heat flux between the shell and mold, eventually determine the temperature profiles of the mold hot face and slab surface. The proposed model may provide a convenient approach for analyzing nonuniform heat transfer and mechanical behaviors between the mold and slab in the real casting process.

Air cathode structure manufacture

DOEpatents

Momyer, William R.; Littauer, Ernest L.

1985-01-01

An improved air cathode structure for use in primary batteries and the like. The cathode structure includes a matrix active layer, a current collector grid on one face of the matrix active layer, and a porous, nonelectrically conductive separator on the opposite face of the matrix active layer, the collector grid and separator being permanently bonded to the matrix active layer. The separator has a preselected porosity providing low IR losses and high resistance to air flow through the matrix active layer to maintain high bubble pressure during operation of the battery. In the illustrated embodiment, the separator was formed of porous polypropylene. A thin hydrophobic film is provided, in the preferred embodiment, on the current collecting metal grid.

Multi-layered, chemically bonded lithium-ion and lithium/air batteries

DOEpatents

Narula, Chaitanya Kumar; Nanda, Jagjit; Bischoff, Brian L; Bhave, Ramesh R

2014-05-13

Disclosed are multilayer, porous, thin-layered lithium-ion batteries that include an inorganic separator as a thin layer that is chemically bonded to surfaces of positive and negative electrode layers. Thus, in such disclosed lithium-ion batteries, the electrodes and separator are made to form non-discrete (i.e., integral) thin layers. Also disclosed are methods of fabricating integrally connected, thin, multilayer lithium batteries including lithium-ion and lithium/air batteries.

Studies on electronic structure of interfaces between Ag and gelatin for stabilization of Ag nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tani, Tadaaki; Uchida, Takayuki

2015-06-01

Extremely high stability of Ag nanoparticles in photographic materials has forced us to study the electronic structures of the interfaces between thin layers of Ag, Au, and Pt and their surface membranes in ambient atmosphere by photoelectron yield spectroscopy in air and Kelvin probe method. Owing to the Fermi level equalization between a metal layer and a membrane coming from air, the electron transfer took place from the membrane to Pt and Au layers and from an Ag layer to the membrane, giving the reason for poor stability of Ag nanoparticles in air. The control of the Fermi level of an Ag layer with respect to that of a gelatin membrane in air could be widely made according to Nernst’s equation by changing the pH and pAg values of an aqueous gelatin solution used to form the membrane, and thus available to stabilize Ag nanoparticles in a gelatin matrix.

1,000 consecutive cases of laser-assisted liposuction and suction-assisted lipectomy managed with local anesthesia.

PubMed

Chia, Christopher T; Theodorou, Spero J

2012-08-01

Advances in suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL) include improved instrumentation, better understanding of fluid dynamics, and an improved concept of appropriate indications. The tumescent technique uses subcutaneous injection of isotonic fluid containing vasoconstrictive and analgesic agents and is proved to be safe, with low morbidity and mortality rates. Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) using local infiltration of an anesthetic and no general anesthesia or sedation has been developed, with claims of fat destruction and skin tightening. This study aimed to review 1,000 consecutive cases of LAL and SAL performed with the patient under local anesthesia and to determine whether this represents a safe technique with few complications. During a period of 22 months, 581 consecutive patients (486 females and 95 males) underwent 1,000 LAL/SAL operations, 545 of whom had multiple procedures performed. None of the patients had a body mass index (BMI) higher than 30 kg/m2. The patients ranged in age from 18 to 62 years. The fat aspirate ranged from 50 to 1,400 ml. Patients were given an oral sedative, an antibiotic, and an analgesic. Ringer's lactate solution containing lidocaine and epinephrine was injected into the subcutaneous space. The 1,064-nm and/or 1,320-nm neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser was used for laser lipolysis followed by SAL using standard and/or power-assisted liposuction (PAL) cannulas. The treated areas included the neck, triceps, male breast, midback, flanks, axilla, abdomen, mons pubis, thighs, presacrum, and knees. No patient was administered intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. The average number of areas treated was 1.8, and no major complications or mortalities were observed. There were three burns, two infections, one hematoma, and one seroma. A total of 73 secondary procedures were performed (7.3%). No tertiary procedures were required. For appropriately selected patients, comparable results can be obtained with an excellent safety profile and short recovery period using LAL and SAL with the patient under local anesthesia. The awake patient is able to participate in body positioning and to provide physiologic monitoring. No major complications occurred in this series. The burn and hematoma complications occurred in the first 25 cases and may have been related to a learning curve. One case of cellulitis occurred in the triceps region, and a second infection occurred in the abdomen. Both responded to antibiotics. Altogether, 73 touch-up procedures (7.3%) were performed. The amounts of fat removal were comparable with the volumes obtained using traditional liposuction. In conclusion, this series demonstrated that LAL/SAL using local anesthesia is a safe procedure for selected patients, with acceptably low morbidity and revision rates. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors at www.springer.com/00266.

Effect of water vapor on evolution of a thick Pt-layer modified oxide on the NiCoCrAl alloy at high temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Peng; He, Xuan; Xiong, Xiping; Ma, Hongqing; Song, Qunling; Lü, Jianguo; Lu, Jiansheng

2018-03-01

To investigate the effect of water vapor on the novel Pt-containing oxide growth behavior, Pt-addition within the oxide layer on the surface of NiCoCrAl coating and furnace cycle tests were carried out at 1050 °C in air and air plus water vapor. The thick Pt-containing oxide layer on NiCoCrAl exhibits a different oxidation growth behavior compared to the conventional Pt-diffusion metallic coatings. The Pt-containing oxide after oxidation in air plus water vapor showed a much thicker oxide layer compare to the ones without Pt addition, and also presented a much better coating adhesion. During the oxidation process in air, Pt promotes the spinel (NiCr2O4) formation. However, the Cr2O3 formed in air with water vapor and fixed Pt within the complex oxide layer. The water vapor promoted the Ni and Co outer-diffusion, and combined with Pt to form CoPt compounds on the surface of the NiCoCrAl coating system.

Sound transmission through finite lightweight multilayered structures with thin air layers.

PubMed

Dijckmans, A; Vermeir, G; Lauriks, W

2010-12-01

The sound transmission loss (STL) of finite lightweight multilayered structures with thin air layers is studied in this paper. Two types of models are used to describe the vibro-acoustic behavior of these structures. Standard transfer matrix method assumes infinite layers and represents the plane wave propagation in the layers. A wave based model describes the direct sound transmission through a rectangular structure placed between two reverberant rooms. Full vibro-acoustic coupling between rooms, plates, and air cavities is taken into account. Comparison with double glazing measurements shows that this effect of vibro-acoustic coupling is important in lightweight double walls. For infinite structures, structural damping has no significant influence on STL below the coincidence frequency. In this frequency region, the non-resonant transmission or so-called mass-law behavior dominates sound transmission. Modal simulations suggest a large influence of structural damping on STL. This is confirmed by experiments with double fiberboard partitions and sandwich structures. The results show that for thin air layers, the damping induced by friction and viscous effects at the air gap surfaces can largely influence and improve the sound transmission characteristics.

Geo-diversity and geo-materials in the region of Rabat-Salé-Zemmour-Zaer: Characterization and Rationalization of Utilization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belhaj, Siham; Bahi, Lahcen; Akhssas, Ahmed

2016-04-01

The Rabat-Salé-Zemmour-Zaer (RSZZ) is distinguished by a rich geology is varied. Outcrops are found in both the Paleozoic basement, especially along the major wadis in the area and a fairly extensive coverage postpaléozoïque and locally very thick. It offers a wide variety of petrographic facies some of which the construction of geomaterials value (GMC), very solicited by the construction sector and public works (BTP). Among the most important GMC furniture and beds of RSZZ: - The sands. They are a fundamental component for the preparation of mortar and hydraulic concrete. They also enter into the composition of adobe and are used for the foundation of shoes. -The Clays. They are mainly used by ceramists (industrial units manufacturing tiles). The red clay of Triassic age are most represented in the Region in deposits whose thickness can reach several tens of meters. -The Calcarenite. : It is the most used local stone in building the cities of Rabat and Salé, where she is well known as the Stone of Salé. The same stone is used in the manufacture of lime through calcination. Geologically, it is a calcareous sandstone, of Pliocene-Quaternary age that is in the form of a dune system that runs parallel to the Atlantic coast. -The Limestones: These massive limestones and more or less metamorphosed dolomitized Devonian. These limestone outcrop along major wadis of the region (Akrech, Ykem, ...) as layers sometimes quite thick and more or less tectonized. According to localities, these limestones show a wide range of colors (white, gray, black pink) and a wide variety of structures (colorful, beaded, veined, textured) - The quartzites. They correspond to Ordovician bars that appear quite often emerged in relation to other surrounding formations because of their high resistance to erosion. The rock is generally brownish gray and shows a very high hardness related to its siliceous. Local and temporary holdings allow blocks extraction for various public works (foundation, basement, filling). - Granites. The granitic pluton hercynien of Zaer, of Upper Carboniferous age, outcrops over an area of over 700 km2. It offers two main granitic facies: an internal facies biotite-muscovite, light gray color and grainy equigranular structure; and an external facies of biotite only bluish gray color and grained porphyritic texture. With this geological diversity, the region of RSZZ could always ensure its supply and self-sufficiency in GMC. However, large construction sites launched in recent years (from 200,000 housing schemes, construction of satellite towns, the development plan of the valley of Bouregreg ...) made the demand on those regional GMC has become very strong. Thus the pace of operations has been accelerated to meet this demand increasingly growing; the consequence is a serious harm to the environment. The purpose of this communication is to raise awareness among operators (local authorities, elected representatives, operators, investors, public authorities ...) on the need to double vigilance on the management of the geological heritage. Indeed, these non-renewable resources on a human scale to be exploited in a rational way and in the context of Sustainable Development. Furthermore, we recall that in the Region of RSZZ exist geomaterials outcrops of great scientific and educational value that must be protected and prohibited from exploitation as well to preserve geological heritage.

Numerical simulation for the coupled thermo-mechanical performance of a lined rock cavern for underground compressed air energy storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Shu-Wei; Xia, Cai-Chu; Zhao, Hai-Bin; Mei, Song-Hua; Zhou, Yu

2017-12-01

Compressed air energy storage (CAES) is a technology that uses compressed air to store surplus electricity generated from low power consumption time for use at peak times. This paper presents a thermo-mechanical modeling for the thermodynamic and mechanical responses of a lined rock cavern used for CAES. The simulation was accomplished in COMSOL Multiphysics and comparisons of the numerical simulation and some analytical solutions validated the thermo-mechanical modeling. Air pressure and temperatures in the sealing layer and concrete lining exhibited a similar trend of ‘up-down-down-up’ in one cycle. Significant temperature fluctuation occurred only in the concrete lining and sealing layer, and no strong fluctuation was observed in the host rock. In the case of steel sealing, principal stresses in the sealing layer were larger than those in the concrete and host rock. The maximum compressive stresses of the three layers and the displacement on the cavern surface increased with the increase of cycle number. However, the maximum tensile stresses exhibited the opposite trend. Polymer sealing achieved a relatively larger air temperature and pressure compared with steel and air-tight concrete sealing. For concrete layer thicknesses of 0 and 0.1 m and an initial air pressure of 4.5 MPa, the maximum rock temperature could reach 135 °C and 123 °C respectively in a 30 day simulation.

Combined effect of boundary layer recirculation factor and stable energy on local air quality in the Pearl River Delta over southern China.

PubMed

Li, Haowen; Wang, Baomin; Fang, Xingqin; Zhu, Wei; Fan, Qi; Liao, Zhiheng; Liu, Jian; Zhang, Asi; Fan, Shaojia

2018-03-01

Atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) has a significant impact on the spatial and temporal distribution of air pollutants. In order to gain a better understanding of how ABL affects the variation of air pollutants, atmospheric boundary layer observations were performed at Sanshui in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region over southern China during the winter of 2013. Two types of typical ABL status that could lead to air pollution were analyzed comparatively: weak vertical diffusion ability type (WVDAT) and weak horizontal transportation ability type (WHTAT). Results show that (1) WVDAT was featured by moderate wind speed, consistent wind direction, and thick inversion layer at 600~1000 m above ground level (AGL), and air pollutants were restricted in the low altitudes due to the stable atmospheric structure; (2) WHTAT was characterized by calm wind, varied wind direction, and shallow intense ground inversion layer, and air pollutants accumulated in locally because of strong recirculation in the low ABL; (3) recirculation factor (RF) and stable energy (SE) were proved to be good indicators for horizontal transportation ability and vertical diffusion ability of the atmosphere, respectively. Combined utilization of RF and SE can be very helpful in the evaluation of air pollution potential of the ABL. Air quality data from ground and meteorological data collected from radio sounding in Sanshui in the Pearl River Delta showed that local air quality was poor when wind reversal was pronounced or temperature stratification state was stable. The combination of horizontal and vertical transportation ability of the local atmosphere should be taken into consideration when evaluating local environmental bearing capacity for air pollution.

Progress of air-breathing cathode in microbial fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zejie; Mahadevan, Gurumurthy Dummi; Wu, Yicheng; Zhao, Feng

2017-07-01

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) is an emerging technology to produce green energy and vanquish the effects of environmental contaminants. Cathodic reactions are vital for high electrical power density generated from MFCs. Recently tremendous attentions were paid towards developing high performance air-breathing cathodes. A typical air-breathing cathode comprises of electrode substrate, catalyst layer, and air-diffusion layer. Prior researches demonstrated that each component influenced the performance of air-breathing cathode MFCs. This review summarized the progress in development of the individual component and elaborated main factors to the performance of air-breathing cathode.

Investigating Actuation Force Fight with Asynchronous and Synchronous Redundancy Management Techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, Brendan; Driscoll, Kevin; Schweiker, Kevin; Dutertre, Bruno

2013-01-01

Within distributed fault-tolerant systems the term force-fight is colloquially used to describe the level of command disagreement present at redundant actuation interfaces. This report details an investigation of force-fight using three distributed system case-study architectures. Each case study architecture is abstracted and formally modeled using the Symbolic Analysis Laboratory (SAL) tool chain from the Stanford Research Institute (SRI). We use the formal SAL models to produce k-induction based proofs of a bounded actuation agreement property. We also present a mathematically derived bound of redundant actuation agreement for sine-wave stimulus. The report documents our experiences and lessons learned developing the formal models and the associated proofs.

Personal cooling apparatus and method

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

Siman-Tov, Moshe; Crabtree, Jerry Allen

2001-01-01

A portable lightweight cooling apparatus for cooling a human body is disclosed, having a channeled sheet which absorbs sweat and/or evaporative liquid, a layer of highly conductive fibers adjacent the channeled sheet; and, an air-moving device for moving air through the channeled sheet, wherein the layer of fibers redistributes heat uniformly across the object being cooled, while the air moving within the channeled sheet evaporates sweat and/or other evaporative liquid, absorbs evaporated moisture and the uniformly distributed heat generated by the human body, and discharges them into the environment. Also disclosed is a method for removing heat generated by themore » human body, comprising the steps of providing a garment to be placed in thermal communication with the body; placing a layer of highly conductive fibers within the garment adjacent the body for uniformly distributing the heat generated by the body; attaching an air-moving device in communication with the garment for forcing air into the garment; removably positioning an exchangeable heat sink in communication with the air-moving device for cooling the air prior to the air entering the garment; and, equipping the garment with a channeled sheet in communication with the air-moving device so that air can be directed into the channeled sheet and adjacent the layer of fibers to expell heat and moisture from the body by the air being directed out of the channeled sheet and into the environment. The cooling system may be configured to operate in both sealed and unsealed garments.« less

Personal cooling apparatus and method

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

Siman-Tov, Moshe; Crabtree, Jerry Allen

A portable lightweight cooling apparatus for cooling a human body is disclosed, having a channeled sheet which absorbs sweat and/or evaporative liquid, a layer of highly conductive fibers adjacent the channeled sheet; and, an air-moving device for moving air through the channeled sheet, wherein the layer of fibers redistributes heat uniformly across the object being cooled, while the air moving within the channeled sheet evaporates sweat and/or other evaporative liquid, absorbs evaporated moisture and the uniformly distributed heat generated by the human body, and discharges them into the environment. Also disclosed is a method for removing heat generated by themore » human body, comprising the steps of providing a garment to be placed in thermal communication with the body; placing a layer of highly conductive fibers within the garment adjacent the body for uniformly distributing the heat generated by the body; attaching an air-moving device in communication with the garment for forcing air into the garment; removably positioning an exchangeable heat sink in communication with the air-moving device for cooling the air prior to the air entering the garment; and, equipping the garment with a channeled sheet in communication with the air-moving device so that air can be directed into the channeled sheet and adjacent the layer of fibers to expell heat and moisture from the body by the air being directed out of the channeled sheet and into the environment. The cooling system may be configured to operate in both sealed and unsealed garments.« less

Personal cooling apparatus and method

DOEpatents

Siman-Tov, Moshe; Crabtree, Jerry Allen

2001-01-01

A portable lightweight cooling apparatus for cooling a human body is disclosed, having a channeled sheet which absorbs sweat and/or evaporative liquid, a layer of highly conductive fibers adjacent the channeled sheet; and, an air-moving device for moving air through the channeled sheet, wherein the layer of fibers redistributes heat uniformly across the object being cooled, while the air moving within the channeled sheet evaporates sweat and/or other evaporative liquid, absorbs evaporated moisture and the uniformly distributed heat generated by the human body, and discharges them into the environment. Also disclosed is a method for removing heat generated by the human body, comprising the steps of providing a garment to be placed in thermal communication with the body; placing a layer of highly conductive fibers within the garment adjacent the body for uniformly distributing the heat generated by the body; attaching an air-moving device in communication with the garment for forcing air into the garment; removably positioning an exchangeable heat sink in communication with the air-moving device for cooling the air prior to the air entering the garment; and, equipping the garment with a channeled sheet in communication with the air-moving device so that air can be directed into the channeled sheet and adjacent the layer of fibers to expell heat and moisture from the body by the air being directed out of the channeled sheet and into the environment. The cooling system may be configured to operate in both sealed and unsealed garments.

Layering in halocarbons, methane, nitrous oxide, ozone, and water vapour over mid-latitudes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orsolini, Yvan J.; Karcher, Fernand; Manney, Gloria L.; Engel, Andreas; Ovarlez, Joelle; Claud, Chantal

1997-01-01

The purpose of the balloon flights performed in March 1993 from Aire-sur-Adour (France) was to measure trace gases in the polar vortex during a dynamically active period. These balloon flights revealed coincident layering in long-lived tropospheric source gases. A layer of mid-latitude air, enriched in trace gases, was detected at sampled levels near 15 mbar. High resolution advection models, fine scale distributions of ozone, nitrous oxide, methane, and halocarbons were constructed. The calculations showed how air enriched in trace gases is sampled near 15 mbar when a filament of such air is drawn into the outer portion of the vortex.

The relationship between air layers and evaporative resistance of male Chinese ethnic clothing.

PubMed

Wang, Faming; Peng, Hui; Shi, Wen

2016-09-01

In this study, the air layer distribution and evaporative resistances of 39 sets of male Chinese ethnic clothing were investigated using a sweating thermal manikin and the three-dimensional (3D) body scanning technique. Relationships between the evaporative resistance and air layers (i.e., air gap thickness and air volume) were explored. The results demonstrated that the clothing total evaporative resistance increases with the increasing air gap size/air volume, but the rate of increase gradually decreases as the mean air gap size or the total air volume becomes larger. The clothing total evaporative resistance reaches its maximum when the average air gap size and the total air volume are 41.6 mm and 69.9 dm(3), respectively. Similar general trends were also found between local mean air gap size and clothing local evaporative resistance at different body parts. However, different body parts show varied rates of increase and decrease in the local evaporative resistance. The research findings provide a comprehensive database for predicting overall and local human thermal comfort while wearing male Chinese ethnic clothing. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Boundary layer warming by condensation - Air-sea interaction during an extreme cold air outbreak from the eastern coast of the United States

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grossman, Robert L.

1988-01-01

Studies on an intense cold air outbreak that took place after a cold air cyclogenesis on January 27, 1986 are reviewed. Particular attention is given to data obtained during a multiaircraft research mission carried out on January 28, 1986 as part of the Genesis of Atlantic Lows Experiment. It was found that condensation heating of the subcloud layer air was comparable to heating by turbulent flux divergence.

Air Modeling - Observational Meteorological Data

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Observed meteorological data for use in air quality modeling consist of physical parameters that are measured directly by instrumentation, and include temperature, dew point, wind direction, wind speed, cloud cover, cloud layer(s), ceiling height,

CAT altitude avoidance system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gary, B. L. (Inventor)

1982-01-01

A method and apparatus are provided for indicating the altitude of the tropopause or of an inversion layer wherein clear air turbulence (CAT) may occur, and the likely severity of any such CAT, includes directing a passive microwave radiometer on the aircraft at different angles with respect to the horizon. The microwave radiation measured at a frequency of about 55 GHz represents the temperature of the air at an ""average'' range of about 3 kilometers, so that the sine of the angle of the radiometer times 3 kilometers equals the approximate altitude of the air whose temperature is measured. A plot of altitude (with respect to the aircraft) versus temperature of the air at that altitude, can indicate when an inversion layer is present and can indicate the altitude of the tropopause or of such an inversion layer. The plot can also indicate the severity of any CAT in an inversion layer. If CAT has been detected in the general area, then the aircraft can be flown at an altitude to avoid the tropopause or inversion layer.

Air-coupled piezoelectric transducers with active polypropylene foam matching layers.

PubMed

Gómez Alvarez-Arenas, Tomás E

2013-05-10

This work presents the design, construction and characterization of air-coupled piezoelectric transducers using 1-3 connectivity piezocomposite disks with a stack of matching layers being the outer one an active quarter wavelength layer made of polypropylene foam ferroelectret film. This kind of material has shown a stable piezoelectric response together with a very low acoustic impedance (<0.1 MRayl). These features make them a suitable candidate for the dual use or function proposed here: impedance matching layer and active material for air-coupled transduction. The transducer centre frequency is determined by the l/4 resonance of the polypropylene foam ferroelectret film (0.35 MHz), then, the rest of the transducer components (piezocomposite disk and passive intermediate matching layers) are all tuned to this frequency. The transducer has been tested in several working modes including pulse-echo and pitch-catch as well as wide and narrow band excitation. The performance of the proposed novel transducer is compared with that of a conventional air-coupled transducers operating in a similar frequency range.

Impact of Bay-Breeze Circulations on Surface Air Quality and Boundary Layer Export

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loughner, Christopher P.; Tzortziou, Maria; Follette-Cook, Melanie; Pickering, Kenneth E.; Goldberg, Daniel; Satam, Chinmay; Weinheimer, Andrew; Crawford, James H.; Knapp, David J.; Montzka, Denise D.;

Initial development of the two-dimensional ejector shear layer - Experimental results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benjamin, M. A.; Dufflocq, M.; Roan, V. P.

1993-01-01

An experimental investigation designed to study the development of shear layers in a two-dimensional single-nozzle ejector has been completed. In this study, combinations of air/air, argon/air, helium/air, and air/helium were used as the supersonic primary and subsonic secondary, respectively. Mixing of the gases occurred in a constant-area tube 39.1 mm high by 25.4 mm wide, where the inlet static pressure was maintained at 35 kPa. The cases studied resulted in convective Mach numbers between 0.058 and 1.64, density ratios between 0.102 and 3.49, and velocity ratios between 0.065 and 0.811. The resulting data shows the differences in the shear-layer development for the various combinations of independent variables utilized in the investigation. The normalized growth-rates in the near-field were found to be similar to two-dimensional mixing layers. These results have enhanced the ability to analyze and design ejector systems as well as providing a better understanding of the physics.

Characterization of homofermentative lactobacilli isolated from kefir grains: potential use as probiotic.

PubMed

Golowczyc, Marina A; Gugliada, Maria J; Hollmann, Axel; Delfederico, Lucrecia; Garrote, Graciela L; Abraham, Analía G; Semorile, Liliana; De Antoni, Graciela

2008-05-01

Considering that several health promoting properties are associated with kefir consumption and a reliable probiotic product requires a complete identification of the bacterial species, the present work evaluates several proved markers of probiotic potential of eleven isolates of homofermentative lactobacilli isolated from kefir grains and molecular identification and genotypic diversity. Using restriction analysis of amplified ribosomal DNA (ARDRA) and analysis of the 16S-23S rRNA internal spacer region we confirmed that all homofermentative lactobacilli belong to the species Lactobacillus plantarum. RAPD-PCR analysis allowed the discrimination of lactobacilli in five clusters. All isolates exhibited high resistance to bile salt. High survival after one hour of exposure to pH 2.5 was observed in Lb. plantarum CIDCA 8313, 83210, 8327 and 8338. All isolates were hydrophilic and non autoaggregative. Isolate CIDCA 8337 showed the highest percentage of adhesion among strains. All tested lactobacilli had strong inhibitory power against Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli. Seven out of eleven isolates showed inhibition against Sal. enterica and five isolates were effective against Sal. gallinarum. Only CIDCA 8323 and CIDCA 8327 were able to inhibit Sal. sonnei. We did not find any correlation between the five clusters based on RAPD-PCR and the probiotic properties, suggesting that these isolates have unique characteristics.

Intravascular optical coherence tomography light scattering artifacts: merry-go-rounding, blooming, and ghost struts

PubMed Central

Mancuso, J. Jacob; Halaney, David L.; Elahi, Sahar; Ho, Derek; Wang, Tianyi; Ouyang, Yongjian; Dijkstra, Jouke; Milner, Thomas E.; Feldman, Marc D.

2014-01-01

Abstract. We sought to elucidate the mechanisms underlying two common intravascular optical coherence tomography (IV-OCT) artifacts that occur when imaging metallic stents: “merry-go-rounding” (MGR), which is an increase in strut arc length (SAL), and “blooming,” which is an increase in the strut reflection thickness (blooming thickness). Due to uncontrollable variables that occur in vivo, we performed an in vitro assessment of MGR and blooming in stented vessel phantoms. Using Xience V and Driver stents, we examined the effects of catheter offset, intimal strut coverage, and residual blood on SAL and blooming thickness in IV-OCT images. Catheter offset and strut coverage both caused minor MGR, while the greatest MGR effect resulted from light scattering by residual blood in the vessel lumen, with 1% hematocrit (Hct) causing a more than fourfold increase in SAL compared with saline (p<0.001). Residual blood also resulted in blooming, with blooming thickness more than doubling when imaged in 0.5% Hct compared with saline (p<0.001). We demonstrate that a previously undescribed mechanism, light scattering by residual blood in the imaging field, is the predominant cause of MGR. Light scattering also results in blooming, and a newly described artifact, three-dimensional-MGR, which results in “ghost struts” in B-scans. PMID:25545341

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

Gaudino, Danila; Pasquino, Rossana, E-mail: r.pasquino@unina.it; Grizzuti, Nino

The micellar system composed of Cetylpyridinium Chloride-Sodium Salicylate (CPyCl-NaSal) in brine aqueous solutions has been studied by systematically changing the salt concentration, in order to investigate the rheology of the arising morphologies. In particular, the zero-shear viscosity and the linear viscoelastic response have been measured as a function of the NaSal concentration (with [CPyCl] = 100 mM). The Newtonian viscosity shows a nonmonotonic dependence upon concentration, passing through a maximum at NaSal/CPyCl ≈ 0.6, and eventually dropping at higher salt concentrations. The progressive addition of salt determines first a transition from a Newtonian to a purely Maxwell-like behavior as the length of themore » micelles significantly increases. Beyond the peak viscosity, the viscoelastic data show two distinct features. On the one hand, the main relaxation time of the system strongly decreases, while the plateau modulus remains essentially constant. Calculations based on the rheological data show that, as the binding salt concentration increases, there is a decrease in micelles breaking rate and a decrease in their average length. On the other hand, in the same concentration region, a low-frequency elastic plateau is measured. Such a plateau is considered as the signature of a tenuous, but persistent branched network, whose existence is confirmed by cryo-transmission electron microscopy images.« less

Evolution and tinkering: what do a protein kinase, a transcriptional regulator and chromosome segregation/cell division proteins have in common?

PubMed

Derouiche, Abderahmane; Shi, Lei; Kalantari, Aida; Mijakovic, Ivan

2016-02-01

In this study, we focus on functional interactions among multi-domain proteins which share a common evolutionary origin. The examples we develop are four Bacillus subtilis proteins, which all possess an ATP-binding Walker motif: the bacterial tyrosine kinase (BY-kinase) PtkA, the chromosome segregation protein Soj (ParA), the cell division protein MinD and a transcription regulator SalA. These proteins have arisen via duplication of the ancestral ATP-binding domain, which has undergone fusions with other functional domains in the process of divergent evolution. We point out that these four proteins, despite having very different physiological roles, engage in an unusually high number of binary functional interactions. Namely, MinD attracts Soj and PtkA to the cell pole, and in addition, activates the kinase function of PtkA. SalA also activates the kinase function of PtkA, and it gets phosphorylated by PtkA as well. The consequence of this phosphorylation is the activation of SalA as a transcriptional repressor. We hypothesize that these functional interactions remain preserved during divergent evolution and represent a constraint on the process of evolutionary "tinkering", brought about by fusions of different functional domains.

Alternative strategy for visceral leishmaniosis control: HisAK70-Salmonella Choleraesuis-pulsed dendritic cells.

PubMed

Domínguez-Bernal, Gustavo; Martínez-Rodrigo, Abel; Mas, Alicia; Blanco, M Mar; Orden, José A; De La Fuente, Ricardo; Carrión, Javier

2017-10-01

Here, we describe a novel approach that exploits an attenuated mutant of Salmonella enterica serovar Choleraesuis as carrier to deliver a plasmid encoding protein HisAK70. Subsequently, dendritic cells (DCs) were pulsed with this vaccine vector. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the prepared HisAK70-S. Choleraesuis-pulsed DCs (HisAK70-SAL DCs) against visceral leishmaniosis (VL). In our ex vivo model of infection, the prepared formulations could decrease parasite growth by up to 80% by augmenting the production of IL-12p40 and by reducing arginase activity (ARG). Also, BALB/c mice when immunised with this formulation showed significant reduction in parasite burden in both spleen (20% of reduction) and liver (75% of reduction). The balance of the immune ratios IFN-γ/IL-10, TNF-α/IL-10, and IgG2a/IgG1 reflected the acquisition of an improved resistant phenotype in HisAK70-SAL DCs vaccinated mice compared to control mice. Our results suggest that HisAK70-SAL DCs could be a promising alternative approach for vaccine delivery that has the potential to fight Leishmania infantum (L. infantum) infection. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis of Chromone, Quinolone, and Benzoxazinone Sulfonamide Nucleosides as Conformationally Constrained Inhibitors of Adenylating Enzymes Required for Siderophore Biosynthesis

PubMed Central

Engelhart, Curtis A.; Aldrich, Courtney C.

2013-01-01

MbtA catalyzes the first committed step of mycobactin biosynthesis in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and is responsible for the incorporation of salicylic acid into the mycobactin siderophores. 5′-O-[N-(Salicyl)sulfamoyl]adenosine (Sal-AMS) is an extremely potent nucleoside inhibitor of MbtA that possesses excellent activity against whole-cell Mtb, but suffers from poor bioavailability. In an effort to improve the bioavailability, we have designed four conformationally constrained analogues of Sal-AMS that remove two rotatable bonds and the ionized sulfamate group based on computational and structural studies. Herein we describe the synthesis, biochemical, and microbiological evaluation of chromone-, quinolone-, and benzoxazinone-3-sulfonamide derivatives of Sal-AMS. We developed new chemistry to assemble these three heterocycles from common β-ketosulfonamide intermediates. The synthesis of the chromone- and quinolone-3-sulfonamide intermediates features formylation of a β-ketosulfonamide employing dimethylformamide dimethyl acetal to afford an enaminone that can react intramolecularly with a phenol or intermolecularly with a primary amine via addition-elimination reaction(s). The benzoxazinone-3-sulfonamide was prepared by nitrosation of a β-ketosulfonamide followed by intramolecular nucleophilic aromatic substitution. Mitsunobu coupling of these bicyclic sulfonamides with a protected adenosine derivative followed by global deprotection provides a concise synthesis of the respective inhibitors. PMID:23805993

Large-scale recrystallization of the S-layer of Bacillus coagulans E38-66 at the air/water interface and on lipid films.

PubMed Central

Pum, D; Weinhandl, M; Hödl, C; Sleytr, U B

1993-01-01

S-layer protein isolated from Bacillus coagulans E38-66 could be recrystallized into large-scale coherent monolayers at an air/water interface and on phospholipid films spread on a Langmuir-Blodgett trough. Because of the asymmetry in the physiochemical surface properties of the S-layer protein, the subunits were associated with their more hydrophobic outer face with the air/water interface and oriented with their negatively charged inner face to the zwitterionic head groups of the dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine and dipalmitoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DPPE) monolayer films. The dynamic crystal growth at both types of interfaces was first initiated at several distant nucleation points. The individual monocrystalline areas grew isotropically in all directions until the front edge of neighboring crystals was met. The recrystallized S-layer protein and the S-layer-DPPE layer could be chemically cross-linked from the subphase with glutaraldehyde. Images PMID:8478338

Influence of Cooling Condition on the Performance of Grinding Hardened Layer in Grind-hardening

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, G. C.; Chen, J.; Xu, G. Y.; Li, X.

2018-02-01

45# steel was grinded and hardened on a surface grinding machine to study the effect of three different cooling media, including emulsion, dry air and liquid nitrogen, on the microstructure and properties of the hardened layer. The results show that the microstructure of material surface hardened with emulsion is pearlite and no hardened layer. The surface roughness is small and the residual stress is compressive stress. With cooling condition of liquid nitrogen and dry air, the specimen surface are hardened, the organization is martensite, the surface roughness is also not changed, but high hardness of hardened layer and surface compressive stress were obtained when grinding using liquid nitrogen. The deeper hardened layer grinded with dry air was obtained and surface residual stress is tensile stress. This study provides an experimental basis for choosing the appropriate cooling mode to effectively control the performance of grinding hardened layer.

Characterization of the structure of the Salar de Atacama Basin through gravimetric profiles and interval velocity analysis.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Becerra, J.; Bascunan, S. A.; Maksymowicz, A.; Martínez, F.; Arriagada, C.

2017-12-01

The structure of the basins found in the Preandean Depression in the northern Central Andes has remained elusive, partly due to a poor understanding of the structural styles and stratigraphy beneath their surface. An independent approach to the multiple interpretations of seismic lines available is the analysis of 2D gravity profiles. An E-W profile was performed across the basin, closely matching the surficial trace of previous seismic lines. The profile shows three gravimetric lows, the most relevant being one beneath the Llano de la Paciencia- Cordillera de la Sal, comprised of deformed evaporitic and terrigenous deposits of Oligocene-Early Miocene age. The structure which bounds this gravity low has a steeper dip on its eastern side, bounding the eastern side of the Cordillera de la Sal, which is at odds with previous studies that interpreted its western contact with Cretaceous outcrops as the possible basin boundary. The 3-D analyses of seismic interval velocity data around the gravimetric survey reveal a major vertical contrast in the eastern portion of the profile, interpreted as the bottom of the evaporite successions, followed to the west by a complex, narrow and deep zone of low velocities. Westward, the Cretaceous rocks record higher velocities than its post-Paleocene counterparts, and an almost uniform increase in velocity with depth. The major gravity anomaly is closely related to the Cordillera de la Sal, which consists of an array of folds and reverse faults involving Oligocene to recent deposits. We propose that the faults which generated Oligocene extension are not at the western border of the basin, but around the Cordillera de la Sal, which is the result of Miocene inversion of the same system. Strike-slip deformation was also probably a major contributor in basin formation, as shown by the narrow yet deep shape of the depocenter.

Stakeholders' Perceptions Sought to Inform the Development of a Low-Cost Mobile Robot for Older Adults: A Qualitative Descriptive Study.

PubMed

Sefcik, Justine S; Johnson, Michelle J; Yim, Mark; Lau, Tessa; Vivio, Nicholas; Mucchiani, Caio; Cacchione, Pamela Z

2018-02-01

Creative solutions are needed to support community-dwelling older adults residing in a variety of settings including their house, apartment, or Supportive Apartment Living (SAL) to promote independence and reduce the risk of nursing home replacement. The objective of this study was to gain an understanding of older adults' needs for physical, mental, and social activities to support the design and functionality of a low-cost mobile assistive robot. A qualitative descriptive study was designed which included three stakeholder focus groups (caregivers, clinicians, and older adults). We held three focus groups with a total of 19 participants: one with paid caregivers ( n = 6), one with interdisciplinary clinicians ( n = 8), and one with older adults residing in SAL ( n = 5). Conventional content analysis was the analytical technique. Four themes emerged: (a) Accomplishing Everyday Tasks: activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) were important from the perspectives of all three groups for the older adults to accomplish daily, as well as the "use it or lose it" attitude of the older adults; (b) Personal Connections and Meaningful Activities: for the older adults, it was important for them to engage in socialization and leisure activities, and for the caregivers and clinicians, they work to build personal relationships with the older adults; (c) Cognitive Interventions: the clinicians provided cognitive tools (including reminders, routine and designing interventions) to older adults so they can remain as safe and independent as possible in the SAL; and (d) Safety Measures: encompassed clinicians addressing safety and injury prevention and the caregivers checking in on the older adults in their SAL apartments. This work contributed to the design and functionality specifications for an autonomous low-cost mobile robot for deployment to increase the independence of older adults.

Identification of ABC transporter genes conferring combined pleuromutilin-lincosamide-streptogramin A resistance in bovine methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci.

PubMed

Wendlandt, Sarah; Kadlec, Kristina; Feßler, Andrea T; Schwarz, Stefan

2015-06-12

The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic basis of combined pleuromutilin-lincosamide-streptogramin A resistance in 26 unrelated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) from dairy cows suffering from mastitis. The 26 pleuromutilin-resistant staphylococcal isolates were screened for the presence of the genes vga(A), vga(B), vga(C), vga(E), vga(E) variant, sal(A), vmlR, cfr, lsa(A), lsa(B), lsa(C), and lsa(E) by PCR. None of the 26 isolates carried the genes vga(B), vga(C), vga(E), vga(E) variant, vmlR, cfr, lsa(A), lsa(B), or lsa(C). Two Staphylococcus haemolyticus and single Staphylococcus xylosus, Staphylococcus lentus, and Staphylococcus hominis were vga(A)-positive. Twelve S. aureus, two Staphylococcus warneri, as well as single S. lentus and S. xylosus carried the lsa(E) gene. Moreover, single S. aureus, S. haemolyticus, S. xylosus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis were positive for both genes, vga(A) and lsa(E). The sal(A) gene was found in a single Staphylococcus sciuri. All ABC transporter genes were located in the chromosomal DNA, except for a plasmid-borne vga(A) gene in the S. epidermidis isolate. The genetic environment of the lsa(E)-positive isolates was analyzed using previously described PCR assays. Except for the S. warneri and S. xylosus, all lsa(E)-positive isolates harbored a part of the previously described enterococcal multiresistance gene cluster. This is the first report of the novel lsa(E) gene in the aforementioned bovine CoNS species. This is also the first identification of the sal(A) gene in a S. sciuri from a case of bovine mastitis. Moreover, the sal(A) gene was shown to also confer pleuromutilin resistance. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Altered regulation of Nur77 nuclear receptor gene expression in the mesocorticolimbic regions of rat brain by amphetamine sensitization.

PubMed

Bhardwaj, Sanjeev K; Dodat, Fatéma; Lévesque, Daniel; Srivastava, Lalit K

2018-05-08

The mechanisms underlying psychostimulant drug-induced sensitization include long-term cellular and molecular adaptations in dopaminergic circuits. Nur77, a member of the Nur family of transcription factors, is expressed in brain regions receiving dopamine inputs and plays a role in activity-induced synaptic modification. Here we evaluated changes in Nur77 mRNA levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), dorsal striatum (Str) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) of rats receiving a repeated, sensitizing regimen of amphetamine (AMPH). Results were compared to two groups of controls - animals receiving repeated injections of saline (Rp-SAL) or with no treatment (CON). Two weeks after the last injection, the effect of an acute challenge dose of AMPH on Nur77 expression was evaluated using in-situ hybridization. Repeated AMPH treatment (Rp-AMPH) increased the levels of Nur77 mRNA in the mPFC, NAc core and shell regions. However, the effects of an acute injection of AMPH in each of the three groups of animals was distinct. Whereas an acute AMPH led to a significant increase of Nur77 in all brain regions of the CON animals, it had no significant effect in Rp-SAL animals. Interestingly, in acute AMPH-injected Rp-AMPH animals, Nur77 mRNA levels in the mPFC, Str and NAc regions were significantly lower compared to CON and Rp-SAL animals treated with acute AMPH. There was a positive correlation between AMPH -induced locomotor activity and Nur77 mRNA expression in CON animals; however, this relationship was absent in Rp-SAL and Rp-AMPH animals. The data suggest that Nur77 is a part of neuroadaptive changes caused by either mild stress of repeated injections as well as AMPH-sensitization and may play a role in abnormal behaviors induced by the drug. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Stakeholders’ Perceptions Sought to Inform the Development of a Low-Cost Mobile Robot for Older Adults: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

PubMed Central

Sefcik, Justine S.; Johnson, Michelle J.; Yim, Mark; Lau, Tessa; Vivio, Nicholas; Mucchiani, Caio

2018-01-01

Creative solutions are needed to support community-dwelling older adults residing in a variety of settings including their house, apartment, or Supportive Apartment Living (SAL) to promote independence and reduce the risk of nursing home replacement. The objective of this study was to gain an understanding of older adults’ needs for physical, mental, and social activities to support the design and functionality of a low-cost mobile assistive robot. A qualitative descriptive study was designed which included three stakeholder focus groups (caregivers, clinicians, and older adults). We held three focus groups with a total of 19 participants: one with paid caregivers (n = 6), one with interdisciplinary clinicians (n = 8), and one with older adults residing in SAL (n = 5). Conventional content analysis was the analytical technique. Four themes emerged: (a) Accomplishing Everyday Tasks: activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) were important from the perspectives of all three groups for the older adults to accomplish daily, as well as the “use it or lose it” attitude of the older adults; (b) Personal Connections and Meaningful Activities: for the older adults, it was important for them to engage in socialization and leisure activities, and for the caregivers and clinicians, they work to build personal relationships with the older adults; (c) Cognitive Interventions: the clinicians provided cognitive tools (including reminders, routine and designing interventions) to older adults so they can remain as safe and independent as possible in the SAL; and (d) Safety Measures: encompassed clinicians addressing safety and injury prevention and the caregivers checking in on the older adults in their SAL apartments. This work contributed to the design and functionality specifications for an autonomous low-cost mobile robot for deployment to increase the independence of older adults. PMID:28918654

Stromal Vascular Fraction from Lipoaspirate Infranatant: Comparison Between Suction-Assisted Liposuction and Nutational Infrasonic Liposuction.

PubMed

Bowen, Robert E

2016-06-01

Lipoaspirate has shown great promise as a source of progenitor cells for use in regenerative medicine. The stromal vascular fraction (SVF) can be isolated from lipoaspirate using enzyme digestion and centrifugation, but this approach may be limited by the labor-intensive nature of the technique as well as ambiguities in current governmental regulations. An alternative approach to obtain SVF from lipoaspirate was studied. Paired (collected from contralateral regions) lipoaspirate specimens were acquired from 30 consenting patients (age 24-62; 22 females, 8 males) by suction-assisted liposuction (SAL) and nutational infrasonic liposuction (NIL). The infranatant from 50 ml of adipose tissue (LAF) was centrifuged at 400g × 5 min and the resultant pellet was collected with a pipette. Time = 15-20 min. The respective SVFs cell populations were counted using an optical fluorescent cell counter (Nexcelom A2000) and the fluorescent stains-acridine orange (AO) and propidium iodide (PI). The number of nucleated, live cells from SAL infranatant was 97,345 ± 23,435 per ml of adipose tissue and from NIL infranatant was 335,621 ± 81,274 per ml of adipose tissue. The p value is <0.00001, n = 30. Regenerative cells can be isolated from the lipoaspirate infranatant from either SAL or NIL, although in lower quantities than from enzyme digestion. NIL acquisition yielded 3.5× the number of cells over that acquired from SAL. The time, skill, and cost of producing SVF from infranatant is less than using enzyme digestion, which potentially make these regenerative therapies accessible to more physicians and patients. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Comparative evaluation of probiotic and salinomycin effects on performance and coccidiosis control in broiler chickens.

PubMed

Abdelrahman, Wael; Mohnl, Michaela; Teichmann, Klaus; Doupovec, Barbara; Schatzmayr, Gerd; Lumpkins, Brett; Mathis, Greg

2014-12-01

The annual financial loss to the poultry industry as a result of coccidiosis has been estimated at about US $3 billion. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of probiotics and salinomycin as feed additives on performance and coccidiosis control in male broilers raised to 42 d of age. The study consisted of 360 Cobb male broiler chickens randomly allocated to 4 groups each with 3 replicates. Group 1: untreated, unchallenged negative control group (NC); group 2: untreated, challenged positive control group (PC); group 3: negative control supplemented with salinomycin 66 mg/kg, challenged group (Sal); and group 4: negative control supplemented with probiotics, challenged (Prob mix). On d 15, all birds (except group 1) were challenged with approximately 75,000, 25,000, and 75,000 of Eimeria acervulina, Eimeria maxima, and Eimeria tenella oocytes, respectively, that were mixed into the feed. Feed conversion ratio and mortality were recorded throughout the experiment. On d 21 and 42, intestinal lesions and litter conditions were scored. On d 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42, oocyst counts were determined from 10 freshly collected fecal samples per pen. The results showed that mortality, litter, and lesion scores at d 21 and 42, and oocyst shedding at d 21 did not differ significantly between the Prob mix and the Sal groups. However on d 28, oocyst shedding was significantly lower in the Sal group than in the PC group but insignificantly lower than the Prob mix group. Body weights of the Prob mix group at d 42 were significantly lower than the Sal group; however, the feed conversion ratio values were similar between the 2 groups. The results of this study showed that probiotics supplementation could be considered as a potential strategy to control coccidiosis in broiler chickens. ©2014 Poultry Science Association Inc.

Polystyrene bound oxidovanadium(IV) and dioxidovanadium(V) complexes of histamine derived ligand for the oxidation of methyl phenyl sulfide, diphenyl sulfide and benzoin.

PubMed

Maurya, Mannar R; Arya, Aarti; Kumar, Amit; Pessoa, João Costa

2009-03-28

Ligand Hsal-his (I) derived from salicylaldehyde and histamine has been covalently bound to chloromethylated polystyrene cross-linked with 5% divinylbenzene. Upon treatment with [VO(acac)(2)] in DMF, the polystyrene-bound ligand (abbreviated as PS-Hsal-his, II) gave the stable polystyrene-bound oxidovanadium(iv) complex PS-[V(IV)O(sal-his)(acac)] , which upon oxidation yielded the dioxidovanadium(v) PS-[V(V)O(2)(sal-his)] complex. The corresponding non polymer-bound complexes [V(IV)O(sal-his)(acac)] and [V(V)O(2)(sal-his)] have also been obtained. These complexes have been characterised by IR, electronic, (51)V NMR and EPR spectral studies, and thermal as well as scanning electron micrograph studies. Complexes and have been used as a catalyst for the oxidation of methyl phenyl sulfide, diphenyl sulfide and benzoin with 30% H(2)O(2) as oxidant. Under the optimised reaction conditions, a maximum of 93.8% conversion of methyl phenyl sulfide with 63.7% selectivity towards methyl phenyl sulfoxide and 36.3% towards methyl phenyl sulfone has been achieved in 2 h with 2 . Under similar conditions, diphenyl sulfide gave 83.4% conversion where selectivity of reaction products varied in the order: diphenyl sulfoxide (71.8%) > diphenyl sulfone (28.2%). A maximum of 91.2% conversion of benzoin has been achieved within 6 h, and the selectivities of reaction products are: methylbenzoate (37.0%) > benzil (30.5%) > benzaldehyde-dimethylacetal (22.5%) > benzoic acid (8.1%). The PS-bound complex, 1 exhibits very comparable catalytic potential. These polymer-anchored heterogeneous catalysts do not leach during catalytic action, are recyclable and show higher catalytic activity and turnover frequency than the corresponding non polymer-bound complexes. EPR and (51)V NMR spectroscopy was used to characterise methanolic solutions of 3 and 4 and to identify species formed upon addition of H(2)O(2) and/or acid and/or methyl phenyl sulfide.

Analysis and evaluation of an integrated laminar flow control propulsion system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keith, Theo G., Jr.; Dewitt, Kenneth J.

1993-01-01

Reduction of drag has been a major goal of the aircraft industry as no other single quantity influences the operating costs of transport aircraft more than aerodynamic drag. It has been estimated that even modest reduction of frictional drag could reduce fuel costs by anywhere from 2 to 5 percent. Current research on boundary layer drag reduction deals with various approaches to reduce turbulent skin friction drag as a means of improving aircraft performance. One of the techniques belonging to this category is laminar flow control in which extensive regions of laminar flow are maintained over aircraft surfaces by delaying transition to turbulence through the ingestion of boundary layer air. While problems of laminar flow control have been studied in some detail, the prospect of improving the propulsion system of an aircraft by the use of ingested boundary layer air has received very little attention. An initial study for the purpose of reducing propulsion system requirements by utilizing the kinetic energy of boundary layer air was performed in the mid-1970's at LeRC. This study which was based on ingesting the boundary layer air at a single location, did not yield any significant overall propulsion benefits; therefore, the concept was not pursued further. However, since then it has been proposed that if the boundary layer air were ingested at various locations on the aircraft surface instead of just at one site, an improvement in the propulsion system might be realized. The present report provides a review of laminar flow control by suction and focuses on the problems of reducing skin friction drag by maintaining extensive regions of laminar flow over the aircraft surfaces. In addition, it includes an evaluation of an aircraft propulsion system that is augmented by ingested boundary layer air.

Mechanical Properties of Degraded PMR-15 Resin

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tsuji, Luis C.

2000-01-01

Thermo-oxidative aging produces a nonuniform degradation state in PMR-15 resin. A surface layer, usually attributed to oxidative degradation, forms. This surface layer has different properties from the inner material. A set of material tests was designed to separate the properties of the oxidized surface layer from the properties of interior material. Test specimens were aged at 316 C in either air or nitrogen, for durations of up to 800 hr. The thickness of the oxidized surface layer in air aged specimens, and the shrinkage and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of nitrogen aged specimens were measured directly. The nitrogen-aged specimens were assumed to have the same properties as the interior material in the air-aged specimens. Four-point-bend tests were performed to determine modulus of both the oxidized surface layer and the interior material. Bimaterial strip specimens consisting of oxidized surface material and unoxidized interior material were constructed and used to determine surface layer shrinkage and CTE. Results confirm that the surface layer and core materials have substantially different properties.

Real-time PCR method combined with immunomagnetic separation for detecting healthy and heat-injured Salmonella Typhimurium on raw duck wings.

PubMed

Zheng, Qianwang; Mikš-Krajnik, Marta; Yang, Yishan; Xu, Wang; Yuk, Hyun-Gyun

2014-09-01

Conventional culture detection methods are time consuming and labor-intensive. For this reason, an alternative rapid method combining real-time PCR and immunomagnetic separation (IMS) was investigated in this study to detect both healthy and heat-injured Salmonella Typhimurium on raw duck wings. Firstly, the IMS method was optimized by determining the capture efficiency of Dynabeads(®) on Salmonella cells on raw duck wings with different bead incubation (10, 30 and 60 min) and magnetic separation (3, 10 and 30 min) times. Secondly, three Taqman primer sets, Sal, invA and ttr, were evaluated to optimize the real-time PCR protocol by comparing five parameters: inclusivity, exclusivity, PCR efficiency, detection probability and limit of detection (LOD). Thirdly, the optimized real-time PCR, in combination with IMS (PCR-IMS) assay, was compared with a standard ISO and a real-time PCR (PCR) method by analyzing artificially inoculated raw duck wings with healthy and heat-injured Salmonella cells at 10(1) and 10(0) CFU/25 g. Finally, the optimized PCR-IMS assay was validated for Salmonella detection in naturally contaminated raw duck wing samples. Under optimal IMS conditions (30 min bead incubation and 3 min magnetic separation times), approximately 85 and 64% of S. Typhimurium cells were captured by Dynabeads® from pure culture and inoculated raw duck wings, respectively. Although Sal and ttr primers exhibited 100% inclusivity and exclusivity for 16 Salmonella spp. and 36 non-Salmonella strains, the Sal primer showed lower LOD (10(3) CFU/ml) and higher PCR efficiency (94.1%) than the invA and ttr primers. Moreover, for Sal and invA primers, 100% detection probability on raw duck wings suspension was observed at 10(3) and 10(4) CFU/ml with and without IMS, respectively. Thus, the Sal primer was chosen for further experiments. The optimized PCR-IMS method was significantly (P=0.0011) better at detecting healthy Salmonella cells after 7-h enrichment than traditional PCR method. However there was no significant difference between the two methods with longer enrichment time (14 h). The diagnostic accuracy of PCR-IMS was shown to be 98.3% through the validation study. These results indicate that the optimized PCR-IMS method in this study could provide a sensitive, specific and rapid detection method for Salmonella on raw duck wings, enabling 10-h detection. However, a longer enrichment time could be needed for resuscitation and reliable detection of heat-injured cells. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Polymer-bound oxidovanadium(IV) and dioxidovanadium(V) complexes as catalysts for the oxidative desulfurization of model fuel diesel.

PubMed

Maurya, Mannar R; Arya, Aarti; Kumar, Amit; Kuznetsov, Maxim L; Avecilla, Fernando; Costa Pessoa, João

2010-07-19

The Schiff base (Hfsal-dmen) derived from 3-formylsalicylic acid and N,N-dimethyl ethylenediamine has been covalently bonded to chloromethylated polystyrene to give the polymer-bound ligand, PS-Hfsal-dmen (I). Treatment of PS-Hfsal-dmen with [V(IV)O(acac)(2)] in the presence of MeOH gave the oxidovanadium(IV) complex PS-[V(IV)O(fsal-dmen)(MeO)] (1). On aerial oxidation in methanol, complex 1 was oxidized to PS-[V(V)O(2)(fsal-dmen)] (2). The corresponding neat complexes, [V(IV)O(sal-dmen)(acac)] (3) and [V(V)O(2)(sal-dmen)] (4) were similarly prepared. All these complexes are characterized by various spectroscopic techniques (IR, electronic, NMR, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR)) and thermal as well as field-emission scanning electron micrographs (FE-SEM) studies, and the molecular structures of 3 and 4 were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The EPR spectrum of the polymer supported V(IV)O-complex 1 is characteristic of magnetically diluted V(IV)O-complexes, the resolved EPR pattern indicating that the V(IV)O-centers are well dispersed in the polymer matrix. A good (51)V NMR spectrum could also be measured with 4 suspended in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), the chemical shift (-503 ppm) being compatible with a VO(2)(+)-center and a N,O binding set. The catalytic oxidative desulfurization of organosulfur compounds thiophene, dibenzothiophene, benzothiophene, and 2-methyl thiophene (model of fuel diesel) was carried out using complexes 1 and 2. The sulfur in model organosulfur compounds oxidizes to the corresponding sulfone in the presence of H(2)O(2). The systems 1 and 2 do not loose efficiency for sulfoxidation at least up to the third cycle of reaction, this indicating that they preserve their integrity under the conditions used. Plausible intermediates involved in these catalytic processes are established by UV-vis, EPR, (51)V NMR, and density functional theory (DFT) studies, and an outline of the mechanism is proposed. The (51)V NMR spectra recorded for solutions in methanol confirm that complex 4, on treatment with H(2)O(2), is able to generate peroxo-vanadium(V) complexes, including quite stable protonated peroxo-V(V)-complexes [V(V)O(O)(2)(sal-dmen-NH(+))]. The (51)V NMR and DFT data indicate that formation of the intermediate hydroxido-peroxo-V(V)-complex [V(V)(OH)(O(2))(sal-dmen)](+) does not occur, but instead protonated [V(V)O(O)(2)(sal-dmen-NH(+))] complexes form and are relevant for catalytic action.

Development of Salvianolic acid B-Tanshinone II A-Glycyrrhetinic acid compound liposomes: formulation optimization and its effects on proliferation of hepatic stellate cells.

PubMed

Lin, Jiahao; Wang, Xiuli; Wu, Qing; Dai, Jundong; Guan, Huida; Cao, Weiyi; He, Liangying; Wang, Yurong

2014-02-28

The aim of this study was to systematically optimize and characterize the co-encapsulation process of Salvianolic acid B (Sal B), Tanshinone II A (TSN) and Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) into liposomes. The liposomes (GTS-lip) were prepared using film hydration method combined with probe sonication to encapsulate two hydrophobic components (TSN and GA), and using pH gradient method to load hydrophilic component Sal B. The concentration of encapsulated drugs was measured by a reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method. Systematic optimization of encapsulation process was performed using single factor test, orthogonal test in combination with Box-Behnken Design. Optimum conditions are as follows: ratio of GA to lipid (w/w)=0.08, ratio of Sal B to lipid (w/w)=0.12 and pH of buffer=3.3. Based on the conditions mentioned above, encapsulation efficiency of Sal B, TSN and GA reached target levels: (96.03 ± 0.28)%, (80.63 ± 0.91)% and (88.56 ± 0.17)%, respectively. The GTS-lip had a unimodal size-distribution and a mean diameter of 191.3 ± 6.31 nm. Morphology determination of the GTS-lip indicated that the liposomes were spherical, and there was no free drug crystal in the visual field of transmission electron microscopy. Also, the ζ potential of GTS-lip was detected to be -11.6 ± 0.35 mV. In vitro release investigation of GTS-lip suggested that the release rate of GTS-lip significantly decreased compared to drug solution. The accumulative release percentage of TSN, GA and Sal B were 10% in 36 h, 4% in 36 h and 77% in 24 h. Meanwhile, GTS-lip exhibited definite activity on proliferative inhibition of hepatic stellate cells (HSC). GTS-lip decreased the viability of the HSC to higher than 75% at two high drug concentration groups in 24h. At the same time, GTS-lip of two low drug concentration groups increased the inhibition rates by 2.3 folds and 1.9 folds separately at 48 h compared to 24h. By contrast, inhibition activity of G-T-S solution group showed less change between 48 h and 24 h. The prolonged and enhanced activity in 48 h which GTS-lip group manifested might contribute to its sustained release effect. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Design of an air ejector for boundary-layer bleed of an acoustically treated turbofan engine inlet during ground testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stakolich, E. G.

1978-01-01

An air ejector was designed and built to remove the boundary-layer air from the inlet a turbofan engine during an acoustic ground test program. This report describes; (1) how the ejector was sized; (2) how the ejector performed; and (3) the performance of a scale model ejector built and tested to verify the design. With proper acoustic insulation, the ejector was effective in reducing boundary layer thickness in the inlet of the turbofan engine while obtaining the desired acoustic test conditions.

Self-assembled decanuclear Na(I)2Mn(II)4Mn(III)4 complexes: from discrete clusters to 1-D and 2-D structures, with the Mn(II)4Mn(III)4 unit displaying a large spin ground state and probable SMM behaviour.

PubMed

Langley, Stuart K; Chilton, Nicholas F; Moubaraki, Boujemaa; Murray, Keith S

2011-12-07

The synthesis, magnetic characterization and X-ray crystal structures are reported for five new manganese compounds, [Mn(III)(teaH(2))(sal)]·(1/2)H(2)O (1), [Na(I)(2)Mn(II)(4)Mn(III)(4)(teaH)(6)(sal)(4)(N(3))(2)(MeOH)(4)]·6MeOH (2), [Na(I)(2)Mn(II)(4)Mn(III)(4)(teaH)(6)(sal)(4)(N(3))(2)(MeOH)(2)](n)·7MeOH (3), [Na(I)(2)Mn(II)(4)Mn(III)(4)(teaH)(6)(sal)(4)(N(3))(2)(MeOH)(2)](n)·2MeOH·Et(2)O (4) and [K(I)(2)Mn(II)(4)Mn(III)(4)(teaH)(6)(sal)(4)(N(3))(2)(H(2)O)(2)](n)·5MeOH (5). Complex 1 is a mononuclear compound, formed via the reaction of Mn(NO(3))(2)·4H(2)O, triethanolamine (teaH(3)) and salicylic acid (salH(2)) in a basic methanolic solution. Compound 2 is a mixed-valent hetero-metallic cluster made up of a Mn(8)Na(2) decanuclear core and is formed via the reaction of sodium azide (NaN(3)) with 1. Compounds 3-5 are isolated as 1- or 2-D coordination polymers, each containing the decanuclear Mn(8)M(2) (M = Na(+) or K(+)) core building block as the repeating unit. Compound 3 is isolated when 1 is reacted with NaN(3) over a very short reaction time and forms a 1-D coordination polymer. Each unit displays inter-cluster bridges via the O-atoms of teaH(2-) ligands bonding to the sodium ions of an adjacent cluster. Increasing the reaction time appears to drive the formation of 4 which forms 2-D polymeric sheets and is a packing polymorph of 3. The addition of KMnO(4) and NaN(3) to 1 resulted in compound 5, which also forms a 1-D coordination polymer of the decanuclear core unit. The 1-D chains are now linked via inter-cluster potassium and salicylate bridges. Solid state DC susceptibility measurements were performed on compounds 1-5. The data for 1 are as expected for an S = 2 Mn(III) ion, with the isothermal M vs. H data being fitted by matrix diagonalization methods to give values of g and the axial (D) and rhombic (E) zero field splitting parameters of 2.02, -2.70 cm(-1) and 0.36 cm(-1) respectively. The data for 2-5, each with an identical Mn(II)(4)Mn(III)(4) metallic core, indicates large spin ground states, with likely values of S = 16 (±1) for each. Solid state AC susceptibility measurements confirm the large spin ground state values and is also suggestive of SMM behaviour for 2-5 as observed via the onset of frequency dependent out-of-phase peaks.

76 FR 67379 - Importation of Dracaena Plants From Costa Rica

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-01

... rooting zone for plants produced by air layering) to the farthest terminal growing point. Paragraph (y)(2... the soil line (or top of the rooting zone for plants produced by air layering) to the farthest...

Air-Impregnated Nanoporous Anodic Aluminum Oxide Layers for Enhancing the Corrosion Resistance of Aluminum.

PubMed

Jeong, Chanyoung; Lee, Junghoon; Sheppard, Keith; Choi, Chang-Hwan

2015-10-13

Nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide layers were fabricated on aluminum substrates with systematically varied pore diameters (20-80 nm) and oxide thicknesses (150-500 nm) by controlling the anodizing voltage and time and subsequent pore-widening process conditions. The porous nanostructures were then coated with a thin (only a couple of nanometers thick) Teflon film to make the surface hydrophobic and trap air in the pores. The corrosion resistance of the aluminum substrate was evaluated by a potentiodynamic polarization measurement in 3.5 wt % NaCl solution (saltwater). Results showed that the hydrophobic nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide layer significantly enhanced the corrosion resistance of the aluminum substrate compared to a hydrophilic oxide layer of the same nanostructures, to bare (nonanodized) aluminum with only a natural oxide layer on top, and to the latter coated with a thin Teflon film. The hydrophobic nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide layer with the largest pore diameter and the thickest oxide layer (i.e., the maximized air fraction) resulted in the best corrosion resistance with a corrosion inhibition efficiency of up to 99% for up to 7 days. The results demonstrate that the air impregnating the hydrophobic nanopores can effectively inhibit the penetration of corrosive media into the pores, leading to a significant improvement in corrosion resistance.

A MEMS-based Air Flow Sensor with a Free-standing Micro-cantilever Structure

PubMed Central

Wang, Yu-Hsiang; Lee, Chia-Yen; Chiang, Che-Ming

2007-01-01

This paper presents a micro-scale air flow sensor based on a free-standing cantilever structure. In the fabrication process, MEMS techniques are used to deposit a silicon nitride layer on a silicon wafer. A platinum layer is deposited on the silicon nitride layer to form a piezoresistor, and the resulting structure is then etched to create a freestanding micro-cantilever. When an air flow passes over the surface of the cantilever beam, the beam deflects in the downward direction, resulting in a small variation in the resistance of the piezoelectric layer. The air flow velocity is determined by measuring the change in resistance using an external LCR meter. The experimental results indicate that the flow sensor has a high sensitivity (0.0284 Ω/ms-1), a high velocity measurement limit (45 ms-1) and a rapid response time (0.53 s). PMID:28903233

Solid oxide fuel cell operable over wide temperature range

DOEpatents

Baozhen, Li; Ruka, Roswell J.; Singhal, Subhash C.

2001-01-01

Solid oxide fuel cells having improved low-temperature operation are disclosed. In one embodiment, an interfacial layer of terbia-stabilized zirconia is located between the air electrode and electrolyte of the solid oxide fuel cell. The interfacial layer provides a barrier which controls interaction between the air electrode and electrolyte. The interfacial layer also reduces polarization loss through the reduction of the air electrode/electrolyte interfacial electrical resistance. In another embodiment, the solid oxide fuel cell comprises a scandia-stabilized zirconia electrolyte having high electrical conductivity. The scandia-stabilized zirconia electrolyte may be provided as a very thin layer in order to reduce resistance. The scandia-stabilized electrolyte is preferably used in combination with the terbia-stabilized interfacial layer. The solid oxide fuel cells are operable over wider temperature ranges and wider temperature gradients in comparison with conventional fuel cells.

Interfacial material for solid oxide fuel cell

DOEpatents

Baozhen, Li; Ruka, Roswell J.; Singhal, Subhash C.

1999-01-01

Solid oxide fuel cells having improved low-temperature operation are disclosed. In one embodiment, an interfacial layer of terbia-stabilized zirconia is located between the air electrode and electrolyte of the solid oxide fuel cell. The interfacial layer provides a barrier which controls interaction between the air electrode and electrolyte. The interfacial layer also reduces polarization loss through the reduction of the air electrode/electrolyte interfacial electrical resistance. In another embodiment, the solid oxide fuel cell comprises a scandia-stabilized zirconia electrolyte having high electrical conductivity. The scandia-stabilized zirconia electrolyte may be provided as a very thin layer in order to reduce resistance. The scandia-stabilized electrolyte is preferably used in combination with the terbia-stabilized interfacial layer. The solid oxide fuel cells are operable over wider temperature ranges and wider temperature gradients in comparison with conventional fuel cells.

Value Proposition of Department of Defense Domestic Technology Transfer

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-15

Directorate NASA Langley Research Center and Boundary Layer Research, Inc., Everett, WA CRADA/PLA Complete Trivalent Chromium Pretreatment Naval Air...Dynamics Directorate NASA Langley Research Center and Boundary Layer Research, Inc., Everett, WA CRADA/PLA Trivalent Chromium Processes Naval Air...Warfare Systems Center, Pacific Various CRADA On-Hold Safety Welding Cart Air Force Training Device Design and Engineering Center Spika Welding

Electrode electrolyte interlayers containing cerium oxide for electrochemical fuel cells

DOEpatents

Borglum, Brian P.; Bessette, Norman F.

2000-01-01

An electrochemical cell is made having a porous fuel electrode (16) and a porous air electrode (13), with solid oxide electrolyte (15) therebetween, where the air electrode surface opposing the electrolyte has a separate, attached, dense, continuous layer (14) of a material containing cerium oxide, and where electrolyte (16) contacts the continuous oxide layer (14), without contacting the air electrode (13).

Inversion Build-Up and Cold-Air Outflow in a Small Alpine Sinkhole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lehner, Manuela; Whiteman, C. David; Dorninger, Manfred

2017-06-01

Semi-idealized model simulations are made of the nocturnal cold-air pool development in the approximately 1-km wide and 100-200-m deep Grünloch basin, Austria. The simulations show qualitatively good agreement with vertical temperature and wind profiles and surface measurements collected during a meteorological field expedition. A two-layer stable atmosphere forms in the basin, with a very strong inversion in the lowest part, below the approximate height of the lowest gap in the surrounding orography. The upper part of the stable layer is less strongly stratified and extends to the approximate height of the second-lowest gap. The basin atmosphere cools most strongly during the first few hours of the night, after which temperatures decrease only slowly. An outflow of air forms through the lowest gap in the surrounding orography. The outflow connects with a weak inflow of air through a gap on the opposite sidewall, forming a vertically and horizontally confined jet over the basin. Basin cooling shows strong sensitivity to surface-layer characteristics, highlighting the large impact of variations in vegetation and soil cover on cold-air pool development, as well as the importance of surface-layer parametrization in numerical simulations of cold-air-pool development.

Microgravity Effects on Plant Boundary Layers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stutte, Gary; Monje, Oscar

2005-01-01

The goal of these series of experiment was to determine the effects of microgravity conditions on the developmental boundary layers in roots and leaves and to determine the effects of air flow on boundary layer development. It is hypothesized that microgravity induces larger boundary layers around plant organs because of the absence of buoyancy-driven convection. These larger boundary layers may affect normal metabolic function because they may reduce the fluxes of heat and metabolically active gases (e.g., oxygen, water vapor, and carbon dioxide. These experiments are to test whether there is a change in boundary layer associated with microgravity, quantify the change if it exists, and determine influence of air velocity on boundary layer thickness under different gravity conditions.

Passivation of uranium towards air corrosion by N 2+ and C + ion implantation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arkush, R.; Mintz, M. H.; Shamir, N.

2000-10-01

The passivation of uranium surfaces against air corrosion, by ion implantation processes was studied, using surface analysis methods. Implanting 45 keV N +2 and C + ions produces thin modified surface layers with gradual gradients of the corresponding compounds (i.e., nitrides and carbides, respectively), which avoid the formation of discontinuous interfaces typical to coatings. Such gradual interfaces impart excellent mechanical stability and adhesion to the modified layers, in spite of the large misfit between the metal substrate and the implantation on induced compounds. It turns out that these layers provide an almost absolute protection against air corrosion. A rapid initial stage of oxidation of the modified surface layers takes place, forming very thin protective oxidation zones (1-4 nm thick), which practically stop further air oxidation for years. The mechanism of the initial oxidation stage of the modified layers seems to vary with the type of surface (i.e., either nitrides or carbides). However, in any case the protection ability of the formed oxidation products is excellent, probably due to the close match between these compounds and the underlying nitrides or carbides.

Drag crisis moderation by thin air layers sustained on superhydrophobic spheres falling in water.

PubMed

Jetly, Aditya; Vakarelski, Ivan U; Thoroddsen, Sigurdur T

2018-02-28

We investigate the effect of thin air layers naturally sustained on superhydrophobic surfaces on the terminal velocity and drag force of metallic spheres free falling in water. The surface of 20 mm to 60 mm steel or tungsten-carbide spheres is rendered superhydrophobic by a simple coating process that uses a commercially available hydrophobic agent. By comparing the free fall of unmodified spheres and superhydrophobic spheres in a 2.5 meter tall water tank, it is demonstrated that even a very thin air layer (∼1-2 μm) that covers the freshly dipped superhydrophobic sphere can reduce the drag force on the spheres by up to 80%, at Reynolds numbers from 10 5 to 3 × 10 5 , owing to an early drag crisis transition. This study complements prior investigations on the drag reduction efficiency of model gas layers sustained on heated metal spheres falling in liquid by the Leidenfrost effect. The drag reduction effects are expected to have significant implications for the development of sustainable air-layer-based energy saving technologies.

Atmospheric Boundary Layer Modeling for Combined Meteorology and Air Quality Systems

EPA Science Inventory

Atmospheric Eulerian grid models for mesoscale and larger applications require sub-grid models for turbulent vertical exchange processes, particularly within the Planetary Boundary Layer (PSL). In combined meteorology and air quality modeling systems consistent PSL modeling of wi...

A long-term ultrahigh temperature application of layered silicide coated Nb alloy in air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Jia; Fu, Qian-Gang; Li, Tao; Wang, Chen; Huo, Cai-Xia; Zhou, Hong; Yang, Guan-Jun; Sun, Le

2018-05-01

Nb-based alloy possessed limited application service life at ultrahigh temperature (>1400 °C) in air even taking the effective protective coating strategy into consideration for last decades. In this work a long duration of above 128 h at 1500 °C in air was successfully achieved on Nb-based alloy thanked to multi-layered silicide coating. Through optimizing interfaces, the MoSi2/NbSi2 silicide coating with Al2O3-adsorbed-particles layer exhibited three-times higher of oxidation resistance capacity than the one without it. In MoSi2-Al2O3-NbSi2 multilayer coating, the Al2O3-adsorbed-particles layer playing as an element-diffusion barrier role, as well as the formed porous Nb5Si3 layer as a stress transition zone, contributed to the significant improvement.

Bioinspired air-retaining nanofur for drag reduction.

PubMed

Kavalenka, Maryna N; Vüllers, Felix; Lischker, Simone; Zeiger, Claudia; Hopf, Andreas; Röhrig, Michael; Rapp, Bastian E; Worgull, Matthias; Hölscher, Hendrik

2015-05-27

Bioinspired nanofur, covered by a dense layer of randomly distributed high aspect ratio nano- and microhairs, possesses superhydrophobic and air-retaining properties. Nanofur is fabricated using a highly scalable hot pulling method in which softened polymer is elongated with a heated sandblasted plate. Here we investigate the stability of the underwater air layer retained by the irregular nanofur topography by applying hydraulic pressure to the nanofur kept underwater, and evaluate the gradual changes in the air-covered area. Furthermore, the drag reduction resulting from the nanofur air retention is characterized by measuring the pressure drop across channels with and without nanofur.

Disruption of the air-sea interface and formation of two-phase transitional layer in hurricane conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soloviev, A.; Matt, S.; Fujimura, A.

2012-04-01

The change of the air-sea interaction regime in hurricane conditions is linked to the mechanism of direct disruption of the air-sea interface by pressure fluctuations working against surface tension forces (Soloviev and Lukas, 2010). The direct disruption of the air-sea interface due to the Kelvin-Helmholtz (KH) instability and formation of a two-phase transitional layer have been simulated with a computational fluid dynamics model. The volume of fluid multiphase model included surface tension at the water-air interface. The model was initialized with either a flat interface or short wavelets. Wind stress was applied at the upper boundary of the air layer, ranging from zero stress to hurricane force stress in different experiments. Under hurricane force wind, the numerical model demonstrated disruption of the air-water interface and the formation of spume and the two-phase transition layer. In the presence of a transition layer, the air-water interface is no longer explicitly identifiable. As a consequence, the analysis of dimensions suggests a linear dependence for velocity and logarithm of density on depth (which is consistent with the regime of marginal stability in the transition layer). The numerical simulations confirmed the presence of linear segments in the corresponding profiles within the transition layer. This permitted a parameterization of the equivalent drag coefficient due to the presence of the two-phase transition layer at the air-sea interface. This two-phase layer parameterization represented the lower limit imposed on the drag coefficient under hurricane conditions. The numerical simulations helped to reduce the uncertainty in the critical Richardson number applicable to the air-sea interface and in the values of two dimensionless constants; this reduced the uncertainty in the parameterization of the lower limit on the drag coefficient. The available laboratory data (Donelan et al., 2004) are bounded by the two-phase layer parameterization from below and the wave resistance parameterization from above. The available field data (Powell et al., 2003; Black et al., 2007) fall between these two parameterizations, for wind speeds of up to 50 m/s. A few points from the dropsonde data from Powell et al. (2003), obtained at very high wind speeds, are below the theoretical lower limit on the drag coefficient. We also conducted a numerical experiment with imposed short wavelets. Streamwise coherent structures were observed on the water surface, which were especially prominent on the top of wave crests. These intermittent streamwise structures on the top of wavelets, with periodicity in the transverse direction, presumably were a result of the Tollmien-Schlichting (TS) instability. Similar processes take place at the atomization of liquid fuels in cryogenic and diesel engines (Yecko et al., 2002). According to McNaughton and Brunet (2002), the nonlinear stage of the TS instability results in streamwise streaks followed by fluid ejections. This mechanism can contribute to the generation of spume in the form of streaks. Foam streaks are an observable feature on photographic images of the ocean surface under hurricane conditions. The mechanism of the TS instability can also contribute to dispersion of oil spills and other pollutants in hurricane conditions.

A Source Anonymity-Based Lightweight Secure AODV Protocol for Fog-Based MANET

PubMed Central

Fang, Weidong; Zhang, Wuxiong; Xiao, Jinchao; Yang, Yang; Chen, Wei

2017-01-01

Fog-based MANET (Mobile Ad hoc networks) is a novel paradigm of a mobile ad hoc network with the advantages of both mobility and fog computing. Meanwhile, as traditional routing protocol, ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) routing protocol has been applied widely in fog-based MANET. Currently, how to improve the transmission performance and enhance security are the two major aspects in AODV’s research field. However, the researches on joint energy efficiency and security seem to be seldom considered. In this paper, we propose a source anonymity-based lightweight secure AODV (SAL-SAODV) routing protocol to meet the above requirements. In SAL-SAODV protocol, source anonymous and secure transmitting schemes are proposed and applied. The scheme involves the following three parts: the source anonymity algorithm is employed to achieve the source node, without being tracked and located; the improved secure scheme based on the polynomial of CRC-4 is applied to substitute the RSA digital signature of SAODV and guarantee the data integrity, in addition to reducing the computation and energy consumption; the random delayed transmitting scheme (RDTM) is implemented to separate the check code and transmitted data, and achieve tamper-proof results. The simulation results show that the comprehensive performance of the proposed SAL-SAODV is a trade-off of the transmission performance, energy efficiency, and security, and better than AODV and SAODV. PMID:28629142

Divergent trend in density versus viscosity of ionic liquid/water mixtures: a molecular view from guanidinium ionic liquids.

PubMed

Singh, Akhil Pratap; Gardas, Ramesh L; Senapati, Sanjib

2015-10-14

Ionic liquids (ILs) have shown great potential in the dissolution and stability of biomolecules when a low-to-moderate quantity of water is added. Hence, determining the thermophysical properties and understanding these novel mixtures at the molecular level are of both fundamental and practical importance. In this context, here we report the synthesis of two nontoxic guanidinium cation based ILs, tetramethylguanidinium benzoate [TMG][BEN] and tetramethylguanidinium salicylate [TMG][SAL], and present a detailed comparison of their thermophysical properties in the presence of water. The results show that the [TMG][SAL]/water mixtures have higher density and higher apparent molar volume, but a lower viscosity and higher compressibility than the [TNG][BEN]/water mixtures. The measured viscosity and compressibility data are explained from ab initio quantum mechanical calculations and liquid-phase molecular dynamics simulations, where salicylate anions of denser [TMG][SAL]/water were found to exist as isolated ions due to intramolecular H-bonding. On the contrary, intermolecular H-bonding among the benzoate anions and their strong tendency to form an extended H-bonding network with water made [TMG][BEN]/water solutions more viscous and less compressible. This study shows the importance of probing these emerging solvents at the molecular-to-atomic level, which could be helpful in their optimal usage for task-specific applications.

A Source Anonymity-Based Lightweight Secure AODV Protocol for Fog-Based MANET.

PubMed

Fang, Weidong; Zhang, Wuxiong; Xiao, Jinchao; Yang, Yang; Chen, Wei

2017-06-17

Fog-based MANET (Mobile Ad hoc networks) is a novel paradigm of a mobile ad hoc network with the advantages of both mobility and fog computing. Meanwhile, as traditional routing protocol, ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) routing protocol has been applied widely in fog-based MANET. Currently, how to improve the transmission performance and enhance security are the two major aspects in AODV's research field. However, the researches on joint energy efficiency and security seem to be seldom considered. In this paper, we propose a source anonymity-based lightweight secure AODV (SAL-SAODV) routing protocol to meet the above requirements. In SAL-SAODV protocol, source anonymous and secure transmitting schemes are proposed and applied. The scheme involves the following three parts: the source anonymity algorithm is employed to achieve the source node, without being tracked and located; the improved secure scheme based on the polynomial of CRC-4 is applied to substitute the RSA digital signature of SAODV and guarantee the data integrity, in addition to reducing the computation and energy consumption; the random delayed transmitting scheme (RDTM) is implemented to separate the check code and transmitted data, and achieve tamper-proof results. The simulation results show that the comprehensive performance of the proposed SAL-SAODV is a trade-off of the transmission performance, energy efficiency, and security, and better than AODV and SAODV.

Insights into the genomic plasticity of Pseudomonas putida KF715, a strain with unique biphenyl-utilizing activity and genome instability properties.

PubMed

Suenaga, Hikaru; Fujihara, Hidehiko; Kimura, Nobutada; Hirose, Jun; Watanabe, Takahito; Futagami, Taiki; Goto, Masatoshi; Shimodaira, Jun; Furukawa, Kensuke

2017-10-01

Pseudomonas putida KF715 exhibits unique properties in both catabolic activity and genome plasticity. Our previous studies revealed that the DNA region containing biphenyl and salycilate metabolism gene clusters (termed the bph-sal element) was frequently deleted and transferred by conjugation to closely related P. putida strains. In this study, we first determined the complete nucleotide sequence of the KF715 genome. Next, to determine the underlying cause of genome plasticity in KF715, we compared the KF715 genome with the genomes of one KF715 defective mutant, two transconjugants, and several P. putida strains available from public databases. The gapless KF715 genome sequence revealed five replicons: one circular chromosome, and four plasmids. Southern blot analysis indicated that most of the KF715 cell population carries the bph-sal element on the chromosome whereas a small number carry it on a huge plasmid, pKF715A. Moreover, the bph-sal element is present stably on the plasmid and did not integrate into the chromosome of its transconjugants. Comparative genome analysis and experiments showed that a number of diverse putative genetic elements are present in KF715 and are likely involved in genome rearrangement. These data provide insights into the genetic plasticity and adaptability of microorganisms for survival in various ecological niches. © 2017 Society for Applied Microbiology and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Polyimide Aerogels and Porous Membranes for Ultrasonic Impedance Matching to Air

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swank, Aaron J.; Sands, Obed S.; Meador, Mary Ann B.

2014-01-01

This work investigates acoustic impedance matching materials for coupling 200 kHz ultrasonic signals from air to materials with similar acoustic properties to that of water, flesh, rubber and plastics. Porous filter membranes as well as a new class of cross-linked polyimide aerogels are evaluated. The results indicate that a single impedance matching layer consisting of these new aerogel materials will recover nearly half of the loss in the incident-to-transmitted ultrasound intensity associated with an air/water, air/flesh or air/gelatin boundary. Furthermore, the experimental results are obtained where other uncertainties of the "real world" are present such that the observed impedance matching gains are representative of real-world applications. Performance of the matching layer devices is assessed using the idealized 3-layer model of infinite half spaces, yet the experiments conducted use a finite gelatin block as the destination medium.

The Role of Wave Cyclones in Transporting Boundary Layer Air to the Free Troposphere During the Spring 2001 NASA / TRACE-P Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fuelberg, Henry E.; Hannan, J. R.; Crawford, J. H.; Sachse, G. W.; Blake, D. R.

2003-01-01

Transport of boundary layer air to the free troposphere by cyclones during NASA's Transport and Chemical Evolution over the Pacific (TRACE-P) experiment is investigated. Airstreams responsible for boundary layer venting are diagnosed using results from a high-resolution meteorological model (MM5) together with in situ and remotely sensed chemical data. Hourly wind data from the MM5 are used to calculate three-dimensional grids of backward air trajectories. A reverse domain filling (RDF) technique then is employed to examine the characteristics of airstreams over the computational domain, and to isolate airstreams ascending from the boundary layer to the free troposphere during the previous 36 hours. Two cases are examined in detail. Results show that airstreams responsible for venting the boundary layer differ considerably from those described by classic conceptual models and in the recent literature. In addition, airstreams sampled by the TRACE-P aircraft are found to exhibit large variability in chemical concentrations. This variability is due to differences in the boundary layer histories of individual airstreams with respect to anthropogenic sources over continental Asia and Japan. Complex interactions between successive wave cyclones also are found to be important in determining the chemical composition of the airstreams. Particularly important is the process of post-cold frontal boundary layer air being rapidly transported offshore and recirculated into ascending airstreams of upstream cyclones.

Significant and stable drag reduction with air rings confined by alternated superhydrophobic and hydrophilic strips

PubMed Central

Hu, Haibao; Wen, Jun; Bao, Luyao; Jia, Laibing; Song, Dong; Song, Baowei; Pan, Guang; Scaraggi, Michele; Dini, Daniele; Xue, Qunji; Zhou, Feng

2017-01-01

Superhydrophobic surfaces have the potential to reduce the viscous drag of liquids by significantly decreasing friction at a solid-liquid interface due to the formation of air layers between solid walls and interacting liquids. However, the trapped air usually becomes unstable due to the finite nature of the domain over which it forms. We demonstrate for the first time that a large surface energy barrier can be formed to strongly pin the three-phase contact line of air/water/solid by covering the inner rotor of a Taylor-Couette flow apparatus with alternating superhydrophobic and hydrophilic circumferential strips. This prevents the disruption of the air layer, which forms stable and continuous air rings. The drag reduction measured at the inner rotor could be as much as 77.2%. Moreover, the air layers not only significantly reduce the strength of Taylor vortexes but also influence the number and position of the Taylor vortex pairs. This has strong implications in terms of energy efficiency maximization for marine applications and reduction of drag losses in, for example, fluid transport in pipelines and carriers. PMID:28879234

Dependence of air masses type on PBL vertical structure retrieved at the Mace Head station during EUCAARI campaign.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milroy, Conor; Martucci, Giovanni; O'Dowd, Colin

2010-05-01

During the EUCAARI Intensive Observing Period held at the Mace Head GAW station from mid-May to mid-June, 2008, the PBL depth has been continuously measured by two ceilometers (Vaisala CL31 and Jenoptik CHM15K) and a microwave radiometer (RPG-HATPRO). The Lidar-Ceilometer, through the gradients in aerosol backscatter profiles, and the microwave profiler, through gradients in the specific humidity profiles, were used to remotely-sense the boundary layer structure. An automatic, newly developed Temporal Height-Tracking (THT) algorithm (Martucci et al., 2010) have been applied to both type of instruments data to retrieve the 2-layered structure of the local marine boundary layer. The two layers are defined as a lower, well mixed layer, i.e. the surface mixed layer, and the layer occupying the region below the free Troposphere inversion, i.e. the decoupled residual or convective layer. A categorization of the incoming air masses has been performed based on their origins and been used to asses the correlation with the PBL depths. The study confirmed the dependence of PBL vertical structure on different air masses and different type of advected aerosol.

Atomic Layer Deposition of TiO2 for a High-Efficiency Hole-Blocking Layer in Hole-Conductor-Free Perovskite Solar Cells Processed in Ambient Air.

PubMed

Hu, Hang; Dong, Binghai; Hu, Huating; Chen, Fengxiang; Kong, Mengqin; Zhang, Qiuping; Luo, Tianyue; Zhao, Li; Guo, Zhiguang; Li, Jing; Xu, Zuxun; Wang, Shimin; Eder, Dominik; Wan, Li

2016-07-20

In this study we design and construct high-efficiency, low-cost, highly stable, hole-conductor-free, solid-state perovskite solar cells, with TiO2 as the electron transport layer (ETL) and carbon as the hole collection layer, in ambient air. First, uniform, pinhole-free TiO2 films of various thicknesses were deposited on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) electrodes by atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology. Based on these TiO2 films, a series of hole-conductor-free perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with carbon as the counter electrode were fabricated in ambient air, and the effect of thickness of TiO2 compact film on the device performance was investigated in detail. It was found that the performance of PSCs depends on the thickness of the compact layer due to the difference in surface roughness, transmittance, charge transport resistance, electron-hole recombination rate, and the charge lifetime. The best-performance devices based on optimized TiO2 compact film (by 2000 cycles ALD) can achieve power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of as high as 7.82%. Furthermore, they can maintain over 96% of their initial PCE after 651 h (about 1 month) storage in ambient air, thus exhibiting excellent long-term stability.

Measurement of deformation and frequency response characteristic of PZT tube in tunable fiber laser with short period based on coherent laser beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lai, Zhi; Zeng, Xiaodong; Fan, Zhaojin; Xu, Zhichen

2016-09-01

The parameters of light source in synthetic aperture ladar (SAL) is very important to both the design of system and the signal processing algorithm. As the light source in the SAL, the fiber laser use PZT (piezoelectric ceramics) tube stretching the fiber Bragg grating in order to tune the laser frequency. So it is necessary to obtain the deformation and frequency response of PZT tube driven by saw-tooth voltage of different periods. Accordingly, the homodyne detection is used to measure the girth variation of PZT tube. Meanwhile, the frequency response of PZT tube can be viewed with the homodyne signal. The results from measuring a PZT tube show that the method can work well.

Synthesis, anticancer and antibacterial activity of salinomycin N-benzyl amides.

PubMed

Antoszczak, Michał; Maj, Ewa; Napiórkowska, Agnieszka; Stefańska, Joanna; Augustynowicz-Kopeć, Ewa; Wietrzyk, Joanna; Janczak, Jan; Brzezinski, Bogumil; Huczyński, Adam

2014-11-25

A series of 12 novel monosubstituted N-benzyl amides of salinomycin (SAL) was synthesized for the first time and characterized by NMR and FT-IR spectroscopic methods. Molecular structures of three salinomycin derivatives in the solid state were determined using single crystal X-ray method. All compounds obtained were screened for their antiproliferative activity against various human cancer cell lines as well as against the most problematic bacteria strains such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE), and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Novel salinomycin derivatives exhibited potent anticancer activity against drug-resistant cell lines. Additionally, two N-benzyl amides of salinomycin revealed interesting antibacterial activity. The most active were N-benzyl amides of SAL substituted at -ortho position and the least anticancer active derivatives were those substituted at the -para position.

Hypersonic Viscous Shock Layer of Nonequilibrium Dissociating Gas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chung, Paul M.

1961-01-01

The nonequilibrium chemical reaction of dissociation and recombination is studied theoretically for air in the viscous shock layer at the stagnation region af axisymmetric bodies. The flight regime considered is for speeds near satellite speed and for altitudes between 200,000 and 300,000 feet. The convective heat transfer to noncatalytic walls is obtained. The effects of nose radius, wall temperature, and flight altitude on the chemical state of the shock layer are studied. An analysis is also made on the simultaneous effect of nonequilibrium chemical reaction and air rarefaction on the shock layer thickness.

Method of bonding an interconnection layer on an electrode of an electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Pal, U.B.; Isenberg, A.O.; Folser, G.R.

1992-01-14

An electrochemical cell containing an air electrode, contacting electrolyte and electronically conductive interconnection layer, and a fuel electrode, has the interconnection layer attached by: (A) applying a thin, closely packed, discrete layer of LaCrO[sub 3] particles, doped with an element selected from the group consisting of Ca, Sr, Co, Ba, Mg and their mixtures on a portion of the air electrode, and then (B) electrochemical vapor depositing a dense skeletal structure between and around the doped LaCrO[sub 3] particles. 2 figs.

Transport of contaminants in the planetary boundary layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, I. Y.; Swan, P. R.

1978-01-01

A planetary boundary layer model is described and used to simulate PBL phenomena including cloud formation and pollution transport in the San Francisco Bay Area. The effect of events in the PBL on air pollution is considered, and governing equations for the average momentum, potential temperature, water vapor mixing ratio, and air contaminants are presented. These equations are derived by integrating the basic equations vertically through the mixed layer. Characteristics of the day selected for simulation are reported, and the results suggest that the diurnally cyclic features of the mesoscale motion, including clouds and air pollution, can be simulated in a readily interpretable way with the model.

Reorientation of the ‘free OH’ group in the top-most layer of air/water interface of sodium fluoride aqueous solution probed with sum-frequency generation vibrational spectroscopy

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

Feng, Ran-Ran; Guo, Yuan; Wang, Hongfei

2014-09-17

Many experimental and theoretical studies have established the specific anion, as well as cation effects on the hydrogen-bond structures at the air/water interface of electrolyte solutions. However, the ion effects on the top-most layer of the air/water interface, which is signified by the non-hydrogen-bonded so-called ‘free O-H’ group, has not been discussed or studied. In this report, we present the measurement of changes of the orientational angle of the ‘free O-H’ group at the air/water interface of the sodium fluoride (NaF) solutions at different concentrations using the interface selective sum-frequency generation vibrational spectroscopy (SFG-VS) in the ssp and ppp polarizations.more » The polarization dependent SFG-VS results show that the average tilt angle of the ‘free O-H’ changes from about 35.3 degrees ± 0.5 degrees to 43.4 degrees ± 2.1degrees as the NaF concentration increase from 0 to 0.94M (nearly saturated). Such tilt angle change is around the axis of the other O-H group of the same water molecule at the top-most layer at the air/water interface that is hydrogen-bonded to the water molecules below the top-most layer. These results provide quantitative molecular details of the ion effects of the NaF salt on the structure of the water molecules at the top-most layer of the air/water interfacial, even though both the Na+ cation and the F- anion are believed to be among the most excluded ions from the air/water interface.« less

Enhancement of wall jet transport properties

DOEpatents

Claunch, Scott D.; Farrington, Robert B.

1997-01-01

By enhancing the natural instabilities in the boundary layer and in the free shear layer of a wall jet, the boundary is minimized thereby increasing the transport of heat and mass. Enhancing the natural instabilities is accomplished by pulsing the flow of air that creates the wall jet. Such pulsing of the flow of air can be accomplished by sequentially occluding and opening a duct that confines and directs the flow of air, such as by rotating a disk on an axis transverse to the flow of air in the duct.

Enhancement of wall jet transport properties

DOEpatents

Claunch, S.D.; Farrington, R.B.

1997-02-04

By enhancing the natural instabilities in the boundary layer and in the free shear layer of a wall jet, the boundary is minimized thereby increasing the transport of heat and mass. Enhancing the natural instabilities is accomplished by pulsing the flow of air that creates the wall jet. Such pulsing of the flow of air can be accomplished by sequentially occluding and opening a duct that confines and directs the flow of air, such as by rotating a disk on an axis transverse to the flow of air in the duct. 17 figs.

Hydrodynamic water impact. [Apollo spacecraft waterlanding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kettleborough, C. F.

1972-01-01

The hydrodynamic impact of a falling body upon a viscous incompressible fluid was investigated by numerically solving the equations of motion. Initially the mathematical model simulated the axisymmetric impact of a rigid right circular cylinder upon the initially quiescent free surface of a fluid. A compressible air layer exists between the falling cylinder and the liquid free surface. The mathematical model was developed by applying the Navier-Stokes equations to the incompressible air layer and the incompressible fluid. Assuming the flow to be one dimensional within the air layer, the average velocity, pressure and density distributions were calculated. The liquid free surface was allowed to deform as the air pressure acting on it increases. For the liquid the normalized equations were expressed in two-dimensional cylindrical coordinates. The governing equations for the air layer and the liquid were expressed in finite difference form and solved numerically. For the liquid a modified version of the Marker-and-Cell method was used. The mathematical model has been reexamined and a new approach has recently been initiated. Essentially this consists of examining the impact of an inclined plate onto a quiesent water surface with the equations now formulated in cartesian coordinates.

Air-Induced Drag Reduction at High Reynolds Numbers: Velocity and Void Fraction Profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elbing, Brian; Mäkiharju, Simo; Wiggins, Andrew; Dowling, David; Perlin, Marc; Ceccio, Steven

2010-11-01

The injection of air into a turbulent boundary layer forming over a flat plate can reduce the skin friction. With sufficient volumetric fluxes an air layer can separate the solid surface from the flowing liquid, which can produce drag reduction in excess of 80%. Several large scale experiments have been conducted at the US Navy's Large Cavitation Channel on a 12.9 m long flat plate model investigating bubble drag reduction (BDR), air layer drag reduction (ALDR) and the transition between BDR and ALDR. The most recent experiment acquired phase velocities and void fraction profiles at three downstream locations (3.6, 5.9 and 10.6 m downstream from the model leading edge) for a single flow speed (˜6.4 m/s). The profiles were acquired with a combination of electrode point probes, time-of-flight sensors, Pitot tubes and an LDV system. Additional diagnostics included skin-friction sensors and flow-field image visualization. During this experiment the inlet flow was perturbed with vortex generators immediately upstream of the injection location to assess the robustness of the air layer. From these, and prior measurements, computational models can be refined to help assess the viability of ALDR for full-scale ship applications.

Airborne survey of major air basins in California

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gloria, H. R.; Bradburn, G.; Reinisch, R. F.; Pitts, J. N., Jr.; Behar, J. V.; Zafonte, L.

1974-01-01

An instrumented aircraft was used to study the chemical and transport properties of air pollution in two major urban centers in California and to survey certain aspects of air pollution within this state. State-of-the-art measurement techniques and sampling procedures are discussed. It is found that meteorological transport mechanisms are better portrayed by vertical pollutant profiles. Airborne measurements define the nature of the mixing layer for atmospheric pollutants. Results show that the pollutants are found to be concentrated in distinct layers up to at least 18,000 feet and the O3 buildup occurring in advected air masses is a result of a continuous photochemical aging of air mass.

Extinction-to-Backscatter Ratios of Saharan Dust Layers Derived from In-Situ Measurements and CALIPSO Overflights During NAMMA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Omar, Ali H.; Liu, Zhaoyan; Vaughan, Mark A.; Hu, Yongxiang; Ismail, Syed; Powell, Kathleen A.; Winker, David M.; Trepte, Charles R.; Anderson, Bruce E.

2010-01-01

We determine the aerosol extinction-to-backscatter (Sa) ratios of dust using airborne in-situ measurements of microphysical properties, and CALIPSO observations during the NASA African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analyses (NAMMA). The NAMMA field experiment was conducted from Sal, Cape Verde during Aug-Sept 2006. Using CALIPSO measurements of the attenuated backscatter of lofted Saharan dust layers, we apply the transmittance technique to estimate dust Sa ratios at 532 nm and a 2-color method to determine the corresponding 1064 nm Sa. Using this method, we found dust Sa ratios of 39.8 plus or minus 1.4 sr and 51.8 plus or minus 3.6 sr at 532 nm and 1064 nm, respectively. Secondly, Sa ratios at both wavelengths is independently calculated using size distributions measured aboard the NASA DC-8 and estimates of Saharan dust complex refractive indices applied in a T-Matrix scheme. We found Sa ratios of 39.1 plus or minus 3.5 sr and 50.0 plus or minus 4 sr at 532 nm and 1064 nm, respectively, using the T-Matrix calculations applied to measured size spectra. Finally, in situ measurements of the total scattering (550 nm) and absorption coefficients (532 nm) are used to generate an extinction profile that is used to constrain the CALIPSO 532 nm extinction profile.

Packing Optimization of an Intentionally Stratified Sorbent Bed Containing Dissimilar Media Types

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kidd, Jessica; Guttromson, Jayleen; Holland, Nathan

2010-01-01

The Fire Cartridge is a packed bed air filter with two different and separate layers of media designed to provide respiratory protection from combustion products after a fire event on the International Space Station (ISS). The first layer of media is a carbon monoxide catalyst made from gold nanoparticles dispersed on iron oxide. The second layer of media is universal carbon, commonly used in commercial respirator filters. Each layer must be optimally packed to effectively remove contaminants from the air. Optimal packing is achieved by vibratory agitations. However, if post-packing movement of the media within the cartridge occurs, mixing of the bed layers, air voids, and channeling could cause preferential air flow and allow contaminants to pass. Several iterations of prototype fire cartridges were developed to reduce post-packing movement of the media within each layer (settling), and to prevent mixing of the two media types. Both types of movement of the media contribute to decreased fire cartridge performance. Each iteration of the fire cartridge design was tested to demonstrate mechanical loads required to cause detrimental movement within the bed, and resulting level of functionality of the media beds after movement was detected. In order to optimally pack each layer, vertical, horizontal, and orbital agitations were tested and a final packed bulk density was calculated for each method. Packed bulk density must be calculated for each lot of catalyst to accommodate variations in particle size, shape, and density. In addition, a physical divider sheet between each type of media was added within the fire cartridge design to further inhibit intermixing of the bed layers.

Comparison of the effects of a balanced crystalloid-based and a saline-based tetrastarch solution on canine whole blood coagulation and platelet function.

PubMed

Reuteler, Annina; Axiak-Flammer, Shannon; Howard, Judith; Adamik, Katja-Nicole

2017-01-01

To evaluate the effects of a 6% hydroxyethyl starch (130/0.42) solution in either a buffered, electrolyte-balanced (HES-BAL), or a saline (HES-SAL) carrier solution on canine platelet function and whole blood coagulation. Prospective, randomized study. University teaching hospital. Thirty-seven client-owned dogs undergoing general anesthesia for arthroscopy or imaging studies. Dogs received a 15 mL/kg intravenous bolus of HES-SAL (n = 13), HES-BAL (n = 14), or a modified Ringer's solution (n = 10) over 30-40 minutes. Coagulation was analyzed using a Platelet Function Analyzer-100 (closure time [Ct PFA ]), and whole blood thromboelastometry (ROTEM) with extrinsically (ex-tem and fib-tem) and intrinsically (in-tem) activated assays, which assessed clotting time (CT), clot formation time (CFT), maximal clot firmness (MCF), and lysis index (LI). Coagulation samples were assayed prior to fluid administration (T0), and 5 minutes (T1), and 3 hours (T2) following fluid bolus administration, respectively. Both HES solutions resulted in impaired platelet function as indicated by a significant prolongation of Ct PFA at T1 as compared to T0, but which resolved by T2. An IV bolus of Ringer's solution did not alter platelet function. In both HES groups, whole blood coagulation was significantly impaired at T1 as indicated by a significant increase in in-tem CFT, and a significant decrease in ex-tem, in-tem, and fib-tem MCF compared to T0. Furthermore, a significant increase in ex-tem CFT at T1 compared to T0 was found in the HES-SAL group. With the exception of in-tem MCF after HES-BAL, these effects were not present at T2. No significant differences were found in Ct PFA or any ROTEM variable at any time point between HES-SAL and HES-BAL. Administration of a single bolus of 15 mL/kg 6% HES 130/0.42 results in significant but short-lived impairment of canine platelet function and whole blood coagulation, regardless of carrier solution. © Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society 2016.

Transplacental cocaine exposure. 1: A rodent model.

PubMed

Wilkins, A S; Genova, L M; Posten, W; Kosofsky, B E

1998-01-01

To characterize the transplacental effects of cocaine on the developing brain, we have developed a mouse model of gestational cocaine exposure. Pharmacokinetic analysis revealed that cocaine and its metabolites (BE, BNE, and NC) were found in fetal brain and plasma at 30 and 120 min following SC administration to embryonic day (E) 17 pregnant Swiss Webster mice. Pregnant dams injected twice daily with cocaine HCl at 20 mg/kg SC from gestational day E8 to E17 (COC) demonstrated less food intake and lower percentage weight gain than vehicle-injected dams allowed access to food ad lib (SAL). A nutritionally paired control group of dams injected with saline vehicle and pair-fed with the COC dams (SPF) demonstrated the lowest percentage weight gain of all three groups. The surrogate fostered offspring of COC and SPF dams demonstrated persistent growth retardation [on postnatal days (P) 1, P9, and P50] and transient brain growth retardation (on P1 and P9) when compared to pups born to SAL dams. We conducted behavioral tests that allowed us to dissociate the indirect effect of cocaine-induced malnutrition from a direct effect of prenatal cocaine administration in altering postnatal behavior. Pups from all three groups were tested for first-order Pavlovian conditioning on P9 or P12, or for the ability to ignore redundant information in a blocking paradigm on P50 or P100. Unlike the SPF and SAL controls, COC mice (i.e., mice born to COC dams) were unable to acquire an aversion to an odor previously paired with shock on P9. This learning deficit was transient because on P12, COC mice trained on the same conditioning task displayed an aversion to the odor that was indistinguishable from the SPF and SAL controls. P50 and P100 COC mice (and to a lesser extent, SPF mice) demonstrated a persistent behavioral deficit in the blocking paradigm, which may reflect alterations in selective attention. We discuss how these findings in our rodent model have developmental implications for human infants exposed to cocaine in utero.

Surgical management of HIV-associated lipodystrophy: role of ultrasonic-assisted liposuction and suction-assisted lipectomy in the treatment of lipohypertrophy.

PubMed

Hultman, C Scott; McPhail, Lindsee E; Donaldson, Jeffrey H; Wohl, David A

2007-03-01

HIV-associated lipodystrophy is a frequent consequence of highly active antiretroviral therapy and has been associated with several metabolic disorders (increased triglycerides, hypercholesterolemia, insulin resistance) as well as altered fat distribution, including lipohypertrophy (neck, trunk, breasts) and lipoatrophy (nasolabial fold, cheek, extremities). Medical treatment of fat redistribution is usually ineffective. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of the surgical management of HIV lipodystrophy. We performed a retrospective review of 12 consecutive patients (3 female, 9 male; mean age, 44.4 years; mean CD4+ cell count, 554/mm3; mean body mass index, 28.9 kg/m2; mean triglycerides, 421 mg/dL; no active opportunistic infections; mean duration of HIV infection, 11.4 years) who underwent surgical management of HIV lipodystrophy at a university hospital from 2001 to 2006. Surgical intervention included a combination of ultrasonic-assisted liposuction (UAL) and suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL) of the anterior neck (7 patients), posterior neck (10 patients), and trunk (2 patients); direct excision of mastoid fat pads (1 patient); direct excision of thigh lipomata (1 patient); facelift/necklift (1 patient); browlift (1 patient); fat injections (1 patient); and blepharoplasty (2 patients). Mean lipoaspirate volume was 701 mL (range, 270-1400 mL). Complications and sequelae included seroma (1 patient), ecchymosis (1 patient), need for revision (2 patients), and recurrence (3 patients) but did not include nerve injury, fat necrosis, skin loss, or infection. Although all patients reported improvement in form and function, UAL/SAL of the anterior neck had limited efficacy in 3 of 7 patients. UAL/SAL of the cervicodorsal fat pad was initially successful in 10 of 10 patients, but 3 patients developed partial late (>1 year) recurrence, all associated with weight gain. Mean follow up was 30 months (range, 1-66 months). Despite the potential for recurrence, surgical management of HIV-associated lipodystrophy is efficacious with minimal morbidity. UAL/SAL is particularly beneficial in reducing the cervicodorsal fat pad, whereas facelift and necklift may be necessary to adequately address anterior neck lipohypertrophy.

Elucidation of conformational states, dynamics, and mechanism of binding in human κ-opioid receptor complexes.

PubMed

Leonis, Georgios; Avramopoulos, Aggelos; Salmas, Ramin Ekhteiari; Durdagi, Serdar; Yurtsever, Mine; Papadopoulos, Manthos G

2014-08-25

Opioid G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been implicated in modulating pain, addiction, psychotomimesis, mood and memory, among other functions. We have employed the recently reported crystal structure of the human κ-opioid receptor (κ-OR) and performed molecular dynamics (MD), free energy, and ab initio calculations to elucidate the binding mechanism in complexes with antagonist JDTic and agonist SalA. The two systems were modeled in water and in DPPC lipid bilayers, in order to investigate the effect of the membrane upon conformational dynamics. MD and Atoms in Molecules (AIM) ab initio calculations for the complexes in water showed that each ligand was stabilized inside the binding site of the receptor through hydrogen bond interactions that involved residues Asp138 (with JDTic) and Gln115, His291, Leu212 (with SalA). The static description offered by the crystal structure was overcome to reveal a structural rearrangement of the binding pocket, which facilitated additional interactions between JDTic and Glu209/Tyr139. The role of Glu209 was emphasized, since it belongs to an extracellular loop that covers the binding site of the receptor and is crucial for ligand entrapment. The above interactions were retained in membrane complexes (SalA forms additional hydrogen bonds with Tyr139/312), except the Tyr139 interaction, which is abolished in the JDTic complex. For the first time, we report that JDTic alternates between a "V-shape" (stabilized via a water-mediated intramolecular interaction) and a more extended conformation, a feature that offers enough suppleness for effective binding. Moreover, MM-PBSA calculations showed that the more efficient JDTic binding to κ-OR compared to SalA (ΔGJDTic = -31.6 kcal mol(-1), ΔGSalA = -9.8 kcal mol(-1)) is attributed mostly to differences in electrostatic contributions. Importantly, our results are in qualitative agreement with the experiments (ΔGJDTic,exp = -14.4 kcal mol(-1), ΔGSalA,exp = -10.8 kcal mol(-1)). This study provides previously unattainable information on the dynamics of human κ-OR and insight on the rational design of drugs with improved pharmacological properties.

Mass Transport Deposits in the Santaren Channel: Distribution, Characteristics, and Potential Triggering Mechanisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schnyder, J.

2015-12-01

Submarine slope failures are a likely cause for tsunami generation along the East U.S. coast. A possible source are the large slope failures along western Great Bahama Bank (GBB). Numerical models simulate tsunami generation and propagation through the Straits of Florida, caused by these Pleistocene mass wasting events. In order to estimate the likelihood and extent of future landslides, distribution, characteristics, and possible triggering mechanisms of previous failures and their associated mass transport deposits (MTD) have to be investigated. In 2013, the University of Hamburg acquired 2D high-resolution multichannel seismic data, multibeam data, and subbottom profiles inside the Santaren Channel, along the slopes of western GBB and Cay Sal Bank (CSB). The two platforms are different in two ways. CSB is part of the Cuban Fold and Thrust Belt while GBB is situated in a tectonically quiet zone. In addition, the slopes of western GBB are on the leeward side of the bank, while the eastern slopes of CSB are in a windward position. Differences in nature and size of mass wasting events between the Cay Sal side and the western GBB side of the dataset show how influential the tectonically active Cuban Fold and Thrust Belt is to the generation of large MTDs in this area. In the study area, the slope failures can be divided in two categories; small-scale in situ failures with high frequencies on the slopes, dominant on the western GBB side, and large landslides with a lower frequency, but higher volumes and transport distances on the toe of the slope and in the basin, dominant on the Cay Sal side. The distribution of in situ failures, such as slump and debris flow alternation, shows the interplay between high and low inner strength of the sediment, respectively. On the other hand, large MTDs caused by submarine landslides suggest movement in an unconfined manner. Internal sediment preconditions derived from sea level oscillations are suggested as triggering mechanisms for slumps and debris flows, referring to their high frequency. Earthquake shaking is likely to be the causal process for large landslides clustered along northern Cay Sal.

Monte Carlo investigation of backscatter factors for skin dose determination in interventional neuroradiology procedures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Omar, Artur; Benmakhlouf, Hamza; Marteinsdottir, Maria; Bujila, Robert; Nowik, Patrik; Andreo, Pedro

2014-03-01

Complex interventional and diagnostic x-ray angiographic (XA) procedures may yield patient skin doses exceeding the threshold for radiation induced skin injuries. Skin dose is conventionally determined by converting the incident air kerma free-in-air into entrance surface air kerma, a process that requires the use of backscatter factors. Subsequently, the entrance surface air kerma is converted into skin kerma using mass energy-absorption coefficient ratios tissue-to-air, which for the photon energies used in XA is identical to the skin dose. The purpose of this work was to investigate how the cranial bone affects backscatter factors for the dosimetry of interventional neuroradiology procedures. The PENELOPE Monte Carlo system was used to calculate backscatter factors at the entrance surface of a spherical and a cubic water phantom that includes a cranial bone layer. The simulations were performed for different clinical x-ray spectra, field sizes, and thicknesses of the bone layer. The results show a reduction of up to 15% when a cranial bone layer is included in the simulations, compared with conventional backscatter factors calculated for a homogeneous water phantom. The reduction increases for thicker bone layers, softer incident beam qualities, and larger field sizes, indicating that, due to the increased photoelectric crosssection of cranial bone compared to water, the bone layer acts primarily as an absorber of low-energy photons. For neurointerventional radiology procedures, backscatter factors calculated at the entrance surface of a water phantom containing a cranial bone layer increase the accuracy of the skin dose determination.

Cold Weather and Cardiovascular Disease

MedlinePlus

... This traps air between layers, forming a protective insulation. Also, wear a hat or head scarf. Heat can be lost through your head. And ears ... which traps air between layers forming a protective insulation. Wear a hat because much of your body’s heat can be lost through your head. Learn CPR. ...

Aircraft measurements to characterize polluted winter boundary layers: Overview of twin otter flights during the Utah Winter Fine Particulate Matter Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, S. S.; Baasandorj, M.; Franchin, A.; Middlebrook, A. M.; Goldberger, L.; Thornton, J. A.; Dube, W. P.; McDuffie, E. E.; Womack, C.; Fibiger, D. L.; Moravek, A.; Clark, J. C.; Murphy, J. G.; Mitchell, R.

2017-12-01

Winter air pollution is a significant public health concern. In many regions of the U.S., Europe and Asia, wintertime particulate matter concentrations exceed national and / or international air quality standards. Winter air pollution also represents a scientific challenge because these events occur during stagnation events in shallow, vertically stratified boundary layers whose composition is difficult to probe from surface level measurements. Chemical processes responsible for the conversion of primary emissions to secondary pollutants such as ammonium nitrate aerosol vary with height above ground level. Sources of oxidants are poorly understood and may result from both local chemical production and mixing between shallow inversion layers and background air. During the Utah Winter Fine Particulate Study (UWFPS) in January - February 2017, the NOAA twin otter executed 23 research flights with a payload designed to characterize the formation of ammonium nitrate aerosol in three mountain valleys of northern Utah (Salt Lake, Cache, and Utah). These valleys are subject to periodic episodes of winter aerosol pollution well in excess of U.S. national ambient air quality standards. This presentation will describe the measurement strategy of the twin otter flights to address the specific features of aerosol pollution within winter boundary layer of this region. This strategy is relevant to understanding the broader issue of winter air pollution in other regions and potentially to the design of future studies. The presentation will summarize findings from UWFPS related to boundary layer structure, emissions and chemical processes responsible for ammonium nitrate aerosol in this region.

Perovskite Solar Cells with Inorganic Electron- and Hole-Transport Layers Exhibiting Long-Term (≈500 h) Stability at 85 °C under Continuous 1 Sun Illumination in Ambient Air.

PubMed

Seo, Seongrok; Jeong, Seonghwa; Bae, Changdeuck; Park, Nam-Gyu; Shin, Hyunjung

2018-05-22

Despite the high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), poor long-term stability is one of the main obstacles preventing their commercialization. Several approaches to enhance the stability of PSCs have been proposed. However, an accelerating stability test of PSCs at high temperature under the operating conditions in ambient air remains still to be demonstrated. Herein, interface-engineered stable PSCs with inorganic charge-transport layers are shown. The highly conductive Al-doped ZnO films act as efficient electron-transporting layers as well as dense passivation layers. This layer prevents underneath perovskite from moisture contact, evaporation of components, and reaction with a metal electrode. Finally, inverted-type PSCs with inorganic charge-transport layers exhibit a PCE of 18.45% and retain 86.7% of the initial efficiency for 500 h under continuous 1 Sun illumination at 85 °C in ambient air with electrical biases (at maximum power point tracking). © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Impact of the Loess Plateau on the atmospheric boundary layer structure and air quality in the North China Plain: a case study.

PubMed

Hu, Xiao-Ming; Ma, ZhiQiang; Lin, Weili; Zhang, Hongliang; Hu, Jianlin; Wang, Ying; Xu, Xiaobin; Fuentes, Jose D; Xue, Ming

2014-11-15

The North China Plain (NCP), to the east of the Loess Plateau, experiences severe regional air pollution. During the daytime in the summer, the Loess Plateau acts as an elevated heat source. The impacts of such a thermal effect on meteorological phenomena (e.g., waves, precipitation) in this region have been discussed. However, its impacts on the atmospheric boundary layer structure and air quality have not been reported. It is hypothesized that the thermal effect of the Plateau likely modulates the boundary layer structure and ambient concentrations of pollutants over the NCP under certain meteorological conditions. Thus, this study investigates such effect and its impacts using measurements and three-dimensional model simulations. It is found that in the presence of daytime westerly wind in the lower troposphere (~1 km above the NCP), warmer air above the Loess Plateau was transported over the NCP and imposed a thermal inversion above the mixed boundary layer, which acted as a lid and suppressed the mixed layer growth. As a result, pollutants accumulated in the shallow mixed layer and ozone was efficiently produced. The downward branch of the thermally-induced Mountain-Plains Solenoid circulation over the NCP contributed to enhancing the capping inversion and exacerbating air pollution. Previous studies have reported that low mixed layer, a factor for elevated pollution in the NCP, may be caused by aerosol scattering and absorption of solar radiation, frontal inversion, and large scale subsidence. The present study revealed a different mechanism (i.e., westerly warm advection) for the suppression of the mixed layer in summer NCP, which caused severe O3 pollution. This study has important implications for understanding the essential meteorological factors for pollution episodes in this region and forecasting these severe events. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Impact of Long-Range Transported African Dust Events on Cloud Composition and Physical Properties at a Caribbean Tropical Montane Cloud Forest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valle-Diaz, C. J.; Torres-Delgado, E.; Lee, T.; Collett, J. L.; Cuadra-Rodriguez, L. A.; Prather, K. A.; Spiegel, J.; Eugster, W.

2012-12-01

We studied the impact of long-range transported African Dust (LRTAD) on cloud composition and properties at the Caribbean tropical montane cloud forest (TMCF) of Pico del Este (PE), as part of the Puerto Rico African Dust and Clouds Study (PRADACS). Here we present results from measurements performed in July 2011. Bulk chemical analysis of cloud water and rainwater showed pH and conductivity higher in the presence of dust. pH and conductivity were also higher for larger cloud droplets (size cut of 17 μm at 50% efficiency) suggesting a higher content of dust in this fraction. The concentration of the water-soluble ions in rainwater was found to be lower than for cloud water. This in turn translates to higher pH and lower conductivity. African dust influence at PE was confirmed by the presence of nss-Ca, Fe, Mg, Na, and Al in cloud/rain water, and inferred by HYSPLIT trajectories and the satellite images from the Saharan Air Layer (SAL). Interstitial single-particle size and chemistry measured using aerosol time-of-flight mass spectrometry revealed mostly sea-salt particles (Na, Cl, Ca) and dust particles (Fe, Ti, Mg, nss-Ca). Anthropogenic influence detected as the presence of EC, a tracer for combustion processes, was found to be fairly small according to ATOFMS measurements. An increase of total organic carbon, total nitrogen, and dissolved organic carbon was observed during LRTAD events. Cloud droplet distributions revealed that LRTAD can lead to more numerous, but smaller cloud droplets (around 8 μm in average) at PE. However, total liquid water content appeared to be unaffected by this shift of droplet sizes. Overall, differences in the studied physicochemical properties of aerosols and clouds during dust and non-dust events were observed. Our results show that during LRTAD events, aerosol-cloud-precipitation interactions are altered at PE. Detailed results will be presented at the meeting.

Fabrication of a printed capacitive air-gap touch sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Sang Hoon; Seo, Hwiwon; Lee, Sangyoon

2018-05-01

Unlike lithography-based processes, printed electronics does not require etching, which makes it difficult to fabricate electronic devices with an air gap. In this study, we propose a method to fabricate capacitive air-gap touch sensors via printing and coating. First, the bottom electrode was fabricated on a flexible poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate using roll-to-roll gravure printing with silver ink. Then poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) was spin coated to form a sacrificial layer. The top electrode was fabricated on the sacrificial layer by spin coating with a stretchable silver ink. The sensor samples were then put in a tetrabutylammonium (TBAF) bath to generate the air gap by removing the sacrificial layer. The capacitance of the samples was measured for verification, and the results show that the capacitance increases in proportion to the applied force from 0 to 2.5 N.

Semi-rechargeable Aluminum-Air Battery with a TiO2 Internal Layer with Plain Salt Water as an Electrolyte

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mori, Ryohei

2016-07-01

To develop a semi-rechargeable aluminum-air battery, we attempted to insert various kinds of ceramic oxides between an aqueous NaCl electrolyte and an aluminum anode. From cyclic voltammetry experiments, we found that some of the ceramic oxide materials underwent an oxidation-reduction reaction, which indicates the occurrence of a faradaic electrochemical reaction. Using a TiO2 film as an internal layer, we successfully prepared an aluminum-air battery with secondary battery behavior. However, cell impedance increased as the charge/discharge reactions proceeded probably because of accumulation of byproducts in the cell components and the air cathode. Results of quantum calculations and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy suggest the possibility of developing an aluminum rechargeable battery using TiO2 as an internal layer.

A MEMS-based Air Flow Sensor with a Free-standing Micro-cantilever Structure.

PubMed

Wang, Yu-Hsiang; Lee, Chia-Yen; Chiang, Che-Ming

2007-10-17

This paper presents a micro-scale air flow sensor based on a free-standingcantilever structure. In the fabrication process, MEMS techniques are used to deposit asilicon nitride layer on a silicon wafer. A platinum layer is deposited on the silicon nitridelayer to form a piezoresistor, and the resulting structure is then etched to create afreestanding micro-cantilever. When an air flow passes over the surface of the cantileverbeam, the beam deflects in the downward direction, resulting in a small variation in theresistance of the piezoelectric layer. The air flow velocity is determined by measuring thechange in resistance using an external LCR meter. The experimental results indicate that theflow sensor has a high sensitivity (0.0284 ω/ms -1 ), a high velocity measurement limit (45ms -1 ) and a rapid response time (0.53 s).

Experimental Reacting Hydrogen Shear Layer Data at High Subsonic Mach Number

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, C. T.; Marek, C. J.; Wey, C.; Wey, C. C.

1996-01-01

The flow in a planar shear layer of hydrogen reacting with hot air was measured with a two-component laser Doppler velocimeter (LDV) system, a schlieren system, and OH fluorescence imaging. It was compared with a similar air-to-air case without combustion. The high-speed stream's flow speed was about 390 m/s, or Mach 0.71, and the flow speed ratio was 0.34. The results showed that a shear layer with reaction grows faster than one without; both cases are within the range of data scatter presented by the established data base. The coupling between the streamwise and the cross-stream turbulence components inside the shear layers was low, and reaction only increased it slightly. However, the shear layer shifted laterally into the lower speed fuel stream, and a more organized pattern of Reynolds stress was present in the reaction shear layer, likely as a result of the formation of a larger scale structure associated with shear layer corrugation from heat release. Dynamic pressure measurements suggest that coherent flow perturbations existed inside the shear layer and that this flow became more chaotic as the flow advected downstream. Velocity and thermal variable values are listed in this report for a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) benchmark.

Bifunctional air electrodes containing elemental iron powder charging additive

DOEpatents

Liu, Chia-tsun; Demczyk, Brian G.; Gongaware, Paul R.

1982-01-01

A bifunctional air electrode for use in electrochemical energy cells is made, comprising a hydrophilic layer and a hydrophobic layer, where the hydrophilic layer essentially comprises a hydrophilic composite which includes: (i) carbon; (ii) elemental iron particles having a particle size of between about 25 microns and about 700 microns diameter; (iii) an oxygen evolution material; (iv) a nonwetting agent; and (v) a catalyst, where at least one current collector is formed into said composite.

Method of bonding an interconnection layer on an electrode of an electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Pal, Uday B.; Isenberg, Arnold O.; Folser, George R.

1992-01-01

An electrochemical cell containing an air electrode (16), contacting electrolyte and electronically conductive interconnection layer (26), and a fuel electrode, has the interconnection layer (26) attached by: (A) applying a thin, closely packed, discrete layer of LaCrO.sub.3 particles (30), doped with an element selected from the group consisting of Ca, Sr, Co, Ba, Mg and their mixtures on a portion of the air electrode, and then (B) electrochemical vapor depositing a dense skeletal structure (32) between and around the doped LaCrO.sub.3 particles (30).

Finite-Difference Solution for Laminar or Turbulent Boundary Layer Flow over Axisymmetric Bodies with Ideal Gas, CF4, or Equilibrium Air Chemistry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hamilton, H. Harris, II; Millman, Daniel R.; Greendyke, Robert B.

1992-01-01

A computer code was developed that uses an implicit finite-difference technique to solve nonsimilar, axisymmetric boundary layer equations for both laminar and turbulent flow. The code can treat ideal gases, air in chemical equilibrium, and carbon tetrafluoride (CF4), which is a useful gas for hypersonic blunt-body simulations. This is the only known boundary layer code that can treat CF4. Comparisons with experimental data have demonstrated that accurate solutions are obtained. The method should prove useful as an analysis tool for comparing calculations with wind tunnel experiments and for making calculations about flight vehicles where equilibrium air chemistry assumptions are valid.

Finite-difference solution for laminar or turbulent boundary layer flow over axisymmetric bodies with ideal gas, CF4, or equilibrium air chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamilton, H. Harris, II; Millman, Daniel R.; Greendyke, Robert B.

1992-12-01

A computer code was developed that uses an implicit finite-difference technique to solve nonsimilar, axisymmetric boundary layer equations for both laminar and turbulent flow. The code can treat ideal gases, air in chemical equilibrium, and carbon tetrafluoride (CF4), which is a useful gas for hypersonic blunt-body simulations. This is the only known boundary layer code that can treat CF4. Comparisons with experimental data have demonstrated that accurate solutions are obtained. The method should prove useful as an analysis tool for comparing calculations with wind tunnel experiments and for making calculations about flight vehicles where equilibrium air chemistry assumptions are valid.

Sound transmission through a poroelastic layered panel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagler, Loris; Rong, Ping; Schanz, Martin; von Estorff, Otto

2014-04-01

Multi-layered panels are often used to improve the acoustics in cars, airplanes, rooms, etc. For such an application these panels include porous and/or fibrous layers. The proposed numerical method is an approach to simulate the acoustical behavior of such multi-layered panels. The model assumes plate-like structures and, hence, combines plate theories for the different layers. The poroelastic layer is modelled with a recently developed plate theory. This theory uses a series expansion in thickness direction with subsequent analytical integration in this direction to reduce the three dimensions to two. The same idea is used to model either air gaps or fibrous layers. The latter are modeled as equivalent fluid and can be handled like an air gap, i.e., a kind of `air plate' is used. The coupling of the layers is done by using the series expansion to express the continuity conditions on the surfaces of the plates. The final system is solved with finite elements, where domain decomposition techniques in combination with preconditioned iterative solvers are applied to solve the final system of equations. In a large frequency range, the comparison with measurements shows very good agreement. From the numerical solution process it can be concluded that different preconditioners for the different layers are necessary. A reuse of the Krylov subspace of the iterative solvers pays if several excitations have to be computed but not that much in the loop over the frequencies.

75 FR 62364 - Manti-La Sal National Forest Resource Advisory Committee; Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-08

... who use telecommunication devices for the deaf (TDD) may call the Federal Information Relay Service... conducted: (1) Consideration of Proposal Forms, (2) Development of Proposal Review Process, (3) Development...

Oxygen-selective immobilized liquid membranes for operation of lithium-air batteries in ambient air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jian; Xu, Wu; Liu, Wei

In this work, nonaqueous electrolyte-based Li-air batteries with an O 2-selective membrane have been developed for operation in ambient air of 20-30% relative humidity (RH). The O 2 gas is continuously supplied through a membrane barrier layer at the interface of the cathode and ambient air. The membrane allows O 2 to permeate through while blocking moisture. Such membranes can be prepared by loading O 2-selective silicone oils into porous supports such as porous metal sheets and Teflon (PTFE) films. It was found that the silicone oil of high viscosity shows better performance. The immobilized silicone oil membrane in the porous PTFE film enabled the Li-air batteries with carbon black air electrodes to operate in ambient air (at 20% RH) for 16.3 days with a specific capacity of 789 mAh g -1 carbon and a specific energy of 2182 Wh kg -1 carbon. Its performance is much better than a reference battery assembled with a commercial, porous PTFE diffusion membranes as the moisture barrier layer on the cathode, which only had a discharge time of 5.5 days corresponding to a specific capacity of 267 mAh g -1 carbon and a specific energy of 704 Wh kg -1 carbon. The Li-air battery with the present selective membrane barrier layer even showed better performance in ambient air operation (20% RH) than the reference battery tested in the dry air box (<1% RH).

Sal-like 4 (SALL4) suppresses CDH1 expression and maintains cell dispersion in basal-like breast cancer.

PubMed

Itou, Junji; Matsumoto, Yoshiaki; Yoshikawa, Kiyotsugu; Toi, Masakazu

2013-09-17

In cell cultures, the dispersed phenotype is indicative of the migratory ability. Here we characterized Sal-like 4 (SALL4) as a dispersion factor in basal-like breast cancer. Our shRNA-mediated SALL4 knockdown system and SALL4 overexpression system revealed that SALL4 suppresses the expression of adhesion gene CDH1, and positively regulates the CDH1 suppressor ZEB1. Cell behavior analyses showed that SALL4 suppresses intercellular adhesion and maintains cell motility after cell-cell interaction and cell division, which results in the dispersed phenotype. Our findings indicate that SALL4 functions to suppress CDH1 expression and to maintain cell dispersion in basal-like breast cancer. Copyright © 2013 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Investigation of the Hosgri Fault, offshore Southern California, Point Sal to Point Conception

USGS Publications Warehouse

Payne, C.M.; Swanson, O.E.; Schell, B.A.

1979-01-01

A high-resolution seismic reflection survey of the inner continental shelf between Point Sal and Point Conception has revealed faults that displace post-Wisconsin strata (less than 17,000-20,000 years). These faults are the Hosgri fault, the Offshore Lompoc fault, and smaller unnamed faults. Faults trending offshore from the adjacent shoreline such as the Pezzoni, Lions Head, Honda, and Pacifico faults, do not show post-Wisconsin activity. The Hosgri fault trends directly toward the coastline between Purisima Point and Point Arguello where it appears to merge with folds and smaller faults in the western Transverse Ranges. This trend of offshore structures toward the Point Arguello-Point Conception area is consistent with a hypothesis that the regional structural fabric of the southern California Coast Ranges and its adjacent offshore area merge with the Transverse Ranges.

Withdrawal, tolerance, and sensitization to dopamine mediated interoceptive cues in rats trained on a three-lever drug-discrimination task.

PubMed

Barrett, Robert J; Caul, William F; Smith, Randy

2005-05-01

In the present experiment rats were trained on a three-lever, drug-discrimination task to discriminate the cues associated with 0.30 mg/kg of the indirect dopamine (DA) agonist, amphetamine (AMPH), saline (SAL), and 0.03 mg/kg of the DA, D2 receptor antagonist, haloperidol (HAL). Choice behavior determined from tests on 0.30 and 0.15 mg/kg AMPH, SAL 0.03 and 0.015 mg/kg HAL provided a behavioral baseline presumed to represent changes along a continuum of DA mediated, interoceptive cues. Results from separate groups tested on 0.30 and 0.15 mg/kg AMPH, SAL, 0.03 and 0.015 mg/kg HAL, 24 h post-treatment with an acute 7.5 mg/kg dose of AMPH, showed rapid tolerance and withdrawal to the AMPH cue and sensitization to the HAL cue. The same tests 24 h following treatment with 1.0 mg/kg HAL showed rapid tolerance to the HAL cue, sensitization to the AMPH cue, but not AMPH-like withdrawal cues. Analysis of the results showed that tolerance to the AMPH and HAL cues reflected neuroadaptive baseline shifts and not weaker cue properties. These findings are consistent with predictions from opponent process theory of motivation and provide an animal model to study the motivational consequences that aversive symptoms of AMPH withdrawal such as dysphoria and anhedonia can have on drug-taking behavior.

Muscle glycogen depletion and subsequent replenishment affect anaerobic capacity of horses.

PubMed

Lacombe, V A; Hinchcliff, K W; Geor, R J; Baskin, C R

2001-10-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of muscle glycogen depletion and subsequent replenishment on anaerobic capacity of horses. In a blinded crossover study, seven fit horses performed glycogen-depleting exercise on two occasions. Horses were infused after glycogen-depleting exercise with either 6 g/kg body wt of glucose as a 13.5% solution in 0.9% NaCl (Glu) or with 0.9% NaCl (Sal) of equivalent volume. Subsequently, horses performed a high-speed exercise test (120% of maximal rate of oxygen consumption) to estimate maximum accumulated oxygen deficit. Replenishment of muscle glycogen was greater (P < 0.05) in Glu [from 24.7 +/- 7.2 (SE) to 116.5 +/- 7 mmol/kg wet wt before and after infusion, respectively] than in Sal (from 23.4 +/- 7.2 to 47.8 +/- 5.7 mmol/kg wet wt before and after infusion, respectively). Run time to fatigue during the high-speed exercise test (97.3 +/- 8.2 and 70.8 +/- 8.3 s, P < 0.05), maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (105.7 +/- 9.3 and 82.4 +/- 10.3 ml O(2) equivalent/kg, P < 0.05), and blood lactate concentration at the end of the high-speed exercise test (11.1 +/- 1.4 and 9.2 +/- 3.7 mmol/l, P < 0.05) were greater for Glu than for Sal, respectively. We concluded that decreased availability of skeletal muscle glycogen stores diminishes anaerobic power generation and capacity for high-intensity exercise in horses.

Laser therapy reduces gelatinolytic activity in the rat trigeminal ganglion during temporomandibular joint inflammation.

PubMed

Desiderá, A C; Nascimento, G C; Gerlach, R F; Leite-Panissi, C R A

2015-07-01

To investigate whether low-level laser therapy (LLLT) alters the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the trigeminal ganglion (TG) during different stages of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) inflammation in rats. It also evaluated whether LLLT modifies mechanical allodynia and orofacial hyperalgesia. Wistar rats (±250 g) were divided into groups that received saline (SAL) or complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA, 50 μl) in the TMJ, and that later underwent LLLT (20 J cm(-2) ) at their TMJ or not (groups SAL, SAL + LLLT, CFA, and CFA + LLLT). LLLT was applied on days 3, 5, 7, and 9 after SAL or CFA. Mechanical allodynia was evaluated on days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10; orofacial hyperalgesia was assessed on day 10. Gelatin zymography and in situ zymography aided quantification of MMPs in the TG. Low-level laser therapy abolished the reduction in the mechanical orofacial threshold and the increase in orofacial rubbing during the orofacial formalin test induced by CFA. LLLT also decreased the CFA-induced rise in the levels of MMP-9 and MMP-2 as well as the gelatinolytic activity in the TG. Low-level laser therapy could constitute an adjuvant therapy to treat temporomandibular disorders and prevent inflammation-induced alterations in the levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and in the gelatinolytic activity in TGs. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Cognitive deficits in a murine model of the eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome: a preliminary report.

PubMed

Middaugh, L D; Nussbaum, R; Ludwicka, A; Bolster, M B; Silver, R M

1996-01-01

The described study was to determine the effects of chronic exposure to 1,1'-ethylidenebis[L-tryptophan] (EBT), a tryptophan contaminant, on cognitive behavior of female C57BL/6 (C57) mice. EBT (also designated as "peak E" or "peak 97") is one of several compounds that are suspect in the eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS). Groups of female C57 mice (12/group) were injected IP with saline (SAL), tryptophan (TRY), EBT, or an EBT + tryptophan combination (EBT + TRY) over a 6-week period. Previous experiments established that the dosing conditions produce several characteristics of EMS, including dermal inflammation and fibrosis, increased dermal mast cells, and increased levels of quinolinic acid. The mice exposed to EBT + TRY were abnormal during the solution of a Morris water maze problem. First, they had a shorter latency to locate the submerged platform goal during the initial day of training compared to SAL or TRY mice; secondly, they did not show the systematic reduction in latency to locate the platform goal across days of training noted for SAL or TRY mice. These abnormalities occurred in the absence of altered body weight or gross motor activity during the treatment procedure, or in the animal's swim speeds at the time of testing, 3 days after termination of treatment. The results suggest that prolonged exposure to EBT + TRY can alter the reaction to a stressful environment and can alter cognitive behavior.

Air Pollution: Current and Future Challenges

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Despite the dramatic progress to date, air pollution continues to threaten Americans’ health and welfare. The main obstacles are climate change, conventional air pollution, and ozone layer depletion.

Coating of porous carbon for use in lithium air batteries

DOEpatents

Amine, Khalil; Lu, Jun; Du, Peng; Lei, Yu; Elam, Jeffrey W

2015-04-14

A cathode includes a carbon material having a surface, the surface having a first thin layer of an inert material and a first catalyst overlaying the first thin layer, the first catalyst including metal or metal oxide nanoparticles, wherein the cathode is configured for use as the cathode of a lithium-air battery.

Multiple layer insulation cover

DOEpatents

Farrell, James J.; Donohoe, Anthony J.

1981-11-03

A multiple layer insulation cover for preventing heat loss in, for example, a greenhouse, is disclosed. The cover is comprised of spaced layers of thin foil covered fabric separated from each other by air spaces. The spacing is accomplished by the inflation of spaced air bladders which are integrally formed in the cover and to which the layers of the cover are secured. The bladders are inflated after the cover has been deployed in its intended use to separate the layers of the foil material. The sizes of the material layers are selected to compensate for sagging across the width of the cover so that the desired spacing is uniformly maintained when the cover has been deployed. The bladders are deflated as the cover is stored thereby expediting the storage process and reducing the amount of storage space required.

National Emissions Inventory (NEI), County-Level, US, 2008, 2011, 2014, EPA OAR, OAPQS

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This US EPA Office of Air and Radiation, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Air Quality Assessment Division, Air Quality Analysis Group (OAR, OAQPS, AQAD, AQAG) web service contains the following layers created from the 2008, 2011 and 2014 National Emissions Inventory (NEI): Carbon Monoxide (CO), Lead, Ammonia (NH3), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Particulate Matter 10 (PM10), Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC). Each of these layers conatin county level emissions for 2008, 2011, and 2014. Layers are drawn at all scales. The National Emission Inventory (NEI) is a comprehensive and detailed estimate of air emissions of criteria pollutants, criteria precursors, and hazardous air pollutants from air emissions sources. The NEI is released every three years based primarily upon data provided by State, Local, and Tribal air agencies for sources in their jurisdictions and supplemented by data developed by the US EPA. The NEI is built using the Emissions Inventory System (EIS) first to collect the data from State, Local, and Tribal air agencies and then to blend that data with other data sources.NEI point sources include emissions estimates for larger sources that are located at a fixed, stationary location. Point sources in the NEI include large industrial facilities and electric power plants, airports, and smaller industrial, non-industrial and commercial facilities. A small number of portable sources such as s

Physical conditions for trapping air by a microtrichia-covered insect cuticle during temporary submersion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neumann, Dietrich; Woermann, Dietrich

2009-08-01

The intertidal midge Clunio, which reproduces on exposed rocky seashores, becomes enclosed in an irregularly shaped air bubble during short submersion by incoming waves. This water-repellent property of Clunio’s cuticle is caused by a complete cover of hydrophobic microtrichia offering an effective surf tolerance. These microtrichia not only trap a thin air layer above the cuticle but also maintain a larger air bubble between the insect’s ventral side and legs. The effectiveness of the water repellence was quantitatively characterised on the basis of a known model (Crisp and Thorpe, Discuss Faraday Soc 3:210-220, 1948). The parameters of the model are the contact angle θ (>90°) at the contact line of air/water/microtrichia and the distance between individual microtrichia and their radius. When the microtrichia are 1.1 μm apart and have a radius of 0.1 μm and an estimated contact angle θ of 140°, the air layer is stable against hydrostatic pressures of up to 3 m water column. As shown by a modified version of the model, considerably larger air bubbles can be trapped by the microtrichia cover of the legs up to distances of 0.5 mm from the body. The widely spaced (about 8 μm apart) and longer setae of Clunio are not involved in the formation of air layers and air bubble.

Air Layer Drag Reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ceccio, Steven; Elbing, Brian; Winkel, Eric; Dowling, David; Perlin, Marc

2008-11-01

A set of experiments have been conducted at the US Navy's Large Cavitation Channel to investigate skin-friction drag reduction with the injection of air into a high Reynolds number turbulent boundary layer. Testing was performed on a 12.9 m long flat-plate test model with the surface hydraulically smooth and fully rough at downstream-distance-based Reynolds numbers to 220 million and at speeds to 20 m/s. Local skin-friction, near-wall bulk void fraction, and near-wall bubble imaging were monitored along the length of the model. The instrument suite was used to access the requirements necessary to achieve air layer drag reduction (ALDR). Injection of air over a wide range of air fluxes showed that three drag reduction regimes exist when injecting air; (1) bubble drag reduction that has poor downstream persistence, (2) a transitional regime with a steep rise in drag reduction, and (3) ALDR regime where the drag reduction plateaus at 90% ± 10% over the entire model length with large void fractions in the near-wall region. These investigations revealed several requirements for ALDR including; sufficient volumetric air fluxes that increase approximately with the square of the free-stream speed, slightly higher air fluxes are needed when the surface tension is reduced, higher air fluxes are required for rough surfaces, and the formation of ALDR is sensitive to the inlet condition.

Role of air on local water retention behavior in the shallow heterogeneous vadose zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakaki, T.; Limsuwat, A.; Illangasekare, T. H.

2009-12-01

In the presence of a subsurface source, air flowing through the unsaturated soil can transport toxic vapor into subsurface structures due to pressure gradients created by, e.g., a pressure drop within the building. Development of dynamic air pathways in the subsurface are largely controlled by the geological heterogeneity and the spatial and temporal distribution of soil moisture. To better understand how these air pathways are developed, it is crucial to know how water is retained in heterogeneous medium at spatial resolutions that are finer than those adopted in typical hydrologic and soil physics applications. Although methods for soil water pressure measurement can be readily found in literature, a technique for measuring “air pressure” in wet soil is not well-established or documented. Hydrophobic porous ceramic cups have been used to measure non-wetting NAPL phase pressure in two-phase systems. However, our preliminary tests using the hydrophobic ceramic cups installed in highly wet soil showed that under conditions of fast drainage of the wetting fluid that is replaced by air, it typically took some time before the cups responded to register the air pressure. Therefore, an attempt was made to develop a more robust method where the time lag is minimized. The tested materials were; 1) ceramic porous cups, 2) sintered stainless steel cups, 3) porous glass discs, and 4) non-woven PTFE fabric. The ceramic cups, sintered stainless steel cups and sintered porous glass discs required hydrophobic treatment, whereas the non-woven PTFE fabric is hydrophobic by itself. To treat the ceramic porous cups, the method proposed by Parker and Lenhard [1988] was adopted. The sintered porous stainless steel cups and porous glass discs were treated by a commercially available water repellant compound. For those four materials, contact angle, water entry pressure, and time lag to respond to an imposed pressure were measured. The best performing material was then tested in a simple heterogeneous column. The column was packed using two sands to form three layers where the coarser sand was sandwitched by two layers of a finer sand. In each layer, soil moisture, water pressure and air pressure were monitored. The soil was initially saturated and suction at the bottom was gradually increased to induce wetting fluid drainage, and followed by a wetting cycle. In the drainage cycle, the coarse middle layer did not drain until air front reached the bottom of the top fine layer. Once the air front reached the fine-coarse interface, air was quickly pulled into the coarse layer. The results showed that the newly developed hydrophobic material showed very small time lag and captured the abrupt air pressure change in the wet soil. In the wetting cycle, we observed positive air pressure which indicated entrapment of air and its compression as wetting proceeded. This behavior cannot be evaluated properly without the rapid measurement of air pressure. The method is currently being applied in a large 2D vertical aquifer with a structured heterogeneity to investigate how air pathways are formed under various flux/temperature conditions at the soil surface.

Transient natural ventilation of a room with a distributed heat source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fitzgerald, Shaun D.; Woods, Andrew W.

We report on an experimental and theoretical study of the transient flows which develop as a naturally ventilated room adjusts from one temperature to another. We focus on a room heated from below by a uniform heat source, with both high- and low-level ventilation openings. Depending on the initial temperature of the room relative to (i) the final equilibrium temperature and (ii) the exterior temperature, three different modes of ventilation may develop. First, if the room temperature lies between the exterior and the equilibrium temperature, the interior remains well-mixed and gradually heats up to the equilibrium temperature. Secondly, if the room is initially warmer than the equilibrium temperature, then a thermal stratification develops in which the upper layer of originally hot air is displaced upwards by a lower layer of relatively cool inflowing air. At the interface, some mixing occurs owing to the effects of penetrative convection. Thirdly, if the room is initially cooler than the exterior, then on opening the vents, the original air is displaced downwards and a layer of ambient air deepens from above. As this lower layer drains, it is eventually heated to the ambient temperature, and is then able to mix into the overlying layer of external air, and the room becomes well-mixed. For each case, we present new laboratory experiments and compare these with some new quantitative models of the transient flows. We conclude by considering the implications of our work for natural ventilation of large auditoria.

The influence of layering and barometric pumping on firn air transport in a 2-D model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Birner, Benjamin; Buizert, Christo; Wagner, Till J. W.; Severinghaus, Jeffrey P.

2018-06-01

Ancient air trapped in ice core bubbles has been paramount to developing our understanding of past climate and atmospheric composition. Before air bubbles become isolated in ice, the atmospheric signal is altered in the firn column by transport processes such as advection and diffusion. However, the influence of low-permeability layers and barometric pumping (driven by surface pressure variability) on firn air transport is not well understood and is not readily captured in conventional one-dimensional (1-D) firn air models. Here we present a two-dimensional (2-D) trace gas advection-diffusion-dispersion model that accounts for discontinuous horizontal layers of reduced permeability. We find that layering or barometric pumping individually yields too small a reduction in gravitational settling to match observations. In contrast, when both effects are active, the model's gravitational fractionation is suppressed as observed. Layering focuses airflows in certain regions in the 2-D model, which acts to amplify the dispersive mixing resulting from barometric pumping. Hence, the representation of both factors is needed to obtain a realistic emergence of the lock-in zone. In contrast to expectations, we find that the addition of barometric pumping in the layered 2-D model does not substantially change the differential kinetic fractionation of fast- and slow-diffusing trace gases. Like 1-D models, the 2-D model substantially underestimates the amount of differential kinetic fractionation seen in actual observations, suggesting that further subgrid-scale processes may be missing in the current generation of firn air transport models. However, we find robust scaling relationships between kinetic isotope fractionation of different noble gas isotope and elemental ratios. These relationships may be used to correct for kinetic fractionation in future high-precision ice core studies and can amount to a bias of up to 0.45 °C in noble-gas-based mean ocean temperature reconstructions at WAIS Divide, Antarctica.

Mechanism for atmosphere dependence of laser damage morphology in HfO2/SiO2 high reflective films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pu, Yunti; Ma, Ping; Chen, Songlin; Zhu, Jiliang; Wang, Gang; Pan, Feng; Sun, Ping; Zhu, Xiaohong; Zhu, Jianguo; Xiao, Dingquan

2012-07-01

We show in this paper single-shot and multi-shot laser-induced damage thresholds (LIDTs) of HfO2/SiO2 high reflective films (the reflectance = 99.9%) are affected by the presence of a water layer absorbed on the surface of the porous films. When the water layer was removed with the process of pumping, the single-shot LIDT measured in vacuum dropped to ˜48% of that measured in air, while the multi-shot LIDT in vacuum dropped to ˜47% of its atmospheric value for the high reflective films. Typical damage micrographs of the films in air and in vacuum were obtained, showing distinct damage morphologies. Such atmosphere dependence of the laser damage morphology was found to originate from that formation of a water layer on the surface of porous films could cause an increase of horizontal thermal conductivity and a reduction of vertical thermal conductivity. Moreover, laser-induced periodic ripple damages in air were found in the SiO2 layer from the micrographs. A model of deformation kinematics was used to illustrate the occurrence of the periodic ripple damage, showing that it could be attributed to a contraction of the HfO2 layer under irradiation by the 5-ns laser pulses in air.

Comparison of the initial development of shear layers in two-dimensional and axisymmetric ejector configurations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dufflocq, M.; Benjamin, M. A.; Roan, V. P.

1993-01-01

A two-phase experimental investigation designed to study the development of shear layers in axisymmetric and two-dimensional single-nozzle ejectors has been completed. In this study, combinations of similar and dissimilar gases were used as the supersonic primary and subsonic secondary. Test cases included combinations of air/air, argon/air and helium/air as the supersonic primary and subsonic secondary, respectively. Similar flow conditions were studied for each ejector configuration. Mixing of the gases occurred in a constant-area tube, where the inlet pressure was maintained at 34.5 kPa. The cases studied resulted in convective Mach numbers that range between 0.06 and 1.9. The data gathered shows differences between the initial shear-layer development for the two ejector geometries, and also between the different test cases studied for each ejector configuration. The measured growth rates for the axisymmetric ejector are more than twice those measured for the two-dimensional ejector. However, in both cases the results show that compressibility has a reducing effect on the growth rate. Further, in the region immediately after the inlet to the mixing tube, compressibility seems to affect the ejector shear layers in a manner similar to that of two-stream two-dimensional mixing layers.

Steering air bubbles with an add-on vacuum layer for biopolymer membrane biofabrication in PDMS microfluidics.

PubMed

Pham, Phu; Vo, Thanh; Luo, Xiaolong

2017-01-17

Membrane functionality is crucial in microfluidics for realizing operations such as filtration, separation, concentration, signaling among cells and gradient generation. Currently, common methods often sandwich commercially available membranes in multi-layer devices, or use photopolymerization or temperature-induced gelation to fabricate membrane structures in one-layer devices. Biofabrication offers an alternative to forming membrane structures with biomimetic materials and mechanisms in mild conditions. We have recently developed a biofabrication strategy to form parallel biopolymer membranes in gas-permeable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic devices, which used positive pressure to dissipate air bubbles through PDMS to initiate membrane formation but required careful pressure balancing between two flows. Here, we report a technical innovation by simply placing as needed an add-on PDMS vacuum layer on PDMS microfluidic devices to dissipate air bubbles and guide the biofabrication of biopolymer membranes. Vacuuming through PDMS was simply achieved by either withdrawing a syringe or releasing a squeezed nasal aspirator. Upon vacuuming, air bubbles dissipated within minutes, membranes were effortlessly formed, and the add-on vacuum layer can be removed. Subsequent membrane growth could be robustly controlled with the flows and pH of solutions. This new process is user-friendly and has achieved a 100% success rate in more than 200 trials in membrane biofabrication.

Aluminum anode for aluminum-air battery - Part I: Influence of aluminum purity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Young-Joo; Park, In-Jun; Lee, Hyeok-Jae; Kim, Jung-Gu

2015-03-01

2N5 commercial grade aluminum (99.5% purity) leads to the lower aluminum-air battery performances than 4N high pure grade aluminum (99.99% purity) due to impurities itself and formed impurity complex layer which contained Fe, Si, Cu and others. The impurity complex layer of 2N5 grade Al declines the battery voltage on standby status. It also depletes discharge current and battery efficiency at 1.0 V which is general operating voltage of aluminum-air battery. However, the impurity complex layer of 2N5 grade Al is dissolved with decreasing discharge voltage to 0.8 V. This phenomenon leads to improvement of discharge current density and battery efficiency by reducing self-corrosion reaction. This study demonstrates the possibility of use of 2N5 grade Al which is cheaper than 4N grade Al as the anode for aluminum-air battery.

Large-eddy simulations of a Salt Lake Valley cold-air pool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crosman, Erik T.; Horel, John D.

2017-09-01

Persistent cold-air pools are often poorly forecast by mesoscale numerical weather prediction models, in part due to inadequate parameterization of planetary boundary-layer physics in stable atmospheric conditions, and also because of errors in the initialization and treatment of the model surface state. In this study, an improved numerical simulation of the 27-30 January 2011 cold-air pool in Utah's Great Salt Lake Basin is obtained using a large-eddy simulation with more realistic surface state characterization. Compared to a Weather Research and Forecasting model configuration run as a mesoscale model with a planetary boundary-layer scheme where turbulence is highly parameterized, the large-eddy simulation more accurately captured turbulent interactions between the stable boundary-layer and flow aloft. The simulations were also found to be sensitive to variations in the Great Salt Lake temperature and Salt Lake Valley snow cover, illustrating the importance of land surface state in modelling cold-air pools.

Further results related to the turbulent boundary layer with slot injection of helium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Larue, J. C.; Libby, P. A.

1978-01-01

Data from an experiment involving the slot injection of helium into a turbulent boundary layer in air are analyzed in terms of unconditioned and conditioned Favre-averages. The conditioning is based on two levels of helium concentration so that the contributions to the unconditioned statistics from air, helium, and mixture of these two gases can be determined. The distributions of intermittency associated with the two helium levels establish the domains of influence of air, helium, and mixture.

Method of doping interconnections for electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Pal, Uday B.; Singhal, Subhash C.; Moon, David M.; Folser, George R.

1990-01-01

A dense, electronically conductive interconnection layer 26 is bonded on a porous, tubular, electronically conductive air electrode structure 16, optionally supported by a ceramic support 22, by (A) forming a layer of oxide particles of at least one of the metals Ca, Sr, Co, Ba or Mg on a part 24 of a first surface of the air electrode 16, (B) heating the electrode structure, (C) applying a halide vapor containing at least lanthanum halide and chromium halide to the first surface and applying a source of oxygen to a second opposite surface of the air electrode so that they contact at said first surface, to cause a reaction of the oxygen and halide and cause a dense lanthanum-chromium oxide structure to grow, from the first electrode surface, between and around the oxide particles, where the metal oxide particles get incoporated into the lanthanum-chromium oxide structure as it grows thicker with time, and the metal ions in the oxide particles diffuse into the bulk of the lanthamum-chromium oxide structure, to provide a dense, top, interconnection layer 26 on top of the air electrode 16. A solid electrolyte layer 18 can be applied to the uncovered portion of the air electrode, and a fuel electrode 20 can be applied to the solid electrolyte, to provide an electrochemical cell 10.

A novel method for air drying aloe leaf slices by covering with filter papers as a shrink-proof layer.

PubMed

Kim, S A; Baek, J H; Lee, S J; Choi, S Y; Hur, W; Lee, S Y

2009-01-01

To prevent the shrinkage of aloe vera slices during air drying, a method utilizing a shrink-proof layer was developed. The sample was configured of whole leaf aloe slices, where 1 side or both sides were covered with filter papers as shrink-proof layers. After air drying by varying the air temperature and the slice thickness, the drying characteristics, as well as several quality factors of the dried aloe vera leaf slices, were analyzed. In the simulation of the drying curves, the modified Page model showed the best fitness, representing a diffusion-controlled drying mechanism. Nonetheless, there was a trace of a constant-rate drying period in the samples dried by the method. Shrinkage was greatly reduced, and the rehydration ratios increased by approximately 50%. Scanning electron microscopic analysis revealed that the surface structure of original fibrous form was well sustained. FT-IR characteristics showed that the dried samples could sustain aloe polysaccharide acetylation. Furthermore, the functional properties of the dried slices including water holding capacity, swelling, and fat absorption capability were improved, and polysaccharide retention levels increased by 20% to 30%. Therefore, we concluded that application of shrink-proof layers on aloe slices provides a novel way to overcome the shrinkage problems commonly found in air drying, thereby improving their functional properties with less cost. Practical Application: This research article demonstrates a novel air drying method using shrink-proof layers to prevent the shrinkage of aloe slices. We analyzed extensively the characteristics of shrinkage mechanism and physical properties of aloe flesh gels in this drying system. We concluded that this method can be a beneficial means to retain the functional properties of dried aloe, and a potential alternative to freeze drying, which is still costly.

Clean Air Act Text

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The Clean Air Act is the law that defines EPA's responsibilities for protecting and improving the nation's air quality and the stratospheric ozone layer. The last major change in the law, the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, enacted in 1990 by Congress.

Clean Air Act Requirements and History

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

In 1970 congress designed the Clean Air Act to combat a variety of air pollution problems, and to tackle emerging pollution threats such as public health, national welfare, toxic air pollutants, acid rain, protection of the ozone layer, and regional haze.

What's Spit?

MedlinePlus

... day, every day. It's made up mostly of water, with a few other chemicals. The slippery stuff is produced by the salivary (say: SAL-uh-vair-ee) glands. These glands are found on the inside of each cheek, on the ...

Microfluidic liquid-air dual-gradient chip for synergic effect bio-evaluation of air pollutant.

PubMed

Liu, Xian-Jun; Hu, Shan-Wen; Xu, Bi-Yi; Zhao, Ge; Li, Xiang; Xie, Fu-Wei; Xu, Jing-Juan; Chen, Hong-Yuan

2018-05-15

In this paper, a novel prototype liquid-air dual gradient chip is introduced, which has paved the way for effective synergic effect bio-evaluation of air pollutant. The chip is composed of an array of the agarose liquid-air interfaces, top air gradient layer and bottom liquid gradient layer. The novel agarose liquid-air interface allows for non-biased exposure of cells to all the substances in the air and diffusive interactions with the liquid phase; while the dual liquid-air gradient provides powerful screening abilities, which well reduced errors, saved time and cost from repeated experiment. Coupling the two functions, the chip subsequently facilitates synergic effect evaluation of both liquid and air factors on cells. Here cigarette smoke was taken as the model air pollutant, and its strong synergic effects with inflammatory level of A549 lung cancer cells on their fate were successfully quantified for the first time. These results well testified that the proposed dual-gradient chip is powerful and indispensable for bio-evaluation of air pollutant. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mechanical Properties of Degraded PMR-15 Resin

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tsuji, Luis C.; McManus, Hugh L.; Bowles, Kenneth J.

1998-01-01

Thermo-oxidative aging produces a non-uniform degradation state in PMR-15 resin. A surface layer, usually attributed to oxidative degradation, forms. This surface layer has different properties from the inner material. A set of material tests was designed to separate the properties of the oxidized surface layer from the properties of interior material. Test specimens were aged at 316 C in either air or nitrogen, for durations of up to 800 hours. The thickness of the oxidized surface layer in air aged specimens, and the shrinkage and Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) of nitrogen aged specimens were measured directly. Four-point-bend tests were performed to determine modulus of both the oxidized surface layer and the interior material. Bimaterial strip specimens consisting of oxidized surface material and unoxidized interior material were constructed and used to determine surface layer shrinkage and CTE. Results confirm that the surface layer and core materials have substantially different properties.

Method and closing pores in a thermally sprayed doped lanthanum chromite interconnection layer

DOEpatents

Singh, Prabhakar; Ruka, Roswell J.

1995-01-01

A dense, substantially gas-tight electrically conductive interconnection layer is formed on an air electrode structure of an electrochemical cell by (A) providing an air electrode surface; (B) forming on a selected portion of the electrode surface, a layer of doped LaCrO.sub.3 particles doped with an element or elements selected from Ca, Sr, Ba, Mg, Co, Ni, Al and mixtures thereof by thermal spraying doped LaCrO.sub.3 particles, either by plasma arc spraying or flame spraying; (C) depositing a mixture of CaO and Cr.sub.2 O.sub.3 on the surface of the thermally sprayed layer; and (D) heating the doped LaCrO.sub.3 layer coated with CaO and Cr.sub.2 O.sub.3 surface deposit at from about 1000.degree. C. to 1200.degree. C. to substantially close the pores, at least at a surface, of the thermally sprayed doped LaCrO.sub.3 layer. The result is a dense, substantially gas-tight, highly doped, electrically conductive interconnection material bonded to the electrode surface. A solid electrolyte layer can be applied to the nonselected portion of the air electrode. A fuel electrode can be applied to the solid electrolyte, to form an electrochemical cell, for example for generation of electrical power.

Method and closing pores in a thermally sprayed doped lanthanum chromite interconnection layer

DOEpatents

Singh, P.; Ruka, R.J.

1995-02-14

A dense, substantially gas-tight electrically conductive interconnection layer is formed on an air electrode structure of an electrochemical cell by (A) providing an air electrode surface; (B) forming on a selected portion of the electrode surface, a layer of doped LaCrO{sub 3} particles doped with an element or elements selected from Ca, Sr, Ba, Mg, Co, Ni, Al and mixtures thereof by thermal spraying doped LaCrO{sub 3} particles, either by plasma arc spraying or flame spraying; (C) depositing a mixture of CaO and Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} on the surface of the thermally sprayed layer; and (D) heating the doped LaCrO{sub 3} layer coated with CaO and Cr{sub 2}O{sub 3} surface deposit at from about 1,000 C to 1,200 C to substantially close the pores, at least at a surface, of the thermally sprayed doped LaCrO{sub 3} layer. The result is a dense, substantially gas-tight, highly doped, electrically conductive interconnection material bonded to the electrode surface. A solid electrolyte layer can be applied to the nonselected portion of the air electrode. A fuel electrode can be applied to the solid electrolyte, to form an electrochemical cell, for example for generation of electrical power. 5 figs.

Fabrication and Characterization of Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Electron Extraction Layers for Polymer Solar Cells toward Improved Processing Robustness and Air Stability.

PubMed

Fredj, Donia; Pourcin, Florent; Alkarsifi, Riva; Kilinc, Volkan; Liu, Xianjie; Ben Dkhil, Sadok; Boudjada, Nassira Chniba; Fahlman, Mats; Videlot-Ackermann, Christine; Margeat, Olivier; Ackermann, Jörg; Boujelbene, Mohamed

2018-05-23

Organic-inorganic hybrid materials composed of bismuth and diaminopyridine are studied as novel materials for electron extraction layers in polymer solar cells using regular device structures. The hybrid materials are solution processed on top of two different low band gap polymers (PTB7 or PTB7-Th) as donor materials mixed with fullerene PC 70 BM as the acceptor. The intercalation of the hybrid layer between the photoactive layer and the aluminum cathode leads to solar cells with a power conversion efficiency of 7.8% because of significant improvements in all photovoltaic parameters, that is, short-circuit current density, fill factor, and open-circuit voltage, similar to the reference devices using ZnO as the interfacial layer. However when using thick layers of such hybrid materials for electron extraction, only small losses in photocurrent density are observed in contrast to the reference material ZnO of pronounced losses because of optical spacer effects. Importantly, these hybrid electron extraction layers also strongly improve the device stability in air compared with solar cells processed with ZnO interlayers. Both results underline the high potential of this new class of hybrid materials as electron extraction materials toward robust processing of air stable organic solar cells.

Tensiometry and dilational rheology of mixed β-lactoglobulin/ionic surfactant adsorption layers at water/air and water/hexane interfaces.

PubMed

Dan, Abhijit; Gochev, Georgi; Miller, Reinhard

2015-07-01

Oscillating drop tensiometry was applied to study adsorbed interfacial layers at water/air and water/hexane interfaces formed from mixed solutions of β-lactoglobulin (BLG, 1 μM in 10 mM buffer, pH 7 - negative net charge) and the anionic surfactant SDS or the cationic DoTAB. The interfacial pressure Π and the dilational viscoelasticity modulus |E| of the mixed layers were measured for mixtures of varying surfactant concentrations. The double capillary technique was employed which enables exchange of the protein solution in the drop bulk by surfactant solution (sequential adsorption) or by pure buffer (washing out). The first protocol allows probing the influence of the surfactant on a pre-adsorbed protein layer thus studying the protein/surfactant interactions at the interface. The second protocol gives access to the residual values of Π and |E| measured after the washing out procedure thus bringing information about the process of protein desorption. The DoTAB/BLG complexes exhibit higher surface activity and higher resistance to desorption in comparison with those for the SDS/BLG complexes due to hydrophobization via electrostatic binding of surfactant molecules. The neutral DoTAB/BLG complexes achieve maximum elastic response of the mixed layer. Mixed BLG/surfactant layers at the water/oil interface are found to reach higher surface pressure and lower maximum dilational elasticity than those at the water/air surface. The sequential adsorption mode experiments and the desorption study reveal that binding of DoTAB to pre-adsorbed BLG globules is somehow restricted at the water/air surface in comparison with the case of complex formation in the solution bulk and subsequently adsorbed at the water/air surface. Maximum elasticity is achieved with washed out layers obtained after simultaneous adsorption, i.e. isolation of the most surface active DoTAB/BLG complex. These specific effects are much less pronounced at the W/H interface. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Uncooled thin film pyroelectric IR detector with aerogel thermal isolation

DOEpatents

Ruffner, Judith A.; Bullington, Jeff A.; Clem, Paul G.; Warren, William L.; Brinker, C. Jeffrey; Tuttle, Bruce A.; Schwartz, Robert W.

1999-01-01

A monolithic infrared detector structure which allows integration of pyroelectric thin films atop low thermal conductivity aerogel thin films. The structure comprises, from bottom to top, a substrate, an aerogel insulating layer, a lower electrode, a pyroelectric layer, and an upper electrode layer capped by a blacking layer. The aerogel can offer thermal conductivity less than that of air, while providing a much stronger monolithic alternative to cantilevered or suspended air-gap structures for pyroelectric thin film pixel arrays. Pb(Zr.sub.0.4 Ti.sub.0.6)O.sub.3 thin films deposited on these structures displayed viable pyroelectric properties, while processed at 550.degree. C.

Packing Optimization of Sorbent Bed Containing Dissimilar and Irregular Shaped Media

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holland, Nathan; Guttromson, Jayleen; Piowaty, Hailey

2011-01-01

The Fire Cartridge is a packed bed air filter with two different and separate layers of media designed to provide respiratory protection from combustion products after a fire event on the International Space Station (ISS). The first layer of media is a carbon monoxide catalyst and the second layer of media is universal carbon. During development of Fire Cartridge prototypes, the two media beds were noticed to have shifted inside the cartridge. The movement of media within the cartridge can cause mixing of the bed layers, air voids, and channeling, which could cause preferential air flow and allow contaminants to pass through without removal. An optimally packed bed mitigates these risks and ensures effective removal of contaminants from the air. In order to optimally pack each layer, vertical, horizontal, and orbital agitations were investigated and a packed bulk density was calculated for each method. Packed bulk density must be calculated for each media type to accommodate variations in particle size, shape, and density. Additionally, the optimal vibration parameters must be re-evaluated for each batch of media due to variations in particle size distribution between batches. For this application it was determined that orbital vibrations achieve an optimal pack density and the two media layers can be packed by the same method. Another finding was media with a larger size distribution of particles achieve an optimal bed pack easier than media with a smaller size distribution of particles.

Delay in convection in nocturnal boundary layer due to aerosol-induced cooling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Dhiraj Kumar; Ponnulakshmi, V. K.; Subramanian, G.; Sreenivas, K. R.

2012-11-01

Heat transfer processes in the nocturnal boundary layer (NBL) influence the surface energy budget, and play an important role in many micro-meteorological processes including the formation of inversion layers, radiation fog, and in the control of air-quality near the ground. Under calm clear-sky conditions, radiation dominates over other transport processes, and as a result, the air layers just above ground cool the fastest after sunset. This leads to an anomalous post-sunset temperature profile characterized by a minimum a few decimeters above ground (Lifted temperature minimum). We have designed a laboratory experimental setup to simulate LTM, involving an enclosed layer of ambient air, and wherein the boundary condition for radiation is decoupled from those for conduction and convection. The results from experiments involving both ambient and filtered air indicate that the high cooling rates observed are due to the presence of aerosols. Calculated Rayleigh number of LTM-type profiles is of the order 105-107 in the field and of order 103-105 in the laboratory. In the LTM region, there is convective motion when the Rayleigh number is greater than 104 rather than the critical Rayleigh number (Rac = 1709). The diameter of convection rolls is a function of height of minimum of LTM-type profiles. The results obtained should help in the parameterization of transport process in the nocturnal boundary layer, and highlight the need to accounting the effects of aerosols and ground emissivity in climate models.

Effects of intravenous glucose infusion and nutritional balance on serum concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids, glucose, insulin, and progesterone in nonlactating dairy cows.

PubMed

Vieira, F V R; Lopes, C N; Cappellozza, B I; Scarpa, A B; Cooke, R F; Vasconcelos, J L M

2010-07-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate serum concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids, glucose, insulin, and progesterone in nonlactating dairy cows according to nutritional balance and glucose infusion. Ten nonlactating, ovariectomized Gir x Holstein cows were stratified by body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS) on d -28 of the study, and randomly assigned to 1) negative nutrient balance (NB) or 2) positive nutrient balance (PB). From d -28 to d 0, cows were allocated according to nutritional treatment (5 cows/treatment) into 2 low-quality pastures with reduced forage availability. However, PB cows individually received, on average, 3 kg/cow per day (as-fed) of a concentrate during the study. All cows had an intravaginal progesterone releasing device inserted on d -14, which remained in cows until the end of the study. Cow BW and BCS were assessed again on d 0. On d 0, cows within nutritional treatment were randomly assigned to receive, in a crossover design containing 2 periods of 24h each, 1) intravenous glucose infusion (GLU; 0.5 g of glucose/kg of BW, as a 5% glucose solution administered, on average, at 32 mL/min over a 3-h period), or 2) intravenous saline infusion (SAL; 0.9% solution infused on average at 32 mL/min over a 3-h period). Prior to the beginning of each period, all cows were fasted for 12h. Blood samples were collected, relative to the beginning of the infusion, at -12 and -11.5h (beginning of fasting), and at -0.5, 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6h. Following the last blood collection of period 1, cows received (PB) or not (NB) concentrate and were returned to their respective pastures. Changes in BCS and BW were greater in NB cows compared with PB cows (-0.60 and -0.25+/-0.090 for BCS, respectively; -22.4 and 1.2+/-6.58 kg for BW, respectively). Cows receiving GLUC had greater glucose concentrations from 0.5 to 3h relative to infusion compared with SAL cows. Insulin concentrations were greater in PB cows assigned to GLUC compared with SAL cohorts at 0.5 and 3h following infusion, whereas NB cows assigned to GLUC had greater insulin concentrations compared with SAL cohorts at 0.5, 1, 2, and 3h. Progesterone concentrations were greater in PB cows assigned to GLUC at 2, 3, and 4h following infusion compared with SAL cohorts. In conclusion, the effects of glucose infusion on serum concentrations of insulin and progesterone in nonlactating dairy cows were dependent on cow nutritional status. Copyright (c) 2010 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Experimental study on flat plate air solar collector using a thin sand layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lati, Moukhtar; Boughali, Slimane; Bouguettaia, Hamza; Mennouche, Djamel; Bechki, Djamel

2016-07-01

A flat plate air solar collector was constructed in the laboratory of New and Renewable Energy in Arid Zones LENREZA, Ouargla University-South East Algeria. The absorber of the flat plate air solar collector was laminated with a thin layer of local sand. This acted as a thermal storage system (packed bed) with a collecting area of 2.15 m2 (0.86 m × 2.5 m). It was noticed that the solar heater integrated with the thermal storage material delivered comparatively higher temperatures; thus, giving a better efficiency than the air heater without the thermal storage system.

Biological and physical oceanographic observations pertaining to the trawl fishery in a region of persistent coastal upwelling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Howe, J. T.; Gibson, D. B.; Evans, T. O.; Breaker, L.; Wrigley, R. C.; Broenkow, W. W.

1981-01-01

An upwelling episode in the Point Sal region of the central California coast is examined by using data obtained by a data buoy. The episodes was interrupted by the abrupt abatement of the strong wind which promotes coastal upwelling. The mean hourly upwelling index is calculated to be higher than the 20 year mean monthly value. During 3 days of light wind commercial bottom trawl operations were possible. Shipboard estimates of chlorophyll content in surface waters during trawling show the high concentrations that are indicative of a rich biomass of phytoplankton, a result of the upwelling episode. Satellite imagery shows the extent of the upwelling water to be of the order of 100 km offshore; the result of many upwelling episodes. Shipboard echo sounder data show the presence of various delmersal species and of zooplakton; the latter graze on the phytoplankton in the upper euphotic layers. The fish catch data are recorded according to species for 2 days of trawling, and the catch per trawl hour is recorded.