High temperature ultrasonic testing of materials for internal flaws

DOEpatents

Kupperman, David S.; Linzer, Melvin

1990-01-01

An apparatus is disclosed for nondestructive evaluation of defects in hot terials, such as metals and ceramics, by sonic signals, which includes a zirconia buffer in contact with a hot material being tested, a liquid couplant of borax in contact with the zirconia buffer and the hot material to be tested, a transmitter mounted on the zirconia buffer sending sonic signals through the buffer and couplant into the hot material, and a receiver mounted on the zirconia buffer receiving sonic signals reflected from within the hot material through the couplant and the buffer.

Rapid and Automated Analytical Methods for Redox Species Based on Potentiometric Flow Injection Analysis Using Potential Buffers

PubMed Central

Ohura, Hiroki; Imato, Toshihiko

2011-01-01

Two analytical methods, which prove the utility of a potentiometric flow injection technique for determining various redox species, based on the use of some redox potential buffers, are reviewed. The first is a potentiometric flow injection method in which a redox couple such as Fe(III)-Fe(II), Fe(CN)6 3−-Fe(CN)(CN)6 4−, and bromide-bromine and a redox electrode or a combined platinum-bromide ion selective electrode are used. The analytical principle and advantages of the method are discussed, and several examples of its application are reported. Another example is a highly sensitive potentiometric flow injection method, in which a large transient potential change due to bromine or chlorine as an intermediate, generated during the reaction of the oxidative species with an Fe(III)-Fe(II) potential buffer containing bromide or chloride, is utilized. The analytical principle and details of the proposed method are described, and examples of several applications are described. The determination of trace amounts of hydrazine, based on the detection of a transient change in potential caused by the reaction with a Ce(IV)-Ce(III) potential buffer, is also described. PMID:21584280

Analysis of Expandability and Modifiability of Computer Configuration Concepts for ATC. Volume I. Distributed Concept.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-11-01

C-9 TRANSITION CONFIGURATION ........................... C-29 i r Fvii LIST OF TABLES Table Page 2.1-1 PARAMETERS DESCRIBING ATC OPERATION - BASELINE...buffer load from each sensor. Medium Storage (Buffer space for data in and out is largest factor .) II P=K +KR Processing. Where R is the number of... factors to the data from the next scan VII Provides support service Operational Role VIII Dependence Requires data from Preliminary Processing and Target

Chemically Deposited CdS Buffer/Kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 Solar Cells: Relationship between CdS Thickness and Device Performance.

PubMed

Hong, Chang Woo; Shin, Seung Wook; Suryawanshi, Mahesh P; Gang, Myeng Gil; Heo, Jaeyeong; Kim, Jin Hyeok

2017-10-25

Earth-abundant, copper-zinc-tin-sulfide (CZTS), kesterite, is an attractive absorber material for thin-film solar cells (TFSCs). However, the open-circuit voltage deficit (V oc -deficit) resulting from a high recombination rate at the buffer/absorber interface is one of the major challenges that must be overcome to improve the performance of kesterite-based TFSCs. In this paper, we demonstrate the relationship between device parameters and performances for chemically deposited CdS buffer/CZTS-based heterojunction TFSCs as a function of buffer layer thickness, which could change the CdS/CZTS interface conditions such as conduction band or valence band offsets, to gain deeper insight and understanding about the V oc -deficit behavior from a high recombination rate at the CdS buffer/kesterite interface. Experimental results show that device parameters and performances are strongly dependent on the CdS buffer thickness. We postulate two meaningful consequences: (i) Device parameters were improved up to a CdS buffer thickness of 70 nm, whereas they deteriorated at a thicker CdS buffer layer. The V oc -deficit in the solar cells improved up to a CdS buffer thickness of 92 nm and then deteriorated at a thicker CdS buffer layer. (ii) The minimum values of the device parameters were obtained at 70 nm CdS thickness in the CZTS TFSCs. Finally, the highest conversion efficiency of 8.77% (V oc : 494 mV, J sc : 34.54 mA/cm 2 , and FF: 51%) is obtained by applying a 70 nm thick CdS buffer to the Cu 2 ZnSn(S,Se) 4 absorber layer.

Reducing interface recombination for Cu(In,Ga)Se 2 by atomic layer deposited buffer layers

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

Hultqvist, Adam; Li, Jian V.; Kuciauskas, Darius

2015-07-20

Partial CuInGaSe2 (CIGS) solar cell stacks with different atomic layer deposited buffer layers and pretreatments were analyzed by photoluminescence (PL) and capacitance voltage (CV) measurements to investigate the buffer layer/CIGS interface. Atomic layer deposited ZnS, ZnO, and SnOx buffer layers were compared with chemical bath deposited CdS buffer layers. Band bending, charge density, and interface state density were extracted from the CV measurement using an analysis technique new to CIGS. The surface recombination velocity calculated from the density of interface traps for a ZnS/CIGS stack shows a remarkably low value of 810 cm/s, approaching the range of single crystalline II-VImore » systems. Both the PL spectra and its lifetime depend on the buffer layer; thus, these measurements are not only sensitive to the absorber but also to the absorber/buffer layer system. Pretreatment of the CIGS prior to the buffer layer deposition plays a significant role on the electrical properties for the same buffer layer/CIGS stack, further illuminating the importance of good interface formation. Finally, ZnS is found to be the best performing buffer layer in this study, especially if the CIGS surface is pretreated with potassium cyanide.« less

Fracture and crack growth in orthotropic laminates. Part 1: Analysis of a hybrid, unidirectional laminate with damage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goree, J. G.

1982-01-01

The fracture behavior of unifirectional hybrid (buffer strip) composite laminates is studied. Three particular solutions are discussed: (1) broken fibers in a unidirectional half plane; (2) adjoined half planes of different fiber and matrix properties and (3) the solution of two half planes bounding a third distinct region of finite width. This finite width region represents a buffer strip and the potential of this strip to arrest a crack that originates in one of the half planes is investigated. The analysis is based on a materials modeling approach using the classical shear lag assumption to described the stress transfer between fibers. Explicit fiber and matrix properties of the three regions are retained and changes in the laminate behavior as a function of the relative material properties, buffer strip width and initial crack length are discussed.

Dynamic Modeling of ALS Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Harry

2002-01-01

The purpose of dynamic modeling and simulation of Advanced Life Support (ALS) systems is to help design them. Static steady state systems analysis provides basic information and is necessary to guide dynamic modeling, but static analysis is not sufficient to design and compare systems. ALS systems must respond to external input variations and internal off-nominal behavior. Buffer sizing, resupply scheduling, failure response, and control system design are aspects of dynamic system design. We develop two dynamic mass flow models and use them in simulations to evaluate systems issues, optimize designs, and make system design trades. One model is of nitrogen leakage in the space station, the other is of a waste processor failure in a regenerative life support system. Most systems analyses are concerned with optimizing the cost/benefit of a system at its nominal steady-state operating point. ALS analysis must go beyond the static steady state to include dynamic system design. All life support systems exhibit behavior that varies over time. ALS systems must respond to equipment operating cycles, repair schedules, and occasional off-nominal behavior or malfunctions. Biological components, such as bioreactors, composters, and food plant growth chambers, usually have operating cycles or other complex time behavior. Buffer sizes, material stocks, and resupply rates determine dynamic system behavior and directly affect system mass and cost. Dynamic simulation is needed to avoid the extremes of costly over-design of buffers and material reserves or system failure due to insufficient buffers and lack of stored material.

Experimental Study on the Interaction Between Contacting Barrier Materials for Containment of Radioactive Wastes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, W. H.; Chang, H. C.

2017-12-01

The disposal of low- and intermediate-level radioactive wastes requires use of multi-barriers for isolation of the wastes from the biosphere. Typically, the engineered barriers are composed of a concrete vault, buffer and backfill materials. Zhishin clay and Black Hill bentonite were used as raw clay material in making buffer and backfill materials in this study. These clays were compacted to make buffer material, or mixed with Taitung area argillite to produce backfill material for potential application as barriers for the disposal of low- and intermediate-level radioactive wastes. The interaction between concrete barrier and the buffer/backfill material is simulated by an accelerated migration test to investigate the effect of contacting concrete on the expected functions of buffer/backfill material. The results show buffer material close to the contact with concrete exhibits significant change in the ratio of calcium/sodium exchange capacity, due to the move of calcium ions released from the concrete. The shorter the distance from the contacting interface, the ratio of the calcium/sodium concentration in buffer/backfill materials increases. The longer the distance from the interface, the effect of the contact on alteration in clays become less significant. Also, some decreases in swelling capacity in the buffer/backfill material near the concrete-backfill interface are noted. Finally, a comparison is made between Zhisin clay and Balck Hill bentonite on the interaction between concrete and the two clays. Black Hill bentonite was found to be influenced more by the interaction, because of the higher content of montmorillonite. On the other hand, being a mixture of clay and sand, backfill material is less affected by the decalsification of concrete at the contact than buffer material.

Anti-aggregation-based spectrometric detection of Hg(II) at physiological pH using gold nanorods.

PubMed

Rajeshwari, A; Karthiga, D; Chandrasekaran, Natarajan; Mukherjee, Amitava

2016-10-01

An efficient detection method for Hg (II) ions at physiological pH (pH7.4) was developed using tween 20-modified gold nanorods (NRs) in the presence of dithiothreitol (DTT). Thiol groups (-SH) at the end of DTT have a higher affinity towards gold atoms, and they can covalently interact with gold NRs and leads to their aggregation. The addition of Hg(II) ions prevents the aggregation of gold NRs due to the covalent bond formation between the -SH group of DTT and Hg(II) ions in the buffer system. The changes in the longitudinal surface plasmon resonance peak of gold NRs were characterized using a UV-visible spectrophotometer. The absorption intensity peak of gold NRs at 679nm was observed to reduce after interaction with DTT, and the absorption intensity was noted to increase by increasing the concentration of Hg(II) ions. The TEM analysis confirms the morphological changes of gold NRs before and after addition of Hg(II) ions in the presence of DTT. Further, the aggregation and disaggregation of gold NRs were confirmed by particle size and zeta potential analysis. The developed method shows an excellent linearity (y=0.001x+0.794) for the graph plotted between the absorption ratio and Hg(II) concentration (1 to 100pM) under the optimized conditions. The limit of detection was noted to be 0.42pM in the buffer system. The developed method was tested in simulated body fluid, and it was found to have a good recovery rate. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High effective cytosolic H+ buffering in mouse cortical astrocytes attributable to fast bicarbonate transport.

PubMed

Theparambil, Shefeeq M; Deitmer, Joachim W

2015-09-01

Cytosolic H(+) buffering plays a major role for shaping intracellular H(+) shifts and hence for the availability of H(+) for biochemical reactions and acid/base-coupled transport processes. H(+) buffering is one of the prime means to protect the cell from large acid/base shifts. We have used the H(+) indicator dye BCECF and confocal microscopy to monitor the cytosolic H(+) concentration, [H(+)]i, in cultured cortical astrocytes of wild-type mice and of mice deficient in sodium/bicarbonate cotransporter NBCe1 (NBCe1-KO) or in carbonic anhydrase isoform II (CAII-KO). The steady-state buffer strength was calculated from the amplitude of [H(+)]i transients as evoked by CO2/HCO3(-) and by butyric acid in the presence and absence of CO2/HCO3(-). We tested the hypotheses if, in addition to instantaneous physicochemical H(+) buffering, rapid acid/base transport across the cell membrane contributes to the total, "effective" cytosolic H(+) buffering. In the presence of 5% CO2/26 mM HCO3(-), H(+) buffer strength in astrocytes was increased 4-6 fold, as compared with that in non-bicarbonate, HEPES-buffered solution, which was largely attributable to fast HCO3 (-) transport into the cells via NBCe1, supported by CAII activity. Our results show that within the time frame of determining physiological H(+) buffering in cells, fast transport and equilibration of CO2/H(+)/HCO3(-) can make a major contribution to the total "effective" H(+) buffer strength. Thus, "effective" cellular H(+) buffering is, to a large extent, attributable to membrane transport of base equivalents rather than a purely passive physicochemical process, and can be much larger than reported so far. Not only physicochemical H(+) buffering, but also rapid import of HCO3(-) via the electrogenic sodium-bicarbonate cotransporter NBCe1, supported by carbonic anhydrase II (CA II), was identified to enhance cytosolic H(+) buffer strength substantially. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Pop-cola acids and tooth erosion: an in vitro, in vivo, electron-microscopic, and clinical report.

PubMed

Borjian, Amirfirooz; Ferrari, Claudia C F; Anouf, Antoni; Touyz, Louis Z G

2010-01-01

Introduction. Manufactured Colas are consumed universally as soft drinks. Evidence about the acid contents of Cola-beverages and its effects on teeth is rare. Aim. To assess (i) cola acidity and buffering capacity in vitro, (ii) tooth erosion after swishing with colas in vivo (iii) scanning electron microscopic effects on teeth of colas, and tooth-brush abrasion, and (iv) report a clinical case of erosion from cola consumption. Materials and Methods. (i) We measured six commercially available pop "Cola beverages", pH, and buffering capacities using a pH-Mettler Automatic Titrator, with weak solution of Sodium Hydroxide (ii) two cohorts, one with teeth, the second without teeth rinsed with aliquots of Cola for 60 seconds. Swished cola samples tested for calcium and phosphorus contents using standardized chemical analytical methods (iii) enamel, dentine, and the enamel-cemental junction from unerupted extracted wisdom teeth were examined with a scanning electron microscope after exposure to colas, and tested for tooth-brush abrasion; (iv) a clinical case of pop cola erosion presentation, are all described. Results. Comparisons among pop colas tested in vitro reveal high acidity with very low pH. Buffering capacities in millilitres of 0.5 M NaOH needed to increase one pH unit, to pH 5.5 and pH 7 are reported. Rinsing in vivo with pop cola causes leeching of calcium from teeth; SEM shows dental erosion, and pop-cola consumption induces advanced dental erosion and facilitates abrasion. Conclusions. (i) Pop-Cola acid activity is below the critical pH 5.5 for tooth dissolution, with high buffering capacities countering neutralization effects of saliva; (ii) calcium is leeched out of teeth after rinsing with pop colas; (iii) SEM evidence explains why chronic exposure to acid pop colas causes dental frangibles; (iv) a clinical case of pop-cola erosion confirms this.

Pop-Cola Acids and Tooth Erosion: An In Vitro, In Vivo, Electron-Microscopic, and Clinical Report

PubMed Central

Borjian, Amirfirooz; Ferrari, Claudia C. F.; Anouf, Antoni; Touyz, Louis Z. G.

2010-01-01

Introduction. Manufactured Colas are consumed universally as soft drinks. Evidence about the acid contents of Cola-beverages and its effects on teeth is rare. Aim. To assess (i) cola acidity and buffering capacity in vitro, (ii) tooth erosion after swishing with colas in vivo (iii) scanning electron microscopic effects on teeth of colas, and tooth-brush abrasion, and (iv) report a clinical case of erosion from cola consumption. Materials and Methods. (i) We measured six commercially available pop “Cola beverages”, pH, and buffering capacities using a pH-Mettler Automatic Titrator, with weak solution of Sodium Hydroxide (ii) two cohorts, one with teeth, the second without teeth rinsed with aliquots of Cola for 60 seconds. Swished cola samples tested for calcium and phosphorus contents using standardized chemical analytical methods (iii) enamel, dentine, and the enamel-cemental junction from unerupted extracted wisdom teeth were examined with a scanning electron microscope after exposure to colas, and tested for tooth-brush abrasion; (iv) a clinical case of pop cola erosion presentation, are all described. Results. Comparisons among pop colas tested in vitro reveal high acidity with very low pH. Buffering capacities in millilitres of 0.5 M NaOH needed to increase one pH unit, to pH 5.5 and pH 7 are reported. Rinsing in vivo with pop cola causes leeching of calcium from teeth; SEM shows dental erosion, and pop-cola consumption induces advanced dental erosion and facilitates abrasion. Conclusions. (i) Pop-Cola acid activity is below the critical pH 5.5 for tooth dissolution, with high buffering capacities countering neutralization effects of saliva; (ii) calcium is leeched out of teeth after rinsing with pop colas; (iii) SEM evidence explains why chronic exposure to acid pop colas causes dental frangibles; (iv) a clinical case of pop-cola erosion confirms this. PMID:21151663

Chemical Bath Deposited Zinc Sulfide Buffer Layers for Copper Indium Gallium Sulfur-selenide Solar Cells and Device Analysis

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

Kundu, Sambhu N.; Olsen, Larry C.

2005-01-03

Cd free CIGSS thin film solar cell structures with a MgF2/TCO/CGD-ZnS/CIGSS/Mo/SLG structure have been fabricated using chemical bath deposited (CBD)-ZnS buffer layers and high quality CIGSS absorber layers supplied from Shell Solar Industries. The use of CBD-ZnS, which is a higher band gap materials than CdS, improved the quantum efficiency of fabricated cells at lower wavelengths, leading to an increase in short circuit current. The best cell to date yielded an active area (0.43 cm2) efficiency of 13.3%. This paper also presents a discussion of the issues relating to the use of the CBD-ZnS buffer materials for improving device performance.

Albumin adsorption onto surfaces of urine collection and analysis containers☆

PubMed Central

Robinson, Mary K.; Caudill, Samuel P.; Koch, David D.; Ritchie, James; Hortin, Glen; Eckfeldt, John H.; Sandberg, Sverre; Williams, Desmond; Myers, Gary; Miller, W. Greg

2017-01-01

Background Adsorption of albumin onto urine collection and analysis containers may cause falsely low concentrations. Methods We added 125I-labeled human serum albumin to urine and to phosphate buffered solutions, incubated them with 22 plastic container materials and measured adsorption by liquid scintillation counting. Results Adsorption of urine albumin (UA) at 5–6 mg/l was <0.9%; and at 90 mg/l was <0.4%. Adsorption was generally less at pH 8 than pH 5 but only 3 cases had p <0.05. Adsorption from 11 unaltered urine samples with albumin 5–333 mg/l was <0.8%. Albumin adsorption for the material with greatest binding was extrapolated to the surface areas of 100 ml and 2 l collection containers, and to instrument sample cups and showed <1% change in concentration at 5 mg/l and <0.5% change at 20 mg/l or higher concentrations. Adsorption of albumin from phosphate buffered solutions (2–28%) was larger than that from urine. Conclusions Albumin adsorption differed among urine samples and plastic materials, but the total influence of adsorption was <1% for all materials and urine samples tested. Adsorption of albumin from phosphate buffered solutions was larger than that from urine and could be a limitation for preparations used as calibrators. PMID:24513540

Albumin adsorption onto surfaces of urine collection and analysis containers.

PubMed

Robinson, Mary K; Caudill, Samuel P; Koch, David D; Ritchie, James; Hortin, Glen; Eckfeldt, John H; Sandberg, Sverre; Williams, Desmond; Myers, Gary; Miller, W Greg

2014-04-20

Adsorption of albumin onto urine collection and analysis containers may cause falsely low concentrations. We added (125)I-labeled human serum albumin to urine and to phosphate buffered solutions, incubated them with 22 plastic container materials and measured adsorption by liquid scintillation counting. Adsorption of urine albumin (UA) at 5-6 mg/l was <0.9%; and at 90 mg/l was <0.4%. Adsorption was generally less at pH8 than pH5 but only 3 cases had p<0.05. Adsorption from 11 unaltered urine samples with albumin 5-333 mg/l was <0.8%. Albumin adsorption for the material with greatest binding was extrapolated to the surface areas of 100 ml and 2l collection containers, and to instrument sample cups and showed <1% change in concentration at 5 mg/l and <0.5% change at 20 mg/l or higher concentrations. Adsorption of albumin from phosphate buffered solutions (2-28%) was larger than that from urine. Albumin adsorption differed among urine samples and plastic materials, but the total influence of adsorption was <1% for all materials and urine samples tested. Adsorption of albumin from phosphate buffered solutions was larger than that from urine and could be a limitation for preparations used as calibrators. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Redox buffered hydrofluoric acid etchant for the reduction of galvanic attack during release etching of MEMS devices having noble material films

DOEpatents

Hankins, Matthew G [Albuquerque, NM

2009-10-06

Etchant solutions comprising a redox buffer can be used during the release etch step to reduce damage to the structural layers of a MEMS device that has noble material films. A preferred redox buffer comprises a soluble thiophosphoric acid, ester, or salt that maintains the electrochemical potential of the etchant solution at a level that prevents oxidation of the structural material. Therefore, the redox buffer preferentially oxidizes in place of the structural material. The sacrificial redox buffer thereby protects the exposed structural layers while permitting the dissolution of sacrificial oxide layers during the release etch.

Method for manufacturing electrical contacts for a thin-film semiconductor device

DOEpatents

Carlson, David E.; Dickson, Charles R.; D'Aiello, Robert V.

1988-11-08

A method of fabricating spaced-apart back contacts on a thin film of semiconductor material by forming strips of buffer material on top of the semiconductor material in locations corresponding to the desired dividing lines between back contacts, forming a film of metal substantially covering the semiconductor material and buffer strips, and scribing portions of the metal film overlying the buffer strips with a laser without contacting the underlying semiconductor material to separate the metal layer into a plurality of back contacts. The buffer material serves to protect the underlying semiconductor material from being damaged during the laser scribing. Back contacts and multi-cell photovoltaic modules incorporating such back contacts also are disclosed.

Electrical contacts for a thin-film semiconductor device

DOEpatents

Carlson, David E.; Dickson, Charles R.; D'Aiello, Robert V.

1989-08-08

A method of fabricating spaced-apart back contacts on a thin film of semiconductor material by forming strips of buffer material on top of the semiconductor material in locations corresponding to the desired dividing lines between back contacts, forming a film of metal substantially covering the semiconductor material and buffer strips, and scribing portions of the metal film overlying the buffer strips with a laser without contacting the underlying semiconductor material to separate the metal layer into a plurality of back contacts. The buffer material serves to protect the underlying semiconductor material from being damaged during the laser scribing. Back contacts and multi-cell photovoltaic modules incorporating such back contacts also are disclosed.

Salivary pH and Buffering Capacity as Risk Markers for Early Childhood Caries: A Clinical Study.

PubMed

Jayaraj, D; Ganesan, S

2015-01-01

The diagnostic utility of saliva is currently being explored in various branches of dentistry, remarkably in the field of caries research. This study was aimed to determine if assessment of salivary pH and buffering capacity would serve as reliable tools in risk prediction of early childhood caries (ECC). Paraffin-stimulated salivary samples were collected from 50 children with ECC (group I) and 50 caries free children (group II). Salivary pH and buffering capacity (by titration with 0.1 N hydrochloric acid) were assessed using a handheld digital pH meter in both groups. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Statistically, no significant difference was observed between both the groups for all salivary parameters assessed, except for the buffering capacity level at 150 μl titration of 0.1 N hydrochloric acid (p = 0.73; significant at 1% level). Salivary pH and buffering capacity may not serve as reliable markers for risk prediction of ECC. How to cite this article: Jayaraj D, Ganesan S. Salivary pH and Buffering Capacity as Risk Markers for Early Childhood Caries: A Clinical Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2015;8(3):167-171.

Evaluation of a New Technique for iFOBT Utilising a New Sample Collection Device with Increased Buffer Stability.

PubMed

Bruns-Toepler, Markus; Hardt, Philip

2017-07-01

The aims of the present study were: (i) Evaluate specificity and sensitivity of Hb Smart enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (ScheBo Biotech) compared to colonoscopy results and (ii) assess stability of a new sample collection device containing a newly formulated buffer to extract haemoglobin using buffer and stool samples spiked with defined concentrations of haemoglobin. Stool samples were quantified with the ELISA method. The stability of haemoglobin in the extraction buffer and in native stool samples, respectively, was determined daily by ELISA during storage for 5 days at 4°C and at room temperature after addition of haemoglobin. Haemoglobin ELISA had a sensitivity of 78.4% for detection of CRC with a specificity of 98%. Haemoglobin extracted in corresponding extraction buffer demonstrated stability throughout storage for 5 days at 4°C and at room temperature. Hb Smart represents a very promising tool for large-scale screening of CRC with regard to sample handling, stability and analysis of haemoglobin in faeces. Copyright© 2017, International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.

Coincident site lattice-matched growth of semiconductors on substrates using compliant buffer layers

DOEpatents

Norman, Andrew

2016-08-23

A method of producing semiconductor materials and devices that incorporate the semiconductor materials are provided. In particular, a method is provided of producing a semiconductor material, such as a III-V semiconductor, on a silicon substrate using a compliant buffer layer, and devices such as photovoltaic cells that incorporate the semiconductor materials. The compliant buffer material and semiconductor materials may be deposited using coincident site lattice-matching epitaxy, resulting in a close degree of lattice matching between the substrate material and deposited material for a wide variety of material compositions. The coincident site lattice matching epitaxial process, as well as the use of a ductile buffer material, reduce the internal stresses and associated crystal defects within the deposited semiconductor materials fabricated using the disclosed method. As a result, the semiconductor devices provided herein possess enhanced performance characteristics due to a relatively low density of crystal defects.

Lightweight, durable lead-acid batteries

DOEpatents

Lara-Curzio, Edgar [Lenoir City, TN; An, Ke [Knoxville, TX; Kiggans, Jr., James O.; Dudney, Nancy J [Knoxville, TN; Contescu, Cristian I [Knoxville, TN; Baker, Frederick S [Oak Ridge, TN; Armstrong, Beth L [Clinton, TN

2011-09-13

A lightweight, durable lead-acid battery is disclosed. Alternative electrode materials and configurations are used to reduce weight, to increase material utilization and to extend service life. The electrode can include a current collector having a buffer layer in contact with the current collector and an electrochemically active material in contact with the buffer layer. In one form, the buffer layer includes a carbide, and the current collector includes carbon fibers having the buffer layer. The buffer layer can include a carbide and/or a noble metal selected from of gold, silver, tantalum, platinum, palladium and rhodium. When the electrode is to be used in a lead-acid battery, the electrochemically active material is selected from metallic lead (for a negative electrode) or lead peroxide (for a positive electrode).

Lightweight, durable lead-acid batteries

DOEpatents

Lara-Curzio, Edgar; An, Ke; Kiggans, Jr., James O; Dudney, Nancy J; Contescu, Cristian I; Baker, Frederick S; Armstrong, Beth L

2013-05-21

A lightweight, durable lead-acid battery is disclosed. Alternative electrode materials and configurations are used to reduce weight, to increase material utilization and to extend service life. The electrode can include a current collector having a buffer layer in contact with the current collector and an electrochemically active material in contact with the buffer layer. In one form, the buffer layer includes a carbide, and the current collector includes carbon fibers having the buffer layer. The buffer layer can include a carbide and/or a noble metal selected from of gold, silver, tantalum, platinum, palladium and rhodium. When the electrode is to be used in a lead-acid battery, the electrochemically active material is selected from metallic lead (for a negative electrode) or lead peroxide (for a positive electrode).

Zinc(II) complexation by some biologically relevant pH buffers.

PubMed

Wyrzykowski, D; Tesmar, A; Jacewicz, D; Pranczk, J; Chmurzyński, L

2014-12-01

The isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) technique supported by potentiometric titration data was used to study the interaction of zinc ions with pH buffer substances, namely 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (Mes), piperazine-N,N'-bis(2-ethanesulfonic acid) (Pipes), and dimethylarsenic acid (Caco). The displacement ITC titration method with nitrilotriacetic acid as a strong, competitive ligand was applied to determine conditional-independent thermodynamic parameters for the binding of Zn(II) to Mes, Pipes, and Caco. Furthermore, the relationship between the proposed coordination mode of the buffers and the binding enthalpy has been discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effective moisture penetration depth model for residential buildings: Sensitivity analysis and guidance on model inputs

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

Woods, Jason; Winkler, Jon

Moisture buffering of building materials has a significant impact on the building's indoor humidity, and building energy simulations need to model this buffering to accurately predict the humidity. Researchers requiring a simple moisture-buffering approach typically rely on the effective-capacitance model, which has been shown to be a poor predictor of actual indoor humidity. This paper describes an alternative two-layer effective moisture penetration depth (EMPD) model and its inputs. While this model has been used previously, there is a need to understand the sensitivity of this model to uncertain inputs. In this paper, we use the moisture-adsorbent materials exposed to themore » interior air: drywall, wood, and carpet. We use a global sensitivity analysis to determine which inputs are most influential and how the model's prediction capability degrades due to uncertainty in these inputs. We then compare the model's humidity prediction with measured data from five houses, which shows that this model, and a set of simple inputs, can give reasonable prediction of the indoor humidity.« less

Effective moisture penetration depth model for residential buildings: Sensitivity analysis and guidance on model inputs

DOE PAGES

Woods, Jason; Winkler, Jon

2018-01-31

Moisture buffering of building materials has a significant impact on the building's indoor humidity, and building energy simulations need to model this buffering to accurately predict the humidity. Researchers requiring a simple moisture-buffering approach typically rely on the effective-capacitance model, which has been shown to be a poor predictor of actual indoor humidity. This paper describes an alternative two-layer effective moisture penetration depth (EMPD) model and its inputs. While this model has been used previously, there is a need to understand the sensitivity of this model to uncertain inputs. In this paper, we use the moisture-adsorbent materials exposed to themore » interior air: drywall, wood, and carpet. We use a global sensitivity analysis to determine which inputs are most influential and how the model's prediction capability degrades due to uncertainty in these inputs. We then compare the model's humidity prediction with measured data from five houses, which shows that this model, and a set of simple inputs, can give reasonable prediction of the indoor humidity.« less

Buffer layers on metal alloy substrates for superconducting tapes

DOEpatents

Jia, Quanxi; Foltyn, Stephen R.; Arendt, Paul N.; Groves, James R.

2004-06-29

An article including a substrate, a layer of an inert oxide material upon the surface of the substrate, a layer of an amorphous oxide or oxynitride material upon the inert oxide material layer, a layer of an oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure upon the amorphous oxide material layer, and a layer of a SrRuO.sub.3 buffer material upon the oriented cubic oxide material layer is provided together with additional layers such as a HTS top-layer of YBCO directly upon the layer of a SrRuO.sub.3 buffer material layer. With a HTS top-layer of YBCO upon at least one layer of the SrRuO.sub.3 buffer material in such an article, J.sub.c 's of up to 1.3.times.10.sup.6 A/cm.sup.2 have been demonstrated with projected IC's of over 200 Amperes across a sample 1 cm wide.

Reactivity of Nanoscale Zero-Valent Iron in Unbuffered Systems: Effect of pH and Fe(II) Dissolution.

PubMed

Bae, Sungjun; Hanna, Khalil

2015-09-01

While most published studies used buffers to maintain the pH, there is limited knowledge regarding the reactivity of nanoscale zerovalent iron (NZVI) in poorly buffered pH systems to date. In this work, the effect of pH and Fe(II) dissolution on the reactivity of NZVI was investigated during the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in unbuffered pH systems. The reduction rate increased exponentially with respect to the NZVI concentration, and the ratio of dissolved Fe(II)/initial NZVI was related proportionally to the initial pH values, suggesting that lower pH (6-7) with low NZVI loading may slow the 4-NP reduction through acceleration of the dissolution of NZVI particles. Additional experiments using buffered pH systems confirmed that high pH values (8-9) can preserve the NZVI particles against dissolution, thereby enhancing the reduction kinetics of 4-NP. Furthermore, reduction tests using ferrous ion in suspensions of magnetite and maghemite showed that surface-bound Fe(II) on oxide coatings can play an important role in enhancing 4-NP reduction by NZVI at pH 8. These unexpected results highlight the importance of pH and Fe(II) dissolution when NZVI technology is applied to poorly buffered systems, particularly at a low amount of NZVI (i.e., <0.075 g/L).

Fracture and crack growth in orthotropic laminates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goree, James G.; Kaw, Autar K.

1985-01-01

A mathematical model based on the classical shear-lag assumptions is used to study the residual strength and fracture behavior of composite laminates with symmetrically placed buffer strips. The laminate is loaded by a uniform remote longitudinal tensile strain and has initial damage in the form of a transverse crack in the parent laminate between buffer strips. The crack growth behavior as a function of material properties, number of buffer-strip plies, spacing, width of buffer strips, longitudinal matrix splitting, and debonding at the interface is studied. Buffer-strip laminates are shown to arrest fracture and increase the residual strengths significantly over those of one material laminates, with S-glass being a more effective buffer strip material than Kevlar in increasing the damage tolerance of graphite/epoxy panels. For a typical graphite/epoxy laminate with S-glass buffer-strips, the residual strength is about 2.4 times the residual strength of an all graphite/epoxy panel with the same crack length. Approximately 50% of this increase is due to the S-glass/epoxy buffer-strips, 40% due to longitudinal splitting of the buffer strip interface and 10% due to bonding.

A Phase 4, multicentre, randomized, single-blind clinical trial to evaluate the immunogenicity of the live, attenuated, oral rotavirus vaccine (116E), ROTAVAC®, administered simultaneously with or without the buffering agent in healthy infants in India.

PubMed

Ella, Raches; Bobba, Radhika; Muralidhar, Sanjay; Babji, Sudhir; Vadrevu, Krishna Mohan; Bhan, Maharaj Kishan

2018-03-15

The World Health Organization recommends that rotavirus vaccines should be included in all national immunization programs. Some currently licensed oral rotavirus vaccines contain a buffering agent (either as part of a ready-to-use liquid formulation or added during reconstitution) to reduce possible degradation of the vaccine virus in the infant gut, which poses several programmatic challenges (the large dose volume or the reconstitution requirement) during vaccine administration. Because ROTAVAC®, a WHO prequalified vaccine, was derived from the 116E neonatal strain, we evaluated the immunogenicity and safety of ROTAVAC® without buffer and ROTAVAC® with buffer in a phase 4, multicentre, single-blind, randomized clinical trial in healthy infants in India. 900 infants, approximately 6, 10 and 14 weeks of age, were assigned to 3 groups to receive ROTAVAC® (0.5 mL dose) orally: (i) 2.5 mL of citrate-bicarbonate buffer 5 minutes prior to administration of ROTAVAC® (Group I), (ii) ROTAVAC®, alone, without any buffer (Group II), or (iii) ROTAVAC®, mixed with buffer immediately before administration (Group III). Non-inferiority was compared among the groups for differences in serological responses (detected by serum anti-rotavirus IgA) and safety. Geometric mean titers post vaccination at day 84 (28 days after dose 3) were 19.6 (95%CI: 17.0, 22.7), 20.7 (95%CI: 17.9, 24) and 19.2 (95%CI: 16.8, 22.1) for groups I, II and III respectively. Further, seroconversion rates and distribution of adverse events were similar among groups. Administration of ROTAVAC® at a 0.5 mL dose volume without buffering agent was shown to be well tolerated and immunogenic. Given the homologous nature of the strain, it is plausible that ROTAVAC® replicates well and confers immunity even without buffer administration.

Methods of producing free-standing semiconductors using sacrificial buffer layers and recyclable substrates

DOEpatents

Ptak, Aaron Joseph; Lin, Yong; Norman, Andrew; Alberi, Kirstin

2015-05-26

A method of producing semiconductor materials and devices that incorporate the semiconductor materials are provided. In particular, a method is provided of producing a semiconductor material, such as a III-V semiconductor, on a spinel substrate using a sacrificial buffer layer, and devices such as photovoltaic cells that incorporate the semiconductor materials. The sacrificial buffer material and semiconductor materials may be deposited using lattice-matching epitaxy or coincident site lattice-matching epitaxy, resulting in a close degree of lattice matching between the substrate material and deposited material for a wide variety of material compositions. The sacrificial buffer layer may be dissolved using an epitaxial liftoff technique in order to separate the semiconductor device from the spinel substrate, and the spinel substrate may be reused in the subsequent fabrication of other semiconductor devices. The low-defect density semiconductor materials produced using this method result in the enhanced performance of the semiconductor devices that incorporate the semiconductor materials.

In silico prediction of drug dissolution and absorption with variation in intestinal pH for BCS class II weak acid drugs: ibuprofen and ketoprofen.

PubMed

Tsume, Yasuhiro; Langguth, Peter; Garcia-Arieta, Alfredo; Amidon, Gordon L

2012-10-01

The FDA Biopharmaceutical Classification System guidance allows waivers for in vivo bioavailability and bioequivalence studies for immediate-release solid oral dosage forms only for BCS class I. Extensions of the in vivo biowaiver for a number of drugs in BCS class III and BCS class II have been proposed, in particular, BCS class II weak acids. However, a discrepancy between the in vivo BE results and in vitro dissolution results for BCS class II acids was recently observed. The objectives of this study were to determine the oral absorption of BCS class II weak acids via simulation software and to determine if the in vitro dissolution test with various dissolution media could be sufficient for in vitro bioequivalence studies of ibuprofen and ketoprofen as models of carboxylic acid drugs. The oral absorption of these BCS class II acids from the gastrointestinal tract was predicted by GastroPlus™. Ibuprofen did not satisfy the bioequivalence criteria at lower settings of intestinal pH of 6.0. Further the experimental dissolution of ibuprofen tablets in a low concentration phosphate buffer at pH 6.0 (the average buffer capacity 2.2 mmol l (-1) /pH) was dramatically reduced compared with the dissolution in SIF (the average buffer capacity 12.6 mmol l (-1) /pH). Thus these predictions for the oral absorption of BCS class II acids indicate that the absorption patterns depend largely on the intestinal pH and buffer strength and must be considered carefully for a bioequivalence test. Simulation software may be a very useful tool to aid the selection of dissolution media that may be useful in setting an in vitro bioequivalence dissolution standard. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

In Silico Prediction of Drug Dissolution and Absorption with variation in Intestinal pH for BCS Class II Weak Acid Drugs: Ibuprofen and Ketoprofen§

PubMed Central

Tsume, Yasuhiro; Langguth, Peter; Garcia-Arieta, Alfredo; Amidon, Gordon L.

2012-01-01

The FDA Biopharmaceutical Classification System guidance allows waivers for in vivo bioavailability and bioequivalence studies for immediate-release solid oral dosage forms only for BCS class I. Extensions of the in vivo biowaiver for a number of drugs in BCS Class III and BCS class II have been proposed, particularly, BCS class II weak acids. However, a discrepancy between the in vivo- BE results and in vitro- dissolution results for a BCS class II acids was recently observed. The objectives of this study were to determine the oral absorption of BCS class II weak acids via simulation software and to determine if the in vitro dissolution test with various dissolution media could be sufficient for in vitro bioequivalence studies of ibuprofen and ketoprofen as models of carboxylic acid drugs. The oral absorption of these BCS class II acids from the gastrointestinal tract was predicted by GastroPlus™. Ibuprofen did not satisfy the bioequivalence criteria at lower settings of intestinal pH=6.0. Further the experimental dissolution of ibuprofen tablets in the low concentration phosphate buffer at pH 6.0 (the average buffer capacity 2.2 mmol L-1/pH) was dramatically reduced compared to the dissolution in SIF (the average buffer capacity 12.6 mmol L -1/pH). Thus these predictions for oral absorption of BCS class II acids indicate that the absorption patterns largely depend on the intestinal pH and buffer strength and must be carefully considered for a bioequivalence test. Simulation software may be very useful tool to aid the selection of dissolution media that may be useful in setting an in vitro bioequivalence dissolution standard. PMID:22815122

Gradual surface degradation of restorative materials by acidic agents.

PubMed

Hengtrakool, Chanothai; Kukiattrakoon, Boonlert; Kedjarune-Leggat, Ureporn

2011-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of acidic agents on surface roughness and characteristics of four restorative materials. Fifty-two discs were created from each restorative material: metal-reinforced glass ionomer cement (Ketac-S), resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Fuji II LC), resin composite (Filtek Z250), and amalgam (Valiant-PhD); each disc was 12 mm in diameter and 2.5 mm thick. The specimens were divided into four subgroups (n=13) and immersed for 168 hours in four storage media: deionized water (control); citrate buffer solution; green mango juice; and pineapple juice. Surface roughness measurements were performed with a profilometer, both before and after storage media immersion. Surface characteristics were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Statistical significance among each group was analyzed using two-way repeated ANOVA and Tukey's tests. Ketac-S demonstrated the highest roughness changes after immersion in acidic agents (p<0.05), followed by Fuji II LC. Valiant-PhD and Filtek Z250 illustrated some minor changes over 168 hours. The mango juice produced the greatest degradation effect of all materials tested (p<0.05). SEM photographs demonstrated gradual surface changes of all materials tested after immersions. Of the materials evaluated, amalgam and resin composite may be the most suitable for restorations for patients with tooth surface loss.

8-aminoquinoline functionalized silica nanoparticles: a fluorescent nanosensor for detection of divalent zinc in aqueous and in yeast cell suspension.

PubMed

Rastogi, Shiva K; Pal, Parul; Aston, D Eric; Bitterwolf, Thomas E; Branen, A Larry

2011-05-01

Zinc is one of the most important transition metal of physiological importance, existing primarily as a divalent cation. A number of sensors have been developed for Zn(II) detection. Here, we present a novel fluorescent nanosensor for Zn(II) detection using a derivative of 8-aminoquinoline (N-(quinolin-8-yl)-2-(3 (triethoxysilyl)propylamino)acetamide (QTEPA) grafted on silica nanoparticles (SiNPs). These functionalized SiNPs were used to demonstrate specific detection of Zn(II) in tris-HCl buffer (pH 7.22), in yeast cell (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) suspension, and in tap water. The silane QTEPA, SiNPs and final product were characterized using solution and solid state nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, elemental analysis, thermogravimetric techniques, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The nanosensor shows almost 2.8-fold fluorescence emission enhancement and about 55 nm red-shift upon excitation with 330 ± 5 nm wavelength in presence of 1 μM Zn(II) ions in tris-HCl (pH 7.22). The presence of other metal ions has no observable effect on the sensitivity and selectivity of nanosensor. This sensor selectively detects Zn(II) ions with submicromolar detection to a limit of 0.1 μM. The sensor shows good applicability in the determination of Zn(II) in tris-HCl buffer and yeast cell environment. Further, it shows enhancement in fluorescence intensity in tap water samples.

Back contact buffer layer for thin-film solar cells

DOEpatents

Compaan, Alvin D.; Plotnikov, Victor V.

2014-09-09

A photovoltaic cell structure is disclosed that includes a buffer/passivation layer at a CdTe/Back contact interface. The buffer/passivation layer is formed from the same material that forms the n-type semiconductor active layer. In one embodiment, the buffer layer and the n-type semiconductor active layer are formed from cadmium sulfide (CdS). A method of forming a photovoltaic cell includes the step of forming the semiconductor active layers and the buffer/passivation layer within the same deposition chamber and using the same material source.

Synthesis and characterization of cadmium sulphide thin films prepared by spin coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chodavadiya, Nisarg; Chapanari, Amisha; Zinzala, Jignesh; Ray, Jaymin; Pandya, Samir

2018-05-01

An II-VI group semiconductor is Wide band gap materials and has been widely studied due to their fundamental optical, structural, and electrical properties. Cadmium sulphide (CdS) is one of the most emerged materials in II-VI group. It has many applications such as buffer later in photovoltaic cell, multilayer light emitting diodes, optical filters, thin film field effect transistors, gas sensors, light detectors etc. It is fundamentally an n-type material with an optical band gap of 2.4 eV. Owing to these properties we had studied CdS thin films synthesis and characterized by Raman, Ultraviolet - Visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS) and Hot probe method. CdS thin films were prepared by spin coating of the Cadmium-thiourea precursor solution. Visual inspection after 20 minute thermolysis time the films were looks uniform and shiny pale yellow in color. Raman confirms the A1 vibration of pure CdS. UV-VIS gives the band gap about 2.52 eV, which confirms the formation of nanocrystalline form of CdS. Finally, hot probe signifies the n-type conductivity of the CdS film.

Enhanced adhesion for LIGA microfabrication by using a buffer layer

DOEpatents

Bajikar, Sateesh S.; De Carlo, Francesco; Song, Joshua J.

2004-01-27

The present invention is an improvement on the LIGA microfabrication process wherein a buffer layer is applied to the upper or working surface of a substrate prior to the placement of a resist onto the surface of the substrate. The buffer layer is made from an inert low-Z material (low atomic weight), a material that absorbs secondary X-rays emissions from the substrate that are generated from the substrate upon exposure to a primary X-rays source. Suitable materials for the buffer layer include polyamides and polyimide. The preferred polyimide is synthesized form pyromellitic anhydride and oxydianiline (PMDA-ODA).

Enhanced adhesion for LIGA microfabrication by using a buffer layer

DOEpatents

Bajikar, Sateesh S.; De Carlo, Francesco; Song, Joshua J.

2001-01-01

The present invention is an improvement on the LIGA microfabrication process wherein a buffer layer is applied to the upper or working surface of a substrate prior to the placement of a resist onto the surface of the substrate. The buffer layer is made from an inert low-Z material (low atomic weight), a material that absorbs secondary X-rays emissions from the substrate that are generated from the substrate upon exposure to a primary X-rays source. Suitable materials for the buffer layer include polyamides and polyimide. The preferred polyimide is synthesized form pyromellitic anhydride and oxydianiline (PMDA-ODA).

Simultaneous determination of thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of aminopolycarbonate complexes of cobalt(II) and nickel(II) based on isothermal titration calorimetry data.

PubMed

Tesmar, Aleksandra; Wyrzykowski, Dariusz; Muñoz, Eva; Pilarski, Bogusław; Pranczk, Joanna; Jacewicz, Dagmara; Chmurzyński, Lech

2017-04-01

The influence of the different side chain residues on the thermodynamic and kinetic parameters for complexation reactions of the Co 2 + and Ni 2 + ions has been investigated by using the isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) technique supported by potentiometric titration data. The study was concerned with the 2 common tripodal aminocarboxylate ligands, namely, nitrilotriacetic acid and N-(2-hydroxyethyl) iminodiacetic acid. Calorimetric measurements (ITC) were run in the 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid hydrate (2-(N-morpholino) ethanesulfonic acid), piperazine-N,N'-bis(2-ethanesulfonic acid), and dimethylarsenic acid buffers (0.1 mol L -1 , pH 6) at 298.15 K. The quantification of the metal-buffer interactions and their incorporation into the ITC data analysis enabled to obtain the pH-independent and buffer-independent thermodynamic parameters (K, ΔG, ΔH, and ΔS) for the reactions under study. Furthermore, the kinITC method was applied to obtain kinetic information on complexation reactions from the ITC data. Correlations, based on kinetic and thermodynamic data, between the kinetics of formation of Co 2 + and Ni 2 + complexes and their thermodynamic stabilities are discussed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Buffer strips in composites at elevated temperature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bigelow, C. A.

1983-01-01

The composite material 'buffer strip' concept is presently investigated at elevated temperatures for the case of graphite/polyimide buffer strip panels using a (45/0/45/90)2S layup, where the buffer strip material was 0-deg S-glass/polyimide. Each panel was loaded in tension until it failed, and radiographs and crack opening displacements were recorded during the tests to determine fracture onset, fracture arrest, and the extent of damage in the buffer strip after crack arrest. At 177 + or - 3 C, the buffer strips increased the panel strength by at least 40 percent in comparison with panels without buffer strips. Compared to similar panels tested at room temperature, those tested at elevated temperature had lower residual strengths, but higher failure strains.

ARPANET Routing Algorithm Improvements. Volume 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-08-01

the currently active PROCESS (at the head of the scheduling list). TIME returns the time. PASSIVATE puts the CURRENT PROCESS to sleep , and wakes uD...Ccntract. Network buffer managemenL issues are discussed and a new buffer managemet scheme for f the ARPANET is designed. Logical addressing is discussed...and a design is given for a logical addressing scheme suitable for ARPANET or DIN II. The applicability of ARPANET Routing to DIN II is evaluaced. The

A novel Schiff-base as a Cu(II) ion fluorescent sensor in aqueous solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gündüz, Z. Yurtman; Gündüz, C.; Özpınar, C.; Urucu, O. Aydın

2015-02-01

A new fluorescent Cu(II) sensor (L) obtained from the Schiff base of 5,5‧-methylene-bis-salicylaldehyde with amidol (2,4-diaminophenol) was synthesized and characterized by FT-IR, MS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR techniques. In the presence of pH 6.5 (KHPO4-Na2HPO4) buffer solutions, copper reacted with L to form a stable 2:1 complex. Fluorescence spectroscopic study showed that Schiff base is highly sensitive towards Cu(II) over other metal ions (K+, Na+, Al3+, Ni2+, Co2+, Fe3+, Zn2+, Pb2+) in DMSO/H2O (30%, v/v). The sensor L was successfully applied to the determination of copper in standard reference material. The structural properties and molecular orbitals of the complex formed between L and Cu2+ ions were also investigated using quantum chemical computations.

Delineation of preventative landslide buffers along steep streamside slopes in northern California

Treesearch

Jason S. Woodward; David W. Lamphear; Matthew R. House

2012-01-01

Green Diamond Resource Co (GDRCo) applies tree retention buffers to steep slopes along fish bearing (Class I) and non-fish bearing (Class II) streams that are in addition to the standard riparian management zones associated with timber harvest plans. These Steep Streamside Slope (SSS) buffers were designed to reduce the amount of sediment delivering to watercourses as...

[Relationship between blood glucose levels and salivary pH and buffering capacity in type II diabetes patients].

PubMed

Elkafri, I H; Mashlah, A; Shaqifa, A

2014-03-13

This study was evaluated the relationship between blood glucose levels and salivary pH and buffering capacity in type II diabetic patients. The sample comprised 210 participants (age ranged 40-60 years). Based on fasting blood glucose levels the participants were divided into 3 groups: controls with normal blood glucose levels; diabetic patients with levels ≤ 200 mg/dL; and diabetic patients with levels > 200 mg/dL. Salivary pH and buffering capacity were determined in a sample of resting (non-stimulated) saliva taken from each participant. Salivary pH levels in diabetic patients with blood glucose levels > 200 mg/dL were lower than in the controls and diabetic patients with levels ≤ 200 mg/dL. Salivary pH levels were comparable in controls and diabetic patients with blood glucose levels ≤ 200 mg/dL. Salivary buffering capacity in the 3 groups was comparable.

Longitudinal meta-analysis of NIST pH Standard Reference Materials(®): a complement to pH key comparisons.

PubMed

Pratt, Kenneth W

2015-04-01

This meta-analysis assesses the long-term (up to 70 years) within-laboratory variation of the NIST pH Standard Reference Material® (SRM) tetroxalate, phthalate, phosphate, borate, and carbonate buffers. Values of ΔpH(S), the difference between the certified pH value, pH(S), of each SRM issue and the mean of all pH(S) values for the given SRM at that Celsius temperature, t, are graphed as a function of the SRM issue and t. In most cases, |ΔpH(S)| < 0.004. Deviations from the nominal base:acid amount (mole) ratio of a buffer yield t-independent, constant shifts in ΔpH(S). The mean ΔpH(S) characterizes such deviations. The corresponding mole fraction of impurity in the conjugate buffer component is generally <0.3 %. Changes in the equipment, personnel, materials, and methodology of the pH(S) measurement yield t-dependent variations. The standard deviation of ΔpH(S) characterizes such changes. Standard deviations of ΔpH(S) are generally 0.0015 or less. The results provide a long-term, single-institution complement to the time-specific, multi-institution results of pH key comparisons administered by the Consultative Committee for Metrology in Chemistry and Biology (CCQM).

k(+)-buffer: An Efficient, Memory-Friendly and Dynamic k-buffer Framework.

PubMed

Vasilakis, Andreas-Alexandros; Papaioannou, Georgios; Fudos, Ioannis

2015-06-01

Depth-sorted fragment determination is fundamental for a host of image-based techniques which simulates complex rendering effects. It is also a challenging task in terms of time and space required when rasterizing scenes with high depth complexity. When low graphics memory requirements are of utmost importance, k-buffer can objectively be considered as the most preferred framework which advantageously ensures the correct depth order on a subset of all generated fragments. Although various alternatives have been introduced to partially or completely alleviate the noticeable quality artifacts produced by the initial k-buffer algorithm in the expense of memory increase or performance downgrade, appropriate tools to automatically and dynamically compute the most suitable value of k are still missing. To this end, we introduce k(+)-buffer, a fast framework that accurately simulates the behavior of k-buffer in a single rendering pass. Two memory-bounded data structures: (i) the max-array and (ii) the max-heap are developed on the GPU to concurrently maintain the k-foremost fragments per pixel by exploring pixel synchronization and fragment culling. Memory-friendly strategies are further introduced to dynamically (a) lessen the wasteful memory allocation of individual pixels with low depth complexity frequencies, (b) minimize the allocated size of k-buffer according to different application goals and hardware limitations via a straightforward depth histogram analysis and (c) manage local GPU cache with a fixed-memory depth-sorting mechanism. Finally, an extensive experimental evaluation is provided demonstrating the advantages of our work over all prior k-buffer variants in terms of memory usage, performance cost and image quality.

Plasma discharge elemental detector for a mass spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heppner, R. A.

1983-06-01

A material to be analyzed is injected into a mirowave-induced plasma discharge unit, in which the material is carried with a flow of buffer gas through an intense microwave energy field which produces a plasma discharge in the buffer gas. As the material exits from the plasma discharge, the material is sampled and conveyed along a capillary transfer tube to a mass spectrometer where it is analyzed. The plasma discharge causes dissociation of complex organic molecules into simpler molecules which return to the neutral ground state before they are analyzed in the mass spectrometer. The buffer gas is supplied to one end portion of the discharge tube and is withdrawn from the other end portion by a vacuum pump which maintains a subatmospheric pressure in the discharge tube. The sample material is injected by a capillary injection tube into the buffer gas flow as it enters the plasma discharge zone. The dissociated materials are sampled by an axial sampling tube having an entrance where the buffer gas exits from the plasma discharge zone. The sample material may be supplied by a gas chromatography having a capillary effluent line connected to the capillary injection tube, so that the effluent material is injected into the microwave induced plasma discharge. The microwave field is produced by a cavity resonator through which the discharge tube passes.

Effect of Naturally Acidic Agents on Microhardness and Surface Micromorphology of Restorative Materials

PubMed Central

Hengtrakool, Chanothai; Kukiattrakoon, Boonlert; Kedjarune-Leggat, Ureporn

2011-01-01

Objectives: This study investigated the titratable acidity and erosive potential of acidic agents on the microhardness and surface micromorphology of four restorative materials. Methods: Forty-seven discs of each restorative material; metal-reinforced glass ionomer cement (Ketac-S), resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Fuji II LC), resin composite (Filtek Z250) and amalgam (Valiant-Ph.D.), 12 mm in diameter and 2.5 mm in thickness, were divided into four groups (5 discs/group). Specimens were then immersed for 7 days into four storage media; deionized water (control), citrate buffer solution, green mango juice and pineapple juice. Microhardness testing before and after immersions was performed. Micromorphological changes were evaluated under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Statistical significance among each group was analyzed using two-way repeated ANOVA and Tukey’s tests. Results: The Fuji II LC and the Ketac-S showed the highest reduction in microhardness (P<.05). The Valiant-Ph.D. and the Filtek Z250 showed some minor changes over the period of 7 days. The mango juice produced the greatest degradation effect (P<.05). Conclusions: This study suggested that for restorations in patients who have tooth surface loss, materials selected should be considered. In terms of materials evaluated, amalgam and resin composite are the most suitable for restorations. PMID:21311608

Electrochemical Biosensor for the Detection of Glycated Albumin.

PubMed

Mikula, Edyta; Wyslouch-Cieszynska, Aleksandra; Zhukova, Liliya; Verwilst, Peter; Dehaen, Wim; Radecki, Jerzy; Radecka, Hanna

2017-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. The process of AD can begin 20 years before any symptom of cognitive loss. Thus, the development of systems for early diagnosis and prevention is very important. The mechanism of AD is still under debate. Nevertheless, higher levels of glycated albumin in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma are observed in AD patients. Therefore, glycated albumin could be a biomarker of AD development. Electrochemical biosensor for direct determination of glycated albumin was based on thiol derivative of pentetic acid (DTPA) complex with Cu(II) created on gold electrode surface. His-tagged domains of Receptors for Advanced Glycation End Products (RAGE) were applied as analytical active element for glycated albumin recognition. The binding of glycated albumin by His6- RAGE domains was monitored using Osteryoung square - wave voltammetry. Electrodes modified with His6 - RAGE VC1 natural domain generated decrease of Cu(II) redox currents in the presence of glycated albumin. Human albumin, Aβ 1-40 and S100B protein caused negligible influence on biosensors responses towards glycated albumin. The detection limits were: 2.3 pM, 1.1 pM, 2.9 pM and 3.1 pM in the presence of: buffer, buffer + albumin, buffer + S100B, buffer + Aβ1-40 , respectively. The presented electrochemical biosensor was successfully applied for the determination of glycated albumin. Considering analytical parameters such as good selectivity and sensitivity in pM range, biosensor could be recommended as an analytical tool for medical samples analysis. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Calculation of metamorphic two-dimensional quantum energy system: Application to wetting layer states in InAs/InGaAs metamorphic quantum dot nanostructures

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

Seravalli, L.; Trevisi, G.; Frigeri, P.

In this work, we calculate the two-dimensional quantum energy system of the In(Ga)As wetting layer that arises in InAs/InGaAs/GaAs metamorphic quantum dot structures. Model calculations were carried on the basis of realistic material parameters taking in consideration their dependence on the strain relaxation of the metamorphic buffer; results of the calculations were validated against available literature data. Model results confirmed previous hypothesis on the extrinsic nature of the disappearance of wetting layer emission in metamorphic structures with high In composition. We also show how, by adjusting InGaAs metamorphic buffer parameters, it could be possible: (i) to spatially separate carriers confinedmore » in quantum dots from wetting layer carriers, (ii) to create an hybrid 0D-2D system, by tuning quantum dot and wetting layer levels. These results are interesting not only for the engineering of quantum dot structures but also for other applications of metamorphic structures, as the two design parameters of the metamorphic InGaAs buffer (thickness and composition) provide additional degrees of freedom to control properties of interest.« less

Investigation of Various Active Layers for Their Performance on Organic Solar Cells.

PubMed

Huang, Pao-Hsun; Wang, Yeong-Her; Ke, Jhong-Ciao; Huang, Chien-Jung

2016-08-09

The theoretical mechanism of open-circuit voltages (V OC ) in OSCs based on various small molecule organic materials is studied. The structure under investigation is simple planar heterojunction (PHJ) by thermal vacuum evaporation deposition. The various wide band gaps of small molecule organic materials are used to enhance the power conversion efficiency (PCE). The donor materials used in the device include: Alpha-sexithiophene (α-6T), Copper(II) phthalocyanine (CuPc), boron subnaphthalocyanine chloride (SubNc) and boron Subphthalocyanine chloride (SubPc). It is combined with fullerene or SubPc acceptor material to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the charge transport behavior. It is found that the V OC of the device is largely limited by charge transport. This was associated with the space charge effects and hole accumulation. These results are attributed to the improvement of surface roughness and work function after molybdenum trioxide (MoO₃) is inserted as an anode buffer layer.

Buffer layers on metal alloy substrates for superconducting tapes

DOEpatents

Jia, Quanxi; Foltyn, Stephen R.; Arendt, Paul N.; Groves, James R.

2004-10-05

An article including a substrate, at least one intermediate layer upon the surface of the substrate, a layer of an oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure upon the at least one intermediate layer, and a layer of a SrRuO.sub.3 buffer material upon the oriented cubic oxide material layer is provided together with additional layers such as a HTS top-layer of YBCO directly upon the layer of a SrRuO.sub.3 buffer material layer. With a HTS top-layer of YBCO upon at least one layer of the SrRuO.sub.3 buffer material in such an article, J.sub.c 's of up to 1.3.times.10.sup.6 A/cm.sup.2 have been demonstrated with projected I.sub.c 's of over 200 Amperes across a sample 1 cm wide.

Buffer layer between a planar optical concentrator and a solar cell

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

Solano, Manuel E.; Barber, Greg D.; Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802

2015-09-15

The effect of inserting a buffer layer between a periodically multilayered isotropic dielectric (PMLID) material acting as a planar optical concentrator and a photovoltaic solar cell was theoretically investigated. The substitution of the photovoltaic material by a cheaper dielectric material in a large area of the structure could reduce the fabrication costs without significantly reducing the efficiency of the solar cell. Both crystalline silicon (c-Si) and gallium arsenide (GaAs) were considered as the photovoltaic material. We found that the buffer layer can act as an antireflection coating at the interface of the PMLID and the photovoltaic materials, and the structuremore » increases the spectrally averaged electron-hole pair density by 36% for c-Si and 38% for GaAs compared to the structure without buffer layer. Numerical evidence indicates that the optimal structure is robust with respect to small changes in the grating profile.« less

49 CFR 178.46 - Specification 3AL seamless aluminum cylinders.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... material; or (ii) Obtaining a certified chemical analysis from the material or cylinder manufacturer for each melt, or cast of material; or (iii) Obtaining a certified check analysis on one cylinder out of...) Selecting the samples for check analyses performed by other than the material producer; (ii) Verifying that...

Coupled microrings data buffer using fast light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scheuer, Jacob; Shahriar, Selim

2013-03-01

We present a theoretical study of a trap-door optical buffer based on a coupled microrings add/drop filter (ADF) utilizing the white light cavity (WLC). The buffer "trap-door" can be opened and closed by tuning the resonances of the microrings comprising the ADF and trap/release optical pulses. We show that the WLC based ADF yields a maximally flat filter which exhibits superior performances in terms of bandwidth and flatness compared to previous design approaches. We also present a realistic, Silicon-over-Insulator based, design and performance analysis taking into consideration the realistic properties and limitations of the materials and the fabrication process, leading to delays exceeding 850ps for 80GHz bandwidth, and a corresponding delay-bandwidth product of approximately 70.

The Influences of Stirring and Cow Manure Added on Biogas Production From Vegetable Waste Using Anaerobic Digester

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdullah, N. O.; Pandebesie, E. S.

2018-03-01

Based on Indonesian Government Regulation number 18, 2008, solid waste management should be conducted from the source to minimize the amount of waste. The process includes the waste from domestic, commercial, and institution. This also includes in 3R program (reduce, reuse, and recycle). Vegetable waste from market is a potential material to produce biogas due to its chemical composition (hemi-cellulose, cellulose, and lignin) which transform the biomass to be the raw material of biogas. Acid substance of vegetable becomes an obstacle in process of producing biogas. There has to be buffer material which can improve the performance of biogas process. Cow manure is a material which can be easily obtained as buffer. This research used 24 biogas reactor in volume 6 L by batch method. Biogas volume is measured by checking the preferment in manometer. Methane measurement is conducted by using Gas Chromatography (GC) Hewlett Packard (HP-series 6890) in day 15 and 30. The research was started by sample characterization, sample test by total solid analysis, volatile solid, lignin, ratio C/N, ammonium, and ash. Analysis of pH, temperature, and biogas volume is conducted every day.

Heterogeneous Integration of Epitaxial Ge on Si using AlAs/GaAs Buffer Architecture: Suitability for Low-power Fin Field-Effect Transistors

PubMed Central

Hudait, Mantu K.; Clavel, Michael; Goley, Patrick; Jain, Nikhil; Zhu, Yan

2014-01-01

Germanium-based materials and device architectures have recently appeared as exciting material systems for future low-power nanoscale transistors and photonic devices. Heterogeneous integration of germanium (Ge)-based materials on silicon (Si) using large bandgap buffer architectures could enable the monolithic integration of electronics and photonics. In this paper, we report on the heterogeneous integration of device-quality epitaxial Ge on Si using composite AlAs/GaAs large bandgap buffer, grown by molecular beam epitaxy that is suitable for fabricating low-power fin field-effect transistors required for continuing transistor miniaturization. The superior structural quality of the integrated Ge on Si using AlAs/GaAs was demonstrated using high-resolution x-ray diffraction analysis. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy confirmed relaxed Ge with high crystalline quality and a sharp Ge/AlAs heterointerface. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrated a large valence band offset at the Ge/AlAs interface, as compared to Ge/GaAs heterostructure, which is a prerequisite for superior carrier confinement. The temperature-dependent electrical transport properties of the n-type Ge layer demonstrated a Hall mobility of 370 cm2/Vs at 290 K and 457 cm2/Vs at 90 K, which suggests epitaxial Ge grown on Si using an AlAs/GaAs buffer architecture would be a promising candidate for next-generation high-performance and energy-efficient fin field-effect transistor applications. PMID:25376723

Effects of fatigue and environment on residual strengths of center-cracked graphite/epoxy buffer strip panels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bigelow, Catherine A.

1989-01-01

The effects of fatigue, moisture conditioning, and heating on the residual tension strengths of center-cracked graphite/epoxy buffer strip panels were evaluated using specimens made with T300/5208 graphite epoxy in a 16-ply quasi-isotropic layup, with two different buffer strip materials, Kevlar-49 or S-glass. It was found that, for panels subjected to fatigue loading, the residual strengths were not significantly affected by the fatigue loading, the number of repetitions of the loading spectrum, or the maximum strain level. The moisture conditioning reduced the residual strengths of the S-glass buffer strip panels by 10 to 15 percent below the ambient results, but increased the residual strengths of the Kevlar-49 buffer strip panels slightly. For both buffer strip materials, the heat increased the residual strengths of the buffer strip panels slightly over the ambient results.

Hazardous Materials Routing Study Phase II: Analysis of Hazardous Materials Truck Routes in Proximity to the Dallas Central Business District

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1985-10-01

This report summarizes the findings from the second phase of a two-part analysis of hazardous materials truck routes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Phase II of this study analyzes the risk of transporting hazardous materials on freeways and arterial ...

Formation of Fe/mg Smectite Under Acidic Conditions from Synthetic Adirondack Basaltic Glass: an Analog to Fe/mg Smectite Formation on Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutter, B.; Peretyazhko, T.; Morris, R. V.; Ming, D. W.

2014-01-01

Smectite has been detected as layered material hundreds of meters thick, in intracrater depositional fans, in plains sediments, and deposits at depth on Mars. If early Mars hosted a dense CO2 atmosphere, then extensive carbonate should have formed in the neutral/alkaline conditions expected for smectite formation. However, large carbonate deposits on Mars have not been discovered. Instead of neutral to moderately alkaline conditions, early Mars may have experienced mildly acidic conditions that allowed for Fe/Mg smectite formation but prevented widespread carbonate formation. The objective of this work is to demonstrate that Fe(II)/Mg saponite and nontronite can form in mildly acidic solutions (e.g., pH 4). Synthetic basaltic glass (< 53 microns) of Adirondack rock class composition was exposed to pH 4 (acetic acid buffer) and N2 purged (anoxic) solutions amended with 0 and 10 mM Mg or Fe(II). Basaltic glass in these solutions was heated to 200 C in batch reactors for 1, 7, and 14 days. X-ray diffraction analysis of reacted materials detected the presence of phyllosilicates as indicated by a approx. 15.03-15.23Angstroms (001) peak. Smectite was confirmed as the phyllosilicate after treatments with glycerol and KCl and heating to 550 C. Trioctahedral saponite was confirmed by the presence of a 4.58 to 4.63 Angstroms (02l) and 1.54Angstroms (060) peaks. Saponite concentration was highest, as indicated by XRD peak intensity, in the 10 mM Mg treatment followed by the 0 mM and then 10 mM Fe(II) treatments. This order of sapontite concentration suggests that Fe(II) additions may have a role in slowing the kinetics of saponite formation relative to the other treatments. Nontronite synthesis was attempted by exposing Adirondack basaltic glass to pH 4 oxic solutions (without N2 purge) at 200 C for 14 days. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that mixtures of trioctahedral (saponite) and dioctahedral (nontronite) may have formed in these experiments based on the 02l and 060 peaks. Moessbauer analysis coupled with future experiments are planned to verify if nontronite can be formed under mildly acidic and oxic conditions. Results of this work demonstrate that acidic conditions could have occurred on an early Mars, which allowed for smectite formation but inhibited carbonate formation.

Sensing of biologically relevant d-metal ions using a Eu(III)-cyclen based luminescent displacement assay in aqueous pH 7.4 buffered solution.

PubMed

Kotova, Oxana; Comby, Steve; Gunnlaugsson, Thorfinnur

2011-06-28

1·Eu·BPS was developed as a luminescent lanthanide sensor for use in displacement assays for detection of d-metal ions by monitoring the changes in the europium emission, which was quenched for iron(II), with a detection limit of ∼10 pM (0.002 μg L(-1)) for Fe(II) in buffered pH 7.4 solution. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

Specific radioisotopic assay for cholinesterase. Technical report, December 1987-March 1988

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

Talbot, B.G.; Anderson, D.R.; Harris, L.W.

1990-05-01

The radiometric method (I) for measuring ChE activity was modified to preclude the use of p-dioxane, a hazardous material. The modified procedure (II) uses 0.4 N perchloric acid (PCA), instead of p-dioxane, to denature the ChE and stop hydrolysis of 14C-acetylcholine (ACh). The unreacted substrate (ACh) is removed by cationic exchange resin suspended in water. The supernatant (acidic water solution) containing the product of hydrolysis, 14C-acetic acid, is mixed with nonhazardous scintillation cocktail and counted. The incubation mixture (37 degrees C) for II is similar to I and is composed of 0.1 ml of buffer-salt solution (pH 7.8), 0.1 mlmore » of guinea pig whole blood (WB)-water suspension and 0.1 ml of 3mM ACh solution.« less

Sb2Te3 and Its Superlattices: Optimization by Statistical Design.

PubMed

Behera, Jitendra K; Zhou, Xilin; Ranjan, Alok; Simpson, Robert E

2018-05-02

The objective of this work is to demonstrate the usefulness of fractional factorial design for optimizing the crystal quality of chalcogenide van der Waals (vdW) crystals. We statistically analyze the growth parameters of highly c axis oriented Sb 2 Te 3 crystals and Sb 2 Te 3 -GeTe phase change vdW heterostructured superlattices. The statistical significance of the growth parameters of temperature, pressure, power, buffer materials, and buffer layer thickness was found by fractional factorial design and response surface analysis. Temperature, pressure, power, and their second-order interactions are the major factors that significantly influence the quality of the crystals. Additionally, using tungsten rather than molybdenum as a buffer layer significantly enhances the crystal quality. Fractional factorial design minimizes the number of experiments that are necessary to find the optimal growth conditions, resulting in an order of magnitude improvement in the crystal quality. We highlight that statistical design of experiment methods, which is more commonly used in product design, should be considered more broadly by those designing and optimizing materials.

Organization and ELISA-Based Results of the First Proficiency Testing to Evaluate the Ability of European Union Laboratories to Detect Staphylococcal Enterotoxin Type B (SEB) in Buffer and Milk

PubMed Central

Nia, Yacine; Rodriguez, Mélanie; Zeleny, Reinhard; Herbin, Sabine; Auvray, Frédéric; Fiebig, Uwe; Avondet, Marc-André; Munoz, Amalia; Hennekinne, Jacques-Antoine

2016-01-01

The aim of this work was to organize the first proficiency test (PT) dedicated to staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) detection in milk and buffer solutions. This paper describes the organization of the PT trial according to EN ISO 17043 requirements. Characterization of the SEB stock solution was performed using SDS-PAGE and SE-specific ELISA, and amino acid analysis was used to assign its protein concentration. The solution was then used to prepare six PT materials (four milk and two buffer batches) at a ng/g toxin level, which included one blank and one SEA-containing milk as specificity control. Suitable material homogeneity and stability were assessed using screening and quantitative ELISAs. Among the methods used by the participants, ELISA-based methods demonstrated their efficiency for the detection of SEB in both simple and complex matrices. The results serve as a basis for further improving the detection capabilities in expert laboratories and can therefore be considered as a contribution to biopreparedness. PMID:27649244

Development of a High Efficiency Q-Switched Glass Laser via Sol-Gel Processing

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-10-30

APPENDICES I. A. Aluminum as the "Buffer" Component B. Phosphorous as the "Buffer" Component Titanium as the "Buffer" Component II. Characteristics of Nd...alternative dehydrating agents, but with similar, undesirable results. Gels containing aluminum, phosphorus, or titanium as a third component all reacted...with aluminum isopropoxide and TEOS resulted in 50 A pore radii after drying, and densified without foaming to produce a clear, monolithic glass [22

Use of bicarbonate buffer systems for dissolution characterization of enteric-coated proton pump inhibitor tablets.

PubMed

Shibata, Hiroko; Yoshida, Hiroyuki; Izutsu, Ken-Ichi; Goda, Yukihiro

2016-04-01

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of buffer systems (bicarbonate or phosphate at different concentrations) on the in vitro dissolution profiles of commercially available enteric-coated tablets. In vitro dissolution tests were conducted using an USP apparatus II on 12 enteric-coated omeprazole and rabeprazole tablets, including innovator and generic formulations in phosphate buffers, bicarbonate buffers and a media modified Hanks (mHanks) buffer. Both omeprazole and rabeprazole tablets showed similar dissolution profiles among products in the compendial phosphate buffer system. However, there were large differences between products in dissolution lag time in mHanks buffer and bicarbonate buffers. All formulations showed longer dissolution lag times at lower concentrations of bicarbonate or phosphate buffers. The dissolution rank order of each formulation differed between mHanks buffer and bicarbonate buffers. A rabeprazole formulation coated with a methacrylic acid copolymer showed the shortest lag time in the high concentration bicarbonate buffer, suggesting varied responses depending on the coating layer and buffer components. Use of multiple dissolution media during in vitro testing, including high concentration bicarbonate buffer, would contribute to the efficient design of enteric-coated drug formulations. © 2016 Royal Pharmaceutical Society, Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology.

An automated system for liquid-liquid extraction in monosegmented flow analysis

PubMed Central

Facchin, Ileana; Pasquini, Celio

1997-01-01

An automated system to perform liquid-liquid extraction in monosegmented flow analysis is described. The system is controlled by a microcomputer that can track the localization of the aqueous monosegmented sample in the manifold. Optical switches are employed to sense the gas-liquid interface of the air bubbles that define the monosegment. The logical level changes, generated by the switches, are flagged by the computer through a home-made interface that also contains the analogue-to-digital converter for signal acquisition. The sequence of operations, necessary for a single extraction or for concentration of the analyte in the organic phase, is triggered by these logical transitions. The system was evaluated for extraction of Cd(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) and concentration of Cd(II) from aqueous solutions at pH 9.9 (NH3/NH4Cl buffer) into chloroform containing PAN (1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol) . The results show a mean repeatability of 3% (rsd) for a 2.0 mg l-1 Cd(II) solution and a linear increase of the concentration factor for a 0.5mg l-1 Cd(II) solution observed for up to nine extraction cycles. PMID:18924792

Two Dimensional Heat Transfer around Penetrations in Multilayer Insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Wesley L.; Kelly, Andrew O.; Jumper, Kevin M.

2012-01-01

The objective of this task was to quantify thermal losses involving integrating MLI into real life situations. Testing specifically focused on the effects of penetrations (including structural attachments, electrical conduit/feedthroughs, and fluid lines) through MLI. While there have been attempts at quantifying these losses both analytically and experimentally, none have included a thorough investigation of the methods and materials that could be used in such applications. To attempt to quantify the excess heat load coming into the system due to the integration losses, a calorimeter was designed to study two dimensional heat transfer through penetrated MLI. The test matrix was designed to take as many variables into account as was possible with the limited test duration and system size. The parameters varied were the attachment mechanism, the buffer material (for buffer attachment mechanisms only), the thickness of the buffer, and the penetration material. The work done under this task is an attempt to measure the parasitic heat loads and affected insulation areas produced by system integration, to model the parasitic loads, and from the model produce engineering equations to allow for the determination of parasitic heat loads in future applications. The methods of integration investigated were no integration, using a buffer to thermally isolate the strut from the MLI, and temperature matching the MLI on the strut. Several materials were investigated as a buffer material including aerogel blankets, aerogel bead packages, cryolite, and even an evacuated vacuum space (in essence a no buffer condition).

Thermal buffering performance of composite phase change materials applied in low-temperature protective garments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Kai; Jiao, Mingli; Yu, Yuanyuan; Zhu, Xueying; Liu, Rangtong; Cao, Jian

2017-07-01

Phase change material (PCM) is increasingly being applied in the manufacturing of functional thermo-regulated textiles and garments. This paper investigated the thermal buffering performance of different composite PCMs which are suitable for the application in functional low-temperature protective garments. First, according to the criteria selecting PCM for functional textiles/garments, three kinds of pure PCM were selected as samples, which were n-hexadecane, n-octadecane and n-eicosane. To get the adjustable phase change temperature range and higher phase change enthalpy, three kinds of composite PCM were prepared using the above pure PCM. To evaluate the thermal buffering performance of different composite PCM samples, the simulated low-temperature experiments were performed in the climate chamber, and the skin temperature variation curves in three different low temperature conditions were obtained. Finally composite PCM samples’ thermal buffering time, thermal buffering capacity and thermal buffering efficiency were calculated. Results show that the comprehensive thermal buffering performance of n-octadecane and n-eicosane composite PCM is the best.

Quantitative theory of electroosmotic flow in fused-silica capillaries using an extended site-dissociation--site-binding model.

PubMed

Zhou, Marilyn X; Foley, Joe P

2006-03-15

To optimize separations in capillary electrophoresis, it is important to control the electroosmotic mobility of the running buffer and the factors that affect it. Through the application of a site-dissociation-site-binding model, we demonstrated that the electroosmotic mobility could be controlled qualitatively and quantitatively by the parameters related to the physical and chemical properties of the running buffer: pH, cation valence, ionic strength, viscosity, activity, and dissociation constant. Our study illustrated that the logarithm of the number of apparent silanol sites on a fused-silica surface has a linear relationship with the pH of a buffer solution. The extension of the chemical kinetics approach allowed us to obtain the thickness of the electrical double layer when multivalent inorganic cations are present with monovalent cations in a buffer solution, and we found that the thickness of the electrical double layer does not depend on the charge of anions. The general equation to predict the electroosmotic mobility suggested here also indicates the increase of electroosmotic mobility with temperature. The general equation was experimentally verified by three buffer scenarios: (i) buffers containing only monovalent cations; (ii) buffers containing multivalent inorganic cations; and (iii) buffers containing cations and neutral additives. The general equation can explain the experimental observations of (i) a maximum electroosmotic mobility for the first scenario as the pH was varied at constant ionic strength and (ii) the inversion and maximum value of the electroosmotic mobility for the second scenario when the concentration of divalent cations was varied at constant pH. A good agreement between theory and experiment was obtained for each scenario.

The Influence of End-Stop Buffer Characteristics on the Severity of Suspension Seat End-Stop Impacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, X.; Griffin, M. J.

1998-08-01

Suspension seat end-stop impacts may be a source of increased risk of injury for the drivers of some machines and work vehicles, such as off-road vehicles. Most suspension seats use rubber buffers to reduce the severity of end-stop impacts, but they still result in a high magnitude of acceleration being transmitted to drivers when an end-stop impact occurs. An experimental study has been conducted to investigate the effect of buffer stiffness and buffer damping on the severity of end-stop impacts. The results show that the end-stop impact performance of suspension seats with only bottom buffers can be improved by the use of both top and bottom buffers. The force-deflection characteristics of rubber buffers had a significant influence on the severity of end-stop impacts. The optimum buffer should have medium stiffness which is nearly linear and occurs over a long deflection, without being compressed to its high stiffness stage. It is shown, theoretically, that buffer damping is capable of significantly reducing the severity of end-stop impacts. However, since current rubber material provides only low damping, alternative materials to those in current use, or either passive or active damping devices, are required.

The impact of reduced gastric acid secretion on dissolution of salts of weak bases in the fasted upper gastrointestinal lumen: Data in biorelevant media and in human aspirates.

PubMed

Litou, Chara; Vertzoni, Maria; Xu, Wei; Kesisoglou, Filippos; Reppas, Christos

2017-06-01

To propose media for simulating the intragastric environment under reduced gastric acid secretion in the fasted state at three levels of simulation of the gastric environment and evaluate their usefulness in evaluating the intragastric dissolution of salts of weak bases. To evaluate the importance of bicarbonate buffer in biorelevant in vitro dissolution testing when using Level II biorelevant media simulating the environment in the fasted upper small intestine, regardless of gastric acid secretions. Media for simulating the hypochlorhydric and achlorhydric conditions in stomach were proposed using phosphates, maleates and bicarbonates buffers. The impact of bicarbonates in Level II biorelevant media simulating the environment in upper small intestine was evaluated so that pH and bulk buffer capacity were maintained. Dissolution data were collected using two model compounds, pioglitazone hydrochloride and semifumarate cocrystal of Compound B, and the mini-paddle dissolution apparatus in biorelevant media and in human aspirates. Simulated gastric fluids proposed in this study were in line with pH, buffer capacity, pepsin content, total bile salt/lecithin content and osmolality of the fasted stomach under partial and under complete inhibition of gastric acid secretion. Fluids simulating the conditions under partial inhibition of acid secretion were useful in simulating concentrations of both model compounds in gastric aspirates. Bicarbonates in Level III biorelevant gastric media and in Level II biorelevant media simulating the composition in the upper intestinal lumen did not improve simulation of concentrations in human aspirates. Level III biorelevant media for simulating the intragastric environment under hypochlorhydric conditions were proposed and their usefulness in the evaluation of concentrations of two model salts of weak bases in gastric aspirates was shown. Level II biorelevant media for simulating the environment in upper intestinal lumen led to underestimation of concentrations in aspirates, even when bicarbonate buffer was used. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Thermal - Hydraulic Behavior of Unsaturated Bentonite and Sand-Bentonite Material as Seal for Nuclear Waste Repository: Numerical Simulation of Column Experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ballarini, E.; Graupner, B.; Bauer, S.

2015-12-01

For deep geological repositories of high-level radioactive waste (HLRW), bentonite and sand bentonite mixtures are investigated as buffer materials to form a a sealing layer. This sealing layer surrounds the canisters and experiences an initial drying due to the heat produced by HLRW and a successive re-saturation with fluid from the host rock. These complex thermal, hydraulic and mechanical processes interact and were investigated in laboratory column experiments using MX-80 clay pellets as well as a mixture of 35% sand and 65% bentonite. The aim of this study is to both understand the individual processes taking place in the buffer materials and to identify the key physical parameters that determine the material behavior under heating and hydrating conditions. For this end, detailed and process-oriented numerical modelling was applied to the experiments, simulating heat transport, multiphase flow and mechanical effects from swelling. For both columns, the same set of parameters was assigned to the experimental set-up (i.e. insulation, heater and hydration system), while the parameters of the buffer material were adapted during model calibration. A good fit between model results and data was achieved for temperature, relative humidity, water intake and swelling pressure, thus explaining the material behavior. The key variables identified by the model are the permeability and relative permeability, the water retention curve and the thermal conductivity of the buffer material. The different hydraulic and thermal behavior of the two buffer materials observed in the laboratory observations was well reproduced by the numerical model.

Aqueous solution dispersement of carbon nanotubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Jae-Woo (Inventor); Park, Cheol (Inventor); Choi, Sang H. (Inventor); Lillehei, Peter T. (Inventor); Harrison, Joycelyn S. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are dispersed in an aqueous buffer solution consisting of at least 50 weight percent water and a remainder weight percent that includes a buffer material. The buffer material has a molecular structure defined by a first end, a second end, and a middle disposed between the first and second ends. The first end is a cyclic ring with nitrogen and oxygen heteroatomes, the middle is a hydrophobic alkyl chain, and the second end is a charged group.

40 CFR 63.9804 - What are my monitoring system installation, operation, and maintenance requirements?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... accuracy that is traceable to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards. (ii) The... section. (i) Perform a single-point calibration using an NIST-certified buffer solution that is accurate... include a redundant pH sensor, perform a single point calibration using an NIST-certified buffer solution...

40 CFR 63.9804 - What are my monitoring system installation, operation, and maintenance requirements?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... accuracy that is traceable to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards. (ii) The... section. (i) Perform a single-point calibration using an NIST-certified buffer solution that is accurate... include a redundant pH sensor, perform a single point calibration using an NIST-certified buffer solution...

Spectrophotometric Determination of Metoprolol Tartrate in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms on Complex Formation with Cu(II)

PubMed Central

Cesme, Mustafa; Tarinc, Derya; Golcu, Aysegul

2011-01-01

A new, simple, sensitive and accurate spectrophotometric method has been developed for the assay of metoprolol tartrate (MPT), which is based on the complexation of drug with copper(II) [Cu(II)] at pH 6.0, using Britton-Robinson buffer solution, to produce a blue adduct. The latter has a maximum absorbance at 675 nm and obeys Beer's law within the concentration range 8.5-70 μg/mL. Regression analysis of the calibration data showed a good correlation coefficient (r = 0.998) with a limit of detection of 5.56 μg/mL. The proposed procedure has been successfully applied to the determination of this drug in its tablets. In addition, the spectral data and stability constant for the binuclear copper(II) complex of MPT (Cu2MPT2Cl2) have been reported.

Sensing CA 15-3 in point-of-care by electropolymerizing O-phenylenediamine (oPDA) on Au-screen printed electrodes.

PubMed

Gomes, Rui S; Moreira, Felismina T C; Fernandes, Ruben; Sales, M Goreti F

2018-01-01

This work presents an alternative device for cancer screening in liquid biopsies. It combines a biomimetic film (i) with electrochemical detection (ii). The biomimetic film (i) was obtained by electro-polymerizing amine-substituted benzene rings around a CA 15-3 target. This protein target was previously adsorbed on a gold (Au) support and incubated in charged monomers (4-Styrenesulfonate sodium and 3-Hydroxytyraminium chloride). The protein was further eliminated by enzymatic activity, leaving behind vacant sites for subsequent rebinding. Electrochemical detection (ii) was achieved on an Au working electrode, designed on commercial screen-printed electrodes. Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and ellipsometric readings were used to follow the chemical modification of the Au surface. The ability of the material to rebind CA15-3 was monitored by electrochemical techniques. The device displayed linear responses to CA15-3 ranging from 0.25 to 10.00 U/mL, with detection limits of 0.05 U/mL. Accurate results were obtained by applying the sensor to the analysis of CA15-3 in PBS buffer and in serum samples. This biosensing device displayed successful features for the detection of CA 15-3 and constitutes a promising tool for breast cancer screening procedures in point-of-care applications. Moreover, its scale-up seems feasible as it contains a plastic antibody assembled in situ, in less than 1 minute, and the analysis of serum takes less than 30 minutes.

Sensing CA 15-3 in point-of-care by electropolymerizing O-phenylenediamine (oPDA) on Au-screen printed electrodes

PubMed Central

Gomes, Rui S.; Moreira, Felismina T. C.; Fernandes, Ruben

2018-01-01

This work presents an alternative device for cancer screening in liquid biopsies. It combines a biomimetic film (i) with electrochemical detection (ii). The biomimetic film (i) was obtained by electro-polymerizing amine-substituted benzene rings around a CA 15–3 target. This protein target was previously adsorbed on a gold (Au) support and incubated in charged monomers (4-Styrenesulfonate sodium and 3-Hydroxytyraminium chloride). The protein was further eliminated by enzymatic activity, leaving behind vacant sites for subsequent rebinding. Electrochemical detection (ii) was achieved on an Au working electrode, designed on commercial screen-printed electrodes. Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and ellipsometric readings were used to follow the chemical modification of the Au surface. The ability of the material to rebind CA15-3 was monitored by electrochemical techniques. The device displayed linear responses to CA15-3 ranging from 0.25 to 10.00 U/mL, with detection limits of 0.05 U/mL. Accurate results were obtained by applying the sensor to the analysis of CA15-3 in PBS buffer and in serum samples. This biosensing device displayed successful features for the detection of CA 15–3 and constitutes a promising tool for breast cancer screening procedures in point-of-care applications. Moreover, its scale-up seems feasible as it contains a plastic antibody assembled in situ, in less than 1 minute, and the analysis of serum takes less than 30 minutes. PMID:29715330

30 CFR 784.22 - Geologic information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... occurring; (ii) Chemical analyses identifying those strata that may contain acid- or toxic-forming, or... that the analysis for alkalinity-producing material is unnecessary; and (iii) Chemical analysis of the...; (ii) Chemical analyses for acid- or toxic-forming or alkalinity-producing materials and their content...

Effect of coexisting Al(III) ions on Pb(II) sorption on biochars: Role of pH buffer and competition.

PubMed

Yang, Yuxi; Zhang, Weihua; Qiu, Hao; Tsang, Daniel C W; Morel, Jean-Louis; Qiu, Rongliang

2016-10-01

Biochar is being widely considered as a promising amendment agent for immobilizing heavy metals in contaminated acidic soils, where plenty of soluble Al(III) ions exist. In view of uncertain significance of the effects of coexisting Al(III) on Pb(II) sorption by biochars, this study used kenaf core biochar (KB550; high carbon, low ash) and sewage sludge biochar (SB550; low carbon, high ash) pyrolyzed at 550 °C to elucidate the influence of coexisting Al(III) species and biochars' mineral components on Pb(II) immobilization conducted in aqueous solution with initial pHs of 3.0-4.5. Results showed that Al(III) reduced Pb(II) sorption on KB550 primarily via pH buffering against biochar alkalinity, thus inhibiting lead carbonate formation. In contrast, the reduction on SB550 mainly resulted from direct competition for sorption sites, especially on Fe-rich phengite 2M1 and metakaolinite. Because of Pb-P precipitation and Pb-K interlayer exchange, the residual Pb(II) adsorption capacity resistant to coexisting Al(III) was 3-5 times higher on SB550 than on KB550. The Pb-K interlayer exchange was enhanced by lower pH and coexisting Al(III), while Pb-P precipitation was the dominant Pb(II) sorption mechanism on SB550 resistant to Al(III) buffering and competition at higher pH. Application of these two biochars as amendments confirmed that the mineral-rich SB550 was more suitable for Pb(II) immobilization in acidic soils with high levels of extractable Al(III). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Chemical Rescue of Enzymes: Proton Transfer in Mutants of Human Carbonic Anhydrase II

PubMed Central

Maupin, C. Mark; Castillo, Norberto; Taraphder, Srabani; Tu, Chingkuang; McKenna, Robert; Silverman, David N.; Voth, Gregory A.

2011-01-01

In human carbonic anhydrase II (HCA II) the mutation of position 64 from histidine to alanine (H64A) disrupts the rate limiting proton transfer (PT) event, resulting in a reduction of the catalytic activity of the enzyme as compared to the wild-type. Potential of mean force (PMF) calculations utilizing the multistate empirical valence bond (MS-EVB) methodology for H64A HCA II give a PT free energy barrier significantly higher than that found in the wild-type enzyme. This high barrier, determined in the absence of exogenous buffer and assuming no additional ionizable residues in the PT pathway, indicates the likelihood of alternate enzyme pathways that utilize either ionizable enzyme residues (self-rescue) and/or exogenous buffers (chemical rescue). It has been shown experimentally that the catalytic activity of H64A HCA II can be chemically rescued to near wild type levels by the addition of the exogenous buffer 4-methylimidazole (4MI). Crystallographic studies have identified two 4MI binding sites, yet site specific mutations intended to disrupt 4MI binding have demonstrated these sites to be non-productive. In the present work MS-EVB simulations show that binding of 4MI near Thr199 in the H64A HCA II mutant, a binding site determined by NMR spectroscopy, results in a viable chemical rescue pathway. Additional viable rescue pathways are also identified where 4MI acts as a proton transport intermediary from the active site to ionizable residues on the rim of the active site, revealing a probable mode of action for the chemical rescue pathway PMID:21452838

Using fluorescent dyes as proxies to study herbicide removal by sorption in buffer zones.

PubMed

Dollinger, Jeanne; Dagès, Cécile; Voltz, Marc

2017-04-01

The performance of buffer zones for removing pesticides from runoff water varies greatly according to landscape settings, hydraulic regime, and system design. Evaluating the performance of buffers for a range of pesticides and environmental conditions can be very expensive. Recent studies suggested that the fluorescent dyes uranine and sulforhodamine B could be used as cost-effective surrogates of herbicides to evaluate buffer performance. However, while transformation mechanisms in buffers have been extensively documented, sorption processes of both dyes have rarely been investigated. In this study, we measured the adsorption, desorption, and kinetic sorption coefficients of uranine and sulforhodamine B for a diverse range of buffer zone materials (soils, litters, plants) and compared the adsorption coefficients (Kd) to those of selected herbicides. We also compared the global sorption capacity of 6 ditches, characterized by varying proportions of the aforementioned materials, between both dyes and a set of four herbicides using the sorption-induced pesticide retention indicator (SPRI). We found that both the individual Kd of uranine for the diverse buffer materials and the global sorption capacity of the ditches are equivalent to those of the herbicides diuron, isoproturon, and metolachlor. The Kd of sulforhodamine B on plants and soils are equivalent to those of glyphosate, and the global sorption capacities of the ditches are equivalent for both molecules. Hence, we demonstrate for the first time that uranine can be used as a proxy of moderately hydrophobic herbicides to evaluate the performance of buffer systems, whereas sulforhodamine B can serve as a proxy for more strongly sorbing herbicides.

Simultaneous determination of bifonazole and tinctures of calendula flower in pharmaceutical creams by reversed-phase liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Ferreyra, Carola F; Ortiz, Cristina S

2005-01-01

The aim of this research was to develop and validate a sensitive, rapid, easy, and precise reversed-phase liquid chromatography (LC) method for stability studies of bifonazole (I) formulated with tinctures of calendula flower (II). The method was especially developed for the analysis and quantitative determination of I and II in pure and combined forms in cream pharmaceutical formulations without using gradient elution and at room temperature. The influence on the stability of compound I of temperature, artificial radiation, and drug II used for the new pharmaceutical design was evaluated. The LC separation was carried out using a Supelcosil LC-18 column (25 cm x 4.6 mm id, 5 microm particle size); the mobile phase was composed of methanol-0.1 M ammonium acetate buffer (85 + 15, v/v) pumped isocratically at a flow rate of 1 mL/min; and ultraviolet detection was at 254 nm. The analysis time was less than 10 min. Calibration graphs were found to be linear in the 0.125-0.375 mg/mL (rI = 0.9991) and 0.639-1.916 mg/mL (rII = 0.9995) ranges for I and II, respectively. The linearity, precision, recovery, and limits of detection and quantification were satisfactory for I and II. The results obtained suggested that the developed LC method is selective and specific for the analysis of I and II in pharmaceutical products, and that it can be applied to stability studies.

Substrate Structures For Growth Of Highly Oriented And/Or Epitaxial Layers Thereon

DOEpatents

Arendt, Paul N.; Foltyn, Stephen R.; Groves, James R.; Jia, Quanxi

2005-07-26

A composite substrate structure including a substrate, a layer of a crystalline metal oxide or crystalline metal oxynitride material upon the substrate, a layer of an oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure upon the crystalline metal oxide or crystalline metal oxynitride material layer is provided together with additional layers such as one or more layers of a buffer material upon the oriented cubic oxide material layer. Jc's of 2.3×106 A/cm2 have been demonstrated with projected Ic's of 320 Amperes across a sample 1 cm wide for a superconducting article including a flexible polycrystalline metallic substrate, an inert oxide material layer upon the surface of the flexible polycrystalline metallic substrate, a layer of a crystalline metal oxide or crystalline metal oxynitride material upon the layer of the inert oxide material, a layer of an oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure upon the crystalline metal oxide or crystalline metal oxynitride material layer, a layer of a buffer material upon the oriented cubic oxide material layer, and, a top-layer of a high temperature superconducting material upon the layer of a buffer material.

Carbonic anhydrase-facilitated CO2 absorption with polyacrylamide buffering bead capture

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

Dilmore, Robert; Griffith, Craid; Liu, Zhu

2009-07-01

A novel CO2 separation concept is described wherein the enzyme carbonic anhydrase (CA) is used to increase the overall rate Of CO2 absorption after which hydrated CO2 reacts with regenerable amine-bearing polyacrylamide buffering beads (PABB). Following saturation of the material's immobilized tertiary amines, CA-bearing carrier water is separated and recycled to the absorption stage while CO2-loaded material is thermally regenerated. Process application of this concept would involve operation of two or more columns in parallel with thermal regeneration with low-pressure steam taking place after the capacity of a column of amine-bearing polymeric material was exceeded. PABB CO2- bearing capacity wasmore » evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) for beads of three acrylamido buffering monomer ingredient concentrations: 0 mol/kg bead, 0.857 mol/kg bead, and 2 mol/kg bead. TGA results demonstrate that CO2- bearing capacity increases with increasing PABB buffering concentration and that up to 78% of the theoretical CO2- bearing capacity was realized in prepared PABB samples (0.857 mol/kg recipe). The highest observed CO2-bearing capacity of PABB was 1.37 mol of CO2 per kg dry bead. TGA was also used to assess the regenerability Of CO2-loaded PABB. Preliminary results suggest that CO2 is partially driven from PABB samples at temperatures as low as 55 degrees C, with complete regeneration occurring at 100 degrees C. Other physical characteristics of PABB are discussed. In addition, the effectiveness of bovine carbonic anhydrase for the catalysis Of CO2 dissolution is evaluated. Potential benefits and drawbacks of the proposed process are discussed. Published by Elsevier Ltd.« less

LC-MS/MS analysis of uncommon paracetamol metabolites derived through in vitro polymerization and nitration reactions in liquid nitrogen.

PubMed

Trettin, Arne; Jordan, Jens; Tsikas, Dimitrios

2014-09-01

Paracetamol (acetaminophen, APAP) is a commonly used analgesic drug. Known paracetamol metabolites include the glucuronide, sulfate and mercapturate. N-Acetyl-benzoquinonimine (NAPQI) is considered the toxic intermediate metabolite of paracetamol. In vitro and in vivo studies indicate that paracetamol is also metabolized to additional poorly characterized metabolites. For example, metabolomic studies in urine samples of APAP-treated mice revealed metabolites such as APAP-sulfate-APAP and APAP-S-S-APAP in addition to the classical phase II metabolites. Here, we report on the development and application of LC-MS and LC-MS/MS approaches to study reactions of unlabelled and (2)H-labelled APAP with unlabelled and (15)N-labelled nitrite in aqueous phosphate buffers (pH 7.4) upon their immersion into liquid nitrogen (-196°C). In mechanistic studies, these reactions were also studied in aqueous buffer prepared in (18)O-labelled water. LC-MS and LC-MS/MS analyses were performed on a reverse-phase material (C18) using gradient elution (2mM ammonium acetate/acetonitrile), in positive and negative electrospray mode. We identified a series of APAP metabolites including di-, tri- and tetra-APAP, mono- and di-nitro-APAP and nitric ester of di-APAP. Our study indicates that nitrite induces oxidation, i.e., polymerization and nitration of APAP, when buffered APAP/nitrite solutions are immersed into liquid nitrogen. These reactions are specific for nitrite with respect to nitrate and do not proceed via intermediate formation of NAPQI. Potassium ions and physiological saline but not thiols inhibit nitrite- and shock-freeze-induced reactions of paracetamol. The underlying mechanism likely involves in situ formation of NO2 radicals from nitrite secondary to profound pH reduction (down to pH 1) and disproportionation. Polymeric paracetamol species can be analyzed as pentafluorobenzyl derivatives by LC-MS but not by GC-MS. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Single molecule imaging of RNA polymerase II using atomic force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rhodin, Thor; Fu, Jianhua; Umemura, Kazuo; Gad, Mohammed; Jarvis, Suzi; Ishikawa, Mitsuru

2003-03-01

An atomic force microscopy (AFM) study of the shape, orientation and surface topology of RNA polymerase II supported on silanized freshly cleaved mica was made. The overall aim is to define the molecular topology of RNA polymerase II in appropriate fluids to help clarify the relationship of conformational features to biofunctionality. A Nanoscope III atomic force microscope was used in the tapping mode with oxide-sharpened (8-10 nm) Si 3N 4 probes in aqueous zinc chloride buffer. The main structural features observed by AFM were compared to those derived from electron-density plots based on X-ray crystallographic studies. The conformational features included a bilobal silhouette with an inverted umbrella-shaped crater connected to a reaction site. These studies provide a starting point for constructing a 3D-AFM profiling analysis of proteins such as RNA polymerase complexes.

The Design and Implementation of a Read Prediction Buffer

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-12-01

City, State, and ZIP Code) 7b ADDRESS (City, State. and ZIP Code) 8a. NAME OF FUNDING /SPONSORING 8b. OFFICE SYMBOL 9 PROCUREMENT INSTRUMENT... 9 E. THESIS STRUCTURE.. . .... ............... 9 II. READ PREDICTION ALGORITHM AND BUFFER DESIGN 10 A. THE READ PREDICTION ALGORITHM...29 Figure 9 . Basic Multiplexer Cell .... .......... .. 30 Figure 10. Block Diagram Simulation Labels ......... 38 viii I. INTRODUCTION A

Toward quantifying water pollution abatement in response to installing buffers on crop land

Treesearch

Michael G. Dosskey

2001-01-01

The scientific research literature is reviewed (i) for evidence of how much reduction in nonpoint source pollution can be achieved by installing buffers on crop land, (ii) to summarize important factors that can affect this response, and (iii) to identify remaining major information gaps that limit our ability to make probable estimates. This review is intended to...

Emission wavelength red-shift by using ;semi-bulk; InGaN buffer layer in InGaN/InGaN multiple-quantum-well

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alam, Saiful; Sundaram, Suresh; Li, Xin; El Gmili, Youssef; Elouneg-Jamroz, Miryam; Robin, Ivan Christophe; Patriarche, Gilles; Salvestrini, Jean-Paul; Voss, Paul L.; Ougazzaden, Abdallah

2017-12-01

We report an elongation of emission wavelength by inserting a ∼70 nm thick high quality semi-bulk (SB) InyGa1-yN buffer layer underneath the InxGa1-xN/InyGa1-yN (x > y) multi-quantum-well (MQW).While the MQW structure without the InGaN SB buffer is fully strained on the n-GaN template, the MQW structure with the buffer has ∼15% relaxation. This small relaxation along with slight compositional pulling induced well thickness increase of MQW is believed to be the reason for the red-shift of emission wavelength. In addition, the SB InGaN buffer acts as an electron reservoir and also helps to reduce the Quantum Confined Stark Effect (QCSE) and thus increase the emission intensity. In this way, by avoiding fully relaxed buffer induced material degradation, a longer emission wavelength can be achieved by just using InGaN SB buffer while keeping all other growth conditions the same as the reference structure. Thus, a reasonably thick fully strained or very little relaxed InGaN buffer, which is realized by ;semi-bulk; approach to maintain good InGaN material quality, can be beneficial for realizing LEDs, grown on top of this buffer, emitting in the blue to cyan to green regime without using excess indium (In).

Moisture buffer capacity of cement-lime plasters with enhanced thermal storage capacity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fořt, Jan; Pavlíková, Milena; Pavlík, Zbyšek

2017-07-01

Indoor air temperature and relative humidity represent important parameters for health and working efficiency of buildings occupants. Beside the moderation of temperature, investigation of hygric properties of building materials with connection to indoor relative humidity variation became recognized as a relevant factor for energy efficient building maintenance. The moisture buffer value introduced in the Nordtest protocol can be used for estimation of moisture buffer capacity of building materials or their multi-layered systems. In this paper, both the ideal and real moisture buffer values are examined on the basis of simulation of diurnal relative humidity fluctuations in plasters with incorporated PCM admixture. Retrieved data points to a complex effect of the tested plasters on possible moderation of buildings interior climate.

Formation of Fe/Mg Smectite under acidic conditions from synthetic Adirondack Basaltic Glass: An Analog to Fe/Mg Smectite Formation on Mars.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sutter, B.; Peretyazhko, T.; Morris, R. V.; Ming, D. W.

2014-12-01

Smectite has been detected as layered material hundreds of meters thick, in intracrater depositional fans, in plains sediments, and deposits at depth on Mars. If early Mars hosted a dense CO2 atmosphere, then extensive carbonate should have formed in the neutral/alkaline conditions expected for smectite formation. However, large carbonate deposits on Mars have not been discovered. Instead of neutral to moderately alkaline conditions, early Mars may have experienced mildly acidic conditions that allowed for Fe/Mg smectite formation but prevented widespread carbonate formation. The objective of this work is to demonstrate that Fe(II)/Mg-saponite and nontronite can form in mildly acidic solutions (e.g., pH 4). Synthetic basaltic glass (< 53 μm) of Adirondack rock class composition was exposed to pH 4 (acetic acid buffer) and N2 purged (anoxic) solutions amended with 0 and 10 mM Mg or Fe(II). Basaltic glass in these solutions was heated to 200ºC in batch reactors for 1, 7, and 14 days. X-ray diffraction analysis of reacted materials detected the presence of phyllosilicates as indicated by a ~15.03-15.23Ǻ (001) peak. Smectite was confirmed as the phyllosilicate after treatments with glycerol and KCl and heating to 550°C. Trioctahedral saponite was confirmed by the presence of a 4.58 to 4.63 Ǻ (02l) and 1.54Ǻ (060) peaks. Saponite concentration was highest, as indicated by XRD peak intensity, in the 10 mM Mg treatment followed by the 0 mM and then 10 mM Fe(II) treatments. This order of sapontite concentration suggests that Fe(II) additions may have a role in slowing the kinetics of saponite formation relative to the other treatments. Nontronite synthesis was attempted by exposing Adirondack basaltic glass to pH 4 oxic solutions (without N2 purge) at 200ºC for 14 days. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated that mixtures of trioctahedral (saponite) and dioctahedral (nontronite) may have formed in these experiments based on the 02l and 060 peaks. Mössbauer analysis coupled with future experiments are planned to verify if nontronite can be formed under mildly acidic and oxic conditions. Results of this work demonstrate that acidic conditions could have occurred on an early Mars, which allowed for smectite formation but inhibited carbonate formation.

Chemical speciation of U, Fe, and Pu in melt glass from nuclear weapons testing

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

Pacold, J. I.; Lukens, W. W.; Booth, C. H.

Nuclear weapons testing generates large volumes of glassy materials that influence the transport of dispersed actinides in the environment and may carry information on the composition of the detonated device. We determine the oxidation state of U and Fe (which is known to buffer the oxidation state of actinide elements and to affect the redox state of groundwater) in samples of melt glass collected from three U.S. nuclear weapons tests. For selected samples, we also determine the coordination geometry of U and Fe, and we report the oxidation state of Pu from one melt glass sample. We find significant variationsmore » among the melt glass samples and, in particular, find a clear deviation in one sample from the expected buffering effect of Fe(II)/Fe(III) on the oxidation state of uranium. In the first direct measurement of Pu oxidation state in a nuclear test melt glass, we obtain a result consistent with existing literature that proposes Pu is primarily present as Pu(IV) in post-detonation material. In addition, our measurements imply that highly mobile U(VI) may be produced in significant quantities when melt glass is quenched rapidly following a nuclear detonation, though these products may remain immobile in the vitrified matrices. The observed differences in chemical state among the three samples show that redox conditions can vary dramatically across different nuclear test conditions. The local soil composition, associated device materials, and the rate of quenching are all likely to affect the final redox state of the glass. The resulting variations in glass chemistry are significant for understanding and interpreting debris chemistry and the later environmental mobility of dispersed material.« less

Chemical speciation of U, Fe, and Pu in melt glass from nuclear weapons testing

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

Pacold, J. I.; Lukens, W. W.; Booth, C. H.

We report that nuclear weapons testing generates large volumes of glassy materials that influence the transport of dispersed actinides in the environment and may carry information on the composition of the detonated device. We determine the oxidation state of U and Fe (which is known to buffer the oxidation state of actinide elements and to affect the redox state of groundwater) in samples of melt glass collected from three U.S. nuclear weapons tests. For selected samples, we also determine the coordination geometry of U and Fe, and we report the oxidation state of Pu from one melt glass sample. Wemore » find significant variations among the melt glass samples and, in particular, find a clear deviation in one sample from the expected buffering effect of Fe(II)/Fe(III) on the oxidation state of uranium. In the first direct measurement of Pu oxidation state in a nuclear test melt glass, we obtain a result consistent with existing literature that proposes Pu is primarily present as Pu(IV) in post-detonation material. In addition, our measurements imply that highly mobile U(VI) may be produced in significant quantities when melt glass is quenched rapidly following a nuclear detonation, though these products may remain immobile in the vitrified matrices. The observed differences in chemical state among the three samples show that redox conditions can vary dramatically across different nuclear test conditions. The local soil composition, associated device materials, and the rate of quenching are all likely to affect the final redox state of the glass. Lastly, the resulting variations in glass chemistry are significant for understanding and interpreting debris chemistry and the later environmental mobility of dispersed material.« less

Chemical speciation of U, Fe, and Pu in melt glass from nuclear weapons testing

DOE PAGES

Pacold, J. I.; Lukens, W. W.; Booth, C. H.; ...

2016-05-18

We report that nuclear weapons testing generates large volumes of glassy materials that influence the transport of dispersed actinides in the environment and may carry information on the composition of the detonated device. We determine the oxidation state of U and Fe (which is known to buffer the oxidation state of actinide elements and to affect the redox state of groundwater) in samples of melt glass collected from three U.S. nuclear weapons tests. For selected samples, we also determine the coordination geometry of U and Fe, and we report the oxidation state of Pu from one melt glass sample. Wemore » find significant variations among the melt glass samples and, in particular, find a clear deviation in one sample from the expected buffering effect of Fe(II)/Fe(III) on the oxidation state of uranium. In the first direct measurement of Pu oxidation state in a nuclear test melt glass, we obtain a result consistent with existing literature that proposes Pu is primarily present as Pu(IV) in post-detonation material. In addition, our measurements imply that highly mobile U(VI) may be produced in significant quantities when melt glass is quenched rapidly following a nuclear detonation, though these products may remain immobile in the vitrified matrices. The observed differences in chemical state among the three samples show that redox conditions can vary dramatically across different nuclear test conditions. The local soil composition, associated device materials, and the rate of quenching are all likely to affect the final redox state of the glass. Lastly, the resulting variations in glass chemistry are significant for understanding and interpreting debris chemistry and the later environmental mobility of dispersed material.« less

Chemical speciation of U, Fe, and Pu in melt glass from nuclear weapons testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pacold, J. I.; Lukens, W. W.; Booth, C. H.; Shuh, D. K.; Knight, K. B.; Eppich, G. R.; Holliday, K. S.

2016-05-01

Nuclear weapons testing generates large volumes of glassy materials that influence the transport of dispersed actinides in the environment and may carry information on the composition of the detonated device. We determine the oxidation state of U and Fe (which is known to buffer the oxidation state of actinide elements and to affect the redox state of groundwater) in samples of melt glass collected from three U.S. nuclear weapons tests. For selected samples, we also determine the coordination geometry of U and Fe, and we report the oxidation state of Pu from one melt glass sample. We find significant variations among the melt glass samples and, in particular, find a clear deviation in one sample from the expected buffering effect of Fe(II)/Fe(III) on the oxidation state of uranium. In the first direct measurement of Pu oxidation state in a nuclear test melt glass, we obtain a result consistent with existing literature that proposes Pu is primarily present as Pu(IV) in post-detonation material. In addition, our measurements imply that highly mobile U(VI) may be produced in significant quantities when melt glass is quenched rapidly following a nuclear detonation, though these products may remain immobile in the vitrified matrices. The observed differences in chemical state among the three samples show that redox conditions can vary dramatically across different nuclear test conditions. The local soil composition, associated device materials, and the rate of quenching are all likely to affect the final redox state of the glass. The resulting variations in glass chemistry are significant for understanding and interpreting debris chemistry and the later environmental mobility of dispersed material.

a Buffer Analysis Based on Co-Location Algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, G.; Huang, S.; Wang, H.; Zhang, R.; Wang, Q.; Sha, H.; Liu, X.; Pan, Q.

2018-05-01

Buffer analysis is a common tool of spatial analysis, which deals with the problem of proximity in GIS. Buffer analysis researches the relationship between the center object and other objects around a certain distance. Buffer analysis can make the complicated problem be more scientifically and visually, and provide valuable information for users. Over the past decades, people have done a lot of researches on buffer analysis. Along with the constantly improvement of spatial analysis accuracy needed by people, people hope that the results of spatial analysis can be more exactly express the actual situation. Due to the influence of some certain factors, the impact scope and contact range of a geographic elements on the surrounding objects are uncertain. As all we know, each object has its own characteristics and changing rules in the nature. They are both independent and relative to each other. However, almost all the generational algorithms of existing buffer analysis are based on fixed buffer distance, which do not consider the co-location relationship among instances. Consequently, it is a waste of resource to retrieve the useless information, and useful information is ignored.

Landscape Potential Analysis for Ecotourism Destination in the Resort Ii Salak Mountain, Halimun-Salak National Park

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kusumoarto, A.; Gunawan, A.; Nurazizah, G. R.

2017-10-01

The Resort II Salak Mountain has variety of landscape potential for created as ecotourism destination, especially the potential of the waterfall (curug) and sulphur crater (Kawah Ratu). The aim of this study was to identify and analyze the potential resources of the landscape to be created as ecotourism destination, Resort II Salak Mountain. This research was conducted through two phases: 1) identification of the attractions location that have potential resources for ecotourism destination, and 2) analysis of the level of potential resource of the landscape in each location using Analysis of Tourist Attraction Operational Destination (ATAOD). The study showed Resort II Salak Mountain has many ecotourism objects which have been used for ecotourism activities, such as hot spring baths, Curug Cigamea, Curug Ngumpet, Curug Seribu, Curug Pangeran, Curug Muara, Curug Cihurang, Kawah Ratu, camping ground, Curug Kondang and Curug Alami. The location of all waterfalls -curug, spread widely in the core zone for ecotourism. In the other hand, camping ground is located in the business zone, while Kawah Ratu is located in the natural forest, which is included in the buffer zone of Halimun-Salak National Park (HSNP). The result showed that the ecotourism objects with the highest potential value are Kawah Ratu, Curug Seribu, Curug Muara, Curug Kondang and Curug Ngumpet.

Comparison of fracture resistance of simulated immature teeth with an open apex using Biodentine and composite resin: An in vitro study.

PubMed

Zhabuawala, Murtuza Saifuddin; Nadig, Roopa R; Pai, Veena S; Gowda, Yashwanth

2016-01-01

To evaluate the fracture resistance in simulated immature teeth that had been backfilled using composite resin and Biodentine after using Biodentine as an apical plug material immediately and after 3 months of aging. Sixty extracted human maxillary central incisors were simulated in an immature open apex. The roots of all the specimens were then standardized to a length of 10 mm and canals were instrumented to obtain the radicular dentin thickness around 1.5 mm. All the specimens were then randomly divided into three groups of twenty teeth each. Group I (control) - 4 mm apical plug of Biodentine backfilled with thermoplasticized gutta-percha. Group II - 4 mm apical plug of Biodentine and then backfilled with ParaCore. Group III - completely filled with Biodentine. Ten samples from each group were randomly divided into two subgroups. In subgroup A: Specimens were stored for 1 week. In subgroup B: Specimens were stored in phosphate-buffered saline solution for 3 months and were subjected to universal testing machine. Statistical analysis was done using one-way analysis. No significant difference in fracture resistance between the groups was observed when tested immediately. After 3 months of aging, only Biodentine group showed a significant reduction in fracture resistance without significant reduction with other two groups. Biodentine group has shown a drastic reduction in fracture resistance after 3 months of aging, and hence cannot be recommended as a reinforcement material in immature teeth with thin dentin walls.

Strain energy release rate analysis of the end-notched flexure specimen using the finite-element method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salpekar, S. A.; Raju, I. S.; O'Brien, T. K.

1988-01-01

Two-dimensional finite-element analysis of the end-notched flexure specimen was performed using 8-node isoparametric, parabolic elements to evaluate compliance and mode II strain energy release rates, G sub II. The G sub II values were computed using two different techniques: the virtual crack-closure technique (VCCT) and the rate of change of compliance with crack length (compliance derivative method). The analysis was performed for various crack-length-to-semi-span (a/L) ratios ranging from 0.2 to 0.9. Three material systems representing a wide range of material properties were analyzed. The compliance and strain energy release rates of the specimen calculated with the present finite-element analysis agree very well with beam theory equations including transverse shear. The G sub II values calculated using the compliance derivative method compared extremely well with those calculated using the VCCT. The G sub II values obtained by the compliance derivative method using the top or bottom beam deflections agreed closely with each other. The strain energy release rates from a plane-stress analysis were higher than the plane-strain values by only a small percentage, indicating that either assumption may be used in the analysis. The G sub II values for one material system calculated from the finte-element analysis agreed with one solution in the literature and disagreed with the other solution in the literature.

Strain-energy-release rate analysis of the end-notched flexure specimen using the finite-element method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salpekar, S. A.; Raju, I. S.; Obrien, T. K.

1987-01-01

Two-dimensional finite-element analysis of the end-notched flexure specimen was performed using 8-node isoparametric, parabolic elements to evaluate compliance and mode II strain energy release rates, G sub II. The G sub II values were computed using two different techniques: the virtural crack-closure technique (VCCT) and the rate of change of compliance with crack length (compliance derivative method). The analysis was performed for various crack-length-to-semi-span (a/L) ratios ranging from 0.2 to 0.9. Three material systems representing a wide range of material properties were analyzed. The compliance and strain energy release rates of the specimen calculated with the present finite-element analysis agree very well with beam theory equations including transverse shear. The G sub II values calculated using the compliance derivative method compared extremely well with those calculated using the VCCT. The G sub II values obtained by the compliance derivative method using the top or bottom beam deflections agreed closely with each other. The strain energy release rates from a plane-stress analysis were higher than the plane-strain values by only a small percentage, indicating that either assumption may be used in the analysis. The G sub II values for one material system calculated from the finite-element analysis agreed with one solution in the literature and disagreed with the other solution in the literature.

Fluorescence and electron paramagnetic resonance studies of norfloxacin and N-donor mixed-ligand ternary copper(II) complexes: Stability and interaction with SDS micelles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vignoli Muniz, Gabriel S.; Incio, Jimmy Llontop; Alves, Odivaldo C.; Krambrock, Klaus; Teixeira, Letícia R.; Louro, Sonia R. W.

2018-01-01

The stability of ternary copper(II) complexes of a heterocyclic ligand, L (L being 2,2‧-bipyridine (bipy) or 1,10-phenanthroline (phen)) and the fluorescent antibacterial agent norfloxacin (NFX) as the second ligand was studied at pH 7.4 and different ionic strengths. Fluorescence quenching upon titration of NFX with the binary complexes allowed to obtain stability constants for NFX binding, Kb, as a function of ionic strength. The Kb values vary by more than two orders of magnitude when buffer concentration varies from 0.5 to 100 mM. It was observed that previously synthesized ternary complexes dissociate in buffer according with the obtained stability constants. This shows that equimolar solutions of NFX and binary complexes are equivalent to solutions of synthesized ternary complexes. The interaction of the ternary copper complexes with anionic SDS (sodium dodecyl sulfate) micelles was studied by fluorescence and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Titration of NFX-loaded SDS micelles with the complexes Cu:L allowed to determine the stability constants inside the micelles. Fluorescence quenching demonstrated that SDS micelles increase the stability constants by factors around 50. EPR spectra gave details of the copper(II) local environment, and demonstrated that the structure of the ternary complexes inside SDS micelles is different from that in buffer. Mononuclear ternary complexes formed inside the micelles, while in buffer most ternary complexes are binuclear. The results show that anionic membrane interfaces increase formation of copper fluoroquinolone complexes, which can influence bioavailability, membrane diffusion, and mechanism of action of the antibiotics.

Silver oxide nanoparticles embedded silk fibroin spuns: Microwave mediated preparation, characterization and their synergistic wound healing and anti-bacterial activity.

PubMed

Babu, Punuri Jayasekhar; Doble, Mukesh; Raichur, Ashok M

2018-03-01

The synergistic wound healing and antibacterial activity of silver oxide nanoparticles embedded silk fibroin (Ag 2 O-SF) spuns is reported here. UV-Vis spectro photometric analysis of these spuns showed the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) confirming the formation of the silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag 2 O NPs) on the surface of the silk fibroin (SF). Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) also confirmed the presence of Ag 2 O NPs on surface of SF. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the crystalline nature of both SF and Ag 2 O-SF. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) results showed the different forms of silk (I and II) and their corresponding protein (amide I, II, III) confirmations. Biodegradation study revealed insignificant changes in the morphology of Ag 2 O-SF spuns even after 14 days of immersion in phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Ag 2 O-SF spuns showed excellent antibacterial activity against both pathogen (S. aureus and M. tuberculosis) and non-pathogen (E. coli) bacteria. More importantly, In vitro wound healing (scratch assay) assay revealed fast migration of the T3T fibroblast cells through the scratch area treated with extract of Ag 2 O-SF spuns and the area was completely covered within 24 h. Cytotoxicity assay confirmed the biocompatible nature of the Ag 2 O-SF spuns, thus suggesting an ideal material for wound healing and anti-bacterial applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

HPTN 035 Phase II/IIb Randomized Safety and Effectiveness Study of the Vaginal Microbicides BufferGel and 0.5% PRO 2000 for the Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Women

PubMed Central

Guffey, M. Bradford; Richardson, Barbra; Husnik, Marla; Makanani, Bonus; Chilongozi, David; Yu, Elmer; Ramjee, Gita; Mgodi, Nyaradzo; Gomez, Kailazarid; Hillier, Sharon L.; Karim, Salim Abdool

2014-01-01

Objectives To estimate the effectiveness of candidate microbicides BufferGel and 0.5% PRO 2000 Gel (P) (PRO 2000) for prevention of non-ulcerative sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Methods Between 2005 and 2007, 3099 women were enrolled in HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) protocol 035, a phase II/IIb evaluation of the safety and effectiveness of BufferGel and PRO 2000 for prevention of sexually transmitted infections, including Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). Incidences of STIs were determined by study arm, and hazard ratios (HRs) of BufferGel and PRO 2000 versus placebo gel or no gel control groups were computed using discrete time Andersen-Gill proportional hazards model. Results The overall incidence rates were 1.6/100 person-years at risk (PYAR) for GC, 3.9/100 PYAR for CT, and 15.3/100 PYAR for TV. For BufferGel versus placebo gel, HRs were 0.99 (95% CI 0.49–2.00), 1.00 (95% CI 0.64–1.57), and 0.95 (95% CI 0.71–1.25) for prevention of GC, CT, and TV respectively. For PRO 2000, HRs were 1.66 (95% CI 0.90–3.06), 1.16 (95% CI 0.76–1.79), and 1.18 (95% CI 0.90–1.53) for prevention of GC, CT, and TV respectively. Conclusions The incidence of STIs was high during HPTN 035 despite provision of free condoms and comprehensive risk-reduction counselling, highlighting the need for effective STI prevention programmes in this population. Unfortunately, candidate microbicides BufferGel and PRO2000 had no protective effect against gonorrhoea, Chlamydia, or trichomoniasis. PMID:24898857

Author Contribution to the Pu Handbook II: Chapter 37 LLNL Integrated Sample Preparation Glovebox (TEM) Section

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

Wall, Mark A.

The development of our Integrated Actinide Sample Preparation Laboratory (IASPL) commenced in 1998 driven by the need to perform transmission electron microscopy studies on naturally aged plutonium and its alloys looking for the microstructural effects of the radiological decay process (1). Remodeling and construction of a laboratory within the Chemistry and Materials Science Directorate facilities at LLNL was required to turn a standard radiological laboratory into a Radiological Materials Area (RMA) and Radiological Buffer Area (RBA) containing type I, II and III workplaces. Two inert atmosphere dry-train glove boxes with antechambers and entry/exit fumehoods (Figure 1), having a baseline atmospheremore » of 1 ppm oxygen and 1 ppm water vapor, a utility fumehood and a portable, and a third double-walled enclosure have been installed and commissioned. These capabilities, along with highly trained technical staff, facilitate the safe operation of sample preparation processes and instrumentation, and sample handling while minimizing oxidation or corrosion of the plutonium. In addition, we are currently developing the capability to safely transfer small metallographically prepared samples to a mini-SEM for microstructural imaging and chemical analysis. The gloveboxes continue to be the most crucial element of the laboratory allowing nearly oxide-free sample preparation for a wide variety of LLNL-based characterization experiments, which includes transmission electron microscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, optical microscopy, electrical resistivity, ion implantation, X-ray diffraction and absorption, magnetometry, metrological surface measurements, high-pressure diamond anvil cell equation-of-state, phonon dispersion measurements, X-ray absorption and emission spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. The sample preparation and materials processing capabilities in the IASPL have also facilitated experimentation at world-class facilities such as the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory, the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility in Grenoble, France, the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Facility, the National Synchrotron Light Source at Brookhaven National Laboratory, the Advanced Light Source at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and the Triumph Accelerator in Canada.« less

Activation of a Ca-bentonite as buffer material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Wei-Hsing; Chen, Wen-Chuan

2016-04-01

Swelling behavior is an important criterion in achieving the low-permeability sealing function of buffer material. A potential buffer material may be used for radioactive waste repository in Taiwan is a locally available clayey material known as Zhisin clay, which has been identified as a Ca-bentonite. Due to its Ca-based origin, Zhisin was found to exhibit swelling capacity much lower than that of Na-bentonite. To enhance the swelling potential of Zhisin clay, a cation exchange process by addition of Na2CO3 powder was introduced in this paper. The addition of Na2CO3 reagent to Zhisin clay, in a liquid phase, caused the precipitation of CaCO3 and thereby induced a replacement of Ca2+ ions by Na+ ions on the surface of bentonite. Characterization test conducted on Zhisin clay includes chemical analysis, cation exchange capacity, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetry (TG). Free-swelling test apparatus was developed according to International Society of Rock Mechanics recommendations. A series of free-swelling tests were conducted on untreated and activated specimens to characterize the effect of activation on the swelling capacity of Zhisin clay. Efforts were made to determine an optimum dosage for the activation, and to evaluate the aging effect. Also, the activated material was evaluated for its stability in various hydrothermal conditions for potential applications as buffer material in a repository. Experimental results show that Na2CO3-activated Zhisin clay is superior in swelling potential to untreated Zhisin clay. Also, there exists an optimum amount of activator in terms of improvements in the swelling capacity. A distinct time-swell relationship was discovered for activated Zhisin clay. The corresponding mechanism refers to exchange of cations and breakdown of quasi-crystal, which results in ion exchange hysteresis of Ca-bentonite. Due to the ion exchange hysteresis, activated bentonite shows a post-rise time-swell relationship different than the sigmoid-shaped time-swell curves of typical bentonites. That is, a greater part of swelling strain develops after the completion of primary swelling strain. At an optimal amount of 1% Na2CO3 in weight, the maximum swelling strain was found to be 3 times as much as that of untreated Zhisin clay. Furthermore, the Na2CO3-activated Zhisin clay exhibited improved resistance to thermal environments and behaved similar to Na-type bentonites under various hydrothermal temperatures.

Metal ion promoted hydrogels for bovine serum albumin adsorption: Cu(II) and Co(II) chelated poly[(N-vinylimidazole)-maleic acid].

PubMed

Pekel, Nursel; Salih, Bekir; Güven, Olgun

2005-05-10

Poly[(N-vinylimidazole)-maleic acid] (poly(VIm-MA)), copolymeric hydrogels were prepared by gamma-irradiating ternary mixtures of N-vinylimidazole-maleic acid-water in a (60)Co-gamma source. Cu(II) and Co(II) ions were chelated within the gels at pH=5.0. The maximum adsorption capacity of the gels were 3.71 mmol/g dry gel for Cu(II) and 1.25 mmol/g dry gel for Co(II) at pH=5.0. The swelling ratios of the gels were 1200% for poly(VIm-MA), 60 and 45% for Cu(II) and Co(II)-chelated poly(VIm-MA) gels at pH=5.0 in acetate buffer solution. These affinity gels with different swelling ratios for plain poly(VIm-MA), Cu(II)-, and Co(II)-chelated poly(VIm-MA), in acetate and phosphate buffers were used in the bovine serum albumin (BSA) adsorption/desorption studies in batch reactor. The maximum BSA adsorption capacities of the gels were 0.38 g/g dry gel for plain, 0.88 g/g dry gel for Cu(II)-chelated poly(VIm-MA) and 1.05 g/g dry gel for Co(II)-chelated poly(VIm-MA) gels. Adsorption capacity of BSA by the gels was reduced dramatically by increasing the ionic strength adjusted with NaCl. More than 95% of BSA were desorbed in 10 h in desorption medium containing 0.1M of EDTA for metal ion-chelated gels at pH=4.7.

Advanced Ultra-Violet (UV) Aircraft Fire Detection System. Volume 2. System Hardware Design, Software Design, and Test

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-08-01

REPORT SHT",, -ENGLAND A W*nson Match Company Saftey and Protion Division ISSUE " 3 (contd) HEADS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ,7 0 BITS iii ii The 832 tm inspection...input data buffering and output data buffering. 2.2.2.3.1. Power up, Reset Circuit To ensure correct system operation when power is first applied the...act in conjunction with R2, R3 and two buffer sections of IC2. When power is first applied , Cl is discharged, Via the pot chain divider of R2 and R3 the

Magnesium degradation influenced by buffering salts in concentrations typical of in vitro and in vivo models.

PubMed

Agha, Nezha Ahmad; Feyerabend, Frank; Mihailova, Boriana; Heidrich, Stefanie; Bismayer, Ulrich; Willumeit-Römer, Regine

2016-01-01

Magnesium and its alloys have considerable potential for orthopedic applications. During the degradation process the interface between material and tissue is continuously changing. Moreover, too fast or uncontrolled degradation is detrimental for the outcome in vivo. Therefore in vitro setups utilizing physiological conditions are promising for the material/degradation analysis prior to animal experiments. The aim of this study is to elucidate the influence of inorganic salts contributing to the blood buffering capacity on degradation. Extruded pure magnesium samples were immersed under cell culture conditions for 3 and 10 days. Hank's balanced salt solution without calcium and magnesium (HBSS) plus 10% of fetal bovine serum (FBS) was used as the basic immersion medium. Additionally, different inorganic salts were added with respect to concentration in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM, in vitro model) and human plasma (in vivo model) to form 12 different immersion media. Influences on the surrounding environment were observed by measuring pH and osmolality. The degradation interface was analyzed by electron-induced X-ray emission (EIXE) spectroscopy, including chemical-element mappings and electron microprobe analysis, as well as Fourier transform infrared reflection micro-spectroscopy (FTIR). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Liftoff process for exfoliation of thin film photovoltaic devices and back contact formation

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

Haight, Richard A.; Hannon, James B.; Oida, Satoshi

A method for forming a back contact on an absorber layer in a photovoltaic device includes forming a two dimensional material on a first substrate. An absorber layer including Cu--Zn--Sn--S(Se) (CZTSSe) is grown over the first substrate on the two dimensional material. A buffer layer is grown on the absorber layer on a side opposite the two dimensional material. The absorber layer is exfoliated from the two dimensional material to remove the first substrate from a backside of the absorber layer opposite the buffer layer. A back contact is deposited on the absorber layer.

Automotive assessment of carbon-silicon composite anodes and methods of fabrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karulkar, Mohan; Blaser, Rachel; Kudla, Bob

2015-01-01

To assess the potential of carbon silicon composite anodes for automotive applications, C-Si anodes were fabricated and certain improvements employed. The use of a PVDF buffer layer is demonstrated for the first time with a C-Si composite material. The buffer layer increases adhesion by 89%, and increases capacity by 50-80%. Also, a limited capacity range is employed to improve cycle life by up to 200%, and enable currents as high as 2 mA cm-1. The combined use of a buffer layer and limited capacity range has not been reported before. A model is also presented for comparing C-Si performance with real-world automotive targets from USABC, including energy density, power density, specific energy, and specific power. The analysis reveals a capacity penalty that arises from pairing C-Si with a traditional cathode (NCA), and which prevents the cell from meeting all targets. Scenarios are presented in which a higher-capacity cathode (250 mAh g-1) allows all targets to be hypothetically met.

Damage tolerance of woven graphite-epoxy buffer strip panels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kennedy, John M.

1990-01-01

Graphite-epoxy panels with S glass buffer strips were tested in tension and shear to measure their residual strengths with crack-like damage. The buffer strips were regularly spaced narrow strips of continuous S glass. Panels were made with a uniweave graphite cloth where the S glass buffer material was woven directly into the cloth. Panels were made with different width and thickness buffer strips. The panels were loaded to failure while remote strain, strain at the end of the slit, and crack opening displacement were monitoring. The notched region and nearby buffer strips were radiographed periodically to reveal crack growth and damage. Except for panels with short slits, the buffer strips arrested the propagating crack. The strength (or failing strain) of the panels was significantly higher than the strength of all-graphite panels with the same length slit. Panels with wide, thick buffer strips were stronger than panels with thin, narrow buffer strips. A shear-lag model predicted the failing strength of tension panels with wide buffer strips accurately, but over-estimated the strength of the shear panels and the tension panels with narrow buffer strips.

Fundamental properties of monolithic bentonite buffer material formed by cold isostatic pressing for high-level radioactive waste repository

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

Kawakami, S.; Yamanaka, Y.; Kato, K.

1999-07-01

The methods of fabrication, handling, and emplacement of engineered barriers used in a deep geological repository for high level radioactive waste should be planned as simply as possible from the engineering and economic viewpoints. Therefore, a new concept of a monolithic buffer material around a waste package have been proposed instead of the conventional concept with the use of small blocks, which would decrease the cost for buffer material. The monolithic buffer material is composed of two parts of highly compacted bentonite, a cup type body and a cover. As the forming method of the monolithic buffer material, compaction bymore » the cold isostatic pressing process (CIP) has been employed. In this study, monolithic bentonite bodies with the diameter of about 333 mm and the height of about 455 mm (corresponding to the approx. 1/5 scale for the Japanese reference concept) were made by the CIP of bentonite powder. The dry densities: {rho}d of the bodies as a whole were measured and the small samples were cut from several locations to investigate the density distribution. The swelling pressure and hydraulic conductivity as function of the monolithic body density for CIP-formed specimens were also measured. High density ({rho}d: 1.4--2.0 Mg/m{sup 3}) and homogeneous monolithic bodies were formed by the CIP. The measured results of the swelling pressure (3--15 MPa) and hydraulic conductivity (0.5--1.4 x 10{sup {minus}13} m/s) of the specimens were almost the same as those for the uniaxial compacted bentonite in the literature. It is shown that the vacuum hoist system is an applicable handling method for emplacement of the monolithic bentonite.« less

An efficient, cost effective, sensing behaviour liquid-liquid extraction and spectrophotometric determination of copper(II) incorporated with 4-(4‧-chlorobenzylideneimino)-3-methyl-5-mercapto-1, 2, 4-triazole: Analysis of food samples, leafy vegetables, fertilizers and environmental samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barache, Umesh B.; Shaikh, Abdul B.; Lokhande, Tukaram N.; Kamble, Ganesh S.; Anuse, Mansing A.; Gaikwad, Shashikant H.

2018-01-01

The aim of the present work is to develop an efficient, simple and selective moreover cost-effective method for the extractive spectrophotometric determination of copper(II) by using the Schiff base 4-(4‧-chlorobenzylideneimino)-3-methyl-5-mercapto-1, 2, 4-triazole [CBIMMT]. This chromogenic reagent forms a yellow coloured complex with copper(II) in acetate buffer at pH 4.2. The copper(II) complex with ligand is instantly extracted into chloroform and shows a maximum absorbance at 414 nm which remains stable for > 48 h. The composition of extracted complex is found to be 1:2 [copper(II): reagent] which was ascertained using Job's method of continuous variation, mole ratio method and slope ratio method. Under optimal conditions, the copper(II) complex in chloroform adheres to Beer's law up to 17.5 μg mL- 1 of copper(II). The optimum concentration range obtained from Ringbom's plot is from 5 μg mL- 1 to 17.5 μg mL- 1. The molar absorptivity, Sandell's sensitivity and enrichment factor of the extracted copper(II) chelate are 0.33813 × 104 L mol- 1 cm- 1, 0.01996 μg cm- 2 and 2.49 respectively. In the extraction of copper(II), several affecting factors including the solution pH, ligand concentration, equilibrium time, effect of foreign ions are optimized. The interfering effects of various cations and anions were also studied and use of masking agents enhances the selectivity of the method. The chromogenic sulphur containing reagent, 4-(4‧-chlorobenzylideneimino)-3-methyl-5-mercapto-1, 2, 4-triazole has been synthesized in a single step with high purity and yield. The synthesized reagent has been successfully applied first time for determination of copper(II). The reagent forms stable chelate with copper(II) in buffer medium instantly and quantitatively extracted in chloroform within a minute. The method is successfully applied for the determination of copper(II) in various synthetic mixtures, complexes, fertilizers, environmental samples such as food samples, leafy vegetables, and water samples. The results are compared with those obtained with a reference procedure. Good agreement was attained. All the obtained results are indicative of a convenient, fast method for the extraction and quantification of micro levels of copper(II) from various environmental matrices without use of sophisticated instrumentation and procedure. The method showed a relative standard deviation of 0.42%.

An efficient, cost effective, sensing behaviour liquid-liquid extraction and spectrophotometric determination of copper(II) incorporated with 4-(4'-chlorobenzylideneimino)-3-methyl-5-mercapto-1, 2, 4-triazole: Analysis of food samples, leafy vegetables, fertilizers and environmental samples.

PubMed

Barache, Umesh B; Shaikh, Abdul B; Lokhande, Tukaram N; Kamble, Ganesh S; Anuse, Mansing A; Gaikwad, Shashikant H

2018-01-15

The aim of the present work is to develop an efficient, simple and selective moreover cost-effective method for the extractive spectrophotometric determination of copper(II) by using the Schiff base 4-(4'-chlorobenzylideneimino)-3-methyl-5-mercapto-1, 2, 4-triazole [CBIMMT]. This chromogenic reagent forms a yellow coloured complex with copper(II) in acetate buffer at pH4.2. The copper(II) complex with ligand is instantly extracted into chloroform and shows a maximum absorbance at 414nm which remains stable for >48h. The composition of extracted complex is found to be 1:2 [copper(II): reagent] which was ascertained using Job's method of continuous variation, mole ratio method and slope ratio method. Under optimal conditions, the copper(II) complex in chloroform adheres to Beer's law up to 17.5μgmL -1 of copper(II). The optimum concentration range obtained from Ringbom's plot is from 5μgmL -1 to 17.5μgmL -1 . The molar absorptivity, Sandell's sensitivity and enrichment factor of the extracted copper(II) chelate are 0.33813×10 4 Lmol -1 cm -1 , 0.01996μgcm -2 and 2.49 respectively. In the extraction of copper(II), several affecting factors including the solution pH, ligand concentration, equilibrium time, effect of foreign ions are optimized. The interfering effects of various cations and anions were also studied and use of masking agents enhances the selectivity of the method. The chromogenic sulphur containing reagent, 4-(4'-chlorobenzylideneimino)-3-methyl-5-mercapto-1, 2, 4-triazole has been synthesized in a single step with high purity and yield. The synthesized reagent has been successfully applied first time for determination of copper(II). The reagent forms stable chelate with copper(II) in buffer medium instantly and quantitatively extracted in chloroform within a minute. The method is successfully applied for the determination of copper(II) in various synthetic mixtures, complexes, fertilizers, environmental samples such as food samples, leafy vegetables, and water samples. The results are compared with those obtained with a reference procedure. Good agreement was attained. All the obtained results are indicative of a convenient, fast method for the extraction and quantification of micro levels of copper(II) from various environmental matrices without use of sophisticated instrumentation and procedure. The method showed a relative standard deviation of 0.42%. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Human calprotectin affects the redox speciation of iron.

PubMed

Nakashige, Toshiki G; Nolan, Elizabeth M

2017-08-16

We report that the metal-sequestering human host-defense protein calprotectin (CP, S100A8/S100A9 oligomer) affects the redox speciation of iron (Fe) in bacterial growth media and buffered aqueous solution. Under aerobic conditions and in the absence of an exogenous reducing agent, CP-Ser (S100A8(C42S)/S100A9(C3S) oligomer) depletes Fe from three different bacterial growth media preparations over a 48 h timeframe (T = 30 °C). The presence of the reducing agent β-mercaptoethanol accelerates this process and allows CP-Ser to deplete Fe over a ≈1 h timeframe. Fe-depletion assays performed with metal-binding-site variants of CP-Ser show that the hexahistidine (His 6 ) site, which coordinates Fe(ii) with high affinity, is required for Fe depletion. An analysis of Fe redox speciation in buffer containing Fe(iii) citrate performed under aerobic conditions demonstrates that CP-Ser causes a time-dependent increase in the [Fe(ii)]/[Fe(iii)] ratio. Taken together, these results indicate that the hexahistidine site of CP stabilizes Fe(ii) and thereby shifts the redox equilibrium of Fe to the reduced ferrous state under aerobic conditions. We also report that the presence of bacterial metabolites affects the Fe-depleting activity of CP-Ser. Supplementation of bacterial growth media with an Fe(iii)-scavenging siderophore (enterobactin, staphyloferrin B, or desferrioxamine B) attenuates the Fe-depleting activity of CP-Ser. This result indicates that formation of Fe(iii)-siderophore complexes blocks CP-mediated reduction of Fe(iii) and hence the ability of CP to coordinate Fe(ii). In contrast, the presence of pyocyanin (PYO), a redox-cycling phenazine produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa that reduces Fe(iii) to Fe(ii), accelerates Fe depletion by CP-Ser under aerobic conditions. These findings indicate that the presence of microbial metabolites that contribute to metal homeostasis at the host/pathogen interface can affect the metal-sequestering function of CP.

Role of Ca++ in Shoot Gravitropism. [avena

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rayle, D. L.

1985-01-01

A cornerstone in the argument that Ca(2+) levels may regulate growth is the finding the EGTA promotes straight growth. The usual explanation for these results is that Ca(2+) chelation from cell walls results in wall loosening and thus accelerated straight growth. The ability of frozen-thawed Avena coleoptile tissue (subjected to 15g tension) to extend in response to EGTA and Quin II was examined. The EGTA when applied in weakly buffered (i.e., 0.1mM) neutral solutions initiates rapid extension. When the buffer strength is increased, similar concentrations of EGTA produce no growth response. This implies when EGTA liberated protons are released upon Ca(2+) chelation they can either initiate acid growth (low buffer conditions) or if consumed (high buffer conditions) have no effect. Thus Ca(2+) chelation in itself apparently does not result in straight growth.

Buffer layer for thin film structures

DOEpatents

Foltyn, Stephen R.; Jia, Quanxi; Arendt, Paul N.; Wang, Haiyan

2006-10-31

A composite structure including a base substrate and a layer of a mixture of strontium titanate and strontium ruthenate is provided. A superconducting article can include a composite structure including an outermost layer of magnesium oxide, a buffer layer of strontium titanate or a mixture of strontium titanate and strontium ruthenate and a top-layer of a superconducting material such as YBCO upon the buffer layer.

Buffer layer for thin film structures

DOEpatents

Foltyn, Stephen R.; Jia, Quanxi; Arendt, Paul N.; Wang, Haiyan

2010-06-15

A composite structure including a base substrate and a layer of a mixture of strontium titanate and strontium ruthenate is provided. A superconducting article can include a composite structure including an outermost layer of magnesium oxide, a buffer layer of strontium titanate or a mixture of strontium titanate and strontium ruthenate and a top-layer of a superconducting material such as YBCO upon the buffer layer.

An improved robust buffer allocation method for the project scheduling problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghoddousi, Parviz; Ansari, Ramin; Makui, Ahmad

2017-04-01

Unpredictable uncertainties cause delays and additional costs for projects. Often, when using traditional approaches, the optimizing procedure of the baseline project plan fails and leads to delays. In this study, a two-stage multi-objective buffer allocation approach is applied for robust project scheduling. In the first stage, some decisions are made on buffer sizes and allocation to the project activities. A set of Pareto-optimal robust schedules is designed using the meta-heuristic non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) based on the decisions made in the buffer allocation step. In the second stage, the Pareto solutions are evaluated in terms of the deviation from the initial start time and due dates. The proposed approach was implemented on a real dam construction project. The outcomes indicated that the obtained buffered schedule reduces the cost of disruptions by 17.7% compared with the baseline plan, with an increase of about 0.3% in the project completion time.

Calcium bridges are not load-bearing cell-wall bonds in Avena coleoptiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rayle, D. L.

1989-01-01

I examined the ability of frozen-thawed Avena sativa L. coleoptile sections under applied load to extend in response to the calcium chelators ethyleneglycol-bis-(beta-aminoethylether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) and 2-[(2-bis-[carboxymethyl]amino-5-methylphenoxy)methyl]-6-methoxy-8-bis[car boxymethyl]aminoquinoline (Quin II). Addition of 5 mM EGTA to weakly buffered (0.1 mM, pH 6.2) solutions of 2(N-morpholino) ethanesulfonic acid (Mes) initiated rapid extension and wall acidification. When the buffer strength was increased (e.g. from 20 to 100 mM Mes, pH 6.2) EGTA did not initiate extension nor did it cause wall acidification. At 5 mM Quin II failed to stimulate cell extension or wall acidification at all buffer molarities tested (0.1 to 100 mM Mes). Both chelators rapidly and effectively removed Ca2+ from Avena sections. These data indicate that Ca2+ chelation per se does not result in loosening of Avena cells walls. Rather, EGTA promotes wall extension indirectly via wall acidification.

Calsequestrin content and SERCA determine normal and maximal Ca2+ storage levels in sarcoplasmic reticulum of fast- and slow-twitch fibres of rat.

PubMed

Murphy, Robyn M; Larkins, Noni T; Mollica, Janelle P; Beard, Nicole A; Lamb, Graham D

2009-01-15

Whilst calsequestrin (CSQ) is widely recognized as the primary Ca2+ buffer in the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in skeletal muscle fibres, its total buffering capacity and importance have come into question. This study quantified the absolute amount of CSQ isoform 1 (CSQ1, the primary isoform) present in rat extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus fibres, and related this to their endogenous and maximal SR Ca2+ content. Using Western blotting, the entire constituents of minute samples of muscle homogenates or segments of individual muscle fibres were compared with known amounts of purified CSQ1. The fidelity of the analysis was proven by examining the relative signal intensity when mixing muscle samples and purified CSQ1. The CSQ1 contents of EDL fibres, almost exclusively type II fibres, and soleus type I fibres [SOL (I)] were, respectively, 36 +/- 2 and 10 +/- 1 micromol (l fibre volume)(-1), quantitatively accounting for the maximal SR Ca2+ content of each. Soleus type II [SOL (II)] fibres (approximately 20% of soleus fibres) had an intermediate amount of CSQ1. Every SOL (I) fibre examined also contained some CSQ isoform 2 (CSQ2), which was absent in every EDL and other type II fibre except for trace amounts in one case. Every EDL and other type II fibre had a high density of SERCA1, the fast-twitch muscle sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase isoform, whereas there was virtually no SERCA1 in any SOL (I) fibre. Maximal SR Ca2+ content measured in skinned fibres increased with CSQ1 content, and the ratio of endogenous to maximal Ca2+ content was inversely correlated with CSQ1 content. The relative SR Ca2+ content that could be maintained in resting cytoplasmic conditions was found to be much lower in EDL fibres than in SOL (I) fibres (approximately 20 versus >60%). Leakage of Ca2+ from the SR in EDL fibres could be substantially reduced with a SR Ca2+ pump blocker and increased by adding creatine to buffer cytoplasmic [ADP] at a higher level, both results indicating that at least part of the Ca2+ leakage occurred through SERCA. It is concluded that CSQ1 plays an important role in EDL muscle fibres by providing a large total pool of releasable Ca2+ in the SR whilst maintaining free [Ca2+] in the SR at sufficiently low levels that Ca2+ leakage through the high density of SERCA1 pumps does not metabolically compromise muscle function.

Remote Sensing of Wildland Fire-Induced Risk Assessment at the Community Level.

PubMed

Ahmed, M Razu; Rahaman, Khan Rubayet; Hassan, Quazi K

2018-05-15

Wildland fires are some of the critical natural hazards that pose a significant threat to the communities located in the vicinity of forested/vegetated areas. In this paper, our overall objective was to study the structural damages due to the 2016 Horse River Fire (HRF) that happened in Fort McMurray (Alberta, Canada) by employing primarily very high spatial resolution optical satellite data, i.e., WorldView-2. Thus, our activities included the: (i) estimation of the structural damages; and (ii) delineation of the wildland-urban interface (WUI) and its associated buffers at certain intervals, and their utilization in assessing potential risks. Our proposed method of remote sensing-based estimates of the number of structural damages was compared with the ground-based information available from the Planning and Development Recovery Committee Task Force of Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB); and found a strong linear relationship (i.e., r² value of 0.97 with a slope of 0.97). Upon delineating the WUI and its associated buffer zones at 10 m, 30 m, 50 m, 70 m and 100 m distances; we found existence of vegetation within the 30 m buffers from the WUI for all of the damaged structures. In addition, we noticed that the relevant authorities had removed vegetation in some areas between 30 m and 70 m buffers from the WUI, which was proven to be effective in order to protect the structures in the adjacent communities. Furthermore, we mapped the wildland fire-induced vulnerable areas upon considering the WUI and its associated buffers. Our analysis revealed that approximately 30% of the areas within the buffer zones of 10 m and 30 m were vulnerable due to the presence of vegetation; in which, approximately 7% were burned during the 2016 HRF event that led the structural damages. Consequently, we suggest to remove the existing vegetation within these critical zones and also monitor the region at a regular interval in order to reduce the wildland fire-induced risk.

Fluorinated tin oxide back contact for AZTSSe photovoltaic devices

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

Gershon, Talia S.; Gunawan, Oki; Haight, Richard A.

A photovoltaic device includes a substrate, a back contact comprising a stable low-work function material, a photovoltaic absorber material layer comprising Ag.sub.2ZnSn(S,Se).sub.4 (AZTSSe) on a side of the back contact opposite the substrate, wherein the back contact forms an Ohmic contact with the photovoltaic absorber material layer, a buffer layer or Schottky contact layer on a side of the absorber layer opposite the back contact, and a top electrode on a side of the buffer layer opposite the absorber layer.

Mitigation of substrate defects in reflective reticles using sequential coating and annealing

DOEpatents

Mirkanimi, Paul B.

2002-01-01

A buffer-layer to minimize the size of defects on a reticle substrate prior to deposition of a reflective coating on the substrate. The buffer-layer is formed by either a multilayer deposited on the substrate or by a plurality of sequentially deposited and annealed coatings deposited on the substrate. The plurality of sequentially deposited and annealed coating may comprise multilayer and single layer coatings. The multilayer deposited and annealed buffer layer coatings may be of the same or different material than the reflecting coating thereafter deposited on the buffer-layer.

Synthesis and characterization of zinc adeninate metal-organic frameworks (bioMOF1) as potential anti-inflammatory drug delivery material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Usman, Ken Aldren S.; Buenviaje, Salvador C.; Razal, Joselito M.; Conato, Marlon T.; Payawan, Leon M.

2018-05-01

Zn8(ad)4(BPDC)6O•2Me2NH2 (bioMOF1), a porous metal-organic framework with zinc-adeninate secondary building units (SBUs), interconnected via biphenyldicarboxylate linkers, shows great potential for drug delivery applications due to its non-toxic and biocompatible components (zinc and adenine). In this study, bioMOF1 crystals synthesized solvothermally at 130°C for 24 hours, were characterized thoroughly and loaded with a known anti-inflammatory drug, nimesulide (NIM). The crystalline nature of the material was confirmed using powder x-ray diffraction crystallography (PXRD) along with morphology assessment using focused-ion beam/field emission scanning electron microscopy (FIB/FESEM). NIM was introduced to the crystals via solvent exchange accompanied with vigorous stirring and quantified using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) with loading saturation of ˜30% attained during the 2nd to 3rd day of drug immersion. Drug release in phosphate buffer saline and in deionized water was done to monitor the kinetic of drug release in vitro. The drug release showed a controlled discharge profile which slowed down at the 24th and 48th hour of release. Drug release in buffer showed a faster release of drug from the material, which means that the presence of cations in the solution could further trigger the release of drug. Slow drug release was observed for all of the set-ups with maximum % drug release of 24.47%, and 16.14% for the bioMOF1 in buffer and bioMOF1 in water respectively for the span of 48 hours.

Tested Demonstrations: Visualization of Buffer Action and the Acidifying Effect of Carbon Dioxide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gilbert, George L., Ed.

1985-01-01

Presents a buffer demonstration which features visualization of the effects of carbon dioxide on pH. Background information, list of materials needed, procedures used, and a discussion of results obtained are included. (JN)

Cyclic voltammetry modeling of proton transport effects on redox charge storage in conductive materials: application to a TiO2 mesoporous film.

PubMed

Kim, Y S; Balland, V; Limoges, B; Costentin, C

2017-07-21

Cyclic voltammetry is a particularly useful tool for characterizing charge accumulation in conductive materials. A simple model is presented to evaluate proton transport effects on charge storage in conductive materials associated with a redox process coupled with proton insertion in the bulk material from an aqueous buffered solution, a situation frequently encountered in metal oxide materials. The interplay between proton transport inside and outside the materials is described using a formulation of the problem through introduction of dimensionless variables that allows defining the minimum number of parameters governing the cyclic voltammetry response with consideration of a simple description of the system geometry. This approach is illustrated by analysis of proton insertion in a mesoporous TiO 2 film.

Bone-repair properties of biodegradable hydroxyapatite nano-rod superstructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Elía, Noelia L.; Mathieu, Colleen; Hoemann, Caroline D.; Laiuppa, Juan A.; Santillán, Graciela E.; Messina, Paula V.

2015-11-01

Nano-hydroxyapatite (nano-HAp) materials show an analogous chemical composition to the biogenic mineral components of calcified tissues and depending on their topography they may mimic the specific arrangement of the crystals in bone. In this work, we have evaluated the potential of four synthesized nano-HAp superstructures for the in vitro conditions of bone-repair. Experiments are underway to investigate the effects of the material microstructure, surface roughness and hydrophilicity on their osseo-integration, osteo-conduction and osteo-induction abilities. Materials were tested in the presence of both, rat primary osteoblasts and rabbit mesenchymal stem cells. The following aspects are discussed: (i) cytotoxicity and material degradation; (ii) rat osteoblast spreading, proliferation and differentiation; and (iii) rabbit mesenchymal stem cell adhesion on nano-HAp and nano-HAp/collagen type I coatings. We effectively prepared a material based on biomimetic HAp nano-rods displaying the appropriate surface topography, hydrophilicity and degradation properties to induce the in vitro desired cellular responses for bone bonding and healing. Cells seeded on the selected material readily attached, proliferated and differentiated, as confirmed by cell viability, mitochondrial metabolic activity, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and cytoskeletal integrity analysis by immunofluorescence localization of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein. These results highlight the influence of material's surface characteristics to determine their tissue regeneration potential and their future use in engineering osteogenic scaffolds for orthopedic implants.Nano-hydroxyapatite (nano-HAp) materials show an analogous chemical composition to the biogenic mineral components of calcified tissues and depending on their topography they may mimic the specific arrangement of the crystals in bone. In this work, we have evaluated the potential of four synthesized nano-HAp superstructures for the in vitro conditions of bone-repair. Experiments are underway to investigate the effects of the material microstructure, surface roughness and hydrophilicity on their osseo-integration, osteo-conduction and osteo-induction abilities. Materials were tested in the presence of both, rat primary osteoblasts and rabbit mesenchymal stem cells. The following aspects are discussed: (i) cytotoxicity and material degradation; (ii) rat osteoblast spreading, proliferation and differentiation; and (iii) rabbit mesenchymal stem cell adhesion on nano-HAp and nano-HAp/collagen type I coatings. We effectively prepared a material based on biomimetic HAp nano-rods displaying the appropriate surface topography, hydrophilicity and degradation properties to induce the in vitro desired cellular responses for bone bonding and healing. Cells seeded on the selected material readily attached, proliferated and differentiated, as confirmed by cell viability, mitochondrial metabolic activity, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and cytoskeletal integrity analysis by immunofluorescence localization of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) protein. These results highlight the influence of material's surface characteristics to determine their tissue regeneration potential and their future use in engineering osteogenic scaffolds for orthopedic implants. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Calculation of roughness parameters Rz, Rz,max, and Rz, prom. Nano-HAp powder degradation after immersion in phosphate buffer (pH = 7.4). Optical phase contrast microphotographs of MSC adhesion on nano-HAp and nano-HAp/Co I coatings at different concentrations. Laser scanning confocal microphotographs of MSCs' α-SMA expression spreading on large amounts of nano-HAp (MI) coatings. Immunofluorescence microphotograph analysis by image software. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr04850h

A review of vegetated buffers and a meta-analysis of their mitigation efficacy in reducing nonpoint source pollution.

PubMed

Zhang, Xuyang; Liu, Xingmei; Zhang, Minghua; Dahlgren, Randy A; Eitzel, Melissa

2010-01-01

Vegetated buffers are a well-studied and widely used agricultural management practice for reducing nonpoint-source pollution. A wealth of literature provides experimental data on their mitigation efficacy. This paper aggregated many of these results and performed a meta-analysis to quantify the relationships between pollutant removal efficacy and buffer width, buffer slope, soil type, and vegetation type. Theoretical models for removal efficacy (Y) vs. buffer width (w) were derived and tested against data from the surveyed literature using statistical analyses. A model of the form Y = K x (1-e(-bxw)), (0 < K < or = 100) successfully captured the relationship between buffer width and pollutant removal, where K reflects the maximum removal efficacy of the buffer and b reflects its probability to remove any single particle of pollutant in a unit distance. Buffer width alone explains 37, 60, 44, and 35% of the total variance in removal efficacy for sediment, pesticides, N, and P, respectively. Buffer slope was linearly associated with sediment removal efficacy either positively (when slope < or = 10%) or negatively (when slope > 10%). Buffers composed of trees have higher N and P removal efficacy than buffers composed of grasses or mixtures of grasses and trees. Soil drainage type did not show a significant effect on pollutant removal efficacy. Based on our analysis, a 30-m buffer under favorable slope conditions (approximately 10%) removes more than 85% of all the studied pollutants. These models predicting optimal buffer width/slope can be instrumental in the design, implementation, and modeling of vegetated buffers for treating agricultural runoff.

Mitigation of substrate defects in reticles using multilayer buffer layers

DOEpatents

Mirkarimi, Paul B.; Bajt, Sasa; Stearns, Daniel G.

2001-01-01

A multilayer film is used as a buffer layer to minimize the size of defects on a reticle substrate prior to deposition of a reflective coating on the substrate. The multilayer buffer layer deposited intermediate the reticle substrate and the reflective coating produces a smoothing of small particles and other defects on the reticle substrate. The reduction in defect size is controlled by surface relaxation during the buffer layer growth process and by the degree of intermixing and volume contraction of the materials at the multilayer interfaces. The buffer layers are deposited at near-normal incidence via a low particulate ion beam sputtering process. The growth surface of the buffer layer may also be heated by a secondary ion source to increase the degree of intermixing and improve the mitigation of defects.

Development of Mid-infrared GeSn Light Emitting Diodes on a Silicon Substrate

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-22

Materials, Heterostrucuture Semiconductor, Light Emitting Devices, Molecular Beam Epitaxy 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT...LED) structure. Optimization of traditional and hetero- P-i-N structures designed and grown on Ge-buffer Si (001) wafers using molecular beam epitaxy ...designed structures were grown on Ge-buffer Si (001) wafers using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) with the low-temperature growth technique. (The Ge-buffer

Preconcentration of DNA using magnetic ionic liquids that are compatible with real-time PCR for rapid nucleic acid quantification.

PubMed

Emaus, Miranda N; Clark, Kevin D; Hinners, Paige; Anderson, Jared L

2018-04-28

Nucleic acid extraction and purification represents a major bottleneck in DNA analysis. Traditional methods for DNA purification often require reagents that may inhibit quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) if not sufficiently removed from the sample. Approaches that employ magnetic beads may exhibit lower extraction efficiencies due to sedimentation and aggregation. In this study, four hydrophobic magnetic ionic liquids (MILs) were investigated as DNA extraction solvents with the goal of improving DNA enrichment factors and compatibility with downstream bioanalytical techniques. By designing custom qPCR buffers, we directly incorporated DNA-enriched MILs including trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium tris(hexafluoroacetylaceto)nickelate(II) ([P 6,6,6,14 + ][Ni(hfacac) 3 - ]), [P 6,6,6,14 + ] tris(hexafluoroacetylaceto)colbaltate(II) ([Co(hfacac) 3 - ]), [P 6,6,6,14 + ] tris(hexafluoroacetylaceto)manganate(II) ([Mn(hfacac) 3 - ]), or [P 6,6,6,14 + ] tetrakis(hexafluoroacetylaceto)dysprosate(III) ([Dy(hfacac) 4 - ]) into reaction systems, thereby circumventing the need for time-consuming DNA recovery steps. Incorporating MILs into the reaction buffer did not significantly impact the amplification efficiency of the reaction (91.1%). High enrichment factors were achieved using the [P 6,6,6,14 + ][Ni(hfacac) 3 - ] MIL for the extraction of single-stranded and double-stranded DNA with extraction times as short as 2 min. When compared to a commercial magnetic bead-based platform, the [P 6,6,6,14 + ][Ni(hfacac) 3 - ] MIL was capable of producing higher enrichment factors for single-stranded DNA and similar enrichment factors for double-stranded DNA. The MIL-based method was applied for the extraction and direct qPCR amplification of mutation prone-KRAS oncogene fragment in plasma samples. Graphical abstract Magnetic ionic liquid solvents are shown to preconcentrate sufficient KRAS DNA template from an aqueous solution in as short as 2 min without using chaotropic salts or toxic organic solvents. By using custom-designed qPCR buffers, DNA can be directly amplified and quantified from four MILs examined in this study.

Protein Buffering in Model Systems and in Whole Human Saliva

PubMed Central

Lamanda, Andreas; Cheaib, Zeinab; Turgut, Melek Dilek; Lussi, Adrian

2007-01-01

The aim of this study was to quantify the buffer attributes (value, power, range and optimum) of two model systems for whole human resting saliva, the purified proteins from whole human resting saliva and single proteins. Two model systems, the first containing amyloglucosidase and lysozyme, and the second containing amyloglucosidase and α-amylase, were shown to provide, in combination with hydrogencarbonate and di-hydrogenphosphate, almost identical buffer attributes as whole human resting saliva. It was further demonstrated that changes in the protein concentration as small as 0.1% may change the buffer value of a buffer solution up to 15 times. Additionally, it was shown that there was a protein concentration change in the same range (0.16%) between saliva samples collected at the time periods of 13:00 and others collected at 9:00 am and 17:00. The mode of the protein expression changed between these samples corresponded to the change in basic buffer power and the change of the buffer value at pH 6.7. Finally, SDS Page and Ruthenium II tris (bathophenantroline disulfonate) staining unveiled a constant protein expression in all samples except for one 50 kDa protein band. As the change in the expression pattern of that 50 kDa protein band corresponded to the change in basic buffer power and the buffer value at pH 6.7, it was reasonable to conclude that this 50 kDa protein band may contain the protein(s) belonging to the protein buffer system of human saliva. PMID:17327922

An assessment of buffer strips for improving damage tolerance of composite laminates at elevated temperature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bigelow, C. A.

1981-01-01

Buffer strips greatly improve the damage tolerance of graphite/epoxy laminates loaded in tension. Graphite/polyimide buffer strip panels were made and tested to determine their residual strength at ambient and elevated (177 C) temperature. Each panel was cut in the center to represent damage. Panels were radiographed and crack-opening displacements were recorded to indicate fracture, fracture arrest, and the extent of damage in the buffer strip after arrest. All panels had the same buffer strip spacing and width. The buffer strip material was 0 deg S-glass/PMR-15. The buffer strips were made by replacing narrow strips of the 0 deg graphite plies with strips of the 0 deg S-glass on either a one-for-one or a two-for-one basis. Half of the panels were heated to 177 + or - 3 C before and during the testing. Elevated temperature did not alter the fracture behavior of the buffer configuration.

High Temperature Superconducting Thick Films

DOEpatents

Arendt, Paul N.; Foltyn, Stephen R.; Groves, James R.; Holesinger, Terry G.; Jia, Quanxi

2005-08-23

An article including a substrate, a layer of an inert oxide material upon the surface of the substrate, (generally the inert oxide material layer has a smooth surface, i.e., a RMS roughness of less than about 2 nm), a layer of an amorphous oxide or oxynitride material upon the inert oxide material layer, a layer of an oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure upon the amorphous oxide material layer is provided together with additional layers such as at least one layer of a buffer material upon the oriented cubic oxide material layer or a HTS top-layer of YBCO directly upon the oriented cubic oxide material layer. With a HTS top-layer of YBCO upon at least one layer of a buffer material in such an article, Jc's of 1.4×106 A/cm2 have been demonstrated with projected Ic's of 210 Amperes across a sample 1 cm wide.

Drug adsorption to plastic containers and retention of drugs in cultured cells under in vitro conditions.

PubMed

Palmgrén, Joni J; Mönkkönen, Jukka; Korjamo, Timo; Hassinen, Anssi; Auriola, Seppo

2006-11-01

Loss of drug content during cell culture transport experiment can lead to misinterpretations in permeability analysis. This study analyses drug adsorption to various plastic containers and drug retention in cultured cells under in vitro conditions. The loss of various drugs to polystyrene tubes and well plates was compared to polypropylene and glass tubes both in deionised water and buffer solution. In cellular uptake experiments, administered drugs were obtained from cultured cells by liquid extraction. Samples were collected at various time points and drug concentrations were measured by a new HPLC-MS/MS method. Acidic drugs (hydrochlorothiazide, naproxen, probenicid, and indomethacin) showed little if any sorption to all tested materials in either water or buffer. In the case of basic drugs, substantial loss to polystyrene tubes and well plates was observed. After 4.5 h, the relative amount remaining in aqueous test solution stored in polystyrene tubes was 64.7 +/- 6.8%, 38.4 +/- 9.1%, 31.9 +/- 6.7%, and 23.5 +/- 6.1% for metoprolol, medetomidine, propranolol, and midazolam, respectively. Interestingly, there was no significant loss of drugs dissolved in buffer to any of the tested materials indicating that buffer reduced surficial interaction. The effect of drug concentration to sorption was also tested. Results indicated that the higher the concentration in the test solution the lower the proportional drug loss, suggesting that the polystyrene contained a limited amount of binding sites. Cellular uptake studies showed considerable retention of drugs in cultured cells. The amounts of absorbed drugs in cellular structures were 0.45%, 4.88%, 13.15%, 43.80%, 23.57% and 11.22% for atenolol, metoprolol, medetomidine, propranolol, midazolam, and diazepam, respectively. Overall, these findings will benefit development and validation of further in vitro drug permeation experiments.

Analysis of hydroxamate siderophores in soil solution using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry with on-line sample preconcentration.

PubMed

Olofsson, Madelen A; Bylund, Dan

2015-10-01

A liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry method was developed to quantitatively and qualitatively analyze 13 hydroxamate siderophores (ferrichrome, ferrirubin, ferrirhodin, ferrichrysin, ferricrocin, ferrioxamine B, D1 , E and G, neocoprogen I and II, coprogen and triacetylfusarinine C). Samples were preconcentrated on-line by a switch-valve setup prior to analyte separation on a Kinetex C18 column. Gradient elution was performed using a mixture of an ammonium formate buffer and acetonitrile. Total analysis time including column conditioning was 20.5 min. Analytes were fragmented by applying collision-induced dissociation, enabling structural identification by tandem mass spectrometry. Limit of detection values for the selected ion monitoring method ranged from 71 pM to 1.5 nM with corresponding values of two to nine times higher for the multiple reaction monitoring method. The liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry method resulted in a robust and sensitive quantification of hydroxamate siderophores as indicated by retention time stability, linearity, sensitivity, precision and recovery. The analytical error of the methods, assessed through random-order, duplicate analysis of soil samples extracted with a mixture of 10 mM phosphate buffer and methanol, appears negligible in relation to between-sample variations. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Buffer$--An Economic Analysis Tool

Treesearch

Gary Bentrup

2007-01-01

Buffer$ is an economic spreadsheet tool for analyzing the cost-benefits of conservation buffers by resource professionals. Conservation buffers are linear strips of vegetation managed for multiple landowner and societal objectives. The Microsoft Excel based spreadsheet can calculate potential income derived from a buffer, including income from cost-share/incentive...

Soy matrix drug delivery systems obtained by melt-processing techniques.

PubMed

Vaz, Cláudia M; van Doeveren, Patrick F N M; Reis, Rui L; Cunha, António M

2003-01-01

The aim of this study was to develop new soy protein drug delivery matrix systems by melt-processing techniques, namely, extrusion and injection moulding. The soy matrix systems with an encapsulated drug (theophylline, TH) were previously compounded by extrusion performed at two different pH values, (i) pH 4 (SIpDtp) and (ii) pH 7 (SIDtp), and further injection-moulded into a desired shape. During the extrusion process the matrixes SIDtp were also cross-linked with glyoxal (0.6X-SIDtp) and reinforced with a bioactive filler, hydroxylapatite (SI-HADtp). The obtained mouldings were used to study the drug-release mechanisms from the plastic soy-TH matrixes. In an isotonic saline solution (ISS) buffered at pH 5.0 (200 mM acetate buffer), the resulting release kinetics could be described using the Fick's second law of diffusion. Because the diffusion coefficients were found to be constant and the boundary conditions to be stationary, these systems are drug-diffusion controlled. Conversely, the dominant phenomena in an isotonic saline solution buffered at pH 7.4 (200 mM Tris/HCl buffer) are more complex. In fact, because of the higher polymer solubility, the resulting matrix is time-variant. So, the drug release is affected by swelling, drug diffusion, and polymer dissolution, being faster when compared to ISS-200 mM acetate buffer, pH 5.0. The changes in the formulation composition affecting the correspondent release rates were also investigated. At pH 7.4, increasing the cross-linking degree of the polymer matrix (via reaction with glyoxal or heat treatment) or decreasing the net charge (extruding at pH near its isoelectric point) led to lower release rates. The incorporation of ceramic filler caused the opposite effect. Because of the low solubility of the matrix at pH 5.0, no significant variations were detected with variations in the selected formulations. These systems, based on a nonstandard protein-based material, seem to be very promising to be used as carriers for drug delivery.

HPTN 035 phase II/IIb randomised safety and effectiveness study of the vaginal microbicides BufferGel and 0.5% PRO 2000 for the prevention of sexually transmitted infections in women.

PubMed

Guffey, M Bradford; Richardson, Barbra; Husnik, Marla; Makanani, Bonus; Chilongozi, David; Yu, Elmer; Ramjee, Gita; Mgodi, Nyaradzo; Gomez, Kailazarid; Hillier, Sharon L; Karim, Salim Abdool

2014-08-01

To estimate the effectiveness of candidate microbicides BufferGel and 0.5% PRO 2000 Gel (P) (PRO 2000) for prevention of non-ulcerative sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Between 2005 and 2007, 3099 women were enrolled in HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) protocol 035, a phase II/IIb evaluation of the safety and effectiveness of BufferGel and PRO 2000 for prevention of STIs, including Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). Incidences of STIs were determined by study arm, and HRs of BufferGel and PRO 2000 versus placebo gel or no gel control groups were computed using discrete time Andersen-Gill proportional hazards model. The overall incidence rates were 1.6/100 person-years at risk (PYAR) for NG, 3.9/100 PYAR for CT and 15.3/100 PYAR for TV. For BufferGel versus placebo gel, HRs were 0.99 (95% CI 0.49 to 2.00), 1.00 (95% CI 0.64 to 1.57) and 0.95 (95% CI 0.71 to 1.25) for prevention of NG, CT and TV, respectively. For PRO 2000, HRs were 1.66 (95% CI 0.90 to 3.06), 1.16 (95% CI 0.76 to 1.79) and 1.18 (95% CI 0.90 to 1.53) for prevention of NG, CT and TV, respectively. The incidence of STIs was high during HIV Prevention Trials Network 035 despite provision of free condoms and comprehensive risk-reduction counselling, highlighting the need for effective STI prevention programmes in this population. Unfortunately, candidate microbicides BufferGel and PRO2000 had no protective effect against gonorrhoea, chlamydia or trichomoniasis. NCT00074425. 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.

Characterization of an In Vitro Human Breast Epithelial Organoid System

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-08-01

of budding/ductal structure formed by the two types of HBEC on Matrigel. Fetal bovine serum which inhibits the growth of Type II cells but not Type I...extract (3 pg) was incubated with the reaction buffer [70( mM KCI, Science, NY; diluted 1:200 in PBS containing 0.1% bovine serum albumin 30 ruM HEPES...from free probe in a 4.8% bovine serum albumin and 1% NGS and mounted with coverslips on Poly- polyacrylamide gel by electrophoresis using TBE buffer

Preparation and Spectrophotometric Analysis of Hexaamminenickel(II) Chloride.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wieder, Grace M.

1986-01-01

Describes an experiment developed at Brooklyn College (New York) in which the preparation and ammonia analysis of an amminenickel(II) chloride is extended to include a spectrophotometric analysis for nickel. Discusses the materials needed and the procedure for the experiment which takes nine hours of laboratory work. (TW)

Peptide-based ambidextrous bifunctional gelator: applications in oil spill recovery and removal of toxic organic dyes for waste water management.

PubMed

Basu, Kingshuk; Nandi, Nibedita; Mondal, Biplab; Dehsorkhi, Ashkan; Hamley, Ian W; Banerjee, Arindam

2017-12-06

A low molecular weight peptide-based ambidextrous gelator molecule has been discovered for efficient control of water pollution. The gelator molecules can gel various organic solvents with diverse polarity, e.g. n -hexane, n -octane, petroleum ether, petrol, diesel, aromatic solvents like chlorobenzene, toluene, benzene, o -xylene and even aqueous phosphate buffer of pH 7.5. These gels have been thoroughly characterized using various techniques including field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction analysis, small angle X-ray scattering and rheological experiments. Interestingly, hydrogel obtained from the gelator molecule has been found to absorb toxic organic dyes (both cationic and anionic dyes) from dye-contaminated water. The gelator molecule can be reused for several cycles, indicating its possible future use in waste water management. Moreover, this gelator can selectively gel petrol, diesel, pump oil from an oil-water mixture in the presence of a carrier solvent, ethyl acetate, suggesting its efficient application for oil spill recovery. These results indicate that the peptide-based ambidextrous gelator produces soft materials (gels) with dual function: (i) removal of toxic organic dyes in waste water treatment and (ii) oil spill recovery.

Surface modification and properties of Bombyx mori silk fibroin films by antimicrobial peptide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bai, Liqiang; Zhu, Liangjun; Min, Sijia; Liu, Lin; Cai, Yurong; Yao, Juming

2008-03-01

The Bombyx mori silk fibroin films (SFFs) were modified by a Cecropin B ( CB) antimicrobial peptide, (NH 2)-NGIVKAGPAIAVLGEAAL-CONH 2, using the carbodiimide chemistry method. In order to avoid the dissolution of films during the modification procedure, the SFFs were first treated with 60% (v/v) ethanol aqueous solution, resulting a structural transition from unstable silk I to silk II. The investigation of modification conditions showed that the surface-modified SFFs had the satisfied antimicrobial activity and durability when they were activated by EDC·HCl/NHS solution followed by a treatment in CB peptide/PBS buffer (pH 6.5 or 8) solution at ambient temperature for 2 h. Moreover, the surface-modified SFFs showed the smaller contact angle due to the hydrophilic antimicrobial peptides coupled on the film surface, which is essential for the cell adhesion and proliferation. AFM results indicated that the surface roughness of SFFs was considerably increased after the modification by the peptides. The elemental composition analysis results also suggested that the peptides were tightly coupled to the surface of SFFs. This approach may provide a new option to engineer the surface-modified implanted materials preventing the biomaterial-centered infection (BCI).

Biological Redox Cycling Of Iron In Nontronite And Its Potential Application In Nitrate Removal

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

Zhao, Linduo; Dong, Hailiang; Kukkadapu, Ravi K.

2015-05-05

Redox cycling of structural Fe in phyllosilicates provides a potential method to remediate nitrate contamination in natural environment. Past research has only studied chemical redox cycles or a single biologically mediated redox cycle of Fe in phyllosilicates. The objective of this research was to study three microbially driven redox cycles of Fe in one phyllosilicate, nontronite (NAu-2). During the reduction phase structural Fe(III) in NAu-2 served as electron acceptor, lactate as electron donor, AQDS as electron shuttle, and dissimilatory Fe(III)-reducing bacteria Shewanella putrefaciens CN32 as mediator in bicarbonate-buffered and PIPES-buffered media. During the oxidation phase, biogenic Fe(II) served an electronmore » donor, nitrate as electron acceptor, and nitrate-dependent Fe(II)-oxidizing bacteria Pseudogulbenkiania sp. strain 2002 as mediator in the same media. For all three cycles, structural Fe in NAu-2 was able to reversibly undergo 3 redox cycles without significant reductive or oxidative dissolution. X-ray diffraction and scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that NAu-2 was the dominant residual mineral throughout the 3 redox cycles with some dissolution textures but no significant secondary mineralization. Mössbauer spectroscopy revealed that Fe(II) in bio-reduced samples likely occurred in two distinct environments, at edges and the interior of the NAu-2 structure. Nitrate was completely reduced to nitrogen gas under both buffer conditions and this extent and rate did not change with Fe redox cycles. Mössbauer spectroscopy further revealed that nitrate reduction was coupled to predominant/preferred oxidation of edge Fe(II). These results suggest that structural Fe in phyllosilicates may represent a renewable source to continuously remove nitrate in natural environments.« less

Buffer layers on biaxially textured metal substrates

DOEpatents

Shoup, Shara S.; Paranthamam, Mariappan; Beach, David B.; Kroeger, Donald M.; Goyal, Amit

2001-01-01

A method is disclosed for forming a biaxially textured buffer layer on a biaxially oriented metal substrate by using a sol-gel coating technique followed by pyrolyzing/annealing in a reducing atmosphere. This method is advantageous for providing substrates for depositing electronically active materials thereon.

Buffer for a gamma-insensitive optical sensor with gas and a buffer assembly

DOEpatents

Kruger, Hans W.

1994-01-01

A buffer assembly for a gamma-insensitive gas avalanche focal plane array operating in the ultra-violet/visible/infrared energy wavelengths and using a photocathode and an avalanche gas located in a gap between an anode and the photocathode. The buffer assembly functions to eliminate chemical compatibility between the gas composition and the materials of the photocathode. The buffer assembly in the described embodiment is composed of two sections, a first section constructed of glass honeycomb under vacuum and a second section defining a thin barrier film or membrane constructed, for example, of Al and Be, which is attached to and supported by the honeycomb. The honeycomb section, in turn, is supported by and adjacent to the photocathode.

Buffer for a gamma-insensitive optical sensor with gas and a buffer assembly

DOEpatents

Kruger, H.W.

1994-05-10

A buffer assembly is disclosed for a gamma-insensitive gas avalanche focal plane array operating in the ultra-violet/visible/infrared energy wavelengths and using a photocathode and an avalanche gas located in a gap between an anode and the photocathode. The buffer assembly functions to eliminate chemical compatibility between the gas composition and the materials of the photocathode. The buffer assembly in the described embodiment is composed of two sections, a first section constructed of glass honeycomb under vacuum and a second section defining a thin barrier film or membrane constructed, for example, of Al and Be, which is attached to and supported by the honeycomb. The honeycomb section, in turn, is supported by and adjacent to the photocathode. 7 figures.

Peak shapes of acids and bases under overloaded conditions in reversed-phase liquid chromatography, with weakly buffered mobile phases of various pH: A thermodynamic interpretation

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

Gritti, Fabrice; Guiochon, Georges A

2009-01-01

We measured overloaded band profiles for a series of nine compounds (phenol, caffeine, 3-phenyl 1-propanol, 2-phenylbutyric acid, amphetamine, aniline, benzylamine, p-toluidine, and procainamidium chloride) on columns packed with four different C{sub 18}-bonded packing materials: XTerra-C{sub 18}, Gemini-C{sub 18}, Luna-C{sub 18}(2), and Halo-C{sub 18}, using buffered methanol-water mobile phases. The {sub W}{sup S}pH of the mobile phase was increased from 2.6 to 11.3. The buffer concentration (either phosphate, acetate, or carbonate buffers) was set constant at values below the maximum concentration of the sample in the band. The influence of the surface chemistry of the packing material on the retention andmore » the shape of the peaks was investigated. Adsorbents having a hybrid inorganic/organic structure tend to give peaks exhibiting moderate or little tailing. The retention and the shape of the band profiles can easily be interpreted at {sub W}{sup S}pHs that are well above or well below the {sub W}{sup S}pK{sub a} of the compound studied. In contrast, the peak shapes in the intermediary pH range (i.e., close to the compound {sub W}{sup S}pK{sub a}) have rarely been studied. These shapes reveal the complexity of the competitive adsorption behavior of couples of acido-basic conjugated compounds at {sub W}{sup S}pHs that are close to their {sub W}{sup S}pK{sub a}. They also reveal the role of the buffer capacity on the resulting peak shape. With increasing {sub W}{sup S}pH, the overloaded profiles are first langmuirian (isotherm type I) at low {sub W}{sup S}pHs, they become S-shaped (isotherm type II), then anti-langmuirian (isotherm type III), S-shaped again at intermediate {sub W}{sup S}pHs, and finally return to a langmuirian shape at high {sub W}{sup S}pHs. A new general adsorption isotherm model that takes into account the dissociation equilibrium of conjugated acidic and basic species in the bulk mobile phase accounts for these transient band shapes. An excellent agreement was achieved between experimental profiles and those calculated with a two-sites adsorption isotherm model at all {sub W}{sup S}pHs. The neutral species adsorbs strongly on a first type of sites that have a high density while the ionic species adsorb preferentially on a second type of sites that have a very low density. The evolution of the peak shape when the {sub W}{sup S}pH changes from acidic to basic is well explained by the weak buffer capacity of the mobile phase used compared to the concentration of the eluted compounds.« less

Effects of air polishing and an amino acid buffered hypochlorite solution to dentin surfaces and periodontal ligament cell survival, attachment, and spreading.

PubMed

Schmidlin, Patrick R; Fujioka-Kobayashi, Masako; Mueller, Heinz-Dieter; Sculean, Anton; Lussi, Adrian; Miron, Richard J

2017-06-01

The aim of this study is to examine morphological changes of dentin surfaces following air polishing or amino acid buffered hypochlorite solution application and to assess their influence on periodontal ligament (PDL) cell survival, attachment, and spreading to dentin discs in vitro. Bovine dentin discs were treated with either (i) Classic, (ii) Plus, or (iii) Perio powder (EMS). Furthermore, Perisolv® a hypochlorite solution buffered with various amino acids was investigated. Untreated dentin discs served as controls. Morphological changes to dentin discs were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Human PDL cells were seeded onto the respectively treated discs, and samples were then investigated for PDL cell survival, attachment, and spreading using a live/dead assay, adhesion assay, and SEM imaging, respectively. Both control and Perisolv®-rinsed dentin discs demonstrated smooth surfaces at low and high magnifications. The Classic powders demonstrated the thickest coating followed by the Powder Plus. The Perio powder demonstrated marked alterations of dentin discs by revealing the potential to open dentinal tubules even before rinsing. Seeding of PDL cells demonstrated an almost 100 % survival rate on all samples demonstrating very high biocompatibility for all materials. Significantly higher PDL cell numbers were observed on samples treated with the Perio powder and the Perisolv® solution (approximately 40 % more cells; p < 0.05). SEM imaging revealed the potential for PDL cells to attach and spread on all surfaces. The results from the present study demonstrate that cell survival and spreading of PDL cells on root surfaces is possible following either air polishing or application with Perisolv®. Future in vitro and animal testing is necessary to further characterize the beneficial effects of either system in a clinical setting. The use of air polishing or application with Perisolv amino acid buffered hypochlorite solution was effective in treating root surfaces and allowed for near 100 % PDL cell survival, attachment, and spreading onto all root surfaces.

Interaction of HEPES buffer with glass-ceramic scaffold: Can HEPES replace TRIS in SBF?

PubMed

Rohanová, Dana; Horkavcová, Diana; Paidere, Laine; Boccaccini, Aldo Roberto; Bozděchová, Pavlína; Bezdička, Petr

2018-01-01

An international standard (ISO: 23317:2014) exists for the in vitro testing of inorganic biomaterials in simulated body fluid (SBF). This standard uses TRIS buffer to maintain neutral pH in SBF, but in our previous paper, we showed that the interaction of a tested glass-ceramic material with TRIS can produce false-positive results. In this study, we evaluated whether the HEPES buffer, which also belongs to the group of Good´s buffers, would be more suitable for SBF. We compared its suitability in two media: SBF with HEPES and demineralized water with HEPES. The tested scaffold (45S5 bioactive glass-based) was exposed to the media under a static-dynamic arrangement (solutions were replaced on a daily basis) for 15 days. Leachate samples were collected daily for the analysis of Ca 2+ ions and Si (AAS), (PO 4 ) 3- ions (UV-VIS), and to measure pH. The glass-ceramic scaffold was analyzed by SEM/EDS, XRD, and WD-XRF before and after 0.3, 1, 3, 7, 11, and 15 days of exposure. Our results confirmed the rapid selective dissolution of the glass-ceramic crystalline phase (Combeite) containing Ca 2+ ions due to the presence of HEPES, hydroxyapatite supersaturation being reached within 24 h in both solutions. These new results suggest that, like TRIS, HEPES buffer is not suitable for the in vitro testing of highly reactive inorganic biomaterials (glass, glass-ceramics). The ISO standard for such tests requires revision, but HEPES is not a viable alternative to TRIS buffer. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 143-152, 2018. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Nanocomposites with embedded structures for lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Zichao

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been widely employed in portable electronics and are rapidly expanding into emerging markets such as hybrid and electric vehicles and potentially electric grid storage. These new opportunities create new challenges for LIBs and further improvement of specific energy, cycling performance and rate capability are required. A major strategy in performance enhancement for the electrode materials involves the creation of carbon composites to provide mechanical buffering of active material and to improve electrical conductivity. In the current work, a platform is developed for creating functional hybrid materials by copolymerization of organic molecules and inorganic compounds followed by thermal pyrolysis, and the approach yields nanostructured composites in which nanoparticles are uniformly embedded in a porous, partially graphitic carbon matrix. Depending upon the chemistry of the starting materials, nanocomposites with embedded structures created using the approach are attractive as anode or cathode materials for next-generation rechargeable lithium battery systems. The platform is very versatile and through ex situ conversion or utilization of multiple precursors, can be applied to various classes of materials including metal oxides (single or mixed), metals, metal sulfides, alloys, metalloids, phosphates, etc. The approach also lends itself to the development of scalable processes for production of nanostructured battery materials. Mechanistic analysis was performed and reveals that the performance enhancement of the embedded nanocomposite configuration is mainly brought about by the mechanical buffering effect offered by the carbon matrix. The active material loading was shown to be an important factor in the design of the composites as electrode materials. In addition to the polymerization-based approach, other in situ methods such as one based on spray pyrolysis are also explored and demonstrate the versatility of the in situ synthesis concept.

Displacement imprinted polymer receptor analysis (DIPRA) for chlorophenolic contaminants in drinking water and packaging materials.

PubMed

Nicholls, C; Karim, K; Piletsky, S; Saini, S; Setford, S

2006-01-15

The preparation of a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) for pentachlorophenol is described together with two alternative reporter derivatives for use in a displacement imprinted polymer receptor analysis (DIPRA) format procedure. In this procedure, alternative reporter molecules were rebound to the synthetic receptor sites and their displacement by the target analyte was employed as the basis of a simple procedure for the measurement of chlorophenols in water and packaging material samples. Water samples were extracted using the standard procedure (EPA 528) and a detection limit of 0.5 microg l(-1) was achieved using the DIPRA detection method, with good agreement between the displacement technique and GC-ECD analysis. A variety of packaging materials, extracted using a buffered detergent solution were also analysed using the DIPRA procedure and showed good agreement with GC results. In addition, investigation of the cross-reactivity of a range of pesticides and materials commonly encountered in environmental analysis indicated the procedure gave good discrimination between pesticides bearing a chlorophenolic moiety and other materials. The procedure is considered highly suitable for use as a rapid field-test method or for incorporation into a test kit device.

TRIS buffer in simulated body fluid distorts the assessment of glass-ceramic scaffold bioactivity.

PubMed

Rohanová, Dana; Boccaccini, Aldo Roberto; Yunos, Darmawati Mohamad; Horkavcová, Diana; Březovská, Iva; Helebrant, Aleš

2011-06-01

The paper deals with the characterisation of the bioactive phenomena of glass-ceramic scaffold derived from Bioglass® (containing 77 wt.% of crystalline phases Na(2)O·2CaO·3SiO(2) and CaO·SiO(2) and 23 wt.% of residual glass phase) using simulated body fluid (SBF) buffered with tris-(hydroxymethyl) aminomethane (TRIS). A significant effect of the TRIS buffer on glass-ceramic scaffold dissolution in SBF was detected. To better understand the influence of the buffer, the glass-ceramic scaffold was exposed to a series of in vitro tests using different media as follows: (i) a fresh liquid flow of SBF containing tris (hydroxymethyl) aminomethane; (ii) SBF solution without TRIS buffer; (iii) TRIS buffer alone; and (iv) demineralised water. The in vitro tests were provided under static and dynamic arrangements. SBF buffered with TRIS dissolved both the crystalline and residual glass phases of the scaffold and a crystalline form of hydroxyapatite (HAp) developed on the scaffold surface. In contrast, when TRIS buffer was not present in the solutions only the residual glassy phase dissolved and an amorphous calcium phosphate (Ca-P) phase formed on the scaffold surface. It was confirmed that the TRIS buffer primarily dissolved the crystalline phase of the glass-ceramic, doubled the dissolving rate of the scaffold and moreover supported the formation of crystalline HAp. This significant effect of the buffer TRIS on bioactive glass-ceramic scaffold degradation in SBF has not been demonstrated previously and should be considered when analysing the results of SBF immersion bioactivity tests of such systems. Copyright © 2011 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Differential effect of buffering agents on the crystallization of gemcitabine hydrochloride in frozen solutions.

PubMed

Patel, Mehulkumar; Munjal, Bhushan; Bansal, Arvind K

2014-08-25

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the differential effect of buffering agents on the crystallization of gemcitabine hydrochloride (GHCl) in frozen solutions. Four buffering agents, viz. citric acid (CA), malic acid (MA), succinic acid (SA) and tartaric acid (TA) were selected and their effect on GHCl crystallization was monitored using standard DSC and low temperature XRD. Onset of GHCl crystallization during heating run in DSC was measured to compare the differential effect of buffering agents. Glass transition temperature (Tg'), unfrozen water content in the freeze concentrate and crystallization propensity of the buffering agents was also determined for mechanistic understanding of the underlying effects. CA and MA inhibited while SA facilitated crystallization of GHCl even at 25 mM concentration. Increasing the concentration enhanced their effect. However, TA inhibited GHCl crystallization at concentrations <100mM and facilitated it at concentrations ≥100 mM. Lyophilization of GHCl with either SA or TA yielded elegant cakes, while CA and MA caused collapse. Tg' failed to explain the inhibitory effects of CA, MA and TA as all buffering agents lowered the Tg' of the system. Differential effect of buffering agents on GHCl crystallization could be explained by consideration of two opposing factors: (i) their own crystallization tendency and (ii) unfrozen water content in the freeze concentrate. In conclusion, it was established that API crystallization in frozen solution is affected by the type and concentration of the buffering agents. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Stress state during fixation determines susceptibility to fatigue-linked biodegradation in bioprosthetic heart valve materials.

PubMed

Margueratt, Sean D; Lee, J Michael

2002-01-01

Mechanical loading contributes to the structural deterioration of bioprosthetic heart valves. The influence of stress state during fixation may play a substantial role in their failure, linking fatigue damage caused by buckling and tension and the enzymatic degradation of glutaraldehyde-crosslinked collagen. Bovine pericardia were obtained immediately postmortem and 100 mm x 15 mm samples were cut in the base-to-apex direction. Half the samples were subjected to a uniaxial tensile stress of 250 kPa and half remained unloaded during a crosslinking treatment in 0.5% glutaraldehyde. Tissue samples were rinsed and cut into 16 mm x 4 mm test strips. Half of these strips were exposed to cyclic compressive buckling and alternating tension at 30 Hz for 20 million cycles (approx. 7.5 days) using a custom-built multi-sample fatigue system. Fatigue-damaged and non-damaged samples were subsequently incubated at 37 C for 48 hrs in: (i) Type I bacterial collagenase (20 U/ml) buffered in 0.05 M Tris, 10 mM CaCl2 2H2O (pH 7.4) or (ii) 0.05 M Tris buffer (pH 7.4) only. In both cases, the samples were loaded sinusoidally between 40 and 80 g using a previously described microtensile culture system. Tissue removed from the bath was rinsed in 0.1 M EDTA solution and mounted in a servo-hydraulic mechanical testing system (MTS). Ultimate tensile strength (UTS), maximum tissue modulus, and fracture strain were determined. The percent collagen solubilized was assessed by a colourmetric hydroxyproline assay of the enzyme bath and tissue sample. All data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results confirmed the synergy between fatigue damage and collagenase proteolysis in these materials; however, there were no significant differences in this effect between simple fixation and stress-fixation up to 20 million cycles. There were significant decreases in the mechanical properties and an increase in the amount of collagen solubilized with increased exposure to fatigue cycling.

An experimental study of chondrule formation from chondritic precursors via evaporation and condensation in Knudsen cell: Shock heating model of dust aggregates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imae, Naoya; Isobe, Hiroshi

2017-09-01

Chondrules, igneous objects of ∼1 mm in diameter, formed in the earliest solar system via a transient heating event, are divided into two types: main (type I, FeO-poor) and minor (type II, FeO-rich). Using various chondritic materials for different redox conditions and grain sizes, chondrule reproduction experiments were carried out at IW-2 to IW-3.8, with cooling rates mainly ∼100°C/h, with peak temperatures mainly at 1450 °C, and mainly at 100 Pa in a Knudsen cell providing near chemical equilibrium between the charge and the surrounding gas at the peak temperatures. Vapor pressures in the capsule were controlled using solid buffers. After and during the significant evaporation of the iron component from the metallic iron-poor starting materials in near equilibrium, crystallization occurred. This resulted in the formation of a product similar to the type I chondrules. Dusty olivine grains occurred in charges that had precursor type II chondrules containing coarse ferroan olivine, but such grains are not common in type I chondrules. Therefore fine-grained ferroan matrices rather than type II chondrules are main precursor for type I chondrules. The type I chondrules would have evolved via evaporation and condensation in the similar conditions to the present experimental system. Residual gas, which escaped in experiments, could have condensed to form matrices, leading to complementary compositions. Clusters of matrices and primordial chondrules could have been recycled to form main-generation chondrules originated from the shock heating.

Buffer layer dependence of magnetoresistance effects in Co2Fe0.4Mn0.6Si/MgO/Co50Fe50 tunnel junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Mingling; Kubota, Takahide; Takahashi, Shigeki; Kawato, Yoshiaki; Sonobe, Yoshiaki; Takanashi, Koki

2018-05-01

Buffer layer dependence of tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) effects was investigated in Co2Fe0.4Mn0.6Si (CFMS)/MgO/Co50Fe50 magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs). Pd, Ru and Cr were selected for the buffer layer materials, and MTJs with three different CFMS thicknesses (30, 5, and 0.8 nm) were fabricated. A maximum TMR ratio of 136% was observed in the Ru buffer layer sample with a 30-nm-thick CFMS layer. TMR ratios drastically degraded for the CFMS thickness of 0.8 nm, and the values were 26% for Cr buffer layer and less than 1% for Pd and Ru buffer layers. From the annealing temperature dependence of the TMR ratios, amounts of interdiffusion and effects from the lattice mismatch were discussed.

Job Shop Scheduling Focusing on Role of Buffer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hino, Rei; Kusumi, Tetsuya; Yoo, Jae-Kyu; Shimizu, Yoshiaki

A scheduling problem is formulated in order to consistently manage each manufacturing resource, including machine tools, assembly robots, AGV, storehouses, material shelves, and so on. The manufacturing resources are classified into three types: producer, location, and mover. This paper focuses especially on the role of the buffer, and the differences among these types are analyzed. A unified scheduling formulation is derived from the analytical results based on the resource’s roles. Scheduling procedures based on dispatching rules are also proposed in order to numerically evaluate job shop-type production having finite buffer capacity. The influences of the capacity of bottle-necked production devices and the buffer on productivity are discussed.

Seismic performance of geosynthetic-soil retaining wall structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zarnani, Saman

Vertical inclusions of expanded polystyrene (EPS) placed behind rigid retaining walls were investigated as geofoam seismic buffers to reduce earthquake-induced loads. A numerical model was developed using the program FLAC and the model validated against 1-g shaking table test results of EPS geofoam seismic buffer models. Two constitutive models for the component materials were examined: elastic-perfectly plastic with Mohr-Coulomb (M-C) failure criterion and non-linear hysteresis damping model with equivalent linear method (ELM) approach. It was judged that the M-C model was sufficiently accurate for practical purposes. The mechanical property of interest to attenuate dynamic loads using a seismic buffer was the buffer stiffness defined as K = E/t (E = buffer elastic modulus, t = buffer thickness). For the range of parameters investigated in this study, K ≤50 MN/m3 was observed to be the practical range for the optimal design of these systems. Parametric numerical analyses were performed to generate design charts that can be used for the preliminary design of these systems. A new high capacity shaking table facility was constructed at RMC that can be used to study the seismic performance of earth structures. Reduced-scale models of geosynthetic reinforced soil (GRS) walls were built on this shaking table and then subjected to simulated earthquake loading conditions. In some shaking table tests, combined use of EPS geofoam and horizontal geosynthetic reinforcement layers was investigated. Numerical models were developed using program FLAC together with ELM and M-C constitutive models. Physical and numerical results were compared against predicted values using analysis methods found in the journal literature and in current North American design guidelines. The comparison shows that current Mononobe-Okabe (M-O) based analysis methods could not consistently satisfactorily predict measured reinforcement connection load distributions at all elevations under both static and dynamic loading conditions. The results from GRS model wall tests with combined EPS geofoam and geosynthetic reinforcement layers show that the inclusion of a EPS geofoam layer behind the GRS wall face can reduce earth loads acting on the wall facing to values well below those recorded for conventional GRS wall model configurations.

Sol-gel deposition of buffer layers on biaxially textured metal substances

DOEpatents

Shoup, Shara S.; Paranthamam, Mariappan; Beach, David B.; Kroeger, Donald M.; Goyal, Amit

2000-01-01

A method is disclosed for forming a biaxially textured buffer layer on a biaxially oriented metal substrate by using a sol-gel coating technique followed by pyrolyzing/annealing in a reducing atmosphere. This method is advantageous for providing substrates for depositing electronically active materials thereon.

MEDULLARY THICK ASCENDING LIMB BUFFER VASOCONSTRICTION OF RENAL OUTER-MEDULLARY VASA RECTA IN SALT-RESISTANT BUT NOT SALT-SENSITIVE RATS

PubMed Central

O’Connor, Paul M.; Cowley, Allen W.

2013-01-01

We have previously demonstrated that paracrine signaling occurs between medullary thick ascending limb (mTAL) and the contractile pericytes of outer-medullary vasa recta (VR) termed ‘tubular-vascular cross talk’. The aim of the current study was to determine whether tubular-vascular cross talk has a functional effect on vasoconstrictor responses to angiotensin II, and to determine whether this is altered in the Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rat. Studies were performed on salt-resistant consomic SS.13BN and SS rats using a novel outer medullary tissue strip preparation in which freshly isolated VR within VR bundles were perfused either alone or in combination with nearby mTAL. In VR from SS.13BN rats, angiotensin II (1μM) increased VR bundle intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]VR) 19±9nM (n=8) and reduced focal diameter in perfused VR by (−20±7%;n=5). In the presence of nearby mTAL however, [Ca2+]VR (−9±8nM; n=8) and VR diameter (−1±4%, n=7) in SS.13BN rats was unchanged by angiotensin II. In contrast, in Dahl SS rats, angiotensin II resulted in rapid and sustained increase in [Ca2+]VR (89±48 n=7;50±24% n=8) and a reduction in VR diameter of (−17±7;n=7 and −11±4%;n=5) in both isolated VR and VR with nearby mTAL, respectively. In VR with mTAL from SS13BN rats, inhibiton of purinergic receptors resulted in an increase in [Ca2+]VR, indicating purinergic signaling buffers vasoconstriction. Importantly, our in vitro data were able to predict medullary blood flow responses to angiotensin II in SS and SS.13BN rats in vivo. We conclude that paracrine signaling from mTAL buffers angiotensin II vasoconstriction in Dahl salt-resistant SS.13BN rats but not SS rats. PMID:22926950

Structural evaluation of InAsP/InGaAsP strained-layer superlattices with dislocations as grown by metal-organic molecular beam epitaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakashima, Kiichi; Sugiura, Hideo

1997-08-01

The relaxation process in InAsP/InGaAsP strained-layer superlattices (SLSs) with interfacial misfit dislocations has been investigated systematically by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and x-ray analyses. The TEM analysis reveals that dislocations locate a little inside the buffer layer near the interface between the buffer and first well layer in the SLS. The x-ray analysis of (400) azimuthal angle dependence indicates the buffer layer has a large macroscopic tilt. Using a curve fitting analysis of various (hkl) x-ray profiles and reciprocal lattice mapping measurements, residual strain was determined quantitatively, i.e., Δa∥ and Δa⊥, in the SLS and buffer layer. These results reveal that the dislocations mainly cause lattice distortion of the buffer layer rather than relaxation of the SLS layer. The most remarkable result is that the change of a∥ is not equal to that of a⊥ in the buffer layer. This phenomenon strongly suggests that microplastic domains are generated in the buffer layer.

Materials fatigue initiates eccentric contraction-induced injury in rat soleus muscle.

PubMed Central

Warren, G L; Hayes, D A; Lowe, D A; Prior, B M; Armstrong, R B

1993-01-01

1. The initiation of exercise-induced muscle injury is thought to be the result of high tensile stresses produced in the muscle during eccentric contractions. Materials science theory suggests that high tensile stresses could initiate the injury during the first eccentric contraction (normal stress theory) or after multiple eccentric contractions (materials fatigue). It was the objective of this study to investigate the two possibilities. 2. Rat soleus muscles (n = 66; 11 protocols with 6 muscles per protocol) were isolated, placed in an oxygenated Krebs-Ringer buffer at 37 degrees C, and baseline measurements were made. The muscle then performed an injury protocol which consisted of between zero and ten eccentric contractions (muscle starting length = 0.90 soleus muscle length, L0; length change = 0.25 L0; velocity = 1.5 L0/s; peak force = 180% maximal isometric tetanic tension (P0); time between contractions = 4 min; total duration of the injury protocol = 40 min). At the end of the injury protocol, the muscle was incubated in buffer for 1 h; every 15 min, an isometric twitch and tetanus were performed and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release was measured. Total muscle [Ca2+] was measured at the end of the incubation. 3. Change-point regression analysis indicates that at 0 min into the incubation, declines in P0, maximal rate of tension development (+dP/dt), maximal rate of relaxation (-dP/dt), and muscle stiffness (dP/dx) became significantly greater after eight eccentric contractions (p < or = 0.05). No relation was found between the number of eccentric contractions performed and the LDH activity at 0 min into the incubation, although after 60 min of incubation, LDH activity in the buffer was linearly related to eccentric contraction number (p = 0.01). There was no relationship between total muscle [Ca2+] and eccentric contraction number. These findings support the materials fatigue hypothesis of exercise-induced muscle injury. PMID:8229814

Study of strain boundary conditions and GaAs buffer sizes in InGaAs quantum dots

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oyafuso, F.; Klimeck, G.; Boykin, T. B.; Bowen, R. C.; Allmen, P. von

2003-01-01

NEMO 3-D has been developed for the simulation of electronic structure in self-assembled InGaAs quantum dots on GaAs substrates. Typical self-assembled quantum dots in that material system contain about 0.5 to 1 million atoms. Effects of strain by the surrounding GaAs buffer modify the electronic structure inside the quantum dot significantly and a large GaAs buffer must be included in the strain and electronic structure.

A review of vegetated buffers and a meta-analysis of their mitigation efficacy in reducing non-point source pollution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, X.; Liu, X.; Zhang, M.; Dahlgren, R. A.; Eitzel, M.

2009-12-01

Vegetated buffers are a well-studied and widely used agricultural management practice for reducing non-point source pollution. A wealth of literature provides experimental data on their mitigation efficacy. This paper aggregated many of these results and performed a meta-analysis to quantify the relationships between pollutant removal efficacy and buffer width, buffer slope, soil type, and vegetation type. Theoretical models for removal efficacy (Y) vs. buffer width (w) were derived and tested against data from the surveyed literature using statistical analyses. A model of the form Y = K x (1-exp(-b x w) , (0< K <= 100) successfully captured the relationship between buffer width and pollutant removal, where K reflects the maximum removal efficacy of the buffer and b reflects its probability to remove any single particle of pollutant in a unit distance. The estimates of K were 90.9, 93.2, 92.0, and 89.5 for sediment, pesticides, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), respectively. Buffer width alone explains 37, 60, 44 and 35% of the total variance in removal efficacy for sediment, pesticides, N and P, respectively. Buffer slope was linearly associated with sediment removal efficacy either positively (when slope ≤ 10%) or negatively (when slope > 10%). Buffers composed of trees have higher N and P removal efficacy than buffers composed of grasses or mixtures of grasses and trees. Soil drainage type did not show a significant effect on pollutant removal efficacy. Models for all the studied pollutants were statistically significant with P-values < 0.001. Based on our analysis, a 30 m buffer under favorable slope conditions (≈ 10%) removes over 85% of all the studied pollutants. These models predicting optimal buffer width/slope can be instrumental in the design, implementation and modeling of vegetated buffers for treating agricultural runoff.

Characterization of Cu buffer layers for growth of L10-FeNi thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mizuguchi, M.; Sekiya, S.; Takanashi, K.

2010-05-01

A Cu(001) layer was fabricated on a Au(001) layer to investigate the use of Cu as a buffer layer for growing L10-FeNi thin films. The epitaxial growth of a Cu buffer layer was observed using reflection high-energy electron diffraction. The flatness of the layer improved drastically with an increase in the substrate temperature although the layer was an alloy (AuCu3). An FeNi thin film was epitaxially grown on the AuCu3 buffer layer by alternate monatomic layer deposition and the formation of an L10-FeNi ordered alloy was expected. The AuCu3 buffer layer is thus a promising candidate material for the growth of L10-FeNi thin films.

Buffer layers for high-Tc thin films on sapphire

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wu, X. D.; Foltyn, S. R.; Muenchausen, R. E.; Cooke, D. W.; Pique, A.; Kalokitis, D.; Pendrick, V.; Belohoubek, E.

1992-01-01

Buffer layers of various oxides including CeO2 and yttrium-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) have been deposited on R-plane sapphire. The orientation and crystallinity of the layers were optimized to promote epitaxial growth of YBa2Cu3O(7-delta) (YBCO) thin films. An ion beam channeling minimum yield of about 3 percent was obtained in the CeO2 layer on sapphire, indicating excellent crystallinity of the buffer layer. Among the buffer materials used, CeO2 was found to be the best one for YBCO thin films on R-plane sapphire. High Tc and Jc were obtained in YBCO thin films on sapphire with buffer layers. Surface resistances of the YBCO films were about 4 mOmega at 77 K and 25 GHz.

Free metal ion depletion by "Good's" buffers. III. N-(2-acetamido)iminodiacetic acid, 2:1 complexes with zinc(II), cobalt(II), nickel(II), and copper(II); amide deprotonation by Zn(II), Co(II), and Cu(II).

PubMed

Lance, E A; Rhodes, C W; Nakon, R

1983-09-01

Potentiometric, visible, infrared, electron spin, and nuclear magnetic resonance studies of the complexation of N-(2-acetamido)iminodiacetic acid (H2ADA) by Ca(II), Mg(II), Mn(II), Zn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II) are reported. Ca(II) and Mg(II) were found not to form 2:1 ADA2- to M(II) complexes, while Mn(II), Cu(II), Ni(II), Zn(II), and Co(II) did form 2:1 metal chelates at or below physiological pH values. Co(II) and Zn(II), but not Cu(II), were found to induce stepwise deprotonation of the amide groups to form [M(H-1ADA)4-(2)]. Formation (affinity) constants for the various metal complexes are reported, and the probable structures of the various metal chelates in solution are discussed on the basis of various spectral data.

Characterization of a novel particle into liquid sampler for analysis of single fluorescent aerosol particles through capillary electrophoresis.

PubMed

Tang, Hao; Hiemstra, Scott; Thompson, Jonathan E

2011-09-19

An approach to sample and analyze single aerosolized droplets (<10 nL) of solutions containing fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) labeled glycine (GLY) and glutamic acid (GLU) is demonstrated. The sampling approach is based on inertial impaction in which the sample particle is accelerated through a nozzle and directly into a small drop of buffered solution (20 mM borate, pH=10) suspended at the end of a coaxial tube of stainless steel and a fused silica capillary. A spherical light scattering cell and laser (λ=532 nm) is used to detect the arrival of particles at the buffered droplet. Upon dissolution and/or mixing, a portion of the sample is injected onto the fused silica capillary for subsequent chemical analysis by capillary electrophoresis (CE) and detection by laser-induced fluorescence (LIF). It was found that the inertial impaction approach sampled particles >1 μm diameter with an efficiency of 80% or greater. At 15 kV applied potential, the FITC conjugates of GLY and GLU could be resolved in less than 120 s allowing qualitative analysis of the contents of single dispersed particles. However, the extent to which the sample is diluted into the buffer droplet varied significantly on a per-particle basis that caused >80% R.S.D. in fluorescence peak heights. This aspect of the method would necessitate the use of internal standards for quantitative analysis of materials present within the particles. It is envisaged that further improvements to the device described may ultimately lead to analysis of the contents of single particles dispersed in earth's atmosphere. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A simple and fast method for extraction and quantification of cryptophyte phycoerythrin.

PubMed

Thoisen, Christina; Hansen, Benni Winding; Nielsen, Søren Laurentius

2017-01-01

The microalgal pigment phycoerythrin (PE) is of commercial interest as natural colorant in food and cosmetics, as well as fluoroprobes for laboratory analysis. Several methods for extraction and quantification of PE are available but they comprise typically various extraction buffers, repetitive freeze-thaw cycles and liquid nitrogen, making extraction procedures more complicated. A simple method for extraction of PE from cryptophytes is described using standard laboratory materials and equipment. The cryptophyte cells on the filters were disrupted at -80 °C and added phosphate buffer for extraction at 4 °C followed by absorbance measurement. The cryptophyte Rhodomonas salina was used as a model organism. •Simple method for extraction and quantification of phycoerythrin from cryptophytes.•Minimal usage of equipment and chemicals, and low labor costs.•Applicable for industrial and biological purposes.

Removal of Cu(II) and Pb(II) from Aqueous Solutions Using Nanoporous Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutta, Debajani; Roy, Sushanta Kumar; Das, Bodhaditya; Talukdar, Anup K.

2018-05-01

The present work deals with the adsorption of Cu2+ and Pb2+ on zeolites (ZSM-5, mordenite) and mesoporous materials (MCM-48, MCM-41). The characterization of the synthesized samples was performed by means of XRD, SEM, and thermogravimetric analysis. The batch method was employed to study the influence of adsorbent nature, contact time, initial metal ion concentration, and adsorbent load. The adsorption on MCM-48 follows a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. This material was found to be more effective for the removal of lead in a batch process as compared to the other adsorbents and the removal efficiency of the materials for Pb(II) followed the order MCM-48 > mordenite > ZSM-5 > MCM-41 and that for Cu(II) followed the order ZSM-5 > mordenite > MCM-41 > MCM-48.

The origin of the residual conductivity of GaN films on ferroelectric materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Kyoung-Keun; Cai, Zhuhua; Ziemer, Katherine; Doolittle, William Alan

2009-08-01

In this paper, the origin of the conductivity of GaN films grown on ferroelectric materials was investigated using XPS, AES, and XRD analysis tools. Depth profiles confirmed the existence of impurities in the GaN film originating from the substrates. Bonding energy analysis from XPS and AES verified that oxygen impurities from the substrates were the dominant origin of the conductivity of the GaN film. Furthermore, Ga-rich GaN films have a greater chance of enhancing diffusion of lithium oxide from the substrates, resulting in more substrate phase separation and a wider inter-mixed region confirmed by XRD. Therefore, the direct GaN film growth on ferroelectric materials causes impurity diffusion from the substrates, resulting in highly conductive GaN films. Future work needs to develop non-conductive buffer layers for impurity suppression in order to obtain highly resistive GaN films.

Pedagog II Realization.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-12-01

BE2 CD66 ALl SGG/110(14) 5/AS2 SGG/79(14) AMI 110(13) 5/AU2 78(16) NI KRIRF/lll(2) ANl PRIRF/lll(l) ARI IPC/lll(ll) 7/BPl IPC/144(4) ASI KRF/106(9...KRS 6034 Read a character from the keyboard/reader buffer. The keyboard/reader flag is set when the operation is completed. KIE 6035 Enable the...keyboard/ reader flag is a 1. KCC 6032 Clear the AC and the keyboard/reader flag. KRS 6034 Read a character from the keyboard/reader buffer. The keyboard

Remote Sensing of Wildland Fire-Induced Risk Assessment at the Community Level

PubMed Central

Hassan, Quazi K.

2018-01-01

Wildland fires are some of the critical natural hazards that pose a significant threat to the communities located in the vicinity of forested/vegetated areas. In this paper, our overall objective was to study the structural damages due to the 2016 Horse River Fire (HRF) that happened in Fort McMurray (Alberta, Canada) by employing primarily very high spatial resolution optical satellite data, i.e., WorldView-2. Thus, our activities included the: (i) estimation of the structural damages; and (ii) delineation of the wildland-urban interface (WUI) and its associated buffers at certain intervals, and their utilization in assessing potential risks. Our proposed method of remote sensing-based estimates of the number of structural damages was compared with the ground-based information available from the Planning and Development Recovery Committee Task Force of Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB); and found a strong linear relationship (i.e., r2 value of 0.97 with a slope of 0.97). Upon delineating the WUI and its associated buffer zones at 10 m, 30 m, 50 m, 70 m and 100 m distances; we found existence of vegetation within the 30 m buffers from the WUI for all of the damaged structures. In addition, we noticed that the relevant authorities had removed vegetation in some areas between 30 m and 70 m buffers from the WUI, which was proven to be effective in order to protect the structures in the adjacent communities. Furthermore, we mapped the wildland fire-induced vulnerable areas upon considering the WUI and its associated buffers. Our analysis revealed that approximately 30% of the areas within the buffer zones of 10 m and 30 m were vulnerable due to the presence of vegetation; in which, approximately 7% were burned during the 2016 HRF event that led the structural damages. Consequently, we suggest to remove the existing vegetation within these critical zones and also monitor the region at a regular interval in order to reduce the wildland fire-induced risk. PMID:29762504

Riparian buffer strips as a multifunctional management tool in agricultural landscapes: introduction.

PubMed

Stutter, Marc I; Chardon, Wim J; Kronvang, Brian

2012-01-01

Catchment riparian areas are considered key zones to target mitigation measures aimed at interrupting the movement of diffuse substances from agricultural land to surface waters. Hence, unfertilized buffer strips have become a widely studied and implemented "edge of field" mitigation measure assumed to provide an effective physical barrier against nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and sediment transfer. To ease the legislative process, these buffers are often narrow mandatory strips along streams and rivers, across different riparian soil water conditions, between bordering land uses of differing pollution burdens, and without prescribed buffer management. It would be easy to criticize such regulation for not providing the opportunity for riparian ecosystems to maximize their provision for a wider range of ecosystem goods and services. The scientific basis for judging the best course of action in designing and placing buffers to enhance their multifunctionality has slowly increased over the last five years. This collection of papers aims to add to this body of knowledge by giving examples of studies related to riparian buffer management and assessment throughout Europe. This introductory paper summarizes discussion sessions and 13 selected papers from a workshop held in Ballater, UK, highlighting research on riparian buffers brought together under the EU COST Action 869 knowledge exchange program. The themes addressed are (i) evidence of catchment- to national-scale effectiveness, (ii) ecological functioning linking terrestrial and aquatic habitats, (iii) modeling tools for assessment of effectiveness and costs, and (iv) process understanding enabling management and manipulation to enhance pollutant retention in buffers. The combined understanding led us to consider four principle key questions to challenge buffer strip research and policy. Copyright © by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, Inc.

In vitro dissolution of proton-pump inhibitor products intended for paediatric and geriatric use in physiological bicarbonate buffer.

PubMed

Liu, Fang; Shokrollahi, Honaz

2015-05-15

Proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) products based on enteric coated multiparticulates are design to meet the needs of patients who cannot swallow tablets such as children and older adults. Enteric coated PPI preparations exhibit delays in in vivo absorption and onset of antisecretory effects, which is not reflected by the rapid in vitro dissolution in compendial pH 6.8 phosphate buffer commonly used for assessment of these products. A more representative and physiological medium, pH 6.8 mHanks bicarbonate buffer, was used in this study to evaluate the in vitro dissolution of enteric coated multiparticulate-based PPI products. Commercially available omeprazole, lansoprazole and esomeprazole products were subject to dissolution tests using USP-II apparatus in pH 4.5 phosphate buffer saline for 45 min (acid stage) followed by pH 6.8 phosphate buffer or pH 6.8 mHanks bicarbonate buffer. In pH 6.8 phosphate buffer, all nine tested products displayed rapid and comparable dissolution profiles meeting the pharmacopeia requirements for delayed release preparations. In pH 6.8 mHanks buffer, drug release was delayed and failed the pharmacopeia requirements from most enteric coated preparations. Despite that the same enteric polymer, methacrylic acid-ethyl acrylate copolymer (1:1), was applied to all commercial multiparticulate-based products, marked differences were observed between dissolution profiles of these preparations. The use of pH 6.8 physiological bicarbonate (mHanks) buffer can serve as a useful tool to provide realistic and discriminative in vitro release assessment of enteric coated PPI preparations and to assist rational formulation development of these products. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Complexation of buffer constituents with neutral complexation agents: part I. Impact on common buffer properties.

PubMed

Riesová, Martina; Svobodová, Jana; Tošner, Zdeněk; Beneš, Martin; Tesařová, Eva; Gaš, Bohuslav

2013-09-17

The complexation of buffer constituents with the complexation agent present in the solution can very significantly influence the buffer properties, such as pH, ionic strength, or conductivity. These parameters are often crucial for selection of the separation conditions in capillary electrophoresis or high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and can significantly affect results of separation, particularly for capillary electrophoresis as shown in Part II of this paper series (Beneš, M.; Riesová, M.; Svobodová, J.; Tesařová, E.; Dubský, P.; Gaš, B. Anal. Chem. 2013, DOI: 10.1021/ac401381d). In this paper, the impact of complexation of buffer constituents with a neutral complexation agent is demonstrated theoretically as well as experimentally for the model buffer system composed of benzoic acid/LiOH or common buffers (e.g., CHES/LiOH, TAPS/LiOH, Tricine/LiOH, MOPS/LiOH, MES/LiOH, and acetic acid/LiOH). Cyclodextrins as common chiral selectors were used as model complexation agents. We were not only able to demonstrate substantial changes of pH but also to predict the general complexation characteristics of selected compounds. Because of the zwitterion character of the common buffer constituents, their charged forms complex stronger with cyclodextrins than the neutral ones do. This was fully proven by NMR measurements. Additionally complexation constants of both forms of selected compounds were determined by NMR and affinity capillary electrophoresis with a very good agreement of obtained values. These data were advantageously used for the theoretical descriptions of variations in pH, depending on the composition and concentration of the buffer. Theoretical predictions were shown to be a useful tool for deriving some general rules and laws for complexing systems.

ROBUST: The ROle of BUffering capacities in STabilising coastal lagoon ecosystems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Wit, Rutger; Stal, Lucas J.; Lomstein, Bente Aa.; Herbert, Rodney A.; van Gemerden, Hans; Viaroli, Pierluigi; Cecherelli, Victor-Ugo; Rodríguez-Valera, Francisco; Bartoli, Marco; Giordani, Gianmarco; Azzoni, Roberta; Schaub, Bart; Welsh, David T.; Donnelly, Andrew; Cifuentes, Ana; Antón, Josefa; Finster, Kai; Nielsen, Lise B.; Pedersen, Anne-Grethe Underlien; Neubauer, Anne Turi; Colangelo, Marina A.; Heijs, Sander K.

2001-12-01

"Buffer capacities" has been defined in ecology as a holistic concept (e.g., Integration of Ecosystem Theories: A Pattern, second ed. Kluwer, Dordrecht, 1997, 388pp), but we show that it can also be worked out in mechanistic studies. Our mechanistic approach highlights that "buffering capacities" can be depleted progressively, and, therefore, we make a distinction between current and potential "buffering capacities". We have applied this concept to understand the limited "local stability" in seagrass ecosystems and their vulnerability towards structural changes into macro-algal dominated communities. We explored the following processes and studied how they confer buffering capacities to the seagrass ecosystem: (i) net autotrophy is persistent in Zostera noltii meadows where plant assimilation acts as a sink for nutrients, this contrasted with the Ulva system that shifted back and forth between net autotrophy and net heterotrophy; (ii) the Z. noltii ecosystem possesses a certain albeit rather limited capacity to modify the balance between nitrogen fixation and denitrification, i.e., it was found that in situ nitrogen fixation always exceeded denitrification; (iii) the nitrogen demand of organoheterotrophic bacteria in the sediment results in nitrogen retention of N in the sediment and hence a buffer against release of nitrogen compounds from sediments, (iv) habitat diversification in seagrass meadows provides shelter for meiofauna and hence buffering against adverse conditions, (v) sedimentary iron provides a buffer against noxious sulfide (note: bacterial sulfide production is enhanced in anoxic sediment niches by increased organic matter loading). On the other hand, in the coastal system we studied, sedimentary iron appears less important as a redox-coupled buffer system against phosphate loading. This is because most inorganic phosphate is bound to calcium rather than to iron. In addition, our studies have highlighted the importance of plant-microbe interactions in the seagrass meadows.

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

Sundaramurthi, Prakash; Suryanarayanan, Raj

To effectively inhibit succinate buffer crystallization and the consequent pH changes in frozen solutions. Using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD), the crystallization behavior of succinate buffer in the presence of either (i) a crystallizing (glycine, mannitol, trehalose) or (ii) a non-crystallizing cosolute (sucrose) was evaluated. Aqueous succinate buffer solutions, 50 or 200 mM, at pH values 4.0 or 6.0 were cooled from room temperature to -25 C at 0.5 C/min. The pH of the solution was measured as a function of temperature using a probe designed to function at low temperatures. The final lyophiles prepared from thesemore » solutions were characterized using synchrotron radiation. When the succinic acid solution buffered to pH 4.0, in the absence of a cosolute, was cooled, there was a pronounced shift in the freeze-concentrate pH. Glycine and mannitol, which have a tendency to crystallize in frozen solutions, remained amorphous when the initial pH was 6.0. Under this condition, they also inhibited buffer crystallization and prevented pH change. At pH 4.0 (50 mM initial concentration), glycine and mannitol crystallized and did not prevent pH change in frozen solutions. While sucrose, a non-crystallizing cosolute, did not completely prevent buffer crystallization, the extent of crystallization was reduced. Sucrose decomposition, based on XRD peaks attributable to {beta}-D-glucose, was observed in frozen buffer solutions with an initial pH of 4.0. Trehalose completely inhibited crystallization of the buffer components when the initial pH was 6.0 but not at pH 4.0. At the lower pH, the crystallization of both trehalose dihydrate and buffer components was evident. When retained amorphous, sucrose and trehalose effectively inhibited succinate buffer component crystallization and the consequent pH shift. However, when trehalose crystallized or sucrose degraded to yield a crystalline decomposition product, crystallization of buffer was observed. Similarly, glycine and mannitol, two widely used bulking agents, inhibited buffer component crystallization only when retained amorphous. In addition to stabilizing the active pharmaceutical ingredient, lyoprotectants may prevent solution pH shift by inhibiting buffer crystallization.« less

Investigations of YBa2Cu3O y films sputtered onto a substrate of amorphous quartz with a platinum buffer layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blinova, Yu. V.; Snigirev, O. V.; Porokhov, N. V.; Evlashin, S. A.

2017-10-01

Results of investigations using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy of composite materials made from YBa2Cu3O y films sputtered (using various regimes) onto a substrate of amorphous quartz with a platinum buffer layer, have been given.

The combined effect of glass buffer strips and stitching on the damage tolerance of composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kullerd, Susan M.

1993-01-01

Recent research has demonstrated that through-the-thickness stitching provides major improvements in the damage tolerance of composite laminates loaded in compression. However, the brittle nature of polymer matrix composites makes them susceptible to damage propagation, requiring special material applications and designs to limit damage growth. Glass buffer strips, embedded within laminates, have shown the potential for improving the damage tolerance of unstitched composite laminates loaded in tension. The glass buffer strips, less stiff than the surrounding carbon fibers, arrest crack growth in composites under tensile loads. The present study investigates the damage tolerance characteristics of laminates that contain both stitching and glass buffer strips.

Silica-bound copper(II)triazacyclononane as a phosphate esterase: effect of linker length and surface hydrophobicity.

PubMed

Bodsgard, Brett R; Clark, Robert W; Ehrbar, Anthony W; Burstyn, Judith N

2009-04-07

A series of silica-bound Cu(ii) triazacyclononane materials was prepared to study the effect of linker length and surface hydrophobicity on the hydrolysis of phosphate esters. The general synthetic approach for these heterogeneous reagents was rhodium-catalyzed hydrosilation between an alkenyl-modified triazacyclononane and hydride-modified silica followed by metallation with a Cu(ii) salt. Elemental analysis confirmed that organic functionalization of the silica gel was successful and provided an estimate of the surface concentration of triazacyclononane. EPR spectra were consistent with square pyramidal Cu(ii), indicating that Cu(ii) ions were bound to the immobilized macrocycles. The hydrolytic efficacies of these heterogeneous reagents were tested with bis(p-nitrophenyl)phosphate (BNPP) and diethyl 4-nitrophenyl phosphate (paraoxon). The agent that performed best was an octyl-linked, propanol-blocked material. This material had the most hydrophilic surface and the most accessible active site, achieving a rate maximum on par with the other materials, but in fewer cycles and without an induction period.

Evaluation of sequential extraction procedures for soluble and insoluble hexavalent chromium compounds in workplace air samples.

PubMed

Ashley, Kevin; Applegate, Gregory T; Marcy, A Dale; Drake, Pamela L; Pierce, Paul A; Carabin, Nathalie; Demange, Martine

2009-02-01

Because toxicities may differ for Cr(VI) compounds of varying solubility, some countries and organizations have promulgated different occupational exposure limits (OELs) for soluble and insoluble hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) compounds, and analytical methods are needed to determine these species in workplace air samples. To address this need, international standard methods ASTM D6832 and ISO 16740 have been published that describe sequential extraction techniques for soluble and insoluble Cr(VI) in samples collected from occupational settings. However, no published performance data were previously available for these Cr(VI) sequential extraction procedures. In this work, the sequential extraction methods outlined in the relevant international standards were investigated. The procedures tested involved the use of either deionized water or an ammonium sulfate/ammonium hydroxide buffer solution to target soluble Cr(VI) species. This was followed by extraction in a sodium carbonate/sodium hydroxide buffer solution to dissolve insoluble Cr(VI) compounds. Three-step sequential extraction with (1) water, (2) sulfate buffer and (3) carbonate buffer was also investigated. Sequential extractions were carried out on spiked samples of soluble, sparingly soluble and insoluble Cr(VI) compounds, and analyses were then generally carried out by using the diphenylcarbazide method. Similar experiments were performed on paint pigment samples and on airborne particulate filter samples collected from stainless steel welding. Potential interferences from soluble and insoluble Cr(III) compounds, as well as from Fe(II), were investigated. Interferences from Cr(III) species were generally absent, while the presence of Fe(II) resulted in low Cr(VI) recoveries. Two-step sequential extraction of spiked samples with (first) either water or sulfate buffer, and then carbonate buffer, yielded quantitative recoveries of soluble Cr(VI) and insoluble Cr(VI), respectively. Three-step sequential extraction gave excessively high recoveries of soluble Cr(VI), low recoveries of sparingly soluble Cr(VI), and quantitative recoveries of insoluble Cr(VI). Experiments on paint pigment samples using two-step extraction with water and carbonate buffer yielded varying percentages of relative fractions of soluble and insoluble Cr(VI). Sequential extractions of stainless steel welding fume air filter samples demonstrated the predominance of soluble Cr(VI) compounds in such samples. The performance data obtained in this work support the Cr(VI) sequential extraction procedures described in the international standards.

Stability of buffer-free freeze-dried formulations: A feasibility study of a monoclonal antibody at high protein concentrations.

PubMed

Garidel, Patrick; Pevestorf, Benjamin; Bahrenburg, Sven

2015-11-01

We studied the stability of freeze-dried therapeutic protein formulations over a range of initial concentrations (from 40 to 160 mg/mL) and employed a variety of formulation strategies (including buffer-free freeze dried formulations, or BF-FDF). Highly concentrated, buffer-free liquid formulations of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been shown to be a viable alternative to conventionally buffered preparations. We considered whether it is feasible to use the buffer-free strategy in freeze-dried formulations, as an answer to some of the known drawbacks of conventional buffers. We therefore conducted an accelerated stability study (24 weeks at 40 °C) to assess the feasibility of stabilizing freeze-dried formulations without "classical" buffer components. Factors monitored included pH stability, protein integrity, and protein aggregation. Because the protein solutions are inherently self-buffering, and the system's buffer capacity scales with protein concentration, we included highly concentrated buffer-free freeze-dried formulations in the study. The tested formulations ranged from "fully formulated" (containing both conventional buffer and disaccharide stabilizers) to "buffer-free" (including formulations with only disaccharide lyoprotectant stabilizers) to "excipient-free" (with neither added buffers nor stabilizers). We evaluated the impacts of varying concentrations, buffering schemes, pHs, and lyoprotectant additives. At the end of 24 weeks, no change in pH was observed in any of the buffer-free formulations. Unbuffered formulations were found to have shorter reconstitution times and lower opalescence than buffered formulations. Protein stability was assessed by visual inspection, sub-visible particle analysis, protein monomer content, charge variants analysis, and hydrophobic interaction chromatography. All of these measures found the stability of buffer-free formulations that included a disaccharide stabilizer comparable to buffer-based formulations, especially at protein concentrations up to and including 115 mg/mL. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Investigation of Air-Liquid Interface Rings in Buffer Preparation Vessels: the Role of Slip Agents.

PubMed

Shi, Ting; Ding, Wei; Kessler, Donald W; De Mas, Nuria; Weaver, Douglas G; Pathirana, Charles; Martin, Russell D; Mackin, Nancy A; Casati, Michael; Miller, Scott A; Pla, Itzcoatl A

2016-01-01

Air-liquid interface rings were observed on the side walls of stainless steel buffer vessels after certain downstream buffer preparations. Those rings were resistant to regular cleaning-in-place procedures but could be removed by manual means. To investigate the root cause of this issue, multiple analytical techniques, including liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry detection (LC-MS/MS), high-resolution accurate mass liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy have been employed to characterize the chemical composition of air-liquid interface rings. The main component of air-liquid interface rings was determined to be slip agents, and the origin of the slip agents can be traced back to their presence on raw material packaging liners. Slip agents are commonly used in plastic industry as additives to reduce the coefficient of friction during the manufacturing process of thin films. To mitigate this air-liquid interface ring issue, an alternate liner with low slip agent was identified and implemented with minimal additional cost. We have also proactively tested the packaging liners of other raw materials currently used in our downstream buffer preparation to ensure slip agent levels are appropriate. Air-liquid interface rings were observed on the side walls of stainless steel buffer vessels after certain downstream buffer preparations. To investigate the root cause of this issue, multiple analytical techniques have been employed to characterize the chemical composition of air-liquid interface rings. The main components of air-liquid interface rings were determined to be slip agents, which are common additives used in the manufacturing process of thin films. The origin of the slip agents can be traced back to their presence on certain raw material packaging liners. To mitigate this air-liquid interface ring issue, an alternate liner with low slip agent was identified and implemented. © PDA, Inc. 2016.

Effects of Coating Materials and Mineral Additives on Nitrate Reduction by Zerovalent Iron

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, K. H.; Jeong, H. Y.; Lee, S.; Kang, N.; Choi, H. J.; Park, M.

2015-12-01

In efforts to facilitate nitrate removal, a variety of coating materials and mineral additives were assessed for their effects on the nitrate reduction by zerovalent iron (ZVI). Coated ZVIs were prepared by reacting Fe particles with Cr(III), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and S(-II) solutions under anoxic conditions, with the resultant materials named Cr/Fe, Co/Fe, Ni/Fe, Cu/Fe, and FeS/Fe, respectively. The mineral additives used, synthesized or purchased, included goethite, magnetite, and hydrous ferric oxide (HFO). Kinetic experiments were performed using air-tight serum vials containing 1.0 g Fe (uncoated or coated forms) in 15 mL of 100 mg NO3×N/L solutions with pH buffered at 7.0. To monitor the reaction progress, the solution phase was analyzed for NO3-, NO2-, and NH4+ on an ion chromatography, while the headspace was analyzed for H2, N2, and O2 on a gas chromatography. By uncoated Fe, ca. 60% of nitrate was reductively transformed for 3.6 h, with NH4+ being the predominant product. Compared with uncoated one, Cr/Fe, Co/Fe, and Cu/Fe showed faster removal rates of nitrate. The observed reactivity enhancement was thought to result from additional reduction of nitrate by H atoms adsorbed on the surface of Cr, Co, or Cu metal. In contrast, both Ni/Fe and FeS/Fe showed slower removal of nitrate than uncoated Fe. In both cases, the coating, which highly disfavors the adsorption of nitrate, would form on the Fe surface. When goethite, HFO, and magnetite were amended, the nitrate reduction by Fe was significantly increased, with the effect being most evident with HFO. Although not capable of reducing nitrate, the mineral additives would serve as crystal nuclei for the corrosion products of Fe, thus making the development of passivation layers on the Fe surface less. In the future, we will perform a kinetic modeling of the experimental data to assess the relative contribution of multiple reaction paths in the nitrate reduction by Fe.

Oxidation-reduction potentials of molybdenum, flavin and iron-sulphur centres in milk xanthine oxidase.

PubMed Central

Cammack, R; Barber, M J; Bray, R C

1976-01-01

1. The mid-point reduction potentials of the various groups in xanthine oxidase from bovine milk were determined by potentiometric titration with dithionite in the presence of dye mediators, removing samples for quantification of the reduced species by e.p.r. (electron-paramagnetic-resonance) spectroscopy. The values obtained for the functional enzyme in pyrophosphate buffer, pH8.2, are: Fe/S centre I, -343 +/- 15mV; Fe/S II, -303 +/- 15mV; FAD/FADH-; -351 +/- 20mV; FADH/FADH2, -236 +/-mV; Mo(VI)/Mo(V) (Rapid), -355 +/- 20mV; Mo(V) (Rapid)/Mo(IV), -355 +/- 20mV. 2. Behaviour of the functional enzyme is essentially ideal in Tris but less so in pyrophosphate. In Tris, the potential for Mo(VI)/Mo(V) (Rapid) is lowered relative to that in pyrophosphate, but the potential for Fe/S II is raised. The influence of buffer on the potentials was investigated by partial-reduction experiments with six other buffers. 3. Conversion of the enzyme with cyanide into the non-functional form, which gives the Slow molybdenum signal, or alkylation of FAD, has little effect on the mid-point potentials of the other centres. The potentials associated with the Slow signal are: Mo(VI)/Mo(V) (Slow), -440 +/- 25mV; Mo(V) (Slow)/Mo(IV), -480 +/- 25 mV. This signal exhibits very sluggish equilibration with the mediator system. 4. The deviations from ideal behaviour are discussed in terms of possible binding of buffer ions or anti-co-operative interactions amongst the redox centres. PMID:183752

Attenuation of landfill leachate by UK Triassic sandstone aquifer materials. 1. Fate of inorganic pollutants in laboratory columns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thornton, Steven F.; Tellam, John H.; Lerner, David N.

2000-05-01

The attenuation of inorganic contaminants in acetogenic and methanogenic landfill leachate by calcareous and carbonate-deficient, oxide-rich Triassic sandstone aquifer materials from the English Midlands was examined in laboratory columns. Aqueous equilibrium speciation modelling, simple transport modelling and chemical mass balance approaches are used to evaluate the key processes and aquifer geochemical properties controlling contaminant fate. The results indicate that leachate-rock interactions are dominated by ion-exchange processes, acid-base and redox reactions and sorption/precipitation of metal species. Leachate NH 4 is attenuated by cation exchange with the aquifer sediments; however, NH 4 migration could be described with a simple model using retardation factors. Organic acids in the acetogenic leachate buffered the system pH at low levels during flushing of the calcareous aquifer material. In contrast, equilibrium with Al oxyhydroxide phases initially buffered pH (˜4.5) during flushing of the carbonate-deficient sandstone with methanogenic leachate. This led to the mobilisation of sorbed and oxide-bound heavy metals from the aquifer sediment which migrated as a concentrated pulse at the leachate front. Abiotic reductive dissolution of Mn oxyhydroxides on each aquifer material by leachate Fe 2+ maintains high concentrations of dissolved Mn and buffers the leachate inorganic redox system. This feature is analogous to the Mn-reducing zones found in leachate plumes and in the experiments provides a sink for the leachate Fe load and other heavy metals. The availability of reactive solid phase Mn oxyhydroxides limits the duration of redox buffering and Fe attenuation by these aquifer sediments. Aquifer pH and redox buffering capacity exert a fundamental influence on leachate inorganic contaminant fate in these systems. The implications for the assessment of aquifer vulnerability at landfills are discussed and simple measurements of aquifer properties which may improve the prediction of contaminant attenuation are outlined.

Preventive Effects of Lactobacillus Mixture on Experimental E. coli Urinary Tract Infection in Infant Rats

PubMed Central

Lee, Jung Won; Lee, Jee Hyun; Sung, Sun Hee

2013-01-01

Purpose Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an ascending infection of fecal uropathogens, urogenital lactobacilli are suggested to play a role in the prevention of UTI. This study was to investigate whether lactobacillus mixture (LM) could prevent the experimental infantile UTI. Materials and Methods The LM were composed of three lactobacillus strains (L. gasseri, L. rhamnosus, and L. reuteri). Mother rats were grouped as lactobacillus (LB) group I (LB I, n=22), II (LB II, n=24) and control (n=20). LB I and LB II were fed with LM (1 mL/day) and control with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) from late pregnancy through lactation. All newborn rats were breast-fed and their urine and stool were collected at the end of the 3rd week to compare lactobacillus colony. Then, infant rats from LB II were treated with intravesical instillation of LM. Infant rats from LB I and control were instilled with PBS. Twenty-four hours later, experimental UTI was introduced by intravesical instillation of standard E. coli strain. After 72 hours later, the infant rats were sacrificed for histologic examination. Results Lactobacilli colonies in urine and stool were not statistically different among the three groups. The incidence of pyelonephritis in the LB II was 16.7% (4/24), LB I 72.7% (16.22) and control 75.0% (15/20) (p=0.015). The incidence of cystitis was not significantly different among the three groups. Conclusion The intravesically instilled LM significantly prevented experimental pyelonephritis in infant rats, however, LM administered orally to the pregnant and lactating mother rats did not. PMID:23364986

Analysis of microbial populations, denitrification, and nitrous oxide production in riparian buffers

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Riparian buffers are used extensively to protect water bodies from nonpoint source nitrogen pollution. However there is relatively little information on the impact of these buffers on production of nitrous oxide (N2O). In this study, we assessed nitrous oxide production in riparian buffers of the so...

Comparison of Different Buffers for Protein Extraction from Formalin-Fixed and Paraffin-Embedded Tissue Specimens.

PubMed

Shen, Kaini; Sun, Jian; Cao, Xinxin; Zhou, Daobin; Li, Jian

2015-01-01

We determined the best extraction buffer for proteomic investigation using formalin-fixation and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) specimens. A Zwittergent 3-16 based buffer, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-containing buffer with/without polyethylene glycol 20000 (PEG20000), urea-containing buffer, and FFPE-FASP protein preparation kit were compared for protein extraction from different types of rat FFPE tissues, including the heart, brain, liver, lung, and kidney. All of the samples were divided into two groups of laser microdissected (LMD) and non-LMD specimens. For both kinds of specimens, Zwittergent was the most efficient buffer for identifying peptides and proteins, was broadly applicable to different tissues without impairing the enzymatic digestion, and was well compatible with mass spectrometry analysis. As a high molecular weight carrier substance, PEG20000 improved the identification of peptides and proteins; however, such an advantage is limited to tissues containing submicrograms to micrograms of protein. Considering its low lytic strength, urea-containing buffer would not be the first alternative for protein recovery. In conclusion, Zwittergent 3-16 is an effective buffer for extracting proteins from FFPE specimens for downstream proteomics analysis.

Cathode buffer composed of fullerene-ethylenediamine adduct for an organic solar cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kimoto, Yoshinori; Akiyama, Tsuyoshi; Fujita, Katsuhiko

2017-02-01

We developed a fullerene-ethylenediamine adduct (C60P-DC) for a cathode buffer material in organic bulk heterojunction solar cells, which enhance the open-circuit voltage (V oc). The evaporative spray deposition using ultra dilute solution (ESDUS) technique was employed to deposit the buffer layer onto the organic active layer to avoid damage during the deposition. By the insertion of a C60P-DC buffer layer, V oc and power conversion efficiency (PCE) were increased from 0.41 to 0.57 V and from 1.65 to 2.10%, respectively. The electron-only device with the C60P-DC buffer showed a much lower current level than that without the buffer, indicating that the V oc increase is caused not by vacuum level shift but by hole blocking. The curve fitting of current density-voltage (J-V) characteristics to the equivalent circuit with a single diode indicated that the decrease in reversed saturation current by hole blocking increased caused the V oc.

Temporal profile of the singlet oxygen emission endogenously produced by photosystem II reaction centre in an aqueous buffer.

PubMed

Li, Heng; Melø, Thor Bernt; Arellano, Juan B; Razi Naqvi, K

2012-04-01

The temporal profile of the phosphorescence of singlet oxygen endogenously photosensitized by photosystem II (PSII) reaction centre (RC) in an aqueous buffer has been recorded using laser excitation and a near infrared photomultiplier tube. A weak emission signal was discernible, and could be fitted to the functional form a[exp(-t/τ(2) - exp(-t/τ(1)], with a > 0 and τ(2) > τ(1). The value of τ(2) decreased from 11.6 ± 0.5 μs under aerobic conditions to 4.1 ± 0.2 μs in oxygen-saturated samples, due to enhanced bimolecular quenching of the donor triplet by oxygen, whereas that of τ(1), identifiable with the lifetime of singlet oxygen, was close to 3 μs in both cases. Extrapolations based on the low amplitude of the emission signal of singlet oxygen formed by PSII RC in the aqueous buffer and the expected values of τ(1) and τ(2) in chloroplasts indicate that attempts to analyse the temporal profile of singlet oxygen in chloroplasts are unlikely to be rewarded with success without a significant advance in the sensitivity of the detection equipment. © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2012

Amino Acid-Assisted Dehalogenation of Carbon Tetrachloride by Green Rust: Inhibition of Chloroform Production.

PubMed

Yin, Weizhao; Strobel, Bjarne W; B Hansen, Hans Christian

2017-03-21

Layered Fe II -Fe III hydroxides (green rusts, GRs) are promising reactants for reductive dechlorination of chlorinated solvents due to high reaction rates and the opportunity to inject reactive slurries of the compounds into contaminant plumes. However, it is necessary to develop strategies that reduce the formation of toxic byproducts such as chloroform (CF). In this study, carbon tetrachloride (CT) dehalogenation by the chloride form of GR (GR Cl ) was tested in the presence of glycine (GLY) and other selected amino acids. GLY, alanine (ALA), and serine (SER) all resulted in remarkable suppression of CF formation with only ∼10% of CF recovery while sarcosine (SAR) showed insignificant effects. For two nonamino acid buffers, TRIS had little effect while HEPES resulted in a 40 times lower rate constant compared to experiments in which no buffer was added. The Fe II complexing properties of the amino acids and buffers caused variable extents of GR Cl dissolution which was linearly correlated with CF suppression and dehalogenation rate. We hypothesize that the CF suppression seen for amino acids is caused by stabilization of carbene intermediates via the carbonyl group. Different effects on CF suppression and CT dehalogenation rate were expected because of the different structural and chemical properties of the amino acids.

Laser Raman spectra of mono-, oligo- and polysaccharides in solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barrett, T. W.

We examined the Raman spectra of thirteen sugars—seven monosaccharides, two disaccharides, one trisaccharide and three polysaccharides—in the wavelength range 200—1700 cm -1 and (i) varied the phosphate buffered solution from pH 6.0 to 8.5 at constant ionic strength of 0.1 and (ii) varied HCl solutions from pH 0.8 to 5.0. As is to be expected with molecules containing COH groupings, all the molecular spectra are distinct. Of the thirteen sugars examined, only D-fructose 1,6-diphosphate (FDP) demonstrated spectral changes for the pH range 6.0—8.5 in phosphate buffer; but all exhibited band intensity enhancement in HCl at the lower pHs, but not band wavenumber changes. The results indicate that: (i) changes in the pH of the major intracellular buffer, phosphate, toward acidity, are able to hydrolyze the 1-phosphate group of FDP and the relative concentration of fructose 1-phosphate to fructose 6-phosphate is indicated by the intensity ratio of the 982 and 1080 cm -1 bands; (ii) it appears that all phosphate groups of FDP are hydrolyzed at pH 0.8 in HCl; and (iii) although conditions of extreme acidity are able to hydrolyze other sugars examined, there is no major degradation.

Analysis of Natural Buffer Systems and the Impact of Acid Rain

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Powers, David C.; Yoder, Claude H.; Higgs, Andrew T.; Obley, Matt L.; Hess, Kenneth R.; Leber, Phyllis A.

2005-01-01

The environmental significance of acid rain on water systems of different buffer capacities is discussed. The most prevalent natural buffer system is created by the equilibrium between carbonate ions and carbon dioxide.

Optimized manual and automated recovery of amplifiable DNA from tissues preserved in buffered formalin and alcohol-based fixative.

PubMed

Duval, Kristin; Aubin, Rémy A; Elliott, James; Gorn-Hondermann, Ivan; Birnboim, H Chaim; Jonker, Derek; Fourney, Ron M; Frégeau, Chantal J

2010-02-01

Archival tissue preserved in fixative constitutes an invaluable resource for histological examination, molecular diagnostic procedures and for DNA typing analysis in forensic investigations. However, available material is often limited in size and quantity. Moreover, recovery of DNA is often severely compromised by the presence of covalent DNA-protein cross-links generated by formalin, the most prevalent fixative. We describe the evaluation of buffer formulations, sample lysis regimens and DNA recovery strategies and define optimized manual and automated procedures for the extraction of high quality DNA suitable for molecular diagnostics and genotyping. Using a 3-step enzymatic digestion protocol carried out in the absence of dithiothreitol, we demonstrate that DNA can be efficiently released from cells or tissues preserved in buffered formalin or the alcohol-based fixative GenoFix. This preparatory procedure can then be integrated to traditional phenol/chloroform extraction, a modified manual DNA IQ or automated DNA IQ/Te-Shake-based extraction in order to recover DNA for downstream applications. Quantitative recovery of high quality DNA was best achieved from specimens archived in GenoFix and extracted using magnetic bead capture.

van der Waals epitaxy of CdTe thin film on graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohanty, Dibyajyoti; Xie, Weiyu; Wang, Yiping; Lu, Zonghuan; Shi, Jian; Zhang, Shengbai; Wang, Gwo-Ching; Lu, Toh-Ming; Bhat, Ishwara B.

2016-10-01

van der Waals epitaxy (vdWE) facilitates the epitaxial growth of materials having a large lattice mismatch with the substrate. Although vdWE of two-dimensional (2D) materials on 2D materials have been extensively studied, the vdWE for three-dimensional (3D) materials on 2D substrates remains a challenge. It is perceived that a 2D substrate passes little information to dictate the 3D growth. In this article, we demonstrated the vdWE growth of the CdTe(111) thin film on a graphene buffered SiO2/Si substrate using metalorganic chemical vapor deposition technique, despite a 46% large lattice mismatch between CdTe and graphene and a symmetry change from cubic to hexagonal. Our CdTe films produce a very narrow X-ray rocking curve, and the X-ray pole figure analysis showed 12 CdTe (111) peaks at a chi angle of 70°. This was attributed to two sets of parallel epitaxy of CdTe on graphene with a 30° relative orientation giving rise to a 12-fold symmetry in the pole figure. First-principles calculations reveal that, despite the relatively small energy differences, the graphene buffer layer does pass epitaxial information to CdTe as the parallel epitaxy, obtained in the experiment, is energetically favored. The work paves a way for the growth of high quality CdTe film on a large area as well as on the amorphous substrates.

Selective removal of cesium from aqueous solutions with nickel (II) hexacyanoferrate (III) functionalized agricultural residue-walnut shell.

PubMed

Ding, Dahu; Lei, Zhongfang; Yang, Yingnan; Feng, Chuanping; Zhang, Zhenya

2014-04-15

A novel nickel (II) hexacyanoferrate (III) functionalized agricultural residue-walnut shell (Ni(II)HCF(III)-WS) was developed to selectively remove cesium ion (Cs(+)) from aqueous solutions. This paper showed the first integral study on Cs(+) removal behavior and waste reduction analysis by using biomass adsorption material. The results indicated that the removal process was rapid and reached saturation within 2h. As a special characteristic of Ni(II)HCF(III)-WS, acidic condition was preferred for Cs(+) removal, which was useful for extending the application scope of the prepared biomass material in treating acidic radioactive liquid waste. The newly developed Ni(II)HCF(III)-WS could selectively remove Cs(+) though the coexisting ions (Na(+) and K(+) in this study) exhibited negative effects. In addition, approximately 99.8% (in volume) of the liquid waste was reduced by using Ni(II)HCF(III)-WS and furthermore 91.9% (in volume) of the spent biomass material (Cs-Ni(II)HCF(III)-WS) was reduced after incineration (at 500°C for 2h). Due to its relatively high distribution coefficient and significant volume reduction, Ni(II)HCF(III)-WS is expected to be a promising material for Cs(+) removal in practice. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Field measurement of moisture-buffering model inputs for residential buildings

DOE PAGES

Woods, Jason; Winkler, Jon

2016-02-05

Moisture adsorption and desorption in building materials impact indoor humidity. This effect should be included in building-energy simulations, particularly when humidity is being investigated or controlled. Several models can calculate this moisture-buffering effect, but accurate ones require model inputs that are not always known to the user of the building-energy simulation. This research developed an empirical method to extract whole-house model inputs for the effective moisture penetration depth (EMPD) model. The experimental approach was to subject the materials in the house to a square-wave relative-humidity profile, measure all of the moisture-transfer terms (e.g., infiltration, air-conditioner condensate), and calculate the onlymore » unmeasured term—the moisture sorption into the materials. We validated this method with laboratory measurements, which we used to measure the EMPD model inputs of two houses. After deriving these inputs, we measured the humidity of the same houses during tests with realistic latent and sensible loads and demonstrated the accuracy of this approach. Furthermore, these results show that the EMPD model, when given reasonable inputs, is an accurate moisture-buffering model.« less

Specific Heat and Thermal Diffusivity of YBCO Coated Conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naito, Tomoyuki; Fujishiro, Hiroyuki; YasuhisaYamamura; Saito, Kazuya; Okamoto, Hiroshi; Hayashi, Hidemi; Gosho, Yoshihiro; Ohkuma, Takeshi; Shiohara, Yuh

We have measured the temperature dependence of specific heat,C(T), for Ag deposited YBCO coated conductor (YCC),YCC reinforced by a thin Cutape (YCC-Cu), andthe Hastelloy substrate with buffer layer. C(T) of HastelloyC-276 with buffer layer agrees well with the reported oneof HastelloyC-276, indicating that the contribution of the buffer layer to the measured C(T) is negligibly small. C(T)of both YCC and YCC-Cu tapes was successfully reproduced by the simple sum rule using the C(T) values reported for Hastelloy, Ag and Cu. The results demonstrate that C(T) of various YCC tapes can be estimated using the reported C(T)of constitutional materials. The estimated thermal diffusivity, a = K/C, at 300K of YCC, which was estimated using the thermal conductivity, K, did not agree with the reported a of Ag. This resultwas in consistent with the fact that the applied heat flew through the Aglayer, suggesting that a relation of a = K/Cfor homogeneous material cannot be applicable for the layered material such as YCC.

Quantitative analysis of flavonoids and phenolic acid in Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt. by capillary zone electrophoresis.

PubMed

Deng, Yong; Lam, Shing-Chung; Zhao, Jing; Li, Shao-Ping

2017-10-01

Capillary zone electrophoresis was developed for the simultaneous determination of five flavonoids and one phenolic acid, including taxifolin-7-O-glucoside, flavanomarein, quercetagetin-7-O-glucoside, okanin 4'-O-glucoside, okanin, and chlorogenic acid, in different parts and origins of Coreopsis tinctoria and its related species. Effects of acidity, running-buffer concentration, and modifier concentration were investigated to determine the optimum conditions for analyte determination. Analysis was performed within 18 min by using 50 mM borax buffer containing 15% acetonitrile as a modifier (pH 9.0) at 25 kV and 25°C. Hyperoside was used as internal standard for quantification. The method was accurate, simple, and repeatable, and was successfully applied to the analysis in 13 samples with satisfactory assay results. Results showed that C. tinctoria obviously differed from the related flower tea materials, "Hangju" and "Gongju". The parts (flowers, buds, seeds, stems, and leaves) of C. tinctoria also varied among one another. This study can serve as a foundation for the quality control and pharmacological evaluation of different parts of C. tinctoria and its related species. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

[Determination of glutamic acid in biological material by capillary electrophoresis].

PubMed

Narezhnaya, E; Krukier, I; Avrutskaya, V; Degtyareva, A; Igumnova, E A

2015-01-01

The conditions for the identification and determination of Glutamic acid by capillary zone electrophoresis without their preliminary derivatization have been optimized. The effect of concentration of buffer electrolyte and pH on determination of Glutamic acid has been investigated. It is shown that the 5 Mm borate buffer concentration and a pH 9.15 are optimal. Quantitative determination of glutamic acid has been carried out using a linear dependence between the concentration of the analyte and the area of the peak. The accuracy and reproducibility of the determination are confirmed by the method "introduced - found". Glutamic acid has been determined in the placenta homogenate. The duration of analysis doesn't exceed 30 minutes. The results showed a decrease in the level of glutamic acid in cases of pregnancy complicated by placental insufficiency compared with the physiological, and this fact allows to consider the level of glutamic acid as a possible marker of complicated pregnancy.

Featured collection introduction: riparian ecosystems and buffers II

EPA Science Inventory

Riparian ecosystems, the interface of terrestrial and aquatic systems, are zones of high biodiversity (Naiman et al., 1993), rapid biogeochemical activity (Vidon et al., 2010), complex hydrologic activity (Mayer et al., 2010a), and offer solace that can bestow significant mental ...

Comparison of CIGS solar cells made with different structures and fabrication techniques

DOE PAGES

Mansfield, Lorelle M.; Garris, Rebekah L.; Counts, Kahl D.; ...

2016-11-03

Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS)-based solar cells from six fabricators were characterized and compared. The devices had differing substrates, absorber deposition processes, buffer materials, and contact materials. The effective bandgaps of devices varied from 1.05 to 1.22 eV, with the lowest optical bandgaps occurring in those with metal-precursor absorber processes. Devices with Zn(O, S) or thin CdS buffers had quantum efficiencies above 90% down to 400 nm. Most voltages were 250-300 mV below the Shockley-Queisser limit for their bandgap. Electroluminescence intensity tracked well with the respective voltage deficits. Fill factor (FF) was as high as 95% of the maximum for each device'smore » respective current and voltage, with higher FF corresponding to lower diode quality factors (~1.3). An in-depth analysis of FF losses determined that diode quality reflected in the quality factor, voltage-dependent photocurrent, and, to a lesser extent, the parasitic resistances are the limiting factors. As a result, different absorber processes and device structures led to a range of electrical and physical characteristics, yet this investigation showed that multiple fabrication pathways could lead to high-quality and high-efficiency solar cells.« less

Comparison of CIGS solar cells made with different structures and fabrication techniques

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

Mansfield, Lorelle M.; Garris, Rebekah L.; Counts, Kahl D.

Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS)-based solar cells from six fabricators were characterized and compared. The devices had differing substrates, absorber deposition processes, buffer materials, and contact materials. The effective bandgaps of devices varied from 1.05 to 1.22 eV, with the lowest optical bandgaps occurring in those with metal-precursor absorber processes. Devices with Zn(O, S) or thin CdS buffers had quantum efficiencies above 90% down to 400 nm. Most voltages were 250-300 mV below the Shockley-Queisser limit for their bandgap. Electroluminescence intensity tracked well with the respective voltage deficits. Fill factor (FF) was as high as 95% of the maximum for each device'smore » respective current and voltage, with higher FF corresponding to lower diode quality factors (~1.3). An in-depth analysis of FF losses determined that diode quality reflected in the quality factor, voltage-dependent photocurrent, and, to a lesser extent, the parasitic resistances are the limiting factors. As a result, different absorber processes and device structures led to a range of electrical and physical characteristics, yet this investigation showed that multiple fabrication pathways could lead to high-quality and high-efficiency solar cells.« less

A pulse-shaping technique to investigate the behaviour of brittle materials subjected to plate-impact tests.

PubMed

Forquin, Pascal; Zinszner, Jean-Luc

2017-01-28

Owing to their significant hardness and compressive strengths, ceramic materials are widely employed for use with protective systems subjected to high-velocity impact loadings. Therefore, their mechanical behaviour along with damage mechanisms need to be significantly investigated as a function of loading rates. However, the classical plate-impact testing procedures produce shock loadings in the brittle sample material which cause unrealistic levels of loading rates. Additionally, high-pulsed power techniques and/or functionally graded materials used as flyer plates to smooth the loading pulse remain costly, and are generally difficult to implement. In this study, a shockless plate-impact technique based on the use of either a wavy-machined flyer plate or buffer plate that can be produced by chip-forming is proposed. A series of numerical simulations using an explicit transient dynamic finite-element code have been performed to design and validate the experimental testing configuration. The calculations, conducted in two-dimensional (2D) plane-strain or in 2D axisymmetric modes, prove that the 'wavy' contact surface will produce a pulse-shaping effect, whereas the buffer plate will produce a homogenizing effect of the stress field along the transverse direction of the sample. In addition, 'wavy-shape' geometries of different sizes provide an easy way to change the level of loading rate and rise time in an experimentally tested ceramic specimen. Finally, when a shockless compression loading method is applied to the sample, a Lagrangian analysis of data is made possible by considering an assemblage of ceramic plates of different thicknesses in the target, so the axial stress-strain response of the brittle sample material can be provided.This article is part of the themed issue 'Experimental testing and modelling of brittle materials at high strain rates'. © 2016 The Author(s).

A pulse-shaping technique to investigate the behaviour of brittle materials subjected to plate-impact tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Forquin, Pascal; Zinszner, Jean-Luc

2017-01-01

Owing to their significant hardness and compressive strengths, ceramic materials are widely employed for use with protective systems subjected to high-velocity impact loadings. Therefore, their mechanical behaviour along with damage mechanisms need to be significantly investigated as a function of loading rates. However, the classical plate-impact testing procedures produce shock loadings in the brittle sample material which cause unrealistic levels of loading rates. Additionally, high-pulsed power techniques and/or functionally graded materials used as flyer plates to smooth the loading pulse remain costly, and are generally difficult to implement. In this study, a shockless plate-impact technique based on the use of either a wavy-machined flyer plate or buffer plate that can be produced by chip-forming is proposed. A series of numerical simulations using an explicit transient dynamic finite-element code have been performed to design and validate the experimental testing configuration. The calculations, conducted in two-dimensional (2D) plane-strain or in 2D axisymmetric modes, prove that the `wavy' contact surface will produce a pulse-shaping effect, whereas the buffer plate will produce a homogenizing effect of the stress field along the transverse direction of the sample. In addition, `wavy-shape' geometries of different sizes provide an easy way to change the level of loading rate and rise time in an experimentally tested ceramic specimen. Finally, when a shockless compression loading method is applied to the sample, a Lagrangian analysis of data is made possible by considering an assemblage of ceramic plates of different thicknesses in the target, so the axial stress-strain response of the brittle sample material can be provided. This article is part of the themed issue 'Experimental testing and modelling of brittle materials at high strain rates'.

Simulating and evaluating best management practices for integrated landscape management scenarios in biofuel feedstock production

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

Ha, Miae; Wu, May

Sound crop and land management strategies can maintain land productivity and improve the environmental sustainability of agricultural crop and feedstock production. With this study, it evaluates a strategy of incorporating landscape design and management concepts into bioenergy feedstock production. It examines the effect of land conversion and agricultural best management practices (BMPs) on water quality (nutrients and suspended sediments) and hydrology. The strategy was applied to the watershed of the South Fork Iowa River in Iowa, where the focus was on converting low-productivity land to provide cellulosic biomass and implementing riparian buffers. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) wasmore » employed to simulate the impact at watershed and sub-basin scales. The study compared the representation of buffers by using trapping efficiency and area ratio methods in SWAT. Landscape design and management scenarios were developed to quantify water quality under (i) current land use, (ii) partial land conversion to switchgrass, and (iii) riparian buffer implementation. Results show that implementation of vegetative barriers and riparian buffer can trap the loss of total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and sediment significantly. The effect increases with the increase of buffer area coverage. Implementing riparian buffer at 30 m width is able to produce 4 million liters of biofuels. When low-productivity land (15.2% of total watershed land area) is converted to grow switchgrass, suspended sediment, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and nitrate loadings are reduced by 69.3%, 55.5%, 46.1%, and 13.4%, respectively. The results highlight the significant role of lower-productivity land and buffers in cellulosic biomass and provide insights into the design of an integrated landscape with a conservation buffer for future bioenergy feedstock production.« less

Simulating and evaluating best management practices for integrated landscape management scenarios in biofuel feedstock production

DOE PAGES

Ha, Miae; Wu, May

2015-09-08

Sound crop and land management strategies can maintain land productivity and improve the environmental sustainability of agricultural crop and feedstock production. With this study, it evaluates a strategy of incorporating landscape design and management concepts into bioenergy feedstock production. It examines the effect of land conversion and agricultural best management practices (BMPs) on water quality (nutrients and suspended sediments) and hydrology. The strategy was applied to the watershed of the South Fork Iowa River in Iowa, where the focus was on converting low-productivity land to provide cellulosic biomass and implementing riparian buffers. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) wasmore » employed to simulate the impact at watershed and sub-basin scales. The study compared the representation of buffers by using trapping efficiency and area ratio methods in SWAT. Landscape design and management scenarios were developed to quantify water quality under (i) current land use, (ii) partial land conversion to switchgrass, and (iii) riparian buffer implementation. Results show that implementation of vegetative barriers and riparian buffer can trap the loss of total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and sediment significantly. The effect increases with the increase of buffer area coverage. Implementing riparian buffer at 30 m width is able to produce 4 million liters of biofuels. When low-productivity land (15.2% of total watershed land area) is converted to grow switchgrass, suspended sediment, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and nitrate loadings are reduced by 69.3%, 55.5%, 46.1%, and 13.4%, respectively. The results highlight the significant role of lower-productivity land and buffers in cellulosic biomass and provide insights into the design of an integrated landscape with a conservation buffer for future bioenergy feedstock production.« less

Co(II)-doped MOF-5 nano/microcrystals: Solvatochromic behaviour, sensing solvent molecules and gas sorption property

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

Yang, Ji-Min; School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Linyi University, Linyi 276005; Liu, Qing

2014-10-15

Co(II)-doped MOF-5 nano/microcrystals with controllable morphology and size were successfully obtained by solvothermal method. The products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES), elemental analysis, UV–vis and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The factors influencing the crystal morphology and size were investigated. The gas sorption measurements reveal that highly crystalline particles have large Langmuir surface area. It was found that the Co(II)-doped MOF-5 shows enhanced hydrostability and the sorption profiles of the Co(II)-doped MOF-5 nano/microcrystals are dependent on the morphology and sizemore » of the particles. Porous Co(II)-doped MOF-5 is stable upon the removal of guest molecules and exhibits different colour with accommodating different solvent molecule, which means that it can act as solvatochromic sensing materials for recognition of solvent molecules. - Graphical abstract: Co(II)-doped MOF-5 nano/microcrystals with different shapes and sizes were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method, which not only enhance gas sorption properties and structural stability of MOFs towards moisture, but also act as new sensing materials for sensing small molecules. - Highlights: • Co(II)-doped MOF-5 nano/microcrystals with controllable morphology and size were obtained. • Co(II)-doped MOF-5 nano/microcrystals enhance the structural stability towards moisture. • Co(II)-doped MOF-5 can act as new sensing material for sensing small molecules.« less

Method for improving performance of high temperature superconductors within a magnetic field

DOEpatents

Wang, Haiyan; Foltyn, Stephen R.; Maiorov, Boris A.; Civale, Leonardo

2010-01-05

The present invention provides articles including a base substrate including a layer of an oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure layer thereon; and, a buffer layer upon the oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure layer, the buffer layer having an outwardly facing surface with a surface morphology including particulate outgrowths of from 10 nm to 500 run in size at the surface, such particulate outgrowths serving as flux pinning centers whereby the article maintains higher performance within magnetic fields than similar articles without the necessary density of such outgrowths.

META-ANALYSIS OF NITROGEN REMOVAL IN RIPARIAN BUFFERS

EPA Science Inventory

Riparian buffer zones, the vegetated region adjacent to streams and wetlands, are thought to be effective at intercepting and controlling nitrogen loads entering water bodies. Riparian buffer width may be positively related to nitrogen removal effectiveness by influencing nitrog...

Disruption of Autolysis in Bacillus subtilis using TiO2 Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

McGivney, Eric; Han, Linchen; Avellan, Astrid; VanBriesen, Jeanne; Gregory, Kelvin B.

2017-01-01

In contrast to many nanotoxicity studies where nanoparticles (NPs) are observed to be toxic or reduce viable cells in a population of bacteria, we observed that increasing concentration of TiO2 NPs increased the cell survival of Bacillus subtilis in autolysis-inducing buffer by 0.5 to 5 orders of magnitude over an 8 hour exposure. Molecular investigations revealed that TiO2 NPs prevent or delay cell autolysis, an important survival and growth-regulating process in bacterial populations. Overall, the results suggest two potential mechanisms for the disruption of autolysis by TiO2 NPs in a concentration dependent manner: (i) directly, through TiO2 NP deposition on the cell wall, delaying the collapse of the protonmotive-force and preventing the onset of autolysis; and (ii) indirectly, through adsorption of autolysins on TiO2 NP, limiting the activity of released autolysins and preventing further lytic activity. Enhanced darkfield microscopy coupled to hyperspectral analysis was used to map TiO2 deposition on B. subtilis cell walls and released enzymes, supporting both mechanisms of autolysis interference. The disruption of autolysis in B. subtilis cultures by TiO2 NPs suggests the mechanisms and kinetics of cell death may be influenced by nano-scale metal oxide materials, which are abundant in natural systems. PMID:28303908

Boswellia gum resin/chitosan polymer composites: Controlled delivery vehicles for aceclofenac.

PubMed

Jana, Sougata; Laha, Bibek; Maiti, Sabyasachi

2015-01-01

This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of Boswellia gum resin on the properties of glutaraldehyde (GA) crosslinked chitosan polymer composites and their potential as oral delivery vehicles for a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, aceclofenac. The incorporation of resinous material caused a significant improvement in drug entrapment efficiency (∼40%) of the polymer composites. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis confirmed the formation of chitosan-gum resin composites and did not show any evidence of drug-polymer chemical interaction. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) suggested the formation of particulate polymer composites up to chitosan:gum resin mass ratio of 1:3. Only 8-17% drug was released into HCl solution (pH 1.2) in 2h. The drug release rate of polymer composites was faster in phosphate buffer solution (pH 6.8). The composites released ∼60-68% drug load in 7h. In same duration, the drug release rate suddenly boosted up to 92% as the concentration of gum resin in the composites was raised to 80%. The drug release mechanism deviated from non-Fickian to case-II type with increasing resin concentration in the composites. Hence, GA-treated Boswellia resin-chitosan composites could be considered as alternative vehicles for oral delivery of aceclofenac. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization of homoionic Fe 2+-type montmorillonite: Potential chemical species of iron contaminant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kozai, Naofumi; Inada, Koichi; Adachi, Yoshifusa; Kawamura, Sachi; Kashimoto, Yusuke; Kozaki, Tamotsu; Sato, Seichi; Ohnuki, Toshihiko; Sakai, Takuro; Sato, Takahiro; Oikawa, Masakazu; Esaka, Fumitaka; Mitamura, Hisayoshi

2007-08-01

Fe 2+-montmorillonite with Fe 2+ ions occupying cation exchange sites is an ideal transformation product in bentonite buffer material. In our previous study on preparation and characterization of Fe 2+-montmorillonite, the montmorillonite sample that adsorbed Fe 2+ ions on almost all of the cation exchange sites was prepared using a FeCl 2 solution under an inert gas condition [N. Kozai, Y. Adachi, S. Kawamura, K. Inada, T. Kozaki, S. Sato, H. Ohashi, T. Ohnuki, T. Banba, J. Nucl. Sci. Technol. 38 (2001) 1141]. In view of the unstable nature of iron(II) chemical species, this study attempted to determine the potential contaminant iron chemical species in the sample. Nondestructive elemental analysis revealed that a small amount of chloride ions remained dispersed throughout the clay particles. The chloride ion retention may be due to the adsorption of FeCl + ion pairs in the initial FeCl 2 solution and the subsequent containment of the Cl - ions that are dissociated from the FeCl + ion pairs during excess salt removal treatment. Two explanations are advanced for the second process: the slow release of the remaining Cl - ions from the collapsed interlayer of the montmorillonite, and the transformation of a minor fraction of the remaining FeCl + ion pairs to iron(III) hydroxide chloride complexes having low solubility.

Accumulation of organic compounds leached from plastic materials used in biopharmaceutical process containers.

PubMed

Jenke, Dennis R; Zietlow, David; Garber, Mary Jo; Sadain, Salma; Reiber, Duane; Terbush, William

2007-01-01

Plastic materials are widely used in medical items, such as solution containers, transfusion sets, transfer tubing, and devices. An emerging trend in the biotechnology industry is the utilization of plastic containers to prepare, transport, and store an assortment of solutions including buffers, media, and in-process and finished product. The direct contact of such containers with the product at one or more points in its lifetime raises the possibility that container leachables may accumulate in the finished product. The interaction between several commercially available container materials and numerous model test solutions (representative of buffers and media used in biopharmaceutical applications) was investigated. This paper summarizes the identification of leachables associated with the container materials and documents the levels to which targeted leachables accumulate in the test solutions under defined storage conditions.

The effect of biogenic Fe(II) on the stability and sorption of Co(II)EDTA 2- to goethite and a subsurface sediment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zachara, John M.; Smith, Steven C.; Fredrickson, James K.

2000-04-01

Laboratory experiments were conducted with suspensions of goethite (α-FeOOH) and a subsurface sediment to assess the influence of bacterial iron reduction on the fate of Co(II)EDTA 2-, a representative metal-ligand complex of intermediate stability (log K Co(II)EDTA = 17.97). The goethite was synthetic (ca. 55 m 2/g) and the sediment was a Pleistocene age, Fe(III) oxide-containing material from the Atlantic coastal plain (Milford). Shewanella alga strain BrY, a dissimilatory iron reducing bacterium (DIRB), was used to promote Fe(III) oxide reduction. Sorption isotherms and pH adsorption edges were measured for Co 2+, Fe 2+, Co(II)EDTA 2-, and Fe(II)EDTA 2- on the two sorbents in 0.001 mol/L Ca(ClO 4) 2 to aid in experiment interpretation. Anoxic suspensions of the sorbents in PIPES buffer at pH 6.5-7.0 were spiked with Co(II)EDTA 2- (10 -5 mol/L, 60Co and 14EDTA labeled), inoculated with BrY (1-6 × 10 8 organisms/mL), and the headspace filled with a N 2/H 2 gas mix. The experiments were conducted under non-growth conditions. The medium did not contain PO 43- (with one exception), trace elements, or vitamins. The tubes were incubated under anoxic conditions at 25°C for time periods in excess of 100 d. Replicate tubes were sacrificed and analyzed at desired time periods for pH, Fe(II) TOT, Fe (aq)2+, 60Co, and 14EDTA. Abiotic analogue experiments were conducted where Fe (aq)2+ was added in increasing concentration to Co(II)EDTA 2-/mineral suspensions to simulate the influence of bacterial Fe(II) evolution. The DIRB generated Fe(II) from both goethite and the Milford sediment that was strongly sorbed by mineral surfaces. Aqueous Fe 2+ increased during the experiment as surfaces became saturated; Fe (aq)2+ induced the dissociation of Co(II)EDTA 2- into a mixture of Co 2+, Co(II)EDTA 2-, and Fe(II)EDTA 2- (log K Fe(II)EDTA = 15.98). The extent of dissociation of Co(II)EDTA 2- was greater in the subsurface sediment because it sorbed Fe(II) less strongly than did goethite. The post dissociation sorption behavior of Co 2+ was dependent on pH and the intrinsic sorptivity of the solid phases. Dissociation generally lead to an increase in the sorption (e.g., K d) of Co 2+ relative to EDTA 4- (form unspecified). Sorbed biogenic Fe(II) competed with free Co (aq)2+and reduced its sorption relative to unreduced material. It is concluded that cationic radionuclides such as 60Co or 239/240Pu, which may be mobilized from disposed wastes by complexation with EDTA 4-, may become immobilized in groundwater zones where dissimilatory bacterial iron reduction is operative.

Design of optimal buffer layers for CuInGaSe2 thin-film solar cells(Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lordi, Vincenzo; Varley, Joel B.; He, Xiaoqing; Rockett, Angus A.; Bailey, Jeff; Zapalac, Geordie H.; Mackie, Neil; Poplavskyy, Dmitry; Bayman, Atiye

2016-09-01

Optimizing the buffer layer in manufactured thin-film PV is essential to maximize device efficiency. Here, we describe a combined synthesis, characterization, and theory effort to design optimal buffers based on the (Cd,Zn)(O,S) alloy system for CIGS devices. Optimization of buffer composition and absorber/buffer interface properties in light of several competing requirements for maximum device efficiency were performed, along with process variations to control the film and interface quality. The most relevant buffer properties controlling performance include band gap, conduction band offset with absorber, dopability, interface quality, and film crystallinity. Control of an all-PVD deposition process enabled variation of buffer composition, crystallinity, doping, and quality of the absorber/buffer interface. Analytical electron microscopy was used to characterize the film composition and morphology, while hybrid density functional theory was used to predict optimal compositions and growth parameters based on computed material properties. Process variations were developed to produce layers with controlled crystallinity, varying from amorphous to fully epitaxial, depending primarily on oxygen content. Elemental intermixing between buffer and absorber, particularly involving Cd and Cu, also is controlled and significantly affects device performance. Secondary phase formation at the interface is observed for some conditions and may be detrimental depending on the morphology. Theoretical calculations suggest optimal composition ranges for the buffer based on a suite of computed properties and drive process optimizations connected with observed film properties. Prepared by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Electrophoretic characterization of aldehyde-fixed red blood cells, kidney cells, lynphocytes and chamber coatings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

Ground-based electrokinetic data on the electrophoresis flight experiment to be flown on the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project experiment MA-011 are stipulated. Aldehyde-fixed red blood cells, embryonic kidney cells and lymphocytes were evaluated by analytical particle electrophoresis. The results which aided in the interpretation of the final analysis of the MA-011 experiment are documented. The electrophoresis chamber surface modifications, the buffer, and the material used in the column system are also discussed.

Installation Restoration General Environmental Technology Development. Task 6. Materials Handling of Explosive Contaminated Soil and Sediment.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-06-01

of chemical analysis and sensitivity testing on material samples . At this 4 time, these samples must be packaged and...preparation at a rate of three samples per hour. One analyst doing both sample preparation and the HPLC analysis can run 16 samples in an 8-hour day. II... study , sensitivity testing was reviewed to enable recommendations for complete analysis of contaminated soils. Materials handling techniques,

Comparison of Different Buffers for Protein Extraction from Formalin-Fixed and Paraffin-Embedded Tissue Specimens

PubMed Central

Shen, Kaini; Sun, Jian; Cao, Xinxin; Zhou, Daobin; Li, Jian

2015-01-01

We determined the best extraction buffer for proteomic investigation using formalin-fixation and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) specimens. A Zwittergent 3–16 based buffer, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-containing buffer with/without polyethylene glycol 20000 (PEG20000), urea-containing buffer, and FFPE-FASP protein preparation kit were compared for protein extraction from different types of rat FFPE tissues, including the heart, brain, liver, lung, and kidney. All of the samples were divided into two groups of laser microdissected (LMD) and non-LMD specimens. For both kinds of specimens, Zwittergent was the most efficient buffer for identifying peptides and proteins, was broadly applicable to different tissues without impairing the enzymatic digestion, and was well compatible with mass spectrometry analysis. As a high molecular weight carrier substance, PEG20000 improved the identification of peptides and proteins; however, such an advantage is limited to tissues containing submicrograms to micrograms of protein. Considering its low lytic strength, urea-containing buffer would not be the first alternative for protein recovery. In conclusion, Zwittergent 3–16 is an effective buffer for extracting proteins from FFPE specimens for downstream proteomics analysis. PMID:26580073

Tokamak experimental power reactor conceptual design. Volume II

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

Not Available

1976-08-01

Volume II contains the following appendices: (1) summary of EPR design parameters, (2) impurity control, (3) plasma computational models, (4) structural support system, (5) materials considerations for the primary energy conversion system, (6) magnetics, (7) neutronics penetration analysis, (8) first wall stress analysis, (9) enrichment of isotopes of hydrogen by cryogenic distillation, and (10) noncircular plasma considerations. (MOW)

Improvement of Starch Digestion Using α-Amylase Entrapped in Pectin-Polyvinyl Alcohol Blend

PubMed Central

Cruz, Maurício; Fernandes, Kátia; Cysneiros, Cristine; Nassar, Reginaldo; Caramori, Samantha

2015-01-01

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and pectin blends were used to entrap α-amylase (Termamyl) using glutaraldehyde as a cross-linker. The effect of glutaraldehyde concentration (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.25%) on the activity of the immobilized enzyme and rate of enzyme released was tested during a 24 h period. Characteristics of the material, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile strength (TS), elongation, and rate of dissolution in water (pH 5.7), ruminal buffering solution (pH 7.0), and reactor containing 0.1 mol L−1 sodium phosphate buffer (pH 6.5), were also analyzed. SEM results showed that the surfaces of the pectin/PVA/amylase films were highly irregular and rough. TS values increased as a function of glutaraldehyde concentration, whereas percentage of elongation (%E) decreased. Pectin/PVA/amylase films presented similar values of solubility in the tested solvents. The material obtained with 0.25% glutaraldehyde performed best with repeated use (active for 24 h), in a phosphate buffer reactor. By contrast, the material obtained with 1.25% glutaraldehyde presented higher performance during in vitro testing using an artificial rumen. The results suggest that pectin/PVA/amylase is a highly promising material for biotechnological applications. PMID:25949991

Interlaminar shear fracture toughness and fatigue thresholds for composite materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Obrien, T. Kevin; Murri, Gretchen B.; Salpekar, Satish A.

1987-01-01

Static and cyclic end notched flexure tests were conducted on a graphite epoxy, a glass epoxy, and graphite thermoplastic to determine their interlaminar shear fracture toughness and fatigue thresholds for delamination in terms of limiting values of the mode II strain energy release rate, G-II, for delamination growth. The influence of precracking and data reduction schemes are discussed. Finite element analysis indicated that the beam theory calculation for G-II with the transverse shear contribution included was reasonably accurate over the entire range of crack lengths. Cyclic loading significantly reduced the critical G-II for delamination. A threshold value of the maximum cyclic G-II below which no delamination occurred after one million cycles was identified for each material. Also, residual static toughness tests were conducted on glass epoxy specimens that had undergone one million cycles without delamination. A linear mixed-mode delamination criteria was used to characterize the static toughness of several composite materials; however, a total G threshold criterion appears to characterize the fatigue delamination durability of composite materials with a wide range of static toughness.

Use of tin-117m to study the role of tin in the direct labeling of proteins with rhenium-188

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

Dadachova, E.; Mirzadeh, S.; Knapp, F.F. Jr.

1996-05-01

Sn-117m provided an opportunity to study the effect of [Sn(II)] on the complexation of carrier-free Re-188, radiolabeling efficiency and incorporation of Sn into reduced IgG. Endogenous thiols of the IgG were exposed using dithiothreitol. Reduction of Re-188 was achieved with SnCl{sub 2} [spiked with Sn-117m(II)] in either gluconate(Glu) or citrate(Cit) buffer at pH=4.2. Concentration of Sn(II) varied from 5x10{sup -4} to 1 mg per mg protein. Complexation of reduced Re-188 was monitored by ITLC-SG, and protein was monitored by HPLC. Complexation of Re-188 at [Sn(II)]=5x10{sup -4} mg was higher in Cit (20%) than in Glu (10%); at 5x10{sup -2} mgmore » - 50% in both buffers; and at 1 mg - higher in Glu (95%) than in Cit (60%). The efficiency of protein labeling was considerably higher in Glu than in Cit for the entire range of [Sn(II)]. Experiments with Sn-117m demonstrated that the absolute amount of Sn(II) associated with protein increased with increasing [Sn(II)], and distinct saturation levels were found for both Glu and Cit. Saturation levels were 6.4 and 33 {mu}g of Sn/mg of protein for Flu and Cit, respectively (19 and 48% incorporation). For all [Sn(II)] studied, the amount of Sn bound to the protein was 5-10 times higher in Cit than in Glu. In summary, Glu seems to release Re for transchelation to the protein more readily than Cit. Simultaneously, it complexes Sn(II) more efficiently than Cit thus preventing competition between Re and Sn for thiol groups. These data provide additional insights into the mechanism of direct labeling of proteins with carrier-free Re-188 as well as into the choice of supporting ligand for direct labeling.« less

On the delay analysis of a TDMA channel with finite buffer capacity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yan, T.-Y.

1982-01-01

The throughput performance of a TDMA channel with finite buffer capacity for transmitting data messages is considered. Each station has limited message buffer capacity and has Poisson message arrivals. Message arrivals will be blocked if the buffers are congested. Using the embedded Markov chain model, the solution procedure for the limiting system-size probabilities is presented in a recursive fashion. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the tradeoffs between the blocking probabilities and the buffer sizing strategy.

Redox Cycling, pH Dependence, and Ligand Effects of Mn(III) in Oxalate Decarboxylase from Bacillus subtilis.

PubMed

Twahir, Umar T; Ozarowski, Andrew; Angerhofer, Alexander

2016-11-29

This contribution describes electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) experiments on Mn(III) in oxalate decarboxylase of Bacillus subtilis, an interesting enzyme that catalyzes the redox-neutral dissociation of oxalate into formate and carbon dioxide. Chemical redox cycling provides strong evidence that both Mn centers can be oxidized, although the N-terminal Mn(II) appears to have the lower reduction potential and is most likely the carrier of the +3 oxidation state under moderate oxidative conditions, in agreement with the general view that it represents the active site. Significantly, Mn(III) was observed in untreated OxDC in succinate and acetate buffers, while it could not be directly observed in citrate buffer. Quantitative analysis showed that up to 16% of the EPR-visible Mn is in the +3 oxidation state at low pH in the presence of succinate buffer. The fine structure and hyperfine structure parameters of Mn(III) are affected by small carboxylate ligands that can enter the active site and have been recorded for formate, acetate, and succinate. The results from a previous report [Zhu, W., et al. (2016) Biochemistry 55, 429-434] could therefore be reinterpreted as evidence of formate-bound Mn(III) after the enzyme is allowed to turn over oxalate. The pH dependence of the Mn(III) EPR signal compares very well with that of enzymatic activity, providing strong evidence that the catalytic reaction of oxalate decarboxylase is driven by Mn(III), which is generated in the presence of dioxygen.

Nanophase iron phosphate, iron arsenate, iron vanadate, and iron molybdate minerals synthesized within the protein cage of ferritin.

PubMed

Polanams, Jup; Ray, Alisha D; Watt, Richard K

2005-05-02

Nanoparticles of iron phosphate, iron arsenate, iron molybdate, and iron vanadate were synthesized within the 8 nm interior of ferritin. The synthesis involved reacting Fe(II) with ferritin in a buffered solution at pH 7.4 in the presence of phosphate, arsenate, vanadate, or molybdate. O2 was used as the oxidant to deposit the Fe(III) mineral inside ferritin. The rate of iron incorporation into ferritin was stimulated when oxo-anions were present. The simultaneous deposition of both iron and the oxo-anion was confirmed by elemental analysis and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. The ferritin samples containing iron and one of the oxo-anions possessed different UV/vis spectra depending on the anion used during mineral formation. TEM analysis showed mineral cores with approximately 8 nm mineral particles consistent with the formation of mineral phases inside ferritin.

24 CFR 200.942 - Supplementary specific procedural requirements under HUD building product standards and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... the following standards: (i) AATCC 20A-81—Fiber Analysis: Quantitative; (ii) AATCC 16E-82... 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709; (ii) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 1916...

24 CFR 200.942 - Supplementary specific procedural requirements under HUD building product standards and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... the following standards: (i) AATCC 20A-81—Fiber Analysis: Quantitative; (ii) AATCC 16E-82... 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709; (ii) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 1916...

24 CFR 200.942 - Supplementary specific procedural requirements under HUD building product standards and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... the following standards: (i) AATCC 20A-81—Fiber Analysis: Quantitative; (ii) AATCC 16E-82... 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709; (ii) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 1916...

24 CFR 200.942 - Supplementary specific procedural requirements under HUD building product standards and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... the following standards: (i) AATCC 20A-81—Fiber Analysis: Quantitative; (ii) AATCC 16E-82... 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709; (ii) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 1916...

24 CFR 200.942 - Supplementary specific procedural requirements under HUD building product standards and...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... the following standards: (i) AATCC 20A-81—Fiber Analysis: Quantitative; (ii) AATCC 16E-82... 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709; (ii) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 1916...

Optimizing total reflection X-ray fluorescence for direct trace element quantification in proteins I: Influence of sample homogeneity and reflector type

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wellenreuther, G.; Fittschen, U. E. A.; Achard, M. E. S.; Faust, A.; Kreplin, X.; Meyer-Klaucke, W.

2008-12-01

Total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) is a very promising method for the direct, quick and reliable multi-elemental quantification of trace elements in protein samples. With the introduction of an internal standard consisting of two reference elements, scandium and gallium, a wide range of proteins can be analyzed, regardless of their salt content, buffer composition, additives and amino acid composition. This strategy also enables quantification of matrix effects. Two potential issues associated with drying have been considered in this study: (1) Formation of heterogeneous residues of varying thickness and/or density; and (2) separation of the internal standard and protein during drying (which has to be prevented to allow accurate quantification). These issues were investigated by microbeam X-ray fluorescence (μXRF) with special emphasis on (I) the influence of sample support and (II) the protein / buffer system used. In the first part, a model protein was studied on well established sample supports used in TXRF, PIXE and XRF (Mylar, siliconized quartz, Plexiglas and silicon). In the second part we imaged proteins of different molecular weight, oligomerization state, bound metals and solubility. A partial separation of protein and internal standard was only observed with untreated silicon, suggesting it may not be an adequate support material. Siliconized quartz proved to be the least prone to heterogeneous drying of the sample and yielded the most reliable results.

49 CFR 180.413 - Repair, modification, stretching, rebarrelling, or mounting of specification cargo tanks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Transportation PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HAZARDOUS MATERIALS REGULATIONS CONTINUING QUALIFICATION AND MAINTENANCE OF PACKAGINGS Qualification and Maintenance... respect to structural design analysis, material and welding procedures. (ii) Assure compliance of the...

Temporal characteristics of nitric oxide-, prostaglandin-, and EDHF-mediated components of endothelium-dependent vasodilation in the kidney.

PubMed

Dautzenberg, Marcel; Just, Armin

2013-11-01

Endothelium-dependent vasodilation is mediated by nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandins (PG), and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). We studied the contributions and temporal characteristics of these components in the renal vasodilator responses to acetylcholine (ACh) and bradykinin (BK) and in the buffering of vasoconstrictor responses to norepinephrine (NE) and angiotensin II (ANG II). Renal blood flow (RBF) and vascular conductance (RVC) were studied in anesthetized rats in response to renal arterial bolus injections before and after inhibition of NO-synthase (N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, L-NAME), cyclooxygenase (indomethacin, INDO), or both. ACh increased RVC peaking at maximal time (tmax) = 29 s. L-NAME (n = 8) diminished the integrated response and made it substantially faster (tmax = 18 s). The point-by-point difference caused by L-NAME (= NO component) integrated to 74% of control and was much slower (tmax = 38 s). INDO (n = 9) reduced the response without affecting tmax (36 vs. 30 s). The difference (= PG) reached 21% of the control with tmax = 25 s. L-NAME+INDO (n = 17) reduced the response to 18% and markedly accelerated tmax to 16s (= EDHF). Results were similar for BK with slightly more PG and less NO contribution than for ACh. Constrictor responses to NE and ANG II were augmented and decelerated by L-NAME and L-NAME+INDO. The calculated difference (= buffering by NO or NO+PG) was slower than the constriction. It is concluded that NO, PG, and EDHF contribute >50%, 20-40%, and <20% to the renal vasodilator effect of ACh and BK, respectively. EDHF acts substantially faster and less sustained (tmax = 16 s) than NO and PG (tmax = 30 s). Constrictor buffering by NO and PG is not constant over time, but renders the constriction less sustained.

Survey Probe Infrared Celestial Experiment (SPICE).

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-01-01

amplitude modulation (PAM) Word clock Bit clock 3.1.2.3.2 Each signal shall be buffered and short- circuit proofed and capable of delivering a signal...TABLE OF CONTENTS I Appendix A I SPICE II Electronic Test Report Appendix B VC409-OOOl Pulse Code Modulator Specification - SPICE I VC409-OOOl-21 Pulse...Code Modulator Specification - SPICE II Appendix C - Specifications AA0209-103 Evacuation AA0209-104 Cryogen Filling AA0209-105 Leak Rate AA0209-106

Design, syntheses, characterization, and cytotoxicity studies of novel heterobinuclear oxindolimine copper(II)-platinum(II) complexes.

PubMed

Aranda, Esther Escribano; Matias, Tiago Araújo; Araki, Koiti; Vieira, Adriana Pires; de Mattos, Elaine Andrade; Colepicolo, Pio; Luz, Carolina Portela; Marques, Fábio Luiz Navarro; da Costa Ferreira, Ana Maria

2016-12-01

Herein, the design and syntheses of two new mononuclear oxindolimine-copper(II) (1 and 2) and corresponding heterobinuclear oxindolimine Cu(II)Pt(II) complexes (3 and 4), are described. All the isolated complexes were characterized by spectroscopic techniques (UV/Vis, IR, EPR), in addition to elemental analysis and mass spectrometry. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements showed that in all cases, one-electron quasi-reversible waves were observed, and ascribed to the formation of corresponding copper(I) complexes. Additionally, waves related to oxindolimine ligand reduction was verified, and confirmed using analogous oxindolimine-Zn(II) complexes. The Pt(IV/II) reduction, and corresponding oxidation, for complexes 3 and 4 occurred at very close values to those observed for cisplatin. By complementary fluorescence studies, it was shown that glutathione (GSH) cannot reduce any of these complexes, under the experimental conditions (room temperature, phosphate buffer 50mM, pH7.4), using an excess of 20-fold [GSH]. All these complexes showed characteristic EPR spectral profile, with parameters values g ǁ >g ⊥ suggesting an axially distorted environment around the copper(II) center. Interactions with calf thymus-DNA, monitored by circular dichroism (CD), indicated different effects modulated by the ligands. Finally, the cytotoxicity of each complex was tested toward different tumor cells, in comparison to cisplatin, and low values of IC 50 in the range 0.6 to 4.0μM were obtained, after 24 or 48h incubation at 37°C. The obtained results indicate that such complexes can be promising alternative antitumor agents. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Disruption of HLA class II antigen presentation in Burkitt lymphoma: implication of a 47 000 MW acid labile protein in CD4+ T-cell recognition

PubMed Central

God, Jason M; Zhao, Dan; Cameron, Christine A; Amria, Shereen; Bethard, Jennifer R; Haque, Azizul

2014-01-01

While Burkitt lymphoma (BL) has a well-known defect in HLA class I-mediated antigen presentation, the exact role of BL-associated HLA class II in generating a poor CD4+ T-cell response remains unresolved. Here, we found that BL cells are deficient in their ability to optimally stimulate CD4+ T cells via the HLA class II pathway. This defect in CD4+ T-cell recognition was not associated with low levels of co-stimulatory molecules on BL cells, as addition of external co-stimulation failed to elicit CD4+ T-cell activation by BL. Further, the defect was not caused by faulty antigen/class II interaction, because antigenic peptides bound with measurable affinity to BL-associated class II molecules. Interestingly, functional class II–peptide complexes were formed at acidic pH 5·5, which restored immune recognition. Acidic buffer (pH 5·5) eluate from BL cells contained molecules that impaired class II-mediated antigen presentation and CD4+ T-cell recognition. Biochemical analysis showed that these molecules were greater than 30 000 molecular weight in size, and proteinaceous in nature. In addition, BL was found to have decreased expression of a 47 000 molecular weight enolase-like molecule that enhances class II-mediated antigen presentation in B cells, macrophages and dendritic cells, but not in BL cells. These findings demonstrate that BL likely has multiple defects in HLA class II-mediated antigen presentation and immune recognition, which may be exploited for future immunotherapies. PMID:24628049

A combined method for DNA analysis and radiocarbon dating from a single sample.

PubMed

Korlević, Petra; Talamo, Sahra; Meyer, Matthias

2018-03-07

Current protocols for ancient DNA and radiocarbon analysis of ancient bones and teeth call for multiple destructive samplings of a given specimen, thereby increasing the extent of undesirable damage to precious archaeological material. Here we present a method that makes it possible to obtain both ancient DNA sequences and radiocarbon dates from the same sample material. This is achieved by releasing DNA from the bone matrix through incubation with either EDTA or phosphate buffer prior to complete demineralization and collagen extraction utilizing the acid-base-acid-gelatinization and ultrafiltration procedure established in most radiocarbon dating laboratories. Using a set of 12 bones of different ages and preservation conditions we demonstrate that on average 89% of the DNA can be released from sample powder with minimal, or 38% without any, detectable collagen loss. We also detect no skews in radiocarbon dates compared to untreated samples. Given the different material demands for radiocarbon dating (500 mg of bone/dentine) and DNA analysis (10-100 mg), combined DNA and collagen extraction not only streamlines the sampling process but also drastically increases the amount of DNA that can be recovered from limited sample material.

pH-Dependent Solubility and Dissolution Behavior of Carvedilol--Case Example of a Weakly Basic BCS Class II Drug.

PubMed

Hamed, Rania; Awadallah, Areeg; Sunoqrot, Suhair; Tarawneh, Ola; Nazzal, Sami; AlBaraghthi, Tamadur; Al Sayyad, Jihan; Abbas, Aiman

2016-04-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the pH-dependent solubility and dissolution of weakly basic Biopharmaceutical Classification Systems (BCS) class II drugs, characterized by low solubility and high permeability, using carvedilol, a weak base with a pK a value of 7.8, as a model drug. A series of solubility and in vitro dissolution studies was carried out using media that simulate the gastric and intestinal fluids and cover the physiological pH range of the GI from 1.2 to 7.8. The effect of ionic strength, buffer capacity, and buffer species of the dissolution media on the solubility and dissolution behavior of carvedilol was also investigated. The study revealed that carvedilol exhibited a typical weak base pH-dependent solubility profile with a high solubility at low pH (545.1-2591.4 μg/mL within the pH range 1.2-5.0) and low solubility at high pH (5.8-51.9 μg/mL within the pH range 6.5-7.8). The dissolution behavior of carvedilol was consistent with the solubility results, where carvedilol release was complete (95.8-98.2% released within 60 min) in media simulating the gastric fluid (pH 1.2-5.0) and relatively low (15.9-86.2% released within 240 min) in media simulating the intestinal fluid (pH 6.5-7.8). It was found that the buffer species of the dissolution media may influence the solubility and consequently the percentage of carvedilol released by forming carvedilol salts of varying solubilities. Carvedilol solubility and dissolution decreased with increasing ionic strength, while lowering the buffer capacity resulted in a decrease in carvedilol solubility and dissolution rate.

Impact evaluation of green-grey infrastructure interaction on built-space integrity: an emerging perspective to urban ecosystem service.

PubMed

Tiwary, Abhishek; Kumar, Prashant

2014-07-15

This paper evaluates the role of urban green infrastructure (GI) in maintaining integrity of built-space. The latter is considered as a lateral ecosystem function, worth including in future assessments of integrated ecosystem services. The basic tenet is that integrated green-grey infrastructures (GGIs) would have three influences on built-spaces: (i) reduced wind withering from flow deviation; (ii) reduced material corrosion/degeneration from pollution removal; and (iii) act as a biophysical buffer in altering the micro-climate. A case study is presented, combining the features of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in micro-environmental modelling with the emerging science on interactions of GGIs. The coupled seasonal dynamics of the above three effects are assessed for two building materials (limestone and steel) using the following three scenarios: (i) business as usual (BAU), (ii) summer (REGEN-S), and (iii) winter (REGEN-W). Apparently, integrated ecosystem service from green-grey interaction, as scoped in this paper, has strong seasonal dependence. Compared to BAU our results suggest that REGEN-S leads to slight increment in limestone recession (<10%), mainly from exacerbation in ozone damage, while large reduction in steel recession (up to 37%) is observed. The selection of vegetation species, especially their bVOC emission potential and seasonal foliage profile, appears to play a vital role in determining the impact GI has on the integrity of the neighbouring built-up environment. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sequential determination of nickel and cadmium in tobacco, molasses and refill solutions for e-cigarettes samples by molecular fluorescence.

PubMed

Talio, María Carolina; Alesso, Magdalena; Acosta, Mariano; Wills, Verónica S; Fernández, Liliana P

2017-11-01

In this work, a new procedure was developed for separation and preconcentration of nickel(II) and cadmium(II) in several and varied tobacco samples. Tobacco samples were selected considering the main products consumed by segments of the population, in particular the age (youth) and lifestyle of the consumer. To guarantee representative samples, a randomized strategy of sampling was used. In the first step, a chemofiltration on nylon membrane is carried out employing eosin (Eo) and carbon nanotubes dispersed in sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) solution (phosphate buffer pH 7). In this condition, Ni(II) was selectively retained on the solid support. After that, the filtrate liquid with Cd(II) was re-conditioned with acetic acid /acetate buffer solution (pH 5) and followed by detection. A spectrofluorimetric determination of both metals was carried out, on the solid support and the filtered aqueous solution, for Ni(II) and Cd(II), respectively. The solid surface fluorescence (SSF) determination was performed at λ em = 545nm (λ ex = 515nm) for Ni(II)-Eo complex and the fluorescence of Cd(II)-Eo was quantified in aqueous solution using λ em = 565nm (λ ex = 540nm). The calibration graphs resulted linear in a range of 0.058-29.35μgL -1 for Ni(II) and 0.124-56.20μgL -1 for Cd(II), with detection limits of 0.019 and 0.041μgL -1 (S/N = 3). The developed methodology shows good sensitivity and adequate selectivity, and it was successfully applied to the determination of trace amounts of nickel and cadmium present in tobacco samples (refill solutions for e-cigarettes, snuff used in narguille (molasses) and traditional tobacco) with satisfactory results. The new methodology was validated by ICP-MS with adequate agreement. The proposed methodology represents a novel fluorescence application to Ni(II) and Cd(II) quantification with sensitivity and accuracy similar to atomic spectroscopies, introducing for the first time the quenching effect on SSF. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Inhibitory effects of Indigofera aspalathoides on 20-methylcholanthrene-induced chemical carcinogenesis in rats

PubMed Central

Kumar, S. Selva; Karrunakaran, C. M.; Rao, M. R. K.; Balasubramanian, M. P.

2011-01-01

Background: The anticancer and antioxidant effects of the aqueous extract of Indigofera aspalathoides on 20-methylcholanthrene (20-MCA) induced fibrosarcoma were investigated in male albino rats. Materials and Methods: The rats were divided into four different groups, each group consisting of six animals. Group I animals were served as normal control, Group II animals were fibrosarcoma-bearing animals after the incubation period, Group III animals were fibrosarcoma-bearing animals, treated with aqueous extract of I. aspalathoides intraperitoneally at a dose of 250 mg/kg b.w. for 30 days and Group IV animals were administered with the aqueous extract of I. aspalathoides alone, at a dose of 250 mg/kg b.w. for 30 days, served as drug control animals. After the experimental period, all the rats were weighed and killed by cervical decapitation. The serum was separated from the blood for analysis. The weights of the liver and the kidneys were noted. The fibrosarcoma was proved by pathological examinations. The liver and kidney tissues were excised and then homogenized in an ice-cold buffer. These tissues were used for biochemical analysis. Results: The activities of antioxidant enzymes, e.g. catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), in blood serum, liver, and kidney of control and experimental animals, respectively, have been reported. Conclusion: The present observations suggested that the aqueous extract of I. aspalathoides treatment enhanced the recovery from 20-MCA-induced fibrosarcoma due to its antioxidants and antineoplastic properties. PMID:21297921

Mechanically-competent and cytocompatible polycaprolactone-borophosphosilicate hybrid biomaterials.

PubMed

Mondal, Dibakar; Dixon, S Jeffrey; Mequanint, Kibret; Rizkalla, Amin S

2017-11-01

Organic-inorganic class II hybrid materials have domain sizes at the molecular level and chemical bonding between the organic and inorganic phases. We have previously reported the synthesis of class II hybrid biomaterials from alkoxysilane-functionalized polycaprolactone (PCL) and borophosphosilicate (B 2 O 3 -P 2 O 5 -SiO 2 ) glass (BPSG) through a non-aqueous sol-gel process. In the present study, the mechanical properties and degradability of these PCL/BPSG hybrid biomaterials were studied and compared to those of their conventional composite counterparts. The compressive strength, modulus and toughness of the hybrid biomaterials were significantly greater compared to the conventional composites, likely due to the covalent bonding between the organic and inorganic phases. A hybrid biomaterial (50wt% PCL and 50wt% BPSG) exhibited compressive strength, modulus and toughness values of 32.2 ± 3.5MPa, 573 ± 85MPa and 1.54 ± 0.03MPa, respectively; whereas the values for composite of similar composition were 18.8 ± 1.6MPa, 275 ± 28MPa and 0.76 ± 0.03MPa, respectively. Degradation in phosphate-buffered saline was slower for hybrid biomaterials compared to their composite counterparts. Thus, these hybrid materials possess superior mechanical properties and more controlled degradation characteristics compared to their corresponding conventional composites. To assess in vitro cytocompatibility, MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblastic cells were seeded onto the surfaces of hybrid biomaterials and polycaprolactone (control). Compared to polycaprolactone, cells on the hybrid material displayed enhanced spreading, focal adhesion formation, and cell number, consistent with excellent cytocompatibility. Thus, based on their mechanical properties, degradability and cytocompatibility, these novel biomaterials have potential for use as scaffolds in bone tissue engineering and related applications. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Minicomputer front end. [Modcomp II/CP as buffer between CDC 6600 and PDP-9 at graphics stations

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

Hudson, J.A.

1976-01-01

Sandia Labs developed an Interactive Graphics System (SIGS) that was established on a CDC 6600 using a communication scheme based on the Control Data Corporation product IGS. As implemented at Sandia, the graphics station consists primarily of a PDP-9 with a Vector General display. A system is being developed which uses a minicomputer (Modcomp II/CP) as the buffer machine for the graphics stations. The original SIGS required a dedicated peripheral processor (PP) on the CDC 6600 to handle the communication with the stations; however, with the Modcomp handling the actual communication protocol, the PP is only assigned as needed tomore » handle data transfer within the CDC 6600 portion of SIGS. The new system will thus support additional graphics stations with less impact on the CDC 6600. This paper discusses the design philosophy of the system, and the hardware and software used to implement it. 1 figure.« less

A novel starch-based adsorbent for removing toxic Hg(II) and Pb(II) ions from aqueous solution.

PubMed

Huang, Li; Xiao, Congming; Chen, Bingxia

2011-08-30

A novel effective starch-based adsorbent was prepared through two common reactions, which included the esterification of starch with excess maleic anhydride in the presence of pyridine and the cross-linking reaction of the obtained macromonomer with acrylic acid by using potassium persulphate as initiator. The percentage of carboxylic groups of the macromonomer ranged from 14% to 33.4%. The cross-linking degree of the adsorbent was tailored with the amount of acrylic acid which varied from 10wt% to 80wt%. Both Fourier transform infrared spectra and thermogravimetric analysis results verified the structure of the adsorbent. The maximum gel fraction and swelling ratio of the adsorbent were about 72% and 6.25, respectively, and they were able to be adjusted with the amount of monomers. The weight loss percentage of the adsorbent could reach 96.9% after immersing in the buffer solution that contained α-amylase for 14h. It was found that the adsorption capacities of the adsorbent for lead and mercury ions could be 123.2 and 131.2mg/g, respectively. In addition, the adsorbent was able to remove ca. 51-90% Pb(II) and Hg(II) ions that existed in the decoctions of four medicinal herbals. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of IDA and TREN chelating agents and buffer systems on the purification of human IgG with immobilized nickel affinity membranes.

PubMed

Ribeiro, Mariana Borsoi; Vijayalakshmi, Mookambesvaran; Todorova-Balvay, Daniele; Bueno, Sonia Maria Alves

2008-01-01

The purification of IgG from human plasma was studied by comparing two affinity membranes complexed with Ni(II), prepared by coupling iminodiacetic acid (IDA) and Tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (TREN) to poly(ethylenevinyl alcohol), PEVA, hollow fiber membranes. The Ni(II)-TREN-PEVA hollow fiber membrane had lower capacity for human IgG than the complex Ni(II)-IDA-PEVA, but with similar selectivity. The IgG in peak fractions eluted from the Ni(II)-IDA-PEVA with a stepwise concentration gradient of Tris-HCl pH 7.0 (100-700 mM) reached a purity of 98% (based on IgG, IgM, IgA, albumin, and transferrin nephelometric analysis). Adsorption IgG data at different temperatures (4-37 degrees C) were analyzed using Langmuir model resulting in a calculated maximum capacity at 25 degrees C of 204.6 mg of IgG/g of dry membrane. Decrease in Kd with increasing temperature (1.7x10(-5) to 5.3x10(-6) M) indicated an increase in affinity with increased temperature. The positive value of enthalpy change (26.2 kJ/mol) indicated that the adsorption of IgG in affinity membrane is endothermic. Therefore, lower temperature induces adsorption as verified experimentally.

Ultra high-performance liquid chromatography of porphyrins in clinical materials: column and mobile phase selection and optimisation.

PubMed

Benton, Christopher M; Lim, Chang Kee; Moniz, Caje; Jones, Donald J L

2012-06-01

Ultra high-performance liquid chromatographic (UHPLC) systems on columns packed with materials ranging from 1.9 to 2.7 µm average particle size were assessed for the fast and sensitive analysis of porphyrins in clinical materials. The fastest separation was achieved on an Agilent Poroshell C(18) column (2.7 µm particle size, 50 × 4.6 mm i.d.), followed by a Thermo Hypersil Gold C(18) column (1.9 µm particle size, 50 × 2.1 mm i.d.) and the Thermo Hypersil BDS C(18) column (2.4 µm particle size, 100 × 2.1 mm i.d.). All columns required a mobile phase containing 1 m ammonium acetate buffer, pH 5.16, with a mixture of acetonitrile and methanol as the organic modifiers for optimum resolution of the type I and III isomers, particularly for uroporphyrin I and III isomers. All UHPLC columns were suitable and superior to conventional HPLC columns packed with 5 µm average particle size materials for clinical sample analysis. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Buffering of blood pressure variability by the renin-angiotensin system in the conscious dog

PubMed Central

Just, Armin; Kirchheim, Hartmut R; Ehmke, Heimo

1998-01-01

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) participates in the compensation of major blood pressure disturbances such as haemorrhage and is involved in the tonic long-term (> 1 day) maintenance of mean arterial blood pressure (MABP). Since its contribution to the short-term (< 1 h) buffering of normal blood pressure variability is not known, this was investigated in resting conscious dogs.The regulatory efficiency and the response time of the RAS were studied by an acute step reduction of renal artery pressure to 70 mmHg for 1 h using a suprarenal aortic cuff. After a delay of at least 100 s, MABP rose exponentially by 22 ± 5 mmHg in normal dogs (n = 4), by 6 ± 3 mmHg after angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition (n = 4), and by 25 ± 5 mmHg after ganglionic blockade (n = 4). MABP returned to control after release of the cuff with similar time courses. The time constants of the MABP responses were in the range of 20 min. Thus, possible feedback oscillations of the RAS would be expected around 0.0025 Hz (1/(4 × 100 s)); a buffering effect would be possible below this frequency.Blood pressure variability was investigated by spectral analysis of MABP from 3.75 h recordings in the frequency ranges of 0.002–0.003 Hz (feedback oscillations) and below 0.002 Hz (buffering effect).ACE inhibition (n = 7) decreased MABP by 11 ± 2 mmHg (P < 0.05), but in both frequency ranges integrated spectral density was not affected. ACE inhibition also failed to significantly change spectral density in either of the two frequency ranges under the following conditions: (1) during ganglionic blockade (n = 7), (2) during a low-sodium diet (except for a very slight elevation below 0.002 Hz) (n = 7), and (3) when the fall of MABP induced by ACE inhibition was compensated by an angiotensin II infusion (n = 7).It is concluded that in spite of its high regulatory efficiency with an adequate response time the RAS does not directly contribute to the short-term buffering of blood pressure variability, nor does it give rise to feedback oscillations under normal resting conditions. Even if the RAS is stimulated by sodium restriction its contribution to short-term blood pressure buffering is only marginal. PMID:9763646

Analysis and Approach to the Development of an Advanced Multimedia Instructional System. Volume II. Appendix III. Media Cost Data. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rhode, William E.; And Others

Basic cost estimates for selected instructional media are tabled in this document, Part II (Appendix III) of the report "Analysis and Approach to the Development of an Advanced Multimedia Instructional System" by William E. Rhode and others. Learning materials production costs are given for motion pictures, still visuals, videotapes, live…

Glucose buffer is suitable for blood group conversion with α-N acetylgalactosaminidase and α-galactosidase

PubMed Central

Gao, Hong-Wei; Li, Su-Bo; Bao, Guo-Qiang; Zhang, Xue; Li, Hui; Wang, Ying-Li; Tan, Ying-Xia; Ji, Shou-Ping; Gong, Feng

2014-01-01

Background It is well known that the buffer plays a key role in the enzymatic reaction involved in blood group conversion. In previous study, we showed that a glycine buffer is suitable for A to O or B to O blood group conversion. In this study, we investigated the use of 5% glucose and other buffers for A to O or B to O blood group conversion by α-N-acetylgalactosaminidase or α-galactosidase. Materials and methods We compared the binding ability of α-N-acetylgalactosaminidase/α-galactosidase with red blood cells (RBC) in different reaction buffers, such as normal saline, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), a disodium hydrogen phosphate-based buffer (PCS), and 5% commercial glucose solution. The doses of enzymes necessary for the A/B to O conversion in different reaction buffers were determined and compared. The enzymes’ ability to bind to RBC was evaluated by western blotting, and routine blood typing and fluorescence activated cell sorting was used to evaluate B/A to O conversion efficiency. Results The A to O conversion efficiency in glucose buffer was similar to that in glycine buffer with the same dose (>0.06 mg/mL pRBC). B to O conversion efficiency in glucose buffer was also similar to that in glycine buffer with the same dose (>0.005 mg/mL pRBC). Most enzymes could bind with RBC in glycine or glucose buffer, but few enzymes could bind with RBC in PBS, PCS, or normal saline. Conclusion These results indicate that 5% glucose solution provides a suitable condition for enzymolysis, especially for enzymes combining with RBC. Meanwhile, the conversion efficiency of A/B to O was similar in glucose buffer and glycine buffer. Moreover, 5% glucose solution has been used for years in venous transfusion, it is safe for humans and its cost is lower. Our results do, therefore, suggest that 5% glucose solution could become a novel suitable buffer for A/B to O blood group conversion. PMID:24333060

Characterization of Micron-Scale Nanotublar Super Dielectric Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-01

has been removed). ..................................128  Figure 98.  NTSDM capacitor with Grafoil “ buffer ” and no excess moisture prior to...by arrows) after accumulation of moisture within the capacitor and the appearance of rust on the Grafoil “ buffer ...26]. Nonetheless, the foundational concept of such a device is the storage of charge via an electric field in the space between two conducting

High-Thermal- and Air-Stability Cathode Material with Concentration-Gradient Buffer for Li-Ion Batteries.

PubMed

Shi, Ji-Lei; Qi, Ran; Zhang, Xu-Dong; Wang, Peng-Fei; Fu, Wei-Gui; Yin, Ya-Xia; Xu, Jian; Wan, Li-Jun; Guo, Yu-Guo

2017-12-13

Delivery of high capacity with high thermal and air stability is a great challenge in the development of Ni-rich layered cathodes for commercialized Li-ion batteries (LIBs). Herein we present a surface concentration-gradient spherical particle with varying elemental composition from the outer end LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 (NCM) to the inner end LiNi 0.8 Co 0.15 Al 0.05 O 2 (NCA). This cathode material with the merit of NCM concentration-gradient protective buffer and the inner NCA core shows high capacity retention of 99.8% after 200 cycles at 0.5 C. Furthermore, this cathode material exhibits much improved thermal and air stability compared with bare NCA. These results provide new insights into the structural design of high-performance cathodes with high energy density, long life span, and storage stability materials for LIBs in the future.

Characterization, adaptive traffic shaping, and multiplexing of real-time MPEG II video

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agrawal, Sanjay; Barry, Charles F.; Binnai, Vinay; Kazovsky, Leonid G.

1997-01-01

We obtain network traffic model for real-time MPEG-II encoded digital video by analyzing video stream samples from real-time encoders from NUKO Information Systems. MPEG-II sample streams include a resolution intensive movie, City of Joy, an action intensive movie, Aliens, a luminance intensive (black and white) movie, Road To Utopia, and a chrominance intensive (color) movie, Dick Tracy. From our analysis we obtain a heuristic model for the encoded video traffic which uses a 15-stage Markov process to model the I,B,P frame sequences within a group of pictures (GOP). A jointly-correlated Gaussian process is used to model the individual frame sizes. Scene change arrivals are modeled according to a gamma process. Simulations show that our MPEG-II traffic model generates, I,B,P frame sequences and frame sizes that closely match the sample MPEG-II stream traffic characteristics as they relate to latency and buffer occupancy in network queues. To achieve high multiplexing efficiency we propose a traffic shaping scheme which sets preferred 1-frame generation times among a group of encoders so as to minimize the overall variation in total offered traffic while still allowing the individual encoders to react to scene changes. Simulations show that our scheme results in multiplexing gains of up to 10% enabling us to multiplex twenty 6 Mbps MPEG-II video streams instead of 18 streams over an ATM/SONET OC3 link without latency or cell loss penalty. This scheme is due for a patent.

Analysis of Optimal Jitter Buffer Size for VoIP QoS under WiMAX Power-Saving Mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Hyungsuk; Kim, Taehyoun

VoIP service is expected as one of the key applications of Mobile WiMAX, but the speech quality of VoIP service often suffers deterioration due to the fluctuating transmission delay called jitter. This is commonly ameliorated by a de-jitter buffer, and we aim to find the optimal size of de-jitter buffer to achieve speech quality comparable to PSTN. We developed a new model of the packet drops at the de-jitter buffer and the end-to-end packet delay which takes account of the additional delay introduced by the WiMAX power-saving mode. Using our model, we analyzed the optimal size of the de-jitter buffer for various network parameters, and showed that the results obtained by analysis accord with simulation results.

Phosphate and HEPES buffers potently affect the fibrillation and oligomerization mechanism of Alzheimer's A{beta} peptide

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

Garvey, Megan; Tepper, Katharina; Haupt, Caroline

Highlights: {yields} Sodium phosphate buffer accelerated A{beta}(1-40) nucleation relative to HEPES. {yields} A{beta}(1-40) fibrils formed in the two buffers show only minor structural differences. {yields} NMR revealed that A{beta}(1-40) histidine residues mediate buffer dependent changes. -- Abstract: The oligomerization of A{beta} peptide into amyloid fibrils is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Due to its biological relevance, phosphate is the most commonly used buffer system for studying the formation of A{beta} and other amyloid fibrils. Investigation into the characteristics and formation of amyloid fibrils frequently relies upon material formed in vitro, predominantly in phosphate buffers. Herein, we examine the effects onmore » the fibrillation and oligomerization mechanism of A{beta} peptide that occur due solely to the influence of phosphate buffer. We reveal that significant differences in amyloid fibrillation are observed due to fibrillation being initiated in phosphate or HEPES buffer (at physiological pH and temperature). Except for the differing buffer ions, all experimental parameters were kept constant. Fibril formation was assessed using fluorescently monitored kinetic studies, microscopy, X-ray fiber diffraction and infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies. Based on this set up, we herein reveal profound effects on the mechanism and speed of A{beta} fibrillation. The three histidine residues at positions 6, 13 and 14 of A{beta}(1-40) are instrumental in these mechanistic changes. We conclude that buffer plays a more significant role in fibril formation than has been generally acknowledged.« less

Superconducting structure

DOEpatents

Kwon, Chuhee; Jia, Quanxi; Foltyn, Stephen R.

2003-04-01

A superconductive structure including a dielectric oxide substrate, a thin buffer layer of a superconducting material thereon; and, a layer of a rare earth-barium-copper oxide superconducting film thereon the thin layer of yttrium-barium-copper oxide, the rare earth selected from the group consisting of samarium, gadolinium, ytterbium, erbium, neodymium, dysprosium, holmium, lutetium, a combination of more than one element from the rare earth group and a combination of one or more elements from the rare earth group with yttrium, the buffer layer of superconducting material characterized as having chemical and structural compatibility with the dielectric oxide substrate and the rare earth-barium-copper oxide superconducting film is provided.

Superconducting Structure

DOEpatents

Kwon, Chuhee; Jia, Quanxi; Foltyn, Stephen R.

2005-09-13

A superconductive structure including a dielectric oxide substrate, a thin buffer layer of a superconducting material thereon; and, a layer of a rare earth-barium-copper oxide superconducting film thereon the thin layer of yttrium-barium-copper oxide, the rare earth selected from the group consisting of samarium, gadolinium, ytterbium, erbium, neodymium, dysprosium, holmium, lutetium, a combination of more than one element from the rare earth group and a combination of one or more elements from the rare earth group with yttrium, the buffer layer of superconducting material characterized as having chemical and structural compatibility with the dielectric oxide substrate and the rare earth-barium-copper oxide superconducting film is provided.

Electron-Selective TiO 2 Contact for Cu(In,Ga)Se 2 Solar Cells

DOE PAGES

Hsu, Weitse; Sutter-Fella, Carolin M.; Hettick, Mark; ...

2015-11-03

The non-toxic and wide bandgap material TiO 2 is explored as an n-type buffer layer on p-type Cu(In,Ga)Se 2 (CIGS) absorber layer for thin film solar cells. The amorphous TiO 2 thin film deposited by atomic layer deposition process at low temperatures shows conformal coverage on the CIGS absorber layer. Solar cells from non-vacuum deposited CIGS absorbers with TiO 2 buffer layer result in a high short-circuit current density of 38.9 mA/cm 2 as compared to 36.9 mA/cm 2 measured in the reference cell with CdS buffer layer, without compromising open-circuit voltage. The significant photocurrent gain, mainly in the UVmore » part of the spectrum, can be attributed to the low parasitic absorption loss in the ultrathin TiO 2 layer (~10 nm) with a larger bandgap of 3.4 eV compared to 2.4 eV of the traditionally used CdS. Overall the solar cell conversion efficiency was improved from 9.5% to 9.9% by substituting the CdS by TiO 2 on an active cell area of 10.5 mm2. In conclusion, optimized TiO 2/CIGS solar cells show excellent long-term stability. The results imply that TiO 2 is a promising buffer layer material for CIGS solar cells, avoiding the toxic CdS buffer layer with added performance advantage.« less

Laboratory determination of migration of Eu(III) in compacted bentonite-sand mixtures as buffer/backfill material for high-level waste disposal.

PubMed

Zhou, Lang; Zhang, Huyuan; Yan, Ming; Chen, Hang; Zhang, Ming

2013-12-01

For the safety assessment of geological disposal of high-level radioactive waste (HLW), the migration of Eu(III) through compacted bentonite-sand mixtures was measured under expected repository conditions. Under the evaluated conditions, advection and dispersion is the dominant migration mechanism. The role of sorption on the retardation of migration was also evaluated. The hydraulic conductivities of compacted bentonite-sand mixtures were K=2.07×10(-10)-5.23×10(-10)cm/s, The sorption and diffusion of Eu(III) were examined using a flexible wall permeameter for a solute concentration of 2.0×10(-5)mol/l. The effective diffusion coefficients and apparent diffusion coefficients of Eu(III) in compacted bentonite-sand mixtures were in the range of 1.62×10(-12)-4.87×10(-12)m(2)/s, 1.44×10(-14)-9.41×10(-14)m(2)/s, respectively, which has a very important significance to forecast the relationship between migration length of Eu(III) in buffer/backfill material and time and provide a reference for the design of buffer/backfill material for HLW disposal in China. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The new materials science diffractometer STRESS-SPEC at FRM-II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hofmann, M.; Schneider, R.; Seidl, G. A.; Rebelo-Kornmeier, J.; Wimpory, R. C.; Garbe, U.; Brokmeier, H.-G.

2006-11-01

In response to the development of new materials and the application of materials and components in new technologies the direct measurement, calculation and evaluation of textures and residual stresses has gained worldwide significance in recent years. In order to cater for the development of these analytical techniques the Materials Science Diffractometer STRESS-SPEC at FRM-II is designed to be equally applied to texture or residual stress analysis by virtue of its flexible configuration and the high neutron flux at the sample position. The instrument is now available for routine operation and here we present details of first experiments and instrument performance.

Buffer Gas Experiments in Mercury (Hg+) Ion Clock

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chung, Sang K.; Prestage, John D.; Tjoelker, Robert L.; Maleki, Lute

2004-01-01

We describe the results of the frequency shifts measured from various buffer gases that might be used as a buffer gas to increase the loading efficiency and cooling of ions trapped in a small mercury ion clock. The small mass, volume and power requirement of space clock precludes the use of turbo pumps. Hence, a hermetically sealed vacuum system, incorporating a suitable getter material with a fixed amount of inert buffer gas may be a practical alternative to the groundbased system. The collision shifts of 40,507,347.996xx Hz clock transition for helium, neon and argon buffer gases were measured in the ambient earth magnetic field. In addition to the above non-getterable inert gases we also measured the frequency shifts due to getterable, molecular hydrogen and nitrogen gases which may be used as buffer gases when incorporated with a miniature ion pump. We also examined the frequency shift due to the low methane gas partial pressure in a fixed higher pressure neon buffer gas environment. Methane gas interacted with mercury ions in a peculiar way as to preserve the ion number but to relax the population difference in the two hyperfine clock states and thereby reducing the clock resonance signal. The same population relaxation was also observed for other molecular buffer gases (N H,) but at much reduced rate.

Buffer architecture for biaxially textured structures and method of fabricating same

DOEpatents

Norton, David P.; Park, Chan; Goyal, Amit

2004-04-06

The invention relates to an article with an improved buffer layer architecture comprising a substrate having a metal surface, and an epitaxial buffer layer on the surface of the substrate. The epitaxial buffer layer comprises at least one of the group consisting of ZrO.sub.2, HfO.sub.2, and compounds having at least one of Ca and a rare earth element stabilizing cubic phases of ZrO.sub.2 and/or HfO.sub.2. The article can also include a superconducting layer deposited on the epitaxial buffer layer. The article can also include an epitaxial capping layer between the epitaxial buffer layer and the superconducting layer. A method for preparing an epitaxial article comprises providing a substrate with a metal surface, depositing on the metal surface an epitaxial buffer layer comprising at least one material selected from the group consisting of ZrO.sub.2, HfO.sub.2, and compounds having at least one of Ca and a rare earth element stabilizing cubic phases of at least one of ZrO.sub.2 and HfO.sub.2. The epitaxial layer depositing step occurs in a vacuum with a background pressure of no more than 1.times.10.sup.-5 Torr. The method can further comprise depositing a superconducting layer on the epitaxial layer, and depositing an epitaxial capping layer between the epitaxial buffer layer and the superconducting layer.

Sensitive determination of trace mercury by UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy after complexation and membrane filtration-enrichment.

PubMed

Yin, Changhai; Iqbal, Jibran; Hu, Huilian; Liu, Bingxiang; Zhang, Lei; Zhu, Bilin; Du, Yiping

2012-09-30

A simple, sensitive and selective solid phase reflectometry method is proposed for the determination of trace mercury in aqueous samples. The complexation reagent dithizone was firstly injected into the properly buffered solution with vigorous stirring, which started a simultaneous formation of nanoparticles suspension of dithizone and its complexation reaction with the mercury(II) ions to make Hg-dithizone nanoparticles. After a definite time, the mixture was filtered with membrane, and then quantified directly on the surface of the membrane by using integrating sphere accessory of the UV-visible spectrophotometer. The quantitative analysis was carried out at a wavelength of 485 nm since it yielded the largest difference in diffuse reflectance spectra before and after reaction with mercury(II).A good linear correlation in the range of 0.2-4.0 μg/L with a squared correlation coefficient (R(2)) of 0.9944 and a detection limit of 0.12 μg/L were obtained. The accuracy of the method was evaluated by the analysis of spiked mercury(II) concentrations determined using this method along with those determined by the atomic fluorescence mercury vapourmeter and the results obtained were in good agreement. The proposed method was applied to the determination of mercury in tap water and river water samples with the recovery in an acceptable range (95.7-105.3%). Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization, DFT optimization and biological activities of Schiff bases and their metal (II) complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rauf, Abdur; Shah, Afzal; Munawar, Khurram Shahzad; Khan, Abdul Aziz; Abbasi, Rashda; Yameen, Muhammad Arfat; Khan, Asad Muhammad; Khan, Abdur Rahman; Qureshi, Irfan Zia; Kraatz, Heinz-Bernhard; Zia-ur-Rehman

2017-10-01

A Novel Schiff base, 3-(((4-chlorophenyl)imino)methyl)benzene-1,2-diol (HL1) was successfully synthesized along with a structurally similar Schiff base 3-(((4-bromophenyl)imino)methyl)benzene-1,2-diol (HL2). Both the Schiff bases were used to synthesize their zinc (II) and cobalt (II) complexes. These compounds were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and elemental analysis. Metal complexes were confirmed by TGA. Crystals of Schiff bases were also characterized by X-ray analysis and experimental parameters were found in line with the theoretical parameters. Quantum mechanical approach was also used to fine useful structural parameters and to ensure the geometry of metal complexes. The photometric behaviors of all the synthesized compounds were investigated in a wide pH range using BR buffers. The appearance of isosbestic points indicated the existence of Schiff bases in more than one isomeric form. Moreover, these compounds were screened for enzyme inhibition; antibacterial, cytotoxic and in vivo antidiabetic activities and compounds were found active against one or other activity. Results indicate that ZnL22 is a good inhibitor of alkaline phosphatase enzyme and possess highest potential against diabetes, blood cholesterol level and cancer cells. This effort just provides preliminary data for some biological properties. Further investigations are required to precisely determine mechanistic pathways of their use towards drug development.

10 CFR 70.62 - Safety program and integrated safety analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...) Radiological hazards related to possessing or processing licensed material at its facility; (ii) Chemical hazards of licensed material and hazardous chemicals produced from licensed material; (iii) Facility... performed by a team with expertise in engineering and process operations. The team shall include at least...

Synthesis, spectroscopic, fluorescence properties and biological evaluation of novel Pd(II) and Cd(II) complexes of NOON tetradentate Schiff bases.

PubMed

Ali, Omyma A M

2014-01-01

The solid complexes of Pd(II) and Cd(II) with N,N/bis(salicylaldehyde)4,5-dimethyl-1,2-phenylenediamine (H2L(1)), and N,N/bis(salicylaldehyde)4,5-dichloro-1,2-phenylenediamine (H2L(2)) have been synthesized and characterized by several techniques using elemental analysis (CHN), FT-IR, (1)H NMR, UV-Vis spectra and thermal analysis. Elemental analysis data proved 1:1 stoichiometry for the reported complexes while spectroscopic data indicated square planar and octahedral geometries for Pd(II) and Cd(II) complexes, respectively. The prepared ligands, Pd(II) and Cd(II) complexes exhibited intraligand (π-π(∗)) fluorescence and can potentially serve as photoactive materials. Thermal behavior of the complexes was studied and kinetic parameters were determined by Coats-Redfern method. Both the ligands and their complexes have been screened for antimicrobial activities. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Coupling Effects of Heat and Moisture on the Saturation Processes of Buffer Material in a Deep Geological Repository

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Wei-Hsing

2017-04-01

Clay barrier plays a major role for the isolation of radioactive wastes in a underground repository. This paper investigates the resaturation behavior of clay barrier, with emphasis on the coupling effects of heat and moisture of buffer material in the near-field of a repository during groundwater intrusion processes. A locally available clay named "Zhisin clay" and a standard bentotine material were adopted in the laboratory program. Water uptake tests were conducted on clay specimens compacted at various densities to simulate the intrusion of groundwater into the buffer material. Soil suction of clay specimens was measured by psychrometers embedded in clay specimens and by vapor equilibrium technique conducted at varying temperatures. Using the soil water characteristic curve, an integration scheme was introduced to estimate the hydraulic conductivity of unsaturated clay. The finite element program ABAQUS was then employed to carry out the numerical simulation of the saturation process in the near field of a repository. Results of the numerical simulation were validated using the degree of saturation profile obtained from the water uptake tests on Zhisin clay. The numerical scheme was then extended to establish a model simulating the resaturation process after the closure of a repository. It was found that, due to the variation in suction and thermal conductivity with temperature of clay barrier material, the calculated temperature field shows a reduction as a result of incorporating the hydro-properties in the calculations.

Purification and characterization of recombinant supersweet protein thaumatin II from tomato fruit.

PubMed

Firsov, Aleksey; Shaloiko, Lyubov; Kozlov, Oleg; Vinokurov, Leonid; Vainstein, Alexander; Dolgov, Sergey

2016-07-01

Thaumatin, a supersweet protein from the African plant katemfe (Thaumatococcus daniellii Benth.), is a promising zero-calorie sweetener for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Due to limited natural sources of thaumatin, its production using transgenic plants is an advantageous alternative. We report a simple protocol for purification of recombinant thaumatin II from transgenic tomato. Thaumatin was extracted from ripe tomato fruit in a low-salt buffer and purified on an SP-Sephacryl column. Recombinant thaumatin yield averaged 50 mg/kg fresh fruit. MALDI-MS analysis showed correct processing of thaumatin in tomato plants. The recombinant thaumatin was indistinguishable from the native protein in a taste test. The purified tomato-derived thaumatin had an intrinsic sweetness with a threshold value in taste tests of around 50 nM. These results demonstrate the potential of an expression system based on transgenic tomato plants for production of recombinant thaumatin for the food and pharmaceutical industries. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Reilly, Sean Douglas; Smith, Paul Herrick; Jarvinen, Gordon D.

Understanding the water solubility of plutonium and uranium compounds and residues at TA-55 is necessary to provide a technical basis for appropriate criticality safety, safety basis and accountability controls. Individual compound solubility was determined using published solubility data and solution thermodynamic modeling. Residue solubility was estimated using a combination of published technical reports and process knowledge of constituent compounds. The scope of materials considered includes all compounds and residues at TA-55 as of March 2016 that contain Pu-239 or U-235 where any single item in the facility has more than 500 g of nuclear material. This analysis indicates that themore » following materials are not appreciably soluble in water: plutonium dioxide (IDC=C21), plutonium phosphate (IDC=C66), plutonium tetrafluoride (IDC=C80), plutonium filter residue (IDC=R26), plutonium hydroxide precipitate (IDC=R41), plutonium DOR salt (IDC=R42), plutonium incinerator ash (IDC=R47), uranium carbide (IDC=C13), uranium dioxide (IDC=C21), U 3O 8 (IDC=C88), and uranium filter residue (IDC=R26). This analysis also indicates that the following materials are soluble in water: plutonium chloride (IDC=C19) and uranium nitrate (IDC=C52). Equilibrium calculations suggest that PuOCl is water soluble under certain conditions, but some plutonium processing reports indicate that it is insoluble when present in electrorefining residues (R65). Plutonium molten salt extraction residues (IDC=R83) contain significant quantities of PuCl 3, and are expected to be soluble in water. The solubility of the following plutonium residues is indeterminate due to conflicting reports, insufficient process knowledge or process-dependent composition: calcium salt (IDC=R09), electrorefining salt (IDC=R65), salt (IDC=R71), silica (IDC=R73) and sweepings/screenings (IDC=R78). Solution thermodynamic modeling also indicates that fire suppression water buffered with a commercially-available phosphate buffer would significantly reduce the solubility of PuCl 3 by the precipitation of PuPO 4.« less

Point-of-need simultaneous electrochemical detection of lead and cadmium using low-cost stencil-printed transparency electrodes.

PubMed

Martín-Yerga, Daniel; Álvarez-Martos, Isabel; Blanco-López, M Carmen; Henry, Charles S; Fernández-Abedul, M Teresa

2017-08-15

In this work, we report a simple and yet efficient stencil-printed electrochemical platform that can be integrated into the caps of sample containers and thus, allows in-field quantification of Cd(II) and Pb(II) in river water samples. The device exploits the low-cost features of carbon (as electrode material) and paper/polyester transparency sheets (as substrate). Electrochemical analysis of the working electrodes prepared on different substrates (polyester transparency sheets, chromatographic, tracing and office papers) with hexaammineruthenium(III) showed that their electroactive area and electron transfer kinetics are highly affected by the porosity of the material. Electrodes prepared on transparency substrates showed the best electroanalytical performance for the simultaneous determination of Cd(II) and Pb(II) by square-wave anodic stripping voltammetry. Interestingly, the temperature and time at which the carbon ink was cured had significant effect on the electrochemical response, especially the capacitive current. The amount of Cd and Pb on the electrode surface can be increased about 20% by in situ electrodeposition of bismuth. The electrochemical platform showed a linear range comprised between 1 and 200 μg/L for both metals, sensitivity of analysis of 0.22 and 0.087 μA/ppb and limits of detection of 0.2 and 0.3 μg/L for Cd(II) and Pb(II), respectively. The analysis of river water samples was done directly in the container where the sample was collected, which simplifies the procedure and approaches field analysis. The developed point-of-need detection system allowed simultaneous determination of Cd(II) and Pb(II) in those samples using the standard addition method with precise and accurate results. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Use of immobilized exopeptidases and volatile buffers for analysis of peptides by fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Wagner, R M; Fraser, B A

1987-05-01

beta-Lipotrophin (62-77) or Ac-gastrin releasing peptide was incubated with immobilized carboxypeptidase Y or aminopeptidase M. Subsequent aliquots of each incubation mixture were analysed by fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry using a dithiothreitol/dithioerythritol liquid matrix. The use of immobilized enzymes and volatile buffers for exopeptidase digestions enabled rapid and facile separation of enzyme from digestion products. This approach to mass spectral peptide analysis reduced spectral background arising from a glycerol matrix, buffer salts, or enzyme proteins and contaminants, enabling analysis of as little as 200 picomoles of a suitable peptide.

Comparison of Four Nuclear Isolation Buffers for Plant DNA Flow Cytometry

PubMed Central

LOUREIRO, JOÃO; RODRIGUEZ, ELEAZAR; DOLEŽEL, JAROSLAV; SANTOS, CONCEIÇÃO

2006-01-01

• Background and Aims DNA flow cytometry requires preparation of suspensions of intact nuclei, which are stained using a DNA-specific fluorochrome prior to analysis. Various buffer formulas were developed to preserve nuclear integrity, protect DNA from degradation and facilitate its stoichiometric staining. Although nuclear isolation buffers differ considerably in chemical composition, no systematic comparison of their performance has been made until now. This knowledge is required to select the appropriate buffer for a given species and tissue. • Methods Four common lysis buffers (Galbraith's, LB01, Otto's and Tris.MgCl2) were used to prepare samples from leaf tissues of seven plant species (Sedum burrito, Oxalis pes-caprae, Lycopersicon esculentum, Celtis australis, Pisum sativum, Festuca rothmaleri and Vicia faba). The species were selected to cover a wide range of genome sizes (1·30–26·90 pg per 2C DNA) and a variety of leaf tissue types. The following parameters were assessed: forward (FS) and side (SS) light scatters, fluorescence of propidium iodide-stained nuclei, coefficient of variation of DNA peaks, presence of debris background and the number of nuclei released from sample tissue. The experiments were performed independently by two operators and repeated on three different days. • Key Results Clear differences among buffers were observed. With the exception of O. pes-caprae, any buffer provided acceptable results for all species. LB01 and Otto's were generally the best buffers, with Otto's buffer providing better results in species with low DNA content. Galbraith's buffer led to satisfactory results and Tris.MgCl2 was generally the worst, although it yielded the best histograms in C. australis. A combined analysis of FS and SS provided a ‘fingerprint’ for each buffer. The variation between days was more significant than the variation between operators. • Conclusions Each lysis buffer tested responded to a specific problem differently and none of the buffers worked best with all species. These results expand our knowledge on nuclear isolation buffers and will facilitate selection of the most appropriate buffer depending on species, tissue type and the presence of cytosolic compounds interfering with DNA staining. PMID:16820407

Contribution of ion beam analysis methods to the development of second generation high temperature superconducting wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Usov, I. O.; Arendt, P. N.; Foltyn, S. R.; Stan, L.; DePaula, R. F.; Holesinger, T. G.

2010-06-01

One of the crucial steps in the second generation high temperature superconducting wire program was development of the buffer-layer architecture. The architecture designed at the Superconductivity Technology Center at Los Alamos National Laboratory consists of several oxide layers wherein each layer plays a specific role, namely: nucleation layer, diffusion barrier, biaxially textured template, and intermediate layer providing a suitable lattice match to the superconducting Y 1Ba 2Cu 3O 7 (YBCO) compound. This report demonstrates how a wide range of ion beam analysis techniques (SIMS, RBS, channeling, PIXE, PIGE, NRA and ERD) was employed for analysis of each buffer layer and the YBCO film. These results assisted in understanding of a variety of physical processes occurring during the buffer layer fabrication and helped to optimize the buffer-layer architecture as a whole.

The effects of GaN nanocolumn arrays and thin SixNy buffer layers on the morphology of GaN layers grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy on Si(111) substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shubina, K. Yu; Pirogov, E. V.; Mizerov, A. M.; Nikitina, E. V.; Bouravleuv, A. D.

2018-03-01

The effects of GaN nanocolumn arrays and a thin SixNy layer, used as buffer layers, on the morphology of GaN epitaxial layers are investigated. Two types of samples with different buffer layers were synthesized by PA-MBE. The morphology of the samples was characterized by SEM. The crystalline quality of the samples was assessed by XRD. The possibility of synthesis of continuous crystalline GaN layers on Si(111) substrates without the addition of other materials such as aluminum nitride was demonstrated.

Correlation between Salivary Glucose and Blood Glucose and the Implications of Salivary Factors on the Oral Health Status in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients

PubMed Central

Puttaswamy, Kavitha A.; Puttabudhi, Jaishankar H.; Raju, Shashidara

2017-01-01

Aims and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to estimate and assess any correlation between random capillary blood glucose (RCBG) and unstimulated whole salivary glucose (UWSG), as well as to estimate various salivary parameters, such as flow rate, pH, buffering capacity, and the influence of these factors on the oral health status in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Materials and Methods: Sixty individuals suffering from type 2 DM and 40 healthy individuals in the age group of 30–60 years were included in the study. RCBG was estimated using glucometer and UWSG was estimated using photocolorimeter. Salivary parameters such as flow rate, pH, and buffering capacity were assessed using GC® Saliva kit. Oral health status was recorded using the Russell's periodontal index (RPI) and the Decayed Missing Filled Teeth (DMFT) index. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 16 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Type 2 diabetics had higher mean values for RCBG levels and UWSG. Type 2 diabetics had low mean salivary flow rate, pH, and buffering capacity. Type 2 diabetics had higher mean values for RPI. Conclusion: Among the salivary factors studied, salivary glucose significantly influenced the periodontal status in Type 2 diabetics. PMID:28316946

Biologically active and thermally stable polymeric Schiff base and its metal polychelates: Their synthesis and spectral aspects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rasool, Raza; Hasnain, Sumaiya

2015-09-01

New metal polychelates of Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) obtained by the interaction of metal acetates with polymeric Schiff base containing formaldehyde and piperazine, have been investigated. Structural and spectroscopic properties have been evaluated by elemental analysis, FT-IR and 1H-NMR. Geometry of the chelated polymers was confirmed by magnetic susceptibility measurements, UV-Visible spectroscopy and Electron Spin Resonance. The molecular weight of the polymer was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that metal polychelates were more thermally stable than their corresponding ligand. All compounds were screened for their antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, (bacteria) and Candida albicans, Microsporum canis, Cryptococcus neoformans (fungi) by agar well diffusion method. Interestingly, the polymeric Schiff base was found to be antimicrobial in nature but less effective as compared to the metal polychelates. On the basis of thermal and antimicrobial behavior, these polymers hold potential applications as thermally resistant antimicrobial and antifouling coating materials as well as antimicrobial packaging materials.

Placement of riparian forest buffers to improve water quality

Treesearch

Mark D. Tomer; Michael G. Dosskey; Michael R. Burkart; David E. James; Matthew J. Helmers; Dean E. Eisenhauer

2005-01-01

Riparian forest buffers can improve stream water quality, provided they intercept and remove contaminants from surface runoff and/or shallow groundwater. Soils, topography, hydrology, and surficial geology detemine the capability of forest buffers to intercept and treat these flows. This paper describes landscape analysis techniques for identifying and mapping...

Two New Nuclear Isolation Buffers for Plant DNA Flow Cytometry: A Test with 37 Species

PubMed Central

Loureiro, João; Rodriguez, Eleazar; Doležel, Jaroslav; Santos, Conceição

2007-01-01

Background and Aims After the initial boom in the application of flow cytometry in plant sciences in the late 1980s and early 1990s, which was accompanied by development of many nuclear isolation buffers, only a few efforts were made to develop new buffer formulas. In this work, recent data on the performance of nuclear isolation buffers are utilized in order to develop new buffers, general purpose buffer (GPB) and woody plant buffer (WPB), for plant DNA flow cytometry. Methods GPB and WPB were used to prepare samples for flow cytometric analysis of nuclear DNA content in a set of 37 plant species that included herbaceous and woody taxa with leaf tissues differing in structure and chemical composition. The following parameters of isolated nuclei were assessed: forward and side light scatter, propidium iodide fluorescence, coefficient of variation of DNA peaks, quantity of debris background, and the number of particles released from sample tissue. The nuclear genome size of 30 selected species was also estimated using the buffer that performed better for a given species. Key Results In unproblematic species, the use of both buffers resulted in high quality samples. The analysis of samples obtained with GPB usually resulted in histograms of DNA content with higher or similar resolution than those prepared with the WPB. In more recalcitrant tissues, such as those from woody plants, WPB performed better and GPB failed to provide acceptable results in some cases. Improved resolution of DNA content histograms in comparison with previously published buffers was achieved in most of the species analysed. Conclusions WPB is a reliable buffer which is also suitable for the analysis of problematic tissues/species. Although GPB failed with some plant species, it provided high-quality DNA histograms in species from which nuclear suspensions are easy to prepare. The results indicate that even with a broad range of species, either GPB or WPB is suitable for preparation of high-quality suspensions of intact nuclei suitable for DNA flow cytometry. PMID:17684025

Seven perspectives on GPCR H/D-exchange proteomics methods

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xi

2017-01-01

Recent research shows surging interest to visualize human G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) dynamic structures using the bottom-up H/D-exchange (HDX) proteomics technology. This opinion article clarifies critical technical nuances and logical thinking behind the GPCR HDX proteomics method, to help scientists overcome cross-discipline pitfalls, and understand and reproduce the protocol at high quality. The 2010 89% HDX structural coverage of GPCR was achieved with both structural and analytical rigor. This article emphasizes systematically considering membrane protein structure stability and compatibility with chromatography and mass spectrometry (MS) throughout the pipeline, including the effects of metal ions, zero-detergent shock, and freeze-thaws on HDX result rigor. This article proposes to view bottom-up HDX as two steps to guide choices of detergent buffers and chromatography settings: (I) protein HDX labeling in native buffers, and (II) peptide-centric analysis of HDX labels, which applies (a) bottom-up MS/MS to construct peptide matrix and (b) HDX MS to locate and quantify H/D labels. The detergent-low-TCEP digestion method demystified the challenge of HDX-grade GPCR digestion. GPCR HDX proteomics is a structural approach, thus its choice of experimental conditions should let structure lead and digestion follow, not the opposite. PMID:28529698

Decomposition reactions of (hydroxyalkyl) nitrosoureas and related compounds: possible relationship to carcinogenicity.

PubMed

Singer, S S

1985-08-01

(Hydroxyalkyl)nitrosoureas and the related cyclic carbamates N-nitrosooxazolidones are potent carcinogens. The decompositions of four such compounds, 1-nitroso-1-(2-hydroxyethyl)urea (I), 3-nitrosooxazolid-2-one (II), 1-nitroso-1-(2-hydroxypropyl)urea (III), and 5-methyl-3-nitrosooxazolid-2-one (IV), in aqueous buffers at physiological pH were studied to determine if any obvious differences in decomposition pathways could account for the variety of tumors obtained from these four compounds. The products predicted by the literature mechanisms for nitrosourea and nitrosooxazolidone decompositions (which were derived from experiments at pH 10-12) were indeed the products formed, including glycols, active carbonyl compounds, epoxides, and, from the oxazolidones, cyclic carbonates. Furthermore, it was shown that in pH 6.4-7.4 buffer epoxides were stable reaction products. However, in the presence of hepatocytes, most of the epoxide was converted to glycol. The analytical methods developed were then applied to the analysis of the decomposition products of some related dialkylnitrosoureas, and similar results were obtained. The formation of chemically reactive secondary products and the possible relevance of these results to carcinogenesis studies are discussed.

Solution-processed MoS(x) as an efficient anode buffer layer in organic solar cells.

PubMed

Li, Xiaodong; Zhang, Wenjun; Wu, Yulei; Min, Chao; Fang, Junfeng

2013-09-25

We reported a facile solution-processed method to fabricate a MoSx anode buffer layer through thermal decomposition of (NH4)2MoS4. Organic solar cells (OSCs) based on in situ growth MoSx as the anode buffer layer showed impressive improvements, and the power conversion efficiency was higher than that of conventional PEDOT:PSS-based device. The MoSx films obtained at different temperatures and the corresponding device performance were systematically studied. The results indicated that both MoS3 and MoS2 were beneficial to the device performance. MoS3 could result in higher Voc, while MoS2 could lead to higher Jsc. Our results proved that, apart from MoO3, molybdenum sulfides and Mo(4+) were also promising candidates for the anode buffer materials in OSCs.

Transition metal oxide as anode interface buffer for impedance spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Hui; Tang, Chao; Wang, Xu-Liang; Zhai, Wen-Juan; Liu, Rui-Lan; Rong, Zhou; Pang, Zong-Qiang; Jiang, Bing; Fan, Qu-Li; Huang, Wei

2015-12-01

Impedance spectroscopy is a strong method in electric measurement, which also shows powerful function in research of carrier dynamics in organic semiconductors when suitable mathematical physical models are used. Apart from this, another requirement is that the contact interface between the electrode and materials should at least be quasi-ohmic contact. So in this report, three different transitional metal oxides, V2O5, MoO3 and WO3 were used as hole injection buffer for interface of ITO/NPB. Through the impedance spectroscopy and PSO algorithm, the carrier mobilities and I-V characteristics of the NPB in different devices were measured. Then the data curves were compared with the single layer device without the interface layer in order to investigate the influence of transitional metal oxides on the carrier mobility. The careful research showed that when the work function (WF) of the buffer material was just between the work function of anode and the HOMO of the organic material, such interface material could work as a good bridge for carrier injection. Under such condition, the carrier mobility measured through impedance spectroscopy should be close to the intrinsic value. Considering that the HOMO (or LUMO) of most organic semiconductors did not match with the work function of the electrode, this report also provides a method for wide application of impedance spectroscopy to the research of carrier dynamics.

Combination of a Copper-Ion Selective Electrode and Fluorometric Titration for the Determination of Copper(II) Ion Conditional Stability Constants of Humic Substances.

PubMed

Chen, Juan; Chen, Hao; Zhang, Xing-wen; Lei, Kun; Kenny, Jonathan E

2015-11-01

A fluorescence quenching model using copper(II) ion (Cu(2+)) ion selective electrode (Cu-ISE) is developed. It uses parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) to model fluorescence excitation-emission matrices (EEMs) of humic acid (HA) samples titrated with Cu(2+) to resolve fluorescence response of fluorescent components to Cu(2+) titration. Meanwhile, Cu-ISE is employed to monitor free Cu(2+) concentration ([Cu]) at each titration step. The fluorescence response of each component is fit individually to a nonlinear function of [Cu] to find the Cu(2+) conditional stability constant for that component. This approach differs from other fluorescence quenching models, including the most up-to-date multi-response model that has a problematic assumption on Cu(2+) speciation, i.e., an assumption that total Cu(2+) present in samples is a sum of [Cu] and those bound by fluorescent components without taking into consideration the contribution of non-fluorescent organic ligands and inorganic ligands to speciation of Cu(2+). This paper employs the new approach to investigate Cu(2+) binding by Pahokee peat HA (PPHA) at pH values of 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0 buffered by phosphate or without buffer. Two fluorescent components (C1 and C2) were identified by PARAFAC. For the new quenching model, the conditional stability constants (logK1 and logK2) of the two components all increased with increasing pH. In buffered solutions, the new quenching model reported logK1 = 7.11, 7.89, 8.04 for C1 and logK2 = 7.04, 7.64, 8.11 for C2 at pH 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0, respectively, nearly two log units higher than the results of the multi-response model. Without buffer, logK1 and logK2 decreased but were still high (>7) at pH 8.0 (logK1 = 7.54, logK2 = 7.95), and all the values were at least 0.5 log unit higher than those (4.83 ~ 5.55) of the multi-response model. These observations indicate that the new quenching model is more intrinsically sensitive than the multi-response model in revealing strong fluorescent binding sites of PPHA in different experimental conditions. The new model was validated by testing it with a mixture of two fluorescing Cu(2+) chelating organic compounds, i.e., l-tryptophan and salicylic acid mixed with one non-fluorescent binding compound oxalic acid titrated with Cu(2+) at pH 5.0.

Program on Resorbable Radio Devices

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-05-05

radio circuit - + PDMS Copper Mg PBS Buffer 1© 2013 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim wileyonlinelibrary.com Transient, Biocompatible...way, ZnO provides an alternative to silicon [ 16 ] or organic semi- conductors [ 17–20 ] for physically transient forms of electronics and sensors...immersion in several different types of solutions, such as phosphate buffer saline (PBS, pH 4.0, Sigma- Figure 1 . Materials and designs for

Graphene-based biomimetic materials targeting urine metabolite as potential cancer biomarker: application over different conductive materials for potentiometric transduction.

PubMed

Truta, Liliana A A N A; Ferreira, Nádia S; Sales, M Goreti F

2014-12-20

This works presents a novel surface Smart Polymer Antibody Material (SPAM) for Carnitine (CRT, a potential biomarker of ovarian cancer), tested for the first time as ionophore in potentiometric electrodes of unconventional configuration. The SPAM material consisted of a 3D polymeric network created by surface imprinting on graphene layers. The polymer was obtained by radical polymerization of (vinylbenzyl)trimethylammonium chloride and 4-styrenesulfonic acid (signaling the binding sites), and vinyl pivalate and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (surroundings). Non-imprinted material (NIM) was prepared as control, by excluding the template from the procedure. These materials were then used to produce several plasticized PVC membranes, testing the relevance of including the SPAM as ionophore, and the need for a charged lipophilic additive. The membranes were casted over solid conductive supports of graphite or ITO/FTO. The effect of pH upon the potentiometric response was evaluated for different pHs (2-9) with different buffer compositions. Overall, the best performance was achieved for membranes with SPAM ionophore, having a cationic lipophilic additive and tested in HEPES (4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid) buffer, pH 5.1. Better slopes were achieved when the membrane was casted on conductive glass (-57.4mV/decade), while the best detection limits were obtained for graphite-based conductive supports (3.6×10 -5 mol/L). Good selectivity was observed against BSA, ascorbic acid, glucose, creatinine and urea, tested for concentrations up to their normal physiologic levels in urine. The application of the devices to the analysis of spiked samples showed recoveries ranging from 91% (± 6.8%) to 118% (± 11.2%). Overall, the combination of the SPAM sensory material with a suitable selective membrane composition and electrode design has lead to a promising tool for point-of-care applications.

Graphene-based biomimetic materials targeting urine metabolite as potential cancer biomarker: application over different conductive materials for potentiometric transduction

PubMed Central

Truta, Liliana A.A.N.A.; Ferreira, Nádia S.; Sales, M. Goreti F.

2015-01-01

This works presents a novel surface Smart Polymer Antibody Material (SPAM) for Carnitine (CRT, a potential biomarker of ovarian cancer), tested for the first time as ionophore in potentiometric electrodes of unconventional configuration. The SPAM material consisted of a 3D polymeric network created by surface imprinting on graphene layers. The polymer was obtained by radical polymerization of (vinylbenzyl)trimethylammonium chloride and 4-styrenesulfonic acid (signaling the binding sites), and vinyl pivalate and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (surroundings). Non-imprinted material (NIM) was prepared as control, by excluding the template from the procedure. These materials were then used to produce several plasticized PVC membranes, testing the relevance of including the SPAM as ionophore, and the need for a charged lipophilic additive. The membranes were casted over solid conductive supports of graphite or ITO/FTO. The effect of pH upon the potentiometric response was evaluated for different pHs (2-9) with different buffer compositions. Overall, the best performance was achieved for membranes with SPAM ionophore, having a cationic lipophilic additive and tested in HEPES (4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid) buffer, pH 5.1. Better slopes were achieved when the membrane was casted on conductive glass (−57.4mV/decade), while the best detection limits were obtained for graphite-based conductive supports (3.6×10−5mol/L). Good selectivity was observed against BSA, ascorbic acid, glucose, creatinine and urea, tested for concentrations up to their normal physiologic levels in urine. The application of the devices to the analysis of spiked samples showed recoveries ranging from 91% (± 6.8%) to 118% (± 11.2%). Overall, the combination of the SPAM sensory material with a suitable selective membrane composition and electrode design has lead to a promising tool for point-of-care applications. PMID:26456975

Comparative evaluation and correlation of salivary total antioxidant capacity and salivary pH in caries-free and severe early childhood caries children.

PubMed

Muchandi, Sneha; Walimbe, Hrishikesh; Bijle, Mohammed Nadeem Ahmed; Nankar, Meenakshi; Chaturvedi, Srishti; Karekar, Priyanka

2015-03-01

Dental caries is a major problem in preschool children. The contribution of saliva in providing defense during caries process is of primary importance. pH buffer capacity through bicarbonate, phosphate and protein buffer systems have universal acceptance as a caries defense mechanism. Antioxidant capacity of saliva can constitute a first line of defense against chronic degenerative diseases including dental caries. Till date, no study is presented with salivary antioxidant capacity of younger children affected with severe early childhood caries with its salivary pH correlation. Hence, this study was carried out to compare, evaluate and correlate the salivary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and salivary pH of children with caries-free and severe early childhood caries. Fifty children from ages 3 to 5 years divided into two study groups had undergone screening. Group I (n = 25) with severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) and group II (n = 25) who were caries free. Unstimulated whole saliva of subjects were in the collection during the study by draining method. Salivary pH determination of saliva samples was done using pH indicator paper strips. The TAC was done using an antioxidant assay with the help of a spectrophotometer at wavelength 532 nm. The means of salivary pH and TAC were subjected to analysis using unpaired student 't' test and correlation was determined using Pearsons correlation coefficient analysis. Mean salivary pH was higher in group II (7.46 ± 0.37). Mean TAC was greater in group I (1.82 ± 0.19). A statistically significant negative correlation as seen between TAC and salivary pH in S-ECC patients. The study concludes that salivary TAC increases in patients with S-ECC are by that showing a high indirect relationship with salivary pH.

Focused electron beam induced deposition of pure SIO II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perentes, Alexandre; Hoffmann, Patrik; Munnik, Frans

2007-02-01

Focused electron beam induced processing (FEBID) equipments are the "all in one" tools for high resolution investigation, and modification of nano-devices. Focused electron beam induced deposition from a gaseous precursor usually results in a nano-composite sub-structured material, in which the interesting material is embedded in an amorphous carbonaceous matrix. Using the Hydrogen free tetraisocyanatosilane Si(NCO) 4 molecule as Si source, we show how a controlled oxygen flux, simultaneously injected with the precursor vapors, causes contaminants to vanish from the FEB deposits obtained and leads to the deposition of pure SiO II. The chemical composition of the FEBID material could be controlled from SiC IINO 3 to SiO II, the latter containing undetectable foreign element contamination. The [O II] / [TICS] ratio needed to obtain SiO II in our FEB deposition equipment is larger than 300. The evolution of the FEBID material chemical composition is presented as function of the [O II] / [TICS] molecular flux ratios. A hypothetical decomposition pathway of this silane under these conditions is discussed based on the different species formed under electron bombardment of TICS. Transmission electron microscopy investigations demonstrated that the deposited oxide is smooth (roughness sub 2nm) and amorphous. Infrared spectroscopy confirmed the low concentration of hydroxyl groups. The Hydrogen content of the deposited oxide, measured by elastic recoil detection analysis, is as low as 1 at%. 193nm wavelength AIMS investigations of 125nm thick SiO II pads (obtained with [O II] / [TICS] = 325) showed an undetectable light absorption.

Plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy growth and effect of varying buffer thickness on the formation of ultra-thin In{sub 0.17}Al{sub 0.83}N/GaN heterostructure on Si(111)

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

Chowdhury, Subhra, E-mail: subhra1109@gmail.com; Biswas, Dhrubes; Department of E and E C E, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302

2015-02-23

This work reports on the detailed plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PAMBE) growth of ultra-thin In{sub 0.17}Al{sub 0.83}N/GaN heterostructures on Si(111) substrate with three different buffer thickness (600 nm, 400 nm, and 200 nm). Growth through critical optimization of growth conditions is followed by the investigation of impact of varying buffer thickness on the formation of ultra-thin 1.5 nm, In{sub 0.17}Al{sub 0.83}N–1.25 nm, GaN–1.5 nm, In{sub 0.17}Al{sub 0.83}N heterostructure, in terms of threading dislocation (TD) density. Analysis reveals a drastic reduction of TD density from the order 10{sup 10 }cm{sup −2} to 10{sup 8 }cm{sup −2} with increasing buffer thickness resulting smooth ultra-thin active region for thick buffer structure.more » Increasing strain with decreasing buffer thickness is studied through reciprocal space mapping analysis. Surface morphology through atomic force microscopy analysis also supports our study by observing an increase of pits and root mean square value (0.89 nm, 1.2 nm, and 1.45 nm) with decreasing buffer thickness which are resulted due to the internal strain and TDs.« less

Using Whole-House Field Tests to Empirically Derive Moisture Buffering Model Inputs

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

Woods, J.; Winkler, J.; Christensen, D.

2014-08-01

Building energy simulations can be used to predict a building's interior conditions, along with the energy use associated with keeping these conditions comfortable. These models simulate the loads on the building (e.g., internal gains, envelope heat transfer), determine the operation of the space conditioning equipment, and then calculate the building's temperature and humidity throughout the year. The indoor temperature and humidity are affected not only by the loads and the space conditioning equipment, but also by the capacitance of the building materials, which buffer changes in temperature and humidity. This research developed an empirical method to extract whole-house model inputsmore » for use with a more accurate moisture capacitance model (the effective moisture penetration depth model). The experimental approach was to subject the materials in the house to a square-wave relative humidity profile, measure all of the moisture transfer terms (e.g., infiltration, air conditioner condensate) and calculate the only unmeasured term: the moisture absorption into the materials. After validating the method with laboratory measurements, we performed the tests in a field house. A least-squares fit of an analytical solution to the measured moisture absorption curves was used to determine the three independent model parameters representing the moisture buffering potential of this house and its furnishings. Follow on tests with realistic latent and sensible loads showed good agreement with the derived parameters, especially compared to the commonly-used effective capacitance approach. These results show that the EMPD model, once the inputs are known, is an accurate moisture buffering model.« less

MBE grown III-V strain relaxed buffer layers and superlattices characterized by atomic force microscopy

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

Howard, A.J.; Fritz, I.J.; Drummond, T.J.

1993-11-01

Using atomic force microscopy (AFM), the authors have investigated the effects of growth temperature and dopant incorporation on the surface morphology of MBE grown graded buffer layers and strained layer superlattices (SLSs) in the InGaAlAs/GaAs and InAsSb/InSb material systems. The AFM results show quantitatively that over the temperature range from 380 to 545 C, graded in{sub x}Al{sub 1{minus}x}As(x = 0.05 {minus} 0.32) buffer layers grown at high temperatures ({approximately}520 C), and graded In{sub x}Ga{sub 1{minus}x}As (x = 0.05 {minus} 0.33) buffer layers and In{sub 0.4}Ga{sub 0.6}As/In{sub 0.26}Al{sub 0.35}Ga{sub 0.39}As SLSs grown at low temperatures ({approximately}400 C) have the lowest RMSmore » roughness. Also, for SLSs InAs{sub 0.21}Sb{sub 0.79}/InSb, undoped layers grown at 470 C were smoother than undoped layers grown at 420 C and Be-doped layers grown at 470 C. These results illustrate the role of surface tension in the growth of strained layer materials near the melting temperature of the InAs{sub x}Sb{sub {minus}x}/InSb superlattice. Nomarski interference and transmission electron microscopies, IR photoluminescence, x-ray diffraction, and photocurrent spectroscopy were also used to evaluate the relative quality of the material but usually, the results were not conclusive.« less

Enhanced Materials Based on Submonolayer Type-II Quantum Dots

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

Tamargo, Maria C; Kuskovsky, Igor L.; Meriles, Carlos

2017-04-15

We have investigated a nanostructured material known as sub-monolayer type-II QDs, made from wide bandgap II-VI semiconductors. Our goal is to understand and exploit their tunable optical and electrical properties by taking advantage of the type-II band alignment and quantum confinement effects. Type-II ZnTe quantum dots (QDs) in a ZnSe host are particularly interesting because of their relatively large valence band and conduction band offsets. In the current award we have developed new materials based on sub-monolayer type-II QDs that may be advantageous for photovoltaic and spintronics applications. We have also expanded the structural characterization of these materials by refiningmore » the X-ray diffraction methodologies needed to investigate them. In particular, we have 1) demonstrated ZnCdTe/ZnCdSe type-II QDs materials that have ideal properties for the development of novel high efficiency “intermediate band solar cells”, 2) we developed a comprehensive approach to describe and model the growth of these ultra-small type-II QDs, 3) analysis of the evolution of the photoluminescence (PL) emission, combined with other characterization probes allowed us to predict the size and density of the QDs as a function of the growth conditions, 4) we developed and implemented novel sophisticated X-ray diffraction techniques from which accurate size and shape of the buried type-II QDs could be extracted, 5) a correlation of the shape anisotropy with polarization dependent PL was observed, confirming the QDs detailed shape and providing insight about the effects of this shape anisotropy on the physical properties of the type-II QD systems, and 6) a detailed “time-resolved Kerr rotation” investigation has led to the demonstration of enhanced electron spin lifetimes for the samples with large densities of type-II QDs and an understanding of the interplay between the QDs and Te-isoelectroic centers, a defect that forms in the spacer layers that separate the QDs.« less

Cu doping concentration effect on the physical properties of CdS thin films obtained by the CBD technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Albor Aguilera, M. L.; Flores Márquez, J. M.; Remolina Millan, A.; Matsumoto Kuwabara, Y.; González Trujillo, M. A.; Hernández Vásquez, C.; Aguilar Hernandez, J. R.; Hernández Pérez, M. A.; Courel-Piedrahita, M.; Madeira, H. T. Yee

2017-08-01

Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) and Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) semiconductors are direct band gap materials; when these types of material are used in solar cells, they provide efficiencies of 22.1% and 12.6%, respectively. Most traditional fabrication methods involve expensive vacuum processes including co-evaporation and sputtering techniques, where films and doping are conducted separately. On the other hand, the chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique allows an in situ process. Cu-doped CdS thin films working as a buffer layer on solar cells provide good performing devices and they may be deposited by low cost techniques such as chemical methods. In this work, Cu-doped CdS thin films were deposited using the CBD technique on SnO2:F (FTO) substrates. The elemental analysis and mapping reconstruction were conducted by EDXS. Morphological, optical and electrical properties were studied, and they revealed that Cu doping modified the CdS structure, band-gap value and the electrical properties. Cu-doped CdS films show high resistivity compared to the non-doped CdS. The appropriate parameters of Cu-doped CdS films were determined to obtain an adequate window or buffer layer on CIGS and CZTS photovoltaic solar cells.

Dissolution properties of co-amorphous drug-amino acid formulations in buffer and biorelevant media.

PubMed

Heikkinen, A T; DeClerck, L; Löbmann, K; Grohganz, H; Rades, T; Laitinen, R

2015-07-01

Co-amorphous formulations, particularly binary drug-amino acid mixtures, have been shown to provide enhanced dissolution for poorly-soluble drugs and improved physical stability of the amorphous state. However, to date the dissolution properties (mainly intrinsic dissolution rate) of the co-amorphous formulations have been tested only in buffers and their supersaturation ability remain unexplored. Consequently, dissolution studies in simulated intestinal fluids need to be conducted in order to better evaluate the potential of these systems in increasing the oral bioavailability of biopharmaceutics classification system class II drugs. In this study, solubility and dissolution properties of the co-amorphous simvastatin-lysine, gibenclamide-serine, glibenclamide-threonine and glibenclamide-serine-threonine were studied in phosphate buffer pH 7.2 and biorelevant media (fasted and fed state simulated intestinal fluids (FaSSIF and FeSSIF, respectively)). The co-amorphous formulations were found to provide a long-lasting supersaturation and improve the dissolution of the drugs compared to the crystalline and amorphous drugs alone in buffer. Similar improvement, but in lesser extent, was observed in biorelevant media suggesting that a dissolution advantage observed in aqueous buffers may overestimate the advantage in vivo. However, the results show that, in addition to stability advantage shown earlier, co-amorphous drug-amino acid formulations provide dissolution advantage over crystalline drugs in both aqueous and biorelevant conditions.

Fatigue of graphite/epoxy buffer strip panels with center cracks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bigelow, C. A.

1985-01-01

The effects of fatigue loading on the behavior of graphite/epoxy panels with either S-Glass or Kevlar-49 buffer strips is studied. Buffer strip panels are fatigued and tested in tension to measure their residual strength with crack-like damage. Panels are made with 45/0/-45/90 sub 2s layup with either S-Glass or Kevlar-49 buffer strip material. The buffer strips are parallel to the loading direction and made by replacing narrow strips of the 0-degree graphite plies with strips of either 0-degree S-Glass/epoxy or Kevlar-49/epoxy on a one-for-one basis. The panels are subjected to a fatigue loading spectrum MINITWIST, the shortened version of the standardized load program for the wing lower surface of a transport aircraft. Two levels of maximum strain are used in the spectrum with three durations of the fatigue spectrum. One group of panels is preloaded prior to the application of the fatigue cycling. The preload consists of statistically loading the spectrum in tension until the crack-tip damage zone reaches the ajacent buffer strips. After fatigue loading, all specimens are statistically loaded in tension to failure to determine their residual strengths.

In-situ resource utilization technologies for Mars life support systems.

PubMed

Sridhar, K R; Finn, J E; Kliss, M H

2000-01-01

The atmosphere of Mars has many of the ingredients that can be used to support human exploration missions. It can be "mined" and processed to produce oxygen, buffer gas, and water, resulting in significant savings on mission costs. The use of local materials, called ISRU (for in-situ resource utilization), is clearly an essential strategy for a long-term human presence on Mars from the standpoints of self-sufficiency, safety, and cost. Currently a substantial effort is underway by NASA to develop technologies and designs of chemical plants to make propellants from the Martian atmosphere. Consumables for life support, such as oxygen and water, will probably benefit greatly from this ISRU technology development for propellant production. However, the buffer gas needed to dilute oxygen for breathing is not a product of a propellant production plant. The buffer gas needs on each human Mars mission will probably be in the order of metric tons, primarily due to losses during airlock activity. Buffer gas can be separated, compressed, and purified from the Mars atmosphere. This paper discusses the buffer gas needs for a human mission to Mars and consider architectures for the generation of buffer gas including an option that integrates it to the propellant production plant.

Fluorescence Stability of Mercaptopropionic Acid Capped Cadmium Telluride Quantum Dots in Various Biochemical Buffers.

PubMed

Borse, Vivek; Kashikar, Adisha; Srivastava, Rohit

2018-04-01

Quantum dots are the semiconductor nanocrystals having unique optical and electronic properties. Quantum dots are category of fluorescent labels utilized for biological tagging, biosensing, bioassays, bioimaging and in vivo imaging as they exhibit very small size, signal brightness, photostability, tuning of light emission range, longer photoluminescence decay time as compared to organic dyes. In this work, we have synthesized and characterized mercaptopropionic acid capped cadmium telluride quantum dots (MPA-CdTe QDs) using hydrothermal method. The study further reports fluorescence intensity stability of quantum dots suspended in different buffers of varying concentration (1-100 mM), stored at various photophysical conditions. Fluorescence intensity values were reduced with increase in buffer concentration. When the samples were stored at room temperature in ambient light condition the quantum dots suspended in different buffers lost the fluorescence intensity after day 15 (except TRIS II). Fluorescence intensity values were found stable for more than 30 days when the samples were stored in dark condition. Samples stored in refrigerator displayed modest fluorescence intensity even after 300 days of storage. Thus, storage of MPA-CdTe QDs in refrigerator may be the suitable choice to maintain its fluorescence stability for longer time for further application.

Methods to prioritize placement of riparian buffers for improved water quality

Treesearch

Mark D. Tomer; Michael G. Dosskey; Michael R. Burkart; David E. James; Matthew J. Helmers; Dean E. Eisenhauer

2008-01-01

Agroforestry buffers in riparian zones can improve stream water quality, provided they intercept and remove contaminants from surface runoff and/or shallow groundwater. Soils, topography, surficial geology, and hydrology determine the capability of forest buffers to intercept and treat these flows. This paper describes two landscape analysis techniques for identifying...

High temperature deformation of hot-pressed polycrystalline orthoenstatite. Ph.D. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dehghan-Banadaki, A.

1983-01-01

Artificial hot pressed polycrystalline samples were prepared from purified powder of Bamble, Norway, orthoenstatite, (Mg0.86Fe0.14)SiO3. The uniaxial creep behavior of the polycrystalline orthoenstatite was studied over stress ranges of 10-180 MPa and temperatures of 1500-1700 K (0.82-0.93 T sub m) under two different oxygen fugacities, namely equilibrium (Mo-MoO2 buffer) and a reducing (graphite heating element) atmosphere, respectively. An intergranular glassy phase of different compositions with a cavitational creep deformation were observed. In the Mo-MoO2 buffer atmosphere with PO2 approx. 10 to the minus 11 power - 10 to the minus 13 power atmospheres, the results of an analytical electron microscopy analysis indicate that the glassy phases are richer in Ca and Al due to the residual impurities after hot pressing. In the reducing atmosphere with an oxygen fugacity of PO2 approx. 10 to the minus 3 power - 10 to the minus 25 power atmospheres, the results of analytical electron microscopy analysis indicate that the glassy phase is almost pure silica with the presence of free iron precipitate on grain facets and at triple junctions due to the reduction of bulk materials.

Evaluation of sonication treatment and buffer composition on rumen bacteria protein extraction and carboxymethylcellulase activity.

PubMed

Prauchner, Carlos A; Kozloski, Gilberto V; Farenzena, Roberta

2013-05-01

The methodological procedures for studying the fibrolytic activity of rumen bacteria are not clearly established. In this study the efficiency of sonication treatment and buffer composition (i.e. buffer varying in tonicity or pH) on the level of protein extraction from the residue of forage samples incubated in the rumen of a grazing steer and the effect of buffer composition or CaCl₂ concentration on the carboxymethylcellulase (CMCase) activity of the released protein were evaluated. The amount of protein released from the residue of incubation was higher (P < 0.05) for the sonicated material and increased linearly with increasing buffer pH (P < 0.05). The CMCase activity of the released protein was not improved by sonication treatment, whereas it was higher (P < 0.05) for hypotonic than for hypertonic buffer. Both linear and quadratic effects (P < 0.05) of buffer pH on CMCase activity were significant, with CMCase activity being maximal at pH 5.4-6.1. CMCase activity was higher (P < 0.05) at a CaCl₂ concentration of 1 mmol L(-1) compared with lower values. Although sonication treatment increases the amount of protein extracted from rumen bacteria adhered to the residue of incubation, the CMCase activity of the released protein might be measured without sonication treatment and should be carried out with a hypotonic buffer solution that includes a calcium source. When pH is not a treatment factor, the buffer pH should be between 5.5 and 6. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry.

Influence of silica nanospheres on corrosion behavior of magnesium matrix syntactic foam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qureshi, W.; Kannan, S.; Vincent, S.; Eddine, N. N.; Muhammed, A.; Gupta, M.; Karthikeyan, R.; Badari, V.

2018-04-01

Over the years, the development of Magnesium alloys as biodegradable implants has seen significant advancements. Magnesium based materials tend to provide numerous advantages in the field of biomedical implants over existing materials such as titanium or stainless steel. The present research focuses on corrosive behavior of Magnesium reinforced with different volume percentages of Hollow Silica Nano Spheres (HSNS). These behaviors were tested in two different simulated body fluids (SBF) namely, Hank’s Buffered Saline Solution (HBSS) and Phosphate Buffered Solution (PBS). This corrosion study was done using the method of electrochemical polarization with a three-electrode configuration. Comparative studies were established by testing pure Mg which provided critical information on the effects of the reinforcing material. The HSNS reinforced Mg displayed desirable characteristics after corrosion experiments; increased corrosion resistance was witnessed with higher volume percentage of HSNS.

Finite element analysis of the end notched flexure specimen for measuring Mode II fracture toughness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gillespie, J. W., Jr.; Carlsson, L. A.; Pipes, R. B.

1986-01-01

The paper presents a finite element analysis of the end-notched flexure (ENF) test specimen for Mode II interlaminar fracture testing of composite materials. Virtual crack closure and compliance techniques employed to calculate strain energy release rates from linear elastic two-dimensional analysis indicate that the ENF specimen is a pure Mode II fracture test within the constraints of small deflection theory. Furthermore, the ENF fracture specimen is shown to be relatively insensitive to process-induced cracks, offset from the laminate midplane. Frictional effects are investigated by including the contact problem in the finite element model. A parametric study investigating the influence of delamination length, span, thickness, and material properties assessed the accuracy of beam theory expressions for compliance and strain energy release rate, GII. Finite element results indicate that data reduction schemes based upon beam theory underestimate GII by approximately 20-40 percent for typical unidirectional graphite fiber composite test specimen geometries. Consequently, an improved data reduction scheme is proposed.

Effect of annealing time on optical and electrical properties of CdS thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soliya, Vanshika; Tandel, Digisha; Patel, Chandani; Patel, Kinjal

2018-05-01

Cadmium sulphide (CdS) is semiconductor compound of II-VI group. Thin film of CdS widely used in the applications such as, a buffer layer in copper indium diselenide (CIS) hetrojunction based solar cells, transistors, photo detectors and light emitting diodes. Because of the ease of making like chemical bath deposition (CBD), screen printing and thermal evaporation. It is extensively used in the CIS based solar cells as a buffer layers. The buffer layers usually used for reducing the interface recombination of the photo generated carriers by means of improving the lattice mismatch between the layers. The optimum thickness and the optoelectronics properties of CdS thin films like, optical band gap, electrical resistivity, structure, and composition etc., are to be considering for its use as a buffer layer. In the present study the CdS thin film were grown by simple dip coating method. In this method we had prepared 0.1M Cadmium-thiourea precursor solution. Before the deposition process of CdS, glass substrate has been cleaned using Methanol, Acetone, Trichloroethylene and De-ionized (DI) water. After coating of precursor layer, it was heated at 200 °C for themolysis. Then after CdS films were annealed at 200 °C for different time and studied its influence on the optical transmission, band gap, XRD, raman and the electrical resistivity. As increasing the annealing time we had observed the average transmission of the films was reduce after the absorption edge. In addition to the blue shift of absorption edge was observed. The observed optimum band gap was around 2.50 eV. XRD and raman analysis confirms the cubuc phase of CdS. Hot probe method confirms the n-type conductivity of the CdS film. Hall probe data shows the resistivity of the films was in the order of 103 Ωcm. Observed data signifies its future use in the many optoelectronics devices.

Portable heatable container

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yang, L. C. (Inventor)

1980-01-01

A container is provided which can be designed to heat its outer surface to sterilize it, or to heat its inner surface and any contents therewithin. In a container that self sterilizes its outer surface, the container includes a combustible layer of thermite-type pyrotechnic material which can be ignited to generate considerable heat, and a thin casing around the combustible layer which is of highly thermally conductive materials such as aluminum which can be heated to a high temperature by the ignited combustible layer. A buffer layer which may be of metal, lies within the combustible layer, and a layer of insulation such as Teflon lies within the buffer layer to insulate the contents of the container from the heat.

Nanostructures produced by phase-separation during growth of (III-V).sub.1-x(IV.sub.2).sub.x alloys

DOEpatents

Norman, Andrew G [Evergreen, CO; Olson, Jerry M [Lakewood, CO

2007-06-12

Nanostructures (18) and methods for production thereof by phase separation during metal organic vapor-phase epitaxy (MOVPE). An embodiment of one of the methods may comprise providing a growth surface in a reaction chamber and introducing a first mixture of precursor materials into the reaction chamber to form a buffer layer (12) thereon. A second mixture of precursor materials may be provided into the reaction chamber to form an active region (14) on the buffer layer (12), wherein the nanostructure (18) is embedded in a matrix (16) in the active region (14). Additional steps are also disclosed for preparing the nanostructure (18) product for various applications.

Portable heatable container

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, L. C.

1980-03-01

A container is provided which can be designed to heat its outer surface to sterilize it, or to heat its inner surface and any contents therewithin. In a container that self sterilizes its outer surface, the container includes a combustible layer of thermite-type pyrotechnic material which can be ignited to generate considerable heat, and a thin casing around the combustible layer which is of highly thermally conductive materials such as aluminum which can be heated to a high temperature by the ignited combustible layer. A buffer layer which may be of metal, lies within the combustible layer, and a layer of insulation such as Teflon lies within the buffer layer to insulate the contents of the container from the heat.

School Library Resources, Textbooks, and Other Instructional Materials: Title II, ESEA. Second Annual Report, 1967.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Office of Education (DHEW), Washington, DC.

The second annual compilation and analysis of data on Title II of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA Title II), this report describes how the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, the Virgin Islands, and the Department of the Interior (for children and teachers in schools…

NOM degradation during river infiltration: effects of the climate variables temperature and discharge.

PubMed

Diem, Samuel; Rudolf von Rohr, Matthias; Hering, Janet G; Kohler, Hans-Peter E; Schirmer, Mario; von Gunten, Urs

2013-11-01

Most peri-alpine shallow aquifers fed by rivers are oxic and the drinking water derived by riverbank filtration is generally of excellent quality. However, observations during past heat waves suggest that water quality may be affected by climate change due to effects on redox processes such as aerobic respiration, denitrification, reductive dissolution of manganese(III/IV)- and iron(III)(hydr)oxides that occur during river infiltration. To assess the dependence of these redox processes on the climate-related variables temperature and discharge, we performed periodic and targeted (summer and winter) field sampling campaigns at the Thur River, Switzerland, and laboratory column experiments simulating the field conditions. Typical summer and winter field conditions could be successfully simulated by the column experiments. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) was found not to be a major electron donor for aerobic respiration in summer and the DOM consumption did not reveal a significant correlation with temperature and discharge. It is hypothesized that under summer conditions, organic matter associated with the aquifer material (particulate organic matter, POM) is responsible for most of the consumption of dissolved oxygen (DO), which was the most important electron acceptor in both the field and the column system. For typical summer conditions at temperatures >20 °C, complete depletion of DO was observed in the column system and in a piezometer located only a few metres from the river. Both in the field system and the column experiments, nitrate acted as a redox buffer preventing the release of manganese(II) and iron(II). For periodic field observations over five years, DO consumption showed a pronounced temperature dependence (correlation coefficient r = 0.74) and therefore a seasonal pattern, which seemed to be mostly explained by the temperature dependence of the calculated POM consumption (r = 0.7). The river discharge was found to be highly and positively correlated with DO consumption (r = 0.85), suggesting an enhanced POM input during flood events. This high correlation could only be observed for the low-temperature range (T < 15 °C). For temperatures >15 °C, DO consumption was already high (almost complete) and the impact of discharge could not be resolved. Based on our results, we estimate the risk for similar river-infiltration systems to release manganese(II) and iron(II) to be low during future average summer conditions. However, long-lasting heat waves might lead to a consumption of the nitrate buffer, inducing a mobilization of manganese and iron. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of the difference in color development in the dye-binding method due to the kind of buffer solution.

PubMed

Suzuki, Yuji

2006-06-01

In a dye-binding method using a pH indicator, color development has reportedly been affected by the kind of buffer solution used in the color reagent. This phenomenon was analyzed by using a calculation based on the assumption that the anion of the buffer solution also reacts with protein. Color development decreases with increases in the anion concentration of the buffer solution and in the equilibrium constant of the reaction between the anion and protein. The differences in color development due to the kind of buffer solution can be attributed to differences in the equilibrium constant of the reaction forming the anion-protein complex and to the concentration of the anion between the buffer solutions.

Cd-free buffer layer materials on Cu2ZnSn(SxSe1-x)4: Band alignments with ZnO, ZnS, and In2S3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barkhouse, D. Aaron R.; Haight, Richard; Sakai, Noriyuki; Hiroi, Homare; Sugimoto, Hiroki; Mitzi, David B.

2012-05-01

The heterojunctions formed between Cu2ZnSn(SxSe1-x)4 (CZTSSe) and three Cd-free n-type buffers, ZnS, ZnO, and In2S3, were studied using femtosecond ultraviolet photoemission and photovoltage spectroscopy. The electronic properties including the Fermi level location at the interface, band bending in the CZTSSe substrate, and valence and conduction band offsets were determined and correlated with device properties. We also describe a method for determining the band bending in the buffer layer and demonstrate this for the In2S3/CZTSSe system. The chemical bath deposited In2S3 buffer is found to have near optimal conduction band offset (0.15 eV), enabling the demonstration of Cd-free In2S3/CZTSSe solar cells with 7.6% power conversion efficiency.

Measurement of europium (III)/europium (II) couple in fluoride molten salt for redox control in a molten salt reactor concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Shaoqiang; Shay, Nikolas; Wang, Yafei; Zhou, Wentao; Zhang, Jinsuo

2017-12-01

The fluoride molten salt such as FLiNaK and FLiBe is one of the coolant candidates for the next generation nuclear reactor concepts, for example, the fluoride salt cooled high temperature reactor (FHR). For mitigating corrosion of structural materials in molten fluoride salt, the redox condition of the salts needs to be monitored and controlled. This study investigates the feasibility of applying the Eu3+/Eu2+ couple for redox control. Cyclic voltammetry measurements of the Eu3+/Eu2+ couple were able to obtain the concentrations ratio of Eu3+/Eu2+ in the melt. Additionally, the formal standard potential of Eu3+/Eu2+ was characterized over the FHR's operating temperatures allowing for the application of the Nernst equation to establish a Eu3+/Eu2+ concentration ratio below 0.05 to prevent corrosion of candidate structural materials. A platinum quasi-reference electrode with potential calibrated by potassium reduction potential is shown as reliable for the redox potential measurement. These results show that the Eu3+/Eu2+ couple is a feasible redox buffering agent to control the redox condition in molten fluoride salts.

Revolutionary Materials for Hypersonic Flight

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-10-01

Transactions A (in preparation ). 16. M.D. Novak, CG. Levi, " Silicide Coatings on Niobium Substrates II: Thermodynamic Analysis and Mechanism of...These conditions impose significant challenges to material selection. While metallic materials are favored for their durability to thermal distortion...those of even the most highly-conducting engineering materials. While metallic systems are desirable for use in hypersonic vehicles for durability and

Long life hydrocarbon conversion catalyst and method of making

DOEpatents

Tonkovich, Anna Lee Y [Pasco, WA; Wang, Yong [Richland, WA; Gao, Yufei [Kennewick, WA

2002-11-12

The present invention includes a catalyst that has at least four layers, (1) porous support, (2) buffer layer, (3) interfacial layer, and optionally (4) catalyst layer. The buffer layer provides a transition of thermal expansion coefficient from the porous support to the interfacial layer thereby reducing thermal expansion stress as the catalyst is heated to high operating temperatures. The method of the present invention for making the at least three layer catalyst has the steps of (1) selecting a porous support, (2) solution depositing an interfacial layer thereon, and optionally (3) depositing a catalyst material onto the interfacial layer; wherein the improvement comprises (4) depositing a buffer layer between the porous support and the interfacial layer.

Agricultural Science and Mechanics I & II. Task Analyses. Competency-Based Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henrico County Public Schools, Glen Allen, VA. Virginia Vocational Curriculum Center.

This task analysis guide is intended to help teachers and administrators develop instructional materials and implement competency-based education in the agricultural science and mechanics courses. Section 1 contains a validated task inventory for agricultural science and mechanics I and II. For each task, applicable information pertaining to…

The effectiveness of module with critical thinking approach on hydrolysis and buffer materials in chemistry learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nuswowati, M.; Purwanti, E.

2018-03-01

The research aims is to find out the effectiveness of critical thinking approach in Chemistry learning especially on hydrolysis and buffer materials. The level of its effectiveness was viewed from the students’ learning outcomes including knowledge, attitude and skill domains. The data were collected through validation sheets, questionnaires and tests, which were then analyzed by using descriptive quantitative method. The first step conducted was validating the module that was going to be used in the learning processes. The students’ learning outcome on knowledge domain was very good, viewed from the classical attainment by 88.63% with N-gain 0.718 with high criteria. It was also viewed from the students’ criticality level in solving the given problems. The result of the study revealed that more than 75% of the students obtained critical and very critical criteria in solving the given problems. The students’ attitudes and skills values were viewed through observation sheets during the learning processes. The result of the observation stated that more than 75% of the students showed good and very good attitudes and skills values. Based on the data, it could be concluded that the module with critical thinking approach was effective to be used on hydrolysis and buffer materials.

Synthesis of nanometer-sized fayalite and magnesium-iron(II) mixture olivines

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

Qafoku, Odeta; Ilton, Eugene S.; Bowden, Mark E.

Olivines are divalent orthosilicates with important geologic, biological, and industrial significance and are typically comprised of mixtures of Mg2+ and Fe2+ ranging from forsterite (Mg2SiO4) to fayalite (Fe2SiO4). Investigating the role of Fe(II) in olivine reactivity requires the ability to synthesize olivines that are nanometer-sized, have different percentages of Mg2+ and Fe2+, and have good bulk and surface purity. This article demonstrates a new method for synthesizing nanosized fayalite and Mg-Fe mixture olivines. First, carbonaceous precursors are generated from sucrose, PVA, colloidal silica, Mg2+, and Fe3+. Second, these precursors are calcined in air to burn carbon and create mixtures ofmore » Fe(III)-oxides, forsterite, and SiO2. Finally, calcination in reducing CO-CO2 gas buffer leads to Fe(II)-rich olivines. XRD, Mössbauer, and IR analyses verify good bulk purity and composition. XPS indicates that surface iron is in its reduced Fe(II) form, and surface Si is consistent with olivine. SEM shows particle sizes predominately between 50 and 450 nm, and BET surface areas are 2.8-4.2 m2/g. STEM HAADF analysis demonstrates even distributions of Mg and Fe among the available M1 and M2 sites of the olivine crystals. These nanosized Fe(II)-rich olivines are suitable for laboratory studies with in situ probes that require mineral samples with high reactivity at short timescales.« less

Variation of power generation at different buffer types and conductivities in single chamber microbial fuel cells.

PubMed

Nam, Joo-Youn; Kim, Hyun-Woo; Lim, Kyeong-Ho; Shin, Hang-Sik; Logan, Bruce E

2010-01-15

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are operated with solutions containing various chemical species required for the growth of electrochemically active microorganisms including nutrients and vitamins, substrates, and chemical buffers. Many different buffers are used in laboratory media, but the effects of these buffers and their inherent electrolyte conductivities have not been examined relative to current generation in MFCs. We investigated the effect of several common buffers (phosphate, MES, HEPES, and PIPES) on power production in single chambered MFCs compared to a non-buffered control. At the same concentrations the buffers produced different solution conductivities which resulted in different ohmic resistances and power densities. Increasing the solution conductivities to the same values using NaCl produced comparable power densities for all buffers. Very large increases in conductivity resulted in a rapid voltage drop at high current densities. Our results suggest that solution conductivity at a specific pH for each buffer is more important in MFC studies than the buffer itself given relatively constant pH conditions. Based on our analysis of internal resistance and a set neutral pH, phosphate and PIPES are the most useful buffers of those examined here because pH was maintained close to the pK(a) of the buffer, maximizing the ability of the buffer to contribute to increase current generation at high power densities. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Identification of the Cause of the Stem Neck Fracture in the Hip Joint Endoprosthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryniewicz, A. M.; Bojko, Ł.; Ryniewicz, A.; Pałka, P.; Ryniewicz, W.

2018-02-01

Endoprosthesis stem fractures are among the rarest complications that occur after hip joint arthroplasty. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the causes of the fractures of the Aura II stem neck, which is an element of an endoprosthesis implanted in a patient. In order to achieve it, a radiogram was evaluated, the FEM analysis was carried out for the hip joint replaced using the Aura II prosthesis and scanning tests as well as a chemical analysis were performed for the focus of fatigue. The tests performed indicate that the most probable causes leading to the fatigue fracture of the Aura II stem under examination were material defects in the process of casting and forging (forging the material with delamination and the presence of brittle oxides and carbides) that resulted in a significant reduction of strength and resistance to corrosion. In the light of an unprecedented stem neck fracture, this information should be an indication for non-destructive tests of ready-made stems aiming to discover the material and technological defects that may arise in the process of casting and drop forging.

Buffer gas cooling and mixture analysis

DOEpatents

Patterson, David S.; Doyle, John M.

2018-03-06

An apparatus for spectroscopy of a gas mixture is described. Such an apparatus includes a gas mixing system configured to mix a hot analyte gas that includes at least one analyte species in a gas phase into a cold buffer gas, thereby forming a supersaturated mixture to be provided for spectroscopic analysis.

Role of resilience and social support in alleviating depression in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis.

PubMed

Liu, Yueh-Min; Chang, Hong-Jer; Wang, Ru-Hwa; Yang, Li-King; Lu, Kuo-Cheng; Hou, Yi-Chou

2018-01-01

Patients who undergo hemodialysis encounter challenges including role changes, physical degeneration, and difficulty in performing activities of daily living (ADLs) and self-care. These challenges deteriorate their physiological and psychosocial conditions, resulting in depression. High resilience (RES) and social support can alleviate stress and depression. This study evaluated the importance of RES and social support in managing depression in elderly patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (HD). In this descriptive, correlational study, 194 older patients undergoing HD were enrolled from the HD centers of three hospitals in northern Taiwan. The Barthel ADL Index, RES scale, Inventory of Socially Supportive Behavior, and Beck Depression Inventory-II were used. Hierarchical regression analysis was applied to evaluate the interaction of RES and social support with illness severity, demographics, and ADLs. Of the total participants, 45.9% experienced depressive symptoms. Demographic analysis showed that men and those with high educational level and income and financial independence had less depression ( p <0.01). Patients with a higher Barthel Index (n=103), RES scale (n=33), and social support (n=113) showed less depressive symptoms ( p <0.01). We found a significant negative correlation between depressive symptoms and social support ( r =-0.506, p <0.01) and RES ( r =-0.743, p <0.01). Hierarchical regression analysis showed that RES could buffer the effects of symptom severity on depression ( b =-0.436, p <0.01), but social support did not exert a buffering effect. The severity of illness symptoms and ADLs were the major determinants of depressive symptoms. High RES could alleviate depressive symptoms in the older patients undergoing HD.

Droplet Microfluidics for Compartmentalized Cell Lysis and Extension of DNA from Single-Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zimny, Philip; Juncker, David; Reisner, Walter

Current single cell DNA analysis methods suffer from (i) bias introduced by the need for molecular amplification and (ii) limited ability to sequence repetitive elements, resulting in (iii) an inability to obtain information regarding long range genomic features. Recent efforts to circumvent these limitations rely on techniques for sensing single molecules of DNA extracted from single-cells. Here we demonstrate a droplet microfluidic approach for encapsulation and biochemical processing of single-cells inside alginate microparticles. In our approach, single-cells are first packaged inside the alginate microparticles followed by cell lysis, DNA purification, and labeling steps performed off-chip inside this microparticle system. The alginate microparticles are then introduced inside a micro/nanofluidic system where the alginate is broken down via a chelating buffer, releasing long DNA molecules which are then extended inside nanofluidic channels for analysis via standard mapping protocols.

Semiconductor Film Grown on a Circular Substrate: Predictive Modeling of Lattice-Misfit Stresses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suhir, E.; Nicolics, J.; Khatibi, G.; Lederer, M.

2016-03-01

An effective and physically meaningful analytical predictive model is developed for the evaluation the lattice-misfit stresses (LMS) in a semiconductor film grown on a circular substrate (wafer). The two-dimensional (plane-stress) theory-of-elasticity approximation (TEA) is employed in the analysis. The addressed stresses include the interfacial shearing stress, responsible for the occurrence and growth of dislocations, as well as for possible delaminations and the cohesive strength of a buffering material, if any. Normal radial and circumferential (tangential) stresses acting in the film cross-sections and responsible for its short- and long-term strength (fracture toughness) are also addressed. The analysis is geared to the GaN technology.

Sample prep for proteomics of breast cancer: proteomics and gene ontology reveal dramatic differences in protein solubilization preferences of radioimmunoprecipitation assay and urea lysis buffers

PubMed Central

Ngoka, Lambert CM

2008-01-01

Background An important step in the proteomics of solid tumors, including breast cancer, consists of efficiently extracting most of proteins in the tumor specimen. For this purpose, Radio-Immunoprecipitation Assay (RIPA) buffer is widely employed. RIPA buffer's rapid and highly efficient cell lysis and good solubilization of a wide range of proteins is further augmented by its compatibility with protease and phosphatase inhibitors, ability to minimize non-specific protein binding leading to a lower background in immunoprecipitation, and its suitability for protein quantitation. Results In this work, the insoluble matter left after RIPA buffer extraction of proteins from breast tumors are subjected to another extraction step, using a urea-based buffer. It is shown that RIPA and urea lysis buffers fractionate breast tissue proteins primarily on the basis of molecular weights. The average molecular weight of proteins that dissolve exclusively in urea buffer is up to 60% higher than in RIPA. Gene Ontology (GO) and Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAG) are used to map the collective biological and biophysical attributes of the RIPA and urea proteomes. The Cellular Component and Molecular Function annotations reveal protein solubilization preferences of the buffers, especially the compartmentalization and functional distributions. It is shown that nearly all extracellular matrix proteins (ECM) in the breast tumors and matched normal tissues are found, nearly exclusively, in the urea fraction, while they are mostly insoluble in RIPA buffer. Additionally, it is demonstrated that cytoskeletal and extracellular region proteins are more soluble in urea than in RIPA, whereas for nuclear, cytoplasmic and mitochondrial proteins, RIPA buffer is preferred. Extracellular matrix proteins are highly implicated in cancer, including their proteinase-mediated degradation and remodelling, tumor development, progression, adhesion and metastasis. Thus, if they are not efficiently extracted by RIPA buffer, important information may be missed in cancer research. Conclusion For proteomics of solid tumors, a two-step extraction process is recommended. First, proteins in the tumor specimen should be extracted with RIPA buffer. Second, the RIPA-insoluble material should be extracted with the urea-based buffer employed in this work. PMID:18950484

Front-end electronics of the Belle II drift chamber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimazaki, Shoichi; Taniguchi, Takashi; Uchida, Tomohisa; Ikeno, Masahiro; Taniguchi, Nanae; Tanaka, Manobu M.

2014-01-01

This paper describes the performance of the Belle II central drift chamber (CDC) front-end electronics. The front-end electronics consists of a current sensitive preamplifier, a 1/t cancellation circuit, baseline restorers, a comparator for timing measurement and an analog buffer for the dE/dx measurement on a CDC readout card. The CDC readout card is located on the endplate of the CDC. Mass production will be completed after the performance of the chip is verified. The electrical performance and results of a neutron/gamma-ray irradiation test are reported here.

Featured collection introduction: Riparian ecosystems and buffers II

Treesearch

Paul M. Mayer; Kathleen A. Dwire; Judith A. Okay; Philipe G. Vidon

2014-01-01

Riparian ecosystems, the interface of terrestrial and aquatic systems, are zones of high biodiversity (Naiman et al., 1993), rapid biogeochemical activity (Vidon et al., 2010), complex hydrologic activity (Mayer et al., 2010a), and offer solace that can bestow significant mental health benefits (Alcock et al., 2014). Yet, many riparian zones also represent...

In vitro phosphorylation of the movement protein of tomato mosaic tobamovirus by a cellular kinase.

PubMed

Matsushita, Y; Hanazawa, K; Yoshioka, K; Oguchi, T; Kawakami, S; Watanabe, Y; Nishiguchi, M; Nyunoya, H

2000-08-01

The movement protein (MP) of tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) was produced in E. coli as a soluble fusion protein with glutathione S-transferase. When immobilized on glutathione affinity beads, the recombinant protein was phosphorylated in vitro by incubating with cell extracts of Nicotiana tabacum and tobacco suspension culture cells (BY-2) in the presence of [gamma-(32)P]ATP. Phosphorylation occurred even after washing the beads with a detergent-containing buffer, indicating that the recombinant MP formed a stable complex with some protein kinase(s) during incubation with the cell extract. Phosphoamino acid analysis revealed that the MP was phosphorylated on serine and threonine residues. Phosphorylation of the MP was decreased by addition of kinase inhibitors such as heparin, suramin and quercetin, which are known to be effective for casein kinase II (CK II). The phosphorylation level was not changed by other types of inhibitor. In addition, as shown for animal and plant CK II, [gamma-(32)P]GTP was efficiently used as a phosphoryl donor. Phosphorylation was not affected by amino acid replacements at serine-37 and serine-238, but was completely inhibited by deletion of the carboxy-terminal 9 amino acids, including threonine-256, serine-257, serine-261 and serine-263. These results suggest that the MP of ToMV could be phosphorylated in plant cells by a host protein kinase that is closely related to CK II.

Local structure studies of materials using pair distribution function analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peterson, Joseph W.

A collection of pair distribution function studies on various materials is presented in this dissertation. In each case, local structure information of interest pushes the current limits of what these studies can accomplish. The goal is to provide insight into the individual material behaviors as well as to investigate ways to expand the current limits of PDF analysis. Where possible, I provide a framework for how PDF analysis might be applied to a wider set of material phenomena. Throughout the dissertation, I discuss 0 the capabilities of the PDF method to provide information pertaining to a material's structure and properties, ii) current limitations in the conventional approach to PDF analysis, iii) possible solutions to overcome certain limitations in PDF analysis, and iv) suggestions for future work to expand and improve the capabilities PDF analysis.

A Phos-tag-based magnetic-bead method for rapid and selective separation of phosphorylated biomolecules.

PubMed

Tsunehiro, Masaya; Meki, Yuma; Matsuoka, Kanako; Kinoshita-Kikuta, Emiko; Kinoshita, Eiji; Koike, Tohru

2013-04-15

A simple and efficient method based on magnetic-bead technology has been developed for the separation of phosphorylated and nonphosphorylated low-molecular-weight biomolecules, such as nucleotides, phosphorylated amino acids, or phosphopeptides. The phosphate-binding site on the bead is an alkoxide-bridged dinuclear zinc(II) complex with 1,3-bis(pyridin-2-ylmethylamino)propan-2-olate (Phos-tag), which is linked to a hydrophilic cross-linked agarose coating on a magnetic core particle. All steps for the phosphate-affinity separation are conducted in buffers of neutral pH with 50 μL of the magnetic beads in a 1.5-mL microtube. The entire separation protocol for phosphomonoester-type compounds, from addition to elution, requires less than 12 min per sample if the buffers and the zinc(II)-bound Phos-tag magnetic beads have been prepared in advance. The phosphate-affinity magnetic beads are reusable at least 15 times without a decrease in their phosphate-binding ability and they are stable for three months in propan-2-ol. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Optimization of doxorubicin loading for superabsorbent polymer microspheres: in vitro analysis.

PubMed

Liu, David M; Kos, Sebastian; Buczkowski, Andrzej; Kee, Stephen; Munk, Peter L; Klass, Darren; Wasan, Ellen

2012-04-01

This study was designed to establish the ability of super-absorbent polymer microspheres (SAP) to actively uptake doxorubicin and to establish the proof of principle of SAP's ability to phase transfer doxorubicin onto the polymer matrix and to elute into buffer with a loading method that optimizes physical handling and elution characteristics. Phase I: 50-100 μm SAP subject to various prehydration methods (normal saline 10 cc, hypertonic saline 4 cc, iodinated contrast 10 cc) or left in their dry state, and combined with 50 mg of clinical grade lyophilized doxorubicin reconstituted with various methods (normal saline 10 cc and 25 cc, sterile water 4 cc, iodinated contrast 5 cc) were placed in buffer and assessed based on loading, handling, and elution utilizing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Phase II: top two performing methods were subject to loading of doxorubicin (50, 75, 100 mg) in a single bolus (group A) or as a serial loading method (group B) followed by measurement of loading vs. time and elution vs. time. Phase I revealed the most effective loading mechanisms and easiest handling to be dry (group A) vs. normal saline prehydrated (group B) SAP with normal saline reconstituted doxorubicin (10 mg/mL) with loading efficiencies of 83.1% and 88.4%. Phase II results revealed unstable behavior of SAP with 100 mg of doxorubicin and similar loading/elution profiles of dry and prehydrated SAP, with superior handling characteristics of group B SAP at 50 and 75 mg. SAP demonstrates the ability to load and bulk phase transfer doxorubicin at 50 and 75 mg with ease of handling and optimal efficiency through dry loading of SAP.

Optimization of Doxorubicin Loading for Superabsorbent Polymer Microspheres: in vitro Analysis

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

Liu, David M., E-mail: dave.liu@vch.ca; Kos, Sebastian; Buczkowski, Andrzej

2012-04-15

Purpose: This study was designed to establish the ability of super-absorbent polymer microspheres (SAP) to actively uptake doxorubicin and to establish the proof of principle of SAP's ability to phase transfer doxorubicin onto the polymer matrix and to elute into buffer with a loading method that optimizes physical handling and elution characteristics. Methods: Phase I: 50-100 {mu}m SAP subject to various prehydration methods (normal saline 10 cc, hypertonic saline 4 cc, iodinated contrast 10 cc) or left in their dry state, and combined with 50 mg of clinical grade lyophilized doxorubicin reconstituted with various methods (normal saline 10 cc andmore » 25 cc, sterile water 4 cc, iodinated contrast 5 cc) were placed in buffer and assessed based on loading, handling, and elution utilizing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Phase II: top two performing methods were subject to loading of doxorubicin (50, 75, 100 mg) in a single bolus (group A) or as a serial loading method (group B) followed by measurement of loading vs. time and elution vs. time. Results: Phase I revealed the most effective loading mechanisms and easiest handling to be dry (group A) vs. normal saline prehydrated (group B) SAP with normal saline reconstituted doxorubicin (10 mg/mL) with loading efficiencies of 83.1% and 88.4%. Phase II results revealed unstable behavior of SAP with 100 mg of doxorubicin and similar loading/elution profiles of dry and prehydrated SAP, with superior handling characteristics of group B SAP at 50 and 75 mg. Conclusions: SAP demonstrates the ability to load and bulk phase transfer doxorubicin at 50 and 75 mg with ease of handling and optimal efficiency through dry loading of SAP.« less

Strain-balanced InAs/GaSb type-II superlattice structures and photodiodes grown on InAs substrates by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Yong; Ryou, Jae-Hyun; Dupuis, Russell D.; Zuo, Daniel; Kesler, Benjamin; Chuang, Shun-Lien; Hu, Hefei; Kim, Kyou-Hyun; Ting Lu, Yen; Hsieh, K. C.; Zuo, Jian-Min

2011-07-01

We propose and demonstrate strain-balanced InAs/GaSb type-II superlattices (T2SLs) grown on InAs substrates employing GaAs-like interfacial (IF) layers by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) for effective strain management, simplified growth scheme, improved materials crystalline quality, and reduced substrate absorption. The in-plane compressive strain from the GaSb layers in the T2SLs on the InAs was completely balanced by the GaAs-like IF layers formed by controlled precursor carry-over and anion exchange effects, avoiding the use of complicated IF layers and precursor switching schemes that were used for the MOCVD growth of T2SLs on GaSb. An infrared (IR) p-i-n photodiode structure with 320-period InAs/GaSb T2SLs on InAs was grown and the fabricated devices show improved performance characteristics with a peak responsivity of ˜1.9 A/W and a detectivity of ˜6.78 × 109 Jones at 8 μm at 78 K. In addition, the InAs buffer layer and substrate show a lower IR absorption coefficient than GaSb substrates in most of the mid- and long-IR spectral range.

Qualitative and quantitative measurement of cannabinoids in cannabis using modified HPLC/DAD method.

PubMed

Patel, Bhupendra; Wene, Daniel; Fan, Zhihua Tina

2017-11-30

This study presents an accurate and high throughput method for the quantitative determination of various cannabinoids in cannabis plant material using high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a diode array detector (DAD). Sample extraction and chromatographic analysis conditions for the measurement of cannabinoids in the complex cannabis plant material matrix were optimized. The Agilent Poroshell 120 SB-C18 column provided high resolution for all target analytes with a short run time (10minutes) given the core shell technology. The aqueous buffer mobile phase was optimized with ammonium acetate at pH 4.75. The change in the mobile phase and the new column ensured a separation between cannabidiol (CBD and cannabigerol (CBG) along with cannabigerol and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), which were not well separated by previous publications, improved buffering capacity, and provided analytical performance stability. Moreover, baseline drifting was significantly minimized by the use of a low concentration buffer solution (25mM ammonium acetate). In addition, evaporation and reconstitution of the sample residue with a methanol-organic pure (OP) water solution (65:35) significantly reduced the matrix interference. The modified extraction produced good recoveries (>91%) for each of the eight cannabinoids. The optimized method was validated for specificity, linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy, and stability. The combined relative standard deviation (%RSD) for intra-day and inter-day precision for all eight analytes varied from 2.5% to 5.2% and 0.28% to 5.5%, respectively. The %RSD for the repeatability study varied from 1.1% to 5.5%. The recoveries from spiked cannabis matrix samples were greater than 90% for all analytes, except delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ 8 -THC), which was 80%. The recoveries varied from 81% to 107% with a precision of 0.7-8.1%RSD. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ 9 -THC) in all of the cannabis samples (n=635) was less than 10%, which is in compliance with the NJ Medicinal Marijuana regulation. Analysis of samples from two cultivars, which included ten individual samples, four composite samples, seven calibration standards, and four quality control standards, can be performed within 24hours by this high throughput method. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Oxides for sustainable photovoltaics with earth-abundant materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wagner, Alexander; Stahl, Mathieu; Ehrhardt, Nikolai; Fahl, Andreas; Ledig, Johannes; Waag, Andreas; Bakin, Andrey

2014-03-01

Energy conversion technologies are aiming to extremely high power capacities per year. Nontoxicity and abundance of the materials are the key requirements to a sustainable photovoltaic technology. Oxides are among the key materials to reach these goals. We investigate the influence of thin buffer layers on the performance of an ZnO:Al/buffer/Cu2O solar cells. Introduction of a thin ZnO or Al2O3 buffer layer, grown by thermal ALD, between ZnO:Al and Cu2O resulted in 45% increase of the solar cell efficiency. VPE growth of Cu2O employing elemental copper and pure oxygen as precursor materials is presented. The growth is performed on MgO substrates with the (001) orientation. On- and off- oriented substrates have been employed and the growth results are compared. XRD investigations show the growth of the (110) oriented Cu2O for all temperatures, whereas at a high substrate temperature additional (001) Cu2O growth occurs. An increase of the oxygen partial pressure leads to a more pronounced 2D growth mode, whereby pores between the islands still remain. The implementation of off-axis substrates with 3.5° and 5° does not lead to an improvement of the layer quality. The (110) orientation remains predominant, the grain size decreases and the FWHM of the (220) peak increases. From the AFM images it is concluded, that the (110) surface grows with a tilt angle to the substrate surface.

[Impacts of landscape patterns on heavy metal contamination of agricultural top soils in the Pearl River Delta, South China].

PubMed

Li, Cheng; Li, Fang-bai; Wu, Zhi-feng; Cheng, Jiong

2015-04-01

Landscape patterns are known to influence many ecological processes, but the relationship between landscape patterns and soil pollution processes is not well understood. Based on 300 top soil samples, land use and cover map for the Pearl River Delta (PRD) of 2005, this study explored the characteristics and spatial pattern of heavy metal contamination of agricultural top soils and examined the impacts of landscape patterns on the heavy metal contamination in the buffers of soil samples. Research methods included geostatistical analysis, landscape pattern analysis, single-factor pollution indices, and Pearson correlation analysis. We found that: 1) out of the 235 agricultural soil samples, 3.8%, 0.4%, 17.0% and 9.4% samples exceeded the Grade II national standard for As, Pb, Cd and Ni concentrations respectively. High pollution levels were found in three cities, Guangzhou, Foshan and Zhongshan; 2) soils in the farmland were more polluted than those in the forest and orchard land, and there were no differences among different agricultural land use types in contamination level of each heavy metal (except Cd); and 3) the proportion, mean patch area as well as the degree of landscape fragmentation, landscape-level structural complexity and aggregation/connectivity of water at the buffer zone were significantly positively correlated with the contamination level of each of the four heavy metals in agricultural top soils. Part of the landscape pattern of urban land in the buffer zone also positively correlated with Pb and Cd levels (P < 0.05). On the contrary, the proportion, mean patch area and aggregation degree of forest land negatively correlated with soil Pb and Ni levels (P < 0.05); and 4) the closer to the industry land were the soil samples, the more polluted the soils were for Pb, Cd and Ni. Only landscape diversity was found to be positively correlated with soil Cd contamination. The study results provide new information and scientific basis for heavy metal pollution control and remediation, especially for agricultural soils in the PRD.

Superconducting composite with multilayer patterns and multiple buffer layers

DOEpatents

Wu, X.D.; Muenchausen, R.E.

1993-10-12

An article of manufacture is described including a substrate, a patterned interlayer of a material selected from the group consisting of magnesium oxide, barium-titanium oxide or barium-zirconium oxide, the patterned interlayer material overcoated with a secondary interlayer material of yttria-stabilized zirconia or magnesium-aluminum oxide, upon the surface of the substrate whereby an intermediate article with an exposed surface of both the overcoated patterned interlayer and the substrate is formed, a coating of a buffer layer selected from the group consisting of cerium oxide, yttrium oxide, curium oxide, dysprosium oxide, erbium oxide, europium oxide, iron oxide, gadolinium oxide, holmium oxide, indium oxide, lanthanum oxide, manganese oxide, lutetium oxide, neodymium oxide, praseodymium oxide, plutonium oxide, samarium oxide, terbium oxide, thallium oxide, thulium oxide, yttrium oxide and ytterbium oxide over the entire exposed surface of the intermediate article, and, a ceramic superconductor. 5 figures.

Thermal Peak Management Using Organic Phase Change Materials for Latent Heat Storage in Electronic Applications

PubMed Central

Maxa, Jacob; Novikov, Andrej; Nowottnick, Mathias

2017-01-01

Modern high power electronics devices consists of a large amount of integrated circuits for switching and supply applications. Beside the benefits, the technology exhibits the problem of an ever increasing power density. Nowadays, heat sinks that are directly mounted on a device, are used to reduce the on-chip temperature and dissipate the thermal energy to the environment. This paper presents a concept of a composite coating for electronic components on printed circuit boards or electronic assemblies that is able to buffer a certain amount of thermal energy, dissipated from a device. The idea is to suppress temperature peaks in electronic components during load peaks or electronic shorts, which otherwise could damage or destroy the device, by using a phase change material to buffer the thermal energy. The phase change material coating could be directly applied on the chip package or the PCB using different mechanical retaining jigs.

InAs1-xSbx Alloys with Native Llattice Parameters Grown on Compositionally Graded Buffers: Structural and Optical Properties

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-08-15

InAsSb, compositionally graded buffer, MBE, infrared, minority carrier lifetime, reciprocal space mapping Ding Wang, Dmitry Donetsky, Youxi Lin, Gela...infrared, minority carrier lifetime; reciprocal space mapping . Introduction GaSb based Ill-Y materials are widely used in the development of mid... space mapping (RSM) at the symmetric (004) and asymmetric (335) Bragg reflections. Figure 3 presents a set of RSM measurements for a structure

Self-Assembling Protein Materials for Metal Nanoparticle Templation

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-01

conductivity of the wild type biofilm compared to a control of buffer and PilA-deficient mutant strain (c).146 .............................. 113...micrograph of biofilm and pili nanofilaments grown on the electrode surface (b) and the conductivity of the wild type biofilm compared to a control of buffer ...to obtain conductive amyloid fibers deposited on Si3N4 viewed by AFM (b) and TEM (c), where diameters of coated fibers were enlarged from 50 nm to 100

Determination of ferrous and total iron in refractory spinels

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

Amonette, James E.; Matyas, Josef

2015-12-30

Accurate and precise determination of the redox state of iron (Fe) in spinels presents a significant challenge due to their refractory nature. The resultant extreme conditions needed to obtain complete dissolution generally oxidize some of the Fe(II) initially present and thus prevent the use of colorimetric methods for Fe(II) measurements. To overcome this challenge we developed a hybrid oxidimetric/colorimetric approach, using Ag(I) as the oxidimetric reagent for determination of Fe(II) and 1,10-phenanthroline as the colorimetric reagent for determination of total Fe. This approach, which allows determination of Fe(II) and total Fe on the same sample, was tested on a seriesmore » of four geochemical reference materials and then applied to the analysis of Fe(Ni) spinel crystals isolated from simulated high-level-waste (HLW) glass and of several reagent magnetites. Results for the reference materials were in excellent agreement with published values, with the exception of USGS BIR-1, for which higher Fe(II) values and lower total Fe values were obtained. The Fe(Ni) spinels showed Fe(II) values at the detection limit (ca. 0.05 wt% Fe) and total Fe values slightly higher than obtained by total elemental analysis. For the magnetite samples, total Fe values were in agreement with reference results, but a wide range in Fe(II) values was obtained indicating various degrees of conversion to maghemite.« less

A mathematical model of tumour and blood pHe regulation: The HCO3-/CO2 buffering system.

PubMed

Martin, Natasha K; Gaffney, Eamonn A; Gatenby, Robert A; Gillies, Robert J; Robey, Ian F; Maini, Philip K

2011-03-01

Malignant tumours are characterised by a low, acidic extracellular pH (pHe) which facilitates invasion and metastasis. Previous research has proposed the potential benefits of manipulating systemic pHe, and recent experiments have highlighted the potential for buffer therapy to raise tumour pHe, prevent metastases, and prolong survival in laboratory mice. To examine the physiological regulation of tumour buffering and investigate how perturbations of the buffering system (via metabolic/respiratory disorders or changes in parameters) can alter tumour and blood pHe, we develop a simple compartmentalised ordinary differential equation model of pHe regulation by the HCO3-/CO2 buffering system. An approximate analytical solution is constructed and used to carry out a sensitivity analysis, where we identify key parameters that regulate tumour pHe in both humans and mice. From this analysis, we suggest promising alternative and combination therapies, and identify specific patient groups which may show an enhanced response to buffer therapy. In addition, numerical simulations are performed, validating the model against well-known metabolic/respiratory disorders and predicting how these disorders could change tumour pHe. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Formate binding near the redox-active tyrosineD in photosystem II: consequences on the properties of tyrD.

PubMed

Hienerwadel, Rainer; Gourion-Arsiquaud, Samuel; Ballottari, Matteo; Bassi, Roberto; Diner, Bruce A; Berthomieu, Catherine

2005-06-01

Formate and phosphate affect substantially the rate of tyrosine D (TyrD) oxidation and the stability of the radical TyrD* in Photosystem II [Hienerwadel R, Boussac A, Breton J and Berthomieu C (1996) Biochemistry 35: 15447-15460]. This observation prompted us to analyze the influence of formate and phosphate on the environment of TyrD using FTIR spectroscopy. The nu (CO) IR mode of TyrD* at 1503 cm-1 remains unchanged whatever the buffer used at pH 6 and whether formate is present or not in the sample. Similarly, the main IR mode of reduced TyrD remains at approximately 1250 cm-1 in all tested conditions. We thus conclude that formate does not modify the hydrogen-bonded interactions of TyrD and TyrD* with neighbouring D2His189 and D2Gln164. In the TyrD-state, an IR mode of formate significantly different from that observed in solution, is detected using 13C-formate, showing that formate forms a strong electrostatic interaction within PS II. The presence of formate affects also IR bands that may be assigned to an arginine side chain. Upon TyrD* formation, formate does not protonate but its binding interaction weakens. A proton uptake by Mes or phosphate buffer is detected, which is not observed when BisTris is used as a buffer. In these latter conditions, IR bands characteristic of the protonation of a carboxylate group of the protein are detected instead. The present IR data and the recent structural model of the TyrD environment proposed by Ferreira KN, Iverson TM, Maghlaoui K, Barber J and Iwata S [(2004) Science 303: 1831-1838], suggest that the proton released upon TyrD* formation is shared within a hydrogen bonding network including D2Arg294, and CP47Glu364 and that perturbation of this network by formate - possibly binding near D2Arg294 - substantially affects the properties of TyrD.

Lot A2 test, THC modelling of the bentonite buffer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Itälä, Aku; Olin, Markus; Lehikoinen, Jarmo

Finnish spent nuclear fuel is planned to be disposed of deep in the crystalline bedrock of the Olkiluoto island. In such a repository, the role of the bentonite buffer is considered to be central. The initially unsaturated bentonite emplaced around a spent-fuel canister will become fully saturated by the groundwater from the host rock. In order to assess the long-term safety of a deep repository, it is essential to determine how temperature influences the chemical stability of bentonite. The aim of this study was to achieve an improved understanding of the factors governing the thermo-hydro-chemical evolution of the bentonite buffer subject to heat generation from the disposed fuel and in contact with a highly permeable rock fracture intersecting a canister deposition hole. TOUGHREACT was used to model a test known as the long-term test of buffer material adverse-2, which was conducted at the Äspö hard rock laboratory in Sweden. The results on the evolution of cation-exchange equilibria, bentonite porewater chemistry, mineralogy, and saturation of the buffer are presented and discussed. The calculated model results show similarity to the experimental results. In particular, the spatial differences in the saturation and porewater chemistry of the bentonite buffer were clearly visible in the model.

Monolithic Nickel (II) Oxide Aerogels Using an Organic Epoxide: The Importance of the Counter Ion

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

Gash, A E; Satcher, J H; Simpson, R L

2004-01-13

The synthesis and characterization of nickel (II) oxide aerogel materials prepared using the epoxide addition method is described. The addition of the organic epoxide propylene oxide to an ethanolic solution of NiCl{sub 2} 6H{sub 2}O resulted in the formation of an opaque light green monolithic gel and subsequent drying with supercritical CO{sub 2} gave a monolithic aerogel material of the same color. This material has been characterized using powder X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, elemental analysis, and nitrogen adsorption/desorption analysis. The results indicate that the nickel (II) oxide aerogel has very low bulk density (98 kg/m{sup 3} ({approx}98 %porous)), high surfacemore » area (413 m{sup 2}/g), and has a particulate-type aerogel microstructure made up of very fine spherical particles with an open porous network. By comparison, a precipitate of Ni{sub 3}(NO{sub 3}){sub 2}(OH){sub 4} is obtained when the same preparation is attempted with the common Ni(NO{sub 3}){sub 2} 6H{sub 2}O salt as the precursor. The implications of the difference of reactivity of the two different precursors are discussed in the context of the mechanism of gel formation via the epoxide addition method. The synthesis of nickel (II) oxide aerogel, using the epoxide addition method, is especially unique in our experience. It is our first example of the successful preparation of a metal oxide aerogel using a metal divalent metal ion and may have implications for the application of this method to the preparation of aerogels or nanoparticles of other divalent metal oxides. To our knowledge this is the first report of a monolithic pure nickel (II) oxide aerogel materials.« less

Modeling early in situ wetting of a compacted bentonite buffer installed in low permeable crystalline bedrock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dessirier, B.; Frampton, A.; Fransson, À.; Jarsjö, J.

2016-08-01

The repository concept for geological disposal of spent nuclear fuel in Sweden and Finland is planned to be constructed in sparsely fractured crystalline bedrock and with an engineered bentonite buffer to embed the waste canisters. An important stage in such a deep repository is the postclosure phase following the deposition and the backfilling operations when the initially unsaturated buffer material gets hydrated by the groundwater delivered by the natural bedrock. We use numerical simulations to interpret observations on buffer wetting gathered during an in situ campaign, the Bentonite Rock Interaction Experiment, in which unsaturated bentonite columns were introduced into deposition holes in the floor of a 417 m deep tunnel at the Äspö Hard Rock Laboratory in Sweden. Our objectives are to assess the performance of state-of-the-art flow models in reproducing the buffer wetting process and to investigate to which extent dependable predictions of buffer wetting times and saturation patterns can be made based on information collected prior to buffer insertion. This would be important for preventing insertion into unsuitable bedrock environments. Field data and modeling results indicate the development of a de-saturated zone in the rock and show that in most cases, the presence or absence of fractures and flow heterogeneity are more important factors for correct wetting predictions than the total inflow. For instance, for an equal open-hole inflow value, homogeneous inflow yields much more rapid buffer wetting than cases where fractures are represented explicitly thus creating heterogeneous inflow distributions.

Stability of urea in solution and pharmaceutical preparations.

PubMed

Panyachariwat, Nattakan; Steckel, Hartwig

2014-01-01

The stability of urea in solution and pharmaceutical preparations was analyzed as a function of temperature (25°-60°C), pH (3.11-9.67), and initial urea concentration (2.5%-20%). This study was undertaken to (i) obtain more extensive, quantitative information relative to the degradation of urea in both aqueous and non-aqueous solutions and in pharmaceutical preparations, and (ii) test the effects of initial urea concentration, pH, buffer, and temperature values on urea degradation. The stability analysis shows that urea is more stable at the pH range of 4-8 and the stability of urea decreases by increase in temperature for all pH values. Within the experimental range of temperature and initial urea concentration values, the lowest urea degradation was found with lactate buffer pH 6.0. The urea decomposition rate in solution and pharmaceutical preparations shows the dependence of the initial urea concentrations. At higher initial urea concentrations, the rate of degradation is a decreasing function with time. This suggests that the reverse reaction is a factor in the degradation of concentrated urea solution. For non-aqueous solvents, isopropanol showed the best effort in retarding the decomposition of urea. Since the losses in urea is directly influenced by its stability at a given temperature and pH, the stability analysis of urea by the proposed model can be used to prevent the loss and optimize the operating condition for urea-containing pharmaceutical preparations.

Beneficial effects of humic acid on micronutrient availability to wheat

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mackowiak, C. L.; Grossl, P. R.; Bugbee, B. G.

2001-01-01

Humic acid (HA) is a relatively stable product of organic matter decomposition and thus accumulates in environmental systems. Humic acid might benefit plant growth by chelating unavailable nutrients and buffering pH. We examined the effect of HA on growth and micronutrient uptake in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown hydroponically. Four root-zone treatments were compared: (i) 25 micromoles synthetic chelate N-(4-hydroxyethyl)ethylenediaminetriacetic acid (C10H18N2O7) (HEDTA at 0.25 mM C); (ii) 25 micromoles synthetic chelate with 4-morpholineethanesulfonic acid (C6H13N4S) (MES at 5 mM C) pH buffer; (iii) HA at 1 mM C without synthetic chelate or buffer; and (iv) no synthetic chelate or buffer. Ample inorganic Fe (35 micromoles Fe3+) was supplied in all treatments. There was no statistically significant difference in total biomass or seed yield among treatments, but HA was effective at ameliorating the leaf interveinal chlorosis that occurred during early growth of the nonchelated treatment. Leaf-tissue Cu and Zn concentrations were lower in the HEDTA treatment relative to no chelate (NC), indicating HEDTA strongly complexed these nutrients, thus reducing their free ion activities and hence, bioavailability. Humic acid did not complex Zn as strongly and chemical equilibrium modeling supported these results. Titration tests indicated that HA was not an effective pH buffer at 1 mM C, and higher levels resulted in HA-Ca and HA-Mg flocculation in the nutrient solution.

Enzymatic hydrolysis of organic phosphorus in swine manure and soil.

PubMed

He, Zhongqi; Griffin, Timothy S; Honeycutt, C Wayne

2004-01-01

Organic phosphorus (Po) exists in many chemical forms that differ in their susceptibility to hydrolysis and, therefore, bioavailability to plants and microorganisms. Identification and quantification of these forms may significantly contribute to effective agricultural P management. Phosphatases catalyze reactions that release orthophosphate (Pi) from Po compounds. Alkaline phosphatase in tris-HCl buffer (pH 9.0), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) phytase in potassium acetate buffer (pH 5.0), and nuclease P1 in potassium acetate buffer (pH 5.0) can be used to classify and quantify Po in animal manure. Background error associated with different pH and buffer systems is observed. In this study, we improved the enzymatic hydrolysis approach and tested its applicability for investigating Po in soils, recognizing that soil and manure differ in numerous physicochemical properties. We applied (i) acid phosphatase from potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), (ii) acid phosphatases from both potato and wheat germ, and (iii) both enzymes plus nuclease P1 to identify and quantify simple labile monoester P, phytate (myo-inositol hexakis phosphate)-like P, and DNA-like P, respectively, in a single pH/buffer system (100 mM sodium acetate, pH 5.0). This hydrolysis procedure released Po in sequentially extracted H2O, NaHCO3, and NaOH fractions of swine (Sus scrofa) manure, and of three sandy loam soils. Further refinement of the approach may provide a universal tool for evaluating hydrolyzable Po from a wide range of sources.

World War II Spy Kit: "The Great Nazi Intelligence Coup."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haight, David

This instructional packet is designed to introduce students to primary source material by having them participate in an historical "what might have been." Students engage in critical thinking and document analysis, and through the process learn about Operation OVERLORD and World War II in general. This spy kit centers on Operation…

Agricultural conservation planning framework: 2. Classification of riparian buffer design types with application to assess and map stream corridors.

PubMed

Tomer, M D; Boomer, K M B; Porter, S A; Gelder, B K; James, D E; McLellan, E

2015-05-01

A watershed's riparian corridor presents opportunities to stabilize streambanks, intercept runoff, and influence shallow groundwater with riparian buffers. This paper presents a system to classify these riparian opportunities and apply them toward riparian management planning in hydrologic unit code 12 watersheds. In two headwater watersheds from each of three landform regions found in Iowa and Illinois, high-resolution (3-m grid) digital elevation models were analyzed to identify spatial distributions of surface runoff contributions and zones with shallow water tables (SWTs) (within 1.5 m of the channel elevation) along the riparian corridors. Results were tabulated, and a cross classification was applied. Classes of buffers include those primarily placed to (i) trap runoff and sediment, (ii) influence shallow groundwater, (iii) address both runoff and shallow groundwater, and (iv) maintain/improve stream bank stability. Riparian buffers occupying about 2.5% of these six watersheds could effectively intercept runoff contributions from 81 to 94% of the watersheds' contributing areas. However, extents of riparian zones where a narrow buffer (<10 m wide) would adequately intercept runoff but where >25 m width of buffer vegetation could root to a SWT varied according to landform region ( < 0.10). Yet, these wide-SWT riparian zones were widespread and occupied 23 to 53% of the lengths of stream banks among the six watersheds. The wide-SWT setting provides opportunities to reduce dissolved nutrients (particularly NO-N) carried via groundwater. This riparian classification and mapping system is part of a ArcGIS toolbox and could provide a consistent basis to identify riparian management opportunities in Midwestern headwater catchments wherever high-resolution elevation data are available. Copyright © by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, Inc.

Dissolution enhancement of atorvastatin calcium by co-grinding technique.

PubMed

Prabhu, Priyanka; Patravale, Vandana

2016-08-01

Atorvastatin calcium (AC) is a BCS class II drug which shows poor bioavailability due to inadequate dissolution. Solid dispersions present a promising option to enhance the solubility of poorly soluble drugs. Co-grinding with hydrophilic excipients is an easy and economical technique to improve the solubility of poorly soluble drugs and is free from usage of organic solvents. The aim of the present study was to explore novel carrier VBP-1 (organosulphur compound) for formulating a solid dispersion by using a simple, commercially viable co-grinding technique to enhance the dissolution of AC and to develop an oral formulation of the same. Composition of the solid dispersion was optimized based on the release profile in pH 1.2 buffer. The optimized solid dispersion was further characterized for flow properties, DSC, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, contact angle, SEM studies and release profile in phosphate buffer pH 6.8. The developed solid dispersion gave similar release profile as the innovator formulation (Lipitor® tablets) in both pH 1.2 buffer and phosphate buffer pH 6.8. The developed solid dispersion was formulated into hard gelatin capsules (size 3). The developed capsules were found to give similar release as the innovator formulation in both pH 1.2 buffer and phosphate buffer pH 6.8. The developed capsules were found to be stable for a period of 6 months. Anti-hyperlipidemic efficacy studies in rats showed higher reduction in cholesterol and triglyceride levels by the developed capsules in comparison to pure AC. In conclusion, novel carrier VBP-1 was successfully employed to enhance the dissolution of AC using co-grinding technique.

Volumetric analysis of formation of the complex of G-quadruplex DNA with hemin using high pressure.

PubMed

Takahashi, Shuntaro; Bhowmik, Sudipta; Sugimoto, Naoki

2017-01-01

DNA guanine-quadruplexes (G-quadruplexes) complexed with the Fe-containing porphyrin, hemin (iron(III)-protoporphyrin IX), can catalyze oxidation reactions. This so-called DNAzyme has been widely used in the field of DNA nanotechnology. To improve DNAzyme properties, we sought to elucidate the interaction mechanism between G-quadruplex DNA and hemin. Here, we performed volumetric analyses of formation of the complex between an oligonucleotide with the sequence of human telomeric DNA (h-telo) and hemin. The G-quadruplex DNA alone and the G-quadruplex DNA-hemin complex were destabilized with increasing pressure in Na + buffer. The pressure required to destabilize the h-telo-hemin complex was less in K + -containing buffer than in buffer with Na + , which indicates that there was a smaller volumetric change upon h-telo formation in K + buffer than in Na + buffer. The calculated change in h-telo-hemin binding volume (∆V b ) in the Na + buffer was 2.5mLmol -1 , whereas it was -41.7 in mLmol -1 the K + buffer. The DNAzyme activity in the K + buffer was higher than that in the Na + buffer at atmospheric pressure. Interestingly, the pressure effect on the destabilization of the h-telo-hemin complex in the presence of poly(ethylene glycol)200 (PEG200) was repressed compared to that in the absence of PEG200. These results suggest that differences in volumetric parameters reflect different mechanisms of interaction between hemin and h-telo due to differences in both the fit of hemin into the h-telo structure and hydration. Thus, the pressure-based thermodynamic analysis provided important information about complex formation and could be a useful index to improve function of DNAzymes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

FY-16 Technology Gap Study Technical Report: Analysis of Undissolved Anode Materials of Mark-IV Electrorefiner

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

Yoo, Tae-Sic; Vaden, DeeEarl; Westphal, Brian Robert

2016-01-01

The Experimental Breeder Reactor II (EBR-II) is a sodium cooled fast reactor developed at Argonne National Laboratory (ANL). The used fuels from the EBR-II are currently being treated in the Fuel Conditioning Facility (FCF) at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The Mark IV (Mk-IV) electrorefiner (ER) is a unit process in the FCF, which is primarily assigned to treating the used driver fuels. The stainless steel anode baskets hold the chopped spent driver fuel segments. During electrorefining, the anode baskets are immersed into the electrolyte and the used fuel is dissolved electrochemically. Perforated sides and bottoms allow the flow ofmore » the electrolyte into and out of the anode baskets. The steel cathode is also immersed into the electrolyte and collects the reduced products. The active metal contents in the used fuel (e.g., Cs, Sr, lanthanides, Pu, etc.) reacts with uranium cations in the electrolyte and progressively reports to the electrolyte. Noble metals are mostly retained in the cladding hulls. Varying quantities of zirconium are retained in the cladding hulls depending on the operational conditions of the Mk-IV ER. The undissolved anode materials are removed from the anode baskets and stored for subsequent metal waste form processing. These undissolved materials typically include undissolved fuels, stainless steel cladding, and adhering electrolyte. A couple of hulls are retrieved for chemical analysis and used for estimating the composition of the entire undissolved anode materials. The mass balance attempt based on this practice of estimating the undissolved anode materials has been a challenge due to inherently high sampling errors associated with heterogeneous undissolved material compositions. Responding to the prescribed challenge, this report investigates chemical analysis data as a whole and finds noticeable trends in the compositions of undissolved anode material samples with respect to the mass of the whole undissolved anode materials. Based upon this discovery, an empirical model is proposed.« less

Stability of solid oxide fuel cell materials

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

Armstrong, T.R.; Bates, J.L.; Chick, L.A.

1996-04-01

Interconnection materials in a solid oxide fuel cell are exposed to both highly oxidizing conditions at the cathode and to highly reducing conditions at the anode. The thermal expansion characteristics of substituted lanthanum and yttrium chromite interconnect materials were evaluated by dilatometry as a function of oxygen partial pressures from 1 atm to 10{sup -18} atm, controlled using a carbon dioxide/hydrogen buffer.

Analysis of a unidirectional, symmetric buffer strip laminate with damage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dharani, L. R.; Goree, J. G.

1984-01-01

A method for predicting the fracture behavior of hybrid buffer strip laminates is presented in which the classical shear-lag model is used to represent the shear stress distribution between adjacent fibers. The method is demonstrated by applying it to a notched graphite/epoxy laminate, and the results show clearly the manner in which the most efficient combination of buffer strip properties can be selected in order to arrest the crack. The ultimate failure stress of the laminate is plotted vs the buffer strip width. It is shown that in the case of graphite-epoxy and S-glass epoxy laminates, the optimum buffer strip spacing to width ratio should be about four to one.

Cost-benefit analysis of riparian protection in an eastern Canadian watershed.

PubMed

Trenholm, Ryan; Lantz, Van; Martínez-Espiñeira, Roberto; Little, Shawn

2013-02-15

Forested riparian buffers have proved to be an effective management practice that helps maintain ecological goods and services in watersheds. In this study, we assessed the non-market benefits and opportunity costs associated with implementing these buffers in an eastern Canadian watershed using contingent valuation and wood supply modeling methods, respectively. A number of buffer scenarios were considered, including 30 and 60 m buffers on woodlots and on all land (including woodlots, agricultural, and residential lands) in the watershed. Household annual WTP estimates ranged from -$6.80 to $42.85, and total present value benefits ranged from -$11.7 to $121.7 million (CDN 2007), depending on the buffer scenario, affected population, time horizon, and econometric modeling assumptions considered. Opportunity cost estimates range from $1.3 to $10.4 million in present value terms, depending on silvicultural and agriculture land rental rate assumptions. Overall, we found that the net present value of riparian buffers was positive for the majority of scenarios and assumptions. Some exceptions were found under more conservative benefit, and higher unit cost, assumptions. These results provide decision makers with data on stated benefits and opportunity costs of riparian buffers, as well as insight into the importance of modeling assumptions when using this framework of analysis. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The determination of levofloxacin by flow injection analysis using UV detection, potentiometry, and conductometry in pharmaceutical preparations.

PubMed

Altiokka, G; Atkosar, Z; Can, N O

2002-10-15

A flow injection analysis (FIA) using UV detection, potentiometry and conductometry for levofloxacin (LVF) are described in this study. The best solvent system was found to consist of 0.2 M acetate buffer at pH 3 having 10% MeOH. A flow rate of 1 ml min(-1) was pumped and active material was detected at 288 nm. The detection limit (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for FIA were calculated to be 3 x 10(-7) M (S/N = 3) and 1 x 10(-7) M (S/N = 10), respectively. In the analysis of tablets, the RSD values were found to be 0.83, 0.98 and 0.99 for FIA, potentiometric and conductometric methods, respectively. Copyright 2002 Elsevier Science B.V.

Photosensitized H2 Production Using a Zinc Porphyrin-Substituted Protein, Platinum Nanoparticles, and Ascorbate with No Electron Relay: Participation of Good's Buffers.

PubMed

Clark, Emily R; Kurtz, Donald M

2017-04-17

Development of efficient light-driven splitting of water, 2H 2 O → 2H 2 + O 2 , often attempts to optimize photosensitization of the reductive and oxidative half-reactions individually. Numerous homogeneous and heterogeneous systems have been developed for photochemical stimulation of the reductive half reaction, 2H + + 2e - → H 2 . These systems generally consist of various combinations of a H + reduction catalyst, a photosensitizer (PS), and a "sacrificial" electron donor. Zinc(II)-porphyrins (ZnPs) have frequently been used as PSs for H 2 generation, but they are subject to various self-quenching processes in aqueous solutions. Colloidal platinum in nanoparticle form (Pt NP) is a classical H + reduction catalyst using ZnP photosensitizers, but efficient photosensitized H 2 generation requires an electron relay molecule between ZnP and Pt NP. The present report describes an aqueous system for visible (white) light-sensitized generation of H 2 using a protein-embedded Zn(II)-protoporphyrin IX as PS and Pt NP as H + reduction catalyst without an added electron relay. This system operated efficiently in piperazino- and morpholino-alkylsulfonic acid (Good's buffers), which served as sacrificial electron donors. The system also required ascorbate at relatively modest concentrations, which stabilized the Zn(II)-protoporphyrin IX against photodegradation. In the absence of an electron relay molecule, the photosensitized H 2 generation must involve formation of at least a transient complex between a protein-embedded Zn(II)-protoporphyrin IX species and Pt NP.

Multi-temporal monitoring of a regional riparian buffer network (>12,000 km) with LiDAR and photogrammetric point clouds.

PubMed

Michez, Adrien; Piégay, Hervé; Lejeune, Philippe; Claessens, Hugues

2017-11-01

Riparian buffers are of major concern for land and water resource managers despite their relatively low spatial coverage. In Europe, this concern has been acknowledged by different environmental directives which recommend multi-scale monitoring (from local to regional scales). Remote sensing methods could be a cost-effective alternative to field-based monitoring, to build replicable "wall-to-wall" monitoring strategies of large river networks and associated riparian buffers. The main goal of our study is to extract and analyze various parameters of the riparian buffers of up to 12,000 km of river in southern Belgium (Wallonia) from three-dimensional (3D) point clouds based on LiDAR and photogrammetric surveys to i) map riparian buffers parameters on different scales, ii) interpret the regional patterns of the riparian buffers and iii) propose new riparian buffer management indicators. We propose different strategies to synthesize and visualize relevant information at different spatial scales ranging from local (<10 km) to regional scale (>12,000 km). Our results showed that the selected parameters had a clear regional pattern. The reaches of Ardenne ecoregion have channels with the highest flow widths and shallowest depths. In contrast, the reaches of the Loam ecoregion have the narrowest and deepest flow channels. Regional variability in channel width and depth is used to locate management units potentially affected by human impact. Riparian forest of the Loam ecoregion is characterized by the lowest longitudinal continuity and mean tree height, underlining significant human disturbance. As the availability of 3D point clouds at the regional scale is constantly growing, our study proposes reproducible methods which can be integrated into regional monitoring by land managers. With LiDAR still being relatively expensive to acquire, the use of photogrammetric point clouds combined with LiDAR data is a cost-effective means to update the characterization of the riparian forest conditions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Enhancing Nitrogen Availability, Ammonium Adsorption-Desorption, and Soil pH Buffering Capacity using Composted Paddy Husk

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Latifah, O.; Ahmed, O. H.; Abdul Majid, N. M.

2017-12-01

Form of nitrogen present in soils is one of the factors that affect nitrogen loss. Nitrate is mobile in soils because it does not absorb on soil colloids, thus, causing it to be leached by rainfall to deeper soil layers or into the ground water. On the other hand, temporary retention and timely release of ammonium in soils regulate nitrogen availability for crops. In this study, composted paddy husk was used in studies of soil leaching, buffering capacity, and ammonium adsorption and desorption to determine the: (i) availability of exchangeable ammonium, available nitrate, and total nitrogen in an acid soil after leaching the soil for 30 days, (ii) soil buffering capacity, and (iii) ability of the composted paddy husk to adsorb and desorb ammonium from urea. Leaching of ammonium and nitrate were lower in all treatments with urea and composted paddy husk compared with urea alone. Higher retention of soil exchangeable ammonium, available nitrate, and total nitrogen of the soils with composted paddy husk were due to the high buffering capacity and cation exchange capacity of the amendment to adsorb ammonium thus, improving nitrogen availability through temporary retention on the exchange sites of the humic acids of the composted paddy husk. Nitrogen availability can be enhanced if urea is amended with composted paddy husk.

Setback Distances as a Conservation Tool in Wildlife-Human Interactions: Testing Their Efficacy for Birds Affected by Vehicles on Open-Coast Sandy Beaches

PubMed Central

Schlacher, Thomas A.; Weston, Michael A.; Lynn, David; Connolly, Rod M.

2013-01-01

In some wilderness areas, wildlife encounter vehicles disrupt their behaviour and habitat use. Changing driver behaviour has been proposed where bans on vehicle use are politically unpalatable, but the efficacy of vehicle setbacks and reduced speeds remains largely untested. We characterised bird-vehicle encounters in terms of driver behaviour and the disturbance caused to birds, and tested whether spatial buffers or lower speeds reduced bird escape responses on open beaches. Focal observations showed that: i) most drivers did not create sizeable buffers between their vehicles and birds; ii) bird disturbance was frequent; and iii) predictors of probability of flushing (escape) were setback distance and vehicle type (buses flushed birds at higher rates than cars). Experiments demonstrated that substantial reductions in bird escape responses required buffers to be wide (> 25 m) and vehicle speeds to be slow (< 30 km h-1). Setback distances can reduce impacts on wildlife, provided that they are carefully designed and derived from empirical evidence. No speed or distance combination we tested, however, eliminated bird responses. Thus, while buffers reduce response rates, they are likely to be much less effective than vehicle-free zones (i.e. beach closures), and rely on changes to current driver behaviour. PMID:24039711

Nonaqueous capillary electrophoresis with indirect electrochemical detection.

PubMed

Matysik, Frank-Michael; Marggraf, Daniela; Gläser, Petra; Broekaert, José A C

2002-11-01

Nonaqueous capillary electrophoresis (NACE) which makes use of organic solvents in place of conventional aqueous electrophoresis buffers is gaining increasing importance among modern separation techniques. Recently, it has been shown that amperometric detection in conjunction with acetonitrile-based NACE offers an extended accessible potential range and an enhanced long-term stability of the amperometric responses generated at solid electrodes. The present contribution takes advantage of the latter aspect to develop reliable systems for NACE with indirect electrochemical detection (IED). In this context, several compounds such as (ferrocenylmethyl)trimethylammonium perchlorate, tris(1,10-phenanthroline)cobalt(III) perchlorate and bis(1,4,7-triazacyclononane)nickel(II) perchlorate were studied regarding their suitability to act as electroactive buffer additives for IED in NACE. The performance characteristics for the respective buffer systems were evaluated. Tetraalkylammonium perchlorates served as model compounds for the optimization of the NACE-IED system. Target analytes choline and acetylcholine could easily be separated and determined by means of NACE-IED. In the case of a buffer system containing 10(-4) M tris(1,10-phenanthroline)cobalt(III) perchlorate the limits of detection were 2.5 x 10(-7) M and 4.6 x 10(-7) M for choline and acetylcholine, respectively. With the elaborated analytical procedure choline could be determined in pharmaceutical preparations.

Iron as a catalyst of human low-density lipoprotein oxidation: Critical factors involved in its oxidant properties.

PubMed

Lapenna, Domenico; Ciofani, Giuliano; Obletter, Gabriele

2017-05-01

Iron-induced human LDL oxidation, which is relevant to atherosclerosis, has not yet been properly investigated. We addressed such issue using iron(II) and (III) basically in the presence of phosphates, which are present in vivo and influence iron oxidative properties, at pH 4.5 and 7.4, representative, respectively, of the lysosomal and plasma environment. In 10mM phosphate buffered saline (PBS), iron(II) induces substantial LDL oxidation at pH 4.5 at low micromolar concentrations, while at pH 7.4 has low oxidative effects; iron(III) promotes small LDL oxidation only at pH 4.5. In 10mM sodium acetate/NaCl buffer, pH 4.5, iron-induced LDL oxidation is far higher than in PBS, highlighting the relevance of phosphates in the inhibitory modulation of iron-induced LDL oxidation. LDL oxidation is related to iron binding to the protein and lipid moiety of LDL, and requires the presence of iron(II) bound to LDL together with iron(III). Chemical modification of LDL carboxyl groups, which could bind iron especially at pH 4.5, decreases significantly iron binding to LDL and iron-induced LDL oxidation. Hydroxyl radical scavengers are ineffective on iron-induced LDL oxidation, which is inhibited by metal chelation, scavengers of alkoxyl/peroxyl radicals, or removal of LDL lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH). Overall, substantial human LDL oxidation is induced LOOH-dependently by iron(II) at pH 4.5 even in the presence of phosphates, suggesting the occurrence of iron(II)-induced LDL oxidation in vivo within lysosomes, where pH is about 4.5, iron(II) and phosphates coexist, plasma with its antioxidants is absent, and glutathione peroxidase is poorly expressed resulting in LOOH accumulation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Biaxially textured composite substrates

DOEpatents

Groves, James R.; Foltyn, Stephen R.; Arendt, Paul N.

2005-04-26

An article including a substrate, a layer of a metal phosphate material such as an aluminum phosphate material upon the surface of the substrate, and a layer of an oriented cubic oxide material having a rock-salt-like structure upon the metal phosphate material layer is provided together with additional layers such as a HTS top-layer of YBCO directly upon a layer of a buffer material such as a SrTi.sub.x Ru.sub.1-x O.sub.3 layer.

40 CFR 60.57b - Siting requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...)(1)(ii) of this section. (i) The owner or operator shall distribute the preliminary draft materials... amount of waste generation anticipated for the service area. (C) The types and estimated amounts of... operator shall distribute the siting analysis and final draft materials separation plan to the principal...

40 CFR 60.57b - Siting requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...)(1)(ii) of this section. (i) The owner or operator shall distribute the preliminary draft materials... amount of waste generation anticipated for the service area. (C) The types and estimated amounts of... operator shall distribute the siting analysis and final draft materials separation plan to the principal...

40 CFR 60.57b - Siting requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

...)(1)(ii) of this section. (i) The owner or operator shall distribute the preliminary draft materials... amount of waste generation anticipated for the service area. (C) The types and estimated amounts of... operator shall distribute the siting analysis and final draft materials separation plan to the principal...

40 CFR 60.57b - Siting requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

...)(1)(ii) of this section. (i) The owner or operator shall distribute the preliminary draft materials... amount of waste generation anticipated for the service area. (C) The types and estimated amounts of... operator shall distribute the siting analysis and final draft materials separation plan to the principal...

Knot Security of 5 Metric (USP 2) Sutures: Influence of Knotting Technique, Suture Material, and Incubation Time for 14 and 28 Days in Phosphate Buffered Saline and Inflamed Equine Peritoneal Fluid.

PubMed

Sanders, Ruth E; Kearney, Clodagh M; Buckley, Conor T; Jenner, Florien; Brama, Pieter A

2015-08-01

To evaluate knot security for 3 knot types created in 3 commonly used 5 metric suture materials incubated in physiological and pathological fluids. In vitro mechanical study. Knotted suture loops (n = 5/group). Loops of 3 different suture materials (glycolide/lactide copolymer; polyglactin 910; polydioxanone) were created around a 20 mm rod using 3 knot types (square [SQ], surgeon's [SK], and triple knot [TK]) and were tested to failure in distraction (6 mm/min) after tying (day 0) and after being incubated for 14 and 28 days in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) or inflamed peritoneal fluid. Failure load (N) and mode were recorded and compared. For polydioxanone, significant differences in force to knot failure were found between SQ and SK/TK but not between SK and TK. The force required to break all constructs increased after incubation in phosphate buffered saline (PBS). With glycolide/lactide copolymer no differences in force to knot failure were observed. With polyglactin 910, a significant difference between SQ and TK was observed, which was not seen between the other knot types. Incubation in inflamed peritoneal fluid caused a larger and more rapid decrease in force required to cause knot failure than incubation in PBS. Mechanical properties of suture materials have significant effects on knot security. For polydioxanone, SQ is insufficient to create a secure knot. Additional wraps above a SK confer extra stability in some materials, but this increase may not be clinically relevant or justifiable. Glycolide/lactide copolymer had excellent knot security. © Copyright 2015 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Reducing interface recombination for Cu(In,Ga)Se{sub 2} by atomic layer deposited buffer layers

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

Hultqvist, Adam; Bent, Stacey F.; Li, Jian V.

2015-07-20

Partial CuInGaSe{sub 2} (CIGS) solar cell stacks with different atomic layer deposited buffer layers and pretreatments were analyzed by photoluminescence (PL) and capacitance voltage (CV) measurements to investigate the buffer layer/CIGS interface. Atomic layer deposited ZnS, ZnO, and SnO{sub x} buffer layers were compared with chemical bath deposited CdS buffer layers. Band bending, charge density, and interface state density were extracted from the CV measurement using an analysis technique new to CIGS. The surface recombination velocity calculated from the density of interface traps for a ZnS/CIGS stack shows a remarkably low value of 810 cm/s, approaching the range of single crystallinemore » II–VI systems. Both the PL spectra and its lifetime depend on the buffer layer; thus, these measurements are not only sensitive to the absorber but also to the absorber/buffer layer system. Pretreatment of the CIGS prior to the buffer layer deposition plays a significant role on the electrical properties for the same buffer layer/CIGS stack, further illuminating the importance of good interface formation. Finally, ZnS is found to be the best performing buffer layer in this study, especially if the CIGS surface is pretreated with potassium cyanide.« less

Reducing interface recombination for Cu(In,Ga)Se 2 by atomic layer deposited buffer layers

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

Hultqvist, Adam; Li, Jian V.; Kuciauskas, Darius

2015-07-20

Partial CuInGaSe2 (CIGS) solar cell stacks with different atomic layer deposited buffer layers and pretreatments were analyzed by photoluminescence (PL) and capacitance voltage (CV) measurements to investigate the buffer layer/CIGS interface. Atomic layer deposited ZnS, ZnO, and SnOx buffer layers were compared with chemical bath deposited CdS buffer layers. Band bending, charge density, and interface state density were extracted from the CV measurement using an analysis technique new to CIGS. The surface recombination velocity calculated from the density of interface traps for a ZnS/CIGS stack shows a remarkably low value of 810 cm/s, approaching the range of single crystalline II–VImore » systems. Both the PL spectra and its lifetime depend on the buffer layer; thus, these measurements are not only sensitive to the absorber but also to the absorber/buffer layer system. Pretreatment of the CIGS prior to the buffer layer deposition plays a significant role on the electrical properties for the same buffer layer/CIGS stack, further illuminating the importance of good interface formation. Finally, ZnS is found to be the best performing buffer layer in this study, especially if the CIGS surface is pretreated with potassium cyanide.« less

The Role of VDR in Phosphorylation in Vitamin D-Induced Apoptosis

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-07-01

nuclear pellet was resuspended in Buffer A, Cytometer (Coulter Corp., Miami, FL) equipped with an argon laser . sonicated 2 x 10 s, and stored at -80 ’C...rickets type II with alopecia . Proc Natl Acad Sci [45] Mezzetti G, Barbiroli B, Oka T. 1,25-Dihydroxycholecalciferol re- USA 1997;94:9831-5. ceptor

REDUCTION OF AZO DYES WITH ZERO-VALENT IRON. (R827117)

EPA Science Inventory

The reduction of azo dyes by zero-valent iron metal (Fe⁰) at pH 7.0 in 10 mM HEPES buffer was studied in aqueous, anaerobic batch systems. Orange II was reduced by cleavage of the azo linkage, as evidenced by the production of sulfanilic acid (a substituted ani...

Regional specialization in human nuclei: visualization of discrete sites of transcription by RNA polymerase III.

PubMed Central

Pombo, A; Jackson, D A; Hollinshead, M; Wang, Z; Roeder, R G; Cook, P R

1999-01-01

Mammalian nuclei contain three different RNA polymerases defined by their characteristic locations and drug sensitivities; polymerase I is found in nucleoli, and polymerases II and III in the nucleoplasm. As nascent transcripts made by polymerases I and II are concentrated in discrete sites, the locations of those made by polymerase III were investigated. HeLa cells were lysed with saponin in an improved 'physiological' buffer that preserves transcriptional activity and nuclear ultrastructure; then, engaged polymerases were allowed to extend nascent transcripts in Br-UTP, before the resulting Br-RNA was immunolabelled indirectly with fluorochromes or gold particles. Biochemical analysis showed that approximately 10 000 transcripts were being made by polymerase III at the moment of lysis, while confocal and electron microscopy showed that these transcripts were concentrated in only approximately 2000 sites (diameter approximately 40 nm). Therefore, each site contains approximately five active polymerases. These sites contain specific subunits of polymerase III, but not the hyperphosphorylated form of the largest subunit of polymerase II. The results indicate that the active forms of all three nuclear polymerases are concentrated in their own dedicated transcription sites or 'factories', suggesting that different regions of the nucleus specialize in the transcription of different types of gene. PMID:10205177

Sodium and Potassium Ions in Proteins and Enzyme Catalysis.

PubMed

Vašák, Milan; Schnabl, Joachim

2016-01-01

The group I alkali metal ions Na(+) and K(+) are ubiquitous components of biological fluids that surround biological macromolecules. They play important roles other than being nonspecific ionic buffering agents or mediators of solute exchange and transport. Molecular evolution and regulated high intracellular and extracellular M(+) concentrations led to incorporation of selective Na(+) and K(+) binding sites into enzymes to stabilize catalytic intermediates or to provide optimal positioning of substrates. The mechanism of M(+) activation, as derived from kinetic studies along with structural analysis, has led to the classification of cofactor-like (type I) or allosteric effector (type II) activated enzymes. In the type I mechanism substrate anchoring to the enzyme active site is mediated by M(+), often acting in tandem with a divalent cation like Mg(2+), Mn(2+) or Zn(2+). In the allosteric type II mechanism, M(+) binding enhances enzyme activity through conformational transitions triggered upon binding to a distant site. In this chapter, following the discussion of the coordination chemistry of Na(+) and K(+) ions and the structural features responsible for the metal binding site selectivity in M(+)-activated enzymes, well-defined examples of M(+)-activated enzymes are used to illustrate the structural basis for type I and type II activation by Na(+) and K(+).

Detection of VR-2332 strain of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus type II using an aptamer-based sandwich-type assay.

PubMed

Lee, Su Jin; Kwon, Young Seop; Lee, Ji-eun; Choi, Eun-Jin; Lee, Chang-Hee; Song, Jae-Young; Gu, Man Bock

2013-01-02

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome disease (PRRS), a disease that has a significant and economic impact on the swine industry. In this study, single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) aptamers with high specificity and affinity against VR-2332 strain of PRRSV type II were successfully obtained. Of 19 candidates, the LB32 aptamer was found to be the most specific and sensitive to VR-2332 strain according to an aptamer-based surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis. The detection of VR-2332 of PRRSV type II was successfully accomplished using the enzyme-linked antibody-aptamer sandwich (ELAAS) method. The detection limit of ELAAS was 4.8 × 10(0) TCID(50)/mL that is comparable to some of the previous reports of the PCR-based detection but does not require any complicated equipment or extra costs. Moreover, this ELAAS-based PRRSV detection showed similar sensitivity for both the VR-2332 samples spiked in diluted swine serum and in buffer. Therefore, this VR-2332 strain-specific aptamer and its assay method with high specificity can be used as an alternative method for the fast and precise detection of PRRSV.

Attenuation of drug-stimulated topoisomerase II-DNA cleavable complex formation in wild-type HL-60 cells treated with an intracellular calcium buffer is correlated with decreased cytotoxicity and site-specific hypophosphorylation of topoisomerase IIalpha.

PubMed Central

Aoyama, M; Grabowski, D R; Dubyak, G R; Constantinou, A I; Rybicki, L A; Bukowski, R M; Ganapathi, M K; Hickson, I D; Ganapathi, R

1998-01-01

Topoisomerase II (topo II), an essential enzyme for cell viability, is also the target for clinically important anti-neoplastic agents that stimulate topo II-mediated DNA scission. The role of alterations in topo IIalpha phosphorylation and its effect on drug-induced DNA damage and cytotoxicity were investigated. Following loading of HL-60 cells with the calcium buffer 1, 2-bis-(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetra-acetic acid tetra(acetoxymethyl) ester (BAPTA-AM), which abrogates intracellular Ca2+ transients, a significant decrease in etoposide (VP-16)- or amsacrine (m-AMSA)-stabilized topo II-DNA cleavable complex formation and a corresponding decrease in cytotoxicity was observed. In a cell-free system, nuclear extracts from BAPTA-AM-treated cells exhibited markedly less activity when assayed for VP-16-stabilized topo II-DNA complex formation, but not decatenation of kinetoplast DNA. In contrast, the loading of HL-60 cells with N,N,N', N'-tetrakis-(2-pyridyl)ethylenediamine (TPEN), which binds heavy metals without disturbing calcium or magnesium concentrations, did not significantly affect VP-16-stimulated topo II-DNA cleavable complex formation or cytotoxicity. In HL-60 cells the accumulation of BAPTA, but not TPEN, also led to the hypophosphorylation of topo IIalpha. Tryptic phosphopeptide mapping of topo IIalpha protein from HL-60 cells revealed: (a) eight major phosphorylation sites in untreated cells; (b) hypophosphorylation of two out of eight sites in BAPTA-AM-treated cells; and (c) hypophosphorylation of between two and four out of eight sites in topo II-poison-resistant HL-60 cells. The two hypophosphorylated sites present following BAPTA-AM treatment of wild-type cells were identical with the hypophosphorylated sites in the resistant cells, but were not the same as the sites that are substrates for casein kinase II [Wells, Addison, Fry, Ganapathi and Hickson (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 29746-29751]. In summary, changes in intracellular Ca2+ transients that lead to the site-specific hypophosphorylation of topo IIalpha are possibly involved in regulating the DNA damage caused by and the cytotoxic potential of topo II poisons. PMID:9841887

MOCVD growth and study of thin films of indium nitride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, Abhishek

This thesis is focused on a study of MOCVD growth of InN with the goal of providing new information on the effects of growth conditions and buffer/substrate materials on InN film properties. Initial studies, using both (111) Si and (0001) sapphire substrates, identified an optimum growth temperature window of 540--560°C for the formation of stable InN films. When attempting to grow InN films on sapphire with thicknesses greater than approximately 150 nanometers using an AlN buffer layer, the InN films were observed to delaminate from the buffer/substrate at growth temperature. The combined effect of compressive stress due to high lattice mismatch between InN and AlN (˜14%) and tensile stress due to grain coalescence along with the relatively weak bond strength of InN compared to GaN and AlN, is believed to cause the InN film to crack along the interface and delaminate. To further investigate the effect of the buffer layer on InN growth, studies were carried out using GaN films grown on sapphire as the growth template. Recent MBE results had indicated a significant difference in the thermal stability and growth mode of In-polar and N-polar InN, with improved properties reported for N-polar material grown on N-polar GaN. MOCVD growth of N-polar GaN is very difficult; consequently, all of the results reported in the literature for InN growth on GaN were likely carried out on Ga-polar material resulting in films with a high surface roughness. By utilizing N-polar and Ga-polar GaN films, it was possible to produce N-polar and In-polar InN films by MOCVD, as determined by convergent beam electron diffraction (CBED) analysis. Furthermore, the polarity was found to dramatically alter the surface roughness and growth mode of the InN films with enhanced lateral growth and reduced surface roughness obtained for N-polar InN. A qualitative model was proposed to explain the different growth mechanisms observed for In-polar and N-polar InN. In spite of the improvements in surface morphology obtained with growth of N-polar InN, delamination at the InN/GaN interface was still observed in these films, and was also present in In-polar InN samples. Attempts were made to further reduce the lattice mismatch and improve the adhesion between InN and GaN by using a compositionally graded InGaN buffer layer. The fabrication of InGaN over its entire composition range is challenging since the optimal growth parameters window for InGaN varies with composition and film quality is strongly dependent on temperature and precursor flow rates. The structural properties of the InN films grown on the graded InGaN layers were comparable to films grown directly on GaN, however, the film adhesion was significantly improved with no evidence of interfacial cracks between the InN and GaN. These preliminary results indicate that graded InGaN layers can be used to improve the adhesion of InN on both Ga-polar and N-polar GaN, however, further work is needed to develop graded InGaN buffer layers or constant composition InGaN interlayers with improved structural properties for InN growth. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Analysis of the polyphenols content in medicinal plants based on the reduction of Cu(II)/bicinchoninic complexes.

PubMed

Marino, Daniele Cestari; Sabino, Larissa Zuppardo Lacerda; Armando, José; Ruggiero, Andrea De Andrade; Moya, Horacio Dorigan

2009-12-09

A spectrophotometric method is proposed for the determination of the polyphenols content in aqueous extracts of plants. The method is based on the reduction of Cu(II) to Cu(I) by polyphenols, in the presence of bicinchoninic acid in a buffered medium (ammonium acetate, pH 7.0) with the formation of Cu(I)/BCA complexes. A calibration curve of absorbance (at 558 nm) vs tannic acid concentration is linear (r = 0.995; n = 7) with tannic acid from 0.1 to 0.7 micromol L(-1). The limit of detection and relative standard deviation were 40 nmol L(-1) (99% confidence level) and 3.8% (0.4 micromol L(-1) tannic acid, n = 7), respectively. For the aqueous extracts of Hamamelis virginiana L., Maytenus ilicifolia Mart. ex Reissek, Hydrocotyle bonariensis Lam, Annona muricata L., Myrciaria cauliflora (Mart.) O. Berg., Caesearia sylvestris Sw., Schinus terebinthifolia (Raddi), and Stryphnodendron adstringens (Mart.) Coville, the total polyphenol contents, expressed as tannic acid, were 3.5, 1.3, 2.0, 3.1, 15.4, 3.1, 9.1, and 6.9%, respectively.

Functionalization of Magnetic Chitosan Particles for the Sorption of U(VI), Cu(II) and Zn(II)—Hydrazide Derivative of Glycine-Grafted Chitosan

PubMed Central

Hamza, Mohammed F.; Aly, Mohsen M.; Abdel-Rahman, Adel A.-H.; Ramadan, Samar; Raslan, Heba; Wang, Shengye; Vincent, Thierry; Guibal, Eric

2017-01-01

A new magnetic functionalized derivative of chitosan is synthesized and characterized for the sorption of metal ions (environmental applications and metal valorization). The chemical modification of the glycine derivative of chitosan consists of: activation of the magnetic support with epichlorohydrin, followed by reaction with either glycine to produce the reference material (i.e., Gly sorbent) or glycine ester hydrochloride, followed by hydrazinolysis to synthesize the hydrazide functionalized sorbent (i.e., HGly sorbent). The materials are characterized by titration, elemental analysis, FTIR analysis (Fourrier-transform infrared spectrometry), TGA analysis (thermogravimetric analysis) and with SEM-EDX (scanning electron microscopy coupled to energy dispersive X-ray analysis). The sorption performances for U(VI), Cu(II), and Zn(II) are tested in batch systems. The sorption performances are compared for Gly and HGly taking into account the effect of pH, the uptake kinetics (fitted by the pseudo-second order rate equation), and the sorption isotherms (described by the Langmuir and the Sips equations). The sorption capacities of the modified sorbent reach up to 1.14 mmol U g−1, 1.69 mmol Cu g−1, and 0.85 mmol Zn g−1. In multi-metal solutions of equimolar concentration, the chemical modification changes the preferences for given metal ions. Metal ions are desorbed using 0.2 M HCl solutions and the sorbents are re-used for five cycles of sorption/desorption without significant loss in performances. PMID:28772896

Simultaneous determination of isoniazid and p-aminosalicylic acid by capillary electrophoresis using chemiluminescence detection.

PubMed

Zhang, Xinfeng; Xuan, Yuelan; Sun, Aimin; Lv, Yi; Hou, Xiandeng

2009-01-01

It was found that isoniazid (ISO) or p-aminosalicylic acid (PAS) could enhance the chemiluminescence (CL) emission from Cu (II)-luminol-hydrogen peroxide system, and the increased chemiluminescence signals were proportional to their concentrations, respectively. Based on this phenomenon, a chemiluminescence method coupled to capillary electrophoresis (CE) was established for simultaneous determination of ISO and PAS. The CE conditions including running buffer and running voltage were investigated in detail. The effects of the pH of H(2)O(2) solution and the concentrations of luminol, H(2)O(2) and Cu (II) on the CL signal were also investigated carefully. Under the optimized conditions, the analysis could be accomplished within 10 min, with the limits of detection of 0.3 microg mL(-1) for ISO and 1.1 microg mL(-1) for PAS, corresponding to 7.2 and 26.4 pg per injection (24 nL), respectively. Finally, the method was validated by determining the two analytes in pharmaceutical preparation and spiked human serum samples. The results of pharmaceutical tablet analysis were in good agreement with the labeled amounts. The recoveries for ISO and PAS in human serum were in the range of 92-104% and 90-113%, respectively. Copyright 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Simultaneous determination of Cd(II) and Pb(II) by differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry based on graphite nanofibers-Nafion composite modified bismuth film electrode.

PubMed

Li, Dongyue; Jia, Jianbo; Wang, Jianguo

2010-12-15

A bismuth-film modified graphite nanofibers-Nafion glassy carbon electrode (BiF/GNFs-NA/GCE) was constructed for the simultaneous determination of trace Cd(II) and Pb(II). The electrochemical properties and applications of the modified electrode were studied. Operational parameters such as deposition potential, deposition time, and bismuth ion concentration were optimized for the purpose of determination of trace metal ions in 0.10 M acetate buffer solution (pH 4.5). Under optimal conditions, based on three times the standard deviation of the baseline, the limits of detection were 0.09 μg L(-1) for Cd(II) and 0.02 μg L(-1) for Pb(II) with a 10 min preconcentration. In addition, the BiF/GNFs-NA/GCE displayed good reproducibility and selectivity, making it suitable for the simultaneous determination of Cd(II) and Pb(II) in real sample such as river water and human blood samples. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Enhanced Removal of Lead by Chemically and Biologically Treated Carbonaceous Materials

PubMed Central

Mahmoud, Mohamed E.; Osman, Maher M.; Ahmed, Somia B.; Abdel-Fattah, Tarek M.

2012-01-01

Hybrid sorbents and biosorbents were synthesized via chemical and biological treatment of active carbon by simple and direct redox reaction followed by surface loading of baker's yeast. Surface functionality and morphology of chemically and biologically modified sorbents and biosorbents were studied by Fourier Transform Infrared analysis and scanning electron microscope imaging. Hybrid carbonaceous sorbents and biosorbents were characterized by excellent efficiency and superiority toward lead(II) sorption compared to blank active carbon providing a maximum sorption capacity of lead(II) ion as 500 μmol g−1. Sorption processes of lead(II) by these hybrid materials were investigated under the influence of several controlling parameters such as pH, contact time, mass of sorbent and biosorbent, lead(II) concentration, and foreign ions. Lead(II) sorption mechanisms were found to obey the Langmuir and BET isotherm models. The potential applications of chemically and biologically modified-active carbonaceous materials for removal and extraction of lead from real water matrices were also studied via a double-stage microcolumn technique. The results of this study were found to denote to superior recovery values of lead (95.0–99.0 ± 3.0–5.0%) by various carbonaceous-modified-bakers yeast biosorbents. PMID:22629157

Thermodynamic data from redox reactions at high temperatures. II. The MnO-0Mn3O4 oxygen buffer, and implications for the thermodynamic properties of MnO and Mn3O4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Neill, Hugh St. C.; Pownceby, Mark I.

1993-09-01

Theμ _{O_2 } defined by the reaction 6 MnO+O2 =2 Mn3O4 has been determined from 917 to 1,433 K using electrochemical cells (with calcia-stabilized zirconta, CSZ) of the type: MediaObjects/410_2005_BF01046534_f2.tif Steady emfs were achieved rapidly at all temperatures on both increasing and decreasing temperature, indicating that the MnO-Mn3O4 oxygen buffer equilibrates relatively easily. It therefore makes a useful alternative choice in experimental petrology to Fe2O3-Fe3O4 for buffering oxygen potentials at oxidized values. The results are (in J/mol, temperature in K, reference pressure 1 bar);μ _{O_2 } (±200)=-563,241+1,761.758 T-220.490 T in T+0.101819 T 2 with an uncertainty of ±200 J/mol. Third law analysis of these data, including a correction for the deviations in stoichiometry of MnO, implies S 298.15 for Mn3O4 of 166.6 J/K · mol, which is 2.5 J/K · mol higher than the calorimetric determination of Robie and Hemingway (1985). The low value of the calorimetric entropy may be due to incomplete ordering of the magnetic spins. The third law value of Δ r H {298.15/0} is-450.09 kJ/mol, which is significantly different from the calorimetric value of-457.5±3.4 kJ/mol, calculated from Δ f H {298.15/0} of MnO and Mn3O4, implying a small error in one or both of these latter.

Effects of Reusing Gel Electrophoresis and Electrotransfer Buffers on Western Blotting.

PubMed

Heda, Ghanshyam D; Omotola, Oluwabukola B; Heda, Rajiv P; Avery, Jamie

2016-09-01

SDS-PAGE and Western blotting are 2 of the most commonly used biochemical methods for protein analysis. Proteins are electrophoretically separated based on their MWs by SDS-PAGE and then electrotransferred to a solid membrane surface for subsequent protein-specific analysis by immunoblotting, a procedure commonly known as Western blotting. Both of these procedures use a salt-based buffer, with the latter procedure consisting of methanol as an additive known for its toxicity. Previous reports present a contradictory view in favor or against reusing electrotransfer buffer, also known as Towbin's transfer buffer (TTB), with an aim to reduce the toxic waste. In this report, we present a detailed analysis of not only reusing TTB but also gel electrophoresis buffer (EB) on proteins of low to high MW range. Our results suggest that EB can be reused for at least 5 times without compromising the electrophoretic separation of mixture of proteins in an MW standard, BSA, and crude cell lysates. Additionally, reuse of EB did not affect the quality of subsequent Western blots. Successive reuse of TTB, on the other hand, diminished the signal of proteins of different MWs in a protein standard and a high MW membrane protein cystic fibrosis transmembrane-conductance regulator (CFTR) in Western blotting.

[Spectroscopic study on the binding of Mn(II) to EHPG].

PubMed

Li, Hai-peng; Zhao, Chun-gui; Li, Xiao-li; Yang, Bin-sheng

2007-02-01

Under the conditions of 0.05 mol x L(-1) Hepes buffer at room temperature and pH 7.4, the interaction of ethylene-N,N'-bis(o-hydroxyphenylglycine) (EHPG) and Mn(II) was investigated by both fluorescence and UV difference spectra. Results showed that the molar ratio of the complex is 1:1. With the addition of manganese ions, the fluorescence peak of EHPG at 310 nm decreased, while the peaks of UV absorptivity at 238 and 291 nm increased. The molar absorptivity of Mn(II) to EHPG at 238 nm is (1.31 +/- 0.02) x 10(4) cm(-1) x mol(-1) L. The disassociation constant for Mn-EHPG was determined to be (1.36 +/- 0.21) x 10(-5). It can be concluded that the binding of Mn(II) to EHPG is not a strongly binding reaction.

A pilot study of the validation of percutaneous testing in cats.

PubMed

Rossi, Michael A; Messinger, Linda; Olivry, Thierry; Hoontrakoon, Raweewan

2013-10-01

Intradermal testing is useful for the identification of environmental allergens to which cats could be hypersensitive; intradermal test reactions are often subtle and difficult to interpret in cats. Percutaneous testing is the standard technique for the detection of significant environmental allergens in people, but it has not yet been evaluated in cats with hypersensitivity dermatitis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the skin test responses of healthy cats to percutaneous application and intradermal injections of control solutions. Ten clinically healthy cats were studied. Percutaneous applications of 0.0275 and 0.1 mg/mL aqueous histamine, 6 mg/mL glycerinated histamine, 0.9% buffered saline and 50% glycerosaline solution were performed using Greer Pick (Greer Laboratories, Lenoir, NC, USA) and Duotip-Test II (Lincoln Diagnostics, Decatur, IL, USA) percutaneous applicators. Reactions were compared with intradermal injections of 0.0275 mg/mL aqueous histamine and 0.9% buffered saline as controls. Positive responses to histamine solutions were significantly greater with the Greer Pick than with the Duotip-Test II. There were no significant differences between the histamine reactions using the Greer Pick applicator and the intradermal injections. Percutaneous reactions to histamine were more well demarcated and easier to read than intradermal injection reactions. Reactions to the saline controls were not noted. Percutaneous application of 6 mg/mL glycerinated histamine solution, 50% glycerosaline solution and 0.9% buffered saline produced similar positive and negative control wheals. These observations warrant further studies of percutaneous allergen testing in cats with hypersensitivity dermatitis. © 2013 ESVD and ACVD.

Method to adjust multilayer film stress induced deformation of optics

DOEpatents

Mirkarimi, Paul B.; Montcalm, Claude

2000-01-01

A buffer-layer located between a substrate and a multilayer for counteracting stress in the multilayer. Depositing a buffer-layer having a stress of sufficient magnitude and opposite in sign reduces or cancels out deformation in the substrate due to the stress in the multilayer. By providing a buffer-layer between the substrate and the multilayer, a tunable, near-zero net stress results, and hence results in little or no deformation of the substrate, such as an optic for an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography tool. Buffer-layers have been deposited, for example, between Mo/Si and Mo/Be multilayer films and their associated substrate reducing significantly the stress, wherein the magnitude of the stress is less than 100 MPa and respectively near-normal incidence (5.degree.) reflectance of over 60% is obtained at 13.4 nm and 11.4 nm. The present invention is applicable to crystalline and non-crystalline materials, and can be used at ambient temperatures.

Heteroepitaxial growth of In{sub 0.30}Ga{sub 0.70}As high-electron mobility transistor on 200 mm silicon substrate using metamorphic graded buffer

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

Kohen, David, E-mail: david.kohen@asm.com; Nguyen, Xuan Sang; Made, Riko I

We report on the growth of an In{sub 0.30}Ga{sub 0.70}As channel high-electron mobility transistor (HEMT) on a 200 mm silicon wafer by metal organic vapor phase epitaxy. By using a 3 μm thick buffer comprising a Ge layer, a GaAs layer and an InAlAs compositionally graded strain relaxing buffer, we achieve threading dislocation density of (1.0 ± 0.3) × 10{sup 7} cm{sup −2} with a surface roughness of 10 nm RMS. No phase separation was observed during the InAlAs compositionally graded buffer layer growth. 1.4 μm long channel length transistors are fabricated from the wafer with I{sub DS} of 70more » μA/μm and g{sub m} of above 60 μS/μm, demonstrating the high quality of the grown materials.« less

77 FR 194 - Federal Acquisition Regulation; Time-and-Materials and Labor-Hour Contracts for Commercial Items

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-03

...] RIN 9000-AL74 Federal Acquisition Regulation; Time-and-Materials and Labor-Hour Contracts for... final rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement Government Accountability... in the following sections. II. Discussion and Analysis The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and...

Stabilization of photosystem II reaction centers: influence of bile salt detergents and low pH.

PubMed

Gall, B; Scheer, H

1998-07-17

Rapid deterioration of samples is a major obstacle in research on the isolated reaction center of photosystem II. Its stability was tested systematically using a wide range of detergents, varying pH and temperature. Stability and activity did not depend on ionic properties of detergents or on critical micellar concentration. However, both were significantly increased by bile salt detergents in the dark as well as in the light. Low pH (5.5) and low temperature further improved stability. The results suggest that in particular the zwitterionic bile salt detergent, CHAPS, in pH 5.5 buffers is a very useful detergent and even superior to dodecylmaltoside for work with photosystem II reaction centers.

Quality control analysis : part II : soil and aggregate base course.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1966-07-01

This is the second of the three reports on the quality control analysis of highway construction materials. : It deals with the statistical evaluation of results from several construction projects to determine the basic pattern of variability with res...

Service Vessel Analysis. Vol. II : Detailed District Plots.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1987-09-01

This is a supplement to Service Vessel Analysis, Vol. I: Seagoing and Coastal Vessel Requirements for Servicing Aids to Navigation. The material included is not intended to stand alone but is prepared for use in conjunction with the original study. T...

Self-organized MBE growth of II VI epilayers on patterned GaSb substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wissmann, H.; Tran Anh, T.; Rogaschewski, S.; von Ortenberg, M.

1999-05-01

We report on the self-organized MBE growth of II-VI epilayers on patterned and unpatterned GaSb substrates resulting in quantum wires and quantum wells, respectively. The HgSe : Fe quantum wires were grown on (0 0 1)GaSb substrates with a buffer of lattice-matched ZnTe 1- xSe x. Due to the anisotropic growth of HgSe on the A-oriented stripes roof-like overgrowth with a definite ridge was obtained. Additional Fe doping in the direct vicinity of the ridge results in a highly conductive quantum wire.

Simulation and analysis of support hardware for multiple instruction rollback

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alewine, Neil J.

1992-01-01

Recently, a compiler-assisted approach to multiple instruction retry was developed. In this scheme, a read buffer of size 2N, where N represents the maximum instruction rollback distance, is used to resolve one type of data hazard. This hardware support helps to reduce code growth, compilation time, and some of the performance impacts associated with hazard resolution. The 2N read buffer size requirement of the compiler-assisted approach is worst case, assuring data redundancy for all data required but also providing some unnecessary redundancy. By adding extra bits in the operand field for source 1 and source 2 it becomes possible to design the read buffer to save only those values required, thus reducing the read buffer size requirement. This study measures the effect on performance of a DECstation 3100 running 10 application programs using 6 read buffer configurations at varying read buffer sizes.

Distinctive EPR signals provide an understanding of the affinity of bis-(3-hydroxy-4-pyridinonato) copper(II) complexes for hydrophobic environments.

PubMed

Rangel, Maria; Leite, Andreia; Silva, André M N; Moniz, Tânia; Nunes, Ana; Amorim, M João; Queirós, Carla; Cunha-Silva, Luís; Gameiro, Paula; Burgess, John

2014-07-07

In this work we report the synthesis and characterization of a set of 3-hydroxy-4-pyridinone copper(ii) complexes with variable lipophilicity. EPR spectroscopy was used to characterize the structure of copper(ii) complexes in solution, and as a tool to gain insight into solvent interactions. EPR spectra of solutions of the [CuL2] complexes recorded in different solvents reveal the presence of two copper species whose ratio depends on the nature of the solvent. Investigation of EPR spectra in the pure solvents methanol, dimethylsulfoxide, dichloromethane and their 50% (v/v) mixtures with toluene allowed the characterization of two types of copper signals (gzz = 2.30 and gzz = 2.26) whose spin-Hamiltonian parameters are consistent with solvated and non-solvated square-planar copper(ii) complexes. Regarding the potential biological application of ligands and complexes and to get insight into the partition properties in water-membrane interfaces, EPR spectra were also obtained in water-saturated octanol, an aqueous solution buffered at pH = 7.4 and liposome suspensions, for three compounds representative of different hydro-lipophilic balances. Analysis of the EPR spectra obtained in liposomes allowed establishment of the location of the complexes in the water and lipid phases. In view of the results of this work we put forward the use of EPR spectroscopy to assess the affinity of copper(ii) complexes for a hydrophobic environment and also to obtain indirect information about the lipophilicity of the ligands and similar EPR silent complexes.

Bendability optimization of flexible optical nanoelectronics via neutral axis engineering

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

The enhancement of bendability of flexible nanoelectronics is critically important to realize future portable and wearable nanoelectronics for personal and military purposes. Because there is an enormous variety of materials and structures that are used for flexible nanoelectronic devices, a governing design rule for optimizing the bendability of these nanodevices is required. In this article, we suggest a design rule to optimize the bendability of flexible nanoelectronics through neutral axis (NA) engineering. In flexible optical nanoelectronics, transparent electrodes such as indium tin oxide (ITO) are usually the most fragile under an external load because of their brittleness. Therefore, we representatively focus on the bendability of ITO which has been widely used as transparent electrodes, and the NA is controlled by employing a buffer layer on the ITO layer. First, we independently investigate the effect of the thickness and elastic modulus of a buffer layer on the bendability of an ITO film. Then, we develop a design rule for the bendability optimization of flexible optical nanoelectronics. Because NA is determined by considering both the thickness and elastic modulus of a buffer layer, the design rule is conceived to be applicable regardless of the material and thickness that are used for the buffer layer. Finally, our design rule is applied to optimize the bendability of an organic solar cell, which allows the bending radius to reach about 1 mm. Our design rule is thus expected to provide a great strategy to enhance the bending performance of a variety of flexible nanoelectronics. PMID:22587757

Bendability optimization of flexible optical nanoelectronics via neutral axis engineering.

PubMed

Lee, Sangmin; Kwon, Jang-Yeon; Yoon, Daesung; Cho, Handong; You, Jinho; Kang, Yong Tae; Choi, Dukhyun; Hwang, Woonbong

2012-05-15

The enhancement of bendability of flexible nanoelectronics is critically important to realize future portable and wearable nanoelectronics for personal and military purposes. Because there is an enormous variety of materials and structures that are used for flexible nanoelectronic devices, a governing design rule for optimizing the bendability of these nanodevices is required. In this article, we suggest a design rule to optimize the bendability of flexible nanoelectronics through neutral axis (NA) engineering. In flexible optical nanoelectronics, transparent electrodes such as indium tin oxide (ITO) are usually the most fragile under an external load because of their brittleness. Therefore, we representatively focus on the bendability of ITO which has been widely used as transparent electrodes, and the NA is controlled by employing a buffer layer on the ITO layer. First, we independently investigate the effect of the thickness and elastic modulus of a buffer layer on the bendability of an ITO film. Then, we develop a design rule for the bendability optimization of flexible optical nanoelectronics. Because NA is determined by considering both the thickness and elastic modulus of a buffer layer, the design rule is conceived to be applicable regardless of the material and thickness that are used for the buffer layer. Finally, our design rule is applied to optimize the bendability of an organic solar cell, which allows the bending radius to reach about 1 mm. Our design rule is thus expected to provide a great strategy to enhance the bending performance of a variety of flexible nanoelectronics.

Redox Conditions Among the Terrestrial Planets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, J. H.

2004-01-01

Early solar system conditions should have been extremely reducing. The redox state of the early solar nebula was determined by the H2O/H2 of the gas, which is calculated (based on solar composition) to have been about IW-5. At high temperature under such conditions, ferrous iron would exist only as a trace element in silicates and the most common type of chondritic material should have been enstatite chondrites. The observation that E-chondrites form only a subset of the chondrite suite and that the terrestrial planets (Earth, Moon, Mars, Venus, 4 Vesta) contain ferrous and ferric iron as major and minor elements, respectively, implies that either most chondritic materials formed under conditions that were not solar or that early-formed metals oxidized at low temperature, producing FeO. For example, equilibrated ordinary chondrites (by definition, common chondritic materials), by their phase assemblage of olivine, orthopyroxene and metal, must fall not far from the QFI (Quartz-Fayalite-Iron) oxygen buffer. The QFI buffer is about IW-0.5 and, as we shall see, this fo2 is close to that inferred for many materials in the inner solar system.

Role of resilience and social support in alleviating depression in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis

PubMed Central

Liu, Yueh-Min; Chang, Hong-Jer; Wang, Ru-Hwa; Yang, Li-King; Lu, Kuo-Cheng; Hou, Yi-Chou

2018-01-01

Background Patients who undergo hemodialysis encounter challenges including role changes, physical degeneration, and difficulty in performing activities of daily living (ADLs) and self-care. These challenges deteriorate their physiological and psychosocial conditions, resulting in depression. High resilience (RES) and social support can alleviate stress and depression. This study evaluated the importance of RES and social support in managing depression in elderly patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (HD). Patients and methods In this descriptive, correlational study, 194 older patients undergoing HD were enrolled from the HD centers of three hospitals in northern Taiwan. The Barthel ADL Index, RES scale, Inventory of Socially Supportive Behavior, and Beck Depression Inventory-II were used. Hierarchical regression analysis was applied to evaluate the interaction of RES and social support with illness severity, demographics, and ADLs. Results Of the total participants, 45.9% experienced depressive symptoms. Demographic analysis showed that men and those with high educational level and income and financial independence had less depression (p<0.01). Patients with a higher Barthel Index (n=103), RES scale (n=33), and social support (n=113) showed less depressive symptoms (p<0.01). We found a significant negative correlation between depressive symptoms and social support (r=−0.506, p<0.01) and RES (r=−0.743, p<0.01). Hierarchical regression analysis showed that RES could buffer the effects of symptom severity on depression (b=−0.436, p<0.01), but social support did not exert a buffering effect. Conclusion The severity of illness symptoms and ADLs were the major determinants of depressive symptoms. High RES could alleviate depressive symptoms in the older patients undergoing HD. PMID:29535526

Influence of management of variables, sampling zones and land units on LR analysis for landslide spatial prevision

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greco, R.; Sorriso-Valvo, M.

2013-09-01

Several authors, according to different methodological approaches, have employed logistic Regression (LR), a multivariate statistical analysis adopted to assess the spatial probability of landslide, even though its fundamental principles have remained unaltered. This study aims at assessing the influence of some of these methodological approaches on the performance of LR, through a series of sensitivity analyses developed over a test area of about 300 km2 in Calabria (southern Italy). In particular, four types of sampling (1 - the whole study area; 2 - transects running parallel to the general slope direction of the study area with a total surface of about 1/3 of the whole study area; 3 - buffers surrounding the phenomena with a 1/1 ratio between the stable and the unstable area; 4 - buffers surrounding the phenomena with a 1/2 ratio between the stable and the unstable area), two variable coding modes (1 - grouped variables; 2 - binary variables), and two types of elementary land (1 - cells units; 2 - slope units) units have been tested. The obtained results must be considered as statistically relevant in all cases (Aroc values > 70%), thus confirming the soundness of the LR analysis which maintains high predictive capacities notwithstanding the features of input data. As for the area under investigation, the best performing methodological choices are the following: (i) transects produced the best results (0 < P(y) ≤ 93.4%; Aroc = 79.5%); (ii) as for sampling modalities, binary variables (0 < P(y) ≤ 98.3%; Aroc = 80.7%) provide better performance than ordinated variables; (iii) as for the choice of elementary land units, slope units (0 < P(y) ≤ 100%; Aroc = 84.2%) have obtained better results than cells matrix.

Miniaturized and direct spectrophotometric multi-sample analysis of trace metals in natural waters.

PubMed

Albendín, Gemma; López-López, José A; Pinto, Juan J

2016-03-15

Trends in the analysis of trace metals in natural waters are mainly based on the development of sample treatment methods to isolate and pre-concentrate the metal from the matrix in a simpler extract for further instrumental analysis. However, direct analysis is often possible using more accessible techniques such as spectrophotometry. In this case a proper ligand is required to form a complex that absorbs radiation in the ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrum. In this sense, the hydrazone derivative, di-2-pyridylketone benzoylhydrazone (dPKBH), forms complexes with copper (Cu) and vanadium (V) that absorb light at 370 and 395 nm, respectively. Although spectrophotometric methods are considered as time- and reagent-consuming, this work focused on its miniaturization by reducing the volume of sample as well as time and cost of analysis. In both methods, a micro-amount of sample is placed into a microplate reader with a capacity for 96 samples, which can be analyzed in times ranging from 5 to 10 min. The proposed methods have been optimized using a Box-Behnken design of experiments. For Cu determination, concentration of phosphate buffer solution at pH 8.33, masking agents (ammonium fluoride and sodium citrate), and dPKBH were optimized. For V analysis, sample (pH 4.5) was obtained using acetic acid/sodium acetate buffer, and masking agents were ammonium fluoride and 1,2-cyclohexanediaminetetraacetic acid. Under optimal conditions, both methods were applied to the analysis of certified reference materials TMDA-62 (lake water), LGC-6016 (estuarine water), and LGC-6019 (river water). In all cases, results proved the accuracy of the method. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Acidification of forest soil in Russia: From 1893 to present

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

Lapenis, A.G.; Lawrence, G.B.; Andreev, A.A.

2003-01-02

It is commonly believed that fine-textured soils developed on carbonate parent material are well buffered from possible acidification. There are no data, however, that document resistance of such soils to acidic deposition exposure on a timescale longer than 30-40 years. In this paper, we report on directly testing the long-term buffering capacity of nineteenth century forest soils developed on calcareous silt loam. In a chemical analysis comparing archived soils with modern soils collected from the same locations similar to 100 years later, we found varying degrees of forest-soil acidification in the taiga and forest steppe regions. Land-use history, increases inmore » precipitation, and acidic deposition were contributing factors in acidification. The acidification of forest soil was documented through decreases in soil pH and changes in concentrations of exchangeable calcium and aluminum, which corresponded with changes in communities of soil microfauna. Although acidification was found at all three analyzed locations, the trends in soil chemistry were most pronounced where the highest loading of acidic deposition had taken place.« less

Ambient CdCl{sub 2} treatment on CdS buffer layer for improved performance of Sb{sub 2}Se{sub 3} thin film photovoltaics

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

Wang, Liang; Luo, Miao; Qin, Sikai

2015-10-05

Antimony selenide (Sb{sub 2}Se{sub 3}) is appealing as a promising light absorber because of its intrinsically benign grain boundaries, suitable band gap (∼1.1 eV), strong absorption coefficient, and relatively environmentally friendly constituents. Recently, we achieved a certified 5.6% efficiency Sb{sub 2}Se{sub 3} thin film solar cell with the assistance of ambient CdCl{sub 2} treatment on the CdS buffer layer. Here, we focused on investigating the underlying mechanism from a combined materials and device physics perspective applying current density-voltage (J-V) fitting analysis, atomic force microscope, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, fluorescence, and UV–Vis transmission spectroscopy. Our results indicated that ambient CdCl{sub 2} treatment onmore » CdS film not only improved CdS grain size and quality, but also incorporated Cl and more O into the film, both of which can significantly improve the heterojunction quality and device performance of CdS/Sb{sub 2}Se{sub 3} solar cells.« less

Acidification of forest soil in Russia: From 1893 to present

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lapenis, A.G.; Lawrence, G.B.; Andreev, A.A.; Bobrov, A.A.; Torn, M.S.; Harden, J.W.

2004-01-01

It is commonly believed that fine-textured soils developed on carbonate parent material are well buffered from possible acidification. There are no data, however, that document resistance of such soils to acidic deposition exposure on a timescale longer than 30-40 years. In this paper, we report on directly testing the long-term buffering capacity of nineteenth century forest soils developed on calcareous silt loam. In a chemical analysis comparing archived soils with modern soils collected from the same locations ???100 years later, we found varying degrees of forest-soil acidification in the taiga and forest steppe regions. Land-use history, increases in precipitation, and acidic deposition were contributing factors in acidification. The acidification of forest soil was documented through decreases in soil pH and changes in concentrations of exchangeable calcium and aluminum, which corresponded with changes in communities of soil microfauna. Although acidification was found at all three analyzed locations, the trends in soil chemistry were most pronounced where the highest loading of acidic deposition had taken place. Copyright 2004 by the American Geophysical Union.

Effect of Dermatan Sulfate on the Indentation and Tensile Properties of Articular Cartilage

PubMed Central

Hall, Melanie L.; Krawczak, David A.; Simha, Narendra K.; Lewis, Jack L.

2009-01-01

Objective This paper examines the hypothesis that the dermatan sulfate (DS) chain on decorin is a load carrying element in cartilage and that its damage or removal will alter the material properties. Methods To test this hypothesis, indentation and tensile testing of cartilage from bovine patella was performed before and after digestion with chondroitinase B (cB). Removal of significant amounts of DS by cB digestion was verified by Western blot analysis of proteoglycans extracted from whole and sectioned specimens. Specimens (control and treated) were subjected to a series of step-hold displacements. Elastic modulus during the step rise (rapid modulus) and at equilibrium (equilibrium modulus), and the relaxation function during each step were measured for test (cB and buffer) and control (buffer alone) conditions. Results cB had no effect on any of the viscoelastic mechanical properties measured, either in indentation or tension Conclusion Removing or damaging approximately 50% of the dermatan sulfate had no effect on the mechanical properties, strongly suggesting that dermatan sulfate either carries very low load or no load. PMID:19036614

III-V compound semiconductor growth on silicon via germanium buffer and surface passivation for CMOS technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Donghun

Integration of III-V compound semiconductors on silicon substrates has recently received much attention for the development of optoelectronic and high speed electronic devices. However, it is well known that there are some key challenges for the realization of III-V device fabrication on Si substrates: (i) the large lattice mismatch (in case of GaAs: 4.1%), and (ii) the formation of antiphase domain (APD) due to the polar compound semiconductor growth on non-polar elemental structure. Besides these growth issues, the lack of a useful surface passivation technology for compound semiconductors has precluded development of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) devices and causes high surface recombination parasitics in scaled devices. This work demonstrates the growth of high quality III-V materials on Si via an intermediate Ge buffer layer and some surface passivation methods to reduce interface defect density for the fabrication of MOS devices. The initial goal was to achieve both low threading dislocation density (TDD) and low surface roughness on Ge-on-Si heterostructure growth. This was achieved by repeating a deposition-annealing cycle consisting of low temperature deposition + high temperature-high rate deposition + high temperature hydrogen annealing, using reduced-pressure chemical-vapor deposition (CVD). We then grew III-V materials on the Ge/Si virtual substrates using molecular-beam epitaxy (MBE). The relationship between initial Ge surface configuration and antiphase boundary formation was investigated using surface reflection high-energy electron diffraction (RHEED) patterns and atomic force microscopy (AFM) image analysis. In addition, some MBE growth techniques, such as migration enhanced epitaxy (MEE) and low temperature GaAs growth, were adopted to improve surface roughness and solve the Ge self-doping problem. Finally, an Al2O3 gate oxide layer was deposited using atomic-layer-deposition (ALD) system after HCl native oxide etching and ALD in-situ pre-annealing at 400 °C. A 100 nm thick aluminum layer was deposited to form the gate contact for a MOS device fabrication. C-V measurement results show very small frequency dispersion and 200-300 mV hysteresis, comparable to our best results for InGaAs/GaAs MOS structures on GaAs substrate. Most notably, the quasi-static C-V curve demonstrates clear inversion layer formation. I-V curves show a reasonable leakage current level. The inferred midgap interface state density, Dit, of 2.4 x 1012 eV-1cm-2 was calculated by combined high-low frequency capacitance method. In addition, we investigated the interface properties of amorphous LaAlO 3/GaAs MOS capacitors fabricated on GaAs substrate. The surface was protected during sample transfer between III-V and oxide molecular beam deposition (MBD) chambers by a thick arsenic-capping layer. An annealing method, a low temperature-short time RTA followed by a high temperature RTA, was developed, yielding extremely small hysteresis (˜ 30 mV), frequency dispersion (˜ 60 mV), and interface trap density (mid 1010 eV-1cm -2). We used capacitance-voltage (C-V) and current-voltage (I-V) measurements for electrical characterization of MOS devices, tapping-mode AFM for surface morphology analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) for chemical elements analysis of interface, cross section transmission-electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), and photoluminescence (PL) measurement for film quality characterization. This successful growth and appropriate surface treatments of III-V materials provides a first step for the fabrication of III-V optical and electrical devices on the same Si-based electronic circuits.

Formation of carbonato and hydroxo complexes in the reaction of platinum anticancer drugs with carbonate.

PubMed

Di Pasqua, Anthony J; Centerwall, Corey R; Kerwood, Deborah J; Dabrowiak, James C

2009-02-02

The second-generation Pt(II) anticancer drug carboplatin is here shown to react with carbonate, which is present in blood, interstitial fluid, cytosol, and culture medium, to produce platinum-carbonato and -hydroxo complexes. Using [(1)H-(15)N] HSQC NMR and (15)N-labeled carboplatin, we observe that cis-[Pt(CBDCA-O)(OH)(NH(3))(2)](-), cis-[Pt(OH)(2)(NH(3))(2)], cis-[Pt(CO(3))(OH)(NH(3))(2)](-), and what may be cis-[Pt(CO(3))(NH(3))(2)] are produced when 1 is allowed to react in 23.8 mM carbonate buffer. When (15)N-labeled carboplatin is allowed to react in 0.5 M carbonate buffer, these platinum species, as well as other hydroxo and carbonato species, some of which may be dinuclear complexes, are produced. Furthermore, we show that the carbonato species cis-[Pt(CO(3))(OH)(NH(3))(2)](-) is also produced when cisplatin is allowed to react in carbonate buffer. The study outlines the conditions under which carboplatin and cisplatin form carbonato and aqua/hydroxo species in carbonate media.

Neurobehavioral assessment of maternal odor in developing rat pups: implications for social buffering.

PubMed

Al Aïn, Syrina; Perry, Rosemarie E; Nuñez, Bestina; Kayser, Kassandra; Hochman, Chase; Brehman, Elizabeth; LaComb, Miranda; Wilson, Donald A; Sullivan, Regina M

2017-02-01

Social support can attenuate the behavioral and stress hormone response to threat, a phenomenon called social buffering. The mother's social buffering of the infant is one of the more robust examples; yet we understand little about the neurobiology. Using a rodent model, we explore the neurobiology of social buffering by assessing neural processing of the maternal odor, a major cue controlling social buffering in rat pups. We used pups before (postnatal day (PN) 7) and after (PN14, PN23) the functional emergence of social buffering. Pups were injected with 14 C 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) and presented with the maternal odor, a control preferred odor incapable of social buffering (acetophenone), or no odor. Brains were removed, processed for autoradiography and brain areas identified as important in adult social buffering were assessed, including the amygdala basolateral complex (Basolateral Amygdala [BLA]), medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Results suggest dramatic changes in the processing of maternal odor. PN7 pups show mPFC and ACC activation, although PN14 pups showed no activation of the mPFC, ACC, or BLA. All brain areas assessed were recruited by PN23. Additional analysis suggests substantial changes in functional connectivity across development. Together, these results imply complex nonlinear transitions in the neurobiology of social buffering in early life that may provide insight into the changing role of the mother in supporting social buffering.

Fixation effect of SurePath preservative fluids using epidermal growth factor receptor mutation-specific antibodies for immunocytochemistry.

PubMed

Kawahara, Akihiko; Taira, Tomoki; Abe, Hideyuki; Watari, Kosuke; Murakami, Yuichi; Fukumitsu, Chihiro; Takase, Yorihiko; Yamaguchi, Tomohiko; Azuma, Koichi; Akiba, Jun; Ono, Mayumi; Kage, Masayoshi

2014-02-01

Cytological diagnosis of respiratory disease has become important, not only for histological typing using immunocytochemistry (ICC) but also for molecular DNA analysis of cytological material. The aim of this study was to investigate the fixation effect of SurePath preservative fluids. Human lung cancer PC9 and 11-18 cell lines, and lung adenocarcinoma cells in pleural effusion, were fixed in CytoRich Blue, CytoRich Red, 15% neutral-buffered formalin, and 95% ethanol, respectively. PC9 and 11-18 cell lines were examined by ICC with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-specific antibodies, the EGFR mutation DNA assay, and fluorescence in situ hybridization. The effect of antigenic storage time was investigated in lung adenocarcinoma cells in pleural effusion by ICC using the lung cancer detection markers. PC9 and 11-18 cell lines in formalin-based fixatives showed strong staining of EGFR mutation-specific antibodies and lung cancer detection markers by ICC as compared with ethanol-based fixatives. DNA preservation with CytoRich Blue and CytoRich Red was superior to that achieved with 95% ethanol and 15% neutral-buffered formalin fixatives, whereas EGFR mutations by DNA assay and EGFR gene amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization were successfully identified in all fixative samples. Although cytoplasmic antigens maintained high expression levels, expression levels in nuclear antigens fell as storage time increased. These results indicate that CytoRich Red is not only suitable for ICC with EGFR mutation-specific antibodies, but also for DNA analysis of cytological material, and is useful in molecular testing of lung cancer, for which various types of analyses will be needed in future. © 2013 American Cancer Society.

Corneal epithelial cell biocompatibility to silicone hydrogel and conventional hydrogel contact lens packaging solutions

PubMed Central

Tanti, N.C.; Jones, L.; Sheardown, H.

2010-01-01

Purpose Although all contact lenses (CLs) are applied initially to the eye directly from a packaging solution, little is known about the effects of these solutions on human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs). Due to the porous nature of CL materials, they have the potential to sorb components of the packaging solution during storage, which could then be subsequently released upon insertion of the CL on the eye. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of various packaging solutions on HCECs, using an in vitro model. Methods An in vitro assay was developed whereby various silicone hydrogels and conventional, poly-2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate  (polyHEMA)-based lens materials were removed directly from their packaging and then incubated for up to 24 h with HCECs. The effect of the retained and released packaging solution components on HCECs was assessed by measuring cell viability, adhesion phenotype, and apoptosis. Results Incubation of HCECs with CLs stored in borate-buffered packaging solutions resulted in a significant reduction in cell viability. Adherent cells incubated with these CLs also exhibited reduced levels of β1 and α3 integrin. Soaking borate-buffered packaged CLs in PBS before cell incubation resolved viability and integrin expression in all cases, with the exception of galyfilcon A and balafilcon A, from which a 20% reduction in cell viability was still observed. In comparison, CLs stored in phosphate-buffered packaging solutions had cellular viability and expression of integrins similar to control cells (cells incubated in the absence of a lens). When incubated with cells at a 10% concentration in serum-free medium, borate-buffered packaging solutions and borate-containing saline (Unisol 4) significantly reduced cell viability and integrin expression. Neither caspase activation nor annexin V binding was observed on cells following exposure to borate buffer solution. However, a significant decrease in reactive oxygen species was observed at 24 h. These latter results suggest that in vitro exposure to low concentration of borate/boric acid results in cell dysfunction, leading to necrosis rather than apoptosis. Conclusions Borate-buffered packaging solutions were shown to adversely affect the viability and integrin expression of HCECs in vitro. When used in ophthalmic packaging solutions, the antimicrobial properties of borate buffer may be outweighed by its relatively cytotoxic effects on cells. PMID:20169012

Corneal epithelial cell biocompatibility to silicone hydrogel and conventional hydrogel contact lens packaging solutions.

PubMed

Gorbet, M B; Tanti, N C; Jones, L; Sheardown, H

2010-02-19

Although all contact lenses (CLs) are applied initially to the eye directly from a packaging solution, little is known about the effects of these solutions on human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs). Due to the porous nature of CL materials, they have the potential to sorb components of the packaging solution during storage, which could then be subsequently released upon insertion of the CL on the eye. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of various packaging solutions on HCECs, using an in vitro model. An in vitro assay was developed whereby various silicone hydrogels and conventional, poly-2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate (polyHEMA)-based lens materials were removed directly from their packaging and then incubated for up to 24 h with HCECs. The effect of the retained and released packaging solution components on HCECs was assessed by measuring cell viability, adhesion phenotype, and apoptosis. Incubation of HCECs with CLs stored in borate-buffered packaging solutions resulted in a significant reduction in cell viability. Adherent cells incubated with these CLs also exhibited reduced levels of beta(1) and alpha(3) integrin. Soaking borate-buffered packaged CLs in PBS before cell incubation resolved viability and integrin expression in all cases, with the exception of galyfilcon A and balafilcon A, from which a 20% reduction in cell viability was still observed. In comparison, CLs stored in phosphate-buffered packaging solutions had cellular viability and expression of integrins similar to control cells (cells incubated in the absence of a lens). When incubated with cells at a 10% concentration in serum-free medium, borate-buffered packaging solutions and borate-containing saline (Unisol 4) significantly reduced cell viability and integrin expression. Neither caspase activation nor annexin V binding was observed on cells following exposure to borate buffer solution. However, a significant decrease in reactive oxygen species was observed at 24 h. These latter results suggest that in vitro exposure to low concentration of borate/boric acid results in cell dysfunction, leading to necrosis rather than apoptosis. Borate-buffered packaging solutions were shown to adversely affect the viability and integrin expression of HCECs in vitro. When used in ophthalmic packaging solutions, the antimicrobial properties of borate buffer may be outweighed by its relatively cytotoxic effects on cells.

Buffer AVL Alone Does Not Inactivate Ebola Virus in a Representative Clinical Sample Type.

PubMed

Smither, Sophie J; Weller, Simon A; Phelps, Amanda; Eastaugh, Lin; Ngugi, Sarah; O'Brien, Lyn M; Steward, Jackie; Lonsdale, Steve G; Lever, Mark S

2015-10-01

Rapid inactivation of Ebola virus (EBOV) is crucial for high-throughput testing of clinical samples in low-resource, outbreak scenarios. The EBOV inactivation efficacy of Buffer AVL (Qiagen) was tested against marmoset serum (EBOV concentration of 1 × 10(8) 50% tissue culture infective dose per milliliter [TCID50 · ml(-1)]) and murine blood (EBOV concentration of 1 × 10(7) TCID50 · ml(-1)) at 4:1 vol/vol buffer/sample ratios. Posttreatment cell culture and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis indicated that treatment with Buffer AVL did not inactivate EBOV in 67% of samples, indicating that Buffer AVL, which is designed for RNA extraction and not virus inactivation, cannot be guaranteed to inactivate EBOV in diagnostic samples. Murine blood samples treated with ethanol (4:1 [vol/vol] ethanol/sample) or heat (60°C for 15 min) also showed no viral inactivation in 67% or 100% of samples, respectively. However, combined Buffer AVL and ethanol or Buffer AVL and heat treatments showed total viral inactivation in 100% of samples tested. The Buffer AVL plus ethanol and Buffer AVL plus heat treatments were also shown not to affect the extraction of PCR quality RNA from EBOV-spiked murine blood samples. © Crown copyright 2015.

Protecting the properties of monolayer MoS 2 on silicon based substrates with an atomically thin buffer

DOE PAGES

Man, Michael K. L.; Deckoff-Jones, Skylar; Winchester, Andrew; ...

2016-02-12

Semiconducting 2D materials, like transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), have gained much attention for their potential in opto-electronic devices, valleytronic schemes, and semi-conducting to metallic phase engineering. However, like graphene and other atomically thin materials, they lose key properties when placed on a substrate like silicon, including quenching of photoluminescence, distorted crystalline structure, and rough surface morphology. The ability to protect these properties of monolayer TMDs, such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2), on standard Si-based substrates, will enable their use in opto-electronic devices and scientific investigations. Here we show that an atomically thin buffer layer of hexagonal-boron nitride (hBN) protects themore » range of key opto-electronic, structural, and morphological properties of monolayer MoS 2 on Si-based substrates. The hBN buffer restores sharp diffraction patterns, improves monolayer flatness by nearly two-orders of magnitude, and causes over an order of magnitude enhancement in photoluminescence, compared to bare Si and SiO 2 substrates. Lastly, our demonstration provides a way of integrating MoS 2 and other 2D monolayers onto standard Si-substrates, thus furthering their technological applications and scientific investigations.« less

Noninvasive Evaluation of Heavy Metal Uptake and Storage in Micoralgae Using a Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer-Based Heavy Metal Biosensor1[C][W][OPEN

PubMed Central

Rajamani, Sathish; Torres, Moacir; Falcao, Vanessa; Ewalt Gray, Jaime; Coury, Daniel A.; Colepicolo, Pio; Sayre, Richard

2014-01-01

We have developed a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based heavy metal biosensor for the quantification of bioavailable free heavy metals in the cytoplasm of the microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The biosensor is composed of an end-to-end fusion of cyan fluorescent protein (CFP), chicken metallothionein II (MT-II), and yellow fluorescent protein (YFP). In vitro measurements of YFP/CFP fluorescence emission ratios indicated that the addition of metals to the purified biosensor enhanced FRET between CFP and YFP, consistent with heavy metal-induced folding of MT-II. A maximum YFP/CFP FRET ratio of 2.8 was observed in the presence of saturating concentrations of heavy metals. The sensitivity of the biosensor was greatest for Hg2+ followed by Cd2+ ≈ Pb2+ > Zn2+ > Cu2+. The heavy metal biosensor was unresponsive to metals that do not bind to MT-II (Na+ and Mg2+). When expressed in C. reinhardtii, we observed a differential metal-dependent response to saturating external concentrations (1.6 mm) of heavy metals (Pb2+ > Cd2+) that was unlike that observed for the isolated biosensor (in vitro). Significantly, analysis of metal uptake kinetics indicated that equilibration of the cytoplasm with externally applied heavy metals occurred within seconds. Our results also indicated that algae have substantial buffering capacity for free heavy metals in their cytosol, even at high external metal concentrations. PMID:24368336

Noninvasive evaluation of heavy metal uptake and storage in micoralgae using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based heavy metal biosensor.

PubMed

Rajamani, Sathish; Torres, Moacir; Falcao, Vanessa; Ewalt Gray, Jaime; Coury, Daniel A; Colepicolo, Pio; Sayre, Richard

2014-02-01

We have developed a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based heavy metal biosensor for the quantification of bioavailable free heavy metals in the cytoplasm of the microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The biosensor is composed of an end-to-end fusion of cyan fluorescent protein (CFP), chicken metallothionein II (MT-II), and yellow fluorescent protein (YFP). In vitro measurements of YFP/CFP fluorescence emission ratios indicated that the addition of metals to the purified biosensor enhanced FRET between CFP and YFP, consistent with heavy metal-induced folding of MT-II. A maximum YFP/CFP FRET ratio of 2.8 was observed in the presence of saturating concentrations of heavy metals. The sensitivity of the biosensor was greatest for Hg2+ followed by Cd2+≈Pb2+>Zn2+>Cu2+. The heavy metal biosensor was unresponsive to metals that do not bind to MT-II (Na+ and Mg2+). When expressed in C. reinhardtii, we observed a differential metal-dependent response to saturating external concentrations (1.6 mm) of heavy metals (Pb2+>Cd2+) that was unlike that observed for the isolated biosensor (in vitro). Significantly, analysis of metal uptake kinetics indicated that equilibration of the cytoplasm with externally applied heavy metals occurred within seconds. Our results also indicated that algae have substantial buffering capacity for free heavy metals in their cytosol, even at high external metal concentrations.

Sensitive and selective detection of Cu(II) ion: A new effective 1,8-naphthalimide-based fluorescence 'turn off' sensor.

PubMed

Huang, Guozhen; Li, Chuang; Han, Xintong; Aderinto, Stephen Opeyemi; Shen, Kesheng; Mao, Shanshan; Wu, Huilu

2018-06-01

The present study reports the development of a new 1,8-naphthalimide-based fluorescent sensor V for monitoring Cu(II) ions. The sensor exhibited pH independence over a wide pH range 2.52-9.58, and indicated its possible use for monitoring Cu(II) ions in a competitive pH medium. The sensor also showed high selectivity and sensitivity towards the Cu(II) ions over other competitive metal ions in DMSO-HEPES buffer (v/v, 1:1; pH 7.4) with a fluorescence 'turn off' mode of 79.79% observed. A Job plot indicated the formation of a 1:1 binding mode of the sensor with Cu(II) ions. The association constant and detection limit were 1.14 × 10 6  M -1 and 4.67 × 10 -8 M, respectively. The fluorescence spectrum of the sensor was quenched due to the powerful paramagnetic nature of the Cu(II) ions. Potential application of this sensor was also demonstrated when determining Cu(II) ion levels in two different water samples. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Design Considerations for a New Terminal Area Arrival Scheduler

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thipphavong, Jane; Mulfinger, Daniel

2010-01-01

Design of a terminal area arrival scheduler depends on the interrelationship between throughput, delay and controller intervention. The main contribution of this paper is an analysis of the above interdependence for several stochastic behaviors of expected system performance distributions in the aircraft s time of arrival at the meter fix and runway. Results of this analysis serve to guide the scheduler design choices for key control variables. Two types of variables are analyzed, separation buffers and terminal delay margins. The choice for these decision variables was tested using sensitivity analysis. Analysis suggests that it is best to set the separation buffer at the meter fix to its minimum and adjust the runway buffer to attain the desired system performance. Delay margin was found to have the least effect. These results help characterize the variables most influential in the scheduling operations of terminal area arrivals.

The slip resistance of common footwear materials measured with two slipmeters.

PubMed

Chang, W R; Matz, S

2001-12-01

The slip resistance of 16 commonly used footwear materials was measured with the Brungraber Mark II and the English XL on 3 floor surfaces under surface conditions of dry, wet, oily and oily wet. Three samples were used for each material combination and surface condition. The results of a one way ANOVA analysis indicated that the differences among different samples were statistically significant for a large number of material combinations and surface conditions. The results indicated that the ranking of materials based on their slip resistance values depends highly on the slipmeters, floor surfaces and surface conditions. For contaminated surfaces including wet, oily and oily wet surfaces, the slip resistance obtained with the English XL was usually higher than that measured with the Brungraber Mark II. The correlation coefficients between the slip resistance obtained with these two slipmeters calculated for different surface conditions indicated a strong correlation with statistical significance.

Knowledge Workshop Development

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-01-30

priorities. The mechanism also seems to act as a buffer between developer and user, softening the negative aspects of user frustration while still...structure ’ programming methods. 4) Documentation: Effective documentation methods must be developed and used since undocumented programs are virtually...1-W.,U1..W1 . II I u KNOWLEDGE WORKSHOP DEVELOPMENT Douglas C. Engelbart Stanford Research Institute AD-A022 997 Prepared for: Rome

Equilibrium II: Acids and Bases. Independent Learning Project for Advanced Chemistry (ILPAC). Unit P3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Inner London Education Authority (England).

This unit on equilibrium is one of 10 first year units produced by the Independent Learning Project for Advanced Chemistry (ILPAC). The unit, which consists of two levels, focuses on the application of equilibrium principles to equilibria involving weak acids and bases, including buffer solutions and indicators. Level one uses Le Chatelier's…

Path Expressions

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-06-01

ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS Carnegie-Mellon University Computer Science Dept Pittsburgh, Pa 15213 II. CONTROLLING OFFICE NAMF AND ADDRESS...programmer. Example 1. A communciation between two procasses is initiated by declaring a buffer which can hold a message whose interpretation is Known...words, the functions named in a path are automatically embedded in a critical region specific for that path.) The computation of the next state in

Capillary electrochromatographic separation of peptides using a macrocyclic polyamine for molecular recognition.

PubMed

Chen, Tse-Hsien; Misra, Tarun Kumar; Liu, Chuen-Ying

2008-04-01

A macrocyclic polyamine, 1,5,9,13,17,21,25,29-octaazacyclodotriacontane ([32]ane-N(8)), in the bonded phase was employed as a molecular receptor for CEC separation of oligopeptides. Parameters affecting the performance of the separations were considered. Baseline separation for the mixture of angiotensin I, angiotensin II, [Sar(1), Thr(8)]-angiotensin II, beta-casomorphin bovine, beta-casomorphin human, oxytocin acetate, tocinoic acid, vasopressin, and FMRF amide could be achieved using phosphate buffer (30 mM, pH 7) as the mobile phase. Column efficiency with average theoretical plate numbers of 69 000 plates/m and RSDs of <1% (n = 6) was achieved. [Met(5)]-enkephalin and [Leu(5)]-enkephalin, which have identical pI values and similar masses could be completely separated using acetate buffer (30 mM) with pH gradient (pH 3 inlet side and pH 4 outlet side). The results suggest that the mechanism for the peptide separation was mediated by a combination of electrophoretic migration and chromatographic retention involving anion coordination and anion exchange. After long-term use, the deviation of the EOF of the column after more than 600 injections was still within 6.0% of that for a freshly prepared column.

Stream Community Structure: An Analysis of Riparian Forest Buffer Restoration in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orzetti, L. L.; Jones, R. C.

2005-05-01

Forested riparian buffer zones have been proposed as an important aid in curtailing upland sources of pollution before they reach stream surface waters, and enhancing habitat for stream organisms. Our objective was to test the efficacy of restored forest riparian buffers along streams in the Chesapeake Bay watershed by examining the stream macrobenthic community structure. To test our hypothesis, we collected riffle benthic and water samples, and performed habitat evaluations at 30 stream sites in the mid-Atlantic Piedmont, ranging in buffer age from 0 to greater than 50 years of age. Results showed that habitat, water quality, and benthic macroinvertebrate metrics improved with age of restored buffer. Habitat scores were driven mostly by instream substrate availability and width and age of riparian buffer zones. Water quality parameters varied within buffer age groups depending age of surrounding forest vegetation. Benthic invertebrate taxa richness, % EPT, % Plecoptera, % Ephemeroptera, and the FBI all improved with age of buffer zone. Instream habitat quality was the greatest driver of benthic macroinvertebrate community diversity and health, and appeared to plateau within 10-15 years of restoration with noticeable improvements occurring within 5-10 years post restoration.

Performance of strontium- and magnesium-doped lanthanum gallate electrolyte with lanthanum-doped ceria as a buffer layer for IT-SOFCs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Dokyol; Han, Ju-Hyeong; Kim, Eun-Gu; Song, Rak-Hyun; Shin, Dong-Ryul

La 0.8Sr 0.2Ga 0.8Mg 0.2O 2.8 (LSGM8080) powder, showing the highest electrical conductivity among LSGMs of various compositions, is synthesized using the glycine nitrate process (GNP) and used as the electrolyte for an intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cell (IT-SOFC). The LDC (Ce 0.55La 0.45O 1.775) powder is synthesized by a solid-state reaction and employed as the material for a buffer layer to prevent the reaction between the anode and electrolyte materials. The LDC also serves as the skeleton material for the anode. An anode-supported single cell with an active area of 1 cm 2 is constructed for performance evaluation. A single-cell test is performed at 750 and 800 °C. The maximum power density of the cell 459 and 664 mW cm -2 at 750 and 800 °C, respectively.

A Janus cobalt-based catalytic material for electro-splitting of water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cobo, Saioa; Heidkamp, Jonathan; Jacques, Pierre-André; Fize, Jennifer; Fourmond, Vincent; Guetaz, Laure; Jousselme, Bruno; Ivanova, Valentina; Dau, Holger; Palacin, Serge; Fontecave, Marc; Artero, Vincent

2012-09-01

The future of energy supply depends on innovative breakthroughs regarding the design of cheap, sustainable and efficient systems for the conversion and storage of renewable energy sources. The production of hydrogen through water splitting seems a promising and appealing solution. We found that a robust nanoparticulate electrocatalytic material, H2-CoCat, can be electrochemically prepared from cobalt salts in a phosphate buffer. This material consists of metallic cobalt coated with a cobalt-oxo/hydroxo-phosphate layer in contact with the electrolyte and mediates H2 evolution from neutral aqueous buffer at modest overpotentials. Remarkably, it can be converted on anodic equilibration into the previously described amorphous cobalt oxide film (O2-CoCat or CoPi) catalysing O2 evolution. The switch between the two catalytic forms is fully reversible and corresponds to a local interconversion between two morphologies and compositions at the surface of the electrode. After deposition, the noble-metal-free coating thus functions as a robust, bifunctional and switchable catalyst.

Salicylyl Fluorene Derivatives as Fluorescent Sensors for Cu(II) Ions.

PubMed

Khaokeaw, Chenwit; Sukwattanasinitt, Mongkol; Rashatasakhon, Paitoon

2016-03-01

Two derivatives of fluorene containing salicylic acid groups are successfully synthesized by palladium-catalyzed coupling reactions and subsequent hydrolysis of salicylate esters. The compounds are characterized by various spectroscopic methods. In phosphate buffer (pH 8.0) solutions, these compounds are well soluble. They show maximum absorption wavelengths in the range of 304-330 nm and exhibit maximum emission wavelength around 420 and 430 nm with the quantum yields of 2.7 and 4.4 %, respectively. The compound with alkynyl salicylate groups (2) exhibits a selective fluorescence quenching towards Cu(II) and Fe(II) with a relatively similar sensitivity. The selectivity favoring Cu(II) over Fe(II) and other metal ions can be achieved upon the addition of 30 μM Triton X-100. The Cu(II) detection limit in solution phase is 1.47 ppb. The fluorescence signal recovery upon the addition of EDTA indicate a reversible complexation between 2 and Cu(II) ion. Fabrication of 2 on filter paper using a 50 μM solution in THF affords a naked-eye detection for Cu(II) and Fe(II) in aqueous media at picomole level.

Behavior of human immunoglobulin G adsorption onto immobilized Cu(II) affinity hollow-fiber membranes.

PubMed

Borsoi-Ribeiro, Mariana; Bresolin, Igor Tadeu Lazzarotto; Vijayalakshmi, Mookambeswaran; Bueno, Sônia Maria Alves

2013-10-01

Iminodiacetic acid (IDA) and tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (TREN) chelating ligands were immobilized on poly(ethylene vinyl alcohol) (PEVA) hollow-fiber membranes after activation with epichlorohydrin or butanediol diglycidyl ether (bisoxirane). The affinity membranes complexed with Cu(II) were evaluated for adsorption of human immunoglobulin G (IgG). The effects of matrix activation and buffer system on adsorption of IgG were studied. Isotherms of batch IgG adsorption onto finely cut membranes showed that neither of the chelates, IDA-Cu(II) or TREN-Cu(II), had a Langmuirean behavior with negative cooperativity for IgG binding. A comparison of equilibrium and dynamic maximum capacities showed that the dynamic capacity for a mini-cartridge in a cross-flow filtration mode (52.5 and 298.4 mg g(-1) dry weight for PEVA-TREN-Cu(II) and PEVA-IDA-Cu(II), respectively) was somewhat higher than the equilibrium capacity (9.2 and 73.3 mg g(-1) dry weight for PEVA-TREN-Cu(II) and PEVA-IDA-Cu(II), respectively). When mini-cartridges were used, the dynamic adsorption capacity of IDA-Cu(II) was the same for both mini-cartridge and agarose gel. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The Kjeldahl method as a primary reference procedure for total protein in certified reference materials used in clinical chemistry. II. Selection of direct Kjeldahl analysis and its preliminary performance parameters.

PubMed

Vinklárková, Bára; Chromý, Vratislav; Šprongl, Luděk; Bittová, Miroslava; Rikanová, Milena; Ohnútková, Ivana; Žaludová, Lenka

2015-01-01

To select a Kjeldahl procedure suitable for the determination of total protein in reference materials used in laboratory medicine, we reviewed in our previous article Kjeldahl methods adopted by clinical chemistry and found an indirect two-step analysis by total Kjeldahl nitrogen corrected for its nonprotein nitrogen and a direct analysis made on isolated protein precipitates. In this article, we compare both procedures on various reference materials. An indirect Kjeldahl method gave falsely lower results than a direct analysis. Preliminary performance parameters qualify the direct Kjeldahl analysis as a suitable primary reference procedure for the certification of total protein in reference laboratories.

Surface Material Characterization from Non-resolved Multi-band Optical Observations

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

functions ( BRDFs ) — then a forward model of the spectral signature of the entire body could be constructed by summing contributions from all reflecting...buffering). 3.3.2 Material Bi-directional Reflectance Distribution Functions ( BRDFs ) Notably, the satellite wire-frame and attitude models together...environments and/or created numerical BRDF models . For instance, BRDFs for several spacecraft materials — such as solar array panels, milled aluminum

Mathematical and Computational Aspects of Multiscale Materials Modeling, Mathematics-Numerical analysis, Section II.A.a.3.4, Conference and symposia organization II.A.2.a

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-02-04

dislocation dynamics models ( DDD ), continuum representations). Coupling of these models is difficult. Coupling of atomistics and DDD models has been...explored to some extent, but the coupling between DDD and continuum models of the evolution of large populations of dislocations is essentially unexplored

Pressure buffering by the tympanic membrane. In vivo measurements of middle ear pressure fluctuations during elevator motion.

PubMed

Padurariu, Simona; de Greef, Daniël; Jacobsen, Henrik; Nlandu Kamavuako, Ernest; Dirckx, Joris J; Gaihede, Michael

2016-10-01

The tympanic membrane (TM) represents a pressure buffer, which contributes to the overall pressure regulation of the middle ear (ME). This buffer capacity is based on its viscoelastic properties combined with those of the attached ossicular chain, muscles and ligaments. The current work presents a set of in vivo recordings of the ME pressure variations normally occurring in common life: elevator motion. This is defined as a situation of smooth ambient pressure increase or decrease on a limited range and at a low rate of pressure change. Based on these recordings, the purpose was a quantitative analysis of the TM buffer capacity including the TM compliance. The pressure changes in seven normal adult ME's with intact TM's were continuously recorded directly inside the ME cavity during four different elevator trips using a high precision instrument. The TM buffer capacity was determined by the ratio between the changes in ME and the ambient pressure. Further, the ME volumes were calculated by Boyle's Law from pressure recordings during inflation-deflation tests; subsequently the TM compliance could also be calculated. Finally, the correlation between the ME volume and buffer function was determined. Twenty-one elevator trips could be used for the analysis. The overall mean TM pressure buffering capacity was 23.3% (SEM = 3.4), whereas the mean overall compliance was 28.9 × 10 -3  μL/Pa (SEM = 4.8). A strong negative linear correlation was found between the TM buffer capacity and the ME volumes (R 2  = 0.92). These results were in fair agreement with the literature obtained in clinical as well as temporal bone experiments, and they provide an in vivo reference for the normal ME function as well as for ME modeling. The TM buffer capacity was found more efficient in smaller mastoids. Possible clinical implications are discussed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization of PZT Capacitor Structures with Various Electrode Materials Processed In-Situ Using AN Automated, Rotating Elemental Target, Ion Beam Deposition System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gifford, Kenneth Douglas

Ferroelectric thin film capacitor structures containing lead zirconate titanate (PZT) as the dielectric, with the chemical formula Pb(rm Zr_{x }Ti_{1-x})O_3, were synthesized in-situ with an automated ion beam sputter deposition system. Platinum (Pt), conductive ruthenium oxide (RuO_2), and two types of Pt-RuO_2 hybrid electrodes were used as the electrode materials. The capacitor structures are characterized in terms of microstructure and electrical characteristics. Reduction or elimination of non-ferroelectric phases, that nucleate during PZT processing on Pt/TiO _2/MgO and RuO_2/MgO substrates, is achieved by reducing the thickness of the individually deposited layers and by interposing a buffer layer (~100-200A) of PbTiO _3 (PT) between the bottom electrode and the PZT film. Capacitor structures containing a Pt electrode exhibit poor fatigue resistance, irregardless of the PZT microstructure or the use of a PT buffer layer. From these results, and results from similar capacitors synthesized with sol-gel and laser ablation, PZT-based capacitor structures containing Pt electrodes are considered to be unsuitable for use in memory devices. Using a PT buffer layer, in capacitor structures containing RuO_2 top and bottom electrodes and polycrystalline, highly (101) oriented PZT, reduces or eliminates the nucleation of zirconium-titanium oxide, non-ferroelectric species at the bottom electrode interface during processing. This results in good fatigue resistance up to ~2times10^ {10} switching cycles. DC leakage current density vs. time measurements follow the Curie-von Schweidler law, J(t) ~ t^ {rm -n}. Identification of the high electric field current conduction mechanism is inconclusive. The good fatigue resistance, low dc leakage current, and excellent retention, qualifies the use of these capacitor structures in non-volatile random access (NVRAM) and dynamic random access (DRAM) memory devices. Excellent fatigue resistance (10% loss in remanent polarization up to ~2times10^ {10} switching cycles), low dc leakage current, and excellent retention are observed in capacitor structures containing polycrystalline PZT (exhibiting dominant (001) and (100) XRD reflections), a Pt-RuO_2 hybrid bottom electrode (Type IA), and an RuO _2 top electrode. These results, and electrical characterization results on capacitors containing co-deposited Pt-RuO_2 hybrid electrodes (Type II), show potential for application of these capacitor structures in NVRAM and DRAM memory devices.

Impact of Stream Management Zones and Road Beautifying Buffers on Long-Term Fiber Supply in Georgia

Treesearch

Michal Zasada; Chris J. Cieszewski; Roger C. Lowe

2005-01-01

Streamside management zones (SMZs) and road beautifying buffers (RBBs) in Georgia have had an unknown impact on the available wood supply in the state. We used Forest Inventory and Analysis data, Landsat Thematic Mapper imagery, Gap Analysis Program and other geographic information system data to estimate the potential impact of SMZs and RBBs in the current and future...

78 FR 45291 - Interpretive Guidance and Policy Statement Regarding Compliance With Certain Swap Regulations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-26

... Section 2(i) A. Comments B. Statutory Analysis C. Principles of International Comity IV. Guidance A... Reporting ii. Swap Data Recordkeeping Relating to Complaints and Marketing and Sales Materials iii. Physical... Reporting 2. Swap Data Recordkeeping Relating to Complaints and Marketing and Sales Materials 3. Physical...

Finite element analysis of ultra-high performance concrete : modeling structural performance of an AASHTO type II girder and a 2nd generation pi-girder

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-10-01

Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) is an advanced cementitious composite material which has been developed in recent decades. When compared to more conventional cement-based concrete materials, UHPC tends to exhibit superior properties such as in...

Cell Blebbing in Confined Microfluidic Environments

PubMed Central

Ibo, Markela; Srivastava, Vasudha; Robinson, Douglas N.; Gagnon, Zachary R.

2016-01-01

Migrating cells can extend their leading edge by forming myosin-driven blebs and F-actin-driven pseudopods. When coerced to migrate in resistive environments, Dictyostelium cells switch from using predominately pseudopods to blebs. Bleb formation has been shown to be chemotactic and can be influenced by the direction of the chemotactic gradient. In this study, we determine the blebbing responses of developed cells of Dictyostelium discoideum to cAMP gradients of varying steepness produced in microfluidic channels with different confining heights, ranging between 1.7 μm and 3.8 μm. We show that microfluidic confinement height, gradient steepness, buffer osmolarity and Myosin II activity are important factors in determining whether cells migrate with blebs or with pseudopods. Dictyostelium cells were observed migrating within the confines of microfluidic gradient channels. When the cAMP gradient steepness is increased from 0.7 nM/μm to 20 nM/μm, cells switch from moving with a mixture of blebs and pseudopods to moving only using blebs when chemotaxing in channels with confinement heights less than 2.4 μm. Furthermore, the size of the blebs increases with gradient steepness and correlates with increases in myosin-II localization at the cell cortex. Reduction of intracellular pressure by high osmolarity buffer or inhibition of myosin-II by blebbistatin leads to a decrease in bleb formation and bleb size. Together, our data reveal that the protrusion type formed by migrating cells can be influenced by the channel height and the steepness of the cAMP gradient, and suggests that a combination of confinement-induced myosin-II localization and cAMP-regulated cortical contraction leads to increased intracellular fluid pressure and bleb formation. PMID:27706201

Modified cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) assay for measuring the antioxidant capacities of thiol-containing proteins in admixture with polyphenols.

PubMed

Cekiç, Sema Demirci; Başkan, Kevser Sözgen; Tütem, Esma; Apak, Reşat

2009-07-15

Proteins are not considered as true antioxidants but are known to protect antioxidants from oxidation in various antioxidant activity assays. This study aims to investigate the contribution of proteins, especially thiol-containing proteins, to the observed overall antioxidant capacity measured by known methods. To determine the antioxidant properties of thiol-containing proteins, the CUPRAC method of antioxidant assay using the oxidizing reagent Cu(II)-neocuproine previously used for simultaneous analysis of cystine and cysteine was adopted. While the CUPRAC method is capable of determining all antioxidant compounds including thiols in complex sample matrices, the Ellman method of thiol quantitation basically does not respond to other antioxidants. The antioxidant quantities in the selected samples were assayed with the ABTS and FRAP methods as well as with the CUPRAC method. In all applied methods, the dilutions were made with a standard pH 8 buffer used in the Ellman method by substituting the Na(2)EDTA component of the buffer with sodium citrate. On the other hand, the standard CUPRAC protocol was modified by substituting the pH 7 ammonium acetate buffer (at 1M concentration) with 8M urea buffer adjusted to pH 7 by neutralizing with 6M HCl. Urea helps to partly solubilize and denaturate proteins so that their buried thiols be oxidized more easily. All methods used in the estimation of antioxidant properties of proteins (i.e., CUPRAC, Ellman, ABTS, and FRAP) were first standardized with a simple thiol compound, cysteine, by constructing the calibration curves. The molar absorptivities of these methods for cysteine were: epsilon(CUPRAC)=7.71x10(3), epsilon(Ellman)=1.37x10(4), epsilon(ABTS)=2.06x10(4), and epsilon(FRAP)=2.98x10(3)L mol(-1)cm(-1). Then these methods were applied to various samples containing thiols, such as glutathione (reduced form:GSH), egg white, whey proteins, and gelatin. Additionally, known quantities of selected antioxidants were added to these samples to show the additivity of responses.

Buffer layers and articles for electronic devices

DOEpatents

Paranthaman, Mariappan P.; Aytug, Tolga; Christen, David K.; Feenstra, Roeland; Goyal, Amit

2004-07-20

Materials for depositing buffer layers on biaxially textured and untextured metallic and metal oxide substrates for use in the manufacture of superconducting and other electronic articles comprise RMnO.sub.3, R.sub.1-x A.sub.x MnO.sub.3, and combinations thereof; wherein R includes an element selected from the group consisting of La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, and Y, and A includes an element selected from the group consisting of Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, and Ra.

RH1020 Single Event Clock Upset Summary Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Katz, Richard B.; Wang, J. J.

1998-01-01

This report summarizes the testing and analysis of "single event clock upset' in the RH1020. Also included are SEU-rate predictions and design recommendations for risk analysis and reduction. The subject of "upsets" in the RH1020 is best understood by using a model consisting of a global clock buffer and a D-type flip-flop as the basic memory unit. The RH1020 is built on the ACT 1 family architecture. As such, it has one low-skew global clock buffer with a TTL-level input threshold that is accessed via a single dedicated pin. The clock signal is driven to full CMOS levels, buffered, and sent to individual row buffers with one buffer per channel. For low-skew performance, the outputs of all of the RH1020 row buffers are shorted together via metal lines, as is done in the A1020B. All storage in the RH1020 consists of routed flip-flops, constructed with multiplexors and feedback through the routing segments. A simple latch can be constructed from a single (combinatorial or C) module; an edge-triggered flip-flop is constructed using two concatenated latches. There is no storage in the I/O modules. The front end of the clock buffering circuitry, at a common point relative to the row buffer, is a sub-circuit that was determined to be the most susceptible to heavy ions. This is due, in part, to its smaller transistors compared to the rest of the circuitry. This conclusion is also supported by SPICE simulations and an analysis of the heavy ion data, described in this report. The edge triggered D flip-flop has two single-event-upset modes. Mode one, called C-module upset, is caused by a heavy ion striking the C-module's sensitive area on the silicon and produces a soft single bit error at the output of the flip-flop. Mode two, called clock upset, is caused by a heavy ion strike on the clock buffer, generating a runt pulse interpreted as a false clock signal and consequently producing errors at the flip-flop outputs. C-module upset sensitivity in the RH1020 is essentially the same as that of its ACT 1 siblings (A1020, A1020A and A1020B), which were well tested, analyzed, and documented in the literature.

Optimization of a model of red blood cells for the study of anti-oxidant drugs, in terms of concentration of oxidant and phosphate buffer.

PubMed

Bureau, A; Lahet, J-J; Lenfant, F; Bouyer, F; Petitjean, M; Chaillot, B; Freysz, M

2005-08-01

The aggression of erythrocytes by an oxidative stress induces hemolysis. This paper aims to valid a model of erythrocytes in terms of composition of the phosphate buffer solution and of concentration of a well-known oxidant, AAPH. Three compositions of phosphate buffer solution are mixed with three concentrations of oxidant. The influence of these two parameters on hemolysis is independently studied by a variance analysis and a Kruskal-Wallis test when ANOVA is not available. The hemolysis rate increases with time at fixed oxidant concentration, but is not influenced by the composition of the buffer solution. The highest hemolysis rate, 90%, was only measured within 2 h with the highest oxidant concentration. If we retain this concentration of oxidant, the lower concentration of the buffer can by eliminated by a significant less hemolysis and the highest concentration of the buffer can by chosen in regard of the better precision for a similar hemolysis compared to the mean buffer. We hope to study the effect of anti-oxidant agent with such a model of erythrocytes.

ssDNA degradation along capillary electrophoresis process using a Tris buffer.

PubMed

Ric, Audrey; Ong-Meang, Varravaddheay; Poinsot, Verena; Martins-Froment, Nathalie; Chauvet, Fabien; Boutonnet, Audrey; Ginot, Frédéric; Ecochard, Vincent; Paquereau, Laurent; Couderc, François

2017-06-01

Tris-Acetate buffer is currently used in the selection and the characterization of ssDNA by capillary electrophoresis (CE). By applying high voltage, the migration of ionic species into the capillary generates a current that induces water electrolysis. This phenomenon is followed by the modification of the pH and the production of Tris derivatives. By injecting ten times by capillary electrophoresis ssDNA (50 nM), the whole oligonucleotide was degraded. In this paper, we will show that the Tris buffer in the running vials is modified along the electrophoretic process by electrochemical reactions. We also observed that the composition of the metal ions changes in the running buffer vials. This phenomenon, never described in CE, is important for fluorescent ssDNA analysis using Tris buffer. The oligonucleotides are degraded by electrochemically synthesized species (present in the running Tris vials) until it disappears, even if the separation buffer in the capillary is clean. To address these issues, we propose to use a sodium phosphate buffer that we demonstrate to be electrochemically inactive. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

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

Başar, Gö.; Güzelçimen, F.; Er, A.

Fourier Transform spectra of holmium (Ho) in the UV spectral range from 31,530 to 25,000 cm{sup −1} (317 to 400 nm) have been investigated, particularly focusing on the ionic lines. The distinction between the different degrees of ionization (I, II, and III) is based on differences in signal-to-noise ratios from two Ho spectra, which have been measured with different buffer gases, i.e., neon and argon. Based on 106 known Ho ii and 126 known Ho iii energy levels, 97 lines could be classified as transitions of singly ionized Ho and 9 lines could be classified as transitions of doubly ionized Ho.more » Of the 97 Ho ii lines, 6 have not been listed in the extant literature. Another 215 lines have been assigned to Ho ii, though they could not be classified on the basis of the known energy levels.« less

Analyzing the revolution of anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) performance and sludge characteristics under zinc inhibition.

PubMed

Zhang, Qian-Qian; Zhang, Zheng-Zhe; Guo, Qiong; Wang, Jiao-Jiao; Wang, Hui-Zhong; Jin, Ren-Cun

2015-04-01

In the present study, the short- and long-term effects of Zn(II) on the anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) performance and sludge characteristics were evaluated. The anammox activity decreased with increasing Zn(II) concentration and pre-exposure time in short-term tests. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of Zn(II) was found to be 25.0 mg L(-1). The 24 and 48-h pre-exposure time was a restricted factor impacting the anammox activity, and washing the inhibited sludge with buffer solution only worked under 0 and 24-h pre-exposure time. The anammox sludge could tolerate 5 mg L(-1) Zn(II) but was suppressed at 8 mg L(-1). The inhibited performance could be remitted, as the combination strategies were applied, and after the short term of recovery period, the inhibited sludge characteristics were remitted to the normal.

Structural alteration of hexagonal birnessite by aqueous Mn(II): Impacts on Ni(II) sorption

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

Lefkowitz, Joshua P.; Elzinga, Evert J.

We studied the impacts of aqueous Mn(II) (1 mM) on the sorption of Ni(II) (200 μM) by hexagonal birnessite (0.1 g L- 1) at pH 6.5 and 7.5 with batch experiments and XRD, ATR-FTIR and Ni K-edge EXAFS analyses. In the absence of Mn(II)aq, sorbed Ni(II) was coordinated predominantly as triple corner-sharing complexes at layer vacancies at both pH values. Introduction of Mn(II)aq into Ni(II)-birnessite suspensions at pH 6.5 caused Ni(II) desorption and led to the formation of edge-sharing Ni(II) complexes. This was attributed to competitive displacement of Ni(II) from layer vacancies by either Mn(II) or by Mn(III) formed throughmore » interfacial Mn(II)-Mn(IV) comproportionation, and/or incorporation of Ni(II) into the birnessite lattice promoted by Mn(II)-catalyzed recrystallization of the sorbent. Similar to Mn(II)aq, the presence of HEPES or MES caused the formation of edge-sharing Ni(II) sorption complexes in Ni(II)-birnessite suspensions, which was attributed to partial reduction of the sorbent by the buffers. At pH 7.5, interaction with aqueous Mn(II) caused reductive transformation of birnessite into secondary feitknechtite that incorporated Ni(II), enhancing removal of Ni(II) from solution. These results demonstrate that reductive alteration of phyllomanganates may significantly affect the speciation and solubility of Ni(II) in anoxic and suboxic environments.« less

Fibril growth kinetics link buffer conditions and topology of 3D collagen I networks.

PubMed

Kalbitzer, Liv; Pompe, Tilo

2018-02-01

Three-dimensional fibrillar networks reconstituted from collagen I are widely used as biomimetic scaffolds for in vitro and in vivo cell studies. Various physicochemical parameters of buffer conditions for in vitro fibril formation are well known, including pH-value, ion concentrations and temperature. However, there is a lack of a detailed understanding of reconstituting well-defined 3D network topologies, which is required to mimic specific properties of the native extracellular matrix. We screened a wide range of relevant physicochemical buffer conditions and characterized the topology of the reconstituted 3D networks in terms of mean pore size and fibril diameter. A congruent analysis of fibril formation kinetics by turbidimetry revealed the adjustment of the lateral growth phase of fibrils by buffer conditions to be key in the determination of pore size and fibril diameter of the networks. Although the kinetics of nucleation and linear growth phase were affected by buffer conditions as well, network topology was independent of those two growth phases. Overall, the results of our study provide necessary insights into how to engineer 3D collagen matrices with an independent control over topology parameters, in order to mimic in vivo tissues in in vitro experiments and tissue engineering applications. The study reports a comprehensive analysis of physicochemical conditions of buffer solutions to reconstitute defined 3D collagen I matrices. By a combined analysis of network topology, i.e., pore size and fibril diameter, and the kinetics of fibril formation we can reveal the dependence of 3D network topology on buffer conditions, such as pH-value, phosphate concentration and sodium chloride content. With those results we are now able to provide engineering strategies to independently tune the topology parameters of widely used 3D collagen scaffolds based on the buffer conditions. By that, we enable the straightforward mimicking of extracellular matrices of in vivo tissues for in vitro cell culture experiments and tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2017 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Research into the use of pyrolytic oxides and polymers for the fabrication of thin film high energy capacitors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nevin, J. H.

1983-01-01

Construction, capacitance and dissipation factor, and electrode materials for single layer capacitors are discussed. Basic construction, phosphosilicate glass, ten layer capacitors, twenty layer capacitors, stress measurements, buffered oxide layers, and 30 layer capacitors are also discussed. Spin-on phosphosilicate glass is addressed. Polymers as dielectric materials are also considered.

Alternative buffer layer development in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin film solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xin, Peipei

Cu(In,Ga)Se2-based thin film solar cells are considered to be one of the most promising photovoltaic technologies. Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar devices have the potential advantage of low-cost, fast fabrication by using semiconductor layers of only a few micrometers thick and high efficiency photovoltaics have been reported at both the cell and the module levels. CdS via chemical bath deposition (CBD) has been the most widely used buffer option to form the critical junction in CIGS-based thin film photovoltaic devices. However, the disadvantages of CdS can’t be ignored - regulations on cadmium usage are getting stricter primarily due to its toxicity and environmental impacts, and the proper handling of the large amount of toxic chemical bath waste is a massive and expensive task. This dissertation is devoted to the development of Cd-free alternative buffer layers in CIGS-based thin film solar cells. Based on the considerations of buffer layer selection criteria and extensive literature review, Zn-compound buffer materials are chosen as the primary investigation candidates. Radio frequency magnetron sputtering is the preferred buffer deposition approach since it’s a clean and more controllable technique compared to CBD, and is readily scaled to large area manufacturing. First, a comprehensive study of the ZnSe1-xOx compound prepared by reactive sputtering was completed. As the oxygen content in the reactive sputtering gas increased, ZnSe1-xOx crystallinity and bandgap decreased. It’s observed that oxygen miscibility in ZnSe was low and a secondary phase formed when the O2 / (O2 + Ar) ratio in the sputtering gas exceeded 2%. Two approaches were proposed to optimize the band alignment between the CIGS and buffer layer. One method focused on the bandgap engineering of the absorber, the other focused on the band structure modification of the buffer. As a result, improved current of the solar cell was achieved although a carrier transport barrier at the junction interface still limited the device performance. Second, an investigation of Zn(S,O) buffer layers was completed. Zn(S,O) films were sputtered in Ar using a ZnO0.7S0.3 compound target. Zn(S,O) films had the composition close to the target with S / (S+O) ratio around 0.3. Zn(S,O) films showed the wurtzite structure with the bandgap about 3.2eV. The champion Cu(In,Ga)Se2 / Zn(S,O) cell had 12.5% efficiency and an (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2 / Zn(S,O) cell achieved 13.2% efficiency. Detailed device analysis was used to study the Cu(In,Ga)Se2 and (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2 absorbers, the influence of absorber surface treatments, the effects of device treatments, the sputtering damage and the Na concentration in the absorber. Finally alternative buffer layer development was applied to an innovative superstrate CIGS configuration. The superstrate structure has potential benefits of improved window layer properties, cost reduction, and the possibility to implement back reflector engineering techniques. The application of three buffer layer options - CdS, ZnO and ZnSe was studied and limitations of each were characterized. The best device achieved 8.6% efficiency with a ZnO buffer. GaxOy formation at the junction interface was the main limiting factor of this device performance. For CdS / CIGS and ZnSe / CIGS superstrate devices extensive inter-diffusion between the absorber and buffer layer under CIGS growth conditions was the critical problem. Inter-diffusion severely deteriorated the junction quality and led to poorly behaved devices, despite different efforts to optimize the fabrication process.

Synthesis of Optode Thin Layer using Sol Gel Hybrid of Trietoxysiloxane monomer and 3-(Trimethoxysilyl) Propilamine with Ionophore 4-(2-Pyridilazo)-1,3-Benzenadiol (PAR)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wahyuningsih, S.; Rahmawati, F.; Kamal, S.; Slamet, S.; Yunianto, M.; Rahmawati, P.; Aini, F. N.

2018-03-01

Optode (Optical sensors) is one of the modern chemical sensors in the field of analytical chemistry that has utilized of inorganic polymers. The optode based on MLCT (Metal to Ligand Charge Transfer) (or MMLL’CT, Mixing Metal-Ligand to Ligand Charge Transfer) or LMCT (Ligand to Metal Charge Transfer) phenomenons have beed generated from oktyltrietxysilane, aminopropyltrimethoxysilane and 4-(2-pyrydilazo) resorcinol (abbreviated as OTES-APTS-PAR) for Cu(II), Cr(III), Ni(II), Fe(III), Cd(II), and Zn(II) ions target. The syntheses of thin layer optode were performed by sol gel method followed by evaporation in glass substrat. The formation of 4-(2-pyrydilazo) resorcinol complexes with ions target have gained strong absorption spectras in visible region because of charge transfer phenomenons. The optical sensor of OTES-APTS-PAR was analysed thermal properties using Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA). DTA thermogram showed a glass transition peaks at a temperature of 315.5 °C. Fourier transform Infrared (FTIR) spectras have showed that the optode materials consisted NH aryl groups indicated IR absorption at 1577.7 cm-1 and also –CH aromatic at 1469.0 cm-1. Synthesized optode materials have strong broad visible absorption with the maximum wavelengths (λmax) = 405 nm and 508.5 nm, respectively. This material have excellent optical responds to several metal ions such as Cu(II), Cr(III), Ni(II), Fe(III), Cd(II), and Zn(II) that was showed from huge Δλmax and the increase of Ktotal

A parametric study of single-wall carbon nanotube growth by laser ablation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arepalli, Sivaram; Holmes, William A.; Nikolaev, Pavel; Hadjiev, Victor G.; Scott, Carl D.

2004-01-01

Results of a parametric study of carbon nanotube production by the double-pulse laser oven process are presented. The effect of various operating parameters on the production of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is estimated by characterizing the nanotube material using analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, thermo gravimetric analysis and Raman spectroscopy. The study included changing the sequence of the laser pulses, laser energy, pulse separation, type of buffer gas used, operating pressure, flow rate, inner tube diameter, as well as its material, and oven temperature. It was found that the material quality and quantity improve with deviation from normal operation parameters such as laser energy density higher than 1.5 J/cm2, pressure lower than 67 kPa, and flow rates higher than 100 sccm. Use of helium produced mainly small diameter tubes and a lower yield. The diameter of SWCNTs decreases with decreasing oven temperature and lower flow rates.

Problem-based learning on quantitative analytical chemistry course

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fitri, Noor

2017-12-01

This research applies problem-based learning method on chemical quantitative analytical chemistry, so called as "Analytical Chemistry II" course, especially related to essential oil analysis. The learning outcomes of this course include aspects of understanding of lectures, the skills of applying course materials, and the ability to identify, formulate and solve chemical analysis problems. The role of study groups is quite important in improving students' learning ability and in completing independent tasks and group tasks. Thus, students are not only aware of the basic concepts of Analytical Chemistry II, but also able to understand and apply analytical concepts that have been studied to solve given analytical chemistry problems, and have the attitude and ability to work together to solve the problems. Based on the learning outcome, it can be concluded that the problem-based learning method in Analytical Chemistry II course has been proven to improve students' knowledge, skill, ability and attitude. Students are not only skilled at solving problems in analytical chemistry especially in essential oil analysis in accordance with local genius of Chemistry Department, Universitas Islam Indonesia, but also have skilled work with computer program and able to understand material and problem in English.

Bending strength of delaminated aerospace composites.

PubMed

Kinawy, Moustafa; Butler, Richard; Hunt, Giles W

2012-04-28

Buckling-driven delamination is considered among the most critical failure modes in composite laminates. This paper examines the propagation of delaminations in a beam under pure bending. A pre-developed analytical model to predict the critical buckling moment of a thin sub-laminate is extended to account for propagation prediction, using mixed-mode fracture analysis. Fractography analysis is performed to distinguish between mode I and mode II contributions to the final failure of specimens. Comparison between experimental results and analysis shows agreement to within 5 per cent in static propagation moment for two different materials. It is concluded that static fracture is almost entirely driven by mode II effects. This result was unexpected because it arises from a buckling mode that opens the delamination. For this reason, and because of the excellent repeatability of the experiments, the method of testing may be a promising means of establishing the critical value of mode II fracture toughness, G(IIC), of the material. Fatigue testing on similar samples showed that buckled delamination resulted in a fatigue threshold that was over 80 per cent lower than the static propagation moment. Such an outcome highlights the significance of predicting snap-buckling moment and subsequent propagation for design purposes.

Neurobehavioral assessment of maternal odor in developing rat pups: implications for social buffering

PubMed Central

Al Aïn, Syrina; Perry, Rosemarie E.; Nuñez, Bestina; Kayser, Kassandra; Hochman, Chase; Brehman, Elizabeth; LaComb, Miranda; Wilson, Donald A.; Sullivan, Regina M.

2016-01-01

Social support can attenuate the behavioral and stress hormone response to threat, a phenomenon called social buffering. The mother’s social buffering of the infant is one of the more robust examples; yet we understand little about the neurobiology. Using a rodent model, we explore the neurobiology of social buffering by assessing neural processing of the maternal odor, a major cue controlling social buffering in rat pups. We used pups before (postnatal day (PN) 7) and after (PN14, PN23) the functional emergence of social buffering. Pups were injected with 14C 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) and presented with the maternal odor, a control preferred odor incapable of social buffering (acetophenone), or no odor. Brains were removed, processed for autoradiography and brain areas identified as important in adult social buffering were assessed, including the amygdala basolateral complex (Basolateral Amygdala [BLA]), medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Results suggest dramatic changes in the processing of maternal odor. PN7 pups show mPFC and ACC activation, although PN14 pups showed no activation of the mPFC, ACC, or BLA. All brain areas assessed were recruited by PN23. Additional analysis suggests substantial changes in functional connectivity across development. Together, these results imply complex nonlinear transitions in the neurobiology of social buffering in early life that may provide insight into the changing role of the mother in supporting social buffering. PMID:26934130

Long term stability of Oligo (dT) 25 magnetic beads for the expression analysis of Euglena gracilis for long term space projects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Becker, Ina; Strauch, Sebastian M.; Hauslage, Jens; Lebert, Michael

2017-05-01

The unicellular freshwater flagellate Euglena gracilis has a highly developed sensory system. The cells use different stimuli such as light and gravity to orient themselves in the surrounding medium to find areas for optimal growth. Due to the ability to produce oxygen and consume carbon dioxide, Euglena is a suitable candidate for life support systems. Participation in a long-term space experiment would allow for the analysis of changes and adaptations to the new environment, and this could bring new insights into the mechanism of perception of gravity and the associated signal transduction chain. For a molecular analysis of transcription patterns, an automated system is necessary, capable of performing all steps from taking a sample, processing it and generating data. One of the developmental steps is to find long-term stable reagents and materials and test them for stability at higher-than-recommended temperature conditions during extended storage time. We investigated the usability of magnetic beads in an Euglena specific lysis buffer after addition of the RNA stabilizer Dithiothreitol over 360 days and the lysis buffer with the stabilizer alone over 455 days at the expected storage temperature of 19 °C. We can claim that the stability is not impaired at all after an incubation period of over one year. This might be an interesting result for researchers who have to work under non-standard lab conditions, as in biological or medicinal fieldwork.

Slow Crack Growth Analysis of Advanced Structural Ceramics Under Combined Loading Conditions: Damage Assessment in Life Prediction Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, S. R.; Gyekenyesi, J. P.

2001-01-01

Slow crack growth analysis was performed with three different loading histories including constant stress- rate/constant stress-rate testing (Case I loading), constant stress/constant stress-rate testing (Case II loading), and cyclic stress/constant stress-rate testing (Case III loading). Strength degradation due to slow crack growth and/or damage accumulation was determined numerically as a function of percentage of interruption time between the two loading sequences for a given loading history. The numerical solutions were examined with the experimental data determined at elevated temperatures using four different advanced ceramic materials, two silicon nitrides, one silicon carbide and one alumina for the Case I loading history, and alumina for the Case II loading history. The numerical solutions were in reasonable agreement with the experimental data, indicating that notwithstanding some degree of creep deformation presented for some test materials slow crack growth was a governing mechanism associated with failure for all the rest materials.

Slow Crack Growth Analysis of Advanced Structural Ceramics Under Combined Loading Conditions: Damage Assessment in Life Prediction Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Sung R.; Gyekenyesi, John P.

2000-01-01

Slow crack growth analysis was performed with three different loading histories including constant stress-rate/constant stress-rate testing (Case I loading), constant stress/constant stress-rate testing (Case II loading), and cyclic stress/constant stress-rate testing (Case III loading). Strength degradation due to slow crack growth arid/or damage accumulation was determined numerically as a Function of percentage of interruption time between the two loading sequences for a given loading history. The numerical solutions were examined with the experimental data determined at elevated temperatures using four different advanced ceramic materials, two silicon nitrides, one silicon carbide and one alumina for the Case I loading history, and alumina for the Case II loading history. The numerical solutions were in reasonable agreement with the experimental data, indicating that notwithstanding some degree of creep deformation presented for some test materials slow crack growth was a governing mechanism associated with failure for all the test material&

Comparative assessment of marginal accuracy of grade II titanium and Ni–Cr alloy before and after ceramic firing: An in vitro study

PubMed Central

Patil, Abhijit; Singh, Kishan; Sahoo, Sukant; Suvarna, Suraj; Kumar, Prince; Singh, Anupam

2013-01-01

Objective: The aims of the study are to assess the marginal accuracy of base metal and titanium alloy casting and to evaluate the effect of repeated ceramic firing on the marginal accuracy of base metal and titanium alloy castings. Materials and Methods: Twenty metal copings were fabricated with each casting material. Specimens were divided into 4 groups of 10 each representing base metal alloys castings without (Group A) and with metal shoulder margin (Group B), titanium castings without (Group C) and with metal shoulder margin (Group D). The measurement of fit of the metal copings was carried out before the ceramic firing at four different points and the same was followed after porcelain build-up. Results: Significant difference was found when Ni–Cr alloy samples were compared with Grade II titanium samples both before and after ceramic firings. The titanium castings with metal shoulder margin showed highest microgap among all the materials tested. Conclusions: Based on the results that were found and within the limitations of the study design, it can be concluded that there is marginal discrepancy in the copings made from Ni–Cr and Grade II titanium. This marginal discrepancy increased after ceramic firing cycles for both Ni–Cr and Grade II titanium. The comparative statistical analysis for copings with metal-collar showed maximum discrepancy for Group D. The comparative statistical analysis for copings without metal-collar showed maximum discrepancy for Group C. PMID:24926205

Acid neutralizing processes in an alpine watershed front range, Colorado, U.S.A.-1: Buffering capacity of dissolved organic carbon in soil solutions

USGS Publications Warehouse

Iggy, Litaor M.; Thurman, E.M.

1988-01-01

Soil interstitial waters in the Green Lakes Valley, Front Range, Colorado were studied to evaluate the capacity of the soil system to buffer acid deposition. In order to determine the contribution of humic substances to the buffering capacity of a given soil, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and pH of the soil solutions were measured. The concentration of the organic anion, Ai-, derived from DOC at sample pH and the concentration of organic anion, Ax- at the equivalence point were calculated using carboxyl contents from isolated and purified humic material from soil solutions. Subtracting Ax- from Ai- yields the contribution of humic substances to the buffering capacity (Aequiv.-). Using this method, one can evaluate the relative contribution of inorganic and organic constituents to the acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) of the soil solutions. The relative contribution of organic acids to the overall ANC was found to be extremely important in the alpine wetland (52%) and the forest-tundra ecotone (40%), and somewhat less important in the alpine tundra sites (20%). A failure to recognize the importance of organic acids in soil solutions to the ANC will result in erroneous estimates of the buffering capacity in the alpine environment of the Front Range, Colorado. ?? 1988.

Membrane crystallization of lysozyme: kinetic aspects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Profio, Gianluca Di; Curcio, Efrem; Cassetta, Alberto; Lamba, Doriano; Drioli, Enrico

2003-10-01

The relevant kinetic aspects related to an innovative method of biological macromolecules crystallization based on microporous hydrophobic membranes, used both as active surfaces to promote heterogeneous nucleation and as a mass-transfer apparatus to concentrate macromolecular solutions by solvent removal in vapour phase, have been evaluated. Polypropylene membranes, supplied in the form of hollow fibres, have been aligned in a versatile system, designed for an on-line spectrophotometric monitoring of hen egg white lysozyme crystallizing solutions (experimental conditions: 0.1 M NaAc/HAc Buffer pH 4.6, 0.5-5.8% wt/vol NaCl, 20°C). The turbidity measurements have been exploited in order to follow: (i) the induction time of crystallization, (ii) the early stage nucleation kinetics based on the Rayleigh scattering theory, and (iii) the crystal growth rate (coupled with data evaluated from image-analysis carried out by optical microscopy) under a model hypothesis of exponential growth of clusters. The crystals have been qualitatively assessed by an X-ray crystallographic analysis carried out at the synchrotron light laboratory ELETTRA.

Structural characteristics of a non-polar ZnS layer on a ZnO buffer layer formed on a sapphire substrate by mist chemical vapor deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okita, Koshi; Inaba, Katsuhiko; Yatabe, Zenji; Nakamura, Yusui

2018-06-01

ZnS is attractive as a material for low-cost light-emitting diodes. In this study, a non-polar ZnS layer was epitaxially grown on a sapphire substrate by inserting a ZnO buffer layer between ZnS and sapphire. The ZnS and ZnO layers were grown by a mist chemical vapor deposition system with a simple setup operated under atmospheric pressure. The sample was characterized by high-resolution X-ray diffraction measurements including 2θ/ω scans, rocking curves, and reciprocal space mapping. The results showed that an m-plane wurtzite ZnS layer grew epitaxially on an m-plane wurtzite ZnO buffer layer formed on the m-plane sapphire substrate to provide a ZnS/ZnO/sapphire structure.

Role of block copolymer-micelle nanocomposites in dye-bovine serum albumin binding: a combined experimental and molecular docking study.

PubMed

Manna, Anamika; Chakravorti, Sankar

2013-02-02

The role of a nanocomposite (NC), composed of intercalation of the diblock copolymer polyethylene-b-polyethylene glycol (PE-b-PEG) with the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), on the binding characteristics of bovine serum albumin (BSA) with a dye (1,8-naphthalimide, NAPMD) compared to the interaction between the same players in aqueous solution has been examined comprehensively in this paper. Static quenching due to complex formation in both NC medium and in buffer solution has been inferred on the basis of considerable changes in the absorption spectra of BSA on addition of NAPMD, of which the interaction is found to be stronger in NC medium. Temperature dependent fluorescence data also confirm an effective static quenching and stronger binding of NAPMD with BSA in NC medium. Peptide chain unfolding and denaturing of BSA in NC medium have been confirmed from steady state and time-resolved emission and circular dichroism data. This exposes both the tyrosine and tryptophan moieties as a unique case. Increased energy transfer between NAPMD and the tryptophan residue in the unfolded form of BSA helps in the appearance of tyrosine fluorescence in NC medium by quenching the tryptophan band. Ionization of the hydroxyl group in the aromatic ring of the tyrosine residue by the PEG group present in the NC medium produces a downshift of the tyrosine fluorescence band. The use of site selective markers confirms that NAPMD is near tryptophan in Sudlow's site I in NC medium and in buffer solution it is away from tryptophan in Sudlow's site II. The theoretical docking studies also vindicate the results of binding of NAPMD with BSA in site I or site II in NC and buffer media, as observed from different emission experiments including the site selective markers study.

The protonation state around TyrD/TyrD• in photosystem II is reflected in its biphasic oxidation kinetics.

PubMed

Sjöholm, Johannes; Ho, Felix; Ahmadova, Nigar; Brinkert, Katharina; Hammarström, Leif; Mamedov, Fikret; Styring, Stenbjörn

2017-02-01

The tyrosine residue D2-Tyr160 (Tyr D ) in photosystem II (PSII) can be oxidized through charge equilibrium with the oxygen evolving complex in PSII. The kinetics of the electron transfer from Tyr D has been followed using time-resolved EPR spectroscopy after triggering the oxidation of pre-reduced Tyr D by a short laser flash. After its oxidation Tyr D is observed as a neutral radical (Tyr D • ) indicating that the oxidation is coupled to a deprotonation event. The redox state of Tyr D was reported to be determined by the two water positions identified in the crystal structure of PSII [Saito et al. (2013) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 110, 7690]. To assess the mechanism of the proton coupled electron transfer of Tyr D the oxidation kinetics has been followed in the presence of deuterated buffers, thereby resolving the kinetic isotope effect (KIE) of Tyr D oxidation at different H/D concentrations. Two kinetic phases of Tyr D oxidation - the fast phase (msec-sec time range) and the slow phase (tens of seconds time range) were resolved as was previously reported [Vass and Styring (1991) Biochemistry 30, 830]. In the presence of deuterated buffers the kinetics was significantly slower compared to normal buffers. Furthermore, although the kinetics were faster at both high pH and pD values the observed KIE was found to be similar (~2.4) over the whole pL range investigated. We assign the fast and slow oxidation phases to two populations of PSII centers with different water positions, proximal and distal respectively, and discuss possible deprotonation events in the vicinity of Tyr D . Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Inhibition of Protein Carbamylation in Urea Solution Using Ammonium Containing Buffers

PubMed Central

Sun, Shisheng; Zhou, Jian-Ying; Yang, Weiming; Zhang, Hui

2013-01-01

Urea solution is one of the most commonly employed protein denaturants for protease digestion in proteomic studies. However, it has long been recognized that urea solution can cause carbamylation at the N-termini of proteins/peptides and at the side chain amino groups of lysine and arginine residues. Protein/peptide carbamylation blocks protease digestion and affects protein identification and quantification in mass spectrometry analysis by blocking peptide amino groups from isotopic/isobaric labeling and changing peptide charge states, retention times and masses. In addition, protein carbamylation during sample preparation makes it difficult to study in vivo protein carbamylation. In this study, we compared the peptide carbamylation in urea solutions of different buffers and found that ammonium containing buffers were the most effective buffers to inhibit protein carbamylation in urea solution. The possible mechanism of carbamylation inhibition by ammonium containing buffers is discussed, and a revised procedure for the protease digestion of proteins in urea and ammonium containing buffers was developed to facilitate its application in proteomic research. PMID:24161613

Postfunctionalization of periodic mesoporous silica SBA-1 with magnesium(II) and iron(II) silylamides.

PubMed

Deschner, Thomas; Klimpel, Michael; Tafipolsky, Maxim; Scherer, Wolfgang; Törnroos, Karl W; Anwander, Reiner

2012-06-28

Magnesium silylamide complexes Mg[N(SiHMe(2))(2)](2)(THF)(2) and Mg[N(SiPhMe(2))(2)](2) were synthesized according to transsilylamination and alkane elimination protocols, respectively, utilizing Mg[N(SiMe(3))(2)](2)(THF)(2) and [Mg(n-Bu)](2) as precursors. Cage-like periodic mesoporous silica SBA-1 was treated with donor solvent-free dimeric [Mg{N(SiHMe(2))(2)}(2)](2), [Mg{N(SiMe(3))(2)}(2)](2) and monomeric Mg[N(SiPhMe(2))(2)](2), producing hybrid materials [Mg(NR(2))(2)]@SBA-1 with magnesium located mainly at the external surface. Consecutive grafting of [Mg{N(SiHMe(2))(2)}(2)](2) and [Fe(II){N(SiHMe(2))(2)}(2)](2) onto SBA-1 led to heterobimetallic hybrid materials which exhibit complete consumption of the isolated surface silanol groups, evidencing intra-cage surface functionalization. All materials were characterized by DRIFT spectroscopy, nitrogen physisorption and elemental analysis.

Surface adsorption of poisonous Pb(II) ions from water using chitosan functionalised magnetic nanoparticles.

PubMed

Christopher, Femina Carolin; Anbalagan, Saravanan; Kumar, Ponnusamy Senthil; Pannerselvam, Sundar Rajan; Vaidyanathan, Vinoth Kumar

2017-06-01

In this study, chitosan functionalised magnetic nano-particles (CMNP) was synthesised and utilised as an effective adsorbent for the removal of Pb(II) ions from aqueous solution. The experimental studies reveal that adsorbent material has finer adsorption capacity for the removal of heavy metal ions. Parameters affecting the adsorption of Pb(II) ions on CMNP, such as initial Pb(II) ion concentration, contact time, solution pH, adsorbent dosage and temperature were studied. The adsorption equilibrium study showed that present adsorption system followed a Freundlich isotherm model. The experimental kinetic studies on the adsorption of Pb(II) ions exhibited that present adsorption process best obeyed with pseudo-first order kinetics. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity of CMNP for the removal of Pb(II) ions was found to be 498.6 mg g -1 . The characterisation of present adsorbent material was done by FTIR, energy disperse X-ray analysis and vibrating sample magnetometer studies. Thermodynamic parameters such as Gibbs free energy (Δ G °), enthalpy (Δ H °) and entropy (Δ S °) have declared that the adsorption process was feasible, exothermic and spontaneous in nature. Sticking probability reported that adsorption of Pb(II) ions on CMNP was favourable at lower temperature and sticking capacity of Pb(II) ions was very high.

Use of DSC and DMA Techniques to Help Investigate a Material Anomaly for PTFE Used in Processing a Piston Cup for the Urine Processor Assembly (UPA) on International Space Station (ISS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wingard, Doug

2010-01-01

Human urine and flush water are eventually converted into drinking water with the Urine Processor Assembly (UPA) aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This conversion is made possible through the Distillation Assembly (DA) of the UPA. One component of the DA is a molded circular piston cup made of virgin polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The piston cup is assembled to a titanium component using eight fasteners and washers. Molded PTFE produced for spare piston cups in the first quarter of 2010 was different in appearance and texture, and softer than material molded for previous cups. For the suspect newer PTFE material, cup fasteners were tightened to only one-half the required torque value, yet the washers embedded almost halfway into the material. The molded PTFE used in the DA piston cup should be Type II, based on AMS 3667D and ASTM D4894 specifications. The properties of molded PTFE are considerably different between Type I and II materials. Engineers working with the DA thought that if Type I PTFE was molded by mistake instead of Type II material, that could have resulted in the anomalous material properties. Typically, the vendor molds flat sheet PTFE from the same material lot used to mold the piston cups, and tensile testing as part of quality control should verify that the PTFE is Type II material. However, for this discrepant lot of material, such tensile data was not available. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) were two of the testing techniques used at the NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) to investigate the anomaly for the PTFE material. Other techniques used on PTFE specimens were: Shore D hardness testing, tensile testing on dog bone specimens and a qualitative estimation of porosity by optical and scanning electron microscopy.

Great enhancement of pyroelectric properties for Ba{sub 0.65}Sr{sub 0.35}TiO{sub 3} films on Pt-Si substrates by inserting a self-buffered layer

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

Wu, C. G.; Li, Y. R.; Zhu, J.

2009-02-15

(100)-Ba{sub 0.65}Sr{sub 0.35}TiO{sub 3} (BST) films were deposited on Pt/Ti/SiO{sub 2}/Si substrates using a low-temperature self-buffered layer. X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscope investigations show that the microstructure of BST films strongly depends on surface morphology of annealed self-buffered layer. The mechanism of nucleus formation and the growth initiation of BST films on self-buffered layers were proposed. It was found that the pyroelectric properties of BST films can be greatly enhanced. The pyroelectric coefficient and material merit figure of (100)-BST films are 1.16x10{sup 4} {mu}C m{sup -2} K{sup -1} and 2.18x10{sup -4} Pa{sup -1/2}, respectively. The detectivity of 9.4x10{sup 7}more » cm Hz{sup 1/2} W{sup -1} was obtained in the (100)-BST film capacitors thermally isolated by 500 nm SiO{sub 2} films.« less

Accelerating the dissolution of enteric coatings in the upper small intestine: evolution of a novel pH 5.6 bicarbonate buffer system to assess drug release.

PubMed

Varum, Felipe J O; Merchant, Hamid A; Goyanes, Alvaro; Assi, Pardis; Zboranová, Veronika; Basit, Abdul W

2014-07-01

Despite rapid dissolution in compendial phosphate buffers, gastro resistant (enteric coated) products can take up to 2 h to disintegrate in the human small intestine, which clearly highlights the inadequacy of the in vitro test method to predict in vivo behaviour of these formulations. The aim of this study was to establish the utility of a novel pH 5.6 bicarbonate buffer, stabilized by an Auto pH™ System, as a better surrogate of the conditions of the proximal small intestine to investigate the dissolution behaviour of standard and accelerated release enteric double coating formulations. Prednisolone tablets were coated with 3 or 5 mg/cm(2) of partially neutralized EUDRAGIT(®) L 30 D-55, HP-55 or HPMC adjusted to pH 6 or 8. An outer layer of EUDRAGIT(®) L 30 D-55 was applied at 5mg/cm(2). For comparison purposes, a standard single layer of EUDRAGIT(®) L 30 D-55 was applied to the tablets. Dissolution was carried out using USP II apparatus in 0.1 M HCl for 2 h, followed by pH 5.6 bicarbonate buffer. EUDRAGIT(®) L 30 D-55 single-coated tablets showed a slow drug release with a lag time of 75 min in buffer, whereas release from the EUDRAGIT(®) L 30 D-55 double-coated tablets was accelerated. These in vitro lag times closely match the in vivo disintegration times for these coated tablets reported previously. Drug release was further accelerated from modified double coatings, particularly in the case of coatings with a thinner inner layer of HP-55 or HPMC (pH 8 and KH2PO4). This study confirms that the pH 5.6 bicarbonate buffer system offers significant advantages during the development of dosage forms designed to release the drug in the upper small intestine. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Growth and characterization of low composition Ge, x in epi-Si1‑x Gex (x  ⩽  10%) active layer for fabrication of hydrogenated bottom solar cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ajmal Khan, M.; Sato, R.; Sawano, K.; Sichanugrist, P.; Lukianov, A.; Ishikawa, Y.

2018-05-01

Semiconducting epi-Si1‑x Ge x alloys have promising features as solar cell materials and may be equally important for some other semiconductor device applications. Variation of the germanium compositional, x in epi-Si1‑x Ge x , makes it possible to control the bandgap between 1.12 eV and 0.68 eV for application in bottom solar cells. A low proportion of Ge in SiGe alloy can be used for photovoltaic application in a bottom cell to complete the four-terminal tandem structure with wide bandgap materials. In this research, we aimed to use a low proportion of Ge—about 10%—in strained or relaxed c-Si1‑x Ge x /c-Si heterojunctions (HETs), with or without insertion of a Si buffer layer grown by molecular beam epitaxy, to investigate the influence of the relaxed or strained SiGe active layer on the performance of HET solar cells grown using the plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition system. Thanks to the c-Si buffer layer at the hetero-interface, the efficiency of these SiGe based HET solar cells was improved from 2.3% to 3.5% (fully strained and with buffer layer). The Jsc was improved, from 8 mA cm‑2 to 15.46 mA cm‑2, which might be supported by strained c-Si buffer layer at the hetero-interface, by improving the crystalline quality.

A System Approach to Navy Medical Education and Training. Appendix 6. Pharmacy Technician.

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-08-31

lz PREPARE BUFFER SOLUTIONS 13 ICOMPUTE AMOUNTS OF INGREDIENTS FOR CCMPOUNDING/PREPARING IPHARMACEUTICALS 14 IWEIGH/MEASURE CHEMICALS 15 ICHECK ...DOSAGE OF DIAGNOSTIC PHARMACEUTICAL, E.G. BSP DYE II 19 1PREPARE C02 SLUSH 20 PREPARE PATCH TEST SOLUTION USING PATIENTOS SUSPECTED ALLERGENS 21 ICHECK ...PRESCRIPTIONS FOR INCOMPATABILITY/IDIOSYNCRACIES OF ICONCURRENTLY PRESCRIBED MEDICATIONS 22 ICHECK PRESCRIPTIONS FOR COMPLETENESSE.Go DRUG, IDOSEFORMSIG

New Generation Materials and Structures for Nanophotonics and Nanoelectronics

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-04-30

been investigated using thermogravimetric analysis and FTIR spectroscopy. The nanoparticles appear to have excess surfactants on their surface, but...processes. We continued analysis of the vibrational modes of the InP/II- VI core-shell nanoparticles determined by IR and Raman studies, and initiated...photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), BET surface area analysis , transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and SQUID magnetometry. In

Isolation of high quality and polysaccharide-free DNA from leaves of Dimorphandra mollis (Leguminosae), a tree from the Brazilian Cerrado.

PubMed

Souza, H A V; Muller, L A C; Brandão, R L; Lovato, M B

2012-03-22

Dimorphandra mollis (Leguminosae), known as faveiro and fava d'anta, is a tree that is widely distributed throughout the Brazilian Cerrado (a savanna-like biome). This species is economically valuable and has been extensively exploited because its fruits contain the flavonoid rutin, which is used to produce medications for human circulatory diseases. Knowledge about its genetic diversity is needed to guide decisions about the conservation and rational use of this species in order to maintain its diversity. DNA extraction is an essential step for obtaining good results in a molecular analysis. However, DNA isolation from plants is usually compromised by excessive contamination by secondary metabolites. DNA extraction of D. mollis, mainly from mature leaves, results in a highly viscous mass that is difficult to handle and use in techniques that require pure DNA. We tested four protocols for plant DNA extraction that can be used to minimize problems such as contamination by polysaccharides, which is more pronounced in material from mature leaves. The protocol that produced the best DNA quality initially utilizes a sorbitol buffer to remove mucilaginous polysaccharides. The macerated leaf material is washed with this buffer until there is no visible mucilage in the sample. This protocol is adequate for DNA extraction both from young and mature leaves, and could be useful not only for D. mollis but also for other species that have high levels of polysaccharide contamination during the extraction process.

Treatment of model solutions and wastewater containing selected hazardous metal ions using a chitin/lignin hybrid material as an effective sorbent.

PubMed

Bartczak, Przemysław; Klapiszewski, Łukasz; Wysokowski, Marcin; Majchrzak, Izabela; Czernicka, Weronika; Piasecki, Adam; Ehrlich, Hermann; Jesionowski, Teofil

2017-12-15

A chitin/lignin material with defined physicochemical and morphological properties was used as an effective adsorbent of environmentally toxic metals from model systems. Particularly significant is its use in the neutralization of real industrial wastes. The ions Ni 2+ , Cu 2+ , Zn 2+ and Pb 2+ were adsorbed on the functional sorbent, confirming the high sorption capacity of the newly obtained product, primarily due to the presence on its surface of numerous active functional groups from the component biopolymers. The kinetics of the process of ion adsorption from model solution were investigated, and the experimental data were found to fit significantly better to a type 1 pseudo-second-order kinetic model, as confirmed by the high correlation coefficient of 0.999 for adsorption of both nickel(II) copper(II) zinc(II) and lead(II) ions. The experimental data obtained on the basis of adsorption isotherms corresponded to the Langmuir model. The sorption capacity of the chitin/lignin material was measured at 70.41 mg(Ni 2+ )/g, 75.70 mg(Cu 2+ )/g, 82.41 mg(Zn 2+ )/g and 91.74 mg(Pb 2+ )/g. Analysis of thermodynamic parameters confirmed the endothermic nature of the process. It was also shown that nitric acid is a very effective desorbing (regenerating) agent, enabling the chitin/lignin material to be reused as an effective sorbent of metal ions. The sorption abilities of the chitin/lignin system with respect to particular metal ions can be ordered in the sequence Ni 2+

The effect of pH, buffer capacity and ionic strength on quetiapine fumarate release from matrix tablets prepared using two different polymeric blends.

PubMed

Hamed, Rania; AlJanabi, Reem; Sunoqrot, Suhair; Abbas, Aiman

2017-08-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of the different physiological parameters of the gastrointestinal (GI) fluid (pH, buffer capacity, and ionic strength) on the in vitro release of the weakly basic BCS class II drug quetiapine fumarate (QF) from two once-a-day matrix tablet formulations (F1 and F2) developed as potential generic equivalents to Seroquel ® XR. F1 tablets were prepared using blends of high and low viscosity grades of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC K4M and K100LV, respectively), while F2 tablets were prepared from HPMC K4M and PEGylated glyceryl behenate (Compritol ® HD5 ATO). The two formulations attained release profiles of QF over 24 h similar to that of Seroquel ® XR using the dissolution medium published by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A series of solubility and in vitro dissolution studies was then carried out using media that simulate the gastric and intestinal fluids and cover the physiological pH, buffer capacity and ionic strength range of the GIT. Solubility studies revealed that QF exhibits a typical weak base pH-dependent solubility profile and that the solubility of QF increases with increasing the buffer capacity and ionic strength of the media. The release profiles of QF from F1, F2 and Seroquel ® XR tablets were found to be influenced by the pH, buffer capacity and ionic strength of the dissolution media to varying degrees. Results highlight the importance of studying the physiological variables along the GIT in designing controlled release formulations for more predictive in vitro-in vivo correlations.